In a tale set in 1265, the Prince de Gâtinais travels to Burgos to negotiate a marriage with Ellinor, sister of King Alphonso of Castile, to secure a vote for the German crown. Ellinor, however, is already married to Prince Edward of England, who has neglected her for a decade. The Prince de Gâtinais plans to annul her marriage, leveraging the Pope's support, while Edward, unaware of Ellinor's discontent, embarks on a journey to reclaim her. As Edward travels through Picardy, he encounters a group of Spaniards who attempt to kill him, revealing a plot against Ellinor. He learns from a page, Miguel de Rueda, that Ellinor has grown tired of waiting for him and is enamored with the handsome de Gâtinais. Edward, feeling remiss for his neglect, decides to pursue Ellinor and confront de Gâtinais. The narrative explores themes of duty, love, and the complexities of relationships. Edward's journey is marked by philosophical discussions with Miguel, who challenges Edward's views on love and happiness. They debate the nature of duty versus personal desire, with Edward believing that his responsibilities outweigh his personal happiness. Upon reaching Mauléon, Edward discovers that de Gâtinais has been waiting for Ellinor. A confrontation ensues, revealing the depth of Ellinor's feelings for both men. In a moment of crisis, she intervenes to save Edward from de Gâtinais, leading to a revelation of her true affections. Ultimately, she chooses to embrace her role as Edward's wife, recognizing the weight of their shared responsibilities. The story culminates in a reflection on the nature of love, loyalty, and the sacrifices made for duty. Ellinor's decision to remain with Edward signifies a commitment to their marriage, despite the allure of de Gâtinais. The narrative concludes with a sense of resolution, as Ellinor finds purpose in her relationship with Edward, acknowledging the complexities of their intertwined fates.
By James Branch Cabell · First published 1917 · Genre: Historical Fiction, Romance, Adventure