He would not have her hurt. They must accept her madness as an additional burden on the royal house. They must try to lead her gently to salvation.

“Nay,” he said. “Persuade her with words only. I forbid aught else.”

“Your Highness has spoken. And it is a fact that she did not resist this day when I conducted the usual rites. Though I must report to your Highness that she always closes her eyes at the elevation of the Host.”

Philip sighed. “Continue to reason with her.”

“I will, your Highness. And I think you should know that there was an occasion when she stated that the blessed tapers stank.”

“You must have done well, Father Borgia, since she is quieter now. Continue with your work. I doubt not that we shall save her soul before she leaves this Earth.”

“That is what we will strive for,” promised the priest.

They looked at Juana; she had suddenly fallen asleep, her head lolling sideways, the mouth open as she emitted loud snores.

Philip said: “There is nothing more to be done at this stage. Let us leave her now.”

He went slowly to his apartments; he would be almost glad when next day they continued the journey to Corunna and England.

Carlos could not sleep. He could not forget the old lady in the strange room. He wanted to know such a lot about her, because vaguely he believed she could tell him something which others would not.