Page:Life and transactions of Jane Shore, concubine to King Edward IVth.pdf/6

6 led down, who came a tired in a skv-coloured morning gown, flowered with gold, embroidered with pearls and spangles, her head attired with curious lace, under which, her hair flowed wantonly, and her blushes made her appear still more beautiful,

The King no sooner saw her, but he stepped forth and saluted her coral lips, in pressing on them many balmy kisses. Then she, by her husband's desire, sat down, and the King drank to her, she pledged him, and passed it to her husband. Then much discourse ensued, in which she appeared so witty, that the King resolved to have her at any rate, and so presented her with some curious things. He paid for his plate, which the good man would have sent home, but he refused it, ordering his page to carry it's and with many kisses, he took leave of the charming for one for that time.

The king had no sooner departed, but Jane asked her husband, who that gentleman was, that had been so liberal to her? he told her, he said he was a merchant, but he knew him not. Ah! said she, I rather take him for some Lord in disguise; therefore, dear husband, if he should come again, tell him that I am sick, or any thing you can feign to disappoint him.

Mr. Shore was greatly pleased at her conduct, and more discourse had passed, but people coming into the shop about business, she retired.

The King soon arrived at court, where he had been hissed by his nobles, soon changed his apparel, and came amongst them with a very cheerful countenance, and though others were ignor-