Stuart dynasty

196 THE STUART DYNASTY.
the memory of those wiio were present at Craig-
millar on that unhappy occasion.
The verdict of acquittal which was registered in
Mary's favour by the Commissioners at Westminster,
who were unable to endorse Murray's aud Morton's
view of the Casket Letters, was practically useless
to the unfortunate captive. Faithful as we believe
her, in the first instance, to have been to Elizabeth's
friendship, and guiltless of conspiring with England's
foes, the moment was soon to arrive when despair of
ever gaining her liberty led Mary Stuart to change
her line of conduct.
Self-preservation stands high amongst the arts
which all mankind find it necessary to cultivate,
and when the prison-door seemed likely to open
only to disclose the tomb, Mary Stuart naturally
seized on every opportunity which might lead to her
becoming once more a free woman, even though in
so doing she were to appear before the world as head
of the Catholic party in Grieat Britain.
The difficulties and dangers of the dethroned Queen
were enhanced by several events which occurred
during her captivity. (1) The Papal Bull launched
by Pius V. against Queen Elizabeth on February 25,
1569,* wherein were reiterated the thunders and
anathemas with which Paul IV. had greeted the
English Queen's accession in 1558. (2) The rising of
the. Earls of Northumberland and Westmoreland in
the north of England, and the succeeding rebellion
of Leonard Dacre which ushered in the year 1570.
* ' Hatfield Calendar,' part i. p. 400.
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