impenetrable dissimulation, and lastly, above all things, a very
intimate and profound knowledge of the king, of the history of his
reign, and of his character. Do you possess this knowledge? Know you
what it is to wish to become King Henry's seventh wife, and how you
must begin in order to attain this? Have you studied Henry's
character?"

"A little, perhaps, but certainly not sufficiently. For, as you
know, my lord, worldly matters have lain upon my heart less than the
holy Church, to whose service I have consecrated myself, and to
which I would have presented my whole being, my whole soul, my whole
heart, as a sacrifice, had not you yourself determined otherwise
concerning me. Ah, my father, had I been allowed to follow my
inclination, I would have retired into a convent in Scotland in
order to spend my life in quiet contemplation and pious penances,
and close my soul and ear to every profane sound. But my wishes have
not been regarded; and, by the mouth of His venerable and holy
priests, God has commanded me to remain in the world, and take upon
myself the yoke of greatness and regal splendor. If I then struggle
and strive to become queen, this is done, not because the vain pomp
and glory allure me, but solely because through me the Church, out
of which is no salvation, may find a fulcrum to operate on this weak
and fickle king, and because I am to bring him back again to the
only true faith."

"Very well played!" cried her father, who had stared her steadily in
the face while she was speaking. "On my word, very well played.
Everything was in perfect harmony, the gesticulation, the play of
the eyes, and the voice. My daughter, I withdraw my censure. You
have perfect control over yourself. But let us speak of King Henry.