>"The banquet was scarcely ended, ere Cedric, with a heavy heart, and eyes saddened by the thought of his ruined hopes, looked anxiously towards the door, expecting the arrival of the messenger who was to announce the result of the conference at Rotherwood. At length, the door opened, and the figure of a knight, clad in complete armour, his visor closed, entered the hall. A murmur of astonishment arose among the guests, as he strode, with a stately and solemn step, towards the high table, where Cedric was seated. As he passed, his eye caught that of Rowena, and, as if struck by a sudden thought, he stopped short, and, raising his visor, discovered the countenance of the Templar. A deadly pale hue overspread the features of the beautiful Rowena. 'The spectre at the feast!' she exclaimed, and fainted."
Meaning:
The idiom "spectre at the feast" refers to an unexpected and unwelcome guest or event that disrupts a happy occasion.
* The "spectre" in this case is the Templar, who is a symbol of danger and threat to Rowena and her happiness.
* The "feast" represents a time of celebration and enjoyment.
* The Templar's arrival ruins the festive atmosphere and brings a sense of dread and fear.
Usage:
The idiom is often used to describe a person or event that spoils a happy moment. For example:
* "The unexpected news of her grandmother's illness was a spectre at the feast for her birthday celebration."
* "The arrival of the boss's wife at the office party was a spectre at the feast for everyone."
In summary, the idiom "spectre at the feast" originates from Scott's novel "Ivanhoe" and signifies an unexpected and unwelcome occurrence that ruins a happy occasion.