The murder of David Riccio
The relationship between Darnley and Mary deteriorated quite soon after their marriage. Darnley wanted influence in decision-making â âthe crown matrimonialâ â and Mary refused to give it to him.
Scottish nobles persuaded Darnley that David Riccio, an Italian who became the Queenâs secretary, was too close to Mary and there were rumours of a relationship between them.
Darnley was enraged by this and by the way in which Riccio himself was enjoying his status within the royal household. While some nobles saw him as a spy sent by the Pope, others simply wanted to create trouble between Mary and her husband.
A plot was hatched by Darnleyâs aides, Morton, Lindsay and the Ruthvens to kill Riccio.
In March 1566, in the presence of a pregnant Mary, the murderers burst into Maryâs chambers and stabbed Riccio to death.
Mary looked on helplessly and in fear of her own life later escaped with her husband.
Darnleyâs dagger, the murder weapon, was found at the scene, incriminating its owner. Mary never forgave him for his part in this plot.