“So I suspected,” said Pole. “Madam, as your kinsman and faithful counsellor, as your loyal and loving subject, I implore you not to make the will you propose. Englishmen will never accept a Spaniard as their sovereign, and if you bequeath your kingdom to your husband, your will will assuredly be set aside.”
“But the King has caused the will to be prepared,” said Mary.
“Ha! has it gone so far as that?” cried Pole.
“It will be brought to me this very day for my signature,” replied Mary.
“Have you consulted the Lord Chancellor and the council, Madam?” demanded Pole.
“I have consulted no one,” she replied. “The King enjoined me not to do so. But I could not help confiding the matter to your Eminence, knowing your affection for me.”
“By that affection, of which you know the depth and sincerity, I charge you not to execute that will, Madam,” said Pole. “Your ministers, if consulted, will agree with me. This is no light question. The welfare of your kingdom is at stake.”
At this moment a side-door opened, and Father Alfonso appeared at it, with a packet in his hand. On seeing the Cardinal, he would have retired, but the Queen signed to him to come forward, and he was compelled to obey.
“It is the will,” she observed in an under tone to Pole.
“It is providential that I am here,” he replied.