named her as being Ann's cousin, or as the widow of the deceased
bee-master who, long years ago, had led the Emperor Charles to see the
bee-gardens, so she made reverence again and again, and meanwhile laid
her head more and more on one side, ever leaning more heavily on her
hand, till the King and Queen laughed louder than ever and many an
one perceived what was doing. The cup-bearer and chamberlain drew long
faces, and Porro at last ended the jest by greeting the old woman with
such dumbshow as no one could think an honor. The cunning little woman
saw now that she was being made game of, and whereas not their Majesties
alone, but all the Court about them were holding their sides, and she
saw that I was in their midst, she believed me to be at the bottom of
their mischief, and cast at me such vengeful glances as warned me of
evil in store.

After this tourney there was to be a grand dance in the School of Arms,
to which their Majesties were bidden with all the princes, knights, and
notables of the Diet, and the patricians of the town. Next day, being
Saint Clara's day, there would be a great feast at the Tetzels' house by
reason that it was the name-day of Dame Clara, Ursula's grandmother, and
the eldest of their kin. At this banquet Herdegen's betrothal was to be
announced to all their friends and kindred--this my uncle whispered to
me as he went off after the jousting to attend the King, who had sent
for him. The old man had seen nought of Herdegen's doings with Ann, by
reason that he and old Tetzel had both been seated on the same side of
the lists, and the tall helmets and feathers had hidden the young folks
from his sight. So assurance and contentment even yet beamed in his eye.

The tourney had lasted a long time. I scarce had time enough to change
my weed for the dance. Till this day I had sported like a fish in this
torrent of turmoil and pleasure; but to-day I was weary. My body was in
pain with my spirit, and I would fain have staid at home; but I minded
me of the Queen who, albeit she was so much older, and was watched by
all--every one expecting that she should be gracious--in her heavy royal
array, went through all this of which I was so weary.

Meanwhile a great storm had burst upon us and passed over; all creatures
were refreshed, and I likewise uplifted my head and breathed more
freely. The fencing school--a great square chamber, as it is to this
day, with places all round for the folk to look on--wa