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MARRIAGE OF CHRISTIAN ROSENCREUTZ. 137
tablet (whereon stood three dedications and the author's
name) which a man might gently lift up, and by a little
board go into the center, which was capable of four
persons, being nothing but a round board whereon we Quid in
could sit and at ease by broad daylight (it was now already
dark) contemplate the stars, which seemed like mere car-
buncles glittering in an agreeable order, and moving so
gallantly that I had scarce any mind ever to go out again,
as the Page afterwards told the Virgin, and with which she
often twitted me, for it was already supper
time and I was
almost the last at table. The waiters treated me with so
much reverence and honour that for shame I durst not Reverentia
look up. To speak concerning the musick, or the rest of exiuMta
. auctoris.
that magnificent entertainment, I hold needless, because it
is not possible sufficiently to express it. In brief there was
nothing there but art and amenity.
After we had each to
other related our employment since noon (howbeit, not a
word was spoken of the library and monuments), being
already merry with wine, the Virgin began thus: "My The Lady
Lords, I have a great contention with one of my sisters.
In our chamber we have an eagle, whom we cherish with
such diligence that each of us is desirous to be the best Perplexed
speeches, or
beloved, and upon that score have many a squabble. On intricate
questions.
a day we concluded to go both together to him, and toward
whom he should show himself most friendly, hers should he
properly be. This we did, and I, as commonly, bare in my
hand a branch of lawrel, but my sister had none. As soon
as he espyed us both, he gave my sister another branch
which he had in his beak, and offered at mine, which I gave
him. Each of us hereupon imagined herself best beloved
of him. Which way am I to resolve myself ?
This modest proposal pleased us mightly well, and each
"