As he did so his eyes sought his sister's, and his expressive features told her that he was imposing this sacrifice upon himself for her sake.
It was long since he had bestowed a fairer gift.

True, in this mood, it seemed impossible for him to refrain from the wine.

It enlivened him and doubled the unexpected pleasure.

Unfortunately, he was to atone only too speedily for this offence against medical advice, for his heated blood increased the twinges of the gout to such a degree that he was compelled to relinquish his desire to listen to the exquisite singing longer.
Groaning, he suffered himself--this time in a litter--to be carried back to his chamber, where, in spite of the pangs that tortured him, he asked for the letter in which Granvelle informed his royal master every evening what he thought of the political affairs to be settled the next day.

Master Adrian, the valet, had just brought it, but this time Charles glanced over the important expressions of opinion given by the young minister swiftly and without deeper examination.