"The question doth still remain unanswered," exclaimed Dudley, looking at Winthrop.
"Be not hasty, Master Deputy," said Winthrop. "Give the gentlewoman time to frame her answers."
"I ever liked a quick and unpremeditated response," said Endicott. "It is more like to savor of the truth."
"Madam," said Winthrop, "we await your reply."
"How can I make answer thereto?" she said; "for what know I of the private motions of the mind of Sir Christopher?"
"At least, you can tell the purpose wherefor you came?"
"It was with no evil intent. I had no motive wherefor I need be ashamed before God or man."
"Then why hesitate to avow it?"
"I came influenced by like motives to those which have brought others to this land."
"Know you aught of a report that the father of this Sir Christopher did disinherit him, by reason of his long-continued travels in various parts of Europe?"