If you cross the Queen--and you will cross the Queen when you know the truth, as I know it--you will pay a heavy price for refusing Leicester as your friend." She made a protesting motion and seemed about to speak, but suddenly, with a passionate gesture, Leicester added: "Let them go their way.
Monsieur de la Foret will be tossed aside before another winter comes.
Do you think he can abide here in the midst of plot and intrigue, and hated by the people of the Court?
He is doomed.

But more, he is unworthy of you; while I can serve you well, and I can love you well." She shrank away from him.

"No, do not turn from me, for in very truth, Leicester's heart has been pierced by the inevitable arrow.

You think I mean you evil ?" He paused with a sudden impulse continued: "No! no! And if there be a saving grace in marriage, marriage it shall be, if you will but hear me.
You shall be my wife--Leicester's wife.

As I have mounted to power so I will hold power with you--with you, the brightest spirit that ever England saw.