To the right noble Earl of Surrey belongs the proud honor of having presented to our happy England her first sonnets.

Well, now, I also will give her something new.

I present her the first comedy; and as he sings the beauty of his Geraldine, so I celebrate the fame of Gammer Gurton's sewing-needle--Gammer Gurton's needle--so my piece is called; and you, King Henry, shall listen to it as a punishment for your sins!" "I will do so," cried the king, cheerfully, "provided you permit it, Kate! But before I do so, I make also one more condition--a condition for you, queen! Kate, you have disdained to impose a penance on me, but grant me at least the pleasure of being allowed to fulfil some wish of yours! Make me a request, that I may grant it you!" "Well, then, my lord and king," said Catharine with a charming smile, "I beg you to think no more of the incidents of this day, and to forgive those whom I accused, only because their accusation was my vindication.
They who brought charges against me have in this hour felt contrition for their own fault.

Let that suffice, king, and forgive them, as I do!" "You are a noble and great woman, Kate!" cried the king; and, as his glance swept over toward Gardiner with an almost contemptuous expression, he continued: "Your request is granted.

But woe to them who shall dare accuse you again! And have you nothing further to demand, Kate ?" "Nay, one thing more, my lord and husband!" She leaned nearer to the king's ear, and whispered: "They have also accused your noblest and most faithful servant; they have accused Cranmer.