This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1809. Excerpt: ... after she had taken possession of the throhei may partly account for the conduct of Walsingham which was perhaps founded on extreme zeal for her safety and honour. His policy, however though it may be accounted for, cannot be justified; and reflects on his capacity, as well as'his integrity, for he might have effected the same ends by more generous means. Francis IT. King of France, who had married Mary of Scotland, endeavoured to call in question the right of Elizabeth, by declaring her to be illegitimate. In this attempt her enemies joined, and she was in daily expectation of being dethroned; the exertions of Walsingham certainly contributed to the establishment of her power, On a retrospect of the memorable reign of Elizabeth, we are compelled to acknowledge that it was characterized by some crimes, little inferior in their nature and magnitude to those of the preceding reign; it cannet,' therefore, strictly speaking, be denominated glorious, in opposition to every other reign. Prejudice and injustice were often discernible in her councils; tyrannical rigour was exercised in the Starchamber; executions were frequent, and some of the most distinguished characters among her nobles fell victims to her animosities. I have before hinted, that the situation in which ihe was placed may partly account for her conduct, yet we must acknowledge, that as peace, security, and allegiance, were not allied to her government, it cannot be cited as a model of political perfection. England, however, at the death of Elizabeth, was little disturbed by wars, foreign or domestic, or by civil and religious contests; the treasury was well stored, and both the army and navy were in an affluent state; James I. therefore, had few difficulties to encounter when he took possession ...
"synopsis" may belong to another edition of this title.