Sir Francis Walsingham

as portrayed by James M. "Doc" Amor

In the Year of Our Lord 1530, I was born to James Walsingham and his wife Joyce Denny. Service to the crown dates back to my uncle, Sir Edmund Walsingham, Lt. of the Tower during the reign of our King Henry VIII. I attended King’s College at Cambridge til 1550 when I traveled abroad. I returned to England permanently upon Queen Elizabeth’s accession. I was elected to the 1st Parliament as a representative of Banbury in 1559 and again for the 2nd Parliament of 1563. I have been married twice. My first wife, Anne, died in 1564 after two years of marriage. I married my second wife, Ursula, in 1566. I have one daughter, Frances, who fancies the son of Sir Henry Sydney, Philip.

I was introduced at court by Sir William Cecil and my brother in law from my first marriage, Sir Walter Mildmay. I have forged a strong friendship with Sir William and have learned much from his experience in statesmanship. My extensive foreign travels have allowed me to cultivate the confidence of individuals in many of the courts of Europe. This has allowed me to pass along information of a political and strategic nature to Her Majesty and the Privy Council. Presently, I hear rumor that I am to be considered for the post of Ambassador to France. This is an office I do not desire as it will take me once again from England and mayhaps moreso because of my distrust and dislike of the French. I regret the loss of Calais to the French during the unfortunate reign of Queen Mary. However, I feel an alliance with the French to be a necessity for the protection of our nation from a Spanish and Papist threat.

Much has been made of my religious fervor. It is true that my devotion to a pure Protestant cause has been at times a point of contention with Her Majesty who views my position as too extreme. However, she does forgive me this eccentricity for she does value my ability to provide her with intelligence from without and within England.

To my friends, I am known to be kind and generous. The frivolity of music and dance are not to my liking but I do enjoy seeing the pleasure it can bring to Her Majesty as a reprieve from the weight of Her Crown. You may find me in the company of the common man, as opposed to keeping the company of many of the nobles of the court. I find that often the common man is one I may rely on for he lacks aspirations for higher office. Many of the nobility have too high an opinion of their value to Her Majesty. I employ many a commoner in my collection of intelligence. They work efficiently without being noticed. And perhaps more to the point they are inexpensive and easily replaced.

If you should be unfortunate to cross me or the better interests of England and the Crown, you will find me to be a implacable foe. I am loyal to England first, and the Crown second, yet all within the guidance of God above. Those who threaten the state or crown will be dealt with harshly and ruthlessly. Unfortunate accidents occur to traitors without need for trial or Royal intervention. It would be best if you remembered this in the future. I know where you live, I know what you have done and I know where to find you.

Feedback

This site best viewed at 1024 x 768.