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That it was not only a direct breach of late treaties with Spain, but also of our old leagues with the House of Burgundy; and that the consequences would be much more fatal than the benefits reaped from it would be advantageous. However, on the 4th of April, 1581, Queen Elizabeth going to Deptford, went on board Capt. Drake’s ship, where she dined, and afterwards conferred on him the honour of Knighthood, declaring her absolute approbation of all that he had done, to the confusion of his enemies, and joy of his friends. Her Majesty also gave directions for the preservation of his ship, that she might remain a monument of his own and his country’s glory. This famous ship, which was contemplated for many years at Deptford, at length falling into decay, was broken up, and a chair made of some of her planks, was presented to the University of Oxford: Upon which the celebrated Abraham Cowley wrote the following verses.
To this great ship, which round the world has run,
And match'd in race the chariot of the sun;
This Pythagorean ship, (for she may claim,
Without presumption, so deserv'd a name,
By knowledge once and transformation now)
In this new shape this sacred port allow.
Drake and his Ship could not have wish'd from fate,
An happier station, or more bless'd estate:
For, lo! a seat of endless rest is given
To her in Oxford, and to him in Heaven.
In the year 1585, Sir Francis Drake, who was now made Admiral, was sent on an expedi-
