And you must also use your best endeavours to win Prince Charles over to the Church of Rome." "Is this proposal seriously made to me, Count ?" demanded Mounchensey, looking at him with astonishment, mingled with displeasure.
"Unquestionably it is serious--perfectly serious," replied De Gondomar.
"I ask you only to serve me as a certain young nobleman of your acquaintance served me before he was compelled to fly from England to avoid the consequences of a quarrel with his wife's family.

Your opportunities will be greater than his, and therefore your service will be more valuable." "I regret that such disloyalty should be laid to the charge of any English noble," said Sir Jocelyn sternly.

"But think not, because Lord Roos played the spy and traitor, as your Excellency insinuates he did, that I will be guilty of like baseness.

Up to this moment I have felt nothing but gratitude to you for the favours you have heaped upon me; but the feeling is changed to resentment when I understand they are to be purchased at the price of my honour.

I cannot accede to your wishes, Count.