Queen Elizabeth I : How many Catholics are there in England, sir? Cabinet Minister #1 : Immense numbers, Majesty. Cabinet Minister #2 : Half the nation cling to the old superstitions. Queen Elizabeth I : What would you have me do? Hang half the people in England, or just imprison them? Cabinet Minister #2 : We must act, Majesty! Our inaction is perceived as weakness! Queen Elizabeth I : If my people break the law, they shall be punished. Until that day, they shall be protected. Cabinet Minister #1 : Majesty, we have proven reason to fear every Catholic in the— Queen Elizabeth I : Fear creates fear. I am not ignorant of the dangers, sir. But I will not punish my people for their beliefs. Only for their deeds. I am assured that the people of England love their Queen. My constant endeavor is to earn that love.

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