But he also knew the difficulties of dealing with such a man as his kinsman Nicholas; and without bringing him to the notice of the authorities as a concealed Papist--an idea repugnant to him where one of his own name and blood was concerned--it was difficult to see what could be done for the protection of the hapless Cuthbert and his sister.
Sir Richard Trevlyn did not wish to draw public attention upon himself.

It was his desire to live as quietly and privately as possible.

The Trevlyns had been for many generations a family stanch to the doctrines and traditions of the Church of Rome, and they had won for themselves that kind of reputation which clings tenaciously to certain families even when it has ceased to be a fact.

The present Sir Richard's father had broken through the traditions of his race in marrying a lady of the Reformed faith.

It was a love match, and all other considerations went to the winds.
The lady was no theologian, and though believing all she had been taught, had no horror of Popery or of her husband's creed.