ess,
on second thought, will realize how ungentle and unkind some one else
has been." And with a sweeping courtesy he walked quickly down the
path.

"The insolent wretch!" cried one.

"He ought to hold papers on the pillory," said another.

"Nothing of the sort," broke in sensible, fearless little Jane; "I
think the Lady Mary was wrong. He could not have known her by
inspiration."

"Jane is right," exclaimed Mary, whose temper, if short, was also
short-lived, and whose kindly heart always set her right if she but
gave it a little time. Her faults were rather those of education than
of nature. "Jane is right; it was what I deserved. I did not think
when I spoke, and did not really mean it as it sounded. He acted like
a man, and looked like one, too, when he defended himself. I warrant
the pope at Rome could not run over him with impunity. For once I have
found a real live man, full of manliness. I saw him in the lists at
Windsor a week ago, but the king said his name was a secret, and I
could not learn it. He seemed to know you, Jane. Who is he? Now tell
us all you know. The queen can wait."

And her majesty waited on a girl's curiosity.

I had told Jane all I knew about Brandon, so she was prepared with
full information, and gave it. She told the princess who he was; of
his terrible duel with Judson; his bravery and adventures in the wars;
his generous gift to his brother and sisters, and lastly, "Sir Edwin
says he is the best-read man in the court, and the bravest, truest
heart in Christendom."

After Jane's account of Brandon, they all started by a roundabout way
for the marble landing. In a few moments whom did they see, coming
toward them down the path, but Brandon, who had delivered his message
and continued his walk. When he saw whom he was about to meet, he
quickly turned in another direction. The Lady Mary had seen him,
however, and told Jane to run forward and bring him to her. She soon
overtook him and said:

"Master Brandon, the princess wishes to see you." Then, maliciously:
"You will suffer this time. I assure you she is not used to such
treatment. It was glorious, though, to see you resent such an affront.
Men usually smirk and smile foolishly and thank her when she smites
them."

Brandon was disinclined to return.

"I am not in her highness's command," he answered, "and do not care
to go back for a reprimand when I am in no way to blame."

"Oh, but you must come; perhaps she will not scold