Sir Henry Sidney, Knight of the Garter

as portrayed by Michael Sanders

My illustrious ancestors were always faithful whenever called on by his/her Majesty. Whether on the battlefield such as Agincourt and Flodden Field, or on some mission abroad, they were always willing to serve. Which is reflected in our family motto: Quo Fata Vocant, roughly meaning, "Whither the Fates Call".

I, Sir Henry Sidney, began my public service when my father, Sir William Sidney, brought me to court while he tutored Edward, Prince of Wales. The Prince and I soon became close friends and constant companions. After Edward succeeded to the throne, I became one of the four principal men of his Privy Chamber and before I was one and twenty, I had been knighted.

While at court, I met my dear wife, Lady Mary Dudley, eldest daughter of the Duke of Northumberland and sister to Sir Robert Dudley. My fair Mary is a sweet woman, with a kind heart, good disposition, and unfailing loyalty, all the qualities one looks for in a wife and mother. One of my darkest days came when my dear sweet master Edward VI died in my arms at such an early age. Not only had I lost a sweet and gentle master and friend but also it set into motion a chain of events that almost sent me to the block. It was only by the grace of God, and the befriending by King-Consort Philip, and the mercy of Queen Mary, after I explained to her that I was privy not to the plot to usurp her rightful place on the throne, with my sister-in-law Lady Jane Gray, that I was able to escape the block.

After this most unfortunate episode, Queen Mary allowed me to accompany as vice treasurer, Lord Sussex, my brother-in-law, to Ireland, who was recently appointed Lord Deputy. This would be my first of many trips to this most unpleasant place. I was not there long when we got word that Queen Mary had died and her sister Elizabeth was Queen. Queen Elizabeth called me back and made me Lord President of Wales and Royal Cup Bearer to her Majesty.

Her Majesty dispatched me on diplomatic when the need arose. I was sent to France to secretly strengthen the position of the Huguenots, for her Majesty knew I was a strong defender of the Protestant faith. I was sent to Scotland to inform Mary of Scotland that her Majesty was unable to meet her as planned.

For my undying loyalty and service, I was made a Knight of the Garter in 1564. About this same time, things in Ireland were getting worse. Our most glorious Queen again dispatched me. This time I was made Lord Deputy in my own right. I accepted with some misgivings, remembering the "warm welcome" I received the last time I was in Ireland. After a long and difficult campaign, I was able to bring universal peace and submission to Ireland. However, it took a told on my health. I was permitted to return to England. I still suffer to this day with pain from stones of the kidneys.

I returned to Penshurst, where I occupied myself in building a new suite of rooms, enjoying the company of my wife and children. While home this time I continued my patronage of music, purchasing two virginals and two lutes. I feel music frees the soul from the weights one has to face daily.

While in Ireland I found that music helped get through the turmoil of that dreadful place. Unfortunately, I was again asked to resume my Governorship of Ireland. It was with great hesitation I accepted, remembering that for some reason, I know not what, finances seldom if ever reached me. I personally had to finance my last two endeavors in Ireland. I repeatedly asked the Queen for funds, but none came. The messengers I sent must of never reached London, for if they had, I know her Grace would have sent the funds.

For nearly 3 years after my return to Ireland in 1569, I was engaged in further fighting, triumphantly bringing this matter to issue. Afterward, I was allowed to again return home to Penshurst. I am presently on my way home, but decided to join the Queen on Progress.

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