It is true,
then, they have wanted to carry out a terrible plot against me; and,
without the assistance of my faithful and honest friend, John
Heywood, who brought me here, I should without doubt be now
condemned and lost, as the Earl of Surrey is."
"Ah, John, it was you then that brought a little light into this
darkness?" cried the king, with a cheerful laugh, as he laid his
hand on Heywood's shoulder. "Now, verily, what the wise and prudent
did not see, that the fool has seen through!"
"King Henry of England," said John Heywood, solemnly, "many call
themselves wise, and yet they are fools; and many assume the mask of
folly, because fools are allowed to be wise."
"Kate," said the king, "you are right; this was a bad night for you,
but God and the fool have saved you and me. We will both be thankful
for it. But it is well if you do as you before wished, and ask and
inquire nothing more concerning the mysteries of this night. It was
brave in you to come here, and I will be mindful of it. Come, my
little queen, give me your arm and conduct me to my apartments. I
tell you, child, it gives me joy to be able to lean on your arm, and
see your dear sprightly face blanched by no fear or terrors of
conscience. Come, Kate, you alone shall lead me, and to you alone
will I trust myself."
"Sire, you are too heavy for the queen," said the fool, as he put
his neck under the other arm. "Let me share with her the burden of
royalty.
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