When Francis Drake appeared off Lisbon during the raid remembered as singeing the King of Spain's beard, Santa Cruz was assembling a major fleet. The available ships were not yet properly equipped or supplied, despite criticism of his refusal to sail. Sending an unready fragment of the force would have wasted men and matériel, revealing that Bazán's aggression remained bounded by logistical realism. A formal prisoner-exchange message between Drake and Bazán produced little because the Spanish commander said he held no English subjects, while his carefully phrased reply denied preparations against England as a kingdom rather than against Elizabeth's rule.
Notable Point · 48:22-50:03
Drake at Lisbon and Santa Cruz's refusal to sail unready
Santa Cruz declined to chase Drake from Lisbon before his fleet was equipped and supplied for battle.