Summary

In “Ascension Day,” Cromwell is worried for Call-Me and Wyatt, both ambassadors in hostile territory. The Emperor and the King of France have made a treaty, the Pope proclaims that you don’t have to obey heretical laws, and Reginald Pole is trying to start his crusade against Henry: war brews. The Emperor recalls Ambassador Chapuys, and Chapuys and Cromwell share a strangely fond parting. They may have worked at cross purposes, but as fellow skillful-but-lowborn politicians, they respect each other.

As the Emperor grows hostile, a match with Christina seems unlikely, so Cromwell turns Henry’s attention to the German Anne of Cleves. This match would be strategic: the Cleves family opposes the Emperor and controls important mineral reserves.

Call-Me returns and tearfully reunites with the Cromwell household. Cromwell notes that Call-Me has become rash, intercepting Wyatt’s coded letters and foolishly trusting...