“Since your Highness deigns to recollect the circumstance, be assured I shall never forget it,” replied Rodomont.
“Nay, you have rendered me a great service,” said the Prince, “and it shall not pass unrequited. Is Master Tyrrell here?”
“Ay, your Highness,” replied Rodomont. “He is yonder, with the town-council.”
“Let him come forward. I would speak with him,” said Philip.
Accordingly, the worthy merchant, much to his dismay, was brought before the Prince. He was so confused that he would have neglected the necessary obeisance, if he had not been prompted by Rodomont, who, indeed, half forced him to incline his person.
“I am glad to see you again, good Master Tyrrell,” said Philip, smiling, “and have to thank you for your hospitable intentions towards me last night.”
“Your Highness will forgive me. I knew not whom I was addressing,” stammered Tyrrell. “It is true that I subsequently learnt from my daughter——”
“That she had rendered me a most signal service, which I trust adequately to requite,” interrupted the Prince. “No more of that now, Sir. But rest assured that her Majesty will not be less grateful than myself to fair Mistress Constance.”
“I am not quite so sure of that,” thought Rodomont.
With further assurances of his consideration, the Prince then dismissed Master Tyrrell, who retired with Rodomont, both being charmed with his Highness’s affability.