Spring - Summer 1555 Summary

In the Spring of 1555, the Queens quarters at Hampton Court were prepared for her confinement. In May the Queen entered her confinement and released Elizabeth from prison. The weeks turned into a month and the midwives began to speak of how late the baby was in arriving. Queen Mary's anxiety was fueled by their talk and she grew pale and discontented. Lack of sunshine and fresh air weighed heavily and the glow of pregnancy dulled. Hannah remained by Mary, but Mary was increasingly sullen and removed herself from conversation.

Meanwhile, Elizabeth flaunted her new-found freedom. She flirted with the King, who was vulnerable without Mary's presence and attention. Philip enjoyed Elizabeth's company. He ceased talk of sending her away in marriage and contemplated keeping her at court. In the queen's absence, Elizabeth was heightened from traitorous half sister to...