Above all, the intolerable tergiversations and suspicions of those most interested, the princes in possession, and their bickerings among themselves, hampered his movements.
Treason and malice in his cabinet and household, jealousy and fear abroad, were working upon and undermining him like a slow fever.

His position was most pathetic, but his purpose was fixed.
James of England, who admired, envied, and hated Henry, was wont to moralize on his character and his general unpopularity, while engaged in negotiations with him.

He complained that in the whole affair of the truce he had sought only his particular advantage.

"This is not to be wondered at in one of his nature," said the King, "who only careth to provide for the felicities of his present life, without any respect for his life to come.

Indeed, the consideration of his own age and the youth of his children, the doubt of their legitimation, the strength of competitioners, and the universal hatred borne unto him, makes him seek all means of security for preventing of all dangers." There were changes from day to day; hot and cold fits necessarily resulting from the situation.