I thought this book was actually written by the Lady Frances as a member of the Queen's ladies but apparently it was written by a descendant named Lady Frances Erskine, daughter of the 11 Earl Mar in the 1700's. The memoirs are a compilation of notes and diaries of one of her female ancestors who was a lady in waiting to the young princess. It is a wonderful book of intimate details about the life, loves and education of this young princess. She was the eldest daughter of James I of England (VI of Scotland) and his stauesque Danish queen, Anne. We see her acts of devotion to her brothers and parents. She was educated after arriving in England by Sir John Harington. He was created Baron Harington in July 1603 at the coronation of James I, the first Baron Harington of Exton, Rutland. He was made guardian of James' daughter, Elizabeth. The high cost of entertaining the Princess ruined him. As partial recompense Harington was granted a licence to mint the first copper farthings by the King. Princess Elizabeth married the Elector Palatine, Frederick V to become the "Winter Queen". Lord Harington accompanied her to Bohemia, but died on his way back in 1613. After his death, the Exton estate was sold to pay his creditors, being purchased by Sir Baptist Hicks. He was a serious, kindly and strictly religious man who viewed his appointment as her teacher and mentor, physical, spiritual and intellectual as sacred.
Lots of intimate details about Lady Arbella Stuart, cousin germain to James I,her relationship with the family and also
her thoughts on her place in the history books regarding the succession.
I recommend to the lover of Stuart history with all it foibles and fascination.
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