James is aware of the queen's affections for Essex

and of the rumors of his birth, and he is justly concerned.

You will write to James.

You will tell him that l am gravely ill, but that all is in hand.

[PANTlNG]

And then tell him,

Essex will not return from lreland alive.

God does indeed require our help in this matter.

This is how kings are made, my son.

So it was with Elizabeth, so it shall ever be.

James will expect you to do the same for him and he will reward you for it.

[GRUNTS]

But we must

do one thing more.

Like Essex,

Edward must be removed.

Edward? You must bribe someone.

His fencing master, perhaps.

Promise him a fortune if he kills him.

l am with child.