It was not absolutely in abeyance, but the condition of the Queen's mind coloured every state-affair with its tragic hues.

Elizabeth, harassed, anxious, dreaming dreams, and enacting a horrible masquerade, was in the worst possible temper to be approached by the envoys.

She was furious with the Netherlanders for having maltreated her favourite.

She was still more furious because their war was costing so much money.

Her disposition became so uncertain, her temper so ungovernable, as to drive her counsellors to their wit's ends.