Cecil Papers: May 1594 | British History Online

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

'Cecil Papers: May 1594', in Calendar of the Cecil Papers in Hatfield House: Volume 4, 1590-1594, (London, 1892) pp. 521-542. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-cecil-papers/vol4/pp521-542 [accessed 25 April 2024]

May 1594



	Mrs. Dorothy Tamworth to Lady Cecil.
1594, May 1.	Where it pleased your good ladyship to grant me your favour and promise for the having of the wardship of my son, albeit I have not hitherto gone through with your ladyship for the same, by reason of the great suits, troubles and charges, which my unkind brother in law by his delays and devices doth put me unto, yet these suits growing to some point of good end, I mean to attend you about the same, referring unto your wise consideration, in regard you are a mother of children, what discomfort it would be to a natural mother to depart from her own child, and to leave him to the custody and courtesy of strangers.—First of May, 1594.
1594, May 1.	Signed. ²/3 p.
	The Lord Mayor of London to [the Council ?].
1594, May 2.	I understand there is imputed to me a great neglect of duty, in not respecting Her Highness' commendations on the behalf of Mr. Moulton. Having received that message from Her Highness, albeit some scruple was made at first by our learned counsel that the office of secondary, being a personal charge, could not be served by way of deputation, yet myself and the Aldermen devised a means, as well for satisfaction of Her Majesty's pleasure as of ourselves in that doubt. Notwithstanding the same was impugned by the Sheriffs' giving him his oath, I admitted him to the execution of the office, denouncing unto them that the expulsion of Mr. Moulton and intrusion of another was merely void. Touching the whole cause of the Sheriffs' proceedings, in claiming unto themselves the right and disposition of that and other offices, pertaining unto this city, whereof their predecessors were never possessed, I ever heard it for a mere innovation without any just ground. Wherein they have dealt in more violent sort, and with greater disturbance of the quiet estate and peace of this city, than ever did any that carried that office, both of them, but especially Mr. Bannyng, denying unto me the ordinary attendance due to my place, to the great offence of the better sort, and evil example of the whole city, by open contempt not so much of myself, as of order and magistracy. I have opposed myself by all lawful ways' against their proceedings, wherein I hope you will vouchsafe me your lawful and honourable assistance.— London, 2 May, 1594.
	Signed :—Cuthbert Buckle, Mayor.
	1 p.
	The Lord Keeper and Lord Buckhurst to Sir Robert Cecil.
1594, May 2.	We had Mr. Shirley before us, and from Her Majesty expressly commanded that he should sign the enclosed, and further acknowledge, by submission in writing his great contempt in not doing the same at the first offer thereof, as he was then commanded. Wherein, albeit we did, in the most earnest and sharpest course that we might urge the performance of her commandment, he would by no means yield, and notwithstanding our often sharp reprehensions, and our strict urging him in duty thereunto, yet this was his final and resolute answer. For the first, that this matter concerned his reputation, more dear to him than his life, and that his life and all that he had was at Her Majesty's commandment, and that he had rather lose his life than lose his reputation, desiring rather to die than live with disgrace, which he accounted the yielding up of this would bring upon him. And for the second he thought it not any contempt to seek to preserve his reputation, and so in like manner, refused the same. For which his most contempouous dealings, we, after due and just reprehensions, returned him to the Fleet, with strait commandment to the Warden to continue his strait and close imprisonment, as formerly we had given in charge.—2 May, 1594.
	Signed :—Jo. Puckering. T. Buckehurst.
	Broken Seal. 1 p.
	The Earl of Shrewsbury to Sir Robert Cecil.
[1594, May 2.]	I am forced to go to London this morning before your hour of waking; there I will expect your answer by the man I have left to attend you. I hope it will be agreeable to Her Royal Majesty's most gracious favour to the poor afflicted creature at home, whom I am bound to afford all possible comfort, and answerable also to the necessity of the case, which is very grievous unto me. I take my leave, ready to take boat, this Thursday, very early.
	Holograph. Endorsed :—“2 May, 1594.”
	½ p.
	Thomas Wilbraham to Sir Robert Cecil.
1594, May 2.	My very loving friends and kinsmen, Mr. Hugh Beston, Her Majesty's Receiver of Cheshire and North Wales, and Mr. Ralph Wilbraham, Her Majesty's Feodary of Cheshire, did at the last term, for me and in my behalf, deal with you for the wardship of young Hurleston, being at that time by some adversaries drawn to higher rate in your hands than I expected, although I do acknowledge myself to have found your favour therein. In prosecuting the finding of which wardship, there was opposed to Her Majesty's title, the late Ferdinando, Earl of Derby his counsel, who did grow into great displeasure, not only with Mr. Serjeant Warburton and myself, but also with the Commissioners and jurors. Mr. Serjeant dealt so firmly in that business, that notwithstanding that there were three of my late lord's own servants of the jury and the residue such as did affect him very much, yet Mr. Serjeant found out so good matter, and his credit and countenance with the jury was such, and my poor friends in that county so regarded the goodness of my cause, that an office is found and a tenure in chief, which would have been taken in very evil part against Mr. Serjeant and us all by my Lord of Derby, if he had lived, as was manifested by the report of those that were very near to him. And now am I to pay to your honour the money for that wardship, according to the covenant between you and my friends, the half whereot I have now sent, and for the residue, in regard the child is very sickly, and that my trouble and expense have been extraordinary, I humbly crave favour at your hands to forbear 100l., parcel of the residue, for two years, and if in the meantime the ward shall die, so as I might take no benefit thereof, that then that 100l. may surcease.—Woodhey, 2 May, 1594.
1594, May 2.	Holograph. 1 p.
	Sir Nicholas Clifford to Sir Robert Cecil.
[1594, May 3.]	Is grievously sorry that Her Majesty is displeased with his answer to the former letters, written in her name, for resignation of the sign of the order of St. Michael, wherewith the French King voluntarily honoured him. Means not to dispute with her therein, but in all humility offers the same, at her gracious fate, to be disposed of as it shall best seem to her, for which cause he has sent it by the bearer, and humbly craves he will be a means unto Her Majesty for his enlargement, his case being so hard as, his friend's having refused him herein, he is forced only to rely upon her respect and remembrance of his poor and almost miserable condition in this imprisonment.—From the Tower.
	Signed. Endorsed :—“3 May, 1594.”
	1 p.
	John Colville to Henry Lok.
1594, May 3.	Yours of the 26th April I received the 1st hereof, by which I find no comfort but to leave us to our own fortune. As to James Forrett, I have not yet seen him. By my last, declaring the change of our diet and occasion thereof, you may see how we are “exerced” at all hands, for our necessity pressed us to hasten, and we were ready, and on the other part, your “S” and our church pressed us to the contrary, and had dissuaded Athol till it were seen whether the King meant truly or not in this protested ill-will against the papists. Which now is clear, for the King will not go at all till the Parliament be ended, by reason he thinks he cannot pursue them till a law be provided, and so after the Parliament, at which they shall be forfeited, not 'compering,' as he affirms, then he will invade there with all hostility. All these subterfuges more and more appear to be but delays, till he be strengthened with Spanish money, or men, or both, for I am credibly informed that the 28th of the last, a Flemish barque arrived at Montrose, having in her two Scots, two Spaniards, the mariners Flemings. The Scots and Spaniards went in haste to Aberdeen with a horse load of gold. The rest that remained in the barque are apprehended, and no merchandise found in her. By this, matters seem to grow ripe, and the ministry and town of Edinburgh apprehend some more fear. If this report be good, you have ere now heard by your Ambassador. The barque came from Treport, and some of there say that the 10th hereof there is some to come from Flanders, and to arrive at Cromarty in the north, but knowing if any such matter be, you are there better informed nor we, I cease.
	Home comes with some horse and footmen to lie at Home Castle. The King goes to Stirling “till” this Parliament, there to lie, but it is thought he minds to assail Athol. Glamis and Maitland are of new agreed in odium tertii. The Queen finds great fault with “lifting” of her dower, and, as I do hear, one has stolen sundry of her jewels. If our Ambassador can get any money, at least till you hear the certainty of things, we are undone. Last of all, since these noblemen have cast them selves at Her Majesty's feet, they humbly would know what to do for her service, and how they shall live till Her Majesty find time apt for them with her honour to enterprise. For we have received a note from your “S” that if we stir, so long as there is hope His Majesty will prosecute these Papists, that Her Highness will be offended with us. Hereof, I beseech you, let us have, faithful brother, some answer. For my own particular I can say nothing till I speak with James Forrett, unto which time I say [to] you, hold back that Wemyss speed not, and that Brute be esteemed as great a Spaniard as Brute the Jesuit.—3 May, 1594.
	P.S.—In these difficulties, because we can take no resolution till both we know Her Majesty's pleasure and the course the King will take, being for the present very ill prepared, because there is more nor 100 of our horse dead and more 200 men banished above these that were before, we mind, therefore, the 15th hereof to meet privately at Hexham, thinking ere that time, from you and from Scotland, to receive some more light. I beseech you, good brother, be not so “satcinct” in your letters, but as you would wish me to enlarge every material point, let me have the like. For that I much trouble Mr. Governor here by continued sending of my letters, and that his worship to this hour has had no warrant to see them conveyed, I beseech you request my honourable Mecenas to thank him for the favour shewed, and to wish him put my letters away, as he has done, with diligence.
	Endorsed by Cecil's Secretary :—“Mr. Colville to my master.”
	Addressed like the letter of April 28. 3 pp.
	The Earl of Essex to Sir Robert Cecil.
[1594, May 3.]	It becomes me not to censure the resolution of Her Majesty and her Council, but I am glad I was not so much as present at it. If it do succeed well, I am glad of it, but both now and hereafter I will be free from suing to go, or wishing for employment, till Her Majesty do command me, and think it best for her service. My absence is both forced by my own business, and warranted by Her Majesty's leave. Your offers of kindness and profession of affection is of me most willingly embraced, and shall be justly requited.—This Friday night late.
	Portion of Seal. Endorsed :—“3 May, 1594.”
	Holograph. 1 p.
	Sir Thomas Cecil to his brother, Sir Robert Cecil.
[1594,] May 3.	I rather thank you for the kind advertising of me of Her Majesty's coming upon Monday than I am glad that the office only of entertainment should be laid upon me, which have at sundry times found it heavy, but never in kindness relieved, but since it must be so I will not be sorry for it.—This 3 May.
	Holograph. Endorsed :—“1594.”
	½ p.
	Gilbert Wakering.
1594, May 3.	Petition of for the wardship of the heir of Francis Jennye, Suffolk.
	Endorsed :—3 May, 1594.
	½ p.
	Arthur Gregory to Sir Robert Cecil.
1594, May 4.	I have tried all parts of the letter to satisfy your Honour's desire, but could find nothing. I durst have assured your Honour without trial that there could be nothing, besides my knowledge of the Earl's manner of “spacious” writing. I humbly thank you for your motion unto the Lords on the behalf of my uncle Belpit, which if it be not yet signed, I doubt not but Mr. Waad will presently despatch, for that it standeth him upon to try his interest. Your perspective glass, with the box, is in hand, and shall be finished with expedition. The “Christalyne” is most fair and large, I could not find such another. —From my house in Whitechapel, the 4th of May, 1594.
1594, May 4.	Signed. Seal, 1 p.
	The Earl of Essex to Sir Robert Cecil.
[1594, May 5.]	I write this to desire you to solicit the Queen for Mr. Fra. Bacon, whom not only lawyers but men of all professions and degrees do think the only fit and worthy man to be solicitor. I have heretofore, while I thought my mediation was anything worth, pleaded unto Her Majesty not only for his worthiness' sake, but also for my comfort sake, to hearken unto this suit. But now all presumption and hope is dead in me, though duty and passionate zeal to her service can never die. To you therefore, as to a Councillor, I write this—that Her Majesty never had, in her reign, so able and proper an instrument to do her honourable and great services as she hath now, if she will use him. For if this maxim were only strengthened by mine own weak judgment, I should not be so confident, but I have heard the opinion of the learnedest gentlemen, the ablest lawyers, and the gravest judges in her realm. I heard him yesterday handle the great question of perpetuities, so far above all that ever I heard come out of a lawyer's mouth, as without private respect of love or friendship, I should grieve in my soul that Her Majesty should not have use of him. His adversary yesterday was one of the ablest lawyers in England, and a man far above any that I hear else named to be solicitor, but in all men's opinion, Mr. Bacon had such odds in the comparison, as the one did both persuade and prove all things he undertook, and the other did nothing but serve for an excellent foil. I know in Parliament, in arraignments, and in causes where the prince's prerogative must be stretched, what service is done to a monarch by a man of such excellent gifts, and how of the other side, a harsh and rude speaker doth mar a good cause, and that the ability or insufficiency of the instruments have made prince's causes gracious or odious. Therefore, Sir Robert, let us all who have in this world nothing so much recommended as the honour and greatness of the Queen, plead for him, for the world that knows both the Queen's manner to choose the worthiest, and knows none more worthy to be compared with him, will say that it is our faults, by whom Her Majesty should be truly informed.—Wanstead, this Sunday.
	Endorsed :—“5 May, 1594.”
	Holograph. 2 pp.
	Sir Nicholas Clifford to Sir Robert Cecil.
[1594, May 5.]	Finds by Mr. Edmonds that he is bound in a new obligation to him for his great and undeserved care of him in this his great distress. Is sorry that Her Majesty took any exception to his letter, and protests he did freely and willingly, without any condition, yield this unhappy order unto her. Hoping to taste of Her goodness, through his means, he takes his leave.
	Signed. Endorsed :—“5 May, 1594.”
	1 p.
	Sir Nicholas Clifford to Sir Robert Cecil.
1594, May 6.	Since my last letter, there hath this accident lately happened, that one in the next house to me is dead of the plague. I hereby beseech your Honour, for God's sake, as ever you will find me your servant, that you will procure Her Highness, if she will not dismiss me altogether out of this place, that she will be so gracious and merciful unto me as to free me until the sickness cease, and then not fail to return hither again, and rot here rather than to disobey her will.—From the Tower, this 6th of May, 1594.
1594, May 6.	Signed. 1 p.
	W. Cade to Sir Robert Cecil.
1594, May 7.	Solicits him, for further understanding of a suit he desires to have preferred unto Her Majesty, to give him leave, as also direction, for his attendance on him in the time of his best convenience, when he will deliver, not only such particularities as may induce him to embrace the suit, and yield unto him such gratification as may make testimony of his thankfulness, and he (Cecil) shall think answerable to the merit of his endeavours.—Hynksworth, 7 May, 1594.
1594, May 7.	Signed. Portion of Seal. 1 p.
	The Earl of Shrewsbury to Sir Robert Cecil.
[1594,] May 7.	If you will be so bountiful to me as to add to your greater favours a warrant for a brace of bucks, or one at the least, in any place near London, wherewith I may stop the mouths of some greedy creditors of mine, I will for requital assure you that I did never see a finer boy, except two which myself once had, than your eldest son is, who this morning I saw at Tibbalds, and delivered him your blessing, with my own as hearty well wishing to him, as that myself may have such another shortly, if it please Grod, to the end, if there were no more good thereby, that my two brothers may spend no more money vainly in the suit against the recoveries I have acknowledged in the Common Pleas. Scribbled in great haste, at Cheshunt, your house, this 7th May , ready to take horse homewards, whither I mean to take large journeys.
[1594,] May 7.	Holograph. Seal, ²/3 p.
	William Medeley to Sir Robert Cecil.
1594, May 8.	Sending a “poor present, as either his weak race affords, or the foggy climate gives life unto,” and shall best please himself if His Honour accept the same.—Wisbech Castle, 8 May, 1594.
1594, May 8.	Signed. ²/3 p.
	Dr. Richard Webster to Sir Robert Cecil.
1594, May 9.	I would have attended your Honour myself, but that I have not yet fully laid away my “Kercher,” by reason of a tertian, which I had of late. As I craved your Honour's favour not long ago in general, so now I am in particular humbly to request your kindness, in procuring Her Majesty's hand to this instrument annexed, for an advowson of a prebend in? Windsor. There be two out already; I sue for the third place that shall fall void. And as it is but a possibility only, so if it fell in time to me, I should reckon it a great help in my poor estate, and a most convenient mean for my health, who being pinned in here partly by builders about me, and partly by the place itself, am no little hazarded therein. I have no great store of friends to use in such a suit, yea, scarce any other since it hath pleased God to deprive us of my good lady and mistress, your most virtuous mother of happy memory, the staff of poor chaplains in her life time, whose want since that time I myself am privy of divers that prevail. As I cannot promise rewards after the custom of the world, so I unfeignedly promise my poor prayers for your Honour and yours. If it please you to procure Her Majesty's grant, Mr. Maynard will attend upon you for hastening the seals, lest any should prevent me, and will discharge all duties.—May 9th, this present Ascension Day, 1594.
1594, May 9.	Holograph. Seal. 1 p.
	Alice, Countess of Debby, to Sir Robert Cecil.
[1594,] May 9.	I must entreat the continuance of your kind favours towards me in a cause wherein I have written to the Lords and others of the Privy Council, and for that it will come to your view, I must desire you to effect what I have entreated their Honours unto, the matter being so just as you shall find it is, and I hope my lord your father's wonted favour will not be drawn from me by any means or persuasions, albeit I hear of a motion of marriage between the Earl, my brother, and my lady Very, your niece, but how true the news is I know not, only I wish her a better husband.—Lathom, this 9 May.
	Holograph. Endorsed :—“1594.”
	Seal, 1 p.
	John Colville to Henry Lok.
1594, May 10.	The 6th of this instant at Newcastle, I spoke with Mr. Forrett, where I found both my lord and the Lord Ochiltree, but privately. By him I have received more contentment nor I could consider of your letter of the 20 of the last, if we would all patiently abide Her Majesty's leisure, whereunto I find Ochiltree, like a solid and great person, resolved. My lord, I doubt not, will prove honest enough, but he is in such poverty for the present, that he is “distremped” out of all measure, yet ever willing to hazard life and all for Her Majesty's service.
	Because we have a meeting the loth hereof at Hexham, and I am somewhat diseased, I will be forced some weeks to remain hereabout, and that intelligence may pass, Mr. Dane now being absent, please you deal with my honorable Mecenas that a power may be sent to the Mayor of Newcastle, or to Mr. Anderson, for speedy despatch of my letters, for I will every day get intelligence to come hither from the 12th hereof. By my former and other advertisements from Scotland, I am assured ere now you may judge whether the King will keep certainly this “dyat” against the Papists or not, before the 20th of this instant, after which time the lords do pray you in all humility entreat Her Highness by means of my honorable foresaid, to whom they present their loving duties, that her gracious pleasure may be known if she will employ them to service, or else at least some consideration upon their necessities, which surely is great, till Her Highness see convenient time to employ them. After the 15th day foresaid, you shall know. our further resolutions; as also after the 12th, such news as I hear from Scotland. How our ambassadors are like to speed, let me know, and I pray you if any money be furnished that so much may be reserved as is due to me.—This 10 of May, 1594. Signed.
	P.S.—This delay that the King has gotten, being assured from your Ambassador that we shall not stir, has hurt us much; for now during this time he exerts his whole force on us. Of our friends, one he has executed, called Serjeant Hegie; great speech is made for others, the Lord save them and comfort us. There are sundry horses go by out of this country to Anthony Home and other common enemies; some remedy should be put hereunto.
	Holograph. Addressed :—“To Mr. Herrie Lok, Esquire, to be opened by the Right Honerable Sir Ro. Ceeyll, Knight.”
	2 pp.
	William Staly to the Queen.
1594, May 11.	For leases in reversion to certain tenants, for his services as yeoman of the woodyard. Endorsed :—April, 1594.
	Note by J. Herbert that the Queen grants the petition.—Court at Greenwich, May 11, 1594.
	1 p.
	George Goringe to Sir Robert Cecil.
1594, May 12.	My lady Scudamore acquainted Her Majesty that I would pay 10,000l. within a year, and 1,000l. a year afterward until the debt were paid, the which Her Majesty did not much mislike. I am greatly afraid I shall not be the seller of my own lands, unless my lord Treasurer be good unto me, by your means; so shall I be undone, and Her Majesty the longer a paying. But that is a course that hath seldom been taken with any, and myself will never consent unto it, for I will have my lands sold at some reasonable value, otherwise I will not consent to the sale.—12 May, 1594.
1594, May 12.	Holograph. Seal. ²/3 p.
	The Court of Wards.
[1594, May 12.]	1. Warrant to the Master of the Court of Wards, reciting that divers sums of money in the hands of the late Receiver, George Goring, cannot be recovered but by sale of his lands and goods, and directing that, for redress of such inconvenience thereafter, he make at the end of every Easter and Michaelmas Term, a perfect view of all money the Receiver have received, and, allowing him such as shall be due to be paid by him by authority of his office, to cause him to deliver the rest into the Exchequer.
	2. Warrant to the Receiver of the Court of Wards to the same effect.
	Drafts in the handwriting of Burghley.
	Endorsed, in a later hand :—“12 May, 1594.”
	2 pp.
	Sir Henry Lee to Sir Robert Cecil.
1594, May 13.	I was once of New College, in Oxford, though not of late years, and since have been beholden to a gentleman of that house, my friend, a divine, a proper and a very honest man, called Mr. Swaddon. It is thought, upon the death lately of some Bishops, there will be some alterations, and amongst the rest the Warden of Winchester may haply be removed, as he is worthy. If it so fall out, my humble suit to you is, that this gentleman, of that foundation, and now a chief officer in that college, by your favour might be preferred to the wardenship There; and Her Majesty's letters procured with your own, for the better accomplishing thereof.
	What answer is returned to my lords from from Mr. Layton Inge, of North Wales, I would gladly know, the rather for that their first letters were never answered, and these I fear will come to as little purpose, if you be not the cause of the contrary.—From Gravyngeton, 13 May, 1594.
	Holograph. Seal. 1 p.
	William Hickman to Sir Robert Cecil.
1594, May 13.	Having been desirous of obtaining the office of Receiver of the Court of Wards, which was made known to him by William Killegrew. he was advertised that Her Majesty meant to prefer Sir Henry Killegrew, which caused him, in good regard of so worthy a servant of Her Majesty, to stay to deal therein. Now, hearing that Sir Henry Killegrew has given over his suit, he eftsoones entreats his favour therein and his father's good liking and allowance thereof.— Ealing, 13 May. 1594.
1594, May 13.	Signed. Seal. 1 p.
	Lord Cobham to Lord Burghley.
1594, May 13.	Enclosing letters from the Lieutenant of Dover Castle, praying him to let him understand Her Majesty's pleasure whether the party shall remain there in custody, or suffered to come forward, with some one that shall be commanded to bring him, or otherwise permitted to come of himself.—Cobham Hall, 13 May, 1594.
	Signed.
	P.S. (Holograph.) Prays speedy answer. They say at Calais that La Chapelle is taken by the Count Charles and 300 put to the sword.
	Superscribed :—“Cobham, the 13th of May, half an hour past seven in the morning. Dartford, past nine in the forenoon.”
	Seal. ½ p.
	Encloses :—
	1594, May 12.— The Lieutenant of Dover to Lord Cobham. This afternoon about 2 o'clock landed a passenger from Calais, naming himself John Mendoza, a Spaniard, a young man of short and broad shape, somewhat fleshy, and of complexion swart, sanguine, having very little hair on his face, with black hair on his head, being short polled, aged about 21 years. He hath one only letter without any superscription, but saith the same is to be delivered unto Her Majesty from the Marquis Mendoza, who is prisoner in Chinchilla.
	I have thought it my duty to advertise you of the premises, but also to make stay of him until your pleasure may be notified unto me, and thus purposing to have him well and nearly to be searched this evening, and in the night when he shall least mistrust, I humbly take leave.—Dover, from Westers house, where this young man is, and shall be, safely and securely kept. This 12 of May, 1594.
	Signed :— Thomas Fane.
	P. S. He hath been three months in coming from Spain to Brussels, from whence he came five days past.
	Superscribed :—“Dover, at three in the afternoon, 12 May. At Canterbury, past eight of the clock at night. Sittingbourne, past ten 'aclok' in the night.”
	Armorial Seal. Holograph. 1 p.
	Henry Lok to Sir Robert Cecil.
1594, May 14.	Finding that the Ambassador would urge new audience, by reason of a messenger's arrival yesterday with letters from the King, who is very curious to acquit himself of any practice with foreign princes, to accuse some of forgery for accusations given out against him in that port, to qualify the import of them, if they were his, not to be so heinous, and to expostulate some present relief by money, if not, to be as ready to give up and justify his action, as Her Majesty shall be to neglect him, I thought it my duty to signify the same to your Honour, beseeching you to lay before Her Majesty's wise judgment the danger of stirring him at this time, not retaining any others in that realm in comfort, by Her gracious favour showed therein. I heard to day, out of Scotland, assured the landing of three persons at Cromartie, going only one of them northward, the other two southward or west; their ladings alike in a budget of some four Scottish stone weight, of 16 pounds the stone, amounting to 64 lbs. the piece, and by their bulk seeming “qwine.”
	I understand also that Ochiltree is dealing to take up a peace for himself, Bothwell assuring it, which should be by compounding with Huntley. If either be true, there is danger and treachery. Wherefore your Honour may deserve well of Her Highness to move either a trial of the King with some small present relief, which he seemeth to make marvellous necessary for his present preparation, or to provide for his and their worst purpose. As for Both well's and their peace making so soon or so dishonourably, I would not believe, though jealousy of Her Majesty's security and experience of the universal looseness and inconstancy of that nation do persuade much, and therefore I leave it to your wisdom to consider of, myself much musing at and mistrusting the silence of Mr. J. Col. [Colville ?] and Bothwell since Forret's departure.
	And whereas I find that the King hath certain knowledge of some writings, given forth for his and under his hand, which he would seem to repute forged, and to urge the author of to be given up by Her Majesty, if it be held convenient to yield him, on new motion therefor, any account of the ground thereof, which I hear, if he have audience, he will be earnest for, it may be sufficient for salving the credit of the dead, and yet to strike his conscience with guilt, that such papers may seem to have been cast up in a coffer on the shore in Holland after their shipwreck, and there so to be in possession of some of those parts, and whereof in Scotland are sundry copies; or that it be said, since his death in some trunk of his left here, it hath been found; which will take away all excuse from him, or stop, no doubt, his mouth with show of a just ground for Her Majesty to be slow in trusting.— London, this 14 May, 1594.
	Holograph. Seal. 2 pp.
	Lord Burgh to Sir Robert Cecil.
[1594,] May 14.	I beseech you direct a letter to one Carr to desist all terms of contention about a house, in the seeking whereof he is one day before my friend. I would not his loss, but he having yet brought nothing thither, may provide himself elsewhere, and quit his challenge gained by the opportunity of a day.—In haste, May 14.
	Endorsed :—“1594.”
	Holograph. Seal. 1 p.
	Walter Hickman to Sir Robert Cecil.
1594, May 15.	Before Mr. Fleetwood did ever make suit, his brother was a suitor. As he understands Mr. Fleetwood is not of Lord Burghley's choice, but of Her Majesty's nominating, then, as it hath pleased his lordship to signify Mr. Fleetwood to be sufficient, so if it might please him to allow of his brother's sufficiency, leaving it to Her Majesty's disposition, and [it] falling out that his brother be preferred thereunto, “you shall have 1,000l. and my lady Dixie, my brother's wife, will with many thanks send unto my good lady your wife 100l. to buy her four coach horses.”—15th May, 1594.
1594, May 15.	Holograph. 1 p.
	Earl of Huntingdon to Sir Robert Cecil.
1594, May 15.	Would be glad if, before the term, the Commission might be made ready, for soon after the beginning thereof he would return towards York.—At the Savoy, 15 May, 94.
1594, May 15.	Holograph. ²/3 p.
	B. Combes to Sir Robert Cecil.
1594, May 15.	Desiring him to obtain for him a secret audience from Her Majesty, with regard to certain matters that nearly touch her and her realm, “comme votre seignorie meme.”—London, 15 May, 1594.
	Holograph. French. Seal. 1 p.
	P.S. [Separate paper] Her Majesty and his father know he never lied in matters of importance, and that he neither spares his life, nor expense of the money God has given him, to serve Her Hajesty. M. “Semet” [or Seinet] knows that the last time he delivered him a despatch for Lord Burghley he paid his own passage to Dover, and when he arrived in London there remained to him but two deniers. God have mercy on him !
	French. 1 p.
	Walter Hickman to Sir Robert Cecil.
1594, May 16.	Although his suing in the behalf of his brother was not to his honourable liking, by the utter denial of his favour or liking thereof, for that in this suit Her Majesty had meaning to consider Lady Edmunds, he has thought good once more to be a suitor for his favour, with assured promise that Lady Edmunds shall have 1,000l. if by her help it be obtained, and unto himself all duty and service which shall lie in his brother's power to perform.—16 May, 1594.
1594, May 16.	Holograph. Seal. 1 p.
	Ro. Manners to Sir Robert Cecil.
1594, May 16.	This bearer, Thomas Aylard, a tenant of Enfield, bailiff of the Hundred of Edmonton and the Duchy there, and one that breweth me good beer, is very desirous to wear your Honour's cloth; let me entreat [you] to grant it to him, who will no farther be chargeable.—From the Savoy, 16 May, 1594.
1594, May 16.	Signed. Seal. ½ p.
	John Symons to Lord [Burghley].
1594, May 16.	For the wardship of the son and heir of John Mylburne of Dunmow, Essex.—16 May, 1594.
1594, May 16.	Note :—“Granted.” ½ p.
	The Bailiffs of Yarmouth to Sir Robert Cecil.
1594, May 17.	Having examined one named Michael Burneleye landing here from Newhaven, we find by his answer that he is servant, as he saith, to one Mr. Jeffrye, an English merchant resident at Calais. Having searched, we found a certain book in the French tongue of some papistical orisons, and about 30l. in gold sealed up, and finding by his tale that his intent was to land at Dover, and from thence to have taken shipping to Calais, which he could not do by reason of the foul weather, but was forced to come thus far to the northward, and he being inquisitive here for shipping to Calais, made the matter more suspicious unto us. Wherefore we have thought it good to send him up by this bearer, and the rather because he is somewhat like the person whose description you delivered unto Mr. Dumet, one of our brethren, at the Court. We have sent by this bearer the book and gold to be delivered unto you, praying that our messenger may be allowed for his charges.—Yarmouth, 17 May, 1594.
	Signed :—Roger Drury, Thomas Mortimer, Bailiffs.
	1 p.
	Sir Thomas Cecil to his brother, Sir Robert Cecil.
[1954, May 17.]	I more thank you for the kind care you seem to take of the cause that toucheth me than for the cause itself, and I do more desire to know their malice than I do esteem the effect. Truth it is, I heard of such a kind of conceit of that gentleman, but thrust one by myself to make him the hotter. But I so much trust in the good meaning of that gentleman, as if my lord, my father, shall please to help his fortune in the instalment of the debt, I think no practices shall alter him. The project that was made unto him, he seeth now is false, for that Allyngton, whom he feared, hath chosen the younger, neither did I ever mean he should have the elder, and so he was told when he first came to be a suitor.—From Wimbledon, this Friday morning. Signed.
	P.S.—Your news you write me I fear is true, though not certain in the time. I see no cause that I should pay yearly such a rent charge for a fair word.
	Holograph. Seal. Endorsed :—“17 May, 1594.”
	1 p.
	The Master of the Rolls to Sir Robert Cecil.
1594, May 18.	I presume to present unto you an old Chancery man, the Register of Writs, in a new livery.—At the Rolls, 18 May, 1594.
	Signed :—Tho : Egerton.
	Holograph. Seal. ½ p.
	Examinations of Richard White and others.
1594, May 18.	1. The examination of Richard White of Runwell in Essex, gent.
	The said examinate saith he married the daughter of Mr. Plowden, and hath two sons, one called Richard, and the other Thomas. Richard is four years old, Thomas is but a year old. He hath three brethren, Edward, George and Richard; Edward is with his mother at Hutton in Essex, George is with this examinate, Richard is with the Lord Berkeley. He hath one sister called Susan; Mr. Knighton, a gentleman in Hertfordshire, hath married her eight or nine years past.
	He knoweth Mr. Thomas Wiseman, but hath not seen him these two years; he hath been acquainted with him ten years, and hath heard he is beyond the sea, but knoweth not of any land which he had, saving the manor of Muckin, reported to be of the yearly value of 40l., and, as he has heard, conveyed the same to his brother William, lately before his going over. He hath also heard he had other lands, but where they were, he knoweth not.
	He saith he bought a piece of land called “Herberts” of the said William Wiseman, lying near Rayley, for which he agreed to pay 1,500l., two years past or thereabouts, of which there is due 500l., and for 400l. thereof this examinate hath assured him out of the said farm an annuity of 30l. by the year, as long as the 400l. is unpaid, at the election of this examinate.
	He did write to Mr. Wiseman since his imprisonment a note, and sent it by John Frank to know from his master where and when he should pay 100l., for the day was upon forfeiture, and he willed him to keep it in his hands awhile. He saith he hath been at church about ten years since, and being demanded where his children were baptised, he desireth to be holden excused, but his wife was brought to bed in London, but in what place he will not declare.
	He hath three serving men; one called George Browne, he hath been with him twelve months, the other Edward Finehe and Humphry Morler. He hath three maids, Jane, Katherine and Elizabeth, but whether any of his servants go to church or no, he knoweth not. Being required to have conference with them that be learned, he saith ha is fully resolved and desireth no conference.
	2. Die et anno predictis.
	George White, born at Hutton in Essex, of the age of 30 years or thereabouts. He wrote with Mr. Rust in the Chancery, in his office there, about three years past. Being demanded when he was at church to hear divine service, he refuseth to answer, and, willed to declare whether he will go to church willingly now, refuseth to do and craveth pardon.
	3. Eodem die.
	Hugh Sheldon, servant to Mr. William Standen, son to Mr. Standen of the Petty Bag, hath dwelt with his said master three years, and saith upon his oath he never was beyond the sea, and being demanded whether he will go to the Church, desireth to be holden excused, and being offered the oath of allegiance, he refuseth to take it.
	Signed :—Rye. Young, 1½ pp.
	Sir Chakles Blount to Sir Robert Cecil.
1594, May 18.	Requesting him to remember her Majesty for his patent for Porchester, for there has not of long time any court of her royalties been kept there, which the inhabitants much desire, and is otherwise very necessary, but cannot well be done but by him that Her Majesty under the great seal hath authorised to have the custody of the place.—Portsmouth, 18 May, 1594.
1594, May 18.	Holograph. Seal. 1 p.
	Sir John Danvers to Sir Robert Cecil.
1594, May 19.	At his wish, he has resolved to proceed no further touching the Receivership of the Court of Wards, yet he is in some danger of a great discredit if Tasborough, of whom he has received so many injuries, should be preferred to this office, and so far doth this case touch him that he cannot but request his honourable care thereof.— “From my lodging in London,” 19 May, 1594.
1594, May 19.	Signed. Seal broken. ½ p.
	Sir Thomas Baskerville.
1594, May 19.	Memorandum, signed by Sir Thomas Sherley, of the sum paid to Sir Thomas Baskerville by privy seal of 19 May, 1594.— 1,301l. 2s. 3½d.
1594, May 19.	¼ p.
	Thomas Windebank to Sir Robert Cecil.
1594, May 20.	The continuance of his burning fever for fourteen days, and yet so little decayed, has brought him into extreme weakness. These often plunges in his health do pluck down his small means of maintenance, and except Her Majesty bestow some meet thing upon him, without his asking, he shall leave the world. If it shall please “my lord and your honour” to give their helping hand, he may judge how he and his shall remain bound unto them.—20 May, 1594.
1594, May 20.	Signed. Seal. 1 p.
	Matthew Greensmith to Sir Robert Cecil.
1594, May 22.	Whereas your pleasure was that I should provide for you a suite of white horses for your coach, so it is that I have with some diligence gotten three, and the fourth I hope within eight days to be provided of, and all to your liking, which I purpose to send by shipping by the first convenient passage.
	It may please you to understand that the States' army came before Groningen the 11th of this month, and the 13th came Sir Francis Yere to them, and lie the horsemen at Home and Helpen, and so on the highest way to Groningen. They have entrenched themselves before the here port and “oster” port, and so lie on all the north side, even to the “closter” of Sell worth. The great ordnance is come up the Ryed Deepe as far as Winsam, and is said they have gotten “Awretter Seyll,” and then they have no let, but may come sure to Groningen. As yet there is no ordnance placed before the town, only three field pieces. Into the town is taken in 600 soldiers, and under the town lies as many more. But Vadewge and Grave Harman is with his companies, some on the other side the River and some in West Falye (Westphalia?). They have threatened to fall into Rydesland, but my lord of East Friesland preventeth it what he may. There is no fear but that the town will give over in short time, for the “unite” is not great, and the most have longed to have it besieged. It is not known as yet what is agreed at the Reixes daye at Regensporge, only the whole States are gathered with great pomp together. In Sweden of late, there had like to have been a great mutiny. The young king after his coming out of Poland and burial of his father, and he being crowned, would have altered religion to the Jesuits' sect, which the principal withstanding, was counselled by many that came out of Poland with him, that he should work some policy against Duke Charles and others to obtain his will, which the Duke hearing, and the country people, they suddenly rose, above 18,000, and came to the king, and would not depart before they had certain delivered to them, which they executed; and, secondly, he must swear that he would let them remain by their religion, and that he would come and visit the country every three years, with other points, which if he brake one of they would also break all theirs, and thereupon they took oath each to others. If Duke Charles had not been, they had either driven him out the country, or taken him prisoner.—Emden, 22 May, 1594.
	Holograph. Seal. 1 p.
	Sir Robert Cecil to Antonio Perez.
1594, May 23.	Letters have been taken from a Spaniard, without superscription. It is apparent from reading them that they are destined for the Queen. The messenger asserts himself to be the son of the writer, a Marquis. These perilous times, and the very journey of the man, cause him to be suspected. Begs him to certify him as to the man's condition. He says his father is kept in chains in Chinchilla, a town between the kingdoms of Murcia and Valentia.
	Latin. Endorsed :—“Copy of my master's letter to Antonio Perez.”
	¼ p.
	[Sir Robert Cecil to — Bacon.]
1594, May 23.	Sir, I am sorry to have no better a subject to write of unto you, than of a matter wherein it might appear that either I am wronged or yourself, wherein only from yourself I must desire to be satisfied, being determined to suspend my judgment until I hear from you. I am credibly informed that by some occasion of speech in matters of controversy between Sir Robert Southwell and yourself, you have affirmed that you are sure of me in any matter against him whatsoever. Wherein, though I do think it strange why you should use any such speech of assurance, when the person assured was of no greater power than myself, yet can I not forbear but to take knowledge of the same to you, and withal to satisfy you, if you have learned otherwise, what my conceit is of that gentleman, between whom and you I wish there were more friendship. In short, he is a gentleman with whom in my youngest years I was bred, and between whom and me since hath continued so many reciprocal bonds of love and friendship, as I know him not in Norfolk or Suffolk, whom in any indifferent cause I could esteem in equal degree with him, to whom I must profess and do, that I will in all I may, amongst his other good friends, stand by him to my small power, if his occasions to use me may bear it, which I presume they ever shall.
	I pray you therefore, Sir, if you can find that any towards you have given out any such report, for I presume you are too wise to do it, let him know how I judge myself it, for besides himself whom I know to be a gentleman of valour, wise, honest and my dear friend, I will not leave it any way in suspense to the world, but that I will to him perform all offices of a constant, near and honest friend. 1 wall use no advice to you, whom I know more able to counsel yourself, but surely I am of opinion that if you take that course which is reported, by seeking any way his discredit, you shall do yourself double injury, both to pull upon you the just might of the house he is matched in, being as you know in a place of great honour, and to stir one that is too wise to give any the least advantage to any man over him, much less of those whom he holds his enemy, and thus being doubtful there may be some inferior instruments that make their profit of your divisions according to the factious numour of many in other countries, I commit you to God's protection.
	Corrected draft in Cecil's handwriting.
	Endorsed :—“23 May, 1594. Copie of my mrs. lre to Mr. Bakon.”
	2 pp.
	[Robert Bruce] to —.
1594, May 25.	This present is to pray you to address with diligence the enclosed to the merchant with whom you made me to speak, and to direct me his answer when you shall receive the same, by the means of the schoolmaster who giveth you the enclosed.—From Brussels, the 25 of May, 1594.
	Unsigned. Seal. Scrap of paper.
	Encloses :—
	(In cipher.) I have travailed of late to discredit the Jesuits in all parts where they have procured to do us harm heretofore : And now I have found out two means most solid to do the same by, both which you shall understand hereafter. Since the first of this, there departed from Nieuport towards Scotland, a Scottishman called John Greyson, accompanied with an Englishman and a Spanish gentleman, sent there by the King of Spain : they purposed to land in the north parts. Forrett and Frisoll are not yet departed, so far as I know; Father James Gardon is arrived at Rome the 23rd of April; what he hath done there since, we have not had time to know yet. To serve the Queen, I hazard both life, means and honesty, without obligation; if it please her to oblige me as I desired, Her Majesty shall perceive by the great effect following immediately that all hath been well bestowed. She may with less danger satisfy my desire nor I Her Majesty, and it becometh her better for her “reng,” seeing the best part to be bestowed upon her own service.—Brussels, 25 May, your servant, Robert Bruce.
	Seal. Scrap of paper.
	Decipher of the above. 1 p.
	Sir Charles Blount to Sir Robert Cecil.
1594; May 25.	The prizes yet arrived are questionably of no such importance as those which are expected. I doubt not but to bring the uttermost to Her Majesty's knowledge. Sundry pearls, as was pretended to be all, I have unsealed out of a bag containing between six and seven pounds weight, before the whole company. I heard what they said, even mutinously disposed, by which I gathered the greatest matters to be expected in a ship being looked for, commanded by one Lanoron. I have set some fit for the purpose to sound the secrets of all their conveyances, and I will with very great care proceed according to Her Majesty's direction.—25 May, 1594, Portsmouth.
1594; May 25.	Holograph. 1 p.
	The Earl of Cumberland to the Lord High Admiral and Sir Robert Cecil.
1594, May 26.	I have received your Honours' letters and perceive Her Majesty hath given direction that all such ships [as] are any way brought in for me, shall be, by such as she hath appointed, duly looked into, to the end that all things contained in the same ships and prizes may be truly certified. There hath many more than I can now write, richer come into England, not one of them wherein I was not interested thus searched, but sith it is my hap only to be made an example of these unusual courses, I will content myself with knowing I have better deserved assurance. In time, Her Majesty will blame them that to this advised her, and resolution to bear with patience all burdens shall be by Her Highness laid upon me. Those who adventure with me. I know by proof do trust me, your lordship for your tenths I doubt not will, and if Her Majesty do not for so little a part as her custom, 1 have lived to an unhappy hour and hazarded my estate and life very vainly. Your lordship writeth this is done for my good : I could answer, but that I will forbear till I see her to whom when I have uttered what I am bound in duty, 1 will wish myself with Him that only knows what will be the end of these courses.—26 May, 1594.
1594, May 26.	Holograph. 1 p.
	Alderman Richard Martin to Sir Robert Cecil.
1594, May 27.	By examination I found that Abel Fern am, stranger, was drawn by Webb and his man to counterfeit Her Majesty's coin, for the which he is very penitent, and at the first simply confessed the truth, and that it was for want of maintenance in the time of the last great infection, being then newly married and not having work to keep himself and his family, being a very good workman, young, and able to do Her Majesty good service in graving under Mr. Hillyard, who set him in work. Thus much, at the request of his poor wife and friends, I thought good to certify your Honour.—London, 27 May, 1594.
1594, May 27.	Signed. ½ p.
	Lord Burghley to Sir Robert Cecil.
1594, May 27.	I pray you as you see opportunity offer to Her Majesty these bills, a warrant for Grilly of Flushing for the staple of corn, and a warrant for 100l. by Yeo in discharge of the debt due to Avery Randall. There is also a pardon for an Irishman, falsely condemned for treason. My lord admiral did move Her Majesty, who was well contented therewith. If Her Majesty will that Fletewood shall have the office, there is a bill to the office and warrants for me to demand and for him to pay to the Receipt all remains. If Her Majesty shall not allow this, then I wish that any other had the office, for I know not how to answer such as offer money nor such as demand money for exhibitions, whereof there are very many poor. I left two letters in parchment gilded, for the Emperor of Muscovia, and for the Lord “Borriss,” with a placard for an agent of the company to return by land. I pray you procure these as you may, for I am not able well to tarry any longer.
	Endorsed :—“27 May, 1594.”
	Holograph. 1 p.
	M. Chasteaumartin to Lord Burghley .
1594, May 27./June 6.	The illness of the King of Spain continues; he has been carried to the Escurial for the advice of physicians. Believes this is rather to keep his death secret, than from any hope to recover his health; is well assured that he shall be advertised of everything that happens. All the galleys are daily expected at Barcelona and Cartagena, the Spanish to go to Lisbon, and those of Genoa, Sicily and the Pope they will load with the men now being levied in Spain to fill the garrisons of Italy, and the old soldiers who are in the garrisons will go to Flanders, with the other forces raised in the Duchy of Milan and the Kingdom of Naples, to join the Archduke Ernest, to make a great and powerful army to be entertained in Flanders and destined for the affairs of France. The levy of men continues throughout Spain. They desire peace as much as they fear war.—Bayonne, 6 June, 1594.
1594, May 27./June 6.	Signed. Seal. French. 1 p.
	Andrew White to Sir Robert Cecil.
1594, May 29.	I have all this while forborne to be a suitor to your Honour, for crossing this extraordinary manner of proceeding that Ittchingham hath procured, by way of commission under the broad seal of this realm to the Lord Chancellor and the rest of the judges here, for trial of his pretended title to the Abbey of Dunbrodye, thinking still that he would fall to some reasonable composition with me, as he preferred himself at my last coming out of England, but the favours of the time have made him now so insolent, as he will not hearken to any such things. And though the Commissioners have forborne all this while to proceed in their commission, by reason my learned counsel have often excepted to that course as mere contrary to the laws of the realm, yet they mean now to go on to the trial of it, and I do fear they will award the possession against me on my refusal to answer unless there be some stay procured from thence. So that I make my recourse to you, beseeching you that since my backwardness proceeds not of contempt or “arrogantie,” but to keep to my cause the advantage of recoveries and other matters of record which the law doth give it and equity perchance will not allow of, it would please you to procure the effect of the enclosed petition, with the speed the weight of the cause requires.—Lexlip, 29 May, 1594.
1594, May 29.	Holograph. 1 p.
	Crown Lands.
1594, May 29.	Warrant to Lord Burghley to give order for a just particular to be had of parcels of land, possessions of the late dissolved monastery of Boxley, in Kent, not exceeding the yearly value of 25l., which John Astley, Master of the Jewels and Plate, has petitioned he might purchase, and to appoint such rate as he thinks reasonable to be paid for a grant thereof to the said John Astley in fee simple.—Greenwich, 29 May, 36 Eliz.
1594, May 29.	Sign Manual. Privy Signet.
	Gio. Ber. Caresana to the Queen.
1594, May 29./June 8.	Warns her of danger to her person and kingdom from Spain, and cautions her not to give audience to strangers. She need not wonder at the attempts against her, because Spain is embarrassed in her trade to the Indies. Refers to the difficulties in connexion with his journey from the coast of Spain to Bayonne when, praise be to God! he met “Filippo Oleman.” Offers his services, and to give information, etc.—June 8, 1594.
1594, May 29./June 8.	Italian. Holograph. 2 pp.
	Murder at Cologne.
1594, before May 30.	A broker of Cologne, Andre Alfante Lukyser, dwelling in times past at London, being in the last Frankfort mart, di3, at the request of one Josephus Vanden Bus, take up a parcel of money for the use of the said Josephus, about the 3 of April. But afterwards the said broker, perceiving that the same was taken up to some evil intent towards Her Majesty of England, did utter some words accordingly, which words were reported back again unto the said Josephus, and at their return at home at Cologne the said Josephus entered the house of the said broker, and killed him presently. The murderer fled over the Rhine into “Duts,” where he was protected by the privilege of the Jesuits, and afterwards conveyed away into Hamburg, entering in service with an Italian merchant named Mark Antony Franchiotti, which is a partner with Moricone, an Italian dwelling in London, and they took shipping at Hamburg or Stode the 29 or 30 of April last past for England. The person of the said Josephus Vanden Bus is little, and thin of beard, with reddish cheeks.
	1 p.
	Portion of the above story. (Slip of Paper.) German.
	William Waad to the Lord Admiral and Sir Robert Cecil
1594, May 30.	After much inquiry we did understand that there came about a three weeks past hither the Italian called Mark Antonio Franciotty, but not with the Stoade fleet, as was informed, but from Cologne by way of Antwerp, and he came alone, only with the post, and hath been seen daily in the Exchange with a brother of his called Horatio Franciotty, that hath dwelt here many years, and is very well thought of generally of all merchants. It was late ere we had perfect intelligence hereof, and yet we thought good to neglect no time, but repaired to the house of Horatio Franciotty, in Mark Lane, where we found them at supper with very good company. And calling them aside, we sent Mark Autonio to the house of Alderman Fisher, not far from me, and presently searched the house, wherein we found Horatio Franciotty as ready to shew every room, study and place unto us as we could desire. But in respect it grew late, we sealed up his chamber, where all his writings were. The man is of Lucca, and protesteth as much of his innocency as may be. For that night we left him in a chamber in his own house, in charge of two of our servants, for it was 11 of the clock, arid we had very much ado to get the other received.
	Mark Antonio utterly doth deny to know any such person as Jacobus Vander Busse, but he doth confess that an Italian, sometime his servant, did kill an Italian of Lucca in Cologne upon a private quarrel, called Andreas Alfante, but that Alfante never was in England, and he hath an uncle of Lucca, called Morycone, that never in his life was in this realm. We find also that there is a Fleming here, called Joyce Vander Bus, that hath been in London of long time, but of no acquaintance with these Italians. In the study of Horatio Franciotty we found a letter, dated about three months ago, from Mark Antonio, whereby it doth appear that Mark Antonio purposed, long since, to come over hither to see his brother, before the accident of this murder. This Horatio Franciotty is the tall personable Italian that Her Majesty took to be Megliorini, and I think he is not unknown to your lordship, my Lord Admiral, having of long time been the chief doer of all Nicholas de Gorie's business. It may please you to acquaint Her Majesty herewithal, that we may know her further pleasure, for it doth appear nothing in the advertisement is certain but the murder of an Italian at Cologne.—From my house in Wood Street, 30 May, 1594.
	Signed. 1½ pp.
	M. Chasteaumartin to Lord Burghley.
1594, May 31/June 10.	Had written by 6 English ships which left eight days ago, but they were taken by Cibiur. Fearing some mishap he told the masters of the English ships to throw his despatches into the sea if they met with any rencontre. Would be sorry for his despatches to fall into the hands of the King of Spain for there was a letter from the Captain he mentioned previously, giving advice of the arrival at Madrid of a Scotchman visiting the King on behalf of the King of Scotland, to inform him of the birth of his son and to conclude a firm friendship between the two princes. The Fleming Ronius has been sent by the King of Spain to the Low Countries to treat for peace with the Estates of Holland and Zeeland, and is to meet Chasteau Martin in eight days on the frontier to tell him of important matters for the Queen's service. Will try and induce him to pass by way of England that her Majesty may herself ascertain from him what is happening. The King of Spain is trying to levy men throughout the kingdom without much success yet, but he has armed the six galleons and all the ships on the coast of Biscay, not for any enterprise but only for his own preservation. He has ordered all his forces to Lisbon for fear her Majesty may make an attempt there, and has ordered there a great number of muskets and other arms to keep the country supplied. He wished to send the Cardinal there to hold in awe those who desired a revolution, but the prince has purchased the voyage and hopes to start soon if no change takes place. The 6 great galleons will serve for convoy of the Indian fleet, with 12 other ships which are at Lisbon. The rest of the naval forces will serve partly to attend to the affairs of Brittany and partly to guard the coast. Twenty ships will leave the coast of Biscay in two months to carry men and munitions of war to Brittany. They make great rejoicing in Spain over the English ships they have taken, and spread the report that they are the Queen's ships, which is a great sorrow to those who know the truth.—From Bayonne, 10 June, 1594.
1594, May 31/June 10.	French. 2 pp.
	The Queen to the King of Scotland.
[1594, May.]	Though by the effects I seldom see, my good brother, that ever my advices be followed, yet that you have vouchsafed to give them reading I well understand, as having made some of them the theme of your last, though (God knows) applied far away from their true sense or right. For if I sin in abuse I claim you the author of my deceit, in having believed more good than sequele hath told me, for I have great wrong if you suppose any persuasions from whomsoever can make me have any evil opinion of your actions if the actions be not the cause. I admit that divers be the affections of many men, some to one part, some to another, but my rule of trust shall never fail me when it is grounded, not on the slippery sands of each man's humour, but on the steady rock of undenied fact. I should condemn my wicked disposition to found my friendship promised upon so “tickit” ground as that the rage of other's hate might break the bands of my love, and upon others' judgements to build my confidence.
	For Bothwell's unruly entry to my border's, I am so far from guilt of such a fault as I protest that if in seventeen weeks I had received your answer to my letter that contained his offer to utter to you all the treasons that the northern lords had with foreigners, I could soon have banished him therefrom. And next, he came with your own hand to warrant your favour towards him, which made the borderers readier to receive him, but after I had not left unpunished some of his “receattars,” I could not have believed they durst adventure the pain due for such desert and mind to make them afraid to commit such crime again. If order now given to all the wardens do not suffice, I vow their bodies and purses shall well pay therefor.
	I will not trouble you with recital of what this gentleman hath heard in all the other points, but this toucheth me so near as I must answer, that my deserts to you have been so sincere as that never need a threat of hell to her that hath ever procured your bliss. And that you may know I am that prince that never can endure a menace at an enemy's hand much less of one so dearly treated, I will give this bond, that affection and kind treatment shall ever prevail but fear or doubt shall never procure aught from, and do avow that if you do aught by foreigners' help, it shall be the worst aid that ever king had, and shall make me do more than you shall ever undo. Use such a friend, therefore, as she is worthy, and give her ever cause to remain such one as her long affection hath ever merited, so shall you work your own best and shun your own mishaps whom none can at my hands procure but your own acts.
	Enclosed in paper endorsed :—“An original letter from Queen Elizabeth to the King of Scots. 1587.”
	Holograph, 2 pp. [Bruce, p. 103.]
	Antonio Perez to Sir Robert Cecil.
[1594, May.]	Has read the Spaniard's letters. Knows the Marquis called Marquis of Mondesar, who is his friend, and all his brothers. The Marquis has but one son, of the age of seventeen years, and he knows of none illegitimate. In his opinion the letters are fictitious, because neither the style nor orthography are Spanish. The father knows not only Spanish but also Latin, and the orthography is neither of one nor the other.
	Endorsed :—“1594.”
	Holograph. Latin. 1 p.
	Reformation of Brewers.
[1594, May.]	Answers to “your honour's” objections to the petition .for reformation of the abuses in brewers brewing unwholesome drink.
	1.Where his honour demanded, if that petition be granted, what the clerk of the market should do, it is thought it is nothing prejudicial to his office, which is to survey victuals as come to the market to be sold to see they be good and wholesome for men's bodies, and sold at reasonable rates; neither do they intermeddle to come into any brewers' houses, either to view the corn, or stuff, wherewith they make their drink, nor yet to gauge their vessels or see the filling of them.
	2.Where he alleges it might be prejudicial to the charter of London, it can no ways be hurtful, for the officers of the city do not enter into brewers' houses, which it is very likely they would do if their authority extended thereunto, considering it is so common a thing to the brewers to offend in those abuses, and be at no time reformed or punished; and therefore if any inconvenience grow to the charter, it is the folly of those that should have better regard to a matter of such importance
	3. Touching the office of Gauger and Sealer of the vessels, who is to see the same to keep their full size, the abuse therein is, that the brewers have many of their vessels made in the countries, which for the most part want of their just size, although sometimes they be sealed; and besides, every several brewer has his private cooper within his own house, who often in new hooping or putting new boards for such as be broken or decayed, do lessen the same in their due proportion; so as it has been often proved that such old mended vessels do want of their measure, some a gallon, some two gallons, and some more, to the great loss of the poor subject, besides that the mustiness of those old vessels do often times spoil the drink, and is great cause of infection to the bodies of the drinkers thereof.
	4. As the poor subjects, which are greatly annoyed and damnified both in body and purse by the said abuses, are very willing to give 2d. in every barrel and so after that rate more than the ordinary prices to have wholesome drink and true measure, it would please “your honour” to yield his lawful favour and furtherance, or at the least not to impugn the same.
	Endorsed :—“May, 1594.”
	1 p.