There was one in which Somerset himself was concerned, involving the destruction of a far higher personage than Overbury; and this dare not even be hinted at." "Because the greatest person in the land was connected with it," returned the Countess, "I conclude you refer to the death of Prince Henry ?" "I do," answered Lord Roos.

"Somerset would never have been questioned about Overbury, if his fall had not been resolved upon by the King." "One other question, and I ask no more," said the Countess, scarcely able to syllable her words.

"Who is to administer the deadly draught ?" "Luke Hatton, Lady Lake's apothecary.

He is a creature of mine, and entirely devoted to me." "Our lives will be in his hands ever afterwards," said the Countess, in a deep whisper.
"They will be in safe keeping," he rejoined, endeavouring to reassure her.
"O, William! I would I could prevail upon you to defer this project." "To what end?
The sooner it is done the better.

It cannot, indeed, be deferred.