It would have been difficult, however, to make that very clear to Philip's comprehension, because, if men, women, and children, were scourged with rods, imprisoned and hanged, if they refused to conform publicly to a ceremony at which their consciences revolted-unless they had money enough to purchase non-conformity--it seemed to be the practice to inquire very effectively into their consciences.
But if there was a certain degree of disingenuousness on the part of Elizabeth towards the States, her attitude towards Parma was one of perfect sincerity.

A perusal of the secret correspondence leaves no doubt whatever on that point.

She was seriously and fervently desirous of peace with Spain.

On the part of Farnese and his master, there was the most unscrupulous mendacity, while the confiding simplicity and truthfulness of the Queen in these negotiations was almost pathetic.

Especially she declared her trust in the loyal and upright character of Parma, in which she was sure of never being disappointed.