A Writer's Wonderland [PDF] - University of Portsmouth

The activities around me. I do
Not notice the paper before me, the
Voices of folk, nor the dusk descending.
XI
I am detained at Ampthill. I am asked
To renounce my title in bargain for
Some indulgence. They underestimate
Me. I survived years in poverty and
Poor castles at Henry VII’s hand –
I can withstand this neglect from his Son.
‘See reason Catherine,’ Lord Mountjoy
pleads.
I still refuse. ‘He married her two months
Ago! Your cause is lost! His love for you
Is lost, my Lady.’ I see no pity,
91
No compassion upon his pointed face.
He leaves me with warm ale, and I leave it
To waste as my five years have been wasted.
Over the following months, I feel my
Heart and body wilt. My insides are as
Cold as a lake in winter, yet my brow
Burns like a stone floor in stifling sunshine.
I think of Mary, how I yearn for her...
God calls me, but he can wait for a while.
I must write my final words to my husband.
I forgive you, my husband, and may God
Pardon you also. Be a good Father
To Mary - Care for our daughter, our heir.
And lastly, Henry, I make this vow, that
Mine eyes desire you above all things.