THE GOLDSMITH'S WIFE. (vintage 1952 Harlequin Book #178; AKA = The King's Mistress); 18 Year-Old JANE SHORE, Mistress of King Edward lV - Harlot, Prisoner & Beggar Woman, in 15th Century London

Toronto - Winnipeg, Canada.: Harlequin Books., 1952. Book. Illus. by GGA - Good Girl Art Painted Cover. Good to Very Good.. Soft cover. First Paperback Ed. & 1st Printing!.. 285 pages. >>> "The Goldsmith's Wife is Jane Shore, favourite mistress of the greatest lover in English history, King Edward IV. Wayward, passionate, goodhearted and loved by many men, Jane passes from a background of trade in Cheapside and Lombard Street, to rule the brilliant, profligate court, the morals of which are set by its Hastings, her seduction by the merchant who is really the King in disguise, her flight from the goldsmith's house to the King's court - all this is but the prelude to her colourful and exciting story. And although Jane is th ecentral figure, her life is necessarily closely interwaven with those of many fascinating personalities of the court. All these famous characters form a background for goldsmith's wife, and among these people moves Jane - a dainty, golden-haired figure, the loveliest and merriest lady of the court. She is seen gracing royal banquets, laden with jewels; and doing penance through the streets of London, with only a kirkle and her goldne hair to cover her. She is seen begging favours for others from the king, and begging alms for herslef in the streets. Humble mercer's daughter, goldsmith's wife, King's favourite, publicly proclaimed harlot, prisoner and beggar-woman, hers is a story of amazing contrasts set against te colourful, dangerous background of 15th century London." Size: 12mo - over 6¾" - 7¾" Tall..