Nobody suspected how much secret delight and hidden rapture lay in these words.

No one suspected that for months she had been looking forward with pleasure to this ride, and scarcely dared to wish for it, just because it would be the fulfilment of her ardent wishes.
She was already dressed in her riding-habit, and the little red velvet hat, with its long, drooping white feather, adorned her beautiful head.
Walking up and down the room, she was waiting only for the return of the lord chamberlain, whom she had sent to the king to inquire whether he wished to speak with her before her ride.
Suddenly the door opened, and a strange apparition showed itself on the threshold.

It was a small, compact masculine figure, clad in vesture of crimson silk, which was trimmed in a style showy and motley enough, with puffs and bows of all colors, and which, just on account of its motley appearance, contrasted strangely enough with the man's white hair, and earnest and sombre face.
"Ah, the king's fool," said Catharine, with a merry laugh.

"Well, John, what is it that brings you here?
Do you bring me a message from the king, or have you made a bold hit, and wish me to take you again under my protection ?" "No, queen," said John Heywood, seriously, "I have made no bold hit, nor do I bring a message from the king.

I bring nothing but myself.