ACEO, 2.5 x 3.5 inches, watercolor and gouache, August 2007 Robert Devereux was the son of Walter Devereux and Lettice Knollys. He was born in 1566 and it was rumoured his real father was Robert Dudley. When he was nine Walter died and he became Earl Of Essex. Robert Dudley married Lettice and became his step-father. By 1587 he had become a favourite of Elizabeth, who enjoyed his eloquence and wit. She bestowed favours on him and when Dudley died he took over as Master Of The Horse. However, there were problems - hotheaded and arrogant, he would continually disobey Elizabeth's and this would eventually lead to his downfall. He joined Drakes Armada against her instructions and in 1587 in the Azores chased treasure ships rather then the Spanish navy. He did have successes, capturing Cadiz and leading troops assisting Henry V of France. In 1599 he was given the post of Lord Lieutenant of Ireland and was expected to quickly defeat the rebellion led by the Earl of Tyrone. He didn't, and after the rebels won several victories he signed a truce with the Earl. This was considered a humiliating out come for Elizabeth and England. Although the Queen had forbidden his return he did so and appeared in Elizabeth's bedchambers before she was properly dressed, an outrageous display of arrogance. He was interrogated and put under house arrest accused of dereliction of duty and desertion of his post. He was later tried and found guilty and deprived of public office. This enraged him and he foolishly led a group of nobles and tried to force a meeting with the Queen. He did not get the support he expected and surrendered. In February 1601 he was put on trial for treason, found guilty and was beheaded. It took three blows to remove his head.