Page:Famous history of the learned Friar Bacon (1).pdf/7

(7) When the Friar came into the king’s presence, he did him obeisance, and was kindly welcomed by him. Then said the king, worthy Bacon, having heard much of your fame, the cause of my sending for you, was to be a spectator of some fine curiosities in your art. The Friar excused at first; but the king pressing it, promised on his royal word no harm should come to him, he bid all keep silence, and waving his magic ward, there presently, to their great amazement, ensued the most melodious music they had ever heard, which continued very ravishing for near half an hour. Then waving his wand, another kind of music was heard, and presently dancers in antic shapes at a masquerade, entered the room; and having danced incomparably well, they vanished. Waving his wand the third time, louder music was heard; and whilst that played, a table was placed by an invisible hand, richly spread with all the dainties that could be thought of: Then he desired the king and queen to draw their seats near, and partake of the repast he had prepared for their highnesses; which after they had done, all vanished. He waved the fourth, and thereupon the place was perfumed with all the sweets of Arabia, or that the whole world could produce. Then waving the fifth time, there came in Russians,