One of the most illustrious men of that house, a captain who had acquired much experience and much fame in the Netherlands, had, in the crisis of peril, been summoned back to England by Elizabeth, and rode with her through the endless ranks of shouting pikemen.

She asked him what he thought of the army.

"It is," he said, "a brave army." There was something in his tone or manner which showed that he meant more than his words expressed.

The Queen insisted on his speaking out.

"Madam," he said, "Your Grace's army is brave indeed.