Encore: Guy Fawkes | Treason | 2

As London bristles with paranoia, the conspirators race against time. Guy Fawkes is ready to light the fuse, but whispers of treason echo through the shadows. Will the Gunpowder Plot go up in smoke? Do you have a suggestion for a scandal you would like us to cover? Or perhaps you have a question you would like to ask our hosts? Email us at [email protected] See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Speaker names marked ? are inferred from speaking time and the show’s known hosts — they are not voice-verified.

• 0:00Alice Levine?

  Audible subscribers can listen to all episodes of British Scandal ad-free right now. Join Audible today by downloading the Audible app. Just a warning before we start, this episode contains descriptions of torture which some listeners may find disturbing.

• 0:16Alice Levine?

  Okay, Matt, concentrate, we need to start.

• 0:18Matt Forde?

  Yeah, I have been seeing someone about my concentration issues, actually, because I thought they might have been as a result of diet or modern life or whatever, but I've been seeing a soothsayer, and it turns out these are actually symptoms of ancient forces working their way through my physicality and energy aura.

• 0:41Alice Levine?

  Right. And you don't think it could be the four coffees that you have before work?

• 0:45Matt Forde?

  No, no, no, no, he's been very clear that I have an old soul that is wise in many ways, and it is the soul of an ancient Dutch tribesman.

• 0:58Alice Levine?

  Yeah. I mean, I do still think the espressos are part of it, but what did the soothsayer prescribe?

• 1:05Matt Forde?

  Oh, I just have to pay him monthly via PayPal. That seems, that seems to do the trick.

• 1:14Alice Levine?

  Fourth of November, 1605, Whitehall Palace, London.

• 1:24Alice Levine?

  King James steps into the small, secret chamber, his eyes adjusting to the dim light. Ancient books line the walls, brass astrolabes and arcane artefacts clutter every surface. In the centre, a table holds a glowing crystal ball.

• 1:41Alice Levine?

  From the shadows emerges John Dee, the royal astrologer. James shudders at the sight of the man's gaunt face and fever-bright eyes. I come seeking answers. Dee's lips curl into a knowing smile. Sometimes, Your Majesty, wisdom lies beyond the realm of reason. James watches, transfixed, as Dee's gnarled hands hover over the crystal ball. A mist seems to swirl within it.

• 2:10Matt Forde?

  I see a fireman and the number six. People in Wigan will be winning tonight.

• 2:17Alice Levine?

  There is a whole portion of British Scandal listeners, British ones, who will not know what you're talking about.

• 2:24Matt Forde?

  When the National Lottery was a much bigger deal in the UK, we had a mystic known as Mystic Meg who would predict winners. And the predictions were so vague that inevitably a fireman might win a fiver, or someone in Wigan had win a tenner. And this was paraded as proof on a weekly basis that this stuff was real.

• 2:43Alice Levine?

  Dee's voice drops to a sinister whisper. Shadows gather in the heart of your kingdom. Serpents coil beneath your feet. Flames lick at your throne's very foundations. Treachery brews in the depths. Fire and death lie just beneath the surface. James's fingers dig into the table's edge, his knuckles white with tension. Speak plainly, man. What devilry approaches?

• 3:18Alice Levine?

  A cold draught whips through the room, snuffing out candles and sending papers flying. The crystal ball rocks on its stand, its glow intensifying. James watches in horror as Dee's eyes roll back, showing only the whites. Beware the depths, Your Majesty. Dee's voice distorts. Death rises from below.

• 3:45Alice Levine?

  The crystal ball explodes, shards scattering across the worn stones. James flinches, feeling the sting of glass against his cheek. Dee stumbles back, convulsing. What did you see? James shouts and seizes Dee's robes. Tell me. Dee's eyes refocus.

• 4:09Alice Levine?

  Some visions are too terrible to speak, Your Majesty.

• 4:15Alice Levine?

  Okay, that, do you know what's annoying about that? That's like somebody being like, oh my God, I just heard the best gossip. I mean, I can't say. Don't say you've got the gossip and then not tell me the gossip.

• 4:24Matt Forde?

  Yeah, and certainly not to the king. You should hear what the serpents in Hades have been saying about your future.

• 4:34Alice Levine?

  But James won't be denied, not now, not when he's come this far. I am your king. I demand you will tell me now. He shakes the frail man.

• 4:48Alice Levine?

  Your Majesty, I, I fear, I fear you are marked for death.

• 5:02Matt Forde?

  I'm Matt For.

• 5:03Alice Levine?

  And I'm Alice Levine.

• 5:04Matt Forde?

  And this is British Scandal, an Audible original.

• 5:18Alice Levine?

  So we've met the soon-to-be plotters, the masterminds, and we've got to know our main man, Guy Fawkes. Was he what you expected from the straw-filled effigy that I'm sure you burnt as a primary school child?

• 5:31Matt Forde?

  No, he's not. And I think, I think I presumed he was more well-spoken because of, this can sound so thick, because of V for Vendetta, who wears the Guy Fawkes mask and talks in that florid prose.

• 5:45Alice Levine?

  I mean, don't take my impression of him too much as historical fact, but yeah, I hear what you're saying.

• 5:51Matt Forde?

  I also didn't expect him to be at the bottom of the hierarchy. Because of his status in British history, I presumed he was far more senior. And the other people in the plot actually are people of genuine societal status. I didn't expect there to be that class imbalance within the gunpowder plot.

• 6:09Alice Levine?

  We left episode one just as Catesby had revealed his plan to blow up the Houses of Parliament. And that's a phrase we are so used to hearing that we maybe don't always break down and actually consider and take in the utter audaciousness of this plan. The only thing that almost feels comparative is sort of the shock of seeing the Twin Towers come down. This is the 17th century version of that. And today we are going to find out how they got so unbelievably close to pulling it off. This is episode two, Treason.

• 6:42Alice Levine?

  May the 20th, 1604, the Duck and Drake Pub, London.

• 6:48Alice Levine?

  Guy glances around the table as he tries to take in Catesby's words. He wonders if he's misheard. He's no stranger to taking risks, but this, this sounds like madness. The Houses of Parliament, the very heart of Protestant rule in England, and one of the most heavily guarded places in London. A hundred elite armed soldiers, 12-foot-thick fortified walls and heavy surveillance. This is our target.

• 7:19Alice Levine?

  Guy looks around, the other men in the room nod in grim determination. And how do you plan on actually carrying out this feat? Guy sees Catesby's face flash with irritation, feels the others shift in their seats uncomfortably. Our plan is this. We'll secure a cellar directly under the House of Lords. This is where Percy comes in. Heads swivel towards Percy. Percy is the most connected man in London. He's got the ear of the king and is above suspicion. Guy's lips curl in disgust as Percy pops another grape in his mouth, daintily waving his handkerchief at the group. He's supposed to be in the king's guard, but he looks as if he's built for banquets,

• 8:04Alice Levine?

  not battles. And if the king trusts him so completely, how can they? Guy snorts, turns back to Catesby. Next, we'll have to source and secure a supply of gunpowder. Guy feels Catesby's laser-like gaze focus in on him. That's where you come in, Fawkes. You know gunpowder better than anyone in the kingdom. With the single strike of a match, we'll obliterate every nobleman in England, the king, his family, and the Protestant clergy, all gathered for the state opening of Parliament.

• 8:42Alice Levine?

  Silence falls across the room.

• 8:47Alice Levine?

  Let me get this right. You want to commit the biggest act of terror England's ever seen, and you want me to do it? Catesby nods as Guy's finger traces the map. Do you know how much gunpowder that'd take? A tonne more? Where do you plan? Before he can continue, Percy stands abruptly, his cape swishing dramatically. I'll take the lead on procurement. Procurement. Guy almost spits the word out, but Percy ignores him.

• 9:22Matt Forde?

  A north-south divide, this, isn't it? It's called buying stuff, you southern punks.

• 9:29Alice Levine?

  You'll be my wingman. It's only logical, given my contacts. Guy shoots Catesby a look of disbelief. I'm used to working with proper squaddies, Catesby, not some fop in a frock. They jump as Catesby slams his hand down on the table. Enough! Guy glares at Percy as he slumps back into his chair. I need to know, Fawkes. Can it be done? Guy lowers his eyes to the map, breathes deeply. Aye. Anything can be done. He glares at Percy. You've just got to have the balls to do it.

• 10:11Alice Levine?

  Guy pours himself a tankard of beer. Catesby leans forward.

• 10:17Alice Levine?

  So are you with us?

• 10:20Alice Levine?

  The table falls silent, all eyes on Guy. He thinks of the hardships he's endured, the injustices he's seen. The people murdered just for believing in the true faith. His jaw sets with determination.

• 10:37Alice Levine?

  Okay. I'm in.

• 10:46Alice Levine?

  May 24th, 1604, the streets of Westminster. Guy trudges down St Margaret Street. He grits his teeth, his fists gripping the hem of Percy's elaborate cape to stop it trailing in the dirt. Percy glances back, a smirk on his face, as they cross into Palace Yard. Guy watches as he pops a sugared almond into his mouth, narrowly avoiding a horse-drawn cart.

• 11:15Alice Levine?

  Onwards, servant! Guy tells himself to breathe. Catesby's convinced him that this charade is necessary if they're to find a cellar near Parliament where they can lay the gunpowder. This is the fifth bloody cellar we've looked at! Percy straightens his ruff, shoots Guy a withering look.

• 11:35Alice Levine?

  Keep your voice down, you fool! Guy is forced into silence as Percy paints on his most charming smile and wraps on the heavy wooden door. After a moment, it creaks open, revealing a middle-aged woman with a suspicious glare. Good day, madam. I understand you have a cellar for lease. Guy fights the urge to roll his eyes as Percy bows slightly. It's not available. Already promised to another tenant. Guy shifts impatiently behind Percy, his eyes darting to examine the building's exterior. What's he looking at? Guy freezes as Percy steps smoothly in front of him.

• 12:16Alice Levine?

  Pay him no mind, madam. He's just my manservant, easily distracted by new sights. Guy bites his cheek. He grips Percy's cape a little more tightly, gives it a calculated tug, watching intently as the clasp at Percy's throat strains against the pull. Perhaps we could take a look at the cellar. I'm willing to offer a generous sum for the right space. The woman hesitates. Four pounds, madam, plus a little extra for your troubles. The woman's eyes widen, but she still seems uncertain. It's for my patron, the Earl of Northumberland.

• 12:59Alice Levine?

  He's looking for a cool, dark place to store his rare wine collection. He'd be most appreciative of your cooperation. At the mention of the Earl, the woman softens. Well, I suppose a quick look wouldn't hurt.

• 13:18Alice Levine?

  Guy follows Percy down the wooden staircase into the cellar. His eyes take in the sturdy walls and direct access to the river. The construction seems solid. How deep does it go? The woman turns, suspicion clouding her features. Why would you care about that?

• 13:37Matt Forde?

  Why wouldn't I care? I mean, the whole point of a cellar is for it to be big and deep.

• 13:43Alice Levine?

  And the wine, a very specific temperature is good to be kept at. Some of the ruddier reds, they like it a bit cooler. It's just wine chat.

• 13:52Matt Forde?

  Can I ask a hypothetical just on wine? If I were to have a wine that, say, came in powder form and was kept in big barrels, how many could I get in here, potentially, with lots of fuses and cigarette lighters?

• 14:06Alice Levine?

  Guy's mind races, but Percy steps in laughing. Forgive him. He fancies himself an architect. Now about that lease. Half an hour later, they exit the house, lease secured. Percy turns to Guy with a triumphant smirk. See? Not just good for hawking rabbits, am I? Guy's hand shoots out, gripping Percy's arm. He growls, his voice low and urgent. This was the easy part. Now we need to get the gunpowder. And these dealers aren't some middle-aged lady bumpkins you can charm with flattery and a smile.

• 14:50Alice Levine?

  But Percy shakes him off, his eyes gleaming with confidence. Nonsense! How hard can it be? Guy pauses, studying Percy's glistening teeth. Perhaps Percy's right. Guy should put his charms to good use.

• 15:08Alice Levine?

  Okay, you can get the gunpowder. Guy gives Percy a smile. And I have just the dealer in mind.

• 15:20Alice Levine?

  September 11th, 1604, the Irish Boy Inn, Rotherhithe. Percy's white-gloved hand pauses on the door handle of the pub. He gulps, his Adam's apple bobbing nervously above his freshly starched ruff. He straightens his gold silk doublet, buffs his boots on his stockings, and enters. As Percy steps inside, every eye swivels towards him and the pub falls silent. He feels a bead of sweat trickle down his spine as he takes in the drinkers. Weather-beaten sailors glare, their axes quivering in the pockmarked wall. A cluster of prostitutes suspend their betting as rats fight each other to the death inside a writhing sack.

• 16:04Matt Forde?

  Sorry, wrong pub.

• 16:07Alice Levine?

  Right pub! What a hoot!

• 16:11Alice Levine?

  Percy approaches the bar. A one-legged barmaid with a small monkey in a sailor suit on her shoulder eyes him warily. Pardon me, my good lady. Might you direct me to Big Beckett? The woman's rouged lips curl into a toothless smile. Over there, love! She cackles, pointing to a corner table. Can't miss her! Percy blinks in confusion. Her? His eyes fall on a giant woman passed out in a puddle of her own sick.

• 16:46Matt Forde?

  #FirstDateFails.

• 16:48Alice Levine?

  Oh, good lord! Heart pounding, Percy approaches. He clears his throat, discreetly raises a small, flower-filled posy to his nose. Madam Beckett, I wish to discuss a business proposition.

• 17:06Matt Forde?

  What I'm offering is 5% of my business that I valued at £250,000, and I would repay that in year three. And the business proposition is to blow up the Houses of Parliament and you would effectively get the rights to all the merch and any future podcast sales.

• 17:24Alice Levine?

  On Dragon's Den, they don't often cut back to Theophaetus and he's just in a pool of his own sick there, is he? And that's why I think it's feeling a tad tired.

• 17:34Alice Levine?

  One bloodshot eye cracks open. Well, well, well, aren't you a pretty little thing? What kind of business did you have in mind, darling? Her meaty hand shoots out, grabbing Percy's bottom. Madam, I've come about a certain powdery substance. Her eyebrows furrow. And who might be asking for such delicate goods? Names, boy. I don't deal in shadows. Percy's mind races, panic rising in his throat. He knows Guy has history with Beckett. That's why he's here. But he can't stay silent.

• 18:18Alice Levine?

  Fawkes. Guy Fawkes sent me. Beckett's face contorts with rage, her jowls quivering. Fawkes? That treacherous bastard dares to send a lackey to my door! In a flash, she's on her feet, one hand gripping the front of Percy's doublet, while the other draws a meat cleaver. You tell that rat Fawkes that if you want to do business, he can drag his arse here himself and tell him to bring me back my fucking money! He squeezes his eyes shut as Beckett raises the knife. Suddenly, a familiar voice cuts through the chaos. Now, now, Beckett, is that any way to treat a messenger?

• 19:03Alice Levine?

  Beckett freezes. Her face boils puce and she spits. Guy fucking Fawkes! Guy emerges from the shadows, shedding a beggar's cloak.

• 19:15Alice Levine?

  You've got some nerve showing your face here, Fawkes. Take one step closer and I'll cut your face from ear to ear! Percy watches Guy's jaw clench. Guy had told him he owed Beckett money, but he didn't know things were this bad. Percy realizes he has to take control. He produces two heavy pouches from his belt, lets them thud onto the table. Gold coins spill out. We need 36 barrels of gunpowder, and I'll be the one you deal with, not this fool. Beckett's eyes narrow. She stares hard at the gold on the table, then back at Percy, her knife still hovering in the musty tavern air.

• 20:00Alice Levine?

  Then, after what seems like an eternity, she lets out a barking laugh. Well, why didn't you say so earlier, pretty boy? Thirty-six barrels. That's gonna take some time and a lot more gold. She licks her lips, eyeing Percy up and down. Beckett grins. But I think we can come to an arrangement. Percy gulps, but nods firmly. Then we have a deal. Percy catches Guy's eye. He should be terrified, but he can't help but feel a spark of pride at Guy's growing respect.

• 20:40Matt Forde?

  All they've done is pay for what they asked for.

• 20:42Alice Levine?

  I suppose it's like as a kid when your mum goes, "You go up and pay." You do feel a glow, don't you, when you've gone up to the till, just handed over the note?

• 20:50Matt Forde?

  Yeah, but it's like, you're making that like he's some master negotiator. He's just put a load of gold on the table and, as it does in olden times, as it does in modern times, gold solves a lot of problems.

• 21:04Alice Levine?

  Now they have the cellar. They'll have the gunpowder soon too. It's two months till the state opening of Parliament. Just one question remains. How the hell are they going to get 36 barrels of gunpowder into the bowels of the most important building in the country? Then blow it, and the false religion it harbors and power it holds, to smithereens.

• 21:34Alice Levine?

  October 30th, 1605. Seven days till the state opening of Parliament. The Thames, London.

• 21:41Matt Forde?

  I'd already been in the queue.

• 21:43Alice Levine?

  You actually would be.

• 21:44Matt Forde?

  Waiting, waiting to get a key spot in the public gallery.

• 21:49Alice Levine?

  Guy scans the riverside as he pulls his hood low and crouches in the small wooden boat. He balances the final two giant firkins of gunpowder. He checks they're sealed and secure. He's worked painstakingly to move 34 of the barrels into the cellar. Now, all Guy needs to do is get these two remaining barrels across the river before daylight. He glances up at Percy clutching a flickering lantern and staring at the moon. The lunar eclipse. It's a bad omen, folks.

• 22:23Matt Forde?

  Oh, no, don't tell me you're into this sort of stuff.

• 22:25Alice Levine?

  This would make me really worried.

• 22:28Matt Forde?

  We're doomed, you and I, folks. You're Scorpio, I'm a Leo, it can never work.

• 22:33Alice Levine?

  Guy cuts him off. Superstitious claptrap. Besides, we don't have a choice. Now get in the boat. Guy pushes off from the dock, the boat groaning under the strain. Guy works the oars, but as they near the centre of the river, the current surges, causing one of the two barrels to shift with a heavy thud. Guy instinctively reaches to steady it, but the skiff lurches violently, pitching to one side. Bollocks! He hears a startled yelp, followed by a loud splash. Guy whirls round, his blood turning to ice as he sees the empty space where Percy had been sitting. Bloody hell!

• 23:17Alice Levine?

  Guy dives into the freezing water. He feels himself being pulled by the current. He scans the water, heart pounding. A flash of white catches the moonlight. Percy's rough. Guy plunges his arms towards the shape, his fingers brush against fabric. Hold on! Gasping and spluttering, Guy hauls Percy back into the skiff. Guy's sodden clothes cling to his shivering body. Percy lies beside him, coughing up river water, but alive. Thank you. I can't swim. I thought that was the end.

• 23:56Matt Forde?

  I think he should have mentioned that he can't swim before he got in the boat. Maybe that's just me.

• 24:04Alice Levine?

  Guy laughs. Not while I'm around. Now keep your arse on that seat. Then Guy hears it. Voices carrying over the river, rough and disciplined. The unmistakable creak of a larger vessel follows. Bloody hell, patrol boat! Don't make a sound! Guy holds his breath as the searchlight washes over their heads, illuminating the boats around them. Then the light passes, continuing its sweep downriver. As the patrol boat fades into the distance, Guy hears Percy exhale through chattering teeth.

• 24:48Alice Levine?

  That was too close. Guy nods grimly. Let's finish this. They haul the boat ashore and grab the firkins. They slip through a hidden door. The cellar opens up before them, pitch black and musty. Guy strikes a flint, lighting a wall lantern. Rows of barrels loom in the corner. Guy slots the final firkin into place. He steps back, taking in the sight before him. Thirty-six barrels stand in neat formation, their dull outlines barely visible in the lantern's glow.

• 25:30Alice Levine?

  Thin cords of fuse snake across the floor and up the walls. Guy takes one final look and then bolts the cellar door. In just one week, he will light these barrels. They will explode, killing the king and all his closest advisers. Protestantism will be brought to its knees. And Guy Fawkes will forever be remembered as the man who restored the true Catholic faith to its rightful place on the English throne.

• 26:20Alice Levine?

  October 26th, 1605. The Globe Theatre, London. Lord Montegal sinks into his balcony seat. He massages his temple, fighting his headache.

• 26:34Matt Forde?

  I feel like that at the theatre sometimes.

• 26:36Alice Levine?

  Can be long, can't it?

• 26:37Matt Forde?

  Oh, when's the interval, man? I want those Maltesers.

• 26:41Alice Levine?

  Our modern brains are rotted by the cadence of 30-minute episodes and short, sharp videos. So now, being in a theatre, very difficult, very difficult for our strange little brains.

• 26:52Matt Forde?

  Good point for younger listeners. Imagine sitting on a hard wooden bench next to people with dysentery, watching Netflix Live.

• 27:00Alice Levine?

  Lord Montegal is here to lose himself in the spectacle of William Shakespeare's latest play, to forget for a few hours the weight of suspicion that seems to follow him and every other Catholic in this country since King James took the throne. Montegal leans forward as the players retake the stage, eager to be swept away by the bard's words.

• 27:22Speaker 02

  All hail Macbeth! Hail to thee, Thane of Cordor!

• 27:28Alice Levine?

  His hand moves to touch the rosary hidden beneath his doublet. How many men has he seen fall prey to power, to whispered promises of greatness? A tap on his shoulder makes him jump. Montegal turns, irritation flashing across his face at the interruption. A hooded figure leans close, breath hot against his ear. My lord, a message. He takes the folded parchment as it's thrust into his hand. Frowning, Montegal unfolds the note. He scans the words, but as he does, his blood runs cold.

• 28:04Matt Forde?

  Says they're all out of Maltesers, but they have got some jelly babies.

• 28:08Alice Levine?

  Imagine if this is how you were asked to switch your phone on to, like, non-vibrate. Just a mysterious character. My lord, a message. And you open it up and it's like, switch your fucking phone off. You would, wouldn't you? He looks up, panicked, but the hooded messenger has vanished. He desperately searches the sea of faces below, a writhing mass of the great unwashed. On stage, Macbeth's voice rises. Stars hide your fires. Let not light see my black and deep desires. Montegal's gaze snaps back to the note in his hand. My lord, I would advise you, as you tender your life, to devise some excuse to shift your attendance at this Parliament.

• 28:53Alice Levine?

  For God and man have concurred to punish the wickedness of this time. I say they shall receive a terrible blow, and I hope God will give you the grace to make good use of it, to whose holy protection I commend you. Montegal glances up as the crowd erupts. The opening of Parliament is in 10 days. He repeats the words under his breath. They will suffer a terrible blow.

• 29:25Matt Forde?

  Could it be a positive thing? No.

• 29:28Alice Levine?

  What's a positive blow? Don't answer that. It sounds like some kind of plot, for what, he does not know. But if he's found with this note, he could be implicated. His Catholic faith already makes him a suspect. This could be his ruin. He stands and slips out of the Globe as Macbeth's world crumbles on stage. Outside, his eyes are drawn across the Thames to Westminster's silhouette. He wants to rid this country of King James's vile Protestantism as much as the next Catholic. But whatever this madness is, he'll be damned if he lets this country descend into savagery. He fixes his eyes westward and quickens his pace towards the palace, his decision made,

• 30:13Alice Levine?

  because he knows who he has to give this note to. He just prays to Mary herself that he will be above suspicion.

• 30:24Matt Forde?

  It's just dawned on me, actually, that note isn't necessarily just a warning to a friend. That actually is a leak. That is someone inside the gunpowder plot telling someone influential about it. That is someone breaking the code.

• 30:39Alice Levine?

  Yeah, this is what's fascinating because that's the debate. Is it just a close person to Montegol wanting to save his life because he would have been attending the opening of Parliament? Or is this sabotage and someone trying to derail the plot? And why that's so hard to know is because we don't know who wrote the note. So we can't know their full intention. And there are quite a few people in the picture who could well have done and would have had motive. So there's a guy called Francis Tresham, who's actually Montegol's brother-in-law. And he's one of the conspirators. He's related to Catesby. So this is what I mean. It's a very, a very knotty web. He never confessed to writing the letter, but there's actually some debate about how much he knew and whether he would have impetus to do that. He's sort of the most likely culprit, actually.

• 31:23Alice Levine?

  And then theory two, a woman called Martha Percy. Now, we know somebody else called Percy, of course, our favourite feather-wearing King's Guard, Sir Thomas Percy. This is his ex-wife, and the ex part being very important because he ran off with a younger woman.

• 31:37Matt Forde?

  Okay, she wrote the letter.

• 31:40Matt Forde?

  I don't need to hear any more. I think it's her.

• 31:44Alice Levine?

  Yeah, well, she was in the know because her brothers were Catesby's most trusted conspirators and were also at school with Guy Fawkes. So she had intel at her fingertips. She'd basically been abandoned in London by her husband, by Percy. So would she have sold her own brothers to the Crown to exact revenge? I mean, women gonna women, am I right?

• 32:06Matt Forde?

  Hell hath no fury.

• 32:08Alice Levine?

  And then interestingly, there's another woman, Anne Voe. She was arrested in 1606 in relation to the plot. She did harbour priests, although she wasn't found guilty of treason and was released. But she was related to Tresham, who I mentioned earlier, theory one, and a very active recusant. She was making a statement by not going to church. So she was in the movement and there's some people who say she could have been involved. What I find so compelling about this is that we always think of this as a band of brothers and there are actually loads of women involved on the periphery, not lighting fuses and rolling barrels. But it's just so hard to know who put pen to paper.

• 32:47Matt Forde?

  What I love about it, and it reminds me a bit of Hatton Garden, is that people never stick fully to the plan. There's always at least one person who deviates, who blabs or who eats chips and falls asleep. And it is lovely to know that even in the 17th century, they couldn't do this stuff properly.

• 33:09Alice Levine?

  November 1st, 1605, the King's private gallery, Palace of Whitehall. King James sinks deeper into the plush mountain of velvet pillows. George Villiers, his gentleman of the bedchamber, stands naked in front of him, deftly juggling oranges between his nimble fingers. James's lips curve into a satisfied smile as he watches his favourite courtiers' athletic display.

• 33:34Matt Forde?

  I mean, why would you want to watch that? I know there was no telly back then, but surely you could just have a game of tennis together or wrestle?

• 33:41Alice Levine?

  Well, I think one of those might have been more appealing than the other because the topic of his sexuality is one of great historical debate. He had favourite male courtiers, of which George Villiers was one, and he wrote some very affectionate letters to George, although he was, of course, because we're talking about 1605, married.

• 33:58Matt Forde?

  It hadn't struck me that there may be a sexual element to this. The way you juggle those oranges.

• 34:06Alice Levine?

  The tranquil respite shatters as Sir Robert Cecil strides into the chamber. James starts and turns to meet the grave, concerned expression of his spymaster. Your Majesty. Cecil hovers nearby, fidgeting with a parchment. For God's sake, Cecil, what do you want? He looks across at his spymaster's angular face and slight, slender figure. Your Majesty, I've received troubling information. James sighs, his impatience growing. Spit it out, man. It appears there's a plot, sire, a Catholic conspiracy of the gravest nature. James scoffs. Catholics are forever plotting, Cecil.

• 34:50Alice Levine?

  Why are you here? Your Majesty, they plan to blow up Parliament with you in it. James gasps. I told you to keep them under control. That's why I keep you around, isn't it? To sniff out these conspiracies before they threaten my throne. James starts to pace the room. I've only just learned of it, sire. A letter was delivered to Lord Montegol, but rest assured, we're Montegol. This letter is from Montegol. He watches as Cecil shuffles his feet. I wouldn't trust that devious Catholic for one goddamn minute. Have you even considered that this might be a trap?

• 35:33Alice Levine?

  He fixes Cecil with a hard stare, but his spymaster appears unperturbed. I can't see how it would be a trap. James collapses back on his velvet cushions, exhausted. He catches his breath. Deal with this, Cecil. Turn London upside down if you must. Search every cellar, every attic in Westminster. Interrogate anyone with even a whisper of Catholic sympathy. The spymaster nods solemnly. It shall be done, Your Majesty. I will deal with it myself. And mark me well, Cecil. If this is one of your courtly games to curry favour, it will be the last you ever play. I want heads on sticks.

• 36:18Alice Levine?

  If you don't have them, it will be yours I make do with. He stays on Cecil.

• 36:26Alice Levine?

  Do I make myself clear?

• 36:30Matt Forde?

  Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, get it? Heads on sticks. If it's not theirs, it's mine. Loud and clear.

• 36:37Alice Levine?

  He watches as Cecil turns and strides from the chamber. James stands motionless for a moment, his fists clenched at his sides. He sweeps his arms across a nearby table, sending goblets and plates crashing to the floor. If it's a war these Catholics want, then it's a war he'll give them.

• 37:04Alice Levine?

  November 4th, 1605, the Duck and Drake pub, The Strand, London. Guy slips inside the pub and lets the warmth envelop him. He lets his eyes adjust to the flickering candlelight. In the corner, he spots Catesby and Percy, their faces drawn. The rough wood of the table is sticky beneath Guy's fingertips as he joins them. Percy's whispered words barely audible above the crackle of the open fire. There are whispers in every corridor at the palace, accusations flying like arrows. It's become a witch hunt. I've seen good men strung up on nothing but rumour and spite. The air's thick with it.

• 37:48Alice Levine?

  Guy looks at the two faces before him. It's clear that someone has talked, and for a moment, he wonders if it could have been one of them. He quickly pushes the thought from his mind. If we leave now, we might still escape with our lives. I can organise passage to the continent. Guy's jaw clenches as he cuts in. Flee? I'm not running. But if we've been truly discovered... Guy leans forward, gripping Catesby's arm. Then we die as martyrs. It's better that than to live as cowards, abandoning our brothers and our faith. Guy's eyes blaze with determination. Brothers, we stand at the precipice.

• 38:33Alice Levine?

  He sees Catesby glance at Percy, then nod. Guy continues. We made a vow. He slowly reaches into his pocket and pulls out a string of rosary beads. He wraps them around his fist, the crucifix dangling between his white knuckles. Let us renew it here and now.

• 38:53Matt Forde?

  Going to renew their vows?

• 38:54Alice Levine?

  That's quite sweet.

• 38:55Matt Forde?

  So romantic, these guys.

• 38:58Alice Levine?

  Guy places his clenched fist in the centre of the table. For God and country. Guy watches as sweat beads on Percy's forehead. God help us all. With a shaky exhale, Percy steals himself and slowly extends his hand. But as his fingers brush against the others... A deafening crash fills the air. Guy spins around at the sound of splintering wood and shattering glass. He rushes to the window, slams it open. Come on, out! He pushes Percy through the opening, then Catesby, as he hears a sea of armed soldiers racing up the stairs. Guy follows through the open window into the crisp night air.

• 39:43Alice Levine?

  He watches his friends split up and disappear into the night. They may be hunted, they may be betrayed, but he won't give up. The revolution must go on, even if it costs him his life.

• 40:01Alice Levine?

  November 5th, 1605. The cellar underneath Parliament. Sir Robert Cecil paces the dim chamber, his patience wearing thin. Before him, one of Lord Montegal’s servants slumps in a chair, bruised and bloodied, but silent. Come now, you’ve received the letter. He watches the man’s face, searching for any flicker of emotion as he tightens one of the screws around the man’s thumb until he hears a crack. I’ve told you, I don’t know nothing about no letter! Cecil slams his fist on the table, the sharp sound echoing in the chamber. Half-truths and misdirection.

• 40:43Alice Levine?

  I’ll not find myself in the Tower for your games. It’s been 24 hours since King James gave him his ultimatum. Cecil has ordered a full lockdown of the city, searched every cellar within a mile of Parliament, but so far, all he’s found is one wretched priest about to leave for the continent. He turns to find a guard staring at him. My lord, we’ve searched everywhere, but... Cecil snaps, his nerves frayed, as the guard hesitates. But what? There’s nothing. All we found is a man with some sticks in a cellar owned by Thomas Percy. He calls himself John Johnson, or something like that. Cecil’s mind snaps to attention. The Catholic sympathiser, Thomas Percy?

• 41:28Alice Levine?

  He watches the guard’s face contort. I, I suppose so, sir. Cecil feels hot with rage. Why was I not informed earlier?

• 41:41Matt Forde?

  Well, so if I was to go with my thumb in a clamp, I’d be like, can you let me go now? Because it really sounds like this is proof to let me off the hook.

• 41:48Alice Levine?

  Oh, so this doesn’t really feel like it’s about me anymore? Like, am I part of it? I feel like I’m eavesdropping, if anything. 20 minutes later, Cecil descends into the cellar’s murky depths. The air grows thick with the scent of damp earth and the pungent smell of sulphur. He strains his eyes in the dim light, aware of the guards behind him. A flicker of movement catches his eye. There, in the shadows. A man crouches among the barrels, his hands working at something Cecil can’t quite make out. He turns to his guards, whispers... Hold. Cecil quietly places one foot in front of the next when one of the guards coughs behind him.

• 42:33Alice Levine?

  The figure freezes. Cecil can make out the man’s features, twisted in surprise and fear. A stovepipe hat sits on his head, and in his hands, unmistakable, a tinderbox, moments from igniting a fuse. Forward, now! Cecil watches as the guards tackle the man to the floor. Cecil steps forward and towers over him. John Johnson, you are under arrest for high treason against His Majesty King James and the entire realm of England. Guards, take this man to the Tower!

• 43:16Matt Forde?

  I think you’re enjoying playing him.

• 43:19Alice Levine?

  I love a bit of Cecil.

• 43:31Alice Levine?

  November 5th, 1605. 4 a.m., the king’s bedchamber. King James stands alone in the candlelight. He takes a deep breath and quickly pours a circle of salt on the stone floor, placing a silver chalice at its centre. He closes his eyes. Raising his arms, he begins to encant in a low, intense voice. From royal blood, a binding spell to piece the veil between heaven and hell. Grant me the sight to see the truth of plotter’s hiding claw and tooth. James pricks his finger, letting a drop of blood fall into the chalice.

• 44:15Alice Levine?

  He sips the concoction and then pours the remainder on the floor. The candles surge briefly, then settle. James quickly scuffs out the circle with his foot. Enter! The door opens, and Cecil marches in, followed by two armed guards flanking a bound prisoner. James stares at the bloodied man before him. Kneel before your king, traitor! The prisoner’s broken lips curl into a sneer. I kneel only before God. The man lunges forward with unexpected strength. James stumbles back, tangling in his robes and crashing to the floor. James struggles to his feet as his guards beat the man into submission.

• 45:00Alice Levine?

  What manner of devil are you? A papist? A foreign agent? The prisoner’s eyes narrow. I am a soldier of the one true faith. And you are no true king of England, but a Scottish pretender and bastard usurper. James’s eyes nervously dance around the faces in the room as it falls deathly silent. Your persecution has brought us to this. And mark my words, others are already preparing to rise and fight your tyranny. James recoils. You dare spew such lies

• 45:44Alice Levine?

  in the presence of your rightful king? He turns to Cecil, eyes wild. Strip him! Search him for anything: a symbol, a letter, anything to reveal his true nature. James watches as the guards tear away the prisoner’s clothing. He staggers back. His eyes widen in horror. The man’s body is a canvas of cross-shaped scars. What devilry is this? Speak, demon! Who else conspires against the crime? The prisoner spits blood in James’s face. Your Majesty, we must act swiftly and decisively.

• 46:28Alice Levine?

  This plot, it could be the spark that ignites open rebellion. James feels the room spin and retches violently. Extraordinary times demand extraordinary measures. Show weakness now, and you may lose everything your father fought for. James wipes his mouth. Take him to the Tower. Use whatever means necessary, I care not. Extract every name, every detail of this infernal plot. James’s eyes narrow, his voice barely above a whisper. Break him, Cecil. Break them all.

• 47:16Alice Levine?

  Torture chamber, lower bell tower, Tower of London, 1605. Guy hangs from the ceiling, his wrists raw and bleeding in iron manacles. His toes barely scrape the stone floor, his entire weight straining his shoulders. Sweat and blood mingle, running down his arms. You’ve been here for hours. Surely you see the futility of your silence? Guy’s head lolls forward, his breathing ragged. I see only the righteousness of our cause. He watches Cecil nod to a guard, who approaches with a bucket of water. Perhaps this will loosen your tongue?

• 48:01Alice Levine?

  The guard throws the water over Guy. The sudden shock of cold makes him gasp and spasm, sending waves of agony through his body.

• 48:11Matt Forde?

  Okay, I’ll tell you everything, just make it stop, oh god. Even just them saying, “I’ll take you to the Tower,” I’d be like, right, what do you want to know? I’ll tell you where they live, who they are, literally everything.

• 48:21Alice Levine?

  That’s good to know.

• 48:22Matt Forde?

  Yeah, or their mates. I will be the best grass you’ve ever had.

• 48:26Alice Levine?

  Well, at them saying, “You’re going to go to the Tower,” that threat is enough.

• 48:30Matt Forde?

  Hundred percent.

• 48:32Alice Levine?

  Cecil circles him. Names. Who else was involved in this treasonous plot? Guy clenches his jaw, refusing to answer. He smiles as he hears Cecil sigh. Very well, raise him. The guard turns a crank, slowly lifting Guy higher. His shoulders scream in protest as more of his weight pulls on them. An involuntary groan escapes his lips. This can all end. Just tell me who you are and give me the names of your co-conspirators. Guy’s mind flashes to the faces of Catesby, Percy, the others. He pictures them regrouping in the North,

• 49:17Alice Levine?

  carrying on their holy mission. The thought gives him strength. He grits his teeth. Catesby is building an army. He just needs to hang on. I will not break. Cecil snaps back. Everyone breaks. The door slams open. A guard stumbles in, panting. Sir, urgent news from His Majesty. Guy sees Cecil hesitate, then turn to leave. Guy sags in his chains. He’s held out again, but doubt gnaws at him. He’s unsure how much longer he can last. Alone, he whispers to himself.

• 50:02Alice Levine?

  God give me strength for England, for our faith. In the silence, he steals himself for what’s to come. He might have been captured, might even lose his life. But the war is only just beginning.

• 50:30Matt Forde?

  You've been listening to British Scandal, an Audible original. Produced by Audible with Samizdat. Hosted by me, Matt Ford.

• 50:37Alice Levine?

  And me, Alice Levine.

• 50:41Alice Levine?

  This is the second episode in our series, Guy Fawkes.

• 50:45Matt Forde?

  A quick note about our dialogue. In most cases, we can't know exactly what was said, but all our dramatizations are based on historical research.

• 50:53Alice Levine?

  If you'd like to know more about this story, you can read Faith and Treason by Antonia Fraser and The Real Guy Fawkes by Nick Holland. Written by Andy Sheridan. Additional writing by Alice Levine and Matt Ford. Our story editor is James Maniac. Sound design by Rich Evans. Our engineer is Jai Williams. For Samizdat, our producer is Chika Ayers. Our assistant producer is Redsey Bernard. The executive producers for Samizdat were Joe Sykes and Dashilis Atsina. Executive producers for Audible were Theodora Leludis and Estelle Doyle.

• 51:33Speaker 03

  On January 1, 1892, a young Irish immigrant named Annie Moore became the first person processed at the new immigration station on Ellis Island. For the millions who followed her, this small island in New York Harbor would become the place where their American dream would either begin or end. Hi, I'm Lindsey Graham, the host of the podcast American History Tellers. We take you to the events, times, and people that shaped America and Americans, our values, our struggles, and our dreams. In our latest series, we trace the history of Ellis Island. For more than three decades, it served as the gateway through which millions of hopeful immigrants entered the United States. But as the nation struggled to decide who belonged, some would find the gate shut to them. Follow American History Tellers wherever you get your podcasts.

• 52:17Speaker 03

  Audible subscribers can binge all episodes of American History Tellers early and ad-free right now. Join Audible in the Audible app or by subscribing on Apple Podcasts.

• 52:27Speaker 04

  There are books that change how you see the world, and there are books that change how you see yourself. In a new podcast series, A Great Book with Barack Obama, President Obama sits down with a series of surprising and sharp guests to explore six books that have shaped his life and perspective on the world. From Song of Solomon and the Fire Next Time, to All the Pretty Horses and Gilead, the president is joined by guests like Tom Hanks and Ta-Nehisi Coates to reflect on how these timeless stories shaped his thinking on everything from fatherhood to leadership. And discover together what they tell us about the world we live in and the world we want to create.

• 53:11Speaker 04

  Audible subscribers can listen to all episodes of A Great Book with Barack Obama ad-free right now, plus access each audiobook discussed in the series. Download the Audible app today.