The Trials of the Somersets

Much of this was easily linked to the threat of a popish world plot. So poisoning was seen as a particularly popish tactic. Diabolic rites were seen as just another aspect of popish beliefs and ceremonies such as the mass. Even cook, excitedly thought he'd caught a whiff of a Popish plot to bring about the death of prince henry. And news of that spread too, although gradually leaked away as evidence failed to appear.