Chapter 9, pgs. 349-421 Summary and Analysis

Elizabeth visits various people in the Midland region in summer of 1572. News of the massacre in France, arranged by Catherine di Medici, results in a breach between England and France. Elizabeth's advisers think there is a large possibility of war throughout Christendom and that England should prepare for it.

Elizabeth agrees to be godmother to the daughter of Charles IX, but relations between England and France remain cool in October 1572. Charles IX dies in Mary 1574 and is succeeded by Henry III. Soon the warring factions in France stop fighting.

Fighting breaks out in Scotland and Elizabeth sends troops to assist in quashing the last of the Marian supporters. Elizabeth can not ignore the situation in the Netherlands in what would happen if either France or Spain gained control. The Dutch want English help but the Queen is...