'Thou hast thyself to thank for it then, for thou hast this night
said in mine own ears that mistress Dorothy waked thy prisoner,
importing that she thereafter set him free, when thou knowest that
she denies the same, and is therein believed by my lord marquis and
all his house.'
'Therein I believe her not, my lord; but I swear by all the saints
and angels, that to none but your lordship have I ever said the
word; neither have I ever opened my lips against her, lest I should
take from her the chance of betterment.'
'I will be more just to thee than thou hast been to my cousin,
mistress Watson, for I will believe thee that thou didst only
harbour evil in thy heart, not send it from the doors of thy lips to
enter into other bosoms. Was it thou then that did lock the door
upon her?'
'God forbid, my lord!'
'Thinkest thou. it was the roundhead?'
'No, surely, my lord, for where would be the need?'
'Lest she should issue and give the alarm.'
Mistress Watson smiled an acid smile.
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