The accession of James I brings Raleigh into the alleged Main Plot. The accusation centered on Spanish funds supposedly routed through Jersey, where Raleigh was governor, then divided to finance sedition. Authorities encounter the allegation while investigating the separate Bye Plot, with George Brooke’s implication helping the inquiry expand. At trial Raleigh is denied a confrontation with Henry Brooke, Lord Cobham, whose signed and sworn confession supplies the case against him. Raleigh is convicted, but the suspended death sentence may have reflected both the weakness of that evidence and his possible usefulness.
Chapter · 38:47-41:25
The Main Plot accusation and Raleigh’s contested trial
An accusation uncovered during the Bye Plot inquiry links Raleigh to Spanish money and sedition, but his trial relies on a confession he is not allowed to challenge face to face.