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moment, then upon the Earl of Hertford. A sudden purpose dawned in his
face. He said, in a low tone, at Lord Hertford's ear--
"Answer me truly, on thy faith and honour! Uttered I here a command, the
which none but a king might hold privilege and prerogative to utter,
would such commandment be obeyed, and none rise up to say me nay?"
"None, my liege, in all these realms. In thy person bides the majesty of
England. Thou art the king--thy word is law."
Tom responded, in a strong, earnest voice, and with great animation--
"Then shall the king's law be law of mercy, from this day, and never more
be law of blood! Up from thy knees and away! To the Tower, and say the
King decrees the Duke of Norfolk shall not die!" {1}
The words were caught up and carried eagerly from lip to lip far and wide
over the hall, and as Hertford hurried from the presence, another
prodigious shout burst forth--
"
The reign of blood is ended! Long live Edward, King of England!"
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