The Beloved Izabel

Early life of Izabel

I was born on February 16, 1560 in Orleans, France . I'm the miracle daughter of Francis II of France and Mary, Queen of scots. My name is Izabel Marie Valois. I'm known as the miracle child because my father was very sick and many believed that he would not be able to have children, but then my mother found out she was with child.

My mother and father were king and queen of France when I was born, and although I was not a son that everyone hoped for my parents loved me.

When my father died in December 1560, my mother was left in a tough position. As she was now a widow and no longer queen of France she was to head back to Scotland.

My mother cared for me for a couple more months before finally deciding that she would leave to Scotland and I would be raised in France. I was raised by my grandmother Catherine in the French court and was loved by all. My mother left to Scotland when I was 1 1/2. I didn't know that it would be the last time that I would see my mother. Throughout the years my mother wrote to me. I would send her portraits of me and she would do the same. I do not remember having a mother raise me, but I know I had one and I know she loved me.

In 1565, my mother married Lord Darnley. If only we would have known this would have been one of the reasons that led to her downfall. It had been suggested that I should move to Scotland the following year, as my mother wanted to have me close to her. But I stayed in France, my grandmother believed that my life would be in danger in Scotland and so I stayed.

As the year went by, in 1566 on a stormy day in the French court. We received news that my mother had given birth to a son. I didn't know it at the time but my brother was a threat to my throne and rule. He was of English descent and a clear pathway for my mother to gain control of the English throne. It sent the French into a panic because they know what was to come. I would lose my throne or it would lead to war with Elizabeth.

My mother had written to me and sent a portrait of my brother, his name was James.

She wrote:
My Izabel, I am sure you have heard the news by now that I haven given birth to a son. He is your brother. I hope that we reunite soon and love together as a family. My children, you are what I have waited for. His name is James, named after your grandfather. I am making arrangements for you to come live with us, Scotland is your home and you will love it.

You have my love Izabel, you always will.

Your mother,
Mary, Queen of Scots

The arrangements never worked out and I stayed in France. The last time I heard from my mother was in 1567, when she had to abdicate her throne.

Izabel, how long it has been since I seen your face. You remind me of Francis everyday, he would have loved to watch you grow everyday. You remind me of a time of happiness. I may never hear or speak to you again, danger is what my life has always been and I do not wish harm to come to you or James. I have to go and you may hear much of me what I've done, but all I want you to know of me is that I am your mother and my love for you and James is greater than anything else. I believe that Francis will guide you and always be by your side, although you feel alone. We are there. To the Queen of Scots, May you rule for as long as god may wish it.

Mary, your mother.

That was the last letter I got from my mother. I continued to live in French court for many more years. I was known as the brightest and most beautiful princess. I knew many languages such as Spanish, Latin, French, Italian, Swedish, and Greek. I also excelled in history, geography, and theology. I was raised as a princess and was adored by everyone. My grandmother adored me.

This is my story, everyone knows the story of my father and mother but not mine. I am Izabel Marie Valois, Queen of Scotland and princess of France.