Cecil Papers: July 1604, 16-31

Calendar of the Cecil Papers in Hatfield House: Volume 16, 1604. Originally published by His Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1933.

This free content was digitised by double rekeying. All rights reserved.

'Cecil Papers: July 1604, 16-31', in Calendar of the Cecil Papers in Hatfield House: Volume 16, 1604, (London, 1933) pp. 174-195. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-cecil-papers/vol16/pp174-195 [accessed 25 April 2024]

July 1604, 16-31

Lord Zouche, Lord President of Wales, to the Privy Council.
[1604], July 17. Having received your letters to certify you of such as I shall learn to be fit to receive privy seals within those counties limited by you, I have conferred with the justices of each circuit, whereof some part are now in circuit so as it will be the longer before I can make such relation as I desire. By reason of her Majesty's late decease, I have had no convenient time to visit each country, whereunto I procured her especial licence; which also I would not have failed to have solicited to his Highness had I not been hindered by my attendance, and now by my health. My hope is that God will through the means of the Bath at the fall of the leaf give me more comfort, for which cause I do not press leave to perform that other duty this summer. I hope to express my endeavours so far as shall be acceptable to you, if I may understand whether I shall specify them of whom already money has been received by way of privy seal, or whether I shall respect their abilities notwithstanding they are smally or not at all in the subsidy books, for I would be glad in these things to be led by you. I have recommended my state to my Lord Cecil, being ready to perform what he shall promise for me.—From his Majesty's house Ticknell, 17 July.
Holograph. Seal, broken. Endorsed: "1604." 1½ pp. (106. 4.)
Lord Zouche to Lord Cecil.
[1604], July 17. I hoped to have received some comfortable news of his Majesty's bestowing of me by your solicitation some such gift as might have encouraged me in my service. But now have I received letters from the Council to lend money, no sum named, but yet by way of example divers specified. In this I would you would have taken notice of my estate and have laid upon me what you would not have left it to me to charge myself; for though I have sold land and bought none since his most happy entry, yet I should stand indebted to my children and others 6,000l. I would be loth to be counted backward in any thing belonging to his Majesty's service and therefore will take care to send up to you 200l. to be delivered into the Exchequer, trusting you will procure me such security as others of my rank receive and you think fit for my estate. Take notice of my letters to the Council, let me receive their further pleasures with your advice.—From his Majesty's house Ticknell, 17 July.
Holograph. Seal broken. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (106. 5.)
Richard Hadsor to the Same.
1604, July 17. Being advertised by some of the nobility of his country that his Majesty was desirous to know the state thereof, has framed a discourse, of which he encloses a copy, showing the ancient division of Ireland before the conquest of King Henry II and how it is now divided, by what people it is inhabited and laws ruled, with other matters, his own desire and opinion tending only that the realm might be drawn to yield some benefit to the Crown.—Middle Temple, 17 July 1604.
Signed. ⅓ p. (188. 143.)
Sir Fulke Grevyll to the Same.
[1604], July 17. Asks the meaning of these confused rumours they hear. The bearer will explain why he does not wait upon the King and Cecil, who will then pardon his absence and unmannerliness.—Debtford, 17 July.
Holograph. Endorsed: "1605" (sic). ½ p. (190. 135.)
Arthur Gray to the Earl of Cumberland.
1604, July 18. We are attending the coming of the Duke Charles, his Majesty's second son here at Barwick the 21st instant, with all the gentlemen of this country to attend him through this march. Also I have received advertisement out of Scotland that Lord Hoome, Lord Lieutenant of the Marches of Scotland, has given up the execution of his office, wherein I would request your Honour to advertise me what course you think fit for the execution of this place, for within this 5 days there have been three invasions by stealth of horses, oxen and kine out of England by the Scots, which is likely to grow daily more and more, if it be not prevented and the badder sort of those people duly punished. They presume upon their new enlargement. You wrote to me the last of May that there was an injury by some of the Collingwoods offered to Mr. Muschamp, so according to your direction, I called them both before me. The matter is referred to from gentlemen, their friends, to determine and end. I intreat you cause these enclosed letters to be delivered to my brother Sir Ralph Gray.—Chillingham, 18 July 1604.
Holograph. Seal broken. ½ p. (101. 67.)
Sir R. Lytton to Lord Cecil.
1604, July 18. For the employment now received from you I will with speed and carefulness satisfy your full desire, and attend you about the beginning of next week with a perfect return of this and my other charge.—Knebworth, 18 July 1604.
Holograph. Seal. ½ p. (106. 6.)
Sir Fulke Grevyll to the Same.
[1604], July 18. My scholar you wrote for has obtained the lecture in Gresham College. The mayor dealt respectfully with me for your sake, and I have satisfied the competitor to the full, lest the honour you did me should anyways prove envious to you.—Cambridge, 18 July.
Holograph. Seal. Endorsed: "1604." ½ p. (106. 7.)
Gervase, Bishop of Worcester, to [the Same ?].
[1604 ?], July 19. What has been done with Trubshaw this bearer Mr. Davis, churchwarden, can tell your lordship. More shall be endeavoured at the Chancellor's visitation for my Lord Grace at Warwick. For the fault laid upon the registrar's man I have examined it and find it cannot be true, for the schedule returned to Warwick assizes under my seal had more, and he durst not falsify my record, but the Judges would have blamed so many rasures: and as for Bishop he offers oath he knows him not nor ever had dealings with him.
How my presentment is dealt with after it is delivered into court I know not, but were I well dealt with more would be returned into the Exchequer and so come down from thence for inquisition in the country. I pray you whenever you be at Warwick assizes call for my catalogue sent in the last assizes, the last before that, &c., as I remember I returned above 300. But the presentments hitherto have been most faulty by want of surname or proper name, or addition of gent., yeoman, husbandman, &c., whereby indictments could not be framed; which I hope hereafter to amend, and to cause one to attend to acquaint your lordship or other justices there how my certificate is used either by the grand jury or others.—Worcester this Friday.
PS.—Of these 45 [recusants] in Brayles only 19 befallen since his Majesty's happy coming, the rest have been of longer standing.
Holograph. Endorsed with List of names of 45 recusants [in the parish of Brayles], commencing with "Barnabe Bushop, Gentleman," and followed by this note:—"This 19 July the churchwarden Ri. Davis, gent., told me there were 2 more recusants in this parish to be presented and neither he nor the vicar Mr. Dacres, a good preacher, but fear some mischief in executing their several offices there." 2 pp. (83. 49.)
Sir George Reynell to Lord Cecil.
1604, July 19. The decree lately made against me so wrongs me as I presume you have not seen my exceptions to the first draught. I therefore pray you will hear three or four of my objections or command me to attend whom you please that may relate them to you; or else give me leave to appeal from you.—19 July 1604.
Holograph. ½ p. (106. 8.)
Sir John Salusbury to the Same.
1604, July 20. I wrote to my Lord President [of Wales] to be a suitor unto you for the staying of Fulk Lloyd's pardon, being indicted for the murder of a kinsman and servant of mine, John Lewis Gwyn, father of many children, near Lloyd's house with seven of his friends and kinsmen by his procurement and himself within sight, and came all out of his house with warlike weapons and returned to his house after they had murdered him, having lain in wait for him. I am informed it pleased you for the furtherance of justice to write to my Lord Chancellor for the staying of the pardon, Lloyd having procured his Highness's signature to the same under colour of a certificate from three or four justices of the peace of another county who did not know the heinousness of the offence. I am to crave for the continuance of the staying of the pardon and to consider of the wickedness of the fact. He is a notorious recusant and a harbourer and maintainer of Jesuits and seminaries. He is evil affected to the state and has not received the communion these many years. My hope is if you were rightly informed of his wicked behaviour you would not suffer his pardon to pass for so detestable a deed to escape from justice of law pursued by the dead man's wife and friendship for their great loss.—Lleweny, 20 July 1604.
Signed. Seal. ½ p. (106. 9.)
Sir John Ogle to Lord Cecil.
1604, July 20. Ostend hath now a breathing time to recover itself somewhat by the absence of the Marquis Spinola with 10,000 (for so they are valued here) of his troops, who is come 3 days since and is quartered near Middleburgh (a place held by us only with 20 men and now yielded to them), which place is near to the quarter of Vandernode called "the Drowndland." He makes countenance by his viewing and reviewing of places and forts as though he would force a relief that way into the town. But the Count Maurice (who is there in person with a sufficient supply of troops) makes another account, and so may any reasonable judgment think his attempt to be either idle, or merely complemental to make a show of doing something, for there is no guard thereabouts but will cost him time to approach it. In the meantime intercepted letters and men that come out of the town tell us that the necessity is such within as it cannot hold out 10 days, and it is the more probable because of their resolution to relinquish that business at Ostend and to see what might be done here. It is said there are many peasants or "bowres" among them, and divers also new levied and left with the remainder of the army at Ostend. I hear of no more than 9 pieces of cannon they have brought with them; the Count Maurice hath as yet only 4 that are mounted and play upon them, but the prisoners taken say they do great hurt in their camp; 200 men at least they say they have had slain and spoiled already by our cannon. Their troops (though the number sound somewhat) are of small estimation both for the quality of most of them, and the greatest part held to be feeble by sickness and want of victual. Howsoever they are, we are somewhat confident here that they cannot prevail upon that quarter, and that they shall necessarily in short time be driven to dislodge, unless they mean to stay to be witnesses of the delivery of the town. If we do not then put for the relief of Ostend your lordship and the world will say our actions are under expectation: and yet I do half make a doubt of it, whether we shall directly engage into that business or not. I should rather think the Court will attempt it by circumstance. Spinola did believe we would have been gone upon speech of his coming down, but we make full account to see their backs and let him sorrow for a safe retreat.—Camp before Sluce, July 20, 1604 veteri.
Holograph. Seal. 2 pp. (106. 10.)
Sir George Coppin to Lord Cecil.
1604, July 21. Presents a small box of dried plums which accidentally came to his hands.—"From my house in St. Martin's," 21 July 1604.
Holograph. Seal. ⅓ p. (106. 11.)
Dr. John Sherwood to the Same.
1604, July 21. I am very sorry your infirmity is not fully removed but hope the use of the Bath will perfect what is amiss. If you stay your coming until the 20th or 22nd August our Baths will be the more temperate. Before that time we shall assuredly find the greatest danger of the plague, which hitherto has not been violent in respect of the number dead, but somewhat the more to be feared for seven or eight several houses scattered in several parts of the city, out of all which there have not yet died 26 persons. But if it grows so hot that you cannot repair thither without danger I will give you notice. At that time the King's Bath will fit you best, both in respect of its spaciousness and the coolness and conveniency of your lodging, much more severed from places infected than any fair lodging about the Cross Bath. Neither is the water about that time of the year, in places especially farthest distant from the springs, hotter than the Cross Bath when it is most in use: and as for the waters of the Baths they all have their mineral operation alike. The King's Bath will not heat or dry your body so much, if the temperature of the air be correspondent to that time of the year, especially if you be stirring somewhat the sooner in the morning. There are by the Cross Bath two fair houses, the better Mr. Horton's, but that is very near a house now infected, the other for the present Captain Woodd's, but in the street and close to the Cross Bath. I speak more sparingly of the King's Bath because it is my own, but all circumstances considered most convenient for you and most agreeing to your directions. Bed-hangings and plate for your own use is necessary. For the gentlemen that attend you I will provide stable, beer, and all things else mentioned in your letter, and will use the best means I can to hinder the recourse of such who with accomplements of kindness will disquiet you.—"From Tokington, where for preventing the worst I have for a time reposed my poor family," 21 July 1604.
Holograph. 1 p. (106. 12.)
The Earl of Dorset to the Same.
1604, July 21. I received even now from the officers these certificates for which I took order ten days past. I send them to you that you may either abstract them yourself or else take copies at your own will, and then send them to my Lord of Northampton and my Lord of Barwik to do the like, and to such other of the Lords as you shall think fit. To make it too common is not convenient, for though the farmer may know so much as he farms, yet that is not like to be all but rather some part. But this I wait to do as you think best. As I shall have leisure within 2 or 3 days I will also set down for your lordship and the rest divers notes and instructions fit for you to know in your dealing with such as shall desire to farm the same. I pray you send this letter to the rest of the Lords, to whom these certificates shall be sent.—21 July 1604.
Holograph. 1 p. (188. 144.)
Arthur Hall to Lord Cecil.
1604, July 22. I have sundry times in the way of complaint written unto you of the misbehaviour of Sir Julius Cæsar, beseeching examination of the cause. I have received answer from you in word (I know not how true) that you would move the King to have it examined, who is the honest man of us two, I to complain without great cause or he to miscarry himself with the greatest lies with most ungentlemanly dealing to, at the least, his equal I am sure in birth; what his knighthood makes him in worship without honesty I heed not. Your father's soul knows whether I deserved well of him or no. I pray your answer: my afflictions have been and are great; I am old, I can no more. If from you I may obtain the trial of my cause let justice decide it. If not, I trust you will not be offended that I lay open to the world how by his Masters of Requests and others his Highness is abused.—Fleet, 22 July 1604.
Holograph. 1 p. (106. 13.)
The Earl of Dorset to the Same.
1604, July 22. I send you Sir Vincent Skinner's letter yesterday written. I send you also the note of the loans from the Lords of the Council. If you hasten not the King's letter to them whereby we may have their moneys with all speed I know not what to do. For that money may yet give some help till the other loan come in, which I fear will not be quickly. That loan also I doubt not but you haste as much as may be. The shires near London and London may proceed and the privy seals sent to them, and the more remote shires may be thus last.—22 July 1604.
PS.—Return me Sir Vincent Skinner's letter.
Holograph. 2/3 p. (106. 14.)
Lord Chief Justice Popham to the Privy Council.
1604, July 23. Having received the notes I sent to you touching Wiltshire, Somerset and Devon I have again considered them. Touching any alteration to be made of those noted to be at 100l. or 50l., for that they are for the most of them known to you, I have left them to you to be abated as pleases you. For such of Wiltshire and Somerset which stood at 40l. the man., I have in the margin abated the sums for some of them to such a rate as I hold fit for them to bear, which nevertheless I submit to your better censures, who best know to what proportion the sum is to be raised. For those countries I have also at the end added as many as I can here of my own knowledge, with the sums I hold fit for each of them to bear. Although I know many more in those two countries of competent living, yet I know them to be so deeply indebted as I forbear to set them down, and so do also for such as I know not; whereof haply there may be many of very good estate, but for Devon I assure you I cannot particularize upon each otherwise than I have done, although haply many of those set at 40l. might be well cased. For the inferior sort of people in that country I am nothing acquainted with their estates. No doubt there be very many of that sort there of very great wealth and estate as merchants, tinners and such like. The best light I can give you for these is to refer it to the view of the last loan for all such as are not comprised in my paper sent you.—At Bedford, 23 July 1604.
Holograph. 12/3 pp. (106. 15.)
The Earl of Ormonde to Lord Cecil.
1604, July 23. I doubt not but that upon my former letters to you last month touching those causes of my fee tail land and other matters followed for me there by my agent, Mr. Roth, you have and will afford me your furtherance for dispatch and return of my agent. For the 1000 marks to be paid to the gentlemen at All Hallowtide next I desired you to move my Lord Treasurer for his letter to my Lord Deputy to accept the money here, so as upon sight of his bill confessing the receipt thereof the gentleman might be assured of it there: as also that you will deal with his lordship for the 350l. being the remain of my bills of exchange, if it be not already paid, the same being long since appointed for discharge of some things due at the being there of my daughter and her husband Viscount Butler, and no small touch in credit to me if it be unpaid. I send you by bearer a goshawk.—From my house at Carrick, 23 July 1604.
Signed. Seal. 2/3 p. (106. 16.)
Lord Balmerinoch, Lord Secretary of Scotland, to the Same.
1604, July 23. This gentleman has long and faithfully served his Majesty in divers great employments, and now last at this our session of Parliament, wherein some turbulent spirits would stir up some perturbation. He is and has ever been my friend. Show that favour you are accustomed to vouchsafe on all them that our sovereign has in recommendation.—Barnton, 23 July 1604.
Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (106. 17.)
The Earl of Dorset to Lord Cecil.
1604, July 23. Even now I finished this collection of considerations in the letting out of the customs. I have no other copy but send you this, which, after you have copied or read send to the rest of the Lords. These things I have collected out of such papers as the officers have given to me about this matter. If you or any of the Lords can add any other, I shall be glad to be informed thereof and will always join my best endeavours to the furtherance of this service so profitable for his Majesty.—23 July 1604.
Holograph. ½ p. (188. 145.)
John Norton.
1604, July 24. Memorandum of appointment of John Norton as woodward of all the King's manors in Hants. and of the forests of Pamber and Aylesholt (Alice Holt). 1 p. (P. 2207.)
Cormock Carty to Lord Cecil.
1604, July 25. Emboldened by the remembrance of many favours done by your father to me, I have presumed to sacrifice myself to your patronage. One of my tenants in parcel of my lands called Ifflanlue was lately convicted of murder; whereupon one Captain Haveser surmising the same to be my said tenant's inheritance procured a custodium thereof from the Lord Deputy and accordingly entered without any office found of what lands he was seised in the time of his conviction, thereby to entitle his Majesty to his freehold if he had any, as indeed he had none. I pray you will show me the favour to be restored to my former possessions until his Majesty shall be thereunto entitled, or until the same be evicted from me by ordinary course of his laws.—From my house of Blarney, 25 July 1604.
Signed. Seal. ½ p. (106. 18.)
Ralph Ewens to the Same.
1604, July 25. I forbore to return to your lordship the draft of the lease for the garden plot at Somersett House, until I had spoken with the lessee, viewed the ground, and understood all circumstances necessary to be known for the perfecting of the same. Which having done I send you in the form I conceive fittest for the Queen to grant it. I have inserted a little fine and rent, thinking that the safest and best way for both parts. I have added also a clause of re-entry for nonpayment of the rent, yet so as the demand must be made of the lessee himself and not upon the land only. I have also made a reservation of some convenient yearly proportion of seasonable fruits for her Majesty's use. I have made the term for her life and twenty-one years after, according to your direction. If anything differ from your purpose and meaning I shall be ready to reform it.
I conceive your lordship's patent of the custody of the house must be surrendered before this can be granted and then a new grant be made to you, with exception of this lease and that of the tennis court, the form whereof I send you.
For that of the tennis court, the gentleman that erected it is out of town and will not be in town these ten days, and I cannot learn the true quantity with other appurtenances to be demised to him. What shall be done with the other in the meantime I leave to your consideration and shall attend your pleasure by this bearer.—Aldersgate Street, 25 July 1604.
PS.—Your lordship may procure this lease to be engrossed and signed by her Majesty and so let it lie until a convenient time for the surrender of your own patent.
For the matter of my service in the place of Auditor, I must appeal to your protection and favour, in that I observe neither the like course to be taken with the Prince's Auditor (whom there is greater reason to sequester than me) nor with any one patentee since the King's coming, so as I shall appear to be a precedent of heavy punishment without any offence at all.
Signed. Endorsed: "Queen's Auditor to my Lord." 2 pp. (188. 146.)
The Mayor and others of Norwich to the Earls of Nottingham and Suffolk and Lord Cecil.
1604, July 25. We have been moved by John Tylsley, a poor neighbour of ours in this city of Norwich, a 'sylke raser,' to signify the true proceeding between him and Elizabeth, late wife and executor of Henry Dayes, and now wife of John Baynam, concerning the assignment of the apprenticehood of one John Gryme formerly bound apprentice to Dayes. Gryme being bound apprentice with Dayes by indenture dated 22 Nov. 1595, to serve for ten years, continued his service with Dayes about 7 years before his death, after whose death Elizabeth as his executor had the charge of the apprentice. This one William Jones of the city of London, cutter, understanding wrote to Elizabeth to have the residue of the term of years of the said Gryme, and Gryme to serve with Jones according to the said indenture. Elizabeth yielded to this so as Jones should presently send her by the next Norwich carriers 40s.; and to that end she delivered the indenture and her apprentice to the carrier. But when Jones had got the apprentice into his house he would not pay the 40s., she sending often for it. But after she marrying John Baynam he travelled to London to Jones and demanded the 40s., which Jones again refusing to pay Baynam got the apprentice back with him to Norwich, where he has ever since remained with John Tylsley by assignment of Elizabeth and her husband Baynam. All this Gryme will affirm to be true, who is now sent up according to your letters. Notwithstanding Jones has put Tylslye to much trouble and great charges for keeping Gryme. The ending of this business we leave to your grave considerations—Norwich, 25 July 1604.
Signed: Thomas Hyrne and others. Common Seal. 1 p. (106. 19.)
Newsletter.
1604, July 26. The King has put 30 per cent. upon all silks that come from Italy which breeds great discontent among the commonalty, saying that their King does it of purpose to impoverish all his subjects and to procure all the world to become his enemy for only attempting to renew the trade of Antwerp for the profit of the Archduke, to the utter undoing of them all; and now to appease them causes his officers to write lettres messivas to the towns and seaports that he will permit all such as bring corn to employ the proceeds thereof in any fruits or commodities that his country yields freely, without paying the 30 per cent. for so much as the sales of corn shall amount unto: but as yet no publication of it but only particular men's letters as a kind of false alarum to induce strangers to bring them such corn and victuals as they have most need of, and having once possessed it disposes of it at their own dispositions, using all kind of extortion most inhuman and ungrateful for the benefits done to them, and take it they do good service in beguiling our nation, being as they say heretical dogs disobedient to the mother church of Rome. Which in very truth is the best terms they can afford our nation, as you may inform of those that go hence daily. Notwithstanding for covetousness of gain it is well known that our countrymen will either by obtaining licences or by stealth bring them corn and such like necessaries, although their poor neighbours at home feel the smart of it; as they themselves may if peace be not concluded for it is probable that if there be any breach as many as are found here in the country will be forced to serve, both ships and men. But I hope there will be order taken at home for succouring them with overmuch corn, victuals, or munition until there be a firmer amity between us than hitherto there is.
The Jews and new Christians of Portugal have given the King 80,000 ducats for licence to depart out of his kingdoms and dominions with their households and families. Divers of them pass daily into Italy, France and Flanders and other places where they hope to have best entertainment. Over and above the great store of Irish that were here in this country here has come of late to the Court of Spain 1700 odd men, women and children of all sorts, which came away and left their country and lands and living only for religion. They are all entertained by this King, and has given to every of them a portion monthly. They under colour of begging alms from house to house speak so maliciously of our King and nation that it is most odious to hear. But their subtle proceeding gives content to the Spanish and liberal alms to themselves, in so much that the Spaniards affirm that they are descendant of the Spanish race and lineage and that they will live and die in defence of their afflicted cause. The English seminaries boast and brag of the great good they do in labouring the vineyard, but I hope neither they nor the Spanish politicians that are there which report that by great presents and gifts to the King's councillors and officers [they] will turn all things to their own content. As there is no fire without some smoke so I write you no more but that which I hear spoken, and not amongst the meaner sort of people. By the end of this month I mean to be in 20.—From 30, 26 July 1604.
Endorsed by one of Cecil's clerks: "Advertisements." 1½ pp. (106. 20.)
The Dean and Chapter of Westminster to Lord Cecil.
[1604], July 26. We were suitors to you a good while since for your mediation to his Majesty for the obtaining of a particular explanation and grant of some things we had formerly by the letters patents of our foundress, the Queen deceased, though in more general terms, and so subject to questions and strains in law. The stay has been in Mr. Attorney's want of leisure this Parliament time. But now, having received full satisfaction concerning the equity of our petition he has drawn up this book and returned it you from whom he had direction and warrant. At this time we renew our suit that you would perfect your own beginnings, and having thus far come that our bill is now ready for his Majesty's hand, to procure the same for us to assure the church from all future molestations. —Westminster, 26 July.
Signed. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (106. 21.)
Sir Thomas Smythe to the Same.
1604, July 26. Now that I am safely arrived in the borders of the Emperor's dominions, I took myself bound with the first to salute your lordship by letters and to acquaint you with my estate here at the Port of St. Mickels, where arriving the 23rd of July I found by my entertainment the Emperor had some expectation of an Ambassador from his Majesty, for he gave order both for my receiving here and the conducting me toward the Mosco; a course not heretofore taken with any sent from England, which I conceive proceeded from some notice and intimation made to the Emperor of an Ambassador likely to come out of England, this being all I can certify touching my employment.
Your lordship may remember the question being about my entitling to the Privy Chamber expressed in my commission. My answer was direct, that it was no work of mine and to give you further satisfaction I add this, that I understood by Mr. Wright it was your direction out of your especial favour towards me, and by Sir Thomas Chalinor that he had not only moved you therein, but also his Majesty in your presence, whom he found willing thereto. But your conclusion was so honourable, as my boldness shall proceed from thence, still to rely upon your honourable disposition towards me, hoping my long absence and employment shall be no prejudice if anything fall out wherein my service and preferment may meet.—26 July 1604.
Signed. Endorsed: "Sir Thomas Smith to my Lord, from the borders of Moscovye." 1 p. (188. 147.)
Lord Wotton to Lord Cecil.
1604, July 26. I am advertised that his Majesty has a purpose to create Sir Ed. Denny Baron upon a match to be made between his daughter and Sir James Hay. If it be so then I humbly beseech your lordship in contemplation of me to put the King in mind of his promise concerning Sir Nicholas Bacon.—Boughton Malherbe, 26 July 1604.
Holograph. 1 p. (188. 148.)
Bill of Mortality.
1604, July 27. The certificate of such as died and are buried within the liberty of Westminster and the Strand in one week last ending 27 July 1604.
In St. Margaret's parish:
Buried there of the plague out of a house near Tuttle 1
Of other diseases there 8
In St. Clement's; buried there 1
Sum total 10
Signed: Ra. Dobbinson. 1 p. (106. 22.)
Sir Rowland Lytton to Lord Cecil.
1604, July 27. I present enclosed the names of the ablest sort of men in our country, omitting those that heretofore lent, according to your direction. The meaner sort are marked with one cross, whom I think 20l. enough to be imposed on; the middle sort have a double cross, and the best three crosses. Concerning the collector, I am bold to put you in mind of Sir Henry Boteler, who being sheriff has best advantage by means of his under officers to expedite the service, and by reason of his place may seem freest from envy or extraordinary favour. I find divers in your paper dead since the last loan, whom I have marked with a point on the "margent." There may be others unknown to me, as also divers able men unknown to me in the 2 hundreds of Hertford and Braughing.—27 July 1604.
Holograph. Endorsed: "Sir Rowland Lytton to my Lord, with a catalogue of names fit to lend money in Hartfordshyre." 1 p. (106. 23.)
Nicholas Geffe to Lord Cecil.
1604, July 29. Yesterday I went to the Court of Augmentation to inform myself of the estate of two manors fit to pass, to the end I might as you commanded attend you with a declaration of their estates. Returning homewards I was by the sheriff of Middlesex arrested and carried to his house in Holborn, whom I have intreated to present these to you. The nature of the action to which I am subject is thus. I became bound as a surety; the obligee never delivered any money or other valuable matter and besides the obligation is made void by Parliament anno 39 Eliz., at which myself and my counsel were heard, so as I have a discharge in law and in conscience owe nothing, only it will require two or three days "respect" [respite] to prove it for the sheriff's indemnity. In the meantime I beseech you to sign the warrant enclosed, until I may intreat Sir Fr. Bacon to attend you therein, who is all ready and shall be fully instructed in every point.—29 July 1604.
Holograph. 1 p. (106. 24.)
Sir George Reynell to the Same.
1604, July 29. I entreat you, either by yourself or whom else you please, to hear me touching the late decree made against me, which contains some apparent mistakings and divers wrongs so great, as I assure me if yourself had not been wronged by some other you would not have passed the same. I farther pray you to take consideration of the office of the Fleet. The place is of great danger and importance; Mr. Trench has no interest at all therein and yet holds the same from me under colour of your late decree, though it warrant no such matter neither to him nor to Mr. Tirrell. If in the meanwhile any prisoner shall escape, myself only is to bear the loss and this decree the imputation. Nor is there any mean for Mr. Tirrell to recover arrearages of rent from Mr. Trench, there being no bonds for payment of rents and Mr. Trench of himself every day more unable to pay the same. Of all which (with other outrages lately committed by Mr. Tirrell) I pray you to hear me yourself or by any other whom you will command.—29 July 1604.
Holograph. Seal. ½ p. (106. 26.)
Royal Warrant.
1604, July 29. Royal warrant for the grant to Henry, Earl of Southampton, of the manors of Rumsey, co. Hants, and Compton Magna, co. Somerset; and other lands out of the Exchequer and Duchy. Also grant to Phillip Tyse of Exchequer lands to the annual value of 60l.—Palace of Westminster, 29 July 1604.
Signed by the King. Seal. 1 m. (218. 16.)
Sir William Fleetwood and Sir David Foulis to Lord Cecil.
1604, July 29. Report their investigations into the King's household accounts. The charges are much more than when Lady Elizabeth was here, the reason alleged being the increase of officers by warrant, and their private diet. Never a man is allowed to eat in the house, master or servant, but he stands to the King in 60l. a year in diet only. By reason of private tables, some three men's diet amounts yearly to 350l. and more: some one man's to 220l.; some two men's, with their necessary servants, to 600l.: every laundress and seamster to 86l. in bare diet. They find inferior officers are served by discretion with bread, beer and wine, the chiefest points of the charges, which the writers have limited a little, to the sparing of the King's purse. They make various recommendations, and pray to be freed from the care of the matter, which should be put under specially appointed officers. The confusion is great, the redress hard, and the envy insupportable, without the King's special countenance and Cecil's assistance.—Nonsuche, 29 July 1604.
Signed: Willm. Fletewoode; D. Foulis. 1 p. (189. 1.)
Sir John Ogle to the Same.
1604, July 29/Aug. 8. I writ to you once since the coming of the enemy to these parts. He remains with his army still at his quarter near Middelburgh having once removed by reason of our cannon, and where he is now he finds it warm enough. His design at first in advancing of works carried some show of a further attempt; since he hath let his plumes fall and sees small good to be done, in such sort as we judge him to remain there rather to hatch some new enterprises than upon any hope he can have to effect anything that way. Yesterday being the 7th (after this style) of August in the morning a little before day they gave an alarum to our camp on this side, intending only upon Count William's quarter. Their information was bad concerning the strength of those works which they thought to have found assaultable in divers places and to that end brought scaling ladders; but they found their ladders much too short, otherwise such was their number, speed and (for aught we know) resolution as they would have much endangered to have carried that quarter. But our walls were better than the watch and readiness of those our troops, who took the alarm slowly and confusedly as I was credibly informed by an officer, for we of the English quarter were to look to our own. The enemy was 2000 foot and as many horse commanded all by the Count Trevulci; 800 foot out of the camp which Spinola commanded, the other 1200 drawn from before Ostend, Blankenburgh and other forts near about. The same day they quartered and rested them in our sight in a wood 2 English miles from our quarter. They are this day removed and each returned to his place. They lost only one captain, and some fourteen prisoners were taken, for their main troops came scarce so near as musket shot; one only hundred was first advanced to discover and adventure, the rest according to their success. Touching the getting of the town we make here no question if their victuals last not longer than the time will suffer us to lodge here, the doubts and hopes whereof are nourished according to the reports of such as daily come over; for divers speak diversely according to their own feelings or apprehensions. Yesterday and 2 days before it went for current the town could not hold above 6 days; now some come out this morning say they have yet 12 ounces of bread the day, but it is black, heavy, and very bad food. Some speak of a continuance of faction in the town twixt the Almanes and Spaniards. For my part if I should ground my judgment concerning the likelihood of the soon yielding of this place I should make my foundation upon these 2 principal points, the impossibility (in appearance) of relieving it, and the strong presumption of a present necessity within the town by reason of their coming from their other business to relieve it. And yet it cannot be denied but that the governor may yet find means and devices to prolong the time, if by no other means yet by letting a thousand or two starve for hunger the longer to sustain the rest, and that not at once but by degrees. We expect the enemy upon our English quarter, but I see no great inducement he hath to lead him hither. There is intelligence of a purpose that those of the town have to sally with "sloopes" and so to defeat our guard near the water, which they may easily do if the wonted negligence of our watch be yet continued.
The Count Maurice hath had a late breach with some of the deputed Estates here for the camp about their checking and controlling his works as unprofitable, and therefore would pay the labourers by discretion, defaulting the 7th part; which being known to the Count by the denial of the workmen in refusing to undertake any more works was (as he had reason) by him ill taken, in such sort that one of them as I hear is gone discontented into Holland.—Camp before Sluce, August 8 novo, 1604.
Holograph. Seal broken. 1½ pp. (106. 25.)
Justice G. Kingesmyll to the Privy Council.
1604, July 30. I received your letters dated 24 July last requiring me to satisfy you how long a certain priest and a layman had been in prison before they received their trial. They were arraigned and convicted at the summer assizes a twelvemonth since; at which time we used many persuasions to them of reformation, and spared judgment, giving them time and the best means we could to obtain his Majesty's pardon until the last Assizes in Lent. At these Assizes we were informed that they made suit to his Majesty for pardon, but obtained it not. We respited their judgment until this last summer Assizes, and then we offered, if they would come to the church, pray for the King, and conform, to labour to the King for them. But they, as they had done divers times before, refused so to do. Therefore they being an offence to the country it was thought it should be amiss to stay them longer in his Majesty's gaol: and seeing the law had taken hold of them, it was hoped that no less could be done than to proceed accordingly.—Okham, 30 July 1604.
Signed. Seal. 1 p. (106. 27.)
Lord Zouche to Lord Cecil.
1604, July 30. I have expected your love because I have laboured to be worthy of it. That I writ tartly in my last I am sorry that you took it, for I was far from thinking to be so, though I heartily thank you that you give me leave to be so when I conceive occasion. In like sort I beseech you to be tart with me when you shall but conceive I give cause. I hold it a great testimony of true love so long as just satisfaction may be received. Concerning his Highness's gift I have written to Sir Vincent Skinner to help me in it, for I am raw in those matters. The money I am to pay into the Exchequer I have already sent to Worcester to be made over with all speed and written to one who has heretofore laid down so much for me; but if both should fail then have I intreated Sir Vincent Skinner to move you for your favour, being loth to be found negligent of any my sovereign's commandments. I am heartily sorry my Lord of Pembroke should think that you should make stay of the pardon for any cause other than the King's service, which was the cause moved me to press you very earnestly, for I know too well how many murders are committed within this government, and in this particular how hard it will be for any to do that gentleman wrong or offer him hard measure. Therefore in duty and conscience did I move the stay of any such course until the matter were well examined: wherein I will do my endeavour if my Lord Chancellor be pleased to continue his stay, otherwise I shall begin to learn that patience whereof you write. I will never press you without delivering my opinion truly how I think of the cause and then shall give place to your judgment if you resolve of error in my course.—Ticknell, 30 July.
PS.—I send you the copy of my letter to his Highness that if you like it not you may suppress it; as also that to the Council for I desire to be so happy as to be guided by you. That to my Lord of Pembroke I also send you that you may see what I have written to him. I enclose one to Sir Vincent Skinner in hope you will command it to be delivered him. I am informed the sickness is at the Bath dispersed in so much as the physicians be fled from thence. I wish myself at Theobalds only to offer you my service and to be a witness of his Highness's delights he takes there.
Holograph. Seal. 2 pp. (106. 30.)
The Enclosures:
(1) Lord Zouche to the Privy Council. I have sent you the names of those in Shropshire of whom, by the best advice I can get, his Majesty may borrow such sums as they are marked for without any great prejudice, and I hope with so little respect of any as they cannot complain, though if they did I might well clear myself. It is thought that those marked with three pricks may lend 100l., those with two 50l., and those of one 40l.: the like of six of the Welsh shires. The rest I expect daily from the justices of those circuits, which I will also send, or will alter my course or desist according to your farther commandments.—Tickenhill house, 30 July 1604.
Copy. ½ p. (106. 28.)
(2) Lord Zouche to the Earl of Pembroke.—I was much grieved to perceive by yours that you had undertaken to move his Majesty in the behalf of a gentleman whom I had solicited against by information from others, not of malice nor of faction but for the good of the countries where I serve, which as you well know are given to much malice and an uncivil kind of murdering; whereof if his Highness should not take some especial care it would quickly go evil in these countries. I think you may well find I am likeliest to err least, when he seeks a pardon who by his allies is of the stronger faction in the country. If malice prepense shall be nourished, his Majesty may sooner give occasion of more disquietness than hope to have it well governed. If there be not some such thing in this I am abused, and will easily confess it so soon as I may see it, and to that end have sent to inquire better of the matter; that if you be pleased to be better informed therein you may be, or that I may with more honesty recall my labour to Lord Cecil to make stay of any such pardon, if happily any such might escape his Highness's hands before he should rightly be informed. Wherein if I may have convenient time I shall truly certify what will evidently be proved as I will answer it of my credit.—Tickenhill, 30 July 1604.
Copy. 1 p. (106. 29.)
Lord North to Lord Cecil.
[1604], July 30. I am since my arrival at Portsmouth this evening, by pretended reason of not producing his Majesty's licence for my departure, stayed from proceeding in my determined journey by one Sir Benjamin Berry, lieutenant governor here under my Lord of Devonshire; I am also retained as a person suspected, both from return and remove out of his government. He alleges no other cause of suspecting me than that I make haste to have been gone. Would not any man do the like having the wind favourable? I confess I procured no authentical testimony for my pass; my inexperience was cause thereof. At my last departure from England by the port of Sandwich there was nothing demanded at my hands in signification of my due licence, and I thought indeed that a gentleman would far less have urged his authority to extremity; especially considering the manner of my arrival was not like a fugitive. For I had a trunk of good weight newly arrived before me, and I came accompanied by one of the best sort of my Lord of Devonshire's followers besides a younger brother of mine of the age of 14 or 15 years, and three other servants. He said he would have been satisfied if Mr. Fowler, the gentleman of my Lord's in my company, had brought him any word from my Lord. I replied that I hoped if a gentleman's word might have satisfied I thought myself wronged if he rejected mine more than his, intimating that present licence of his Majesty's I had none but contented myself with his royal assent in word of mouth; which I entreat you to certify my Lord of Devonshire, whose assent for my pass he says shall content him, neither had I neglected to proffer him my service if at my departure he had been in Court. The lieutenant governor has also made a dispatch by this post, but to whom I know not. Grant me a pass for myself with three of my company and 200l. in my purse. I understand him not to be of 3 weeks standing in his office so that I know he expects thanks for his diligent care, as well as he desired to show his authority in doing it.—Portsmouth, 30 July.
Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." Seal broken. 1 p. (106. 31.)
Sir G. Hervy, Lieutenant of the Tower, to Lord Cecil.
1604, July 30. I have received your letters by Lady Ralegh, and have thought it my duty to put you in mind that upon the prisoners' return from Winchester the Council ordered that Lord Cobham, Lord Grey and Sir Walter Ralegh should each have two servants, one to attend, and the other to go about their business. This was observed till the Council gave warrant for divers other persons, whose names I send herewith, to have access to them; since which time Sir W. Ralegh, besides his men of allowance, has drawn unto him a preacher and 3 boys in ordinary. I have often entreated him to procure warrant for them, for I have ever held it my best course, which has been unpleasing to the prisoners, and to such as desire access. I long since delivered to the warders a list of those that had licence of access, whereby to satisfy others that should desire it, et hinc illae lacrimae, and complaint of restraint, because I will not allow promiscuous access. Sir W., in writing that neither man nor boy of his (being sent from his Lady) can come to him without a warrant, wittingly much wrongs himself and me. It may be that the warders, not finding their names in the list, have stayed such at the ward till they have acquainted me therewith: whereupon I have ever permitted them to come to him. Yet could I wish good choice to be made of such servants as should come to the prisoners, for though touching intelligences the time is not now so dangerous as before their trial, yet (having no hope of enlargement) their escapes are now more to be feared than at any time heretofore; and none so fit instruments for that employment as their own servants, whom they may best command and trust. The ladies, and some courtiers with them, I confess have once or twice (finding the gates of the gardens, where Lord Grey and Sir W. are allowed to walk, open) entered and "complementallie" talked with them in my presence; for preventing of which incursions I have been constrained to set a lock upon their garden doors, which is kept by my servant, but disliked of the prisoners, who are impatient of any restraint. The list given to the warders, and the locking of their garden doors (whereby common access is barred), are the things most distasteful to them, which I cannot with my own safety alter; otherwise I have used them all as kindly as I could, respecting my duty to his Majesty. If that will not serve, I must commend myself to him and the Council, upon whom only I must depend.—The Tower, 30 July 1604.
Holograph. 1 p. (189. 3.)
The Enclosure:
"The names of such as are licensed to have access" to Lord Cobham, Lord Grey, and Sir Walter Ralegh.
Lord Cobham. The La. of Kildare (and a woman): Sir Jo. Leveson: D. Lanckton and D. Poe (at reasonable times), *Sir Tho. Vavasour: *Sir Edw. More: *Sir Tho. Vane: *the Ward. of Winton: Mr. *Nich. Saunders: *Mr. Wakeman; *Sir Jo. Smith: my Lord's servants, i.e., my Lord's clerk of his kitchen, my Lord's cook, *Mr. Mellershe, Wood, Morrice, Penns and Jackson: servants that wait upon him, i.e., Tho. Morgan and Tho. Langman.
Lord Grey. The Lady Grey his mother (and her woman): *the Lord Gerard: Mr. Parker: his physician: Sir Fra. Goodwin: Mr. Hervis: servants that attend him, i.e., Clement Walleis and Tho. Lakin: his cook.
Sir W. Ralegh. The Lady Ralegh: *Sir Car. Ralegh: *Sir Ge. Carewe: his physician: Sir Alexander Brett: Mr. Peter van Lore: *Mr. Arth. Aston: *Mr. Char. Chewt: *Widow Morley: Mr. Shelberie: servants that attend him, i.e., Peter Hart and Talbot a Schoolmr.—Undated.
The words in parentheses are in Cecil's hand. The names marked * are struck out, apparently by Cecil. 1 p. (189. 2.)
The Lord Mayor of London to the Privy Council.
1604, July 31. I received your letter concerning such as have taken upon them to publish certain articles for the treaty, and according to your direction have made diligent inquiry after the first author thereof. Finding a copy of the said articles and so proceeding from party to party, in the end it rested upon one Richard Holmead, a silkman in Cheapside, who confesses that he had them of Sir George Keere a Scottishman belonging to the Duke of Lennox, and is now in France, who gave Holmead the said articles written in Scottish which he had much ado to understand; and for his better information he put them into English as they are now published. Which is all that I can do in that matter until I know your further pleasure.—London, 31 July 1604.
Signed: Thomas Bennett. ½ p. (106. 32.)
The Bishop of Winchester to the Same.
1604, July 31. According to their direction, he has made a view of such ecclesiastical livings and persons as he thinks able to bear part of the burden of supplying his Majesty's occasions. He has proceeded with all indifferency, and such moderation as he thinks there is no just cause left them to refuse or complain. If any of their estates are secretly more decayed than he is acquainted with, he must leave that to their own information and proof. For himself, though he must pay to his Majesty 1200l. by March 26, viz. 500l. for the subsidy remaining: 400l. for a pension out of Taunton: and 300l. for a tenth due next Christmas: and his attendances this year have cost him above 1,200l. more: yet he is most willing to assess himself at 200l. For others who are not resident in his diocese, and yet have some of the best benefices there, he has also made a note.—Bisshops Waltham, last of July 1604.
Holograph, signed: Tho: Winton. 1 p. (189. 4.)
[Lord Cecil] to Lord —.
[1604, ?July] My Lord, upon receipt of your letter of 9 June I directed an answer to you, especially concerning the particular of the supposed mine in Scotland, returning to you his Majesty's pleasure, who being acquainted with your opinion of persisting in the prosecution of some one work rather than in the change before the bottom be searched, well approves the same. And for Mr. Bulmer's motion to accept Mr. Bowes's works, seeing those gave appearance of better contentment. That packet of mine, as it seems, being desirous to pass the sea, rather than to go over the Tweed, went over by a mistaken superscription to the Secretary of Ireland, from whom now that I receive it, I am troubled to think what opinion you have dwelt in all this while. I send you therefore a letter for Mr. Bowes, to give no impediment to Mr. Bulmer's trials in any of his works, and pray you to acquaint Bulmer with the same. Mr. Grion, a groom of the Privy Chamber, has been an earnest suitor for a reversion of Mr. Roper's office, to begin after your grant. His Majesty was willing to pleasure him and wrote to my Lord Chief Justice for it, who has seemed unwilling to it in regard of himself yet it was conceived, seeing one reversion is out already, that with time he might be won unto another, which if his Majesty should understand, you can easily guess a new importunity would easily carry the matter. I objected the common prejudice in suffering private men to become reversioners after councillors, but to that was objected that those rules served for places meet for councillors, and not for those things which they held not in regard of any such quality. But when I resorted to this other reason, that this new reversion upon yours would so entangle your grant, as when it should come in possession, you should be unable to sell it to any but the reversioner, and so what was intended to your profit by the King should this way be defrauded, his Majesty very graciously said he would hereafter resist any motion in that behalf. I think it were not amiss that you wrote half a dozen lines to the King, which once done, you may then remain secure, such is the constancy of his favour, when his faithful servants give him any taste of any prejudice like to befall them. For all other things which concern this estate, I refer you to my letters to my Lord of Dunbar.—Undated.
Draft. Endorsed: "Concerning the Inconvenience of granting Reversions." 5 pp. (119. 85.)
Dr. He. Atkins to Lord Cecil.
[1604, July.] I thought it my duty to certify you of the success of our beginning of our journey, as well in respect of my obligation to you, as the special comfort I know you will conceive of his Highness's welfare. On Saturday July 21 his Highness came to Barwick in very good health, and very well brooks and likes his journey. I am very glad I am out of Scotland, though I know no special cause, more than my desire to come to a good issue of my service, which consists in this noble young Prince's happy arrival to their Majesties' presence.— Undated.
Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (189. 62.)