Who is William Cecil from The Virgin's Lover and what is their importance?

William Cecil is the Secretary of State for Queen Elizabeth and head of her Privy Council. William had been one of Elizabeth's oldest advisers and friends, and served as a clerk to the Dudley family when the Dudleys were at the height of their power. In short, William Cecil had been at the heart of the Protestant Reformation right from the start and managed to keep clear of accusation and condemnation by his skilful political maneuvering. William Cecil is a mature, married man who, during his time as Secretary of State, builds the magnificent Burghley Hall and manages to keep a good reputation for himself and his family.