We must all lie together, for we shall be stirred very shortly with heave ho! I fear ere long her Majesty will be sorry she hath believed some so much as she hath done." Howard had got to sea, and was cruising all the stormy month of March in the Channel with his little unprepared squadron; expecting at any moment--such was the profound darkness which, enveloped the world at that day--that the sails of the Armada might appear in the offing.

He made a visit to the Dutch coast, and was delighted with the enthusiasm with which he was received.

Five thousand people a day came on board his ships, full of congratulation and delight; and he informed the Queen that she was not more assured of the Isle of Sheppey than of Walcheren.
Nevertheless time wore on, and both the army and navy of England were quite unprepared, and the Queen was more reluctant than ever to incur the expense necessary to the defence of her kingdom.

At least one of those galleys, which, as Howard bitterly complained, seemed destined to defend Chatham Church, was importunately demanded; but it was already Easter-Day (17th April), and she was demanded in vain.

"Lord! when should she serve," said the Admiral, "if not at such a time as this?
Either she is fit now to serve, or fit for the fire.