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proposed to proceed by public information against Essex. But for this, Bacon urged, it was far too late; at which the Queen was offended. At the beginning of the next term the subject was again discussed between them, Bacon as before dissuading any public process. The Queen finally resolved that the matter should be heard before a commission at York House. Her counsel had their parts assigned to them. At first it was doubtful whether Bacon, in consideration of his relations with Essex, and the way in which he had consistently pleaded his cause, would be allowed any share in the proceedings. He begged to be excused, but held himself ready to obey the Queen’s commands, thinking that by so far yielding to her he might be in a better position to serve Essex. Up to this time it must be remembered he knew nothing of the Earl’s treasonous designs, and regarded his quarrel with the Queen as a storm which would soon blow over. In the distribution to the counsel of their several parts, Bacon was allotted one which seemed insignificant, and was given him as least calculated to do harm to Essex. The Privy Council with their assessors met at York House on the 5th of June. Essex was acquitted of disloyalty, but censured for contempt and disobedience in neglecting his instructions and deserting his command. Bacon, by the Queen’s order, drew up a narrative of what had passed, in which he touched upon Essex’s faults with so tender a hand, that Elizabeth was moved and said, ‘she perceived old love would not easily be forgotten.’ Bacon with great adroitness took advantage of the expression. ‘Whereunto I answered suddenly, that I hoped she meant that by herself.’ In a short time Essex was released from the slight restraint which had been placed upon him, but forbidden to come to the Court. His fate was again in his own hands.

So far it was proved that Bacon’s policy was the true one, and that by keeping on good terms with the Queen he could better serve Essex than by placing himself in opposition to her. His principles however remained the same as before. ‘For my Lord of Essex,’ he writes to Lord Henry Howard,