Who when he dies, his tomb may be a bush,
Where harmless robin dwells with gentle thrush."

"Your majesty's exiled servant

"ROBERT ESSEX."

* * * * *

It seems also to have been at this juncture that on some public occasion
he bore a plain mourning shield, with the words, "_Par nulla figura
dolori_."

A very sensible and friendly letter addressed to Harrington by his
relation Robert Markham may serve to throw additional light on the
situation and sentiments of Essex, and on the state of court parties.

* * * * *

_Mr. Robert Markham to John Harrington Esquire._

"Notwithstanding the perilous state of our times, I shall not fail to
give you such intelligence and advices of our matters here as may tend
to your use and benefit. We have gotten good account of some matters,
and as I shall find some safe conduct for bearing them to you, it may
from time to time happen that I send tidings of our courtly concerns.

"Since your departure from hence, you have been spoken of, and with no
ill will, both by the nobles and the queen herself. Your book is almost
forgiven, and I may say forgotten; but not for its lack of wit or
satire. Those whom you feared most are now bosoming themselves in the
queen's grace; and though her highness signified displeasure in outward
sort, yet did she like the marrow of your book. Your great enemy, sir
James, did once mention the star-chamber, but your good esteem in better
minds outdid his endeavours, and all is silent again. The queen is
minded to take you to her favor, but she sweareth that she believes you
will make epigrams and write _misacmos_ again on her and all the court.
She hath been heard to say, 'that merry poet her godson, must not come
to Greenwich till he hath grown sober and leaveth the ladies' sports and
frolics.' She did conceive much disquiet on being told you had aimed a
shaft at Leicester; I wish you knew the author of that ill deed; I would
not be in his best jerkin for a thousand marks. You yet stand well in
her highness' love, and I hear you are to go to Ireland with the
lieutenant Essex; if so, mark my counsel in this matter. I doubt not
your valor nor your labor, but that d----e uncovered honesty will mar
your fortunes. Observe the man who commandeth, and yet is commanded
himself; he goeth not forth to serve the queen's realm, but to humor his
own revenge. Be heedful of your bearings, speak not your