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The king's imagination being fired by this des- cription, he eagerly enquired in what corner of the nation so great a beauty could be concealed from his view, and if he could not obtain an audience, that he might be satisfied if her person equalled his account, or if the affections of her uncle did not blind him. The nobleman, now perceiving his error, and that the praises he had thought justly bestowed upon his niece night lead her to ruin, cooly replied, he     had only made this relation to give a true definition of beauty, and implored his majesty to pardon his presumption. The king possessed too much penetration not to     perceive the meaning of the courtier's answer. He     grew exceedingly angry; and commanded the noble- man, on his allegiance, to tell him the truth. Being in fear of the king's displeasure, he plainly answered, " My liege, there is such a lady, daughter     of Walter, Lord Clifford, and of his lady, my sister,      living in Godstowe, in Oxfordshire. Many noble      persons have sought her in marriage, but have met      a refusal ; her tender heart not being yet disposed      to love." " And this I affirm is the truth, on the forfeiture     of my head. As for the name of the fair creature,      it is Rosamond; and indeed she is the peerless rose      of the world." While they were thus discoursing, queen Eleanor came to visit the king, which broke of any further conversation, It was not long before the king resolved to invite himself to her father's house, and to that end took a progress into Oxfordshire, attended only by some trusty courtiers, and was highly welcomed by the Lord Clifford and his lady; fearing his design, they ordered their daughter not to appear in his presence; but the king bidding one of his attendants to en- quire of the servants if she was at home, and finding