She now stood in the forefront of European affairs, a state whose alliance was desired alike by French king and Spanish king, and which dealt on equal terms with Pope or Emperor.

In European cabinets Wolsey was regarded as hardly less a power to be conciliated than his royal master.

Both Charles and Francis sought his friendship; and in the years which followed his official emoluments were swelled by pensions from both princes.

At home the king loaded him with new proofs of favour.

The revenues of two sees whose tenants were foreigners fell into his hands; he held the bishoprick of Winchester and the abbacy of St.Albans.He spent this vast wealth with princely ostentation.