Thus More was relying upon legal precedent and the maxim ("one who keeps silent seems to consent"), understanding that he could not be convicted as long as he did not explicitly deny that the King was Supreme Head of the Church, and he therefore refused to answer all questions regarding his opinions on the subject.
Thus More was relying upon legal precedent and the maxim ("one who keeps silent seems to consent"), understanding that he could not be convicted as long as he did not explicitly deny that the King was Supreme Head of the Church and he therefore refused to answer all questions regarding his opinions on the subject.