Where, after many absurd reasons and vain persuasions, he took a pause.
* * * * *
Then I asked him, Why he kept me so long in prison, which never
committed offence to them: knowing very well that I had been captive
in Argire [_Algiers_] near[ly] five years space [_July 1582 to
April 1587_]: saying, "That when GOD, by his merciful providence,
had, through many great dangers, set me in a Christian country, and
delivered me from the cruelty of the Turks: when I thought to find such
favour as one Christian oweth to another, I found them now more cruel
than the Turks, not knowing any cause Why."
"The cause," said he, "is because the King hath wars with the Queen of
England."
For at that instant [_April 1587_], there was their Army [_Armado_]
prepared ready to go for England. Whereupon they would, divers times,
give me reproachful words; saying, That I should hear shortly of their
arrival in England. With innumerable vain brags, which I omit for
brevity.
Then did I demand, "If there were not peace between the King and the
Queen's Majesty; whether they would keep me still?"
"Yea," said he, "unless thou wilt submit thyself to the faith of the
Romish Church." So he commanded me away.
I asked, Wherefore he sent for me; and to send me away, not alleging
any matter against me?
He said, I should have no other matter alleged but that which I had
spoken with mine own mouth.
Then I demanded, "Why they would have the Romish Church to have the
supremacy?"
Whereto he would make no answer.