“And are you so blinded as to suppose that Heaven can approve the actions of him who raises his hand against the King—against the Lord's anointed?” cried James.
“He is no king who is excommunicated by the apostolic see,” replied Fawkes.
“This to our face!” cried James, angrily. “Have you no remorse—no compunction for what you have done?”
“My sole regret is that I have failed,” replied Fawkes.
“You will not speak thus confidently on the rack,” said James.
“Try me,” replied Fawkes.
“What purpose did you hope to accomplish by this atrocious design?"' demanded the Earl of Marr.
“My main purpose was to blow back the beggarly Scots to their native mountains,” returned Fawkes.
“This audacity surpasses belief,” said James. “Mutius Scævola, when in the presence of Porsenna, was not more resolute. Hark 'e, villain, if I give you your life, will you disclose the names of your associates?”
“No,” replied Fawkes.