As for the turbulent and ungrateful islanders, who detested him because he would not let them tear each other in pieces, Mary must try what she could do with them.

She was born on their soil.
She spoke their language.

She did not dislike some parts of their Liturgy, which they fancied to be essential, and which to him seemed at best harmless.

If she had little knowledge of politics and war, she had what might be more useful, feminine grace and tact, a sweet temper, a smile and a kind word for every body.

She might be able to compose the disputes which distracted the State and the Church.