2380 THE BOY CI RUSADERS.

becoming and proper for you to sit in the middle;
seeing that you are my sovereign, and will be so,
for the reason is plain.’

‘Henry,’ replied Louis, in a low voice, ‘ would
that every one could obtain his right without injury.
But in your case, added he, alluding to Henry's
claims on Normandy and Anjou, ‘the pride of the
I’rench would never permit it. But enough of this.’

Now it happened that the great hall was, according
to the continental custom, hung around with as
many bucklers as the four walls would hold, and
among them was the shield of Coeur de Lion; and
when the feast was drawing to a close, the revaly
began to look around and examine them.

‘My lord,’ said the Count of Anjou, jocularly
addressing Henry, ‘ why have you invited the French
to dine with you in this house of all others? See,
there is the shield of the lion-hearted King Richard.
I marvel that your guests have been able to eat
vithout fear and trembling.’

Now this remark, uttered as it was in a tone of
irony, was calculated to excite unpleasant sensations,
and to recall disagreeable reminiscences; and Henry
looked mortified, and Prince Edward threw his
magnificent head disdainfully backward. But Louis, —
ever on the watch, hastened to soothe their rising ire.

‘Would to God, Henry!’ said he, earnestly, ‘ that
the twelve peers of France and the barons would
azree to my wishes. We should then be inseparable
friends,’ |

‘I believe it, Louis, my cousin,’ exclaimed Henry,

quickly.