Cecil Papers: October 1591

Calendar of the Cecil Papers in Hatfield House: Volume 4, 1590-1594. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1892.

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'Cecil Papers: October 1591', in Calendar of the Cecil Papers in Hatfield House: Volume 4, 1590-1594, (London, 1892) pp. 141-156. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-cecil-papers/vol4/pp141-156 [accessed 19 April 2024]

October 1591

Notes out of Moody's Letters.
1591, Oct. 2/12. 1. To James Typpinge, dated Octo. 12, 1591, Flushing. That he satisfy Moody whether George Gyfford and his man Greenfelde be yet returned from Constantinople into England. That he tell Lady Jane, the Earl of Northampton's daughter, her mother the Countess is dead and has left her all she was possessed of, which she may have if herself will go for them but not otherwise. That Father Creaton being now at Rome will within a month from this date be at Brussels. That Parma is ready to depart for France strongly accompanied, but that it is supposed he will not fight this year, because it is his annus criticus. That the Indian fleet is arrived with 17 millions. That Count Mansfield is presently to take the government of the Low Countries upon him.
2. To Poly, of the same date. That the Marquis of Malespine is come to Brussels to hasten Parma's departure for France.
1 p.
M. de la Fontaine to the Earl of Essex.
[1591,] Oct. 3/13. By the appointment of M. de Boisize, he is discharged, but without change of good will. M. de Boisize is generally commended for his probity and love of peace and desire for the welfare of the two countries.—Paris. 3/13 Oct.
Signed. Seal. French. 1 p.
Henri de Bourbon (Prince de Dombes) to the Earl of Essex.
[1591,] Oct. 3/13. Congratulating the Earl on his arrival in France; the most distant provinces, and especially that in which the writer is, feel deep gratitude towards the generous English nation, &c.—From the Camp de Grahartee, xiii October.
French. 1 p.
R. Brackenbury to his “father,” the Earl of Essex.
1591, Oct. 4. Prayers for parents are ever fit, but in me most due that hath such a father that all England prayeth for, for the good they have and hopeth to receive from so noble a captain. All wise men doth wish your lordship to tarry and serve for the safety of our country; the old men doth pray for your happy success, and many young men are glad your lordship is away for the better increasing of their countenance here. But ladies and gentlewomen not respecting the honour of war nor the public good wisheth your lordship at home, saying that a man of such a “parsonage” should' be here in England, where he may get more such, rather than abroad and daily in danger, and the like not left at home. Love here is almost banished, and some flieth over the seas, as from Mrs. Candyshe mind into my brother Darcye his good liking; and my cousin Lee sighs if Mrs. Acton be but once named; Mr. Ansley hath not yet found the way to love, though there be good schoolmasters. What good sports we had in the progress my brother Darcy can report, for he saw the best. The best sight he saw was two such stars at Basing, called Kingsmels, as will make twenty actors die for love. Assuredly they be very fair, full of favour and of good behaviour. Some think they shall come hither; if they do, they must learn to abide shot of all sorts, for at the return of so many soldiers the wars will grow dangerous If all stand they shall deserve more praise than I look. for. All and each one will pray for your lordship's most worthy enterprise and safe return.—Oatlands, 4 Oct. 1591.
On the cover are some memoranda, in French and English, made after the receipt of the letter.
Holograph. Seal. 1½ p.
The Queen to the Earl of Essex.
1591, Oct. 4. Where by sundry our late letters, some to yourself and some to our Ambassador and Sir Thomas Leighton, we declared our pleasure to be that both you and our forces should return after the end of the two months, according as was accorded afore your going thither, and having shewed and sent you very good causes which moved us thereto, such as if you had well weighed them with a mind and judgment not blinded with vain persuasions, either of yourself or of such others as do accompany you with their glorious windy discourses, you would have readily assented thereto. Yea, besides the regard of our honour, which has been overmuch blemished by the King's actions; even for your own reputation you would without our commandment have returned. But we have lately considered that since the winning of Gournay in so short a time and that the attempt of Caudebec and the besieging of Rouen is begun and like well to succeed, wherein our people not only with their own proper forces but with a reputation of them, are like to give great furtherance and their revocation great hindrance; and that also other the forces of the King, which are promised to be shortly brought thither by himself might percase be discomforted upon report of the revocation of ours, and so also the enterprise against Rouen and Newhaven might fall to the ground, and the enemies' forces which are to come from sundry places might have more comfort to come towards Rouen to raise the siege thereof : for these considerations only, and not to pleasure the King at all, how earnest so ever he has and may be to entreat us to stay our forces there for some longer time than by covenant we have been bound, we are content that if the King shall make due payment to our army there for the time of their abode after the two months expired, then you and our forces shall and may remain for one month longer or — days, so as they shall be employed only to recover Rouen and Newhaven and for no other services. And yet we think it meet that such of our forces as are grown by any sickness infectious unable to serve, should be dismissed and sent home, but not to come to our City of London nor to populous towns, but for avoiding of further infection. And this our contestation you shall impart to Marshal Biron and others of the King's Council there, so as they may understand that herein we have more regard of the common cause to be relieved and the dangers avoided, than particularly to gratify the King therein, whose strange actions towards us in many of his proceedings, contrary to our many advices for his own weal, has bred in us a great misliking, such as though his affairs may hereby receive advancement, yet we will not require any thanks from him for the same, finally considering the former enterprise at Rouen, whereof besides the loss of Devereux, there might have happened a great loss of our people, yea, of the most principal persons, was such as we had reason in our former letters to condemn it of rashness; yet now understanding that since our censure thereof and the general misliking of many others, Roger Williams has presumed in an audacious and foolish manner by writing to commend, yea to extol it, as thereby apparently manifesting himself to have been the author or principal persuader thereof, so as we have just cause to doubt that he may, continuing in his error, commit the like offence again, the rather considering he has the principal office of the field as Marshal, and thereby, and by the credit he presumes to have with you, our General, we do think it very convenient to avoid all such occasions by his dangerous advices, and therefore we will and command you that no action of any moment be attempted by his advice, either privately or publicly, without the assent of Sir Thomas Leighton and some other of the Captains of most discretion and understanding. And so we require you to observe this our commandment, for otherwise it were better for our service that he were displaced, notwithstanding we know he can serve well in his kind. Given under our signet at our manor of Otelandes, 4 October in the 33rd year of our reign.
Signed, Endd. by Burghley. 2¼ pp.
[Murdin, pp. 644–5. In extenso.]
M. de Rihom to Edward Reynolds.
1591, Oct. 4/14. Conveying his wife's thanks for a journal, which she has sent back by Mr. Petingar. Desires his remembrance to Mr. Smith.—14 October 1591.
French. Holograph. 1 p.
M. Moody to —.
1591, Oct. 4/14. In my last letters from Antwerp dated the 16th of September, new style, I sent you word of that matter of Bruer, which your Honour so earnestly committed unto me. The effect of them were that there is no such man here, neither doth the gentlewoman you told me of know such man as Walton, assuring me she never wrote letter unto him. I spake with one Twyne her uncle, who assured me he had no such man of his name to his kinsman. I beseech you send me word, whether you be not made acquainted with matters that one Barnes hath in handling, touching the Lady Arabella. I pray you send me her picture, for that there is some one very desirous to see it. You must be contented to give me good means for myself, and entertainment for the Scottishman I told you of, who doth serve my turn in great matters, if you look to be well served from me; otherwise if I be driven to take a pension I must then go serve in the regiment, where I shall have no means to write unto you, as you expect, assuring you that if you compare that which you have from me with that which you have from others, you shall find the intelligence that I have to be good. The matter of Portsmouth is not yet ripe. If you would deal with Her Majesty that some peace might be made between the King of Spain and her, I know it would be hearkened unto here, although they assure themselves they shall in time weary hoth her and the King of France.—Flushing, 14 October 1591.
Signed :— [symbol]
Words in italics are written in cypher, marginally deciphered.
Endd :—“From Moody.”
M. Moody to [The Earl of Essex].
1591, Oct. 4/14. The Marquis of Mallespine is come to Brussels to hasten the Duke of Parma thence, for that he is to be general of all the forces for the League. It is given out he will depart hence within ten days. The King of France has received the German forces about Esden [Sedan] and hath taken the protection of the town and the rest about it, belonging to the late Duke of Bollayne [Bouillon]. He marcheth with his forces towards Shallowne [Chalons], the which town is already in his possession. The Duke of Lorraine with the Pope's forces are said likewise to be entered France, following the rearguard of the Germans, and it is said they are within two days one of the other. The French King's forces in Dauphiny have overthrown fifteen ensigns of Italians, that were there for the Duke of Savoy. By a letter from Rome dated 14 September last, the news is that there is a general dearth throughout all Italy. The Duke of Ferrara is in Rome, suing to the Pope for a lease of his Duchy for his nephew; it is not yet known what answer he shall have, seeing upon his death the Pope is to have it. The King of Spain's ambassador hath proposed unto the Pope in the behalf of his master, to have the two-thirds of the yearly revenues of all the clergy in Spain; he hath not as yet received his answer. The Duke of Savoy hath taken two towns in Provence, the one of them called Bar, which is of some importance. Cardinal Allen is at Rome, but looked for in these parts. Sir William Stanley is at Rome, but determining to be in Ireland before Christmas. The regiment of the Irish, notwithstanding the Duke's going into France, are appointed to remain near Maestricht until they have further directions. The Count Mansfeld is to have the government here, under the King's letters patent, in as large and ample manner as the Duke of Parma hath, and therefore supposed the Duke does not return from France hither again, for which the Spaniards are nothing sorry. Those of D'Este that have been loud in mutiny are now to be paid and. are to come to recover Hulste again with all speed. Mondragon remains in the land of Wast, to keep that those of Hulste make no “rodes” out to take spoil. The Earl of Westmoreland is in good account with the Spaniards and therefore thought he shall be employed in the north parts with Dacres and Morton and others. In the cause of the Duke's deferring his journey into France there remains a deep mystery.—14 October 1591.
Signed :— [symbol]
Marginally noted by Burghley.
Addressed :— [symbol]
” To the most honourable Knighte
Endorsed :—“Mody.”
1 p.
The Lord Chancellor to the Earl of Essex.
1591, Oct. 5. I have not failed to use the best endeavours I could, for the effecting of your desire in remaining there for some longer time. But withal, I must advertise you that Her Majesty has been drawn thereunto with exceeding hardness, and the chief reason that makes her stick in it is for that she doubts your Lordship does not sufficiently consider the dishonour that arises unto her by the King's either dalliance or want of regard, having not used the forces sent so friendly to his aid from so great a prince and under the conduct of so great a personage, in some employment of more importance all this while. Wherefore, both by Her Majesty's commandment and also for the unfeigned goodwill I bear your Lordship, I am very earnestly to advise you that you have great care for the accomplishment of Her Highness' instructions effectually and according to her intention in those things wherein you are to deal with the King. Further, let me be bold to warn you of a matter that many your friends here greatly fear, namely, that the late accident of your noble brother, who has so valiantly and honourably spent his life in his Prince's and country's service, draw you not through grief or passion to hazard yourself over venturously. Your Lordship best knows that true valour consists rather in constant performing of that which has been advisedly forethought than in an aptness or readiness of thrusting your person indifferently into every danger. You have many ways and many times made sufficient proof of your valiantness, no man doubts but that you have enough if you have not overmuch; therefore, both in regard to the service Her Majesty expects to receive from you and in respect of the grief that would grow to the whole realm of the loss of one of that honourable birth and that worth, which is sufficiently known, as greater has not been for any that has been born therein these many and many years.—London, 5 October 1591.
Signed :—“Chr. Hatton, Cane.”
1⅓ p. [Murdin, p. 646. In extenso.]
E. Grimeston to [Earl of Essex].
[1591,] Oct. 9. The King parts tomorrow, and is resolved to be with you within 14 days. He has assured the Viscount Turenne to the young Duchess of Bouillon, and are to be married within 15 days. The King has shewn himself a good master to him to press it earnestly for him, and she a kind mistress to accept of him willingly, or else her good uncle the Duke of Montpensier would have broken it. He shall be called the Duke of Bouillon, and remains here to make war upon the Duke of Lorraine. The army for the League is still in Lorraine, retired far off for fear of the King. It seems the Commanders agree not well, for the Duke of Lorraine, the Duke of Maine, and the Pope's nephew do everyone give a watchword, and their soldiers cut one another's throat if they stray anything from the army.
There is certain news M. de Chastillon is dead, to the great grief of all men here; his brother M. d'Andelot is thought to be slain in Auvergne; would he had died for both ! The Marquis D'Omont has taken a place in Burgundy called Aiguille, in the which were 3 or 400 soldiers which yielded at discretion : he hanged 60 of them, and the rest he kept prisoners. There are sundry news come, which the enemies' letters intercepted do confirm, that Dedigueres has given a great defeat to the Duke of Savoy's bastard brother betwixt Momelian and Chambery in Savoy : the enemy had 4,000 foot and 500 horse, and he had but 2,000 foot and 1,000 horse. He slew 1,500 Neapolitans on the place. They write he took six cannons, and is gone to besiege Chambery. Marshal Biron has written to the King very honourably of you and of your troops.—Sedan, 9 Oct. 1591.
Endorsed :—“Grimston, 1591.”
Holograph. 1¼ pp.
Henry IV., King of France, to the Earl of Essex.
[1591,] Oct. 10/20. Thanking him for his valour and prudence in the siege and reduction of Gournay, as also for his services in inducing the Queen to continue her support longer than it pleased her. Is only anxious for peace that he may return both to the Queen and the Earl the favours they have shown him.—Sedan, 20 Oct.
French. 1 p.
Lord Burghley to Sir Thomas Heneage, Knt., Vice-Chamberlain.
1591, Oct. 12. I have read over Moody's writings sent to you which contain many several matters whereof the greater part are otherwise advertised out of the Low Countries, being things that come to every man that hearkens to news. He has been at Flushing with Sir Robert Sydney, to whom he has declared how he is used of the Queen's behalf to discover all such practices as are to be had about the Duke of Parma, and he has used my name to him and gotten money of him, but how much as yet I know not. He has now written to divers, as to my Lord Chancellor, my Lord Admiral and to myself, so as it cannot be as his service can be secret, which is I think the cause that Her Majesty allows not of his service, and that rather for that of late Her Majesty told me that she understood of late of a very trusty gentleman of Scotland, from Brussels, that this Moody has revealed to many there that he is sent thither by Her Majesty, and that they there do assure themselves to make him serve their purpose, but how true this is I know not, for I know not the credit of the Scottishman, though Archibald Douglas avows him to be worthy of credit.—128bre 1591.
P.S.—I am not of opinion to reject his service, but I perceive by his letters to me he desires more money, which if he shall not have, I think he will cease his service of himself.
Holograph. 1 p.
Th. Smithe to Edward Reynolds.
[1591,] Oct. 14. Informing him he must return to him in France, because his love and duty bind him to follow.—London, 14 October.
Endorsed :—“1591.”
Signed. 2/3 p.
Sir Thomas Leighton to the Earl of Essex.
1591, Oct. 15. Since your lordship's departure, I find the disorders among the soldiers here so great, that for my part I hope for no redress without your return. For with the allowance they receive from the King's ministers here, as they are not able to live, so have I acquainted the Lord Treasurer therewith. My humble desire is that I may not stand charged with them, my coming from my government being only to be an aid and assistance to you in matter of advice and not otherwise, though since .the recalling of your lordship the overseeing of all is committed to me, of which burden as I desire with all my heart to be freed, so give me leave to tell you that if it be thought necessary that you return, it were most convenient there were some good number sent over to supply the rooms of those that are fallen sick, or without any order or licence either returned into England or run away no man knows whither. For my own part I never was in so small a time more weary, and do wish both for your honour and for the general cause that if Her Majesty's pleasure be they remain any longer here, they may. as they have done, receive Her Highness' pay. Otherwise I see no means how they may be satisfied. For your lordship's self, if I may freely speak what I think, considering your troop is “cassed” and the goodliest company of foot under your own colours of captains, commanders and gentlemen that I have seen, and which cannot on the sudden and without great expense be renewed again, brought to so low an ebb, you, I say, shall do best to keep you where you are, and would acknowledge myself much bound if with your stay my own return might be procured.—Arques, 15 Oct. 1591.
Signed. 1 p.
Jesuits, Seminaries, &c.
1591, Oct. 17 The Queen having by proclamation declared what dangers are sought to be attempted against the Realm by a number of fugitives and traitors that practice with the King of Spain and the Pope to continue their former purposes against the Realm, and to that end have sent into the same very many traitorous persons in secret manner under colour of diverting her subjects from the religion established, and to relinquish their obedience and to adhere to foreign forces to be prepared against her, the Lord Chancellor is required to direct out under the great seal such and so many commissions and to such persons as he and the Council shall think meet for discovery, punishment and rooting out of all such dangerous persons.
Draft in Burghley's hand.
Endorsed :—“Copy of a warrant by way of a letter to my Lord Chancellor for making commissions for inquiry of Jesuits, Seminaries, &c—17 Oct. 1591.”
1 p.
Sir Roger Williams to the Earl of Essex.
1591, Oct. 20. I find by the Marshal that his meaning is for Mr. Tanckervill and Horslee to make clear the river from Rouen to Newhaven. He tells me the King marches hitherwards, but how soon he knows not. He likes well that I go to him. He caused me to leave Sir Henry Davers with him to carry a letter unto you, by the which you shall know more. He seems to be wonderfully glad of your lordship's return, saying, when the King knows it, he will make the more haste. He would fain have your companies to have joined with his; hearing your resolution, he desired me to signify unto your lordship to keep yourself ready where you are, knowing well the King will desire you and command him to invest Rouen with all speed. I would to God your lordship had marched to this town when we thought once to have done from Pavyly; we had taken it within two days. The place is nothing by reason of the hills.—Caudebec, this 20 October.
Endd. :—“1591.”
Holograph. 1 p.
John Lyndesay to Archibald Douglas.
1591, Oct. 20. Concerning some copper ore, and payment to be made for a chain.—Edinburgh, 20 October 1591.
Signed :—“Mr. John Lyndesay.”
Holograph. ½ p.
Marshal Biron to the Earl of Essex.
1591, Oct. 20/30. Je feis hier responce a la lettre quil vous avoit pleu mescrire. Depuis ce matin comme je montois a cheval pour venir icy, mest arrivé ce porteur avee une depesche du Roy, et parce quil en a aussi une de Sa Majesté a vous, je le fais passer a Dieppe pour la presenter luymesme et vous pouvoir sattisfaire sur ce que vous desirerez de scavoir de lestat de sa Majesté et de son voiage. Je croy quelle vous donne par sa lettre le mesme ad vis quil ly plaist me donner en celle quelle mescript, come elle partoit le mesme jour, et faisoit neuf lieues dune traicte pour sacheminer de deca, ou toute l'armee a la teste tournee, il faict estat que nous Paurons icy dans neuf ou dix jours au plus tard. J'ay estime estre de mon devoir den advertir la Royne, affin quelle puisse avec asseurance rejetter toutes les oppinions que Ion ly voudroit donner du contraire, Apres la prinse de Caudebec je me resolus de recouvrer aussi, sil estoit possible, la ville de Harfleur, qui nous est de grande consequence pour Boucher et tenir le Havre en bonne subjection, et cest derniere depesche maiant trové ainsi prest a partir et les choses estant desja disposees pour ce desseing, je ne men suis pas voulu revocquer, niais je le presse et diligente un peu davantage; faisant invester des ceste nuict le dit Arfleur, encores que jen sois a six bonnes lieues, mais je my rendray avec toute larmee Samedy de bon matin. Et y estant je hasteray la besongne le plus que je pourray, a fin que je la puisse achever et me trouver encores a larrivee du Roy, comme jay bonne opinion de pouvoir faire.
Monsieur, je vous prie trouver bon que je vous die que votre absence cest bien recongneue dans vos trouppes, desquelles jay eu bien plus de plainctes que de coustume, mesmes du feu quils mettent par tout ou ils passent, saccagent les maisons des gentilzhommes, et ne reservent une senile eglise, ou ils peuvent entrer. Je vous supplie de commander a ceulx qui y ont auctorite de les tenir en meilleure discipline, et que leurs desordres et mauvais comportemens ne gaste poinct la faveur et courtoisie de la Royne, que je masseure que son intention est de rendre complette, et que cest aussy la votre. Il nya que la trop grande cessation qui est cause du mal, et observons que les gens de guerre ne sont jamais plus gens de bien que quant ils sont le plus occuppes; toutesfois vous en ordonneres comme il vous plaira.—Du Camp de Lybonne ce 30e Octobre 1591.
Signed. 1 p.
Marshal Biron to the Earl oi Essex.
1591, Oct. 20/30. Jay receu ung tres grand aise et contentement quand jay entendu vostre retour en France avec ung si bon et heureux suecez de votre voyaige. Je suis asseure que le Roy s'en tiendra grandement oblige, et quil ne s'offrira point occasion qu'il ne le vous fasse paroistre par effect. De moy, Monsieur, vous y aurez toujours ung tres affectionné et humble serviteur. Vous avez desja entendu la prinse de la ville de Caudebec, qui est une bisarre place, comme laveu le Sieur de Houlliems, et quasi estoit en collere de quoy Ion lavoit rendue ainsy. Monsieur, je suis sur une entreprinse de la quelle je ne puis faire resolution que je n'en scaiche des nouvelles, et en quel estat est la place. M. de Houlliems ma dit quil pense que vous vouldriez sejourner quelques jours pour accommoder vos troupes. Cependant j'essayeray de faire quelque chose en attendant de voz commandemens.....—Du Camp de Villequier, le 30e Octobre.
Endd. :—“1591.”
Signed. 1 p.
Court Martial on Lieut. Hudson.
1591, Oct. 21. At a court martial held at Arques in presence of the lord general and principal officers of the English forces, John Hudson, lieutenant to Capt. Grymston, was acquitted for the death of Capt. Thomas Wynchcombe, one of the four corporals of the field, for that by good proof it appeared that the said John Hudson killed him in his own defence.
Signed :—“Arthur Bourchier, provost marshal.”
M. de la Chatte to the Earl of Essex.
1591, Oct. 21/31. The King will be soon here. Leaves within two hours to invest Arfleur, which town is much better than Caudebec, but if the enemy throw men into it, it will not be easy to take. If M. d'O had been returning, believes that the enterprise would not have been undertaken. Prays him consider the poor inhabitants of Arques, who suffer much through the long stay of his troops; at the least that their houses be preserved.—At the Camp of L'Islebonne, last of October 1591.
Signed. French. ½ p.
Lord Burghley to the Earl of Essex.
1591, Oct. 22. Your last letters brought unto me are of the 18th of this month, being the day after your arrival, whereby I perceive that by reason of your absence coming from thence, such numbers of footmen are come away, as you find there, by report, but 2000 footmen and 80 horse of your own and 80 of other gentlemen. If any horsemen be lacking of your former numbers, by their coming hither, I hope they will return to seek their general, but I dare not affirm so for the footmen. It were well done that the muster master would particularly set down the numbers of such as be missing now in every band, besides such as remain there in France in places, known to be sick, so as it might be here known, if Her Majesty would supply the numbers, to which of the captains they might be sent and so distributed. In a “Breviatt” of the musters sent from Mr Conningesby, taken at Arques the 13th, it seems there are of every band some sick, some at Dieppe, some at Arques, and some at Gournay, of which there may be hope by their recovery to come to the service of the bands, but for such as be sick further off, as at Noyon, St. Denis and other places far off, left by Sir Roger Williams, I doubt of their recovery, and yet I doubt not but pay is asked for them. For the others that are come into England, or for such as have been slain, I think it were reasonable the pay for them might be spared, specially considering what large allowances the captains have for their dead pays.
I am sorry your lordship can give no more certainty from M. Doo, for the pay of the army, to the which although your Lordship had promise there should be victual sufficient delivered, yet th3 letters sent to me from Sir Thomas Leighton, dated a day or two before your arrival, he describeth a great misery in that army, specially for lack of victuals, whereupon they have committed great insolencies in the country, and are not corrigible for the same, so as before your lordship's coming thither, it seemeth he was so weary of that government, as he made suit to be revoked. But now upon your lordship's return I think he will change his mind, and be ready to assist you in all kind of services.
Your Lordship required in your letter to be licensed by Her Majesty to have repaired to Caudebec, which I did not move because the messenger which brought your letters did affirm for surety that the town was rendered, but he could not express in what sort, and yet I dare assure you, if it had been moved, Her Majesty would not have agreed thereto, and to shew some likelihood thereof, I am presently commanded to charge your lordship in her name that in no wise you should in your own person endanger yourself in the enterprise intended for Newhaven, neither must you hazard the Queen's people therein.
Your lordship shall understand that we are here afraid greatly by the Duke of Saxe's death, that the Prince of Anhalt will not long continue in France with the army, but much the rather because we fear the King is not able to make them full pay, which lack I think both the Prince and all the chieftains that came from the Duke of Saxe would have borne if the Duke had lived : and now would seek colour by his death to return, which I know not how it may be remedied. And yet I have moved Her Majesty to send some letters with speed to the Prince, both to condole with him for the death of the Duke, and to exhort him also to continue, with all such reasons as are convenient in respect of the great honour that he and his army shall have to help to restore the King to his estate. On the other side this loss of the Duke is some ways qualified by the death of the Pope, as we hear it to be true, for thereby I think certainly the Pope's nephew and his army will be glad to have a colour to return, which cannot be but greatly to the Kind's advantage, specially if the Duke of Nevers in his quarters and Dedeguires in his, might follow them in the tail. Besides this, I think surely it will be long ere the Duke of Parma will come into France, for he is yet at Brussels and is encumbered greatly with new mutinies of his Spaniards in every place, and with the discontentment of all the States in Flanders, Artois and Hainault, besides the jealousies that are betwixt him and the Spaniards and Walloons also, and thereto is to be added the late taking of Nimeguen, with some further intention towards other good places. But if I had my desire, I had rather they would seek two or three good towns in Flanders than any one in the other remote part. Your lordship might do well to devise how some letters might be written into Rouen to notify the Duke of Parma's stay from coming into France this year with any power, which if it might be dispersed in Rouen, with the report of the Pope's death and return of the Italian army, it might gain some good party to yield unto you, before any assault to be given, and thereto might be added, which is true, whereof I doubt not but you have knowledge there, the revolt of the Commons from the King in the Kingdom of Arragon and Valentia, who are indeed more mighty in arms than the King can have ready any force to suppress them, although he had an army ready to have entered into “Bilvue” with purpose to have taken Bayonne, and by this revolt of his people, he revoked his army towards Arragon, and yet the same not able to master his people. This kind of devices might percase do as much good as a battery, if it be well used. And thus, having no more matter at this time to write to your lordship, I humbly take my leave. Your Lordship so liberal bestowing of knighthoods is here commonly evil censured, and when Her Maty shall know it, which yet she doth not, I fear she will be highly offended, considering she would have had that authority left out of your commission if I had not supplied it with a “cautelous” instruction, but quod factum est infectum esse non potest, and hereby you have increased the state of ladies, present and future.—From my house in Westminster, the 22 of October 1591.
P.S.—Such countermines as we have against Jesuits, I send your lordship in print.
Endorsed :—“My grandfather lets my lo : of Essex know that the Queen is offended with him for making so many knights in France.” 3 pp. Holograph from the words, “I humbly take my leave.”
[Murdin, pp. 647–8.]
M. Beauvoir la Nocle to the Earl of Essex.
1591, Oct. 22/Nov. 1. Les couroux de la Royne redoublent. Je nay pas eu lhonneur de la voir depuis vostre partement. On ma escrit que vostre voyage a este heureux, et que vostre presence a beaucoup servy par dela a retenir quelques desordres. Je loue Dieu de tout si le Roy sapproche, coinme j'espere. Je croy que les fascheries de la Royne se convertiront en mieux.—De Londres ce ler Novembre, 1591, no. stile.
P.S.—Je vous supplie de vous souvenir du pauvre Vitel.
Signed. ½ p.
R. Douglas to Archibald Douglas.
1591, Oct. 23. At all times having travailed as occasion presented to have removed such misliking as has been betwixt my Lord Chancellor and you, as I have divers times shewed your friends whom I willed to make you advertised, I had answer that upon your good behaviour towards him, he could not only pass bygones, but also quite put you in oblivion, which good beginning I have not desisted to prosecute by all means, but specially by the good mediation of my Lord Ambassador presently resident, but daily looking to be revoked, who thinks the matter might be brought to better point if he were persuaded of your inclination to that peace. Wherefore in respect my Lord Ambassador is willing before his departure to employ himself in that matter, so greatly tending to the particular weal of both the parties his friends, I have thought good, albeit against my former determinations, now in respect of my brother's great desires and absence from Court, not to let so great a work cease for fault of good instruments, but by these presents desire you to make my Lord Ambassador or me or both advertised of your willingness to embrace this reconciliation.—Edinburgh, 23 October.
Endorsed :—“23 Oct. 1591. Archbalde Douglas to your Lo.”
Holograph. 1 p.
Henry IV., King of France, to the Earl of Essex.
[1591,] Oct. 23/Nov. 2. Reproaching him for doubting his friendship. Jealousy afflicts lovers, &c.—St. Germain-en-Laye, 2 Nov.
French. ½ p.
Export of Coin.
1591, Oct. 24. Warrant authorising Samuel Thomas and Gilbert Wilkynson to search for gold and coin, which the Queen has been informed is secretly conveyed in the fleet of ships lately laden with clothes and other merchandize in the port of London for Staden.—Given under the signet at the Manor of Richmond, 24 October, 1591.
Draft in Burghley's hand.
4 pp.
William Fowkk to Edward Reynoldes.
1591, Oct. 24. Received his letter of 18 Oct. this day at Mr. Broughton's at dinner, where he and his cousin Anthony were often remembered. Is not unmindful of his business, having dealt with Mr. Coole therein and offered him the lease for 300l., as he offered before Reynoldes left; but he is now clean gone from that and now will by no means deal with it. Has intreated him to do something for them in this matter. Has written to the tenants in both their names signifying that they have authorised him to make offer thereof to the tenants and if they refuse to sell it as he best can : this he has promised to do as for himself. If this course fail, then for another, for it must be sold. Asks to have letters as often as possible with all the news. My lord is expected there shortly, as the bruit goeth; hopes it may so fall out to prevent an ill journey by sea, and bring about a meeting with Reynoldes and other friends there. Hears no news; the talk in London is all of the Queen's maids that were. It is said that Mr. Vavisor is committed for Mrs. Southwell's lameness in her leg, and that Mr. Dudley is commanded from Court for kissing Mrs. Candissh. Will have his letters safely delivered and wishes him all happiness and a safe return. Desires to be commended to him, his wife, Mr. Meyrick, old Downhall, and the rest of his friends.—From lodgings at St. James, 24 Oct. 1591.
Addressed :—“To my loving master Mr. Edward Reynoldes in France, give these.”
Holograph. 1 p.
Maurice Kyffin to the Earl of Essex.
1591, Oct. 25. Having lately had conference with a French gentleman, in course of talk was demanded by him what rates of pay her Majesty allowed to the officers and martial men of her army here. Whereunto he answered with the most, conjecturing that such a question was not propounded obiter, but rather to special purpose. If the like should be moved by Monsieur Do, would know his lordship's pleasure how he should shape an answer. Prays Essex to signify his mind herein by Mr. Ottiwell Smith whom he has sent by reason of want of health to attend himself.—From the camp at Arques, 25 Oct. 1591.
Holograph. ½ p.
William Fowke to Anthony—.
1591, Oct. 27. I thank you for your letter which I received at Warwick Lane, where all your friends are well, and did drink to you in Rhenish wine. Will. Carew is, like a good husband, gone to his wife, but will return with speed. It is here said the King will not come to Rouen, and that my lord will be here against the 17th day. Here were excellent matter for Parker and you, if you were come over, to discourse of. The Queen's maids have had a good year of this. Mr. Dudley is forbidden the Court for kissing Mrs. Candishe in the presence, being his wife as is said. Here will be small doings for you and Parker, if this hold. Mrs Wyngfeild is mother of the maids that are, and it is said here that Mr. Vavisor is in for Mrs. Southwell's lame leg, but fie ! burn the letter and commend me to my soldier. I am sure you have discoursed of these matters at large. Good bedfellow, remember me for my man and my things which I wrote unto you of in my last letter. If you go from Dieppe, take order with Harvy that my things may come safely to me. Commend me to old Downhall.—From St. Jamas', 27 October, 1591.
Signed. 1 p.
Sir Henry Unton to the Earl of Essex.
1591, Oct. 27. Finds by late letters from the Lord Treasurer that her Majesty taketh offence for his concurring in advice with Essex and Sir Thomas Leighton and Mr. Killigrew about the going to Gournay, which doth much grieve him; beseeches Essex by his friends, to satisfy her Majesty herein.
The king of France hasteneth to the siege of Rouen where he intendeth to be within fifteen days, but it will be six weeks before he can mount his cannon.
There is no likelihood that the King will be able to spare her Majesty's forces, and this he has plainly signified to her Majesty in his present despatches.
Sir Roger Williams is acquainted with his proceedings with the King and with the effect of his despatch, and will relate the same to Essex.—From Noyon, 27th October, 1591.
Signed. [Murdin, p. 648.]
Provision of Shipping.
1591, Oct. 29. Letter from the Privy Council to the Mayor of Padstow, Nicholas Prideaux, John Hender and Mr. Penkevyll, and to the officers of the customs of the port, requiring them to take up shipping at reasonable prices and provide victual sufficient for the transport to Kinsale of 300 soldiers out of the county of Cornwall, appointed to come to Padstow by the 15th November. If the wind do not serve, they are to take order for the lodging and victualling of them in the town, during their necessary abode, at reasonable and accustomed rates, not exceeding the rate of 8d. for a soldier by the day.—From the Court at Richmond, the 29th October 1591.
Signed :—Jo. Cant. Tho. Egerton. Essex. Nottingham. G. Hunsdon. Ro. North. T. Buckehurst. W. Knollys. Ro. Cecyll.
P.S.—If Kinsale is found inconvenient for arrival, it shall suffice that the soldiers be landed at Cork or Youghal, and hereof they are to give notice to the masters of the ships.
Signed :—Ro. Cecyll.
Seal. 1 p.
Henry Killigrew to the Earl of Essex.
1591, Oct. 29. Since Mr. Downal's departure this morning, at which time I had nothing to write unto your lordship, I have been fain to play the sergeant myself in apprehending such of your soldiers as I found straggling up and down the streets after the army was risen. Two I delivered to Capt. Cuchon, and three to the provost marshal. 1 have dealt with Capt. Cuchon, not only to give charge to the watch at the gates and water bay lines, but also to write to Treport, Eau, St. Valery, and other places hereabout that they suffer none of our nation to pass without your lordship's passport. Some sick men there are come from Arques this morning, for whom we take the best order we can to transport them out at our own charge. This afternoon are arrived some gentlemen in the Tramontanes, who have remained at Dover ever since your coming, Sir John Wotton, Sir William Brooke, Capt. Boswell and others, together with your lordship's physician, J. Muffett, and four of your guard. News they bring that Sir Francis Darcy is committed to the Tower, and Mrs Jones, about Mrs Lee who was brought abed in the court, and Sir Francis saith she is his wife. Moreover, that the Revenge was towed into Lisbon by two galleys without deck or mast. Here are also come out of the Low Countries two vessels fit for the river of Rouen.—Dieppe, 29 October, 1591.
P.S.—I have received this morning a hitter from my lord Treasurer by your man Randall wherein he maketh mention of the duke of Saxe's death, and feareth it may be a cause to make the Prince of Anhault retire himself and his forces. He writeth also of the Pope's death. I understand also by the same letter his lordship hath been advertised of the great spoils committed by our people in their last march from Rouen, as also of the weakness of the companies in the march, and strength in the muster; which disorders his lordship doubteth not you will have care to redress as you shall find meet, and so hath willed me to signify unto you The number of our sick men which were transported are said to be within four of 800, but I think the number of them was made the more for the gain of the shipmaster.
Holograph. 1 p.
Henry Killigrew to the Earl of Essex.
1591, Oct. 31. One thing I had forgotten in my letter yesterday and that of great importance, whereof I am to advertise you from the Lord Treasurer, for thus he writeth, that the counties and shires in England find themselves aggrieved for the lack of armour and weapons that heretofore have been lost here in France, fearing the like will befal at the end of this service; in regard whereof her Majesty is not purposed to be at the charge to levy any more men. Your lordship is not ignorant that heretofore 700 sick men have been shipped away at sundry times, and at this last rising about 800 at once, and yesterday about 200 more, besides divers others (of whom we could take no note) stolen away from one place or another. All which men were furnished with armour at their coming hither. It were not amiss, therefore, under your lordship's correction, that some order were taken to know what is become of that armour, for I understand there is good store of armour left in this town by the captains. It may, therefore, please your lordship, if you think meet, to give them charge it may be forthcoming against any time of need, for I do think it will be required at their hands; and, if you think good, a search might be made here to see what armour they have left in store behind them. My Lord Treasurer wrote unto me farther that he hath used all means possible to send money by exchange to Sir John Norris, and cannot be served in England by any means, willing me to deal with Mons. Do, Haldayne or any of the king's council to help this mischief, for else her Majesty shall be forced to withdraw her forces thence, which I have now written to Mons. Haldayne by this bearer; beseeching your lordship, if you see any fit occasion, to urge them to satisfy the Queen herein; it is for the king's service and not so much hers, and, therefore, I hope they will do what they may. Mons. Do left; money for the shipping away of the 800 sick left here, and since there came very near 200 more which Mr Smith and I were fain to ship at our charge seeing there was no order left by Mons. Do; which we did of pity seeing divers die in the streets and in ships and upon the kay. The burying of them standeth the church here in 40 sous for every man, for the papists will not bury them.—Dieppe, 31 Oct. 1591.
Signed. Seal. 1 p.
“Poly” to M. Moody.
[1591, Oct.] “The particulars of that I wrote unto Moody under your Honour's mark.” That he enquire further of Bruer by the name of Roubottom. That your Honour has no knowledge of Barns, neither Her Majesty, for aught you conceive, has any understanding from him, either touching La Arabella, or any other matter; therefore that Moody should look after Barns, and signify what he finds of him. That he make good respect to the matter of Portsmouth, with the circumstances thereof, because himself did first propound it. That he signify directly upon what good grounds and by whom he is so assured that the King of Spain would so gladly enter and entertain peace with Her Majesty. That he learn and signify when and whence Dacres came last into those parts, and from what part first, how accompanied and with what correspondence here the Earl Westmoreland, Norton and Dacres intend to invade the North of England; so likewise in what sort and how accomplished Sir William Stanly intends for Ireland. That Her Majesty much blames his indirect advertising of matters [of] much importance, as he says, for that in divers parts of his letters he gives little light or taste of great enterprises or purposes in hand, without any declaration of the grounds or circumstances of the same, as in that of the great and secret causes why the Duke of Parma delays his journeys into France, which himself calls a great mystery, yet discovers not in any part; that he henceforth mend that fault and presently signify what the causes be of Parma's stay, etc. That he signify what service so acceptable he did to the Governor of Flushing and what money he received of him. That your Honour will in all convenient time perform all promises with him, that you expect him here towards the midst of November with some matter of special purpose, and in the mean time look to understand speedily from him for the better augmenting both of his credit and profit : also for the tapestry I have directed him sufficiently, as you shall understand by his next. In mine own letter I tell him of the inconvenience of his writing to so many, of the Lord Admiral's evil taking of his letter, of his lavish tongue and indiscreet dealing where he is, that he go not too often to Flushing, etc.
Endd. :—“Poly to Mody.”
1¼ p.
Memoranda in Moody's hand.
[1591 ? Oct. ?] John Ames, an Irishman of the Cavaleria, had these Irish letters to send to Capt. Usetyse at Antwerp. Hugh Cragg, factor for the Scottish nation, who was some time Col. Boyd's boy, he, Mr. Bruce and Col. Boyd, very great. Stodert, Col. Boyd's boy, who had the carriage of these and divers other letters to Douai, to deliver them to a priest that was to carry them to Scotland : his name is Mr. Mark Carr, who is presently to go thither. Sir Cosmo, secretary to the Dr. Father Holte, a Jesuit, and Wapole, Father Coniers at Douay, Father Braye at St. Omer, Mr. Owen, Mr. Gabrell Dennes.
Endorsed :—“From Moody's advice to Poly for those to speak with, and where.”
½ p.
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