The old factious nobility had for the most part been slain in the War of the Roses, and the peaceful generations which followed had allowed of the growth of a powerful upper and middle class, which, originally fostered by the Crown as a counterpoise to the decayed feudal nobility, was now aspiring to a large share in the ruling of the people.
"Henrietta Maria"
Henrietta Haynes
One of the first questions which came up for settlement on the conclusion of peace between England and France in 1629 was that of the Queen's household, and the ambassador sent to London to arrange this matter turned out to be one of those fascinating but factious persons whom ill-fortune threw so often in Henrietta's path.
"Henrietta Maria"
Henrietta Haynes
To make things worse he found already in England another Frenchman more fascinating and more factious than himself, with whom he formed a close friendship.
"Henrietta Maria"
Henrietta Haynes