Interpretations B and C both focus on the threat which Mary Queen of Scots posed to Elizabeth.
How far do they differ and what might explain any differences?
Interpretation B – From the website www.newadvent.org, which describes itself as a Catholic Encyclopaedia.
The frequent plots that Protestant historians so often speak about are empty rumours which will not stand historical investigation.
In 1586, Anthony Babington wrote to Mary to inquire whether she would reward loyal supporters who set her free and killed Elizabeth. It is likely that Babington was persuaded to ask this question by Elizabeth’s spies, although proof of this has not yet been found. Mary answered this letter, promising to reward those who aided her escape, but said nothing about the assassination of Elizabeth.
At her trial, Mary protested that she had never plotted to hurt Elizabeth, which was perfectly true. During the whole process of her trial and execution, Mary acted with magnificent courage worthy of her noble character and queenly rank. There can be no question that she died as a martyr.
R Hutchinson, 'Elizabeth's Spy Master: Francis Walsingham and the secret war that saved England', pp116-133, W&N (Orion Books), 2007. Item removed due to third party copyright restrictions.