Then the duchess, seated at
the head of the table, her dark eyes flashing with excitement,
her red lips parted in expectation, followed the fortunes of the
night with anxiety: all compliments being suspended and all fine
speeches withheld the while, nought being heard but the rustle of
cards and the chink of gold.
Dainty and luxurious suppers followed, when rare wines flowed,
and wit long suppressed found joyous vent. Here sat Charles
beside his beautiful mistress, happy in the enjoyment of the
present, careless of the needs of his people; and close beside
him my Lord of Buckingham, watchful of his majesty's face,
hatching dark plots whilst he turned deft compliments. There
likewise were my Lord Dorset, the easiest and wittiest man
living; Sir Charles Sedley, one learned in intrigue; Baptist May,
the monarch's favourite; Tom Killigrew who jested on life's
follies whilst he enjoyed them; the Countess of Shrewsbury,
beautiful and amorous; and Madam Ellen, who was ready to mimic or
sing, dance or act, for his majesty's diversion.
And so, whilst a new day stole upon the world without, tapers
burned low within the duchess's apartments; and the king, his
mistress, and a brave and gallant company ate, drank, and made
merry.
CHAPTER XVI.
A storm threatens the kingdom.--The Duke of York is touched in
his conscience.--His interview with Father Simons.--The king
declares his mind.--The Duchess of York becomes a catholic.--The
circumstances of her death.
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