"It was Catholics who fought against me in the Armada, and it was
Catholics who plotted against me at Court."
"Then there is a difference in Catholics, your Grace," said Anthony.
"Ah! I see what you would be at."
"Yes, your Highness; I would rather say, Although they be Catholics they
do these things."
There was silence again, which Anthony did not dare to break; and the two
walked up the whole length of the gallery without speaking.
"Well, well," said Elizabeth at last, "but this was not why I sent for
you. We will speak of yourself now, Mr. Norris. I hope you are not an
obstinate fellow. Eh?"
Anthony said nothing, and the Queen went on.
"Now, as I have told you, I judge no man's private opinions. You may
believe what you will. Remember that. You may believe what you will; nay,
you may practise your religion so long as it is private and unknown to
me."
Anthony began to wonder what was coming; but he still said nothing as the
Queen paused. She stood a moment looking down into the empty Tilt-yard
again, and then turned and sat suddenly in a chair that stood beside the
window, and put up a jewelled hand to shield her face, with her elbow on
the arm, while Anthony stood before her.
"I remember you, Mr. Norris, very well at Greenwich; you spoke up sharply
enough, and you looked me in the eyes now and then as I like a man to do;
and then Minnie loved you, too. I wish to show you kindness for her
sake."
Anthony's heart began to fail him, for he guessed now what was coming and
the bitter struggle that lay before him.
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