Her love had not pierced his disguise, though Leicester's hate had done so on the instant--"I crave your noble Majesty's grace," answered the stranger, "that I may still keep my face covered in humility.

My voice speaks for no country and for no prince.

I have fought for mine own honour, and to prove to England's Queen that she hath a champion who smiteth with strong arm, as on me and my steed this hath been seen to-day." "Gallantly thought and well said," answered Elizabeth; "but England's champion and his strong arm have no victory.

If gifts were given they must needs be cut in twain.

But answer me, what is your country?
I will not have it that any man pick up the gauge of England for his own honour.