A Britain of Panthers and Lions: House of Oldenburg Britain

[VVD0D95]

Chapter 140: Shrewsbury’s Concern

January, 1710​

Charles took a breath. He was not feeling as well as he perhaps should be. The winter was a long and harsh one, and he was no longer a young man. Though he was only a decade older than the Prince of Wales, he had been in government since he was about seventeen, and it was beginning to show, he feared. His hair was greying, his beard was definitely grey. Nothing he did could stop some of the blood that left him when he urinated. And his vision was growing weaker.

Still he retained his wits, and he used them now. “Your Royal Highness, whilst I appreciate that this proposed betrothal is only that, I must propose that it would be very difficult for the country and for Parliament itself to accept it.” He took a breath then continued. “It is one thing for a Princess to marry a Frenchman, and quite another for the future Queen of Britannia to be French. The people have long memories, and Your Royal Highness’s great-grandmother was not popular.”

The Prince of Wales said nothing, instead, Godolphin that man who had become the Prince’s closest advisor on these matters spoke. “The proposed Princess is not Her Majesty Queen Henrietta Maria. Indeed, the Duke of Burgundy has instead proposed that the Princess, his own daughter be sent to Whitehall to be raised and tutored. He is being very generous here. We would be foolish to dismiss it out of hand.”

Charles looked at the man, he did not like Godolphin had never liked him, but he admitted that the man was good at what he did. “I am not suggesting we dismiss it, Your Royal Highness. I am merely voicing those concerns that I know Parliament will themselves propose.”

“And there are things which Parliament will like.” Godolphin said again. “Such as the trade agreement that the Duke is proposing with the King of France’s authority, and the distribution of wealth taken from the slave trade.”

“And I think that those are things which we should also consider.” Charles said, feeling his patience thin. “However, I do not think we should forget that we have just concluded a war with France, and that the people and Parliament will want to know why we are betrothing the future King to a French Princess, when such a short time ago, France was our enemy.”

“Add onto that the fact that we are likely to see another war between France and Spain over Naples before the Sun King’s reign is done and I think we would be most wise to avoid tying ourselves to close to France.” Somerset said, and as Lord Privy Seal, and one of the Prince’s own appointments, Charles was sure the Prince would listen to him.

“I agree with you, Your Grace.” the Duke of Hamilton said. “France is too testy a kingdom to trust completely, and we cannot so easily abandon our principals to ally ourselves with them against our allies.”

Charles watched as something passed over the Prince’s face. He had remained calm and composed, and impressive feat for so young a man, throughout, and now he spoke. “You are all being far too presumptuous.” A pause, he took a breath then continued. “Her Majesty the Queen has already decided that this marriage will go through. The betrothal is going to be formalised soon. This discussion is merely a courtesy.” The Prince raised a ringed finger to stop any complaints. “We acknowledge the concerns you have mentioned, my lord, however, we find them lacking. The Princess will come to Britannia before her tenth birthday, and she shall be raised with our son, to know him properly. The Duke has given us his assurance that there will be no war with Spain so long as his grandsire lives still. Furthermore, trade will increase something we do desperately need. And finally, the slave trade will allow us to exploit Western Africa to bolster our fleet.”

Charles nodded, he was not surprised. The Queen could be quite firm when she wanted to be, and her son was a war hero, someone who stood his ground and only bent when he felt as though there were merit in it. “Very well, Your Royal Highness. However, I must warn you that Parliament will not be happy. They will want to know what religion the future Queen will have.”

“She will follow her own religion for a time and then if we deem it appropriate she will convert. Nothing more, nothing less.” The Prince said. “Furthermore, it is not for Parliament to decide who members of the family can marry.”

“Of course not, Your Royal Highness.” Charles said, bowing his head.

Robert Harley, a new member of the cabinet, and a cousin of the Queen’s new favourite Abigail Masham, spoke then. “One thing that could be used to distract from this whole matter, is the religious bill that was proposed by the Earl of Dorset.”

Charles seized on that. “Agreed, I think that the more time spent debating that bill will be time that they cannot complain about this marriage.”

“What exactly is the wording of the bill?” The Prince asked.

“That those who follow the more High Church view be allowed to hold government positions and posts. And that there be some concessions for those who follow the Presbyterian and puritan faiths, providing they pay a fee.” Charles said.

Something flickered in the Prince’s face, and then he said. “Very well. We shall leave that discussion to you.”

 

[VVD0D95]

Chapter 141: Emperor’s New Clothes



March, 1710​

Joseph had been Emperor for almost a decade, and yet there were new challenges emerging almost daily. His father had been a good man, and a hard worker, but he had not been very imaginative in his thinking. He had kept a lot of the old structures in place, and so the empire and their hereditary lands kept moving on, but at a loss. Joseph had been happy when the war with France had ended, for it meant that he had not had to keep sending money to pay an army he would rather have in his homelands ensuring peace there. His council had moved away from war preparations to reform discussions and financial arguments, and he found he preferred those.

Joseph looked at Leopold, the heir to the Grand Duchy of Tuscany who had chosen to remain in Vienna for the time being, whilst his wife-Joseph’s sister- and their children moved to Tuscany. “Leopold, tell us, what way do you think the crown tax will go?” The Crown Tax was a proposal that Joseph had come up with, he wanted it to raise the profits of the interlinking lands to bring the Empire’s crownlands closer together.

“Sire, I think that the Crown Tax will be received well in Hannover, after all they are nearer to the French and therefore they will want to keep you onside. However, I think places like Bavaria and Baden might find it harder to bear the brunt, considering their own distance from Vienna.” Leopold said. That was one of the things that Joseph liked about his brother by marriage, he was a straight talker.

“And how would you propose we ensure that they get the message clear and simple. That this tax is meant to ensure they do not need to rely on outside loans for their development.” Joseph asked.

Leopold did not say anything for a moment and then he said. “I think a grand progress around the Empire would do the trick, Sire. Right now, one gets the feeling that the Princes are content to keep you a safe distance away so that their own privileges are not challenged. I think it would do the realm some good if they remembered you existed outside the framework of war.”

Ernst August Metternich, his treasurer spoke. “Sire, I must object. I think that a grand progress will do more to remind the Princes of Empire of the worst of the Emperor’s purple, and make them consider the Crown Tax to be little more than just more excess. Certainly, should King Louis learn that you are doing this, then he would use his agents to spread lies.”

“We do not fear King Louis.” Joseph replied. Unlike his father, Joseph saw Louis for what he was. An arrogant old man who had overextended his hand too many times and was left without allies. “Besides, we have just as good an agent system as he does. We would counter whatever lies he would spread with our own.”

“There is also the issue of Bavaria, Sire.” Metternich added.

“What of it?” Joseph demanded. Bavaria, was technically still under the rule of Joseph’s brother by marriage King Maximillian, however, the laws had been passed in such a way that ensuring the rulership was not held by a foreign power was tantamount. There had been a lawsuit since the end of the war between Maximilian and his brother.

“Well the lawsuit is coming to a final conclusion, and perhaps it would be better to wait until it is decided before doing anything such as a progress.” Metternich replied.

“It has been at that stage for three months now. We cannot wait any longer.” Joseph said. “We shall not wait any longer. Our decision was that Bavaria goes to our sister’s second son. If the courts wish that to stand then they will, if not then Maximilian’s brother is the new Elector and he will join us during our progress.”

Metternich bowed his head in acceptance, and Prince Eugene of Savoy his military minister spoke then. “There has been news from Pomerania, which might be of more interest to you, Sire.”

“Go ahead.” Joseph said, he hated the Prussians, saw them as far too grasping by half, but he also thought that King Charles was an idiot.

“The Swedes have taken the northern bank of Prussian Pomerania, and Duke Frederick took an injury during the Battle of the Forests, which seems to have grown worse. His son Frederick William has taken command over the overall Prussian forces. It also appears that the Polish are getting involved, with their King mobilising forces into Prussian heartlands.” Eugene said.

“Good, and what of the others?” Joseph asked, mainly thinking about Russia, who he knew desired a port.

“They have remained neutral so far, though I believe more will join. Many want the Swedish defeated.” Eugene said.

“Let them fight. Whoever gets all of Pomerania will simply see their taxation rate increase.” Joseph said.

The Prince nodded, Joseph turned to Leopold and said. “Begin organising the progress, we shall want to ensure that things are properly structured.”

“Yes Sire.” Leopold replied.

Joseph smiled, he would bring his son and heir Leopold with him, let the boy get a sense of how it would be for him also.

 

[VVD0D95]

Chapter 142: Desperate Prussians



July, 1710
​

The war had been going on for far longer than he had thought it would. Frederick had not thought that the Swedish army would be as strong as it was proving to be. Furthermore, he had underestimated King Charles. He had thought the boy would be green as grass, and though he was, he had shown he had some military sense. The defeats Frederick had suffered humiliated him. The wounds he had taken in the Battle of the Forest still stung all these months later. His son and heir Frederick William had just about managed to stem the tide, but things were still looking bad for them.

Frederick took a moment to compose himself then said. “We are nowhere near achieving the things that we had hoped we would. We are looking at a possible defeat, and that is not something that we should be happy with.” He paused, looked around and then said. “Solutions?”

His son Frederick William spoke then. “I say we move into Swedish Pomerania, we march forward and we do not stop attacking until we have gotten a victory. They are pushing us into retreat, that is why they are coming. We must reverse that.”

Frederick’s brother Philip William spoke then. “Such a move would be suicidal, Your Grace. If we did that we would be playing right into the hands of King Charles.”

“How?” Frederick William demanded. “He expects us to keep retreating until we reach Berlin. I say we fight back.”

“You would give the man a chance to portray us as scared.” Philip William replied. “King Charles is relying on us doing something rash, something he knows we cannot defend.”

“We have the support of the Polish King and potentially the Russians as well. We need to show some initiative, otherwise we will lose this and lose Pomerania.” Frederick William fired back.

“The Polish are more likely to want to take Prussia from us than aid us.” Philip William retorted. “Their King is an ambitious man who wants to consolidate his own power. By aiding us, he’s playing into the hands of the nobles who think him a fool.”

“Then we must ensure that we give them all reasons to think about supporting us. I say we move forward and attack.” Frederick William said.

“Your Grace, this would be most irresponsible.” Philip William said to him then, his eyes pleading.

Frederick looked at his brother and wondered at him, ever since their defeat at the Forest, his brother had been urged retreat, retreat, retreat. It left a sour taste in his mouth. Frederick looked at his son then and asked. “What is our position?”

His son looked slightly taken aback by his question, but continued. “We have some twelve thousand men ready and willing to fight, with a further twenty thousand in reserve in the south, ready to be called on. We have enough food and supplies to last through to the end of the year.”

“And our commanders’ morale?” Frederick asked. It was important to have high morale amongst the commanders, otherwise nothing good would happen.

“They are high, they are angry and want revenge against King Charles and Sweden.” His son replied.

Frederick nodded. “Good, then we shall take the fight to Sweden.” Before his brother could protest he said. “It is the only way to ensure that we are not swallowed up by the Swedish advance, and the only way to ensure that our allies know that we are taking this all seriously.”

“And the cost?” His brother asked. “How will you afford the cost, Your Grace?”

“We shall raise the incremental tax level by two percent and ensure it is collected.” Frederick said. “We shall also have our pamphleteers employ the proposition that if the Swedes do well here, then we are all finished.”

His brother said nothing, but his son said. “An excellent plan, Your Grace.”

 

[VVD0D95]

Chapter 143: The White Room Pact



September, 1710
​

Hampton Court Palace, allowed them the chance to breathe. James had spent much of his life at Whitehall, that towering structure near the Thames, which was bigger than Versailles according to every architect he spoke to. He loved Whitehall, but at times it could be suffocating. Hampton Court was smaller, and perhaps a greater relief in that sense. Therefore, he had decided to move here for a time, with his wife and their young family. The court had surprisingly followed him here, whilst his Mother and Queen had stayed at Whitehall, with half the court. The old people, as John called them. James had been happy to have his best friend back from Ireland, where he’d been for some time on army duty.

However, it was not John that James was meeting now, but instead the leader of his mother’s government, Sidney Godolphin, Lord High Treasurer. Godolphin who had been made a Viscount some years ago, had replaced Shrewsbury as the leading minister in his mother’s government, thanks to his shrewd wit, and his ability to find money for the war from somewhere. James liked the man, even if he did consort with those bloody Whigs. James looked at the man and saw the lines on his face, and surmised he might well be dead by year’s end. “My lord Godolphin,” he began. “We thank you for meeting with us.”

“Of course, Your Royal Highness. How might I be of service to you?” Godolphin replied.

James decided he did not want to go about the long weaving conversations that had become part of life at Whitehall, instead he plunged right into what he wanted to discuss. “As we are sure you are aware, my lord, Her Majesty has begun to feel that Sarah Churchill, the Duchess of Marlborough has begun to overstep her bounds, the latest incident in the Cock Pit was most unfortunate.” He paused then allowing his words to sink in, Churchill had insulted his mother, with some derogatory comment after his mother’s gout had started playing up. He had nearly hit the woman then, only Caroline’s hand on his arm had stopped him. Godolphin was good friends with the Churchills, and he wanted the man to know where this was going. “Consequently, it appears that Her Majesty has decided to change things around her. Many of her old ladies have been removed, and the new ladies such as the wife of the Duke of Bedford, and the Earl of Rutland have been placed around her, alongside, the Duke of Marlborough’s daughter Anne. However, the main cause for our concern is the presence of Abigail Masham.” James paused and allowed his words to settle down.

Eventually, Godolphin spoke. “You are worried that Masham might be more of a cancerous influence on Her Majesty?”

James nodded. “Precisely, Godolphin. Her Majesty has not been the same since our father died, of that we can both agree.” Godolphin nodded in agreement. “Consequently, she has become more prone to falling under the influence of cancerous influences. Lady Sarah is well intentioned, but she is prone to overstepping her bounds, but she is a lady of noble birth. Lady Masham is nothing more than an upstart. Consequently, we wish to protect Her Majesty from this lady’s degenerate personality.”

“I shall ask my lady wife if she can find something on Lady Masham to use against her. The court gossips can then do the rest.” Godolphin said.

“Good.” James said. “There is one other thing that we wished to speak about.”

“Your Royal Highness?” Godolphin asked.

“Her Majesty wants Robert Harley promoted to some position in government, she says that Charles Fox is not doing his duty as Chancellor properly.” James said. He did not like Harley, the man might be a Tory but he was definitely a rogue and someone James wanted gone. His Mother was still Queen though.

Godolphin, who leaned more toward the Whig persuasion, though he was a light Tory looked very discomfited by this, he hated Harley, James knew. “Your Royal Highness, that might be an issue. Sir Stephen Fox, Charles’s father runs The Guardian and has always wanted his son in the role he held himself. Harley is from the faction of the Tory party which is opposed to much of what you want to achieve.”

James sighed. “We know this, Godolphin. And yet this is what Her Majesty wants. Therefore, we must find some way to make it happen without damaging our reforms.”

Godolphin looked pensive for a moment then he said. “Why not keep Charles Fox as Paymaster of the Forces, that is something he will excel at, he likes the military, and as such has said on numerous occasions that he wishes to do more for them. Keep him there, and appoint Harley as Chancellor, as Her Majesty wants. However, Harley would then be made Second Lord of the Treasury and therefore subject to me and mine own approval, therefore meaning he cannot act without my approval.”

James thought on this for a moment and then smiled. “We like it. It will give Harley the sliver of power he craves, it will appease Her Majesty, and it will ensure that we can therefore limit the amount of damage that Harley can do. Perfect.”

“Always happy to be of service, Your Royal Highness.” Godolphin replied.

James smiled, stood up, clapped the man on the shoulder and said. “Now, go and get some rest, Sidney, we shall be meeting to discuss government business on the morrow.”

“Of course, Your Royal Highness.” Godolphin replied.

 

[VVD0D95]

Chapter 144: Desert Storm



November, 1710​

Raif felt his hand shake and he fought down the urge to scream. He hated this. Hated that since the war which had seen him placed on the Peacock throne that his hands had shook and that he would wake in the middle of the night with no idea where he was, thinking he was on the battlefield. This was his curse. To be plagued with dreams and fears forevermore. His cousin’s unseeing eyes were a constant plague to him. They prevented him from getting any semblance of sleep or rest during the night, and during the day, they taunted him.

He had fought against the urge to drink since he had ascended the Peacock Throne, indeed he had not even touched a drop of wine since he had ascended the throne. And now he was starting to wish that he had. He sighed, took a breath and then spoke. “What word do you have for us?”

Syed Abdullah Khan his chief finance minister spoke. “Sire, there has been word from Kabul. The governor there reports that the clans are refusing to pay their taxes unless they get some form of tax cut for the next financial year.”

Raif raised an eyebrow, he had hidden in Kabul during his cousin’s reign. He knew the tribes there, they did not speak of such things. They did not care for them. Therefore, he asked. “Is it the tribes, or is it the nobles?”

Abdullah Khan bowed his head. “You are right, Sire. It is the nobles. They consider the taxation that has been levied to be too extreme and wish for it to be reduced. They claim that they will withhold the taxation until such a time as Your Imperial Majesty agrees to their demands.”

Raif looked at the man and said. “Do not lie to us about this, Abdullah. We know that the nobles have never quite understood the need to move to more formal methods of taxation, but here we are.” He thought for a moment and then asked. “What of the tribes, how are they standing on this issue?”

Syed Abdullah smiled. “Sire, they are most happy to involve themselves in challenging the nobles. Indeed one of their number, Syed Durrani has stated that he would gladly bash the head in of the nobles in Kabul, in return for greater say for the tribes.”

Raif laughed. He knew Syed Durrani, the man was as big as an elephant and as strong as one. The thought of him in charge of things was an amusing thought. “See it done then.” He commanded. Abdullah nodded, though Raif could tell he did not approve, the man came from a powerful family, and Raif knew he wanted Raif to be bedridden. He would not give him that honour.

“There is another matter, Sire.” The other Syed said.

“Go on.” Raif said, already dreading this.

“The Marathas are beginning to create a fuss, Sire.” The other Syed said. “They are claiming that they have been unfairly treated since the treaty a year ago, and are now claiming that they themselves will take command of their affairs.”

Raif raised an eyebrow and felt his hands begin to shake. “They have already had control over their own affairs. We have only asked that they pay the fee to recognise Delhi’s supremacy. What complaints do they have?” He suspected that this was something that that insufferable man Sambhaji had concoted to justify another campaign.

“Sire, they are claiming that you have unfairly taxed them in regions where they have no say.” The other Syed said.

“Which regions?” Raif asked, though he could feel the tiredness coming over him again.

“The Rajput Kingdoms and near the seven Islands.” The Other Syed replied.

Raif laughed. “Of course, they would seek to use that loophole.” He paused and then added. “Send word to the British in the Seven Islands, tell them we shall consider reducing their tariffs if they are willing to do a favour for us.”

“Is that wise, Sire? The British are snakes waiting in the grass.” Syed Abdullah said.

“Ahh, but the Marathas hate them more than they hate us, and you know the saying.” Raif replied. He looked at the other Syed and said. “Send the letter.”

“Yes, Your Imperial Majesty.” The other Syed said.

Raif nodded, looked at his hands and said. “That is all for today, thank you.” With that he got up and walked out of the throne room, his head hurting and his hands shaking

 

[VVD0D95]

Chapter 145: Ansbach Waltz



February, 1711
​

Caroline looked on as her eldest son George danced with his sister Anne, George had her nose, and his father’s eyes, whilst Anne had her father’s nose and her eyes. James, their youngest child, was walking around trying to follow his two older siblings. She smiled when she heard her husband and her love, James laugh. Her husband was a good man, a hard working one who took on the burdens of state, because his mother had given into her grief and gout. She felt happy beyond measure that unlike other men, he included her in his thoughts and his politicking. Caroline had found she had quite the talent for it and so enjoyed their little meetings. When it was just the two of them and their children, with their men and ladies of the bedchamber in the shadows, being discreet about their presence.

Caroline spoke then breaking the silence. “I heard something quite interesting from Lady Godolphin today.”

Her husband turned from watching their children, an eyebrow raised. “What did you hear?”

“That since she’s been appointed Keeper of the Privy Purse, Lady Masham has been petitioning the Queen for the right to become Chief Lady of the Bedchamber.” Caroline said, such a thing might appear of little importance, but as the Duchess of Marlborough still technically held that role even though she was in her estates now, it was quite scandalous.

James snorted. “That does not surprise me. The little strumpet no doubt thinks herself worthy of such a position.” Her husband paused and then asked. “Did Lady Godolphin say anything else about that conversation?”

Caroline shook her head. “Lady Godolphin is not as privy to these conversations as her lady Mother was. However, I did speak with the Duchess of Somerset.” James leaned forward, though Somerset was a Whig, he was one of the few that her husband could tolerate. “She told me that Lady Masham has increasingly taken to acting like the Queen. Using the favour Her Majesty shows her to boss around the staff in the Cock Pit as well as the other ladies. The Duchess tried to protest this to the Queen but was told to do as Lady Masham said.”

James sighed. “I fear Mother has gotten even more dependent on that strumpet since she dismissed the Duchess of Marlborough. You know she wanted to dismiss Marlborough from his role of Commander in Chief and replace him with some idiot that Masham had suggested, Orkney I think it was? Only my words kept her from doing something so disastrous. I do not know how to counter act the woman’s influence. I had to give into her demands that Harley be appointed to the Cabinet. And Harley is an idiot. Oh, he’s smart alright, but he has no head for numbers.”

Caroline bit her lip then, unsure of whether to say this next thing, but then she remembered that she and her husband had promised never to keep things from one another, and so she said. “There is something more that I have learned. Our friends in Harley’s home, have told me that the man and Masham meet regularly, and that they are looking to discuss changes to military appointments.”

James looked greatly angered then. “They have no right. That is the duty of Marlborough and myself.”

“And yet, Harley controls the purse strings now as Chancellor and as such is using Masham to try and shape the agenda of the cabinet. The Queen still sets the agenda, does she not, my love?” Caroline asked, though she already knew that answer.

“In broad strokes, yes.” James replied his shoulders sagging. “Though I am still the one who is implementing everything.”

“Yes, the Religious Toleration Bill that is going to be placed before the Lords is something that Harley and Masham are using against you.” Caroline said.

“How do you know this?” James asked.

“Our friends serving with Harley in the Chancellor’s office.” Caroline said. She thanked the day she had become friends with Robert Walpole and his wife. They were proving to be very useful. “They told me that Harley has taken the ‘Church in Danger’ line to new extremes and is trying to get Masham to poison the Queen against you.”

“They are trying to turn my own mother against me?!” James exclaimed. “They wouldn’t dare!”

“They are trying, my love.” Caroline replied taking her husband’s hand then. “Harley wants to sit in the seat of power and he knows that he never can with you in charge.”

James sighed, his shoulders sagged even more. “I will need to give the speech of my life in the Lords tomorrow then, to prevent this bill passing.”

“And you will need to introduce the Ireland Act as well.” Caroline said.

“Indeed, I will, though I know it won’t get support. Not with the provisions it requires.” James said.

“Speak to Somerset, and to Beaufort, as well as Berwick, my love, they will ensure it passes.” Caroline pointed out.

Her husband nodded, he kissed her hand. “Of course. And of course, we can still use this information against Masham. I will not allow her husband’s promotion to go through now.”

“A smart idea, my love.” Caroline replied.

“What would I do with you?” Her husband joked kissing her cheek.

 

[VVD0D95]

Chapter 146: Masham’s Dance



February, 1711
​

Sometimes, Abigail marvelled at how quickly she had risen. She had joined the court nine years ago, starting off as her cousin’s lady in waiting and then the Queen had noticed her, and now here she was, Keeper of the Privy Purse, and the chief lady of the bedchamber in all but name. Her rise had been something shocking to her, almost like her cousin’s rise all those years ago. Except there was one difference. Her cousin had pushed the Queen away, Abigail had no intention of ever doing that. Though she increasingly found the Queen to be repellent and somewhat disgusting, she stuck through it, and used the Queen’s love for her for her advantage and that of her husband’s.

And now, it seemed that she had been handed a boon by her greatest rival. The Prince of Wales, the Queen’s own son. She cleared her throat and looked at the letter that had arrived that morning. “Sire, this is most concerning.” She was not so foolish as to suggest a complete removal of the Prince from the cabinet and council-such a thing was treason but also the Queen fiercely loved her son- but she knew how to play on the Queen’s fears. “My lord Harley has written to show you just how close the votes were. Had the Prince of Wales not spoken as he did, the bill would have passed the Lords and now you would be facing a difficult choice.” The Queen had not vetoed a bill passed by both houses of Parliament in some time. She had made sure of that, or rather her brat of a son had.

“James did what was necessary. He knew that the House needed something to discuss whilst he negotiated the finer points of the French marriage. This is how he managed to handle it. And the bill did not pass. We do not see the problem.” The Queen replied.

Abigail bit back her frustration. The Queen had been ready enough to dismiss Sarah from her position of power with a few choice words, whispered in the dead of night, but she would never remove her son. She loved the damned man too much and he wasn’t that great. Oh, the entire court hailed him as something splendid, as a war hero, but really, he was just a boy trying to be a man, ruled by his wife, that German strumpet. “But Your Majesty, surely you must see that the influence of Whiggish thought around the Prince? The fact he would even have allowed this bill to be proposed, when your objections to the non-conformists is so well known, is proof that their influence is corrosive.”

“What do you mean?” The Queen asked her eyebrows raising in that manner that suggested to Abigail she was finally paying attention. “Speak plainly.”

Abigail took a moment to gather her thoughts, she knew that what she said next would influence just how the next three years of the Queen’s reign would go. Push too hard and she would be in the Tower, but push the right amount and she might get what she wanted. She took a breath. “The Non-conformity bill is the work of Shrewsbury; I am sure Your Majesty remembers that in the early days of your reign he pushed hard for it. No doubt he tried to get the Prince to think of it positively. Furthermore, the ladies around the Princess of Wales have some Whiggish persuasion, particularly the Duchess of St Albans. She is known to be a Whig, or at least her husband is. Therefore, it stands to reason that they would influence her in her thought and through her the Prince. The speech that the Prince gave sounded more of a man knowing he was on the ropes of defeat, rather than striding through for battle and victory. It is my thought that perhaps some changes must be made.”

Abigail could see how her words were having the desired effect. The woman was sat down but her mind was whirring with possibilities. “So, what would you suggest we do?”

Abigail smiled behind her hand and then said. “I would suggest sending the Duke and Duchess of St Albans to Hanover to serve as the ambassador to your cousin the Elector’s court, Madam. I would also make a suggestion to the Princess that she might consider speaking more with the Duchess of Beaufort who is her lady in waiting rather than the others in her company.”

“Indeed, a smart proposal.” The Queen said. Abigail smiled, the Duchess was her friend and someone she had planted there when the Princess had come the first time around.

Abigail continued. “Furthermore, might I suggest a few changes to the cabinet, Your Majesty?”

The Queen looked as if she might say no, so Abigail applied some light pressure to her neck, which got her to say. “Go on.”

“Shrewsbury is ailing and is perhaps on death’s door even as we speak, as is Lord Godolphin. They have both served this country and you with able determination and grit. But perhaps the time has come from fresh blood into the Cabinet. My Lord Harley is someone who is most devoted to protecting the church and ensuring that the Prince gets good advice, that is of a more Tory persuasion. Furthermore, there is a member of the Southern Department, a junior minister named Henry St John who has done most of Shrewsbury’s work for him in the past few months. Perhaps the time has come to give him a full promotion.”

The Queen hummed in thought then. “We see what you are saying, Abigail, truly we do. But until Shrewsbury comes to us and asks for relief we shall not grant it. For it would set a most dangerous precedent. However, we shall speak with Godolphin and ask him to give up his duties.”

Abigail. “A most smart decision, Your Majesty.”

The Queen beamed at her, and Abigail would ask if there were anything else she wished to speak about. “So, Abigail, what else is there on your mind? Come, speak freely with us, we know there is something bothering you.”

Abigail sighed and made her shoulders sagged. “Your Majesty, I hate to be a burden, but my husband’s promotion has been denied. But no reason has been given for it. Only that it shall not be done this time.”

She knew why it had happened, the Prince had gone to Marlborough and they had decided her husband could not be of a higher rank than him. That was fair, but still, Abigail had the Queen on her side and she would make use of that. “Oh, that is not acceptable. We shall speak with our son and ensure that your husband’s promotion goes through. Brigadier General was it not?”

“It was, Your Majesty.” Abigail said. “Thank you, Your Majesty.”

 

[VVD0D95]

Chapter 147: The Lion Grows



June, 1711
​

Louis blinked. The hour was late. He felt increasingly fatigued and knew that he should venture to bed. But there was still much work to do. His grandsire, the King was too ill to attend the meetings of the council and had therefore delegated that task to Louis, and his own father preferred to hawk and hunt in Paris than anything else. So, here he was. With the weight of the state on his shoulders, King in action if not name. He took another breath and then spoke.

“Gentlemen, there are a great many issues facing France. We are going to have to discuss some key issues that have been brought to my attention today. There are some issues which remain pressing, but they shall need to remain as such.” He took a deep breath then continued. “First and foremost, the issue of taxation is one with which we must address with great promptness. His Most Catholic Majesty has asked me to investigate the tax receipts.” He looked at the finance minister expectantly.

The Comte de Pontchartrin, who had been tasked with this responsibility spoke then. “Your Royal Highness, I have looked over the receipts most diligently. We are within good means, and are not running a debt, however, we must find a means to continue keeping the kingdom afloat, otherwise the risk of returning into the red shall rise. My main concern is that, should we raise taxes, the people shall revolt. There is already grumbling in Paris about the price of bread.”

Louis bit back a sigh. It seemed the Parisians were always unhappy with something. The other day it had been the price of butter, now it was bread. Was there no way to satisfy their almost constant unhappiness?! “What would you propose?” He asked.

Pontchartrin was not the brightest of men, he was not a Colbert or a Lovouis, by any means, but he had some interesting ideas on occasion. “Your Royal Highness, I would propose that we lower the price of some luxury goods, and therefore drive up demand amongst the merchants for those goods. The merchants are experiencing a boom in trade, thanks to the peace with Britannia. Therefore, they have more money floating around.”

Intrigued, Louise asked. “And what luxury goods would you recommend lowering the price of?”

Pontchartrin scratched his head and then replied. “Some leather based goods, and some goods such as the steel needed for swords. We must ensure that the merchants feel that they are being rewarded for their hard work. It has become a custom for many merchants to wish to buy steel to make their own family swords. If we reduce the price of it, then they will be more encouraged to buy such items and we can bring in more revenue from there.”

“Guns are the things in fashion now.” Tellier replied. Louis did not like that man, he was a buffoon.

“I know, my lord, but I think that this is something that we must exploit.” Pontchartrin said.

Tellier snorted. “So we should reward the merchants for realising something that we have known this entire time? Seems quite foolish.”

Louis ignored the man and asked. “How much do you think that this could bring in?”

“Somewhere in the range of three to four thousand, a week.” Pontchartrin replied.

Louis thought about it for a moment and then said. “See that it is done. Reduce it by an amount you think appropriate.”

“Yes, Your Royal Highness.” Pontchartrin said.

Louis then turned his attention to another matter. “The last time this council met, there was concern about the situation in Tuscany. Tellier, what is the situation there now?”

The man came alive then. “Your Royal Highness, the Grand Duke continues to try and ensure that his grandson by the Duchess of Modena can be recognised as his heir, should his sons fail to produce male children. This flies directly in the face of the treaty that was signed at the end of the war. However, we can use this to our advantage.”

Louis raised an eyebrow. “How so?”

Tellier smiled. “Your Royal Highness, Savoy is directly aligned with us, we have a gateway into Italy, Milan stands in our way however. Though that is countered by the presence of His Majesty, King Philippe, therefore we can say we surround Tuscany. If we dangle the thought of acknowledging his grandson as his heir, the Grand Duke will be forced to ally with us.”

Louis thought on this matter for a moment, he did not want another war, but he did think that this might be a means to ensuring their interests in Italy were kept on track. “What have the Habsburgs said in response to the Grand Duke’s overtures?”

Here, Tellier smiled. “Emperor Joseph has rejected it. Instead he insists that his sister’s husband is the rightful heir to the Grand Duchy.”

Louis thought for a moment and then said. “Very well, send a tentative proposal out on this front. We shall recognise his grandson as his heir in the event of a failure in the male line, if he agrees to grant us exclusive trading rights.”

Tellier smiled. “Very good, Your Royal Highness.”

 

[VVD0D95]

Chapter 148: Walpole’s Rise



October, 1711
​

It was a warm day for an October. Parliament was in session, and Robert got the feeling that today was going to be an interesting day. The issue today was a motion that his good friend Henry Pelham had tabled, about the trade agreements with France and Spain. Pelham had been due to speak on the motion, but the Prince of Wales had met with the both of them before the start of the session today and asked that Robert be the one to speak. Robert had found that slightly odd, given the Prince’s dislike of Whigs, and Robert’s obvious inclinations toward said party. However, one did not counter the Prince, and therefore Robert found himself about to stand up and speak.

William Bromley, a Tory and the Speaker of the House spoke first. “Gentlemen, we are here today to discuss a motion filed by the Right Honourable Henry Pelham. Mr Pelham, are you to speak on this motion?”

Henry stood up and said. “My lord speaker, I have given the right to first speech to my honourable friend, Robert Walpole.”

Bromley nodded, though there was some muttering from the Tory side. “Very well.” Bromley looked at him then and said. “Mr Walpole you may begin.”

Robert stood up. “Thank you, Mr Speaker.” He took a breath and then continued. “My honourable friends, we are here today to discuss a matter of the utmost urgency. That matter being the trade agreements that we have with both France and Spain.” He paused, turned to the right and saw the Prince of Wales stood in the doorway, by tradition he could not enter the Commons but he could listen to the debates. Robert looked back to the opposition bench, and swallowed then continued. “Our alliance with Spain is not such a new thing that it can be easily discarded. We have stood together for almost one hundred years against the growth of French power. The French remain our traditional enemy, and this trade agreement with them is bound to make them think that they are to gain something from us.”

He heard some murmurs of agreement from behind him, and encouraged continued. “Louis XIV is someone who has tried to take beyond his means. He continued to demand the Spanish Low Countries long after it became apparent that he could not take them. The recently concluded war was fought because he thought he could take them once more. He might be ailing and dying, but his son and grandson remain, and they share the same vision as him. Furthermore, the Duke of Burgundy has gotten an alliance with the Grand Duke of Tuscany to get exclusivity to trade rights with the Duchy of Tuscany in return for French recognition of the man’s grandson as his heir. In clear violation of the terms of the treaty.” He took a breath and then finished with. “Is there a way in which the honourable gentleman on the government bench can perhaps convince this house, that we have not been played for fools by Versailles?” That got a lot of applause.

Robert Harley, the government leader in the House of Commons stood up then. He had risen high and fast in the past few years, using his ties to the Queen’s chief lady in waiting, Abigail Masham to ascend the lofty heights of government. “The Honourable Gentleman, has some valid concerns. I shall grant him that. However, Mr Speaker, what he fails to mention is that, this trade agreement we have with France, has ensured that we are gaining access to new markets, within the new world. Our trade with French colonies has seen income into the treasury treble in the past year and a half alone. Our trade with France and her allies, itself has seen income into the treasury double in the past year. There is no reason to think that such a thing cannot continue, with good management and agreement between Whitehall and Versailles.”

That won him applause from the Tory benches, including from Robert’s friend William Wyndham, who he knew hoped to be seated in government in the times to come. Robert rose to give a response. “I fear that the honourable gentleman has gotten his thoughts mixed up. Yes, trade has increased and the nation is benefitting, but trade had increased before. During the reign of King Charles, we traded with France, and still we went to war with them before that King’s reign was over. And before that during the reign of King Charles I, we traded with France, and we went to war. There is a pattern that emerges with France. We might be trading with them, but they shall not stop their ambitions. And this agreement between Versailles and the Grand Duke shows that the Duke of Burgundy is no different to his grandsire.”

Harley rose. “My honourable friend has quite forgotten himself there. Italy is of no concern to us. Tuscany is of no major concern to us. We have seen no sign that the French mean to take the Low Countries from Archduke Charles and his lady wife. Indeed, they are continuing to trade with them as per the terms of the treaty signed at the end of the war. I fear that the honourable gentleman has given himself over to useless worrying, for nothing more to do.” That got guffaws from the Tory benches, and even some Whigs.

Robert thought for a moment and then rose. “So, then, the Honourable Minister is likely to say nothing when the French continue their armament process, and when they try once more to take land which does not belong to them? Sooner or later the Duke of Burgundy will need to prove himself, and when that arises, we shall be at war. Our trade with France is little compared to what we have with Spain.” He paused, looked at the Prince of Wales, saw the man nod almost without moving his head, and continued. “With Spain we have a chance to access the gold markets of the Southern New World Peninsula, the rush of silver and gems, we have a chance to establish a foothold in Florida. We would even have a chance to venture toward their lands in the far east, and access spice and another such things far easier than we do now. Our combined fleets would be more than enough to secure the waves for Britannia for generations. Something the French could not hope to match.”

A hush descended over the House then, as they awaited Harley’s response. Robert could tell the man was caught off guard by what he’d said, his face was flushed and he looked tired. The man rose then and replied. “Mr Walpole forgets something here. Spain is in debt, grievous debt. They cannot pay their loans off without help from France and from the Empire. Their colonies spend every other year in open revolt, being crushed in slow moving fashion. We would be better served by allying with Portugal than with Spain.” Harley sat down, that was a weak defence, Robert thought.

“If Spain is weak, then it is our duty, nay, our Christian right to ensure that France cannot grow any further. We must in the name of God, Queen and Country, ensure that we have the means and resources to defeat the French advances. France is the greatest danger to the security not only of Europe but of the world, that this world has ever seen since the Muslims first stepped out of Arabia. The time has come for us to put aside false pretences and acknowledge the French for what they are. Ambitious snakes, who shall not hesitate to betray us.” Robert thundered.

Almost the entire hall stood up to applaud him then, and he knew Harley knew he had been beaten, for the man sat with his shoulders slumped. Robert glanced briefly to the doors, and saw the Prince of Wales smiling. He felt his heart uplift then. The Speaker banged his gavel thrice, and only then managed to silence the applause. “Thank you, both, gentlemen. Now that the motion has been discussed, let us see where the house sits. Those in favour of the motion, that this House is concerned with trade with France, please say aye.”

Three quarters of the House said. “Aye.” Robert amongst them.

“Those against, say nay.”

One quarter led by Harley replied with. “Nay.”

“The Motion passes.” Bromley said banging his gavel, to the cheers of the Whigs and some Tories.

 

[VVD0D95]

Chapter 149: William, Duke of York



December, 1711
​

It was odd to be back in Whitehall. There were a lot more complications in Whitehall than there had been in Scotland. There was all this protocol that needed to be followed that he didn’t have to follow in Falkland Palace. He was the boss there, and here, he was the second son, the Duke of York and Albany, but not quite the prominent person he had been before he left. That was just the way of things though. His wife at least seemed to prefer Whitehall to Edinburgh, not that he could blame her, Whitehall thrived. Edinburgh was more of a soldier’s fare. He preferred Edinburgh.

Mother was ailing, that much was clear. He had not really had the chance to meet her since he had come down with Maria and their son. But he had met his brothers and sister, and his brother’s wife and children. He smiled at that thought then pushed it down. The door opened and he was allowed in. James was sat looking rather pensive as he read through a letter. William coughed and his brother looked up. “Ah, William. Please, have a seat.” William sat down opposite his brother.

“What’s that?” He asked gesturing to the letter in his brother’s hand.

His brother said nothing for a moment and then. “One of our spies reports that the King of France had a heart attack three days ago. It seems that the Sun King is about to die.”

William thought on that and then said. “That is a good thing is it not?” He had grown up hearing about the depravities of Versailles and of the insatiable appetite of the Sun King.

James did not seem quite so convinced. William knew that he and his brother were not as close as they once had been. His brother had been sent off to war, when he had just started developing some sense in his head, and by then, James was closer to the Marquess of Blandford. Still, they were family, and so they would talk. “I think that there might be something worse to come from this. The Sun King was predictable in some ways because of how long he reigned for. You can be sure that if he dies and his son inherits, it will actually be his grandson the Duke of Burgundy who is doing the ruling. And that man is someone I cannot predict.”

William thought on that for a moment and then said. “That worries you.”

“It does.” James answered. “The young man has already shown that he does not much care about treaties, he has given his support to the Modena heir of Tuscany ignoring the treaty which ended the last war. He wants money to pay of the debts his grandsire’s wars have brought, but in doing so, he might have just started another war.”

“Then we will be there to meet him. Our army is strong. The strongest it’s ever been.” William answered.

His brother smiled. “Indeed. Now enough on that. How are things with you? How was Scotland the last time you were there?”

William sighed. “Well enough, I think Maria prefers it here than in Edinburgh.” At his brother’s raised eyebrow he elaborated. “She prefers the elaborate pageantry that is present in Whitehall, she prefers the ceremonies and the balls. I am a soldier, brother. I do not care for such things, I’ve had two balls in the time I’ve been there, simply to keep her happy. I think that perhaps when I return after Michaelmas it would be better if she and our son remained here.”

“Have you spoken to Maria about what she wants?” James asked.

William sighed. He had forgotten that because of how his sister in law was, that James thought all women were like that. “Maria is not Caroline, James. She does not give voice to her own opinions. Hell, I only found out that she liked balls because Archibald told me that his wife and Maria had been speaking about it.”

James laughed. “Brother, you are the man in this relationship, you must speak to her first. You cannot rely on others to do that for you. You have a child with her as well, you must speak with her. I would do that before making any decision.” William sighed and nodded his head in acceptance. James continued. “And what of the religious issue? Have you managed to convince more of the lords to take up Episcopalism, than Presbyterianism?”

William smiled. “Yes. Hamilton, Douglas, Atholl, Huntly, Lennox all of them and others have agreed to attend Episcopalian ceremonies. The main holdouts have been around Glasgow and Argyll. He retains a lot of influence there. I think we might need some sort of military action to sort that out.”

James looked pensive at that and then he said. “Try the diplomatic approach, and if that does not work, then commit to force.”

William nodded and asked. “How is Mother doing? I have tried to see her, but I keep being told she is not well. Some lady called Abigail Masham gave that order.”

James cursed. “I will sort that out, brother, do not worry.”

William nodded, bowed his head slightly and then headed out of the room. He had a lot to sort out if he were to get Argyll onside, and the bloody merchants of Glasgow with their inflated egos. As he thought on how to best address this he knocked into someone. “Sorry.” He said. He looked down and found himself looking at someone remarkably beautiful. She had brown hair, green eyes and a lovely face.

“My apologies, Your Royal Highness, I should have been more careful.” The lady said.

“Nonsense, the fault is mine.” He replied. “Might I have your name, my lady?”

The lady blushed then. “Lady Elizabeth Howard, Your Royal Highness.”

“Daughter of the Earl of Carlisle.” William surmised. “Where were you heading?”

“To…to…meet with my betrothed.” The lady replied.

“Please allow me to accompany you.” William replied, wondering just what he was doing.

“Of course, Your Royal Highness.” The lady replied, he took her arm and they walked together. William wondering why his heart was fluttering.

 

[VVD0D95]

Chapter 150: Passing Of The Old Guard



February, 1712
​

Charles coughed. He was doing a lot of that nowadays. When he was not having some sort of weeping attack, he was coughing. He rarely attended cabinet meetings now. Instead the Prince of Wales filled in for him. He gave his advice when he was asked, but he knew he was dying. He just didn’t know how long he had. He cleared his throat and looked at the man sat opposite him. Sidney Godolphin, for so long his friend and ally at court, the other man looked like hell. He too was dying. The thought made Charles laugh.

“What makes you laugh, Charles?” Sidney asked.

“I was just thinking, Sidney, that we are both relics from another age, and now we are about to face death.” Charles replied.

Sidney cracked a smile then. “This is true. Alas, it seems brilliance must suffer the plight of the final challenge after all.”

Charles grinned. “You always were given to being a poet at the oddest of times.”

“My uncle was a poet, Charles, what did you think would happen?” Sidney retorted.

Charles laughed and then sobered up. “I do think we have done a good job in preparing the Prince of Wales for the future though.” The Prince had argued most brilliantly in cabinet three days ago against intervening in the Northern War, which now included Poland and Russia. Harley had been in favour of it, for reasons only he knew.

“Indeed. I think that will be both our legacies.” Sidney said.

“Not the creation of the Bank of Britannia or the union itself. But ensuring that the future King knew how to rule without the need of favourites.” Charles surmised, before he coughed.

“Aye. Though, I worry that something might happen once we are gone. Harley has the Queen’s ear. Masham and he work together, just as we used to work with the Duchess of Marlborough. Her husband has a rank higher than the Prince, despite not seeing more than one battle during the last war. That is not acceptable.” Sidney said.

“Aye, I am surprised the Queen allowed that.” Charles said. The Queen he knew would never have allowed anyone to outrank her son, had they not earned it with blood and tears.

“It is that Masham girl. She continually whispers poison in Her Majesty’s ear, and treats it as if it some sort of gospel. The Queen being as she is, well, she needs her husband, but alas His Royal Highness is long since dead. And no matter how they might try, Their Royal Highnesses, are not their father.” Sidney said.

Charles laughed at that, the thought of the Duke of York and Albany, or even the Duke of Gloucester trying to be anything other than formal with their mother was a sight to behold. “This is sadly true. Of course, York has returned to Scotland now, with his wife. You know I heard that Harley tried to get him into bed with Lady Elizabeth Howard.”

Sidney sighed. “I had heard that too. I had my daughter in law have a word with Her Royal Highness, and now I think the Duke will not leave his wife’s bed.”

Charles laughed. “Good. We cannot let anyone aligned with Harley get more power.”

“Ideally, we would have the Duchess of Marlborough back here, she would counter Harley and Masham, but I am not sure that Her Majesty would want her back. Something happened between them and nothing I say can resolve it. It is only her son’s insistence that keeps the Duke of Marlborough at court. That and his friendship with the Marquess of Blandford.” Sidney said.

“Do you know what it was that caused this dramatic turn?” Charles asked. He had always thought that the Queen and Lady Marlborough were two peas in a pod, they might argue but they would never separate. This separation was troubling.

“Some lady business, it was something I would rather not get into.” Sidney said.

“Wise.” Charles acknowledged, it could be quite difficult to get out of the situation when one got involved in business between ladies, especially when one of them was the sovereign.

“We need a way to get Lady Masham removed from the Queen’s presence. I have asked Her Royal Highness the Princess of Wales to examine something on this matter.” Sidney said.

“A wise move.” Charles said. He started coughing then, it didn’t stop, and he hunched over, then he felt something sharp run through him. The next thing he knew he was on the floor.

 

[VVD0D95]

Chapter 151: Ailing Emperor



May, 1712
​

Raif knew his time was approaching. His hands continued shaking, and the nightmares were getting worse. Too often would the doctors come into his rooms and mutter amongst themselves before lying to him. He’d had three doctors executed for that. Before one of them had finally twigged and told him the truth. He did not have long to live, and he needed to sort things out before he did eventually die. His eldest son and heir Raif was only thirteen but was a smart lad, the boy would not rule with a regency but under his own auspices, Raif had decided. And so the boy was included in his council meetings. Though Raif hated his son seeing just how weak he really was.

He cleared his throat. “Let us start with the business in Kabul.” Kabul and the hinterland would always be a problem he knew. They respected strength, the nobles and the tribes both. But there was something more that needed done.

“Sire, Mohammed Zahir Shah, has declared himself as Emir of Afghanistan and is planning to march on Kabul. He has already taken many of the towns and forts around the area.” Syed Abdullah said.

Raif sighed. “And what is Durrani doing?” Raif had on the advice of Abdullah, named Durrani governor of Kabul in opposition from his brother and cousins.

“Sire, he is preparing the defences of the city. I think, he rightly expects that Shah will come marching out to face him, though the man lacks cannons.” Syed Abdullah said.

“Have the Persians done anything?” Raif asked, if the Persians got involved, they were finished.

“No, Sire.” Syed Abdullah said. “They are too busy fighting one another.”

Raif nodded. “Praise Allah for small mercies.” There was a pause and then he continued. “Very well, Syed, you shall command the third army and march to Kabul to reinforce Durrani. We want this sorted before the summer rains come. Do you understand?”

“Yes, Sire.” Syed Abdullah said. “What would you like done with Mohammed Zahir Shah, Sire?”

“We shall want him executed and his sons brought to court to serve as hostages.” Raif commanded. He stopped a cough coming then and prepared himself for the shakes that would come later.

“Yes, Sire.” Syed Abdullah said.

There was a brief pause, and then the chief financer of the court, Abdullah Mohammed came forward. He bowed and then said. “Sire, there is the matter of the court incomes to discuss.”

Raif despised talking about such things, they made him feel dirty, Allah said such things were a sin. But as ruler of Hindustan he needed to know. “Very well, what are the shortfalls?”

Abdullah Mohammed produced a piece of paper and read from it. “We are short twenty thousand from the former Deccan Sultanates, ten thousand from the Rajput Kingdom of Mewar and one thousand from the Nawab of Bengal.”

Raif took a breath. “Deccan is under the control of the Marathas. They are withholding the funds deliberately, because we have negotiated an alliance with the British. As for Mewar, he does nothing unless that Sambhaji fellow tells him to do it. We do not have the means to take them on directly. However, Bengal is another matter.” He took a breath and then said. “Syed Hassan,” the man stepped forward and bowed. “You shall take twenty men with you and venture to Bengal. Talk with the Nawab, and then remove him and replace him with his brother.” The Nawab’s brother was a weakling who could be easily controlled.

“Yes, Sire.” Syed Hassan said.

Raif waved a hand, feeling the fever coming over him. “Dismissed.” The court officials left the room, leaving him alone with his guards and his son. “So, my boy, what did you think?”

Raif watched as his son came to stand before him and said. “Sire, I think the Syed brothers are dangerous and sending them to where you have is their death sentence.”

“And why do you think that?” Raif asked.

“Because Durrani will kill Syed Abdullah for the insult he gave to his sister, and the Bengalis will never listen to Syed Hussein.” His son replied.

“Exactly, and do you know why we have done this?” Raif asked.

“To ensure that they are not in the way to try and take power from me, when I ascend the Peacock throne.” His son answered.

“Good lad.” Raif said. “Now let us rest.” He rose and walked with the aid from his son back to his rooms.

 

[VVD0D95]

Chapter 152: The Dying Torch



August, 1712
​

His father had arrived from Paris some days ago. No doubt the man was preparing for the inevitable, for the King of France was on his deathbed. Louis had been expecting this moment for the past year. It was not surprising to him. He had effectively run the country since his grandsire’s stroke some eleven months ago, his father showed no interest in such mundane business, and so Louis continued working and doing what he could. This meeting he had called of the Marshals of France was important. He knew there would be another war within the next few years, Spain was too proud a nation to allow it otherwise. He just needed to know the state of the army.

He cleared his throat and began. “Gentlemen, the last war ended in a treaty which has left our position on the world stage questionable. Now, we must know that the Spanish will strive hard to regain Naples from our brother Philippe, they will also strive hard to protect Archduke Charles and his wife from our goals. Therefore, the army must be in a suitable condition for a long distance campaign.” He took a breath and then looked at the Duke of Villeroi who was the Marshal in charge of the first army, stationed down near the border with Spain. “Villeroi, how goes preparation?”

The man took a breath, he had been somewhat successful during the last war, but there had been times when Louis’ patience with him had nearly snapped. “Your Royal Highness, the first army remains in good shape. We continue to practice manoeuvres, and are focused more on forcing the enemy into pitched battles, per the suggestions from Marshal Vaughban. However, there is one area I am concerned with.” Louis gestured for the man to continue. “The Spanish have received a new shipment of quick fire muskets from the British and as such are using them in good supply. This is something that we do not have access to, despite the treaty we have with the British. Therefore, I worry that any such fight we have will be at a disadvantage.”

Louis pursed his lips at that. The British were being their usual deceitful selves then, that was not surprising. “Have you managed to get a good look at this musket?” He asked.

“I have not. But some of the troops under my command have.” Villeroi replied.

“We shall want to speak with them.” Louis said. “There will be many a maker who will be able to provide our men with those sorts of weapons.”

“Yes, Your Royal Highness.” Villeroi replied.

Louis then turned to d’Estress, the commander of the army on the border with Austrian Netherlands. “And what of you, d’Estress?”

D’Estress was not the most talkative of people normally, but Louis had seen him on the battlefield and knew him to be a dangerous man and smart as well. “Your Royal Highness, the Austrians are stocking up on guns and gunpowder. They are garrisoning forts with men from the Holy Roman Empire and men drawn from the Dutch Republic, indeed William of Orange has made visits there with his son and heir. I believe that they too are preparing for war. I have run through various scenarios, and I believe that a future war will be a war of aggression on the part of the Dutch. They will use the Austrian Netherlands as baseground to strike at us.”

Louis looked at the map. “At the Leie then.” He thought for a moment. Then said. “Perhaps the time has come for us to raise a regiment of maritime foot. Just as the British have done.”

He expected some push back but then was pleasantly surprised when both Villeroi and d’Estress said. “We agree, Your Royal Highness.” Louis looked at them both and it was d’Estress who replied. “Your Royal Highness, we all witness the effectiveness of the maritime regiment of foot that the British have, they came and hit and went, leaving us scrambling. I think if we had our own such regiment, we could deal quite the blow to the Dutch, who rely more on conventional land warfare when fighting us.”

Marsin, commander of the front with Naples spoke. “You would need to change the structure of the navy, Your Royal Highness. The maritime regiment must be part of the navy.”

Louis thought for a moment and then said. “Nonsense, we can continue to keep the two different.” The navy was not a matter for concern right now. He did not think Britannia would get involved in the next war, unless the Austrian Netherlands was threatened, which he intended to avoid. Though he did want to reform the navy. The vessels were poor. He was about to elaborate on that point, when the door opened and a servant entered, followed shortly afterward by Madame de Maintenon. The woman never left his grandfather’s side, so Louis was quite shocked to see her here.

The woman bowed before him and then rose and whispered. “The King is breathing his last. He requests your presence.”

Louis nodded, turned to the gentlemen. “I must go.” With that he turned and stalked from the room. He eventually made it to the King’s chambers, to find half his family there. His father, his cousin and father’s wife, his brother Berry, his father’s other children, and his own wife and their children. The King looked at them all, with unseeing eyes.

“France must win. She must always win.” His grandfather said, before he coughed, spat and then closed his eyes.

A few moments passed before the doctor announced. “The King is dead.”

Louis turned to look at his father and bent the knee. “The King is dead, Long Live the King.”

 

[VVD0D95]

Chapter 153: Carolus Rise



October, 1712,​

Stargard was a town that had defensive walls and a hefty store of gunpowder. And for that Charles was grateful. But everything else about the town depressed him. It was somewhere on the region of middling to shit. Quintessentially Prussian in its outlook, the people looked as if they wanted to kill him whenever he ventured out of the castle. He had taken to standing at the window, watching and assessing just what was happening. Charles suspected that sooner or later the towns under his command in Farther Pomerania would revolt, unless he conquered the entire region and showed his true strength.

“We need to keep moving forward, Sire.” Carl Adolf, his chief commander in this region said. “We are going to be moving one way and then another otherwise. Right now, the Prussians are struggling to keep balance. The Bridgend that we control is keeping them buried, but I am unsure of how long we can keep that going.”

Charles looked at the map. “The Prussians are in the villages south of here are they not?”

“They are, Sire.” Carl Adolf said.

“Then we must lure them out from there. We must have a big battle that resolves this matter once and for all.” Charles said. He could tell that his generals were unsure of what he meant so he continued. “The Prussians are currently relying on the winter that is approaching to slow our advance through their half of Pomerania. They know that come the spring if we have not taken everything up to Kolberg, we shall be finished here. Therefore, we must draw them out into battle.”

Carl Adolf looked at the map and sighed. “Sire, I am not sure that such a thing is possible. Elector Frederick is not someone who is given over to rash decisions. If his son was in command, then perhaps we might have the chance to make things interesting. I would suggest that we write to the Polish King and ask that he make more movement into Ducal Prussia.”

Charles waved a hand. “The Polish King will do whatever it is he wants, he will not listen to our requests.” That was the simple truth, King Karl was an oaf. “No, we think we have the solution to this problem.”

“Sire?” Carl Adolf asked.

“We must use bait, to ensure that the Elector thinks that we are going to go on a suicidal mission.” Charles answered. At the quizzical looks from his generals, he continued. “We send out a unit under the command of Adolf Frederick, and we make it seem as though he is going to attempt an attack on their location. The elector is far too prideful of a man to allow such a thing to stand.” Charles smiled. He had read the Elector correctly, he hoped. He knew that his brother in law was a fool, but on occasion he had his uses, this would be one of them.

There was a moment of pause where his generals looked at one another and then at him, and he briefly wondered if they thought him mad, then Carl Adolf said. “I think that could very well work, Sire. Though of course one would need to ensure there is an actual general there, to ensure that His Highness does not completely ruin things.” There was some nervous laughter at that.

Charles grinned. “Of course. Gustaf, you shall command the host in our brother by marriage’s name.” Gustaf Clemens, a man Charles was convinced was his father’s bastard, was a harsh man but one who had defeated the Prussian reserves earlier in the year to secure control over Stargard, nodded.

“It would be my honour, Sire.”

“Good.” Charles said. He knew discussions about the Russian capture of Ingria would need to be discussed soon but for now, Prussia was the bigger concern.

As he was about to rise, an attendeant burst into the room. The man was panting. “Sire… Sire…I bring news from Brandenburg.”

“Speak.” Charles commanded.

The man took a moment and then said. “Elector Frederick has declared himself King in Prussia, Sire. A move which has received the backing of Vienna.”

Charles looked at his generals and laughed. “How bold of him.”

 

[VVD0D95]

Chapter 154: A Queen’s Misery



December, 1712
​

Anne rarely felt pleasant anymore. The gout was preventing her from walking, it prevented her from sleeping unless Abigail was with her. It was making her life a living hell, and she just wanted it to end. Of course, there was an issue with her son, her firstborn and the pride of her life. James was not happy about something and she wasn’t sure what. His wife and their children visited her regularly, but he did not. Indeed, it seemed he spent more time at Hampton Court Palace now than anywhere else, and that confused her. It also worried her. Still, he had come to visit her now and she wanted to speak with him frankly.

Anne looked at her son, noted the bags under his eyes and said. “We see that you are not sleeping properly. Why?”

Her son looked at her and sighed. “Your Majesty, it is because I am having to work overtime to correct the mistakes that Lord Harley is making.”

“Mistakes?” Anne asked, looking behind her to Abigail. “What mistakes?”

“He is pushing too hard to allow for a proper and open alliance with France, to the detriment of all else.” James replied.

Anne was confused by this. “Surely that is a good thing? We are to be tied with France through marriage, so surely it should be wise that we seek to have an alliance with them.”

Her son shook his head. “Marriage does necessitate open alliance, Mother. If we are to be allied with France, when next they venture into open warfare we will then have to make a decision. It is not good form to break an alliance.”

“And why are you so sure that France will break into warfare again, Your Royal Highness?” Abigail asked. There was something in her voice that Anne did not like.

Her son’s face twisted slightly into a look of barely concealed disgust. “Because it is France, Madam. Louis the Sun King might be dead, but his grandson the Dauphin is just as ambitious as him. He will not just settle in one way or another, the Duchy of the Netherlands will be in his sights. We cannot allow that.”

“So, you would risk another war, for something that has not even happened yet?” Abigail asked.

Her son was getting visibly more irate. “I would be smart about it, Madam. We can trade with France whilst still building up our arsenal for the next war.”

Abigail came to kneel before her. “Your Majesty, please listen to me, if you allow Lord Harley to do as he is doing now, you can be sure that there will be no war for us to fight. The money saved can then be used on the things you wish.”

Anne looked at Abigail, felt her hand slipping onto her leg, and she then looked at her son. “Abigail is right, darling. Sir Robert is being smart about this.”

“Madam, you cannot be serious!” James retorted. “Sir Robert is leading us down the path of irrelevancy, we will be abandoning our oldest allies to appease French warmongering and the class of politicians in this country who never fight.”

“You were the one advocating in favour of the French marriage, might we remind you, Sir.” Anne said.

Her son sighed. “Yes, Your Majesty, I was. Because I believed the dowry that was promised would aid in the ultimate goal.”

“And what is that ultimate goal, if not peace?” Anne asked.

“To eclipse the French as the power on the continent, Madam.” James replied. “If you were to allow me to fulfil my proposals, our dominance of the waters would be completely unquestioned, we would also have an army that could be deployed at a moment’s notice. We could then take the colonies in America that the Spanish hold and ensure our dominance is complete.”

Anne’s eyes widened. “Such a thing would cost a fortune. We are not an Empire building nation, Sir, we are a trading nation.”

“Her Majesty is right, Your Royal Highness. Such proposals as you put them would cost the people an arm and a leg.” Abigail said.

“You are not a member of the council, my lady, I suggest you keep your mouth shut.” James said to Abigail.

“Apologise, at once!” Anne commanded of her son.

Her son looked at her and said. “I cannot, Your Majesty. Not to that whore.”

She leaned across and slapped her son across the cheek, something she had never done before. “Then leave.” Anne said.

James bowed and then straightened. “As you wish, Your Majesty.” With that her son turned and stalked out of the room.

 

[VVD0D95]

Here's the family tree for the House of Bourbon so far

 

[VVD0D95]

House of Oldenburg family tree so far and with more to come

 

[VVD0D95]

Chapter 155: Hampton Court Intrigue



February, 1713
​

Ever since the argument with his Mother about Harley and his words to Abigail Masham, James had left Whitehall with his wife and children and moved to Hampton Court Palace. Surprisingly, a good number of the younger courtiers and some of the older ones had come with him as well. He had not expected that and though it did bring him some satisfaction he worried about what it meant for the image of the monarchy. And not for the first time he found himself deeply angry with Masham for bringing the crown into disrepute. He had asked the Duke and Duchess of Somerset to attend him at Hampton Court, as he liked the Duke-despite his Whiggish tendencies- and the Duchess was his mother’s closest confidant who was not a Churchill or a Masham. Caroline was two months pregnant, having just confirmed it to him recently, though she had insisted in being at this meeting, and well Walpole was here because he had alongside John, become one of James’ trusted confidants.

“Thank you all for coming. We understand that it can be quite difficult to choose between what Masham instructs of you and what is for the good of the country.” James said. He took a breath, and then continued. “However, we believe that things have reached a point now that we must act. Masham and Harley continue to demonstrate that they cannot be trusted with the levers of power.” He looked at the Duke of Somerset. “We heard of what her husband said to your son, Charles, and we find that most appalling. That a Brigadier General would say such a thing to his better, is wrong beyond measure. We must find this problem a solution.” He looked at the Duchess then. “What has been the state of Her Majesty since our discussion before Michaelmas?” He had not spoken with Mother since then and George had told him that things were getting even worse at Whitehall with Mother’s illness, and Masham’s power.

“Your Royal Highness, Her Majesty despairs of the words that she said to you. She, I think regrets what was passed between you both and she knows that Abigail was out of line with her words. However, I think she has come to depend on Abigail beyond reason and as such is terrified of removing her from her service.” The Duchess replied.

James pondered this and asked. “Do you think the harlot has something she wishes to use on Her Majesty?” James knew that the Duchess of Marlborough had had something she wished to use on his mother when mother had veered toward Masham, but James had had a quiet word with the Duke and that threat had disappeared. He did not have such a power over Masham.

The Duchess sighed. “I do not know, Your Royal Highness. There are times when I think that Abigail must exercise some sort of otherworldly control over Her Majesty, for they are closer than Her Majesty ever was with the Duchess of Marlborough, and yet there are times when Her Majesty dismisses her from her presence for a night and day and laments what has become of her friendships.”

James nodded, he wasn’t quite sure what to make of this information, thankfully, Caroline knew what to say. “So, if we are reading this right, Duchess, you are saying that there are moments, no matter how brief, where Her Majesty feels as though she cannot stand the presence of Abigail Masham, is that correct?”

“That is right, Your Royal Highness.” The Duchess answered. “It seems that since the argument Your Royal Highness had with Her Majesty, that these moments are growing more and more common. The last one was about three days ago. Indeed, it ended in such a screaming contest, I thought the French might hear it.”

James looked at Caroline then and saw that she had reached the same conclusion as him. “Then perhaps there is a way to make sure that the breach is permanent.” Caroline suggested.

“But how?” James mused. “We would need something quite convincing and quite permanent for this to happen. And everything else we have tried has failed.”

The Duchess spoke then. “If I might, Your Royal Highnesses?” James gestured for the lady to continue. “Her Majesty has many things that she does not like, but there is only one thing she hates. That is anyone who says a wrong thing about any of her children. Especially you, Your Royal Highness. I know for a fact that Abigail has been saying to anyone who will listen that she considers you a fool and that she can have the Queen change the succession should she wish it. Her husband is known for speaking at length about his wife’s influence. And I believe that Lord Harley is encouraging such talk as he eyes a peerage. The only way I can see Abigail being removed is by having her say something like this in the opening.”

James was shocked that someone would speak such open treason, but then perhaps he was not a woman, or perhaps a viper was a better term to describe Abigail Masham and her husband. Caroline spoke. “How would you get this to happen in front of the Queen though? We do not think that Abigail Masham is so foolish as to say it in front of the Queen.”

“She is not that foolish no, but she might well say something about Your Royal Highnesses, should I bring it up.” The Duchess replied. “Her Majesty trusts me, should she know we met she will wish to know how you are doing, and from there we can take the conversation.”

For a brief moment, James felt horrible about using his mother’s love for him against her, but then he remembered what was at stake and said. “Do it then. When do you next meet Her Majesty?”

“In two days’ time, Your Royal Highness.” The Duchess responded.

“Do it then.” James commanded.

The Duchess bowed. “As you command, Your Royal Highness.”

James looked at the Duke and said. “Your wife is incredibly calculating, Your Grace. We hope you realise what a valuable ally you have.”

The Duke grinned. “Of course, Your Royal Highness.”

 

[VVD0D95]

Chapter 156: The New King



February, 1713​

His father was dead, as was his grandsire. Two Kings gone within the space of a few months. The death of the Sun King had hit him harder than his father’s death, and in some ways he thought that made sense. He had always been closer to his grandsire than his father, had understood that man more than his father. Had worked with his grandsire more than with his father. But now they were both gone and the position of top authority belonged to him, and him alone. The coronation had taken place a few days ago in Rheims, and now they were back in Versailles, to prepare for the coming year.

Louis took a breath and then began his first council meeting as King. “Gentlemen, we know that times are uncertain. We know that the long reign of our predecessor saw many ups and downs, and we know that things are somewhat uncertain now. However, we do hereby promise before you all now that unlike our much vaunted predecessor, we shall not start a war unless it is to defend France. She is our concern now, not the concerns of other nations. This we swear before God and his only Son.” He crossed himself as did the other council members, he then began properly. “Now, the state of the economy is such that we must consider measures of reducing the burden borne by the peasantry, otherwise they shall revolt. Pontchartrin, tell us where we stand.”

Pontchartrin, was ageing rapidly now before his eyes, and it seemed he was growing slower in his responses. Still he provided some clever words in his response. “Sire, I have spoken with the members of the court, and they have agreed to increase their tax payments by five percent. With each member doing so, this will give the treasury a much needed boost. And enable us to begin considering the works on the roads you were proposing before.”

“Excellent. And what of the merchant classes?” Louis asked. He knew that the merchant classes would be the key to developing France. He suspected as well that a National Bank similar to that in Britannia would be needed, but he said nothing of that now.

“Sire, the merchant classes grumble, but they too are willing to pay out their fair share of the taxation. However, one Guillame de Castillion is demanding an audience with you, as a representative of the Merchant Guild.” Pontchartrin said.

His cousin, the Duke of Orleans spoke then. “Sire you cannot seriously consider entertaining such a request. The Merchant Guild is famous throughout the land for imposing the demands of the Paris mob onto other guilds throughout the land. To meet with him would be to legitimise him.”

Louis ignored his cousin and looked at Pontchartrin. “What is it that this man wishes to discuss?”

“He wishes to discuss what he claims is the unfair treatment of the Parisian merchants in terms of the trade agreement with Britannia.” Pontchartrin said.

“He speaks nonsense, Sire.” Orleans said. “The merchants are all benefitting from trade.”

“What is his specific complaint?” Louis asked.

“That the Parisian merchants are having to artificially price their wares in order to compete with the prices the British merchants set. He argues the problem is worse when they handle Scottish goods.” Pontchartrin said.

Louis considered that and then said. “Very well, tell the gentleman that we shall meet with him.” Pontchartrin nodded and made a note of that. Louis then turned his attention to the matter of war. “Now, we know that the situation in the Empire is most precarious our cousin the Emperor it seems has complained about the uncertainty of the electoral position in Bavaria. Where do we stand with that?”

This time it was Orleans who spoke. “Sire, I have looked into this situation in great detail and have found that King Maximilian is unwilling to take the electoral position away from his family. He wishes for his second son to inherit the position after him. However, Imperial law is such that it must go to the first son unless there is some involvement of the Pope and the Emperor and they reach agreement.”

“And let us guess, there is no agreement there?” Louis ventured.

“Indeed not, Sire. His Holiness wishes for Maximilian’s second son to inherit it, as the boy has displayed some depth of holiness, whilst the Emperor wishes for Maximilian’s brother to be the one granted the position.” Orleans said.

“No doubt so that he can marry his sister off to the man.” Louis quipped, which earned a laugh from his council.

There was a brief pause, and then Dubois, a new man who Louis had known for some time, and had recently invited onto the council spoke. “Sire, if I might?” Louis gestured for the man to continue. “Why not invite the chance to play intermediary? You could suggest that Maximilian’s oldest son remain heir to the Electorate but that his second son could serve as the governor there when they come of age? Right now, Maximilian’s brother is serving as his viceroy, so the boy could be raised by him. It would effectively help change things around.”

Louis thought on this for a moment and then said. “We think that you might just be onto something there, Dubois.” He paused and then added. “We shall task you with looking into this and seeing the legal aspects of it. We know the Emperor will look through the legal avenues to try and undermine this.”

Orleans spoke then. “Why not allow tensions to escalate, Sire? The Emperor wants Bavaria into his own domain, surely if we allow war between Spain and the Emperor we can benefit from it?”

“Not without the cost of more French lives, and we do not want that.” Louis said firmly. “Dubois, do as we have asked you.”

“Yes, Sire.” Dubois replied.

 

[VVD0D95]

Chapter 157: Landing Blows



February, 1713
​

The gout was getting worse. The doctors said that it would soon make its way up and across her body. Anne hated having to use that damned chair, but she had to in the end. It was the only way she could get around. It humiliated her though and made her feel like some sort of cripple. The sort she had once pitied before. Anne hated feeling pitied. Though the courtiers hid it, she knew they felt it, she could see it in their eyes. She cleared her throat.

“The Countess of Manchester and her husband are fighting again, Your Majesty.” Abigail said. Anne could not help closing her eyes briefly at the sound of the woman’s voice. Once that voice had brought her joy, but now it brought only pain. That voice had forced her son out of the palace and to Hampton. She missed her son.

“Why?” Anne asked. “What do they fight about?” She liked the Manchesters, they were some of the few decent people left to her.

“It seems the Earl walked in on the Countess sleeping with the Duchess of Lennox. He has grown outraged by that, and demanded to know why he was not invited.” Abigail tittered behind her hands.

Anne looked at the woman and felt nothing but contempt for her. Considering the things, they had done together, she did not understand the tittering. She looked around and saw why. Abigail was trying to play them. “We see. And what action has the Earl taken?”

“He has decided to engage in an act with the Duchess and his wife. He wishes to know the pleasure of two women at once. He has even invited the Duke to look on as this happens.” Abigail whispered, acting as though she could not believe such scandalous behaviour when Anne knew damned well that the woman had done worse things.

Anne sighed. “We see. Well we shall not get involved in the private business of the Earl and his wife.”

“But madam, surely you must?!” Abigail asked.

“Must?” Anne asked, looking right at the woman. “Mrs Masham, you forget yourself. We are the Queen; we must not do anything we do not wish to do. If the Earl of Manchester wishes to bed another man’s wife and that man is happy with it, who are we to get involved?”

“You are the moral centre of the realm, Madame!” Abigail protested. “Surely if you do not intervene that will only invite more moral decay?!”

Anne looked at the woman and replied as calmly as she could. “We are not God almighty that we shall dictate to others just what they can and cannot do. So long as no party is hurt by this, let them engage in whatever foolishness they want.”

“But Madame!” Abigail protested.

Anne ignored the woman and turned to the Duchess of Somerset. “Elizabeth, you met with our son and daughter by marriage. Tell us how they are doing?”

Before Elizabeth could answer, Abigail interjected. “Majesty, surely you do not wish to hear about a traitor and his whore of a wife?!”

Anne looked at the woman and heard some of her other ladies’ gasp. “We shall ignore that slight, for now.” She turned to look at Elizabeth and asked. “Elizabeth, please continue.”

“They are well, Your Majesty. Your son, His Royal Highness asks after your wellbeing and says he is well. Furthermore, Her Royal Highness wished for me to tell Your Majesty that she appreciated the gifts you left for the children.” Elizabeth said.

“Good, we are glad.” Anne said. She wanted to ask whether her son had said anything about a return to court, but she knew her son. He was much too like her for him to ever consider giving up something without a fight. She sighed and then said. “We do miss them. The children’s voices brought much life to the hallways of court.” Court was now just filled with stuffy men and women who she hated. Her daughter Sophie did not always venture to spend time with her and George was now spending more time in Plymouth with the Navy.

“Summon them back then.” Abigail demanded. “They should never have been allowed to leave.”

Anne looked at the woman and said. “Remember, Abigail, you are not one to command us. We are there to command you.”

“Then act as if you are the Queen, not some wilting wallflower. Command your son and his whore of a wife to return.” Abigail snarled.

Anne lost her patience then. She slapped Abigail and said. “We will not be told what to do by some dockside whore’s whelp. You are nothing, but what we wish you to be. And you shall not insult your future King and Queen like that.”

“They are not made for the throne. Better to place your other son William on the throne.” Abigail retorted.

Anne slapped her again and screamed. “Out. Get out. And never return.” She watched the woman curtsey and then straighten and leave, and she slumped down in her chair. She looked at Elizabeth. “Tell the guards to keep an eye on her. And find something to use.”

“Yes Madame.” Elizabeth said, moving to the doors. Anne had learned from her time with Sarah, she would not be blackmailed again.