"
"Master Aske," replied the archbishop, "if the sons that our mother hath
suckled and nourished from her own grace and bounty were every of them
as true as thou art, who yet receivest not of her temporal favours, then
would her kingdom be enlarged, and her arms should outstretch to the
utmost verge and compass of all visible things. But there be evil men
and seducers abroad, traitors to their altar and their faith." Here he
paused, but presently continued, "My friends, though our religion be
meek and lowly, yet does it not deny to us the comforts but sparingly
scattered through this vain and perishing world."
His grace here filled a cup of spiced sack, inviting Paslew to partake
of their humble entertainment. Bewildered and intimidated, he yet obeyed
with all due reverence and courtesy.
"Confusion to the heretic king!" cried he on the left of the archbishop,
filling his glass, and at the same time taking especial note that the
guests should repeat this bold and startling treason.
"Lord D'Arcy," said one of the guests, "thou hast imbibed that wish so
oft in thy drink, that should the king catch thee he may find it
branded in thy four quarters, when they are cut up to ornament his
majesty's posterns.
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