23
In this secure retreat, amidst all the blandishments that wealth could give, and love enjoy, Henry and Rosamond passed many delightful and happy hours.
Treason, however, gained such an ascendancy that it became necessary that Henry himself should quell it. Taking leave therefore of Rosamond, he prepared to depart for Normandy.
No sooner was the King beyond the sea, than Theodore D'Agueville, introduced queen Eleanor into Rosamond's apartment.
You are indeed fair! "at length cried the Queen: "goodly to the sight but foul within! Aye, look on me, strumpet! I am she, whom through life thou has been wronging.—We never met till now but I have cause to know thee."
"Speak, what is your wish?"
"Oh! Your death!" was the reply. "Here is a dagger—here a poisoned bowl; if you dare not strike, drink, and be at peace. Nay, do not quail, or I will give the blow."
"Spare me a little yet!" cried Rosamond.
"'Tis fit I die," quoth Rosamond: 'and yet I cling to life. But grant, your majesty, one moment, ere you send me to end a long account of sin in eternal torments———"
