Volume Ii Part 19 (1/2)

With Louis' chance it went not well When at herself she raged; A woman, of whom men might tell She doted, crazed and aged.

XVII

Or else enamoured of a sweet Withdrawn, a vengeful crone!

And say, what figure at her feet Is this that utters moan?

XVIII

The Countess Louis from her head Drew veil: 'Great Lady, hear!

My husband deems you Justice dread, I know you Mercy dear.

XIX

'His error upon him may fall; He will not breathe a nay.

I am his helpless mate in all, Except for grace to pray.

XX

'Perchance on me his choice inclined, To give his House an heir: I had not marriage with his mind, His counsel could not share.

XXI

'I brought no portion for his weal But this one instinct true, Which bids me in my weakness kneel, Archd.u.c.h.ess Anne, to you.'

XXII

The frowning Lady uttered, 'Forth!'

Her look forbade delay: 'It is not mine to weigh your worth; Your husband's others weigh.

XXIII

'Hence with the woman in your speech,'

For nothing it avails In woman's fas.h.i.+on to beseech Where Justice holds the scales.'

XXIV

Then bent and went the lady wan, Whose girlishness made grey The thoughts that through Archd.u.c.h.ess Anne Shattered like stormy spray.

XXV

Long sat she there, as flame that strives To hold on beating wind: - His wife must be the fool of wives, Or cunningly designed!

XXVI

She sat until the tempest-pitch In her torn bosom fell; - His wife must be a subtle witch Or else G.o.d loves her well!

3--I

Old Kraken read a missive penned By his great Lady's hand.

Her condescension called him friend, To raise the crest she fanned.