“I have felt as you have,” the Queen said. “I have doubted and despaired. I have known my soul to be wicked, and I have searched in scripture for the comfort that you found. I have been alone, bereft, but I know now that in solitude we find our way, and in learning, and in God’s word. Do not be surprised,” she added, “to hear that I have also searched for truth and certainty, and I have found them rarer and more precious than pearls.” She looked to her jeweled ladies, and they nodded, even as they glittered in the candlelight. “Those who know their faults are truly wise,” the Queen said. “And
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