Sturgis advertiser. (Sturgis, Dakota [S.D.]) 1887-1???, 1888-01-04
EDWY AND ELGIVA.

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Saxon kings, and q grandson Of Al
fred the Great-AFcfe two ladies, moth
Grand daughter.
The elder was stately, lady whose
ripe matronly beauty was set off by
the becoming colors Of her rich silken
robe, which was profuscly embroid-
cred with fanciful devices in gay-coI-
ored silks.
Z A gauzy wrap of golden net was
-draped about her head and neck, ac-
cording to the fashion of the times.
The younger lady had thrown her
veil aside. as 1t interfefed with her
freedom of motion rs she touched the
strings of harp with her delicate fin
gers, in accompaniment to a ballad
she was singing in a low sweet voice.
She was of striking and rare lowell
ness, with large expressive eyes, feat
ures of Grecian purity of outline, and
skin of lily fairness.
Her hair had escaped from the elab-
crate structure but recently arranged
by her tire wonan's skillful hands,
and fell lii shower of natural gold
over her shoulders, giving her child
ish look, which, in its turn, was con-
tradicted by dignity of bearing more
suitable to the exalted station to : which
this girl of fifteen has been raised by
the romantic passion Of King Edwy.
Her robe was loose flowing over
dress Of white silk, bordered with
birds Of paradise wrought in gold
thread, with eyes made of gems which
caught the light at every motion. As
the broad sleeves of this rich garment
fell back they disclosed the perfectly
moulded arms, covered by tight-fitting
sleeves thickly embroidered with seed
pearls. A collar of brilliants was
clasped around her slender throat.
and the same precious stones shone
from setting of dead gold which en-
circled her wrists. 1t was her wedding
dress, and she had put it on with proud
pleasure on this PARTICULAR day, as it
was the one upon which her young
husbands coronation feast was to be
held. But the long hours had passed
until the sun was nearing the horizon,
and still the sounds of reyelry came
from the banqueting-hall, and her
eyes had not been gladdened by the
sight of the noble face of the king-he
whom his people deemed of such an
unusual comeliness of person as to
have given him that name of Edwy the
Fair. which has been handed down to
us through long intervening centuries,
in connection with the tragical story
of his love and sorrow.
As she touched the vibrating strings
of her harp. a bevy Of beautiful girls
her maids of honor-drew near and
listened admiringly, exchanging
glances of surprise at their royal mis-
tress's skill.
After time the youthful queen dis
missed them from her presence, and
when she found herself alone with her
mother, she went to her and threw her
arms about her neck with all ifnpul-
sive gesture.
sAh, my mother" she said, 81 am
sad and weary! Would that we were
again at our own home, and that Edwy
were once more my lover instead of
my husband. This constraint frets
me until / feel like a Gagged bird.
have but the merest glimpses Of him !
so love, and then only under the scrut-
my of prying eyes. ] am tired OF it
ALI"
Ethelgiva drew her child within her
arms in a tender embrace.
patience, my daughter" she said
scothingly, lis the need of those called
to lofty position like the one you oc-
cupy. Be happy in your royal hus-
bands love. Undoubtedly he is at
this moment longing as intensely for
the society of his chosen wife as does
my Elgiva for the sight of his face"
Even as she spoke the young queen
sprang from her encircling arms with
glad cry. A graceful youth had
pushed aside the embroidered hang
ings and entered the room.
"Oh. Edwy! is it indeed you? MY
soul has been heavy for lack of your
presence.
Il knew the tears would be in my
loves bright eyes if l delayed longer.
So I have stolen away from the BAN
quoting hall for few brief moments"
'.But, Edwy." and Elgiva's face grew
troubled, 'swill they not be displeased
at your absencep Do not stay if it
will create anger in the hearts of those
w no uoO CuClL pOWCl w w Jou
harm"
King Edwy smiled gaily at Elgiva's
words. He was at the age when hope
swells high in the breast, and when
fear is unknown.
He had succeeded to the throne when
boy of fifteen, and was now barely
seventeen.
His marriage had been opposed by
the powerful Archbishop of Canter-
bury, harsh overbearing man of Dam
ish extraction, named Odo.
Dunstan also. the Abbot of Glaston-
bury, and Odo's warmest friend and
partisan, had used his influence to pre-
vent it, but in vain.
Edwy's heart had been taken cap
tive by his beautiful young relative,
and although their ties of sanguinity
came within the bounds forbidden by
the laws of the Romish Church, he had
carried out his inclinations, and mar
ried her.
See" he said, pointing to the crown
which rested upon his youthful head,
II am at last a king in reality, as well
as by right of Inheritance. This day
the holy oil has been poured upon my
forehead by Odo's hands, which also
placed this bauble in its present place.
May wear it as worthily as did my
grandsire, the noble Alfred"
Elgiva putt her slender fingers,
and touched the crown with look OF
wonder and interest.
s.Is it not heavvp" she asked.
"Wait until you have felt its weight
then YOU can answer the question"