Elizabeth is determined to find a way of neutralising the threat from the Catholics, and is pursuing a match with the Duke of Anjou. Robert Dudley cannot hide his jealousy, but it comes to light that he has secretly married Lettice Knollys, Elizabeth's former Lady in Waiting. Elizabeth is furious and bans Lettice from court, vowing to withdraw all payments and privileges. However Dudley's health is not good, and she allows him to stay.

Walsingham finds evidence to suggest there's a plot to kill Elizabeth. When Elizabeth finds a knife in her pillow she realises she has to act. She sends the Duke of Anjou away and Mary Queen of Scots is brought to trial. She is found guilty and Elizabeth has no choice but to execute her.

The execution angers the Spanish who send their Armada to fight the English. As Francis Drake sails out to fight, Elizabeth travels to Tilbury to support her troops. She is overjoyed when news of Francis Drake's defeat of the Armada comes through. She sends Dudley to Buxton in search of a cure for his failing health, and returns to her palace.

Shortly after her return Elizabeth receives news that Dudley has died. She is inconsolable. However she soon meets Dudley's step-son, the Earl of Essex, and is charmed by his presence.


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