It is a guilty conscience that makes men fear to lay hands upon the holy Book and take the name of the Most High upon their lips." This specious but rather vague reasoning had its effect upon Anthony; and even more did the kindliness with which the words were spoken prevail with him, so that he consented to swear to speak the truth, though in his heart he resolved that he would only answer for himself, and that nothing which might incriminate others should pass his lips.
A long interrogatory now followed, in which he had much ado to fence and parry many of the questions.

He soon learned, to his deep grief and sorrow of heart, that John Clarke was under suspicion, if not already arrested under the charge of heresy.

He admitted to have been much in his company, and to have attended his public lectures, his public preachings, and those meetings in his rooms for reading, meditation, and discussion, which had long been going on.

These were well known by this time to the authorities; but only since the cardinal's letter had stirred up suspicion and fear had there been any distrust aroused as to the nature of such meetings.
A whisper here, a hint there, had lately gone abroad, and now Anthony was closely questioned as to the nature of the doctrines discussed, and the readings which had taken place.
He answered that no word had ever passed Master Clarke's lips that was not godly, pious, and full of the Holy Ghost.

He heeded not the angry looks of Dr.London and the commissary, but addressed himself to Dr.Higdon, who was evidently wishful to think as well as possible of one of the leading canons of his own college.