“The indulgence of these thoughts is like to bring about the very calamity you would avert, Madam,” said Pole. “You know and feel how much depends upon the event we so much desire, and your physician will tell you that to a favourable issue freedom from agitation and anxiety are essential. You will undo all the good if you harass yourself thus unnecessarily.”
“I will try to follow your counsel,” replied Mary. “And now, my good Lord Cardinal, answer me one question. Have I wrongfully suspected Constance Tyrrell?”
“Madam, I truly think so,” replied Pole.
“Then send for her instantly, that I may repair the wrong I have done,” cried Mary.
The Cardinal readily complied, and ere long Constance made her appearance.
“Come hither, child,” said the Queen, in a kind voice, on seeing her. “I have done you injustice. But I will make amends. You told me that you fled from Hampton Court with Osbert Clinton. Why did you trust him?”
“I trusted him because—because he loved me, gracious Madam,” replied Constance. “Since then we have been affianced.”
“Is the King aware of your betrothal?” inquired Mary.
“He is, Madam,” replied Constance. “But he has forbidden Osbert, on pain of death, to see me again.”
“Indeed!” exclaimed Mary. “Then I cannot aid you as I should wish to do. You must think of Osbert no more.”