“Your majesty will bear in mind his youth,” said the Duke of Norfolk anxiously.
“For my sake overlook the indiscretion,” cried the Duke of Richmond.
“It will not, perhaps, avail him to hope that it may be overlooked for mine,” added Anne Boleyn.
“The offence must not pass unpunished,” said Henry musingly. “My lord of Surrey, you must be content to remain for two months a prisoner in the Round Tower of this castle.”
“Your majesty!” cried Richmond, bending the knee in supplication.
“The sentence is passed,” replied Henry coldly; “and the earl may thank you it is not heavier. Richmond, you will think no more of the fair Geraldine; and it is my pleasure, Lady Anne, that the young dame withdraw from the court for a short while.”
“Your majesty shall be obeyed,” said Anne; “but—”
“But me no buts, sweetheart,” said the king peremptorily. “Surrey's explanation is satisfactory so far as it goes, but I was told Sir Thomas Wyat was here.”
“Sir Thomas Wyat is here,” said Will Sommers, pointing out the knight, who had just joined the throng of courtiers at the door.
“I have hurried hither from my chamber, my liege,” said Wyat, stepping forward, “hearing there was some inquiry concerning me.”