The treasurer of state was then ordered to show himself, and give an account of the said moneys, which he promptly did; and after him came a number of petitioners, praying for one thing and another, some of which the queen promised to grant, and some she didn't.
These little affairs of state being over, Miranda turned to the little gentleman beside her, with the observation, "I believe, your highness, it is on this night the Earl of Gloucester is to be tried on a charge of high treason, is it not ?" His highness growled a respectful assent.
"Then let him be brought before us," said the queen.

"Go, guards, and fetch him." Two of the soldiers bowed low, and backed from the royal presence, amid dead and ominous silence.

At this interesting stage of the proceedings, as Sir Norman was leaning forward, breathless and excited, a footstep sounded on the flagged floor beside him, and some one suddenly grasped his shoulder with no gentle hand..