Henry marries Catherine Parr, his sixth and final wife. The wedding is notable for the presence of Henry's daughters, Mary and Elizabeth. Catherine is determined to be a loving step-mother to the king's children, who are fond of her in return. Plans are made for the invasion of France, and Charles Brandon is named commander of the English armies. The emissaries of the Emperor Charles, with whom Henry has formed an alliance, are entertained in great style at the English court where, to their surprise and delight, Mary addresses them in Spanish. As the Catholic influence increases, Bishop Gardiner begins to investigate the new queen's religious beliefs. She is rumored to be a secret Protestant and he intends to expose her. But any; such suspicions are excused; by the courage and commitment she shows in nursing the king; when he is once again struck down; by his ulcerous leg. There has never been a Queen so attentive to Henry at his most vulnerable. The war effort is elaborate and costly. Three hundred ships have been requisitioned to take guns, wagons, horses and the army to France. The King may not be in peak condition but he is determined to lead his armies into battle, to recapture both the lands he once held and a glimmer of his youth. To the shock and horror of Bishop Gardiner, the King appoints Catherine regent in his absence, protector of the realm and guardian of his children. The new Queen rises to the opportunity with ease and is well liked and respected by all.