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KENILWORTH - Penn State University

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Sir Walter Scott“Peace, father,” answered Leicester, “I have erred in doubtingthee. Not to mortal man, nor to celestial intelligence—under that which is supreme—will Dudley’s lips say more incondescension or apology. Speak rather to the present purpose.Amid these bright promises thou hast said there was athreatening aspect. Can thy skill tell whence, or by whosemeans, such danger seems to impend?”“Thus far only,” answered the astrologer, “does my art enableme to answer your query. The infortune is threatened bythe malignant and adverse aspect, through means of a youth,and, as I think, a rival; but whether in love or in prince’s favour,I know not nor can I give further indication respecting him,save that he comes from the western quarter.”“The western—ha!” replied Leicester, “it is enough—thetempest does indeed brew in that quarter! Cornwall and Devon—Raleighand Tressilian—one of them is indicated-I mustbeware of both. Father, if I have done thy skill injustice, I willmake thee a lordly recompense.”He took a purse of gold from the strong casket which stoodbefore him. “Have thou double the recompense which Varneypromised. Be faithful—be secret—obey the directions thoushalt receive from my master of the horse, and grudge not alittle seclusion or restraint in my cause—it shall be richly considered.—Here,Varney—conduct this venerable man to thineown lodging; tend him heedfully in all things, but see that heholds communication with no one.Varney bowed, and the astrologer kissed the Earl’s hand intoken of adieu, and followed the master of the horse to anotherapartment, in which were placed wine and refreshmentsfor his use.The astrologer sat down to his repast, while Varney shuttwo doors with great precaution, examined the tapestry, lestany listener lurked behind it, and then sitting down oppositeto the sage, began to question him.“Saw you my signal from the court beneath?”“I did,” said Alasco, for by such name he was at presentcalled, “and shaped the horoscope accordingly.”“And it passed upon the patron without challenge?” continuedVarney.“Not without challenge,” replied the old man, “but it didpass; and I added, as before agreed, danger from a discoveredsecret, and a western youth.”227

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