The Democratic press. [volume] (Ravenna, O. [Ohio]) 1868-1901, 1888-01-19
EDWY AND ELGIVA.

In an inner room of the White Pal.
ace of King Edwy-One of the early
Saxon kings, and grandson of Al
fred the Great-were two ladies, moth.
er and daughter.
The elder was stately, lady whose
ripe matronly beauty was set off by
the becoming cOlors of her rich silken
robe, which was profusely embroid-
cred with fanciful devices in gay-col-
ored silks.
A gauzy wrap of golden net was
draped about her head and neck, ae-
cording to the fashion of the times.
The younger lady had thrown her
veil aside. as it interfered with her
freedom of motion us she touched the
strings of a harp with her delicate fin
gers, in accompaniment to ballad
she was singing in low sweet voice
She was of striking and rare lowell
ness. with large expressive eyes, feat
ures of Grecian purity of outline, and
a skin of lily fairness.
Her hair had escaped from the elab-
crate structure but recently arranged
by her tire-woman's skillful hands,
and fell in 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 u 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 briliiants was
clasped around her slender throat.
and the same precious stones shOne
from setting of dead gold whicls 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 rcvelry 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 comelincss 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, 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 an impul-
sive gesture.
"Ah, 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.
so love, and then only under the scrut-
my of prying eyes. 1 am tired of it
all~
arms in a tender embrace.
Patience, my daughter" she said
soothingly, 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
a glad cry. A graceful youth had
pushed aside the embroidered hang
ings and entered the room.
F'Oh, Edwy! is it indeed you? My
soul has been heavy for lack of youl
presence"
81 knew the tears would be in my
loves bright ewes if | delayed longer
So 1 have stolen away from the ban,
queting-hall for few brief moments.
But, Edwy,' and Elgiva's face grew
troubled, Twill they not be displeaseG
at your absence? Do not stay if il
will create anger in the hearts of those
who might use their power to do yor
| harm"
King Edwy smiled gaily at Elgiva',
words. He was at the age when hope
swells high in the breast, and wher
fear is unknown.
He had succeeded to the throne wher
a boy of fifteen, and was now barely
seventeen.
His marriage had been opposed by
the powerful Archbishop of Canter
| bury, a harsh overbeariug man OF Dan
ish extraction, named OdO.
! Dunstan also, the Abbot of Glaston
bury, and Odo's warmest friend ant
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 sanguinit,
came within the bounds forbidden b,
the laws of the Romish Church, he ha'
carried out his inclinations, and mar
ried her
''See." he said. pointing to the crow
which rested upon his youthful head
Il am at last king in reality, as wei
as by right of inheritance. This da,,
the holy oil has been poured upon m.
forehead by Odo's hands. which ais
placed this bauble in its present place
May | wear it as worthily as did m
grandsire, the noble Alfred
Elgiva put up her slender fingers
and touched the crown with look o
wonder and interest.
sis it not heavv?" she asked.
"Wait until you have felt its weigh
then you can answer the question,
was the playful reply, as Edwy sudden
ly lifted the crown from his own head
and placed it upon Elgiva's shinin
hair. Then he bent his knee befor
her. "Hail, Queen Of England. b