News arrives of a rebellion in Ireland. Essex is desperate to go over there and fight. In his enthusiasm he angers Elizabeth by trying to rouse the English subjects to support him. She once again snubs him. But eventually he begs for forgiveness, and she finally gives him permission to fight. Meanwhile William Cecil's health falters. He has a stroke, and then dies. Elizabeth's health begins to fade and she eventually weakens and dies peacefully, leaving the country to be ruled by James I.