THE LIZ LIBRARY: Women's Movement Documents Section

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Let Tyrants Fear...

"I Have the Heart of a King"

Elizabeth I, Queen of England, placed herself in physical danger when she reviewed her troops on the shores of the English Channel, July 29, 1588, at Tilbury.
      Her nation's military experts were expecting an invasion by Spanish Forces momentarily (note the reference to General Parma in her speech) although the Spanish Armada had been defeated by the English naval forces.
      But most of all, the military and governmental leaders distrusted the English common man troops and demanded a special guard between her and them.
      She declined (as she notes in her speech) and rode among them on horseback in review. Needless to say, none showed any worrisome actions, in fact, many of them knelt before her and shouted "God bless you."
      She then delivered one of the most quoted speeches of all time (although only a few lines are actually quoted by most historians).
      The first two paragraphs below are usually "overlooked." as they speak to the very heart of the woman who under unimaginable difficulties became the most influential ruler in the history of England - and one of the most brilliant diplomats of all time.




      "I know already, by your forwardness, and that you have deserved rewards and crowns; and we do assure you, on the word of a prince, they shall be duly paid you.





