Henry Wriothesley, 2nd Earl of Southampton (pronunciation uncertain: /ˈraɪzli/ RYE-zlee (archaic),[1] /ˈrɒtsli/ ROTT-slee (present-day)[1] and /ˈraɪəθsli/ RYE-əths-lee[2] have been suggested) (24 April 1545 – 4 October 1581), was an English peer.

[14] On reaching the age of majority in 1566 he sued his livery, and was granted licence to enter on his lands by letters patent dated 7 February 1568.

In a letter dated 1 December 1569 the Spanish ambassador, Guerau de Spes, wrote to the Duke of Alba that both Montague and Southampton 'have sent to me for advice as to whether they should take up arms or go over to your Excellency'.

Although they were ordered to come immediately to court to explain their actions, to all appearances things were smoothed over, and neither Southampton nor his father-in-law was punished for his involvement.

[18] A year later, in September 1571, under questioning concerning the Ridolfi plot, the Bishop of Ross incriminated Southampton by revealing the entire story of their meeting in Lambeth marsh.

The Countess defended herself with spirit, denying adultery and accusing one of the Earl's servants, Thomas Dymock, of having been the cause of the contention between herself and her husband.

[22] Matters took a further turn for the worse when the authorities were advised in August 1581 that the Jesuit Edmund Campion had been in contact with the Earl through Thomas Dymock.

Her will was proved in 14 November, in which she directed burial at Titchfield as near as may be unto the body of my honorable and dearlie beloved Lord and husband Henrie late Earle of Southampton.