Let the knave stand up again and I'll bet you a gold noble to a brass nail that you'll not do as well within an inch.

Why, the fellow's gone! Will you try on my Lord Cromwell?
Nay, this is no time for fooling.

What's your business, Thomas Bolle, and who are those women with you ?" Now Cromwell stepped forward, and with cringing gestures began to explain something to the King in a low voice.

Meanwhile, the two ladies became suddenly interested in Cicely, and one of them, a pale but pretty woman, splendidly dressed, stepped forward to her, saying-- "Are you the Lady Harflete of whom we have heard, she who was to have been burnt as a witch?
Yes?
And is that your child?
Oh! what a beautiful child.

A boy, I'll swear.