But in this matter those tears produced no more effect upon the heart of Isabella than does water dripping on a diamond.

Gentle enough in other ways, where questions of the Faith were concerned she had the craft of a fox and the cruelty of a tiger.

She was even indignant with Margaret.

Had not enough been done for her?
she asked.
Had she not even passed her royal word that no steps should be taken to deprive the accused of such property as he might own in Spain if he were found guilty, and that none of those penalties which, according to law and custom fell upon the children of such infamous persons, should attach to her, Margaret?
Was she not to be publicly married to her lover, and, should he survive the combat, allowed to depart with him in honour without even being asked to see her father expiate his iniquity?
Surely, as a good Christian she should rejoice that he was given this opportunity of reconciling his soul with God and be made an example to others of his accursed faith.

Was she then a heretic also?
So she stormed on, till Margaret crept from her presence wondering whether this creed could be right that would force the child to inform against and bring the parent to torment.