390111959

My father was William Brandon, Henry VII's standard bearer at Bosworth Field in 1485 & was reportedly killed by Richard III himself. My mother died in childbirth and, upon my grandfather's death in 1491, I went to the royal court. This was the custom of the time but since I was not heir to an important title or great wealth, my case was decided more on sentiment. I had a claim on Henry Tudor's affections since my father had died in his service. That demonstration of loyalty at Bosworth meant a great deal to the first Tudor king. Since I was just two years older than Henry's first son, Prince Arthur, it is probable that we were playmates. Though seven years older than King Henry VIII, I shared my most prominent characteristics - natural athleticism, robust physical health (unlike the delicate Arthur), and a devotion to all sports (wrestling, hunting, tilting and jousting, etc.) During these adolescent years, we laid the foundation for a lifelong friendship. I was perhaps the only person in England who had successfully retained Henry VIII's affection...