Page:Gesta Romanorum - Swan - Wright - 2.djvu/226

214 before sun-rise should be saluted with songs and trumpets; and, arrayed in black garments, should receive judgment. This king made a great feast; and convoked all the nobles of his kingdom, who appeared accordingly. The most skilful musicians were assembled, and there was much sweet melody. (40) But the sovereign was discontented and out of humour; his countenance expressed intense sorrow, and sighs and groans ascended from his heart. The courtiers were all amazed; but none had the hardihood to enquire the cause of his sadness. At last, the king's brother whispered to him the surprise of his guests, and entreated that he might understand the occasion of his grief. "Go home now," answered the king, "to-morrow you shall know." This was done. Early in the morning the king directed the trumpets to sound before his brother's house; and the guards to bring him to the court. The brother, greatly alarmed at the sounding of the trumpets, arose, and put on sable vesture. When he came before the king, the latter commanded a deep pit to be dug, and