Cecil Papers: January 1598, 1-15

Calendar of the Cecil Papers in Hatfield House: Volume 8, 1598. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1899.

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'Cecil Papers: January 1598, 1-15', in Calendar of the Cecil Papers in Hatfield House: Volume 8, 1598, (London, 1899) pp. 1-17. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-cecil-papers/vol8/pp1-17 [accessed 25 April 2024]

January 1598, 1–15

Captain Ed. Symes to Sir Robert Cecil.
1597/8, Jan. 1. Having followed your brother Sir Thomas Cecil for 24 years I have been many ways bound to him: but I am perpetually bound to you for procuring payment of my late service in Ireland, and as this is the time for New Year's gifts, “I hold it my duty to present, though a shadow in regard of many better presents, yet a true register of a soldier's pilgrimage, which I hope your honour will not take as a thinking well of myself but a mind thirsting after all occasions for Her Majesty's service, only due unto her and your honourable house and unto no others. The rather in that my devoted time prescribed hath not entertained idleness but affected employment, as your honour by larger volume or admitted conference shall more amply be informed at your vouchsafed pleasure.” Desires employment when any offers.
Signed. Endorsed :—“1 Jan. '97.”
1 p. (48. 65.)
William Stallenge to Sir Robert Cecil.
1597/8, Jan. 1. Encloses the account of things received from the Bull of Dantzicke, now wholly unladen. The masts lie in Stonehouse Mills Pool, according to my Lord Admiral's direction; and the ship is delivered to the skipper with victuals and furniture, except the powder. To defray charges sold seven small rolls of wax left with Anthonie Goddard by Lord Thomas Howard, 2,674 lbs. for 147l. 16s. 3d. Hopes to be allowed for what he has spent upon the Dutchmen belonging to the ship, who were sick in the town, and upon the unlading and relading of victuals and furniture. Of the 147l. he paid to the soldiers in garrison, the paymaster withholds 5l. 10s. because the Council's order is for 3s. 4d. per man, whereas the writer paid the first week 4s. upon the order of Sir Gillie Mericke to the Mayor here. Has just received the enclosed letter from Sir Francis Godolphin in answer to Cecil's which the writer forwarded.—Plymouth, 1 Jan. 1597.
Signed.
Endorsed :—“Mr. Stallenge doth offer to deliver money for the entertainment of the garrison at Plymouth so as the same may be repaid monthly to Mr. Alblaster here in London, with 20s. profit upon every hundred for the exchange.”
1 p. (48. 67.)
The Enclosure :
Plymouth, 1 Jan. 1597 :—List of Goods received by William Stallenge from a hulk called the Bull of Dantzicke and from Anthonie Goddard, by order of lord Thomas Howard, viz., from the Bull 22 items of timber, lead, iron, grain, hemp, &c., one of them being “lij masts of all sorts”; from Goddard, wax and lead (2 items). Whereof delivered, by order of lord Thomas Howard and Sir Walter Rawlie, 2 barrels of pitch to Jacob Ware and 6 barrels of rye to Anthony Goddard, sold 7 rolls of wax to defray charges, and has the rest in custody. Gives a table of the sizes of the masts.—Signed by Stallenge.
1 p. (48. 66.)
Mr. Secretary Walsingham.
1597/8, Jan. 1. “A note of certain books taken out of the Calendar of Mr. Secretary Walsingham's writings.”
1 p. (140. 52.)
Israel Amyce to [Lord Burghley].
1597/8, Jan. 1. Certificate of the state of his Lordship's Woods about Hoddesdon, leased to John Thurgood and William Kelinge.
Undated. Endorsed :—1 Jan. 1597
1 p. (204. 63.)
Sir Robert Ker to Thomas Percy, Constable of Alnwick.
[1597/8,] Jan. 2. Think not long albeit both I stay somewhat longer nor I looked for, and that you yourself by that mean is disappointed in your up-going to London; for my stay to myself is with no little grief, and it is the more that by it you should be impeded. But let me who shall do his best to be worthy of it procure your patience, for this tempestuous weather is such as it stays the men “uncumit” to me who should be my huntsmen. Yet, be assured, God willing, the match shall “hawld forduart,” for I have heard from them, and they bid me be in no doubt; therefore be ye prepared, and my greatest care is as it shall be to see the end of that match. Have ado what ye can, or fall out what may, if life remain, I look to find you at my coming home, and ye shall find me when ye have ado to “schaerg” without objecting impediment for anything that can intervene or fall to no other than this, saving that puts end to all friendships. There is no other thing that stays me where I am but only to speak with these that should be actors in this sport; for as God witness me I am so drowned with the love of that game that the care of all other things is from me, so resting on your friendly “conciderence” I take my leave.—Written at Dalkeith from Court, the second of this instant January.
Holograph.
1 p. (176. 32.)
Fr. Lady Burgh to Sir Robert Cecil.
1597/8, Jan. 4. Next to my lord, your father, I am most beholden to you. My brother, Thomas Knevit, tells me her Majesty has ordered you to draw my patent “during her gracious pleasure.” I earnestly desire you to get it made for life or for term of years, for if God should call my lord's mother, what is to remain after her death is so mortgaged and entangled that I shall not live to see it free. Her Majesty's gift must therefore be my chief living; and consider how small it is “after the loss of so great plenty in my lord's life time.”—Lambeth, 4 Jan., 1597.
Signed. Seal.
1 p. (48. 68.)
The Queen to the King of Scotland.
1597/8, Jan. 4. When the first blast of a strange, unused and seldom heard of sound had pierced my ears, I supposed that flying fame, who with swift quills oft passeth with the worst, had brought report of some untruth; but when too many records in your open Parliament were witnesses to such pronounced words, not more to my disgrace than to your dishonour who did forget that (above all other regards) a prince's word ought utter nought of any, much less of a king, than such as to which truth might say, Amen. But you, neglecting all care of yourself what danger of reproach, besides somewhat else, might light upon you, have chosen so unseemly a theme to charge your only careful friend withal of such matter as (were you not amazed in all senses) could not have been expected at your hands of such imagined untruths as never were once thought of in our time; and do wonder what evil spirits have possessed you to set forth so infamous devices void of any shew of truth. I am sorry that you have so wilfully fallen from your best stay and will needs throw yourself into the hurpole of bottomless discredit. Was your haste so great to hie to such approbrium as that you would pronounce a never thought of action afore you had but asked the question of her that best could tell it? I see well we two be of very different natures, for I vow to God I would not corrupt my tongue with an unknown report of the greatest foe I have, much less could I detract my best deserving friend with a spot so foul as scarcely may ever be out rased. Could you root the desire of gifts of your subjects upon no better ground than this quagmire which to pass you scarcely may without the slip of your own disgrace? Shall embassage be sent to foreign princes laden with instructions of your rash advised charge? I assure you the travail of your crazed words shall pass the bounds of too many lands with an imputation of such levity as when the true sun shines of my sincere dealing and extraordinary care ever for your safety and honour shall overshadow too far the dim and misty clouds of false invectives. I never yet loved you so little as not to moan your infamous dealings which you are in mind. We see that myself shall possess more princes' witness of my causeless injuries, which I could have wished had passed no seas to testify such memorials of your wrongs. Bethink you of such dealings and set your labour upon such mends as best may, though not right, yet salve some piece of this overslip, and be assured that you deal with such a king as will bear no wrongs and endure infamy. The examples have been so lately seen as they can hardly be forgotten of a far mightier and potenter prince than any Europe hath. Look you not therefore that without large amends I may or will slupper up such indignities. We have sent this bearer, Bowes, whom you may safely credit to signify such particularities as fits not a letter's talk. And so I recommend you to a better mind and more advised conclusions, praying God to guide you for your best and deliver you from sinister advice as desireth your more readier sister than yourself hath done for that is fit.
Endorsed :—“1597, Jan. 4.”
“M. of her Majesty's letter to the King of Scots with her own hand.”
[Printed by the Camden Society, Ed. Bruce, p. 121.]
1 p. (133. 166.)
Sir Edw. Winter to Sir Robert Cecil.
1597/8, Jan. 5. Many undeserved favours embolden me to ask your favour “in the behalf of this bearer, my only brother, who is very desirous to attend your Honour in this your journey into France.” He will be found honest and faithful.—Bristol, 5 Jan.
Signed. Addressed :—“Principal Secretary.” Endorsed :—5 Jan. 1597.
1 p. (48. 69.)
Richard Carmarden to Sir Robert Cecil.
1597/8, Jan. 6. Has received his by Mr. Honyman and conferred about the service, as he will declare. “No book must bear mention of the same, for so will it be made common, only the searcher himself and myself keep notice thereof, and be only privy thereunto, and my Lord Mayor for the corn, if it can not otherwise be.”—Mark Lane, 6 Jan., 1597.
Holograph.
1 p. (48. 70.)
Sir Horatio Palavicino to Sir Robert Cecil.
1597/8, Jan. 6. Since Her Majesty has decided not to give the jewels but to keep them herself, he, although his consent is not asked, still has to consent, and does so freely. Since the jewels are such a very small part of the whole debt, he suggests, in a writing herewith, two courses for Her Majesty to take. She may blame the States for not having provided for the bond which they took in July, 1581, to discharge her of the annuity she had granted him. He himself merits no blame for having received what has been paid; for all his portion, apart from that of his brothers, he has spent in following the Court and in her service, and so cannot be accused of avarice.—Badburham, 6 Jan., 1597.
Holograph. Italian.
1 p. (174. 104.)
The writing referred to :
1598, 6 Jan.—Offer by Sir Horatio Palavicino, if the Queen finds his debt not due or that he has received so many years of the annuity as to be paid too much already, to make the Queen a gift of his own share, being 8,456l. 8s. 4d. of capital, and 3,806l. 7s. 9d. of annuity; leaving only what belongs to Lady Walsingham and his brothers, 29,713l. 10s. 11d., which he begs may be renewed to them by writings in their own names, so that he may withdraw from the matter altogether and have the satisfaction of having served Her Majesty for pure devotion. But, if she finds the debt is just, and the annuity likewise just and lawful, and the more so for having been made by her who is supreme magistrate on earth, and has bound the States to pay her the like, and if she finds by the examples of King Henry VIII, her father, and of all the kings of Christendom that such has always been the custom (considering, too, his frequent offers to Sir John Fortescue to moderate the interest and to take payment in the least troublesome way), begs that she will have the pledges valued by jewellers, and formally acquit the States of payment of so much, acquainting M. Caron, their agent, that she has given Palavicino and his brothers and Lady Walsingham letters of marque to reimburse themselves for the rest where they can. Will send the copy of these letters into Holland forthwith, and has good hope for the result. If this seems too much to burden the States with at present, begs for letters of marque for the annuity only, viz. : for the 4½ years that are past and for the years that are to come.
Italian. In Palavicino's hand.
1 p. (174. 102.)
P. Lord Dunsany to Sir Robert Cecil.
1597/8, Jan. 7. Begs him but for one thing—to make his hard plight known to the Queen. Has received no pay these three years since he expected to be her pensioner, and has neither money nor credit.—7 Jan.
Signed :
P.S.—His kinsman, the bearer, will impart what is fit to be known but too tedious to write.
Endorsed :—1597.
1 p. (48. 72.)
Ja. Gerald to the Privy Council.
1597/8, Jan. 7. Upon some sinister report, the “small comfort which I have always had of some few people's access is now restrained by Mr. Lieutenant.” Begs them to have the report examined and himself judged if found guilty of any practice against the Queen or the State; for his thoughts are free from the meanest disloyal conceit, and if they will “enter into the audit of xviij years sufferances,” they will find he has never embraced any unfitting course. “Notwithstanding (my good Lords) give me leave to say thus much upon whom possibilities do comment (to which all are subject) but layed upon me more than on any, that I am the sole precedent of a subject that is or hath been punished for the offences of a wretched father, except such as have been allied to far greater dignities that might yield fear of their nearness.” If this behaviour cannot receive further commiseration, begs that at least they will direct Mr. Lieutenant to allow him “those former benefits.” A certain king besought ambassadors that found him riding behind a little child, that they would not censure him till they had some of their own; and so he hopes they will not impute these lines to rashness, but to abundance of miseries.—From the Tower, 7 Jan., 1597.
Holograph : in very verbose and involved style.
Endorsed :—“Mr. Gerald to the Lords.” Seal broken.
2 pp. (48. 73.)
Sir Tho. Wilkes to Sir Robert Cecil.
1597/8, Jan. 7. Hoped after his great voyages, and charges incurred therein, to have been henceforth employed at home only. “And truly, Sir, such an employment could not have been laid upon me in a more unseasonable time than this, for I protest unto you I am in effect unfurnished of all things needful for such a voyage, and no money in my purse to make provision, which, with the shortness of the time appointed for your departure hence, doth amaze me not a little.” Hopes Her Majesty will allow him a reasonable “imprest” towards his preparations; and in that trusts to Cecil and my lord, his father. To-morrow (although yet grieved with his hurt) will attend him. —Rickmansworth, 7 Jan., 1597.
Holograph. Seal.
1 p. (48. 74.)
Richard Carmarden to Henry Maynard.
1597/8, Jan. 7. Sir Gelly Merrick being out of town, and Mr. Myddelton ill, Sir Henry Billingsley and he have this forenoon had sundry merchants before them about the buying of the cochenelo and indico. Found an agreement among them to give no more than 15s. for the cochenelo and 5s. for the indico. Singled out five of them who were plain dealing men and arranged with them that they should give 6s. 8d. for the indico. They would not go beyond 16s. for the cochenelo, but the writers hope to get them to give 20s. for 50 chests, and so “draw on the rest, for they are like unto sheep, everyone straineth courtesy who shall go first through the open gap, but when one beginneth they will then all follow though they leap on the hedge.” The indico at 6s. 8d. will amount to 10,000l. Pray acquaint my lord with our proceedings and learn his pleasure, for on Monday next we meet again.—Mark Lane, 7 Jan., 1597.
If his lordship like the sale of the indico, will send the merchants to him on Monday afternoon to fix days of payment. Asks to have the enclosed “offer” returned.
Holograph. Seal.
1 p. (48. 75.)
Sir Robert Crosse to Sir Robert Cecil.
1597/8, Jan. 7. Being at sea, Cecil's letters did not reach him till to-day. Enquired of a Dutchman whether the deputies of the States were already gone into France, and was told on hearsay that they had. Will send a pinnace to make sure, and certify Cecil by the “running post.” Meanwhile, will attend his coming and provide shipping to convoy him.—From aboard Her Majesty's ship the Vanguard.—7 January, 1597.
Signed.
Signed also on the back and docketed as Delivered aboard the Vanguard in Dover Road, 7 Jan., at 3 p.m.; Canterbury, 8 p.m.; Sittingbourne, 12 p.m.; Rochester, “past pst., one at night”; Dartford, 8 Jan. at 5.30 a.m.
Seal.
1 p. (48. 76.)
Invention.
1597/8, Jan. 7/17. Copy of a patent of Invention granted by the King of France to Fabry père et fils for certain agricultural implements.—Dated 26 Dec, 1597. Registered in the Parliament at Paris, 17 Jan., 1598.
2 pp. (139. 73.)
Sir Robert Cecil's Embassy to France.
1597/8, Jan. 9. Notes of things to be observed in “a legation of this kind.” viz. :—To carry over coaches and horses is fit, in regard to honour, and, if the journey be beyond Roan, necessary, for no more than 20 horses can be got at Dieppe. “Your carriages will be easily conveyed from Dieppe to Roan by cart, and no further but at unreasonable rates,” yet it is necessary to have sumpter horses to carry bedding and plate. “The necessary carriages are linen for your own bed and table, vessell of your table rather than cupboard plate which may be the less because it is not the manner of France, tapestry hangings or any such furniture are needless because there will be care had of your lodging.” No more servants than necessary; 10 or 12 voluntary gentlemen accompanying you, and restrained to one servant apiece will make sufficient show. Baggage of gentlemen and servants must be limited, and the horses “furnished with bit and saddles after the French manner, to avoid derision.” Amongst the train “a minister must not be forgotten to say grace and such ceremonies, a matter that will be much expected, especially of those of the Religion.”
“Touching this treaty with Spain, men may in general make this judgement, all the soldiers of the King's Council (excepting the Constable, whom wealth and age maketh desirous of ease) are thought to be enemies of this peace, and therefore they counsel him to make it general, and to remember his own honor, and to exclude D. Mercure and the D. of Savoye, which points they conceive will breed difficulty enough to break the negociation and by that means leave a war still for them to feed on. All the house of Lorraine make great show to desire this peace, lest any suspicion should be conceived that they still seek the trouble of France, but in heart they are thought to wish nothing less, and especially that the D. Mercure should still stand upon terms, to the end they may always take arms again if a fair occasion be offered, or at the least keep themselves from any revisitation of their former faults. Those of the Religion in fear of this peace make greater show of discontentment than there is cause, and press the king often with many importunate demands, thinking thereby either to terrify him with the fear of civil war and so divert him from this treaty with Spain, or else to take the advantage of the time for the establishment of their own affairs, yet most of those of the Religion that be courtiers desire this peace in respect of their own particular, and come secretly a course with the king to the betraying of the rest. Those that favour the peace are your warm Catholics (that are not otherwise interested), all your Council of the Robe Longue, your presidents and Courts of Parliament (who desire the establishment of their own authority), and lastly, the generalty of the people, as well in other respects as in their malice to those of the Religion, whom they dare not meddle withal so long as these wars last, nor cannot restrain from the practice of their religion in a manner openly in all the good towns of France. The King himself hath undoubtedly an exceeding desire to peace and his own rest and ease; so as it is thought by many, if he cannot otherwise satisfy the points of honour, that he will, at the length, suffer himself to be enforced to a peace without any regard of his allies by the importunacy of his realm and Councils, and so under that colour, and these ceremonious preambles and ambassages, give the world a kind of satisfaction and defend his own honour. But in the meantime, both the King and his Council use all the art they can to keep this treaty on foot as long as may be, yea, though they should know assuredly that the Spaniard desireth nothing less, for by that means, if they cannot hit the mark they shoot at, yet they procure themselves a breathing time, they value their own reputation as those that seek the general peace of Christendom, they bind their neighbours to be the willinger to succour them, and lastly, under that pleasing pretext and hope, the King layeth what burdens he list upon his people.
Endorsed :—“1597, 9 January. Some things to be observed in the negociation.”
3 pp. (48. 77.)
Carew Ralegh to Sir Robert Cecil.
1597/8, Jan. 9. In pursuance of Cecil's letters of request, has dealt earnestly with Sir Walter Long, and hopes for good success if the matter “be not hindered by an overnearness in her whom the same doth most concern.” Forbears to write the means and course to be taken, but will attend him shortly. Sends him some lamprey pies, the daintiest thing to be had in this barren country.—Saperton, 9 Jan., 1597.
Signed. Endorsed :—“Mr. Ca. Raleighe to my master.”
Seal.
1 p. (48. 79.)
W. Borough to the Council.
1597/8, Jan. 9. Received their letter by this messenger. The five ships (the sixth being lost by foul weather) that are to go over to St. Valleris to transport 900 soldiers to Waterford in Ireland, are probably, as the Council are advertised, still about Dover; for even if the wind served the pilots durst not take them there in “neape streams.” Now the Spring tides begin, and they can put in there this week, and doubtless the masters are sufficient men to do it. If they could have had pilots at their first coming to Dover as agreed (not taken up by commission, as in ports other than the Cinque Ports, but by agreement at a much higher rate than the Queen's usual allowance) they might have been gone for Ireland long ere this; but the clerk of Dover Castle pursuaded the lieutenant to suffer no pilot to go out of the town for that service without a “letter of attendance” from the lord Warden; whereby the masters were driven to come up hither to obtain such letters, leaving the passage neglected. If twice so many French or Dutch ships had arrived there they would have had no difficulty in getting pilots. The clerk has done this to show the authority of the lord Warden over her Majesty's, and chose this important time to make himself respected. He should be shown his fault.—Limehouse, 9 Jan., 1597.
Signed.
1 p. (48. 80.)
Sir Horatio Palavicino to Sir Robert Cecil.
1597/8, Jan. 9. Since the title of his embassy is rather the renewal of war than the making of peace, may it be in the name of God who can bring good out of evil. Thinks that if he should speak with the Archduke's commissioners they would edify him as regards the Queen, for they esteem her the mother of peace and not the renewer of war, so that if war be inevitable she may not be held the cause of it. Cecil leaves so soon that he cannot accompany him, being not yet free of the gout. Has written to Tommaso Chauvini at Rouen to serve him to the utmost, and advance him up to 10,000 crs. Thinks Masino del Bene will visit him at Rouen, and begs him if he can to console that good old man in this his last age. Chauvini is the person he thought of for the recovery of the money due from the King by the last league, and, if that matter be mentioned, may be of use. As for himself awaits between doubt and fear the result of Cecil's negociation with the Queen and trusts that when in France he will let Mr. Barnevel know that the Queen is determined to be discharged and will not cease to favour the writer.—Badburham, 9 Jan., 1597.
Signed. Italian. Seal.
2 pp. (48. 81.)
Richard Webster to Sir Robert Cecil.
1597/8, Jan. 9. A complimentary letter written upon the occasion of Cecil's taking the writer's wife's only brother, Charles Ouborne, into his service.—Jan. 9, 1597.
Holograph. Latin. Endorsed :—“Doctor Webster.”
1 p. (48. 82.)
B. Countess of Bedford to Sir Robert Cecil.
1597/8, Jan. 9. Hears he is about to go as ambassador to the French King, and asks him to take Francis Norris with him, as she desires him to be brought up in a manner befitting his birth and the rank he is to take in his country. Is glad to commend him (one of her chiefest jewels) to the care of so faithful a friend.—Whitefriars, 9 Jan., 1597.
Signed. Seal.
1 p. (48. 83.)
Bal. De Moucheron to the Earl of Essex.
1597/8, Jan. 9/19. Je ne doubte point ou V. Exce naye entendu de comme pour faire la guerre a notre ennemy generael et pour luy enpescher ses trafficqs es Indes Occidentales, par ou les moyens luy viennent de nous continuer la guerre, nous avons resolu de y envoyer quelques nombre de navires. Et comme oultre les bons pilotes que nous avons, nous taschons a nous pourveior encores daultres, ayant eu bon rapport de la bonne intelligence et industrie du Capn Davidson qui, a ce que nous entendons, est en service de V. Exce., nous desirerons bien lavoir avesques conge de V. Exce pour nous assister a executer nos desseins, ainsi cognoisant le zele de V. Exce au bien publicq nous avons prins la hardiesse de faire ceste et prier a icelle nous favoriser de sa personne et lui donner conge de nous assister.—Middlebourg, 19 Jan., 1598.
Endorsed :—“19 Jan., 1597.”
1 p. (174. 108.)
George, Earl of Cumberland to Sir Robert Cecil.
1597/8, Jan. 10. In favour of the bearer Mr. Purfitt in his suit to the Council. He is master of one of the writer's ships which is now ready, and only stays for him.—10 Jan., 1597.
Signed.
1 p. (48. 84.)
Sir Robert Sydney to the Earl of Essex.
1597/8, Jan. 10. “I rejoice very greatly that Her Majesty hath bestowed upon you the office of High Marshal of England, not that it is any so great addition unto your Lordship's estate as that now Her Majesty, having shown in some sort to respect your Lordship's deserts, she shall have your service again, which in these occasions she and the whole realm cannot be without. The war causes also, I trust, shall prosper much the better, and among the rest this place here, which as yet seems to be neglected or forsaken, and, in few words, to participate with the fortune of the governor of it.” Would be grieved that the town should suffer for his sake.—Flushing, 10 Jan., 1597.
Holograph.
1 p. (48. 85.)
Ric. Saltonstall, Mayor of London, to the Lord Chamberlain.
1597/8, Jan. 10. Understands that Mr. Wilfoord, Chamberlain of this city, is in the Queen's displeasure for neglecting to provide the French Ambassador with coaches for his conveyance to Whitehall, and suffering him to pay for the hire of them. “Which, for so much as it concerneth not only the Chamberlain but also myself, who received that charge and direction from your Lordship, in her Majesty's name, I have examined the matter, and finding the information made to her Highness to be very untrue, and that the Ambassador paid no such money for the hire of those coaches, the said Chamberlain discharging his duty as well in that as in other provisions for the said Ambassador, to his great contentment; I am an humble suitor to your good lordship to inform her Majesty of the truth hereof and to move her Highness that he may be discharged as well of the fault as of his imprisonment, being (as I hear) under commitment, whereas indeed he hath deserved thanks for his care and painstaking in performing that duty.”—London, 10 Jan., 1598.
Signed. Endorsed :—10 Jan., 1597.
1 p. (48. 88.)
A bill for hire of coaches, each with a pair of horses, at 6s. 8d. each, viz., two or three upon each of the following days, 8, 11, and 19 Nov., 21, 30, and 31 Dec., 1597; total 4l. 13s. 4d.
Note in another hand :—“And over and above the hired coaches there were divers of the Aldermen's coaches that served the Ambassador.”
(48. 87.)
Rich. Carmarden and R. Wryght to the Lord Treasurer and Sir John Fortescue, Chancellor of the Exchequer.
1597/8, Jan. 10. Since their Lordship's letters to the officers of the Custom House “inhibiting interlopers for making their entries in the port of London unless they gave bond to the Merchant Adventurers not to send their cloths into the places of their privileges,” these commodities are now carried hence in carts on pretence of being shipped at Sandwich, Dover, Southampton, Ipswich, or other ports. To give colour to this a form of entry is made with the Surveyor of the Custom House, but the goods are carried, not to the ports entered, but to Gravesend, Mylten, and other places, or else new entries are made at the ports of shipment, altering the goods from cloth to baize or cotton, at less custom and subsidy. Besides this, strangers' goods are carried out in Englishmen's names, and other deceits are used to the diminishing of the Queen's customs. Desire their letter to the Lord Mayor of London to suffer no packs nor trusses of cloth to be carried over the Bridge, or out of any gate or suburb of the City, to be shipped at any port, unless packed and sealed by the common packer, and surveyed by the surveyor of the Custom House, the surveyor and packer to keep registers of such goods.—London, 10 Jan., 1597.
Signed.
Endorsed :—“Mr. Carmarthen; Mr. Wright, the packer.”
2 pp. (48. 89.)
George Cary to Sir Robert Cecil.
1597/8, Jan. 11. The Council wrote to the Mayor of Dartmouth, Mr. Chr. Harris, the vice-admiral, and to myself, to sell the corn brought into Dartmouth in two small flyboats of Flushing and one of Emden; and afterwards wrote to them to release those of Flushing, which was done. Having no further order as to the flyboat of Emden, after waiting a fortnight, they of the flyboat obstinately refusing to oversee the sale of the said corn, and the country calling for it, they appointed two honest men to see to the measure, and sold it all above the market value. Since then the merchants have procured letters from the Council, dated 18 Dec., but only received here the 9th inst., permitting the proprietors to sell it either in Exeter, Dartmouth, or Plymouth at their best profit. It realised 1,033l. 12s. 6d., but this does not content them. “The country is grieved much at the releasing of the two small flyboats of Flushing; for I do assure your Honour this country will be in great distress before harvest for want of corn, except by God's goodness some be brought in from other places. These late services hath bared all the old store that was in the country.”—Cockington, 11 Jan., 1597.
Signed.
2 pp. (48. 90.)
George Gilpin to the Earl of Essex.
1597/8, Jan. 11. All hath been and is yet so quiet in these parts since our camp broke up, and from the enemy's quarters cometh so little, as I have not had any matter worth the troubling your Honour with, which hath been the only cause of my silence, and not the neglect or forgetfulness of that duty I owe unto your Lordship, in whose good opinion and favour my humble desire is to be continued. The deputies that are now coming over from the States General to her Majesty will acquaint your Lordship not only with their message, but particularise also at large the state of these provinces, and what they think best to be done the next summer to the offending of the enemy, making sure account of your Honour's favour and furtherance, which to requite I am certainly persuaded they will be ready upon any occasion to show all forwardness in that might be required, whensoever any other enterprise or service shall be taken in hand by your Lordship, although the seamen seem not so willing as in times past. Those sent into France are likewise ready, staying only for wind and weather, and purpose to labour what they can to break off the conference between the King and the Cardinal about the peace or “treague,” whereof their hope is the greater if it shall like her Majesty to join and second them to the effecting thereof. They do now take order to supply and arm all their companies, and besides, purpose to levy 4 or 500 horse, to which end those provinces that are now freed by this last summer's service from contributing to the enemy's side are besought to contribute and furnish for the same, who yet are very backward, and so the success more doubtful. There is also a meaning to send unto the neutral princes and towns that border on these countries, and by the last summer's service are freed from those invasions and excursions they were subject unto during the time that the enemy was so near, to persuade and require them to join in keeping and hindering the enemy from passing any more the Rhine, and to the end to entertain certain number of horse and foot or to contribute thereunto, and let the Count Maurice levy such forces. And in case of refusal, then shall they be pressed thereunto, and a rate and collection made over their countries to keep some 5 or 6000 foot, and 5 or 600 horse in pay, though the Emperor and Empire will undoubtedly oppose thereagainst. All things else doth continue at one stay.—The Hague, 11 January, 1597.
Signed.
2 pp. (174. 105.)
Cyprian Gabri to Sir Robert Cecil.
1597—8, Jan. 11. In reply to Cecil's letter of the 8th inst., vindicates his dealings with Leeman in regard to a debt. Refers himself to the report of Mr. Judge Gawdey upon the matter.—London, 11 Jan., 1597.
1 p. (174. 106.)
The States General to the Earl of Essex.
1597/8, Jan. 11/21;. “Monsieur, comme il a pleu a sa Maté nous advertir et faire communiquer la negociation du Sr de Maysse, Ambassadeur du Roy de France, avec icelle touchant la conference passee d'entre la Sr de Villeroy, secretaire d'estat d'icelluy Sr Roy, et les ministres du Cardinal, assavoir Richardot, et que, des le commencement, ceste mattiere de proceder dudit seigneur Roy a este par nous trouvee tres dangeureuse, nous envoyons presentement vers sa Maté les Srs de D'Uvenvoorde, seigneur de Warmont Woude et admiral d'Hollande, de Vander Warch, docteur es loix, conseillier et pensionaire de la ville de Middelbourg, et de Hottinga, escuier, nos deputez, pour avec le Sr de Caron, notre agent, remonstrer a icelle sa Maté la presente constitution de notre estat et combien dangereuse avons trouvee lad. conference, et les grandes et necessaires occasions qu'avons lues d'envoyer en un mesme temps tant vers sa Maté que le Roy de France.” Are sure the deputies will have Essex's assistance and have directed them to wait upon him and offer their congratulations upon his advancement to the state of Great Marshal of England.—La Haye, 21 Jan., 1598.
Endorsed :—Jan. 21, '97.
2 pp. (48. 106.)
Thomas [Bilson], Bishop of Winchester, to Sir Robert Cecil.
1597/8, Jan. 12. Upon Cecil's letters dated 10th Aug., intimating the Queen's pleasure that he should continue Bishop Horne's pension to Captain Shute as his predecessors have done, he willingly conformed himself. Points out that Captain Shute, though he at first asked for payment quarterly, agreed to take it half yearly, which as the revenues of the bishopric are payable half yearly seems more reasonable. As to renewing Bishop Horne's patent, the Act of 1 Eliz. forbids it, and the parchment would therefore be worthless.—London, 12 Jan., 1597.
Signed.
2 pp. (48. 91.)
Lord Mountjoy to Sir Robert Cecil.
1597/8, Jan. 13. This bearer was brought from St. Malo in a boat that belonged to a servant of mine and belike directed by him unto me to help him to speak with some of my lords of the Council, to discover somewhat he pretendeth to know that concerneth her Majesty's service.—January.
Holograph. Seal.
1 p. (58. 115.)
Sir Edward Coke, Attorney General, to Sir Robert Cecil.
1597/8, Jan. 13. Concerning Mr. Harecourt's cause, I think that neither the testimony is sufficient (the same being by a felon after his apprehension), neither in respect of the time prescribed he can be convicted. Howbeit, for that the matter is great, if it would please you to give direction to my Lord Chief Justice to bail him in open court this next term, I think that were the fittest way.—13 Jan., 1597.
Holograph.
½ p. (174. 107.)
Sir John Cutts to Sir Robert Cecil.
1597/8, Jan. 14. Begs to present the service of his son in this journey to so worthy an inheritor of the exceeding worthiness of his most honourable father.—Childerley, 14 Jan., 1597.
Signed.
Endorsed :—“That you would be pleased to have his son with you into France.”
1 p. (48. 93.)
Sir Robert Crosse to Sir Robert Cecil.
1597/8, Jan. 14. Upon Cecil's letters of the 7th inst., to learn when the States' [deputies] would pass into France, sent the Moone to that coast, who next day met some Flemish war-ships and learnt that the Princess of Orange was gone to Deipe and that the States' were ready to go the next fair wind. On the 8th, at night, the French Ambassador took shipping, and landed at Deipe next forenoon. On the 10th sent the Moone to convoy Mr. Wroth and Mr. Lezure to Vlishing, and return with the first wind upon the States' departure. The same wind will carry them to France. “This time will be most convenient for your honour to pass over (if the wind come fair), because the nights are yet very light, whereby your passage will be less tedious.”—From aboard her Majesty's ship the Vanguard, in the Downs, 14 Jan., 1597.
Signed.
Signed on the back and docketed as Delivered aboard at 2 p.m. on Jan. 14th; Sandwich, past 4; Canterbury, past 7 (?) p.m.; Sittingbourne, at 11 p.m.; Rochester, past one at night; Dartford, at half-past four in the morning.
Seal.
1 p. (48. 94.)
Lord Thomas Howard to Mr. Secretary.
1597/8, [Jan. 14.] “The purpose I know not of this either honest or frantic fellow, but at my coming home he sent me this letter enclosed which I no sooner read and had laid hold of, giving time to write these few words, I send him unto you, not asking him any question but leave him and myself unto your Honor's consideration. All yours, Howard.”
Holograph. Endorsed :—“Smythe's letter to his Lordship.” Seal.
(48. 96.)
The Enclosure :—
Robert Smythe to Lord Thomas Howard.
1597/8, Jan. 14.—Is emboldened by the attachment of his ancestors to Howard's noble house to inform him that lately at Amsterdam he “discovered a secret and most dangerous complote laid, and with all expedition to be acted within the bosom of this realm, if the same be not the more speedily met withal.” Has prepared the matter so that one man's entertainment for a month or so will be all that will be required, and has crossed the seas to impart the particulars to his Lordship, to whose praise he would have the discovery of it redound. Begs audience.—14 Jan., 1597.
Holograph.
1 p. (48. 95.)
Sir Robert Cecil's Embassy to France.
1597/8, Jan. 14. “A note of such gentlemen as have offered to go in my company into France,” viz. :—
Mr. Norris, heir to my lord Norris, Sir George Carowe, Sir Alex. Ratliffe, Sir Charles Blunt, Sir James Wotton, Sir Maurice Barckley, Mr. Warburton, Mr. Croftes, Sir Robert Wroth, Mr. Stanleye, Mr. Throgmorton, a gentleman of Swethlande, a kinsman of my lady Marquis, Mr. Thyne, Mr. Cope, Mr. Beiston, Mr. D. Crompton, Doctor Doyleye, Mr. Hubberde.
Three or four gentlemen who are not courtiers, but friends and allies, desire to go; but before I resolve of any of her Majesty's ordinary servants, I desire to know her pleasure, that I may not give offence by carrying any away.
Not in Cecil's hand.
Endorsed :—“1597, 14 Jan. Memorial for my lord Chamberlain.”
1 p. (48. 97.)
Sir Robert Crosse to Sir Robert Cecil.
1597/8, Jan. 15. Learns, by letter from the lord Admiral, that Cecil's coming down to go over is deferred five or six days yet. No ship will then be able to enter the harbour of Deipe, but must set him ashore in a shallop or pinnace, “because the tides in this decrease of the moon are very low.” Would like to transport him in the Vanguard and go with him into France. Begs him to get the lord Admiral's leave for 8 or 10 days' absence for that purpose.—From aboard her Majesty's ship the Vanguard, 15 Jan., 1597.
Signed.
Signed also on the back and marked as delivered from aboard at 12 noon.
Seal.
1 p. (48. 98.)
Sir Horatio Palavicino to Sir Robert Cecil.
1597/8, Jan. 15. In the matter which Cecil referred to him by Giustiniano he can only trust that Cecil, when in France, will make urgent instance to Barnevelt, and on his return will set the writer on better terms with the Queen. Not having been in France for a long time has not the acquaintance there that he had, but has written to Signor Chauvini and also to an Italian in Paris called Fabritio Bedini, of Lucca, to serve him if they can. The latter is intimate in the Legate's house, where it is important for Cecil to have information. If he will not come to Rouen, Cecil can send him the letter by Edward to Paris. Sir Anthony Mildmay ought to be able to say who, at Paris, is a fit person for such business.—Badburham, 15 Jan., 1597.
Holograph. Italian. Seal.
1 p. (48. 99.)
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