Ver. 519.—Scarse can a bishoprick, &c. This is probably an allusion to the frequent alienations of the lands and manors of bishoprics in Elizabeth’s time. TODD.
Ver. 562.—The ordinarie. An ordinary is a judge having jurisdiction in ecclesiastical matters. In England, it is usually the bishop of the diocese. H.
Ver. 623, 624.—The Queen was so much pleased with the results of the
Portugal expedition of 1589, that she honored the commanders, and Sir
Walter Raleigh among the rest, with a gold chain. C.
Ver. 717.—The brave courtier, &c. This description is perhaps intended for Sir Philip Sidney. C.
Ver. 893.—Had-ywist. That is, had I wist! had I known that it would end so! a proverbial expression for late repentance consequent on disappointment. C.
Ver. 901.—To have thy Princes grace, yet want her Peeres. Elizabeth was said to have granted Spenser a pension which Burghley intercepted, and to have ordered him a gratuity which her minister neglected to pay. C.
Ver. 913.—Himselfe will a daw trie. So the old copy: the reading should probably be himselfe a daw will trie, prove or find himself by experience to be a daw or fool. C.
Ver. 1189.—Of men of armes, &c. This passage certainly provokes an application to Lord Burghley, and was probably intended for him. C.