Page:History of the seven wise masters, of Rome (1).pdf/18

 passion: Not long did his expectation fail, for the Lady beholding him, concluded he was the man she beheld in her dream; and as he daily frequented the place, she took an opportunity to drop a letter, which he took up, and so departed consulting with himself how he determined thus; That he would insinuate himself into the king's favour which he did by his great wisdom in state affairs, insomuch that the king made him steward of his household; and, accordingly, ordered an house to be built adjoining to the castle for him, through the great building of which, the Knight contrived to cut the wall, and so to make a private way into the castle, and then for secrecy, slew the workmen. When he entered, he was joyfully received by the queen, who permitted him to take his fill of love, giving him the ring which the king gave her on the wedding day; which the king noticed as he slept in his presence; but he preceiving the discovery, feigned sick, and obtained licence to retire, conveying the ring to her again, ere the king came to enquire after it: Nay, he often brought her to the king's table, pretending she was a lady of his acquaintance whom he intended shortly to wed. Then the king loookinglooking [sic] earnestly said, Well, if I had not the keys of the castle, I should almost swear it was my queen; before he could go to prove it, she was returned in her usual dress. In the end, the Knight desired the King to give him this Lady