The Historical Nights Entertainment, Second Series by Rafael Sabatini
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page 20 of 294 (06%)
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truth, and carry it to Rome. Thus shall you do worthy service."
But the prelate was obstinate and proud. "That is not the answer that our Holy Father awaits." "It is the answer that I send." "Rash, rebellious youth, beware!" The cardinal's anger flamed up, and his voice swelled. "I come armed with spiritual weapons of destruction. Do not abuse the patience of Mother Church, or you shall feel the full weight of her wrath released against you." Exasperated, Affonso Henriques bounded to his feet, his face livid now with passion, his eyes ablaze. "Out! Away!" he cried. "Go, my lord, and go quickly, or as God watches us I will add here and now yet another sacrilege to those of which you accuse me." The prelate gathered his ample robes about him. If pale, he was entirely calm once more. With stern dignity, he bowed to the angry youth, and so departed, but with such outward impassivity that it would have been difficult to say with whom lay the victory. If Affonso Henriques thought that night that he had conquered, morning was to shatter the illusion. He was awakened early by a chamberlain at the urgent instances of Emigio Moniz, who was demanding immediate audience. Affonso Henriques sat up in bed, and bade him to be admitted. |
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