Roland
Graeme had often been a spectator of her skill, and sometimes, at the
Queen's command, Catherine's partner on such occasions. He was,
therefore, perfectly acquainted with Catherine's mode of dancing; and
observed that his present partner, in grace, in agility, in quickness
of ear, and precision of execution, exactly resembled her, save that
the Scottish jig, which he now danced with her, required a more
violent and rapid motion, and more rustic agility, than the stately
pavens, lavoltas, and courantoes, which he had seen her execute in the
chamber of Queen Mary. The active duties of the dance left him little
time for reflection, and none for conversation; but when their _pas
de deux_ was finished, amidst the acclamations of the villagers,
who had seldom witnessed such an exhibition, he took an opportunity,
when they yielded up the green to another couple, to use the privilege
of a partner and enter into conversation with the mysterious maiden,
whom he still held by the hand.
"Fair partner, may I not crave the name of her who has graced me
thus far?"
"You may," said the maiden; "but it is a question whether I shall
answer you."
"And why?" asked Roland.
"Because nobody gives anything for nothing--and you can tell me
nothing in return which I care to hear."
"Could I not tell you my name and lineage, in exchange for yours?"
returned Roland.
"No!" answered the maiden, "for you know little of either."
"How?" said the page, somewhat angrily.
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