"Why, forsooth, 'tis not easy to say, methinks, for such jabber is hard to interpret. By my lady's leave, I think"—
Here he paused; but Elizabeth was impatient for the expected reply. "Softly, softly, mistress. I but thought your worship were ill bestowed on yonder ugly image."
"Tut, I'm not i' the humour for thine. What message, simpleton?"
"None, good mistress; but that they be snug until further orders."
"'Tis well; to rest; but hark thee, knave, be honest and discreet; thou shall win both gold and great honours thereby."
"What! shall I ha' my share o' the treasure?" inquired Gregory, his eyes glistening in the broad moonlight.
"What treasure, thou greedy gled?"
"Why they say 'tis a mine royal, and"—
"How! knowest thou our secret?"
"Ay, a body may quess. I've not found the road to the silver mine for nought. If I get my grip on't, the king may whistle for his share belike."