Liberty of conscience might thus be turned to account.

While two great parties were "by the ears, and pulling out each other's hair, all might perhaps be reduced together." His Majesty was warned, nevertheless, to expect the worst, and to believe that the country could only be cared with fire and blood.

The position of the Governor was painful and perplexing.

"Don John," said Escovedo, "is thirty years old.
I promise your Majesty nothing, save that if he finds himself without requisite assistance, he will take himself off when your Majesty is least thinking of such a thing." Nothing could be more melancholy than the tone of the Governor's letters.
He believed himself disliked, even in the midst of affectionate demonstrations.

He felt compelled to use moderate counsels, although he considered moderation of no avail.