Ah, only to think this is already treason to her virtue and modesty; and surely she has not deserved this from us two, that we should disdain and insult her.

She is the first that has always been just to you; and to me she has ever been only a gracious mistress!" "It is true," murmured Elizabeth, completely ashamed; "she is a true friend and mother; and I have her to thank for my present position at this court." Then, after a pause, she said, smiling, and extending her hand to the earl: "You are right.

It would be a crime to suspect her; and I am a fool.

Forgive me, Seymour, forgive my absurd and childish anger; and I promise you in return to betray our secret to no one, not even to the queen." "Do you swear that to me ?" "I swear it to you! and I swear to you more than that: I will never again be jealous of her." "Then you do but simple justice to yourself and to the queen also," said the earl, with a smile, as he drew her again to his arms.
But she pushed him gently back.

"I must now away.