Chapter 9, A Merciful Princess; Chapter 10, The Marriage of Princes Summary and Analysis

In Chapter 9, Mary I will not allow Jane's execution it on the grounds that Jane was a pawn. Her council warns her this kindness will be perceived at weakness, but she cannot go against her conscience. Stephen Gardiner is appointed Lord Chancellor and Keeper of the Great Seal, and becomes one of the Queen's most trusted advisors. He is a Catholic and works without rest for England his entire life, and though he is to gain a reputation as a religiously intolerant bully, he actually favors a more moderate approach to the problem of religion.

Mary is ill-equipped for the political savvy and deep understanding required of a queen. The English have not had a female sovereign since the twelfth century. She rules according to...