The work that I went to in order to own a copy of this book - pre-Internet! That's a story all its own.

I was in high school. Actually, I was about the same age as Edward VI when he died. I was fascinated with the Tudors and with this Tudor in particular. He was my age. I was in love. (Not that he was much of a romantic figure, fyi.)

I looked it up in Books in Print at the library. Supposedly, in print. Went to the local bookstore (remember those?) and wanted them to order it for me. No luck. It was out of print. How could that be? It was in Books in Print! I fear I gave the lady bookseller some grief about this.

Then, a day or two later, I wandered back into the bookstore (yes, a real local bookstore). The lady bookseller didn't see me. She then proceeded to get into a discussion with her co-worker about some teenager wanting this book the other day and insisting it was in print and it wasn't in print and needless to say, she didn't paint a flattering picture of me.

I should have jumped up from behind the stacks and said "Boo!" But I didn't. Did I give her much of my business anymore? Probably not. (So there gossip monger!)

I went through the yellow pages and called booksellers in Denver specializing in antique and out of print books. Finally, someone found me a copy and I paid dearly for this. (I think $15.00 plus shipping but that's a lot for back in the day when you don't have a job.)

At that point, I had to love the book. I couldn't even be objective about it. I came down with bronchitis and a bad cold and I stayed up all night hacking and coughing and reading about this poor king with consumption and I was right there with him.

I still have this book. (I'd better!) I think I'm taking it my grave. ( )