64 REIGN OF ELIZABETH. [CH. 52. In other words, notwithstanding the promises by which she had tempted Murray to produce the Queen of Scots' letters, she was positively determined to send her back again, whether her subjects desired it, or con- sented to it, or refused to hear of it. Entirely at a loss to understand her conduct, but resolute not to yield till he saw his way, Murray wrote for information to Nor- folk. The letter is lost, but Norfolk's answer survives, and is a singular tribute to the good faith with which Murray was acting and had acted throughout. The Duke told him that he regarded him 'not only as a faithful friend, but as a natural brother ; ' that he was as careful ' of Murray's welfare as of his own honour.' He wrote, he said, in the Queen of Scots' name as well as his own. Lord Boyd, the bearer of the letter, had seen the Queen of Scots, and was empowered by her
- to resolve him in all doubts.' As to the marriage,
' he had proceeded so far in it that he could not with conscience revoke what he had done ; ' ' but it was im- possible for him to go forward till Murray had removed the stumblingblocks which were an impeachment to their apparent proceedings.' ' That must be done first, and all the rest would then follow, to Murray's ease and comfort.' ' The union of the Island in one kingdom in times coming, and the maintenance of God's true reli- gion ' these were the objects to be secured, and there were many enemies, who would imperil, if they could, so great a purpose. He recommended Murray there- fore to recall the Queen immediately, and make* haste
