brim, resembling in shape those still worn in Spain. As the matter was
pressing, the tailor promised that both suits should be ready by the
following evening.

It took the ladies longer to make their purchases, and it was some time
before they issued out from the mantua makers, when the dame informed her
husband that she had chosen white satin for Aline's bodice, which was to
be tight fitting, in the fashion, and trimmed round the bottom and neck
with white fur, while the skirt was of lilac and of the same material. For
herself, she had chosen a purple robe reaching below the knees, with white
skirt, both being of satin. The caps, which were closely fitting to the
head, were of the same material, and of light yellow for herself and lilac
for Aline.

"We shall have to economize, my lady," Sir Ralph laughed. "'Tis well that
I am too old for foppery."

"That is all very well, Sir Ralph, but you must remember that you had a
new suit the last time you were in London, and have not worn it from then
till now, and I will warrant me that it cost well-nigh as much as Aline's
garments or mine."

While waiting for the ladies, two sword-belts had been bought for the
lads, Edgar's being embroidered with gold thread, Albert's with silver.

"Now, boys, I think that you will do," Sir Ralph said. "You may not be
able to compete with some of those young peacocks of the Court, but you
will make a sufficiently brave show, and need not feel envious of the best
of them."