Some of the unpopularity Margaret of Anjou had early won for herself at the English court was due to her confidence in and affection for Somerset, and his son might well be ardent in her cause.
Margaret herself was still sunk in unwonted depression, but the representations of the fiery young duke did much to give her heart.
With him came Jasper Tudor, the king's half brother, and they drew glowing pictures of the loyalty of the western counties; and of Wales, where a large band of troops was mustering for her support; and represented that if she could but effect a junction with them, the whole country would soon be hers, and she would be able to dictate terms to the enemy at the gates of London.
Margaret's elastic temper rose with the encouragement thus received, and Edward's heart beat high with hope.

The party began their westward march, and through the bright days of April and May they rode through the smiling land, receiving welcome and adulation from all, and reinforcements to their little band from every town through which they passed.

Small wonder was it that they learned to feel confident of ultimate success.

The young prince, with Paul at his side, would ride through the ranks of his followers day by day, speaking bright, brave words to all he passed, and winning the hearts of his troops as perhaps only the young and frank-hearted and unspoiled can do.

To him it seemed almost more like a triumphal progress than a recruiting march.
But Margaret's brow was often dark with anxiety.