"
"But these only prove, my liege, the existence of a former passion--
nothing more," remarked Suffolk, after he had scanned them.
"But she vows eternal constancy to him!" cried Henry; "says she shall
ever love him--says so at the time she professes devoted love for me!
How can I trust her after that? Suffolk, I feel she does not love me
exclusively; and my passion is so deep and devouring, that it demands
entire return. I must have her heart as well as her person; and I feel I
have only won her in my quality of king."
"I am persuaded your majesty is mistaken," said the duke. "Would I
could think so!" sighed Henry. "But no--no, I cannot be deceived. I will
conquer this fatal passion. Oh, Suffolk! it is frightful to be the
bondslave of a woman--a fickle, inconstant woman. But between the
depths of love and hate is but a step; and I can pass from one to the
other."
"Do nothing rashly, my dear liege," said Suffolk; "nothing that may bring
with it after-repentance. Do not be swayed by those who have inflamed
your jealousy, and who could practise upon it. Think the matter calmly
over, and then act. And till you have decided, see neither Catherine nor
Anne; and, above all, do not admit Wolsey to your secret counsels.
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