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: February 1605, 16-28', in Calendar of the Cecil Papers in Hatfield House: Volume 17, 1605, (London, 1938) pp. 57-77. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-cecil-papers/vol17/pp57-77 [accessed 26 April 2024]
February 1605, 16-28
| The Bishop of London to the Same. | |
| 1604–5, Feb. 16. |
Being requested by Mr. Robert Dalton
of Thurnam in Lancashire to signify my knowledge of his
affection in religion to your lordship, this is to advertise you
that he has been in religion always well-disposed and often
has lamented to me the recusancy of his wife, and earnestly
requested me to appoint preachers to confer with her. Which
was accordingly done, and I also certified of the success which
proved not such as I expected.—From my house in London,
16 Feb. 1604. Holograph. ½ p. (85. 34.) |
| William Typper to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| 1604–5, Feb. 16. |
In Michaelmas term last there was a
particular to be rated by his Highness's commissioners upon a
defective title, and in examining the matter it falls out to be
within the peril of the Queen's jointure, though never intended.
You commanded me to attend Sir Roger Wilbraham, the Queen's
chancellor, and Sir Robert Hicham, her attorney, and to
acquaint them with the case; and they have put down what
they conceive of the matter, yet leaving it to your consideration,
beseeching you on the gentleman's behalf to set down a rate
upon the particular as in other like cases; and the rate to be
to the use of Sir Edward Pytte, knight, and William Smalman,
esquire. If the same had been wholly rated by the commissioners, the sum would have been five hundred marks,
whereof her Majesty's chancellor has set down 300 marks for
the Queen's part and but 200 for the King, to which the parties
have condescended. And I am well persuaded that three or
four more of great value will fall out in like manner.—16 Feb.
1604. Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (104. 29.) |
| The Bishop of Peterborough to the Same. | |
| 1604–4, Feb. 16. | Understanding that the Lords of the Council have received no letter from me in answer of their letters to me, I wonder where the fault may be, seeing that I returned answer immediately upon the receipt of the letters by the messenger, Dickinson, who brought them to me. However I now make a summary repetition of my former answer. |
|
The number of disorderly ministers I cannot justly tell,
because my Register, who keeps the record, is now in London.
But to my knowledge I deprived 13 or 14. The rest by me
suspended are curates and mercenary readers. The most of
them have taken no degree or schools, some are bachelors of
arts, a few are masters of arts, but all are extremely wilful. I gave them three several admonitions, those near me I admonished myself, those far off I admonished by my officers. |
|
| I exposed myself to all kinds of conference both private and public. In private conference I have reclaimed more than I have deprived. | |
| In my public conference, which lasted two whole days in the cathedral church, in the hearing of 200 people, I took on me the place of respondent and answered all objections propounded by the factious ministers of my diocese from morning till night. | |
| When nothing would prevail, I prayed them to ask further time, that by conference with other men they might dispose themselves to submit; they answered out of a premeditated confederacy, as I take it, that thus they should dissemble, for they were resolved never to yield. Hereupon I deprived one, a principal ringleader of that band, and suspended 9 or 10, the most whereof were mean men and curates. The rest I respited until another time, before which date I received letters from your lordships, encouraging me to proceed against those who were obstinate. | |
| At their next appearance I entreated them by my best skill, and not prevailing, out of my duty I deprived other 13 or 14, men of such invincible obstinacy, as never any Bishop met with; who in matters of mere order and decency have shown as much stomach as any other men can do in the highest points of our redemption. | |
|
As to the placing of other men in their rooms, they have
all appealed from my sentence, during which appeal they must
take care of their own cures themselves; yet have I written
unto the preachers of my diocese, that as they dwell conveniently
nigh to those benefices, which are vacant, they shall employ
their labours diligently to the comfort of the people there.
And this is well performed, saving at Northampton, where
Mr. Catline has locked up the pulpit door and will suffer no
one to preach. But my hope is that if these men prevail not
upon their appeal, the patrons of the vacant churches will
supply men of good conformity.—Peterborough, 16 Feb. 1604. Holograph. 3 pp. (104. 30.) |
|
| Sir Fulke Greville to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [1604–5, ? Feb. 16.] |
Yesterday morning I received these
letters from the Lord Chamberlain. Presently I went to Sir
Francis, to acquaint him, who most humbly received and
acknowledged your favour; without stay I returned to my
Lord of Suffolk and delivered the letters to him with my own
hands,—From London, this Saturday. Holograph. Seal. Endorsed: "1604" and in a later hand, "abt. Feb. 18." (104. 33.) |
| [Sir Edward Hoby] to the Same. | |
| [1604–5], Feb. 16. |
I have this day received a very uncomfortable message from the Queen's Vice-Chamberlain, that your
lordship meant not to move aught more for my further supply
in relinguishing my house at Shurland to Sir Philipp Herberd.
I did take it that those your lordships, before whom I was
commanded to be, did think it fit that I should have some
supply towards the furnishing of another house to enable me
to put my poor wife's head in, if I were dead, and as I conceive
it you named unto me 400l., though it were likely to come
forth of Sir Phillipp Herbert's own purse. And since you let
me know that, the other part of my business being dispatched,
yourself with the rest of those Lords would be a means to the
King for my further consideration, though the matter be not
great which I desire, yet at this time it is very important to
my poor estate, and I have that hope of his Majesty that for
so small a matter he will never leave me unsatisfied, though
barred of further expectations. I do assure myself that my Lord
Treasurer and my Lord of Northampton will join with your
lordship to my furtherance.—16 Feb. Unsigned. Endorsed by Cecil's clerk: "16 Febr. 1604. Sir Edward Hoby." 1 p. (188. 64.) |
| Lord Eure to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [1604–5], Feb. 18. |
Professing his love, thankfulness and
devotion.—Malton, 18 Feb. Signed. Endorsed: "1604." ½ p. (104. 32.) |
| John Wilkinson to the Same. | |
| 1604–5, Feb. 19. |
Lately I saw a project for reducing
the kingdom of Ireland to conformity in government, whence
many hundred thousand pounds might come to the King's
coffers yearly. The author is a man of experience and has spent
many years in Ireland. He showed himself simple in requiring
my judgment, whom I answered that the matter was too high
for me. But he acquainted me of his intent to present it to his
Majesty. I advised him that it was more fitting to impart the
same to some of the Lords of the Privy Council. He wished
to follow my advice, and I have made bold to lay the matter
before your lordship.—19 Feb. 1604. Holograph. Seal. ½ p. (104. 34 (2).) |
| Adam Newton. | |
| [1604–5, Feb. 19.] | Has only received for his long services a pension of 200l. yearly. Petitions the King that he may have the reversion of the office of Butlerage and Prisage, of which the Lord Treasurer now enjoys a grant for life. Prays also that he may be granted the benefit of a legacy of 1500l. or 2000l. given to the late Queen but concealed for more than ten years past, that he may at his own costs and charges endeavour to recover the same for the King. If the King will then pay this money to him, he will be ready to surrender 100l. yearly of his said pension. |
|
At the foot in Sir Thomas Lake's handwriting:—"The King's
Majesty being willing to show all favour to this petitioner and
conceiving his suit to be reasonable doth refer the consideration
thereof to the Lords as is desired, and if their lordships can
find no just cause to the contrary then doth his Majesty grant
unto him the effect of his desire. Tho. Lake, 19 Feb. 1604." Petition. 1 p. (188. 65.) |
|
| Jane Jobson to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| 1604–5, Feb. 20. |
In favour of a young poor scholar of Trinity
College called Robert. Worsley, for an effectual letter to Dr.
Nevill, master of the college, to obtain for him a scholarship
at the election now instant.—Brantingham, 20 Feb. 1604. Signed. ½ p. (104. 35.) |
| Don Juan de Mendoza to the Conde de Villa Mediana. | |
| 1604–5, February 20/March 2. | Has received his letters of January 7th and February 3rd, with content for their good news of his health and of his having passed Easter and the Carnival so pleasantly. Is glad to hear from Court they have appointed a successor to his lordship, whom he hopes soon to see and will serve faithfully as in duty bound. |
|
In furtherance of his Majesty's service sends the report
that accompanies this, that the shipmaster may be punished
according to his offence, as, for good correspondence and
preservation of the peace and that evil disposed persons may
not disturb it, it will be well that those who run into disobedience
be punished in such a manner that it may be an example to
others; and if this is not done at the beginning with fitting
energy, the ships which leave these ports will become bolder
every day, and giving them harbour there, if they are not
punished, will serve to put them more at their ease. Of what
shall occur in this matter he will continue to inform the Conde.—
Lisbon, 2 March 1605. Signed. Spanish. 2 pp. (110. 24.) |
|
| Carrying Arms in Ireland. | |
| 1604–5, Feb. 20. |
Proclamation by the Lord Deputy and
Council of Ireland, forbidding the unlawful carrying of arms. Printed. 1 p. (141. 369.) |
| [Viscount Cranborne] to Lord Sheffield. | |
| [1604–5, Feb. 20]. |
You shall receive a letter from his Majesty
directed to the Archbishop and yourself, (fn. 1) occasioned by some
scandalous speeches given forth in London, not only of neglecting to punish priests and popery, but in a manner as if there
were some hidden purpose to grant a toleration. Wherein
although I make no question of your satisfaction of the purpose
of the State, yet because your profession to me deserves at
my hands clear proceeding, I am bold to acquaint you that I
account myself hardly dealt with by some in those parts, who
have sought to make some use to my prejudice by publishing a
letter written to me by my Lord the Archbishop of York. To
think that the good and reverend prelate could have any design
to scandal me and glorify himself, I would be very loth; but
that some ill-affected to me have had this end to show his
zeal in writing, and his policy in directing it to me, as one not
unlikely to be seduced, I know it by infallible arguments.
Wherein although I despise to satisfy men by any apology,
because they be only those that find no way to value themselves
but by traducing of others, yet because my Lord should not
condemn me by my silence, nor my friends be ignorant of my
answer, seeing they have his letter to comment upon, I resolved
ingenuously to impart unto him my knowledge and my
affections. And that you may be satisfied from me what is
my answer, whereof peradventure false copies may be delivered
by some of his, I have taken the boldness to send you a double
of the same, protesting to you that if I had not sought to avoid
some exception in his Majesty to the latter part of the letter, he
should not have needed to have blown the trumpet of his own
zeal, for no man ever served a prince more gracious and willing
to hear advice of reverend men, neither is there any man that
serves his Majesty, who keeps less from him than I.—Undated. Draft by one of Cranborne's clerks. Endorsed: "20 Febr. 1604. Minute to my L. Sheffield." 3 pp. (188. 66.) |
| Sir Edward Coke to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| 1604–5, Feb. 20. |
Sends several letters patents of certain
offices with the fees, etc., in the margin, wherein he has postilled
his opinion as the shorter and more perspicuous course. 20
Feb. 1604. Holograph. ¼ p. (188. 68.) |
| [Sir Edward Hoby] to the Same. | |
| [1604–5], Feb. 21. |
Though I am sorry, yet I must yield
myself to bear patiently, what it has pleased God to lay upon
me, but in nothing more than that another hand than my own
must now deliver my mind, far more wished by me to have
done by my own speech. I never made other suit than that
the King would not take that advantage of me by way of
forfeiture of right, while it was in his hands, which never any
of his progenitors, Kings of England, did, but to make my
case known to him, and that by his own especial commandment
to myself, in which I leave to mention all former promises and
expectations. I came not to your lordships as men in general,
but as particular lords, to whom the King in this case referred
his cause, amongst whom I honour yourself as a principal
instrument to do me good. I was then offered by your lordships
that if I would insist to have my own state confirmed as it was,
I should have it done, before the King should pass it, far better
than for my estate, to have at least a house to put my wife's
head in, to have been able to eat of the fruits of my own plants,
enjoying my earthly delights, besides incurring a public disgrace,
which, while men be men and dearly affected to a present state,
they cannot but in their own souls too feelingly resent. Upon
persuasions by some of your lordships I was willing to yield
up all for a further supply of a thousand pounds, whereof the
arrearages being part it was no more than the King himself
offered a year since to bestow on me, making means at that
time unto him but to stay my payment for a time, which like
a fool then I refused through full assurance to his Majesty of
greater expectations to my profit. Your lordship at that time
assured me that for 400l. you doubted not, though it came out
of Sir Philip Harbert's own purse (a dear Harbert to me), and
since by your letters you let me know, that, the other business
being done of rent and arrearages, yourself with the rest of the
Lords would move the King for me. My design is not that you
should as in your own particular suit for me press the King,
but that you will confer with my Lord Treasurer and with my
Lord of Northampton: and if you three think me not fit for it,
I know where it ends; if it rest upon the King's allowance, I
know it must grow of some distaste he has of late had of me,
and then I will leave the prosecution to the suit of some other
most interested in this, who never deserved ill of him, nor was
capable of voice in Parliament, to whom in time past he has
meant better unto. Therefore blame me not that I rest not
satisfied with Mr. Vice-Chamberlain's report, relying ever so
much upon your love and care, as my ever intellectual powers
in prayers shall do for you, though my handy labours at this
time be nothing available.—21 Feb. Unsigned. Endorsed: "Sir Edward Hoby, 1604." Seal. 2 pp. (104. 36.) |
| Sir Philip Herbert to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [1604–5], Feb. 21. |
I have received a letter from my Lady
Marcum [Markham], who writes unto me that she is exceedingly
bound unto you for giving her the wardship of her son. But
now she says that she is stayed and cannot proceed any further
until she pays the fines to the King. Therefore she desired me
to certify you that as soon as I had moved you and that you
had granted the wardship unto her, I went to the King, who
said that he was very willing to grant her his part, if your
lordship were contented.—From Roiston this 21 February. Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (188. 70.) |
| Mines Royal. | |
| 1604–5, Feb. 22. |
Warrant of Lord Cranborne to Frances,
Countess Dowager of Kildare, and to any of her servants at the
late Lord Cobham's house in the Blackfriars, London, to deliver
a chest and certain books and writings concerning the Mines
Royal, of which company Lord Cobham was a deputy governor,
to Sir John Smithe, knight, and Arnold Oldesworth, esquire,
present deputy governors.—From the Court at Whitehall, this
22 Feb. 1604. Signed by Viscount Cranborne. At foot: Receipt dated June 7, 1605, for the chest, etc. Signed: Christopher Toldervey. 1 p. (188. 72.) |
| Thomas Phelippes to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| 1604–5, Feb. 23. |
I depend principally upon your favour for
an end of my trouble. Knowing how prisoners may be forgotten, I have hitherto guided myself by such light as I took
from your direction, so will I presume to seek thence such
comfort as may lawfully be had. I found means by my Lord
of Kinloss to have his Majesty better edified concerning my
case before his going away, so that his lordship doubted not that
when it came in question I should find his Majesty's favour.
I signified this to you, thinking that his Majesty's pleasure
might have been known before his departure. If it be not so,
I beseech you to advise me what to do now. It is a heavy
thing to me that matters so well meant should be so ill taken,
and that my state should be thus heavily overthrown. Yet
let me be out of this case of indignity, burden and disease, that
if I be not thought meet to be cherished in my own country I
may prepare myself to seek my fortune elsewhere. I will give
over troubling myself with public things further than it shall
please you to use me, to whom I will be as thankful for my
deliverance as my case will permit. I am the bolder to press
your lordship as, since the access of friends was permitted,
I have understood the ground of my disgrace and have procured
the principal instrument of it to be someway better edified
also, that is my Lord of Northampton, under whose hands I
have seen how I have been wounded. And although I do not
find he knows the secret of my justification, which I desire not,
yet so much has been drawn from him as the present humour
of entertaining any intelligence with such a fellow as Owen,
being purged (he says) as of late he hopes it has been by the
diet I have taken, no man shall be more willing than himself
according to his credit to afford me courtesy. For whosoever
is the King's is his lordship's. Truly I have caused it to be
replied that I was the King's as sincerely as any that had made
most show and reaped most fruit by it. There needed no
such potion for any ill humour I had. My mind was judged of,
as some physicians do of diseases, at random by a false water:
And so medicine given that might have wrought in somebody
upon another humour, as it shall not do in me. But if you
think of doing me good, there will not be such opposition as
before.—23 Feb. 1604. Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (104. 37.) |
| Susan, Lady Stanhope, to the Same. | |
| [1604–5], Feb. 23. |
You being the chief commissioner for
letting the lands of the Queen's jointure and I having a lease
yet for eight years of some small woods in Yorkshire, being
part of the Duchy Lands, the rent being 42s. and the true value
not more than 8l., I now beg you to renew that lease, not for
any gain from it, but because it is a necessary provision for my
house there; for which purpose my late husband Sir Edward
Stanhope took them.—From my house in Holborne, 23 Feb. Holograph. Seal. Endorsed: "1604." ½ p. (104. 38.) |
| James Montague, Dean of the Chapel, to the Archbishop of Canterbury. | |
| 1604–5, Feb. 23. |
His Majesty was no sooner at Ware, but
he was waited upon by some of the puritans. One Bywater
presented a book, the most saucy and dangerous thing that
ever I saw. His Majesty acquainted me withal and it is sent
up to my Lord of Cranborne. He spares neither King, Councillor
nor Court, but teaches the King in every point his duty. I think
your grace shall hear more of the man and of the matter. Here
are some others, especially one Cooke of Louth, very forward
to trouble the King. He is deprived by the Bishop of Lincoln,
and his suit is to have his living again, which his Majesty says
he shall have if he will be conformable; but I see no such disposition in him. The physicians of Cambridge have certified
his Majesty that the disease of the maidens is natural, and they
are much amended. I wish they were rid of them, for their
charge grows great. On Monday the King purposes to go to
Thetford. The King is very well and much fatter.—Royston,
23 Feb., 1604. Holograph. 1 p. (104. 39.) |
| Dr. Cowell, Vice Chancellor of Cambridge University, to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| 1604–5, Feb. 23. |
Since his Majesty's coming to Royston last,
I sent thither a bill of those charges, which the University has
been at for these two visited maidens, sent unto us by his
commandment, since their coming to Cambridge. I received
direction from the Dean of the Chapel that the King had
appointed the money to be paid out of the privy purse, and that
I should solicit you for your furtherance herein unto Sir George
Hume; whereunto I am the bolder, because our University,
by reason of former expenses grown through divers troublesome
suits, is hardly sufficient to defray her ordinary burdens.—
Cambridge, 23 Feb. 1604. Signed. ½ p. (136. 124.) |
| Sir Edward Coke, Attorney General, to the Same. | |
| 1604–5, Feb. 23. |
Has attended on the Lord Chief Justice
and with him has considered and answered three petitions.
They have also found a means to relieve the poor beer brewers
of the Cinque Ports against the excessive imposition of the
assigns of the Lord of Obignie's [Aubigny's] licence, as they
have signified to the Earl of Northampton.—23 Feb. 1604. Holograph. ⅓ p. (188. 73.) |
| Richard Carmarden to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| 1604–5, Feb. 24. |
It lies wholly in your lordship's report to
his Majesty to relieve my poor brethren and sisters, in default
of which they must after my decease or other misfortune beg
their breads. My father two years before the death of the late
Queen obtained 2,000l. of her Majesty; it should have been
4000l., but it was thought too much at one time for a man of
his mean quality; and the payment of the other 2000l. was
only prevented by the Queen's death. Thus much my Lady
Walsingham can testify to be true, who was best acquainted
with his business. Since my father's death the Lady Rich has
got from us the Irish farm, how justly I refer it to God and your
lordship. For these reasons we now crave the King's favour.—
London, 24 Feb. 1604. Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (104. 40.) |
| The Earl of Derby to the Lords of the Council. | |
| 1604–5, Feb. 24. |
According to your letters by this bearer
I have as carefully proceeded as the occasion offered, and refer
you to his relation, because the chief matter of import has been
secretly followed by him. As it seems your expectation of his
service will not be frustrate, but as yet he desires your
directions upon his further information and then to proceed
accordingly.—Knowsley, 24 Feb. 1604. Holograph. ½ p. (104. 41.) |
| Lord Zouche to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [1604–5,] Feb. 24. |
I have since Thursday night last been
imprisoned in an uneasy bed until three hours before the receipt
of your letter. My disease was an extreme cold and the measles,
of both which I have at this present some ease, though I find
myself faint, weak and dull; yet if I have no relapse I purpose
to be at my house in London on Tuesday. I may easily make
you believe that I little thought to see you again, since you
sweat for fear to have them, which I having could not sweat
for unquietness in having them, and the rather because they
took me where I was unprovided of any will.—This Sunday
night written at Egham, being the 24th of February. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." ½ p. (104. 42.) |
| Intelligence from Spain. | |
| [1604–5, Feb. 24.] | I have fresh letters from my friend in Spain of the 24th present, brought by this carrier last arrived to the Spanish Ambassador from the Court at Valladolid. |
| In all Spain it has not rained for three months; the ground so parched they cannot sow corn; already they want bread even at Court. | |
| The business of the Great Duke is ended to his satisfaction. The King has granted to send him the sons of Don Pedro, his brother. The King wrote him a very kind letter, received him into his protection, granted him the investiture of Sienna and Port Ferrario, which he could never get before; the party adds che si faranno tra loro cose di maggior importanza. | |
| Don Antonio Mexia is declared general Maestro del Campo for Flanders, and the Marchese Spinola is said shall be general of the Infanteria Italiana and is likely to have the charge of 20,000 soldiers in Friesland. | |
| There is much ado about the great preparations of the Hollanders for which there is the like counterpoise in providing in Spain. | |
| Their designs are to straighten the Estates, (1) by a general siege of their countries, and for that Spinola is to be in Friesland with such force: (2) by looking to the prohibition of their trade with Spain; (3) by making their navigation to the Indies unprofitable, and by spoiling the sale of their pepper and other commodities, of which they have at present great store; for this the Spaniards have offered for sale a great quantity of pepper at a low rate, sufficient to supply all the northern parts; this pepper is now at Lisbon in great abundance. | |
| I understand by letters from others that the King of Spain has lately sent to divers of the nobility of Rome the habits and honour of the Cavaliers of the Toison or Santiago; and that amongst the rest Arthur Poole is honoured with one of those orders and with 1000 crowns yearly; and the King designs to make his brother Geoffrey Poole, a cardinal, a raw dissolute young man, whom I left at the Court of Spain at my departure, more likely to follow a coach than to be a cardinal. He had been a follower of Count Bothwell, but poverty had parted their company. Concerning Arthur Poole I think the beginning of his favour came from the late stir in the Cardinal Farnese, his master's, house. For as his brother told me, he was the first that began it. He wounded the officer of justice and afterwards banded himself very bravely with the Spanish Ambassador in the Cardinal's behalf against the Pope and the rest. Both these brothers let not to give out among their friends what pretensions they have in England by their great blood, and therefore I know not how this should be taken here that Spain should do them these favours at this time. | |
|
Besides Spinola's 20,000, there are 10,000 coming out of Italy
from Count Fuentes, all which march about the beginning of
April, and by the end of May there will be two great armies
in Flanders. Endorsed: "From Valladolid, Court of Spain, 24 Feb. 1604." 3 pp. (104. 44.) |
|
| George Sharpe to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [1604–5], Feb. 24. |
As by your goodness I was presented
to Brixtoke, so by my Lord of Peterborough instituted, by the
parishioners kindly entertained, and by the late incumbent
nothing at all resisted. I find all the chief of the parish, with
many of the inferior sort on both sides depending, to consist
of puritans, I hope something conformable, and of papists,
I fear refractory and obstinate. Between both there is outwardly scarce a show of humanity, but inwardly mortal and
unchristian malice. Of the rest, many rebukeable for their
dissolute courses, others to be pitied for their very beggarly
estates. I am grieved that where there is no agreement with
contrarieties, nor any communion with different religions, he
whose part is to reconcile shall find his labours uneffectual or
intolerable. My duty shall not be wanting. The value of the
living is 40l. to be farmed, but this year scarce anything, as
Mr. Baldock the late incumbent has sown all the land and must
reap the benefit. In regard whereof, and intending to take the
degree of Bachelor in Divinity this year at Cambridge, I beg to
continue in the University till Midsummer. I have provided for
the discharge of the cure till then.—Brixtoke, 24 Feb. Holograph. Endorsed: "24 Feb. 1604. from Brigstock." 1 p. (127. 5.) |
| Sir Edward Coke to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| 1604–5, Feb. 24. |
Finding your lordship so propense to repair
the fortunes of Sir Christopher Heydon, I am bold at his entreaty
to signify to you that as the case is exhibited to me, I think his
Majesty has a right to a third part of such lands, a note whereof
he intends to present to you. And for the recovery thereof he
shall have the best of my endeavours. I know the knight's
moderation is such as if the title shall fall out for the King,
he will be ruled and satisfied with some reasonable composition.
—24 Feb. 1604. Holograph. ½ p. (188. 69.) |
| Thomas Dolman to the Same. | |
| 1604–5, Feb. 24. |
Having received from this bearer such
information as he will deliver unto your lordship and seen the
libel, I thought it my duty to acquaint you therewith, because
I do not remember that in my life I have seen any example of
such audacious temerity, and fear that it is an ominous presagement of some future mischief. It is not unknown to you what
strong factions are in this land at this day of papists, puritans
and obedient subjects, and how obstinately they are bent not
to yield each to other, two parts manifestly contemning the
King's laws and the third trusting in the justice of their cause
and the protection of the laws. Besides these three factions
are a wing of cashiered soldiers ready to join with any faction
in hope of spoil and rapine and to pay their debts ex communi
incendio. My and my wife's most humble thanks that you
vouchsafed to accept so base entertainment as here you found.—
—From Shawe, 24 Feb. 1604. Signed. Seal. 2/3 p. (188. 74.) |
| Sir Richard Giffard to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| 1604–5, Feb. 25. |
I have received a letter subscribed with
your lordship's name and others of his Majesty's Council,
requiring me to attend the Earl of Hertford into the Low
Countries. I am willing to do him service, who is interested in
me because I am his tenant, which perhaps persuades him to
expect a more ready attendance. But I am only lately recovered from a dangerous sickness and subject to relapse at the
least stirring of my body. The day after I left you I took the advice
of Dr. Spearwood, who counselled me to take the benefit of
the Bath this spring. I will not allege my private affairs, for
only want of health makes me backward; and for this I entreat
to be freed from this journey.—Tuderly, 25 Feb. 1604. Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (104. 46.) |
| Sir Thomas Smith to Lord Cecil (sic). | |
| 1604–5, Feb. 25. |
I certified your lordship of my safe
arrival at the Archangell in July last, with the course taken by
the Emperor for my present conducting up the river. In my
travel thence to Moscow I was met with diverse messengers,
who brought orders for my easy passage and supplies for my
journey. At my coming near the Mosco diverse dukes and
noblemen and at least 5000 men on horseback were sent to
bring me into the city, who conducted me to my lodging, the
fairest house in all the Musco. And within eight days I was
sent for to the Emperor's presence, who sat in great state in a
throne of gold with his imperial crown on his head, his sceptre
in his hand and many other ornaments of state. To whom I
delivered his Majesty's letters and presents and the causes of
my coming; and then the Emperor and his son, who sat by
him, inquired of the health of my King and invited me to dine
with them, where was very royal service all in gold, the Emperor
and his son at one table and myself and my company at another;
and the lords and great men at other tables. The Emperor
sent to me dishes of meat and cups of drink, and in the middle
of dinner sent for me and told me he loved the Queen of England,
that is dead, as his own life, because she loved him, and as I had
brought a loving message from my King his brother, he lovingly
accepted thereof, and would remain his loving brother during
his life. At the end of dinner he sent for me again and gave
me a cup of wine out of his own hands, and did the like to all
the gentlemen that came with me, and so dismissed me. As I
was informed, I should have soon had audience for dispatch
of my business, but meantime news came of certain rebels risen
in arms in the borders towards Poland, which has hindered this;
so that I must stay here and return the way I came.—25 Feb.
1604. In the Musco. Signed. Seal. 1 p. (104. 47.) |
| The Earl of Worcester to [Viscount Cranborne]. | |
| [1604–5], Feb. 25. |
His Majesty has read Cranborne's and the
Lords' letters and likes exceedingly of all their proceedings.
When he had read both letters he called for the Archbishop of
York's letter, which he read, with Cranborne's answer to it.
He was merry at the first but when he came to the wasting of
the treasure and the immoderate exercise of hunting (fn. 2) began
to alter countenance and said it was the foolishest letter that
ever he read and Cranborne's an excellent answer. When he
came to the end of the latter where Cranborne said his nephew
did neither think of him or his wife but sleep he ran to the next
chamber to seek Sir Philip [Herbert] saying "look what he
hath written of thee" and was very merry withal. His
Majesty means to-morrow to take his journey to Newmarket
for some 3 or 4 days and so to Thetford, if he like the country.—
Royston, 25 Feb. Holograph. 1 p. (104. 48.) |
| [Printed in extenso in Lodge, Illustrations of British History (ed. 1791), Vol. III, pp. 263, 264.] | |
| The Earl of Worcester to the Privy Council. | |
| [1604–5], Feb. 25. | Received their lordships' letters of the 24th this Sunday (fn. 3) morning. His Majesty well allows their careful endeavours in settling the Mid Shires and is glad that Mr. Tater (fn. 4) cleared himself so well; he commends their proceedings regarding Mr. Driden and approves likewise their course with Hyldersom. Upon their letter he commanded Worcester to enjoin Mr. Bywater that presented him with the book to appear before Lord Cranborne on Thursday next. His Majesty's cold the first day after he went from London was somewhat heavy but since he began to labour it breaks from him very much. If he were to repeat all his Majesty's gracious words and kind thanks for their endeavours in his service, another side of paper would hardly contain it. Yet such is the sweetness of his nature that he told Worcester he had likewise written to Lord Cranborne to give their lordships thanks.— Royston, 25 Feb. |
|
PS.—To-morrow his Majesty goes towards Newmarket
where he minds to stay some 3 or 4 days; and, as he likes it, so
to go forward to Thetford. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 2 pp. (104. 49.) |
|
| [Printed in extenso in Lodge, Illustrations of British History (ed. 1791), Vol. III, pp. 264–266]. | |
| Sir Edward Coke to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| 1604–5, Feb. 25. |
His Majesty has vouchsafed me to be a
counsel with him in matters of law, and in that respect to be
his Majesty's eye to find out how and wherein his Majesty's
subjects be oppressed and in what cases they groan under heavy
burdens contrary to law. This morning I took the examination
of one Thomas Stockes, who taking upon him to be a deputy
purveyor under Sir Henry Seckfid [Seckford], master of the
pavilions, has corruptly and unlawfully marked, felled and
carried away above thirty timber trees in the Bishop of London's
town of Fullham, late growing upon poor men's copyholds
holden of the Bishop and some upon freeholders, against their
wills, contrary to an express Act of Parliament. Some part he
has given away, others he has disposed at his pleasure; some
money to some of them he has paid, deducting a penny in the
shilling for his master. All which is directly against law. And
in truth upon examination this lewd fellow had no deputation
at all and being a carpenter by his trade and a bankrupt not
worth a groat, undoubtedly has disposed the same for his own
relief. He confesses that he was in the beginning of his purveyor's trade and that he meant to have proceeded. But I
have for this and other outrageous misdemeanours committed
him to Newgate and so have marred his market. It is pity
that such base felonies have the carriage of the Great Seal. All
the judges of England have upon great deliberation resolved
this kind of takings unlawful and, knowing your lordship to be
a great pillar of justice and law, I thought it my part to inform
you hereof.—25 Feb. 1604. Holograph. 1 p. (188. 75.) |
| Lord Dirleton to the Same. | |
| 1604–5, Feb. 25. |
Although I be assured that your lordship
is sufficiently advertised of his Majesty's health by my fellow
Sir Philip [Herbert], yet must I write these lines for discharge
of my promise at my late coming to Royston. I delivered to
his Majesty what you gave me in direction, and thereafter asked
of his health as the chiefest heed of my commission. His
Majesty answered me, You may see a great change, and except
I have my pastime, you may be sure I cannot live. These are
his Majesty's own speeches unto me. He goes this day in trial
of Northfolk fields, but in my judgment he will find none better
for his sport than these at Huntington and here by the report
that I have heard. But as ever it be his Majesty must needs
have that or else his health will be the worse. I must thank
you for your care in my particular. I will a little better solicit
my business at Michaelmas, if it please God I live so long.—
From Royston, 25 Feb. 1604. Holograph, signed: Areskyne of Dirleton. ½ p. (188. 76.) |
| Viscount Cranborne to Ralph Winwood. | |
| [1604–5, Feb. 26]. | [See Vol. XVI, pp. 418, 419. The original of this letter is printed in Winwood's Memorials, Vol. II, p. 50.] (104. 28.) |
| The Earl of Worcester to [Viscount Cranborne]. | |
| [1604–5], Feb. 26. |
This Tuesday at 6 of the evening I received
your letter of the 25th of February, with which I acquainted
his Majesty. Your proceeding with the young Knightley he
very well allows of and thinketh it very fit that gentlemen of
his quality should not be allowed to depart without some note
of his obstinate and peevish humour, for from such fountains
springs the water that infecteth the humour of the perverse
ministers. He commends the industry of the Bishop of London,
with the diligence of the recorder and other inferior ministers,
hoping it will be a mean to stop the mouths of calumniating
persons. Touching the motion of the French Ambassador his
pleasure is that he shall have the copy of the articles but with
the caution from you to him that he use them with secrecy,
and yet if his master shall hereafter blaze them forth, for his
part he careth not; but this to yourself. For the point of his
story, and that he did earnestly sue to the contrary, he concurs
in your faith. Touching the book he refers both it and the man
to the touchstone of your discretion, making no doubt that
you will observe the rule of justice, suum cuique tribuere. Tomorrow the King goes to Thetford, where he longeth to be by
reason he is borne in hand it is a fair country and plentiful of
game. If it prove true we shall stay the longer, for I never
came in a worse town than this. The king has taken a new
cold, as he saith, but I think it is but the remains of the old,
which breaketh from him very plentifully. I thank your lordship and the company that wished me there; but if all the
company were present there are some that will sooner afford a
carouse than either land or personage.—Newmarket, the 26 of
February at 11 of the night. Signed. 1 p. (104. 50.) |
| Sir John Ramsey to the Same. | |
| 1604–5, Feb. 26. |
Thanking him for obtaining his book of a
thousand pounds a year, fee simple, which the king has bestowed
upon him. Notwithstanding, he finds the warrant not as
ample as usual in such grants of land and hopes that Sir
Thomas Lake may be instructed to have it mended.—From
his chambers, 26 Feb. 1604. Signed: Ramsay. 1 p. (104. 51.) |
| Sir William Fitzwilliam to the Same. | |
| 1604–5, Feb. 26. |
Has heard abroad how Cranborne both in
the time of the late sovereign as since his Majesty's joyful
entrance has greatly upheld the state of those poor labourers
that diligently work in the Lord's vineyard, whereof Mr. Egerton
in the former time was one. Prays now on behalf of the state
of Mr. Dryden, who is now in the Fleet by the Lords' general
commandment from the Council table, that Cranborne may think
his punishment already inflicted sufficient and procure his
release. Though zeal at first carried him unadvisedly, and
reputation may now unhappily stay him from open recanting,
is assured that into the like course he will never enter again.—
26 Feb. 1604. Signed. 2/3 p. (188. 77.) |
| Sir Thomas Seymour to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [1604–5], Feb. 28. |
I received letters from the Privy Council
subscribed also by you, dated at Whitehall, the 12th of February,
requiring me to attend my Lord of Hertford into the Low
Countries. But I would state that I am lame in my leg and
arm. I have been under Dr. Atkins and Mr. Thorney in London
all this winter, and now am to use the Bath where I now rest.
Still I desire this imperfection may not excuse me; but, as
your messengers can inform you, the plague is come into my
house, whereof there are now two sick, so that I dare not press
into that assembly without notice first given of this misadventure.
I have forsaken my house and live in Bath to avoid it; what
may fall out hereafter God knows and not I. I have sent up
my servant to attend you and if you still think me fit for this
journey, I am ready to do all service that appertains to it,
or will send my son to attend his lordship in my place.—Bath,
this last of February. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 1½ pp. (104. 52.) |
| Lords of the Council to Sir Thomas Castilian, Thomas Doleman, Alexander Chocke and Thomas Chamberlaine. | |
| 1604–5, Feb. 28. |
Commission to enquire concerning outrages
alleged in an information of Robert Brooke, parson of Endborne,
co. Berks., to have been committed in the church there by certain
persons breaking open the doors, tearing the communion book
and ecclesiastical canons lately published and defacing the
register book.—From the Court at Whitehall, 28 Feb. 1604. Signed.—T. Ellesmere, Canc. Northumberland. T. Dorset. H. Northampton. Cranborne. Tho. Banck. |
|
Note on back of commission: "These letters came to my hand
on Wednesday the 6th of this instant March at 6 of the clock
in the evening." ½ p. (188. 78.) |
|
| The Archbishop of Canterbury, the Earl of Devonshire and Viscount Cranborne to the Dean and Chapter of Wells. | |
| [1604–5,] Feb. |
Whereas Robert Wright, D.D., one of his
Majesty's chaplains, and William Barber, D.D., have been
debarred by the Dean and Chapter of Wells from reception into
the number of canons, which they claim under the ancient
statutes of the church by virtue of the offices of Treasurer and
Chancellor of that church; we to whom the King has referred
the determination of this matter require you to send before us
three or four of your chapter, whereof Dr. Langworthy, the
archdeacon, and Dr. Cottington, the chaunter of your church,
should be two, to appear on the ninth of April next and to bring
with them the statutes of your church, for the speedy decision
of this controversy.—Lamberth, February. Draft. 1½ pp. (104. 54.) |
| The Earl of Nottingham to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [1604–5, Feb.] |
But that my business is very great I would
have been with you. I consider the great difficulties in those
things we heard yesterday between the Archdukes' subjects and
the States; so as if those things be dealt in at my being
in Spain, I think it sure that he that shall go Ambassador
Leger should be able to speak learnedly in it, for in these cases
they will use civilians, and it will stand much upon the words of
the treaty. And now at first if all things be well settled by a
man of learning and judgment it will keep us from infinite
troubles after. I think in this service of so great a consequence
no man ought to refuse and feel for his Majesty to enable them;
and better it were to be at charge with one able both for his
Majesty's honour and the good of the service there to have one
that hath many good parts and able for such a place if it
were well settled before. Sir, this I am bold to write to
you acknowledging my weakness to deal in these things that are
out of my element, and would be glad to be strengthened that
his Majesty's service may be well performed. Holograph. Endorsed: "February, 1604: Lord Admiral to my Lord. For a learned ambassador into Spain." Seal. 1 p. (104. 55.) |
| The Same to the Same. | |
| 1604–5, Feb. | I do but remember your lordship that it will be very fit that myself and the leger Ambassador have the treaty of the peace in Latin, if any occasion should happen of question; and also for myself the order of the proceeding of the oath. I send your lordship the note of the book; some of them might very well have been spared out of the book. I pray you to note the last when you have turned the leaf. That and the others of our late dear Mistress, I wish they had neither have been spoken nor written; but, Sir, I will have Sir George Bute that shall make a true journal and note of everything that shall pass in my journey. I think there will be eyes enough to look on. I trust to be careful for his Majesty's honour and my own reputation. |
|
PS.—My Lord Chamberlain sends with me his son Sir Thomas
Howard. I pray you to give your word for me to my Lady that
I will be careful for him. Holograph. Endorsed: "about Feb. 1604." 1 p. (104. 56.) |
|
| The Earl of Worcester to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [1604–5, Feb. ?] | This day at 2 in the afternoon I received your packet dated the 3rd instant, (fn. 5) which his Majesty perused abroad, but after he came home, he read over your letter to myself, being thoroughly satisfied in all points, saying it was but a mistaking upon the Dean's letter that bred a little sharpness. Now that he is rightly understood he is very well pleased. The word that most troubled him was "ambulatory proceedings," doubting lest he might be thought either wavering or inconstant in his well established orders, which he said he would never be. This day he has given very present testimony to some ministers that presented a petition for further time, that their sincere consciences might be better satisfied. For more particular proofs you will be informed by my letter to the Lords. Yet I cannot let pass that when these puritan petitioners were with the King, the Dean of the Chapel publicly avouched, that whatsoever he were that stood upon these nice terms of conformity, he would undertake to confute him with learning and satisfy with reason; which they desired might be, but I said it was not convenient the cause having been coram judice. I assure you the King argued the matter very fully. |
|
Will is exceeding well, but I fear there is a power above yours
and mine that will stay him here until Monday; but I have
entreated Sir Philip Herbert and Sir James Hey not to urge
the King further, who have promised they will not.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (109. 69.) [Printed in extenso in Lodge, Illustrations of British History (ed. 1791), Vol. III. pp. 266, 267.] |
|
| King James to the Same. | |
| [1604–5, Feb.] |
I am wonderfully well satisfied with the
Council's proceeding anent the puritans since my departure;
they have used justice upon the obstinate, showing grace
to the penitent, and enlarged them that seemed to be a
little schooled by the rod of affliction. In this action they
have according to the 101 psalm sung of mercy and of
judgment both, and therefore thank them in my name for their
pains and uniform concurrence in my service, and tell them
that there is not a King in the world so proud of his Council
as I am of mine; and assure them that I shall never take longer
vacancy from them for the necessary maintenance of my health
than other kings will consume upon their physical diets and
going to their whores. Now that I have seen the Bishop of
York's letter so much talked of I can truly say minuit presentia
famam, but I am thoroughly pleased with your answer; (fn. 6) and
especially concerning my hunting, you have answered it according to my heart's desire, for a scornful answerless answer became
best such a senseless proposition. I thank my patient beagle
for stopping the suit of Gray's Inn. I am glad my son has so
far outshot me in schoolcraft as he should "prevene" me in
the fellowship of any house of learning, but in truth that matter
had a greater consequence than I will think the propounders
thereof had in their mind. I am also glad of the miracles
wrought among you in satisfying both the French and Spanish
Ambassadors. For all those services I have only this reward
to bestow upon you and your fellows, that ye shall not be much
troubled with suits recommended by me unto you during my
absence, all news being remitted to the Master Falconer's report
who is now become alike keen and skilful both of hunting and
hawking; and thus commending me to Suffolk and you in
particular and all your worthy society in general I bid you
heartily farewell, having enjoined the bearer to drink good
pipes of tobacco to all your company.—Undated. Addressed: "To my little cankered beagle." Signed. Endorsed: "The King to me." Seal. 1½ pp. (134. 48.) |
| [Viscount Cranborne] to the [Archbishop of York]. | |
| [1604–5, Feb.] |
In answer to his late letter. (fn. 7) Is of his opinion
concerning differences in the Church, has always held the papist
to be carried with superstitious blindness, and the puritans with
unadvised zeal and outrecuidance. There are schisms in habit as
well as in opinion, whoever sees papists with puritan spectacles,
or the puritan with papistical shall only see the multiplication of
false images. If Popery increases in those quarters he must see
to the timely work of reformation, &c.—Undated. Contemporary copy. 3 pp. (108. 76.) |
| [Printed in Lodge, Illustrations &c., Vol. III p. 259 from the original among the Talbot Papers. Endorsed by the Earl of Shrewsbury: "L. Viscount Cranborne his answer to the Lo. Archbishop of York's, 1 Feb. 1604."] | |
| Robert Brooke to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [1604–5, Feb.] |
On the 20th of this February the church
doors of Endborne, Berks. were found broken open, and the
communion book and the ecclesiastical canons lately set forth by
his Majesty, the one half whereof he had read the Sunday
before, were taken out of a chest, torn in pieces, and scattered
in the seat where service is usually read; and a good part of the
register book was cut right out, and the rest much defaced.
At the same time there was found a rude libel containing such
matter as Mr. Dolman, a justice adjoining, thought meet to be
made known to Cranborne. Brooke therefore thought it his
duty to attend Cranborne in that behalf.—Undated. Holograph. 1 p. (189. 70.) |
| [The Lords of the Council] to Sir Roger Aston. | |
| [1604–5, Feb.?] |
Having understood from Sir Thomas Lake
that his Majesty was pleased my Lady Elizabeth's grace should
be sent for to Greenwich, to be there at the Queen's coming, the
rather in respect that the Duke of Holst might see her, we have
thought it fit to acquaint his Majesty with that which follows.
First, where it was imagined that the King should have removed
before Shrovetide, the hall which lately fell down, where the
plays are to be kept, cannot be ready till after the time; so as
both in that respect, and keeping the house the sweeter for the
Queen, his Majesty cannot remove till Ash Wednesday be past.
And for the coming of my Lady Elizabeth at this time, the
Queen, after she heard it, seemed very desirous that she might
not be sent for until she spake with the King, adding withal
that considering the state she was like to be in herself shortly,
she was assured that the Duke of Holst would rather take the
pains to ride down himself and visit her daughter. To which
when we replied that we had received such order from his
Majesty, she said all should be as he pleased; but she durst
be our warrant for staying two or three days. Whereupon we
have forborne to send to my Lord Harrington, although in the
meantime we have bethought us to have all things in a readiness
for her coming up as his Majesty shall direct when he has spoken
with the Queen.—Undated. Draft in hand of Cranborne's secretary. Endorsed: "1604." 2 pp. (189. 96.) |
| Viscount Cranborne to [Sir George Harvy?] | |
| [1605, Feb.?] |
Because my Lord Cobham may see to what
pass his own dealings have brought his leases, I pray you show
him what was preferred to me for the King, two days before his
Majesty departed. When he has read it you may desire him
to return it. Send me word whether the lions have been
together or no, and how they do.—Undated. Holograph. ½ p. (108. 74.) |