But Isabella saw but one picture, felt but one thought; and Marie never forgot the look she fixed on the breathing portrait of Alfonso, nor the tone with which she inquired-- "Hadst thou ever a brother, Marie ?" "Never, royal Madam." "Then thou canst not enter into the deep love I bore yon princely boy, nor the feeling that picture brings.

Marie, I would cast aside my crown, descend my throne without one regretful murmur, could I but hold him to my heart once more, as I did the night he bade me his glad farewell.

It was for ever! Thy husband speaks of him sometimes ?" "Often, often, my gracious liege, till his lip has quivered and his eye has glistened!" Isabella pressed her hand, and with even more than her wonted graciousness, turned to receive from the hand of her host the gemmed goblet of wine, which, in accordance with established custom, Don Ferdinand knelt down to present, having first drunk of it himself.
Inspiringly sounded the martial music during the continuance of the banquet.

Brightly sparkled the brimming goblets of the far-famed Spanish wine.

Lightly round the table ran the gay laugh and gayer jest.