Cecil Papers: August 1601, 21-31

Calendar of the Cecil Papers in Hatfield House: Volume 11, 1601. Originally published by His Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1906.

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'Cecil Papers: August 1601, 21-31', in Calendar of the Cecil Papers in Hatfield House: Volume 11, 1601, (London, 1906) pp. 352-374. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-cecil-papers/vol11/pp352-374 [accessed 26 April 2024]

August 1601, 21–31

Sir Thomas Fane to Sir Robert Cecil.
1601, Aug. 21. I am this morning advertised from Calais that the French King's coming thither is daily expected, whereof I held it my duty to advertise.—Dover Castle, 21 August 1601.
Signed. Noted on the back :—“hast hast post hast. Dovor 12 in the forenone 21th of August. Canterbery past 2 of clok. Sytting-born 7 night. Rochester the 20 (sic) day at 11 at night. Dorford at 5 in the morninge. at London at 8 in the morninge.” Endorsed :—“Lieutenant of Dover Castle.” ½ p. (87. 123.)
Sir Thomas Fane to Sir Robert Cecil.
1601, Aug. 21. Being this day eftsoones advertised that the French King is this night expected at Calais, together with the greatest troop of his nobility that he has almost at any time been known to have been attended, albeit I cannot but assure myself the premisses are to you most perfectly known, yet my duty binds me in the absence of my very good Lord Warden to certify the same.—Dover Castle, 21 August 1601.
PS.—I am also advertised that four of the best ships of Calais are this morning appointed to pass towards Boulogne and along the French coast Westward, very gallantly prepared, but for what purpose I cannot certainly conjecture.
Holograph. On the back :—“hast post hast hast post hast. Dovor 21 August past 2 in the afternone. at Canterbery the 21 day of August 6 a clok in the afternon. Rochester the 22 day at 10 in the fornon. Darford at 2 in the afternonne the 22 of August at London at past 4 in the afternoone 22 of August. at Honslo at 6 in the aftern.” 1 p. (87. 122.)
[Sir Robert Cecil to the Archbishop Of Canterbury and Lord Chief Justice Popham].
[1601, Aug. 21.] Although I do presume that you may be advertised by some in this place of the state of her Majesty's affairs, yet I have thought it not amiss to seem to doubt whether some things may not be misreported : only because I would pick a quarrel to recommend unto you my love and service. The two States whereunto England has most relation at this present are her Majesty's kingdom of Ireland and the State of the Low Countries, and therein especially the proceeding at Ostend. For Ireland, you may please to understand that the Lord Deputy has been at the Black Water, and in all his encounters has had prosperous success. He means there to leave garrisons, which will make the pride of that traitor quickly abate, if foreign force arrive not : whereof, because I doubt not but you have heard many rumours, you shall understand this to be the truth : that a Spanish fleet has been seen at sea with an army of 4,000 or 5,000 men, purposely directed for that kingdom : out of which this certain judgment may be made, that they are by this time arrived, though we hear it not, or else they are driven back with the last storm, which I dare not hope for, though God has heretofore blessed her Majesty with the like success. This counsel of his to send into that kingdom is of an old date, although he has politicly delayed it till he saw things upon the point to be reduced to quiet in that kingdom. Hereupon, when her Majesty considers how unsound that kingdom is, how many are apt to revolt, and how fit it is to have her army as much English as she may, it has pleased her, who knows the difficulty of transportation, to prepare provisionally to the number of 4,000, to be transported into such parts as the Governor of that kingdom shall require : only, because the common opinion is that Munster is like to be the place of their descent, there are 2,000 of these appointed for Cork and Waterford, in which province this one good thing has happened, that the President has sent over hither prisoners the titulary Earl of Desmond and Florence McCarty, two of the powerful rebels of those parts. We do look by the next letters to hear more certainly, whereof I will advertise you, because I would be glad that you should understand upon how just grounds her Majesty is forced to these levies of men, of which God knows that all honest Ministers about her are sorry she has so necessary occasions. And now for Ostend, because you may neither apprehend too much nor too little, you shall understand that our last news from thence was this, by letters of the 11 of August, that Sir Francis Vere, having received a great wound in the head, was forced that day for saving of his life to come out of that town, and to go for Middleburgh, for nothing is so great an enemy to a blow in the head as volleys of shot, which within and without the town are more than almost is credible. For the town itself, there were not so few as 5,000 men, which although it may seem a number sufficient to defend a place, yet the experience of later times has so instructed great commanders which sit down to besiege a town, as that which was wont to be done by breaches and assaults, is now carried in a colder fashion, but to better effect, by sapping and mining by little and little, and not use the other form, in which great armies are wont to assail strong places. The haven remains still accessible, and the States have lately put in some new supplies : and yet if I shall tell you my own doubts privately, I assure you the place is like to run a shrewd hazard, for it is incredible with what resolution the Archduke is set down, and how royally his army is furnished of all things that can be required for a siege. Thus have I written unto you, as much as I presume any other man can truly advertise you. It remains, therefore, only for me to conclude with that which I know best pleases us both, namely, that our Sovereign is in perfect health and strength, Almighty God be praised! Of our Progress, I am sorry I cannot write unto you that it were abridged, you being well able to judge how ill these growing troubles concur with her Majesty being so far removed from her Council : for which purpose, because her Majesty sees you will not come to her, it is like that she will come to you.
Draft. Undated. In the hand of Levinus Munck, Cecil's Secretary. Endorsed :—“21 August 1601. To my Lord of Canterbury. To my Lord Chief Justice.” 3 pp. (87. 125–6.)
Alice, Countess Dowager of Derby to Sir Robert Cecil.
[1601], Aug. 21. At her entreaty Cecil wrote letters to the Lord Deputy of Ireland to bestow on Mr. Osbaldeston the place of the Queen's Serjeant-at-law there : but on his arrival he found the place bestowed upon Mr. Cardiffe, an Irishman. Now prays Cecil's help for him to be Queen's Chief Justice of the Province of Connaught, by reason that Mr. Dillom, who yet is in it, is become a reconciled recusant, and for that cause is to be removed. “Your assured loving cousin.”—York House, 21 August.
Signed. Endorsed :—“Countess of Darby Dowager 1601.” 1 p. (87. 124.)
Sir Anthony Cooke to Sir Robert Cecil.
1601, Aug. 21. Has this morning received at the Bath the Council's directions for the safe conveyance of “those two most notorious rebels and traitors” delivered to his charge by the Lord President of Munster, safely to be conveyed to London, and so to Sir John Payton, Lieutenant of the Tower. He has sent directions to the justices of peace and other officers to have in readiness against his coming with them to each several place, a sufficient guard of horse and foot.—Bath, 21 August 1601.
Holograph. 1 p. (87. 127.)
Siege of Ostend.
1601, Aug. 21. Plan of Ostend and district during the siege. By a French engineer.—21 August 1601.
1 sheet. (Maps, I. 48.)
G., Lord Hunsdon to Sir Robert Cecil.
1601, Aug. 21. I send you herewith a letter from the Deputy-Lieutenants of Hampshire in answer to letters sent them from the Council for the impresting of one hundred men and the levying of 350l. If they have been less forward in execution than by the Council was required, the reason appeareth to be that divers men of great living amongst them free themselves from contributions to her Majesty's service under the privilege of the Exchequer, whose refusal breedeth unwillingness in others. In redress whereof means hath been made to my Lord Treasurer, who hath promised reformation but none performed. I do entreat that upon Sunday you will recommend the consideration hereof to their Lordships at the Council table.—Hunsdon, 21th of August 1601.
Signed. Endorsed :—“Lord Chamberlain to my Mr.” Remains of seal. ½ p. (183. 15.)
Edmund Wylton to his friend, Robert Catesby.
1601, Aug. 21. I cannot yet salute you with any news other than that there is an expectation of certain forces to be landed in Ireland out of that fleet which was not long since discovered upon the coast of France. They are appointed to land in Munster, which is like to breed some great alteration in that state by reason that the army must of necessity be withdrawn from Tyrone, the chief rebel, to answer that alarm. All my friends are out of town; as soon as any return, you shall not fail to hear. In the meantime I will not fail of what I promised.—21 August 1601.
Holograph. Fragment of seal. 1 p. (183. 16.)
Lancelot Andrewes to Sir Robert Cecil.
1601, Aug. 22. Usually about this time it has been the Church's custom to bestow some three weeks in visiting their lands and keeping courts upon them, which because Mr. Dean his predecessor has long intermitted, by reason of his age and weakness, and now by Mr. D. Grant's death none to supply it, the officers of the Church think it expedient that he bear them company, and the tenants also seem desirous of it. But as Cecil signified not long since that he would ere long appoint some time wherein Mr. Dean of Paul's and the writer should attend him, about the difference between them concerning the writer's right of retaining the room which he has had in that Church, he has refused to stir from hence any whither before Cecil's pleasure is first known.—The College of Westminster, 22 August 1601.
Holograph. Endorsed :—“Dean of Westminster.” 1 p. (87. 128.)
Sir William Reede to Sir Robert Cecil.
1601, Aug. 22. Explains certain misconceptions with regard to his suit as to Holy Island, Northumberland. He desires only a renewal of his lease of the tithes of certain towns near the borders of Scotland, belonging to the Rectory of the Holy Island : whereof he has 32 years to come in the “sight house” [? site house] with appurtenances in Holy Island, and 43 years to come in the Rectory of the island.—Phennhame, 22 August 1601.
Holograph. Endorsed :—“Sir William Read.” 1 p. (87. 130.)
Lord Cromwell to Sir Robert Cecil.
1601, Aug. 22. Since I have understood by my poor wife that you would see me, I have been emboldened to address you with these few lines. To whom shall I complain, whose crimes have deprived me of everything—friends, allies, means. Alas, I know not, if God, her Majesty and you shall forsake me. God, by her Majesty, hath heard my prayers, and I entreat you to read my petition and relieve my overthrown fortunes. I shall devote the rest of my life to you.—From London, 22 August 1601.
Holograph. Seal. ¾ p. (183. 17.)
Sir Thomas Fane to Sir Robert Cecil.
1601, Aug. 23. On Thursday last there arrived at Margate from Calais, Roger Ingram, Ursula Ingram, Elizabeth Morgan, Mary Wylliams and Robert Sevell, who refused to take the oath of supremacy, as required by the Commissioners for the restraint of passage. Encloses their examinations. Although the pretence of their travel was for their health by help of the Spawe; yet in respect of their confessed folly in the premises, he has taken bond of Roger Ingram, being the conductor of the rest, for appearance before the Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports on his Lordship's return to London : and that in the meantime they shall leave word at his Lordship's house in the Blackfriars where they are abiding, so that if Cecil desires to take any other order with them they may be forthcoming.—Dover Castle, 23 August 1601.
Signed. On the back :—“Dover 23th August at 6 at night hast hast hast hast with dilligence. At Canterbery 23 of August at 10 a clok at nite. Sytynboren at 2 yn morynyng 24 of Aug. Rochester the 24 at 5 in the morninge. at London at eight in the morninge 24 of August. Hounslo at 10 a cloke in the night 24th of August.” 1 p. (87. 134.)
The Enclosures :—
Examinations of the abovenamed.
Roger Ingram, son of John Ingram, of Earl's Court, near Worcester. His last abiding in London was in Rogue Lane and Bartholomew Lane. At the end of last March, he accompanied his sister Ursula to the Spawe (by Calais, St. Omer's, Lille and Liege) who was troubled with a disease for which she had been at physic at Dr. Lodge's at Lambert Hill, London. At Lodge's house there lay Morgan and Williams, who went with them. He and his sister used the help of Dr. Thomas at the Spawe two or three months, and afterwards were at his house at Liege for a month. Before coming to London, he was at Oriel College, Oxford, two years, and before that, a scholar at Worcester College.
Ursula Ingram dwelt with Mrs. Philpot in Turnagain Lane by Newgate six years : afterwards waited upon Lady Tasborowe, wife of Sir John Tasborowe at Beckensfield, Bucks : and afterwards, being troubled with the green sickness, lay at Dr. Lodge's house. Further evidence to the same effect as Roger's.
Elizabeth Morgan, daughter of Rice Morgan of Hereford : waited upon the old Countess of Pembroke till her death, and then went to Lady Pawlet in Clerkenwell. Went to the Spawe with the others to cure shortness of breath.
Mary Wylliams, daughter of James Wylliams of Hereford, waited upon Dr. Wylliam Aubre's wife in London and Glamorganshire, and afterwards abode in Dr. Lodge's house for the green sickness. She and Morgan give further evidence as above.
Robert Sevell, son of Thomas Sevell, of Casbourgh, was placed by his father at a cook's house, “the Seven Stars,” in Paternoster Row; and becoming acquainted there with John Lowe, was persuaded by him to travel to Paris. They went to Calais, to the house of Anthony Emperour, where he remained till his now return, Lowe going further into the country. Says Lowe was a Catholic, and thinks he was a scholar. Had not seen the above examinates before he met them on the ship coming from Calais. Confesses he is a Catholic.
Ursula, Morgan and Wylliams confess to having been at mass, and all refuse the oath of supremacy.—22 August 1601.
4 pp. (87. 131–3.)
G. Harvy and J. Linewray to Sir Robert Cecil.
1601, Aug. 23. Defending themselves from blame in the matter of complaints received from Lough Foyle as to the bad quality of stores sent thither. If the powder was guelded and the match rotten, as alleged, they must have been damaged on the journey, as Allen confesses was likely. The shovels lately sent were the best ever despatched to Ireland, but the pickaxes were not all that could have been wished, partly for the want of a surveyor, partly through the haste of the service.—From the Tower, 23 August 1601.
Holograph by Harvy. Signed. Seal. 1 p. (183. 18.)
Rob[ert] Bar to Sir Robert Cecil.
1601, Aug. 24. Thanks him for his favours and offers services. He is presently to embark directly for the camp.—Dover, Aug. 24 1601.
Holograph. ½ p. (87. 136.)
Sir Thomas Fane to Sir Robert Cecil.
1601, Aug. 24. I have received your letter of the 23rd inst., concerning the coming of the French King to Calais. I have endeavoured to understand the occurrents of those parts, but cannot hitherto hear of any, by reason as I am informed, there has been a general restraint of passage since the King's coming, as well at Calais as at Boulogne.—Dover Castle, 24 August 1601.
Signed. On the back :—“hast hast post hast. Dover 24 August at 10 night. at Canterbury the 25 day 3 a cloke in the morning. Sitingborne 4 a cloke. Rochester the 25 past 7 in the morninge. Dartford the 25 day of August at past one a [clock]. at London at past 3 in the afternoone.” ½ p. (87. 137.)
Barbara, Lady Sydney to Sir Robert Cecil.
1601, Aug. 24. Protests the willingness of herself and Mr. Sydney to perform Cecil's wishes. She has willed Cecil's workman freely to take his choice of all such wrought stone as he finds fit for Cecil's use. She will do her best to procure carriages for it, which in this country in harvest time is somewhat scarce to come by.—Penshurst, 24 August 1601.
Signed. Endorsed :—“Lady Sydney.” 1 p. (87. 138.)
Captain Wigmore to Sir Robert Cecil.
[1601,] Aug. 24. If these other letters could have posted with those wings of zeal wherewith they were written, your Honour had long since received a truer information of things than by some, it should appear, hath been delivered. But my messenger, after twice putting to sea, and once getting within sight of England, was compelled by these contrarious winds still to return to me. In the State of Ostend there is little variation from what hath been written in those other letters, save this, that the Archduke by the often shifting of his ordnance, his idle attempting and unperfecting of mines and saps, doth more and more manifest the greatness of his desires and the meanness of his abilities. Indeed, I see now how it may stand with reason that a town like Ostend, with one of the ablest commanders in Europe, wherein are a far greater number of hands to defend than can possibly be brought to assail the same, and so plentifully stored with whatsoever may be required for the conservation thereof, and, lastly, so friendly neighboured with the sea, which yieldeth a constant opportunity for retiring the sick and wounded and restoring sound men in their places, cannot be carried by a much more potent enemy than the Archduke.
Her Majesty's gracious letters to the noble Sir Francis Vere hath so revived his bleeding spirits as from henceforth he will have little need of other physic. These stormy winds do still detain his Excellency from coming into Middelborough, where five days since he hath hourly been expected. I hope to advertise your Honour what his conference with Sir Francis Vere, whereunto he is directed by the States, shall bring forth.—Vlushing, Aug. 24.
PS.—This afternoon the C. Maurice arrived at Middelborough.
Holograph. Endorsed :—“1601.” Seal. 2 pp. (183. 19.)
Dr. Richard Neile to Sir Eobert Cecil.
1601, Aug. 24. I have sent to your Honour the letters expected from Dr. Goode, but I have not yet heard from the gentlemen of Cambridgeshire. The Doctor shall perhaps seem to stand too much upon some nice terms with you, but you will please to remember that the letter is to be shown to the now tenant who should conceive that, in this whole business, the College good is chiefly regarded. It were convenient if you should send for both the father and son from Harfield while you are at Windsor. The motions which I have made to Mr. Assheby the son were these three. Either your Honour to give him 100l. present to surrender his lease, reserving to him for his time as much commodity in every respect as he now reapeth; or, upon the surrender of his eight years, to give him ten years; or to give him 1,000l. for his whole interest in the lease. Your Honour shall seem willing to stay the time that the College may make a sufficient lease to you; only you should engage them, if they depart with their interest, that you have have the first refusal of it.
If Mr. Asshby, the father, come to you, it may please you to offer him composition of his lease of the great wood of Ruislip, which is a third thing from the site and demesnes of Ruislip, which his son hath, and from the park, which Mr. Garret and Hawtrey have. The whole thing, if it might be compassed together, would be one of the goodliest things in Middlesex.
It pleased your father to grant to a brother-in-law of mine, a concealed ward, the heir of one Anthony Colly, of Glason in the County of Rutland. The poor man hath all this time been delayed by some with persuasion that it is not likely to be found for her Majesty; but rather a course is sought to compound with the friends of the ward and suppress her Majesty's title. Please you to join me in your second grant of it, to me and my said brother, granting us a new commission with a supersedeas of all former writs, &c.
Holograph. Undated. Endorsed :—“1601. 24 Aug. Your Honour's chaplain, Dr. Neale.” 1¼ pp. (183. 20.)
Hugh Cuffe to Sir Robert Cecil.
[1601, August 25.] He discontinues his suit for the ward upon Sir Watter Rawley's advice, inasmuch as Cecil has bestowed the ward upon his household servant. Has spent all his money in lying here long about the same, and knows not how to get out of the town : prays therefore for some employment for Munster, or other ways a packet.
Holograph. Undated. Endorsed :—“25 August 1601.” ½ p. (87. 139.)
Captain John Ogle to Sir Robert Cecil.
1601, Aug. 25. I have understood by Mr. Buck, and since by Captain Butler, of your favour; and according to the advertisements I have, and as my dim sight will give me leave to write, I send you a taste of the occurrences of these parts. The town of Ostend is as yet, the haven being open, subject only to two perils, the industries of the enemy and the rage of the sea. The enemy is approached so near as he can, being advanced to the cut of the dyke, where our men have let in the sea, and is now waxen very broad, by estimation 70 foot. Some speak that they will make artificial mines with pipes of lead, but the most judicious engineers hold it impossible. His determination is resolute to continue the siege, but his councils full of doubt how to proceed. There is no appearance of the loss of the town so long as he cannot impeach the course of shipping. He is possessed of that part of ground, as I hear, which is upon the other side upon the elbow or turning of the new haven, which was by some informed to your Honour to be of such importance for the gaining or losing of the town. It doth a little annoy our shipping, but nothing to the hindrance of the business. The fury of his shooting with cannon is somewhat allayed, but that is but for the interim of changing his batteries. The merchants from Antwerp send daily sums of money, to be delivered for four for one, upon the gaining of the town by the last of December. Their hopes build upon the sea, the second suspected enemy—and therefore, I should think, upon the sand—for the rage of the sea, it is yet more of our part than against us. For where the water is let in by the cutting of the dyke, it annoys all the lower works and trenches of the enemy, but threateneth nothing as yet to the town, and besides, there are certain men which have undertaken and entered into bonds to the Estates for three hundred and thirty pounds to assure the bulwarks against the sea. To that end the Estates have sent in provision of faggots and boards and other necessaries. Ninety ships laden with commodities of all sorts arrived in the haven betwixt the 30 of August and the 2 of Septemb. according to the new style; and daily store of provision is sent thither. There is no want in the town but of the General's presence. The greatest enemy that I fear our troops shall find will be the winter weather, joined with our hard duties of watching and small commodity of lodging.
His Excellency is come down to Zealand, but, should seem, hath a design in Brabant whither the troops gather.
The news of the French King's discontentment doth yet continue, and that he will attempt to raise the siege; that he hath troops in readiness at Calais if the Archduke yield not to certain articles of his propounding. In my poor opinion, the Archduke being lodged where he is, need not fear an army of forty thousand to raise him, neither from the King of France nor from his Excellency.
At Emden, eight days since, is arrived a shipper that came out of Spain, who had been there ten days before that, who reports for certain a fleet of Spaniards, consisting of ten thousand men and about fifty sail of ships, to be at sea. Arrest of shipping was made till they were put to sea.
His Excellency makes fair weather to my Lord the General, but I do not observe that he doth seek any advancement to the Flanders businesses.
There is a kind of jealousy underhand between the Estates of Zealand and the Commissioners sent from them of Holland for this business of Ostend; which hath perhaps caused things not to be carried with that expedition that might have been, but I can perceive that their fear of her Majesty's displeasure doth combine their otherwise disunited minds. Mr. Buck, I am assured, shall have instructions sufficient to inform you of all particulars of their designs now in hand.—Middelborough, this 25 of August, stilo veteri, 1601.
Holograph. 1½ pp. (183. 21.)
Sir John Davis to Sir Robert Cecil.
[1601, Aug. 25.] I beseech you to accept my thanks for my enlargement.
Holograph. Undated. Endorsed :—“25 Aug. 1601.” Seal. 1 p. (183. 22.)
John [Whitgift,] Archbishop of Canterbury, to Sir Robert Cecil.
1601, Aug. 25. I am exceedingly beholden to you for your letters advertising me of the State of Ireland and Ostend. My hearty prayers go up for both, and especially for the preservation of her Majesty. One thing we all must rejoice in, that so far as can be conceived by all external actions and tokens, she hath the love of her people.—From my house at Ford, the 25 of August 1601.
Holograph. Seal. ½ p. (183. 23.)
The Earl of Pembroke to Sir Robert Cecil.
[1601,] Aug. 26. Arthur Massinger is now come to London, and I have commanded him presently to wait upon you with the patent, such as it is. His stay has been longer than I could imagine. If the Queen continue her displeasure a little longer, undoubtedly I shall turn clown, for justice of peace I can by no means frame unto, and one of the two a man that lives in the country must needs be. If you mean to have a gamester of me, you were best by some means to get me from hence : for here there is no game known but trump; primero is held a conjuring word. Pray, if I write idly, pardon me, for I have as little to do here as any man living. If you still hold me in your favour, and once in a month speak a good word for me, it is more than so unworthy can challenge.—Wilton. 26 August.
Holograph. Endorsed :—“1601.” 1 p. (87. 141.)
Sir John Popham to Sir Robert Cecil.
1601, Aug. 26. I have received your kind and friendly letters, whereby you have made known unto me things that I was before utterly ignorant of, otherwise than as the bruit of the country carried them : and your letters do satisfy me of her Majesty's coming into these parts, which before I stood very doubtful of : and it is my greatest comfort to understand her Majesty has that strength of body that she is able to undergo such travail in hunting and otherwise as I hear she has done, since she set forth in this progress. God continue it still. I hope you will be pleased to take your lodging with me at her Majesty's being here. I trust the harbinger and your own servant shall find some place to content you, as the time and case stands, whereof I shall be very glad. And now I must entreat all my honourable friends to make the best of what they shall find here, and to take all in good part; otherwise I fear me I shall be utterly ashamed.—Lytlecott, 26 August 1601.
Holograph. Endorsed :—“Lord Chief Justice.” 1 p. (87. 142.)
Sir Tho. Fane to Sir Robert Cecil.
1601, Aug. 26. With an enclosure from Mr. Edmonds.—Dover Castle, 26 August 1601.
Signed. On the back :—“hast hast post hast hast for lyf lyfe lyfe. Dover this 26 August at 9 night. at Canterbery at 12 at nite. at Cytynboren at 4 yn the moryng 27 August. Rochester the 27 day all most at 7 in the morige. Dartford the 27 of August at past 9 afore noone.” ½ p. (87. 143.)
Richard [Bancroft,] Bishop of London, to Sir Robert Cecil.
1601, Aug. 26. I bought some Caen stone to help to repair the Church of St. Paul's. Some I have already employed that way, and the rest is at your commandment without measure or price, for you might have left out that clause. I am desirous to hear your opinion of the treatise I left with you, as likewise to have it again.—At Fulham, this 26 of Aug. 1601.
Holograph. Seal. ½ p. (183. 24.)
Mr. Secretary Herbert to Sir Robert Cecil.
[1601, Aug. 26.] This morning, coming to Court, the Lord Admiral delivered me the packet, having the night before opened the same. Lords be lawless, but he imputeth it to the virgin, who expecteth seriously her fairing as due to her being a fair lady. The contents both of your letter and Mons. Caron pleased her highly, and I must give you warning to take heed of these sea-rulers who threaten to take up all stragglers at Bartholemew fair and to put them into the galleys. Her Majesty, God be praised, liketh her journey, the air of this soil and the pleasures and pastimes shewed her in the way, marvellous well.
Holograph. Undated. Endorsed :—“26 August 1601.” ¾ p. (183. 25.)
Jo. Byrde to Sir Robert Cecil.
1601, Aug. 27. With what dutifulness he has observed Cecil's pleasure for his attendance on him this week in London, his present readiness may suffice “for testimony to bring Mr. Lieutenant of the Tower or any other justice to take the repetition of the attestation I delivered to you”: albeit cunning and malice are in practice to work a retractation of what is enclosed. Is ready to prosecute the service if given authority and purse for rewarding necessary espials, intelligencers and service doers. Asks whether, for the apprehension of Blackwell, he may engage his credit for assuring two persons, a man and a woman, 100l. between them : and for Jerrard 100 marks, seeing Mr. Lieutenant, as it is said, has promised to give 60l. for Jerrard (so as he may be at the taking of him); and for Blackwell, divers, “inferior persons unto counsellors,” would willingly give 100l. to have the honour of his downfall or surprisal, being held for as great a piece of service as ever was undertaken by any private man. By Blackwell's convincement of sundry fundamental parts of the decayed buildings of the Romish Church held (in contradictorio) by Blewett, Dr. Bagshatt and others, Romanists, Jesuits and seminaries of a contrary faction, the Papal government usurped throughout Christendom, especially in England, will be unrecoverably shaken down. Leaves Cecil to judge by the enclosed what probability there is, by well handling of two women, for Jerrard's apprehension, being in his conceit already half done : but without 100l. he knows none so forward to interpose himself therein. Suggests raising the money upon revenues formerly due to him out of Ireland : or, by the commitments and releasements of the mass mongers detected last week in the Clinck, sufficient money might come to enable him to undertake the charges of this service. Offers to bring into her Majesty's purse 20,000l. by means better known to himself than any other man in England. Will attend Cecil's pleasure to-morrow.—27 August 1601.
PS.—When he intimated to one councillor of this State of the arrival in Ireland of the Pope's Legate, with commission to stir up Tyrone and the heads of the Northern Irishry to rebellion, and for 100l. offered to hazard his life to take him before they broke out, or were suspected here, he was not regarded : whereby the loss of 100,000l. has ensued, and might have been prevented.
Holograph. 3 pp. (87. 146.)
The Enclosure :—
The 20 of August 1601, mass was said (as no day fails), by one of three priests, prisoners in the Clynk, alternis vicibus, for all comers in the forenoon, and dirges in the afternoon. Whereat were partakers the wife of one Cooke, whose husband is prisoner there, and her lodging so close adjoining to the prison in an alley as day and night she may at her pleasure deliver and receive for the prisoners in most restraints letters or what else may be requirable; also a widow called Harding's widow, and his wife that makes the hosts or sacramental bread and wax lights, and purveys all other complements for massing and superstitious uses, dwelling in the liberty of the L. Mountacute called [blank in MS.] from whom may be drawn the names of all the communicants for that and other days' massings, whereof were very many gentlemen and citizens in all sorts, men and women. These priests called Rowse, Barroes, and Clerck at their pleasures have been suffered, as wolves amongst sheep, to range about the city and countries without keepers, and to meet with others of their faction, for no good, as it may be gathered, for the common welfare of God's Church, or our sacred Prince and subjects of this land : and as Cerberus, Herberus and Sphinx, are said to be a triplicity of heads of Hydra's kind, from whom many other prodigious monsters increased for Lucifer's kingdom, and were “alluded” unto such damnable vices as most reign and rule over voluptuous and licentious mortal men; so from them, and others of their hellish Romish rebellious rout of Jesuits and Seminaries, many libertines of this age (more than in any former by 16,000, as they make computation, within 18 months increased of their faction, by apostacy and falling away from God and her Majesty), have so much surfeited of their poisonful bulls and Romish drugs, as the sting and worm which of late was in the continual motion and working of the consciences of men (as taught that no sin could escape unpunished without hearty repentance and intercession unto Christ) have been taught of new schoolmasters sent out of the Pope's nursery of perdition, that toties quoties peccaverint, in murders, treasons, rebellions against their Prince and countries, rapines, incestuous, adulterous or fornicatorious embracements, they may be absolved and pardoned at their hands, haply participants with them of the same damnable crimes; in so much as women (and not of the meanest birth and education) have been so besotted and over carried with them and their abominable charms (more dangerous than the siren's, which sought but the destructions of the bodies of human creatures) as they think themselves most sanctified as may have most carnal dealings with them, or to lie in their sheets when they cannot enjoy their companies : over foul and hateful to be suffered in a Christian governed commonweal, whereof a maiden Prince holds the sceptre in hand.
Shortly after which mass so done, one of the communicants thereof took occasion to visit a gentlewoman, called Mrs. Jane Leake, unmarried, having the rule and government of her father's house in Fleet St., who is held of many the Catholics (so called) to be the concubine of that Jesuit Jerrard who brake the Tower, of whom she has received great maintenance, like as he has from her received many kind favours, in as open mutual love and liking as any unmarried lovers may do; who being asked when she heard from Mr. Jerrarde, she replied the very same day that she had received a letter from him, written at Mrs. Wiborne's house in Buckinghamshire, brought by a porter which attends those carriers, by which she expected his coming the same or next night, being Saturday last. And two days after she was again demanded of his coming, who answered that a letter which she then had in her hand came from him, by the hands of one Porrenger, a priest, whose abiding is with Mr. Roper of the King's Bench office, and some others dwelling within Southampton House, which purported his excusation for his not coming, for that he happened into so good company who led him along with him into Sussex, as he doubted of his return until the term's beginning, and then would not fail to visit her and others his godly friends.
Which said Jerrarde's abidings are much with her, and in Southampton House with the old Lady Cornwallis, Mr. Roper['s] at some times (as it is said), and at St. John's with Mr. Jarningham. Jerrard's discovery may the better be by observing this description of him and his habit. To be of stature tall, high shouldered, especially when his cope is on his back, black haired, and of complexion swarth, hawk nosed, high templed, and for the most part attired costly and defencibly in buff leather, garnished with gold or silver lace, satin doublets and velvet hose of all colours, with cloaks correspondent, and rapiers and daggers gilt or silvered.
Blackwell's description thus : About 50 years of age, his head brownish, his beard more black, cut after the fashion of a spade, of stature indifferent, and somewhat thick, decently attired in black silk “rash” hose and doublet, with a silk russet or black cloak of good length laced, with a rapier and dagger sanguined or sometimes gilt. Termly he is in London, and at this instant as near to Framingham as he well may be (as it is thought) for love he bears unto a countryman and kinsman of his called Hues, alias Hewes, from whom no devices will be sparing for intercourse of letters, touching each other's proceedings and welfare, and for intelligence and reformation of what may be amiss amongst the Jesuits and Seminaries, amongst whom a late sedition and faction is arisen for controversible opinions (as was between Protestants and Brownists with other sectaries in the Church of England) whereof one Blewett, a Jesuit (lately set at liberty by the favour or policy of one Councillor of State) is supposed to be a principal bellows or blower of those coals, whereof good hope may be conceived for the overthrow of the Papal government especially usurped in England. Which Blewett, with Doctor Bagshott alias Bagshawe, Barloe, and Barroes, lately released out of the Clink, and Framingham, are in preparation to return to Rome, not without licence, as it is thought, from the State, and with a purpose of returning back into England with new oil to their lamps from the Pope's apostolical (as they call it) authority, to make their part of this faction the more “splendent” and stronger for quenching of the others' firebrands. Howbeit, feared it is, and not without probable arguments, that in being suffered to range at their pleasures over all the countries and cities of this land, as they now do, for massings and other superstitious respects, and to gather from the Papists generally of this land what monies or letters they may to foreign potentates, or other purposes than are as yet discovered unto the highest, that the same cannot be without hurt to God's Church, danger to our Prince, and disturbance of the well settled peace of this realm. Meet therefore that such courses were laid for intercepting of their letters and treasures at the maritime ports or known places of their shippings; and not to be licensed without bonds (taken of others than of their religion) for no intermeddling in state causes between princes in partibus transmarinis. At whose public meetings and private conventicles, many of the best affected, being diversely carried with fears and doubts, both of public and their private dangers, in regard that such priests overboldly have lately encroached upon their companies, and in long time could not descry their professions and drifts for perverting and seducing them from God's and her Majesty's laws, wish and pray that the realm were purged of such impostumate members, by some determinate course, as best might be for the honour of God and perpetual good of the Prince and people, in the wisdoms of her Majesty and Council, wanting no powerful means in the obedience of loyal and loving subjects to reform what is amiss in these queasy times; for which the “promovent” of this service, having but one poor soul to adventure with her Majesty's, and one life temporal for her Highness' and his country's good, will be found as forward without shrinking at any dangers as he may be enabled by power and purse from her Majesty, for his assistance and rewarding of such espials, intelligencers, and other necessary service doers, without which no services of weight may be achieved.—27 August 1601, “as becometh a faithful Register for her Majesty's prerogatives in Ireland, John Byrde.”
Holograph. 4 pp. (87. 144–5.)
Barnard Adams to Sir Robert Cecil.
1601, Aug. 27. Since your Honour appointed me one of her Majesty's preachers within the County palatine of Lancaster, I have ever published to the world how meritoriously you have deserved of the Church and of all good men. Concerning the success of the holy business imposed upon me, I may report of the circuit wherein I am placed that there is an outward indifferent, although not a perfect general, reformation. For the most part, albeit they retain some dregs of their superstitious opinions, yet they are grown to be Church comers in such measure that our congregations here are nothing inferior to any in the best professing countries. There are nevertheless not a few obstinate, and most of them not of the worst sort, who had need be compelled by more sovereign authority. This I but bequeath to your Honour's wisdom, praying God continually that by his merciful grace and favour from above you may ever be preserved in the highest grace and favour here below.—Aug. 27 1601.
Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (183. 26.)
Mr. Secretary Herbert to Sir Robert Cecil.
[1601, Aug. 27.] This morning I took opportunity and have despatched both the warrant and privy seal for the supply of powder and other provisions for Ireland, the which I have sent you herewith. The dispensation for Windsor, her Highness hath put off until another time. Upon conference she had with my Lord Admiral, she is resolved upon Monday next to return either towards Windsor or Nonsuch. My Lord Admiral shewed me a letter he received from Sir Robert Mansell that the King determineth to send presently over either Mons. de Byron or the Duke of Buillon, and that a Count of Zolne came to Calais from the Archduke and is returned back.
Holograph. Undated. Endorsed :—“27 Aug. 1601.” 1 p. (183. 27.)
Daniel More.
1601, Aug. 28. Examination of Daniell More, of London, servant to Mr. Bullmer, taken before the Mayor and Justices of Kingston-upon-Hull, 28 August 1601.
Being a stranger in Hull, and lodging in Phillip Turner's house, there on Thursday last came another stranger to the said inn, who demanding of him his name and country, and being told, seemed very glad, and told him his name was also More. The stranger, Richard More, said his business was by a direction from Sir Robert Cecil, from whom he had private letters to enquire what estate men were of, to the intent they might lend the Queen money : and that his charges in that service were defrayed by Cecil. Signed by Hugh Armine, Mayor, Luke Thurscros, John Lyster, John Graves, Anthony Burnsell, and Marmaduke Hadylse.
Contemporary copy. 1 p. (87. 147.)
John Allen to Sir Robert Cecil.
[1601], Aug. 28. It pleased your Honour to command me to set down in writing a particular of my speeches to you concerning the great expense of powder by the army in Ireland. Since the foot companies have received their powder at her Highness' hands gratis, and not defaulted upon their entertainments, as before the erection of the apparel was accustomed, there hath been generally a more large expense and a less care in preserving. For it appeareth in the captain's former accounts, when the powder was paid by the soldier, that most bands expended not above six or eight barrels in the year, whereas many receive now that proportion every half-year.
For the extraordinary expense of match, it could not otherwise be, for since the troubles grew great all the carriages have been of necessity bound with match both out of the office of the ordnance and from the victuallers; by reason the mountain people have not frequented our towns with withies which were accustomable to bind all manner of carriages that passed over land. And the companies being for the most part continually employed in service, there is required a continual burning of match, whereas when they were in times past half the year resting in garrisons, with not above one or two matches at once needful to be burning in a company, now when they be in field, fifty or sixty be the least continually burning.
Whereas the officers in the Tower intend to send ten lasts by sea in single casks, I beseech you that further consideration be had herein. It was a general opinion upon the mischance of powder in Dublin, that the want of double cask was the cause. Truly there is not that convenience of landing or carrying of powder as in the Tower. For it must be brought a long way through the streets to the Castle, where in spite of all care, the sight thereof will be grievous to the citizens.—Aug. 28.
Holograph. Endorsed :—“1601.” 1 p. (183. 28.)
The Bishop Of Boulogne to Mr. Harrison.
1601, Aug. 28./Sept. 7. Encore que vous soyez sorty de France sans daigner m'escrire, je ne vous lairray pas en angle-terre sans vous rechercher et vous temoigner que je n'oublie point que j'ay en ohers. Une fois je seray fort aise d'ouir que mieux vous soit la qu icy, par une nation estrangere et diverse de vos mœurs; mais pourtant je vous desiroy plustost icy absent de mal que present a la calamite trop ordinaire a ceux qui repassent sans bonne caution a cause des malheurs passes. Si toutefois j'estoy appelle en temoig-nage je puis mettre la main au feu pour vous, comme je feray, et l'ay toujours asseure que je n'ay rien reconnu en vous qu'un zele tres ardent a votre roine et a votre estat. Advisez toujours en ce que je vous pourray estre utile.—Paris, vii Sept. 1601.
Holograph. Endorsed :—“To be digested.” Seal. 1 p. (88. 26.)
Thomas Screven to Michael Hickes.
1601, August 29. In answer to your letter, as my Lord commanded, so did I make offer of his little house by Ivy Bridge to Mr. Secretary, either for his own use, or to plant such neighbour therein as might be to his liking : and I know it to be his Lordship's meaning that Mr. Secretary should dispose of it accordingly at his good pleasure; therefore what his Honour will command me I must do. I will attend him either at the Court, or upon his return hither, and till I shall know his pleasure I will retain it in my hands, and not treat with any other, but shall be glad it may fall to your lot.—29 August 1601.
Holograph. ½ p. (87. 148.)
Wm. Stallenge to Sir Robert Cecil.
1601, August 30. I have despatched this packet chiefly for the conveyance of Mr. Heale's letter, wherein goes one other which he received of an Irishman lately arrived in this place, as by his you shall be more at large advertised. The said Irishman, as I understand, is now remaining at Mr. Thomas Heale's : if you think meet he be sent up to deliver the Jesuit's letter himself, haply he may discover more of that orood, wherein Mr. Heale is persuaded he will do his best.
From Edmonde Palmer I have received a letter of the 17th of this month, whereby I understand that the Frenchmen use all diligence to transport their goods out of Spain, fearing what will follow of the late proclamation made in France. Those of Bayon and thereabouts, having many great ships at the Newfoundland, from thence to go for Spain, have sent 4 barks to lie about the North Cape and the coast of Galezia, to advise them to return home with their fish.
From South Spain or Lisborne, he says, he has not any late advertisements, by reason the sickness is so great in the country that few can pass.
At the Passage are 4 new ships of about 800 tons the piece, laden with iron and other commodities, bound for St. Lucar. At Laredo, 2 small Spanish men of war : at St. Tander, one small man of war : and at the Groyne 3: and that there is no more preparation in all that coast. The gentleman that sends the letter herewith is a justice of peace and a counsellor at law, being cousin german to Mr. Serjeant Heale, and by marriage is something allied to Sir John Fortiscue. He now dwells in this town, where if it please you to take knowledge of him as occasion may serve, he is very sufficient and well affected.—Plymouth, 30 August 1601.
Holograph. Endorsed :—“With a letter from Mr. John Heale.” 1 p. (87. 149.)
John Stanhope to his uncle, Sir John Stanhope.
1601, Aug. 31. I thank you for the good advice you gave me in your last letter touching my proceeding with the Earl of Rutland. I do now entreat you to make known the matter to her Majesty. It concerns me much to have an end one way or the other. The match was begun between the late Countess and my father, and concluded since their deaths in the beginning of last winter, but the consummating stayed for want of opportunity to crave her Majesty's allowance thereof.
One kindness more I would crave at your hands, which is, to move Mr. Secretary for his warrant to Mr. Attorney of the Wards for the continuance of my livery from Michaelmas term to Candlemas and from thence to Easter term, because in Lent vacation I would find mine office and sue forth my livery.
The cause is for that my mother hath had most, and still hath many, of my principal evidences, without which I cannot find mine office : and if I could find it without them, I should by that means be excluded from that Court, and driven to an endless suit elsewhere for the compassing of my evidences. The true circumstances of these unnatural courses I forbear to write because I would be loth that any man should have under my hand matter of that unworthiness against her whom by nature I am bound to reverence.—Elvaston, this last of August, 1601.
Holograph. Endorsed :—“8th of September 1601.” Seal. 1¼ pp. (88. 32.)
Henry Lok to Sir Robert Cecil.
1601, Aug. 31. Being this morning at London (by a former appointment of Mr. Wilbrom's and mine) to have met with Mrs. Killigrew before him for examination particularly of her brother's answer by me sent and by him carried to your Honour, and a copy thereof on Saturday from Mr. Wilbrom sent to her, it was, by her suit, stayed until Friday, so as his report by her default cannot be presently sent. Yet, understanding by this poor discomforted gentleman, that your Honour had been hardly informed of his course and purpose in his lately procured favour by me from your Honour, I could do no less but forthwith acquaint you with the cause of delay, and renew to your memory how far all that you have yet done therein, doth extend; which is only to take order that such things as are liable by law to extent, may be extended in the Court of Wards for his debt there, and that the goods, being in part casual, being tithes, may be so carefully looked unto as her Majesty nor the owners be abused by the baillies and inferior officers in gathering thereof. But that, seeing tithes are not reserved without charges presently disbursed, such a one may be put in trust therewith as will put in sufficient security for faithful dealing : as Mr. Persival, the writer, and I, the procurer, must on our credits avow. Which being so, there is nothing done by your Honour but lawful, honourable and conscionable. That to enjoy so sweet a morsel, there would be labour and all means used, I could not but think; but knowing that truth in so wise and honourable a judgment would prevail, I never feared their practices. For proof whereof, as it is all I ever understood of his object or practice in finding this lease in this extent, thereby to come to account with his sister, so, I see, he craveth and I have offered to Mr. Wilbrom, seeing he hath been thereto nominated by your Honour, that he would be pleased to audit the account between them, and to report to you as he in conscience findeth. For, albeit he is known to have been of their counsel heretofore, and therefore in a matter of 400l. a year not by everbody held fit to be trusted, yet his honesty to me and uprightness known, and due regard of the trust by you imposed in him, I would especially crave that he might take it upon him, as I trust he will, if she dare repose her cause on his conscience. Thus your Honour, seeing no abuse of your favour extended, will, I trust, reserve a favourable care to the report of Mr. Wilbrom, and with a gracious countenance relieve the wound of an oppressed soul, who only hopeth the continuance of your favour as his courses shall appear honest, however heretofore he hath been careless of his reputation.—London, last Aug. 1601.
PS.—I am bold to remember thus much farther to your Honour. Mr. Wilbrum already doth conclude, that if she be paid her due and charges (though not in form and time yet in right) that then the lease is his, and it being so, if anything remain due to her, it is in your Honour to see her satisfied out of it, which is all he desireth, so that he may come to an end of his uncertain right therein, whereby others also may with like equity and conscience be paid. And I know Serjeant Heal would himself have extended it if he durst have put it into his hands.
Holograph Endorsed :—“Concerning Mr. Kyllegrew.” 2½ pp. (83. 30.)
The Earl Of Desmond to Sir Robert Cecil.
1601, Aug. Whereas I had your consent for Thomas Og, that he should have the Lords' letters that no challenges or demands should be made of him or his people, concerning those things which he or they during their disobediences, before their receiving of her Highness' mercy, took from many, it being a matter far from their abilities to satisfy; I beseech you, in regard of his small means to give attendance, or mine to uphold his charge therein, you would give order for the draft of the letter with the Lords' hands thereto, for his despatch.—Greenwich, August 1601.
Holograph. 1 p. (87. 152.)
Sir Henry Nevill to Sir Robert Cecil.
[1601, Aug.] Renews his suit for the mitigation of his fine. The reason he made the suit was that nothing could or would be strained against him further than misprision, and because the substance of his land was so conveyed to his son, that he could neither forfeit it in any extremity but during his life, nor sell any such portion of it as would raise any great sum of money. Prays Cecil again to estimate what his estate for life might be worth, and offer it to the Queen in his name. Begs him to consider what great charge he was at in his late service, wherein he was forced to sell land to the value of 4,000l. Trusts her Majesty will consider this in mitigating his punishment. His land in possession amounts not to above 700l. a year : out of which some allowance must needs have gone for his maintenance, if her Majesty had taken a course of rigour against him : so she could not have made of it above 500l. clear. At 6 years' purchase, the uttermost rate usual in such cases, his estate for life will not amount to above 3,000l. If the Queen will reduce his fine to 6,000 marks, and accept the latter 3,000 marks by 300 marks a year, he would hope, by help of his friends, to provide 1,000 marks to be paid upon the delivery of his pardon, and to give security to pay the other 2,000 at Hollontide next. Asks leave to sell 2 tithes in Yorkshire towards raising this money. If it is denied, he must endure what is laid upon him, for other means he has none : and his mind is so prepared already for misery, that nothing can be much more welcome to him than that which is the end of all misery. Prays that among so great examples of mercy he may not be made the only precedent of rigour.
Holograph. Undated. Endorsed :—“August 1601.” 2 pp. (87. 153.)
John Owen to Sir Robert Cecil.
1601, Aug. His desire to enter Cecil's service moved him, on the death of his master Sir Francis Walsingham, to make suit for the same; and he being recommended by Lord Cobham and Lord Henry Seamer, Cecil promised that if her Majesty made choice of him to that honourable place he now holds, he would accept thereof. Since he went into France, where for the most part he has remained, he still continues in the same desire.—August 1601.
Holograph. ½ p. (87. 154.)
Henry Lok to “His Honour” [Sir R. Cecil].
[1601, Aug.] I must not conceal that I understand by a letter from Cales that a letter dated the 15 August now was sent from Mr. And. Clark from Liedg (directed to Nicolson) containing some earnest affairs of E. Bothwell's here, which it seems hath been met with at Dover, and never arrived to me, nor heard of. What it may import, I know not. But by a letter of the Governor's of Ards, it appears to be of great weight and haste, and whose answer is by the E. attended or some from him until the end of September. I hear he is about the frontiers of France, and came through Germany. I crave the letter may be enquired after, and if it be in cypher there be in London some of his that can guess at it. If his purposes and employments be as is thought, it may be profitable to know them in time : and this missed letter makes me suppose he doth rest on his old grounds, of which (in a letter sent on Friday) I dilated more particularly to your Honour.
Holograph. Undated. Endorsed by Cecil's secretary :—“Mr. Lock to my Mr. 1601.” 1 p. (90. 113.)
John Blagrave to Sir Robert Cecil.
[1601, Aug.] Dwelling by Reading, where the whole progeny of us had been supplanted about sixteen years past had not your honourable father swayed the right of our cause against the mighty ones of that time almost ten years together, myself, the middle brother, being very conversant with the townsmen, do think fit you should know that, after the Earl of Essex's death, labour was made to the Mayor, Steward and some other of the burgesses to elect Mr. Controller their High Steward in his place. At the election day, contrary to their expectation, the greater part both of the first and second burgesses, and even the very best of both sorts, made choice of your Honour and carried it by most voices. The workers on the other side have since not only wrought the Mayor not to certify that election, but also by secret whispering, terming your Honour his enemy, to dissuade your side, then with a kind of sub-threatening and secret depraving of your Honour, and now lastly, by a very practice contrived on Sunday last, they mean forthwith to have a new election, and only Mr. Controller to be nominated and no other, where before seven noblemen according to their orders were proposed. Many flying speeches go about and the bells ring evening, night and morrow, a thing unusual, which maketh the matter more talked of. They have now drawn the odd man of the first burgesses on their side, and by some means have surprised one other of the stoutest, who, it is thought, will be mute but not go that way. The rest continue still most eager to stand for your Honour, yet none dares to come to you, for fear of further displeasure on the other side if you should not accept of it. I humbly entreat from you some intelligence what your poor friends were best to do, that I might either from you, or myself, advise them to their least harm.—This present Monday.
Holograph. Undated. Endorsed :—“1601 August.” 1 p. (183. 31.)
Lord Buckhurst to Sir Robert Cecil.
[1601, Aug.] By sending your letter to London, and by the messenger that was sent from London to Horseley who missed me upon the way, mine answer comes late unto you. I am as desirous as you to have conference with you. I came to London on Friday night and mean there to stay this sennight, where now I will expect you and will not depart till you come.—This Saturday morning. Your letter came to me yesternight at one of the clock after midnight.
PS.—I send you a copy of our best warrant, as Mr. Skinner informs me, for payment of Irish services which I now remember, for that now we are to have a new privy seal for the two thousand men now newly to go into Ireland, which are above our establishment, and we have no warrant to pay incident charges belonging to that service of two thousand men, as I take it. Touching some conference had by me with the victuallers, Mr. Wade shall inform you, but I defer concluding thereof till you and I meet, for that the number and state of the forces is better known to you than to me. I beseech you move her Majesty, if it please you, as from me, for the sale of Otford and Detford houses, which brings 3,000l. of present money and saves 3,000l. more to her Majesty. For this victualling requires great sums.
Holograph. Endorsed :—“August 1601.” 1 p. (183. 32.)
The Attorney General (Coke) to Sir Robert Cecil.
[1601, Aug.] My wife her learned counsel hath very exactly considered of every part of the jewel. A friend of mine hath provided another of as good value. Which shall best like you shall be presented. I have sent this bearer to take direction for the gown. To me at this time trifles are of importance, as you best know.—Stoke, this present Saturday.
Holograph. Endorsed :—“1601 August.” Seal. ¾ p. (183. 33.)
A. Douglas to Sir Robert Cecil and Sir John Fortescue.
[1601, c. Aug.] The miserable case wherein my poor estate hath been reduced this long time past, and also brought my inability to be such that I am not able neither to do her Majesty agreeable service as this present time doth require, neither yet be able to help myself in any my private affairs : I pray you, therefore, to make her Majesty acquainted therewith.
In the first, if the Earl Boithvell be come in Ireland, as it is supposed he should be, there is no impossibility to draw him from the Spaniard, and to cause him to follow her Majesty's direction whatsoever, specially if her Majesty would be moved to intercede for him at his Sovereign's hands, which by appearance might produce double effects : the one to break off intelligence between his Sovereign and the King of Spain : the other to seclude any further hope the Spaniard may have to deal in those quarters. Besides, there is a great number of noblemen combined in band to follow such course as shall be taken by Boithvell with foreign potentates, and he being reduced to her Majesty's devotion, all these combinations would be dissolved. I doubt not also but that her Majesty is well informed of the present negotiation of the Duke Lennox in France, which might also be impeded if this foresaid were performed, and the course of many other matters, that were long both to be written or read, might also be impeded, if sufficient order were in time taken for the doing thereof. As for my own part, I shall ever be ready, as I have heretofore been, to be employed by her Majesty in any service that may be agreeable to her Highness' pleasure, and welfare of both the crowns. And whatsoever delays hath been heretofore interponed, hath not proceeded in any part from me, but from my said inability, which I would humbly pray you to be remedied.
Signed. Undated. Endorsed :—“1601, Mr. Archybald Douglas.” 1 p. (90. 75.)
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