However that may be, with the exception of the marriage, the King of England has generally fulfilled his obligations towards the Prince, and has behaved as a trusty friend.

An alliance with the English can be trusted most of all."[162] [Footnote 160: _L.

and P._, ii., 3163.] [Footnote 161: _Ven.

Cal._, ii., 406.] [Footnote 162: _Sp.

Cal._, ii., 246.] But the meekest and saintliest monarch could scarce pass unscathed through the baptism of fraud practised on Henry; and Henry was at no time saintly or meek.