34 REIGN OF ELIZABETH. [CH. 57. Thus all parties to the intended murder, the insti- gator and the instruments, were alike in Cecil's hands ; and one morning, while the ambassador was still put- ting off his departure in the hope of hearing great news from Mather, he was confounded by an intimation from Sir Francis Knowles that a conspiracy had been dis- covered, and that his secretary's 'presence was required in London. He was ' greatly appalled/ especially when he was told further that Mather had been arrested and had made a full confession. He tried to shield Bor- ghesi, but Knowles gave him to understand that the man was wanted, not to be punished, but only to an- swer certain questions. Don Guerau smiled grimly, 1 complained of his grievous handling, and submitted. In a few days his secretary was restored uninjured, and he made his way to Brussels to join the English refugees in once more entreating the Spanish leader to move before it was too late. The Duke of Alva was most unwilling to allow himself to be addressed upon the subject, fearing per- haps that it would injure the few chances of life which remained to the unfortunate Norfolk. The refugees pressed to be heard however ; and at length West- moreland, Egremont Radcliff, Morley, and a throng of will take care that they shall soon know that they have a friend in your Majesty. Meantime, we must look to those of our party who are still at liberty and learn their intentions. 'As soon as I am out of this country I will write at length to your Majesty of all which 1 think may be done, and by what means, in case of rupture with the French, we may transfer the war hither.' 1 ' He smiled somewhat, although it seemed to be risus Sardonicus mixed with some fear.' Sir F. Knowles to Burghley, January 16 : MSS. Spain.
