Dons
and senoras of proud titles and rich estates, the high officials of
the court, the prime ministers the maids of honor, the gayly dressed
pages and men-at-arms, all combined to render the scene one of most
striking effect.
The young soldier was fresh from the field; hard service and
exposure had deepened the olive tint of his clear complexion to a
deep nut brown, and his beard was unshaven, and gave a fine
classical effect to his handsome but melancholy features. The bright
clearness of his intelligent eye seemed to those who looked upon him
there, to reflect the battles, sieges and victories that the gallant
soldier had so lately participated in. Though neat and clean in
appearance, the somewhat sudden summons he had received, led him to
appear before the court in his battle dress, and the same sword hung
by his side that had so often reeked with the enemy's blood, and
flashed in the van of battle.
There was no hauteur in his bearing; his form was erect and
military; there was no self-sufficiency or pride in his expression;
but a calm, steady purpose of soul alone was revealed by the
countenance that a hundred curious eyes now gazed upon. More than
one heart beat quicker among the lovely throng of ladies, as they
gazed upon the young hero.
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