Still I persuade myself, if I could obtain a hearing of the King, I should be able to set my enemies at defiance and obtain my right." De Gondomar smiled somewhat scornfully.
"You will obtain little in that way," he said, "and your enemies will crush you effectually.

But you must explain to me precisely how you are circumstanced, and I will then consider what can be done for you.

And begin by acquainting me with your name and condition, for as yet I am entirely ignorant whom I am addressing." Upon this Jocelyn succinctly related to the Ambassador all such particulars of his history as have been laid before the reader.

De Gondomar listened to him with attention, and put some questions to him as he proceeded.

At its close his countenance brightened.
"You are in an awkward dilemma, it must be owned, Master Jocelyn Mounchensey," he said.