Spring 1534 Summary

The Howard family gathering is attended by Queen Anne, who was not invited. Howard asks her about her pregnancy, and warns her how important it is that this child be a boy, saying there are many who more are loyal to young Princess Mary than to Anne's daughter, Princess Elizabeth.

Howard wants to place his niece, Madge Shelton, before the king, since the king will take a lover during Anne's last month of pregnancy. Anne announces that she will not tolerate it, but Howard assures her that it is better to have someone from the family do this, and Madge will be married off as soon as Anne's baby is born. Since she is Madge's roommate, Mary is directed to teach Madge how to behave toward the king. As an afterthought, the men agree that Mary should be married before the child is...