"Ha!--ay--Edith Plantagenet. Did I dream
this? or did some one tell me? My head is still weak from this
fever, and has been agitated. Was it the Scot, or the Hakim, or
yonder holy hermit, that hinted such a wild bargain?"
"The hermit of Engaddi, most likely," said the Archbishop, "for
he hath toiled much in this matter; and since the discontent of
the princes has became apparent, and a separation of their forces
unavoidable, he hath had many consultations, both with Christian
and pagan, for arranging such a pacification as may give to
Christendom, at least in part, the objects of this holy warfare."
"My kinswoman to an infidel--ha!" exclaimed Richard, as his eyes
began to sparkle.
The prelate hastened to avert his wrath.
"The Pope's consent must doubtless be first attained, and the
holy hermit, who is well known at Rome, will treat with the holy
Father."
"How?--without our consent first given?" said the King.
"Surely no," said the Bishop, in a quieting and insinuating tone
of voice--"only with and under your especial sanction.
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