When he spoke it was in a different tone, as though he were carefully weighing his every word, as though he were a little uncertain of the ground on which he stood.

There was something of evasive vagueness in his tone, whilst his eyes were fixed on Cuthbert's face as though he would read his very soul.
"Methought thou knewest how cruelly we suffered, and that we trust some stroke of kind fortune's wheel may ere long make life something better for us.

The King meets his Parliament soon.

Then is the time when men's grievances may be discussed, and when there is hope for all that wiser and more merciful laws may be passed.

We have gathered together at this time to see what may be done.