"The King is kept amused by my Lord Sunderland, sir, who hath his entire confidence."
"My Lord Sunderland hath not openly joined you?"
"No, sir; and in truth his conduct is a mystery, but Mr. Sidney hath a pledge from the Countess that he will not betray us."
"I am tolerably sure of my lord," answered the Prince. "He hath control of the foreign correspondence, hath he not?"
"Yes, Your Highness. We have felt some fears for M. D'Albeville, the King his envoy here, it being generally believed that he is in the pay of M. Barillon."
"He receiveth some kind of pension from him," said the Prince calmly, "and maketh him all manner of promises. But he is better fee'd by me, and I do know that he sendeth beguiling letters home."
"Then I think there is no one likely to open the King his eyes. It all resteth now on the resolution of Your Highness."
The Prince very faintly smiled.
"They suggest any attempt, if any be made, this year, do they not?" he said, instantly grave again.
"At once, sir, is what we should wish."