ABSTRACT
Cultured and refined, possessing an easy, gentle manner combined with aristocratic grace and elegance, Pembroke made a strong impression on James I. Within ten days of James’ arrival in London, the Lord Chamberlain’s Men became the King’s Men and thus were placed under royal patronage. Early in James’ reign, Pembroke’s premier position as a patron of the theatre can be seen when the most important dedication of poetry in history was made, almost certainly, to the Third Earl. The choicest honours and offices in the reign of James I were bestowed on outstanding courtiers, and Pembroke was a shrewd and diligent one. The position of Montgomery as the King’s favourite for the first five years of James’ reign, and hunting partner for the rest of it, was helpful in furthering Pembroke’s career, as was the influence of his father-in-law, Shrewsbury.
