Cecil Papers: January-June 1571

Calendar of the Cecil Papers in Hatfield House: Volume 1, 1306-1571. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1883.

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'Cecil Papers: January-June 1571', in Calendar of the Cecil Papers in Hatfield House: Volume 1, 1306-1571, (London, 1883) pp. 491-507. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-cecil-papers/vol1/pp491-507 [accessed 26 April 2024]

January–June 1571

1538. W. Maitland to Sir Wm. Cecil.
1570/1, Jan. 26. This strange accident gives me occasion to remind you of our discourses last year in England. You and I both agreed that however for a time our state here in Scotland might have a course, it could be of no long continuance unless the dangerous division between the Queen and the nobility were healed by means of the Queen your sovereign. We could espy the necessity of a reconciliation but not so easily frame conditions honourable for the one and sure for both the parties. We touched upon accidents that might fall out and be stumbling blocks, as the death of the King, or the Regent, &c., whereupon we did collect the necessity of an accord. To my great grief one of the points which I ever feared is come to pass, and so we remain in the briars; at which end to find an issue I see not, unless your mistress take some convenient course. You know better than I the state of Christendom, and of her affairs. I dare not prescribe you any rule; highly do I esteem your judgment, which makes me submit mine to yours. Always in me you shall find no change of affection; howsoever some have gone about to persuade you the contrary I pray you keep one ear for me. I shall disavow nothing that is true, nor disguise my dealings. I have never been privy to any practice prejudicial to the Queen. I desired Nicol Elphington to say thus much for me. I would write more if time served. Have conferred with Mr. Marshal of Berwick, of many things which he will impart to you. I know him to be wholly yours, and an honest gentleman.—From Leith Castle, the 26th January 1570.
Endorsed in Cecil's hand :—26 January 1569.
1 p. [Haynes, p. 575. In extenso.]
1539. The Bishop of Ross to Lords Fleming and Herries.
1570/1, Jan. 27. “Efter most hartlie commendations, this [ . . . ] is to advertis yow that the Quenis mate our s[overaigne] hes sum necessar service ado in Scotland, wher [in the] berar heirof called Robert Jonsoun is to be emp[loyit] and to yat effect hes commandit me to wreit to [ . . . ] lettre to pray yow effectuuslie to give him go . . . nement till her matcis awn retorning into Scotland or at leist whill ye sall heir furder the[rin] from her hienes, and to yat effect to keip h[im] your self give he sall happin to cum to yow, wherin yor 1. will do acceptable service an . . . unto her matc. Referring ye rest to your . . . I committ yow to ye protectioun of almighty God. [From] Lundoun ye xxvij of Januar 1570.”
[Concerning this letter, see below, No. 1581, the evidence of John Hall, under date 30 July 1571.]
½ p.
1540. The Loan Money.
1570/1, Jan. Loan money, on Privy Seals, paid by various English counties, from April 1570 to January 1571. Total, 43,071l.
5¼ pp.
1541. Answer of the Earl of Morton and others.
1570/1, Feb. 9. They have seen and considered the note of the heads which is thought of by the Lords of the Council for pacification between the Queen, mother to the King their sovereign, and his subjects, for the controversy of the title of the crown of Scotland between his highness and the said Queen his mother, if it be found probable that her demission of the crown may be and is lawfully to be revoked by her.
Therewithal they have diligently perused their instructions to see how far they might enter into a treaty upon the same heads for the satisfaction of the Queen [Elizabeth] and her council, to whom the hearing of the cause is appointed. But, after consideration of the same, they find themselves in no wise able or sufficiently authorised to enter into any treaty or conference touching the King their sovereign's crown, the abdication or diminution of his sovereignty, or the removing of his person. For as they profess themselves his higness's subjects, having no power or commission but of His Majesty, to treat for him, in his name and behalf, in matters tending to the maintenance of the true religion, and for increase and continuance of the amity and common quiet of both the realms, so can they not presume to abuse the same, their commission, in any case that may prejudge him, which they trust their Honours will well consider of, and allow of the same accordingly.
Endorsed by Cecil :—“9 Februar. 1570.—The Erle of Morton, &c. Answer.”
½ p. [Haynes, 623. In extenso.]
1542. The Council to Doctor Whitgift.
. 1570/1, Feb. 18. Stating how they had before them Dr. Chatterton, Master of Queen's College, Mr. Rockrey, and three other Fellows of the said college, to inquire into the accusation brought by Rockrey against Dr. Chatterton for “disordred” words supposed to have been spoken by the said Dr. Chatterton at his private table, about Allhallowtide, when Rockrey and the other three were present. Their Lordships had heard Rockrey maintain the truth of his accusation, which Dr. Chatterton had utterly denied, and required to have proof made by such as his accuser had named as having been present. Whereupon they had examined the three Fellows of the college, who also denied having heard such speeches as were alleged to have been uttered. Their Lordships had accordingly reprimanded Rockrey, and discharged Dr. Chatterton and the three Fellows, commanding Rockrey to repair to the University and submit himself to such order as Dr. Whitgift and the heads of the colleges before whom he had first produced the accusation should declare to him as the decision of the Council. This decision is that they should have Rockrey before them, and, in the presence of Dr. Chatterton and the other three, require him to ask Dr. Chatterton's forgiveness, which the latter is to grant on such request. The proceedings in this matter, and its issue, are then to be communicated to the “societe” of Queen's College, and all further speech thereon forbidden, on pain of expulsion. If Rockrey refuses to obey the order of the Council he is to be imprisoned, without having the privilege of bail, until the further pleasure of the Council is known. As regards other charges to be brought against Rockrey about misbehaviour in chapel, these are remitted to the Chancellor, &c.
Endorsed by Cecil :—“18 Feb. 1570.—Copy of a letter from the Counsell to Dr. Whytgift concerning Rockrey and Chaterton.
Cecil's draft. 3 pp.
1543. The Levies.
1570/1, March 10. Drafts, in Cecil's hand, of a letter to the sheriffs of Devon, Cornwall, and Somerset, and also of a letter to the Vice-President and Council in Wales, directing them to have certain numbers of foot soldiers put in readiness for service. [In the margin are mentioned other counties to which a similar letter is to be directed.]
Endorsed :—10 March 1570.
1 p.
1544. The Queen to the Lord Deputy of Ireland.
1570/1, March 17. Although he is, by her letters recently sent, directed to stay in Ireland, until her further pleasure be known, yet, in case he has, by virtue of her former letters, demitted his office, he is commanded, nevertheless, to remain in Ireland, and to advertise her how the said office may be restored to him there, whether by new letters patent, or by warrant only. In the latter case this letter is to be for the present sufficient warrant for his restitution to the post of Lord Deputy.
Endorsed :—17 March 1570.
[On the back of this document is a list (not in Cecil's hand) of “officers of the Haule,” viz., four marshals, four sewers, and two “surveyors at the dresser for the haule.” ½ p.]
Draft by Cecil. 1¼ pp. [Haynes, p. 624. In extenso, with the exception of one short paragraph, and the list on the dorse.]
1545. The Earl of Warwick to Edward Horsey.
1570/1, March 23. States the miserable case he is in through poverty and debt, and begs Horsey to speak to Sir William Cecil to help him in obtaining from the Queen his suit for a grant of 100l. land, in order that he may sell the same and get clear of debt.—Mingtene.
Endorsed :—23 March 1570.
2 pp.
1546. The Queen to the Earl of Shrewsbury.
1570/1, March 24. Had intended by treaty with the Queen of Scots' Commissioners, and with others that came from her son, to have ended all controversies in Scotland, so as, upon assurance made to her, she might have allowed the same Queen to have returned into Scotland, but finds that the King's Commissioners neither have, nor, as they affirm, can have, authority to consent to anything tending to change their King's estate, except the same may be granted by a Parliament to be held in Scotland in the King's name. Has agreed, and, therefore, has to suspend the treaty, not changing, however, her former opinion with respect to returning the Queen as soon as possible. If the Commissioners of the latter move her to doubt this point, he is to persuade her to the contrary. At any rate he is on this occasion to take special heed to his charge, in case, as is probable, her party in their discontent attempt to effect her escape.
Endorsed :—24 March 1570.
Draft by Cecil. ¾ p. [Haynes, p. 624. In extenso.]
1547. Possessions of the Marquis of Northampton.
1571, April 9. Valor of the manors of Great and Little Munden, co. Hertford, parcel of the possessions of “William Parr, knight, Lord Parr, Marquis of Northampton and Lady Anne his wife, by right of the said Anne as sole daughter and heir of Henry Bourchier, late Earl of Essex and Mary his wife, who was one of the daughters and heirs of William Saye, knight, deceased; in the aforesaid county.”
[From the endorsement this Valor is said to be “as by view of Ministers ' “Accounts in the fifth year of the late King Henry VIII.”]
Endorsed :—9 April 1571.
Copy. 2 pp.
1548. The Bishop of Ross to Charles Bailly.
1571, April 15. Approves of his answer touching the alphabet. Desires him to adhere to this answer, for there are dangerous words in their letters. Those from Flanders can do no hurt. Had travailed for his relief, and the villain who betrayed him will be worse handled. This extreme handling of him [Bailly] will further much the Q. of Scots' cause; he will be reputed honest and faithful that suffers patiently for his mistress' service.—Easter-day morning.
Endorsed by Burghley :—“The B. of R. to Charles.”
One page in cipher, deciphered.
Copy of the decipher, endorsed by Burghley :—“15 April 1571.” [Murdin, p. 1. In extenso.]
1549. The Bishop of Ross to Charles Bailly.
1571, April 20. Has recovered all his letters and the alphabet, but cannot decipher them. Asks for instructions to do the same.—This 20th in the morning.
Endorsed by Burghley :—“20 April. Sent from the B. to Charles.”
French. In cipher. 3 lines. [Murdin, p. 6. In extenso.]
1550.—Charles Bailly to the Bishop of Ross.
1571, April 20. As the letter of Rudolphi and the decipher have reached safely, has no fear. Marvels at the delay in being brought before the Council. Fears they have sent into Flanders for information. The Prior of the Carthusians at Bruges showed the writer where he should find Sir Francis Englefield, with whom he spoke by a nunnery half a league from Antwerp; thence he went to Brussels to obtain by Courtville's means the privilege for the printer. Passing by Mechlin he spake with the Countess of Northumberland, the Earl of Westmoreland, Dacres, and others, returning with the book by Louvain as secretly as he could. Promises he will confess nothing, though they should pluck him in a hundred pieces. Desires that his trunk should be taken to the Bishop's lodging, as it contained minutes of letters to the Cardinal of Lorraine and to Hamilton, that might do much hurt. Fears they will mislike the prefaces most of all; wishes the Bishop might see how the Doctors of Louvain had changed them. Explains how letters might be conveyed to him through a hole that cometh to his chamber. Thinks that Melchior and Mackinson did ill to come hither, after being warned.—From the prison this first Friday after Easter.
P.S. Desires information on any other points whereupon he shall be examined, and how he shall answer them.
Endorsed by Burghley :—“The first letters from Charles to the “Bishop out of the Marshalsea.—20 April.”
French, One and a half pages in cipher, part deciphered.
Another copy of the above letter in cipher, deciphered.
1½ pp.
Fair copy of the same.
French. 1½ pp.
Translation of the same.
1½ pp. [Murdin, pp. 2–5. In extenso.]
1551. The Queen to——
1571. April 20. Stating that she has appointed Sir Henry Ratclif to be captain of the town and isle of Portsmouth (in succession to Sir Adrian Poynings, deceased), and directing him to make a survey of the said town and isle along with the said Sir Henry, before that officer enters upon his duties. They are also to report on the number of able-bodied men in the town and isle of Portsmouth.
Endorsed :—20 April, 1571.
Draft Minute. 1 p.
1552. Charles Bailly to the Bishop of Ross.
1571, April 21. Reporting his interview with Lord Burghley on the subject of the books which he had received in Flanders from John Hamilton, and brought into England without passport.
Endorsed by Burghley :—“Charles to the B. of Ross, in cipher, deciphered.—21 April.”
French. In cipher. 34 lines. [Murdin, p. 5. In extenso.]
1553. The Bishop of Ross to Charles Bailly.
1571, April 22. Approves of his answers to Lord Burghley, whose menaces he may disregard. Advises him if he has a chance to explain to Burghley that the Queen of Scots is his mistress. The worst he can expect is, to be kept where he is for some days.—Sunday.
Endorsed by Burghley :—“22 April. The Bish. of Ross to Charles.”
French. In cipher. 16 lines. [Murdin, p. 6. In extenso.]
1554. Charles Bailly to the Bishop of Ross.
1571, April 24. Feared that Master Erle had not delivered his letters; he is not to be trusted. When the Bishop writes to the Countess of Northumberland, he is to warn her not to write to Erle that she has seen him [Bailly]. Gives particulars of letters written and received, and explains a method by which letters can be conveyed to him. Mackinson and Melchior are committed close prisoners.—Tuesday.
Signed :—“Charles Bailly, whom they would make believe that he is a Scotchman, and not a Fleming or Brabanter.”
Endorsed by Burghley :—“24 April. Charles to the B. of Ross. Erle suspect.”
One page in cipher, deciphered. Partly in French. [Murdin, pp. 6, 7. In extenso, with the exception of a short paragraph relating to Bailly's apparel, and the payment of his lodging.]
1555. Charles Bailly to the Bishop of Ross.
1571, April 26. Reporting his examination by Burghley and the Lord Chamberlain. Burghley was very severe, and threatened that if they did not cut off his head they would cut off his ears. Prays the Bishop to aid him if possible.—Saturday.
Endorsed by Burghley :—“Cipher of a letter from Charles to the B. of Ross. 26/27 April, Thursday.”
One page in cipher, deciphered. French. [Murdin, pp. 7, 8 In extenso.]
1556, The Privy Council to the Lieutenant of the Tower.
1571, April 26. Directing him and Edmund Tremayne, the bearer hereof, to examine Charles [Bailly] concerning certain letters in cipher written by him when a prisoner in the Marshalsea; also concerning the alphabet for the said cipher; and, if necessary, to put the said Charles to the torture.
Endorsed :—26 Ap. 1571.
Draft Minute. ½ p.
1557. Charles Bailly to the Bishop of Ross.
1571, April 29. The Lieutenant of the Tower took him before Burghley that morning before five, who said, that if he wished to be set at liberty he must first decipher his letters. Otherwise, orders would be sent to the Lieutenant to place him on the rack to compel him to give the deciphers, as also to make him confess what messages he had conveyed between the Bishop and the Countess of Northumberland. Urges the bishop to send his advice, and to do his utmost to obtain his liberty.—Sunday night.
Endorsed by Burghley :—“29 April. Ch. to the B. of R. out of the Tower, deciphered.”
Copy. French. ½ p.
Another copy of the same.
Endorsed by Burghley:—“22 vel 29 April. Charles to the B. of Ross.”
The same in cipher.
Endorsed by Burghley :—“29 April.” [Murdin, p. 8. In extenso.]
1558. The Bishop of Ross to Charles Bailly.
1571, [April 29]. Details the efforts made in his favour. The Earl of Leicester and Burghley have sent to show that the handling was not so rigorous as is reported; and although they will make him [Bailly] afraid, he shall not be racked any more. Burghley has taken great pains of late to decipher the letters, but can understand nothing. Urges him to be firm and constant, relying on the justness of the cause. In the meantime every effort will be made to procure his relief.—Sunday, before dinner.
Rough copy. French. 1 p.
Fair copy of the same.
Endorsed by Burghley :—“1o Maii 1571. The B. of R. to Charles.”
1 p.
Translation of the same.
1½ pp. [Murdin, p. 9. In extenso.]
1559. The Bishop of Ross and Bailly's Letters.
1571, April Copies of the deciphers of the two letters from the Bishop of Ross to Charles Bailly on the 20th and 22nd of April, and of the letter from Bailly to the Bishop on April 21.
French. 1 p. [Murdin, pp. 5, 6. In extenso.]
1560. Charles Bailly's Letters.
1571. April—. Fair copies of Charles Bailly's letters to the Bishop of Ross, dated the 24th and 26th of April.
2 pp. [Murdin, pp. 6–8.]
1561. Charles Bailly to Lord Burghley.
1571, May 2. Though he will lose his credit with the Bishop of Ross, and the service he has done the Q. of Scots for seven years; putting all his confidence in Burghley, he has thought good to recite to his Lordship that he went to Sir F. Engefield thinking to find the books, and missing them passed to Brussels, where he met Rudolphi, who detained him to write certain letters. The Duke of Alva had sent to Rudolphi, and told him that he had well conceived his instructions; among other things, the Duke inquired as to the situation of the port, and if there were any strong place between London and the port. The Duke assured Rudolphi that he should be very welcome to the Pope and the Spanish King, and for his own part promised all the assistance he required. Two of the letters to “30” and “40” were nearly alike in substance, saving that in one Rudolphi said the Duke [of Alva] was advertised by the English in Flanders that the D. of Norfolk was not half a sound Catholic:—2 May 1571.
French, 1 p.
Contemporary translation of the same. [A modern marginal note gives :—“30—Spanish Ambassador; 40—Q. of Scots.”]
1½ pp. [Murdin, pp. 9, 10. In extenso.]
1562. Charles Bailly to Lord Burghley.
1571, May 5. His interview with Sir Francis Englefield (to whom he was the bearer of letter's from the Bishop of Ross), concerning the printing of certain books abroad. Went to Brussels also. Refusal of the Duke of Alva to allow the printing, in order not to give Her Majesty cause to be discontent with him, or with the Queen of Scots. Found the books at Louvain, at the house of a bookseller, to whom Sir Francis had given him a letter for their delivery. Carried no letters to the Countess of Northumberland, although it is true he does not know whether there were any for her in the packet he delivered to Sir Francis Englefield. The latter's suggestion to him to go and see the Countess at Malines on his way to Brussels, and offer to be the bearer of any letters from her. The Countess asked him about the progress of the treaty between Elizabeth and the Queen of Scots, and if it was likely to take effect. His reply in the affirmative, based on Elizabeth's declaration to the Commissioners of the King of Scotland. The Countess also inquired after the Queen of Scots' health, and if Bailly had any commission from her brothers, &c. On returning by Malines he found with the Countess the Earl of Westmoreland, Dacres, and others. The Earl, Dacres, and another, desired him to give their commendations to the Bishop of Ross. Had no other letters than the aforesaid, and one to the Prior of the Carthusians at Bruges, and another to Mr. John Hamilton. Ridolphi asked him at Brussels when he was to depart, and having heard, said that he had found Bailly most opportunely to help him to write two or three letters which he particularly wished to send to the Bishop of Ross. By those letters he [Ridolphi] advertised his safe arrival at Brussels, and that immediately thereon he had asked audience of the Duke of Alva, giving him to understand that he had certain instructions, which the Duke had caused him to deliver to Secretary Courteville for him to make a report on. Ridolphi's favourable audience by Alva the same evening, is directed by him to go with all speed to the Pope, and then to the King of Spain. Alva counsels strict secrecy, “and that chiefly for those of France;” he promises his assistance on Ridolphi's return from Spain. In one of the letters Ridolphi made mention of Alva's suspicion that he was not a good Catholic, and advised him [the Bishop of Ross] to write to his Excellency, and assure him of his Catholic faith. By the letter written to the Bishop of Ross he asked him to send the two letters, and if he [Bailly] remembers well, one of the letters was marked with the number 30, and the other 40; referring further writing, as well to the one as to the other, until he should have arrived at Rome, and been despatched from the Pope to go into Spain. The two letters might contain 25 or 30 lines each, and that to the Bishop of Ross 8 or 10 lines. These letters may contain sone other points which Bailly cannot at present remember, inasmuch as he has never seen Ridolphi's instructions, nor knows what commissions he has. Bailly's offer to act as a secret agent if Her Majesty would set him at liberty. He left a packet of letters at Calais in the hands of the Captain “Monsieur de Gordon,” without knowing in any way of that of Ridolphi. Begs Lord Burghley to be a means with the Queen of procuring his liberty, and that so that he may not lose his honour, credit, and all the goods he has in Flanders. “From my prison at the Tower this 5th day of May 1571.”
French, 2 pp.
Translation of the preceding. 2¼ pp. [Murden, pp. 11, 12, In extenso.]
1563. Answers of the Bishop of Ross.
1571. May 13. Document headed, “13 of May 1571. Answers of the Bishop of Ross to certain interrogatories moved to him by the Queen's Majesty's commandment, given to the Earl of Sussex, the Lord of Burghley, Sir Ralph Sadler, and Sir Walter Mildmay, knight.”
These have reference to his sending over to the Continent certain books, on behalf of the Queen of Scots, to be printed; his writing to Sir F. Englefield; his correspondence with the Countess of Northumberland; the letters and instructions given to Ridolphi at his last departure into Flanders; the letters sent by Ridolphi (one to the Bishop, one to the Queen of Scots who was designated by the cipher “40,” and one to the Spanish Ambassador, who was designated by the cipher “30”); his communication with William Erle, a prisoner in the Marshalsea; his letter on behalf of John Hall; his sending letters to Bailly, who was then a prisoner in the Tower; his receipt of a book and cipher from Bailly, &c.
In Lord Burghley's handwriting.
3½ pp. [Murdin, pp. 14, 15. In extenso.]
1564. John Hall's Examination.
1571, May 13. Examination of John Hall, taken at Leith, May 13, 1571, in the presence of Robert Commendator of Dunfermline, Mr. James Makgill of Rankeillour “nether clerk of r?ge,” and John Cunningham of Drumquhassel.
“John Hall, Englishman, born at Brinklow, in the county of Warwick, succeeded to some inheritance by the decease of his father, named William Hall, which inheritance lay at Royston Stoke and Coventry. This inheritance this “deponar” has not, but has sold the whole ten years ago; one part to one Lapworth. He was brought up in his youth at the schools in Lichfield and Coventry, and after went to the Inns of Court, and there remained till about the time that the great plague was in London. He was entertained at the schools by his friends, for his father died when he was but seven years of age. During his remaining at, the Inns of Court in Gray's Inn by the space of a year before he came therefrom, he entered in the service of the Earl of Shrewsbury, and continued with him in service not fully six years. So that come [?] the time it is four years since he left the same. The cause he left the same was, that he misliked my Lord's marriage with this wife, as divers others his friends did; wherefore first suiting a reward, and last his life, with favour the deponar departed. From thence he passed to Staffordshire, and there lay with a friend of his own, called Christopher Heveningham, from Saint Luke's day till after Candlemas, and then went to London, being certified by his friends that my Lord of Shrewsbury bare him no goodwill. After that he was “promovit” to my Lord of Montacute's service, wherein he continues as yet undischarged. He entered in his service in March past three years, and remained till the Allhallowmas thereafter; then by his licence the deponar passed in [into] Staffordshire, where he was also this last summer, and there has also remained ever 'sensyne' for the most part. And there being 'suted' by the Earl of Shrewsbury's servants, as was given him to understand for this cause, that he should have intelligence with [the] Duke of Alva, that he should practise betwixt the Queen of Scotland and the Duke of Norfolk, and that he should have 'melling' and intelligence with his countrymen that were banished the realm for conscience cause. Howbeit he is innocent.
“Inquired upon the time and order of his away coming, answers that in November last he was certified by a friend of his, named Otley, in Shropshire, that the Earl of Shrewsbury's servants had been searching for him and offering sums of money for him, wherefore first he intended to pass in France; but seeing the impediments of passage he tarried still in England till the receipt of the letter from the Bishop of Ross and then took purpose to come in Scotland. Therefore in February last taking ship in Lancashire at a bay called — —, not far from Liverpool [“Leirpoole”], and hiring the ship himself, he arrived first at the Isle of Man, having first sent unto him a letter of the Bishop of Ross sent to the Lord Fleming and Lord Herries, which a friend of his named William Hart of Ensam, within three or four miles of Oxford, procured and sent unto him, knowing his peril. He tarried eight or ten days at the Isle of Man, and leaving the ship he came in, shipped in another ship in company with passengers, and landed at the Isle of Whithorn, of intention to go to the Lord Herries. But taking the shortest way by sea he landed as is beforesaid at Whithorn. From that he was conveyed by a young man named Robert Maxwell, by the means of Patrick McGrowan, Provost of Whithorn, first to Wigton and then to the Lord Herries' house of Dueglis [?] From that he came in company with the Lord of Arbroath, the Duke's son, to Craignethan, otherwise called Draffen, and tarrying two nights, the day thereafter passed to Hamilton, and tarrying there a night passed the next night to Dumbarton, accompanied with two servants of the said Lord of Arbroath, having a letter of his wherein was contained the Bishop of Ross' letter, by reason the Lord Herries had opened the same of before. Denies that he came in Scotland for any other cause but for his own refuge. Denies that he knows the Bishop of Ross, nor never had speech or intelligence with him by himself nor by no mediate person. He cannot tell whether he shipped in Cheshire or Lancashire, but as he believes it was in Lancashire. Denies that ever he saw the Queen of Scots, nor never was in the place where she was, nor there was no direction from her to him. Grants that he had to do with the Duke of Norfolk when he was the Earl of Shrewsbury's man, for his master's affairs and no otherwise, nor never saw him or had intelligence with him by any mediate persons 'sensyne.' Denies that he had any intelligence with the Duke of Alva, or with any Englishmen banished and beyond sea for conscience cause. He heard of no search made for him but at Staffordshire and London. He grants his mother's friends dwell in Derbyshire, and that he was there in the last summer, having to do there about a traffic that he used anent the making of lead in Derbyshire, and by it had the money whereby he made his charges. Grants that he had the copy sent him of the letter that the Bishop of Ross wrote in his favour.”
This examination is signed by Hall. On a separate slip of paper, in the same hand as the foregoing, are the following lines;—
“It is to be remembered that soon after the apprehension of John Hall in the Castle of Dumbarton, he then being examined by the Regent himself, the said John alleged his surname to be Johnson, next Williams, and last confesses his very surname to be Hall. He said his first purpose and intention was to pass in France, and that he shipped at Bristol, and was driven by storm and contrarious winds to Whithorn in Galloway. His man being examined said, that his master shipped “on the coist of Wales in Chesschire at Lirpoole.”
2¼ pp.
1565. Articles for the Bishop of Ross.
[1571, May 13]. Interrogatories (nine in number) touching on. various points of the Bishop's intrigues for Mary Queen of Scots.
Draft by Lord Burghley. 1 p. [Murdin, p. 13. In extenso.]
1566. List of Charges to be made against the Bishop of Ross.
1571, May 13. Referring to the above-mentioned intrigues.
Endorsed:—“13 May 1571.”
Draft by Lord Burghley. 1 p. [Murdin, p. 13. In extenso.]
1567. The Loan Money.
1571, May 18. Postponing for seven months the repayment of certain sums of loan money in consequence of the charges incurred through the late rebellion in the north, and “other extraordinary affairs concerning the honor and defence” of the realm, as well by sea as by land.
Endorsed:—“18 May 1571. A Minute to the Collectors.”]
1 p. [Murdin, p. 181. In extenso.]
1568. The Queen to the President and Council in the Marches of Wales.
1571, May 20. Had appointed Sir John Perrot on a charge of special trust in Ireland, and given him license to take over a certain number of horse and foot with him. This power he had greatly abused, “presting” sundry of her subjects who were unmeet, and exacting sums of money from those who desired to be excused from that service. Commands them not only to award no more processes or writs at the request of the said Sir John Perrot, but also to stay the execution of such as have already been awarded. Directs an inquiry to be made into the proceedings of the said knight, and a full report thereof to be made to her or to her Privy Council.
Endorsed:—“20 May, 1571.”
Draft Minute, with corrections by Lord Burghley.
2 pp. [Murdin, pp. 181, 182. In extenso]
1569. Interrogatories for Hall.
1571, May 21. A draft, in Lord Burghley's handwriting, of interrogatories for Hall. [These, as appears from the contemporary endorsement, were sent to Berwick, where Hall was taken on his way as a prisoner to London. The interrogatories refer mainly to his complicity in intrigues on behalf of the Scottish Queen, and to his visits to various houses in England.]
Endorsed :—“21 May 1571.”
1½ pp.
1570. Hall's Answer.
1571, May. Answer of John Hall to the foregoing interrogatories, [This is an imperfect and, in some respects, false account of what he acknowledges in his subsequent confessions, dated June 20 and July 30, 1571.]
Endorsed:—“May 1571.”
Autograph and signed. 3½ pp.
1571. Robert Wilson to Lord Seton.
1571, May 28. Desiring him to subscribe and deliver to bearer the enclosed precept ready drafted.—Aberdeen, 28 May 1571.
2 pp.
1572. Examination of Hameling, “taken the 8 of June 1571,” regarding the Rebellion in the North.
1571, June 8. John Thwynge [sic], dwelling within four miles of York, hath the Earl of Northumberland's Collar of the George, which was laid to him to gage, a little before the rebellion; for so Mistress Neisby, who keepeth the young ladies [i.e. the Earl of N.'s daughters], told this examinate. Michael Yerkell [?] was the chief doer about the said Earl, and it is thought that he doth know where all the Earl's plate is “becumen,” and that he hath hidden the same. Francis More had very much credit committed to him, as well by the said Earl and his wife, as also by the Scottish Queen, and he travelled between the Scottish Queen and them, and had messages to declare by word, as this examinate thinketh. Saith that the Earl of Cumberland, as he hath heard, was indebted to the said Earl of Northumberland in 1,000/. and above, and that, as this examinate thinketh, it p[a]ssed by order of law, and that Christopher Lalasens (sic) can tell thereof. Francis Lickas (?), who waiteth upon the young ladies, can tell something of the Earl's plate. Saith that when the Earl and the Nortons and others did meet at Balterly barn (?), the Earl sent this examinate to bring Bishop to him thither; and so he went to Topcliffe town, and there he found the said Bishop and his son, and also Christopher Lassells; and so he brought Bishop and his son to the place aforesaid, where they had conference with the Earl and others. Saith he doth not know whether that meeting was within 10 days before the Rebellion; but he thinketh verily it was not above three weeks, or a month at the most, before the Rebellion. Saith that Heighton, auditor to the said Earl, was first servant to Sir Francis Inglefield, who gave him a farm, worth 20l. yearly, in Berkshire, which farm is yet taken to his use, as this examinate thinketh; and he saith that the said Heighton was born in Richmond, and was a yeoman's son there.
1½ pp.
1573. Confession of John Hall, delivered to Sir Thomas Smith and Mr. Thomas Wilson.
1571, June 20. “In September, ao 1567, I departed from the Earl of Shrewsbury's service to Shurland, a house of John Revell, in Derbyshire, where, after three or four days' abode, declaring unto him the breach between the said Earl and me, I departed to Aston, the house of Christopher Heveningham in Staffordshire, and there dealt with him for a chamber and for meat for myself, my servant, and horses upon consideration of a yearly sum of money, whereunto he consented; and after four or five days I returned to Shurland, and there remained until St. Luke's eve; in the mean season conveyed some such stuff and baggage as then remained at Sheffield to Shurland, and passed the time otherwise, sometimes in hawking, or hunting, and other such exercises. Upon St. Luke's eve I repaired to Aston, where I remained until St. Andrew's-tide, at which time the said John Revell came unto me, and required me to take pains to go to London for him, he then being unable to travel, to take counsel touching the lease of the manors of Shurland Higham, and Stretton, which the said Earl challenged then for his own I did so, and took the advice of Mr. Bell therein. And that time made suit to the Viscount Montacute for service, who received me. After which day, about the 15th of December, I departed from London to Rufford to speak with Richard Calveley touching a reckoning between us; and from thence to Sheffield, to the baillie's house, to take order for the conveyance of some such things as remained there; from thence to Shurland, to declare the resolution of Mr. Bell touching the said lease. And upon Christmas eve I rode towards Aston, and there remained until after Candlemas, at which time 1 fell into a fever after my said journey. After Candlemas, in the week before Lent, being sent for, I repaired to the house of my said Lord and master, at Cowdrey, in Sussex, where I remained in his service until November; at which time my said Lord, with his family, repaired to London, upon whom I attended until the end of that month, and then obtained leave for a time to depart into the country about my necessary business. I came to Aston aforesaid, and, amongst such exercises as that country and time of the year required, I bargained with him for pasture for 200 sheep, which then I purposed to buy, and remained there until about the 8th of January, at which time I rode to the Pipe Hall with Christopher Heveningham, where the said John met us by appointment to see the said ground, whereof the said Christopher had made him promise of a lease, which he at that time performed, and that same night we rode all to Comberford, where we rested the next day, and the day following we rode all together into Derbyshire, about the talk of a marriage to be made between the son and heir of the said John and the daughter of one—Tempest of Yorkshire; but at that time Tempest came not, and so the said Christopher and I departed to Aston; and I afterwards remained there until the first of March, at which time, by commandment of my said lord and master, I repaired towards him, and at London I fell into a disease of the gout, which caused me to stay until the 25th of the same month, upon which day I took my journey toward Battle, where my said Lord then remained, and being there impotent and scarce able to go, I desired of my said Lord that, in respect of my infirmity, it would please his Lordship to spare me until I should be better able to do him service. He granted thereunto, and so, upon the 21st of April following, I departed from Battle to London, where I remained at physic until the day after the Ascension of our Lord; at which time I rode into Staffordshire, to Aston aforesaid, where I remained about the space of 12 days, until the said John Revell sent to me, requiring me to go with him into Derbyshire about the said marriage. I did so. We came together to Staveley, the house of Peter Freshvill, in Derbyshire, and there met us the said Tempest and his wife and daughter; but the talk brake off, for that the said Tempest would not give so much money as the said John required. There was five or six days spent, after which time the said John Revell and 1 went to a house of his called Oggeston in the said shire, where he talked with his tenants about the ordering of his lands, and I likewise bargained with him for his 'boole,' appointing a time to go for the same with expert men that should appraise the 'blockhillyng,' because I was bound to leave it as good as I found it. We departed from thence to his house the Pipehall aforesaid, where I remained until two or three days before Midsummer, at which time I repaired to Aston, and remained there until about the 16th of July; at which time one Edward Revell, of South Normanton, in Derbyshire, came unto me, requiring me to go with him to the said John Revell, to move him in his behalf for a lease of the parsonage of South Normanton; which I did, and so rode to him, being then at Comberford aforesaid; and after three or four days I departed toward Aston, and the said Edward toward his house—to whom I appointed to come shortly for the view of the 'boole' aforesaid, wherein 1 required him to take some pains for me, because I was far from it myself. The which I performed about St. Jamestide, and tarried about that business four or five days, and so returned again to Aston, taking in my way Comberford aforesaid, where I had some speech with the said John Revell, touching the 'boole' and certain debts which he owed me. I remained at Aston about 14 days, and then rode toward the Broomhall, a house of the old Countess Northumberland, to whom I owe duty in respect of her former goodness towards me, and remaining about two days I rode toward Helay, the house of the Lady Wharton, where I heard that the Lady Herbert, now Countess of Pembroke, to whom I likewise owe duty, was. I remained there three days, and, in her Ladyship's company, rode back again to Broomhall, where I, tarrying one night, the next day departed to South Normanton, and so went up to the 'boolehill,' three miles off, to see what husbandry was there used, and that night rode to Mafelt, a house of Francis Rolleston in Staffordshire, where I tarried but one night; the next night I rode to Norbury, where Sir Thomas Fitzherbert then was, to see him, and there remained one night, and the next day departed to Aston, where I remained until Michaelmas. And then I went to London, to take physic for the prevention of such diseases as I had been vexed withal in the former year; and being there, I went to Cowdrey, being so near, to do my duty to my said Lord; where I stayed not above three days, and so returned unto Aston, from whence I departed not until Candlemas, saving that after Christmas I rode to Comberford, to make merry with my friends there. After Candlemas, being minded to have gone to London, to lie there all Lent, and so to take physic in the spring, I was prevented by sickness at the Pipehall in my journey, where I scarcely stirred out of the house until the 24th or July following, at which time the said Francis Rolleston sent unto me, requiring me to come to his house Mafelt. The day after that message sent, I went towards him, and came that night to his house, where was also George Rolleston, the son. Francis then declared unto me that he had talked with Sir Thomas Gerrard touching the conveying of the Queen of Scots, whom he found willing to do what he might, with whom he willed me to talk, and that I would be partaker of the matter, because he himself was not so well able to travel. The next morning I rode to Etwall in Derbyshire, where I found Sir Thomas Gerrard, who, being that day accompanied with divers unknown to me. and being ready to ride on hunting, we (sic) had not any speech other than to this effect. He seemed to take notice of my errand, (for that I suppose he and Francis Rolleston had before so appointed to send for me), and said there was neither time nor place to talk, wherefore he required me to come to his house, the Brinne, in Lancashire, within four days, and then he should have further leisure to confer with me that which he intended. I departed for that time, and returned to the said Pipe, and upon the 28th of July I came to the Brinne, where he then was, and there he declared that he hoped well that he could find means to deliver the said Queen of Scots, with the help of his friends in Lancashire, (naming none), but specially if Sir Thomas Stanley might be won to be partaker thereof, by whose means the said Queen might be shipped away into the Isle of Man, and so from thence whither she best liked; howbeit he feared to move the matter because he said (as I remember) either they were not friends, or else but newly reconciled. And yet he took in hand to go to Latham, to move, as he said, Sir Thomas Stanley. He remained there one night, and the next day returned to his house, where I tarried his coming. Whether he said anything to him or not, I know not, but then he seemed to have small hope of the bringing the matter to effect, for that he found, first, the matter so perilous, and feared to make any man privy thereof, for danger of discovery, and, unless many were made privy, the thing could not be done; and besides, the want of sufficient furniture, as well of horse as armour, which must be provided for, to resist such as should make defence, otherwise that delivery should rather be the destroying of the said Queen, than relief unto her. Howbeit, saith he, will you return to Francis Rolleston, and will him to find means to speak with some of the said Queen's servants, to the end it may be signified unto her, that, unless she be able to furnish these wants, as in money, horse, and armour, it will not be possible to relieve her; which if she can do, then I doubt not but Sir Thomas Stanley may be brought to be a dealer in the matter. I departed from Brinne toward Mafelt the last of July, and, not finding Francis Rolleston there, the next day I rode to him where he was in the Peak, at another house of his near Chatsworth, called, as I remember, Edwynstall, where I declared to him that which Sir Thos. Gerrard had as before willed me to signify unto him; this was done on the second of August. That night he sent a servant of his to Chatsworth, to give notice to one called John Beton, master of household to the Queen, to require him to meet him on the next morning, upon the high moor between his house and Chatsworth, by five of the clock in the next morning. The next morning, the said Francis and I went to meet this said Beton, and, upon the high moor, the said Francis declared unto him these former talks, for I had never seen the man before. He answered he could say nothing, until he knew the said Queen his mistress's pleasure, which he said would ask a time to be considered upon. He departed for that time, and the same night he returned by appointment, declaring that as the said Queen, his mistress, had great cause to think herself beholden to those that would go about to procure her liberty, so would she wish that no man should go about that matter, unless they were assured to put her in surety. Wherefore, saith Beton, my said mistress requireth, first, to understand by whom this matter shall be attempted, for well she knoweth that many of the condition of Sir Thos. Gerrard will not be able to do it and, secondly, what number of men they are able to levy that will be partakers of the cause; and, for that the same may be the better advertised, the said Queen hath devised a cipher, whereby she may be answered touching these points, the which he delivered to the said Francis, willing him to deliver it himself, and to have special regard to the safe custody of it, and to be well advised to whom he delivered it, and to return it again by the next. And so we departed that night to Mafelt, George Rolleston being in the company, where we tarried all the next day. And, upon the 5th of August, the said Francis and I rode from his house to Sir Thomas Grerrard's, and declared the words of John Beton, and showed him also the cipher. The next day Francis Rolleston went to meet with Sir Thomas Stanley, I know not where. Sir Thomas Gerrard and I, in the mean, were coursing in a park of his called Shaw Park, and the said Francis at that day delivered to the said Sir Thomas Stanley the cipher, and willed him, after he had expressed what he could, that he would give credit unto me, (with whom before I never had to do,) as unto himself, for the bringing back of answer. Whereupon Sir Thomas willed that I should come to Latham the next day. I did so, and Francis Rolleston departed homeward. When I came to Latham, after a while, Sir Thomas Stanley had intelligence of my being there, and commanded his servant to bring me to him into the walks, where he talked with me of the same matters, and after caused me to be brought into a chamber, where I remained. The next day he delivered unto me a draft of a letter, which he desired me to put into cipher. I did so as well as I could, being unacquainted with such manner of writing. The next day, being as I remember St. Laurence's day, the said Sir Thomas Stanley rode toward Wynnywerne, in whose company I rode. By the way Sir Thomas Gerrard met him, and there they two talked together and signed the letter, which they delivered to me, to be delivered over to John Beton, with whom Francis and I had appointed to return answer upon the 13th of August, and for that purpose had willed him to be ready upon the high moor before named, to receive answer that day. I came thither that day, and delivered the letter to him, which he then received, appointing with me to give answer to the same upon the 14th, in the same place, at eight of the clock in the morning. The effect of the letter was this: that where demand was made who would be partakers of the cause they answered that they had hope of many. Howbeit, because they knew not whether the matter would take effect, and because also the matter was of such importance, as it required great secrecy, they had not communicated the same to any others, but hereafter, if the matter were like to take effect, they would, and accordingly advertise. And as to the number of men, they were not assured of that certainly; howbeit they thought that about two hundred horsemen might be made to do the same. Further, there was required certain horses, for the more better (sic) furtherance of the matter, and some shot. This was the effect of that letter. The answer hereof was delivered unto me by the said John, the day before appointed. I returned instantly towards Lancashire, and in the way talked with Francis Rolleston, and told him what I had done. Then told he unto me that he had made his son, the said George, privy of the whole proceeding. Which done, I departed from him, and came to Latham the 16th of the same August, and delivered the letter to Sir Thomas Stanley, and further declared unto him what Francis Rolleston told me touching that he had opened the matter to his son as aforesaid. Which when he heard, be not so much as read the letter, but presently rent in pieces both letter and cipher, saying that we were all undone, and therefore willed me to depart. I departed presently to the Pipe, where I rested me until the 24th of August. Then rode I to London, and there declared to the Bishop of Ross what Rolleston had done, requiring him to advertise the Queen, his mistress, that the matter was dashed by that means. I stayed in London by the space of a week, and took physic for my old diseases, [and] returned again into Staffordshire, in which space the said George Rolleston rode up to the Court, and opened that which his father had said unto him. Hereof the said Francis gave me word, advising me to withdraw myself, for that he knew his son would lay all on my back. I forthwith repaired into Lancashire, and told both Sir Thomas Stanley and Sir Thomas Gerrard thereof. They advised me to go into Scotland. I told them it was more perilous for me than to tarry in my own country, because no Scottish man knew me, neither knew I any, and in such a divided country I could not well be in safety. So I departed into Shropshire, to the house of one Thomas Oteley, my cousin german, with whom I had before appointed to be all that winter, and there remained until such time as Sir Thomas Stanley sent for me thither, to whom when I came, he required me to be content to go into Scotland, declaring unto me that he had provided a means for me. Then delivered he unto me the letter, and the copy thereof, which was written by the Bishop of Ross. I was contented to depart. This was about the 18th of February last past; at which time the wind serving, I took sea at — in Lancashire, and by wind was driven into the Isle of Man, where I tarried for wind, until the second of March. Which day I shipped in Ramsey, and the same day arrived in the Isle of Whithorn, in Scotland. The fourth of March I came to Teregles, the Lord Hemes' house, to whom I delivered the said letter of the Bishop of Ross. He received it, and caused me to stay until the sixth of the same March, in the mean season advising me, because his house was not altogether out of peril, standing near the borders, that I would for more assurance go to Dumbarton in the convoy of the Abbot of Arbroath. I then rode in that company to Cragnathen, and rested there two days, and upon the 10th March, I came to Dumbarton, where I remained until the second of April with the Lord Fleming. Which day the house [was] taken, and so I tarried prisoner there until the 29th of April, and then was I conveyed to Stirling, where I remained but one day. And upon the first of May, I was carried to the Castle of Down, where I remained until the 11th of the same, which day I was transported to Leith, where I was stayed until the 14th of April [? May], which day I was carried to Berwick, to the Marshal there, and, upon the 23rd of this month, was brought from Berwick to London, whither I came the 27th of the same.”—Endorsed: 20 June 1571.
11 pp.
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