Elizabeth1998

Cecil:
Your Majesty has inherited a most parlous and degenerate state. It's threatened from abroad by France and Spain and is weaker in men, monies and riches than I have ever known it.

Elizabeth:
What are you saying?

Cecil:
Madam, your treasury is empty. The Navy is run-down, there is no standing army, and no munitions. There is not a fortress that could withstand a single shot.

Elizabeth:
I have no desire for war, sir.

Cecil:
But that is not the end of it. Here at home there are those who wish Your Majesty ill. Mary of Scots has already laid claim to your throne, and Norfolk... Norfolk covets it relentlessly. Madam, until you marry and produce an heir, you will find no security.

...

Elizabeth:
I do not see why a woman need marry at all.