Elizabeth: April 1572, 15-30

Calendar of State Papers Foreign: Elizabeth, Volume 10, 1572-1574. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1876.

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'Elizabeth: April 1572, 15-30', in Calendar of State Papers Foreign: Elizabeth, Volume 10, 1572-1574, (London, 1876) pp. 82-98. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/foreign/vol10/pp82-98 [accessed 19 March 2024]

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April 1572, 15-30

April 16. 250. The Queen to Lord Hunsdon.
Directs him to revoke the Marshal and Randolph if by their next advertisement it appears that the accord shall not take place. Can be content to make payment of 2,000l. for the Earl of Northumberland, but orders him to make certain of his delivery.
Draft in Burghley's writing. Endd. P. 2/3.
April 17. 251. Parties in Scotland.
List of Scottish noblemen who have come to the obedience of the King, consisting of the Earls of Argyle, Cassillis, Eglinton, and Crawford, and the Lords Boyd, Maxwell, and St. Cosme. The Earl of Huntly and Sir James Balfour have gone back, and are now in the Castle. Lethington and Grange, who were the principal ministers in depriving the Queen, are now the chiefest dealers against the King. The Duke never acknowledged the King's authority.
In Randolph's writing. Endd. P. ½.
April 17. 252. Randolph and Drury to Lethington and Grange.
Copy of a letter enclosing a reply to the answers of the Castle (see April 11), and desiring to know their resolution on the first two points, as to acknowledging the King's authority and the Regent's government.
Endd. Pp. 3⅓.
April 18. 253. Earldom of Lennox.
Grant of the earldom of Lennox to Lord Charles Stewart and his heirs by James VI.—Leith, 18 April.
Copy. Lat. Pp. 22/3.
April 18. 254. Lord Hunsdon to Queen Elizabeth.
Is confirmed in his opinion that these controversies of Scotland could not be compounded by treaty, as nothing is left undone on either side to annoy the contrary by fire or sword, and so peace the harder to be made. On Wednesday there was a very hot skirmish, in which four horsemen of the Castle were taken, who were immediately hanged. They of the Castle, for revenge, after dinner hanged five of the other side, whereof one was a Douglas and servant of the Earl of Morton. As he sees small likelihood of their doing any good he means to send for her commissioners to-morrow.—Berwick, 18 April 1572. Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. P. ¾.
April 18. 255. Lord Hunsdon to Lord Burghley.
Thinks that these controversies will not be ended by treaty, and that the lack is rather on the King's side, who are not minded to part from anything that they have got. The Marshal and Randolph earnestly request to return, for besides great words of reproach that are given them, on Monday last the Marshal was shot at and narrowly missed, and therefore he sends for them to-morrow. The King's side makes as much account of the 1,000l. as if they had received as many pence. They think Her Majesty deals not well with them in not subduing their adversaries by force, and hardly acknowledge any benefit that they have received from her. There are no prisoners to be taken henceforth on either side. The King's side harken as much or more for De Croc's coming as the other side, which is very suspicious. Lord Seton means to return into Flanders, but perhaps he will visit Berwick first against his will. Alva's further meaning cannot be done so suddenly but there will be knowledge of it.—Berwick, 18 April 1572. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 2.
April 17. 256. Drury and Randolph to Lord Hunsdon.
Desire to be licensed to return, as they are fully persuaded that the sooner they depart hence the sooner and the willinger will that be yielded to which now seems fullest of difficulty, not denying but great reasons may be alleged of either part in their doings. Trust that the peace may yet be brought to pass, with a perpetual and firm league and amity between the realms. On Monday night Mr. Archibald Douglas was sent for by the Regent, and charged that he was privy to a letter written out of Flanders to Lethington by Mr. George Hacket touching the sending of 5,000 crowns into Scotland, and also a sum of 60,000 which should be sent to Douglas upon sight of the Queen of Scots' letters. There are also found in his chambers divers letters in cipher, and one from Verac. There are divers other bruits upon this apprehension that the Earl of Morton should have been slain. Great skirmish before Leith, and prisoners hanged on both sides. Attempt to destroy the mills of Leith. Blackness is revolted from the Regent, Gilbert Balfour being admitted into it with 20 harquebussiers. The house of Boughty is delivered by Lord Gray into the hands of the Regent. Lord Fleming, Mr. Thomas Fleming, and Mr. James Kirkcaldy are daily looked for out of France, and perchance may arrive in England, as Lord Seton did. Lord Fleming may be known by the paleness and leanness of his face, his nose somewhat flat; Mr. Thomas black-bearded and very red-faced; Mr. James tall, black, and somewhat stump-footed.—Leith, 17 April 1572. Signed.
Add. Endd. Enclosure. Pp. 3½.
April 18. 257. Lord Seton's Negociations with the Duke of Alva.
At Lord Seton's last audience the Duke declared himself satisfied to suffer toleration of religion in case of the invasion of Scotland by Spanish troops. It would be necessary for him to have certain ports to fortify and hold, which, however, he promised to give up again, as his design was not to appropriate any ground in Scotland, or continue in the possession of any hold or strong place, but only to serve his present turn for the furtherance of his purpose, which was directed to a further end; and therefore he would leave the same void, and either demolish the fortifications, or leave them to be occupied by the people of the land, at their pleasure. He desired that order should be taken for the provision of victuals, as he would not be able to transport as much as would serve his forces any time. Lord Seton must procure a letter signed and sealed by the principal nobility professing the obedience [of the Queen], ratifying the articles treated upon by him in their names, and also must advertise the Duke what number of noblemen will join with his forces on their landing. He may assure as many as were by the Queen's special letters recommended that they shall be particularly considered and fully satisfied touching the pensions required by them.
Endd. by Lord Burghley. Enclosure. Pp. 12/3.
April 19. 258. John Sturmius to Lord Burghley.
Desires his favour for the bearer, who has been recommended to him by his friends as a man afflicted through no disgrace or crime of his own, but solely for his constancy in defending his religion. Frankfort, 19 April 1572. Signed.
Add., with seal. Endd. Lat. P. ⅓.
April 19. 259. Matters of Scotland.
Reply of Drury and Randolph to the answers given by the Lords of the King of Scots' party to the articles delivered to them on 2nd April, recommending them to use more moderation in dealing with the opposite party.
Copy. Endd. Pp. 7¼.
April 19. 260. Advertisements from the Low Countries.
The Count de la Marck has landed at Brielle, where he defeated a garrison of Spaniards and taken 50 prisoners, whereof some he has hanged and some he reserves yet alive, to whom a great multitude of people have repaired. Count Bossu desiring passage for his soldiers through Rotter dam has taken the town and put to the sword a great number of men, women, and children. The like murder has been executed in another place called Berry. These cruelties, joined with the tax of the tenth penny, &c., cause all the towns in those countries to stand upon their guard, and to refuse utterly all Spanish garrisons. They of Flushing would not receive a garrison of Spaniards, who retired to Middleburgh, where, beginning a quarrel, the whole town set upon them and slew divers and drove out the rest; which things the Duke takes very heavily, tearing the hairs of his head and beard. He has determined to retire all his forces to Ghent and Antwerp as places of chief importance.
Endd. Pp. 1½.
April 19. 261. An Answer to M. Zwegenhem.
If he would have shewed any sufficient commission from the King of Spain authorising him to treat of the arrest, and also to conclude the manner of restitution, and in what course the intercourse between the subjects of the two kingdoms should be restored, the Queen would willingly have assented to any reasonable means for the same. It is notorious, and it was declared to him in full council, that the treaty for the restitution of things arrested on either side could not take effect, for he would show no commission to bind the King as reason and common usage betwixt princes require, and Thomas Fiesco, a Genoese, and no subject to the said King, was admitted to insert certain articles into the treaty concerning certain monies pretended to belong to certain merchants of Genoa, which were impertinent thereto. The like occasions for not shewing sufficient commissions to treat was the cause that M. D'Assonville and the Marquis of Cetona returned without ending the controversies. The Queen will grant, for two months from the date hereof, that if any ships of the subjects of the King of Spain shall by tempest, contrary winds, or manifest lack of victual, be compelled to come into any of her ports, they shall not be arrested but freely depart of their own wills; but at the end of the two months the former order shall continue for the arrests, until by some treaty some good end may be had for stay of all arrests and full and final restitution; providing the like be accorded to the ships of her subjects arriving in such like occasion in the King of Spain's dominions. Should any ships of her subjects coming within the ports of the King have been stayed during the two months, then shall so much be stayed as shall justly recompence her subjects for their goods stayed. There shall no arrest be made two months after the arrival of any person with sufficient authority from the King of Spain, except the person shall in the said space return and not determine the controversies by virtue of his commission. The Queen leaves it to his own choice whether he will continue in England and advertise the King of Her Majesty's answer, or whether he will himself depart with the same, which if he do, he shall have a sufficient safe conduct granted to him, and all manner of favor convenient. Corrected by Burleigh.
Endd. Pp. 4.
April 19. 262. Charles IX. to Queen Elizabeth.
It having been pointed out by her ambassadors that in the defensive league concluded by them with his deputies in April 1572, that though it is provided that they shall assist one another on every occasion, and for every cause, yet some doubt may arise whether the cause of religion is included; he hereby declares that he understands by the said treaty that if either party is assailed for the cause of religion, or under any other pretext, that the other is bound to render assistance. Blois, 19 April 1572.
Copy. Endd. Fr. P. 1.
263. Copy of the above.
Endd. Fr. P. ½.
264. Copies of the above in Latin and French.
Pp. 1½.
265. Copy of the above in French.
Endd. P. 1.
266. Copy of the above, with note by Burghley.
Endd. Fr. P. 1.
[April.] 267. Queen Elizabeth to Charles IX.
Has received his letter of the 19th April declaring that under the general expressions contained in the league or mutual defence, he understands the cause of religion to be comprehended; and for his satisfaction declares her acquiescence in that interpretation in the same form of words as that used by the King.
Copy. Endd. French. P. 2/3.
April. 268. [Treaty of Blois.]
Certain points to be propounded to M. de la Mothe as to the caution to be given for the restitution of such ships as should be sent to serve with the French, the manner of their service, and the payment of their crews.
Endd.: "About matters of depredations." Pp. 1¼.
April. 269. Treaty of Blois.
Rough notes and drafts relating to the Treaty of Blois.
Endd. Lat. Pp. 1½.
April 19. 270. Treaty of Blois.
Articles concerning commerce in the treaties of Troyes and Blois, chiefly relating to the arrest of merchandise.
Endd. Lat. P. 1.
April 19. 271. Treaty of Blois.
Heads of the articles contained in the Treaty of Blois, 39 in number.
Lat. P. 1.
April 19. 272. Treaty of Blois.
Defensive league between Queen Elizabeth and Charles IX. stipulating the amount of succour by sea or land to be rendered by either party in case of need, and also providing increased privileges and advantages for the merchants of either country, and further arranging what steps should be taken for the pacification of Scotland. To which is annexed a schedule of the number and description of the forces to be mutually furnished, together with their rates of pay. Also the commissions of the two sovereigns to their deputies, authorising them to conclude the treaty.—Blois, 19 April 1572. Signed by Montmorency, Biragues, L'Aubespine, and De Foix, on behalf of Charles IX., and Smith and Walsingham for the Queen of England.
Copy. Lat. Pp. 21½.
273. Treaty of Blois.
Another copy.
Endd. Lat. Pp. 15½.
April 19. 274. Treaty of Blois.
Abstract of the Treaty of Blois.
Endd. Pp. 4½.
April 19. 275. Treaty of Blois.
Article for mutual defence, with considerations why any auxiliary forces that may be sent to either party should be maintained at the charges of the prince requiring them.
Pp. 2.
April. 276. Matters of Scotland.
A copy of such articles and other matters as were exhibited by the Marshal of Berwick and Mr. Randolph to the Regent of Scotland for pacifying the controversies in that realm with their answers from 23rd February to 19th April 1572.
Endd. Pp. 32.
April 20. 277. Embassy of M. De Croc.
Agreement by M. de Croc to suspend the execution of the fifth article of his instructions, and not to speak of its contents in Scotland.
Endd. by Burghley. French. P. 1.
April 20. 278. Queen Elizabeth to Charles IX.
His ambassador having pointed out to her that the 36th article in the treaty whereby it is permitted to her to prosecute by armed force those Scots who succour or receive her rebellious subiects, might be the occasion of peril, being contrary to all customary treaties between princes; she hereby declares that it is not her intention to suffer her forces to enter Scotland except in the case of being unable to obtain the redress provided for by former treaties, and then only after having first informed the French King.
Endd. Lat. Pp. 1⅓.
279. Copy.
Endd. Lat. Pp. 2.
April 21. 280. Sir Thomas Smith to the Queen.
At last Mr. Walsingham and he have concluded the league, not without some difficultly, mostly for the Scottish matters, which, nevertheless, they have passed over in the end. Can perceive nothing but that the King goes as sincerely and tam bonâ fide as any prince can. Trust that this league will be a great defence for her and her crown. If Spain threatens and shows evil offices (as it has done of late), it will be afraid hereafter seeing such a wall adjoined. If the House of Burgundy will be friendly (whereof there is great reason to doubt), nothing is done on her part to break that amity. Peradventure this will make them the loather, seeing as near or nearhand so good a vent here for her merchants and subjects. Thanks her for bestowing upon him the Chancellorship of the Order.—Blois, 21 April 1572. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. 1.
April 22. 281. Sir Thomas Smith to Lord Burghley.
Of the removing of the court to Paris no man is certain. Hears that Flanders is in some motion, and that Strozzi's preparation is [meant] that way. Guido Cavalcanti has been found at all times ready to aid this concord and agreement. To-morrow morning takes his journey towards Paris by Chartres.—Blois, 22 April. Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. P. 2/3.
April 22. 282. Walsingham to Lord Burghley.
Cover of a letter. Probably that printed by Digges in his "Compleat Ambassador," p. 188, and misdated by him 1571.
Armorial seal.
April 22. 283. Catherine de Medicis to Queen Elizabeth.
Sends this letter by Sir Thomas Smith, who can inform her of the great pleasure caused to them by this new treaty, and also by the prospect of peace in France through the marriage of the Prince of Navarre with the Princess Marguerite.—Blois, 22 April 1572. Signed.
Add. Endd. Fr. Royal letter.
April 22. 284. Lord Hunsdon to Lord Burghley.
Sends the resolute answer of both sides in Scotland to the articles proponed to them by Her Majesty's Commissioners. The King's side is not only directly contrary to the other demands, but also disallows the articles proponed by Her Majesty, either generally, or else makes such additions as alter the whole matter. The Commissioners for the Regent are they who have the principal spoil of the others, and therefore will hinder the pacification all they can, being unwilling to forego any office or benefice they possess of the others, or restore anything they have got. The principal hinderers are Lord Lindsay, Dunfermline, James Macgill, Alexander Home of Manderston, and some others. Doubts not but if the Castilians have sufficient surety for their lives, lands, and honours, they will yield to the rest. The Queen's Commissioners have been in peril of their lives, and no punishment done to the parties upon complaint.—Berwick, 22 April 1572. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. 1.
April 18. 285. Sir William Drury to Lord Hunsdon.
It is said that such prisoners as the King's side have shall be sent for and executed. Six men appointed to die at Edinburgh, but one named Bruce was forcibly taken by a captain of that name, who turned him out of the Nether Bow and bade him shift for himself. The slanderous speeches and threatening amongst the soldiers and others against them still continues, and although they have named some of them no punishment follows. Archibald Douglas has proved that he had the Regent's and the Earl of Morton's license to confer with Grange. He has also done what he could to bring this negociation for peace to a good end, which has made him enemies. Whatsoever he could learn of Flanders, France, or this country, which might at all concern Her Majesty, he has always imparted to Drury. If the least part of his good works done to England should be now known it would be to his utter undoing. Was shot at, being on the way towards Leith, on the 13th, Douglas being then in his company. Has dealt with the Regent that if his deserts deserve either punishment or death it may appear open to the world, and not to cut him off in so secret sort as Moon. Trusts shortly to hear of their revocation.—Leith, 18 April. Signed.
Add. Endd. Enclosure. Pp. 2¾.
April 23. 286. Lethington and Grange to Sir William Drury.
Find Lord Home unwilling to yield to those of Leith as ever he was, but well affected in matters touching the Queen of England's affairs. The cruel execution of his servants makes him think that they would visit him with like extremity if he were in their hands, and therefore he thinks he has good reason to refuse to submit himself to their jurisdiction. If the Queen will restore his house to him, he will be earnest to maintain the peace upon the Borders; he will not receive within his bounds any of her rebels or strange forces; he will not have intelligence with any foreign prince or nation to the annoyance of her realm; and will refuse nothing that he can lawfully do to content her. If the Queen will deal with them as they look for, and not give their enemies the upper hand, she shall have them as far at her devotion as she can wish any subjects of this realm.—Edinburgh Castle, 23 April 1572. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 1¾.
April 23. 287. Lord Hunsdon to Lord Burghley.
Mr. Marshal and Randolph are presently returned hither, who have since received advertisement of an Irish bishop and four or five with him who are taken at Dundee, and stayed there, who were to go into Flanders, and so to the Pope; his commission and letters are also taken, by which all the conspiracy of Ireland may be known. If the Queen writes earnestly thinks that both he and his letters will be delivered. He names dimself Archbishop of Cashel. The Regent had intelligence of him by certain of the Stewarts, who took 300 crowns from him, and so the Regent laid wait for him. It will be two or three days ere he can have answer how the Earl of Northumberland shall be delivered.—Berwick, 23 April 1572. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. ½.
April 24. 288. Lethington and Grange to Lord Hunsdon.
As he will shortly repair towards the Court they trust that Mr. Marshal has communicated their conceptions to him, and as they know him to be void of passions in this behalf, they are glad of the occasion whereby he may be the reporter to the Queen.—Edinburgh Castle, 24 April 1572. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. ½.
April 24. 289. Answer by the Queen of Scots' Party to the English Commissioners.
Will make no other answer to the first two articles than they have already done. Will receive no remission at the hands of those of Leith. A disannulling by Parliament is most honourable, and no other way can serve. Insist that all exceptions as to the murders of Murray and Lennox be put out, as they will only breed new troubles. Suggest verbal alterations in some of the other articles. Desire that their debts be paid out of the revenues of the crown and profits of the benefices intromitted by the adverse faction.
Endd. Pp. 1½.
April 24. 290. Mons. Verac to the French Ambassador.
Gives a summary of the negotiations between the Queen of Scots' party and the English Commissioners. They are willing to accept the Queen of England as a mediatrix to settle their quarrels, but refuse to acknowledge her as judge. The Marshal of Berwick is very angry with the Earl of Morton because Mr. Archibald Douglas has been sent prisoner to Lochleven. "The man of the 2,000 crowns" has returned, but has brought him neither letters nor the 2,000 crowns. They reproach him much because the Queen of England has used high language [bravades] to the French King, who, notwithstanding his promises, has done nothing; and that the Queen said in the French Ambassador's presence that De Croc should not go into Scotland unless she knew what he went there for; and also that her Ambassador had told the French King that his mistress would send a hundred soldiers into Scotland for each one of his, and that it would be better for him not to send his subjects there to get their throats cut. A few days ago on his telling Lethington and Grange that it was only the contrary wind that prevented the King from sending them money, they answered that they knew well that it was only from fear of irritating the Queen of England that he left them in the mire, and that it was the assurance of his assistance which induced them to undertake the cause and quarrel of the Queen of Scots, in which already they had lost their houses and property, and were in danger of losing their lives.—Edinburgh, 24 April. Cipher.
Pp. 1¼.
291. Decipher of the above.
Endd. Fr. Pp. 3¼.
April 24. 292. Lord Scrope to Lord Burghley.
Last night the "Lairds Jock," with others of Liddlesdale, to the number of forty and upwards, came to Whitehall in Gillesland, being the land of Christopher Dacre, Esquire, and burnt five houses, and slew a young man named Hetherington, and took his brother prisoner. They also seized 24 head of nolt, which were rescued by William Dacre and John Spadadam, with a few men with them. Takes the old traitor, Anthony Armstrong, to be the principal procurer of this, whose house, standing within this realm, he dare not burn without first knowing the Council's pleasure. Has one Nixon, a Scottish thief, who has confessed to three or four stealths that he has been at in England with the said "Lairds Jock." Thinks it would be good to put him to execution for a terror and example to his other steal-fellows of Liddlesdale, wherein he desires to have Burghley's opinion.—Carlisle, 24 April 1572. Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. P. 1.
293. Traffic with the Low Countries.
April 24. The writer has opened to Sir Francis Knowles and Sir Walter Mildmay what advice he had from Antwerp of such secret practices as the Duke of Alva most earnestly seeks to overthrow the English trade with Hamburgh and Emden, in which he spares neither money or friends to bring it about, for both he and the subjects of the Netherlands now find the lack of that incredible gain and benefit which they secretly reaped these many years by the amity of the English princes and the traffic of their subjects. If it can be brought to pass that the English merchants should have no vent for their commodities but in the Netherlands, then he is persuaded that he shall either force the Queen to yield to him in these controversies betwixt them, or else by staying the traffic when the merchants and clothiers shall lack vent to make rebellion or raise tumults in England, whereby he might more endanger Her Majesty and her subjects than he could by making open war. Has made a book of large discourse hereof, wherein he has opened not only the great dangers the whole Imperial Princes, and especially the Earls of East Friesland, were sundry ways wrapt in by the policy of the House of Burgundy, and how the same might be remedied, but also the great benefit and profit which might come to the whole Imperial Princes by the amity of the English Princes and the traffic of their subjects. If this book were translated into Dutch, considering how aptly the time now serves by the Duke's cruel dealing in the Netherlands, it would give occasion for the overthrow of most of his proceedings. If he will favour a reasonable suit which he has with the Lords of the Council, he offers to new make and translate the said book at his own costs and charges, and also to go himself into East Friesland, to the Earls, of whom he is well known, and confer and persuade them to deal in this matter.
Endd. Pp. 2.
April 25. 294. M. De Croc to Lord Burghley.
Desires that he may have a passport for post horses to go into Scotland, and that his dispatches may be safely conveyed to his master.—London, 25 April 1572. Signed.
Add. Endd. Fr. P. ⅓.
April 25. 295. M. Zwegenhem to Lord Burghley.
Thanks him for his passport, and desires that he may have some one to accompany him across the sea for his safe passage.—London, 25 April 1572. Signed: Francois de Halewynd.
Add. Endd.: "M. Sweveghem to my L.," with seal. Fr. P. 1.
April 26. 296. The Archbishop of Cashel to the Earl of Marr.
Having been sent with the King of Spain's commission to Ireland and the nobility thereof, and having received answers to the articles and points contained in his commission, has been arrested on his return towards his master at Dundee, and his letters taken from him, for which he desires redress. —Dundee, 26 April 1572. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 1½.
April 26. 297. Parties in Scotland.
A summary of the articles propounded to both parties, with a note of the answers and the varieties, both from the articles and amongst themselves.
Rough notes in Lord Burghley's writing. Endd. Pp. 2¾.
April 27. 298. Similar notes in Lord Burghley's writing.
Endd.: 27 April. Pp. 1¼.
April 27. 299. Nicholas Errington to Lord Hunsdon.
Has dealt with the Regent, who will send on Tuesday next a gentleman about the safe delivery of the Earl, and for better advertisement of the Irish bishop, who shall be brought to Leith, and both he and his writings sifted. On Thursday the Castilians slew five of Captain Michell's soldiers in the Cannongate, and on Friday the Earl of Morton took five prisoners, whom he hanged at their return to Leith. The Castilians hanged two presently afterwards. Many gentlemen of the West country are come in. They of the Castle fear some extremity, and have sought to disperse their men in some strengths along the river, but without effect. Mr. Petere, the schoolmaster, is here, and has deciphered all Mr. Archibald's writings, to the number of 26, but none revealed as yet.—Leith, 27 April 1572. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 1¾.
April 28. 300. The Earl of Morton to Lord Burghley.
Reminds him of his former request for redress of injuries done to his friends at different times on the Borders, and complains especially of Fergus Greame.—Leith, 28 April 1572. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. ½.
April 38. 301. The Earl of Morton to the Earl of Sussex.
Hearing of Fergus Greame's repair to the Court he has thought meet to remind him of his former complaints about injuries done to his friends and tenants by those of the West Marches, and prays that some order may be taken with him. Notwithstanding the Duke of Norfolk's arraignment Fergus spares not by wearing of his coat to give declaration to the world whose man he is.—Leith, 28 April 1572. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. 2/3.
April 28. 302. Lord Hunsdon to Lord Burghley.
1. It passes his capacity to deal any more with the parties in Scotland. The Castle side require surety of their lives, lands, goods, and honours, where they have reason; and the keeping of the Castle, because they would be loath to put themselves into their new reconciled friends' hands until they see some proof how they and their friends will be dealt with. On the King's side their malice is so deadly against some of the Castle as they have more respect to be revenged than regard to the commonwealth; others are so resolved to keep such offices, spoils, and authority as they possess by these troubles, that they will never agree to any composition by treaty; the meaner sort who live upon entertainment and such spoils as now and then they can get, and live uncontrolled of any whatsoever they do, cannot abide to hear of peace. These things make him think that neither De Croc or they will do any good. Desires to know how he shall entertain De Croc. Looks hourly for answer from the Regent how and where he shall receive the Earl of Northumberland, and therefore his Lordship must remember how the 2,000l. shall be paid, for they will look for the money upon the delivery of the man. If Her Majesty proceeds with this treaty with France she will always have good peace with Scotland, and will not need any stronger league as Spain is too far off to do them any good. Prays that Her Majesty may so deal with the Scottish Queen this parliament as to rid herself of so mortal an enemy, whereby she may pluck herself out of the quicksands and frustrate the expectation of her enemies abroad and at home, and overthrow their devilish practices, which have been, are, and will be as long as they have any hope of her. Desires him to send a proxy made to himself, which he will return signed and sealed, for he dares put his voice in Burghley's mouth for any matter that shall be treated of now or any other time.—Berwick, 27 April 1572.
2. P.S.—The Regent will send a gentleman to-morrow to confer with him touching the Earl of Northumberland and the Irish Bishop, who, with his letters, is sent for to Leith, and shall be kept at Her Majesty's commandment. Has received an answer from those of the Castle to the Queen's Commissioners, whereby it seems that they will be conformable, their lives, lands, and honours being preserved. They continue still with killing and hanging on both sides.— 28 April. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 2.
April 28. 303. Lord Hunsdon to Alexander Home of Manderston.
Complains of his dealing with the men of Stychell and Couche Carrele, and warns him not to meddle with anything under his charge, as he has behaved so discourteously that he will not bear it at his hands. If the goods of Gledall, who was drowned at Eyemouth, which he has often written for, are not sent out of hand, he will have either them or double their value, if either Eyemouth or Coldingham be worth it.— Berwick, 28 April 1572. Signed: "H."
Copy. Endd. P. 1.
April 29. 304. Randolph to Lord Burghley.
In commendation of his old friend Captain Cockburn, who having taken his leave for ever of Scotland, desires passing through England to kiss the Queen's hand, and do his duty to Burghley and other friends there, and so end his life in France, where he may better live upon what he has there, and do better service, as no such great account is made of him here as he has deserved.—Berwick, 29 April 1572. Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. P. ½.
April 29. 305. Reply of the Regent of Scotland to the Queen's Commissioners.
Gives reasons why there should not be an amnesty for all past offences, especially for the murders of the King and of the two Regents, and shows how inexpedient it would be for the Castle to remain in Grange's hands.
Endd. Pp. 5½.
April 29. 306. Sir Valentine Browne to Lord Burghley.
The surveyor and officers of the works have been very earnest with him for such money as is due to sundry workmen, and for other charges on the bridge, and also that it should be finished this summer. The timber costs the Queen more for felling, squaring, and carriage than it could be bought at any place in England ready wrought. The Warden of the Middle Marches also calls on him for the pay of 60 harquebussiers at Harbottle.—Berwick, 29 April 1572. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. 1.
307. Charges at Berwick.
Note of charges for the wages of the officers of the works, and for repairs done to the bridge at Berwick.
Endd. Enclosure. P. 2/3.
308. Charges at Berwick.
Note of various charges incurred at Berwick for wages and repairs.
Endd. Enclosure. Pp. 1¼.
April 29. 309. Thomas Brown to Lord Burghley.
1. Has delivered his letter to Mr. Lee, who by means of sickness has not been able to do anything therein, or yet to write of the matter.
2. The "freebutters" remain yet strong in the Brielle, and have sent part of their folk into Zealand, who are received into Flushing, and as the bruit here goes have taken Middleburgh by assault.
3. The Duke of Alva has of his Spaniards and Walloons new levied to the number between 9 and 10,000, and prepares to pitch his camp between Barrow and Rosendall. He arms to the sea between 26 and 28 sail of ships.—Antwerp 29 April 1572. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. 2/3.
April 29. 310. News from France.
1. Intelligence from Rouen, 20 April 1572, about different matters, such as the revolt of Flushing, the intended marriage of the Prince of Navarre, and the increase of some of the Huguenot churches in France.
2. Rouen. On 27 April there passed the secretary of Count Ludovic towards Flushing to know if they would receive certain troops in the name of the Prince of Orange. The Spaniards having failed in an attempt to surprise Brielle, amongst other prisoners there were brought to the Count de la Marck six captains, who after having been reproached for the cruelties of Alva, and also for those exercised on the Huguenots, were condemned to be beheaded in retaliation for the execution of Counts Egmont and Horne, and for an example to others who might fall into his hands.
Endd. Fr. Pp. 2½.
April 30. 311. The Regent Marr to Lord Burghley.
Looks that the Queen shall now no longer delay to resolve in this cause of Scotland, as their adversaries in no wise intend to yield to the King's obedience, and complains of the danger in which they who profess the King's obedience and the preservation of the amity with England find themselves by Her Majesty's manner of proceeding. Although it may be thought not to become them to be curious in the order of Her Majesty's dealing in her own realm, yet their special interest in the matter moves him to lament at least to his Lordship the occasion of their grief, and to wish that the Queen neglect not good occasion, nor by lenity put her state in peril which next herself and subjects will touch the King and themselves. Begs to have the Queen's speedy answer what certainty they may look for at her hands, and in the meantime support of money for their entertainment of the men of war. Their adversaries are daily aided, and there is 60,000 crowns of the Pope's money in Flanders destined for the entertainment of this rebellion in Scotland, which is to be a pathway for the overthrowing of true religion and erecting first here the tyranny and superstition of the Pope and Spain, which with time cannot but annoy the Queen of England's estate. This practise is divers ways disclosed, and amongst others by the Bishop of Cashel, who is fallen into their hands, and for whom they would be glad to understand the Queen of England's mind.—Leith, 30 April 1572. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 1⅓.
April 30. 312. The Regent Marr to Queen Elizabeth.
Now that the obstinacy of their adversaries is known he looks that Her Majesty will not longer delay to resolve in this cause of Scotland, and where favourable admonitions avail not will use the next remedy.—Leith, 30 April 1572. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. ⅓.
April 30. 313. Queen Elizabeth to Lord Hunsdon.
Has agreed that De Croc shall have her license to repair into Scotland. As she has just cause to maintain the King's estate, for that she cannot endure that the Queen of Scots shall be restored to the crown for respects grown by her evil demerits against her, she has ordered Sir William Drury, to whom she has sent her instructions, to join with De Croc.
Draft in Burghley's writing.
Endd. P 1.
April 30. 314. Queen Elizabeth to Thomas Randolph.
Gives him license to return having ordered Sir William Drury to joinwith M. De Croc.
Draft in Burghley's writing.
Endd. P. ⅓.
April 30. 315. Queen Elizabeth to Sir William Drury.
Sends instructions for his conduct in the negotiations with De Croc. Would be glad if he can induce him upon respect of the adventures which he found, which may also be as dangerous for De Croc, to remain at Berwick, and procure that some persons might be chosen on both sides to come thither to treat. Although he is to use all good courtesy towards De Croc, it will be well for him to beware of his negotiation, and to direct himself in all things to maintain the estate of the King. As she is of opinion that if Lethington were satisfied for his surety, and restitution of his lands and estates, and Grange either permitted to continue officer of the Castle, or have in recompense the Priory of St. Andrew's, the rest of the matters might be easily accorded, he will do well to labour earnestly with the Regent herein.
Draft in Burghley's writing.
Endd. Pp. 22/3.
April 30. 316. Instructions for Sir William Drury.
Directions for him to join with M. De Croc, the French King's Commissioner, for the purpose of appeasing the civil commotions in Scotland.
Draft in Burghley's writing.
Endd. Pp. 5½.
317. Copy of a portion of the above.
Pp. 12/3.
April. 318. Matters of Scotland.
"A brief note of that which seems reasonable in the articles following, until some further matter may appear to move the change hereof."
Endd. Pp. 1¼.
319. Copy of the above in French.
P. 1.
April. 320. Matters of Scotland.
Summary of the articles proposed by the two parties for the purpose of causing a cessation of the civil war in Scotland, together with certain others added by those of the Castle.
Endd. Fr. Pp. 12/3.
April. 321. Claims for Spanish Money stayed.
Out of 291,518 ducats, the Genoese and Luccois claim 227,421 ducats, leaving 64,097 ducats for the Spaniards.
Endd. P. ½.
[April.] 322. The French King's intent towards Scotland.
News coming out of England that the Duke Hamilton had condescended to the Queen of England, and that she had promised to maintain him and the King of Scots' action, the King stayed Mr. James Kirkcaldy and the money. Order is to be taken to embark 5,000 Frenchmen to go to Scotland under colour to be sent to Rochelle. The Earl of Westmorland and Dacres have promised to land in Scotland and get divers Englishmen to serve the French King there. 6,000 francs have been sent out of France to Edinburgh Castle, and Scotch merchants repaid for money they had lent Grange.
Endd. Pp. 2¼.
[April.] 323. Catherine de Medicis to the Queen.
Letter of credence for Guido Cavalcanti, to whom she has entrusted certain matters to communicate to her. Holograph. Signed.
Add. Endd. Fr. P. ⅓.
April & May. 324. Affairs of the Low Countries.
Expulsion of the Spaniards from Flushing and the Isle of Walcheren. Movements of forces on either side. Arrival of English and French volunteers.
(Duplicates, see April 6 and May 21.)
Regulations by the Prince of Orange for the behaviour of his soldiers quartered in Walcheren and Zealand.
Fr. Pp. 4½.