Cecil Papers: December 1605, 16-31

Calendar of the Cecil Papers in Hatfield House: Volume 17, 1605. Originally published by His Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1938.

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'Cecil Papers: December 1605, 16-31', in Calendar of the Cecil Papers in Hatfield House: Volume 17, 1605, (London, 1938) pp. 554-570. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-cecil-papers/vol17/pp554-570 [accessed 14 April 2024]

December 1605, 16-31

Thomas Harriot to the Council.
1605, Dec. 16. He protests his innocence. He was always of honest conversation, never a meddler in matters of state, never ambitious for preferments, but contented with a private life for the love of learning, wherein his labours have been painful and great. He yet hopes that the effects thereof will show themselves to the good liking of state and commonwealth. But this misery of close imprisonment, happening at the time of his sickness, will be his utter undoing, not only in respect of great charges, but of being in a place where he is not likely to recover health. His innocence, his present misery and the desire of proceeding in his studies make him a suitor for liberty in what measure the Council may think fit. He will spend the rest of his time so that they shall not think any lawful favour ill bestowed.—16 Dec. 1605.
Holograph. 1 p. (114. 41.)
Sir Thomas Palmer to the Earl of Salisbury.
1605, Dec. 17. Perusing my book of notes I found the enclosed, which I present as a remembrance how it was in her Majesty's time when treason was attempted. The letter of Sir Francis Walsingham this bearer has, if it please you to see them [sic]. In this county are many Papists, as in other counties. If the state of my body would permit I would have waited on you.—Arondell, 17 Dec. 1605.
Signed. ½ p. (113. 100.)
"Robiyo," to—.
[1605], Dec. 17/27. Here I had news that the admiral . . . is in London and it occurred to me to ask you to do me the favour to let me hear of your good health. I feel I am losing all this journey without your company, and would ask you to send me shortly the pictures of the Queen of England and the Prince. You might send them to me by the Ambassador of the King of England at Brussels.—27 Dec.
Spanish. Mutilated. No address. Endorsed: "1605 Robiyo." 1 p. (113. 111.)
Sir James Perrott to Lord Zouche, Lord President of Wales.
1605, Dec. 18. He encloses a letter from his servant out of Pembrokeshire, containing matter of suspicion for the transportation of armour out of Ireland to Milford Haven at the time when this late treason should have been executed. It concerns Mr. Thomas Canon, for whom it is said to have been transported. Canon is his professed enemy, yet he would not wrong him. If anything would make him suspect Canon, it would be that he was of late very inward with those nearest to the Earl of Northumberland. If it should be thought fit to examine Canon's servants, the ship owners and others, those least affected to Canon, and therefore most to be trusted, are Henry White, Nicholas Adams, Thomas Lloyd of Kylkyfficke and Devereux Barrett, esquires, Justices of Pembrokeshire. He is grieved to be forced, in the next session of Parliament, to oppose his Majesty in the passing of an act wherein some lands never yet recovered from him (Perrott) are to be annexed to the Crown, yet no such disaster shall withdraw his faith from religion or loyalty.—Ashrige in Buckinghamshire, 18 Dec. 1605.
Holograph. 1 p. (113. 101.)
The Enclosure:
Da. Gwynne to Sir James Perrott.—Reports the suspicious proceedings of Thomas Canon. Canon sent his servant George Parker to Ireland, who 3 weeks since brought over great store of armour, but finding his master gone to London, and hearing of these noblemen's treason, he concealed the matter, so that it is not known what has become of the armour. Canon robbed a multitude of poor people in providing money against this time. He took journey for London but a little time before this unspeakable treason should be committed, for by the time he was come into Bristol the treason was revealed, and thereupon he stayed there, and it is not known what has become of him. Recommends examination into the matter.—Hawldston, 9 Dec. 1605.
Holograph. 1 p. (113. 89.)
Sir Thomas Edmondes to the Earl of Salisbury.
1605, Dec. 20. Thanks for Salisbury's last letters of the 2nd instant, which were brought to him on Tuesday, 10th instant, at 9 o'clock in the morning. He immediately sought audience of the Archduke which was granted him the same forenoon. Told him he was charged by his Majesty to make known to him that it now directly appeared that Owen and Baldwin were the principal instruments not only in the former treason against the King since his coming to the Crown for soliciting the means for a foreign invasion from Spain but in this last damnable treason of powder; for those respects his Majesty desired him to make delivery of Owen and Baldwin into his hands and also to put Sir Wm. Stanley under safeguard till matter should be sent for the further charging of him. The Archduke showed much astonishment to hear Owen and Baldwin so confidently charged. The proposition made was a matter of great importance which required due consideration for they were not accustomed to lay hands on religious men. He would therefore advise of what was fit to be done for his Majesty's service and shortly give his answer. Edmondes showed him that there was present means of laying hold of Baldwin and Sir Wm. Stanley and moved him that Baily, against whom the examinations were not yet thoroughly verified, might be continued prisoner or sent over with the rest, undertaking that he should be sent back if there fell out no matter to charge him. He desired also to have a sight of Owen's and Baily's papers in order to discover what other partisans are interested in the treason. The Archduke took time to advise of all the propositions. Edmondes urged that he might speedily receive his resolution because the arraignments of the prisoners in England were expressly stayed for the more clear proceeding by confronting these men with them.
Relates conversations about the matter with President Richardott, who prayed patience for two days longer because it was a time of special devotion with them being their Christmaseve and day; on Monday he would come and impart the Archduke's answer but he failed of his promise. On Tuesday evening Edmondes obtained audience of the Archduke and pressed him further for his answer for which he had already attended eight days. The Archduke assured him that there was no want of willingness to give his Majesty speedy satisfaction but that the matter depended upon others. He would send Ricardot to deliver his more particular answer and would undertake the forthcoming of the accused persons.
The President came not till yesterday (Thursday). Concerning the demand for Baldwin he said that he being a religious man the orders of their Church restrained them from dealing with him but to refer him to the censure of his superiors upon the informations against him; for Owen he was servant to the King of Spain and they could not deal further with him till they received direction out of Spain. In the meantime the Archduke desired that the informations against him might be sent hither and he be examined in Edmondes's presence. As for Owen's papers which Edmondes had desired to see the Archduke considered that this could not be done without prejudice to others but he assured the King on his honour that if anything should be found in them concerning the late practice he would faithfully impart the same. Edmondes told the President that he was sorry they had so long delayed to give so unsatisfactory answer which he feared would not be well taken by his Majesty; that, if Baldwin's coat, of whom he had seen some for smaller sins hanged in France, and the pretence of Owen's dependance upon Spain exempted them from being answerable for so horrible a practice against their Prince, the world would have occasion to judge strangely thereof.
Further conversations between Edmondes and the President with regard to the delivery of Owen, but denied that the Archduke would change anything for the present of his resolution till he heard out of Spain. Touching Baldwin and Stanley the Archduke would take present order for assuring their persons. Baldwin and the rest of his accomplices affrontedly give out that, though it be true that some desperate persons be guilty of the late practice, the rest is only artifice for the interesting of the Catholics therein and their credit is such here as receives belief rather than anything avowed to the contrary. They ground an opinion here that his Majesty will relent after the courtesy they shall do concerning the delivery of Owen, which is like to be the uttermost degree they mean to pass, if they can be brought so far for the saving of their honour.
Finds they will be content to continue Baily under restraint till there come further news out of England concerning him. If his papers might be visited, as it is passionately withstood, it would declare what manner of person he is. Salisbury will see that he has not failed in his diligence to have sooner returned him an answer.
Since his last letters understands that Parsons the Jesuit journeyed from Rome with design, as it is thought, to come to these parts, but hearing of the failing of the enterprise of England was much astonished and returned to Rome. It is also conceived that Sir Ed. Bainham's passage in post into Italy was to meet him but he returned with the like speed into these parts and remained for a while secretly at Lisle.
The late accidents in France by the imprisoning of the Spanish Ambassador's secretary for the practice with Merarges against the town of Marseilles have much troubled these Princes. Monsr. Ayala, their Ambassador in France, makes great means to return because of the discontentment which he receives there.
The marriage of the Duke of Arscott has been solemnised with little pomp. He receives many presents from sundry princes but the French King refuses to send him any.
Monsr. du Terrail grows no less discontented with his usage here and has been secretly with the French Ambassador to seek his peace with the King. Most of his followers have already abandoned him.—20 Dec. 1605.
Copy. 12 pp. (227. p. 146.)
[Original in P.R.O. State Papers, Foreign, Flanders, 7.]
Sir William Waad to the Council.
1605, Dec. 21. Notwithstanding the commandment that was given to the Lord Mayor a fortnight since by all my Lords, not to renew any quarrels against this his Majesty's Royal Castle, in so evil a chosen time as this: yesternight he compassed the greatest part of the Tower with the sword carried before him, accompanied with the Sheriffs, and a rabble of sergeants, and took possession of the Postern, and so came back again in great bravery, bidding the people bear witness of his triumph. My poor understanding, being far inferior to the deep conceits of that grave bench, cannot conceive the time so aptly picked out, when the traitors went about to take away the sacred life of his Majesty, for a Lord Mayor to attempt to take from his Majesty the ground appertaining to this Royal Castle. I am put in trust with the keeping of the place, and great charge there, and am sworn to maintain the rights belonging to this place, which I will defend to the uttermost of my power before any living I have. I beseech you, seeing the Lord Mayor has showed so little discretion at this unseasonable time, when you are honourably employed to discover the bottom of these detestable treasons, myself careful to look to my charge, and not then in health, to assist me in addressing my complaint to his Majesty. For if these intolerable courses be suffered, the Lord Mayors will not cease until they get the Tower into their possession; and I hope I shall be borne withal if being thus awakened, I answer my Lord Mayor's courses by such means as I lawfully may use.—21 Dec. 1605.
Holograph. 1 p. (113. 103.)
Sir Christopher Parkins to the Earl of Salisbury.
1605, Dec. 22. Not long since it was signified to him that there was an inclination to use his service, as occasion should offer. This emboldens him, upon this late heinous attempt, to think of some motions and remembrances that might be put to good use by such as, being acquainted with all particulars, were authorised thereunto. He has therefore set them down in writing and encloses them.—22 Dec. 1605.
Holograph. 1 p. (113. 104.)
Dr. R. Clayton, Vice-Chancellor of Cambridge University, to the Same.
1605, Dec. 23. According to your pleasure, I have called the proctors of the University and acquainted them with the complaint exhibited against them. However the information may be aggravated, I persuade myself that upon indifferent hearing they will be able to deliver such reason of their proceedings as shall give good satisfaction. To that end they or some meet person in their behalf will be ready to attend upon you after the holidays.—Cambridge, Dec. 23, 1605.
Signed. Seal. 1 p. (136. 135.)
M., Lady Treshame, to Sir Walter Cope.
1605 [? Dec. 23]. Upon the apprehension of my son Francis many creditors demand satisfaction of great sums of money due by my deceased husband. I have given order as administrator to my son to sell goods and chattels towards the said debts. As yet he has not acquainted me neither with all that is sold, nor with the particularity of that which is paid. Be a means that my son may be demanded this, so that order may be taken for satisfying the debts, which with the legacies amount to some 12,000l.—Clerkenwell, this Monday morning, 1605.
Signed. ½ p. (206. 23.)
Humfrey Wheeler to the Earl of Salisbury.
1605, Dec. 24. He acknowledges his obligations to Salisbury in the matter of the debt of 1,000l. owing to him by Francis Tressame, who upon Salisbury's command paid him good part. He begs his help to obtain the rest, almost 500l. besides some lands, wherein he stands bound for Tressame. If Tressame lives, Salisbury's command will help him to the debt. If he dies, as he has well deserved for his most horrible treasons, he begs to be relieved from Tressame's lands and goods.
This county is fully "farced" with most dangerous Papists, priests and "newters", who are more dangerous than the rest. Offers to write at large thereon.—Wyck, within one mile of Worcester, 24 Dec. 1605.
Holograph. 1 p. (113. 105.)
The Earl of Salisbury to Sir Thomas Fane, Lieutenant of Dover Castle.
1605, Dec. 24. I desire you will take some order with the Commissioners for Passage, that if any man offer to take passage by them under the name of Thomas Wilson, gentleman, by virtue of a passport under my hand dated Whitehall, 24 December, that they will stay him and bring him privately to you, whom I pray you retain until I am advertised thereof. Let there be no noise made of it, but carried as privately as may be, for therein consists the life of the service.—Court at Whitehall, 24 Dec. 1605.
Signed. 1 p. (113. 106.)
Lord Haryngton to the Earl of Salisbury.
[1605], Dec. 24. The bearer desires to make known to Salisbury such things as he has got knowledge of, touching some persons suspected to have had their hands in these late conspiracies and treasons.—Coventry, 24 Dec.
Holograph. Endorsed: "1605." 1 p. (191. 96.)
Dudley Carleton to the Same.
[1605], Dec. 25. He sues for his liberty. His friends, to whose custody he committed himself, have left town for Christmas, and it is not well for his health in their empty house, nor is he provided for a housekeeper, having emptied his purse with his chargeable journey to obey the Earl's commands. If he were guilty of any ill thought in the matter in question, he would shame to beg favour, but innocency is a bold solicitor. —From my lodging this Christmas Day.
Holograph. Endorsed: "1605." 1 p. (113. 107.)
Export of Baize.
1605, Dec. 25. Account of bayes transported from London, Sandwich and Colchester, from Christmas 1604 to Christmas 1605. Total 8,174 double, and 2,651 single bayes; the custom and subsidy of which is 2,374l. 7s. 6d. If they paid double subsidy it would amount to 3,799l. 16s., which would be a yearly gain of 1,425l. 8s. 6d.—Undated.
Endorsed: "A note of bayes transported by strangers in one year." 1 p. (189. 66.)
Hugh Lee to the Earl of Salisbury.
1605, Dec. 26. Thomas Nicholson, a Scottish gentleman, being indebted to Thomas Lee, the writer's late brother, suggested to the latter that Salisbury owed Nicholson 600l., upon a warrant or bill of debt; and that he had left the warrant with one William Clarke. Nicholson furnished Thomas Lee with Clarke's receipt for the warrant, and a writing of attorneyship for the receipt of the money. As his brother's executor, the writer petitioned Salisbury for the money, but conceived Salisbury was displeased with him as demanding a debt where no such was owing. As he is shortly to go to Lishborne [Lisbon], as consul there for the English merchants, and to satisfy Salisbury of the grounds of his petition, he encloses the above mentioned 2 writings, to the end that his simplicity may appear, and he begs Salisbury to remove all hard conceit of him.—26 Dec. 1605.
Holograph. 1 p. (113. 110.)
Two Enclosures.
(1). Acknowledgment by William Clarke, citizen and grocer of London, of the receipt from Thomas Nicholson, citizen of Aberdeen, of the bill of debt above named.—14 June 1597.
Signed. ½ p. (113. 108.)
(2). Power of attorney by Thomas Nicholson of Aberdeen in favour of Thomas Lee, citizen and grocer of London, in the matter of the above debt.—21 June 1597.
Signed, witnessed by Alexander Donalsonn. ½ p. (113. 109.)
The Infanta Isabel to Jehan van Heaecht and his partners.
1605, Dec. 26/1606, Jan. 5 Grant of a monopoly of their methods for the improvement of all the mills in her dominions in the Low Countries for the ensuing ten years.—Brussels, 5 Jan. 1606.
Copy, countersigned: Prats. French. 2 pp. (115. 62.)
The following undated petition is bound with the above and has possibly some reference to it:
Petition of Philibert Paraduis and his partners (consorts) for protection for twenty-five years, of their method for making mills more productive.—Undated.
French. 1 p. (115. 61.)
Henry Hull, Mayor of Exeter, to the Earl of Salisbury.
1605, Dec. 27. Being informed that a Fleming, Lawrence de Nyelis, was in Exeter, he caused him to be examined. The enclosed letters were found on him. He landed at Dartmouth in a Dunkerker, into which he said he first shipped himself, trusting his own countrymen rather than the English; but being certified that he might have had a safer passage in an English bottom if he should have met with any of the States men-of-war, he then said that the Dunkerkers were better sailors than the English and fittest for his purpose. He says he intended to have landed at Dover, but was kept from the coast by easterly winds; but our merchants are of opinion he might more easily have landed anywhere, with those winds, by the east of Portland. He confesses that certain armies and many ships are providing by the King of Spain, but thinks they are intended only against the States. The Fleming will repair to the Council to be informed of their pleasure. Asks for directions what to do in like cases.—Exon,' 27 Dec. 1605
Signed. 1 p. (113. 112.)
Lord Danvers to the Same.
[1605], Dec. 27. How acceptable a delivery from the Marches' jurisdiction would have been to Gloucestershire and the rest, with the distaste to be deprived from their former hopes of satisfaction in this case, I leave to what you have heard from those that undertook to solicit the cause. But since the continuance is concluded, I have had conference with divers of these countries, which makes me conceive it very requisite that the best reasons for that government may be either by letters or proclamation published in these countries, even whilst the newness of the matter makes malice yet undigested. Because it begins to spread amongst this people that only your power has deprived them from this looked for liberty against the law delivered by the judges and the opinion of the principal officers of England. If this remembrance may be of any use to you, I shall be very glad, and otherwise desire a pardon for these unnecessary lines, seeing such favour as you have afforded me and all my occasions may make me peradventure too curious in matters that concern you.—Cisiter, 27 Dec.
Holograph, signed: H. Davers. Endorsed: "1605." 1 p. (191. 97.)
William Walton to the Earl of Salisbury.
1605, Dec. 28. In Sir Francis Walsingham's lifetime he was employed in Portugal. He conceives this age requires good intelligence, and few matters can pass in Spain but he can have intelligence thereof in Lixborne [Lisbon], and can advertise Salisbury by his alphabet that none can understand except the Earl. Offers his services there, or in any other place. He lodges at Mr. Cossons, a haberdasher below Fleet Street Conduit, at the sign of the Golden Cross, till Monday, when he is going home to Compton Dando, Somerset.—London, 28 Dec. 1605.
Holograph. 1 p. (113. 113.)
[The Council] to [certain gentlemen of Staffordshire].
[1605, Dec. 29]. Having certain information that the traitors Wyntour and Littleton are still abiding near those parts where the rest were apprehended, and being persuaded if the matter were well handled that it were an easy thing to be performed: although we know this gentleman, the Sheriff of Stafford, to be well disposed to do his Majesty service, yet in a place so full of infection as those parts are, and where the choice of ministers is not of best consideration; we have thought good to let you know that upon that information that his Majesty has had of your more than ordinary zeal and discretion, it has pleased him to give us authority to recommend the particular care of their apprehension to you. Wherein, although we must wholly leave the particular forms to your own discretion, yet having had speech with this gentleman, and finding him greatly desirous to join with you before all others, we require you to take particular notice of such circumstances as he shall deliver you, and as you shall find them fit for his Majesty's service to pursue them, or any other course seeming reasonable to you. For which purpose, although you need not any further authority for searches or pursuits than you have by virtue of your commission, yet we think good to tell you that, in case you find that reward may do good, we will, whensoever you shall require it, send you a proclamation to that purpose, and in the meantime you may use your own discretions so far as 300l. or 400l. shall stretch, upon condition that the service be performed.—Undated.
Draft. Endorsed: "Minute to Gentlemen of Staffordshire, 29 Dec. 1605." 3¼ pp. (113. 114.)
William Tate to the Earl of Salisbury.
[1605], Dec. 30. He apologises for his sudden departure from the Court, owing to a sorrowful accident nearly concerning him likely to ensue. He has received therein a better event than could be expected, and is now ready for any service in Court or country which Salisbury shall command.—Delapre, Dec. 30.
Holograph. Endorsed: "1605." 1 p. (113. 116.)
Sir George Carew to James I.
1605, Dec. 31. Though our audience were somewhat long deferred, yet at length on the 28th of this month we had it in very good and gracious sort. The magnificence of the Guards of this Court (which has always been the greatest of Christendom) was now also observed; and with such carefulness as his Majesty here (as I learn by some of our countrymen that were in the rooms of access before our coming) took pains in ordering them himself. Before the delivery of your letters, I telling his Highness that your Majesty, having yielded to Sir Thomas Parrie's request in revoking him, had appointed me to undergo his charge here, thereby to testify the desire you had to the strengthening and faster knitting of the amity which had so long time continued between these two crowns: his answer was that he was glad of my coming, because he heard I was an honest man: but he was sorry for Sir Thomas Parrie's departure, because he knew him to be one. And, indeed, I observed that confident and hearty kind of speech and manner from the King to Sir Thomas as I am much deceived if he be not very far gotten into his good opinion. Touching your Majesty, he affirmed there was no Prince with whom he desired to observe faster friendship, not only for the good offices he had received from you heretofore, and the assurance he had of the justice of your proceedings, but besides that it was requisite for the affairs of both your estates, the times being now somewhat changed, so that whereas heretofore none could be bon Angloys except he were Angloys et Bourguignon: now none could be bon François except he were François et Angloys, et contre les Bourguignons.
The next point was that his Majesty asked us news of the late execrable conspiracy, whom I informed thereof, according to the direction received from my Lord of Salisbury, finding him most willing to hearken to the particulars of the proceeding with my Lord of Northumberland, and professed the causes of his restraint to be very sufficient and reasonable. The next point was that he asked whether some in the Archduke's dominions were not partakers of it. I told him that Baldwin and Owen were accused thereof, and that Owen was in hold: to which I received a sudden reply, that Baldwin was sent away into Spain, and that Père Coton said Baldwin knew of it, and that Owen would not be delivered. To which I answered that whether he were delivered or not, I had not heard; if they did it not, their fault would be the greater, for that his Majesty's servant Monsieur de Vicq had showed them how they ought to proceed in it, he having at my request delivered, without any scruple or sticking, one accused to be culpable thereof, which (I had received advertisement) your Majesty took very acceptably, and ere long would testify so much in these parts. The King affirmed he was well pleased with Monsieur de Vicq's doing therein, and joined with me in commending his discretion, and withal that he would by his goodwill have none other than brotherly proceedings between your Majesties, and that he would wish your Majesty to follow his example and counsel, being the elder in years, in doing good and exemplary justice, as he had done of late upon Mirargues; and peradventure, said he, that both the Ambassador and his man might pass that way also. I answered thereunto that there was no doubt but that herein your Majesty would cause due justice to be done, and at convenient time. The last matter I propounded was the contentment your Majesty received of his good success in Limosin, in which action, both his wisdom in ordering matters so speedily and the ableness of his body had appeared in performing it in his own person. Upon remembrance of which matter he began to speak bitterly against Monsieur de Bouillon, as one confederated with the Spaniard to make stirs among his people; to which I held it not fit for me to reply, whether these were Ad populum Phaleram, or meant as spoken; but his Majesty after some pause, asking whether we would not go see the Queen, we answered that it was part of our errand and had letters to deliver her. And after we had presented my Lord Rosse and some other English gentlemen to kiss his hands, we took our leave of his Majesty and repaired to the Queen, having first prayed his leave to see Monsieur le Daulphin and the Princess his daughter. The Queen entertained us in good and gracious sort, and after compliments used, your Majesty's letters presented, and request made to her of seeing her children, and besides of giving her favour to those things which from time to time I should communicate to her Highness concerning your Majesty's affairs, which she promised, we from thence departed to the Council Chamber to treat of the réglement of the Merchants' causes, where we spent the rest of the day.—Paris, last of December 1605.
Holograph. 3 pp. (113. 118.)
Sir William Cornwaleys to the Earl of Salisbury.
[1605], Dec. 31. He encloses letters and begs Salisbury to pardon his not being the messenger himself. In his attendance upon his Majesty he has so far exceeded his bounds, and found his fortune and merits so slender as not having all this time received any gift from his Majesty, he is enforced to leave his personal service. If the letter from his father requires his attendance he will perform it, though otherwise his engaged estate will enforce him to attend the protection of the Parliament. The other letter, from Sir James Linzy, is an answer to one of his.—Last of December.
Holograph. Endorsed: "1605. Sir William Cornwallys the younger." 1 p. (113. 117.)
Sir John Popham, Lord Chief Justice, to the Earl of Salisbury.
1605, Dec. 31. I have examined the matter whereof Robert Legge, a prisoner in the King's Bench, by this enclosed note advertised you, and find the poor man had cause to suspect much of that he wrote to you of; as it is true the same Symonds, Mr. Rockwood's man, had been a condemned man, and had his pardon the last Assizes, by the means of the Clerk of the Assizes, and not of Mr. Rockwood's, and after served Mr. Rockwood. But for his going abroad with his keeper, which before this was only 6 times, he answers every time to be by the direction of the Commissioners, or of Sir William Wade; and had no speech with Mr. Rockwood but in the presence of the same Sir William Wade, to have it discovered by them to whom the goods appertained which were in this Symonds's custody; which by that means by the Commissioners' order was certified unto Sir Harry Fanshaw; and Mr. Coe, Sir William Wade's man, that is keeper unto Mr. Rockwood, has been twice from the Tower with Symonds in the Bench about Mr. Rockwood's linen and stockings, and not otherwise as I can learn: which I think to be true.—Serjeants' Inn, last of Dec. 1605.
Holograph. 1¼ pp. (113. 120.)
Prince Henry.
1605, Dec. 31. Mr. Newton's bill for books supplied to the Prince, 20 Nov. 1604 and 31 Dec. 1605; and books delivered to Mr. Newton for himself.
2 pp. (189. 40.)
Edmund Lassells to the Earl of Salisbury.
[1605, ? Dec.] Three letters:—
(1). He thanks Salisbury for granting him the liberty of this prison, which he has notice of from Mr. Warden of the Fleet. Salisbury has been persuaded that his (the writer's) coming to him in the matter he is committed for was out of some malicious purpose. Entreats him to suspend his judgment. He trusts the innocency of his cause will satisfy Salisbury to the contrary. —Undated.
Holograph. Endorsed: "1605. From the Fleet." 1 p. (114. 69.)
(2). Thanks him for his undeserved favours in his distresses. As he may justly blame his own folly for his misfortunes, he will acknowledge that he has received all his comfort from Salisbury. Craves pardon for his silent thankfulness yesterday, for he knew not how it would become him in that presence to speak, more than to hear the sentence of their Honours' pleasure, and with humble silence to depart. Besides he could not give a general thanks for that which came as a particular benefit from Salisbury. He will teach his two little boys to pray for Salisbury, and imprint on their hearts that, as their father has been apparently cause of their ruin, so Salisbury's clemency has revived the hope of their wretched lives. He has not sixpence by the year to begin a fortune with for himself or for them.—Undated.
Holograph. Endorsed: "1605." 1 p. (114. 70.)
(3). He begs Salisbury's favour to his miserable estate, which he the more vehemently remembers in respect of the great sorrow he has brought upon this poor gentlewoman and her children, who come now to sue to Salisbury for mercy. Protests that he has faithfully endeavoured to win Salisbury's favour; but now the world being possessed that he has purchased his displeasure, all his friends forsake him. He trusts the King will forgive him, and doubts not but my Lady of Shrewsbury's displeasure towards him is qualified by the punishment he has borne. Commits himself wholly to Salisbury, both for his liberty and all things else.—Undated.
Holograph. Endorsed: "1605." 1 p. (114. 71.)
[See Cal. S.P. Dom. 1603–1610, pp. 269, 271.]
The Levant Company.
[? 1605, Dec.] "These ports hereunder mentioned are visited by English merchants not free of the Levant, and they do vend for the most part fish, herring and pilchards taken and brought thither by English merchants, and from thence are returned the several commodities hereunder noted, which ports if they should be contained in any privilege, great clamour would grow thereupon. In regard whereof the Levant Company durst never move to have them comprised in their privilege, Yet notwithstanding the new Company are promised to have them in their new patent with the sole trade of the East Indies, and all the said ports are within the Straights or Levant Seas." —Undated.
There follows a list of the ports, with commodities inwards and outwards.
Commodities Outwards. Ports. Commodities Inwards.
Fish and pilchards Juberaltarre Silks and raisins.
Mallyga
Fish and pilchards Carthagena Alum.
Newland fish, pilchards, hake Allicant Raisins, almonds, rice, molasses, "Berillo sope."
Denia
Valencia
Barsallona
Fish, herring, lead, kerseys, cloths Marcelles Oils.
Tulonn
Herrings, fish, hides, kerseys, cloth Janua Alum, soap, aniseeds.
Legorne
Civita Vecha
Port of Rome
Fish, herrings, pilchards, kerseys, cloths Naples Oils, salt.
Mesina
Palermo
Maiorca
Minorka
Eris
Fish and pilchards Malta Aniseeds, "commensedes."
Fish and herrings, kerseys, herrings, cloth Ancona
Ragousa
1 p. (98. 142.)
Georgius Wybrandy Bornstra to James I.
1605, Dec. Asks for a passport and money to be sent him secretly by the bearer, in order that he may reveal very important matter concerning the preservation of the King's person and State.—La Haye, Dec. 1605.
Holograph. French. ½ p. (113. 121.)
Robert Cooke to the Earl of Salisbury.
[1605, ? Dec.] Sends Salisbury, his godfather, "this small fruit of my beginnings," and offers services. Wishes him a joyful New Year.—Undated.
Holograph. Endorsed: "1605. Sir Wm. Cooke's son." 1 p. (113. 153.)
Dudley Carleton.
[1605, ? Dec.] Charges of Raphe Dobbinson, gent., of St. Martin's-in-the-Fields, for the diet, lodging and fire of Mr. Dudley Carleton and his man, committed to his custody by the Council, for 11 days and nights, 5l. 10s.; for his attendance upon the prisoner, 30s. Dobbinson prays to be allowed for iron work for the setting up of the heads of the 2 traitors Thomas Percy and Robert Catesby, by direction of the Council, 23s. 6d., which was expended by the smith that made the iron work.— Undated.
Endorsed: "1605." 1 p. (113. 172.)
The King's Woods.
1605, Dec. [and earlier]. List of all such bonds for survey of woods as remain forfeited in the office of the King's Remembrancer. (Latest date, Dec. 1605.)
Endorsed: "Certified by Sir Henry Fanshawe." 9 pp. (132. 24.)
Lord Roche.
[1605, ? Dec.] Memorial of David, Lord Roche, of Ireland, showing that he is possessed for divers years to come of the abbey of Bridgtowne and the poorhouse of preaching friars in Glanor, co. Cork, and of all the lands thereto belonging, paying yearly for the same 12l. 16s. 8d. He prays that in consideration of his services in the late rebellion he may have granted to him and his heirs the fee-farm of the abbey etc., for the yearly rent of a like sum. Or else that he may have a lease in reversion of the premises for three score years at the same rent.—Undated.
1 p. (197. 50.)
[See Cal. S.P. Ireland, 1603–1606, p. 374.]
John Smaithwaite to [the Earl of Salisbury].
[1605, ? Dec.] Three months past he was placed in the rectory of Elsdon in Ridsdale, co. Northumberland. He has been at great charge to repair the house and chancel, but cannot through his ministry reduce the inhabitants to live in godly manner. He prays that reformation may be had and made by the Commissioners appointed for the Borders.—Undated.
Petition. 1 p. (197. 92.)
Annexed:
Articles.
The church is very ruinous, without doors, books, communion table, and other necessaries. A market kept every Sunday. The people walk in the street and churchyard, and buy and sell. About 100 persons stand excommunicated for criminal offences. None will answer, being cited for withholding tithes.
Thomas Hall of Branshaw, Sir Henry Widdrington's chief officer, interrupted me in time of a communion. Gabriel Hill took me by the face in the churchyard.
We have every Lord's day 8, 10, or 12 "stouthes" cried out of in the church, the people holding it worse for honest men to live there now than in the late Queen's time.
We have no constables nor stocks for searching and punishing of roguish fellows.
I have had stolen from me one gelding, one stoned nag, and one cow, one heifer, 60 sheep, and other things worth 30l.
One Charles Viccars had a presentation of Elsdon, but for his bad behaviour was rejected. Now he is stirred up by Sir Henry Widdrington and his brother Roger Widdrington to molest me by complaint to my Lord of Canterbury, because Sir Henry Widdrington would have my poor living.
1 p. (197. 93.)
[See Cal. S.P. Dom. 1603–1610, p. 316.]
Sir Edward Coke to the Earl of Salisbury.
[1605, Dec.] The last declaration of Faukes is safe, and herewith I send it to you. I have observed out of Mrs. Vaux's and Sir George Fearmor's examinations such things as I think fit, which also I send unto you, because it may be you will think it fit that Sir George be re-examined and that the letter written to the Lady Weyneman (who lies now in child-bed) be sent for.—Undated.
Holograph. Endorsed: "1605. Mr. Attorney General, with observations concerning Mrs. Vaux and Sir George Farmour." ½ p. (113. 149.)
The Enclosure.
Observation out of the confession of Mrs. Vaux.
1. First that about 6 or 8 weeks past Sir Everard Digby, Robert Catesby and Grene, and one Darcy, were at her house.
2. That Henry Hurleston, heir apparent of Sir Ede, was on the Tuesday in the afternoon in the company of Percy, Catesby and other, riding post into Warwickshire, and that Hurleston that night came to her house and remained there till Thursday morning.
It is very probable that Hurleston was sent to her house to give warning as well for conveying away of letters, etc., and of Gerrard the priest, for on Thursday following Hurleston went to them, as it seems by appointment, into open rebellion.
3. She says that Sir George Fearmor, knight, came to her house on the Wednesday following, and told her of the troubles at London, and how it was reported at his town in Torcester that it should have been performed by 5 Scots.
Sir George Fearmor says that she sent for him on that Wednesday, and she first told him of the broils at London, and that she said to him that she heard it of Sir Griffith Marcam's brother's man, and that he was angry with her to send for him to have gone with her to London, since she had heard of those broils.
All which is denied by [Sir George Fearmor struck out] Mrs. Vaux.
4. She confesses that she wrote a letter about Easter last wherein she confesses that these words were contained, that Totnam would turn French, but remembers not the residue of the contents.
My Lady Tasburgh being examined goes further that there was contained in that letter that Mrs. Vaux persuaded the Lady Wayneman to be of good comfort and not to destroy [sic], for ere it were long there should be a remedy or a toleration for religion, and that the Lady Tasburgh said there was treason in the letter; and that since Mrs. Vaux went to the Lady Weynman in Oxfordshire and willed her to keep the letter for both their discharges.
1. Note the letter was written about Easter in the Parliament time after the powder was in the cellar and the session of Parliament continued until July following.
2. Note the number of her horses.
3. Note Gerrard the priest ministered the sacrament to all the traitors, etc., as well for execution as for secrecy, and Gerrard had continual access to Mrs. Vaux.—Undated.
In Coke's handwriting. Endorsed: "My observations concerning Mrs. Vaux and Sir Geo. Fearmor." 1 p. (113. 148.)