For i assure you (what credit my assurance may have with you, i cannot tell, but what credit it shall deserve to have, the sequel shall declare) i will never in that matter conclude any thing that shall be prejudicial to the realm. for the weal, good and safety whereof, i will never shun to spend my life. which excerpt from queen elizabeth’s address to the troops at tilbury shares the common purpose of persuading her audience that she is willing to do what is best for england? we have been persuaded by some that are careful of our safety to take heed how we commit our selves to armed multitudes, for fear of treachery. i am come amongst you, as you see, at this time, not for my recreation and disport, but being resolved in the midst and heat of the battle, to live or die among you all. i know i have the body but of a weak and feeble woman; but i have the heart and stomach of a king, and of a king of england too. by your obedience to my genera