And presently drawing nigh the
cabaret, he tarried there until the countess, rich in physical
graces, with sunny smiles upon her lips, and amorous light in her
eyes, stepped forth upon the balcony and greeted him. Whereon
his heart took fire: and entering the house, he joined her where
she stood, and held pleasant converse with her. Inflated by his
success, he resolved on making himself disagreeable to the host,
and therefore ventured to criticize the entertainment, and
ridicule the music, which he voted barbarous to civilized ears.
And to such an extent did he outrage Thomas Howard, that the
gallant captain, being more of a soldier than a courtier, and
therefore preferring passages at arms to those of wit, could
scarce refrain from drawing his sword and demanding the
satisfaction due to him.
However, he subdued his wrath till the day was spent, and early
next morning sent a challenge to his rival. Accordingly they met
with fierce intent, and the duel which followed ended almost
fatally for Jermyn, who was carried from the scene of encounter
bleeding from three wounds caused by his antagonist's sword.
The unfortunate issue of this fight deprived Lady Shrewsbury of
two lovers; for Howard, having rendered Jermyn unable to perform
the part of a gallant, was obliged to fly from the country and
remain abroad some time.
In their stead the countess sought consolation in the
companionship of Thomas Killigrew, a handsome man and a notable
courtier.
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