morerayf01	Timothy Bailey	Rayfe More	Rayfe More, Groom of the Bedchamber to the Earl of Leycestre	Rayfe was born in the early 1530s, to a family that has been in the service of the Dudley family for generations. He has always known that that is where his destiny lies, and has been with them through good and ill fortune.\n\nSome of his earliest memories were the Dudley sons (primarily Guildford, his favorite, and Robert and Ambrose, who are about the same age as Rayfe) playing "war" using the servant children (including Rayfe) as soldiers and cannon fodder; Rayfe always felt nervous about harming the sons of the Duke of Northumberland and usually "died" quickly.\n\nThe most terrible period of his life was after the Duke maneuvered Jane Grey onto the throne of England, and he, Jane, and her husband Guildford were beheaded for it. Robert, Ambrose and their brother Henry were imprisoned in the Tower of London for a time. Rayfe continued his service there. It turned him strongly anti-Church of Rome, and more precisely, antizealot.\n\nHe mistrusts the Recusants, as well as the Precisionists - he does not wish England to be torn again by matters of religion.\n\nAfter their release, it was decided that Rayfe would be Ambrose's servant, and he served in that role for a couple years. However, after a taxidermy bear with ragged staff in the main hall of one of Ambrose's houses caught flame, and Rayfe took the blame, he was released from Ambrose's service. Robert, who was truly to blame for the incident, was impressed by Rayfe's loyalty, and took him into his service. Ambrose and Rayfe have been uncomfortable around each other since then.\n\nHe is quite impressed by the Queen, who has not let her experiences in the Tower taint her overtly, and has become a fair and benevolent monarch. He constantly hopes that the Queen will finally consent to marry the Earl of Leycestre, partly to further his own station, but also because he feels that they are meant for each other. He realizes this is probably impossible after the manner of the Earl's wife Amy's death, but he still hopes.\n\nHe is married to Margaret, and has two young children, Elizabeth and Guildford. (They are named after Queen Elizabeth and Guildford Dudley.)\n\n[ The known historical facts about Rayfe are relevant to his later years; first, he was present at the wedding of Robert Dudley to Laetitia Knolleys, the Countess of Essex. Second, when Robert wrote his will late in life, he gave it into Rayfe's keeping. ]\n		
horsened02	Patrick Bailey	Edward Horsey	Sir Edward Horsey, Captain of the Isle of Wight	Edward was born to Jasper and Magdalene Horsey, a family of considerable note in Dorset. Because he would receive no inheritance and spurred by a lust for adventure, Edward sought his fortune early on the battlefield. He and his brother, Francis, fought in the emperor’s wars on the continent. In 1556 he took part in a plot against Queen Mary. He traveled to France to meet with King Henry II in order to garner his open support for the venture. The treachery was discovered and only his absence was to thank for his continued life. He continued to live in exile in France until Elizabeth took the throne. On his return to England he was united with a friend of his from years before, Lord Robert Dudley. Edward quickly found himself one of the Duke’s son’s closest companions.\nEdward took back to serving the English crown in war. He accompanied the Earl of Warwick to Havre, where the English suffered a disastrous defeat from the French. In 1565 he was appointed to the Isle of Wight which he earned the captaincy to within a year. At the outbreak of the Northern Rebellion Horsey was dispatched at the head of five hundred cavalry to defend the crown. He fervently assisted in crushing the rebels and followed hard their retreat. Queen Elizabeth used Edward as an ambassador to negotiate the pacification between the French King and the Huguenots. Several other occasions he was sent to the Netherlands to treat with Don John of Austria with regard to Spanish Protestants and English merchants.\nEdward Horsey is called a pirate by many and a soldier-of-fortune by others. He wears both of these monikers with pride. He is a born adventurer and a keen mind for matters of war. He takes his duties on the Isle of Wight very seriously. To him, he is the first line of defense, the vanguard, against a foreign threat. He zealously repairs and improves the defenses of ‘his island’. Rarely does he leave its shores, save for the Queens call. He is not used to the rigors of court. He enjoys a simple life of simple pleasures. He joined the entourage’s arrival in Bristol in order to remind Leycestre of these very things.\nHis loyalty to ‘Her Glorious Resplendent Majesty’ is beyond reproach. Edward had the pleasure to meet the Princess Elizabeth betimes as a young man, through his Dudley friendship. It was then that he saw her as the true child of King Henry. For this reason and his religion he contrived to remove Mary from the throne for her sister. He will exult the day he is given the opportunity to lay his life down for his Queen.\nEdward holds his Protestant beliefs close to heart. While he may not speak often of his beliefs, he borders on a zealot. His distrust and dislike of Catholics is extreme, especially Spanish. He does little to obfuscate these feelings from those around him.\nRobert Dudley, now the Earl of Leycestre, is Edward’s oldest and closest friend. He has seen times when both the great peer and the Queen herself were out of favor and under threat of death. He will refer to Leycestre as ‘Robert’ but only in casual company. Often Edward will use accolades that Her Majesty has yet to shower upon him (i.e. ‘Your Excellency’) out of jest and respect. Horsey prefers to be called ‘Edward’ or ‘Sir Edward’, but he is also used to being the biggest fish in the pond. Those who are close to him are invited to use the nickname ‘Ned’.	2002/2002_Horsey_Sir_Edward_01.jpg	
leyceerl02	T. Stacy Hicks	Robert Dudley	Sir Robert Dudley, 1st Earl of Leycestre	Sir Robert Dudley, Baron of Denbeigh and Earl of Leycester, Privy Councilor, Knight of the Garter, Chancellor of Oxford University, and Master of the Horse. Born in 1532 to John Dudley and Jane Guildeford, the Duke and Duchess of Northumberland, Leycester is the fifth of thirteen children. Of these thirteen children he has only three remaining siblings; Ambrose Earl of Warwick, Mary Lady Sidney, and Catherine Countess of Huntingdon. The struggle to restore the family fortunes after the disgrace and execution of their father, brother, and grandfather has been a long one. Though younger than his brother Warwick, Leycester is the acknowledged leader of the now glittering Dudley family. The prestige of the Dudley family lies solely in their closeness to the Queen. Warwick serves as a Privy Councilor and the Queen’s Master of the Ordinance, while both Lady Sidney and Lady Huntingdon have served at various times in the Queen’s Bedchamber.\n\nThe office of Master of the Horse keeps Leycester ever at the Queen’s side for all state and ceremonial occasions. Though the office has historically been more decorative than functional, Leycester has embraced it with a genuine passion. He is a superb rider himself and spends many hours in the Royal Stables training the horses, improving blood lines, and overseeing all of the many tasks necessary to transport the Royal Household. Indeed, the transportation of the entire court as well as their baggage while on Progress falls to him and his officers and grooms. The office of Master of the Horse carries with it a large budget as well as a considerable staff of officers, equeries, grooms, aveners, clerks, farriers, and baggage-men, but such is his devotion to this work that he will often oversee the work himself to assure that all will be carried out to his exacting standards. Of all of the places that his work requires him to be his favorite is at the Queen’s side for an early morning ride.\n\nHis relationship with the Queen defies any explanation. Theirs is a love for each other that is built on many years of genuine affection. This bond was forged when they were children together at King Henry’s court and continued through the tumultuous years of King Edward and Queen Mary’s reigns. They were prisoners at the same time in the Tower and have both known what it was to be under sentence of death. Leycester is certain that the Queen loves him as much as he loves her, and is convinced that if she will only heed her heart she will make the right choice and marry him. He is one of the few men that can speak openly to her and will often be sent in by the Privy Council to calm the Royal Anger after a temperamental episode. As there is no male sovereign many of the state duties that would fall to that person are often handled by Leycester. His frustrations at her indecisiveness causes him to vacillate between being besotted by the Queen and cursing all women for their inconstancy. His desire to have a son and forward the Dudley line is all consuming, and he will be jealous and vengeful of anyone that he sees as an obstacle to that end. For this reason, those in the court who do not like him at least have a hardy respect for him, and will do almost whatever is necessary to stay well on his good side. Since the death of Leycester’s wife Amy, the courts of Europe have waited with baited breath to see what will happen next. In the years since that tragedy Leycester has grown anxious because of the Queen’s lack of commitment and he has begun to look for other candidates for his hand.\n\nHis love for the Queen is all consuming, but when it comes right down to it the Earl is, after all, a man. This will lead him to be governed not by his head but by his desires. This lapse of judgment caused him to instigate a flirtation with Lettice Knollys, Viscountess Hereford a few years ago in retaliation to the Queen’s brief flirtation with Sir Thomas Heneage. In Lettice he finds all of the qualities of her Royal Cousin the Queen without any of the constrictions of a crown. Their dalliance was brief, and when the Queen dropped Heneage to return to Leycester he did the same to Lettice. When Lettice returned to court as the Countess of Essex Leycester found that motherhood had only increased her charms and attractions and they were quickly embroiled in their romance. When Leycester moved the Queen to dispatch Lord Essex to Ireland it was with the intention of removing him temporarily, but he had no idea that Essex would die there. Of course the court gossips had already attached him to Lady Essex so it was only natural that Leycester was suspected in having a hand in Essex’s death. The incident shocked all of the parties awake and Lettice quickly withdrew into the country for a period of mourning. Now that Lettice is back at court they have had more occasion to steal away and discover that what was initially lust has developed into a genuine effection for each other, which adds to Leycester’s internal strife. He has been able to spend some time with Lettice’s eldest son, the new Earl of Essex, and in his more sentimental moments it’s easy for him to imagine that this boy should have been their child. With the Queen being consumed in the matter of her own, foreign marriage she has lowered her usual heavy guard and now Leycester and Lettice are able to indulge in each others company. This might well lead to an unforeseen calamity.\n\nLeycestre is attended by a cadre of useful servants and companions. Most hold high positions of responsibility in the great Earl’s household and offices, others are simply sycophants gaining their importance from his. This network of influence has placed his adherents in government positions all over the country, and he has an extensive intelligence system established abroad.\n\nSir Edward Horsey has arrived at the court from his post as Captain of the Isle of Wight and has taken up his place at the Earl’s side for any necessary carousing. If there is no carousing at hand Horsey is sure to instigate it, never being one to allow Leycester to get bogged down with weighty matters. Indeed, Leycester finds Horsey to be a distraction when there’s important work to be done, but Horsey was never one to allow things to get too serious. They’ve known each other for many years and maintained a correspondence during Horsey’s exile under Queen Mary.\n\nLeycestre dotes upon his favorite nephew (and namesake) Sir Robert Sidney and is happy to have him at court. Leycestre is somewhat sympathetic to Robert’s plight as a younger brother of a domineering elder brother so he has taken Robert under his wing in order to instruct him in order that he should take his place as a leader in the Dudley clan. Leycestre is determined to make a good marriage for Robert and is already in discussions with his sister Lady Huntingdon to have him wed to one of her wards, as soon as he feels Robert has sewn a few wild oats.\n\nRayfe More completes the Earl’s circle of companions and serves Leycester as his Gentleman of the Bedchamber. Rayfe has been in service to the Dudley's through the best and worst of times, and even accompanied the family into the Tower for their stay there. Leycester places the highest trust in Rayfe on whom he depends to keep him organized and on time during the course of his busy day. Rayfe carries the keys to Leycestre’s extensive wardrobe and has the tasks of anticipating his master’s fashionable fancies in advance.\n\nLeycester is a devoted family man and much enjoys the company at court of his Sidney nieces and nephews, and will insist on holding any baby brought into his presence. He and his brother Warwick enjoy a close relationship forged through many years of struggle and family tragedy. Though they are both very aware of their dignity they will sometimes forget their social standing and lapse into the antics they enjoyed at a younger age. This is when Warwick will once again assume the role of the elder brother and Robert's ego may suffer as a result. Warwick serves as a constant reminder to his little brother that the Queen’s hand in marriage is the goal and that he must keeps his energies focused in that direction. He and his sister of Huntingdon are as thick as thieves, and they can be often seen in each other's company advancing their plans to rule the world.\n\nThe Dudley family still nurses an insult paid them by Lord and Lady Berkley who had the audacity to rebuke the offer of the Dudley’s Sidney nephews as grooms for the Berkley’s daughters. The proximity of Bristol to Berkley Castle has brought this unpleasant situation to another head as all of the antagonists are at court again. Leycestre is currently forwarding Lady Berkley’s brother, the Duke of Norfolk, as a husband for the Queen of Scots. This has caused Leycester to seek an uneasy alliance with the Berkleys, for the moment.\n\nIn his own mind Leycestre is already king. As such he has little to fear from any member of the court and will have an amiable smile for his most bitter enemy. He is certain of his place at the Queen's side and only an occasional reminder from the Queen keeps him from being insufferable. When these rebukes come from the Royal Hand he will retire into a corner and sulk. This will put him in an ill mood and it is at this time that he is the most dangerous. He will rarely loose his temper so that when he does it carries with it all the more ferocity. Otherwise he is a very pleasant companion that many people will seek out. He dances to near perfection, is a superlative jouster and rider, a witty conversationalist, a lover of fine food and drink, and laughs heartily and often. He is the patron of the first acting troupe to receive a Royal commission and also spreads his largesse among a company of singers and a troupe of tumblers, whom he has brought with him to Bristol. The Queen's Phoole Jane is one of his favorite companions and they are known for their late evening gambling parties. He has never met a woman that he doesn't think is beautiful and he is well known for his charm and grace with the ladies, particularly with the ladies attendant on the Queen as he and his men are often in their company late into the evening.\n\nHe may be addressed as Lord Leycestre, and will tolerate nothing else. His men Blount and More might call him Lord Robert, remembering the days before he was an earl. His sister and brother call him Robin, as does the Queen, who also calls him by their intimate nickname "eyes."	2003/2003_Leycestre_Robert_02.jpg	herald-leicester.gif
elizquee93	Mary Kababik	Elizabeth Tudor	Queen Elizabeth Tudor	SEMPER EADEM: "Be Always One". What does that mean? I really had to give this one some thought. What an odd motto for a woman who flew off the handle at a moment’s notice; for whom PMS seems to have been a normal state. But there are things about Elizabeth that are consistent, that are "always one". I will concentrate on these, and build on them. Elizabeth is totally, passionately devoted to ruling England, and ruling it well. Nothing else is as important: not love, not the fear of growing old alone, not sexual desire, not personal preferences in matters of religion, not the fear of assassination, not any other country or peoples, not even those individuals whom she loves. These "nots" are made somewhat easier to live with by two other characteristics: her ability to win the loyalty and the love of her subjects (which replaces other loves) by her total devotion to duty; and her loathing of being dominated in any way by any man. The woman in her may sometimes long to "give" herself to a man, but the Queen in her hates the thought of losing the power she has. The Queen part always wins out. She may also actually fear the sexual act, and probably fears childbirth. However, flirtation is enjoyable, rewarding - it has to make up for lots of things that are missing.\n\nNaturally Elizabeth is jealous and disappointed when men pay attention to other women. Elizabeth is vain. Elizabeth loves to win, and to be the best at whatever she puts her hand to. She is highly intelligent, to the point of brilliance. Elizabeth loves riding, so she must like horses also. She wants to stay on the throne, she wants to preserve the monarchy and majesty, and she will do whatever these things require. She loves the very young and respects the elderly, so she will tolerate much from them. She tolerates almost nothing from anyone in between - meaning, she is short-tempered, and feels in no way called upon to control or conceal this. Yes, she is humbled by and tender about the love and personal loyalty shown to her. Elizabeth is clever, and can be diplomatic and dissembling when it is required. She loves music and loves to dance and sing. Elizabeth likes beautiful clothes, beautiful jewelry, and handsome men. She is sentimental. She is aware of conditions and problems in her own country, and is also well versed in foreign affairs. Elizabeth loves to go among her people. Elizabeth is fairly tolerant of different religions except if they threaten her throne. Elizabeth knows how to do all the things that a woman of her time and a Princess should know how to do. Elizabeth believes that she was put here by God to rule England.\n\nShe is a very complex woman!\n	2001/2001_Tudor_Elizabeth_01.jpg	herald-tudor.gif
parkarch02	Ron Cassidente	Matthew Parker	Matthew Parker, Archbishop of Canterbury	On the sixth day of August 1504 Matthew Parker, son of William and Alice Parker was born in the city of Norwich. William was a worsted weaver and wool merchant. He died when his son was 12. The Parker family was well respected in Norwich. In 1450, Nicholas Parker, Mathew’s great grandfather was appointed as Keeper of the Court of Canterbury. Nicholas could have been wealthy by demanding bribes for ecclesiastical court favours. Instead, he established the gentility of his family through his honesty and was rewarded with a coat of arms. The shield bore a crest of an elephant’s head. Matthew proudly displayed this symbol on many occasions. His mother was a well-educated woman who could converse in both Latin and Greek. Of his five siblings little is known. Except for his brother Thomas who became Sheriff and then Mayor of Norwich. \n\nSometime between the age of 17 to 19, Matthew mounted his horse and rode to enroll in Corpus Christi College, Cambridge. He was an ardent and thoughtful student and excelled in Latin, Greek, Hermeneutics and classical study. He graduated in 1525 with his BA and received his MA in 1527. He was then ordained into the Catholic Priesthood. He received is Doctorate three years later.\n\nDuring that time he was joined a radical group of reformers. A shy retiring scholar named Thomas Bilney led these young clerics. Bilney introduced Parker to teachings of Erasmus and Luther. Bilney sparked a new fire for religious zeal in many of Parker’s contemporaries. His fiery preaching put him under suspicion of Henry VIII who had him arrested and questioned under torture. Bilney recanted his reformist ideas. Four years later Bilney voluntarily turned himself into the authorities, again supporting church reform. He was arrested and condemned as a heretic and sentenced to burn at the stake in Norwich. Parker was drawn to Norwich to be with his friend and watch his death. Upon seeing the brave little man tied to the stake to suffer a tortuous death, Parker resolved never to support execution of other Christians for their differences in religious belief.\n\nThen a completely unexpected interlude in his life occurred. On his travels Matthew would stop at the home of friends, the Harlestone family. He became acquainted with the Harlestone’s daughter Margaret. She was known for her wit, intelligence, and was "very comely". Parker was enthralled, in spite of his vows of Celibacy! She was much taken with the good Doctor Parker, his wise speech, gentle ways and strong kind voice. Historian John Styrpe wrote in the 1700’s "They were very dear to one another. He knowing her to be chaste and pious, entered into an agreement with her to abstain from wedlock, the law having made it a felony for one in Orders to marry." Their vows of affiance made, the romance was doomed to end as Parker rode off celibate. Margaret waited for seven long years. She rebuffed all suitors. Then, in 1547 following the death of King Henry, change came and new laws were passed condemning celibacy.\n\nOn June 24, 1547 Matthew age 44 and Margaret age 28 were married. They had four sons. Two died shortly after birth and two lived, to marry well and have children. Margaret was well liked by all. She was an excellent mother, cook, hostess and companion. Even Queen Elizabeth, who much disapproved of clerical marriage and would not allow Margaret in her Court, seemed to begrudgingly approve of her. After being entertained by the Parkers at the Archbishop’s home in Lambeth Palace she remarked, "Madam I may not call you; mistress I am ashamed to call you; so I know not what to call you; but yet I thank you." Parker wrote of her as ‘my most dearly beloved and virtuous wife.’ It hurt Parker deeply when Elizabeth would rail against marriage or slight his marriage or Margaret in public. Of all the hurts he endured, as Archbishop this at times was his greatest Parker’s early years were spent as Master and Dean of Stokes College. He loved the young men and boys who came to learn. He made the campus an architectural place of beauty with wondrous formal gardens. He brought in the best minds from Cambridge to instruct. He was also Chaplain to Queen Anne Boleyn. He is known to have taken her confession three days before she was arrested for treason. Anne made Parker promise to watch after Elizabeth and protect her and see to her religious education. Parker was most surely with Boleyn the day she died. He again observed the cruelty of the crown to one he loved. He maintained her innocence until the day he died and always referred to her as "my dear Queen Anne." Parker's next service was as Master of Corpus Christi College, and Vice Chancellor of Cambridge. At the end of Henry’s reign the King began a sweeping dismantling of church property to be delivered to State coffers. This included Parker’s beloved Stokes College. From then on Parker swore to protect church property from the State.\n\nThen Mary came to the throne. Parker would not renounce his marriage and resigned his positions. One night some overzealous Catholics attempted to arrest Parker, and, " Flying in the night, from such as sought for me to my peril, I fell off my horse so dangerously that I shall never recover it." The family went underground. Parker translated the Psalms into English Poetry and began translation of other books of the Bible into English. He testifies, "The delightful literary leisure to which the good providence of God recalled me yielded me much greater and more solid enjoyments, than my former busy and dangerous life had ever afforded me." This was in stark contrast to the final chapter of his life’s work.\n\nElizabeth became Queen. Parker resisted the entreaties of his good friends Cecil and Bacon who along with the Queen agreed that Parker was the best choice to steer the Church of England between the shoals of the Catholics and the shallow water of the prescients. He wished to be re-appointed to Cambridge, remain an academic and finish his translations. He wrote to Cecil, "you must know mine imperfections, what with my natural viciosty of overmuch shamefastness, I am so babished in myself that I cannot raise up my heart and stomach to talk wit others, which with my pen I can express without much difficulty." Finally, unable to rely on his gambit of procrastination, he rode to London where Cecil and Bacon told him of the Queens desire that he serve as Archbishop of Canterbury. Still reluctant and dreading the task, he wrote Cecil a long letter setting out why he should not serve. He added a lengthy list of characteristics that the Queen should seek in a new Archbishop. Cecil responded that those very qualities were the ones the Queen saw best filled by Parker. Matthew remembered his promise to Queen Anne to protect Elizabeth and care for her religious concerns. He went to London. On December 17 1559, Parker was consecrated in the Chapel of Lambeth Palace in London as the 70th Archbishop of Canterbury.\n\nImmediately Parker began serving the Church and the political needs of the Queen. Under the Supremacy Act he began the arduous process of overseeing visitations to all parishes to assure that Bishops and clerics submitted to the oath of Allegiance renouncing the Roman Catholic Church and swearing Allegiance to the Church of England, the Book of Common Prayer and the Queen. Those unwilling to recant were removed from their prebends and faced with arrest that could lead to punishment by death for treason. Parker never enforced this tenet. He also busied himself revising the Book of Common Prayer and edited and helped translate the Bishop’s Bible.\n\nThe years as Archbishop were most unhappy and wearing. He would not have endured without the support of Margaret. Parker was ground down between Papists on one side and Puritans on the other all attacking the Church and him personally. The Queen also rudely ordered him to root out disaffection and lack of uniformity with comments that he and the other Bishops were lackadaisical. When he would step up the attack on papist and puritan alike and appeal to the Queen for support he would find only silence. Failing a direct order from the Queen he would publish new rules and guidelines under his own title only to be attacked and ridiculed even more. Parker found himself at odds with the Queen over her Catholic artifacts in her chapel. He confronted the Queen when she attempted to diminish Church property necessary to the work of church. He was in constant entreaty for funds to complete the tasks of the church assigned to him by the Queen. Often Leicester would intervene with the Queen to favour his Puritan friends whom Parker had moved against. Leicester seemed to do whatever he could to thwart the Archbishop’s authority and influence with the Queen. Parker did not enjoy court.\n\nThe Archbishop was steadfast in joining forces to protect Queen Elizabeth from the internal and external threat of Roman Catholics. He did not trust the Spanish. He did all in his powers to diminish the Spanish influence at Court and illegal worship at the Spanish embassy. He supported the "confinement" of Mary Queen of Scots and remarking to Cecil "It was good to have the Wolf by the ears."\n\nMatthew Parker loved the church, his Queen his wife and family. He was an Academician who loved his books, even making and binding them. He loved to eat and entertain guests. When Margaret died in 1570, the light went out of Matthew’s life. He continued to serve his Queen but let his friend Cecil know that he yearned for death and was ready for God’s hand to take him. He died May 17, 1575 at age 71.\n\nMathew Parker tis My Given Name\nYou clete me your Archbishop now\nFrom humble beginnings you know I came\nFain do most of you now to me bow\nMy task to unite all Christians in our land\nThou Papist thou catharan forswearest your tone\nFor peace and tranquility let us stand\nE’en though methinks I often stand alone\nI will serve my Queen, and God, our Lord\nWith steadfast devotion I pray you sing\nThe Via Media to our great England bring\nJoin with your Archbishop in one accord\n	2003/2003_Parker_Archbishop_04.jpg	herald-canterbury.gif
janefool00	Ann-Elizabeth Shapera	Jane the Phoole	Jane the Phoole, Royal Phoole to Her Majesty the Queen	The facts to be found about Jane are these: in real-live history, Jane existed, and she was a fool, and apart from that, not much is known. I've heard that the Queen delighted in having Jane's head randomly shaved, for the Queen's own amusement, for the trouble of which the Maj would pay Jane tuppence. But apart from this tantalizing tidbit, I'm afraid the Encyclopedia Brittanica fills its J volume with more tangible J things.\n\nSo I’ve made up a buncha stuff to fill in the blanks. I decided that, although her current mailing address is Directly In Front Of The Queen’s Kicking Foot, she hails from the port town of (tedious, I know) Bristol. (In Anthony Burgess’s Shakespeare novel, NOTHING LIKE THE SUN, Will cries, "God’s Death, not Bristol! Anywhere but there, God, anywhere but back in Bristol!") Blamed unjustly for a murder wrought by her sister, she fled into the countryside, threw herself on the mercy of various relatives, found work in the household of Edward de Vere, the 17th Earl of Oxford, who, finding her pleasant company despite his youth and inattentiveness, befriended her and soon would not travel without her in his entourage. Off he went on a big boat to study at Padua, the MIT of the Italian Renaissance, and off she went with him. In Italy, of course, she discovered a wonderful new thing: women were not only allowed to perform onstage as commedia dell’artists, but in some few cases, they actually RAN THE SHOW. (It’s all true!) Imagine her delight! She ditched her job with the Earl and ran away, as they say, to join the circus. (This is all in her young young youth...at this point in the story, she’s only just 14 years old.) Her journey back to England took her, with I Gelosi, a commedia company led by the famous Isabella Andreini, to all the courts of Europe, entertaining this king and that, until Huguenots outside Paris took the troupe prisoner against the Catholic regime. (The Gelosi existed, and the Huguenots did that naughty thing; I just inserted Jane. It’s fun!) Some performers were killed; some escaped. Isabella fled back over the mountains to Milan, eventually (this really happened too); Jane leapt gracefully out of the frying pan into the Lowland fire, where, in the company of English sailors, she made it home again. Her job up until then had been the entertainment of royalty...so...\n\nNow Jane makes the Queen laugh, and sometimes she makes Her really mad, but her job is to say to Her Maj the things everyone else is afraid to say -- and to take a kick in the bumroll when Her Grace is in a foul humour. Back at the Palace in London, Jane’s the Queen’s constant companion, and she’s often Her bedfellow! When Her Grace is on progress, Jane has time to stroll the streets with her nice friend Mr. Whackes and sing "Lo di oh n doh n doh..."\n\nAll new for this year: Meet Mr. Whackes 2000. He’s Y1.574K compliant! (I promise never to ever say that again. Well, maybe just once.)\n\nJane is made of bits of Feste from TWELFTH NIGHT, Dogberry from MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING, a dash of Miss Piggy, Snoopy, Tigger, Steve Martin’s Wild and Crazy Guy, Flash Bazbo from the National Lampoon Radio Hour, Too Much Light Makes the Baby Go Blind, Vizzini the Sicilian, and, um, Roberto Benigni. I think you might like her. I do! Her job is to make fun of everyone, and that includes you. Don’t be scared! She’s all about holding up a mirror to the world to show it its own ridiculousness. She also has the Regent’s ear...IN A BOX! (Not really. Jeepers.) She can amuse and influence the most important person in our Elizabethan world, so...do with that what you like. The Queen may sit and hear out deliberations in the Star Chamber Court...but She always comes home to grump about it all to Jane. The fool comes last in peer precedence, after the household and everybody, and has no title but "Mistress Jane."\n\nThat’s it about Jane. I hope you have fun playing with her this summer. This will be my ninth season performing at Bristol, and my sixth season as Jane.\n\nSinging:\nLo di oh n doh n doh…\nLo di oh n doh....		
infantas01	Carolyn Maragh	Isabella Clara Eugenia	Infanta Isabella Clara Eugenia	b: Aug. 12, 1566\nd: Dec. 1, 1633\nMarriage: May 6, 1598\nHusband: Albrecht von Habsburg\nYo estoy Infanta Isabella Clara Eugenia von Habsburg. Mi padre esta Felipe von Habsburg – His Royal Catholic Majesty Philip II de Espana, y mi madre esta Elisabeth de Valois, dauther to Catherine de Medici. The most beloved daughter of my father, I was born August 12, 1566 in Segovia, Spain. I am succeeded by an older brother, Don Carlos (successor to the throne of Spain), and a younger sister, Catalina Michaela.\n\nA staunch Catholic, my beliefs are firmly rooted in my faith and the Divine Right of Kings. My loyalty to the true Catholic crown is unbending. Appointed by God, anointed by the Church, and sanctified by the Pope, only a true sovereign can lead his subjects to salvation. The King is of one mind with God and the Church. Without the urle of a Catholic King, humanity turns to savageness. Those who turn their backs on God, the rightful Catholic Sovereign and the Catholic Church shall feel his vengeance in this lifetime or the next, accordingly and justifiably. For this, I am filled with sorrow. My heart cries out for all not of the true Catholic faith. Their pain and suffering shall be endless, but I cannot save them from a fate that they themselves have called upon. I pray for peace for their heretic souls as they prepare to spend eternity in the fiery pits of hell repenting for their sins.\n\nFor the daughter of a King, education is essential. Educated by only the best of private tutors in Spain, I am well-versed in a multitude of languages and subjects. Literature is my favorite. While my true passion lies with my fellow Spaniard Cervantes, I appreciate English authors as well. The poetic writing of Ben Johnson, Christopher Marlowe, and Thomas Nashe do speak to my very soul; however their words are sweetened when spoken in my native tongue.\n\nAs a woman, I highly respect and admire intelligence in the fairer sex. But, this being said, a woman should also recognize her God-given place in the world – for what is a woman without a man to guide her? While being strong in our own respect, a woman cannot do what God has anointed for men. My allegiance lies with my father and I look to him for direction and guidance while I await my betrothal. When I am wed, it shall be not in the name of love, but in the name of Spain. To my father, I shall bring subjects and lands loyal to the Catholic faith. To all countries and lands I shall bring the leadership of a king placed upon the throne by God Himself and given the divine right to rule as he sees fit. My loyalty, my passion and my heart lie with my father, King Philip II, God and Espana.	2003/2003_Infanta_Isabella_02.jpg	
warwierl02	Dave Parsons	Ambrose Dudley	Sir Ambrose Dudley, 1st Earl of Warwick	Ambrose Dudley, was born in 1528, the third son of John Dudley and Jane Guilford, the Duke and Duchess of Northumberland. He was given a humanist education along with his siblings under many tutors including Roger Ascham who also tutored the princess Elizabeth. Of 13 children born only five lived to adulthood. He had an older brother John, who became the Earl of Warwick. He also had three younger brothers, Guilford, Robert and Henry as well as two younger sisters, Mary and Catherine. Though keen in his studies, Ambrose, like many of the Dudley children, was restless to do something more than construe Cicero for Ascham. He and his brothers were trained in the martial arts of the time. They would know how to ride and joust, fight with sword or rapier, understand the tactics of the time and learn how to command armies.\n\nIn 1544, Ambrose (then sixteen) and his elder brother John traveled with their father when he led Henry VIII’s armies to assault Boulogne. This was Ambrose’s first sight of warfare and he found it far better than books and maps back in England. Though not allowed in the fighting he was able to observe the battle and see how the armies were handled. He especially enjoyed the mighty cannons that were employed to lay low a strong place, delighting in their sheer power and noise. A year later, in 1545, Ambrose and John were again abroad with their father, this time on shipboard as John Dudley commanded the Royal fleet against the French. This experience gave Ambrose yet greater insight into the theory of warfare and the use of cannon at sea. His time at war with his father was not wasted, in 1549 Robert Kett led a rebellion in the north to stop the enclosing of the common lands, leading 16,000 to blockade Norwich. Ambrose rode with his father and brothers to put the rebellion down.\n\nIn 1552 John Dudley's political maneuverings got the better of him and through bad decisions he and his son1s were thrown into the Tower. After the execution of his father, brother Guilford and sister of the law Jane Grey, Ambrose and his brothers sat in the Tower for nearly a year. The inactivity and uncertainty made a strong impression on Ambrose and the memory of his fathers’ ambitions nearly destroying the family stayed with Ambrose for the rest of his life. When the brothers were released from the Tower, John died of an ague three days later leaving Ambrose, Robert and Henry to go to France to prove their loyalty by fighting for Philip 11 in his St. Quentin Campaign against the French. Despite great victories during a particularly heavy skirmish, Henry is slain while upon his horse, falling into Robert1s arms from his saddle, he gasps his last breath. Henry’s death had a strong impression on the two surviving brothers and a bond already strong was only strengthened between them, the last survivors of a proud house.\n\nQueen Elizabeth comes to the throne in 1558-9 and this brings good tidings for the Dudleys. Ambrose is named Master of Ordnance in 1560, a responsibility for which his time at war has trained him well. His already extensive knowledge of culverins, cannon and demi-cannons comes to the fore. He establishes correspondence with many commanders, curious about the problems they have with their ordnance and many thoughts for the improvement of the same. His office provides him the perfect vehicle for improving the defence of the realm and his influence at the same time. In 1561 at Michaelmas her Grace Elizabeth grants Ambrose, (already Lord of Ruthin), the title Earl of Warwick and the lands attendant. Ambrose has reached a pinnacle unthinkable only a decade before, with security and royal favor showered upon him.\n\nIn 1562 Ambrose is appointed Captain-General of the military expedition to hold the French town of Le Havre for the Huguenots against the Catholic French. This he does until April of 1563 when the French make up their differences and combine to retake the town. The siege is long and horrible, by July Ambrose is granted permission to bring his plague-racked army back to England. Though sorely wounded in the right knee Ambrose returns to England, greeted by his brother Robert at the dockside despite the warning of plague. This wound causes Ambrose much constant pain and he walks with a limp and often a stick. But he has determined to lead an active life just the same: hunting, gaming, dancing and attending to his duties as Master of Ordnance. He is married, and quite happily, to Anne Russell, a daughter of the Earl of Bedford. Named a Privy Councilor in 1572, Ambrose spends more time in the affairs of state than at the fore in battle.\n\nWith many other relations at Court Ambrose is happy to be on Progress. He has much time to see his brother Robert, the Earl of Leicester as well as his nephews Philip, Robert and Thomas Sidney, his nieces Mary and Frances and his many other kinsmen. Though easy in manner, Lord Warwick is the best address to give him.\n	2003/2003_Warwick_Ambrose_01.jpg	herald-warwick.gif
huntierl02	Chris Stryker	Henry Hastings	Sir Henry Lord Hastings, 3rd Earl of Huntingdon	I play Huntingdon as if he is in a no-win situation and he resents it. His spleen is ready to be unfitted on any that come in range or just in sight. His one grate devotion is to the Calvinist faith. His one grate regret is his lack of Children. His house, with its 153 wards, is run like a seminary. For those of a similar religious mind a scholarship or the living of one of the many offices at his disposal, the backside of hell on earth for any one else. You could not find a grater miser, nor a more put upon or reluctant host. He is ready to barrow from one and all.\nIn truth Henry Hastings was born at his Family See of Ashby De La Zouch, in Leicestershire to Francis Hastings and Catharine Pole, the then Earl & Countess of Huntington. His Father was a grandson of the Duke of Buckingham; well his Mother was a granddaughter of the Duke of Clarence. This made him a cousin to the kings of England. At an early age he joined Prince Edward at court as classmate and playmate.\nWhen Edward became King, Hastings was caught up in the political intrigues of the Duke of Northumberland. At the age of 18 years he found himself married to the Duke’s 8-year-old daughter Katherine Dudley. It was triple wedding that included Guilford Dudley, Jane Gray, Catherine Gray, and Edward Herbert. He then supported Lady Jane Gray's claim to the English Thrown. For which He was imprisoned in the Tower, but soon Queen Mary released him. For that his mother was the daughter of Queen Mary’s old Governess the Countess of Salisbury. Hastings was then sent to live in the home of his uncle, Cardinal Pole. Pole had just arrived from Rome to become Mary's Chef Prelate and Statesman. Hastings was because of his slight claim to the thrown never allowed to go on the Grand Tour of Europe. The only exception was when The Cardinal took him to Flanders to escort there cousin Prince Philip of Spain to England (Margaret of Burgundy was Philip's grate grandmother and Hastings grate-grate Ant). Living with Cardinal Pole it was hoped would have an influence on his religion. The Cardinal often took Hastings to Smithfield with him to watch the Protestants burn. But Hastings was to firmly entrench in his Calvinist worldview, which had been formed in his years with Prince Edward.\nWhen Elizabeth came to the throne, she made Hastings a Knight of the Bath. She did not give any further honors to him for many years. The Tudors distrusted anyone that might have a claim to their throne. By now an Earl, Hastings claim might have been ignored if he where not, at the time, the only male with a claim (until Mary Stewart gave birth to James). When Elizabeth was dying of smallpox, Robert Dudley hoped to place Hastings on the throne. He had the support of the Earl of Sussex and the Duke of Norfolk. Because of this, Hastings felt left out of Elizabeth's Government. So he asked the Queens leave to sell his lands and raise an army of 10,000 to fight for the Huguenots in France. However the Tudors do not like their cousin raising armies either. Finely Hastings proved his loyalty to the crown during the crisis of the Northern Rebellion, when Elizabeth placed Mary Stewart in his protection. This must have been a trial for them both, for each saw the other as a threat to their own lives and futures. After this the Queen made him a Knight of the Garter. She then chose Hastings to replace the Earl of Sussex as president of the Council of the North, where his Calvinist influence can still be seen today in the religious makeup of those counties. With the threat of the Spanish Armada came new titles and responsibilities. Including being made Lord Lieutenant of all northern counties. He raised and paid for the northern army. He was all but in name Viceroy of the north with 28 tittles and offices. All this was financed on the income of an Earl, which lead to major financial difficulty and a large debt at his death. The debt was so large that neither his wife nor his heir would take possession of his body, and thereby become responsible for Hastings debt. It took the next three generations to pay off.	2003/2003_Huntingdon_Henry_04.jpg	herald-huntingdon.gif
demedamb02	Tony Camera	Vittorio de Medici	Vittorio de Medici, Tuscan Ambassador	Vittorio was born into the Medici family the 1st son of Cosimo de Medici and his mistress Camilla Martelli. With his father having 11 legitimate children Vittorio could only expect modest monetary support from his father. With the death of his father's wife Eleanora de Toledo and four of his children to the plague, Cosimo was able to allocate more money to his two mistresses and his offspring and the children he sired with them. The opportunities that Cosimo's three immediate heirs could not be part of Vittorio's future unless Cosimo formally recognized by him as an heir, which he did not do. Cosimo did recognize two other illegitimate sons who eventually became the first inductees to the Order of St. Stephan. Vittorio and his siblings were given financial backing for schooling and given every opportunity to have at least some chance at a good future as an illegitimate child could expect.\n\nAt age 25 he was given a minor commission on the Tuscan Naval merchant ship Marino Rossa. Before being invested with the title of Grand Duke the Pope demanded that Cosimo’s marry his now only surviving mistress Camilla. Vittorio and siblings were now legitimate and his prospects heightened. Cosimo paid a large sum of money to the Spanish crown and to the Papal seat for the right for all his legitimate male children to carry rank of Count and allow the title to pass to their male offspring in perpetuity. Vittorio was given limited authority to negotiate deals with "free merchants" to move "acquired cargo" through Tuscan ports to waiting buyers, with all the money handling being done through Medici banks. With the re-design of the City of Livorno and the channel to Pisa underway, and no interference for this type of business from Spanish authorities, (who often used the port themselves) Vittorio entrenched himself well with the commercial aspects of his family name.\n\nIn 1571 the Spanish crown with support from the Papal seat requested support from ships of the Tuscan fleet join the Catholic coalition armada from the Spanish, Venetian, and Papal fleets that was heading to do battle with the fleet of Ottoman Sultan Selim. The battle of Lepanto saw the defeat of 117 Ottoman ships in four hours. During the battle, the Captain of the Marino Rossa was killed, which allowed the commission of Captain to be bestowed on Vittorio. For their service in battle he and two of his brothers were knighted into the newly formed Order of St. Stephan and were given accolades by the Spanish crown with induction to the Order of the Golden Fleece.\n\nAfter this time he turned his attentions to trade with England and France. Trade to these ports was brisk as Tuscany carried a great deal of spices, Venetian goods and rare items from the orient. With the ascent of Elizabeth to the English throne he would later find new business in ferrying Catholic refugees to Livorno for their eventual pilgrimage to Rome.\n\nWith the death of his father Cosimo I in April 1574, the 2nd Grand Duke of Tuscany, Francisco de Medici, has sent Vittorio as emissary to announce his official attainment of the title of Grand Duke of Tuscany. Vittorio suspects that he has been sent as an excuse to keep him away from the rest of the legitimate family and prevent the possibility of interruption of the ascendancy of Francisco to the Grand Duchy.\n\nCharacter:\n\nAlthough Vittorio is a staunch Catholic and believes that Protestantism is not a proper way of worshipping God, he tends to let people do as they wish as long they don’t interfere with his practicing own religious belief. He does however, take great exception with the English flagrant disrespect for God, shown through all of their cursing. He respects Elizabeth very much for her power, her political savvy and the circle of great thinkers that she has gathered about herself. He would prefer to live life to it’s fullest, make money and spend time aboard ship.\n\nHistorical Facts:\n\nVittorio is a conglomeration of several fact and events. There is however no real trace that I have uncovered of any of the legitimized children by Cosimo de Medici.\n\nCosimo de Medici had 11 children by Eleanor of Toldeo of whom 5 died. He had at least 2 mistresses and fathered at least 6 other children all of whom were eventually recognized although all were not legitimized. With the marriage of Cosimo to his mistress Camilla, all of the children of that union became were granted titles as Cosimo arranged for all legitimate heirs. The Tuscan navy was not as vast as Spain’s and England’s, nor did they have that military might, but as a merchant fleet, they were responsible for a lot of trade, including a large portion of the fabric trade with England and the continent. The Order of St. Stephan was founded to combat "piracy", which was done with zeal.\n\nThe city of Livorno was not only a center of piracy trade in the Mediterranean for many years especially with Corsican pirates. It later became known as the destination for a large portion of English Catholic refugees who would embark on a pilgrimage to Rome to see hopefully have audience with the Pope, then settling in Europe where ever they were able.		
albreamb02	Erich Taaks	Johann Albrecht	Graf Johann Albrecht, Abgesandter von Hessen	The Person:\n\nJohann Albrecht I is an actual historical figure from my home town in Germany. The town is Braunfels (located in Hessen). Interestingly enough, Braunfels was given its freedom and town status by Graf Johann Albrect in 1607. The Albrecht family lineage continues to this today with Graf Hans Georg, although the family no longer lives in Braunfels.\n\nBorn in 1563 to Grafen Conrad and Graefin Elisabeth von Nassau-Dillenburg. He has two younger brothers; Graf Wilhelm zu Solms Greifenstein and Graf Otto zu Solms Dillenburg.\n\nAt the age of 22 he went to the “court” of Kurfuersten Friedrich IV. While there he lived with Friedrich’s brother Eberhard and his Uncle Graf Johann zu Nassau-Dillenburg.\n\nHe was married to Agnes zu Sayn-Wittgenstein. They had one son, Conrad Ludwig.\n\nDuring the time Johann was Graf, the lands he owned and oversaw experienced great prosperity and growth. Because of the increase in business, trade and agriculture, many villages became towns and cities. The Graf also held the title of regierender Graf der Gesamtgrafschaft. This meant that he was in charge of all of the Grafs in the area. He held this position for 10 years.\n\nGraf Johann Albrecht also hosted Friedrich IV on a 2 day stay at his castle in Braunfels. The visit consited of 250 people and 350 horses. Among these visitors were the Kurfuersten’s wife and two daughters, Princess Christine and Princess Amalie. Pfalzgraf Ludwig Phillip and other Grafs also attended. During their two day stay, they drank over 15,000 liters of Graf Johann’s wine.\n\nGraf Johann Albrecht died in 1623 leaving his son Graf Conrad Ludwig to carry on the Solms Braunfels lineage.\n\nThe Character:\n\nThough the person actually existed, his presence in England is fictitious. After previously failed attempts, Graf Johann has been “asked” to press suit for the Queen’s hand in marriage on behalf of the Arch Duke Charles of Austria. Although the Habsburg Empire did not control the area which Johann ruled, the border was very close and there must have been political relations.\n\nThe Graf is well educated and accustom to Royalty because of his stay with Friedrich IV. He is an accomplished horseman and fencer. Hunting is a favorite pastime. He is also a successful businessman, having amassed a great deal of his through trade and developing the local lands.\n\nReligion:\n\nAlthough the Graf is Catholic, he welcomes the Protestant Religion with open arms, for at the time in the German States, Protestants and Catholics live and worshiped together without conflict. Mixed marriages and the sharing of churches were very common. Johann is a little confused by the conflicts between Catholics and Protestants in England.\n\nYou may address him as: Your Excellency, Graf Albrecht. Someone closer to him may call him Graf Johann.		
worcects02	Shanda Louis-Grieb	Elizabeth Hastings	Elizabeth Hastings, Lady Somerset, Countess of Worcester	It is my elder brother Henry, The Earl of Huntingdon, and his wife, Katherine Dudley who play host to Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth in this the year of our Lord 1574 (2002). I have joined progress to come to the aid of my dear sister-in-the-law Kate, for it is an awesome task to ready a household for a queen, and I know my brother well. She will need the help!\n\nI grew up in our home, Ashby-de-la-Zouche, with my brothers Henry, George, and numerous other siblings, and upon her marriage to my brother Henry, Katherine Dudley. They had scarce been married when her father, John Dudley, was executed for treason! Father could have had the marriage annulled, but instead looked kindly upon the little girl, for she was barely eight years old, and took her into our home. We became fast friends and as near to sisters as could be. When we are together, even now as grown women we can oft be seen conspiring ways to confound my brother, and giggling like silly girls, and while I am the elder of the two of us Kate is prone toward “mothering” me. It saddens me greatly that she has not been blessed with children of her own, though she and my brother have fostered many.\n\nAh, yes... my brother. Henry and I were constantly at each other as children, always trying to best the other. Though a few years separated us in age, I was a rather robust child and had little trouble keeping up with him. We still argue about two very distinct incidents from childhood.\n\nThe first being my first time at court. I was eager to see the King (Henry VIII), and Henry said the best view would be from the top of Windsor Castle as he approached, so up we went. Once at the top, at Henry's urging I lent out through one of the crenellations as far as I could get. Just then a huge cannon went off to sound the King's arrival. I was sure he had gotten me to that particular spot at that particular moment on purpose just to scare the daylights out of me. My ears rang for days on end, and I was rendered nearly deaf for some time. Many would have you think I still suffer the effects to this day, but I say that’s utter nonsense!\n\nThe second incident occurred in the Royal Gardens at Hampton Court as Catherine Howard arrived. We were chasing after one and other, as children are inclined to, when the King's barge arrived, and we ran to meet it. It was rather wet from a recent rain, and just as Catherine stepped off the barge, Henry, the great oaf, slipped and went crashing down to the ground at her feet, showering a great rain of mud and muck upon her beautiful gown. Well, she was mightily angered and reined such a tirade of curses upon him, that I think he has never recovered his composure. You might have noticed his tendency toward stuttering and long-winded ramblings. Poor lad couldn't get a word in edgewise to save his soul! Of course, to this day he'll tell you I pushed him. Now I ask you, why would I want to do a nasty thing like that? Why, indeed…\n\nAt this time I am married to Edward Somerset, the 4th Earl of Worcester. My good brother in his infinite wisdom ('Yes Henry, I've just paid you a compliment!') arranged our marriage, and happily so. Edward is the most splendid horseman and tilter; a fine figure of a man. Though he remains a devout Catholic while I am true Church of England; the Queen loves him well and regularly presses him into service. She credits me with reconciling ‘a stiff papist to a good subject’.\n\nI myself am a Lady of the Privy Chamber. I have brought two of my sons with me this Progress, four year-old William, and two year-old Henry. Edward is more often away on official business these days and unable to attend me at court so I have also brought with me our tutor, Master Jonathan Smythe as I am greatly ‘comforted’ by his presence as I travel. While his main duty is to see to the children’s education, he has made a fine traveling companion.\n\nMy eldest son William is betrothed to Lady Sydney’s daughter, Elizabeth. Lady Sidney and I became fast friends on Progress some four years ago and often spend much time together. I am especially grateful for her company, as well as that of the other women at court as I am great with child at this time and fast nearing the end of my confinement. Francis (Lady Sydney) is sure this babe is to be a girl. If so, I shall call her Elizabeth, for I think it a most splendid and noble name.\n\nWhen able, I enjoy dancing in the Italian style and try my best to keep up with the new dances. I love good food and when I'm not pregnant (God’s teeth and eyeballs, when will that ever be?!), a good Port or hearty rich ale. I love romance. I love LOVE, and am fond of poetry and proverbs. I have a great sense of humor and love a good 'joust of wits,' though my own brother would have you believe I totally lack the means for such battle! And last but not least, I consider it my sworn duty to nettle my brother Henry whenever the opportunity arises.\n\nThose who are dear to me (you know who you are!) may call me Bitsy; otherwise I am to be called Lady Worcester, or My Lady Countess.	2003/2003_Worcester_Elizabeth_01.jpg	herald-worcester.gif
cumbects02	Stephanie Cinke	Margeret Russell	Margaret Russell, Lady Clifford, Countess of Cumberland	I was born on July 7, 1560 to the Earl of Bedford and his wife Margaret. The youngest of seven children, I have four brothers (Edward d.1573, John, Francis, and William). I also have two sisters, (Anne, the Countess of Warwick, and Elizabeth, Countess of Bath). Through my recent marriage to George Clifford, 3rd Earl of Cumberland, I am related to the following families, Burley, Bacon, Cook, Dacre, Derby, Dudley, Grey, Montague, Percy, Knollys, Sidney, Strange, and Huntingdon. I am certain there are more, they just happen to fail me at the moment. Hence, why it is just as well that I call many at court "cousin".\n\nMy mother died when I was but two years old and my father sent me to live with my Aunt, Alice Elmers, in Lilford, Northhamptonshire. I stayed with her for five years living a very carefree and easy-going life (my Aunt was quite negligent in keeping an eye on me or, for that matter, teaching me the many things a young noble lady should know.) Because of this, I still have not learned to sew and many of the Ladies at court remind me of such. I was called back to my father’s estate at Woburn Abbey when I was seven to meet my new stepmother, Bridget Hussey. I quickly came to despise my “father’s second wife” for her very formal and strict ways.\n\nA few years of living with that woman made me realize that anything is better than staying at Woburn. I love my father very much and I believe that because of the tension between Bridget and my sisters and I, he petitioned Her Grace to find positions at court for us. Her Majesty was extremely gracious and allowed me to replace my sister Anne as a Maid of Honor. The six years I spent as a Maid of Honor was a really thrilling opportunity for me. I loved all the excitement of court, (and still do) how’ere, I am having a difficult time adjusting to my newly married status.\n\nI have two favorite pastimes that have blossomed here at court; dancing and flirting. The first is something I have loved since I was very small. It is the one thing that my Aunt insisted I learn. I am glad that she did for it is the most fun activity here at court (for it offers one the perfect opportunity to flirt). The men of the court are not like the brothers I grew up with, nor George, that used to tease and torment me.\n\nMy husband, George, has been my betrothed since I was two years old. Before my mother died, she and my father agreed that I should marry his ward (George), when I became of age. I have no great affection for my husband. I married him for the common good rather than any particular liking. Thank goodness Her Majesty has (fortunately) found many an "important mission" for George to be involved in, making his presence at court a rare one.	2003/2003_Cumberland_Margaret_01.jpg	herald-cumberland.gif
hunticts02	Julie Perkins	Kathryn Dudley	Kathryn Dudley, Lady Hastings, Countess of Huntingdon	Cathryn Dudley was 1 of the 13 children of John Dudley and Jane Guildford, Duke and Duchess of Northumberland. She lived an unusual life to say the least and spent most of her time away from her immediate family by arrangement of her father.\n\nAt the age of 7 she was betrothed the heir to the Earl of Huntingdon, Lord Henry Hastings. Henry through his mother was the last of the Plantagaenent lines of Kings (decedents of Edward III). Not very long after the engagement, Cate was moved to the home of her soon-to-be husband, Asby-de-la-Zouche. Three months after her arrival and after her 8th birthday, she was married to Henry (18 years old) is a triple ceremony including her brother Guildford to Lady Jane Grey, and Kathryn Grey and Lord Herbert. Henry and Cate’s marriage was the only one that lasted. Of course Guildford and Jane were executed and the other Grey and Herbert were separated and both later remarried.\n\nUnfortunately soon after the wedding, presided over by the Duke of Northumberland, social chaos and upheaval took place and Cate’s life changed forever. The Duke, Jane, Guildford and all the other Dudley brothers were placed under arrest after the death of Edward VI. The Duke, not wanting to see England go in a Catholic state again, immediately after the death of Edward, tried placing Jane Grey, an heir to the throne, and niece of Henry VIII on the throne to oust Mary Tudor. Unfortunately the country did not follow Northumberland’s plan, and helped Mary become Queen instead of excepting Jane as Queen. The Dudley’s were placed in the Tower and soon after Mary had Northumberland, Jane and Guildford beheaded on the grounds of treason. The rest of the Dudley boys were left to linger, but through the constant insistence of the Duchess of Northumberland the boys were finally released.\n\nThe Tower did takes its toll however, the eldest brother John, Earl of Warwick, died three days after his release. The Duchess soon died after their release and Ambrose and Robert were virtually left to fend for themselves in the mist of social unrest, with most of the family dead. The only fortunate children were Mary Dudley, Lady Sydney and Cate, although the world still came none to easy for them.\n\nI have read the indeed the luckiest of the children was Cate. The Hastings, her godparents, the Princess Mary (now Queen Mary), van Delft the Imperial Ambassador and the Duchess of Suffolk all seemed to “protect” her. She lived with the Earl and Countess of Huntingdon, was surrounded by children to play and learn with: Henry, George, Edward and of course, her best friend Elizabeth Hastings, and begun to finally live a “normal” life of a young noble woman.\n\nAs time went by and she and Henry came into their own right, they took to living in Asby-de-la-Zouche as their own home. Elizabeth went off and married the heir to the Earl of Worcester and the other boys made their own livings. The Dudley boys were safe and came into their own right and Elizabeth Tudor became Queen, to the joy and relief of the whole country. Ambrose became the Earl of Warwick, Robert received the title of the Earl of Leicester and both received high honors and positions at court. Mary Sydney was busy producing several beautiful children, Philip, Robert, Mary and Thomas, while her husband again joined the ranks of court with his wife and both, also received prominent positions in the court of Elizabeth. The Dudley’s all bonded after these turbulent years of separation, death and upheaval. They were always there to help each other, and enjoyed each other’s company. Probably because who else would understand the full impact of what they had been through.\n\nThe Dudley’s have several relations, mainly through marriage. There was our sister of the law, Anne Seymour, Lady (Dudley) Unton, Dowager Countess of Warwick, the Russell’s through Ambrose’s marriage to Anne, Shirley’s, the Blount’s, of course all of the Sydney nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. Through these matches and with the aid of time, things changed for the Dudley’s who for the last 2 generations were considered traitors, whether it be truth or not.\n		herald-huntingdon.gif
untonldy02	Mary Hough	Anne Seymour	Anne Seymour, Lady Unton, Dowage Countess of Warwick	Anne Seymour was the daughter of Edward Seymour, Duke of Somerset. Her mother was Ann Stanhope, Duchess of Sommerset. Anne had 5 sisters and 2 brothers. Her father was Lord Protector to Edward VI. Anne married John Dudley, the Earl of Warwick in 1550. In 1551 the Dudleys set up Anne’s father for treason and a short time later Edward Seymour was put to death for treason. John Dudley was sent to the tower for being involved with putting Jane Grey on the throne. 10 days after his release by Mary, he died. 6 months later Anne married Edward Unton, of Berkshire. Anne lives at Langley and at one point they hosted the Queen while she was in Bristol. She had 7 children all together, three died young. Anne and her sisters were proficient writers, to the point that they had written a collection of poems about the death of the Queen of Navarre. When they were delivered to Paris it inspired well known poets of Paris to produce a volume of verses in honor of the Queen.	2003/2003_Unton_Anne_03.jpg	herald-warwick.gif
essexcts02	Christie Kopitzke	Laetitia Knolleys	Laetitia Knolleys, Lady Devereaux, Countess of Essex	Lettyce has probably never been more excited (at least in her adult life) to be at court and on Progress. She finds the months of each of the last several years (customarily six weeks each at early fall and early spring) that she spends at Charteley (her home in Staffordshire) a bit dull, and she anticipates estate and family business requiring her to remain there through the coming winter. Thus, she is determined to enjoy every moment of the festivities and social whirl of court before she is forced to attend to other matters.\n\nLettyce is the 2nd of 11 children born to Sir Francis Knolleys and Catherine Carey. She is the granddaughter of Mary Boleyn, and so an “extended” cousin to the Queen. This fact is one of which she is very conscious, and in fact tends to think of the Queen as her cousin first and the monarch second; potentially a serious error in judgment. She has numerous other family at court, both by blood and marriage, not the least being the entire Carey clan, several Howards and Howard relations, and the Hastings’.\n\nWith Lettyce a widow for nearly two years, the romance between she and the Earl of Leycestre has been a going concern for quite some time, and commonly known (but never spoken of in the queens’ presence). Whilst on Progress, however, Lettyce must contend with the queen’s eye – one presently solicitous and friendly as ever, but which could at a moments’ notice see too much and darken with suspicion. As a result, it has is more difficult for Lettyce and Robin to steal more than a stray moment or two of privacy together. The strain is beginning to show: the Countess is more likely to betray irritation at trifles, or to burst into unwarranted tears, than was her wont. Her moods appear all at sixes and sevens.\n\nThe merriment of the festival, of course, is as much enjoyed as ever. She had desperately loved the excitement and activity of court life as a Maid of Honour to her Royal Cousin, and save for a year’s service in the Queen’s bedchamber between the births of Dorothy, now age 11 and Robert, age 9, and the last three years’ intermittant service there, she had spent much of the fourteen years following her marriage in the countryside of Stafford.\n\nAt the time of her marriage to Walter, first Viscount Hereford, later 1st Earl of Essex, Lettyce was pleased enough with her circumstances. Walter was pleasant, handsome, older, had good prospects, and was quite smitten by this grand-daughter of the famous Mary Boleyn. Though entirely virtuous at her marriage, the 17-year-old Laetitia was far from naďve. Her parents shared a true and deep affection, and she had often intercepted significant glances between the two, which had heightened the color in her mother’s cheeks. The happy situation of her parents, as well as her own flirtations had led her to suspect that there was something mysterious and thrilling which occurred between men and women. The ritual of the pre-nuptial mother-daughter talk confirmed these suspicions, providing her with considerably more information than many of her peers received.\n\nYet as the years passed and the children (Penelope - age 14, Dorothy, Robert, and Walter – age 7) came, the modest exhilaration of marriage – the simple pleasures of country life, of running a home, of knowing a man, and of reveling in her fertility – had faded. Walter provided her little challenge or stimulation, and though likable, kind, and intelligent, she grew restless for the court life she had experienced years before. She had scarcely missed him during his time in Ireland, and although vaguely concerned for his health, had found the months of the last winter of his life quite trying as she was quite unable to c ope with his dourness and physical complaints. It was a relief to have him return again to Ireland. Walter’s death, news of which arrived in the midst of the gaity of Progress, came as a shock; she had not really thought he was so ill. Her conscience troubled her a great deal in the beginning: her attention to Leycester (and permitting his attentions to her) was inappropriate – what if God had punishing her by cutting Walter’s life short? These doubts receded thrill of her newfound freedoms. And now she has reentered court life with all of it’s unique excitements and entertainments and flirtations.\n\nLettyce’s education in flirtation stretches back to her early years, when her Precisionist father removed his family from England during Mary’s reign. The years in Germany were fascinating to the precocious teenager, who found herself the preeminent feminine representative of “home” for other ex-patriots, and for the younger provincial gentlemen; a sophisticated alternative to the hearty, apple-cheeked local girls. Though she was unimpressed with the locals, and conceived a dislike for foreigners in general (no doubt an outgrowth of her youthful resentment at being taken away from her homeland), it was here she learned that she was alluring, and that she could gain both great enjoyment and often, her own way, through coquetry.\n\nShe brings this well-honed skill, like a second nature to her, to court. Despite her passion for Leycester, she is far from dead to the attractions of other gentlemen; and she knows that to keep the great earl’s attention, she must let him see the other gentlemen of court admiring her. She as fully expects that admiration as does her famous cousin. She is sufficiently confident of her beauty and wit and charm that she feels no need to compete for it, and so the jealousies which often result between women are at present kept to a minimum – even with respect to Lady Sheffield. Lettyce knows that though the Earl’s interest was briefly piqued by Douglas, it was the function of proximity, convenience, and perhaps the passing charm of an acquiescent nature (not unlike that of the late Lady Dudley). While she is secretly irked indeed at the idea of being even briefly eclipsed by this women, she would never deign to compete with her. Her sentiments on this might only be betrayed by her near complete disregard for the Baroness’ existence. Otherwise, Lettyce is quite confident that her spirited nature is more suited to holding the Earl’s affection, and that he is even now yearning for her.\n\nComplicating these romantic matters is the fact that Lettyce enjoys her Royal cousin’s company, and vice versa. The sharp Boleyn mind and tongue entertain the Queen, and her eye for beauty and detail make her a pleasing companion. While she can be quite direct in her speech, it is not a sign of impertinence (although her cousin may choose to take it so!), and her words are always polite, if not full of flowery deference. She is gratified to rise early in the morning to be ready to attend, and it has fallen to her to brush and dress the Royal tresses at the beginning or ending of the day. They can often be seen with their heads bent together in conversation, consultation, or merry jest.\n\nAccompanying the countess to court is her son Robert, now the 2nd Earl of Essex. Already at court, thanks to her influence, are her daughter Dorothy and her sister Cecelia, both as Maids of Honour to the queen. Though often self-centered, Lettyce’s generosity towards her children is scarcely bounded, and the headstrong traits which all but Walter exhibit have not been checked as they should have been. Robert is particularly well on the way to being spoiled. She is similarly indulgent of her young sister, whose mischievousness she will always find a way to excuse.\n\nThe Countess’ retinue is her children’s nursemaid, and her own companion, Mistress Eleanor Knolleys, a cousin on her fathers’ side. Mistress Knolleys has left young Walter at Charteley in the charge of an underling, and come on progress at the Countess’ behest, to ease Dorothy’s adjustment to her new position, and to see to young Robert’s needs as well. It is her first visit to court, and she will no doubt be a bit awed by it all, but will manage to enjoy the new experience.\n\nThe Countess is referred to by most as Lady Essex or Lady Countess. A very few call her by her Christian name, and the Earl of Leicester has christened her with a name they use privily.\n\nThe popular icon Lettyce most resembles in general is Scarlett O’Hara – though she would never have pined all those year for a simp like Ashley Wilkes, especially when a red-blooded man like Rhett was angling for her. Puh-lease! And she is inclined to be a bit more charitable towards others than that acclaimed belle.\n		
mortocts02	Su Miller	Elizabeth Douglas	Lady Elizabeth Douglas, Countess of Morton	Mother: Catherine Stuart (“natural” daughter of James IV (Scotland) and Margaret Boyd)\n\nFather: James Douglas, 3rd Earl of Morton (Son of John Douglas, 2nd Earl of Morton and Janet Crichton)\n\nAncestral Home: Dalkeith Castle. Father took up coal mining in/around 1531.\n\nSiblings: Margaret Douglas, born ab. 1515, married in 1532 to James Hamilton, 2nd Earl of Arran Beatrix Douglas, married Robert Maxwell (?)\n\nHusband: Sir James Douglas of Pittendrich; made Master of Morton upon marriage to Elizabeth Douglas by arrangement of his uncle Archibald Douglas, Earl of Angus and the payment of 2,000 pounds to satisfy a debt. Made 4th Earl of Morton in 1543 upon death of the 3rd Earl, in accordance with previously mentioned arrangement. James eventually becomes Lord High Chancellor under Mary, Queen of Scots, and is later elected regent upon the death of Morray.\n\nIf I attempted to draw for you the family tree of the Douglas Clan, its roots would go deep into the very belly of Scotland, and its branches would extend out across the land and down into England, its leaves touching many houses, for Mary of Scotland is my (2nd) cousin, and Great England is a distant cousin too.\n\nMy husband, now Regent of Scotland, finds himself much occupied with matters of state. His love for me must be a great thing indeed, as my presence is often a great distraction to him. Often I spend much of my time at Dalkeith with His Most Royal Majesty James. Though he has only seven years to him, he is already an accomplished hunter and horseman, and it seems that my company does amuse His Grace.\n\nMy husband and lord do think it well that I take some time to visit with my Aunt, The Dowager Countess of Lennox who is the grandmother of His Most Royal Majesty James. I have sent missives to her and she is most anxious to hear word of her grandson. Though His Majesty has never actually met his grandmother, he is sending me with letters and a gift for her. He is a good and fine lad and will make an even greater King. Had any of my 7 sons survived I could only pray that they could have come any near his measure.\n\nIt seems that my Aunt is on the Queen of England’s Progress, but permission has been granted me to join her. Allowing for travel and a bit of soft weather I shall meet with her in Bristol. How fortunate the timing! Now I shall meet many of the English court, and I shall use this to my best advantage. After all, I have three unmarried daughters at home in need of fine match.		
montavct02	Herman Peterson	Anthony Browne	Sir Anthony Browne, Viscount Montague	Biographical Information\n\nI was born in 1526 to Sir Anthony Browne, K.G., who was Master of Horse to King Henry VIII of blessed memory, and Mistress Alice Gage, daughter of Sir John Gage, K.G.\n\nI was created a Knight of the Bath at the coronation of King Edward VI of blessed memory. Shortly after, I married the daughter of the Earl of Sussex, Lady Jane Ratcliff, by whom I had two children. My first wife, God rest her soul, died shortly before the end of the reign of the boy King while giving birth to our daughter.\n\nDuring the glorious, albeit short-lived, reign of Her Gracious Majesty Queen Mary, of blessed and fond memory, my career catapulted. After the pretensions of that abominable usurper Jane Grey had been suppressed, I was given the honor of bearing Queen Mary’s train as she rode past the joyous crowds into London. She appointed me Lieutenant of the Forest of Windsor, Chief Justice of the Court of Common Pleas, and Chief Standard Bearer of England. Then I was sent upon embassage to His Holiness Pope Julius III to negotiate the reconciliation of this land to the True Church. When Prince Philip of Spain was betrothed to Her Gracious Majesty, I was appointed to be his Master of Horse. At their wedding I was created Viscount Montague. Shortly thereafter I was appointed to the Privy Council and created a Knight of the Garter.\n\nDuring this happy time I became enamoured of one of the Queen’s Maids of Honor, Mistress Magdalen Dacre, the daughter of the Baron of Graystock and Gilsland. When I approached her Majesty on the topic, she was so overjoyed at the match that she insisted we be married at St. James’s Palace. My wife and I have five children.\n\nNear the end of Queen Mary’s reign, after her false pregnancy and abandonment by her husband, she fell into a deep depression which I was powerless to break. She trusted me while she was thus shackled, and I was deeply troubled at her death. I brought the news of her demise to Philip in the Low Countries. God rest her soul.\n\nWhen Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth began her reign I was swept out of the Privy Council, the Court, and all national and international affairs. I was devastated and bored. Howe’er it soon became necessary for Queen Elizabeth to invade Scotland against the demonic Marie de Guise. The last thing England needed was for Spain to come to the aid of France in this matter, which might have happened if the Pope encouraged it. Someone had to be sent to Spain to forestall this eventuality – and quickly. Her Majesty sent for me and, though overwhelmed by this sudden honor, I accepted and did my level best. King Philip was, of course, known to me and my explanations and persuasions went so far to convince His Catholic Majesty that he instructed his ambassador in Rome to oppose the French efforts to have Queen Elizabeth excommunicated. In short, my embassage was eminently successful and because of this episode Her Majesty and I have gained a healthy mutual respect.\n\nCharacter Choices\n\nThree words: pompous Catholic has-been.\n\nI am a Catholic, very proud of it, and I care not who possesses this knowledge. My faith is the primary colour of my character. While I acknowledge that for many it is difficult to understand how a Catholic can be a loyal Englishman, that I am. Her Majesty understands that my Catholicism is borne of not of faction, but of principle.\n\nI have been called to Court because the Queen wishes to keep her eye on me. Her Majesty and her councilors wish to know if I am involved in any of the rumblings in the North, and to ensure that the Northern rumblings do not also become Southern rumblings.\n\nI enjoy the pleasures of being at Court and I have missed them greatly. Howe’er, I may show marked disdain towards some of the novelties of Court dynamics that have crept in since the days of Queen Mary.\n\nWhen I became Master of Horse to Prince Philip I was required to take an oath of allegiance to him, a fact which has thankfully been forgotten by most. Accordingly, my attitudes toward Spain are generally friendly – as long as Spain does not invade English territory. Thus, I can feel rather paternal toward the Infanta at times, who is just of an age with my daughters.\n\nI have brought my two youngest daughters with me to Court. They have each had the effrontery to fall in love with a local gentleman. They come from good Catholic families, but are not at all the sort of match I would have wished for them. My oldest son is married to the sister of the Duchess de Feria and my oldest daughter is the Countess of Southampton. The very idea of marrying into the gentry!\n		
furnibrn02	Darren Fields	Gilbert Talbot	Sir Gilbert Talbot, 15th Lord Furnivalle	On 20 November 1552 Gertrude Manners and George Talbot were blessed with their 2nd son and 3rd child. The boy was christened Gilbert and so was the beginning of my life.\n\nI was raised along with my older brother Francis. We were like typical brothers. At any point of time him and I would be fighting, but so help the person who would pick on just one of us. My 3 brothers, 3 sisters and my self all can remember the death of our Mother in 1556. Her early and untimely death caused great sorrow to my family.\n\nMy father then married Elizabeth Cavendish (Bess of Hardwick) in 1567 and via an agreement between my Father and stepmother I was married to Mary Cavendish and my sister Grace Talbot was married to Henry Cavendish in 1568. That same year Mary Stewart (Mary Queen of Scots) was placed into the custody of my family. This was a great honor for my family, for we were in great favor with Queen Elizabeth. But this also caused a lot of chaos for my family. Mary was moved around from Manner Houses to Castles and back again to prevent attempts to free her. My family has to keep using our own money to pay for the “upkeep” of Mary and her servants. Due to this I bring petition after petition to the Privy Council and to the Queen requesting more State money for food and other supplies.\n\nWhen my brother Francis died I was given the title 15th Lord Furnivalle and now I am heir to the Earldom of Shrewsbury.\n\nI am currently at court representing the interests of my family regarding Mary Queen of Scots. Wile on progress this summer I am expecting news on the birth of my first child. My wife was given permission to say back for the child is to be born very soon. I am somewhat nervous about this, as any first time father would be. I am also concerned on what the Queen has to say when my son is born because then she will know that my family had disobeyed her orders to not have any visors to Chatsworth. After all how do you think my wife became pregnant with my child?\n	2003/2003_Talbot_Gilbert_02.jpg	herald-shrewsbury.gif
stranbrn01	Aaron Bennett	Ferdinando Stanley	Sir Ferdinando Stanley, XIII Lord Strange of Knokyn, Lord Lieutenant of Lancashire	The Right Honourable Ferdinando, Lord Strange was born c. 1560, the eldest surviving of four sons, to Sir Henry Stanley, 4th Earl of Derby, and Lady Margaret Clifford, the Countess of Derby. Born of ancient royal blood on both sides of his family, Lord Ferdinando was considered the Queen’s Heir Apparent. Through the machinations of his mother he no doubt came to be a somewhat vain social climber, spurred on by her own desires to see her son, if not herself, upon the throne. He was brought up in royal style; the Stanleys maintained the most lavish, sumptuous, and regal house in the kingdom, save for the palace itself. And indeed the Derbys’ home was modeled directly upon the Queen’s own house. A sense of ego excessive even for a peer of the realm must have been nurtured in him from an early age. In fact, he was overheard by Bess of Hardwick, to sa y in “foolish speeches” to Sir Francis Hastings, “that they two should one day fight for the Crown”. She also complained of “the show of his great will and haughty stomach, his making of himself so popular, and bearing himself so against my Lord of Essex.” Nevertheless, he seems to have indeed been well-liked by almost all.\n\nHaving matriculated at the age of thirteen into the University of Oxford, he was called to Court a year later by the Queen herself “to be shaped in good manners”. Later, he was summoned to Parliament as Lord Strange. A supporter of the arts, Lord Strange enjoyed, music, dance, poetry, and singing; but above all he loved the theatre. He was the patron of several poets, authors, and playwrights, including, among others: Christopher Marlowe, Robert Greene, Edmund Spenser, and William Shakespeare. He himself was a poet and upon his death was highly praised by the many elegiac poems of his clients. He reveled in hawking and hunting, and excelled at tilting. He seems also to have been an advocate of education, and a learned man himself. Dangerously learned for a man of his time, as he occupied himself with the occultic arts: astrology, astronomy, mathematics, geometry, the “new science”, philosophy, and other such spiritually dangerous pursuits. This made him a rather suspect man in the eyes of the secret inner circles of the government, especially when considered with the facts that his family were the lords of the last two Catholic counties in England and that Lord Ferdinando was said to be “of no religion”. He was no atheist by our meaning, certainly; I believe he was disenchanted with the never-ending contention between the religions of his homeland and indeed of his own home, and had decided in spirit to remove himself from the debate, and refuse to judge his countrymen and kin. However, Lord Ferdinando did his English duty and upheld his Protestant responsiblities, even sitting upon the recusancy council with his father, whom he at times criticized for his leniency. He appears also to have been a loving husband; in his last days, dreaming that his lady was “most dangerously sick to death”, he started weeping from his bed, raised an alarm, called out for help, and could not be comforted until he found her well.\n\nThis year, Lord Ferdinando is joined by his half-sister, Ursula, natural child of the Earl of Derby. Although recognised from birth by the Crown, this Progress marks her debut at Court. Lord Strange does not know his sister well. Being nearly ten years older than she, and spending most of Ursula's lifetime at Court, they have not spent much time together, which suits his mother, Lady Derby. Yet he is surprisingly protective of his little sister, and takes the matter of her lineage seriously. Perhaps too seriously; having been enjoined by their father to find Ursula a possible husband, he will accept any sensible reason for a bachelor not wishing to marry his sister. But if that reason is her bastardy alone, the fellow will find Lord Ferdinando's glove in his face.\n\nThis Progress marks their tenth year of marriage. They now have three daughters: Anne, Frances, and Elizabeth.\n	2003/2003_Strange_Ferdinando_02.jpg	herald-darby.gif
stranbrs01	Jessica Don	Alice Spencer	Alice Spencer, Lady Stanley, Lady Strange	They said it wouldn't last - not couple could stay in love for that long, but they were wrong. 10 years and three daughters later, the Stranges are still madly in love. Alice is still married to Ferdinando Stanley, 13th Lord Strange of Knokyn, Lord Lieutenant of Lancashire, and heir apparent to the throne. She is the baby of the six daughters and one son of Sir John Spencer of Althorp and Katherine Kytson. Having grown up a playmate of Ferdinando, she was thrilled to find out he was to be her husband. She herself could not have chosen a man with whom she rather spend the rest of her life. (Rumor has it the feeling's mutual!) He was her first secret crush, which didn't last very long as a secret thanks to all those siblings! Similar to her husband, Alice is a patron of the arts, especially theatre. Around the shire of Bristol you can see one of her minstrels, Daniel Dowland. She enjoys watching theatre (especially watching Strange's Men), going on walks through gardens (with her husband), looking at art (drawn by her husband), and above all, spending time with her husband. If not with her husband, (GASP!) she could probably be found reading, writing letters, or thinking about her husband. Since he is heir apparent, they try to keep their children as far away from the intrigue of court as possible. They are concerned about the safety and well-being of their children. They are, however, giving their daughters the finest education money can buy, and Alice is visiting them as often as possible. (So that's where she is*) Anyway, the Stranges loved each other madly, and lived happily ever after*well, until he died, but that's another story.	2003/2003_Strange_Alice_03.jpg	
stanlldy01	Qudsia Sethi-Blum	Ursula Stanley	Lady Ursula Stanley	I am known as the Lady Ursula Stanley. I am the natural daughter of Henry Stanley, 4th Earl of Derby by his mistress, Lady Jane Halsall.\n\nThis is my second Progress with Her Majesty. I am very excited by it, notably because of the prospect of seeing Master William Shakespeare once again. In the past several months, I have discovered the delights of poetry and prose. Since my poetry debut last summer, I decided to pursue this endeavor with much enthusiam. I also have a secret crush on Master Shakespeare....woe to me if my brother, Lord Strange, should learn of it!!!! You might find Master Shakespeare and I sitting underneath a tree having a picnic together, sharing poetry.....oops!!! Did I say that??\n\nI am forever writing poems....mostly funny and amusing ones. You will often find me with ink stains on my fingers from my labors at the quill!!! My brother is forever scolding me because of it....what gentleman would want to marry a gentlewoman with dirty hands???? I try to remember to wash them, but sometimes it’s difficult to remember!!! Especially if I have a good rhyme...I’ll ask Master Marmaduke to fetch me a quill and ink to write it down, so I don’t forget it. Watch out for me if I am looking at someone a little too intently....I may be writing a good poem in my head about that person.\n\nI am also very clumsy....dropping my basket, hankerchief or goblet.......perhaps bumping into a tree or bench. All because i simply must not waste time in anything but writing (and waiting upon her Majesty, of course!!) If anyone suspects of my crush on Master Shakespeare, please acknowledge it!!! Embarrass me as much as you can.....especially if my brother is around! I think my brother is the next thing to God, the Queen and our father, the Earl. I worship the ground he walks on, so if he finds out about my affair with Master William, I would simply die!!! (Well, not really, but almost!!)\n\nI also love the Queen on a level that is not only a love between a subject to her monarch, but like a daughter to her mother. Though not a maid of honor, I always ask to sit at Her Majesty’s feet during late Glade. If you don’t find me there, I’ll be sitting next to my brother.......(flirting with Master Shakespeare, if he’s nearby).\n\nPrepare for yet another Stanley to take this Progress by storm!!!! Beware of my quill and the stories that shall come from within them...................they may be about YOU!	2003/2003_Salesbury_Ursula_03.jpg	herald-darby.gif
manneldy02	Jessica Harrison	Bridget Manners	Lady Bridget Manners, Maid of Honor	Historical Bridget\n\nBridget was born in 1577 to John and Elizabeth (Charlton) Manners. She was the second child born to her parents, her brother Roger being the eldest. She also had three younger brothers and two younger sisters. When Bridget was ten her father died and she was given over to the care of Bridget Hussey the Countess of Bedford. When Bridget was eleven the Countess of Bedford found a place for her among Queen Elizabeth’s maids-of-honour. When she first arrived at court she was a quiet, shy girl, who was at first overwhelmed by all of the “glitter” of court life. She quickly became accustomed to all the pomp and circumstance with the help of Mary Radcliffe. Bridget stayed at court until she was about sixteen or seventeen. While she was at court she became the queen’s royal carver. Bridget hated court life, although it is written that with her sunny disposition she made friends easily and was well liked by many of the courtiers. Even being celebrated in verse by Barnabe Barnes.\n\nMany men courted Bridget while she was at court. Some of the named men were the earls of Southampton, Northumberland, and Bedford. However, Bridget did not wish a lofty title and eventually married her sweetheart Robert Tyrwhitt, without the queen’s permission. After the displeasure of the queen was over, Bridget and Robert left court. They were married for ten years and had four children before Bridget died in July of 1604.\n\nFaire Bridget\n\nI will be playing Bridget older than she was at court. One of the things that I have found out is that she was called “Perfect Manners” and I plan to play that up highly, at least when in the presence of the older ladies and gentlemen of court. If she is alone or with the other maids she will be a bit more mischievous. She may not always get along with the other maids, but if one of them is in trouble, she will be the first to run to their side and stand up for them, unless they have said or done something to slight her family. Her family means more to her than anything and she will not let anyone talk badly about them. She is fiercely loyal to those she calls friends, but watch out when her temper flares!\n\nShe loves to dance and you will often find her dancing by herself or trying to teach others the more complicated dances. She also loves to sing and will hum her way through the day. You may also find her staring off into the distance with a sad look upon her face. It is at these times that she is missing her home and the family that is not at court.\n\nThe other Maids-of-honour call her Brie. Her close friends call her Bridget and all others may call her Lady Bridget.\n	2003/2003_Manners_Bridget_06.jpg	herald-rutland.gif
mildmldy02	Brenda Ball	Frances Radclyffe	Frances Radclyffe, Lady Mildmay	To Thomas Radclyffe, Third Earl of Sussex\n\nDearest Brother,\n\nMy deepest hopes that this missive finds you safe and well in Ireland (Do send my regards to Shane O’Neill, will you not?). I write this somewhere on the road between Norwich and Bristol, as Her Grace is again upon progress. I look forward to our visit to Bristol, for I hear there is good hunting thereabouts, and mayhap dancing and shopping as well, but in truth I do miss the company and kinship of yourself and my sister in the law. I can barely remember our father who did pass unto heaven when I was but a child, and to have you and my sister gone from Court, even on so vital a mission, is like unto losing my parents again.\n\nFortunately, I do still have some family about, although ‘tis on my mother’s side. Mistress Mary Shelton travels with Her Grace. If you remember, she and I are cousins through our grandmothers, Amata and Mary Boleyn. As I am her nearest female relative, I do often act as her escort about town. I shall endeavour to preserve and cultivate her sweet demeanour and sense of propriety for which she is most renowned.\n\nAlas, I must end this letter all too soon, as Her Grace has called me to attend her this evening. Until such time as Fate permits us to reunite, I remain\n\nYour Humble and Loving Sister,\n\nLady Frances Radclyffe		
deverldy02	Sara Donley	Dorothy Devereaux	Lady Dorothy Devereaux	I am Lady Dorothy Devereaux. I am but ten years. I lived with the Huntingtons. My nursemaid takes good care of me and my brother Robert who has now become the Earl of Essex.\n\nI am here at court to learn to become a member of the Privy Chamber like my grandmother. My mother is the Countess of Essex. My father died at war against Ireland.\n\nI am a Maid of Honour, and the queen is my cousin.	2003/2003_Devereaux_Dorothy_02.jpg	herald-essex.gif
morlebrn02	Brian McArthur	Henry Parker	Sir Henry Parker, 9th Baron Morley	Historical Information: Henry Parker is the eldest son of Sir Henry Parker and Grace Newport, daughter of John Newport. Born about 1531 and educated at Gonville Hall, Cambridge, little is known about his early life but both his father and grandfather were active in the courts of Kings Henry VIII, Edward and of course Queen Mary. On the occasion of Queen Mary’s coronation, October 6th, 1553, Lord Arundel created him Knight of the Bath. He succeeded his grandfather as 9th Baron Morley on November 25th, 1556. His main residence is in Essex and is known as Great Hallingbury. Queen Elizabeth stayed there in 1561. There are other properties in Norfolk, Buckingham and Hereford as well as a house in London near Aldgate\n\nAppointed Lord Lieutenant for Hertfordshire (his mother had property there) in 1560. With the change in religious climate he became conspicuous as a recusant. In 1569 on grounds of being a peer he declined to sign a declaration in accordance with the Act of Uniformity on Common Prayer. In 1570, he was closely associated with the Duke of Norfolk’s proceedings and with the rising of the Northern Earls. Shortly thereafter he left England without permission and went to Brussels. He later sent appeals to the Queen, Burghley and Leicester for permission to return or to have his wife and children join him. In a letter to Burghley dated January 21, 1574, Parker asserts his innocence except for the charge of leaving without the Queens permission.\n\nHe is connected with the Spanish on several occasions. In March of 1574 he is in Madrid with his brother Edmund. He is received by King Phillip II and given a gift of 600 Ducats. His wife Elizabeth is reunited with him in 1576 and he dies in Spain on October 22nd, 1577.\n\nFamily: Grandfather: Sir Henry Parker, 8th Baron Morley, courtier and author. He held many offices throughout his life. His first marriage was to Alice St. John, daughter of John St. John of Bletsoe. They had one son and two daughters; Jane Parker marries George Boleyn, viscount Rochford, brother to Anne Boleyn. The 2nd daughter, Anne marries Sir John Shelton.\n\nFather: Sir Henry Parker, created Knight of the Bath in 1533 at Anne Boleyn’s coronation. He was married to Grace Newport and may have had as many as three sons. His second marriage was to Elizabeth Calthorpe, daughter of Sir Phillip Calthorpe of Edwarton, Suffolk and Anne Boleyn’s aunt. One son is known from this marriage. Sir Henry was Groom of the Privy Chamber to Anne of Cleves in 1539 and held several offices in Essex and Hertfordshire. He died in1553.\n\nBrothers: Charles, priest to Pavia in 1588, later Bishop of Mann. Edmund (no information), Sir Phillip Parker (half brother)\n\nSon: Edward Parker (b1555- d 1618) Arrested with his mother in 1574 he spends time abroad as a recusant. He later conforms and recovers titles and property surrendered to the crown. In 1586 is commissioner for the trials of Mary, Queen of Scots and Phillip, Lord Arundel in 1589. Married to Elizabeth daughter and heiress 3rd Lord Monteagle.\n\nDaughters: Alice Parker married to Sir Thomas Barrington and Mary Parker, wife of Sir Edward Leventhorpe. Faire portrayal and character observations: For the purposes of Bristol Renaissance Faire a bit of history has been changed. The Northern Uprising of 1570 hasn’t happened "yet". Baron Morley has been in consultation with some of the major players in that event, but his direct involvement is only suspected. He is along on Progress at the Privy Councils behest via an invite from her Majesty. The Morley’s are staunch Catholics but are attempting to keep quiet in her Majesty’s presence. As husband and wife they are very devoted to each other and to the family as whole. Their two young daughters are along but their son remains in Essex. Lord Morley and "I" are still getting to know each other but here are some thoughts in "our" own words.\n\nGreetings dearest cousins,\n\nIt has been some great amount of time since I last joined you on progress with her Grace. Lady Morley and I have missed many of you. We have obtained lodgings with my lady wife’s dearest nephew Lord Strange in the towne of Bristol. He has offered us a room, which will be welcomed greatly as the last leg of our journey was somewhat unpleasant. We will as a matter of course bring our own furnishings. It will be most wonderous to visit upon them as it has been their own wedding whence we did’st see them last. We understand that Anne, my wife’s sister will be joining us on progress. I shall endeavor to lock up the jewel casket as Elizabeth tells me Anne has a penchant to borrow things. When we arrive in Bristol I will have speech with my lord and kinsman, the Lord Strange, and press advisement on the matter.\n\nI have heard the that my Lord, the Earl of Huntingdon is sorely vexed by the pleasure of hosting her Grace and goeth about making most nonsensical statements and railing his servants. Lady Morley and I have been visited by her Grace and did enjoy her Majesty's company. The court how'er has seemed to be greatly increased in size, the years betwixt 1561 and now.\n\nI fear the Privy Council may be wary of some of the Lords I associate myself with and summon me to questionings. I hold hope that some letters in mine own hand have not fallen astray as they could be sorely misunderstood. I am steadfast in my holding to the Old Religion and wish not to be disturbed in the practisement of it.\n\nMine own eldest daughter is of an age that my lady wife and I considered the contracting of a marriage agreement. Year last we did present our young Mary to her Grace and she is now counted amoungst the maids of honor and we hold hope a handsome match with a peer of the realm may be undertaken.\n\nI have been not to Bristol and look most forward to seeing the town, as it is one of the largest in the realm. I hold great hope of an enjoyable time here with her Majesty and The court of Gloriana. Mayhap if it is Gods will we will secure our future and return to Great Hallingbury.\n\nSir Henry Parker, Baron Morley\n\n14 June, the year of our Lord 1574\n	2003/2003_Morley_Henry_03.jpg	herald-parker.gif
berklbrn02	Drew Foerster	Henry Berkeley	Henry Berkeley, 7th Baron Berkeley	Henry was born 1534 to Thomas Berkeley, 6th Baron Berkeley and Lady Anne Savage. Henry never met his father for he was born just nine weeks after his father’s mysterious death.The young lord who thus inherited from his birth the title and possessions of his father was named after King Henry VIII, who was his godfather. During his minority he was made a ward of the crown, but stayed most times at Yate court in the guardianship of his mother.\n\nIn 1553, on the death of King Edward VI, Berkeley castle and great manor which had remained possessions of the crown for the last 61 years, were restored to Henry shortly after his nineteenth birthday. Subsequently, he went to London and settled at Tower Hill and remained at the court of Queen Mary I for many years. He often joined in the customary amusements of persons with similar status. He filled his time playing much tennis, bowls and dice. Here he polished his skills of gaming, a pursuit he enjoyed all his life. In September of 1555 he married the lady Katherine Howard granddaughter to the Duke of Norfolk. It was a true love match, one of very few at this time in the nobility that was successful. When not in attendance at Greenwich, they resided chiefly at Yate but often removed to their other residences, hunting and hawking as they traveled and often attended by at least 150 servants • sometimes more. Many times Lady Berkeley’s love for the hunt caused Henry much concern. She often times kept hawks in her chamber to the great injury of her dress and furniture.\n\nThe Berkeleys were known for their excesses. They often held huge celebrations at their various estates. Being very fond of music, no celebration was without many musicians in attendance. And Henry also fancied himself a fyne player of the lute. At the coronation of Queen Elizabeth both Lord and Lady were in attendance and were greatly admired for the remarkable magnificence of their dress and equipage. In 1558 they started a practice that lasted for thirty summers of going on their own “Progress” in which the Berkeleys were joined by friends, relatives and many servants.\n\nIn 1571 the Earls of Leicester and Warwick pressed for the marriage of their nephews Sir Philip Sidney and Master Robert Sidney to the Berkeley’s two daughters, Mary and Frances. But the offer was harshly refused by Lady Berkeley, in which great offense was taken by the Earls.\n\nIn 1572 Lady Berkeley’s brother, the Duke of Norfolk was beheaded on a charge of high treason. At that point the family fell from the Queen’s favor. Many times Elizabeth was annoyed by the provisions that restored ownership of the castle to Henry. She tried unsuccessfully to give “The Berkeley Hundred” to her favorite, Lord Leicester which greatly offended Lord Berkeley. The bitterness between Elizabeth and the Berkeleys came to a head when the Queen came to stay at the castle on one of her many Progresses about the country. As she rode in the front gate with her entourage, Lord Berkeley rode out - a supreme insult to the proud Queen, and one she did not soon forget.\n\nPlaying Henry Berkeley at the faire: At this point the Duke of Norfolk has not been executed. We (Lord and Lady Berkeley) take every opportunity to beg her Majesty to spare his life for we believe him to be a faithful and honorable servant to the crown. Henry and Katherine will play a very loving couple and neither will ever be far from the other’s side. The dynamic between the Barkeleys and the Earls of Leicester and Warwick is a hostile one. The families are very bitter towards each other and that is often times clearly portrayed in their remarks towards each other.	2003/2003_Berkley_Henry_01.jpg	herald-berkley.gif
howarbrn02	Robert Horne	Charles Howard	Sir Charles Howard, 2nd Baron Howard of Effingham	Sir Charles Howard, 2nd Baron Howard of Effingham, Lord Admiral, Privy Councilor, Knight of the Garter, Lord Lieutenant of Surrey and Sussex , Commissioner of the Peace for Surrey and Middlesex. He was born in 1536 to William Howard and Margaret Gamage 1st Baron and Baroness Howard of Effingham. Sir Charles is a first cousin, once removed, to Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth through his grandfather Thomas Howard, 2nd Duke of Norfolk, who is the Queens great grandfather. He has one brother William and four sisters Mary, Douglas, Frances, and Elizabeth .Mary is married to Edward , Lord Dudley. Douglas was married to John Sheffield, Lord Sheffield. While married she had an affair with Sir Robert Dudley, Earl of Leicester, whom she later claimed she was married to, but Leicester denied it. Nonetheless she bore him a son in 1574 that Leicester did not disown . Leicester also my have had an affair with Frances at this time. Frances later married Edward, Earl of Hertford . His youngest sister Elizabeth married Sir George Bourchier .\n\nIt was in Charles’ early days at the court of Queen Elizabeth that Charles met and fell in love with Lady Katherine Carey, another of the Queens cousins and close personal friend and attendant. Katherine was the daughter of Sir Henry Carey and Anne Morgan , Baron and Baroness Hunsdon. The Queen gave her blessing to the match and attended the wedding . Charles and Katherine had five children three daughters, Elizabeth who was named for the Queen , who was her Godmother , Frances and Margaret and two sons William and Charles.\n\nSir Charles was near to the center of power for all of his adult life and had a role in many of the important events of his time. Even so , he is one of the least known of his contemporaries . He was not so much of a maker of policy as he was a follower of those that did .He owed his position in society and politics not so much because of his talents, which were adequate , but because he was born a Howard and the son of one of the important men of the time . He was not as well educated as many of his contemporaries but he possessed a practical common sense that served him well . He did not belong to any particular faction at court, instead he followed his sense as to what was best for the Queen and England in the matter at hand . In matters of the Queens safety and the security of the nation he tended to side with Leicester’s more hardcore party but with religion and other matters he was more in agreement with Burghley’s more conservative policies . Charles was more comfortable with men ,ships and horses than he was with books and ledgers but he became a very able administrator nonetheless. He would go far just by being loyal diligent and honest.\n\nCharles service to England began in his early twenties when he accompanied his father , who was Lord Admiral at the time, on several missions with the fleet during the war with France . His father saw to it that Charles gained the training in leadership and seamanship that would serve him well later in life . He was with his father at Elizabeth’s coronation . Elizabeth kept his father on as Lord Chamberlain , a position he was originally given by Queen Mary , because his father was one of the few who had spoken to Mary in Elizabeth’s favor . Charles early days in court were spent assisting his father in his duties and learning all he could of statecraft . His first assignment for Elizabeth was when he accompanied his father to the treaty negotiations in France to end the war started by Mary and her Husband Philip II of Spain against France . His father gave Charles the honor of bringing the news of the treaty’s ratification to Elizabeth . She rewarded Charles by giving him the first of his many assignments and positions he would serve in , that as special ambassador to the French Court .Some of his other appointments in these early years were as General of Horse under the Earl of Warwick during the Northern Rebellion and as Admiral of the Fleet which escorted the new Queen of Spain , Anne of Austria , through the English Channel. He also served in the House of Commons.\n\nCharles became 2nd Baron Howard of Effingham upon the death of his father in 1573 .From then on the Queen started naming him to more prestigious positions . In 1574 he is named Vice Chamberlain to assist the ailing Lord Sussex . It was in this office that he was responsible for the planning of the Queens progress of 1574 . In 1575 he is elected to the Companionship of the Order of the Garter . In 1580 he is named Commissioner of the Peace for Surrey and Middlesex .In 1582 he takes a conspicuous place in the ceremonials of the Duc d’ Anjou’s visit to court the Queen , and he is named Admiral of the fleet that escorts the Duc back to the Low Countries . He is also named Admiral of a fleet bringing troops and supplies to Ireland . In 1583 he presides over the commission investigating John Hawkins and the state of the Navy .In 1584 Elizabeth names him Lord Chamberlain and Privy Councilor .\n\nSir Charles received the appointment he most cherished ,that of Lord Admiral in 1585 ,the position he holds for the next thirtytwo years . In 1587 Elizabeth names him Lieutenant General , Commander in Chief and Governor of the fleet and army at sea against the Spanish and their allies . It is in this post that Sir Charles leads the English Fleet to victory over the Spanish Armada. He goes to sea as Admiral only once more in 1596 . He is Joint Commander with Robert Devereux , Earl of Essex , when they capture and sack the Spanish city of Cadiz .For his service during the war with Spain Elizabeth names Charles Earl of Nottingham in 1597 .\n\nSir Charles spent his entire adult life in the service of Queen Elizabeth . He was one of the very few who were in attendance during her entire life . It is said that Sir Charles was by the Queen’s side on her deathbed and to him she named James, Our Cousin of Scotland , as her heir to the throne.\n\nSir Charles died on the 16th of December ,1624 . He was eighty-eight years old . He was buried in the parish church of Reigate on December 18th.\n\nSir Charles on progress\n\nWe find Sir Charles on this progress in his capacities of Privy Councilor and newly appointed Lord Admiral . The business of the State does not stop on progress so with his fellow councilors there will be business to attend to as usual , such as Mary Queen of Scots and her plotting to overthrow Elizabeth and my cousin Thomas Howard who is in the Tower for conspiring with Mary . As Lord Admiral I will be inspecting the harbor fortifications , facilities , troops and Her Majesty’s ships that are in the ports we visit such as Bristol . I am accompanied by Vice Admiral Sir John Perrot and Captains Sir Francis Drake and Sir Martin Frobisher . Also while on progress I can visit with several of my Howard and Carey relations.\n		
hunsdbrn02	Steve Smith	Henry Carey	Sir Henry Carey, 1st Baron Hunsdon	Berwick Castle\n\n23 June, 1574\n\nMy Dear Lord Leycester,\n\nAs you know, I have served as Warden of the Eastern Marches and Governor of Berwick since August of 1568. Here I have done my best, short of funds and men, to keep safe Her Majesty’s borders with Scotland. I depart today, by her Grace’s leave, to join upon this summer’s progress to report to her on the situation in the north where troubles may be found not just on the Scottish, but also on the English side of the borders. You know of me, but so that others who may not know me well shall trust my words, I include here my tale.\n\nI was born in the year of 1524, the only son of William Carey, Esquire of the Body to King Henry VIII, by his wife Mary Boleyn, sister of Anne. This makes me a first cousin to Her Majesty, the Queen. Howe’re some say, and my mother hath never denied, that I am a natural son of King Henry. Being straightforward in speech and quick to anger as was King Henry, I feel that they may speak the truth. Whether cousins or siblings, I feel that I have much in common with Her Grace since both of our mothers suffered from the political ambitions of our grandfather, Sir Thomas Boleyn. Thus have our lives been shaped by events set in motion long before either of us was born.\n\nI recall not William Carey as he died in my second year of life, leaving me to be raised by my mother, our family out of favor during most of my early years. I took to wife Anne Morgan, the daughter of Sir Thomas Morgan, a Knight of Arkestone in Herefordshire. She birthed me seven sons and three daughters and yet seven of these children survive. As a young man, I was elected thrice to parliament from Buckingham.\n\nThe difficult life experienced under Queen Mary came to an abrupt end with the accession of my kinswoman Elizabeth as Queen in 1558. She did knight me soon after, and at her coronation created me Baron Hunsdon. On 18 May 1561, I was installed as a Knight of the Garter and have served on the Privy Council since near that same time. I would that the Council should hear what I have to say of the threats to Her Grace, and advise with her as to a solution.\n\nI look forward to meeting with you upon my arrival at Bristol.\n\nI remain your obedient servant,\n\nSir Henry Carey, Baron Hunsdon\n\nGovernor of Berwick\n	2003/2003_Hunsdon_Henry_01.jpg	herald-carey.gif
buckhbrn02	Bryan Ross	Thomas Sackville	Sir Thomas Sackville, 1st Baron Buckhurst	[ I by the grace of god and Elizabeth, Queen of England, Ireland , Wales, France and the Virginias; am Sir Thomas Sackville, Baron Buckhurst, Member of her Majesty’s Privy Council, Lord Lieutenant of Sussex, Exchequer to her Majesty the Queen and Commissioner over state trials. I offer this testimony as a brief biography of mine own life to those who wish to know of it.]\n\nIn the year of our Lord 1536; I was born a Catholic in Buckhurst, Sussex, England; to Sir Richard Sackville, Chancellor of the Exchequer (who incidentally took the “Oath of Supremacy” for his family and himself) and his lady wife Winifred Brydges the esteemed daughter of the Mayor of London. I am the second of three children born to the recently mentioned Lord and Lady Sackville. My elder sister Anne ( who I would in later years argue extensively with regarding the ownership of Sir Thomas More's estate Beaufort which she did inherit from my mother, then the First Marchioness of Winchester)and I had led average lives for children of our era and station and had also survived the third sibling a second daughter who passed on at an early age. When I was old enough to realize that I possessed an elder sister I found great sport in the torturing ..... I mean tormenting her, as all young lads do to thier elder siblings of the opposite gender. My education went as planned as my father would say, where upon at the age of fifteen; I was had been educated out of Hart Hall, in Oxford. Two years later in 1553 at the age of seventeen; I left my childhood home and took residence in London where I began pursuing my life as a poet and playwright. At nineteen years of age in 1555, I was joined in the rite of marriage to the daughter of a member of the Privy Council under Queen Mary, Cicely Baker of Kent. This was not only a marriage by the grace of god, but to the advantage of our fathers. In 1558 upon the death of Queen Mary, god save her soul; her half sister Elizabeth Tudor who happens to be my third cousin on her mother Anne Boleyn's side; ascended England's throne. As for mine own self now twenty and two years of age; I was elected to Parliament for Westmoreland. In 1559; I again was elected to another term in Parliament this time for East Grinstead. As was my passion; I began writing "Induction: Mirror For Magistrates", which I did complete in 1563. "Induction" was not the only writing I did endevour at that time; for I also collaborated with my friend and contemporary Thomas Norton, in the writing of England’s first play written primarily in blank verse; a tragedy called "Gorboduc". The collaboration began in 1561 where I did write the final two acts of the play. Ask me about the play, and I will happy to explain.\n\nIn addition during the year of 1561 I did receive the title of "Grandmaster of the Order of Freemasons" and also became a father as my lady wife did give birth to a son (Robert) and again years later a daughter (Anne). In 1563 I was once again was elected to Parliament this time for Aylesbury. When I became thirty and one years of age, I was knighted and raised to peerage as Lord Buckhurst which did take place on the eighth day of June of that year. One year prior to receiving the title of Lord Buckhurst; Queen Elizabeth awarded a piece of property to keeping known as Knole. This was a lovely little estate comprised of a Great House boasting 365 rooms, many staircases and seven courtyards. Oh yes the estate also boasted a thousand acre deer sanctuary. Once again ask me more about Knole; I love to talk about the history of the estate. It is indeed facinating. \n\nIn 1568 I had been commissioned to traveled to France on an official visit , my mission was to persuaded the Queen Mother to make "a motion for the marriage of Elizabeth with her second son, the Duke of Anjou." In 1569 at the age of thirtythree years old, I was honoured to be placed in the office of Lord Lieutenant of Sussex. Two years later in 1571, I did returned to France to congratulate Charles IX on his marriage afterwhich I did return to England bringing Paul du Foix along to continue the discussion of the impending marriage. Also within that year I had been bestowed a Master of Arts from Cambridge. In 1572, I became a member of her Majesty’s Privy Council and became employed as Commissioner at state trials positions I do hold to this day.\n\nAs to the question of my wealth I offer the following explanation....\n\nI received the bulk my wealth from my father Sir Richard Sackville a wealthy landowner whose acquisitiveness earned him the nickname of ’Fillsack’ and was noted for reasons of his great wealth and vast patrimony. I myself continue to live in such a manner as my father did, knowing how to spend my moneys well and in such a way that I and my family could live in a comfortable fashion. An example of how would spend money was thus. The cost ranged from as much as three hundred and fifty pounds to one thousand pounds just to have Queen Elizabeth stay at my Wytham Estate. It was during one of the summer progresses that the previously mentioned amount was merely the basic expense. Added to that was payments for entertainment, temporary buildings, a lavish gift for her Majesty (which was an inescapable and often heavy expense) and for substantial rewards to officers of her household, for new clothes, liveries, and food imported from abroad; for while I did wait for her Majesty to arrive at Wytham, I found that mine own neighbors had used all of the provisions for miles around and I had to send to Flanders to supply myself what was needed; as the others had drawn the country dry. All this just in hopes that Elizabeth might make use of it while staying at my estate.\n\nMore about myself though ...\n\nI feel that positions of authority and power should belong to men only. Women should be kept to the tasks they were raised to do; such as cooking , needlework, lace making, and having children. There is only one exception to this point of view; and that exception is Queen Elizabeth who in the my eyes; Elizabeth is more than just any woman. My loyalty to her Majesty is without condition. I do however feel that Elizabeth should marry if it will be what is right for England, but more importantly right for her. The Queen knows her own mind and is not afraid to use it. As a member of her Majesty’s Privy Council, I am considered a protégée of William Cecil, Baron Burghley and I tends to agree with most of the issues Burghley is in favor of. I do however, tend to follow my own mind and heart. Within the Court, I am friendly and noted to be a man of good humour, yet somewhat of a loner. I also tend to be extravagant with my money; but not to the point of financial detriment I am well liked and respected. I enjoy a good wine, fine food, music, poetry, theater, and singing for the Queen upon occasion. I loathe however those who attempt plots against my Queen, country, and faith (whichever the Throne decides it shall be); and will strive prevent such occurances. I miss my wife Cicely and children Robert and Anne, while on progress and wish that at least my wife could have accompanied me whilst on progress. My children are better left in school, as their education is of vast importance. I have my sister Anne with me on progress; it has been said that it is good to keep friends and family close at hand. But even better to keep advisaries closer where they can be kept and eye on. Sibling rivalry is such a nasty business. Such rivalries however, are set aside, while my sister and I combine to entertain the Queen. As for the other ladies of Court, I have the inclination to be somewhat flirtatious in my lady wife's absence, but not to the point of jeopardizing my marriage. Overall I am very happy with my life and my accomplishments how ere I am always open to do more in service for her Majesty.\n	2003/2003_Buckhurst_Thomas_01.jpg	herald-sackville.gif
burghbrn02	Chuck Guthrie	William Cecil	Sir Willliam Cecil, 1st Baron Burghley	Raised in the surrounding of the court of Henry VIII whom William’s father Richard Cecil served as Steward of the King’s Wardrobe. Educated at Cambridge. While there, married Mary Cheke in a love match. She gave him a son, Thomas, and died shortly thereafter. He returned to London and entered Gray’s Inn, studying the Law. He then worked for Edward Seymour, the Duke of Somerset when he was Lord Protector of young King Edward, and when Somerset fell from power, was placed in the Tower by Somerset’s successor, John Dudley, Duke of NorthUmberland and father of Guilford, Ambrose, Robert Dubdey. When NorthUmberland felt he had duly repented of the folly of working for a loser, he freed Cecil from the Tower, and put him to work as King Edward’s Principal Secretary, though never giving the the actal title. Just before the death of the young king, NorthUmberland made him sign the Articles of Succession proclaiming Jane Grey, by now NorthUmberlands daughter-in-thelaw, Queen. When Mary Tudor succeeded to the throne instead, she placed William in the Tower to repent of the folly of working for a loser. By this time, William Cecil had remarried. Mildred Cook was his second wife and gave him another son and two daughter; Robert, Anne, and Margaret . When Mary decided he had repented she let him out of the Tower, much due to the intercessions on his behalf by his sister-in-the-law, Lady Anne Bacon. Mary appointed hi surveyor of the Princesss Elizabeths lands with the understanding that he would report all Elizabeth’s activities to Mary. An understanding he basically ignored. A good friendship blossomed between Elizabeth and Cecil during this time and when Mary died and Elizabeth took the throne, she called William to her and gave him the following charge. "I give you this charge, that you shall be of my Privy Council and content to take pains for me and my realm. This judgement I have of you that you will not be tempted by any manner of gift and that you will be faithful to the state; and that, without respect of my private will, you will give me that counsel which you think best and , if you shall know anything necessary to be declared to me of secrecy, you shall show it to me alone." This gave him the position of Principle Secretary. In 1571 she created him Baron Burghley, Lord Treasurer.	2003/2003_Burghly_William_01.jpg	herald-cecil.gif
cobhabrs02	Kiffen Nielsen	Frances Newton	Frances Newton, Lady Brooke, 10th Baroness Cobham	My Dearest William –\n\nHow goes the Cinque Ports; and which one are you in now? Twas good to hear from thee and to be assured of thy continued excellent health. It doth wam my heart that thou dost oft take time to write to me of what thy dutys require of thee when we are apart. As I am certain that thou art appreciative of my letters in return. I am gladdened to hear that thou wast able to look in on our brood when last thou wast in Kent.\n\nWere you satisfied with the tutor that I did retain? Since I have heard naught on the subject from you, I must make the assumption that you are indeed satisfied with my decision in this matter.\n\nHere at Court we are almost ready to start another Progress. ‘Tis at this time of year – and more so this year than in those past – that I miss the comfort and quiet of home. Al the Court seethes with suppressed anticipation and frenzied preparations. We all have so many dutys, and right now they seem to have doubled. I do despair of my actually being e’en close to finishing the gown I am working on. You can mayhaps now understand why I might think our full and ofttimes raucous household might be soothing. Howe’er, I shall prevail in the end. And, at least I do not have to prepare Her Grace for Progress then rush home to Kent to Prepare our household for the arrival of the Court and Her Majesty, as I did twelve years ago, and Lady Huntington has had to do this year. Thank goodness we were still childless then.\n\nNow, on to more important matters. I have thought long on how oft thou dost write to me regarding the Spanish problem. It seems to me that there should be some way to keep the Spanish from always assuming our ships are aggressive. I have come to realize that there may indeed be somewhat that I and the Ladys and Gentlewomen of England can do to alleviate some part of this threat. I shall write to thee of this more anon when I have given this scheme of mine some more time to resolve itself more fully. Twill be a grand undertaking. There are many decisions and tasks that do lie ahead of me if this notion of mine is to reach fruition.\n\nYour Devoted Wife,\n\nFrances	2003/2003_Cobham_Frances_01.jpg	herald-brooke.gif
morlebrs02	Laurie McArthur	Elizabeth Stanley	Elizabeth Stanley, Lady Parker, Baroness Morley	I am the daughter of Edward Stanley, 3rd Earl of Derby and Katherine (Dorothy) Howard, daughter of Thomas Howard, 2nd Duke of Norfolk.\n\nIt has been some time since I have been to the court of Her Majesty, but unfortunately this visit may not be as friendly for us as the last few encounters have been. Her Majesty has summoned my beloved husband Henry (Sir Henry Parker, 9th Baron Morley) to accompany the court on Progress to Bristol. I fear my husband’s letter writing may have surfaced before the eyes of someone close to the Queen. I have been graced to be one of Her Majesties Ladies of Honor at the start of her reign, and she has visited our home, Allington Morley. My fervent hope is that she will look upon this with fond memory.\n\nMy beloved Henry has beseeched my dearest nephew, Sir Ferdinando Stanley 13th Lord Strange, and his lovely wife Alice, for lodgings in the town of Bristol. From the many missives I have received it is obvious that they are as devoted to each other as my dear Henry and I have been these many years. My sister Anne hath informed me that she will be accompanying us to Bristol. My hope is that she has informed our nephew of her visit.\n\nI strive, as a mother, to bring all my children on Progress, but alas our son Edward was unable to attend. But I am happy to say that our lovely daughters Mary and Alice will accompany us. My mother’s insight leads me to believe that they would rather stay with Edward. We are pleased that our eldest daughter, Mary, hath been counted among Her Majesties Maids of Honor.\n\nMy fears for why Henry was called to court are of utmost importance in my mind but, my other fear is the fact that I am a known Recussant and have been holding secret Roman Catholic services in my home. I am hopeful, if Her Majesty is privy to this information, that she will look upon me with cousinly favor. With all of the eyes and ears that are at court it will be quite difficult for my family to practice the True Faith of God. I know where my duties lie in my devotion to Her Grace, but I can not ignore my faith in God.	2003/2003_Morley_Elizabeth_03.jpg	herald-parker.gif
stourbrs02	Jodi Sietsema	Anne Stanley	Anne Stanley, Lady Arundell, Baroness Stourton	She is the daughter of Edward Stanley, 3rd Earl of Derby, and Dorothy Howard. She married Charles, 8th Baron Stourton he was the son of William, 7th Baron Stourton and Elizabeth Dudley. He acceded to his Barony upon the death of his father in 1548. He immediately set about trying to persuade William Hartgill, Esquire, to enter into a bond - not marriage- with Dame Elizabeth, his mother, in order to not have to pay her any means of support. Hartgill refused and thus began a persecution that continued throughout the rein of King Edward VI and into Queen Mary’s as well. During his trial for their deaths in 1556 it came to light that Charles did not contain his malice only to the Hartgills but to many others among the common folk. He was condemned to be “pressed to death, according to the laws of the land” by the judges of Westminster Hall. However, before his sentence could be completed the villagers rose up and hanged him and four of his men in the market place of Salisbury on 6 March 1556.\n\nThe death of her first husband would still be of some notoriety and no matter how much she might want to bring up the injustice of it, for her children’s sake of course, no one will speak of it – unless it is part of some juicy bit of gossip. She will sometimes talk – in story form- of the evils of her first husband. Always lamenting the fact that he did not deserve the ignoble ending he received. But remember, she lived through a marriage to a man who was a known bully and a murderer. It is the manner of his death that offends her, not his dying. This was the turning point in her life that took her from the politically motivated religion of her childhood to the “rabid recusant” that she is today.\n\nHer second husband was John Arundell of Lanhern (Knighted 1566) son of Sir John Arundell of Lanhern and Lady Elizabeth Gray. It is of interest that she continued to be known as Lady Stourton even after her second marriage. Sir John was a benefactor of Father John Cornelius and paid for his education at Exeter College. Father John, who was with the Arundells for eleven years, also performed mass for Lord Montague and Lord Vaux. For his support of Father John, Sir John is currently imprisoned in Ely Palace, Holburn. She is here to petition the Queen to have him released to go home. While here, she is also adding her pleas to those of her close cousin, Lady Barkley, for the release of her brother, the Duke of Norfolk.\n\nCurrently in court are her sister, Lady Morley, her nieces Alice and Mary Parker and with them her daughter Elizabeth Stourton and her nurse. On her brothers side, her nephew Lord Strange, and niece, Lady Ursula. This is not even mentioning the in-laws and other cousins (Dudley, Hastings and Howard)\n\nLady Stourton was known as a prominent recusant, as were her 10 children. More than one of her daughters became a nun. At Sir John’s death in 1590 Lady Stourton retired to Chideock Castle in Cornwall but she maintained contact with Catholics in London. She was brought up on charges several times for having Mass said in her household but was always pardoned by Queen Elizabeth. In 1594 an informant’s report led to Father John’s arrest and that of all those who had harbored him. The men were executed, but Lady Stourton was only briefly detained and then released. In 1601 she was indicted again, at the Dorset assizes, and had to petition the Queen for continuation of her privileges. Queen Elizabeth ordered her case dismissed.	2003/2003_Stourton_Anne_01.jpg	herald-stourton.gif
lumlebrs02	Kimba Morgan	Jane Fitzalan	Jane Fitzalan, Lady Lumley, Baroness Lumley	Known information:\n\nBorn the eldest daughter of Henry Fitzalan, 12th Earl of Arundel, Jane was betrothed in early childhood to Thomas Howard, future 4th Duke of Norfolk. Unfortunately when the Howard titles were stripped from the family, her father quickly married her off to , John Lumley, 7th Baron Lumley, a supporter both of her father & the Catholic faith. (She was 10 years old when she was married. After the Howard titles were restored, her younger sister Mary was married to him and bore Thomas, later 5th Duke of Norfolk and eventually Saint Thomas Howard.) Jane's father had served Henry VIII, Edward VI , Mary I as a privy councellor, and continues that position with Her Royal Majesty, Queen Elizabeth. It is no secret the Fitzalans & Lumleys are openly vocal of their adherence to the Catholic Church. Lady Lumley,herself, has travelled to Italy on a number of occasions (she is noted for bringing the concept of knot gardens to England from there), and has even had audience with the Pope. As mistress of over 50 estates & manors, her primary residences are Lumley Castle and Nonesuch Palace (a gift to her father from King Henry VIII). At Nonesuch she is hostess to most of the foreign ambassadors. Lady Lumley speaks/writes/reads 9 languages (she had the same tutor as Her Majesty, Robert Aschem), has the largest library on the island, as well as the largest collection of portraiture & statuary.\n\nAdditional Factual information to be known about her by certain others:\n\nLady Lumley, her husband, and her father were involved in EVERY Catholic plot against Queen Elizabeth. She is a huge supporter of Mary, Queen of Scots. (In fact, it was a rosary given by Lady Lumley she took to her execution.) It is becaus e of this involvement her husband, Baron Lumley, is currently in the Tower of London. (In truth he was only imprisoned for less than a month following the Babbington Plot.) She is still close friends with the Howards, having grown up with them. Because of her father's position, title and wealth, she does not hide her faith or convictions. She is particularly friendly with the ambassadors, with whom she corresponds with regularly and hosts when they are in England at Nonesuch.	2003/2003_Lumley_Jane_01.jpg	herald-lumley.gif
dacrebrs02	Robin Kullick	Anne Sackville	Anne Sackville, Lady Fiennes, 10th Baroness Dacre of the South	THE HISTORICAL ANNE:\n\nFrom all given evidence, I have surmised that Anne Sackville was born in London somewhere between 1533 and 1535, as she is, historically, the elder of the two Sackville siblings, and was raised in London, her father owning Salisbury Court (the former home of the bishops of Salisbury), given to him after the dissolution of the monasteries.\n\nHer father, Sir Richard "Fillsack" Sackville, was a Boleyn relation to the throne and under Elizabeth, was named Privy Councillor and Under Chancellor of the Exchequer, where he did much good in raising the treasury. He had also served under Henry, Edward and Mary. Anne's mother, Winifred Brydges, was daughter to the Mayor of London, Sir John Brydges, 1st Baron Chandos, whom was the Constable of the Tower when Elizabeth was sent there. He was relieved of his post for being too permissive (kind) toward her, and had Grey family connections through her mother, Elizabeth Grey. After Sir Richard died in 1566, she married Sir William Paulet, Marquis of Winchester, thus herself becoming the new Marchioness. From him, as a wedding present, she inherited all the Sir Thomas More properties in Chelsea.\n\nComtemporary accounts state that she owned roughly one good half of the town, the Crown holding everything else. Some of the original Chelsea properties are still standing, one being the King's Head and Eight Bells Pub on Cheyne Walk and is still pulling pints and serving up the yummiest fish and chips I've had. Upon Winifred's death, all these properties were deeded to her daughter, Anne. Anne, herself, was given into the service of the Princess Elizabeth in 1545 as a Maid of Honour and has been in close service ever since. It is evident from her reported attitudes that Anne was very well educated, and being in Elizabeth's household, it can be surmised that they shared the same tutors. As an adult, Anne was an avid advocate of education for both sexes, as she found many schools for boys and girls in Tothill Fields, Westminster, one of which is still running and celebrating it's 400+ anniversary this year. This is Emanuel School, begun in 1594, but Anne died before it's completion. According to the school’s own accounts, when Anne died, her cousin, the Queen, took up the charity and made certain that the school was built, just as Anne had wanted. The Dacre Behest and it’s sister charity, the Emanuel Charity, have been Royal Charities since 1595. They are still in existence today. Anne married Gregory Fiennes, 10th Baron Dacre of the South sometime before 1558. He had no title or lands when she married him. When Elizabeth came to the Throne, she restored all lands, titles and honours to Gregory in the first session of Parliament in 1558. Anne, now as Lady Dacre, continued her service and served Elizabeth faithfully all her life, alongside Winifred as a Lady of the Bedchamber. Gregory was known to be "crack-brained", though Anne seemed to be utterly devoted to him and it appears that this was a rare love match. Gregory died in September of 1594 and Anne followed him in May of 1595. Anne and Gregory had only one child, a girl, name unknown, who died of an unknown disease sometime after 1565. I am still researching this and trying to discover at least a name. Gregory also apparently had a natural born daughter born the same year that his and Anne’s only living child died. Anne never claimed, nor apparently wanted anything to do with this child of her husband’s, as is evidenced by the lack of the mention of it upon the heraldry upon the Dacre tomb, which Anne built and paid for, herself, since Gregory predeceased her. Gregory served in Parliament from 1562 - 1593. He was also an ambassador and diplomat and was sent to the Court of Catherine deMedici between 1572 -1574. Gregory also appears to have been a closet Catholic as it has been reported that he helped smuggle Jesuits in and out of the country from his wife’s house in Chelsea (called Beaufort House) It has not been mentioned if Anne knew or not. Considering the fact that they both died, free, of old age means that they were never caught.\n\nTHE FAIRE ANNE:\n\nOn her Faire portayal, Anne does not suffer fools lightly and is not prone to giggling and gossip. She has very little patience with those whom she deems foolish. Her general response is a cutting remark, or perhaps a cold silence, depending on how annoyed she already is. Anne is often sharp-tongued and can often be seen trading barbs with others in the Court, though with the lack of her favourite "scratching post" this year, the rest of the Court just may be feeling and bit more clawed upon. Have a care, though, if Anne seems entirely absorbed in her bobbin lace (of which she has great pride as her embroidery is disasterous) and does not appear to be paying any attention to that which is going on about her. Do not be fooled. She may never look up from her lace, but she has heard everything. She may say nothing, but if she does, do not be shocked if it is unkind. At the very least it will be humourous...if only to a few. Although historically, Anne and Gregory appeared to be a love match, with the lack of a husband in the cast, Anne will be just as glad that he’s off in France. As Anne is fond of saying: "Queen Catherine has him...and she can keep him for all I care!" Anne has definite attitudes toward children, as they are a very large soft spot in what would appear to be a hardened demeanour. Just place a child in her arms or lap and see. She does believe in her father’s views of money management (left Her Majesty one huge mucking treasury when he died) but not when it comes to helping those whom are less fortunate than her. Anne, historically, upon her death, left a vast fortune to various charities to see that those who needed the help got it. She feels that God hath so placed her in the position that she was in so that she could help those that needed it. I will be trying my best to find opportunities to play on this. Upon her religious observances....she is a very private Catholic, but not a closet one, and with the recent grumblings in the North, knows that she may be under suspicion for anything and everything, particularly being one of the Queen’s Ladies, and therefore will not be drawn into any religious debate or discussion at any time. That is a personal choice of mine as I am very uncomfortable in portraying someone of a faith that I do not belong to. Anne is also very proud of her Chelsea properties and if asked will expound on them, to the great irritation of her brother, who would like nothing better than to have them as he feels they should have been his by right of primogeniture. Ah, something to tease the brother with..... Forms of address: Over all: My Lady Baroness, Lady Dacre, Baroness Dacre. For those of closer friendship, Anne, and a very select few of close kinship or friendship, (any of the other Ladies of the Bedchamber, Lady Harrington, Lady Stourton, Lady Arundel-Howard, and of course, Her Majesty...anyone else does need to ask.) Nan.\n	2003/2003_Dacre_Anne_01.jpg	herald-fiennes.gif
pagetbrs01	Christiellen White	Kathryn Knyvette	Kathryn Knyvette, Lady Paget-Carey, Baroness Paget	History:\n\nI was born in 1543 in Buckenham, Norfolk. My parents are Sir Henry Knyvette and Lady Anne Pickering and I have several siblings. In 1559, my mother’s cousin Thomas Howard, Duke Norfolk 4th, brought me to court. I was a Maid of Honor for 1 year, but had to leave after a scandalous affair with Henry Paget. I was married to Sir Henry Paget the 2nd Baron Beaudesert in 1561 and had one daughter, Elizabeth. Henry died in 1568 and Elizabeth in 1571, at the tender age of 3. After Henry died, I returned to court to serve Good Queen Bess as a Lady of Her Majesty’s Bedchamber. I married for a second time to Sir Edward Cary, Master of Her Majesty’s Jewel House and had several children with him. I remained at court throughout Her Majesty’s dying hours. I myself died 20 December 1622.\n\nI am a relation to the Bolyens, Howards, Greys, Tilneys, and Plantagenets, all on my father’s side. My father was a first cousin to the Bolyen children, Mary, George and Anne, which would make me a third cousin to Her Majesty. On my mother’s side, her cousin William was a suitor to Queen Elizabeth in the early years of her reign. My mother was first married to Sir Francis Weston who was tried, convicted, and subsequently executed as one of Anne Bolyens lovers. Next, she married my father but he died in 1547 when I was but 4 years old. My mother married for a third time to Sir John Vaughan.\n\nFaire:\n\nI will be playing Kathryn as happy to be on Progress again with the Queen. Whereas I enjoy the “sedentary” courtly life in London, I also yearn to be on the move, even though Progresses are a bit tiring. The entertainment is always such an exciting feature of Progress as is the feasting and festivities. In addition, one never knows who will show up, or if one’s luggage will arrive on time.\n\nDuring our stay at Bristol, my duties have changed a bit, as I will be employed as a Lady of Her Majesty’s Privvy Chamber, not Bedchamber. This shift in responsibility does not bother me and I will perform my new duties with as much enthusiasm as I did with my old ones.\n\nMy loyalties will always reside with Her Majesty, but I am also strongly loyal to my family, especially the Howards. I am a bit nervous over the fate of my cousin Thomas Howard, as he awaits his sentencing in the Tower, and pray that Her Majesty will find it in her heart to let him out.		
willibrs01	Lois Salmonson	Margaret Wentworth	Margaret Wentworth, Lady Croft, Baroness Williams of Thames	The year was 1536 when I was born unto Margaret Fortescue, wife of Baron Thomas Henry Wentworth, in Nettlestead, Suffolkshire. My brother Thomas had celebrated 11 years ( born 5 years after our parents had wed ), and our grandparents included members of the Stoner and Tyrell families.\n\nWhen the time had come that I had reached marriageable age, my father, Lord Thomas Wentworth, arranged a suitable marriage for me with John Lord Williams, Baron of Thame. ( His first wife had given him a daughter, Margery, who was close to marriageable age by this time. ) Being older than myself, my Lord Baron did not survive many more years; upon his death, he had bequeathed unto me lands and wealth with which to provide for me a suitable life.\n\nBy this time, I had been granted the honor of serving our Majesty, Queen Elizabeth, as a Lady of the Privy Chamber. This position allowed opportunities to meet young men of wealth and rank; soon a friendship of myself with Sir William Drury did lead to matrimony, of which the Queen approved. Sadly, Sir William succumbed to a sudden fever; again, was I left with more riches and properties. These did include a brooch of great beauty: a large blue diamond set in gold, surrounded by smaller diamonds. ( This was his final gift to me, and I wear it always. )\n\nSir James Crofts ( the Captain of Berwick , and a member of the Privy Council), offered to me condolence and comfort, and we exchanged marriage vows with the blessings of our beloved Queen.( I am most humbly grateful for the kindness the Queen has shown to me not only in approving suitable husbands for me, but in her compassion and tenderness when death had parted them from me. I shall love her and serve her as long as I live! )\n\nAt this time, I have celebrated 38 years, and devote most of my day to assisting the Queen. When she has no need of my services, I spend time singing, feasting with the young and entertaining knights ( Sir James has duties in securing the border to Scotland, and understands that I should not grow dull ), and especially importing gems and precious jewels ( some to sell, others for gifts, and many to add to my collection! )		
hunsdbrs02	Gail Smith	Anne Morgan	Anne Morgan, Lady Carey, Baroness Hunsdon	I was born to Sir Thomas Morgan, a Knight from Arkestone, in Herfordshire, and his wife Anne Whitney. I am one of three children, my older brother Charles, myself, and my little sister Eleanor. In due time, I married Henry Carey, son of William Carey and Mary Boleyn. We spent the reign of Mary Tudor in a state of genteel penury, keeping a low profile, due to our Boleyn connections and our Protestant faith, waiting for the winds to change.\n\nOur family grew apace with a total of ten children. Our eldest is George(2nd Lord Hunsdon), followed by John (3rd Lord Hunsdon), Thomas(died young), Thomas (died young), William (died young), Edmund (Knighted in 1587 by Leicester), and Robert (Earl of Monmouth). We also have three lovely daughters, Catherine (married Charles Howard, Earl of Nottingham), Philadelphia (married Thomas, Lord Scrope), and Margaret (married Sir Edward Hoby)\n\nTimes did change for the family with the accessioin of my husband’s cousin Elizabeth to the throne of England. He was knighted soon after and directly following her coronation, she created Henry, Baron Hunsdon. He became a trusted advisor to Her Majesty and several of our family remained in Her service. I became a Lady of Her Majesty’s Bedchamber (This is a Bristol adaptation—I found no record of her serving as anything other than a Lady of the Privy Chamber) My daughter Philadelphia became the youngest of the Maids of Honor, now as an adult, she remains to serve alongside me in the Queen’s Bedchamber. Margaret, my youngest serves currently as a Maid of Honor while Robert serves in the military.\n\nIf I must describe myself, it would be as an ambitious daughter of a knight, now come up in the world, and married to a Baron who could be the Queen’s half-brother. I am pleased with how far I have come, and as evidenced by our ten children, in spite of Henry’s frequent absences, there were some rowdy, loving reunions. Now, however, I have served my husband well, providing him with four living sons and three lovely daughters, and am pleased to spend my time in service to the Queen. Henry does visit the court on occasion to present reports to Her Majesty and I am presently looking forward to one of his visits. I am willing to accompany Her Grace on Progress since she seems to enjoy it so much, however, I would as soon remain closer to London where we are not so inconvenienced by the need to move. Progress is one long nuisance and if I had my way, I’d rather be in London.	2003/2003_Hunsdon_Anne_02.jpg	herald-carey.gif
norrebrs02	Jennifer Schwartz	Marjory Norreys	Marjory Norreys, Lady Norreys, Baroness Norreys of Rycote	Lady Marjory Norreys Baroness Of Rycote Mistress of Her Majesties Jewels. First and foremost a Lady to the Queen, second a wife to Henry, and finally a mother to her children. Lady Marjory is here as requested by her grace, and will happily serve her as long as she desires it to be so. Secretly though in her heart she wishes the that Henry, the children and herself could all be together and away from court life. Back to a simpler life full of little pleasures, many joys and much laughter. Marjory believes in the joys of life, and would rather hear laughter around the queen and herself than Politics. Marjory likes all people, even the French and Spanish, unless you give her a reason not to. Know you this, do not abuse or anger this lady for it is a wrath just short of God himself and you are not likely to be forgiven and time soon. Marjory my play the fool but, she listens to everything. Do not say anything around Marjory that you do not want repeated, she can keep a confidence when she knows it is a secret and yet, has a way of telling the queen everything she has heard and at the most inappropriate times, at least it seems like that for the person she is exposing. She enjoys a good joke, learning and playing games and making all those around her as happy as she can.		
browmldy02	Zaida Portalatin	Mabel Browne	Lady Mabel Browne	I am Mabel Browne and I was born to Anthony Browne, Viscount Montague and Magdelen Dacre. I like my parents am a devout Catholic and extremely loyal to the Queen. I have four brothers and one sister. Jane my sister is also at court with my father and I. I also have two other siblings from my fathers’ first marriage to Lady Jane Ratcliff. \n\nI feel most at home in the country. I tent to be very good-natured and kind, but refuse to waste my time on idle gossip! I love both my parents however I tend to do whatever my heart deems right. These days my heart is heavy-burdened. You see my heart is torn between the love I have for two men. I have fallen in love with Henry Capell of Surrey. He is of local gentry and my father refuses to give us his blessing. He has brought me to court in hopes of finding me a suitable husband. Though I am in Bristol on Progress, my heart remains in Surrey with Henry.		
browjldy02	Maria Portalatin	Jane Browne	Lady Jane Browne	My name is Lady Jane Browne. I am the youngest daughter to Anthony Browne, Viscount Montegue his second wife Magdelen Dacre. I have been brought up with the true faith, I have been taught to love and obey my parents. I have tried to also do exactly what was expected of me I do my studies and devote myself in prayer. I was raised, with my sister Mabel and my bothers at Battle Abbey. This is of our principal homes and it is beautiful and luxurious. The primary emphasis on my childhood was to instill good manners and the ’feminine’ virtues of obedience and docility. I am found of needlework and was taught dancing and how to play some musical instruments. My true passion is reading, I tend to be quiet and studious by nature.\n\nEveryone at court fascinates me, however I wish I were here under different circumstances. I know that my sister Mabel & I are at court for the simple reason to find suitable husbands. I am in love with Francis Lacon of surrey, he is of local gentry. Unfortunately he has no title and my father will not except him. While at court my father plans to introduce to as many men as humanly possible. My goal is to make is plans as difficult as possible, without him noticing!\n\nI love my father and I wish I could obey him, as I know I should do. Unfortunately for him my heart is stronger then my mind.		
hastilrd01	Paul Wawrzyniak	George Hastings	Lord George Hastings	Born: 1538 to Francis Hastings, 2nd Earl of Huntington and Katherine Pole. I am one of eleven children. In order, they are: Henry, George, William, Edward, Francis, Walter, Katherine, Frances, Elizabeth, Anne, and Mary. Henry and Elizabeth are at court.\n\nReligion: Even though my brother’s home is a hotbed for Protestants, I take after my mother and I am Roman Catholic.\n\nWhat I hate: I despise my older brother Henry. I feel that he has taken his religion too far.\n\nLoyalties: Above all else, I am loyal to my family.\n\nSecret: I am a very proud man, except I have a weakness. I am extremely ticklish.\n\nWhy am I on progress: I am here to see my sons, Francis, Henry and Edward who are being raised in my brother’s household. I am very angry with him alone because he failed to tell me that Francis is in Geneva studying with a radical Portestant.\n\nHobbies: Enjoys gentlemanly sports, such as archery. Loves to dance. I am as cheerful as my brother is curmugeon-ish!	2003/2003_Hastings_George_01.jpg	herald-huntingdon.gif
parkmldy02	Cassandra McArthur	Mary Parker	Lady Mary Parker	I am the daughter of Sir Henry Parker, 9th Baron Morley and Elizabeth Stanley daughter of Edward Stanley 3rd Earl Derby. I have a beloved brother Edward and a (I need to follow you everywhere) sister Alice.\n\nMy greatest wish is to be back at Great Hallenberry with my brother Edward. I miss my horse Peaches, and our Irish wolfhound Rufus. I was not able to bring my Peaches because father said she was much to spirited for the slowness we would encounter while on progress. Therefor, I have been reduced to riding Misty. The slowest prodding mare in my fathers stables. I am in fervent hope that once we are in Bristol, my father will have monies and ability to acquire a feisty mount for me to ride. My sister and my lady mother will be riding in the litter, for Alice is to small and mother is afraid of horses. Although mother will ride.\n\nFather has said that he will be presenting me to Her Grace in the hopes that I will be counted among her Maids of Honor. I know I will have much to learn.	2003/2003_Parker_Mary_01.jpg	
parkaldy02	Kimberly McArthur	Alice Parker	Lady Alice Parker	I am the daughter of Sir Henry Parker, 9th Baron Morley and Elizabeth Stanley daughter of Edward Stanley, 3rd Earl Derby. I have a brother Edward and a sister Mary.\n\nI am leaving on progress to Bristol with father and mother because they said they wanted me to go. I am too little to object. I could not stay behind with my dear Edward (he never scolds me for anything I do.) This will be quite an adventure of learning for me.\n\nThe thing I shall miss the most about not being at Great Hallenberry is my pony Duchess, and our Irish wolfhound Rufus.	2003/2003_Parker_Alice_03.jpg	
careyldy02	Pam Krajewski	Margeret Carey	Lady Margaret Carey, Maid of Honor	I was born in 1567 to Sir Henry Carey, Knight of the Garter and 1st Baron Hunsdon, and Anne Morgan. I am the youngest of ten children in the family and their third daughter. Howe’er, I have not met two of my brothers (both named Thomas), for they had died young, before I was even born. My brothers are George, John, Thomas, Thomas, William, Edmund, and Robert, and my sisters are Catherine and Philadelphia. I have come to the conclusion that being the youngest in the family is never an easy task and that I must always be careful and watch my back, for my siblings are extremely tricky and quick witted.\n\nMy family is the first and foremost importance to me, and I love that many of them are with me at Court. Both of my sister’s have been a Maid of Honour to our cousin, Queen Elizabeth and I have always looked up to them in hope that one day I would follow in their footsteps. When my sister, Philadelphia had become at the age to be married, Her Majesty had asked me to take her position as a Maid of Honour, and I was privileged to accept this responsibility. I extremely enjoy being on Progress as a Maid of Honour, and I am delighted to spend time with the other Maids, whom I also consider as my close sisters. As sisters always do, we have had our arguments and excitements, and have stuck by each other’s sides through thick and thin. I greatly appreciate and respect Mistress Katherine Ashley (the Mother of the Maids) for all that she has done for us.\n\nIf I were to describe myself it would be trim, cunning, minion, and almost always a merry passion. Many others would also classify me as being franchised, for I am quite frequently free from blame. I am quite certain that my parents, siblings, and close friends would all agree that I can become rather bothersome at times when I take upon another illness and begin my complaining about mine aches, pains, and remedies to cure them. I regret to say that I can become somewhat moody at times like these.\n\nLike my cousin, Her Majesty, my favorite pastime would have to be dancing, for I have found a deep desire for it and will do so with anyone, at any time, and am always willing to learn new ones, practice the old, or even teach others if they are in the need of it. I enjoy dancing with the Queen, and even performing for her.\n\nA year past I have become betrothed to Sir Edward Hoby, whom was shortly afterward, knighted and made Ambassador to Africa. Although I had, at first, been rather hesitant to marry at all, from seeing what has come of the marriages of my siblings, I did trust and respect the loving decisions of my parents that they have found a suitable match for me, with the permission from Her Majesty. Now I believe that I have even fallen in love with him, for I desire him to be back at Court again and long to hear from him in extended missives. Howe’er, I know not when it shall be that we will finally be married, for it is entirely up to Her Grace, and I believe that she is not yet willing to let me go. Until then, I will look forward to the marriage and will enjoy each and every day by Her side.		
radcliff02	Alison Schneider	Mary Radcliffe	Mistress Mary Radcliffe	Addressed as: Mistress Mary or Molly (MoHs and QE only)\n\nWhat history says:\n\nMary Radcliffe was the product of one of the few love based marriages of the time. Her father, Humphrey Radcliffe, was a younger son of the first Earl of Sussex. Her mother, Isabella Harvey, was the daughter of a wealthy merchant. Mary was born in Elstow, Bedfordshire. On New Year's Day, 1561, her father presented Mary as a gift to Queen Elizabeth. From that moment on she became a Maid of Honor and remained a faithful servant to the Queen for the next 40 years. She never married, although she was reportedly very beautiful and many men wooed her. She had one "tepid love affair" but otherwise remained staunchly anti-matrimony. Much of the court referred to her as the Queen’s "Merry Guardian".\n\nWhat the actress says:\n\nMary Radcliffe is usually a very good-natured and kind person. She loves to dance and is always up for hearing a good story or bit of poetry. It is rumoured that she once disguised herself as a boy to act on the stage, but she refuses to admit to such a grave offense and is almost always the picture of proper behavior. (although she occasionally gets swept up in schemes concocted by her fellow Maids) Since she has been a Maid of Honor longer than any of the other girls, and due to her kind and compassionate nature, Mary is the main source of solace and comfort for her "sisters". She is also often called upon to be the temperate "voice of reason". On the subject of men, she has no tolerance for empty flattery and false protestations of love. You are much more likely to catch her interest with a witty tale or a well turned leg. And, although she is usually very kind and good-natured, if she is tiring of a gentleman’s company she will certainly let him know.\n\n****Gentlemen: My hope for this character is that she will recieve a great deal of attention from a variety of suitors. Therefore, I need your help. Any chance you can get to send letters, sappy poems, small trinkets (I’ll give them back) would be appreciated. Also, personal attention, i.e. flattery, etc. would be great. Just don’t take it personally when you’re advances are ignored (or worse).		
knollysc01	Jackie Dethloff	Cecilia Knollys	Mistress Cecilia Knollys, Maid of Honor	June 1573\n\nThe most private thoughts of Cecilia Knollys,\n\nThe time is finally here, now that I am eighteen years old. I am to take my place among the others who serve Her Majesty as a maid of honor. My niece, Dorothy Devereux, and my cousin Margate Carey are already there. Not only do I have to live up to the Queen’s expectations of me, my sister, Laeticia, is also there! I have not seen her for quite some time now. She is so perfect. I’ll never be like that, but really, what do I expect, Mother, Catherine Carey, has passed on, God rest her soul, and I was left to be raised by my Father, Sir Francis Knollys, and four of the eleven children who are still at home. Too many men around! I do think that I will miss Robert, Richard, Francis and Thomas very much. I missed the others when they left home. I wonder if they will miss me now that I am gone?\n\nI wonder what the people will be like. There will be so many, and my recurring nightmare is that I will not know who someone is and I’ll make the biggest fool of myself. Hopefully family will be kind. I know my Aunt Ann Morgan and Uncle Henry Carey and Margate will be there. Eleanor, my Uncle Henry’s (on my father’s side) daughter will be there as well. Of course Laeticia’s children Dorothy and Robert will be there as well. I miss the late Walter Devereux. God rest his soul. Let me not make a social blunder of any degree in front of Laeticia, the Queen or Kat Ashley. If it be the Queen, just take me to the Tower now; being her second cousin on my mother’s side will do nothing for me. I’ve heard stories about Mistress Catherine, but I will let my own experiences dictate my opinion of her. As for Laeticia, she was always kind to me when she came home to visit, and she always gave me presents. Just like my new dress. It is so beautiful; the tailor did such a marvelous job. I can just hear Laeticia’s voice now, "Have a care with the dress Cecilia." I hope that I don’t tear it dancing, or going on a hunt, or while in town. I have never been to Bristol. I bet it will be grand. The only other place where I’ve lived was Germany, but I was three when we moved back to England. Dancing! Oh how I want to do that now, but I’m afraid that I won’t know all the steps. I have to confess I’ve done more of the country’s dances, than the Court’s, especially since Mother’s passed on. I just hope that I don’t have to sit inside all day and study lessons, languages, sew, practice proper etiquette, and do anything else they are going to make me do inside. I know that all these things are important duties of a person of my position of life, but… It is my first time away from home, I want to meet people, make friends, dice, bet, hunt, dance, see all there is to see, and most importantly… have fun. I rather be outside than inside any day of the week, in any weather.\n\nI guess the learning of being a member of The Queen’s Court is about to begin. I hope I don’t fail my family. Someday I hope to marry, maybe Sir Thomas Leighton, and continue to be at Court serving Her Majesty as a Lady of the Bedchamber.\n\nWith God’s Grace,\n\nCecilia Knollys, Maid of Honor		
leehenry02	Jeffrey Gibson	Henry Lee	Sir Henry Lee, K.G., Queen’s Champion	Sir Henry Lee, the Queen’s Champion and Master of the Joust, was born in 1530 to Sir Anthony Lee of Borston, Buckinghamshire, and Margaret, daughter of Sir Henry Wyatt of Allington Castle, Kent. \n\nBefore matriculating at Oxford University, Sir Henry was educated for a time by his uncle, the poet Sir Thomas Wyatt, from whom he learned the art of matters poetical. He is married to Anne, daughter of William, Lord Paget, and has a daughter Mary. \n\nIn 1545 Sir Henry entered the service of Henry VIII, serving as clerk of the armoury and later as master of the leash. He was knighted by the King in 1548 and was member of parliament for Buckinghamshire in 1558 and 1572. \n\nThrough the favour of Sir Robert Dudley, the Earl of Leicester, Sir Henry is now comptroller of Woodstock in Oxfordshire where he resides - in his manor at Ditchley -- when not on progress with the Queen. He was also regent-marshal in the wars with Scotland and, being the first to breach the defenses of Edinburgh Castle at the close of those wars, was instrumental in the surrender of the last desperate adherents to Mary’s rule to the regency of James Douglas, the Earl of Morton. \n\nOn 17 Nov. 1569 Sir Henry was present at a tournament given in honour of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth to celebrate her Accession to the Throne. Struck by the Queen’s beauty, he then and there made a vow of chivalry that each year, on that date, he would maintain Elizabeth's honour against all comers. Hearing of this, Her Majesty at once accepted him as her Champion, an office which he now holds with pride. Sir Henry formed and presides over a Society of Knights Tilters, dedicated to preserving the ancient art of the joust and providing Knightly entertainment for Her Majesty on her Accession Day and when ‘ere else the Queen so desires it. \n\nOn progress with Her Grace, whom he calls “Fair Lady”, Lee, by virtue of his position of Master of the Joust, arranges contests of horsemanship and feats of arms for the Queen’s pleasure. The joust in the tiltyard at Bristol are under his command. He proudly wears tokens of Her Majesty's esteem .\n\nVastly skilled in arms and horsemanship, and dedicated to all traditions of chivalry, Sir Henry is known by all within the court as the model knight who epitomizes the ideals of the court of King Arthur and his Round Table Companions. His Motto is Fides et Constantia, Faithfulness and Steadfastness. \n\nLee has a ready wit – which you will find often aimed at his friend Sir Francis Drake, especially when Sir Francis begins his disquisitions on English horticulture and the poetical skills of the Earl of Oxford, Sir Edward DeVere. \n		
perrotjo02	Andy Kaufman	John Perrot	Captain Sir John Perrot, K.B.	Born in 1527 to Sir Thomas Perrot & Lady Mary Berkley. Presumed to be a bastard son of Henry VIII. \n\nEducated at St. Davids in Pembrokeshire, at age 18 was placed in the service of the Marquis of Winchester, William Paulet. \n\nHe possessed great physical strength, a violent disposition and a reputation for brawling. Because of this he owes a personal introduction to King Henry VIII. King Henry made him a Promise of Preferment, but King Henry died before he could fulfill it. \n\nMade a Knight of the Bath in 1547 by Edward VI. During the reign of Edward VI he was a champion jouster. He ran up very extravagent debts but because of the friendship between Sir John & Edward VI most were paid by the crown. Sir John stayed by the Kings side until the end of his reign. He had served as a man of the King’s bedchamber and King’s Champion. \n\nWhen Mary arrived on the throne thing started to become dicey for Sir John. He was denounced by countrymen of his for housing heretics in his home in Wales. He was detained only for a short time in Fleet prison and then was sent to serve under the Earl of Pembroke in France, and was present at the capture of St. Quentin in 1557. \n\nWhen Elizabeth ascended the throne he was chosen as one of the four men to carry her canopy of state at her coronation. Soon afterwards he was made Vice-Admiral of the seas about the south of Wales and Ireland, keeper of the gaol in Haverfordwest and because of Pembrokes influence was granted Carew Castle. He began extensively re-modeling the castle and it became one of the grand Tudor mansions of the day. While at his estates he sponsored piracy and fisheries off Newfoundland. \n\nHe was made a member of Parliament, a member of the Council of Marches and had become the most powerful person in his county. In 1571 he was sent to Ireland to be President of Munster and to restore order. And after 2 1/2 years of intensive action was able to do so. He returned to England without the Queens leave pleading ill health. He returned to England in July of 1573 and received a gracious welcome from Elizabeth. In spite her wishes for him to stay. He was shortly thereafter made a member of the Privy Council . \n\nHe was married to Lady Ann Cheney, no date given, they had a son Thomas, approx 1563. \n\nA few character notes about John Perrot. He is the fourth wealthiest individual in all England. Currently a widower of about 7-8 years. Thomas,my son, is in the Huntington household to be raised as a proper gentleman,unlike my rough self. A very able military commander and respected as such. Very political, much smarter than I appear to be. He was the number two man being considered for Chancellorship of England. . Religiously of a mind with the Queen. I have the dirt on almost everyone within the court, thanks to the dear departed Marquis of Winchester. If you have a dark secret you can rest assured that I either have it or can get it. That is the reason that I have stayed out of gaol for so long. Good friends with Walsingham, Archbishop Parker, Baron Burghley & Lord Strange and anyone that plies his trade on the seas. Whatever the trade may be \n		
drurywil02	Thomas M. Caulfield	William Drury	Sir William Drury	Born in 1527, in Hawstead. Son of Sir Robert Drury, Speaker of the House of Commons. His family was very well connected to the Royal Family. His grandfather was instrumental in seating Mary on the throne after the death of Edward. \n\nWilliam served proudly in the military, in campaign in France and the Lowlands. He was recognized as an accomplish strategist. Service to the crown runs in his blood. Knighted on the battlefield, something he was incredibly proud of, and felt some contempt for those whose were dubbed with "an unhacked rapier, on carpet at home in the soft silken days of peace". \n\nHe has an intense loyalty to those who have fought to defend the crown. Sir William is respected by the men he leads as well as those he fights. \n\nOn the event of the Queen's visit to Hawstead Manor. A stop along her progress. He pledged his loyalty to the Queen and the Anglican Church. He became one of Queen Elizabeth's most trusted knights and a member of Parliament. In time he was considered the most able commander of the Irish Wars. \n\nThough he can appear stern and unapproachable, he is very friendly. Always one quick with a humorous story, and knows the importance of a good laugh. He finds comfort in the company of fellow knights and soldiers. \nWhile attending progress, he intends to utilize the time to meet with Baron Burghley as well as renew old friendships. \n		
willough02	Frank Skony	Francis Willoughbye	Sir Francis Willoughbye, Sheriff of Nottinghamshire	Sir Francis Willoughbye was quite a remarkable fellow. Born in 1546 to Sir Henry Willoughbye and Anne Grey, He led a life that was not always clear cut for him. \n\nSir Francis came from a wealthy and powerful gentry family. His family had landholdings in many of the midcountries, including Warwickshire, Dorset, Nottinghamshire, and Leicestershire. Many of these were acquired through shrewd marriage decisions. His Family was also one of the principal suppliers of Coal for the midcountries, as well as Iron and Glassworks. \n\nHe did not begin life in humble beginnings, nor was he to live his life humbly. His many cousins in court include many of the Upper Echelons of court society. He is related to the Dudleys, Greys and Seymours, as well as the Stanleys, and Radcliffes, many of these alliances again through shrewd familial marriage decisions. \n\nSuprisingly, Sir Francis was not the Eldest Child; He was actually the youngest of three. Francis' father, Sir Henry, married Anne Grey, daughter of Thomas Grey, Marquis of Dorset, sometime prior to 1540 when their first son Thomas was born. They then had a daughter, Margaret, and then Francis in 1546. Unfortunately, Anne Grey died shortly after Francis' birth. Sir Henry did not live long either, Dying at the side of John Dudley, Earl of Warwick in defense of the crown against Kett's rebels in 1549.\n\nThe death of their father threw the Willoughbye children into a whole new world. Thomas' wardship was purchased by The Willoughbye children's uncle, Sir Henry Grey, Marquis of Dorset and Duke of Suffolk, and also father of Jane Grey.\n\nFrancis spent most of his youth on the Fringes of the court, serving in the household of Sir Henry. He was being trained in the courtly ways, and his sister was learning the virtues of being a good court Lady. This situation was not to last, however, as the attempt to place Lady Jane on the throne threw the children's fate in the air again. Thomas' wardship was purchased by Lord Paget, and Margaret remained with Her Aunt, Frances Brandon as a Lady in Waiting. Francis was sent to school where he studied Music and Writing. . In 1559, however, his brother Thomas died of Heat Exhaustion while Hunting, and he assumed the role of Head of his household. His wardship was up for grabs, as he was only thirteen. \n\nSir Francis Knollys, an old friend of the Willoughbye's purchased Francis' wardship, and Francis' studies changed to incorporate what a gentleman would need to know to function in the world. Knollys position at court meant that Francis would have to be in constant attendance to the Queen, including many progresses. While happy for the rise in position, he was disgruntled with the loss of freedom it entailed. His Sister, meanwhile, had become a fixture at court and attracted the eye of Sir Matthew Arundell, thus ensuring for herself a career of Royal attendance. \n\nAt the age of 18, Francis was offered the hand of Elizabeth Knollys, sister to Lettyce, to be his wife. Exercising his independence, he refused, and soon purchased his wardship back from Sir Francis. It is evident that no ill will was felt towards this, as Knollys and Francis remained friends for many years to come. \n\nFrancis instead opted to marry a woman from the country, Elizabeth Littleton of Frankley. She was the daughter of another close family friend, John Littleton. The marriage terms were simple, Littleton would pay a dowry of 1500 pounds, would buy his daughters clothing, and provide residence for the couple for three years. In return, Francis would provide a one-third jointure of his estates to Elizabeth. Robert Dudley, A close friend of Francis' supported the match, as did others. His sister Margaret however was against the match, feeling that Littleton was untrustworthy, and that he was using his friendship with Francis to influence the match. This was however, only the first of many problems to occur in this relationship.\n\nSir John reneged on his Dowry agreement, which Francis took as a personal attack. He was obsessed with wealth and status, and any loss was inconceivable to him. This situation caused fighting with his wife, who was not all that stable to begin with. Elizabeth was a very turbulent woman, Her contemporaries stating that she had ungovernable passions. She was an extremely headstrong woman, and was a loud critic of her husband. They did manage, however to have 12 children, only 5 of which survived, all daughters.   The absence of a Male heir also strained the household. Sir Francis refused to name an heir, and all of the servants vied for the opportunity to serve him, perhaps to ensure that they might be well remembered when Sir Francis passed on. It was a sizable estate; Sir Francis took in well over 1,000 pounds a year from his coal mines alone, \n\nWhile Francis was bred for a life at court, he avoided it at all cost, for one it strained his independent demeanor. Also, as his wife was quite a volatile woman, he frequently had to watch out for her, Lest she attempt to raise a town against him as she once did. This attitude actually caused him to miss his own Knighting in 1566. He did not receive his knighting until 1575 as a result. \n\nOne of Francis' dreams was that the Queen would visit his Estate on Progress. When he broached the subject of her visiting his estate at Middleton in 1575, She decided against it, Stating that the Facilities were not large enough to support a progress there. While this may have crushed smaller men, Sir Francis saw this as an opportunity to upgrade the Family seat in Wollaton. No mere renovation, Sir Francis spent over 13 years in planning and construction of one of the finest examples of Elizabethan architecture, Wollaton Hall. Sir Francis was an avid follower of many schools of Architecture, and boasted on of the largest Architecture libraries of the time, numbering over 240 volumes on the one subject alone. At the same time, his marriage continued to crumble. \n\nHis Arguments with Elizabeth continued, leading to a formal separation by the Queen in 1582. He was ordered to pay 20 pounds a year for the maintenance of a separate household for his estranged wife, and he did so dutifully. One interesting quirk to this is that Elizabeth, who had been pressing for a separation for numerous years, had a change of heart right after the separation, and began to beg Francis to take her back. They finally did reunite in 1588, when the new hall was completed, but she resumed her previous behavior, to the exasperation of Francis. Elizabeth died in 1594, after a fall at the Countess of Shrewsbury's home, And Francis remarried to Dorothy Tamworth shortly after, and had another Daughter before Passing away at age 50 in 1596. \n \nContemporaries of Sir Francis said that he was a well mannered, pious man, of great intelligence, and of a friendly nature. He was an excellent Estate Manager, and even though he made a few bad investments in his life, He otherwise fared well for himself. From all accounts, I do not believe that his relationship with his wife was always bad. He put up with quite a lot from her, and never was separating from her his idea. She was a very headstrong woman with many ideas that the world was not yet ready for, including women's equality. She was also a Hypochondriac, although her numerous pregnancies did result in many problems. He took this all in stride, however, and didn't let her affect his relationships with others. \n\nAs for the portrayal at Faire, Sir Francis is well versed in music and dance, He is always scouting out the new talents in Bristol, as he always needs musicians at his home. He also might be talking about politics or family, both important subjects to him. His sister Margaret will be visiting Frequently, and they get along quite well. Remember this, The Willoughbye's seem to have spread their genes out pretty well among the populace, so chances are that you’re a cousin at least! I have actually traced back a thread, and am the Great Uncle of the Earl of Sussex believe it or not, and he is way my senior! Gotta love Elizabethan Marriages! But, at the heart of it all, Sir Francis is looking for the party, wherever that may be. He is devoted to the Queen, and enjoys any moment spent with her, be it waiting at table, or guarding her around the shire as a GP. But when not on duty, he'll sneak away for a dance, or a bit of singing somewhere, or perhaps a nice tall ale with his Comrades. His wife is safely away in the country, and he doesn't mind some harmless flirting with the court ladies either.  Where his wife is concerned, If you've ever watched Frasier, She is Maris! Pure and simple… A bone thin, pasty white waif of a woman, with her nose always in the air, having a fit about something. Francis suffers her gladly though, as it gives him an excuse to leave home for a while, or retreat back home when he wants to get away. His is very glad this progress to be visiting his cousin Catherine Dudley. He loves her dearly, and he also hopes to get back some money he loaned to her husband Henry awhile back. Other than that, Bring on the roasted pheasant! And I'll take the room farthest from the noise of the Kitchen!\n	2003/2003_Willoughby_Francis_05.jpg	
horsened03	Patrick Bailey	Edward Horsey	Sir Edward Horsey, Captain of the Isle of Wight	Edward was born to Jasper and Joan Horsey, a reasonably prominent family of gentry in Dorsetshire. His eldest brother William was to inherit his father’s estate and the holdings that went with it, so Edward stuck out into the world in search of adventure. With his brother they went to the continent and made names for themselves as soldiers of fortune. The same pair of Horseys were implicated in a plot to dethrone Queen Mary. They traveled to France to elicit assistance from the French King, Henry II. Unfortunately, the conspiracy was discovered and their necks were saved only by their absence. Edward continued to live in exile until Elizabeth took the throne, when he returned to his native shores. It was then that he was reunited with his good friend, Lord Robert Dudley.\n\nEdward returned to the battlefield, this time for the crown. He followed the Earl of Warwick to Havre as a captain. There only to be handed grievous defeat by their supposed French allies. In 1565 he was appointed as Captain of the Isle of Wight, a very important strategic defensive garrison. A position that he held until his death in 1583. At the outbreak of the Northern Rebellion in 1569, he was dispatched with five hundred horse to put it down. He also served Elizabeth as an ambassador periodically to both France and the Netherlands.\n\nEdward Horsey has been called both pirate and soldier of fortune. He wears both of these designations proudly. He is a born adventurer and keen minds for matters of war. He makes no apologies for who he is and takes his duties seriously. To Edward, he and the Isle of Wight are the first line of defense, the vanguard, against any foreign threat. He zealously repairs and improves the defenses of ‘his island’. Rarely does he leave its shores, save for the Queens call. He is not used to the rigors of court. He enjoys a simple life of simple pleasures. He joined the entourage’s arrival in Bristol in order to remind Leycestre of these very things. In this sort of opportunity, Edward proves that he can even be a bit of a drunk.\n\nHis loyalty to ‘Her Glorious Resplendent Majesty’ is beyond reproach. Edward had the pleasure to meet the Princess Elizabeth betimes as a young man, through his Dudley friendship. It was then that he saw her as the true child of King Henry. It was for this very reason and his religion that he contrived to remove Mary from the throne for her sister. He will exult the day he is given the opportunity to lay his life down for his Queen.\n\nEdward holds his Protestant beliefs close to heart. While he may not speak often of his beliefs, he borders on a zealot. His distrust and dislike of Catholics is extreme, especially Spanish. He does little to obfuscate these feelings from those around him.\n\nRobert Dudley, now the Earl of Leycestre, is Edward’s oldest and closest friend. He has seen times when both the great peer and the Queen herself were out of favor and under threat of death. He will refer to Leycestre as ‘Robert’ but only in casual company. Horsey prefers to be called ‘Edward’ or ‘Sir Edward’, but he is also used to being the biggest fish in the pond. Those who are close to him are invited to use the nickname ‘Ned’.	2002/2002_Horsey_Sir_Edward_01.jpg	
tyrwhitt02	Rich Miller	Robert Tyrwhitt	Sir Robert Tyrwhitt, Her Majestie's Master of the Hunt	Historically, Master Robert Tyrwhitt was named after his grandfather who was a Privy Councilor before, and into, Elizabeth's reign. He is heir to the untitled lands of Kettleby in Lincolnshire. He was a ward of the Manners and served Her Majesty in his youth as a page. He married Lady Bridgett Manners through a mutually desirable arrangement by her parents, but without the Queen's permission (which landed him in the Tower). There is little more recorded historically about him. The following includes what has happened "Bristorically." These are the events and traits that are most associated with The Hunt Master at faire over the years. I use this existing familiarity as a basis to aid me in further developing my portrayal of him. \n\nSir Robert is Her Majesty's Master of the Hunt and has traveled to Bristol ahead of Her Grace to insure all proper manner of hunting is arranged for Her Pleasure. He is no stranger to the ways of court and has enjoyed many a Progress. He was knighted on Progress (during the ’96 season) for service in Kid's Kingdom. He is friendly with many of the old families in court through his positions and duties. His occupation has also acquainted him with much of the local population. His dislike for court politics may find him more comfortable in his duties away from court: practicing archery, inspecting the mews and kennels, visiting the fletchers, bowyers and foresters, and teaching the local children about hunting and courtly behavior. His loyalty to Her Majesty comes before everything, however, and this keeps him close to her. \n\nSir Robert is practical and tries to surround himself with the same. Art to him is found in nature and useful things. He appreciates well-made clothing and weapons, especially if they are suitable for the hunt. He likes good English longbows in particular and considers gunpowder to be "a passing fancy." He’ll send you to his man Thomas in Thistlecroft if you lack a good bow or arrows. He dislikes anyone who is all show and no substance and doesn't care for the overdressed "new men" in court who "wear their lands upon their backs." That is, until they prove themselves in service to The Crown, or in advancement of arts or sciences. He accepts and is proud of his own station in life, without wishing undo advancement. He carries his bow like a gleaming badge of office. While doing his best to maintain a courtly attitude, his country accent may sometimes betray humbler roots. Not too humble, though, since his ancestors came over with William the Conqueror and also fought at Agincourt. He respects order and tradition and is wary of change. His daily routine is important in the same way. When you see him about the shire, be sure that he is about some task. He is ever watchful, often on a hunt of some sort. Above all, he values duty and honor and tolerates nothing less around the Queen. \n\nLike most Tyrwhitts, Sir Robert is recusant. He believes religion should be personal, not fashionable or political. He \nkeeps his religion to himself, but will be defensive of it if provoked. He appreciates Her Majesty’s Tolerance in this matter and will not likely abuse it in Her Presence. He finds precisionists to be both amusing and tiresome, although he respects their right to their own opinion (even if they do not accept his). He will support Catholics over Protestants only if there is nothing else to base a decision on. However, do not expect him to automatically accept or avoid someone based solely on their faith. \n\nSir Robert’s marriage to Lady Bridgett has not happened yet, but to look at them together, one may guess there is something more than childhood friendship there. Lady Bridgett and Sir Roger Manners, the Earl of Rutland, are like sister and brother to him because of their childhood spent together. \n\nYou may experience friendly rivalry from Sir Robert if you are a "new man," a recently returned explorer, a supporter of firearms, or are competition for Her Majesty’s Hand at the dance. He will not hesitate to side with you, however, as a good Englishman against a perceived common enemy. \n		
sidneyph02	Dustin Morton	Philip Sidney	Sir Philip Sidney	Sir Philip Sidney, Joint Master of the Ordinance, Royal Cupbearer, Member of Parliament for Kent; perhaps one of the most famous courtiers and poets of his age, or as recorded by his peers after his death, of all of England. Born to Sir Henry Sidney, dear friend of the late Edward VI and Lord Deputy of Ireland for over 15 years, and Mary Dudley, sister of the Earl of Leicester, Philip has high hopes and aspirations pinned upon him at a very young age.  He attended Oxford where he made many influential friends such as Walter Raleigh.\nHe traveled the continent for three years after learning French, Latin and Italian and became acquainted with many European statesmen.  During, his travels in France with Sir Francis Walsingham he witnessed the Bartholomews' Day Massacre of thousands of Protestants.  It was during this time he first met his (very far in the future) wife Frances.  He then traveled to Germany, Austria, Hungary, Poland, Holland and Italy before returning to England somewhat of an expert on European affairs, courtly and political.  Philip then spent several years serving with his father and Walter Devereaux, the Earl of Essex in Ireland.  Following a year there, the queen sent him on a diplomatic mission to the German Emperor and the Prince of Orange with condolences upon the deaths of their fathers and sound out their attitude on the growing power of Spain.  He was constantly falling in and out of favor with the queen due to his temper and the annoying habit of telling the queen what he thought instead of what she wanted to hear.  Later in his life he was to serve as Joint Master of the Ordinance supervising coastal defense.\nHe was well studied in law, science, philosophy, state affairs, military matters, tilting, dancing ... just about everything.  He had friends in influential positions in all of these fields all over the continent and England and had no qualms about consorting with Catholics, judging people by their character and intellects rather than their religious persuasion and was actually assigned a job collecting taxes from practicing Catholics -watch for it!  Although he enjoyed and excelled at the martial arts and pleased the queen on many occasions at winning many tournaments, he found hunting cruel and barbaric.\nIn truth, none of Phillips poems were widely read until after his death.  To make things more interesting however, my Philip will have poems handy and will grudgingly recite them, especially if pressed by a lady.  As a true renaissance man, Philip will deftly juggle his flattery and time spent with the ladies; whom in history he preferred to spend time with; and whatever opportunity rises to drink, dice or fence with the men of court.\nPhilip is a very hot-headed young man and easy to take offense, when he does, he may not have the direct words to put you in your place, but beware his pen!  He will take any opportunity, to play any sort of game or practice, fencing or archery.  He will be eager to engage in most any conversation, especially any pertaining to the New World which he desperately hopes to visit and explore.  Although quick to anger, he is also quick to forgive and loves to laugh unless you dare besmirch the family name of Dudley, beware!!		
verefran02	Hans Adelfang	Francis Vere	Sir Francis Vere	Sir Francis Vere was the second son of Geoffrey de Vere and the nephew of John de Vere, the sixteenth Earl of Oxford. At an early age, he was taught the art of war by Sir William Browne, and before the age of twenty-one, decided to adopt the profession of a soldier. In 1585, after the murder of the Prince of Orange, Elizabeth sent a small English army to the Netherlands under the command of the Earl of Leicester. Vere first joined as a volunteer for this service, first serving with the Leicester, and later with Lord Willoughby. Under Willoughby's command, he took part in battles at Bergen-op-Zoom and Axel. He distinguished himself during the seige of Sluys, and afterwards was referred to as "young Vere who fought at Sluys" or, "Captain Vere, one of the defenders of Sluys". In 1588 he received knighthood by Willoughby. Vere then returned to England and was introduced to the queen by Burghly. \n\nIn 1589 Vere returned to the theatre of war and was appointed sergent-major-general of the forces. In the same year, during a seige at Gertruydenburg, Vere was suspected of being a participant in a mutiny, but the accusations were quickly proven false. He continued to serve honorably, particularly at the Cadiz expedition, where he was lord-marshal, lieutenant-general ad one of six members of Essex's council of war. In 1598 Vere was selected by the queen and Burghly as special envoy to go to the Hague to negotiate a new treaty between England and Holland. The new treaty was signed and as a mark of royal favor, Vere was appointed governor of the town of Brill. His last major battle was that of Nieuport, during which he was seriously wounded. After the death of Elizabeth, Vere retired from service and returned to England. There, in 1607, he married Elizabeth Dent. He died two years later, at the age of forty-nine, and was buried in Westminster Abbey. \n\nThis passage is taken from "The Fighting Veres" by Clements R. Markham: ...The one romance of Vere's life was his devoted loyalty to Queen Elizabeth. It may seem that his devotion was poorly requited, but it was not so. The Queen, who was a good judge of character, considered Vere to be the best general in her service. She entrusted him with diplomatic missions, and made him commander of her forces, and governor of the Brill. She was urged to do more, and to make him a peer. This was her reply: "In his proper sphere, and in my estimation, Sir Francis Vere is above a peerage already. All that could be expected from such an addition would be the entombing of the spirit of a brave soldier in the corpse of a less sightly courtier; and by tempting him from his charge, hazard that repute upon a carpet which his valor has dearly purchased him in the field." \n		
frobishe02	Jeremy Port	Martin Frobisher	Captain Sir Martin Frobisher	Captain Sir Martin Frobisher was born in 1535 in Altofts, Yorkshire. As a young man he used his connections to Yorkshire gentry and London merchants to secure himself a place as a cabin boy with Wyndham-Pinteando expedition to Guinea in 1553. His love for adventure led him to the life as a privateer. Martin’s willingness to exceed the licenses of privateering led him to be arrested for piracy. He avoided a lengthy sentence in gaol by going into her Majesty’s service hunting privateers and smugglers. \n\nIn 1576 He, with backing of Michael Lok as well as the Earl of Warick, took three ships across the sea to find the North West Passage. The journey brought back a small return, including an Inuit Captive as well as a piece of black ore. The ore was found to contain gold and the plans for a second voyage were started. A royal charter was granted to “The Adventurers to the Northwest for the Discovery of a Northwest Passage” or “the Company of Cathay”. Martin was appointed the High Admiral Of Cathay as well as all newly discovered seas and lands. His financial backers now included many courtiers as well as Queen Elizabeth Herself. Martin returned from this voyage with 200 tons of the ‘black ore’. \n\nAt the time of this writing, Capt. Frobisher is eagerly trying to drum up support to return to the portion of the New World he has so modestly named Frobisher’s Straits. He is certain of the chance for even more profit to be made if he can mine even more of the silver and gold bearing ore. \n\nCaptain Frobisher, or simply Martin as his friend Drake and Perrot know him, is a reckless man with little patience or understanding of the subtleties of court. He would rather be in tavern putting back a few pints and telling stories of his years at sea then surrounded by the popinjays at court. He realizes his failings at diplomacy though, and can usually be found near Sir Francis Drake, relying on Drake’s wit to counter-act his rash tongue. All in all Capt. Frobisher is a man who believes in living his life to the very fullest and experiencing as much as life has to offer him.   \n		
dethickw02	John Neitz	William Dethick	Sir William Dethick, Garter Principal King of Arms	William Dethick was born about 1543, the second son and eventual heir of Gilbert Dethick (born between 1500 and 1520). His mother was Alice Peterson. Gilbert Dethick was a herald, granted a mansion by Henry VIII at Poplar in the parish of  Stepney just east of London. His older brother Nicholas was also a herald and his younger brother Henry was Chancellor of the diocese of Carlisle. Dethick married Thomasine Young and had three sons. The Dethicks were of Dutch ancestry, possibly descended from one of the armourers Henry VIII imported for the Greenwich armoury. However, the family pretended to be descended from a family of Derbyshire gentry. Sir Gilbert became Garter King of Arms in 1550. The College of Heralds often had chapter meetings at Poplar until 1555 when they were granted Derby House in London as a permanent headquarters, so William probably was exposed to their work at a young age.\nHe was educated at St. John’s College, Cambridge, and later became a member of Gray’s Inn. In 1564, he accompanied his father to France to invest Charles IX with the Order of the Garter.  He was appointed Rouge Croix Pursuivant in 1567. In 1568 he accompanied his father and the Earl of Sussex to invest Maximillian II with the Garter, after which he stayed on the continent and traveled a while in Italy. He was promoted to York Herald in 1570 over more senior pursuivants, including his brother. Sir Gilbert died in 1584 and William succeeded to the office (after an 18 month period during which Robert Cooke, Clarenceaux King of Arms, acted as temporary Garter King). William was knighted by James I on May 13, 1603. He died in 1612 and was buried in St. Paul’s Cathedral.\nDethick was thought to be an excellent and capable herald. He must have been very ambitious, as his promotions demonstrate. He was a member of the original Society of Antiquaries, which met in his chambers at the College of Arms. He was regarded as "the most skillful herald of his day". He gave New Years gifts to Queen Elizabeth including, in 1589, a beautiful illuminated "Booke of the Armes of the Noblemen in Henry the Fifts Tyme".  However, William Dethick was an "arrogant and passionate and constantly in trouble with his colleagues and others", "he was a man of the most tyrannical disposition and had an ungovernable temper". Among the incidents recorded:\n* Struck his father with his fist.\n* Wounded his brother with a dagger at Windsor.\n* Beat the minister in the church at Sir Henry Sidney’s funeral.\n* Struck two persons with a dagger at the funeral of the Countess of Sussex, for which he was indicted at Newgate, but got off through connections.\n* Insulted and struck another clergyman.\nCoordinating funerals of nobles was an important source of personal income for the heralds, who took turns at this duty, and often argued over whose turn was next.\nAs York Herald, he made grants of Arms under his own seal (only Kings of Arms are allowed to grant arms). The delay in taking office as Garter was because there was opposition to his promotion. Dethick induced Nicasius, a clerk of the signet, to insert a clause into his Garter patent of office which gave him extra powers and privileges. This was discovered after Dethick took office. Walsingham investigated and laid into Nicasius so sharply that "the poor old man for very grief died".\nAs Garter, Dethick was often in conflict with the provincial kings of arms, Clarenceaux and Norroy, over their respective rights and privileges. There were so many complaints that in 1604, William Segar was appointed Garter but Dethick sought redress from Parliament. Finally, on the King’s request Dethick stepped down, but only after he was granted Ł200 per year for life and exemption from taxation.		
spanamba03	Nick Heath	Alvarez de Quadra	Alvarez de Quadra, Spanish Ambassador	There is very little known about me historically. What you can find I’m referred to as the “Corts Italian Spy” or “The Old Bishop” even The Dirty Spaniard. If you were to try to find anything about me other than that “nada”. So here is how I see it ~\nI was born and raised in the Venosa region of Italy under Spanish rule. Being the third son of a noble Spanish family, while growing up was groomed for a life in the church. After my ordination I was positioned at St. Antonio monastery. After a couple of years I was made Abbot. At the behest of his Imperial Majesty Charles the Fifth, was created Bishop of Venosa. He wanted someone to sit with the Spanish bishops at the Council of Trent. A few years after I was moved to L’Aquila, in the Abruzzi Region. This is where I fell in love and never wished to leave my bishopric. Because everything changes – I received a missive from Charles’ son Philip II. He wished me to resign (wished – TOLD!) and move to England and be the next Spanish ambassador. And that is how I wound up here at Bristol.		
melville02	Marc Miller	James Melville	Sir James Melville, Ambassador from Scotland	Sir James Melville of Halhill (1535 – 1617) was a courtier not only in his native Scotland but also in England and on the Continent, in the era of the time of Mary, Queen of Scots, Elizabeth Tudor and Catherine de’ Medici.\n\nHe was a page to Mary Queen of Scots in France and, after her return to Scotland, was employed as Mary's representative at the court of Elizabeth I of England as ambassador.  His service to Scotland continued even after the deposition of Mary and continued onward into the reign of James VI of Scotland.\n\nMelville and Queen Elizabeth share a special relationship and great appreciation and admiration  of each other.  According to his memoirs, during his visit to the English court in 1564 Queen Elizabeth “entered with me very familiarly, showing me the sisterly love that was betwixt her and the queen my sovereign,…she had in her head two persons to propose, any one of the two, for fittest husbands unto her.”  It would not be uncommon to find Sir James smiling to himself as everyone argues about a marriage for the Queen, for he already knows her mind in the matter.\n\nSo much did Queen Elizabeth enjoy Melville’s company that while he was at court she would confer with him daily, sometimes three times each day opening herself to him as a sort of confidant.  In truth she even dressed for him, to show her finest to him and asked his opinion in matters of fashion.  Melville would later write how she wore a different gown each day of his visit and asked him which he found suited her the best, and then went further to ask what color hair he thought best.  She would even show off her musical talents for him, to show her mastery of virginals (a piano-like instrument).\n\nSir James lived to a very old age (82 is ancient by Elizabethan standards) but before he retired he returned once more to visit the English Court that he had enjoyed so much in his long life.\n		
cookeann02	Chris Brookes	Anne Cooke	Anne Cooke, Lady Bacon	Anne Cooke, Lady Bacon is remembered as a classical scholar, a religious Purist, a devoted wife, and an overprotective mother. She was born in Gidea Hall, Essex, in 1528 to Sir Anthony Cooke and Anne Fitzwilliam. Her mother instilled a devout Puritanism in all of her nine children. Her father, while tutoring young Prince Edward, also provided his children the same classical education. Anne remembers being a teenager in the schoolroom with the royal children and participating in courtly events at Hatfield House with Princess Elizabeth.\n\nAnne and her sisters, considered among the most well-educated women in the realm, all married well: Mildred to William Cecil, Elizabeth to Thomas Hoby (and later John Russell), Katherine to Henry Killegrew, Margaret to Ralph Rowlett, and Anne herself to Nicholas Bacon, Lord Keeper of the Great Seal. Although 18 years his junior, Anne was a match for Nicholas in every way. His devotion to her was evident in the poems and prayers he wrote to and about her. They shared common interests and values, had high ideals and modest desires. At Gorhambury, they lived a life of moderation and simplicity, following their motto – Mediocria Firma – the middle way is a firm rule.\n\nWhile Nicholas was involved in affairs of state, Anne used her education to further the cause of Puritan Protestantism. She translated various educational and ecclesiastical works into English from Latin and Greek and communicated with scholars and religious leaders on the Continent. She also avidly wrote letters to family and friends. Her missives were filled with news and advice (“Let not your men drink wine this hot weather,” “Use prayer twice in a day.” “Sup not nor sit up late”) sprinkled with Latin and Greek quotations. She felt she was working for the good of the souls of others.\n\nFamily was of utmost importance to Lady Bacon. She and Nicholas had four children, but only Anthony and Francis survived. Both boys were educated at home before going off to Cambridge, touring abroad, and returning home to study at Gray’s Inn. Throughout their lives her sons never escaped her motherly concerns and solicitations (“Procure rest at convenient times. It helpeth much to digestion.”) \n\nDuring Progress Anne fills her days with activity and service. She corresponds regularly with Anthony and Francis. Through her brother in the law William Cecil and family friend Archbishop Matthew Parker, Anne keeps abreast of news of her beloved Nicholas, whose absence makes her heavy of heart. Mindful that the Queen may visit Gorhambury in the near future, Anne constantly seeks information and ideas for improvements, which would please Her Majesty. Lady Bacon lives up to the motto Moniti Meliora (Instruction brings Improvement) when she educates the children of Bristol at the School of Courtly Behavior. She is generally even-tempered but can display occasional fits of temper when roused. She lives life with intensity and vigor.\n		
willougm02	Elise Dorner	Margaret Willoughby	Margaret Willoughby, Lady Arundel-Howard	From the personal writings of Margaret Willoughby, Lady Arundel-Howard, Gentlewoman of the Privy Chamber, on progress in the year of our Lord fifteen hundred and seventy-four.\n\n Of my youth, I am remembered of much turmoil. ‘Twas no easy time to be a child, or I think me, an adult for that same matter. I was born in the year of our Lord fifteen hundred and forty-four, second child  and only daughter to Sir Henry Willoughby and the Lady Anne Grey. Mine elder brother Thomas was our father’s heir and he would die upon a hunt in fifteen hundred and fifty-nine, leaving my younger brother heir to the family estates.. I knew not my mother well, as she died bearing Francis when I was but two tender years of age. When my goodly father did pass from this world in the fifth year of my life, great changes were about us, as our wardship was o’erseen by our uncle of Suffolk, Henry Grey. \n\nTaught, all three of us were, with the Princess Mary, Prince Edward, our cousin Jane, and our Dudley cousins, including Robert and Ambrose, now Earls of Leicester and Warrick. Afore much time had passed, I was schooled in the ways of a courtly lady by mine aunt, Francis Brandon. Mine aunt of Suffolk was a stern woman, ever was I in awe and fear of her. The slightest infraction could earn one a caning likely to be remembered for many a year to come. When mine uncle of Suffolk did put my cousin Jane upon the throne, and lead a rebellion against Queen Mary thus losing his life, I did enter the court with mine aunt, as attendant unto her. In fifteen hundred and fifty-five, my eleventh year, Queen Mary then did decide to send me unto Hatfield to attend upon her sister, the Lady Elizabeth.\n\nAt Hatfield did I grow from girl to woman, forming fast friendships with the Lady Elizabeth’s other attendants, Francis Newton and Nan Fiennes, now Baronesses Cobham and Dacre of the South. Even with the fear our household did live under from Queen Mary, I found myself much more free than at any time under my overly stern and ambitious aunt’s governance of me. For three years we did comport ourselves in Elizabeth’s service, and in the most blessed year of fifteen hundred and fifty-eight, our Lady Elizabeth, by the glory of God, and the will of the Heavens above became our Queen. \n\nIn the year of fifteen hundred and fifty-nine, my fifteenth year of life, I was married unto Matthew Arundell, a nephew of Queen Catherine Howard of blessed memory, whom is a Recusant. I, myself was still of the Roman faith, as was required of me during the reign of Mary. I have borne two sons unto my husband, Thomas, the elder, whom is now of fourteen years, and our younger son John. I do have great hopes for Thomas. I see them rarely, as my time is spent here among the court, away from Wardour Castle and Wiltshire, so they are not oft with me. Mine husband travels extensively upon the continent and has styled himself ‘Matthew Arundel-Howard’ an affectation I have adopted as I must follow my husband in all things, although the name sits oddly upon my tongue. \n\nMy cousin, the Queen, has not yet chosen for herself a match, although many fine princes of Europe compete for her hand. I must admit me, I do hold hopes for my cousin of Leicester, as he is of mine own family, and of England. I think it would not be meet did we have another foreigner beside a Queen in governance of goodly Englishmen and women. \n\nOf faith, I am sorely confused, forced as I was to disavow one for the other. In my formative years, as all good men and women of England did, I worshipped in the faith established by the great Henry VIII of blessed memory and King Edward, only to be forced to Papist ways by Queen Mary. Sometimes I feel within mine heart that the new faith is more to my liking, but my marriage to a Recusant has kept me within the Roman church. Still, I find myself ever searching for the answer of where my truest heart lies in this great and weighty matter. I wonder does it displease Matthew that I attend services with her Grace, in the new and reformed faith? We speak not of it in our letters, lest they fall unto the wrong hands as they cross the Channel. \n\nMy brother Francis, against the counsel of mine husband and myself, has married some country woman of no name and small fortune, one Elizabeth Littleton. As we had predicted, the Lady’s father did not settle all of her marriage portion upon my brother, and the woman herself is of ill health and slightly mad, and apparently incapable of bearing my brother a son. I have but five nieces and no nephew. All this when my brother could have had himself a Knollys! I understand not Francis’ love of the country, he would do more to advance our family did he lodge here at court. Perhaps I shall see him when we travel to Bristol. I can only hope he shall comport himself well in the presence of her Majesty, as Francis is given to flights of fancy and frippery. I feel ever as an older sister, scolding an erstwhile younger sibling. As I have tried to say unto him, what matters most is family above all. A principle I have styled as mine own motto.\n\nAgain I do tread in dangerous times, as my cousin of Norfolk is held within the Tower. I agree not with his goals, as I serve my Queen with ardent fervor. She is my kinswoman, and as goodly a monarch as any country could ever have hopes to be governed by. My distant cousin of Scotland has made her own bed, and now she is forced to bitterly lay within it. I cannot condone those who would free her and overthrow our most wondrous Queen in her favor. I can only hope the Duke’s imprisonment will bring some senses into his head, although I fear his pride shall not permit it.\n\nI strive always to remember me that I am the daughter of two great and noble families, the houses of Howard and Grey, and comport myself accordingly. I owe all allegiance to our loving Queen Elizabeth, and God grant much mercy unto to the man or woman who does desire to remove me from my service unto her Grace. Only the Queen herself could sever me from her side. Unto my grave shall I go, serving well my cousin the Queen. \nFamily above all,   \nMargaret\n\nHow Margaret Arundel-Howard is portrayed: Last season brought some drastic changes in how I portray Margaret. Her stern demeanor has changed into something tending far more towards comic relief. Because of all the turmoil in her youth, and the fact that she was forced to recant the Protestant Faith while serving in the Court of Queen Mary, Margaret has never fully grown up. It's as if she is caught in stasis. Her mind is very childlike, and quite innocent. When nervous, this will only exacerbate the condition and make it harder for her to communicate than it is for her usually. She is unswervingly loyal to the Queen and those that she loves, and no amount of cajolement, anger, or circumstances are ever likely to change this. Unfortunately, because of this childlike demeanor, Margaret, must at times, be watched like a hawk, or she will wander off, only to find no end of trouble to get herself into. Time, often has little meaning to Margaret, so she has a tendency to scamper off at the worst possible moment (I.E., just before presentation). Her tongue, much like a child's, is very unguarded, and she will tend to say the first thing to pop into her mind, no matter how obtuse, unintelligible, idiotic, or downright out of place it may be. In short, she's rather a goofball. Anyone should feel free to play with these traits, lead her astray, make her nervous, or what have you, in order to bring out all of these characteristics. \n\nForms of Address:\nMost formal: my Lady Arundel-Howard. \nLess Formal: my Lady Margaret. \nCloser family and friends (The Dudleys, Howards, Greys, and Kat Ashley): Margaret. \nInner Circle of Friends (Lady Cobham, Lady Dacre of the South, and Francis Willoughby): Maggie\n		
walsingh02	Deanna Roberts-Morton	Frances Walsingham	Frances Walsingham, Lady Sidney	Frances was born in 1567. She was-the eldest daughter, namesake, and only surviving child of Sir Francis Walsingham & Ursula St. Barbe. Sir Francis was ambassador to France form 1571-73. He was also Chief of Intelligence & headed Queen Elizabeth's Secret Service. It was in 1573 that Sir Francis was called back to England to be appointed Principal Secretary (a position previously held by Baron Burleigh), a member of Privy Council & given personal custody of the Privy Seal.\nIt was in 1572 while the Walsinghams were in France that Frances (only 5) met future husband, Philip Sidney. Philip found refuge with Sir Francis & family during the St. Bartholomew massacre. Much later, on September 21, 1583, Philip & Frances were wed, and both lived with her family at Barn Elms, Surrey where she assisted her father in household matters. It was there in 1584 their daughter, Elizabeth, was born. \n\nFrances was pregnant with their second child when Philip died in 1586. The child, a daughter, was born prematurely & died not long after. In most accounts, by the time Elizabeth was born, their love was strong & their marriage a happy one, though Frances had been in love with Philip from the time they first met. Frances also visited Philip upon occasion while at battle, one noted was his post at Flushing in the Netherlands. Philip was known to have been a fiercely loving & devoted father to Elizabeth, and had loved her no less than he would a son. Elizabeth eventually married Roger Manners-Earl of Rutland in 1599, but don't be expecting any betrothals to Sir Roger.  Instead, The Countess of Worcester & Frances are often seen in discussion, both hoping to come to a decision on the match between the future Earl & Elizabeth.\n\nThe Sidneys have been visiting with Philip's Aunt Katherine Dudley (Countess of Huntingdon) for some weeks.  Frances has been assisting in the preparations needed to welcome HMQ, in things such as the Herb Garden & overseeing the recipes used in the kitchens.  We are now anxiously awaiting the arrival of the Queen, as well as our dear Uncle Robert Dudley-Earl of Leicester, Uncle Ambrose-Earl of Warrick, Philip's sister-Mary Sidney, brothers-Robert & Thomas, & many other family members. We are very pleased to be presenting unto Her Majesty our most Precious Jewel, our daughter Elizabeth, as this is only the second meeting since her birth.\n\nIt is difficult to read Frances as a woman. Her father was just powerful & prestigious enough to make available to his heir the opportunities (educational & otherwise) given to other ladies of this period, & yet strictly Puritanical enough to make life Problematic. Was she rebellious? I think not, but look for her to be ready to join in on fun whenever available-including dancing, gaming, perchance the occasional taking of “Medicinal spirits”, & of course, Shopping!  For, what else? Jewels!  Great, big, sparkly, baubles.  Frances, indeed, loves Jewels.  So much that she even wears them with her gardening dress.  We will also see Frances sending & receiving many messages.\n\nOn this note, I have recently acquired new information on Frances, which has given me pause to think of her in an entirely new manner.  It was known she assisted in the running of Barn Elms, it also seems that Frances often times acted as a Secretary to her father.  She is thought to perhaps have been wed once before Philip (in 1581) to one John Wickerson, who was known to have done “business” for Sir Francis.  It has also come to my attention that not only did Antony Bacon (a spy & “associate” of her father’s) die in her house, she nursed him for some time & paid for his funeral expenses.  First I thought them perhaps lovers, but knowing of Bacon’s fondness of  boys, I have come to the conclusion that Frances was well versed in her fathers affairs.  In fact, one may presume she, herself, was also a spy.  Though not in the truest sense of the word, but one could see Frances hearing of some news through another’s wife & sending that bit of information to her father.  \n\nAs a character choice Frances still holds all things French dear to her, is intrigued by the Italian Ambassador & hopes to learn of his country.  She is wary of the German Ambassador & hates all things Spanish, including the Ambassador & the Infanta.\n\nGod save the Queen!\n		
markhami02	Sheila Haberland	Isabella Markham	Isabella Markham, Lady Harrington	Dearest Brother Tom,\n\nI write in the good hope that this finds both you and Mary in good health and all my nieces and nephews thriving.  Please let my sweet sister in the law know that Elizabeth hath arrived without harm and hath settled in to life here at court with little problem.  She and William’s Anne do seem to be renewing the friendship they did start at Kirby Bellars.  Elizabeth hath talked much of how excited she is to be going on progress.  I do hope that she doth continue to enjoy it once we have been traveling for some weeks.  While I do enjoy leaving London and going into the cool countryside, I could be well pleased with a shorter progress than that which is planned for this summer.  At least I and the girls shall always have a room.\n\nHave you heard ought from our sister Frances?  I fear much for her.  She hath become quite fanatic in her following of the Roman Church.  I tried again this Eastertide past to communicate with her and received naught for my pains but a brief note saying that until I leave the service of Elizabeth, which you know I shall never do, she will have naught to do with me.  She closed with a plea for me to return to the popish heresy.  You may be sure that I saw that letter destroyed, for though I agree not with her choice of religion, I would not have aught happen to her for I do love her.  \n\nGod keep you well and safe. Give my love to Mary.  \n\nYour soon to be wandering sister,\n\nBella  \n		
youngtho02	Christina Neitz	Thomasine Young	Thomasine Young, Lady Dethick	I am the only living daughter of Citizen and Fishmonger Robert Young and ____________.  I grew up in London, not far from the river in Billingsgate.  [My brother, Thomas, died at ___.]\n\nWilliam and I wed 7 November 1569 at St. Mary at Hill shortly before William became York Herald.  We moved to Poplar, the family manor in the village of Stepney, and cared for the ailing Gilbert until his death.  Nicholas had died of the ague two winters ago so we have inherited Poplar.  Although I think he died of jealously over William outranking him.  Jane Naylor, the second Lady Dethick, and her two babes live with us.  Robert is a bare year older than his sister Mary.  Robert and my Henry play together watched by the infant Mary.  Lady Dethick is on her dignity around me because we are much of an age and her ambiguous situation in the household.  We have had discussions about who is mistress of the manor.\n\nSince we live so close, William is frequently called to Greenwich and I am very occasionally called to attend her Majesty and I use the opportunity to visit with dear friends like Lady Francis Radcliffe and Baroness Scrope on such vital subjects as fashion, gossip, shopping, and families.  Occasionally William and I are called to join Progress, which is exciting, but I must leave behind the children, which can be distressing.  \n\nOur household includes, among others; Lady Dethick, her children and servants, my gentlewoman, our servants at Poplar, William’s clerks and body servant at the College, and two tenant farmers and their families.  We have income from the tenants, William’s fees, and my dowry.  I do need to hire a new steward.  William frightened the last one away and no increase in his wages would induce him to return to us.  We have some plate, three chairs - one with cushions, several Flemish tapestries, and two Turkey rugs.  We have two fireplaces in the Hall and in the Gallery.  My gentlewoman, tiring-woman and I make much of our daily clothes although I hire out to have Court dress made.  After five years of marriage and becoming Garter King, William has finally accepted that expense.\n\nOur chaplain tutors our sons, George, Gilbert, and Henry, although, at this time I have my eye on one of William’s clerks for a tutor in a year or two.  George and Gilbert are learning their sums, letters, and prayers as well as starting a little Latin and Greek.  George is studious with a solid grasp of his letters.  He loves to look at all our books although he disdains the kitchen and stillroom books (no pretty pictures).  His favorite is also mine, the Prayer book I received from my Father on my wedding day.  Gilbert is charming and precocious.  He is always begging to go with William to the City for he is enamoured of the crowds and shops.  Henry is named for his uncle, though I did wish to christen him Robert for my Father, and is still in leading strings.  He is fascinated with the baby, Robert, his new uncle, although his elder brothers have no time for infants being more interested in the Manor dogs and their ponies.  If they could sleep in the stables, they would.  We are honored that Robert is Her Majesty’s godson, which is another bone of contention between Lady Dethick and myself.\n\nWilliam is ambitious, very ambitious.  He entered the College of Arms young and almost immediately began travelling with his father to investitures of the Order of the Garter overseas.  His tales of his travels in foreign lands are quite amusing.  Within a few years he became a pursuivant and just four months after our wedding became York Herald rising above his elder brother.  Unfortunately his ambition makes him ill tempered, impatient with fools, and a bit indiscreet.  This has lead to William making enemies at Court and beyond.  Once in a while I must soothe ruffled dignities when I am at Court.  William comes by his ill temper naturally.  All of the Dethick men are so tempered and unafraid to brawl amongst themselves.  In fact, William has struck his father and wounded Nicholas.  Nicholas was gifted with the unfortunate tendency of holding a grudge and has never forgiven William for the injury given him.  Henry has been the peacemaker but his patience has been tested sorely by his family.  He does not suffer fools gladly.\n\nOne of the reasons I enjoy Progress, when called to join, is that William is much more civil and charming when near to the glory of Her Majesty.  If it were not for the absence of my babes, I would stay on Progress forever.\n\nAll these foul humors has made living at Poplar a bit tense for us.  I have asked to move to the City into a house of our own.  Right now, William hasn’t seen the need as he can go to the College as he wants.  It has been a contentious point with us and he has reprimanded me for my “curtain lectures”.  He also claims the expense unneeded although we are more than able to support ourselves at Court.  He has offered to take more rooms at the College for us, but the egos all those Heralds would be insufferable.  Especially, William’s ego!\n\nI am happy being mistress of my own household despite the tussles with William’s stepmother.  I finally gave her control of the stillroom so I could run the rest of the house in peace.  A peaceful house is a blessing and a credit to the head of the house.  I truly enjoy the control and skill needed to keep track of the servants, the kitchen, and our supplies.\n		
baconant02	Kevin Collins	Anthony Bacon	Master Anthony Bacon	Anthony Bacon is the eldest son of Sir Nicolas Bacon, and Lady Anne Cooke. He was born in 1558, during the final months of Queen Mary's reign. Anthony was a sickly child, and his parents feared that he would die young. He was sent to Grey's Inn for his schooling, and recieved his degree in law. He then travelled in France. While in France he became something of a celebrity, being a Protestant, in a Catholic nation. Henry, the King of Navarre paid him special interest, seeking his religious insights. Things soured for him, when he refused a proposed match with a french noblewoman. He was accused of sodomy, and faced execution if convicted. The King of Navarre saw that the accusations were dropped, and Anthony freed. \n\nHis time in France was not idle, though his mother might contest that point, he was in the employ of Sir Frances Walsingham. He collected and dispersed intellegence to Sir Frances, as well as his Uncle, Sir William Cecil and the Earl of Liecester (later to the Earl of Essex). He taught himself several languages including French, Spainish and Italian. \n\nAnthony is on 'progress' at the behest of his mother. Sir Nicolas is old, and sick, and incapable of travelling extensively. He is completely devoted to his mother (as she is to him), and would rather her not travel alone. Sir Frances Walsingham keeps him busy though, and is often returning to London to better serve his master. \n		
gamageba02	Jennifer Hanson	Barbara Gamage	Mistress Barbara Gamage	Barbara Gamage was born in Wales during the reign of Queen Elizabeth.  Barbara’s mother had died when she was very young leaving her as the sole heiress to her father’s substantial landholdings. Barbara’s father, John Gamage, though untitled was a very influential man.  He persuaded Lady Hastings, the Countess of Huntingdon, to take on Barbara as her ward. To teach and guide her in the manners and ideals of courtly life, Lady Hastings appointed Barbara as her personal companion and secretary. \n\nThis is Barbara’s first meeting with Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth.  Therefore, Barbara is very nervous and may even blush redder than a love apple when spoken to, because all the courtiers intimidate her. The entire pageantry of Progress makes her head swim: one night a masque, the next night a huge banquet… she is so tired that she may fall asleep where she stands…but the stories she could tell.\n\nBarbara also believes with every fiber of her being that she is here to make Lady Hastings proud of her and strives to do so in everything thing the Countess asks of her. As we all know, if the Countess is happy; everyone is happy.\n\nAs the Queen’s Progress continues, Barbara childlike behaviours will gradually be molded into a more graceful and feminine prowess. She may even flirt back with a courtier or two; under the watchful eye of Lady Hastings, of course.\n		
hobyeliz02	Lena Baker	Elizabeth Hoby	Mistress Elizabeth Hoby	Mistress Elizabeth Markem is here on progress with here with her aunt Lady Harrington. This is her first progress and is enjoying every moment it. She is also here with her cousin Ann, which is kind of fun but it gets hard to deal with. The kind of relationship that Ann and Elizabeth have is kind of weird. At points they hate each other and then two minuets later they want to go shopping together.   They have a love, hate relationship going on. Although Elizabeth is enjoying her self on progress she is very homesick.  She really misses her mom and dad.\n\nSpeaking of family, Elizabeth has many brothers and sister. Her brothers are Griffin, Charles, Thomas, George, William, Robert, and John. For those keeping count, that’s seven brothers. She has three sisters, Ann, Margret, and Jane. Her mom is Mary Markem. Her mom is the daughter and heiress of Ryce. Her father is Thomas Markem of Olarton and Kirby. He was a ranger of Shorewood Forest andhe was a standard berror to Queen Elizabeth’s Band of Gentleman pentioners.\n		
markhama02	Jackie Hanchar	Anne Markham	Mistress Anne Markham	Uncle Thomas,\n\nWe have finally arrived in Bristol! It seems quite chaotic at Court. If there is any organization, I have not seen it. Mayhap, there is more organization when Court is not on progress, but if it is one tenth like the chaos that hath entrapped this town, and all others before it, than it has no organization at all.\n\nI know very few names here, Lady Dacre, and of course I also now full well the titles of my lady aunt. Lady Harington, Lady of the privy chamber. \n\nOh! I have forgot me that I also know the name and face of Mistress Catherine Ashley! She is the lady who doest makes sure that the Maids of Honor do not behave like the lower folk, and flirt with almost everyone who wears breaches. I shall admit there are some that do not flirt, like Lady Dorothy, but she is also not of the age that she would show such interests.\n\nI have discovered that I much enjoy dancing in the courts! This may not appear so since my dance tutor is quite the nag who could put  a slave driver to shame, but once I am out of his classes and actually dancing I most enjoy such activities. Some of the members of court say I should relax during my dances, but it is hard when you know that you are a fair ways lower in class than they are. I shall try to free myself and move more freely as it were.\n\nI am surprised though that there are so many people in the town, since I usual would have stayed inside of the manor house and read the books in the library when my father was alive. God rest his soul. I am not sure how I feel towards some of them since they seem to act as if they had been dropped on their heads as children. Others though I do not feel too disgruntled if at all around them, I simply acknowledge that they are lower in status than me and that they are probably have some place to go.\n\nThe Queen has not given me much notice as of yet, not that she would have any reason to notice me in the first place since she is made up of the stuff of the Greek gods were.\n\nYour loving niece,\nAnne Markham\n		
sidneyro02	Raymond Steele	Robert Sidney	Sir Robert Sidney	Father:  Sir Henry Sidney, Knight of the Order of the Garter\n\nMother:  Lady Mary  Dudley Sidney, Sister to Sir Robert Dudley Earl of Leicester\n\nBrother: Sir Philip Sidney, born  1554\n\nBrother: Thomas Sidney, born\n\nSister:  Mary Sidney, born 1561\n\nSister: Ambrosia Sidney, born\n\nSister:  Margaret Sidney, Died in infancy\n \nRobert Sidney was born in the 1563. The Sidney family had a tradition of education with in the family.  Young Robert started his schooling with a Mr.Thorton at an unknown school.  In later years Robert would attend Oxford, following in his holder brother’s footsteps with the same tutors there. When his father went away on the Queen’s business Philip was given the task of his brother’s education.  \n\nRobert is very quick of mind.  He loves poetry, music, horses, fencing, and many other things.\n		
smythejo02	Glenn Grieb	John Smythe	Master John Smythe, Tutor to the Worcester Household	I was born the second son of a wealthy middle-class ironsmith.  My Grandfather was very successful in the business. While he possessed amazing skill with the hammer and anvil, it was his equally impressive ability to quickly establish a rapport with his patrons that made him so successful.  When he found himself ready to retire he was quite a wealthy man.  He left the business to my father, Robert.  Unfortunately, while my father was a serviceable smith, he lacked the art of negotiation that came so effortlessly to Grandfather.  He has never quite been able to match the level of profit my Grandfather attained.  \n\nMy older brother Richard is next in line to inherit the smithy.  This bothers me not in the least as he has the build, the skills, and the business sense to make good at it, while I on the other hand have always been something of a gangly, ham handed lad.  During my fathers lessons I was always far more likely to strike some tender part of my own anatomy, or God forbid my father’s, than the iron.  I never managed to produce anything worthy of sale.  Eventually my father wisely concentrated all his efforts on Richard.\n\nMy Grandfather however was always enamored of me.  He thought me a rather clever lad and when it became obvious that I was not suited to follow the family trade, he offered to pay my tuition to Oxford.  Unfortunately, whilst what intellect I possessed shone like the brightest bonfire amidst the smiths and bellows-men at home, it barely amounted to a spark amidst the brilliant minds at Oxford.  I was able to maintain my position there only through intense study and extreme determination.  Many’s the time I would have given up had I not known what price my dear Grandfather had paid for my education, settling instead for a far less comfortable retirement for himself.  \n\nDuring my studies Thomas, a fellow student and son of a prominent scholar at Oxford, entrusted me with an intriguing secret.  He told me he was a practitioner of an ancient art called Alchemy and took me to his rooms to show me his experiments.  While some of his goals seemed ludicrous to me, I saw that the art of Alchemy was not all whimsy and wishing.  While I have never had the nerve to delve wholeheartedly into the practice, I have always read any texts I stumble across and would speak at length with anyone whom I deduce shares my avocation.\n\nShortly after my graduation I was employed by the Worcester household to tutor Lady Somerset’s children while she attends the Queen on progress.  As I failed to attain any honors or draw any attention to myself while at academy, I am to this day uncertain why Lady Worcester chose me for this task, though I suspect that Thomas may have had a hand in it.  I quickly discovered that the scope of my duties was often extended to that of nursemaid as well as tending to the children’s scholastic instruction, as Lady Worcester’s actual nursemaid Rebecca Wetherington is often overwhelmed by the task and seems to be more interested in the business of finding a husband!  Most days I am given the boys for the day whilst the Lady goes about her duties to the Queen.  While I have been in the employ of the Somersets, I have grown to love William and Edward as I would my own children and of late find myself spending much more time playing with them than I do teaching.  \n\nWhile I realize that there are many opportunities to be had here at Court, I haven’t the political savvy or the social graces to recognize one should it present itself to me.  I most often feel like a fish out of water, stunned at finding myself in the presence of so much nobility, especially the Queen!  And to add to my discomfort, Thomas has recently sent me a disturbing missive.  He tells me he lacks but one ingredient to complete his latest experiment:  A lock of hair from a pure virgin Queen!\n		
hastdcts03	Judy Rubenstein	Katherine Pole	Katherine Pole, Lady Hastings, Dowager Countess of Huntingdon	I was born in 1511 to Henry Pole, Baron Montagu and Jane Neville at Montacute, Somerset. My childhood was spent at the sides of my mother and grandmother. My paternal grandmother, Margaret Plantagenet was Princess Mary Tudor's governess so I spent my days playing and studying with Princess Mary and later her sister, Princess Elizabeth. This, of course, was after the retirement of her mother, Queen Catherine of Aragon.\n\nLater, my mother was a lady in waiting to Queen Mary Tudor. When my mother passed on, Her Majesty, Queen Mary did appoint me to be her first lady of the bedchamber.\n\nWhen my beloved Queen left this earth, I did retire to Cornwall to live out my days in the quiet of the countryside at one of our family estates.\n\nDuring the time of my service to Queen Mary, my husband, Sir Francis, and my son, Henry, were involved in a questionable adventure in the North and subsequently taken to the Tower. I was able to convince my beloved Queen that they were innocent of any treachery or treason and so they were released from that dreadful place.\n\nQueen Mary did generously restore the lands of my husband to him and much of the land belonging to the Pole family to me. Thus have I become wealthy and hold much estate in England.\n\nIn the year 1532, having achieved twenty-one years, I married Francis Hastings, son of George Hastings and Anne Stafford. We did reside at Ashby in Leistershire. I gave birth to twenty-two children by Francis. Alas, twelve have not survived.  My living children are: Frances Ann, Henry, George, Edward, Catherine, Walter, Elizabeth, Ann, Francis, and Mary.\n\nMary is being pursued by Czar Ivan of the Muskovies to be his wife. If this marriage doth take place my daughter would be the Empress of all the Muskovies - a fitting calling for a descendant of the Plantagenet kings of England and half the royalty of Europe.\n\nThis day, I do visit my son, Henry, third Earl of Huntingdon, at this time as he doth host our most glorious Queen Elizabeth. I have come hither to aide him and his household to prepare most wondrous surroundings and feasts for Her Majesty while she stayeth with our family on her progress.	2003/2003_Huntingdon_Dowager_03.jpg	herald-huntingdon.gif
essexcts03	Christie Kopitzke	Laetitia Knolleys	Laetitia Knolleys, Lady Devereaux, Countess of Essex	Lettyce should be considering her time at court this spring and summer with significant anxiety. Having become aware that her marriage, now over a year old (or almost a year old, depending upon which set of vows you count from) to the Earl of Leycestre is an open secret at court, she should be gnawing her fingers to the knuckles, in fear of the coming storm when her cousin the Queen learns this news. Yet she is not. She displays an uncanny ability to live in the day, and put off thinking about the grave consequences that must eventually descend upon her, until the morrow.\n\nThis is not to say that she is always sweetness and light. Those few of her friends and kinfolk who have endeavored to force her to consider these inevitable consequences have, and will, feel her wrath turned on them if they press her. Further, she will sometimes grow pensive and sad when she beholds the newborn offspring of her cousin Eleanor (Nell), or of the Bristol folk in general. Court whispers of a year past that she might be with child were, for a wonder, accurate. Sadly, something went amiss after she had retired from the court at Michelmas, and she lost the child. It was a great disappointment to both she and the Earl, who was anticipating his first legitimate heir.\n\nNonetheless, she typically shakes off these blues, and the concerns of others, to throw herself into the gaity of court life. The months that she spent at Charteley and Kenilworth in the fall and winter grew dreary when Robin, er, the Earl of Leicestre was absent, and save for the Christmastide celebrations, she was denied many guests and festivity lest they tire her in her recovery. It may also be that she has acknowledged on some level that when the Queen learns of the marriage, things will surely change irreparably, and she wishes to enjoy to the fullest every minute between the present and that unknown future.\n\nLettyce is the 2nd of 11 children born to Sir Francis Knolleys and Catherine Carey. She is the granddaughter of Mary Boleyn, and so an “extended” cousin to the Queen. This fact is one of which she is very conscious, and in fact tends to think of the Queen as her cousin first and the monarch second; potentially a serious error in judgment. She has numerous other family at court, both by blood and marriage, not the least being the entire Carey clan, several Howards and Howard relations, and the Hastings’.\n\nThe merriment with which she approaches this years’ progress festivities is nothing new. She had desperately loved the excitement and activity of court life as a Maid of Honour to her Royal Cousin, and save for a year’s service in the Queen’s bedchamber between the births of Dorothy, now age 12 and Robert, age 10, and the last four years’ intermittent service there, she had spent much of the fourteen years following her first marriage in the countryside of Stafford.\n\nAt the time of her marriage to Walter, first Viscount Hereford, later 1st Earl of Essex, Lettyce was pleased enough with her circumstances. Walter was pleasant, handsome, older, had good prospects, and was quite smitten by this grand-daughter of the famous Mary Boleyn. Though entirely virtuous at her marriage, the 17-year-old Laetitia was far from naďve. Her parents shared a true and deep affection, and she had often intercepted significant glances between the two, which had heightened the color in her mother’s cheeks. The happy situation of her parents, as well as her own flirtations had led her to suspect that there was something mysterious and thrilling which occurred between men and women. The ritual of the pre-nuptial mother-daughter\ntalk confirmed these suspicions, providing her with considerably more information than many of her peers received.\n\nYet as the years passed and the children (Penelope - age 14, Dorothy, Robert, and Walter – age 7) came, the modest exhilaration of marriage – the simple pleasures of country life, of running a home, of knowing a man, and of reveling in her fertility – had faded. Walter provided her little challenge or stimulation, and though likable, kind, and intelligent, she grew restless for the court life she had experienced years before. She had scarcely missed him during his time in Ireland, and although vaguely concerned for his health, had found the months of the last winter of his life quite trying as she was quite unable to cope with his dourness and physical complaints. It was a relief to have him return again to Ireland. Walter’s death came, therefore, as a shock; she had not really thought he was so ill. Her conscience troubled her a great deal in the beginning: her attention to Leycester (and permitting his attentions to her) was inappropriate – what if God had punishing her by cutting Walter’s life short?  These doubts receded thrill of her newfound freedoms. And now she soon reentered court life with all of it’s unique excitements and entertainments and flirtations.\n\nLettyce’s education in flirtation stretches back to her early years, when her Precisionist father removed his family from England during Mary’s reign. The years in Germany were fascinating to the precocious teenager, who found herself the preeminent feminine representative of “home” for other ex-patriots, and for the younger provincial gentlemen; a sophisticated alternative to the hearty, apple-cheeked local girls. Though she was unimpressed with the locals, and conceived a dislike for foreigners in general (no doubt an outgrowth of her youthful resentment at being taken away from her homeland), it was here she learned that she was alluring, and that she could gain both great enjoyment and often, her own way, through coquetry.\n\nShe brings this well-honed skill, like a second nature to her, to court. Despite her passion for Leycester, she is far from dead to the attractions of other gentlemen; and she knows that to keep the great earl’s attention, she must let him see the other gentlemen of court admiring her. She as fully expects that admiration as does her famous cousin. She is sufficiently confident of her beauty and wit and charm that she feels no need to compete for it, and so the jealousies which often result between women are at present kept to a minimum – even with respect to Lady Sheffield. Lettyce knows that though the Earl’s\ninterest was briefly piqued by Douglas, it was the function of proximity, convenience, and perhaps the passing charm of an acquiescent nature (not unlike that of the late Lady Dudley). While she is secretly irked indeed at the idea of being even briefly\neclipsed by this women, she would never deign to compete with her. Her sentiments on this might only be betrayed by her near complete disregard for the Baroness’ existence. Otherwise, Lettyce is quite confident that her spirited nature is more suited to holding the Earl’s affection, and that he is even now yearning for her.\n\nComplicating these romantic matters is the fact that Lettyce enjoys her Royal cousin’s company, and vice versa. The sharp Boleyn mind and tongue entertain the Queen, and her eye for beauty and detail make her a pleasing companion. While she can be quite direct in her speech, it is not a sign of impertinence (although her cousin may choose to take it so!), and her words are always polite, if not full of flowery deference. She is gratified to rise early in the morning to be ready to attend, and it has fallen to her to brush and dress the Royal tresses at the beginning or ending of the day. They can often be seen with their heads bent together in conversation, consultation, or merry jest.\n\nAccompanying the countess to court, as frequently as his studies allow, will be son Robert, now the 2nd Earl of Essex. Already at court, thanks to her influence, are her daughter Dorothy and her sister Cecelia, both as Maids of Honour to the queen. Though often self-centered, Lettyce’s generosity towards her children is scarcely bounded, and the headstrong traits which all but Walter exhibit have not been checked as they should have been. Robert is particularly well on the way to being spoiled. She is similarly indulgent of her young sister, whose mischievousness she will always find a way to excuse.\n\nThe Countess’ retinue includes her children’s nursemaid, and her own companion, Eleanor Knolleys, Mistress Wingfield, a cousin on her fathers’ side. Mistress Wingfield has been summoned to progress, after a lengthy absence from her cousin’s side. She was delivered of a child of her own in late winter, and so has resided for the best part of a year in her husband’s home. Imagine Lettyce’s surprise to discover that her cousin has brought the wee babe with her. Certainly, the gossips at court will immediately question whether Mistress Wingfield is the mother, or merely the nurse, as the timing is so coincidental with the Countess’ own pregnancy. The cousins’ relationship is prickly, and given to insults and bickering for no\napparent reason. This is no doubt an outgrowth of their many years growing up together. It masks a deep affection. Really!\n\nIn addition, Lettyce is attended by Anne St. Leger, Mistress Digges, the daughter of one of her late husband’s lieutenants from the Irish campaigns. Anne is very timid, on this her first visit to court. She has only recently been elevated to Lady of the Bedchamber to the Countess, and grows slowly into her new station. She is a lady of simple pleasures, including a fine meal, song, dance and storytelling. When she arrived from Ireland, it was a task to teach her to wear shoes regularly. She has made a great deal of progress. Really!\n\nThe Countess is referred to by most as Lady Essex or Lady Countess. A very few call her by her Christian name, and the Earl of Leicester has christened her with a name they use privily.\n\nThe popular icon Lettyce most resembles in general is Scarlett O’Hara – though she would never have pined all those year for a simp like Ashley Wilkes, especially when a red-blooded man like Rhett was angling for her. Puh-lease! And she is inclined to be a bit more charitable towards others than that acclaimed belle.\n\nWhen discussing the SECRET marriage with faire guests, it must be impressed upon them that they are being entrusted with a secret that must be kept from the Queen. Discretion in choosing to whom this information is given is encouraged!	2003/2003_Essex_Laetitia_03.jpg	herald-essex.gif
hilliard02	Robert Stotts	Nicholas Hilliard	Nicholas Hilliard	1547- Nicholas born in Exeter. His father, Richard Hilliard, is a goldsmith and a zealous supporter of reformed religion.\n1557- At age 10 a member of the household of John Bodley, a prominent Exeter merchant and a militant Protestant. Nicholas shared in the humanistic and theological training given to John’s twelve-year-old son, Thomas.\nGrowing up in France as the son of a goldsmith, Nicholas is strongly influenced by French design, especially as it relates to jewelry and fine metalwork. Also, being in the company of gold artisans, their patrons, and the wealthy friends and social fellows of the Bodleys from a very young age, Nicholas is very familiar with the social elite.    \n1558- Return to London with the Bodleys\n1560-At age 13 Nicholas paints his first miniatures In addition to a small self-portrait he painted a portrait of the Protector Summerset- a great promoter of the protestant cause. He is primarily self taught as a limner, intensely studying and copying the works of Hans Holbien and the engravers; Durer and Lucas van Leyden. \n1562- Nicholas begins his seven-year apprenticeship with Robert Brandon, the queen’s goldsmith. Nicholas has a great passion for jewelry and gemstones and sees himself without preference for one over the other, as both a goldsmith and painter.\n1569- Nicholas becomes a freeman of the Goldsmiths company. Their power and connections to rich patrons greatly facilitates Nicholas’s movement through the court’s social circles. Nicholas is a very enthusiastic ‘player of the game’ and enjoys the intrigue of moving in such company. However, he is also passionately dedicated to the refinement and mastery of his art and, like many artists, experience frustration at the lack of understanding and artistic sensibility that he finds in most of his patrons. A notable exception is her majesty, Elizabeth, in whom he finds a rare and sophisticated artistic spirit. It is during an open-air session painting Elizabeth’s portraits (year 1572) that he has a lengthy discourse with the queen on the proper way to portray the likeness of the sitter. Her taste, especially with respect to limiting the use of shadow to describe the form of the face, is completely in harmony with his own. This influences the style of his work for the rest of his life.\n1570-1575- Numerous commissions as both a miniaturist and a goldsmith\n1576-1578-Nicholas goes to France in the train of Sir Amyas Paulet, the queens ambassador.\n1579-Nicholas returns to the court in London to pursue furthur commissions, including the design for the second great seal.\nNicholas is not paid an annuity by the court and, thus, must make his way by securing commissions. He  goes through periods of financial instability and is occasionally grousing about how slowly this Lord or that Lady is in providing remuneration  for some portrait or piece of jewelry. His particular activity at Bristol is making a visual record of her Majesty’s visit, a sketchbook of the people and settings of the shire for Elizabeth to keep as a remembrance of her time there.\n		
ashleyka02	Caroline Cassidente	Katherine Ashley	Mistress Katherine Ashley	Katherine Champernowne was a highly educated young woman from Devon, who was appointed as Princess Elizabeth’s governess when Elizabeth was four years old. (1537).\n\nShe quickly became her friend and confidant and remained by her side until her own death in 1565.  Aside from being Elizabeth’s mother figure, Kat also tutored Elizabeth, and gave her a remarkable grasp of languages and classical scholarship.  She started her on Latin and Greek and taught her until Elizabeth was appointed additional tutors around the age of eleven.  \n\n Kat was a constant companion to Elizabeth, sleeping with her at night, through most of her life, fishing with her, preparing baths for her (much to Elizabeth\s annoyance), teaching her, watching out for her ‘proper behavior’ as a king’s daughter and then as a king’s sister.   Kat was obsessed with poison and the possibility that Elizabeth could be poisoned at any time, as there were many treacherous plots in the kingdom at any given time.  Each time the princess’s entourage moved from one castle to another, Kat judiciously inspected the area for any danger and possible poison.\n\nIn 1545, Kat married John Ashley, (fellow servant, faithful gentleman, friend to tutor Roger Aschram), depending on the literary source.  She remained in Elizabeth’s service, and John Ashley was put in charge of household accounts for Princess Elizabeth’s household.  Kat and John had no children, and were married for 20 years at Kat’s death in l565.  \n\nKat was by Elizabeth’s side during the many trials and tribulations of King Henry’s marriages, and loss of Queens, Edward’s reign and Mary’s reign, with it’s ever present danger to Elizabeth’s life.   Kat went to the tower on three occasions.  The first was in 1548, to be questioned about Elizabeth’s behavior with Lord Admiral Thomas Seymour, husband to Katharine Parr after Henry VIII death.  During this time, Lady Tyrwhitt replaced Kat for a while, but Elizabeth raised such a fit that Kat was soon reinstated.  The second tower experience for Kat was in 1554, when she accompanied Elizabeth to the tower after the Wyatt rebellion, during Queen Mary’s reign.    Then in 1555, also during Queen Mary’s reign, Kat was again taken to the tower for questioning, as anti catholic books, ballads, and other seditious papers were found in her chambers.\n\nWhen Elizabeth became Queen in 1558, she made Kat Ashley Mistress of the Maids of Honor, and John Ashley was made Keeper of the Jewel House.  In reality, Kat lived only six years into Queen Elizabeth’s reign.  According to one source, her position was replaced by Blanche Perry, who had rocked Elizabeth’s cradle, and remained in her service for another 25 years before her death in 1590.  \n\nIn reality, Kat was probably in her early 40’s when she died, though I have not been able to come up with an actual birth date.  However, I am playing her as an older woman, as if she had lived much longer.  She walks with a cane, since she has a bad hip.  The cane is also a very useful tool for measuring the distance between a maid of honor and a young lord, or for reminding the ladies of their need for proper posture.  I do not see Kat as a mean or hateful woman, rather as a mother figure whose loyalties are totally to the Queen.  Because of her closeness to the Queen, those who do not wish their affairs to be known by her Majesty may fear her, but those who wish an inroad with the Queen may also seek her presence.   Her role with the Maids of Honor is to keep a watchful eye on them, teach them the proper behavior of ladies, as well as teaching them their lessons (perhaps French) as she did for Elizabeth.  I see her as stricter with the Maids of honor than she was with Elizabeth, as her loyalty is to the Queen and to seeing that the behavior of the Maids of honor is pleasing to the Queen.  Kat loves to sew, to walk with the Queen, and to see the magnificent view of the countryside on progress.  She also enjoys teaching, and is particularly concerned about the proper education of the maids of honor.  If she is seriously concerned for the Queen, she will speak her mind with a frankness few others would dare.  Per history, the Queen was far more tolerant of Kat’s input than others. Kat is very protective of the Queen and always watchful for intrigues and plots which could be harmful to her.  While she will not annoy the Queen with everyday triffles, she will pass on to the Queen any information she has gleaned from a day in court, which could be important.\n \nKat is a mother figure, confidant, teacher, protector, friend, and loyal servant, to Elizabeth, and Elizabeth is the very center of Kat’s life.   \n		
knollyse02	Shannon Donley	Eleanor Knollys	Mistress Eleanor Knollys, Gentlewoman, Nursemaid to the Essex Household	Good Den All, \n\nI am Mistress Eleanor Knollys.  I am in service to my cousin Lettyce  Deveraux, the Countess of Essex.  She has asked me to join her on progress to aid in the transitions her children will be making to their new duties.   Young Robert has become the Earl of Essex at the very tender age of eight years.  Lady Dorothy has been fostered this past year at the Home of the Earl and  Countess of Huntington but will be joining her majesty at court as a Maid of Honor.  As I have not seen my cousins ( and former \ncharges) it is an especially joyous occassion to be at Bristol. \n\nMy father and my higher borne cousins father were brothers.  When my father was killed in battle at his brother's side, my mother and I were welcomed into my Aunt and Uncles home.  This was a very happy time for me.  I had many children to play with, and learned quite well to read and write.  I stayed there even after Lettyce went to her home with the Earl.  When she \nfinds need for assistence with her children I deem it a great honor that she does call and entrust me with her children, as I have none of mine own.  I have not found time to complete the transaction of a marriage.  I have and have had many suitors none that stay long enough for my consent.  That is an advantage to the loss of my beloved father-no marriage contract binds me . \n\nWhen not in attendance upon my charges or in the company of my cousins Lettyce and Ceclia, I am seeking knowledge and insight from Mistress Katherine Ashley - obviously the most wondrous nursemaid who has ever held that title.  I also travel through Bristol seeking supplies to send back to Chartley to care for Walter who has been sent back with Penelope from their fostering at Pensforde.   I have received a letter with my commission of my duties and my accommodations, only to find that the corner I had been given as a bed has been inhabited by some misplaced pantry rats.\n		
vandunne02	Rich Jacobs	Cornelius van Dunne	Yeoman Cornelius van Dunne	I am the second son of a modestly wealthy Dutch importer. My parents ventured to England from the low countries prior to my birth. So such, I was born in Dover where my father first opened his import company.  At the age of 15, I left Dover in search of making my own way in the world. I traveled to London and was able to enter the London Watch soon after. I quickly learned in London that my Dutch ancestry was both a blessing and a curse. The shifty political climate of England insured this. \n\nAfter two years in the London Watch I was pulled out and ordered to Ireland to put down a rebellion. I spend six years in Ireland, the hardest I have ever seen, then I received correspondence to return to England. I had anonymously received an appointment to her Majesty's Guard. It is here that I have truly learned the true value of my heritage. Reaction to political happenings in my parents homeland have spread to me. They have varied from praise to threats, and drinks to fisticuffs. But through everything I am her Majesty's servant and shall endure all. "GOD SAVE THE QUEEN!!!"\n		
wingfiel02	Jim Donley	Peregrine Wingfield	Yeoman Peregrine Wingfield	I am Peregrine Wingfield, third son, and fifth child of seven from the union of Robert Wingfield Esq. and Elizabeth Cecil. I was born the year of 1572 in Tickencote, Rutland, England. \n\nMy mother's influence had me raised as a member of the upperclass with all the teachings and groomings one deserved. How ere, as the third son, I knew I would ne'er be heir to mine father's holdings. As such, I had to find mine own way to make a name for myself. With the help of mine Uncle, William Cecil, Lord Burghley, I was able to secure a position in the military where I served with some distinction. Eventually, with the help of mine uncle, I was elevated to the position of Yeoman of the Queen's Guard. \n\nWith the death of mine one true love earlier in my life, all that remains for me is to serve and protect her Grace, Elizabeth and also to serve and protect England from external, as well as internal insurgents. This is why I am on progress with her Grace. \n		
paynewil02	Stephan Cook	William Payne	Yeoman William Payne	Born in Bristol in 1533, William Payne was a child of peasants who worked for the black friars of St. James Priory. If kings truly rule by divine providence, then it was that providence that put Yeoman Payne on a military career. King Henry VIII went on progress through Bristol in 1545. One faire day, he noticed young William playing at wooden swords with his friends.\n\nThe King called to the boys and commended them on their skill at arms.  The King asked each boy what he intended to do now that they were nearly men. Seeing an opportunity, William Payne quickly answered. “My Lord, would that I could serve your majesty in arms”. Being also favored with a decent ability with the drum, the following day young Payne was off to become a drummer in his majesty’s army. Before long he was off to the continent to fight in France with Henry Sidney.\n\nAs a young boy Will earned the nickname Badger because he was small and feisty.   Though he was only 14, he was commended for his bravery in defending the regimental standard in battle. His commander commented that without Payne’s efforts the regiment might have been lost, without a standard to rally around.  Noting that Payne seemed to be a bright but small boy, he asked him what he thought of the Cannon and Musket. William said that they seemed to be the new way of warfare and that he found them quite interesting. Not long after, he recommended William to the Artillery. (‘from drummer boy to powder monkey’ – later thought of young Payne)\n\nWilliam lived many years in Brittany, in the fair city of Callis. There he met and married Michelle, the daughter of a local merchant. When the French took up arms to reclaim Brittany, Will stood for the defense of his new home. Unfortunately, the cause was lost and Callis fell to the French. William and Michelle had to flee for their lives. They made the wharf only to find the last ship already cast off. Hand in hand, they dove into the sea to swim for the ship. Sadly, Michelle could not swim and William did so badly. While his fellows managed to pull the drowning Payne from the bay, Michelle was lost beneath the waves.\n\nDuring a time when there were no real standing armies, William managed to maintain himself as a professional soldier, arquebusier and cannoneer.  When Mary Tudor brought the Roman Church back to England, William took to the sea as a gunner for several well know sea captains.  He also returned to France when the English became involved in the wars of Spain. Through a combination of good fortune and good soldiering Payne started building a reputation.  Surviving several potentially mortal wounds enhanced this reputation and Payne became know far and wide as ‘The Badger of Bristol’.\n\nWill was overjoyed when Elizabeth took the throne. When Payne was young one of the older soldiers, who took him under his wing, told Will about her imprisonment in the Tower. His comrade had been at the tower during the months that Elizabeth was held captive. It was one of Will’s favorite tales. He imagined her to be very much her father’s daughter. The ensuing years of her reign has solidified this notion in his mind.\n\nFor five and twenty years he has fought with many armies in a variety of locations. Most recently, William has been in Ireland with the English armies. Due to an oversight (or something), William was not paid for a very long time while in The Pail.  In exchange for his back pay (and because his pay had been misappropriated), William was offered a position in the Yeoman of the Guard. However, this could not have happened without the brilliant career and sterling reputation that continues to proceed William Payne, wherever he goes.\n		
dakinsma02	Catherine Smoot	Margaret Dakins	Mistress Margaret Dakins	I was born on the 10th day of February. in the year 1570. I am the only child of Master Arthur and Thomasin Dakins When I was of a young age, about 3 or 4 years of age, my father had made arrangements for me to be raised in the home of the Earl and Countess of Huntingdon. Being a ward of the Earl and Countess of Huntingdon, it is they who will decide who I will marry.  I am betrothed to the younger brother of the Earl of Essex, Master Walter Devereaux. I am learning of the Puritan religion and I am also learning to read and write\n\nAs years went by, the Earl and Countess of Huntingdon brought me with them on the Queen's Progress to Baron Hudson’s home. There I had met Lady Margaret Carey.  E'er since that progress, we had become the best of friends We write missives to keep communication.\n\nI am glad that the Queen is on Progress to my Lord and Lady Huntingdon's home, for my Lady Huntingdon did speak word with me about my services being needed towards Her Majesty’s Maids of Honour, a position of an attendant to the Maids of Honour. Not only would I be able to see my dear firend Lady Margaret Carey, but I would be able to have the chance to meet and then attend the Maids of Honour.\n		
langleyg02	Anne Smoot	Gertrude Langley	Mistress Gertrude Langley	I am the head housekeeper for the Huntingdon household. I have been with the Huntingdon's for most of my life.  My husband is the steward of the Earl and Countess of Huntingdon. We married 15 years ago when I was but 20 and Jon was 35. When we married we were given a small cottage of our own on the grounds of Pensforde. We have no children of our own.  So, I tend to use my mothering skills on those around me.  \n\nWith progress being here, my duties are increased.  I realize that this will be hard work.  Yet, I believe I will be able to see and serve the nobles as the need arises.  Hopefully, I might even get to see or even talk to the Queen.  I just have one problem; I tend to lose things.  Most things are not of great value, but some are.\n		
woodmagd02	Katie Pitzl	Magdalen Wood	Magdalen Wood, Cook	It has been 25 years since I came to the household of Lord Hastings, the Earl of Huntingdon.  I have made many changes in my life and a lot has happened.  I fear that if I do not write down my memories, I may lose them.  One of the changes that had the most impact on my life was the one that brought me to the household.\n\nI grew up on a farm in the country, the middle daughter of George and Mary Wood.  Our farm was only 15 miles out of Bristol, but, in my mind, it was centuries away.  This suited both of my sisters but was a sore spot for me while growing up.\n\nMy older sister, Martha, was perfectly content to marry the neighboring pig farmer, Henry Spitshire and work away her life, raising both squealing pigs and babies.  To supplement their income, she took in laundry.  This was not the life for me.\n \nMy younger sister, Mary, wanted one thing in life - to marry her childhood sweetheart William Airymede.  She was also quite content to take up the role of farmer's wife and she and her husband, the second son of a neighboring farmer, eventually took over our parents' farm, which was also something I was never interested in.\n\nI was the opposite.  I hated life on our farm and all our chores.  I was very skilled at making up excuses to get out of doing the farm chores or getting my sisters to do them.  This gave me plenty of time to slip away and daydream of the life I could have if only I was in the village of Bristol and away from any farm.\n\nMost of these dreams were impossible, but there was one I was able to make happen.  My father had a cousin, Christopher Wood, who was _____________________.  He died while doing this and the Earl and Countess made a place in the household for his widow, Agnes Wood.  She was the one person who understood my desire to get out of the country and when I went to her for help with my plan, she agreed.  She helped me to secure a place in the household as cook, one of the few chores I had not minded as much.\n\nI was very fortunate to receive this position and give much of the credit to the fact that it was summer, Queen Elizabeth was on progress and due to arrive in Bristol within days.  The Earl had, in the interest of saving money, just dismissed much of his household when the news came and was in a rush to rehire a household to prepare for the Queen's arrival.\n\nI viewed this position in the household as a step up and a chance to improve my station in life.  There was also every chance that I would marry well to someone in the Earl's employment.  I vowed to make something happen and better my life.  This began that summer and another story.\n		
leighfie02	Nicole Blattner	Charity Leighfield	Mistress Charity Leighfield, Mistress of the Spicery	I am Charity Leighfield, Mistress of the Spicery in the household of my Lord and Lady Huntington.  I have been in the household ever since I was the age of ten, and I am eighteen now.  My father and mother worked in my Lord’s father’s household.  My mother was the Mistress of the Spicery there and my father was the groundskeeper.  I had two sisters that died when they were babies, Purity and Margaret.  When I was ten, my mother passed on.  When she did, she left me with most of her knowledge of spices and herbs and a leather pouch that she carried some spices in.  Because my father still works in the household of my Lord’s mother, I rarely ever get to see him.  I wish I could because I really miss him at times.  He told me this once, "I will always be with you as long as you keep me in your heart and have a smile on your face."\n		
mansfiel02	Katie Stauffer	Faith Mansfield	Faith Mansfield, Chamberer	Faith Mansfield is the daughter of John Mansfield the solisitor. Growing up without a mother, she grew up in search of her father's approval and most of the time didn't get it. Because her father dealt with clients who sometimes were less then reputable, she bacame aware of the Catholic's fight against persecution. In studying the reasons for the Catholic religion, she read the bible and may even sympothize.( rumors to be sure) \nFaith can be clumsy at times which is one of the big reasons why she was sent to the Huntington's to live. Another reason is so that Lord Huntington can find her a husband who can afford to keep on fixing things. During her time with the Huntington's she became very good friends with the other house workers: Hope, the narcaleptic, Charity,the happy one, and Chastity, the one in love with Lord Huntington's brother. \nIn her spare time she tries to keep Hope awake and enjoys walking barefoot int he grass. She is really a very simple girl with mixed feelings about the religion, and she falls down a lot.\n		
donningt02	Diana Marie Salmonson	Hope Donnington	Hope Donnington	Hope Donnington was born in 1560, one of eight children of William and Patience Donnigton. She grew up near the castle of Donnigton, an area where her family has lived for centuries. She was brought over to Bristol to join the Earl of Huntingdon's household in 1574, prior to the Queen's arrival on progress. Hope's only problem with her job is that she falls asleep at random times, which makes her job of mistress of the stillroom a struggle. She is also illiterate, and the rest of the household is forever trying to educate her. Hope is of the Puritan religion, and she is optimistic about life. Without her, the Huntingdon household would have no hope.		
wellchas02	Paula Cartwright	Chastity Well	Mistress Chastity Well, Maid of the Bedchamber/Attendant to Lady Huntingdon	I am mistress Chastity Well. I am maid of the bedchamber for Lady Kathryn Dudley, 3rd Countess of Huntingdon. I am also her personal attendant when she is at home in Ashby.  I came to be in her service when as a child my father sent me to serve Lord and Lady Huntingdon in hopes of gaining an education, and learning how a Lady ought to act. Kathryn took a liking to me and I have been her faithful servant and companion ever since. This however is my first account with Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth, as I have never before had the chance to meet our great monarch. I am excited to see all of the beautiful Ladies at court and perhaps just as excited to meet all of the handsome gentleman that will be present as well. \n\nPersonality: Chastity is a goodie two-shoes to the fullest meaning of the phrase. NO is not a part of her vocabulary, she is agreeable to all tasks put upon her, UNTIL the nobles are out of earshot. She is a gossip and wants to deny the prudence of her name, by swooning over every handsome gentleman at court; However, she fails in most attempts to do this, and fears she will never marry. \n		
montaldy03	Elizabeth Dulzo	Maria de Aragon	Maria de Aragon, Contessa de Montalto, Lady Montalto	I was born April 12, 1553 to Antonio of Aragon, Count of Montalto (deceased last year) and Aloisia of the Moon, Countess of Bivona and Montalto. I have two sisters, Bianca Antonia of Aragon and Anna Maria of Aragon. When my father died, I inherited the title, lands, and monies of the family since I was the eldest child and there was no male heir. Those close to me know I am distantly related to Catherine of Aragon. Those close to me also know I am betrothed to Francesco of Moncada, Prince of Paterno. My title is a holding title for heir to the thrones of Naples and Sicily. I am an off branch for the throne and will probably never inherit the throne. (Also known to those close to me).\n\nI have been the companion to the Infanta since we were children. We are almost inseparable. We have been schooled together and have done everything together. After she marries, I will be released from service to marry my betrothed.	2003/2003_Madrid_Maria_01.jpg	
salesldy03	Qudsia Sethi Blum	Ursula Stanley	Lady Ursula Stanley, Lady Salesbury	My name is Ursula Stanley. I am the youngest child of his lordship, Henry Stanley, 4th Earl of Derby. Although an illegitimate child, Her Majesty ordered my father to publicly acknowledge me as his daughter. Because of this great good fortune, I was able to be presented at Court with the prospect of finding a good husband.\n\nI am here on Progress along with my elder half brother, Sir Ferdinando Stanley, the Right Honorable Lord Strange of Knokin and heir apparent to the throne of England. With him is his lovely wife, Lady Alice. Other relatives along with me on this Progress are my three aunts, Lady Morely, Lady Dudley and Lady Stourton. Lastly, the most precious of all my family that is with me, is my beloved son, Master Henry Salesbury.\n\nThe past several Progresses I was an overeager child....being kept hidden away in the country can make one as such. Questions, questions, questions was all I asked! I wanted to know about EVERYTHING (including seeing an occasional execution!). Sometimes my aunts would silence me by taking me away to my room by my ear or my brother would sternly rebuke me for “unladylike” behavior. Word had gotten back to our father, the Earl, of my naive and overeager antics (esp that of spending money that was not mine!) and, although it was not being as pursued as it should have been, it was quickly decided that I should have a husband as soon as possible. The choice fell on Sir John Salesbury, a gentle and noble knight descended from our\nlate Henry VII through his mother. Both my father and brother were in agreement that Sir John was an excellent choice of a husband for me, so the marriage took place without delay.\n\nMost arranged marriages are marriages of state..hardly any are for love. In my case, however, I have had the luck of falling in love with my husband and having that love returned. Sir John is the perfect husband. He adores me in such a way that most women could only dream of such devotion. Our son, Henry, is our pride and joy. After having such good fortune befall me, an Earl’s bastard daughter, what could I possibly say except give my prayers and thanks to God for the rest of my life?\n\nThis Progress I shall try to be a proper lady and set a good example of a young married woman. Alas, my husband cannot be here with me just yet due to other business in London, I am still anxiously awaiting his return to me. I am still a bit over eager and I still like to write poetry about nonsensical things, but now that I have everything a lady could ask for, I need to show how grateful I am by being a good wife, daughter, sister and mother.	2003/2003_Salesbury_Ursula_03.jpg	herald-darby.gif
hastildy03	Sarah Stoll	Mary Hastings	Lady Mary Hastings, Maid of Honor	Cher ma belle soeur Cecilia,\n\nI am pleased to write that I will be returning to you all again quite soon in Bristol! I have missed you and the other maids during my time away. I am certain that together we will devise a plot to keep me out of the ice kingdom. It is all my good brother Henry speaks of. E’en mine own mother is set against me as well and wishes to marry that man. I refuse to even think his name for that is how dead against this scheme I am. Mayhap we may convince my brother George or my sister Elizabeth to our side so that they will speak on my behalf. If Elizabeth could convince her husband to change his religion, I am certain she can convince Henry to keep me in England!!\n\nI trust this letter will find you well. I am faring much better as my time away from mes cher soeurs draws to an end. I hope you have not tortured poor Helena too much in my absence. In her most recent letter to me she wondered how best to avoid the large cat-sized spiders wandering about. Cecilia, please remember she is our sister and we should treat her as such. ‘Tis nigh to dawn and I must sleep. I did dance all night, my poor feet! I shall reach you before this letter does! I look forward to late nights and clandestine midnight rides through the countryside. Be sure to give Bridget a good hard poke in the arm for me, I know how much she doth enjoy that!\n\nAh yes, Helena may appear a bit apprehensive about blowing the candle out at night. I did attempt to assuage her fears of cat-sized spiders by telling her they are quite scarce in number now that the long clawed sharp fanged creature hunts them. In the dark…\n\nSempiternelle et loyale\nJe reste,\nMary Hastings	2003\2003_Hastings_Mary_05.jpg	herald-huntingdon.gif
zouchbrn03	Paul Schiller	Edward le Zouche	Sir Edward le Zouche, 11th Baron Zouhe	The Baron wishes that he may share with his piers his foundation in life. Mayhap it will make for some amusement for Us and education for thee. We wish to start by stating that our family itself can be traced back to 1008 to a Guethenoc Porhoet. It is listed not his wife, but their daughter was Josselin De Bretagne, Viscomte de Rennes. Again the marriage partner to this person is indeed not known to Us, but their child was Eudon Porhoet. He married an Anne De Leon. There was at least one child from the marriage, that being Geoffrey La Zouche of Porhoet whom married Hawise Fergan. We wish to make it known, so that one will overlook not, We are direct descendants of French Royalty and Nobility. We shall endeavor to explain…\n\nHawise comes from Alain Fergant of Brittany VI, who was married to Ermengard De Anjou. Ermengard’s parents were Fulk of Anjou and Bertrade De Montfort. Both of these lines can be traced further back as well. Alain of Brittany comes from the parents Hoel De Cornoquaille V and Hawise of Brittany.\n\nAlas, We have grown tired of relating to thee this important missive that one should commit to memory, given the lot of you can retain any information that bears any importance. We shall, for our own interest, start where we did enter this God’s creation.\n\nWe were fortunate enough to be raised and educated in Burley’s care since We where none but a pea. We, under Burley’s care, grew to be bright and full of the knowledge of the State. We did have but the best tutors and instructors. From there, and with Burley’s help, We managed to befriend Her Grace and earn Our way into Her Council. Her Majesty always admired Our ability to be front forward in Our speaking. Trying not to protect Her from things She would rather not hear. In this Her respect grew and We found Our place in the Star Chamber, and Privy Council.\n\nWe have been blessed to be married twice, and We have 2 daughters previous to the children We share with Our Sara Harrington. Their names are Mary and Elizabeth. We often enjoy each others company on outings in the out of doors. We often feast in the clearings or hunt along the castle grounds. We are quite gifted when We do decide to hunt. We are most able to provide for Her Grace when she visits on Our sport alone. We have often hunted together, and have grown even fonder of each other on these occasions.\n\nOur true passion aside from Our pastry of a wife would be Our 11 dogs. We would most enjoy traveling with them everywhere if We could, but We think it not appropriate to have the boys around Her Grace. We miss them and do not feel ashamed to let everyone around us know this. Our companions are all named after one of the Greek God’s. We feel these names only to perfect for these members of Our household.\n\nLet it be known that We are quite, how do you say, fickle, if you will, about whom We converse with. If thou art to Our social standing not, then be brief and to the point for We have much more important things to attend to. If thou art above Our social standing, then We will acknowledge as much, but may show little to no interest. It is not because We care little of what you have to say, it may just be that you bore Us. You will be sure to know either way.\n\nNow, We rest… We are most weary of relaying this important missive to the ears of one not worthy to know of such details. We do, however, thank thee for thine audience.\n\nGod Speed,\nSir Edward Le Zouche\n11th Baron Zouche of Haryngworth	2003/2003_Zouche_Edward_01.jpg	herald-zouche.gif
howarbrn03	Bob Horne	Charles Howard	Sir Charles Howard, 1st Baron Howard of Effingham	Sir Charles Howard is on progress in his duties as Privy Councilor and Lord High Admiral. Also on progress with the Queen are his wife Lady Katherine Carey, who is one of the Queens Ladies, their daughter Lady Elizabeth Howard, and his sister Lady Mary Howard, who are Maids of Honor.  This progress is turning out to be somewhat of a Howard family outing as the Carey family as well and many other Howard relations are also present here in Bristol.\n\nAlso accompanying Sir Charles are Vice Admiral Sir John Perrot, Captains Sir Edward Horsey, Sir Richard Grenville, Sir Martin Frobisher and Sir John Hawkins. They are along to discuss with the Privy Council the future of Her Majesty’s Navy.\n\nSir Charles Howard, 2nd Baron Howard of Effingham, Lord Admiral, Privy Councilor, Knight of the Garter, Lord Lieutenant of Surrey and Sussex, Commissioner of the Peace for Surrey and Middlesex. He was born in 1536 to William Howard and Margaret Gamage 1st Baron and Baroness Howard of Effingham. Sir Charles is a first cousin, once removed, to Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth through his grandfather Thomas Howard, 2nd Duke of Norfolk, who is the Queen's great grandfather. He has one brother William and four sisters Mary, Douglas, Frances, and Elizabeth. Mary is married to Edward, Lord Dudley. Douglas was married to John Sheffield, Lord Sheffield. While married she had an affair with Sir Robert Dudley, Earl of\nLeicester, whom she later claimed she was married to, but Leicester denied it. Nonetheless she bore him a son in 1574 that Leicester did not disown. Leicester also my have had an affair with Frances at this time. Frances later married Edward, Earl of Hertford. His youngest sister Elizabeth married Sir George Bourchier.\n\nIt was in Charles’ early days at the court of Queen Elizabeth that Charles met and fell in love with Lady Katherine Carey, another of the Queens cousins and close personal friend and attendant. Katherine was the daughter of Sir Henry Carey and Anne Morgan, Baron and Baroness Hunsdon. The Queen gave her blessing to the match and attended the wedding. Charles and Katherine had five children three daughters, Elizabeth who was named for the Queen, who was her Godmother, Frances and Margaret and two sons William and Charles.\n\nSir Charles was near to the center of power for all of his adult life and had a role in many of the important events of his time. Even so, he is one of the least known of his contemporaries. He was not so much of a maker of policy as he was a follower of those that did. He owed his position in society and politics not so much because of his talents, which were adequate, but because he was born a Howard and the son of one of the important men of the time. He was not as well educated as many of his contemporaries but he possessed a practical common sense that served him well. He did not belong to any particular faction at court, instead he followed his sense as to what was best for the Queen and England in the matter at hand. In matters of the Queens safety and the security of the nation he tended to side with Leicester’s more hardcore party but with religion and other matters he was more in agreement with Burghley’s more conservative policies. Charles was more comfortable with men, ships and horses than he was with books and ledgers but he became a very able administrator nonetheless. He would go far just by being loyal diligent and honest.\n\nCharles service to England began in his early twenties when he accompanied his father, who was Lord Admiral at the time, on several missions with the fleet during the war with France. His father saw to it that Charles gained the training in leadership and seamanship that would serve him well later in life. He was with his father at Elizabeth’s coronation. Elizabeth kept his father on as Lord Chamberlain, a position he was originally given by Queen Mary, because his father was one of the few who had spoken to Mary in Elizabeth’s favor. Charles early days in court were spent assisting his father in his duties and learning all he could of statecraft. His first assignment for Elizabeth was when he accompanied his father to the treaty negotiations in France to end the war started by Mary and her Husband Philip II of Spain against France. His father gave Charles\nthe honor of bringing the news of the treaty’s ratification to Elizabeth. She rewarded Charles by giving him the first of his many\nassignments and positions he would serve in, that as special ambassador to the French Court. Some of his other appointments in\nthese early years were as General of Horse under the Earl of Warwick during the Northern Rebellion and as Admiral of the Fleet which escorted the new Queen of Spain, Anne of Austria, through the English Channel. He also served in the House of Commons.\n\nCharles became 2nd Baron Howard of Effingham upon the death of his father in 1573. From then on the Queen started naming him to more prestigious positions. In 1574 he is named Vice Chamberlain to assist the ailing Lord Sussex. It was in this office that he was responsible for the planning of the Queens progress of 1574. In 1575 he is elected to the Companionship of the Order of the Garter. In 1580 he is named Commissioner of the Peace for Surrey and Middlesex. In 1582\nhe takes a conspicuous place in the ceremonials of the Duc d’ Anjou’s visit to court the Queen, and he is named Admiral of the fleet that escorts the Duc back to the Low Countries. He is also named Admiral of a fleet bringing troops and supplies to Ireland. In 1583 he presides over the commission investigating John Hawkins and the state of the Navy. In 1584 Elizabeth names him Lord Chamberlain and Privy Councilor.\n\nSir Charles received the appointment he most cherished, that of Lord Admiral in 1585, the position he holds for the next thirty-two years. In 1587 Elizabeth names him Lieutenant General, Commander in Chief and Governor of the fleet and army at sea against the Spanish and their allies. It is in this post that Sir Charles leads the English Fleet to victory over the Spanish Armada. He goes to sea as Admiral only once more in 1596. He is Joint Commander with Robert Devereux, Earl of Essex, when they capture and sack the Spanish city of Cadiz .For his service during the war with Spain Elizabeth names Charles Earl of Nottingham in 1597.\n\nSir Charles spent his entire adult life in the service of Queen Elizabeth. He was one of the very few who were in attendance during her entire life. It is said that Sir Charles was by the Queen’s side on her deathbed and to him she named James, Our Cousin of Scotland, as her heir to the throne.\n\nSir Charles died on the 16th of December, 1624. He was eighty-eight years old. He was buried in the parish church of Reigate on December 18th.	2003/2003_Howard_Charles_03.jpg	herald-effingham.gif
stmarbrn03	Rick Barrett	Jean de Simier	Jean de Simier, Baron de St. Marc	Simier’s raison d’etre is simple: to see the Duke of Alençon become the next King of England. He will flatter, cajole, and bribe his way to success as needed, and he is fortunate in that he has an uncanny ability to determine which tactic to use with whom. And although he knows full well that he is in England to court Queen Elizabeth on behalf of his master, he may find that from time to time that he will forget himself and speak somewhat to familiarly and forwardly to the Queen. He also has his own interests in mind, for a successful marriage negotiation would certainly guarantee a prominent place in the King’s household and, with any luck, social advancement (Duke of Lancaster and York has a nice ring to it!).\n\nSimier also finds his task a most pleasant one, for he finds the Queen to be both beautiful and learned, a rare combination. He also has a genuine respect for the Queen because she has succeeded in bringing stability and prosperity to England, whereas Catherine de Medici, the Queen Mother of France, has failed so miserably. He is also pleased to see how tolerant the English court is, for contrary to what he had been told, there are many Catholics at court, and he intends to reassure the English of their new King’s toleration.\n\nIn the interim, Simier intends to enjoy his time at the English court. He finds the English to be a pleasant if not backwards people. How fortunate they are that Simier is here to show them what is truly fashionable, graceful, and refined. This will, of course, require him to dance with, flirt with, and woo as many of the beautiful court ladies as possible.\n\nHe does not, however, enjoy the trials and tribulations of the Progress. Simier was under the impression that he would be sent to London, reside at one of the royal palaces as a guest of Her Majesty, complete his task, and return to Paris to prepare Alençon for his journey to England. Imagine his surprise to find that he would be traveling from place to place every other day, most of which would be far removed from any semblance of civilization. He is particularly unhappy with his current predicament of residing at Berkeley Castle, a fifteen-mile ride away from where the Queen will be lodging during her stay in Bristol. He is, however, making the most of his  situation. He finds the Berkeleys good company, most accommodating of his need to import the staples of his diet even if they are rare and expensive in England, and makes good use of their hunting parks.\n\nThough not officially an ambassador, due to the importance of his mission and whom he represents, he may be referred to by most as Your Excellency. To those few hunting, gambling, and drinking companions he has in England, he is Simier. And to certain, select ladies, he is Jean.	2003/2003_Simier_Jean_02.jpg	
zouchbrs03	Denise Prohaska	Sara Harington	Sara Harington, Lady le Zouche, Baroness Zouche	I am one of four children born to Sir James Harington of Exton in Rutlandshire and Lucy Sidney. My mother is Anne Sindey, Lady Fitzwilliam's and Sir Henry Sidney's sister. Hence, I am related to all the Sidney's at court and beyond.\n\nMy first marriage was a true love match to Francis Hastings, brother to Henry, the Earl of Huntington, George and Elizabeth Hastings, the Countess or Worchester. The dowager Countess of Huntington was my mother in the law until sadly several years ago, Francis died leaving me a widowed mother of five children, Henry, George, Edward, Catherine and Theodosia Hastings. Because of the children and my love of the Hasting family, I am still very much part of their family.\n\nMy second marriage was to a much older man, Sir George Kingsmill. We were married less than one year when he died leaving me his two ungreatful daughters to raise, Margaret and Jane Kingsmill. So now I was a widow with seven children.\n\nThen one spring day I meet Edward Zouche, the Baron Zouche of Haryingworth. He was the most handsome man I had ever seen. He was a widower and had two very small daughters, Elizabeth and Mary, and needed a wife. I agreed to marry him right away. We have nine children combined, but have found the greatest love or our lives in each other.\n\nTogether Edward and I love to shop and hunt, well he hunts and I tell him how wonderful and manly he is. We both love our dogs, at last count we have around fifty dogs and could always make room for more.\n\nWe have three main homes, seeing as though Edward is one the richest men in England. We have Kirby Hall in Rutland, Waddington Hall in the Ribble Valley and Bramshill House in Northamptonshire.\n\nMy husband and I are madly in love and detest most other people. We have come to realize that we do not have need for others and therefore have become tired of them as a whole. I would apologize for my behaviour, but I do not care enough about most anyone to really extend this apology.\n\nI am very excited to come to court for the first time, and as a new Baroness. Some may call me a social climber, I would call myself intelligent. I simply refused to marry lower than my last husband.\n\nNow that I am wealthy and married to a Privy Councelor, I am excited to see the Queen again and meet some new people of my own station. I say meet the Queen again, because my father hosted the Queen on progress in 1566.\n\nI also have brought all nine children with me with plans to leave them with the Earl of Huntington as wards. He may find them husbands or wives and educate them. I grow bored of this missive, Good Day.	2003/2003_Zouche_Sarah_05.jpg	herald-zouche.gif
scropbrs03	Karen Bergquist	Philidelphia Carey	Philidelphia Carey, Lady le Scrope, Baroness Scrope of Bolton	Philadelphia Carey was born at Cannonrow in Westminster several years before Queen Elizabeth came to the throne. The exact dates seem to vary in the sources which is typical of the time. Her father was Henry Carey, later Sir Henry Carey Knight of the Garter and 1st Baron Hunsdon, and her mother was Anne Morgan. She was the 4th of 11 children and the second daughter. Her older brothers George, currently jousting in the Knights of Gloriana, and John each inherited the Hunsdon title, her older sister Catherine married Baron Howard of Effingham and was later Countess of Nottingham. Her youngest brother is Sir Robert Carey who is currently commanding the Guild of St. Michael.\n\nPhiladelphia and her family served the Queen in a variety of trusted positions. Even after her marriage to Thomas Le Scrope, 10th Baron Scrope of Bolton Mascham and Upsall, she remained in the Queen's service as one of her ladies-in-waiting. Henry Carey served as Warden of the Eastern Marches on the Scottish border. His friend Henry Le Scrope 9th Baron Scrope was Warden of the Western Marches and I theorize that the marriage between Philadelphia and Thomas was arranged by the fathers to cement political ties between the two great families. I have assumed that marriage was not a terribly loving one due to the fact that Philadelphia and Thomas had only one son and lived apart of most of their married life. This is pure conjecture on my part.\n\nAs is typical of women of the Elizabethan era, there isn't too much known about what Philadelphia was really like. I have created her character from the small tidbits which I have been able to find and added a healthy dose of what I think would make an interesting character. I know from surviving documents that, like many Elizabethans, Philadelphia liked to gamble and did so frequently. I also know that she ran up some rather sizable debts so she wasn't always lucky or prudent. I have extrapolated from these facts that she was something of a sports woman and liked to ride and hunt with a longbow. The riding is common with many of the Queen's ladies and the longbow suits my own interests as well as being appropriate to period. I want to emphasis the gambling aspects of her character so expect Philadelphia to wager on just about anything.\n\nAnother character choice that I have made is to make Philadelphia a rather forceful woman. She was raised in an interesting combination of homes. A large part of her life was spent up on the Scottish borders, a rough country where you needed to be strong to survive. The other part of her childhood was spent at Court where you needed a different kind of strength to survive. I think that these two forces have made her a very strong person both physically and mentally with a quick wit and a talent for survival. I think that she has the ability to size a person up pretty effectively and has no time for those who she perceives as being weak or ineffective. She also has a great ability to adapt, there probably aren't two more different\nenvironments in England than the Court and the Borders.\n\nA newer character choice, and one at odds with my own personality, is to make Philadelphia an 'anti-intellectual'. It isn't that she doesn't think that people should be educated, it's just that she thinks that the level of education should be appropriate to their station in life. She doesn't trust the new intellectualism which is being taught at the universities. Philadelphia is rather conservative and believes strongly in the status quo, Great Chain of Being, what ever you want to call it. She feels that to question the standard teachings is the first step toward social chaos and anarchy. She is not opposed to basic education, reading and arithmetic and perhaps some languages. She doesn't trust the 'scientific' teachings such as Galileo's new theories about the place of the Earth in the cosmic scheme. Once you begin to question one aspect of how the world works, it leads to others and soon the very fabric of life (as she knows it) will fray and unravel. This is a very distressing concept to the average Elizabethan and I thought that Philadelphia would be more interesting if she took this point of view.\n\nAt this point in time, Philadelphia has been married for several years, she has one son, Emmanuel, who is not with her at court but is being cared for by a nurse at the Scrope family seat at Bolton. He is about 4 years old. Her husband, Thomas, is away tending to his duties as Warden of the Western Marches. This suits Philadelphia quite nicely, the Queen understands that the marriage is not a close one and keeps Philadelphia close to her at court which also suits Philadelphia very nicely. She can frequently be heard praying that the Lord "Bless and keep my husband.....far away from me!"\n\nOf the factions at court, Philadelphia is mostly in the Burghley camp. She personally likes Leicester but thinks that his policies are a bit on the dangerous side and that he is himself a bit too impulsive. Remember, Philadelphia is conservative. She thinks that Leicester would make Elizabeth happiest as a husband, but would be disasterous for the Queen and England. Of the foreign suitors, she favors Alençon of France.	2003/2003_Scrope_Philidelphia_03.jpg	herald-scrope.gif
dudlebrs03	Corinne Nash	Jane Stanley	Jane Stanley, Lady Sutton, Baroness Dudley	I was born to Edward Stanley, 3rd Earl of derby and Dorothy Howard.. I am the youngest of seven children: Henry, Thomas, Edward, Elizabeth, Mary, and Ann. I’ve been married to my husband for four years now and just gave birth to our first son Edward last year. Recently, her majesty has sent my sisters and myself to join her at court. We are fully aware of the fact that a Frenchman had joined court in hope of pursuing the Duc of Anjou’s hope of marring the Queen. Him being Catholic, her majesty is sending for many Catholics to make a good show. It does not bother me though, it has been a long time sense I have seen members of my family. I am very pleased to see my sister Ann, Elizabeth and her family, my nephew Ferdinando, and my\nniece Ursula. It is the first time I have seen any of them sense my son was born.\n\nIt is amazing how quickly my sisters and my self fall into our old ways. I was the youngest of the family and often resented by my siblings as being the baby. I am often mistaken as being a little bit absent minded, the truth is that I learned at an early age that if I pretended to be slow of wit that I received more attention from my parents and brothers. One thing has changed from the old days . I am now a very devoted mother of my first son. I am a very protective and dedicated mother who will often be asking other mothers of how they handled problems with their children.\n\nI am also happy to see my husbands distant relatives, the Dudley’s, at court. Though, they deny the fact that we are cousins, I will continually refer to them as cousin just to get a rise out of them. I may also mention to them about how comfortable Dudley castle is, considering it was taken away from their side of the family when their father fell out of grace with the crown.		
howarbrs03	Sheila Haberland	Catherine Carey	Catherine Carey, Lady Howard, Baroness Howard of Effingham	1 June 1574\n\nToday, my mother and I attended Elizabeth during one of her interminable talks with “her little monkey”. While I am glad that she has joy in her conversations with him, I truly hope that she will not marry his master. I have no desire to see another foreign prince married to an English Queen. Leichester is out of the running, may my cousin Lettice not have cause to rue her choice. And while there is none that I favor, I do wish her to find a man she can love and who loves her, even as my beloved Charles and I love and are loved in return.\n\nThe Maids of Honor are all excited about Progress. Sisters Mary and Margaret along with young Elizabeth have talked non-stop about the things the maids wish to do along the way. Though I say nothing to deny their hopes, I very much doubt that they will do half the things they hope. Too well I know how much it takes to constantly move her majesty from one place to the next and while some of the entertainments that are provided can be fun, there is too much of moving and packing and unpacking and too many long hours spent in slowly riding from place to place for me to say I truly enjoy Progress. It is, and I try to enjoy myself during it, but I will never say that I look forward to it.\n\nPhiladelphia and Anne and I have been talking about ways to while away the time as we ride. I suggested that I could teach them some of the Scotch ballads that I have collected. Philadelphia said she would not mind as the songs would remind her of father, who is on the border at Berrick still. Anne said that she would not mind either, so I will need to make sure to pack my collection of ballads. That will at least keep some of the tedium of the long rides away. I love Elizabeth, and will serve her always, but I do wish she was not quite so fond of her public displays.\n\nAt least Charles will be with me on Progress this year and not on board one of his ships. I am very proud of his office as Lord Admiral, but wish it did not take him away so often. While we each have our duties to attend to, I do cherish the time that I spend with him. I envy not mother’s long separations from father and unlike Philadelphia want to be near my husband. Though I must admit her point that they are two very different men and perhaps I would feel as she does if I knew Baron Scroop better. Well it has been a long day today, and tomorrow will be another. It is time to go to bed.	2003/2003_Howard_Catherine_03.jpg	herald-effingham.gif
thamebrs03	Lois Salmonson	Margaret Wentworth	Margaret Wentworth, Lady Croft, Baronesß Williamß of Thame	Born in 1536, Margaret Wentworth was the 11th (out of 15) child of Baron Thomas Henry Wentworth and Margaret Fortescue. With a family pedigree reaching past the Plantagenets, Charlemagne, and many rulers of France, Sweden, Italy, Prussia, and Turkey, she is a distant cousin to the Queen ( and many here at court ) through both of Margaret’s parents’ ancestries.\n\nHer first husband was Baron John Lord Williams of Thame, but as he was much older, he died only a few years after their marriage, leaving most of the property to his daughters (of his first wife ) Margery and Isabel. Margaret soon wed Sir William Drury who had a successful military career, eventually becoming governor of Ireland…where he died of fever.\n\nMargaret then married Sir James Croft, comptroller of the Queen’s household, Captain of Berwick, and Member of the Privy Council. ( His dedication to the Queen included being held prisoner in the Tower following the Wyatt rebellion, where attempts were made to have him implicate Elizabeth, but he stood his ground; his politics include support for Robert Dudley.)\n\nMargaret is at court because she has a position as a Lady of the Privy Chamber (or perhaps Bedchamber…sources conflict). As far as being on progress…it is more interesting and entertaining then being at Morecroft with her husband, who is making preparations as the Queen will stop there for a day’s visit following her stay in Bristol.\n\nBesides, with a foot that is a bit lame, Margaret only finds the upheaval in her home out of her control. She actually enjoys the pomp and ceremony in Bristol, where she can listen to the gossip of peers (but she is not one to spread it…unless it’s delightful juicy!), visit the shops (especially jewelry, glass, and pewter shops…she is the patron of Noble Castings), talk to the children of Bristol, and join in singing madrigals with other members of court.\n\nGod Save the Queen!		
norrebrs03	Jennifer Schwartz	Marjory Norreys	Marjory Norreys, Lady Norreys, Baroness Norreys of Rycote	Lady Marjory Norreys Baroness Of Rycote Mistress of Her Majesties Jewels. First and foremost a Lady to the Queen, second a wife to Henry, and finally a mother to her children. Lady Marjory is here as requested by her grace, and will happily serve her as long as she desires it to be so. Secretly though in her heart she wishes the that Henry, the children and herself could all be together and away from court life. Back to a simpler life full of little pleasures, many joys and much laughter. Marjory believes in the joys of life, and would rather hear laughter around the queen and herself than Politics. Marjory likes all people, even the French and Spanish, unless you give her a reason not to. Know you this, do not abuse or anger this lady for it is a wrath just short of God himself and you are not likely to be forgiven and time soon. Marjory my play the fool but, she listens to everything. Do not say anything around Marjory that you do not want repeated, she can keep a confidence when she knows it is a secret and yet, has a way of telling the queen everything she has heard and at the most inappropriate times, at least it seems like that for the person she is exposing. She enjoys a good joke,learning and playing games and making all those around her as happy as she can.	2003/2003_Norreys_Marjorie_01.jpg	herald-norreys.gif
browmldy03	Zaida Portulatin	Mabel Browne	Lady Mabel Browne	Good day and Well met!!\n\nI am Lady Mabel, daughter of Anthony Browne, Viscount Montague and my fathers’ second wife Magdelen Dacre. I have been brought up with four bothers and my sister and close companion Jane. I, like my parents am a devout catholic and extremely loyal to our sovereign Queen.\n\nMy family has always been loyal to England. My grandfather was Master of Horse for our good King Henry VIII. My father accompanied Queen Mary into England for her coronation and was appointed Viscount for being a true and loyal servant. My mother served as a maid of honor for Queen Mary.\n\nI tend to be good-natured and kind though I do whatever my heart deems right. I enjoy a good hunt, dancing and taking lute lessons and feel most at home in the country. My favorite color is green and I enjoy the scent of wild flowers and roses. I have been known to enjoy idle-gossip and have heard there is much at court. We have been asked to accompany the Queen on progress both my sister Jane and I. We have never been to court and know not what to expect. We are expected to leave Cowdray soon towards Bristol. It is with a heavy heart that I journey to Bristol. Unknown to my father I have fallen in love with\nHenry Capell, he is of local gentry in Surrey. Though I am in Bristol on Progress, my heart remains in Surrey with Henry.	2003/2003_Browne_Mabel_02.jpg	herald-browne.gif
browjldy03	Maria Portulatin	Jane Browne	Lady Jane Browne	I am Lady Jane Browne the youngest daughter to Anthony Browne 1st Viscount Montague and his second wife Magdalen Dacre. My Grandfather Sir Anthony Browne, K.G. was Master of Horse to King Henry VIII of blessed memory. My father Anthony Browne was created Viscount Montague at the wedding of Queen Mary, of blessed memory, and Prince\nPhillip of Spain. I have been raised to follow the old religion and I have been taught to love and obey my parents. I have tried to also do exactly what was expected of me by doing my studies and devoting myself in prayer. I was raised, with my sister Mabel and my bothers at Cowdray. The primary emphasis on my childhood was to instill good manners and the 'feminine' virtues of obedience and docility. I am fond of needlework and dancing. My true passion is reading, and I tend to be quiet and studious by nature. The only dislikes I have are of Papists, Puritans, Calvinists and any form zealot.\n\nMy sister Mabel and I have been requested to go on progress with the Queen. The daughter of King Phillip of Spain will be at court, and her Majesty wishes my sister and I to escort her during progress. I know everyone at court will fascinate me, howe’er I have been warned by my Father to trust no one and to keep all opinions between God and myself. I can not hide my joy in going on progress and wait for the moment when I will be able to see the Queen for my father has many times spoken of her beauty and grace.	2003/2003_Browne_Jane_03.jpg	herald-browne.gif
portdort03	Michelle Novak	Dorothy Port	Dorothy Port, Mistress Hastings	Dorothy is the wife to George Hastings who is not currently but becomes the 4th Earl of Huntingdon. They were married in July of 1557 and had five children; Francis, Henry, Edward, Catherine and Dorothy. During the current progress to Bristol, we will play Dorothy and George as having only two children, Francis and Henry whom are in the care of the Lord and Lady Huntingdon. The Hastings had their children taken from them because they are Catholics. While in the care of the Huntingdons, one of the children dies (this may come about mid-season). At that time, Dorothy will grieve for her lost child and\nexpress her fears for the fate of any possible future children that would be taken by the Huntingdons. For the moment, she is happy to be visiting the Huntingdons where she is able to know the goings on of her children, even if she cannot see them. She is also able to spend some quality time with her husband whom she adores, their marriage is a happy one.	2003/2003_Hastings_Dorothy_02.jpg	
hastbldy03	Lindsey Shay	Barbara Devereaux	Barbara Devereaux, Lady Hastings	Barbara was born in 1542 at Myrevale, Warwickshire to Sir William Devereux and Jane Sccudamore. She was eldest daughter of two.\n\nShortly after Barbara turned fifteen she was married to her first husband, Sir Edward Cayce. But this marriage was not meant to be for only two years later he became ill and died. Since there had been no issue of this marriage she inherited all of his property, including Leicester Abbey.\n\nSo for about seven or eight years she stayed unmarried tending to her estates. And then it seemed as thought God had finally heard her prayers for a new husband. For in 1567 Sir Edward Hastings entered her life as as a husband and friend. Both being the same age and born in the same place they had become friends at a young age and seem to be destine to be married later in life. And they were blessed with two children Henry and Walter.	2003/2003_Hastings_Barbara_03.jpg	
howaeldy03	Jackie Hanchar	Elizabeth Howard	Lady Elizabeth Howard, Maid of Honor	To my dear sister Margaret,\n\nWe are once again upon progress, though this time we are off to the town of Bristol. While I much enjoy the entertainment that is provided for us along these long and arduous trips, I have grown  quite tired of them. It is a great stretch of the mind to believe that we might get a bed so comfortable as those that ar in her Majesty’s castles. Nor are there most of the other comforts that we have wile still in England, but instead whate’er may be scrounged from the local area. That is, whate’er may be left for us when many others have taken their pick. I should not complain so though, for there are many on progress that do not even leave where we last visit, knowing that they will not get lodgings any closer.\n\nIt also appears that the French ambassador is still to remain with us while on progress, much, it seems, to Leicester’s displeasure. Mary Fitton would be most pleased to hear of this, I’m sure. She tends to go on about how the French fashions are the very epitome of elegance. I see no true difference between what this French ambassador wears and what any good English man does. Perhaps Mary was just showing yet another one of her wild streaks – like when she wears breeches. No, Margaret, wearing breeches is something that the men are to do, not the woman, or maids for that matter.\n\nPerfect Manners isn’t very impressed with the Frenchman either, but that might be just because he’s foreign. Not that I find the ideal of having to deal with a frog a great deal of the day appealing either – he has the habit of slipping back into his native language. Maybe I ought to be more used to dealing with those not of England though, as we now have a Maid of Honor from Sweden. She’s a great deal more enjoyable to be around though, for you can tell her anything you want, and she’ll believe you! We’ve already told her about the horrible spiders under the beds, and the beasts that haunt the forests, and she never seemed to figure it out that it was all a silly pack of tall tales. Yes, that’s right, there are no beasts out for maiden blood, and those wails you hear during the night are probably our youngest brother’s, Charles. Perhaps it would be wise not to have you meet her, considering your delicate nature.\nLeichseter’s oh so darling niece is still with us as well, I suppose to my own displeasure. It is not that she is of poor attitude, or is a pain to be around within her own right, but it is more than a bit annoying to deal with her uncle fondling her. I swear, the fuss that man makes in front of the rest of us makes me wonder at times why he just doesn’t marry her. That’s unfair to her though, so I try to keep such things to myself – and out of mine own mind as well. Especially when two of our aunts are in the Maids of Honor with me, one of which tends to title me with the word ‘darling’.\n\nYes, I am quite sure that our aunts miss you dearly as well, as they get to see you so little, like our parents and grandparents do. Howe’er, you must be quite pleased that they would be so kind as to take your delicate nature into mind when debating wether or not a visit would be well for you. I am sure that if you improve, you would be able to come, pending the Queen’s permission. Then you would be able to see all of the wondrous new and exiting things that there are to see while on progress with her Mage. As well as the many places to visit, and things to do, and I’m sure that there are some children that would be pleased to teach you some new games. There are also many, many different butterflies and birds to chase, and I’m sure that with her Majesty’s Master of the Horse, you’d be able to ride back towards the horse’s head, without having a terrible fall again.\n\nTake care; and remember no matter what the street urchins may say, dirt is not something that tastes good.\n\nSincerely,\nElizabeth Howard		
howamldy03	Megan Jutzronka	Mary Howard	Lady Mary Howard, Maid of Honor	Nickname: May\nAge: about 17\nParents: Sir William Howard, 1st Baron Howard of Effingham and Lady Margaret Gamage, Baroness Howard of Effingham\nSiblings: Sir Charles Howard, 2nd Baron Howard of Effingham, Douglas Howard, Baroness Sheffield, and Frances Howard, Countess of Hertford\nRelatives: Careys, Stanleys, Devereauxs, Tudors, Parkers, Knollys, Berkleys, Sackvilles, Spencers, Willoughbys, fellow Maids\nof Honor\nHometown: Reigate, Surrey (wouthwest of London)\nReligious Belief: Protestant\nCharacter Point of View: “I’m just a girl”; big into chivalry (men courteious & respectful to women)\nPassion: Finding “true love” (a hopeless romantic)\nFoible: Trying too hard to find “true love”\nVirtue: Always charming, acting sweet and girly, and very respectful to others\nFavorite Pastime: Getting into mischief with Maids of Honor; teasing (flirting) with the boys; enjoy shopping for anything sparkly and girly; loves dancing and singing but needs practice at both\nIdol: The Queen, because she’s feminine yet strong; she knows how to get what she wants by charming others; and she’s just strong-willed and intelligent; she has excellent style\nFavorites: Presents, flowers (especially peonies or roses), jewelry, being flattered, pearls, dancing, color pink, cherries		
sidnmary03	Angela Friedman	Mary Sidney	Mistress Mary Sidney, Maid of Honor	I was born in Wales, and lived there for most of my childhood years. I did reside there at Ludlow Castle with my mother, Lady Mary Sidney; and my father, Sir Henry Sidney, the Lord Deputy of Ireland and the Lord President of the Council in the Marches of Wales. I also lived with my brothers and sisters, who were always my dearest acquaintances. My eldest brother, Philip, and I were most close until he hath left our home for his schooling. My eldest sister, Margaret, died ere I was born; and Elizabeth died in Dublin when I was but six years old. My younger brothers, Robert and Thomas, and my younger\nsister, Ambrosia, and I were all very good companions as children. Howe'er, while in Wales, Ambrosia died, leaving me most lonesome and distressed.\n\nThe Queen hath then writ a letter unto my father, beseeching him to send me to her court as a maid of honour, for she did believe that there were bad aires in Wales, and 'twould be best for me to be far away from them. So I came to Her Majesty's court, and found myself most contented there, serving the Queen. The other maids of honour and I have a marvelous good time together, and I am most glad for their friendships.\n\nI still greatly enjoy writing and translating works to and from Italian, French, Latin, Greek, and Hebrew, in addition to doing my needlework. I am told that I am very accomplished in these things, and I also endeavor to better myself in music and dance. When not busy attending the Queen, I can be a bit mischievous, but I will ne'er admit this to mine uncle, Robert Dudley, the Earl of Leicester- for I am his favorite niece, and he doth believe that I am the most innocent of the maids of honour. (Which I do try to be- yet trouble findeth me much too often!) Though I do enjoy a good trick when it doth present itself, in the end, I pride myself in hearkening unto my father, and I know that soon I shall marry whoe'er he doth choose for me, and I shall do it most graciously. But until then, I will make it my priority to enjoy my life and make merry!		
snakhele03	Heaher Breo	Helena von Snakenborg	Mistress Helena Herriksson von Snakenborg, Maid of Honour	My name is Helena von Snakenborg, daughter to Ulf Henriksson Snakenborg, a Swedish noble from Fyllingarum.  In Sweden, I lived in a grand house named Green Spring, surrounded by brothers and sisters and my beloved father, who loved to sing loudly and oft off-key, but happily. My dogs Beezil and Feezil were always beside me : on rides, or at my embroidery by the fire, regardless of my sister Brigetta’s complaints that they smelled! Love shuns such petty complaints! I would have been happy to stay so for most my life, had not my beloved father died suddenly from a sweating sickness just two years ago. With my sisters and brothers all married and my mother no way to make a similar match for me , I entered the service of Princess Cecilia of Sweden, and traveled in her train when she came to England to visit Queen Elizabeth. When the Princess decided to return home, I asked to remain for two very important reasons: William Parr, Marquis of Northampton, wanted to make me his wife, and Queen Elizabeth offered me a position amoung her Maids of Honor. I have not been long in England, and so many of her customs are strange to me, but already I think I like it better than my homeland. At only 21, I serve the most beautiful and kindest Queen in the world, and I hope I will soon be married to my William, who is sweeter than any man I can ever hope to\nmeet. If Her Majesty will only give us the permission to marry. . . but she tells me we must wait for William’s first wife to pass on, and though I do not wish my happiness to balance with someone else’s unhappiness, the Queen, as always, must know best in all things . So,I must content myself with sweet William’s letters and tokens until he may return to court to see me again. Until then, my cater-cousins, the Maids of Honor, take especial care of me, showing me English customs and even helping me to improve my grammar! I hope that William will find me a most proper English lady when he returns, due to their careful ministrations. I sometimes miss Sweden still, and am apt to tell stories of her to anyone who will hear, but England now truly has my heart.		
hattokit02	Jim Farris	Christopher Hatton	Sir Christopher Hatton, K.G., Lord Chancellor & Vice Chamberlain	Christopher Hatton was born in 1540 to William Hatton and Alice Saunders of Northamptonshire, owners of the manor of Holdenby.\n\nHatton arrived in London in 1560 at twenty years of age. He came from Northamptonshire gentry stock, and followed the usual route of young ambitious men of that time, spending a few years at Oxford and making his way to the Inner Temple as a law student.\n\nHatton had a special talent for dancing and it seems his skill was noticed by the Queen soon after his arrival in London in 1560 when he took part in the Christmas festivities of the Inner Temple in 1561. His first recorded appearance before the Queen, however, was in a joust in 1565 at Westminster, a tournament celebrating the marriage of Lady Anne Russell to Ambrose Dudley.\n\nHatton was made a Gentleman Pensioner in 1564, got a seat in the House of Commons as a burgess from Higham Ferrers in 1571 and in 1572 was appointed Captain of the Queen's bodyguard. In 1577 Hatton was made Vice-Chamberlain and a Privy Councillor. Thus began his dual career of favorite of the Queen as well as a trusted, influential politician, a position he earned by his political ability.\n\nOn progress with Her Grace, (he never says Her Majesty - too many syllables), Hatton, by virtue of his office of Vice- Chamberlain, assists Lord Sussex with of all planning, scheduling and accommodations of the progress.\n\nHatton is absolutely smitten by the Queen, and although he beds his share of maidens, he never marries in the vain hope that she will marry him. He is completely in her service in every way, almost to the point of being her "yes" man. When she gets in one of her "moods", Hatton does his level best to accommodate her, avoids confrontation at all costs, and goes quietly to his chambers to beat his head against the wall in frustration!\n\nHe went deeply into debt building a fantastic house at Holdenby (the largest in England at the time) in honor of theQueen. For over ten years he begged her to visit the house, to give it her blessings. She always promised she would, and never did. His motto (historically) is "Neither Fire nor Steel", which to us means "Moderation in All Things". A steadfast negotiator, Hatton is constantly attempting to settle disagreements on the Privy Council before they come to the eyes of Her Grace. Thus he earned her nickname for him, her "Lydds".\n\nHatton is nothing if not a gentleman, forever and always, but he can be a bit distant when his mind is on other things. He'll get back around to you and your problem eventually.\n\nIf you wish to have Hatton intercede for you with the Queen, you may certainly tell him anything you wish and it will all be kept in supreme confidence. But expect no commitment whatsoever as to his course of action.\n\nContrary to popular opinion, Hatton has no children and will deny any who approach him as such. (Well, there was that one time at Oxford after finals, we were all drunk, and.....you know.)		
cecilrob02	Jonathan Murphy	Robert Cecil	Sir Robert Cecil	I am Sir Robert Cecil. From early life I have been cursed with a crooked back and lame leg. There a many who seen no more than that, and use it as a source for their own merriment, or cause to shun me. My own father Sir William Cecil, was on of the latter until he discovered my intelligence and capacity for learning. At but the tender age of five I was reading the Greek scholars in their original Greek. From then on he took me as his protégé. It was said of me in later years that I possessed all, if not more than my father’s wisdom and none of his scruples. This last part, because in service to Queen and country, there is nothing I would not do. The ends justifying the means, as they say. My loyalty to the Queen and State in unquestionable. I was knighted at 28 as well as appointed to the Privy Council as their youngest member. Because of this quick advancement, and in order to work for her Grace my freely. I went so far as to ask the Queen to refer to me in a somewhat derogatory manner, using such names a pigmy and elf (probably not usable due to my height) and other such pet names I was know to detest, so as not to\nshow any favoritism. Her Grace in her wisdom was quick to see the discretion in this, and adopted the idea. I carried on my father’s and Sir Francis Walsingham’s work on the “spy network” and have several “eyes and ears” in Bristol. I carry a small notebook in which I record all I see and hear, and am constantly vigilant for plots against the Queen, her crown and her people.\n\nI believe the Queen would be wise to marry and so leave an heir, I am therefore like a shadow to those men who would claim her hand, lest they, in their quest for power, should do harm to her majesty. I am suspicious of most people, especially those who are kind to me, (since most are not) for their kindness may not come freely. I am watchful of the Catholics for some are openly hostile to the queen while others plot in their hearts. The foreign ambassadors as well, though they receive all do respect from me, are still under my eye. For the safety and security of Queen and country are paramount.\n\nI am happy with my station in life and am content to serve the queen as I am. It has been said that I am witty and charming, some would say this is a defense mechanism, while still others think this a front to put my adversaries at ease. I am simple a man of my times. Learned in languages, philosphy, poetry, and al the finer arts, though I refrain from the dance, and sports due to obvious reasons. I am as of yet unmarried, but them what women would have me. While I love and respect my father for his guidance and wisdom, there is not much forgiveness for the man who was so quick to cast me off as a cripple and therefore unintelligent. I have little love for those that think me inferior simple because they are straight of limb while I am not.		
grenvric03	Don Dawson	Richard Grenville	Sir Richard Grenville	If you look at a map of the West Country, by which I mean especially Devon and Cornwall, and notice where the peninsula thickens out to its broadest between Bristol and the English Channel, along the northern strip of coast between Bude and Bideford, that great tableland that thrusts out into the sea, you will find what has become known as Grenville country.\nIt was within this lovely land in the town of Bideford that on or abouts the 15th of June 1542 I was born unto Roger Grenville a Gentleman of Devon and Cornwall and his wife Thomasine Cole. Unfortunately, God save his soul it was only three years later in 1545 that my father drowned aboard a floundering Mary Rose in the harbor of Portsmouth in the service of King Henry VIII. Within months my mother married Thomas Arundell of Trerice, a family with seafaring traditions. While growing up in Clifton with my stepfather and mother my grandfather Richard Grenville once Marshall of Calais passed leaving the extent of the Grenville holdings to his wife my grandmother Lady Maude. As was the custom Lady Maude immediately pursued a wardship for myself, the eldest male descendant until I reached the age of majority. Regrettably, within the month Lady Maude\npassed. My wardship was given unto Sir Hugh Paulet, Knight an old companion-in-arms to my late grandfather. Over the next few years I lived not only in Clifton but also at my mother’s urging spent much time in my ancestral homes of Buckland and Stowe. I was instructed by private tutors in Lily’s Grammar, Record’s Arithmetic, as well as learning fencing, dancing, riding, and seamanship while enjoying the diversions and dalliances normal to any other child growing up in the countryside.\nIn 1559 I was admitted as a student to the Inner Temple to further my education not as a lawyer but for general training in business to equip myself with sufficient knowledge of law and procedure to manage my own affairs as the eldest heir to the Grenville fortunes. I excelled and was soon attending committee meetings in the House of Commons and trusted with managing not only the business of my country but also the personal business of clients, friends, and family. When not otherwise occupied in the House of Commons or with the personal business affairs of others or mine I lived the life of a man about town, which almost came to an abrupt end one cold day in November of 1562.\nIt was along the Strand in the parish of St. Clement Danes nearby the great houses of Arundel, Durham, and Essex when my companions and I ran together in an affray with another group of hot blooded youth over what I cannot now remember. However, during the fighting I ran through one Robert Bannester, a Londoner and a gentleman. The wound did not appear life threatening however, Bannester died and Nicholas Specott one of my companions and myself fled the city of London our goods and chattel held under sentence of outlawry. It was not long before an inquest upon the body was held and that I received a full pardon on the charges of murder, which was issued and ratified in the Patent Rolls of 1563.\nThe year 1563 would become a turning point in my life. Before the ink was dry on pardon on the Patent Rolls I was asked to attend Parliament as an MP. Although I had yet to reach my majority I found myself embroiled in the discussions over the funding for the war in France that my wardship Sir Hugh Paulet, Knight fought alongside Ambrose Dudley Earl of Warwick. However, these discussions paled in comparison to the debates and deliberations over Her Majesties recent brush with death and the outstanding question of the succession. As parliament wound down my life seemingly sped forward.\nI attained my majority and on June 28th 1563 and was given license to enter and attend to the affairs of my estates. I returned home to Stowe to set my affairs in order, which included marrying Mary St. Leger daughter of Sir John St. Leger of Annery near Bideford in 1565. With great sadness our first son born later that year named for my father Roger died. With a heavy heart, and at the urging of fellow West Countrymen I left Stowe and joined the German Imperial Army against the Turks winning special distinction from the Emperor himself. That year passed quickly and I found myself home once again and with another child, Bernard on the way.\nIn 1571 I found myself once again in parliament over matters concerning the Catholic threats and plots against Her Majesty. I did not know then how that would later effect my decisions in Ireland when I found myself captaining a tall ship into the harbor of Cork with my wife, son, and eager colonists ready to colonize. I was appointed Sheriff of Cork and set about to bring English government to these shores. Unfortunately, while I was away at Court James Fritzmaurice and his rebels chose that time to descend upon Cork and besieged the town and subsequently my family. But as luck would have it a levy of four hundred soldiers were already on the way and reinforced shortly by six hundred more out of Dublin soon rousted the rebellion. I returned with supplies and more reinforcements and remained for another year erecting order out of the chaos.\nWith the colonization efforts at an impasse I returned to managing my affairs at Stowe and broadened my horizons seeking out new adventures. I soon became caught up in the intrigue and doings of my fellow West Country men specifically in exploration. Throughout my lengthy research of texts, tombs, and accounts I began to write a discourse on the finding of Terra Australis. That fabled land beyond the known New World and Cathay. With methodical precision I began to outline the details of the adventure to not only include the mundane provisioning of the ships and crew but the commercial benefits to England and the lengths to which the adventure would take in order to not disturb the delicate political balance between England and Spain by passing through the Straight of Magellan.\nIt is at this time the summer of 1574 that my flagship; The Castle of Comfort one of the newest and most heavily armed merchant galleons rides at dock in the Port City of Bristol and I eagerly await Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth on her progress.\nCaptain Sir Richard Grenville is a watchful calculating man. Standing five foot seven he has piercing brown eyes, and a set jaw. He is a calm and calculating man normally watching and waiting for the right time and place to act. He is ready to give his life in defense of his Queen, his Country, ship and shipmates. He challenges himself to find unorthodox solutions to complex problems exercising initiative and imagination toward that purpose. He is a role model providing strong Leadership, firm discipline and uncompromising standards of conduct in any situation. He is ready to take any risk however, is quick to discern calculated risk from mindless bravado. He is always aware that he is a gentleman at all times continuing to set the standard for honor, moral courage, and integrity with every action. He is a consummate perfectionist always striving for continual improvement in himself and those around him. He will never shirk his responsibilities no matter what the cause performing them with a dedication and resolve that is unquestionable holding no one more accountable than himself.		
tyrwhrob03	Rich Miller	Robert Tyrwhitt	Sir Robert Tyrwhitt, Her Majestie's Master of the Hunt	This historical information is known about Robert Tyrwhitt: His grandfather (Sir Robert) was a Privy Councilor before, and into, Elizabeth's reign. He is heir to the untitled lands of Kettleby in Lincolnshire. He was a ward of the Manners and served Her Majesty as a page in his youth. He married Lady Bridgett Manners through a mutually desirable arrangement by her mother, but without the Queen's permission (which landed him in the Tower). There is little more recorded historically about him. What follows includes what has happened "Bristorically." These are the events and traits that are most associated with The Hunt Master at faire over the years. I use this existing familiarity as a basis to aid me in further developing my portrayal of him.\nSir Robert is Her Majesty's Master of the Hunt and has traveled to Bristol ahead of Her Grace to insure all the details are arranged for Her Pleasure at the hunt. He is no stranger to the ways of court and has enjoyed many a Progress. He was knighted on Progress (during the '96 season) for service in Kid's Kingdom. He is friendly with many of the old families in court through his positions and duties. His occupation has also acquainted him with much of the local population. His dislike for court politics may find him more comfortable in his duties away from court: practicing archery, inspecting the mews and kennels, visiting the fletchers, bowyers and foresters, and teaching the local children about hunting and courtly behavior. His loyalty to Her Majesty comes before everything, however, and this keeps him close to her.\nSir Robert is practical and likes to surround himself with the same. Art to him is best found in nature and useful things. He appreciates well-made clothing and weapons, especially if they are suitable for the hunt. He likes good English longbows in particular and considers gunpowder to be "a passing fancy." He dislikes those who are more show than substance. He accepts and is proud of his own station in life, and carries his bow like a gleaming badge of office. While doing his best to maintain a courtly attitude, a country accent or manner may sometimes appear and betray humbler roots. Not too humble, though, since his ancestors came over with William the Conqueror and also fought at Agincourt. He is ever watchful, often on a hunt of some sort. He well appreciates the classical metaphor comparing courtly love to the hunt. Above all, he values duty and honor and tolerates nothing less around the Queen.\nLike most Tyrwhitts, Sir Robert is recusant. He believes religion should be personal, not fashionable or political. He keeps his religion to himself, but will be defensive of it if provoked. He appreciates Her Majesty's Tolerance in this matter and will not likely abuse it in Her Presence. He finds precisionists to be both amusing and tiresome. He will support Catholics over Protestants (except in matters of loyalty) if there is nothing else to base a decision upon. Do not expect him to automatically accept or avoid someone based solely on their faith.\nHe is curious about, but wary of, foreigners. He enjoys hearing about other countries' cultures and traditions (especially hunting, music and dance). He does not feel a foreign marriage will best serve England, but wishes to see Her Majesty happy (and with an heir).\nWhile he has no family at Court, Lady Bridgett and Sir Roger Manners, the Earl of Rutland, are like sister and brother to him because of their childhood spent together. Sir Robert's marriage to Lady Bridgett Manners has not happened yet, for then neither of them would be at Court. To look at them together, though, one may guess there is something more than childhood friendship there.\nYou may experience friendly rivalry from Sir Robert if you are a "new man," a recently returned explorer, a supporter of firearms, or are competition for Her Majesty's Hand at the dance. He will not hesitate to side with you, however, as a good English citizen against a perceived common enemy.		
goodyhen03	Alec Kopitzke	Henry Goodyere	Sir Henry Goodyere, Captain of the Queen’s Guard	Henry Goodyere was born in 1534 to Sir Francis Goodyere (son of Thomas Goodyere of Hadley, Middlesex) and Ursula Rowlett (daughter of Ralph Rowlett of London and St. Albans, Hertfordshire). He has two younger brothers, Thomas and William and a younger sister Ann. He married Frances Lowther (daughter of Hugh Lowther of Penrith, Westmorland). They have two daughters, Frances, aged 5 years and Ann aged 2 years.\nHenry spent his early years at his family’s ancestral home in Hadley, Middlesex, and then when he was of the proper age, was sent off to be raised in the home of Thomas Howard, 3rd Duke of Norfolk. Henry had but ten years when, through Norfolk's assistance, Henry VIII sold the village of Polesworth (Warwick) to his father, Francis. That was a great day for the family for with it came the old Polesworth Abbey, now sinking into ruin. In addition to the lands and buildings, the Goodyere family also “inherited” John Bower, the former priest of the abbey, whom they took on as the family chaplain. Henry’s father started building Polesworth Hall on the site of the former Abbess’s dwelling, but did not live long enough to see it completed, dying only two years later. His mother having died some years before, Henry was now, at 12, the oldest member of the family. Henry’s aunt and uncle saw to the managing of the estates until Henry came of age.\nFortunately for his later success, this allowed Henry to continue his scholarly pursuits which eventually led to study for a law degree. It was at Gray’s Inn, renowned for its revelries and feasting, that he began a lifetime commitment to the arts - poetry, music and the theatre - mostly as a patron, and only occasionally as a practitioner. He knows he is no great poet – all the more because he has his cousin Philip Sidney to whom he must compare himself, but he cares little for these deficiencies. He has other pursuits at which he excels.\nIn addition to managing his estates, he has sat in the Commons for both Stafford and Coventry and been a Justice of the Peace in Warwick. It was this last position that put him in greater contact with the Dudley family in general and the Earl of Leicester in particular. It was then through Leicester that Henry became more involved with the “hawks” at court and through Leicester again that Henry received a commission to fight in the Low Countries for a time. He spent two and a half years there, mostly in garrison duty, interspersed with marching and only occasionally actual fighting. While not a glorious and renowned soldier (like his cousin Philip Sidney), what he did do well was command the loyalty of his men and the respect of the local allies. It was probably this ability to remain even-handed, and more importantly tactful, under occasionally difficult circumstances that suggested to the Earl of Leicester that Henry might do well at court.\nIt was only a few months after returning from the Low Countries that Henry was summoned to Greenwich and there, much to his surprise, given command of the Queens Guard. That having only been in January, Henry is still fairly new to court. Those who have sat in the Commons would know him, and those courtiers who have lands in Staffordshire, Warwickshire or Middlesex might know him from dealings there. To the rest of the court, though, he is still somewhat new.\nThe only slightly scandalous thing known of by most of court is that Henry’s youngest brother, William, currently resides in The Tower, having been implicated (in some unclear way) in the Duke of Norfolk’s latest activities.		
hawkijoh03	Ray Steele	John Hawkins	Sir John Hawkins	Well sir, you have been talking and asking questions of me since I got back from the new world. No, this was not my first voyage there. What? No, I own the ships, well most of them anyway. My grandfather started the business when he came from Trevinstock. His name was, by chance, John as well.\nHe married my grandmother Joan Amades of Launceston. She bore him a son, my father, William Hawkins. He married another Joan, who was the daughter of Roger Trelawny of Tudiford. I have only one brother, William. All the way back to my grandfather John we have been building the business. For three generations we have grown in Plymouth. Yes, that’s right Plymouth. I am not from Bristol. I am here on business and to see the queen. No, I can’t tell why I need to see the queen.\nWhat? Yes, I am married to the one of the finest flowers of England. Her name is Katherine and she is the daughter of the Treasurer of the Navy, Benjamin Godson. My lovely wife gave me a fine son, Richard, who is fourteen years of age. We have houses in Plymouth and in London. My son looks like he will out shine his old man. A fine sailor he will become. My, brother has two children, both boys.\nHhhmm, yes I would like another drink, Thank you. Yes, my brother and my self own the family business together. Though he runs the more day-to-day affairs of it. What? Why yes I do support him, as he support me. What? No, no. No more questions it is getting late and need to be up early to go before the queen.		
dutchamb03	Brian Dykstra	Johannes Von Oldenbarneveldt	Afgezant Johannes Von Oldenbarneveldt, Dutch Ambassador	The Person:\nJohannes Van Oldenbarneveldt was born 14 September 1547 in Amersfoort, the Netherlands. The only child of two wealthy Dutch nobles, he was extremely close to his family, and maintained a very strong relationship with them, as well as his countrymen.\nA well educated person, Van Oldenbarneveldt attended Louvain, Bourges, and Heidelberg Universities where he studied law. Upon his completion of his studies, he practiced law in Dan Haague. His practice bolstered him into many high circles, socially and politically. His position gained him much respect, and many friends of high standing.\nJohannes was betrothed in 1574 to Maria Van Utrecht, the daughter of the founder of the province of Utrecht. They married in 1576, and would have 4 children.\nDevoutly religious, VanOldenbarneveldt and his family were fervent Calvinists. They embraced the Netherlands Reformed faith, and practiced it in earnest. Despite his personal religious convictions, VanOldenbarneveldt was also religiously tolerant individual. He upported, but did not fully condone the various other religions within the Netherlands.\nJohannes VanOldenbarneveldt was arrested on 23 August 1618 by the States Generael, tried for treason against the Southern Provinces of the Netherlands, and Maurice of Orange, (Son of William of Orange). He, along with his two chief advisors are sentenced to death and beheaded on 13 May 1619, at the Binnenhof, in Den Haague. VanOldenbarneveldt was 71.\nThe Political Entity:\nVanOldenbarneveldt served under Prince William of Orange-Nassau in the fight for liberation against Spain. He served not only as a chief advisor, but also as the legal aide of the Prince. The two gentlemen were fervent activists in the fight for independence, as well as excellent friends. William of Orange would later be assassinated in 1584, and pass the torch to VanOldenbarneveldt.\nHe would hold many titles throughout his career. Among note: Raadspensionaris (Pensionary of Rotterdam), Leader of the Regents Party, Permanent Lands Advocate and head of the Dutch Republic of the Netherlands, and the Stadtholder of the United Provinces of Utrecht (Northern Provinces of the Netherlands).\nThroughout his political career, “The Advocate”, as he is referred to, continued to fight for the elimination of the Spanish entity in the Netherlands, and for his country’s Independence. This passionate position would lead him as Ambassador to the courts of Elizabeth I of England, as well as Henry IV of France.\nIn the course of his career, VanOldenbarneveldt would prove to both respect and detest the English aid that his country would receive in its development. In 1574, he desperately petitioned Queen Elizabeth I of England for her assistance in ridding the Low Lands of the Spanish. In exchange for her help, the Dutch were willing to offer her the Crown of the Netherlands. Elizabeth declined the crown, but supported VanOldenbarneveldt’s cause with funds and soldiers.\nIn 1586, England’s Sir Robert Dudley, Earl of Leicester would take the title of Governor General of the Netherlands. VanOldenbarneveldt and his Regents Party, who were strongly against him opposed this governing, and aided in his removal from office. Upon Leicester’s removal, VanOldenbarneveldt held the position of the first Governor Staten Generael Van De Nederlands.\nThe Character:\nThough Van Oldenbarneveldt existed, his involvement as Ambassador to England took place towards the end of Elizabeth’s reign. In actuality, in 1574, he was undoubtedly at the side of William of Orange-Nassau at the Battle of Mookerheide. Although, it is entirely possible that Prince William may have sent him as a representative of the Dutch cause regardless of the war.\nEngland is a very foreign territory for “The Advocate”. He is used to Royalty, but not that of a completely different country. He gets very flustered and confused easily, as he is not only unfamiliar with English customs, but the language is difficult for him to understand and speak as well.\nThe religious factors that take place distress and confuse him as well. He is baffled at why England is so up-in-arms in their Catholics and Protestants. In the Netherlands, it is common and allowed for both denominations to practice their faiths freely, and without any conflict. This problem confuses the Ambassador.\nYou may address him as: Your Excellency, Meneer Afgezant, Meneer Ambassaduer, or Mijnheer VanOldenbarneveldt. Dutch Decendants, or persons of the Netherlands refer to him as “De Voorstander”. Closer contacts refer to him as Johannes, but NEVER Jan.		
pagetann03	Sheryl Woods