Hastily they thrust back their companions. But Anna had recognised him. When Morton had made advances towards her, she had repulsed him scornfully, telling him she was the Countess of Bothwell. Morton had seized on this opportunity of injuring a man he hated, and resolved to bring Anna before the queen. Bothwell now knew the danger before him, and prepared for it.
Next day, as the queen sat with her grim lords in council, Morton led in Anna.
"I have the pleasure," said he, "to present a lady who accuseth the Earl of Bothwell of wedding and ignobly deserting her."
"'Tis false, Lord Earl!" cried Bothwell.
"Oh, madam, hear my story, and condemn me not unheard," pleaded Anna.
"Let her speak for herself," said Mary.
Thus encouraged, Anna, in moving accents, told her story.
"A meloncholy tale, in sooth," said Mary; "but what proof is there?"
"Your majesty," said Bothwell, "this is the invention of some unknown enemy"--he glanced at Morton--"to deprive me of your royal favour. Let this frantic damsel be removed to a Danish vessel now at Leith, and conveyed to her home."
"Well, so be it!" replied the facile queen.