When the company from the Abbey drew near the troop of revellers, the usher taking Alizon's hand in the tips of his fingers as before, strutted forward with her to Sir Ralph and his lady, and falling upon one knee before them, said,--"Most worshipful and honoured knight, and you his lovely dame, and you the tender and cherished olive branches growing round about their tables, I hereby crave your gracious permission to present unto your honours our chosen Queen of May." Somewhat fluttered by the presentation, Alizon yet maintained sufficient composure to bend gracefully before Lady Assheton, and say in a very sweet voice, "I fear your ladyship will think the choice of the village hath fallen ill in alighting upon me; and, indeed, I feel myself altogether unworthy the distinction; nevertheless I will endeavour to discharge my office fittingly, and therefore pray you, fair lady, and the worshipful knight, your husband, together with your beauteous children, and the gentles all by whom you are surrounded, to grace our little festival with your presence, hoping you may find as much pleasure in the sight as we shall do in offering it to you." "A fair maid, and modest as she is fair," observed Sir Ralph, with a condescending smile.
"In sooth is she," replied Lady Assheton, raising her kindly, and saying, as she did so-- "Nay, you must not kneel to us, sweet maid.

You are queen of May, and it is for us to show respect to you during your day of sovereignty.

Your wishes are commands; and, in behalf of my husband, my children, and our guests, I answer, that we will gladly attend your revels on the green." "Well said, dear Nell," observed Sir Ralph.

"We should be churlish, indeed, were we to refuse the bidding of so lovely a queen." "Nay, you have called the roses in earnest to her cheek, now, Sir Ralph," observed Lady Assheton, smiling.

"Lead on, fair queen," she continued, "and tell your companions to begin their sports when they please .-- Only remember this, that we shall hope to see all your gay troop this evening at the Abbey, to a merry dance." "Where I will strive to find her majesty a suitable partner," added Sir Ralph.