the
passionless process of the law.

"I was about to speak of that," said the lawyer. "If it goes as I think
it will, and Mr. Torridon's name is suggested for the bill, we must
approach the most powerful friends we can lay hold on, to use their
influence against his inclusion. Have you any such, sir?" he added,
looking at Sir James sharply over the quill.

The old man shook his head.

"I know no one," he said.

The lawyer pursed his lips.

"Then we must do the best we can. We can set aside at once all of my
Lord Essex's enemies--and--and he has many now. Two names come to my
mind. Master Ralph Sadler--the comptroller; and my Lord of Canterbury."

"Ah!" cried Chris, dropping his hand, "my Lord of Canterbury! My brother
has had dealings with him."

Sir James straightened himself in his chair.

"I will ask no favour of that fellow," he said sternly.

The lawyer looked at him with a cocked eyebrow.

"Well, sir," he said, "if you will not you will not. But I cannot
suggest a better. He is in high favour with his Grace; they say he has
already said a word for my Lord Essex--not much--much would be too much,
I think; but still 'twas something. And what of Master Sadler?"

"I know nothing of him," faltered the old man.

There was silence a moment.

"Well, sir," said Mr. Herries, "you can think the matter over. I am for
my Lord of Canterbury; for the reasons I have named to you. But we can
wait a few days. We can do nothing until the method of procedure is
known."

Then he went; promising to let them know as soon as he had information.

* * * * *

Rumours began to run swiftly through the City. It was said, though
untruly at that time, that Cromwell had addressed a letter to the King
at Henry's own request, explaining his conduct, utterly denying that he
had said certain rash words attributed to him, and that His Majesty was
greatly affected by it. There was immense excitement everywhere; a crowd
assembled daily outside Westminster Hall; groups at every corner of the
streets discussed the fallen minister's chances; and shouts were raised
for those who were known to be his enemies, the Duke of Norfolk, Rich,
and others--as they rode through to the Palace.

Meanwhile Ralph's friends could do little. Nicholas rode down once or
twice to see the Lieutenant of The Tower, and managed to extract a
promise that Ralph should hear of their presence in London; but he could
not get to see h