|
| Feb. 17. |
770. Walsingham to Lord Burghley. |
|
Recommends to his favour the bearer, who is desirous to
retire into England on account of his constancy in religion
in this hard time of trial, and also for the affection which
he has always borne to Her Majesty.—Paris, 17 Feb. 1572.
Signed.
Add. Endd. P. 2/3. |
| Feb. 17. |
771. News from France and Italy. |
|
James Frazer and Alexander Menzies, of Aberdeen, confess
that talking with two merchants of England, they said it was
a common bruit in France, that as soon as Rochelle was taken
the King of France would make war against England, and
make the Duke of Anjou King of England, whereunto James
Frazer, merrily talking by the way, as commonly men do use
to freely talk of all things, said, "It were a proper thing for a
King's brother to have such a kingdom as that is." As for the
Te Deum Laudamus, that was sung in Italy after the murder
of the Admiral, Frazer said he heard it himself, and all the
world affirms that it is most true it was sung in Rome. The
Pope has promised a sum of money for the maintenance of the
war against England by himself and the Kings of France and
Spain. Frazer says he is a kinsman of Lord Lovat, and that
his going into Italy was to see the country and the army
against the Turk. Two separate statements. Signed.
Endd.: 17th Feb. P. 1. |
| Feb. 18. |
772. H. Killegrew to Lord Burghley. |
|
On the 16th inst. the Lords on both sides met at his lodgings
and entered into conference, which proceeded hardly at first,
but next day it seemed much better. Cannot yet write anything to effect, but is in hope of a good accord for the two houses
of Huntley and Hamilton, and their dependants, so as then the
Castle will be the only let to the perfect union of the realm
and the obedience of the King. Beseeches him to hold his
hand, that the aid demanded by the Regent, and expected
by the nobility may be hastened after such sort, that if need
be it may serve the turn. St. Johnstone's, 18 February.
Signed.
Add. Endd. P. 1. |
| Feb. 18. |
773. H. Killegrew to [Sir Thomas Smith]. |
|
Arrived on the 15th, the same night came also the commissioners for the King and the Earl of Huntley and Lord
Arbroath, who were accompanied by 200 horse well appointed; the next day they met at his lodging, where the ice
was broken and their minds opened on both sides. Huntley,
first for himself, and Lord Arbroath, who was for his father
and his house, made known that some desired to be made sure
for any damages in body, lands, or goods since the taking of
the Queen at Carberry Hill; the commissioners answered in
general terms, but more coldly than Huntley looked for, so that
he was much discouraged until he put him in comfort to hope
for good and true meaning. The next day they grew to an issue
on both sides and agreed upon as many articles as they might
by their commission; certain points being condescended unto
by the Regent, he sees an universal union in the realm, in
consideration whereof he is driven to stretch his commission
to the uttermost, as great good may ensue of the accord.
There is nothing demanded touching the King's murder, but
of his Regents, of whom one was slain in war, and the
murderer of the other escaped. Sir James Balfour came at
his instance, and has done very good offices between
him and the Earl of Huntley, who, with Lord Arbroath, has
referred their differences to the Queen, on whom they mean
to depend, next to their own King, before any other prince in
Europe. Nothing is yet couched in writing on either side,
nor can well be until the return of the answer from the Regent,
who has as yet been pliable to anything that might content
the Queen. The first article concluded was touching religion,
wherein whosoever will take benefit of the pacification shall
swear to withstand them who go about to put into execution
the bloody device of the Council of Trent; in case they desist
hereafter from the King's obedience, this benefit shall stand
for null, and they "in statu quo prius." There only remains
the Castle to make the King universally obeyed, and the
realm united, which though it may be done without force, yet
in his simple opinion it stands more in reason and policy for
the Queen to hasten the aid. St. Johnstone's, 18 February.
Signed. |
|
P.S.—The Bishop of Galloway is not come to the Diet.
The Earl of Huntley is very reasonable, and inclined to depend upon the Queen; such as be wise here and love her
think it good that he were encouraged with some liberality, if
it were but a piece of money; he confesses already that the
Castilians abused him, and if the Regent consents to his
desires, he will declare more that shall be for the Queen's
service. Has had no time to deal with him about Gordon,
but shall not omit the occasion. The Regent does what he
can that the Queen may be honoured and loved in the country.
Pp. 4¼. |
| Feb. 18. |
774. Walsingham to Lord Burghley. |
|
Recommends the bearer, Captain Moleyns, Lieutenant of
the Scottish Guard, to his favour as being known to be zealous
for the religion; he cannot live in this country but with
danger. He is well affected to the present government of
Scotland, and will be able to do a great deal of good there.
Paris, 18 Feb. 1572. Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. P. 1. |
| Feb. 19. |
775. The Regent of Scotland to H. Killegrew. |
|
Understands by his letters his great care for quieting their
troubles, and his travail shall not be frustrate by his default.
Agrees to the doing of the King's commissioners; the Queen's
own resolution by her special writing has warranted him and
satisfied the people. Beseeches him to consider his own
state, and that he spares no pains to proceed forthwith,
although at some hazard. Is well contented of Sir James
Balfour being thereat. For the meeting with the Earl of
Huntley he will certainly follow his advice. Edinburgh,
19th February 1572. Signed.
Add. Endd. Noted by Burghley: Morton 1,500, Huntley
1,000, Argyle 1,000, Claud 500. P. 2/3. |
| Feb. 14. |
776. Advices from Italy. |
|
Rome, 14 Feb. 1573.—End of the disturbance at Urbino.
Passing events at the Papal court. News and reports from
Naples and Spain. |
|
Rome, 21 Feb. 1573.—Disturbance at Urbino. Preparations for war in Spain and Turkey.
Ital. Pp. 7½. |
| Feb. 21. |
777. News from Venice. |
|
From Lyons, on the 7th inst., it is reported that M. De
Villars has been shot, and that the Huguenots are as numerous as formerly. Preparations of the Turk for war. Levy
of forces in Venice. Election of the King of Poland.
Endd. Ital. Pp. 2. |
| Feb. 21. |
778. David Chalmers to Lord Burghley. |
|
Denies that he has had anything to do with setting forth
the book printed in France containing reproaches against his
Lordship's proceedings, or with procuring the interdiction in
Rouen against the Queen, or with encouraging those in the
Castle of Edinburgh with hope of aid from France. His Lord
ship's gentle offer to help him in his particulars deserved
greater thanks than to have been requited with such an
injurious manner of writing. Assures him that he shall
find any favour shown to him well employed.—Paris, 21 Feb.
1572. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 1¼. |
| Feb. 23. |
779. Charles IX. to [La Mothe Fenelon]. |
|
Is grieved to see the commerce between his subjects and
those of the Queen stopped by reason of the number of
pirates on the English coast, who are suffered to issue out of
and retire to the havens without any restraint. He is to
inform the Queen that he has forbidden his subjects to leave
his ports until they can do so with security, and that if this
continues he will be compelled to arm vessels for their protection. Complains especially of M. Haquin [Hawkins], who
is joined with certain of his rebels in the neighbourhood of
the Isle of Wight, to the number of 12 or 13 ships, with
which they carry provisions and munitions from England to
Rochelle, into which place they have also lately taken several
vessels as prizes.
Copy extract. Endd. Fr. P. ¾. |
| Feb. 23. |
780. The Submission of Huntley and the Hamiltons at
Perth. |
|
At Perth, the 23rd February 1572, Archibald Earl of Angus,
John Earl of Montrose, William Lord Ruthven, Robert Lord
Boyd, Robert commendator of Dunfermline, and Sir John
Bellenden, commissioners for the King, and George Earl of
Huntley for himself, his friends, servants, and partakers
depending upon him, and Lord John Hamilton, commendator
of the abbey of Aberbrothwick, for himself, and taking the
burden of Lord Claud Hamilton his brother, and all others
depending upon the Duke of Chatelherault, the father of the
house, convened for the treating of the removal of the public
troubles and civil war long continuing, to the displeasure of
God, the decay and danger of His true religion, the hurt and
prejudice of the King's authority, and confusion of the laws,
policy, and whole estate of the commonwealth, having thereunto the earnest motion and solicitation of the Queen of
England, nearest princess to the King both in blood and
habitation, by Mr. Henry Killegrew on her behalf, after
mature deliberation concorded and concluded as follows:—
1. That all persons who would enjoy and benefit from the
pacification should affirm and profess the confession of the
Christian faith and true religion of Jesus Christ publicly
preached in the realm, and shall to the uttermost of their
power maintain, fortify, and assist the true preachers and
professors of the Word of God against whatsoever enemies
or "againstanders" of the same, of whatsoever nation or
degree, that have joined or bound themselves or assisted to
execute the cruel decrees of the Council of Trent, which is
most injuriously called by the adversaries of God's truth the
Holy League. 2. That the Earl of Huntley and Lord John
Hamilton, for themselves and others, submit to the King's
obedience and government of his Regent, James Earl of
Morton, or other regents to be lawfully constituted during his
minority, and acknowledge themselves by their oaths and
subscriptions to be his debt-bound subjects. 3. They grant
and confess that all things done or assisted unto by them in
name or by colour of any other authority has been unlawful,
is of no strength, force, or effect, and shall have no execution in any time bypast or to come. 4. That it shall be
ordained by an act of parliament that no subjects of the
realm shall directly or indirectly show favour to any that
shall privily practise or openly pretend any treasonable fact,
uproar, or hostility against the true religion, the King, or the
Regent, and in case any now returning, or that shall happen
to be received to the King's obedience, do in the contrary, and
resist not the treasonable hostility, the King's remission or
pardon shall not serve or be extended in their favour hereafter, but they will be pursued and punished as if no remission had been granted. 5. That all persons professing the
King's obedience dispossessed during the late troubles, shall
presently repossess their houses, livings, lands, and all moveables
except horse and armour, for execution whereof the Regent shall
direct letters, under pains of treason or horning. 6. That the
house of Spynie be delivered to the King upon 15 days' warning. 7. That the Master of Forbes and James Glen of Barr and
his sons and all other prisoners be set at liberty; that Lord
Semple's bond and other bonds for entry of prisoners or payment of ransom be free and discharged. 8. All things promised by abstinence shall be performed, and all things to the
contrary fully restored and repaired. 9. The Earl of Huntley
and Lord John Hamilton shall break and discharge their men
of war. For the better assurance of those returning to the
King's obedience, cautioners and sureties are to be bound for
their obedience in time to come, wherein, at the suit of the
Queen of England's ambassador, they have referred themselves
to the will and discretion of the Regent. 10. It shall be
decreed by act of parliament that the processes and sentences
passed by "domes" of forfeiture, and all horning and penalties
arising therefrom against certain members of the house of
Hamilton and others, to the number of 35 (whose names are
given), since the 15th June 1567, shall be void and of none
effect. 11. They shall have license and favour to reduce their
forfeitures for such reasonable causes as they can libel.
12. Toward the escheat of their moveables fallen through any
crime committed in the common cause, the same shall remain,
provided always, that all moveables and debt intromitted with
and "uptaken" before the according to of the abstinence on
the penult. day of July shall remain with the donators and
intromitters. 13. All persons returning to the King's obedience who have been dispossessed of their lands or heritages
by forfeiture or barratry shall be restored effectually to the
possession thereof. 14. All shall be free remitted of all
treasons, transgressions, or offences committed by them since
the 15th June 1567, incest, witchcraft, and theft excepted.
This does not extend to the murder of the Earls of Murray
and Lennox, late Regents, which is a matter of such weight
and importance that the Regent cannot conveniently of himself remit them; yet the matter of the remission of the
murders being moved to the Queen of England, whatever she
shall advise and counsel the Regent, with consent of parliament, will perform and observe. 15. If any desire remission
of crimes committed before the 15th June 1567, the same
shall be granted, the persons and crimes being notified. The
murder of the late King and certain other specified crimes being
excepted. 16. All civil processes whereby the said persons find
themselves grieved or injured shall be reviewed by the judges
ordinary. 17. It shall be moved to the Queen of England as to
the fruits and moveables which the persons now returning to the
King's obedience have taken, or damage or scathe committed
by them. 18. The rent, fee farms, and mails of the lands of
Petteindrith and third of Dumfries in Moray, being a part of
the King's property intromitted and uptaken by the Earl of
Huntley, shall be freely remitted and discharged. Touching
the rent of thirds of benefices, common kirk or friar lands
intromitted and uptaken by the Earl of Huntley and Lord
John Hamilton, the Regent shall make suit at the General
Assembly for procuring discharge. 19. All persons comprehended in the pacification shall be received and entertained as
the King's free lieges in all parts of the realm. 20. The heirs
and successors of persons forfeited comprehended under the
Pacification shall be restored to their lands and possessions,
and "exercise" all lawful deeds in judgment. 21. That
certain captains of men of war (whose names are given), and
all soldiers serving under their charges, shall be comprehended
in the pacification for all hostility and crime committed during
the troubles before the last day of July, being always subject
to answer for all things done since the abstinence. 22. The
articles and conditions shall be further extended if need be,
the substance not being altered, and being amply interpreted. 23. The pacification does not extend to any persons
absent forth of the realm, nor to any person specially excepted
in the first abstinence accorded the penult. day of July.
24. The King's commissioners and the other noblemen
solemnly promise and swear the true intention and faithful
performance and observation of the whole articles of the
present pacification. 25. No horning for payment of thirds
executed against the persons now returning to the King's
obedience shall be valid, the present pacification being
sufficient relaxation, and this shall extend for all things done
in the common cause. Sic subscribitur: Archibald Earl of
Argyle, Huntley, Montrose, John Aberbrothok, Ruthven,
Boyd, Dunfermline, Bellenden.
Marginally noted and endorsed by Lord Burghley. Pp. 7. |
| Feb. 23. |
781. Proclamation by the Earl of Huntley and Lord
John Hamilton. |
|
At the earnest motion and solicitation of the Queen of
England an accord and pacification of the civil war and
troubles has been made and concluded, and has been extended
towards them for the surety of their lives, living, honours,
and goods. Have required the Ambassador to promise for
them that they will truly and faithfully observe the pacification, and that the Queen shall interpret herself surety and
cautioner for them to that effect. Lord John Hamilton takes
the burden upon him for his brother Lord Claud Hamilton,
the commendator of Paisley, and promises to faithfully observe
and keep the pacification.—Perth, 23rd Feb. 1572.
Endd. by Lord Burleigh. P. 1. |
| Feb. 23. |
782. Killegrew's Promise for the Earl of Huntley, &c. |
|
In the Queen's name and by virtue of his commission he
promises to the Earl of Huntley and Lord John Hamilton,
the commendator of Aberbrothok, that the Regent shall perform whatsoever Her Majesty shall decide touching the remission of the murders of the late Regents, and "discharge
of the fruits, moveable goods and other dampnagies" shall
be purchased and obtained to them, their kinsfolk, servants,
and partakers, excepting the persons specified in the abstinence.
Also that the pacification shall be truly observed towards
them, and that the Queen shall interpose as conservatrix
thereof, and endeavour to cause the same to be truly and
sincerely kept.—23 Feb. 1572.
Endd. by Killegrew: "A copy of my promise made at
Perth to the Earl of Huntley and the Duke's children." And
by Burghley: 23rd Feb. 1572. Mutilated. P. 1. |
| Feb. 23. |
783. Copy of the above.
Endd. P. 1. |
| Feb. 23. |
784. Lethington and Grange to the Earl of Huntley. |
|
Pray him to write amply of what has proceeded between
him and those he met at Perth. No doubt Mr. Killegrew
will use the persuasions he can, and perhaps threatening in
his mistress' name, but trust that will not make him hastily
yield, for they are assuredly persuaded that the Queen of
England will not send forces nor take the matter on her to
meddle openly, for if she so do she is assured to provoke France
to the like, and by that means bring more cumber to herself
than is convenient. They will give the Earl of Morton and
all his men of war enough to do to wait upon them, that
they shall not have leisure to take any other thing in hand.
If forces be used against him greater than he may resist,
albeit he take appointment, his honour will be saved, and
they will be aye content to offer him measure; but to yield
to words before he sees likelihood of force, they trust he is
wise enough to foresee what is honourable and expedient.
Understand from Mr. James Kyrkcaldy's despatch that
France will not spare expense to preserve them; they are not
discouraged of the fortune happened to him by treason of
those in whom they lippened; if they had taken heed of the
advertisement he (Huntley) made them divers times it had
not chanced, but it is more honest to be deceived than to
deceive. They have lost nothing but a little silver which
they respect not "meikle," for it makes nothing to the weal
or wreck of the principal cause; at the worst it will make
their debts longer in paying; he that sent the money has money
enough behind to help, and they doubt not of his goodwill.
They pray him be not sudden, for France will not fail to
help with men and money, and England dare do nothing.
Are able enough to hold their soldiers doing, so that
Morton shall not "sparkell" his forces. They hope after
hasty relief for so has the Bishop of Galloway assured them.
Signed: W. Maitland; W. Kyrkcaldy.
Endd. by Killegrew: "A copy of the Lairds of Lethington
and Grange's letter to the Earl of Huntley." P. 1. |
| Feb. 23. |
785. H. Killegrew to Lord Burghley. |
|
The Bishop of Galloway desire him to procure a passport
that his son might return by England; he answered that
if he would write to his son he would cause the letter and
the licence to be sent to the ambassador in France, who would
serve his turn. Having had some general speeches with
the Earl of Huntley, was desired to convey the enclosed.
Knows not what is written, but would be loth to give any
offence. The messenger from the Bishop of Galloway said
that an open letter had been sent him to be conveyed to
his son, but none came to hand.—St. Johnstone's, 23 Feb.
Signed.
Add. Endd. P. 1. |
|
786. The Bishop of Galloway to H. Killegrew. |
|
The appointment was not kept by his nephew at Perth,
therefore sends his servant to show his good mind. Showed
him in Edinburgh Castle what his son wrote to him of this
last tribulation in France, and how willing he was to return,
whereunto he prays him specially to aid him, as he has
given charge to the bearer to declare.—Tongueland, 11 Feb.
Signed.
Add. Endd. P. ½. Enclosure. |
| Feb. 23. |
787. H. Killegrew to Sir Thomas Smith. |
|
This day upon answer from the Regent the articles of
accord and pacification were subscribed of both parts, and
so a peace established universal in the realm, the Castle
only excepted, which lies in the Queen to subdue with
more security than before. Is now ready towards Aberdeen,
whither he accompanies the Earl of Huntley to embrace the
Regent, and trusts to draw on a good intelligence between
them; that done, he means to enter into treaty for the
Castilians. A gentleman will be dispatched who will bring
him the accord with all circumstances. Trusts he will hasten
Captain Errington and his errand forward, that now while
the iron is hot it may be striken with profit. All the harm
they have done at Edinburgh is the death of one woman.—
Perth, 23rd, at night. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. 1. |
| Feb. 24. |
788. M. De la Mothe Fenelon to Lord Burghley. |
|
Begs that the Queen will excuse the mistake which he
made last Sunday in giving her a note which she had already
seen, instead of the one which he now sends. Desires that
the other note may be returned by the bearer, together with
another touching the reports which have been brought to
the King concerning naval preparations in England. If these
are allowed to continue he will have just cause to ever after
doubt the good faith and promises of the Queen of England,
since instead of the aid which he might expect according
to the treaty, he sees vessels fully equipped and armed going
out of her ports to make war against him.—London, 24 Feb.
1573. Signed.
Add. Endd. Fr. P. 1. |
| Feb. 25. |
789. Walsingham to Lord Burghley. |
|
Both Gurdon [Gordon] and Chambres [Chalmers] have
lately been with him, and made great protestations of innocency touching the book. Gordon knows the author, but
thinks it not his office to be an accuser. The other protests
that he neither saw the book nor knew the author. The
liberty of lewd speaking and infamous writing is over much
tolerated here. Can hear no further touching the matter
Dalvyson deals in.—Paris, 25 Feb. 1572. Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. P. 1. |
| Feb. 25. |
790. John Fostar to Walsingham. |
|
Passing by Avignon he heard news of Marshal Danville's
camp before Sommieres, and that they had given a sharp
assault to the town, which was repulsed with the loss of 500
of their best soldiers. They say that the chief captain of
Nismes entered the town with 400 men two days before the
assault was given.—Marseilles, 25 Feb. 1573. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. ½. |
| Feb. 26. |
791. H. Killegrew to Sir Thomas Smith. |
|
Has received a letter from the Lord President at York,
to whom he wrote the Regent's mind touching the stay of
Verac, and others with him; it seems God will prosper the
work when he stays such hinderers as Verac would have been
to the furtherance thereof. The Regent takes most thankfully the Queen's good meaning to assist in the recovery of
the Castle; after some conference with the Earl of Huntley
it will be known how and after what sort the Castilians are
to be dealt withal, wherein nothing shall be omitted that
might bring them to reason, without force. If Verac had
arrived in time it would have done great harm; he has a tail
behind which by diligence may be cut off from doing any
harm afterwards. For these six months the Queen of Scots'
faction have had no intelligence from her but by way of
France. Ferniehurst, who lies under Sir John Forster, wrote
to Huntley saying his appointing had undone them all,
and if he could have been patient for a while, there would
have come such support as would have made them triumph
over their enemies; if it be thought good that Ferniehurst
should be kept in England, some other place further off the
Borders were more fit for his abode. He is still borne in
hand that there is some device to deliver the Scottish Queen
out of England, but can see no ground. James Kyrkcaldy
says the ruin of England and Scotland is intended, and can
hardly be prevented unless he shew the mean; he is a
prisoner, and it may be he uses the example of him that
would make an ass to speak, howbeit he is still afraid of
these kind of speeches. The Castilians continue in their
obstinacy, but all things go against them, their "spials" and
messengers are discovered, and their intelligence-givers, of
whom the chief was Lord Seton, who will do so no more if
he (Smith) will trust him. The young Baron Boghill who
was in the Castle, and his father in trouble for him, is come
out, and Robert Kyrkcaldy that was porter has left them,
and committed himself to the Regent's mercy.—Aberdeen,
26 Feb. Signed.
Add. Endd. by Lord Burghley. Pp. 3. |
| Feb. 23. |
792. The first article of the pacification concluded on the 23rd
February.
Enclosure. P. ½. |
| Feb. 26. |
793. Sir W. Drury to Lord Burghley. |
|
As he has desired his simple opinion touching the journey
against the Castle of Edinburgh, has thought good to send
his servant Williams, to whom he has heretofore committed
sundry secrets, having found him faithful and trusty; some
cause unwished for he has also to send him for, to see and
present his duty to his old good father, who is extremely
visited with sickness. Has signified to Killegrew his opinion
for his dealing with the Regent, how the Queen's charges
shall be answered if the Castle be won by her means. His
weakness and insufficiency considered he would have wished
the charge of the forces in Scotland given to a more able person,
but since it is the Queen's pleasure he will, to his poor power,
play his part; if the adventuring of his life will serve the
same, it shall be put in execution.—York, 26 February.
Signed.
Add. Endd. by Burghley. P. 1½. |
| Feb. 26. |
794. Bishop of Galloway to H. Killegrew. |
|
Understands all matters shall now be compounded and
agreed. Has been evil handled by John Moscrop, an advocate
of Edinburgh, who received his writings and promised faithfully to deliver them into his (Killegrew's) hand, together
with one directed to his son John; has requested his good
friend Alexander Hay to inquire for them, he will do goodwill to make him know his fault. Hopes he will perfect
the good work he has begun, and do all good offices to satisfy
the nobility and gentlemen in the Castle.—Tongueland, 26
February. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. ¾. |
| Feb. 27. |
795. Laurence Gordon to John Gordon. |
|
Praised be God there is a godly pacification and final agreement made in this country, through the "incessive" labors of
the Ambassador of England, whose kindness and loving favor
extended to their father is very great and worthy of perpetual service. It may stand that in his coming through
England he may find him at Cambridge, for he is laboring
at his father's hand to that effect.—Tongueland, 27 February.
Signed.
Add. Endd. by Burghley. P. ½. |
| Feb. 27. |
796. The Bishop of Galloway to Alexander Hay. |
|
Wishes that those in the Castle might be brought to be pacified, that no further occasion of trouble might follow. When the
(English) ambassador wrote to him at the taking of the last
abstinence, he "ran counter" Mr. John Moscrop who offered
himself to carry his writings, and promised in three days to
deliver them, wherein he has failed; prays him to enquire
for them and to deliver them to the ambassador. The
occasion why he is offended proceeds of an advertisement that
his son John had set forth a book, and in the prologue
thereof written various "blasphemations" against the principal councillors of England; he wrote to him to stay his purpose, the ambassador having taken in hand to send the same.
Doubts not but that the Regent will regard him according to
his estate, for none in the realm has greater loss thereby, for
he has no means to keep him from Mr. Alexander Crawford,
who has seven years' pension to lay to his charge, but
the Queen of Scots' obligation for a pension of 2,000 francs
upon her domains in France. Since Verac's last arrival to
France his son John has gotten for him a patent of the King
of France of 2,000 francs in yearly pension. Were pacification made amongst the nobility, that the religion might
stand, he had rather quit the premises and the rest he has
behind.—Tongueland, 27 February. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. 1. |
| Feb. 27. |
797. Advices from Genoa. |
|
Genoa, 27 February.—Marc Antonio Colonna was despatched
with favour from the King of Spain. Order has been sent to
Italy to raise 16,000 infantry, who shall be commanded by
Pagano Doria, Ferrante and Octavio Gonzaga. Other
forces are being levied in Spain, part of which shall serve the
League, and the others go into Flanders, where it is rumoured
that Ernest, the Emperor's son, shall go as Governor, having
for counsellor the Grand Commendator. The Dukes of Medina
and Alva shall return into Spain. Preparations by the League
and the Turk.
Endd. Ital. P. 2/3. |
| Feb. 28. |
798. Proclamation in the Low Countries. |
|
Ordering that no man shall have any conference with
the enemy, or furnish them with money, victuals, or in any
way assist them, upon pain of life. All corn to be thrashed,
and the grain brought into fortified places within ten days;
all hay and forage for horses to be burnt on the approach
of the enemy, and heed to be taken to save all cattle, and
watch to be kept day and night upon every village steeple.
Millers are to remove all gear belonging to their mills, and
bridges to be broken down or defended.—Antwerp, 28 Feb
1573.
Copy. Mutilated. Endd. Pp. 3. |
|
799. Abstract of the above.
Endd. Pp. 1¼. |
| Feb. 28. |
800. Walsingham to Lord Burghley. |
|
1. The great brags of 15,000 or 16,000 men that should be
at Rochelle are found now upon a late muster not to be
above 3,000, and the supply that accompanies the Admiral
amounts not to so many more, and yet if the companies were
complete according to the King's pay they should be above
16,000. They fortify themselves in villages about Rochelle.
They advise the King to make an army by sea, for otherwise
they think that their land siege will not prevail. There
is great confusion and discontent in the camp, so that many
captains and soldiers depart. They have been so well beaten
by them of the town in certain sallies that they list not
to encounter with them. There has not been one cannon
discharged by them of the town. Some say that the six
ships which arrived in the haven took one of the King's
galleys. There is some talk of a Council Provincial to take
order for the allotting of some exercise of religion, which is
thought to be but a trap to snare them of the religion.
Three thousand people have taken arms in the neighbourhood of Limousin, who give themselves to spoil, and impeach the victuals that should go for the furniture of the
camp before Rochelle. The four cities of the Duke of Urbino
hold out, and are thought to have some support of the Duke
of Florence. The Pope, Ferrara, and Parma promise aid to
the Duke of Urbino. An Italian who departed the 25th
inst. from Antwerp, reports that the Admiral of Flushing
has distressed certain ships in the river not far from Antwerp;
also that there is no good intelligence between the Dukes
of Alva and Medina Celi, and that Alva was never more
hated, or the Prince in greater reputation than now. Divers
merchants strangers, seeing no hope of quietness, mean to
retire themselves. Chapin Vitelli told the party that he
never saw the country in so great danger of losing as
presently it is.—Paris, 28 Feb. 1572. Signed. |
|
2. P.S.—Sends copy of M. La Mole's letter of the 11th inst.
What the meaning should be he knows not. The party who
brought it was as vain as vanity itself. Told him that La
Mole might repair to him without danger at any time for
anything that he knew. Has lately granted a passport to
one who carries a box of linen to the Queen of Scots. Thinks
that Burghley will find somewhat written in some of the
linen which will be worth reading. "Her Majesty, under
colour of seeing the fashion of the ruffs, may cause the several
pieces of linen to be held before a fire, whereby the writing
may appear."
Add. Endd., with seal. Pp. 3½. |
| Feb. 11. |
801. M. La Mole to Walsingham. |
|
Original of the copy forwarded to Burghley on the 28th
Feb. Is sorry that he could not come to take leave of him
before his departure from Paris. Advises that the Queen
Mother should be induced to send for the Duke of Alençon
under colour that the Earl of Worcester desires to see him.
Is sending a messenger to M. Maisonfleur, for whom he
requests a passport.—Niort, 11 Feb. Signed.
Add. Enclosure. Fr. P. 1. |
| Feb. 29. |
802. Earl of Huntingdon to Lord Burghley. |
|
Is not a little glad of the purpose to send some men, but wishes
they might be with speed dispatched, for it is more than time,
and is most necessary, if to provide for surety save expenses and
men's lives be necessary. The Castilians will never of themselves yield for anything the Regent can do against them without the assistance of the Queen. It is rather to be doubted that
the comfort which they may have from France, and the gifts
and fair promises which may be offered to the Regent and his
party, will make the King's side content themselves with some
such composition as will not be liked of. The Castle hitherto
expect comfort from France, and little doubt of anything
England will do. The Castle had, it may settle Scotland
wholly to the devotion of England; the opportunity lost, it
may be doubted whether it will ever be recovered. Prays
him to be, as he has been in all good causes, an earnest solicitor. The nature of their good sovereign is too good for the
froward, false, and subtle generation with which God has
matched her. Verac alone, and that which he carried, was able
to do the Queen a great deal of charge and trouble before it
were removed, but that is prevented, and Verac is at Mr.
Boynton's house. Has sent him word that till he knows
certainly what he has brought with him he shall be well used,
and search being made he will either send to know the
Queen's pleasure or send him up to her. Five or six hundred
men may be quickly levied with small trouble or charge to the
country, and some may be taken up in the Bishopric.—York,
29 Feb. 1572. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 2. |
| Feb. |
803. Rowland Johnson to the Privy Council. |
|
The bridge at Berwick is now fully accomplished from the
end next the town, all over the river of Tweed, to the stone
tower, 600 feet long, saving a few planks, the drawbridge and
12 braces, which 50 tons of timber will suffice to accomplish
thoroughly. From the stone tower to the end next Tweedmouth, 160 feet long, it is utterly decayed, so that no weighty
carriages can pass over. It were needful that timber and iron
were provided in the summer, as winter work is chargeable by
means of the short days, and the tides are no small hindrance.
For the piece of work that is done already, many of the poor
artificers and labourers are unpaid, and make great clamour
and exclamation for their wages, as they have nothing else to
live on, Sir Valentine Browne in the meantime relieving them
with victuals. Hopes it may please them to write in his
favour to Sir Valentine Browne to pay him his own wages as
are due to him from time to time, otherwise he is not able to
live there. Of late Sir W. Drury and Mr. Killegrew commanded him to ride to Edinburgh and to take a perfect survey
both of the Castle and town, wherein he did his best to show
everything in the plat. The survey was hard to take, as the
trenches at the back of the Castle were uncut, where they
issued forth as oft as they list, both day and night, and took
in fresh water from a well without the Castle. He showed
how to cut the trenches, and then they came not much
forth again. His poor opinion is that if letters should be
written to the Regent in the Queen's name, that, till the
arrival of the army and munitions, he should keep them
so strait within the Castle that they should have no relief
of fresh water or victual, it would make them come to any
composition the Queen and their Lordships may think meet.
If they yield not then, within 20 days after the ordnance is
placed according to the plat, the Castle will be at the Queen's
devotion. Has been these 20 years in displeasure with divers
lords in Scotland for overthrowing sixteen of their chief stone
houses in King Edward's time and since, as he has been commanded. It is very sore that he should be sent, as it were,
alone to spy such places, for should he fall into their hands
his reward would be something sharp.—Berwick, Feb. 1572.
Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 2¾. |
| Feb. |
804. News from Italy and Antwerp. |
|
1. By letters out of Italy of 31 Jan., they write that four
towns have revolted against the Duke of Urbino. The
Turk has written to Poland that in no case shall they
choose any of the House of Austria, promising that if they
choose M. D'Anjou that he will employ his forces in the
recovery of all that the Muscovite withholds from them. |
|
2. Antwerp, 16 Feb.—There is great scarcity in the Duke
of Alva's camp before Haarlem, and great preparations at
Antwerp for some enterprise to be done about Flushing. |
|
3. Occurrents from 12 Feb.—There lately arrived a gentleman sent from the Pope, with a sword and cap of maintenance in further approbation of the French King's proceedings. About the 18th the King of Portugal sent to congratulate the Queen's delivery.
Endd. P. 1. |
| [Feb.] |
805. Renewal of the Intercourse with Spain and the Low
Countries. |
|
Translation into Spanish of a letter from Burghley to
Antonio Guerras, assuring him of the desire of the Queen
and himself to preserve friendship with the King of Spain,
and also his opinion on certain articles providing for a renewal of the intercourse with Spain and the Low Countries
which Guerras had delivered to him. (See next number.)
Copy. Endd. Span. Pp. 4¾. |
| [Feb.] |
806. Renewal of the Intercourse with Spain and the Low
Countries. |
|
Burghley's opinion on certain articles delivered to him by
Antonio Guerras on the part of the Duke of Alva, providing
for a renewal of the intercourse between the subjects of the
Queen of England and the King of Spain, and for the
determination of controversies which gave rise to the arrest.
To these he thinks it necessary to add that the Queen's
subjects shall be permitted the use of their religion secretly
in their own houses without molestation by the Inquisition.
If any shall offend openly by deed, word, or writing against
the religion used in Spain, they shall, upon conviction,
depart out of the country within 40 days, and shall not
return without express license from the King, upon pain to
be subject to the order of the Inquisition. There are also
many other things to be accorded, as in sort the ambassadors of both Princes shall govern themselves for enjoying
their liberties and privileges, and also it is to be provided
that neither of the said Princes shall suffer the subjects of
either who are condemned for treason or rebellion to remain
in their countries. In order to avoid delay, Burghley promises to the uttermost of his power to further the observance
of these articles.
Partly in Burghley's writing. Endd. Pp. 3¾. |
|
807. Draft of part of the above in Burghley's writing.
Endd. Pp. 3. |
