An Italian expert stated that an army of 10,000 to 12,000 foot and 2,000 horse would be sufficient to conquer her.

Even to the last it was thought that an invader would be welcomed by a large part of the population, for English refugees never wearied of picturing the hatred of the people for their queen.
But the decision was long postponed for two reasons.

First, Spain was fully employed in subduing the Netherlands.

Secondly, the Catholic powers hoped for the accession of Mary.

But after the assassination of Orange in 1584, and after the execution of the Queen {341} of Scots, these reasons for delay no longer existed.