This is the sequel to James VI of Scotland, which recounted the story of James's birth as the son of Mary, Queen of Scots, his childhood and youth, and his rule as a successful King of Scots. This book deals with James's life as King of England and first sovereign of Great Britain, from 1603 to 1625, the author shows that recent historians' re-evaluation of James's abilities is fully justified. Here is a portrait and character study of the King against the background of events. James I emerges as a man of high ability and intelligence, as a King with strong religious and political views, and above all as a dedicated advocate of European peace. His faults and failings, however, are not concealed, and Bingham gives vivid detailed accounts of his relations with wife, Anne of Denmark, and with his male favourites, Somerset and Buckingham, quoting many of the King's intimate and sel-revealing letters...