Note 13 — Chapter I · INTRODUCTORY 1552-1553

In the private letter which the Emperor wrote to his son on the subject he says: “if the choice falls upon a foreigner, I think the English would rather have me than any one else, as they have always been well disposed towards me. But I can assure you that even greater dominions” (i.e., than England) “would not seduce me nor divert me from the very different intention which I hold. If, therefore, they should send and propose this marriage to me, I have thought that it would be better to suggest you, and the matter could then be carried through successfully. The benefits and advantages which would accrue are so great and notorious that they need not be particularised. I only place it before you for your consideration. Let me know at once what you think of it, so that we may act accordingly; but keep it strictly secret.”—MS. Simancas. Printed in the Retiro, estancia y muerte del Emperador Carlos V.