The terrible Governor, who could almost crush the heart out of a nation of three millions, was unable to curb this single termagant.
Philip had expressly forbidden her to marry again, but Alva informed him that she was surrounded by suitors.

Philip had insisted that she should go into a convent, but Alva, who, with great difficulty, had established her quietly in Ghent, assured his master that she would break loose again at the bare suggestion of a convent.

Philip wished her to go to Spain, sending her word that Don John was mortified by the life his mother was leading, but she informed the Governor that she would be cut to pieces before she would go to Spain.

She had no objection to see her son, but she knew too well how women were treated in that country.

The Duke complained most pathetically to his Majesty of the life they all led with the ex-mistress of the Emperor.