By 1574 trade had been restored between England and
Spain and normal diplomatic relations reinstituted. But
the political relationship between the two countries was
not the same in 1574 as it had been at Elizabeth's accession.
In fifteen years a transition in English foreign
policy had occurred. English rather than Spanish interests
were dominant in the aims and objectives of Elizabeth's
policies. By 1574 she was firmly established in England
and clearly capable of handling foreign affairs In regard
to Spain, she fully understood the implications of Philip's
hesitancy to take any action against her. By overestimating
the potential threat from France, Philip failed to
recognize the change in Elizabeth and her foreign policy.
Much to his later regret, all the Spanish ambassadors to
England, with the exception of de Silva, sent so much false
information to him that it was almost impossible to comprehend
the political atmosphere in England. One area of Anglo-
Spanish relations that was continually exaggerated were
the affairs of the English Catholics. The resident ambassadors
were deeply involved in Catholic intrigues and gave falsified reports of discontent towards Elizabeth. (See document for rest of conclusion.)
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