Who, though there
were danger in repealing our grants, yet what danger would I not
rather incur for your good than I would suffer them still to
continue? I know the title of a king is a glorious title, but
assure yourself that the shining glory of princely authority hath
not so dazzled the eyes of our understanding but that we well know
and remember that we also are to yield an account of our actions
before the great Judge. To be a king and wear a crown is a thing
more glorious to them that see it than it is pleasant to them that
bear it. For myself, I was never so much enticed with the glorious
name of a king or royal authority of a queen as delighted that God
hath made me His instrument to maintain His truth and glory, and
to defend this kingdom from peril, dishonor, tyranny, and
oppression. There will never queen sit in my seat with more zeal
to my country, care to my subjects, and that will sooner with
willingness venture her life for your good and safety, than
myself. For it is not my desire to live or reign longer than my
life and reign shall be for your good. And though you have had and
may have many princes more mighty and wise sitting in this seat,
yet you never had or shall have any that will be more careful and
loving."
About 1584, Richard Hakluyt, a Bristol clergyman, wrote "A
Particular Discourse concerning Western Discoveries". This was to
become the classic statement of the case for English colonization.
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