Again hope leapt up in his heart. The Queen then was not so ungracious.
He looked up and smiled—and down again.
“Why, the man’s lips are all a-quiver. What ails him?”
“It is your Grace’s kindness.”
“I must say I marvel at it myself,” observed Elizabeth. “You near angered me just now; take care you do not so quite.”
“I would not willingly, as your Grace knows.”
“Then we will end this matter. You give me your assurance of loyalty to my person.”
“With all my heart, madam,” said Anthony eagerly.
“Then you must get to France within the week. The other too—Buxton—he loses his estate, but has his life. I am doing much for Minnie’s sake.”
“How can I thank your Grace?”