lady Willoughby

Maria de Salinas, lady Willoughby

The daughter of a high rank officials in the court of Isabella of Castile, Maria had initially served Catherine of Aragon’s mother as a girl, before joining her entourage to depart for England and never to return.

She was not even yet in her teens, as she was 5 years younger than Catherine.

Maria was with Catherine during her first marriage with Arthur and then during the penury years after. She was there when she married Henry, witnessed her ascension to throne. After Catherine gave birth to her only surviving daughter, Maria married herself a English gentleman and retired to the country.

By 1531 Maria heard about her friend's banishment from court and incarceration in the countryside. She began repeatedly petitioning the king to visit Catherine, but all have been denied. In spite of this, one of the 16th century's most devoted female friendships would not be repressed.

On December 30th 1534, Maria wrote to Thomas Cromwell asking for help in this matter but she set up for her journey as soon as she dispatched the letter. Before writing it on December 30th and arriving at Kimbolton around 6 pm the following day, she covered the 65 miles between her and her friend. It is no clear if Maria stayed with Catherine but most probably she sure have wished to. Some unverified accounts claimed the Princess died in her friend's arms. Perhaps Maria remained with Catherine bringing her comfort in her final hours.

Maria survived her friend by three years . She had integrated into the English society but remained a Spaniard at heart , steadfastly loyal to her roots and her mistress, demonstrating her devotion at the end.

Source ~ Amy License " the 16th century in 100 women "

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