Friday, August 8, 2014

The Heart of a King -Postcard Friendship Friday #232


I found this wonderful postcard online.  I usually post the back, but I couldn't find one with this postcard.  It was very hard to procure something to fit today's post, which commemorates a Queen with the heart of a King.

In England, the first week of August,in  the year 1588, there fell a great fear across the land.  It was believed the dreaded Spanish Armada would enter via the River Thames to attack and ravage the English people, their lands, freedom and beliefs.  Both sides of the Thames River were quickly fortified against the possible attack, especially at the towns of Tilbury and Gravesend. 

After perusing her troops in London, Queen Elizabeth I, made the journey to Tilbury where the soldiers were encamped.  She wanted to encourage the soldiers herself. 

Though the postcard does not show it, this brave woman rode into the camp on a war charger, wearing armor and holding a marshal's truncheon in her hand.  (A truncheon is a short thick club or cudgel.) I can't even begin to imagine the stir that spread across the camp, as she rode amongst her men "thus garbed."

Her inspiring speech has survived the ages.  "I have come amongst you not for my recreation and sport, but being resolved in the heat of the battle to live or die amongst you all--to lay down for my God, for my kingdom and for my people, my honor and my blood, even in the dust.  I know that I have but the body of a weak and feeble woman, but I have the heart of a king!"  (Book of Days, 1864, W. & R. Chambers)


The first Queen Elizabeth has always fascinated me.  I admire this amazing woman who became ruler over England at a time when women did not have a great many rights.  England thrived under her rule.  She lived until she was in her early 90's.

Have a lovely day, and Happy Postcard Friendship Friday!

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4 comments:

Sheila @ A Postcard a Day said...

I didn't know it was today that Queen Elizabeth I made that speech! A little history learnt today. :)

VioletSky said...

I didn't know that either, though it sounds vaguely familiar.

violet s said...

and I thought you'd have a postcard for World Cat Day. You gave some interesting history at least!!

Heather said...

that must have been quite the rousing speech, even today it would hold sway.