Calendar of the Cecil Papers in Hatfield House: Volume 15, 1603. Originally published by His Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1930.
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'Cecil Papers: June 1603, 1-15', in Calendar of the Cecil Papers in Hatfield House: Volume 15, 1603, (London, 1930) pp. 118-136. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-cecil-papers/vol15/pp118-136 [accessed 26 April 2024]
June 1603, 1-15
| Lord Cobham to Lord Cecil. | ||
| 1603, June 1. |
Yesternight late I received a letter from the
Lords for the appoint[ing] of the sheriffs with the deputy lieutenants, for the attending for the ambassadors at Dover, so as to
bring them along to Gravesend. How things will be ordered as
it should be I fear greatly, for if the French Ambassador and the
Archduke's should land at one time, I cannot possibly see how
they both can be accommodated, but with great confusion.
Yet I presume that there shall be as much care as is possible,
and more than can be must not be expected. Divers of
the principal gentlemen, both of the east and west parts, are
in the town, and except an express commandment come to
cause them to go down, the ships will be very slenderly attended
on. If you think this fit, this commandment must come
presently; otherwise they shall not have warning in time. The
names of these men who in this enclosed paper you shall receive,
being of the train of Mr. Rosne (fn. 1), arrived yesterday in the afternoon at Dover. They give it forth that on Friday or Saturday,
at the furthest, he will be at Dover. I understand likewise
that Arenberg will be at Dover on Saturday. If you stay in town
tonight I will be glad to wait upon you, but your own occasions
must guide all.—From my house in the Blackfriars, June 1, 1603. Holograph. 1 p. (187. 54.) |
|
| Lord Burghley to the Same. | ||
| 1603, June 2. | Although I have no occasion worth the writing since my coming to York, I am bold to use the superscription of this my packet unto you to have the speedier passage up; desiring you that these letters included may be delivered as soon as may be. I pray you that the instructions and commissions may be signed by his Majesty's hands as soon as may be, and likewise the commission for the lieutenancy, for that some speeches are given out by malicious persons that I am come down neither President nor Lieutenant. Besides, by a letter I received from Edinburgh since my coming hither, I hear her Majesty meaneth to be here sooner by much than I expected. Her Majesty, as my letter purporteth, will set forward as this day being the second of June, and to be at Berwick the fourth being Saturday next, and so to be here at York within six days after. So as I must entreat your lordship to have the greater respect for the hastening of them than otherwise there had been need, for that without them and until they be sent, I remain without authority.—From York, this second of June, 1603. | |
|
PS.—Here are many ladies to come out of Lancashire
and out of divers parts of the north that mean to put up
supplications to the Queen to have by her means toleration
of religion; but she is wise enough how to answer them. Holograph. 1 p. (100. 72.) |
||
| Lord Cobham to Lord Cecil. | ||
| 1603, June 2. |
This bearer William Jones having by my
direction brought up Andrew Bailly the priest lately stayed
at Dover, my lord bishop of London hath committed him to
the Gatehouse at Westminster. I have here enclosed sent
you the bill of the charges disbursed by him, very heartily
praying you to give order he may be satisfied accordingly.—
Blackfriars this 2 of June, 1603. Signed. Seal. ½ p. (100. 73.) |
|
| James Worseley to "Sir Robert Cecil." | ||
| 1603, June 2. |
Wrote last by Farrannt the post, promising
to disclose matters which much concern your Honour, and
which, once known, your wisdom would prevent. Would
have come to you on my first knowledge of it, but stayed to
hear from my friends, and for necessary occasions. If you will
send me 20l. by the next post, I shall well deserve it. I am
a gentleman of means and good friends in England. If you
will write to Gylberde Walker in Dieppe, who is known to
you I might have the money from him.—Deepe [Dieppe],
2 June, 1603. Holograph. 1 p. (187. 55.) |
|
| The Attorney General [Coke] to Lord Cecil. | ||
| 1603, June 3. |
To-morrow by nine of the clock is Valentine
Thomas to receive judgment for his abominable and detestable
treasons. It was his Majesty's pleasure to have some honourable presence at that time in the King's Bench; and seeing
the King's honour and his life cannot consist (if we have no
countermand) it is thought fit he should suffer on Monday,
and on Sunday (after he have judgment of death against him
to-morrow) to be examined of his procurers and abettors.
In this case that so much concerns his Majesty's honour. I
cannot in mine own opinion be too careful and vigilant. The
hour of proceeding against Valentine Thomas is to be tomorrow
at nine of the clock in the forenoon at Westminster Hall in
the King's Bench.—This present Friday. Holograph. Endorsed: "3 June, 1603." ½ p. (100. 74.) |
|
| John Ferne to Lord Cecil. | ||
| 1603, June 3. |
I pray you to accept of this small gift: your
favours do challenge much above my ability to yield retribution,
for by them I enjoy my place and what else I hold, beseeching
you to continue the same.—This third of June, 1603. Signed. Seal. ⅓ p. (100. 75.) |
|
| Alexander King, Auditor, to the Same. | ||
| 1603, June 3. |
I received this day your letters to make search
in my office for particulars of all such lands as the King's
Majesty hath in Cumberland lying near the rivers of Esk and
Leven, in the possession of the Greames and others. Can find
no lands in charge before me that lie there, or near thereabout,
save only such as were the Dacres' lands and that were lately
granted away; which this bearer can also testify, for he hath
also perused the records with me.—This 3 of June, 1603. Signed. Seal. ½ p. (100. 76.) |
|
| Lord Cobham to the Same. | ||
| 1603, June 3. |
Two Catholics have lately been stayed at
Sandwich for denying to take the oath of supremacy. According to your order, I have caused them to be brought up, as the
rest, to the Bishop of London, who has committed them. Bill
of charges enclosed.—Blackfriars, 3 June, 1603. Signed. 1 p. (187. 56.) |
|
| T. B. to —. | ||
| 1603, June 4. |
I cannot forget how much I am beholding to
you for this gentleman's sake, Mr. Wilson, unto whom you
have done so much favour. I cannot choose but continue to
entreat your goodness towards him. His Majesty, as I understand, is shortly to dispatch some messenger to the seignory
of Venice and the Great Duke and others and haply afterward
to maintain there some correspondency by agents or otherwise,
wherein if you shall think Mr. Wilson fit to be employed I
shall hold it a great kindness to myself. I need not commend
his parts and sufficiency, they being well known to your lordship already.—From my house this 4 of June, 1603. Holograph. 1 p. (97. 140.) |
|
| Peter Manwood to Lord Cecil. | ||
| 1603, June 4. |
According to yours enclosed all things shall be
done by the grace of God. I will be there this night; there
shall be nothing wanting that I can do, but how I shall do for
the French ambassador, waiting upon the Count, I know not.
—St. Stephens, 4th of June, 1603. Endorsed with names of 10 persons commencing with Sir Peter Manwood and Sir John Lewson. Holograph. ½ p. (100. 77.) |
|
| Edward Coke to Lord Cecil. | ||
| 1603, June 4. |
The Earl of Cumberland has requested me
to draw a book of the particulars mentioned in the enclosed,
and likewise a warrant for myself. The book is drawn according to former precedents, as near as may be. As soon as I
have my warrant I will peruse and perfect it.—4 June, 1603. Holograph. Endorsed: "Mr. Attorney." ½ p. (187. 57.) |
|
| Lord Cobham to the Same. | ||
| 1603, June 4. |
The bearer has brought up Thomas Bramston,
the priest lately stayed at Dover. I have sent him to the
Bishop of London, who has committed him to safe custody.
Bill of Charges enclosed.—From my house in Blackfriars,
4 June, 1603. Signed. ½ p. (187. 58.) |
|
| Sir Lewes Lewkenor to Lord Thomas Howard, Lord Chamberlain, and Lord Cecil. | ||
| 1603, June 4. |
The Count of Aremberg embarked yesternight with his train, and the ships are now within kenning of
this place, so that we expect their landing immediately. I
cannot learn the names of persons of account that come with
him. The shooting I wrote to you of was only to do him honour,
and there was no thought of opposition, as the Scottish gentleman doubted with whom I met yesterday. Monsieur de Ronye
cometh this night to Calais so that we expect him not here
before Monday. I hope they shall both be accommodated and
provided for as is fitting. I have borrowed Sir Thomas Vane's
[or Fane's] coach, and sent besides 3 or 4 geldings to the
waterside, to bring the Count and some of the chief gentlemen
into the town, and I have taken order for horses and carriages to
be here ready for him to-morrow, because I understand he
intends to stay in this town to-night.—Dover, 4 June, 1603. Endorsed: "Sr Ja. Perott. Sr Jho. Perrott. P. Pynder." Holograph. 1 p. (187. 59.) |
|
| The Same to Peter Manwood. | ||
| 1603 [June 4.] | The Count of Aremberg is within kenning and immediately expected to land. His train, as they tell me, is 100. I pray you cause forthwith warning to be given to the country to bring hither so many horses, to be here this night or else to-morrow by 4 o'clock, and 4 or 5 carts. The French ambassador will not be here till Monday. | |
|
PS.—The Count is old and troubled with the gout, if there
were a coach or two provided, it would do very well. I know
it would be very thankfully taken both by him, and the Lords
of the Council. Addressed:—" Mr. Peeter Manwood, esquyre, at Canterbury." Holograph. Endorsed:— "1603. Sr Lewys Lewknor to my Lord." Seal. 1 p. (103. 23(2).) |
||
| [Charles Howard], Earl of Nottingham, to [Lord Cecil.] | ||
| 1603, [c. June 4.] | I will not trouble you in your chamber for I know you are full of business, but to remember you of that which were fit to be done—the sending to my Lord Mayor for the providing of lodgings for M. de Rosne, who doth bring a great train with him. I think Alderman Spencer's house the fitter. There must be houses taken up for those that do come from the Archd[uke], but it is strange that there is no notice given from them of their coming. If they do give notice aldermen's houses will be best. The Co[mmissioners] for the States are provided already. | |
|
PS.—I pray you let me know, if you mean to sit this day. Holograph. Endorsed: "1603." ½ p. (103. 31.) |
||
| Sir Thomas Fane to Lord Cobham. | ||
| 1603, June 5. | Here arrived this afternoon from Calais Mons. de Rhosny with a train consisting of two hundred and fifty.—Dover Castle, 5 June, 1603. | |
|
PS.—I send you here enclosed a note of the names of the
chief and of the greatest note. (fn. 2) Signed. Seal. ⅓ p. (100. 78.) |
||
| A. Hunter to Lord Cecil. | ||
| 1603, June 5. |
I am here, come over from the States from
Holland where I remain still in my former charge. There is
here a Scottish gentleman of singular learning, judgment and
experience, professor of philosophy and the civil laws in the
University of Leyden, who is of mind to give himself to depend
on some honourable personage, but chiefly doth affect you.
In case you have a mind to one endued with such graces, having
also the French and Dutch language perfectly, I am thus bold
to show you; and however it were I would you did know him.
—At Court, this 5 of June, 1603. Holograph. ½ p. (100. 79.) |
|
| Peter Manwood to the Same. | ||
| 1603, June 5. |
The Count Are[mberg] is now come well to
this town after his sick night. Tomorrow he will go to
Rochester if he be able, otherwise but to Sittingbourne. The
French King's ambassador is expected to come this afternoon
to Dover, whither I go again about 4 o'clock. The Count hath
here between 20 and 30 noblemen and gentlemen, and his
company is about 70. They carry themselves very well.—
Canterbury, 5th of June, 1603. Holograph. Seal. ½ p. (100. 80.) |
|
| Sir Thomas Fane to Peter Manwood, Sheriff of Kent. | ||
| 1603, June 5. | The King's ships are now coming from Gravelines with the Archduke's ambassadors, and will be here within this hour.—Dover Castle, 5 June 1603. | |
|
PS.—All such gentlemen as you have warned must be
here indelayedly and all o' the wagons and horses. Signed. Seal. ⅓ p. (100. 81.) |
||
| Lord Cobham to Lord Cecil. | ||
| 1603, June 5. |
I am advertised from Dover that yesterday
the Count Aremberg arrived there, and that the French
Ambassador is not expected till Monday Count Aremberg comes
away from Dover this day. I enclose the names of his train.—
Blackfriars, 5 June, 1603. Signed. ⅓ p. (187. 60.) |
|
| Lord Mountjoy to the Same. | ||
| [1603], June 5. |
Next to the comfort I take that, since we
must serve, we shall serve such a king, I protest I am not more
glad or proud of anything than of your love, and I will deserve
it if possible. This night I will be at Barnet, which place I the
rather chose because, intending to take the next way thence to
the Court, I may come thither in the more convenient time;
and the rather because from thence I purpose in some private
fashion to send the Earl of Tyrone to Wansteed, where I think
it fit he should stay till I further know the King's pleasure.
I think it will be necessary that it may please the King to make
some public declaration to avoid both violence or disgrace in
speech to him before he come abroad, for I see the people much
inclined to it, and I am assured that to give him discontentment
in either may exceedingly prejudice the King's service. This
I am resolved on, except I hear from you the contrary; and
unto this course I find the Earl inclined. For myself I protest
I should even have taken more pride to have conveyed myself
to the King alone, than accompanied with as many as he that
is most foolishly ambitious can desire; but I do not see how I
could avoid more than I have done the company I am likely
to have. I am desirous to be directed by you in all things
and am glad that my Lord of Southampton does me the honour
to impart both yours and his mind to me before my coming
to the Court. I have not yet seen him.—Downstable, 5 June. Holograph. Endorsed: "1603. The Lord Deputy to me.' 1 p. (187. 62.) |
|
| Lord Cecil to Lord Buckhurst. | ||
| 1603, June 5. |
I have now resolved for avoiding the clamour
of the merchants about my farms of the silks to appoint Sir
William Ryder, who is his Majesty's officer, to be likewise my
collector. Wherefore I pray your lordship by virtue of that
warrant which you have already from the King to assign the
collection to such as I should from time to time appoint: that
you will take order in the Customs House that all such moneys
as should be paid to me by reason of my lease (which the King's
pleasure is shall continue) may be paid to Sir William Ryder
to my use.—From the Court, 5 June, 1603. Contemporary copy. 1 p. (206. 5.) |
|
| Travelling Charges. | ||
| 1603, June 6. | "Thomas Meade's charges from Berwick to London, the 16 of May to the 6 of June." | |
|
My diet for 21 days—42s.: my horsemeat 36s.: my horse
hire, 30s. For my return back again, for ten days for my
diet, 20s.: for my horsemeat, 20s. Total, 7l. 8s. ½ p. (100. 15.) |
||
| John Arundell of Lanheron (Lanherne) to Lord Cecil. | ||
| 1603, June 6. |
The manifold favours my father in his lifetime and myself have received of your father and yourself
encourage me to become a suitor to you by letter, being barred
by the fear of breaking my confinement to attend you at the
Court. I beseech your furtherance of a petition to the King
for leave to live in the west parts, where my houses and livings
are, thereby satisfying the meaning of his gracious proclamation
commanding gentlemen of sort to repair into their country. I
desire this as well in respect of the sickness as also for that
the house wherein I am presently forced to dwell is very little,
and the lease ready to expire.—Highgate, this 6th of June,
1603. Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (100. 82.) |
|
| James Worseley to "Sir Robert Cecil." | ||
| 1603, June 6. |
Many letters I have written unto your
Honour, and nothing I have ever heard from you, and what
conceit you have of my letters or the writer I know not. I am
a gentleman, if it like your Honour, which doth love you, and
would most willingly have that known unto you, which doth
much concern you. If your Honour will send me some 20l. by
the next post I will come over presently.—"Deep the 6 of June,
and sent by one of my Lord Ambassador's pages, and my last
letter I sent by the post Bayherde." Holograph. Endorsed: "1603." Seal. 1 p. (103. 79.) |
|
| George Cary to Lord Cecil. | ||
| 1603, June 6. |
Recommends to Cecil's favour the bearer
Captain Thomas Phillipps, who has done diligent service in
Munster, and especially in Ulster against Tyrone, under Sir
Arthur Chichester:—Dublin, 6 June, 1603. Signed. Endorsed: "L. Deputy." 1 p. (187. 63.) |
|
| Lord Cobham to the Same. | ||
| 1603, June 6. |
This packet was newly brought me from
Dover. M. de Rosny is landed; his train consists of 250, the
names of the principal men I send you enclosed.—Blackfriars,
6 June, 1603. Holograph. ½ p. (187. 64.) |
|
|
The Enclosure.—Monsieur de Bossu. M. de Fassenberge.
M. de Claiges. M. de Sewegam. M. don Carlo de Robles.
M. de Gramon. M. de Boys de Lassines. M. de Lafaille.
Le Senor Flackamer. Le Senor Scorga. M. de Harrin.
M. de Castra. M. Mario. ½ p. (187. 61.) |
||
| Lord Sydney to the Same. | ||
| 1603, June 6. |
The Ambassador, as the Sheriff of Kent writes
to me, will be at Canterbury this night, where I will be with
him. I hear his train is between 4 and 500. I trust we shall
be tomorrow at Rochester, and on Wednesday at London.
Of the Count of Aremberg, I am sure you hear from my Lord
Harry Howard.—Sittingburn, Monday, June 6, 1603. Holograph. ½ p. (187. 65.) |
|
| Sir John Haryngton to the Same. | ||
| 1603, June 6. |
I would have been glad to have heard some
comfortable answer in this my distress. I was too forward in
an unfortunate friendship to my uncle to be bound for him in
his declining state, and yet I hope, if we may have speedy
justice, neither shall his house be quite overthrown, and much
less I (that owe no penny of the debt but as a surety) shall be
thereby oppressed, though I suffer now for my too much kindness. I pray you let me know what I am like to trust to, and
what relief I may hope for in a matter deserving some
commiseration, considering the principals have both means
and minds to sell lands to pay their debts.—"From my
unaccustomed lodging," 6 June, 1603. Holograph. 1 p. (187. 66.) |
|
| Conrad Levers. | ||
| 1603, June 6. |
Certificate by the City of Hamburg that
Conrad Levers their citizen has laden goods in a ship called
the Venator of which he is master, with Simon Petersen and
others citizens of Huss in the Duchy of Holsatia, and commending them to the enjoyment of the liberties and privileges
of the Hansa.—6 June, 1603. Latin. Portion of seal attached. Injured. (222. 4.) |
|
| Queen Anne. | ||
| 1603, June 6-11. | "The Queen's Majesty's Jests from Berwick to York." | |
| Monday, June 6 | From Berwick to Chillingham, Sir Ra. Grayes | 14 |
| Tuesday, June 7 | Thence to Alnwick to dinner and to Witherington to bed | 18 |
| Wednesday, June 8 | Thence to Bottell to dinner and to Newcastle to bed | 17 |
| Thursday, June 9 | Thence to Durham to dinner, and to Auckland to bed | 19 |
| Friday, June 10 | Thence to Smeton to dinner and to Brackenborough to bed, Sir Thomas Lassells | 22 |
| Saturday, June 11 | Thence to the High Sheriff's to dinner and to York to bed | 20 |
| ½ p. (102. 115.) | ||
|
Draft of the above, differing in some particulars. Endorsed: "Gistes for the Queen." ½ p. (102. 116.) |
||
| Passport. | ||
| 1603, June 7. |
Passport by Sir John Carey, Governor of
Berwick on Tweed, for Edmund Jennins, servant to Sir George
Carew, lord President of Munster, who is going post to Court.—
Berwick, 7 June, 1603. Signed. Seal. 1 p. (100. 84.) |
|
| Henry Dillon to Lord Cecil. | ||
| 1603, June 7. |
I have been much beholden unto Sir George
Cary our Lord Deputy and Treasurer here, which I know is
for your sake; for since I told him I was a poor follower of
yours he doth still grace me. Here is a Mr. Rochfort who at an
open meeting of the gentlemen of co. Meath uttered very odious
and seditious speeches of the government in her late Majesty's
time which did principally tend to your and your late father's
reproach; whereof when he [Cary] was informed he was very
zealous both to punish Rochfort and try the truth of the cause,
wherein he did so carry himself as I most assuredly believe his
love unto you is very unfeigned. Take notice hereof in your
letters to him, as also yield him thanks in my behalf.—Dublin,
7 June, 1603. Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (100. 85.) |
|
| Henry Carew to Lord Cecil. | ||
| 1603, June 7. |
As you directed me I presented a supplication
to my Lord Keeper and the rest of the Board; whence I
received answer that I should make my petition to the King for
mitigation of my fine and punishment. Nevertheless necessity
enforceth me eftsone again to become suitor to the Board, knowing
how difficult a matter it is that a petition from so mean a man
as I am may have timely access unto his Majesty. I crave
your furtherance in mitigation of my insupportable fine and for
relief of my hard imprisonment.—From the prison of the Fleet,
7 June, 1603. Holograph. Seal. ½ p. (100. 86.) |
|
| Joseph May to the Same. | ||
| 1603, June 8. |
According to the order given me I sailed for the
coast of Spain where I have spent most of my time off the rock
and the southward cape and always in sight of the shore;
during which time I cannot say certainly that ever I met with
a Spanish ship, unless it were the King's men of war. I gave
chase to many but my ship sailed so bad that I was not able to
fetch them up. There was little trade by Spaniards, and for
the most part our English men of war do make their voyages
upon the French. All sailors of late are fallen into such vile
order that they shame not to say that they go to sea to rob all
nations, and unless the captain consent thereto, he is not fit
for this time. Off the rock I took a Frenchman worth 10,000l.
which presently I released without diminishing one penny,
whereupon my company grew into such a mutiny that by reason
I would not rob them they would have stowed me under
hatches. As for Esterlings, I never saw but two; one was
laden with deal board, and the other only ballast. This ship
is unfit for a man of war, for unless by chance we met with any
by night we never could fetch but one freeman: being much
grieved that I can not give you better content by my adventure.
—Weymouth, 8 June, 1603. Holograph. Seal broken. 1 p. (100. 87.) |
|
| Robert Lee, Lord Mayor of London, to the Same. | ||
| 1603, June 9. |
I advertised you touching the apprehension
of Patrick Ruthen, brother to the late Earl of Gowry, who as
I understand is not found upon examination to be that party.
The said Ruthen, being taken in the night and committed to
close prison by the constable, was reported to me by divers,
that were at his apprehension, that not only the Scottishman
by whom he was discovered confidently said that he was
Ruthen, but also that he had confessed it. Therefore, I took it
for truth, without further enquiry. I enclose the constable's
examination, London, 9 June, 1603. Signed. ½ p. (187. 68.) |
|
| The Enclosure.—Examination of John Byrame, citizen and cook of London, taken 7 June, 1603, before Robert Lee, Lord Mayor. | ||
|
Divers Scottishmen being at supper at his house in St.
Nicholas Shambles, one said he knew where the arrantest
traitor was which was in all England or Scotland. Another
challenged him upon it, and brought him to examinate, being
constable; whereupon being urged on pain of imprisonment
to discover where the party was, he brought him to an alley
in Tower Street near Barking Church, and in a chamber of
the house they found the said party asleep in bed. Examinate,
being assured by one of the company (being now in prison)
that his name was Ruthven, one of the late Earl Gowry's
brothers, and the party, being awaked and much dismayed,
said that he was banished 3 years since, but the King had
forgiven him his offence; and thereupon was committed by
examinate to prison. 1 p. (187. 67.) |
||
| John Ferne to Lord Cecil. | ||
| 1603, June 9. |
I received this day letters from Lord Burghley
which were in your packet sent to you from his lordship this
last night, whereby his lordship suspecteth that the commission
and instructions have been protracted by means of my Lord
Sheffield, and also that I have been remiss. In truth I never
knew of any such practice by my Lord Sheffield, and for myself
I protest I have used as much diligence as I could possibly, and
as I hope you have partly observed. For I could not have
the names of the new councillors until his lordship rode northward; after which time Mr. Attorney and Mr. Solicitor had the
paper books 7 days before I could procure them at their hands;
at which time I brought them unto you who vouchsafed to
give them an extraordinary expedition. Therefore I beseech
you to signify to his lordship the truth herein. And whereas
I hope all the said matters will be dispatched this night be
pleased to sign the packet which I will bring you in the morning
or send this evening for their conveying away with such extraordinary haste as the necessity thereof requireth; for his lordship,
as I hear, determineth to ride from York on Monday next to
meet the Queen's Majesty. I have presumed to write to you
being so indisposed with grief of the stone and other infirmities
that I am not able to attend you in person.—This 9th day of
June, 1603. Signed. 1 p. (100. 88.) |
|
| Fulke Grevyll to the Same. | ||
| 1603, June 10. |
I presume to send you some quails fed at
Deptford. If the housewifery be not good, I will get a handsome
wench, in hope the rather to invite my honourable friends
thither, because I know it natural in all men of sweet affections
and open clear eyes to look more willingly upon such a lively
creature, than any tapestry or other picture. Well, sir, in earnest
I shall think myself much honoured whensoever it please you
to visit that poor house; and in all other things if your own
sincerity make me seem unthankful it is none my fault. When
God will be pleased to free me from trouble I shall be much
more covetous to wait upon you and sometimes trouble your
business more unmannerly.—From Deptford, this 10 of June. Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (100. 89.) |
|
| Lord Cobham to Lord Cecil. | ||
| 1603, June 10. |
This bearer brings unto you Robert Wolfe, an
Irishman stayed at Dover, the particulars I refer unto his
examination. He had taken about him certain chains of gold
with a pair of beads. This bearer brings likewise one Courle
a priest, which according to your former direction I have sent
unto the bishop of London; and this party is to be done withal
as to you shall seem best. The letters I spake unto you for
when I was last with you I pray have in remembrance.—From
my house at Cobham Hall, the 10 of June, 1603. Holograph. Seal. ¾ p. (100. 90.) |
|
| The Enclosure:— | ||
| 1603, June 6. | Examination of Robert Wollff of Limerick. | |
| Aged about 30 years. About 6 months past he took shipping at Limerick haven in a bark of Rochelle for Spain, and arriving at Lisbon passed immediately from thence to Seville, where he saith his business was, which was to receive certain goods in the right of his wife as heir to the bishop Mickelwater, bishop of Ardath in Munster, who deceased at Seville in Spain, and by his will gave all his goods to this examinant's wife being the said bishop's sister's daughter and next of kin. | ||
| He saith he was driven to spend much money in recovering the goods left unto him by his said uncle, the bishop, but in fine he recovered in money 50l. sterling and certain plate and other goods which he sold in Spain amounting to 12l. 10s. or thereabouts, and two chains of gold valued at 30l. or thereabouts, which he brought over with him, with a bracelet of bone beads of small or no value and some 3l. in money. | ||
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Being demanded concerning his religion, he confesseth he
hath been at divers masses in Spain, but saith it was to avoid
punishment there and not for devotion, and that he doth
willingly embrace the religion professed here in the King's
Majesty's dominions, and, concerning his allegiance, he hath
taken the oath of supremacy. Signed by Woollff. R.S. mayor, Tho: Elwood, William Leonard. (97. 141.) |
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| Sir John Haryngton to Lord Cecil. | ||
| 1603, June 10. |
I understand by Sir Griphin Markham that
you took honourable care of my cause, and that you promised
to send to assure me of your favour herein, which is more
comfort to me than anything I heard since this my restraint,
except only the most gracious message I received from his
Majesty by Sir Roger Ashton. We crave nothing but justice
against John Skinner. I was arrested for that very money that
bought him his place at Barwyke. I owe not a farthing for
myself. His Majesty said he should be immediately sent for, and
commanded to attend the end of this cause, that the Markhams
and he may satisfy what I stand bound for; but I doubt he
is not sent for yet. It is ill soliciting business out of a prison.
I beseech you he may be sent for by the next packet. I comfort
myself with this saying, Non tormentum sed causa facit martirem.
—10 June, 1603. Holograph. Endorsed: "Sir John Harrington. From the Fleet." ½ p. (187. 69.) |
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| Ja. Worseley to "Sir Robert Cecil." | ||
| 1603, June 10. | On June 8 there went over a Scot named Hambleton, who came into Mr. Primonnd's house in Dieppe, enquiring for Englishmen, and whether any had knowledge of Italian; and he there met the writer, Mr. Boyes's son of Kent, and Mr. Wadeson. His behaviour was good for a time, but since his departure they hear he was a very dangerous person, and sent for some bad purpose. | |
|
Complains that he has furnished much information to Cecil
but received no answer. Is prepared to disclose things that
very much concern Cecil, and asks for a loan of 20l.—Deepe,
10 June, 1603. Holograph. 1 p. (187. 70.) |
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| E. Countess of Southampton to the Earl, her husband. | ||
| 1603, June 11. | Never came any of your letters to me in a better time for my comfort than that you sent me by this knight, for my longing to hear of you was never more nor my desire infiniter to have from yourself certain knowledge that you were perfectly well in the journey which I heard you were gone; and I protest unto you the assurance your letter gives me that you are so is the news that my heart only delights in, and which causes as much contentment as it can possibly enjoy whilst you are from me. The witness you give me in your letter that you are not troubled for my not being as I protest unto you I infinitely desired to have been, is much to my content: and though I be not now in that happy state, yet I doubt not but that in good time and for the infinite comfort of you and myself, God will bless me with bearing you as many boys as your own heart desires to have. From my heart I send you thousands of thanks for your most kind letter, which brought to it infinite comfort.—Chartly the 11 of June. | |
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PS.—Sir Francis Darcy's stay at Court is very long; God
send when he comes where you are his news may be as pleasing
as I wish it. That is so bad at all times [which] comes hither
from that place whence it springs, as I have no delight to send
it to you at any time, but fear it will by others too soon come
where you are to cause discontented minds. I pray you send
to me again as soon as is possible for I do already more than
long to hear from you, whom I every hour wish myself with,
and can never live contented till I do enjoy that happiness. Holograph. Two seals over silk. 1 p. (100. 91.) |
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| Hen. Constable to Lord Cecil. | ||
| 1603, June 11. |
Though he was ever known to bear a dutiful
mind to his country, and never doubted Cecil's good inclination
to him, yet he was more resolved of late than ever before to
seek Cecil's favour. Nothing gave him greater assurance of
Cecil's good opinion, than the evident proof he had that Cecil
interpreted the affection which divers Catholics were known to
bear to his Majesty, as a note of well affected subjects to the
state. Being then uncertain whether he should solicit Cecil
immediately for his return, or seek by some service to return
with better credit, he deferred writing till he understood by the
Lord Ambassador that Cecil was willing to further him in the
latter course, which he most desired. Thereupon he would
have made a clear overture of his intention, if the public
mutation of the affairs of his country had not made him change
his purpose, and resolve to return to England, so it may stand
with the King's good liking, which by Cecil's furtherance he
desires to obtain. He would not, after so long absence, come
home suddenly without acquainting the King, therefore he
has written also to his Majesty, by means of Scottish friends,
so that the King may be better prepared when he shall know
his intention, and how careful he will be to behave himself to
the King's liking in all actions that he can with reason require
of one of his religion. Paris, 11 June, 1603. Holograph. 2 pp. (187. 71.) |
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| E. Earl of Oxford to his brother in law, Lord Cecil. | ||
| 1603, June 12. |
You are so charged with public affairs you
can have little leisure or none at all to undertake a private
cause. I desire that with my very good lord and friend my
Lord Admiral you will procure me a full end of this suit wherein
I have spent so long a time and passed the greatest part of mine
age. The cause is right, the King just, and I do not doubt
but your lordships both my friends, according to your words
I shall find you in deeds.—This 12 of June. Holograph. ½ p. (100. 93.) |
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| He. Dillon to Lord Cecil. | ||
| 1603, June 12. |
I was this last night with our Lord Deputy,
whom I found in a great melancholy, for a rumour here given
out, as it is thought by one Flemming, the Lord of Slane's son,
who is newly arrived here, that you are in great disgrace with
the King, and your offices given away. It doth wonderfully
vex and disturb him, albeit we all know it to be most false. If
it may be certainly known who is the author of this lie, I think
my Lord Deputy will punish him, which I thought good to
advertise you, that you may take notice hereof, and yield him
thanks for his love to you, for without all question he is very
zealously affected to you.—Dublin, 12 June 1603. Holograph. 1 p. (187. 72.) |
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| Lord Burghley to the Same. | ||
| 1603, June 13. | I received of late your letter in answer of one you received from me, in expressing of some jealousy I received that the long protraction of the instructions might grow by the practice of some, whom your lordship may guess I meant and had good ground to suspect; but if you conceive I had the least suspicion it was by your means, from whom in time past I received in matters of this nature so full a demonstration of the contrary, you should do me wrong. To the other part of your letter wherein you charge me that I have admitted parley to reports of hollowness in you towards me of late, I make answer that jealousies do most proceed from them that would be beloved of them they love. You see it falleth out most commonly between the dearest friends, between man and wife, which is rather a sign of abundance than want of affection. And as I must confess I have received true demonstrations here from you, and that way you have had advantage of me by reason of your fortune and place; yet if you call to remembrance there wanted not in me a true requital, the day when I ran and needed not the hazard of a dangerous fortune with you; you will not think me facile to be drawn from you in this time, where by loving of you I may receive advantage. Let this letter be kept as a witness against me if you shall not find in me towards you a love void of envy or mistrust, and as glad of your honour and merit as a dear brother ought to be. For I am not partial, but confess that God hath bestowed rarer gifts of mind upon you than on me. I know you have deserved far greater merit both of his Majesty and your country, and if it lay in me in power as it doth in wish there is no honour that can be laid upon you whereof I would not participate of the joy and contentment with you. | |
| Before I had ended this my letter came a packet from you including in it a packet to the Duke of Lennox; and because you wrote that if he were not with the Queen it should be returned, I have sent this packet away with all speed possible. Her Majesty came hither upon Saturday the 11th and remaineth until Wednesday next, in expecting the Duke's return. You shall find of her, I know, a gracious prince, and one that holdeth you in great estimation, excuseth in one thing your error, upon necessity. This I must write in clouds. She will prove, if I be not deceived, a magnifical prince, a kind wife and a constant mistress. | ||
|
I received the instructions with the two commissions, wherein
I perceive from Mr. Ferne the honourable care you had of me
in the expediting of them. As soon as I have settled this
government by a vice-president and sworn the new councillors
I mean to follow the Queen, though not in her daily journeys,
yet to cross her Majesty in the way before she meet with his
Majesty.—13 June, 1603. Holograph. Seal. 2 pp. (100. 94.) |
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| William Hunter to Lord Cecil. | ||
| 1603, [June 13]. | It is shown unto me [that] this morning Alen Bezien wrote from Roscow the 16 of this instant stilo novo to Nicholas Buggins, merchant, in Bristo, that a small bark was come from Lisbon. This day it is 21 days since she came from thence, who credibly reports that there is a great army to set forth of Lisbon of 60 ships and 80 galleys. The Angel of Roscow, a ship of 400 ton is embarked. There be 28 of her men come home in the said bark. All the Flemings' ships are embarked. They intend either for England or Ireland.—Bristo, Whitsun Monday, 12 o'clock at noon, 1603. | |
|
PS.—I have signified the same to my Lord Treasurer, my
Lord Admiral and Sir Thomas Areskyne. Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (103. 21.) |
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| The Earl of Cumberland to the Same. | ||
| 1603, June 14. |
Want of health hindered my journey so
that I came not to the Queen till Saturday; but Sir Hen.
Witherington and Sir R. Musgrave whom I appointed to bring
my company to me attended the train with them, and from
hence I will not fail to follow as I was directed till I see you.
But since by that it will not be possible for me to be at Carlisle
the 20 of this instant, the day appointed for the appearance of
such men as the late commissioners there took bond of, I have
written to Mr. Hales to appoint them the 30 day, and sent Sir
Ri. Musgrave thither my deputy, and Sir Hen. Withering [ton]
the like into Northumberland: who I doubt not shall keep the
countries in good quiet, and so prepare them against my coming
that I will effect what his Majesty wisheth howsoever underhand
the thieves befriended by their neighbours; which some
already do show so apparently they mean to do as I will at my
coming to his Majesty make apparent, both by their carriage
in the late disorder within the town of Carlisle and by releasing
of some great offenders that were entered to go now upon bond
that by their friend at London they might procure pardon;
which though I assure myself his Majesty will not be forward
in before he know the greatness of their offences, yet it so much
concerns his Majesty's service as I must entreat you to let him
know that such favours now will quite overthrow my proceeding, and his gracious favour will be more to pardon if he shall
see cause when the faults are truly known than before they be
examined. For the state of Berwick, I have directed Sir Hen.
Withering[ton] and Sir Ri. Musgrave thither with such
instructions as they will speedily inform the true state of all
those things which at the Council Board the Lords desired to
be particularly informed of.—York, this 14 of June, 1603. Holograph. 1⅓ pp. (100. 95.) |
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| Lady Arabella Stuart to the Lord Cecil. | ||
| 1603, June 14. |
I presume to trouble your lo: . . . . to
remember the King's Majesty of my maintenance. . . . From
Sheene, the 14 of June, Holograph. Endorsed: "1603, June 14. Lady Arbella to my Lord." Remains of Seal. ¾ p. [Printed: Bradley's Life of Arabella Stuart. Vol. II., p. 176.] (135. 176–3.) |
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| Thomas Phelippes to the Same. | ||
| 1603, June 15. |
Although prejudiced in a matter of moment
not long since by your mean, and having had, since the Queen's
death, occasion otherwise to think myself not charitably nor
justly dealt withal, I will not cease to depend upon your good
favour. Am therefore bold to recommend the bearer, Lovelace,
unto you, as albeit he failed of that he was employed for to
Monox, and can demand nothing at your hands as having not
received direction from yourself; yet, for as much as it was for the
Queen's service, being then alive, and by your privity, you
would vouchsafe him at my humble request, for recompence
of his travel, durance and loss, an ordinary warrant for his
charges, nothing to the King to speak of, and will comfort and
oblige the poor man unto you. As soon as I understood, I
found means to have him released. If the times had not been
altered his travail had quit the cost. For as he can inform
you, Monox's meaning was in the end of this month to have
brought the galleys over to burn Lee, Faversham, and such other
feats; and as brave as he was with the poor man in words
against me, your lordship, and the State itself, I had overreached him. He is a man of use for sea service and most
inward with Fa[ther] Baldwyn the Jesuit, or else he might
perhaps, in the general discarding of pensioners intended there,
be driven with the rest to shift for himself. But if he should
seek to prevail here of the alteration of times as others have
done and purpose, he were to be looked unto: for there be in
Court of better quality than I that know his disposition concerning the King. For other matters since the death of the Queen,
I have not been able to resolve of mine own course in private,
nor see any use there is like to be made of me for the public.
But I am at your lordship's commandment, —15 June, 1603. Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (100. 96.) |
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| Robert Pigott to Lord Cecil. | ||
| 1603, June 15. |
Sir David Fowle having heretofore moved
you in my behalf touching my suit to his Majesty, with the
assent of my Lord Lieutenant of Ireland hath lastly willed me
to bring unto you the letter framed with a blank for the term.
My suit therefore is you would be the mean to his Majesty for
some term to be set down in the blank, to relieve my decayed
estate. I am emboldened to beseech it because the last letters
I had were not effected in that ample manner I had hoped for,
the lands which I aimed at and you intended for me, being given
me in custodiam by my lord Mountjoy, and gotten from me
notwithstanding by others, namely Sir Richard Grymes and
Captain Fleming.—15 June, 1603. PS.—My desire is to have 7 years. Signed. Seal. 1 p. (100. 98.) |
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|
The Enclosure:—Draft warrant for continuing to Robert
Piggott "the number of twenty footmen," bestowed upon him
in Ireland for his zeal in the late wars there. ½ p. (100. 97.) |
||
| Sir John Carey to the Same. | ||
| 1603, June 15. |
At my last being in Court, understanding
it was the King's pleasure either to dissolve the garrison, or
place my Lord Hewme as Governor here, whereby I should be
frustrate of the places I formerly held, I repaired here to settle
my affairs, and discharge myself from the place, which I have
now done, and am ready to address myself, with my wife and
family, southwards. For the care I have of the town and of
his Majesty's service, I would be loath to leave it without some
to take charge of it, considering how many distressed and discontented hearts and minds there be in it. I entreat you will
deal with his Majesty, either for his present sending some
officer, fortified with power from himself; or to settle some new
establishment whereby the town may be governed, and every
man may know what he is to do, being now every man alike.
I have taken muster of the soldiers in the town, and signed
the warrants for this half year's pay due at Lady day last, till
which time my authority was good. Now having performed all
duties, I am ready to attend his Majesty's further pleasure.
For that you shall not think my sudden departure from the
Court should privilege the breach of my promise to save the
King 2,000l. in needless charges, I hereby perform the same,
as thus: there is remaining in the Treasurer's hands to be
bestowed upon the works and other extraordinaries, and with
some entertainments already dissolved into the King's hands,
1,599l. 5s. 6d.; and if it please his Majesty to continue the
government here as before, by a marshal for the town, and a
warden for the country, then may he save the governor's fee,
which is 666l. 13s. 4d.; or if he will have a governor and give
him the governor's fee, then may he save the marshal and
warden's fee, which amounts to 684l. a year: so as I have fully
accomplished up 2,000l. a year. Some other things might be
well spared to his Majesty's purse, and yet the poor garrison
continued still in sort as they before were, the ordinary pay
coming but to 13,400l. 14s. 6d. Only attending your answer,
for I am now ready to come away, having already sent away all
my stuff.—Barwick, 15 June, 1603. Signed. 1 p. (187. 73.) |
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