CHAPTER XV

The Infanta to be Queen of England--Approaches of the Scottish Catholic lords to Philip--Execution of Mary Stuart--Intrigues for the English succession--Drake’s expedition to Cadiz--The peace negotiations with Farnese--Preparations for the Armada--Sailing of the Armada from Lisbon--Its return to Vigo--Medina Sidonia advises its abandonment--Its strength--Engagements with the English--Panic at Calais--Final defeat--Causes of the disaster--Philip’s reception of the news.....202