“He may talk till he is tired,” muttered the Lord Admiral. “There will be no cordial understanding between us.” This opinion was shared by several others. Indeed, the English nobles were deterred by the arrogance of the Spanish grandees from making advances towards them. “It is my wish to observe all good old English customs,” pursued the Prince. “If I unintentionally neglect any of them, I hope to be made aware of the omission. I would fain drink a health to all present.” “A cup of wine for his Highness!” cried the Earl of Arundel. “Nay, my good lord, let me have a flagon of English ale,” said the Prince. “I should prefer your national beverage.” “As your Highness pleases,” rejoined Arundel, bowing. “A flagon of ale on the instant.” The Prince’s choice caused considerable merriment, and warmed many a heart towards him. “A cup of ale!” exclaimed Simnel. “This is carrying complaisance to the highest point.” “His Highness is resolved to become an Englishman, that I can plainly perceive,” observed Rodomont, “and takes what he conceives to be the shortest way to his object. Heaven bless him! he is a most gracious Prince.” At this juncture, a silver flagon, filled with ale, was brought on a salver, and presented by the Earl of Arundel to the Prince, who, taking the cup, bowed graciously around. “His Highness drinks to you all, good Sirs!” cried the Earl of Arundel, in a loud voice. “To all, of whatever degree!” said the Prince, raising the goblet to his lips. Most opportunely, at the moment, another discharge was fired from the castle guns, followed by a loud flourish of trumpets and drums. From the shouts that were also raised, it was evident that the Prince was rising rapidly in popular favour. “How does your Highness like the beverage?” inquired the Earl of Arundel, as he took back the goblet. “It will improve upon acquaintance, I make no doubt,” replied Philip. “At present, I find it somewhat too potent.” “A strong head is needed to stand it,” observed the Lord Admiral, with an ill-disguised sneer. After this, Philip remained for some little time beneath the canopy, conversing with the English nobles, and evidently striving to propitiate them, and he appeared to be successful in his efforts. He showed himself extremely easy of access, and amongst other persons presented to him was Rodomont Bittern. “This is not the first time we have met, Sir,” observed Philip, to the surprise of most who heard him. “Since your Highness deigns to recollect the circumstance, be assured I shall never forget it,” replied Rodomont. “Nay, you have rendered me a great service,” said the Prince, “and it shall not pass unrequited. Is Master Tyrrell here?” “Ay, your Highness,” replied Rodomont. “He is yonder, with the town-council.” “Let him come forward. I would speak with him,” said Philip.