Queen Elizabeth - Volume 256: March 1596

Calendar of State Papers Domestic: Elizabeth, 1595-97. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1869.

'Queen Elizabeth - Volume 256: March 1596', in Calendar of State Papers Domestic: Elizabeth, 1595-97, (London, 1869) pp. 180-196. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/domestic/edw-eliz/1595-7/pp180-196 [accessed 24 April 2024]

March 1596



March 3.	71. Examination of John Harrison, of Shropshire, prisoner in Bridewell, committed by Mr. Topcliffe. Picked up the indulgence, pardon, and pictures of the Pope and Saints found on him, in Crooked Lane, London; received the other relics, bones, &c. from his brother, and has worn them as sweet powder for these five years; cannot remember of whom he had the beads. Served Robt. Barnes 18 years, and was with him at his house at Mapledurham, in Hampshire, when his mother died eight years since; she was buried at the parish church of Baryton. Attended Mr. Barnes at Bellamy's house, but his master was at Mapledurham when Babington resorted to Bellamy's house. Is a Catholic, but never saw certain priests and Jesuits mentioned, at Mapledurham or elsewhere, nor attended any masses held by them. Was married to his wife in Newgate, by an old priest, then in prison with his wife and himself.
March 3. London.	72. Sir Horation Palavicino to Sir Robt. Cecil. I send intelligence just received that Sir F. Drake has taken Havanna, but not the castle; that it was done by retiring at night eight miles off, and, bringing up his fleet and surprising it in the morning; the Spaniards hope is not in the castle, but in a fleet which has left Seville and Lisbon. They are arming many ships to meet him on his return, and they may go to Ireland. Count Fuentes and Stephen de Ibarra have retired from affairs. Succours are preparing for La Fere. [Italian.]
March 3.	73. Note by Sir Thos. Sherley to Lord [Burghley] that the weekly imprest for 1,500 men in the Low Countries is 187l. 10s., or for two months 1,500l., which being abated from 7,677l. 17s. 4d., the two months' imprest for the whole forces, leaves only 6,177l. 17s. 4d. to be received in the Exchequer.
March 4.	74. Petition of Chas. Jallott, master of the Leopard of Cherburg, to the Queen. Was taken three years ago, with other ships from Newfoundland, by Sir Hen. Palmer, and brought into Plymouth. The ship has been sold to Rich. Hawkins. The Lord Admiral and Dr. Caesar have certified that the petitioner is no leaguer, but a true subject to the French King, and the right owner of the ship and lading; Mr. Hawkins will re-deliver the ship on the return of 120l., part of 750l. paid for the same; begs a privy seal for repayment thereof. With note by Sir John Fortescue, Chancellor of the Exchequer, that the said 120l. was paid to Her Majesty by Sir John Hawkins; reference to him of the petition; his reference to Mr. Fanshaw and Mr. Skinner to certify how the matter stands; and report of Vin. Skinnner that Sir John Hawkins and Rich. Hawkins, his son, paid 750l. 13 Jan. 1592, on an obligation dated 1 Oct. 1591.
March 4.	75. Earl of Essex to Sir Rob. Sydney, govenor of Flushing. I believe the Lord Chamberlain will die, and if so, I will deal earnestly for you. I know that H. Brooke will try his own and his friends' credit with the Queen. I will protest against him, and declare that if the Queen choose Brooke, it will be a reward of his slander against me.
March 5. The Court, Richmond.	76. W. Waad to Attorney General Coke. Rowke Green, a recusant, was sent for about the matters at Wisbeach; it having been certified to their Lordships that he is very aged and blind, and therefore not likely to have been there, their Lordships request you to send them a note of the matters of which he is charged, so that they may take order to have him examined in the country. I pray you to consider the petition of Jool.
March 5.	77. Sir Rob. Cecil to Sir Ho[ratio Palavicino]. I like the last advertisements, as they carry a probability of what is purposed against Her Majesty's service, and as he [the advertiser] is in hopes of drawing nearer to the Cardinal's acquaintance, nothing should be omitted which can be done without prejudice to the service. I showed your letters to Her Majesty, and fell thereby into speech of your care to please, though it did not please her to take that course with you which might comfort your mind and fortune; she spoke favourably of you, confessed you had lost your health in the service, and concluded by adding, that when the deputies came, and she saw what course they would take with her, further consideration should be had of you. I think I may furnish you with this advertisement, that upon the opinion formed by her and the world of this intended invasion, she resolved upon the journey of Sir Fras. Drake, so as to make a diversion of part of the force. I have heard nothing of his success, but fragments by way of Spain. There has been news of the taking of Havanna, to which she gives some credit, and has determined to provide that a strong fleet shall go to sea, to secure his fleet in the return, from any fleet of the King of Spain that might be sent to encounter him; of the fleet that went out of Lisbon in January after him, he had warning by pinnaces sent out 20 Dec.
	Let him [the advertiser] know that the Queen has levied 600 horse and 5,000 foot more, for Ireland, to suppress the rebels, if they shall not take reasonable conditions for their pardon, whereof by articles lately sent from them, there is little doubt; and yet because the Queen will be no longer mocked, they being put in hopes from certain B[ishops] in Spain that the King will succour them, she will only treat with her sword drawn. If the French King and the Queen can agree upon conditions, a fleet and an army will go to Brittany, out of England, to do as much at Bluet as was done at Brest, to the beating out of the Spaniards from thence; but that depends upon a conference to be had between certain ministers of the French King, and others to be deputed from hence. As there is some rumour of a peace between Spain and France, she lately sent to know the French King's mind thereon, not believing it herself, but wishing to satisfy her people, as it is said a truce is made already.
	You may also show him copies of some letters enclosed, which were taken from an Irish priest, passing through Scotland for Ireland, whereby it appears how some, in the King of Spain's name, promise aid to the rebels; but you may assure him that the rebellion will dissolve, for it is intended they shall have pardon, and it is evident that they have been in many things abused by their governors. The reason that has made them stand out so long, having formerly made a submission, of which you had a copy, is only this; they found the winter come on, and the forces diminish with sickness, and being refused to have their adherents padoned as well as themselves, they stuck out, to procure the pardon to be the more general.
	The clergy of England find the Queen a particular army of 1,200 horse and 8,000 foot, ready to be bestowed where it pleases her, but on condition that not above 600 horse nor above 5,000 foot shall be sent out of the realm. The Queen is well, but the lord Treasurer is still ill; the Earl of Essex is to be employed either in the army, if it goes to Brittany, or else in Ireland; and the better to enable him, he is appointed to lie off and on to sea service, to which he much addicts himself. He will be employed in the fleet that is to lie for Sir Fras. Drake's coming home, upon the coast of Ireland, whereby any Spanish succours coming thither may be impeached.
	I purpose thus to let him [the advertiser] see that our preparations grew first, and continue only for defence, and in no sort to offend. Two goodly ships, of 800 tons and 600 tons, have been launched this week, one called the Warspite, and the other the Due Repulse. [5 pages. Draft, corrected.]
March 7.	78. Petition of Robert Arden, prisoner in the Fleet, to Lord Burghley. Was committed with his servant, Wm. Frere, by the Court of Exchequer, in Easter last, for proceeding contrary to a former decree, as was supposed, against Edw. Darcy, in an action of waste. Prays release, Mr. Darcy having answered to the charge, and confessed that the petitioner has a remainder in tail on 21 acres of the land in question.
March 7.	79. The Queen to Lord Cobham, Lord Lieutenant [of Kent]. We have urgent cause for the service of some horsemen, to strengthen [the kingdom], and send into Ireland. We require you to raise the number required by former certificates in your lieutenancy, arm them with head pieces, long pistols, &c., and send them to the most convenient port for embarkation. With marginal notes of the numbers of horse to be raised by several lord lieutenants. [Draft, damanged.]
March 7.	80. Dr. Ch. Parkins to Sir Rob. Cecil. The ground of the disputation I sent yesterday was this: I was asked by a gentleman whom I respect, especially for his grandfather's and uncle's sake, to answer a pamphlet, but conceiving it was taken out of a printed book—whereof I had heard some speeches, but had not seen it,—I declined beginning to write until I knew your Honour's and your father's pleasure, which I have now received. Thanks for your good memory of me. I will in due time thank Lord Buckhurst.
March 7. Richmond.	81. John Stanhope to Attorney-General Coke. Upon a petition to Her Majesty, by Sir Henry Constable, on behalf of his wife, Her Majesty commands me to signify that further proceedings in the cause are to be stayed during pleasure; so that meantime Sir Henry may try all good means to win his wife to conform to the religion professed by Her Majesty and the State. I was further commanded to give notice of her pleasure to the Archbishop of York, who sent a reply enclosed. The Archbishop's letter is to be returned.
March 8. Deptford.	82. Lord Admiral Howard to Lord Cobham, Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports. Those sent to me from Dover and Sandwich were desirous that I should assign them a ship in this river which they may hire for the service. I chose a ship called the Vineyard, drove the agreement between them and her owners for her hire, and thought all things touching the putting of her in good order for the service had been done. But now, seeing that most of the ships appointed for this service are ready, and that the Vineyard is yet untouched, I send your Lordship word, that you may ascertain the reason, and require more speedy despatch. The bearer, Capt. Franklin, a Sandwich man, who is appointed to go as captain in her, will attend your pleasure.
March 10. Bishop Auckland.	83. Tobias Bishop of Durham to Lord Burghley. I thank you for the grave and sound advice in yours of the 4th, concerning some things mentioned in that pasquil, and for your directions about the penalties of recusants' husbands, of which I shall be glad to have further knowledge. If that 20l. a month fall to me, it shall be converted to pious uses.
	Miles White, a close dangerous fellow, still remains a singing man in Durham Cathedral, and is none the better for his undeserved favour. I find too here what you deplore in the estate of Netherdale, Yorkshire, and am offered a piece of important service which, if you approve, I will entertain. One undertakes to apprehend in a month, David Ingleby, his wife, and many a seminary priest in that dale, if he may be rewarded (which I will undertake), and sorted with Mr. Atkinson of Hull, whom you know. Only he must have security from you and me, to repair, without danger of law, to such masses and ceremonies as those ill-minded persons frequent. I beg your directions, so as not to lose the opportunity of their Easter, which comes before ours. I would have your reply not by post, as it may miscarry, but by Thos. Hilton, the bearer. The justices of peace here send their letter by him, and I, with them, beg your favourable answer to our dutiful petition. The country is very poor, and sore punished by dearth. The people are ready in their customary services, but murmur at any new imposition. They were hardly drawn to yield to furnish themselves with 800 calivers and corslets, but many fair promises were made them, for which I have often been challenged. My Lord Warden will not gain as much by so few horsemen, as he will lose in the hearts of both the better and meaner sorts, by this innovation. They grieve because no county in the north is so charged with service as the small handful of the bishopric of Durham. You have a good subject to work upon, whereby the Queen may double the fidelity and loyalty of this country.
	I send you a copy of the commission of musters, granted in Bishop Barnes's time; the like was granted is Bishop Pilkington's, 15 Eliz. This winter, sundry gentle and simple have been with me for renewing the commission of sewers. I wish you to nominate the commissioners. It is very necessary, for the winter has bred great waste in the Queen's lands, as well as my own and other men's. Pardon my prolixity. [2 pages.]
March 10.	84. Petition of Hen. Ashe and Mich. Genison, prisoners in Newgate, to Lord Keeper Puckering, for a warrant for their enlargement, upon putting in good security for their appearance. Were long since committed by Justice Young and the now Bishop of London, for recusancy, where they remain to their great charge and utter undoing, and are like to continue, unless he extend his mercy. With endorsement of the contents of the petition, adding that they have heretofore been suitors to the Attorney General, but he will not act without his Lordship's warrant.
March 12. Inner Temple.	85. Attorney Gen. Coke to Sir Rob. Cecil. The place which Mr. Mintern held under Sir John Wolley was the keeping of the records of the late Court of Augmentation, and the making of patents of offices, both of which, after the dissolution of the court, were annexed to the Exchequer by Act of Parliament, and were then by the Lord Treasurer, and the then Barons, committed to the custody of Christopher Smith, clerk of the Pipe, who enjoyed the same during his life, without any grant or patent. After this, Mr. Morrison, deputy to Mr. Smith, procured the reversion of the office of the Pipe, and added thereto in express words, the making of the aforesaid patents, and in general words, the keeping of the records of the Augmentation which before that time was never granted by patent to any. Since that time Mr. Morley and lastly Sir John Wolley procured reversions of the said office of the Pipe, including the making of the said patents and the keeping of the Augmentation records. The office of the Pipe and the office of keeping the records having only been lately granted together in one patent, Her Majesty may divide them again at pleasure, they being yet in law distinct offices of themselves.
March 12.	86. Pe. Proby to Sir Rob. Cecil. I send the alphabet of Mr. Berton's cipher, used these 18 years. Pray subscribe a letter enclosed, to Sir Richard Martin or Alderman Radcliffe, to take the deputation for carrying packets to the next stage from Anderson, my former messenger; I have discharged him for being abusive in his office, and placed Lewis Owen, Her Majesty's servant in the privy larder, and dwelling at the Three Cups in Holborn, in his room. Although Lord [Burghley] has given order, Anderson will not deliver up either my books or the deputation. I can tarry no longer, so desire this way may be adopted to get them, lest he commit further abuse in carrying letters without my privity.
March 13. The Fleet.	87. Walter Pepper to Lord Keeper Puckering. Having received such disgrace, I find no better means for regaining credit and deserving favour, than to do my best service to Her Majesty, in discovering certain plots against her person and the Council. Amongst others are the conveying of letters over to the enemy, and counterfeiting the Council seal. If sent for, I will relate the proceedings adopted in such practices, and the means to prevent them, which is a service of deeper consequence than is requisite to set down on paper. I desire no favour if I do not deal faithfully.
March 14.	88. John Hexham to Lord Burghley. Mr. Arden, a prisoner in the Fleet, being very weak and sickly by reason of his long imprisonment, I petitioned you on his behalf, and you promised to confer with Mr. Darcy thereon. I fear relying altogether on Darcy's report, and request you to accept a report from the Attorney General thereon. With note by Lord Burghley, that he is content to receive the Attorney's opinion.
March 15. Plymouth.	89. Geo. Baron, deputy to the Mayor of Plymouth and his brethren, to the Council. I understand by a messenger from Peter Edgcombe, and by an eye-witness, that a Spanish pinnace came into Cawsham Bay last night, with 25 men in her, who landed, armed with muskets, and fixed barrels of powder and brimstone to the doors of five several houses, and to two boats, and set them on fire, but force having arrived, the fire was quenched, otherwise they would have burned the whole village. A man having fired one shot at them, they all fled to their pinnace, and put to sea. By the small burden of the pinnace, it is imagined that she is but an attendant to some greater vessel. I have given notice hereof along the East Coast, Mr. Edgcombe having done so Westward.
March 15. Hague.	90. Edw. Croft to Lord Treasurer Burghley. Though a banished man through debts of my father, I am yet willing to serve Her Majesty by sea or land. Hearing that a multitude of subjects are to be employed, I beg to serve, either under the Lord General by land, or the Lord Admiral by sea, or to attend Sir Fras. Vere. I would rather serve anywhere than spend my days in forgetfulness.
March 15.	91. Deposition of John Williams, servant to Thomas Steward of the isle of Ely, before John Palmer and John Thompson. Having occasion to go to Wisbeach, about St. Luke's Day last [Oct. 18, 1595], went to the Castle to speak with Edw. Hall, the porter there, whom he had long known, who took him to the porter's lodge. While there, two priests, names Edm. Caverley and—Meredith, prisoners at the Castle, came in, with Peter Garnett, a joiner of Wisbeach, who has since become a recusant and fled the country. Meredith offered deponent some kindness as knowing Hall; Caverley said they were prisoners there, and accounted themselves but dead men, as they looked for nothing but death; whereupon Hall replied, "No, no, Mr. Caverley, 38 is at hand." Hall did not explain his meaning. Hearing afterwards that Hall was carried up to London for some misdeameanor, thought of his speech, and voluntarily betrayed it. Endorsed [by Wm. Waad], "Information delivered by Mr. Palmer Her Majesty's chaplain, to their Lordships, against Edw. Hall, porter of Wisbeach Castle."
March 15.	92. Abstract of the last will and testament of Sir Horatio [Palavicino].
					£
	Gives for the building of a church at West Acre, within three years, if the inhabitants join therein				300
	If not, then so much as his ececutors shall think fit, towards the building of a chapel at Casthorpe, co. Norfolk.
	To the hospitals in London				100
	To the poor of Cambridge				50
	To the poor of Baberham				20
	To Lucretia, Bans, on her marriage With 20l. a year in the interim.				300
	To Felix Chambers				50
	To the same, for a debt owing for Chambers				30
	Also all his wearing apprel.
	To his other servants, amongst them				100 marks.
					£
	To John Baptista Aurelio, in plate				20
	To Edward Whaley				50
	To Justiniano [Palavicino]				600
	To Francisco Ritzo				600
	These two to be paid in three years, by 200l. a year apiece, and to be levied out of his land and stock.
	To the Italian chruch in Geneva, the yearly pension he receives there.
	To Bartina Palavicino, his daughter, on the day of her marriage, to be levied out of his lands, stock,and monies, after the rate of 300l. per annum				5,000
	In the interim she is to have 150l. yearly, which is to begin upon the marraige or death of testator's wife, Lady Anne, and on condition that his said daughter shall not claim any interest in any of her Ladyship's lands in any of the 17 provinces.
	Also, recites that the Queen is justly indebted to him in above				28,948
	Whereof 1,948l. 10s. 6d. belongs to Lady Walsingham, the widow of Sir Fras. Walsingham, 11,782l. 16s. 6d. to his brother Fabritio, and the residue to himself. That he holds four bonds from Her Majesty for this debt.
	That she is also indebted to him in the sum of 7,000l. for five years' payment of a pension.
	This he beseeches may be paid to his executors, who are to pay rateably, according to such proportion as they receive, to Lady Walsingham and Fabritio; he intermeddled with the said money at their request, and was not to be charged with the paymetn thereof, but as he received it from Her Majesty. Directs that so much of the said sum as shall be laid out in the purchase of lands for the benefit of his wife and two sons, and their heirs equally.
	To his two sons, all his armour.
	All his debts, together with such legacies as are not specially, charged to be paid out of his land, are to be paid out of a stock of money in the hands of Justiniano and Ritzo.
	His stock at West Acre and Baberham is to be sold, and that in the hands of Justiniano and Ritzo, and Machells' debt are to be employed for the benefit of his sons, and otherwise as mentioned; if they both die, his wife is to have 8,000l. out of it; there are some other legacies adn advertisements concerning his wife and children.
	The custody of his eldest son, when he attains the age of 14 years, is vested in the Earl of Shrewsbury, and directions given as to the manner of his education and exhibition.
	Appoints Lady Anne, Justiniano, and Ritzo executors, and the Earl of Shresbury, Mr. Secretary, (fn. 1) and his two brothers overseers.
	Excludes his wife from intermeddling with the execution of his will if she marries again, and the other executors also if they go beyond the seas, and do not return within two years, in which case their places are to be supplied by the overseers. He bequeaths to the Earl of Shrewsbury and Mr. Secretary two gold cups of 50 ounces apiece. [1¾ pages.]
March 15 ?	93. [Case for a legal opinion,] viz., a man by his will appoints three executors, and five years afterwards, sends for some his friends, and publicly declares that certain legacies mentioned in his will are to be revoked and others encreased; that two of his executors are not to act as such; that one of them shall not have any portion of what is left hin, and the other not so much. The question therefore is whether the will stands good to the third executor, the other two being disavowed, or whether the will is utterly revoked, and administration must be taken out.
March 15 ?	94. Opinion of Martin Berry thereon, that the legacies revoked may be taken away, but those directed to be encreased cannot be, by reason of the uncertainty. That the two executors mentioned lose their executorship, and the one who was to have nothing, his legacy; but the other is to have his, because of the uncertainty of the ademption; and that the will stands good to the third, who is the whole and sole executor.
March 16. The Court.	95. Sir Robert Cecil to Mr. Windebank, clerk of the signet. I send two commissions for the Earl [of Cumberland] and the Lord Admiral, and desire the docquets thereof may be read to Her Majesty, as containing the substance of all their powers for levies and government of her forces and ships appointed for this great action. I send them now, being importuned by the two Lords, fearing to be detained in town on Her Majesty's business till too late for writing, unless Her Majesty should think that I wanted to shuffle up the matter in haste. I do not wish this, nor for her to be moved to sign them as from me, but for her to know that they wait her pleasure. If Her Majesty signs them, send them privately to the Great Seal, as it is not fit that their contents should be publicly known yet.
March 16. Greenway.	96. Sir John Gilbert to Sir Walter Raleigh. Three fly-boats from St. Lucar report that last month there were 20 Spanish menof-war there getting ready, but not with haste; five being the greatest ships in Spain. Several ships came in their company and went for Lisbon, laden with 1,400 tons of corn, to be made into biscuit for the King's stores, and two others came into St. Lucar to lade corn for Lisbon. Six Spanish hulks, of 200 tons each. laden with victuals, and men, women, and children, whereof 1,400 were soldiers, were lost going to El Dorado.
	Three of the King's frigates arrived at St. Lucar from Porto Rico, with two and a half millions of silver. They report that Sir Fras. Drake entered the harbour of Porto Rico, with his pinnaces, and fired one of the frigates, but lost the town, treasure, and frigates, because they had sunk a ship at the harbour's mouth, so that he could not enter with his ships.
March 17	97. Dr. Ch. Parkins to Sir Robt. Cecil. It is well the recital is omitted, for as it made a show of especial rejoicing in that reservation of honour, with due titles, it might have bred an opinion of fearing the contrary, which would not have been majestical; I have therefore fitted it accordingly; not doubting but shortly my daily service will be better considered of. I hear no more of Carlisle. Promises without effect are no more in my balance than wind.
March 18. Bristol.	98. Wm. Parphey, mayor, and six aldermen of Bristol, to Lord Burghley. We recommend Wm. Benger as a fit person to succeed Wm. Spencer, who is about to resign the customership of Bridgwater to him, if your Lordship consents.
March 20.	99. Notes [by Lord Burghley] of sundry matters to be declared to the Queen only,with respect to the voyage to be taken with the navy under the charge of the Earl of Essex and the Lord Admiral. How many of her ships shall be used; their names and the number of mariners, gunners, and soldiers; also the names of the captains and their wages, the monthly charge of every ship, and an estimate of the monthly victualling; also of the extraordinary charges of furnishing every ship with ammunition.
	Other matters of more secrecy; to declare to Her Majesty what course they intend to take, if wind shall favour them, and to what coast and port of Spain or Portugal they intend enterprising, and where to land any forces, and what numbers; how far west or south they intend to pass or send ships, and for what purpose. Though they may have cause to change their present determinations, yet Her Majesty may be better satisfied if she thinks their determinations likely to bring good effects. The Lord Admiral is to deliver her a book of the remainder of her shils, with a note of the numbers of mariners, soldeirs, and gunners, and who are meet to be captains and masters of the same, and how they are furnished for service. To declare into how many squadrons the whole navy shall be divided; who shall be the vice-admirals, and who the colonels of the 5,000 foot; thereupon she may determine on such as shall be of the council with the generals, who are to be advised by them in all actions, both on sea and land; and if any of the council shall die, they may be supplied out of the rest having office. Addressed "To the Queen Majesty's only most fair hands, from a simple weak head." [1½ pages.]
March 20.	100. Statement that on March 20, one Rowe brought into plymouth a Portuguese prize, laden with fish from Cape Blank, which he took 27 February, near Cape St. Vincent. The crew affirmed that they came out with five other ships, all laden with fish, and were all taken by Sir Walter Raleigh, 24 Feb., between the cape and the islands; that he had some of their principal men on board his ship two days, and finding their lading only to consist of fish, he took out of each a small quantity of fish, a pipe of wine, and another of water, and then let them pass. John Gonzalvis, boatswain of the prize, affirms that he served Don Antonio at London, and knew Sir Walter Raleigh, and that when a prisoner on board him, he saw a pinnace in two halves, and gave other particuare tokens, so that there was no doubt he saw him. He also affirmed that he was merry, and in good health, as also his men, and that his fleet in all were seven sail, two of which were carvels, which they deemed he had taken, and that he set his course S.S.W.
1596. March 22.	101. Declarations of the disbursement of 30,569l. 4s. 9d. by Jas. Quarles and Marmaduke Darell, for victualling 4,490 mariners and 5,000 soldiers for five months. [1½ pages.]
March 22.	102. William Bishop, of Winchester, to Sir Robt. Cecil. Understanding that nothing else will content Her Majesty, I will yield her some satisfaction for Sir Fr. Carew, although greatly to my discredit, and to the prejudice of my successors, both of which I much tender, thus to overcharge my bishopric that no profit shall come to me or them so many years, saving a dry and sock rent. For her Highness's satisfaction, as also fro the clearing of my Lord your father, and yourself, who are thought too far to favour me, I will condescend to 1,000l. to Sir Francis, to be raised by a lease to be made to Her Majesty, and from her to such as I shall appoint, with some profitable clauses of provision, if any may be had, for 21 years, or 31 at the most, I have a conscience not to further burden the see, either in value or time. If this is not received, I must beg pardon for not granting more, and for standing resolutely in the defence of my bishopric, as bound both in duty and conscience, and I doubt not but Her Majesty will allow of it, if she is rightly informed. I have good reason thus to stand in the maintenance hereof, and in a further suit to her for my speedy restitution. I send some reasons herewith, which you may impart to her if you think fit. Encloses,
	102. i. Reasons for the restitution of the Bishop of Winchester; that for two years no Bishop has been there, the last Bishop having died before he came thither; that the country abounds with recusants, Jesuits, &c., and has many poor; that the houses, bridges, and other buildings in charge of the Bishop are much fallen to decay on account of the vacation, and some of the towers at Farnham Castle already fallen.
	102. ii. Valuation of the revenues of the bishopric of Winchester, total, 2,793l. 4s. 7¼.d.; but when the sums due to the Queen in first fruits, tenths, subsidies, &c., and other fees and annuities are deducted, there remains only 518l. 11s. 5¾d. The Bishop having been at great charges, requests leave to instal his payment of first fruits at five or six years. [2pages.]
March 23.	103. Answers to eight questions put to the Earl of Essex and the Lord Admiral respecting the fleet to be placed under their charge;—
	1. There are 17 ships, 3 pinnaces, and 10 double fly-boats to serve for victuallers, wherein 4,490 men of all sorts will serve.
	2. The whole navy is to be divided into four squadrons; the Earl of Essex and Lord Admiral to head two; Lord Thos. Howard is to be vice-admiral, Sir Walter Raleigh admiral of one squadron; Sir Robert Southwell and Robert Dudley are to be captains.
	3. They are to have like entertainment as allowed to similar officers in 1588, which can be seen in Sir John Hawkin's account.
	4. There has already been expended for prest, coat and conduct money, sea stores, grounding of the ships, and also for 1,000 bolts of canvas, 7,180l. The sea wages of 4,490 men for five months, at 14s. a man per month, will amount to 15,715l.; the conduct money to 1,483l. 6s. 8d.; and the tonnage of 10 fly-boats, for the five months to 1,000l., making a total of 18,198l. 6s. 8d., which may remain unpaid until the end of the service, as may also the charge of shipping the victuals for 5,000 soldiers, as it will be uncertain until the tonnage is knwon.
	5. Two books have been made out of the Ordnance office, one for the navy and the other for land service, by which will be seen the quantity of artillery and munition to be taken out of the stores, and what will have to be bought with ready money, the latter of which only amouts to 386l. 16s. in one book, and to 357l. 6s. 5d. in the other.
	6. Sir Geo. Carew, lieutenant of ordnance, is to have charge of all the ordnance, Capt. Goring is to be his lieutenant, and Linway his clerk.
	7. One thousand curiasses are to be sent to the ships out of the stores, and 172l. for emptions, with the charge of 10 armourers.
	8. Thirteen ships, two pinnaces, two galleys, one frigate, and two hoys are to be exempt from this service and remain behind; a list of which, with the names of persons fit to take charge of them, as also of the names of six good ships now abroad under the charge of Sir Fras. Drake and Sir John Hawkins, is to be furnished. [2 3/4 pages.]
March 23.	104. Answers to similar questions as to the land service:—
	1. The principal officers who are to have charge of the foot regiments are Sir Fras. Vere, as marshal, and Sir John Wingfield, Sir Thos. Gerard, Sir Conyers Cliffoed, and Sir Chr. Blount, as colonels.
	2. No entertainment will be required for them.
	3. Every colonel is to have bands for 150 men, and every other captain but 100, and no dead pays are to be allowed.
	4. The soldiers will be allowed 8d. a day, 6d. for victuals, and 2d. for wages, the latter not to be paid until their return, and the Earl offers to discharge the pay of 1,000 at their return.
	Marmaduke Darell is to have the charge of the victuals. A few of the soldiers are in the Queen's ships, but on coming to Plymouth, they will be put into others. The Queen is to appoint some sufficient person to keep perfect books of all her charges in the adventure; of her ships, artillery, and charge of money, and of the value of the prizes, and their preservation. The counsellors for the land forces are to be Sir Fras. Vere, with the four colonels; and those for the navy, Lord Thos. Howard, Sir Walter Raleigh, Sir Geo. Carew, and Sir Robert Southwell; the latter is thought fit for treasurer. The Earl of Essex offers to furnish 1,500 men with armour. The Earl and the Lord Admiral will have with them three ministers for common prayer, and every colonel is to find one. [1½ pages.]
March 23.	105. List of 52 officers who are to serve by land and sea, in the said expedition.
March 23.	106. List of 20 Queen's ships remaining at home, also of six others which will be shortly ready for service, together with the names of three noblemen and 16 gentlemen thought fit to take charge of them. And note that Sir Fras. Drake and Sir John Hawkins are likely soon to be at home.
March 23.	107. Note [by Lord Burghley] of money issued and to be issued for furnishing the ships, &c. for an intended expedition; total, 78,020l.
March 23.	108. Account of fees, &c. granted to the captains and the several officers and soldiers of the garrisons of the castlees in the west parts of England:—
			l	s.	d.
	Calshot Point, Jas. Parkinson, captain	total	173	7	6
	Hurst Castle, Sir Thos. Gorges	total	264	12	6
	Isle of Wight, Sir George Carey, in cluding Carisbrook, Sandham Bay, West Cowes, and Yarmouth Castles, Sharp Node Fort, and Worsley's Tower	total	506	8	9
	St. Andrew's Point, Simon Bowyer	total	98	5	0
	Portland Castle, Carew Raleigh	total	149	0	10
	Sandsfoot Castle, Sir George Trenchard	total	115	11	8
	St. Mawes, near Falmouth, Hannibal Vyvyan	total	118	12	6
	Pendennis, John Killigrew	total	118	12	6
	With notes that the fort at Letley is to be maintained by the Marquis of Winchester, by allowance made to his grandfather, William, late Marquis of Winchester, when he purchased Letley manor. That Portsmouth and its members are paid out of the Exchequer. That Arthur Harris is bound by his lease to repair and maintain the pier at St. Michael's Mount and find five soldiers for defence of the place; and that the payments for St. Mary's Island, Scilly, are made from the Exchequer. [5½ pages.]
March 23. Westminister.	109. Grant to Dr. Rob. Bennet of the office of Dean of the Chapel Royal, Windsor, void by promotion of Wm. Daye to the bishopric of Winchester. Endorsed "1603, Jan. 31. The draft of the deanery of Windsor, void by promotion of Dr. Bennet, for Giles Thompson, D.D." [1¼ pages. Latin.]
March 24.	110. "The words wherewith Edw. Hall is charged." After openly defending the priests and their religion, he said that it would not be well in England until there was a mutiny. He also told Caverley the priest that they need not look for death, for 38 was at hand. [See Williams's deposition of March 15 ante.]
March 25. Plymouth.	111. George Baron, deputy to Jas. Bagge, mayor of Plymouth, to the Privy Council. John Austin of London, a mariner from the fleet of Sir Fras. Drake and Sir John Hawkins, has brought a report of their late attempt southward. A Guernsey bark has arrived, having escaped a fleet of 10 sail, their companies compounded of English, Flemish, French, and Spaniards, all serving under the King of Spain, which now hover about the coast. I will let this be known all along the coast, I think the Dreadbnought, now here, and some other ships should encounter them. Encloses,
	111. i. Confession of John Austin, mariner of London, one of the late company of Sir Fras. Drake and Sir John Hawkins. Directions were given that if any of the fleet lost company, they should make for Guadaloupe, in the Indies; his ship did so, but having lost her rudder, failed, and was taken by five Spaniard frigates, and the crew imprisoned in the isle of St. John de Porto Rico. Sir Francis,. who lost company of Sir John Hawkins, was told of this by a bark that saw the fight. The prisoners were examined, and threatened with torture to tell what the English forces were. The Spaniards sunk ships in the harbour, to hindre their entrance. Sir Francis summoned the town, and on their refusing to yield, sent 15 vessels to burn the frigates in harbour; two were fired, but the lights thus made enabled the Spaniards to fire on the English ships, and drive them away. The English attacked the fort, but Sir John Hawkins was killed. Sir Francis sent back to the governor five prisoners whom he had taken, and begged that the Englishmen might be well treated and sent home, on which there was improvement in their diet,&c. Sir Francis then went to the south of the island, got provisions and water, and went to Carthagena. This was reported by two frigates that watched him, and then the treasure ships in Porto Rico, with four millions on board, sailed for Spain, and reached St. Lucar, bringing the English prisoners. who still remain in prison, but the examinate escaped. Two fleets, each of 25 ships and 5,000 men, are said to be sent out to follow Sir F. Drake. [2½pages.] 25 March 1596.
March 27. London.	112. Thos. Arundel to Sir Robt. Cecil. Having considerd the speech had with you yesterday, I have thought good to write my answer. Seeing Her Majesty is not pleased to allow the honour which was given me as a reward for my service against the enemy of Christianity, in all humilty I yield to her will, acknowledging her prerogative above any subject's interest. I have already and will again manifest this authority; but if any maliciour men, to entrap me, should give me this forbidden title, I beg not to be made answerable for the folly or lewdness of others. To avoid all these inconveniences and show my zeal to my Sovereign, I would be content to adventure is an East India voyage, and make no question but to do her acceptable service. I doubt not but, seeing I have been able to deserve well of the Emperor, I should be much more able, because more willing, to deserve better of her. Though I move this, do not importune, nor offer myself to this danger as being weary of life, but hoping to do her some extraordinary good service, for whose safety my life shall never be too dear. I entreat, above all things. Her Majesty's favourable conceit towards me. I will not defend the error of my own judgment, but my conscience cannot accuse me of any unloyal or unreverent thought of my most admired Princess. I enclose copies of the letters altered at your suggestion. Endorsed, "Mr. Thos. Arundel to my master. His disclaiming from the title of Count of the Empire."
March ?	113. Commission required by Sir Ferdinando Gorges for the office of captain and commander of the fortifications newly erected at Plymouth, pay 4s. a day, allowing him a lieutenant at 2s. a day, a gentleman porter 1s., three master gunners 3s., and 60 soldiers 8d. a day per man, to be paid from the customs of Devonshire and Cornwall; authorizing him to muster and call to gether the militia of Devonshire in defence of the fort when needul. [3 sheets.]
March 28. Richmond.	114. Patent, granting to Sir Ferdinando Gorges the offices of captain or keeper of the castle or fort lately built and fortified near Plymouth, and of captain of St. Nicholas's Isle, together with all wages, fees, &c. of such offices, to be taken out of the customs upon the transportation of pilchards from cos. Devon and Cornwall.
March 30.	115. Examination of Edward Hall before Att. Gen. Coke. Does not remember uttering any such words as are mentioned in the examination of John Williams, and Williams is his enemy.
March 31. Gatehouse, Westminster.	116. Edward Hall to Att. Gen. Coke. On my first examination, I could not remember the names of the three persons who had access to the priests in Wisbeach Castle, during the time my master had the keeping of them, but they were Dr. Farbeck alias Coming, Mr. Hill, and Mr. Newton. Dr. Farbeck is a doctor of physic, and commonly lies in term time at his chamber in the New Rents in Holborn; he is thought to be a recusant, and about once in two or three months. visits the priests, but chiefly Dr. Bagshaw.Mr. Hill is a gentleman of Yorkshire, and visits Mr. Caverley about as often. Mr. Newton is a great friend to the whole company, visits them two or three times a year, brings them the greater part of their maintenance, carries the common purse for them, and is held in reverence by the whole of them. Most part of his money is in French crowns, and he commonly stays with them four or five days, making great cheer, having plenty of wine. I could never learn where he had the money from.
	I have conferred with Mr. Tilletson, the priest, who is also a prisoner in the Gatehouse, about his escape from Wisbeach Castle, but he would give me no information, and only told me how strictly Mr. Topcliffe had examined him about it; that the Lord Treasurer had demanded an answer in writing of the manner and cause of his escape, and that he replied to the effect that he would rather put his life into his Lordship's hands, though he suffered never so many deaths, than answer the particulars demanded; but afterwards, lying in the Hole with Ellis, his man, who dwelt at Wisbeach and sometimes came to the castle (his wife being laundress to Mr. Tilletson, and a recusant), I demanded of him in secresy the manner of his escape. Mr. Tilletson came over the castle wall with a rope, about midnight, and went to the waterside, where he met Ellis with a boat, when they rowed together to Willingham in Cambridgeshire, where they landed, and went on foot to Rampton, three miles from Cambridge, to Mrs. Allcock, a recusant, who had been to Tilleston at the castle. There they took horse, and rode to Mr. Skrogg's house, within two miles of Bedford, but he durst not receive them; thence they went to Mr. Willowes's, three miles beyond Bedford, where they lodged that night, and were taken.
	Touching Mr. Laiton's speeches, last Michaelmas there was a great contention amongst the priests, as some of them would not acknowledge Mr. Edmundes, a Jesuit, to have any government over them, while others were content he should govern, according to the custom of their college in France. Mr. Laiton seemed to bear great sway amongst them, and I thought favoured Edmundes's authority, as Mr. Caverley,—understanding that Laiton was in town, and purposed to have come to the castle,—came to me, being then porter there, and asked me to signify to Mr. Barloe, a priest of the house, a special friend of Laiton and Caverley's adversary, that my master had received a warrant from Council for apprehending Laiton, whereby he might not come to the castle. They wanted to bar him the place, because he caused the controversey among them. I gave the message to Mr. Barloe, though knowing it at the time to be false, and Laiton did not come to the castle at the time, but he has been there since. I do not know whether he is a priest or not.
	I am wrongfully accused by Williams, my greatest enemy, who threatened to arrest me for a little money I received of him for another's use; each of us had the other in great malica and hatred; and Williams, not knowing how to be revenged, has, in my greatest toruble, suggested the speeches against me, which are false. I do not know what should be meant by the same, nor remember that I ever spoke them. I trust your Worship will not suffer me to perish, having no friends to do anything for me. Had I spoken such words last October, Williams would have long since made a report of them. I pray your favour in my misery, that I be not starved and famished in the dark hole of the prison, not having one penny nor friend to comfort me, nor to pay for one piece of bread, or for my washing and lodging; I lie in the hole upon the boards all night in my clothes. My poor father is unable to relieve me; I have sold and pledged all that I was able to make. I pray you to acquaint the Lord Keeper with my misery, as I was committed by his letter. I will be always ready and willing to confess all I know, and to prove what I have stated. [2 pages.]
March ?	117. Account of money received from the bishops of Llandaff, Coventry and Lichfield, Norwich, and Lincoln and from the diocese of Ely, for supplying light horse and petronels for Ireland; total, 594l. With various notes [by Lord Burghley].
[March.]	118. Account of weekly payments required for the forces in the Low Countries, from 9 June to 3 Aug 1596; total, 7,677l. 17s. 4d. With note by Sir Thos. Sherley, that it is to be advanced 28 April, being six weeks beforehand, with abatement of 1,700l. for the 1,700 men gone with the Earl of Essex. [3½ pages.]
March ?	119. — to Jaspar de Hugebart. It is supposed that the King of castile will not satisfy the merchants until it is seen what issue his army at sea will yield, having occasion to employ much therein which he cannot presently furnish, and pay them together. They pretend to master the sea, and to possess places where they may send from the Low Countries, as many men as they lost, and it is thought there will be 30,000 employed from the Low Countries; but of all they can arm in Spain, and which is supposed to be many, they cannot of the 60,000 furnish 16,000 that be practised and old soldiers, though they might come up to near 30,000 in garrisons and dispersed places. This will better appear if such as were meant to be levied come from Germany and Italy this summer. If you can hear of Hippolito, an Italian, described, and who is known in Sir Horatio Palavicio's house, —where he went after the wreck of the Spanish fleet, having been saved at Ireland eight years since, came to England, and remained in Sir Horatio's house as a servant,—and if he is now employed on the other side, he is employed [by] a man practised in stratagem. It will be easy to guess who set him to work, and he may be useful to the Levant governor, who is now wanting a meddler in like cases.