|
| March 1. |
149. The Prince of Navarre to the Queen of Navarre. |
|
Has received her letter, and refers her for answer to M.
de Beauvoir and M. le Chancelier. Is anxious to learn the
will of Madame [Marguerite] touching the form of religion.
Perceives from her discourse that their design is to alienate
him from the religion and from her, but they shall not gain
their point, and there shall never be a more obedient son than
he.—Mont de Marsan, 1 March 1572. Signed.
Copy. Endd. Fr. P. 1. |
| March 1. |
150. Lord Scrope to Lord Burghley. |
|
The Borders have been by the space of almost five weeks in
good and quiet state, but yesternight the Laird of Whithaugh,
with certain disordered people of Liddlesdale, came upon
some tenants of Christopher Davies and seized 40 head of
cattle, but all were recovered except four nags and three kine.
Is forced to keep his chamber from a fit of ague.—Carlisle,
1 March 1571. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. ½. |
| March 2. |
151. Walsingham to Lord Burghley. |
|
Is sorry to see Her Majesty carried away with over much
lenity in a time so needful to do justice, which, besides her
own danger, makes her of less reputation here abroad, for that
they think she cannot in policy long stand; the execution of
that being deferred that should procure her safety, They
are here very forward in hope touching the third person, and
especially the Queen Mother, who, however, receives no other
hope at their hands but that they wish Her Majesty married.
Begs that he may be allowed to return home to enjoy and
save the poor living that the law has lately cast upon him
through Burghley's good assistance. Has already spent a
third of his substance. The evil proceeding of things at
home moves him to make this motion.—Blois, 2 March 1571.
Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 2. |
| March 3. |
152. Walsingham to Lord Burghley. |
|
So greatly do the charges here daily increase, and so fast
does he consume, being now driven to run upon interest, that
mere necessity moves him to desire his revocation. Being
here only a year and somewhat more, he has, besides Her
Majesty's allowance and his own ordinary living, dispended
of his own 1,600l., he has decayed his living by 60l. land a
year, which he has sold, and is in debt above 730l. Is
driven to confess himself to be "one of those evil stakes that
cannot stand above a year in a hedge."—Blois, 3 March 1572.
Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. P. ½. |
| March 3. |
153. A Ticket from the Castle. |
|
Their letter sent yesterday, when it was shown to the
Lords, appeared to be a direct breaking up of the treaty, for
they required without further conference a direct answer to
the points most prejudicial, or else there could be no further
dealing. Looked for more favourable and friendly dealing,
and remind them how plain they were privately with them,
whereof they might have conceived that they meant to deal
"squarely." Complain that they would have them depend
upon uncertainties.
Endd. P. ⅓. |
| March 4. |
154. Articles for the Pacification of Scotland. |
|
Articles containing generally the intentions of the Queen of
England for the reduction of the realm of Scotland to an
inward peace. Nine articles stipulating for the acknowledgment of the King's authority and the Regent Marr's government, and providing for the surety of the Queen of Scots'
party and the future government of the country, together
with the answers of the Queen's party objecting to the
acknowledgment of the King and Regent's authority, and
requiring further guarantees for their own safety.
Endd. by Lord Burghley and Sir William Drury. Pp. 5. |
| March 6. |
155. Notes by Sir William Drury. |
|
Disconnected notes in Drury's writing, endorsed by Lord
Burghley "Notes for John Case." 6 March 1571. Pp. 1½. |
| March 6 |
156. Memorial by Lord Home. |
|
Denies that he has ever done anything of set purpose to
displease the Queen of England. If, however, she thinks his
offence great, he trusts that she will also think that it is
already sufficiently punished, and that now justly she may
remove the scourge with which he has been whipped. Complains of the losses he has sustained by the keeping of his
houses from him, and begs that they may be restored to his
wife, in which case he will either remain where he is or pass
beyond the seas.
Endd. P. ¾. |
| March 6. |
157. The Earl of Morton to the Earl of Leicester. |
|
Thanks him for his several friendly and gentle letters, by
which he perceives the foreign preparation intending to disturb the quietness of this isle. Doubts not that the Queen
will put such remedy with timeous provision that the enemy
will leave off their attempts, or find themselves frustrate
therein. Refers him to the Regent's letters for the proceedings of their adversaries. Leith, 6 March 1571. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. ⅓. |
| March 6. |
158. The Earl of Marr to Queen Elizabeth. |
|
They have willingly given ear to the motions of her Commissioners and thankfully accepted her goodwill. Whatsoever
their adversaries have written to her or promised, they still
practise to delude and redeem time until they receive the
succours of men and money looked for from France and Spain.
Had hoped to have received from her Commissioners her good
answer anent their demands sent by James Cunningham,
especially for support of money for the payment of their men
of war, the want whereof has put their matters in no small
hazard, as the soldiers cannot remove from this town for execution of such exploits as might be attempted otherwise, and
can hardly be kept in discipline. Their enemies, not ignorant
of their estate, are grown proud and brag not a little. Leith,
6 March 1571. Signed.
Add. Endd. by Burghley. Pp. 12/3. |
| March 6. |
159. John Lord Darcy to Lord Burghley. |
|
Has stayed a Scottish ship with a chest sent from London
into Scotland, until he may know his pleasure therein. Advertises him of the armament of the ship wherein Lord Seton
arrived. Sends certain Dutch letters and also other letters
and books directed to the Provost of Aberdeen. Harwich,
6 March 1571. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. 1. |
| March 6. |
160. Archibald Douglas to Lord Burghley. |
|
Thanks him for the consideration of 100l. delivered to him
by Sir William Drury, which he knows has proceeded more
of his Lordship's good inclination than of his own deserving,
he being (as yet) unknown to Her Highness. Will do all
pleasure and lawful service in these parts, both to the Queen
and to his Lordship.—Leith, 6 March 1571. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. ⅓. |
| March 7. |
161. Sir William Drury and Randolph to Lord Burghley. |
|
The multitude of matters so increases that no time will
suffice to put in writing the least part of that which they are
desirous should come to his knowledge, and therefore they
refer him to the bearer. Find great heart burning of either
side, yet both seeming to be very desirous of peace and
concord. As they may judge most indifferently the Regent's
party, as it is the stronger, so is it the most reasonable to
yield to their demands, and willing that the Queen shall be
the mediatrix of any accord. The other, either not liking
the way devised, or finding in themselves such gnawing
worms of conscience that they can have no trust in anything,
or not contented but with their own devices, utterly refuse their
obedience to the King, but most of all mislike this Regent.
They have offered that if in conscience and honour they
might be satisfied that they might leave their Queen and
obey the King, and could find surety to themselves in so
doing, they would the willinglier yield to their demands.
"If most of these men were not well known unto your
Lordship, both for their faith, honour, and conscience, that in
so many acts against all honour and conscience have dealt so
foully and shamefully, it might be well thought that these
doings might much move them, but where neither of these
are, and they used for cloaks and colours to their evil intents,
what can be said to satisfy them?" |
|
2. Their new devised Aristocratia, or rather Holigarchia, so
well contents their fantasies that they say there is no other
safety for them but to have that confirmed; but it will
breed as great confusion and mischief as ever was in any
commonwealth. Sends copies of articles and "tickets" which
have passed between them. Doubt not for all this that they
will bring them to a more reasonable point if they can provide
sufficiently for their surety. If Her Majesty interpone not,
and in this point promise earnestly for them; "if they were
able to set all the devils in hell loose to make mischief they
would not leave one of them untied." Therefore the special
cause why they send this bearer is to know how far they
may promise in this point, as well to satisfy them as to
content the Regent and his party. Upon this depends the
weight of the whole cause. More horsemen are levied and
brought into the town by Home and Ferniehurst, and Lord
Fleming is expected at Cromolton, in the west. Have
written to Lord Hunsdon what lack the Regent finds of
money. About 3000l. is their whole debt to the last of
February.—Leith, 7 March 1571. Signed.
Add. Endd.: "by John Case." Pp. 2⅓. |
| March 2. |
162. A Writing sent to the Castle. |
|
Find no such answers to the first two heads as they looked
for after so long dealing, neither that they acknowledge their
obedience to the King, nor yet allow of the Regent's authority,
and therefore desire absolutely to know what they will do
therein before they may or can deal with them in the rest.
Can find nothing sufficiently alleged by them for refusing the
Regent's authority. The only way for Lord Home to do
himself good is to return to his obedience.
Endd. Enclosure. P. 1. |
| March 3. |
163. Answer sent from the Castle. |
|
To absolutely require them to yield to two points which
are most prejudicial to them is simply to give them the law
without any provision for their surety, and therefore they
must see further before with their own mouths they yield
to their evident mischief.
Endd. Enclosure. P. ¼. |
| March 4. |
164. Another "Ticket" from the Castle. |
|
Pray them to consider that they have not made them to
understand of any surety for themselves, but only in general
terms that the Queen of England would be favourable towards
them. They need not look for them to 'yield to the two
points before they know of the conditions and provisions for
their surety. If they would have the matter grow to a
resolution they must procure it by conference.
Endd. Enclosure. P. 2/3. |
| March 7. |
165. Thomas Randolph to Lord Burghley. |
|
Is sorry that they must trouble him so much in so brabbling a matter as this. In so weak a body as Lethington's
he has not found a man less mindful of God or so unnatural
to his country.—Leith, 7 March 1571. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. ⅓. |
| March 7. |
166. Mark [Swinborne] to— |
|
"My lady" [Northumberland] has been a long tedious
suitor at the Duke's hands, touching her husband's affairs, and
has been fed with fair words as the other poor gentlemen have
been. They have great joy in the Low Countries for this
famous and fortunate victory against the Turk. Prays him to
write some "cracks," and also to forward any letters marked
with a secret sign, which he sends.
Endd. by Burghley: "Taken the 7 March 1571. Mark."
P. 1. |
| March 7. |
167. Mark [Swinborne] to— |
|
Desires to hear where his sister "D: carre" remains, and
whether she has received a letter in cipher, dated 22 Dec.
The sender is hardly dealt with touching money owing
to him. Hopes to have better occurrents to advertise
presently.—Glannorwhau (sic).
Obscure letter, signed: "Whose hand this drew his heart
have you," with a cipher. Endd. by Burghley. P. 1. |
| March 7. |
168. Charles Moryson to Lord Burghley. |
|
Thanks him for his goodness, of which he has had just
proof in his late suit to Her Majesty for the land of Benefield.
Sends advertisements (see Occurrents from France, Feb. 1572).
The Queen of Navarre came to the Court on March 3rd, the
King met her at Bourg, and after dinner they all came in a
coach to Blois. M. De Montpensier's daughter, who was abbess
departed from her abbey with her governess and four or five of
her religious women, and has taken away all the relics and
jewels, and a great quantity of money.—Blois, 7 March.
Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 2. |
| March 8. |
169. Walsingham to Burghley. |
|
Cover of a letter, probably that printed in Digges' "Compleat Ambassador," edit 1655, on page 174. Undated.
Endd. by Burghley: "From Blois, Q. of Scots, Montmorency, Earl of Leicester, Q. of Navarre," with seal. |
| March 8. |
170. Charles IX. to M. De la Mothe Fenelon. |
|
Gives him full authority and power to negociate and
arrange the articles concerning traffic and commerce in the
proposed treaty between him and the Queen of England.
—Blois, 8 March 1572.
Copy. Endd. Fr. P. 1. |
| March 8. |
171. Lord Hunsdon to the Queen. |
|
Will not trouble her with any discourse of the doings of
her Commissioners in Scotland. Is sure that the principal
article that they of the Castle do desire, and without which
they will never yield to any agreement, neither will be
granted by the King's side nor can be performed, which is
the restoring of them and their faction to their lands, offices,
benefices, goods, and all other profits from the beginning.
Although the Regent, the Earl of Argyle, Lord Boyd, Lord
Ruthven, and some others, who are neither in malice by
private quarrels, nor have tasted of their adversaries' spoils,
would be glad to grant any reasonable articles of accord, the
Earl Morton (who rules the Regent), Lord Lindsay, Dunfermline, James Macgill, and sundry others their friends and
followers, who have had the benefit and reaped the profit of
the forfeitures, are not able to make restitution of that they
have spent thereof, nor will willingly forego the rest that they
possess, and therefore will never agree to accord but with
such conditions as the contrary party will never grant.
Thus Her Majesty may see what likelihood there is of compounding these controversies by fair means. Has been much
pressed by Mr. Marshall and Randolph to send money for the
pay of the King's soldiers for two months, and under 1,200l.
would not serve. Sees no reason why she should disburse so
great a sum, and therefore keeps the money. Is not of
opinion to feed them still with money, for so shall Her
Majesty enrich them, make them good soldiers, and yet be
never the nearer her desire. They of the Castle are further off
now than they were either upon Lord Seton's coming, or upon
letters received lately from the French Ambassador. They
will never agree but by force, and whether that be necessary
and how it may be done he refers to her and her Council.
The King's side have sent a note of the money due to their
soldiers, which amounts to 4,000l. and odd. Is sure many
of the soldiers are employed to the keeping of their houses
and to revenge private quarrels more than to the King's
service, and of all the abbeys and forfeitures which they have
taken the King is not the better of a groat.—Berwick 8 March
1871. Signed.
Add. Endd. by Burghley. Pp. 1½. |
| March 8. |
172. Lord Hunsdon to Lord Burghley. |
|
Has received letters from Drury and Randolph with
requests for money, which he has refused. By the answer
to their articles it appears that they have done little good
since their being there. Whereas before their going there
was little done on either side in two months, there passes now
no day almost without skirmishes, and on Monday last was
Lord Methven and his horse slain, with a great piece out of
the castle, and both sides further from agreement than before.
Complains that they have either forgotten his instructions
and commission, or else would have the honour of the matter
to themselves. They "remember" also for money, but unless
there is more likelihood of agreement he sees not why Her
Majesty should be continually so burdened. Where they
seem to charge him and the other Wardens with negligence
for the passing of Lord Seton and a boy, a fault is sooner
found than amended. Lord Seton speaks very bravely of his
landing and passing through England, and how he met Sir
Ralph Sadler on the way, who gave him two shillings.—
Berwick, 8 March 1571. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 2. |
| March 11. |
173. Lord Hunsdon to Lord Burghley. |
|
It were best for the Queen to keep her money in her purse,
unless she will set down certain articles for both parties to
agree unto, and which of them shall refuse the same to have
the lack of accord to be imputed to them. Gives particulars
of money disbursed by him. Of the 100l. for Archibald
Douglas he thinks every penny worse bestowed than the
other. Marvels that Sir Peter Carew should have the
Stanneries, being an office of such a number of men as is fit
for none but such as the Queen has great cause to trust,
which he knows not that she has had at Sir Peter's hand;
but belike "aliquid latet quod non patet."—Berwick, 11 March
1571. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. 1½. |
|
174. Note of Money disbursed by Lord Hunsdon. |
|
A brief of the money disbursed out of 2,000l. received
for extraordinary causes in October 1571, amounting to
1,024l. 10s. 4d.
Endd. Enclosure. P. 1. |
| March 11. |
175. M. Du Pin to Lord Burghley. |
|
Prays that Burghley may be delivered from all the enterprises and plots of his enemies, and thanks him for the favour
shown to him when he was in England, for the which he will
for ever heartily employ himself in his service.—Paris [11]
March 1572. Signed.
Add Endd. Fr. Pp. 1½. |
| March 16. |
176. James Pilleton to Lord Burghley. |
|
About the 1st of February there arrived Lord Fleming and
his brother, who have had confederacy for certain number of
vessels to be made ready by March, and have shown their
commission to the captain of this town. The galleon which
was to go hence with munition for Dumbarton is of the
burden of 40 tons, and rows with 20 oars; she has 10 basses,
two quarter slings, and [two] of brass, and will be ready
within the "fyne" of March to sail towards Conquet to meet
the rest of their company, and so for Dumbarton or Ireland.
They give out that it is against the Prince of Orange's ships
which lie in the narrow seas. Has written to the Captain
of Guernsey, and to the Bishop's chancellor of Exeter. The
[English] Ambassador's man is here, who follows the knowledge of the enterprise, and was had much in suspect, and
charged by the Lord Fleming that he had seen him at the
court with Killegrew. He defended the contrary two sundry
times, and so departed. Falling in talk with one of Lord
Fleming's men he asked how ruled the Queen's Majesty, and
said that if the Duke [of Norfolk] were dead there were those
who would be revenged, and asked who should be king or
queen if the Queen were dead. Pilleton answered by way of
talk, "Your Queen of Scots." "Nay," says he, "the little
King of Scots." Pilleton made answer, "How can you make
him king, you have killed his father, and your native countryman, the Lord James, that good ruler; and more, you have
killed the King's grandfather." "Aye," says he, "if your
Queen were in Scotland we would kill her too. I had
nothing about me, if I had I had sore marked him." Doubts
that Ireland will not be long quiet, for they be so tasked
with imposts. James of Desmond's man is in this town, who
deals with the captain; also two friars out of Ireland, who
are bound to Rome. There will be some enterprise given this
year by the Spaniards this year, who have in readiness 100
sail. Hears that the merchants of Brussels have denied to
pay to the Duke of Alva certain great customs.—St. Malo,
16 March 1572. Signed: "Pilleton of Dartmouth."
Add. Endd. Pp. 2½. |
| March 17. |
177. Sir Valentine Browne to Lord Burghley. |
|
Mr. Jones has brought him 900l. Cannot complete the
victualling of Berwick unless he has certain prests granted to
him. The King's party in Scotland have altogether forsaken
the ancient amity, and repose all on the Queen of England.
The contraries utter their trust to be as the others, but can
in no wise yield to be inferior to them. Thinks that if some
government by way of regency were offered by the Queen
that peace would ensue. Gives a plan for the employment of
the revenues of Scotland (30,000l.) during the King's
minority.—York, 17 March 1571. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 1½. |
| March 17. |
178. John Johns to Lord Burghley. |
|
Arrived at Berwick on the 10th instant, and delivered over
his charge to Sir Valentine Browne. Trusts that he will in
consideration of the extremity of the weather pardon his
small expedition. York, 17 March 1571. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. ⅓. |
| March 17. |
179. The Queen to Drury and Randolph. |
|
Perceives by their letters and the writings brought by John
Case that they of the castle stick to condescend to the first
two articles concerning their obedience to the King, and their
allowance of the Regent without the assent, whereto all the
rest are of no moment, therefore they have done well to reject
their answers. They are to give them to understand that if
they had in their former offers precisely expressed their minds
that they would not for respect of any concord return to the
obedience of the King, she would not have sent to them any
of her ministers, but as they have heretofore given express
words that they would be advised by her, she must judge
herself not well used; also that if they continue in their
obstinacy she will revoke them. Also they may let Lethington
understand that she is sorry to hear such absurdities alleged
where he is so principal a counsellor, as to make doubt of the
validity of the acts of kings in their minority tending to no
diminution of their crown. If they find more towardness in
them of the Castle to assent to an accord, they shall assure
them that she will frankly employ her powers to the maintenance of such things as shall be accorded upon for their
advantage and surety. Finds it strange that in all their
letters there is no plain motion of their manner of dealing
with the King's party upon the points and articles to be by
them yielded to their adversaries. As for the other matters
moved in their letters, Lord Hunsdon has sufficient commission to have warranted what they demand. Though Lord
Seton has escaped through England, yet the ship that brought
him is forthcoming, and some of his servants, and such secret
writings and devices of the King of Scots and of her rebels, as
she has cause to be thankful to have such dangerous practices
discovered, and hereupon has stayed De Croc from coming to
Scotland, wishing that whilst he stay here they shall make
some speed there. As for the demand for money, she has
willed Lord Hunsdon to let some portion be sent rather than
or lack thereof the whole cause should quail.—17 May 1571.
Draft in Burghley's writing. Endd. Pp. 3¼. |
| March. |
180. Reasons for the stay of M. De Croc. |
|
At his coming Her Majesty knew of no cause but to allow
of his journey, but upon the presenting of his letters from
the King she found cause to doubt by reason of his earnest
request to go to the Queen of Scots, and also by the King's
request that she should be put to liberty and sent into France,
and therefore determined to stay him until she might hear
from Scotland. In the meantime many things have come to
her knowledge which have occasioned her to alter her mind,
and to advertise the occasions thereof to the French King.
Her Majesty has lately divers ways understood that the seeking to put the Scottish Queen to liberty is not principally to
possess her own crown in Scotland, which she did upon the
murder of her husband demit and resign to her son, but to
possess presently this crown, and therefore it should be a mere
and open folly in her or her Council to yield to any thing
which should better her condition for such a purpose. The
proofs hereof are too many and manifest; first, her own
letters; secondly, her ambassador's instructions to Lord Seton
in the Low Countries; thirdly, the letters and ciphers of
sundry English rebels in the Low Countries manifestly expressing the same [purpose]. Again, the certain intelligence
which she has of the intentions of some not being French
to invade Scotland and take away the young King, to stir up
a rebellion in England, and to set up the Queen of Scots.
Lastly, the secret aid which is given out of France by the
house of [Guise], contrary to the King's promise into Scotland
out of Britanny.
Draft in Burghley's writing. Endd. Pp. 2. |
| March. |
181. M. De Croc's Instructions in behalf of the Queen of
Scots. |
|
Eight articles by the Duke Montmorency and the rest of
the nobles, consisting of requests that she might have greater
liberty and less rigorous treatment.
Endd. P. ½. |
| [March.] |
182. Instructions for M. De Croc. |
|
Alteration of the sixth article of his instructions, directing
him to require the Queen of Scots' party in Scotland to acknowledge the authority of the King, and to remain in
quietness until the controversy of the title to the crown may
by the laws and orders of the realm be further examined.
Draft in Burghley's writing. Endd. P. 1. |
| March 19. |
183. Randolph and Drury to Burghley and Leicester. |
|
Have fulfilled the commandment to be directed in their
doings by Lord Hunsdon, although it is not looked upon so
well here as if it came from higher place or room of greater
credit. Send something which they have received of late by
special friendship touching Lord Seton's practice with the
Duke of Alva.—Leith, 19 Mar. 1571. Signed.
Add. Endd.: "With the capitulation betwixt the Duke
of Alva and Lord Seton." P. ½. |
| March 19. |
184. Walsingham to Lord Burghley. |
|
On the 14th inst. the Queen of Navarre sent for them to
dinner, and showed them that, with the consent of the Queen
Mother, she had sent to confer with them touching certain
difficulties which impeached the conclusion of the marriage.
Dinner being ended she sent for them into an inner chamber,
where they found about a dozen others and three ministers.
She declared briefly what had passed between the King, the
Queen Mother, and her, and desired their sincere opinions.
The stay was on three points; first, whether she might substitute a Papist for her son's proctor to perform the fiancels;
secondly, whether the said proctors going to mass would
breed an offence; thirdly, whether she might consent that the
words fiancel should be pronounced by a priest in his priestly
attire of surplice and stole. To the first it was generally
concluded that she might; to the second it was agreed that as
the proctor was expressly forbidden in the letter procuratory
to go to mass, the same could justly minister no offence, for
that his authority continued no longer than he kept himself
within the limits of his letter procuratory. The third point
was long debated, and forasmuch as the ministers concluded
that the same (though it were a thing indifferent) would
breed a general offence, the Queen protested that she never
would consent thereto. Hereupon the marriage is generally
held for broken, but Walsingham is of a contrary opinion, and
thinks that hardly anything will make them break off. The
King lately is entered into the diet for the space of 20 days,
rather to prevent than to cure any evil, for Walsingham never
saw him in better state of health. The Italian advertisers
both in Rome and Venice are imprisoned. Upon the success
of the Navarre marriage depends the enterprise of Flanders.
The King has great conference with Count Ludovic, and is
very earnest in the matter, but the other proceeds both wisely
and coldly, and would be glad to leave all things clear here.—
Blois, 19 Mar. 1571. Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. Pp. 2¾. |
| March 20. |
185. Lord Hunsdon to Lord Burghley. |
|
Sends a letter from Randolph and Drury. The Queen's
carelessness of herself not only amazes him, but makes him
think it labour lost to be so curious for foreign affairs, and so
negligent for home matters which concern the preservation of
her person, the destruction whereof is the only thing the
enemies seek. This carelessness cannot come of herself, and
is therefore more to be feared, for naturally there are none
who if they know of any who conspire their death but will
seek all ways to prevent the same. Fears that she is made
believe that she is in no peril. Upon her life depends a whole
commonwealth, the utter ruin of her country and subversion
of religion, and if by her negligence or womanish pity
these things happen, what she has to answer for she herself
knows. Would not counsel her to be bloody if her surety
may be without blood, but if she cannot be sure without it, it
is better for some members to be cut off than the whole body
to perish. Desires him to help her with good advice, as if any
mischief happens he and others in whom she has confidence
will bear the burden of it, and to let her remember the politic
government of her predecessors.—Berwick, 20 Mar. 1571.
Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 1¾. |
| March 19. |
186. Drury and Randolph to Lord Hunsdon. |
|
1. Communicated part of his letter to the Regent, who wrote
to the Laird of Lochleven to provide that the Earl of Northumberland were not set at liberty in any sort, and that he
would be a dealer with the Queen of England to have him
recompensed for the charge he had been at in keeping him.
The Lord Lindsay has taken money for those who were with
him, and set them at liberty, never having received answer
from England, and being overcharged with the keeping of
them. There is little hope of their agreement. The practice
of these men with Spain will be found very true. There is
great need of money, the chief cause of the Regent's departure
out of the town being to avoid the clamour of the soldiers,
who not only refuse service, but also are like daily to revolt if
the other party had wherewith to entertain them. Went over
the water to the Earl of Argyle, who has promised not only
to persevere in his obedience to the King, but also to be at
the Queen of England's commandment in all lawful service.
Give the names of other noblemen with Argyle whom they
found well addicted to the cause they have in hand. The
Regent is minded to do well, but commonly men are as they
are used and as they find. |
|
2. If they of the Castle will come to the acknowledging of
the two first points of their instructions, they trust to find
favour enough for them to their contentment. They look for
De Croc's coming, and hope for aid out of Spain or Flanders.
The Regent depends only upon Her Majesty. They have had
a long skirmish on the 13th, which began at a treaty for
exchange of prisoners. Lethington's house has been taken
and retaken. The Earl of Morton has chief charge in this
town, and is nightly almost upon his feet. They have six
score good horses in Edinburgh. Arrival of letters out of
Flanders. Lord Methven and his horse have been slain with
a culverin shot out of the Castle. Some words he spoke after
the shot, crying to God for mercy. Desire him to send 100l.
as their charges are very great.—Leith, 19 Mar. 1571. Signed.
Add. Endd. Enclosure. Pp. 4¼. |
| [March.] |
187. Pardon by the Regent of Scotland. |
|
Reversal of a sentence of banishment on Lewis Thornton
for negligently slaying Henry Sands by the shot of a dag in
October 1571.
Copy. Endd. by Drury. P. ½. |
| March 25. |
188. Treaty between England and France. |
|
"A consideration of the articles of the treaty with France,"
consisting of a number of short disconnected notes.
Endd. Pp. 3. |
| March 25. |
189. Dr. Mundt to Lord Burleigh. |
|
The King of France lately had an envoy named Schomberg
sent to the Protestant Princes, in the hope of continuing the
friendship. The Ambassadors of the King of Spain and of
the Venetians asked soldiers from the Swiss to proceed against
the Turks, but were told that Swiss soldiers were unaccustomed to maritime warfare. Two regiments have been
raised in the Grisons and the Tyrol, which the French King
will retain to help him should occasion arise. At the present
Frankfort staple some part of the pay of the German reiters
who served against the Huguenots will be paid. The Emperor
has been asked by the Pope and the Venetians to join the
league against the Turks, but replied that he would keep the
truce he had made with them as long as they kept it.
A certain Italian called Jacomo Antonio Gromo, alias Pacceco,
had audience with the Elector at Heidelberg, saying that he
has been sent by the Queen of England to observe his son
Casimir, as she was determined to marry some foreign prince.
When asked for his letters of credence, he said that on account
of the dangers of his journey and the disturbed state of the
Netherlands, he had brought none with him as the Queen
wished the matter kept secret, but he had been a student
about eight years ago in the University of Heidelberg, and he
named several noblemen who would know him and speak for
him. The Emperor, somewhat doubtful, dismissed him, and
caused the nobles whom he had named to be summoned,
who said that a certain Italian had studied at Heidelberg
about eight years ago, but they did not know what he had
done since. The Elector then in the midst of a bitterly cold
winter sent for him (Mundt), and inquired whether such a
person was included among the Queen's servants, but he knew
nothing of him, and said he thought the whole was a fable,
and a trap laid for the youth. Desires to know his opinion
of it. The Turks have great forces by sea and land, and
have hired 60,000 Tartars. The daughter of the Duke De
Montpensier, who was a French abbess, has come to Heidelberg.—Heidelberg (?), 25 March 1572. Signed: N.
Add., with seal. Endd. Pp. 1½. |
| March 26. |
190. [—to Dr. Mundt?] |
|
The party for whom he was last sent for by reason of his
secret and doubtful practices forged by himself is again come,
but without letters, and has been committed to custody and
ward until the truth and ground of his affair be advertised.
The said party seems to despise "Lord Cecil" and Mr. Killegrew, and other men of note in England, who are known
there, but refers himself only to one Dominus Baptista, one
of the four chamberlains, with whom he says he has great
acquaintance. It is expedient that he advertise "Lord
Cecil," Mr. Killegrew, or some other in England of his
traitrous matters and practices. — Heidelberg, 20 March
1572.
Endd.: "The Dutch letter translated into English."
P. 1. |
| March 26. |
191. Parties in Scotland. |
|
Names of the noblemen who were with the Regent on
26 March 1572, who has presently with him nearly 300
horsemen. There are about 200 with those of the Castle.
Names not mentioned in the list of 23 Feb., Cathcart and
Ochiltree. The Earls of "Greyme" and Eglinton expected.
Endd. P. 1. |
| March 27. |
192. Treaty between England and France. |
|
Measures to be taken by the Queen of England and King
of France for the pacification of Scotland, and maintaining
the integrity of the country, providing, however, that the
Queen of England shall be permitted (after due notice) to
send forces into Scotland to pursue any of her rebels and their
favourers in that country.
Endd. Fr. Pp. 1¾. |
| March 27. |
193. Treaty between England and France. |
|
Article providing that the Queen of England and the King
of France shall jointly send ambassadors to Scotland to labour
to restore to the country and people an universal and stable
peace, and also that they shall withstand all attempts by any
other prince to convey men of war into Scotland; it shall,
however, be lawful for the Queen of England after due admonition to compel by force or otherwise any evil-disposed Scots
to abstain from the maintenance or receipt of any of her
rebels.
Draft, corrected by Burghley. Endd. Pp. 3¼. |
| March 28. |
194. Advices from Lyons. |
|
1. Lyons, 8 March.—Rumour of the likelihood of war in
Italy, because the Pope will not revoke the title of Grand
Duke of Tuscany, which he has bestowed on the Duke of
Florence, who has dismissed all Spaniards from his forces in
order to replace them with Swiss. The King of Spain has
directed Don John to hold himself in readiness with 10,000
Spaniards. Warlike preparations by the Turk. |
|
2. From the Court of the Duke of Savoy, 28 March.—
The Emperor has sent to the Duke commanding him not to
grant the title of Grand Duke to the Duke of Florence.
Endd. Ital. Pp. 1⅓. |
| March 28. |
195. Matters of Scotland. |
|
A consideration of the motives that induce the French King
to show favour in seeking the liberty of the Queen of Scots,
being chiefly a regard for his reputation and credit by maintaining the ancient alliance between France and Scotland;
the avoiding a scandalous example by assenting to the deprivation of her from her crown by her subjects; the satisfaction
of the House of Guise; and lastly, to prevent the danger that
would ensue by her receiving aid from Spain.
Draft in Burghley's writing. Endd. Pp. 1. |
|
196. Fair copy of the above. |
|
Endd. Pp. 1¼. |
| March 28. |
197. Matters of Scotland. |
|
Reasons why it would be lawful, honourable, and profitable for France and England to pacify Scotland by upholding the authority of the young King, and preventing the
intervention of Spain, to which power both the Queen of
Scots and her party lean for assistance. The Queen of England has denied the liberty of the Queen of Scots, because by
her own later acts she has justly deserved to be restrained.
After Scotland is reduced to quiet, and the occasions of
receiving strangers prevented, it may be considered further
whether the continuance of the King's authority alone or the
conjunction of his mother's with his, may be meetest in justice
and policy for that realm.
Draft in Burghley's writing, apparently an incomplete
continuation of the preceding documents. Endd. Pp. 2. |
| March 29. |
198. Walsingham to Lord Burghley. |
|
Learnt of late by one that is come out of Denmark, that
there is a great league between the King of Spain and the
King there, and that there should be some practise in hand
thence, for some enterprise to be done either in Scotland or
England, for the accomplishing whereof the Duke of Alva
desired of the said King certain ships and other necessary
furniture. The French Ambassador resident there confirms
the said amity which was brought about by the corruption
of Peter Oxe, who altogether rules the King, and therefore
advises his master to renew his amity with Sweden, who will
always be able to bridle Denmark. Standen arrived here
secretly from Spain on the 24th, and let fall some speech to a
Frenchman that there was hope that there would grow some
change in England ere the summer ended. Has written to
Paris to have his doings observed. Has shown the Queen
Mother what he heard out of Bretagne, touching Lord
Fleming's doings, and desired her to move the King to write
to the Governor of Bretagne to have an eye on him. Encloses
a letter which touches an intended empoisonment practised
by the Duke of Alva. Count Ludovico has great conference with the Queen Mother and Monsieur daily, which
makes men discourse diversely. As soon as he is grown to
some thorough conclusion, he says he will send a gentleman
to the Queen's Majesty. The Admiral is shortly looked for,
and great hope conceived of the compounding of the discord
between him and the House of Guise. For the conclusion of
the Navarre marriage, there are eight chosen to whom the
matter is committed, who are all well affected to it.—Blois,
29 March 1572. Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. Pp. 22/3. |
| March 30. |
199. Sir Thomas Smith to Lord Burghley. |
|
Complains that they have had no answer out of England
for 22 days, touching the Queen's resolution for the league,
and for the marriage, which makes them lament in their
hearts to see such negligence for her safety.—Blois, Palm
Sunday. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. 2/3. |
| March 31. |
200. Randolph and Drury to Lord Burghley. |
|
Having considered Her Majesty's letters they had private
conference with the Regent and the Earl of Morton, at which
they took occasion to speak again of the Queen of Scots'
practises with the Duke of Alva for the conveyance of her
son out of Scotland, and desired his Grace to increase his care
that way if he could, and advised him to incline the sooner
to have this country in place, that the like might be the
better seen unto and the occasions taken away. This ended
they entered into talk upon the matters concerning the accord,
and let his Grace understand that there was no alteration in
Her Majesty in any point of that which she had given them
commission to deal in touching the two first heads of obedience
to the King and his Regent, desiring his Grace if they could
bring the other party to yield thereto that he would not show
himself hard for the rest of their demands, either of surety for
their lives, or restitution of lands and goods with respect unto
their honours. The Regent was nothing offended at De Croc's
stay knowing his devotion to the Guises. |
|
His Grace pretended ignorance of the intent to convey the
Earl of Northumberland into Flanders and a price set upon
him by Lochleven to deliver him. Have written to Lord
Hunsdon and desire to know what they shall do in this
matter. Have complained also of the reception and maintenance of other rebels. |
|
Finding in Her Majesty's letters her misliking of the great
untowardness to peace of those of the Castle they have not
forborne to speak to them. They accept thankfully the
Queen's offer to employ her power for the maintenance of all
that that shall be promised them by the King's party for
their surety. Have spoken all they can devise to either
party to make Lord Seton odious as enemy to the King and
his country. Have given 1,000l. to the Regent, not without
as great need as ever there was since this action began. The
mark that they of the Castle shoot at is to win time.
Lethington and Grange will not grant to any knowledge
of Lord Seton's practises and seem to have a wondrous zeal
to their country. Think that it will not be denied that
Lochleven has practised for the delivery of the Earl of
Northumberland, or that Morton is privy thereto. Morton has
promised that Edward Dacres' practises and complices shall
be known. Of that which Burghley has secretly informed
them and earnestly charged them to keep in counsel, that no
force shall be used against the Castilians if the treaty take
no effect, and that there is a peremptory refusal thereof; nor
yet that they may be won by money to that wherein persuasion could not prevail, they promise silence in the one matter,
and to deal in the other the best they can. |
|
On Friday afternoon they had audience at the Castle with
Lethington and Grange alone at their desire, and charged
them sharply with breach of their promise with the Queen of
England, and warned them of their danger. Lethington with
many protestations said that they sought no delay, and that
he knew the Queen's power for revenge, which he feared, but
that their safety must be substantially provided for, and that
they must not be careless of their lands and livings. They
promised to do what they could to make their estate as good
as ever, but reminded them that in all such garboils there
were always outrages and losses, so in compounding of them
each must yield to other. Much was replied by him, "Great
alterations between us and vehement speech." The King's
right they disallow as coming by a forced demission, and
the Regent's authority as unlawful by law. They reasoned
very long but prevailed nothing. Were content notwithstanding to set those two heads apart and reason of the
security. Divers demands were made very hard to be
obtained of the other party, and some perchance not in their
power. Lethington gave them a copy in writing which they
send. On their desiring to know if these articles were granted
what assurance they would have of them to allow of the
two first heads propounded, Lethington was unwilling to
answer directly, but wished them rather to imagine what his
meaning was, as if the agreement was not made, they would
rather seem to break off for the common causes, as derogatory
of the Queen's right to the crown, than for their own particular. This they take for a politic answer rather than either
reasonable or godly. |
|
Lethington then desired from them a passport to send a
message to the Queen of Scots, and if this could not be
granted that they would write a letter which should first be
seen of the Queen of England and then sent to her. The
former request they utterly refused, the other not very well
liked of, yet thought it not to be denied. |
|
The Regent knowing that they had been to the Castle they
declared to him as much as they thought fit of their dealings
and showed him the demands. Send the answer as they have
received it. Are glad that by their advertisement of the
ship which brought Lord Seton to Harwich such matter is
discovered as was intended against the Queen.—Leith, 31
March 1571. (sic) Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 10. |
| March 28. |
201. Demands by those in the Castle. |
|
1. Disputes to be referred to the Queen of England, who
shall be conservatrix of the appointment to be made. |
|
2. Forfeitures and all other penalties by pretended parliaments or acts of council on both parts to be declared of none
effect. |
|
3. Mutual restitution of lands, benefices, and offices. |
|
4. The Queen of England to see order taken for the
reparation of losses sustained by them and their friends, and
for the debt contracted for the entertainment of their soldiers. |
|
5. Sufficient yearly provision in money and victuals to be
granted to the Laird of Grange for the garrison of Edinburgh
Castle, which shall remain in his custody during the King's
minority. In Lethington's writing.
Endd. Enclosure. P. 2/3. |
| March 30. |
202. Answer of the Regent to the Queen's party. |
|
Requires absolute acknowledgment of the King's and his
authority, and offers pardon to all (with certain important
exceptions) who humbly crave the same. Those who possess
any office in the King's name to continue in the same, and
all losses sustained by his party to be made up. All castles
and strengths to be surrendered to the King's authority.
The Queen of England to be conservatrix of the peace. Copy.
Endd. Enclosure. Pp. 1¼. |
| March 31. |
203. Sir William Drury to Lord Burghley. |
|
The Castle of Blackness is at the devotion of them of the
Castle of Edinburgh. There is also a practise in hand for
Dumbarton, whereof he warned the captain thereof 14 days
past. Some suspicion and unkindness is grown between
Grange and Lethington and Sir James Balfour, who is
thought to have secret dealings with Morton discovering their
secrets. Grange mislikes the Bishop of Glasgow's dealings,
not without cause, as he remembers he was at the slaughter
of the Cardinal, to whom he was allied. The coining of baser
money is in hand at Dalkeith, which will breed of the common people great misliking, and raise greatly the prices of all
things.—Leith, 31 March. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. 1. |
| March 31. |
204. Sir John Forster to Lord Burghley. |
|
Certain Crosiers of Liddlesdale, being men of the worst
demeanour in all the Borders, and neither obedient or answerable to prince or warden, he practised with certain gentlemen
whereof the Fenwicks were the chief for their apprehension,
who got them betrayed, and thought to have brought them to
him, but they were so stubborn in their defence that the said
gentlemen chanced to kill some of them. If any information
should chance to be made against the doing thereof, he desires
that he may have knowledge thereof. Ferniehurst being put
from his living has in despite of those who keep the same
burnt his own corn, and many of his houses hard to the gates
of Ferniehurst.—Alnwick, 31 March 1572. Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. P. ¾. |
|
205. Names of the Crosiers who were slain. |
|
Names of four Crosiers who with two others of the clan
were slain by the Fenwicks.
Enclosed on separate slip of paper in Sir John Forster's
letter. |
| [March.] |
206. Treaty between England and France. |
|
Rough draft of powers and commissions for the agents
employed in the negociation of a treaty between England and
France.
Endd. Fr. Pp. 2. |
| March. |
207. The Keeper of the Marshalsea to Lord Burghley. |
|
A Scottish prisoner has informed him that upon the coming
of the Spanish Ambassador out of England into Flanders all
the English rebels there and Lord Seton went to Alva's court,
and after a few days' consultation they sent into Spain and
to the Bishop of Rome Sir John [Melville] and Dr. Sanders,
and Lord Seton to go into Scotland, and with all convenient
speed to return, and there to harken the return of answer out
of Spain and Italy. He said that the late Spanish Ambassador was a doer for Spain, Flanders, and Scotland, and
also with the Scots for the Dowager Queen of Scots, and such
other of the Queen's enemies, as well within the realm as
without. Signed: Thomas Waye.
Add. Endd: March 1572. P. 1. |
| March. |
208. Pay due to the Regent of Scotland's Soldiers. |
|
Account of the monthly charge of 700 soldiers and their
officers in the service of the Regent of Scotland, amounting
to 900l. 12s. There is owing, to 1st April, to some companies four and to others five months' pay, amounting to
4,043l. 12s.
Endd. by Drury and Lord Burghley. Pp. 1½. |
| March. |
209. Advertisements from Britanny. |
|
Advertisements by Mr. Williams of the Lord Fleming's
proceedings in Britanny in furnishing out ships and munitions
for Scotland.
Endd.: March 1572. Pp. 2¼. |
