Calendar of State Papers Foreign: Elizabeth, Volume 20, September 1585-May 1586. Originally published by His Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1921.
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'Elizabeth: May 1586, 21-25', in Calendar of State Papers Foreign: Elizabeth, Volume 20, September 1585-May 1586, (London, 1921) pp. 650-672. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/foreign/vol20/pp650-672 [accessed 25 April 2024]
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May 1586, 21–25
| May 21. | Leicester to the Queen. |
|---|---|
| “. . . In my last letter from Arnhem I did signify unto your Highness of my sending some of my forces before me toward 'Newmegen,' as of the cause of drawing your army into these parts and my now going with it. Upon Monday last I went thither, and found the fort which the enemy held there very well manned and furnished for a longer defence than they have kept it, for yesterday, being Friday morning, having placed before only my field pieces against it, with bringing our trenches hard to the ditch side, they desired a parley, which was granted them; whereupon they sent a gentleman to me with offer to yield up the fort, so they might depart with their arms only, without ensign or drum; albeit some other demands they made yet I would not yield to any further than this, which was accepted. And so we received the fort without any loss of men saving a very few, as at all such attempts some must go. There was two hundred as handsome men that kept this fort as I have seen, and all soldiers. This fort is of very great importance, as well to bridle 'Newmegen' as to ease our passage upon that river, stopping all others withal. Mr. Norris began this fort heretofore, but the enemy took it by and by and made it of good strength, not meaning we should have it so soon again; but now by God's goodness, much to their reproach that so yielded it, it is in our safe keeping I trust. Many at this siege showed themselves very forward; among others I must say truly to your Majesty there was no man of any degree that took more pains nor more adventured his person both in helping to make the trenches and going up and down into them than my Lord North did, and no man continued with watching, fasting and greater toil of body than he did, nor did better away with all, far otherwise than I could have looked for. And in all times of travel either by horse or foot, I see no man able to weary him. He doth give himself very earnestly to understand all things belonging to the war and parts of a soldier, and surely able to give as good advice as any of them that have longer followed that course and trade only. He is in my opinion fit for any charge that shall be committed to him, for he is wise, very careful and of great courage; and it will encourage him greatly if he receive notice of your Majesty's good acceptance of his earnest endeavour, being only for your service sake done, having no other place or charge hitherto. Your Majesty shall also understand that the fort I signified unto you that I had appointed Shenks to make, being on an island called Graveswort, is now finished and defencible against any force of the enemy, and like to hold him hard from any succour or victual which must pass either the river of Rhine or the Waal, they both passing just under his fort side, that nothing can pass either toward Grave or 'Newmegyn.' We have now almost cleared these rivers of all forts save one and which we are now in hand withal, called Berkes Hoofe, five mile from this town; and I trust Sir Thomas Heneage shall bring you word of the getting of it as well as the rest. Thus with all humble remembrance of my duty to your most excellent Majesty I will with my daily prayers commend your sacred person and safe preservation unto the protection of the Almighty.—From the camp before Newmegyn, this 21st of May.” | |
| Postscript.—“I received even now a letter from Sir Thomas Heneage, to whom I will presently repair toward. I beseech your Majesty pardon my hasty scribbling, at this time I have so much to do.” | |
| Add. Endd. 3 pp. [Holland VIII. 36.] | |
| May 21. | Stephen Le Sieur to Walsingham. |
| The 26th of April last, six men of war of this town met the Anthony of Ipswich, which after long fight and loss of men, was boarded and spoiled of her light goods, after which the master and part owner, Edward Barnes of Ipswich, was forced to ransom the ship and the rest of the goods at 1,500 florins; and keeping one prisoner till the money was paid, they let the ship go. Barnes was chosen, but foreseeing the ship might miscarry in his absence, there being none but himself able to bring her to Ipswich, he entreated one Robert Nothingham (a passenger and owner of part of the goods) to remain in his stead, promising that the money should be paid within five weeks, besides his charges. He yielded to the request, and is now advertised that neither the said Barnes nor John Binder, James Talbot, Robert Cutler the younger nor William Maddock, all of Ipswich, or Martin Besel of Colchester, owners of the ship and goods, “make any account” to send the money, saying that if their ship had been brought hither, it would not have been confiscated; “but we see here daily the contrary.” | |
| The poor man has with tears declared his lamentable estate to me, and begged me to let your honour know of it, persuading himself that you will assist him as you do all poor, afflicted persons who have recourse to you. I have no long acquaintance with the man, but compassion and his honest and godly behaviour entice me to beseech you to embrace his cause and move Barnes and the others to redeem him, who for saving of their goods has brought himself into this trouble.—Dunkirk, 21 May, 1586, stylo antiquo. | |
| Add. Endd. 1¾ pp. [Flanders I. 84.] | |
| May 22. | Stafford to Walsingham. |
| The bearer, who names himself Stuard, a Scottish man, has desired a passport for England, which I would not grant, as I neither knew nor had heard of him; but have given him this letter that you may deal with him as you see cause. He says he had Mr. Randall's and your honour's passport to come hither, but showed me neither, which made me the more unwilling to give him one-Paris, 22 May, 1586. | |
| Signed. Add. Endd. ½ p. [France XV. 141.] | |
| May. 22. | Horatio Palavicino to Walsingham. |
| My last to your honour was on the 16th. The next day Solker arrived, bringing yours of the 13th of last month, which were very welcome; and seeing by them her Majesty's command to go to the Electors of Saxony and Brandenburg, I was glad that I had made an effort to come to a conclusion with Duke Casimir, and had sent to ask for audience, since I shall shortly have to go away from him, and this will be, I hope, a good opportunity to press him to come to a resolution on the issue desired by us. I gave him to understand that I could no longer remain here in uncertainty, and the order that I have to go into those parts, reported to me by Mr. Shute. He showed himself pleased, very hopeful that her Majesty's offices towards those princes may be of very great benefit. I am given audience for the 25th, and shall go on the evening of the 24th to Heidelberg, with the determination to exert every effort, that he may make up his mind and bind himself to the agreement, upon which, in case I obtain it, or indeed if he plainly desires me to delay it, I shall start at once for Saxony and execute my charge with all possible care and diligence. Meanwhile, no time will be lost by my going to Duke Casimir, because I must put myself into mourning habits, and these days will enable me to prepare them. Moreover, they tell me here that the Elector is gone or about to go to the Emperor, to do homage for his paternal estate, so that without any inconvenience I can wait a few days for the end of the negotiation with Duke Casimir. One thing only may happen contrary to my desire, viz. that the Sieur de la Verriere (della Verriera), governor of Metz, sent by the King of France to the said Duke on a similar office of condolence, may, I fear, arrive there before me; and I should like to be before him, so that that prince might be well prepared for what he may wish to treat with him, in the affairs of France. But if it shall happen that I am dispatched by Duke Casimir before he passes here, or at least at the same time, I will certainly be before him in diligence. These ministers of the King of Navarre are much cheered by the new service which her Majesty is going to do for their benefit, and hope for much good therefrom. I shall use the aid of Dr. Gentile in the Latin tongue, according to your lordship's remembrance, but the part touching the condolences I shall be obliged to explain myself, to show more forcibly her Majesty's goodwill. | |
| I thank your honour for your relation of the affairs of Scotland and the Low Countries, and of the proceedings of Sir Francis Drake; being very glad of the good reasons which you give me for exhorting and animating these princes not to remain idle, but to stir themselves up to desire to participate in the glory of serving the common cause.—Frankfort, 22 May, 1586. | |
| Add. Endd. Italian. 1¾ pp. [Germany, States IV. 46.] | |
| May 22. | “A note of things propounded by the ambassador of Denmark.” |
| 1. By her letters written four or five months ago, her Majesty prayed the King “to impeach the traffic of those of Danzig and other Free Cities within the Sound, into the dominions of the King of Spain.” He desires nothing more than to satisfy her requests, yet does not see how he can do this, “both in respect of the good intelligence between him and the King of Spain, as also in respect of the Free Cities, who will think themselves greatly wronged by such a kind of restraint.” That touching the particular restraint desired, of carrying victuals, munition and tackle [for ships], the King thinks that if he assents thereto, the English merchants who now carry these things into France, from thence to be conveyed into Spain, should also be restrained, or it might be thought that it was only desired for the profit of the English merchants. The King being desirous to gratify her Majesty so far as may stand with reason and the law of nations, has given him charge to confer with such of her Council as she should appoint, touching the said point. | |
| 2. Whereas the impositions on merchandise brought into this realm from his master's dominions are far greater than those on merchandise sent from this realm into those dominions, he desires that this inequality may be reformed. | |
| 3. He prays “that order may be taken that his master's subjects that have been lately subject to spoils and outrages” may have restitution of their losses and security for the future, that they may pass quietly without being molested by any of her Majesty's subjects “serving on the seas.” | |
| 4. That as the King has let out to farm the fishing about the island of Westpenhaven, her Majesty will give orders for her subjects not to resort thither. | |
| Endd. with date. 2½ pp. [Denmark I. 84.] | |
| May 23. | Walsingham to Stafford. |
| It is true that you have often asked me how you should proceed in what is recommended to you by my lord of Leicester, and I have not been unmindful to deal with some of my lords of the Council, but could not sooner draw any resolution from them. They desire you always to send my lord's requests hither, before dealing with the King in them, “the rather for that we find by his ambassador that the motion made to him of late for restraint of his subjects' trade and transportation of victuals into the Low Countries was somewhat strangely taken by him”; who nevertheless, to gratify her Majesty, agrees to make a general restraint of victuals out of his realm, without naming any place, in respect of the good friendship between him and the King of Spain. But we may well think that he yields rather because of the scarcity of victuals in his own State than to satisfy her Majesty, for howsoever he himself stands well-affected to her, “yet is it not likely that his Council, who run another course, would otherwise have consented unto it.” | |
| For the manner of your concurring with the German ambassadors, as the Queen believes that the King stands “very constantly affected towards her,” you will do well “rather to take a mild and temperate than a violent course; for if you should use any threatening speeches, upon the mislike that might grow of it there, your doings would besides be disavowed here, which must subsequently fall out to your own discredit.” | |
| Underneath is written “Proceedings Germany. Earl of Arundel. King of Denmark's ambassador.” | |
| Draft. Endd. with date. 1½ pp. [France XV. 142.] | |
| May 23./June 2. | Henry III. to the Four Swiss Cantons. |
| The friendship and alliance between his kingdom and the four cantons of Zurich, Berne, Basle and Schaffhausen (Seyaffhisen) and his knowledge of their desire for its welfare, has hitherto sufficiently led him to believe that they would regret to hear that it was afflicted by intestine war; but now the letters brought by their ambassadors, and what the said ambassadors have shown him on the subject, have given him still more ample testimony thereof, for which he cannot sufficiently thank them. Has always esteemed peace and tranquility to be more necessary than all else in the world, and has done his utmost to maintain them, as his actions sufficiently testify, and is now seeking all good means to reach this good end; but although greatly desiring a pacification, he does not wish such as some former ones have been, but a much more firm and stable one, that his people may no more fall back into the great evils and calamities by which they now find themselves afflicted. Hopes that the goodness of God will bring to a good end the contentions, which are right and sincere and such as are meet for a prince who holds his honour in reverence and desires the conservation of the peoples whom God has given into his keeping.—2 June, 1586. | |
| Copy. Endd. Fr. 1½ pp. [Ibid. XV. 143.] | |
| May 23. | Leicester to the Queen. |
| “After I had written my other letter from the Camp before 'Newmegyn,' I received a letter from Sir Thomas Heneage that he was recovered of his late sickness and come to Utrecht for the delivery of your Majesty's pleasure as well to me as to the Council of State here. Whereupon I came immediately from the Camp to this town of 'Arnham,' where I have appointed the rest of the Council absent to come also forthwith; and have thought it my part to signify unto your Majesty how ready I will be according to my bounden duty to satisfy your Highness' pleasure fully touching the government absolute. Wherein I do most humbly and lowly beseech your most excellent Majesty even upon my knees that it be not troublesome to you to hear oft my poor and true declaration touching that matter, protesting still before the Lord and by the allegiance I owe your Majesty, I had no particular respect or thought in the world of myself to be either advanced or bettered by it; but to advance your service and the cause I was sent for, did cause me do that which your Majesty misliketh, and so now must I, without further defence of it; only my petition is that your wonted goodness may yield that gracious construction of my doings which it pleaseth you to use to those that be known to be your faithful and true servants. | |
| “I know now and feel, most dear Sovereign, what it is for a man of my long service about his prince to leave their presence. I was not ignorant before I took this journey in hand, that I had left many enemies behind me, though I may justly appeal to your princely censure, that I have deserved to have good friends about you. But seeing there was none other worldly cause could have made me either have left your presence or take so hard a journey upon me, but only your state and preservation, as so seemed not only to myself but to all your most wise councillors, it doth greatly content me, what so ever shall befal upon me. Yet grievous this way it is to me, that having left all, yea all that may be imagined for you, you have left me for very little, even to the uttermost of all hard fortune. For what have I to do (unhappy man) here, either with cause or country but for you. To God and you therefore I leave myself. | |
| “For all other matters, most dread Sovereign, other than that which it doth please you to take exception unto, and for which I do yield myself to all your will and pleasure, I trust there is no enemy able to charge me with any lack in service here for you, neither yet, Almighty God be thanked, with any ill success to your dishonour or to the hindrance of these countries. But contrary wise, from my first arrival hitherto God hath so blessed the action you have taken in hand and committed to the charge of me your poor unhappy servant, as beside all within my charge hath been safely preserved, as well the people as the towns of seven provinces, there is recovered sundry forts and castles out of the enemy's hand, and divers overthrows hath been given him to the loss at the least of 5,000 of his men. I have good cause here to say somewhat for myself, for that I think I have as few friends to speak for me as any man, as good thanks I think I could justly get myself, but seeing in some sort it might be perhaps to the hurt of others, I will let the lack of them run with the rest of my hard destiny. But this much I may boldly and truly say to your Majesty: That these countries under my charge were not these many years in so strong nor quiet state as they be at this day, neither was the enemy so unable every way to annoy these countries as he is at this day; as well by decay of his men, as the necessity and scarcity of victuals, which more and more we are like to keep now from him, as in my other letter doth better appear unto your Majesty, whereby I trust it may be thought that I have been no careless nor negligent servant since my coming; for ways and means 'enowe' have been sought at my hands as well to let him sit still and proceed as he hath long done, as to suffer him to have had better relief or victual than he hath had; but I have been a faithful servant both to your Majesty and to those you have commended me to have care of. | |
| “And my most dear and gracious lady, without offence give me leave to have a little care for myself, seeing all my care and service here doth breed me nothing but most grief and unhappiness, having never had your Majesty's good favour since I came into this charge; a matter that from my first beholding your eyes hath been most dear unto me above all earthly treasures, and never shall I love that place or like that soil which shall be cause of the lack of it. Most gracious lady, consider my long, true and faithful heart toward you, and let not this unfortunate place here bereave me of that which above all the world I esteem there, which is your favour and your presence. I see my service is not acceptable, but rather more and more disliketh you. Here I can do your Majesty no service; there I may do you some, at the least rub your horse heels, a service which shall be much more welcome to me than this with all that these men may give me. I do humbly and from my heart prostrate at your feet, beg this grace at your sacred hands, that you will be pleased to let me return to my home service with your favour, let the revocation be used in what sort shall please and like you. But if ever spark of favour was in your Majesty toward your old servant, let me obtain this my humble suit, protesting before the Majesty of all Majesties that there was no cause under heaven but his and yours, even for your own special and particular cause, I say, could have made me take this absent journey from you in hand. And if your Majesty shall refuse me this, seeing that which I took this journey for is like to be far from my accomplishment, I shall think all favour and all good grace is clean gone from me. And besides, I know my days will not be long here. Touching matters of this State, I will refer to the return of Sir Thomas Heneage unto your Majesty, who is very thoroughly instructed of all things fit for your understanding and knowledge, beseeching God that some prefer not a less security unto you than the fast holding of these countries at your devotion and direction would be. The Almighty God always preserve your Majesty with long life and all felicity.—At Arnham, most humbly kissing your Majesty's feet,” 23 May. | |
| Holograph. Add. Endd. 4½ pp. [Holland VIII. 37.] | |
| [Substance and quotations given by Motley, i, 450, but with various alterations.] | |
| May 23. | “The Earl of Leicester's demands for her Majesty's service in Holland &c. [with apostiles in the margin]. |
| That more money may be sent. Margin. “Her Majesty resolved therein.” | |
| That Sir Valentine Brown or some other skilful man be sent to take an account of the pays already made and to set down direction for orderly proceeding hereafter. Margin. “The account thought meet to be determined here.” | |
| In her Majesty's 125,000l. a year, no allotment is made for certain officers, men, extra ordinary charges &c. [enumerated]. Margin. “The States are to be put in remembrance of the promises made by their commissioners here, touching the said allowance. Her Majesty will not assent to any extraordinary charges above the sum of 125,000l.“ | |
| How the Auditor and William Herle (sent by the Lords into East Friesland) are to be paid. | |
| That Lord Greye and Sir William Pelham may be sent over. | |
| Prays further allowance for levying of horses. | |
| Added in Walsingham's hand:— | |
| “'Seburo' to be sent over to be exchanged for M. de Meures [Meux]. | |
| “What authority he shall have touching the disposing of the garrisons at the Brill and Flushing. | |
| “To send over a skilful man for the mint.” | |
| Endd. by Burghley: “23 May, 1586. A memorial of matters for the Earl of Leicester. By Mr. Aty.” 2 pp. [Holland VIII. 38.] | |
| May 23. | Lord North to Burghley. |
| I received yours of April 29 on the 21 of this present at our camp before Nimegen sconce. I find that mine sent by Sir William Russell were not delivered as promised. Before my lord's departure from Utrecht, I wrote to your lordship of all his purpose, and sent my letters by one Salisbury, which I trust came to your hands. Our camp has been before Nimegen sconce ten or twelve days. My lord was there until the sconce was yielded on Friday, the 20th, the first parley being made with serjeant major and me in the morning. They desired to speak with my lord, and we agreed to send them in a drum and lieutenant and they to send a drum and a gentleman, whom I brought to my lord, and he granted them to depart like soldiers, with their weapons and such baggage as they could carry, “but no drum sounding nor ensign displayed. Thus were they received and so sent over the water.” The sconce was strong and in it 170 tall soldiers, with victual and all other furniture, “and had no cause to give it up.” They had conveyed into the town their captain, who was hurt, their lieutenant and ensign, so no officer was left but the serjeant major. True it is that Read, our serjeant major (“under whom when there is service on foot I put myself a private soldier; and how forward I have been in the trenches I leave to be reported by others,”) had brought a trench within twenty yards of their palisado, “so that the Friday night, if they had not yielded before, we had come to the push of the pike.” | |
| My lord laid no battery to it, having but a few field pieces, the cannon that day coming. He besieged two strong castles, one on the highway, two miles short of the sconce, which marvellously hurt our men in passing; the other two miles beyond the sconce. The first was won “by composition of their lives; the other yielded to my lord's mercy,” who so nobly used the soldiers that these of the sconce confessed it moved them to yield. “My lord leaveth his whole camp at Nimegen, still the townsmen have kept no promise, and have hardly dealt with us, shooting their great artillery. The town is in miserable state for victual, and die for hunger the common sort. They be divided; some stand for the Spaniards, which do prevail, others would yield. Notwithstanding, even they which be most Spanish, yet will not receive any garrison into the town nor suffer 'Hotopen' (fn. 1) the governor of those parts to come into the town with any number never above twenty persons. I suppose they would fain yield, but they pause to see the success of Grave; they will lean to the stronger party. There was in none of these holds any Spaniards, but Walloons and Burgonians. | |
| “My lord on Saturday came to 'Arnam'; sent the canon and a thousand footmen to another sconce called Bergsholt, whither I go presently, and trust we shall have it by fair or foul means in five or six days at the most. That being done, my lord hath cleared the whole Betue of the enemy, which is a notable piece of service. We have had killed twelve persons and nigh twenty hurt; a small thing. These things being thus finished, I suppose my lord will send up toward Doesburg, which annoyeth the Velowe greatly. It is thought we shall easily come by it, but victory resteth in God's hands. The enemy, the Prince I mean, is in person before Grave, where hence he will not depart without the town. He hath sent Taxis with three thousand footmen (as we hear) and a thousand horse into Cleveland, to a village called Eltam, that is within three English miles of Bergsholt, where we now are; but the river of Rhine is between us, and he hath no means to pass over the same, so as he cannot relieve that sconce. Skink hath built his sconce in Cleveland beyond 'Tole house,' a place of marvellous importance, and doth master the Rhine and the Waal (“the rein and the wall”), so that Nimegen will be starved in time. . . . | |
| “My lord of Leicester did so notably advise and direct the making of the trenches, as all did yield to his opinion and followed his direction, a thing which I did not look for (I confess it) nor others of better experience than myself. And to view this place he did put himself within the danger of the musket shot too, too much, for we saw it come roundly about him. Well, I see him resolute to serve God and her Majesty with all hazard in these services. My trust is, her Highness will hearken to your lordship, and cleave to the soundest counsel. I say plainly that if the title be taken from him, the cause is overthrown, himself dishonoured, and we in danger. I have not many reasons which I will labour your lordship withal; only I say, and I see, that though he hath now authority in his hand to command, yet the States and their Council perform things so slowly as they endanger all. They hardly keep any promise they make, and what may fall out when my lord shall stand at their courtesy, your good lordship can easily judge. I pray God her Majesty do not persist in that course, to take away the title, but rather take him away first. The State be sly persons, unconstant and treacherous, the most of them Papists and so rich as they will 'do turn' any way to save themselves, and if they may again find that her Majesty likes not of my lord's authority, they will doubt of their own safety, practise their own peace, and leave my lord and all his to the spoil of the enemy or the country. I hope better of her Majesty and assure myself that time with good counsel will work all to God's glory and her most honour and safety, whereof I had some taste by letters out of England that matters do better, for the which I shall pray most heartily.”—From Arnhem and toward Bergs sconce, 23 May. | |
| Postscript.—“I pray your good lordship let me have one of the coif for judge in the Isle. Golding is not in my memento nor shall be until he be sound.” | |
| Holograph. Add. Endd. by Burghley. 3 pp. [Holland VIII. 39.] | |
| May 23./June 2. | Resolution of the States General, on the declaration of his Excellency and the Council of State, dated May [20-]30 at Utrecht, concerning the payment of debts of the Landraet, stating at length the proportions they are willing to grant for the cost of equipage and pay of the seamen; and especially for payment of the charges of outstanding debts, on condition that the money shall be diverted to no other ends. |
| No Add. or Endd. Dutch. 4½ pp. [Ibid. VIII. 39 bis.] | |
| May 23. | Thomas Wylsford to Burghley. |
| Thanking him for his good opinion and (as he understands from Mr. Partridge), his kind intention towards his poor wife and child “for his wardship,” who, if he himself ends his life in this service, will be thankful to his lordship for it. Has refrained from writing, because the intercepting of letters by them of Dunkirk and Newport is so dangerous.—Ostend, 23 May. | |
| Add. Endd. ¾ p. [Ibid. VIII. 40.] | |
| May 23./June 2 [last date]. | Foreign Advertisements. |
| Antwerp, May 3, 1586.—Rout of the Spaniards confirmed, though not that the English took the Castle of Battenberg and the town of Ravestain and made Mansfelt and Montagni prisoners. Siege of Grave raised, necessaries and fresh troops sent in, and the wounded removed. The Golden Fleece to be given to Count Charles Mansfelt, Aremberg, Montagni and Barleymonte. Artillery &c. brought from Malines, for an enterprise (as is believed) against Bergen, the garrison of which prevents the passage of victuals, so that corn is risen to ten caroluses the rubbio. From France, England and other places comes news of great dearth, and from Spain that Drake has taken San Domingo and other islands, murdering all the Spaniards by help of the slaves, to whom he gave arms and promised liberty. | |
| Cologne, May 8.—All victuals &c. got ready for the siege of Neuss are being sold. Proclamations newly issued in London and Utrecht, forbidding negotiation or navigation from Holland, Zeeland and England to Spain, Portugal or other places belonging to the Catholic King. King of Denmark has done the same. Schenk 2731 said to have defeated four cornets of Spanish horse convoying munitions of war from Maestricht to the camp; and to have carried the munitions to Venlo. | |
| Prague, May 6.—[The first part a duplicate of news on p. 627 above.] The Electors of Saxony and Brandenburg about to muster all their troops. They desire the Count Palatine, nephew of Casimir and the Archbishop of Maniz (Magonza) both Electors, to enter into league with them. Fear lest these four should hinder the business of election of King of the Romans, as wished by House of Austria, now left with adherence of only two Electors, Treves and Cologne. Others think their motive is to restore Truchsess. | |
| Rome, May 17.—Publication of grace by the Pope to those who have aided bandits. [Exceptions given.] Cardinal d'Este is very much better. The Pope has been to Zagarola to inspect the waters to be brought to Monte Cavallo. Many cardinals with him, and others invited by Colonna for the reception, given by him and Signor Prospero with great splendour. Wednesday, his Holiness returned to the Vatican to be present at the “chapels” on Ascension Day. Sunday, Cardinal Spinola admitted to kiss his feet, to whom he gave comforting words. Spinola replied that whatever came from his Holiness' hands, whether misery or joy, he should receive as a favour; not treating of the justification which would clear up the imputations against him, and ending in tears, which so moved his Holiness to pity that he was allowed to visit the Palatine Cardinals, as now he does the other cardinals in Rome; it being said that the accusations against him have not been found so heavy as was at first pretended, and adding thereto the defence made in his favour from Perugia, whence it is learned that Dandino had caused four of the rioters to be quartered. | |
| [Means to be taken to provide money for the reduction and maintenance of beggars in Rome.] | |
| A certain man having obtained permission from the Pope, on payment of 300 crowns a year, to keep the Osteria for the daily victualling of the Jews, a great crowd of them repaired last Tuesday to the Pope, to cry out against this monopoly, but the result is not known. The Condé de Miranda, new viceroy of Naples, expected from Spain. | |
| By order of the Governor of Rome, the Meritrici may not go out after the ringing of the Ave Maria, nor the men take them into their houses or go about with them at night, under great penalties. The Archbishop of Turin has arrived, summoned by the Pope and warmly received by him. Some dissatisfaction between the Pope and Grand Duke, from the latter's reception and protection of Pino Malvezzi, against the will of his Holiness. Decree published concerning the gold collected at the castle, forbidding its removal, under pain of excommunication, save for the Holy Land; war against the Turks and infidels; real need from dearth, plague, war in Italy for preservation of the jurisdiction of the Holy See, or for maintenance or restoration of places of the church. The Archbishop of Corfu has made a discourse very pleasing to the Pope, on the present state of the Turks, their weakened forces and the means to be taken to weaken them entirely during their war with Persia. Another bull published, declaring all benefices vacated in sede vacanti to be de conclavisti. The Pope's decree to make no cardinals save in December said to be because he was pressed by the Spaniards for Ascanio Colonna, and by the French and other potentates for subjects of their own. [Concerning the cause of Buonfiolo.] | |
| In to-day's consistory, Azzolini made report of the church of Pesaro for Cesare Benedetti, a philosopher, formerly maestro of the Duke of Urbino; and Aragon of the church of Vicentis (fn. 2) in Portugal, by the translation of the Archbishop of Lisbon. The Pope has granted to the Viceroy of Naples many condemned to the oar, to serve in the great galleys to be sent to Barcelona. His Holiness much vexed by news from Turin that peace with the French Huguenots was believed to be accomplished, and the Spaniards still more so; it being added that the King was bringing many reiters from Germany and that the Queen Mother was gone to have conference with Navarre. The Bishop of Sta. Agatha, a Dominican friar, going as nuncio to the Grisons, a thing craved by that nation, he being a compatriot. Malaspina recalled from the Imperial Court, having written too openly of the Emperor, and shown himself very eager for that nunciato. The Bishop of Arezzo called to serve in charges of the Inquisition. Difference between Farnese and Medici on account of the waters being brought from Zagarola, by persuasion of Medici, against the will of Farnese, who holds that they cannot get up to the places destined for the baths. | |
| The Viceroy of Naples wished to take certain waters from Benevento and turn them into the kingdom, but the town strongly opposed it, and the Pope has intervened, so probably nothing will be done. | |
| Venice, May 24.—This feast of Ascension the poorest for many years. Concourse of strangers very small, perhaps from the bad times and dearth. Here these only felt as regards meat, which cannot be had for money. Of bread there is plenty, thanks to prudence of the Signoria, who distributed the corn to the bakers.[Details of prices &c.] | |
| The stradiotti, going into Lombardy against the bandits have arrived, and the cavalry is on the Lido. The Senate has liberated Camillo Mattei, a Roman from prison, and two others, condemned to the galleys as having been found with Lodovico Orsino. | |
| On Ascension Day, the son of the Prince of Mantua was baptised, held at the font by the Duke of Sabionetta on behalf of the Emperor and Catholic King and named Francesco. | |
| There has been put upon the pietra del bando the head of Jacomo di Vals of Medun in the Friuli, banished more than once by the Council of Ten, and killed on Ascension Day at Castelnovo in the jurisdiction of Savorgnani by one whom he had injured, who offered the head to Signor Marc Antonio Savorgnano. The latter sent it, accompanied as far as Portogre [qy. Portogruaro] by more than 200 men, hoping to procure the liberation, or at least mitigation of the sentence of his son, Germanico. Captain Mario Moretto made captain of the troops in Candia; Pausanio Braccioduro of Vicenza going in his place to the government of Treviso. The Cardinal of Padua has arrived. In the State of the Grand Duke there has been a fight of the bandits in open field, thirty on each side, when the Guelphs under Arcangelo Bissicchi were victorious, killing Paulone Tassinari, chief of the Ghibellines, and three others, without loss on their side. Colonel Leone is to be governor in Canea, in place of Colonel Vincenzo Haldi, whose process is to-day before the Council of Ten. | |
| The Turks said to be building a fort between Sebenico and Spalato, to secure themselves from the Uscocchi. | |
| Cardinal of Vilna has arrived at Pontebba and is coming hither. The Viceroy of Naples has announced his departure upon the arrival of his successor. All the gentlemen and soldiers of Spain and Portugal ordered to be ready to embark on the great fleet now preparing, on which will go 10,000 soldiers. Orders sent to hire men in Tuscany and the State of Milan. Not more than twenty sailors to go in any ship from Lisbon to the East Indies, instead of 150 or 200. Don Amedeo of Savoy having quarrelled with a Spanish favourite of the Infanta and killed him, has been imprisoned by his brother the Duke. The Marquis del Vasto gone by way of Milan to Flanders. The Duke of Terra Nova confirmed by the Catholic King in his government for three years longer. The yearly obsequies of Cardinal Zeno celebrated yesterday in San Marco, in presence of the Prince, College and ambassadors. | |
| From Antwerp they write that two vessels have come to England from San Domingo, laden with sugars &c., sent by Drake to that Queen, for whose service there are 2,000 reiters at Hamburg. It is said the Spaniards still hold two of the forts outside Grave. It is reported from Genoa that the ambassador Lippomani has left for Spain. Lorenzo Priuli has returned from his embassy to Rome and made his report in the Senate and College, and the Spanish Secretary has related what happened at Grave, the Prince of Parma having written that 600 of his men were killed, besides the captains. Certain English merchants have presented letters to the Signoria from their Queen, in relation to commerce and navigation and the taking off of duties, a matter long treated of. Father Panicarola made coadjutor of the Bishop of Ferrara. | |
| Letters from Spain announce the serious illness of the Prince, and the indisposition of Cardinal Granvelle, afflicted because the King no longer takes counsel with him. Great rejoicings at that Court for the birth of the Prince of Savoy. Marques Santa Crux about to set out with the fleet, on which go 12,000 soldiers, in quest of Drake. | |
| Antwerp, May 11.—Prince of Parma expected to-morrow with his Court. Preparations for an enterprise, probably against Berghes [Bergen-op-Zoom]. A good number of Spanish, Italian and German troops at Borgerhout and Berchen [Berchem], besides the Germans who are here, and Count Peter Ernest of Mansfelt's regiment, coming from Luxembourg. The magistrates have made house to house inquisition what corn there is in the city; the surplus to go to the intended camp. Rumour that Count d'Aremberg is to be governor of city and castle, and that Champagney and Mondragon will have other posts. The Spaniards here affirm that after mastering the island and city of San Domingo, Drake freed more than 12,000 slaves, who are now aiding him; and that he has taken some vessels going to India and is sending five to the Queen of England, whence were expected thirty other men of war. | |
| In the port of Cales (fn. 3) the ships of Holland, Zeeland and England have had their sails taken away, for having taken some French ones. | |
| Cologne, May 15.—Money and goods captured by those of Neuss, and carried to Neuss, Gueldres and Venlo. Count Maurice, son of the late Prince of Orange, made Vicomte of Bergen, and Admiral for the States. The Earl of Leicester has given Schenk the order of the Garter at Utrecht. | |
| A party of Spaniards, having gone to sack a rich place, and attacked by Schenk while dividing the booty, have been killed or taken prisoners. Grave still besieged, the Prince of Parma being resolved to have it by one means or another. | |
| Prague, May 13.—The Assembly at Worms has ended without any result to speak of. The Archdukes Ernest and Maximilian expected for the feste di Pasqua [di Santo Spirito, i.e. Pentecost]. | |
| Cardinals of Vilna and Battori arrived at Vienna, and Bishop of Leopoli [Lemberg] passed through it, going to offer obedience to the Pope on behalf of the King of Poland. Various reports from Muscovy. That Prince said not to be dead, but to have renounced his dominions, wherefore the aspirations of the Pole give rise to talk. The abovesaid Cardinals may do something at Rome in relation to these matters. | |
| The Duke of Savoy's valet de chambre has departed for Saxony and Brandenburg. The ambassadors to Rome do not seem to be going as yet. | |
| Rome, May 24.—Courier sent by Spanish ambassador to Duke of Urbino to say that that King means to make use of his services, and he is to make ready to go when called, but whither is not known. The Spanish Council's resolve to nominate three Italian colonels gives rise to much speculation. The Church of the Madonna said to have worked miracles has been consecrated and the Bishop of Milo celebrated the first solemn mass there. Cardinal Savello, the Bishop of Arezzo and Father Tossignano added to the commission appointed for the process concerning. the miracles. It is discovered that the Archbishop of Turin has come about the business of Geneva, amongst other things. Cardinal Rambouillet is here, and Este, who begins to sit up and is gaining strength, has given ten of his slaves to the Grand Master of Malta, in return for three camels and two Moors sent him by that Prince. The new post for Naples has begun to make his journeys this week, in spite of the opposition of the ministers of the kingdom. The new Viceroy is said to have reached Genoa. Cardinal Dezza said to have bought the palace of the Giglio, near the Ortaccio. Monsignor Grimaldi, governor of Avignon, refused the Generalship given him by the Pope in that country, besides his other charges, saying it did not become him as a bishop, but his Holiness has signified to him that he wishes him to follow his order, substituting another in his place, by authority from his Highness, if he himself cannot support so many fatigues. The said Grimaldi has been informed by Monsignor Danville that he could no longer hold back the Huguenots of France from doing harm to that country, to which Monsignor replied that these were not the promises, oaths and assurances given to the Pope by letters and men sent express, to defend and keep intact that country; declaring him to be the stirrer up of the Huguenots to molest him, and assuring him that he should give account thereof to his superiors and all the neighbouring princes. It is said that the Pope will shortly publish the orders for the levying of the Quindennio upon the friars and rest of the clergy throughout the world, where the church has jurisdiction. On Saturday night Monsignor della Cornia was going all about the city, having learned the entrance into Rome of more than 4,000 of the people and peasants, fearing that in the morning bread would be lacking; but he provided so well that next day there was more than ordinary abundance. A congregation of Cardinals Quattro Santi, Lancelotto, Castruccio and Aldobrandini, Monsignors Ferratino and Luccio Sasso has been deputed to discuss the reduction of the Referendaries &c. In the last consistory it was agreed to take order that when the Pope goes forth, the populace and children should not cry out Vivo Papa Sisto, as they commonly did; and for this is appointed a congregation in Farnese's house of the cardinals heads of orders. The Duke of Termole was treating to marry one of his sons to a sister of Cardinal Montalto, but Signora Camilla has put an end to the design. Signora Hieronima Colonna is gone to-day to Tivoli to enjoy the pleasures of Este, and thence will take her journey to Naples. A Marchiano, the Proveditore of the hospital of San Spirito, having related to the Pope that the revenues &c. of that place were in confusion, and obtained leave to examine them, now offers to augment and improve them within a year by 100,000 crowns. He has been listened to, and the increase will be shared by the hospital, the Marchiano and the new hospital of the Mendicants; taking out a certain amount, with which will be founded a monte to furnish a certain income for these Mendicants. The Pope is sending Grimani, his chamberlain, to carry the staff and blessed hat to the Prince of Parma, and the rose (it is said) will be sent to the Grand Duchess. | |
| Rooms in the Palace being made ready for Battori, who will be here presently with a great train. The Pope has given charge to Cardinal Santa Croce and other Roman gentlemen to introduce the craft of wool into this city. There is talk of sending a legate to France on occasion of the peace, and of recalling Cardinal Salviati, in order to give him this legation. Don Cesare d'Este has arrived at the house of his cousin the Cardinal; was at once taken by Medici to kiss the Pope's feet, and was very kindly received. Yesterday he made his solemn entrance into Rome with great pomp and a train of prelates, barons &c., including more than 400 French nobles, besides the households of the Pope and cardinals. This morning, in consistory, Doctor Cremona made the oration, said to be remarkable, all the cardinals being present except the cripples and Sans; after which Este gave a sumptuous banquet to all who had accompanied him. Monsignor Canobio has been restored by Sixtus to the bishopric of Forli, from which he was suspended in the time of Gregory. [Details of proceedings.] It is said that the government of Ancona will be given to Cardinal Mondovi; that Mattrucci will go as president into Romagna, Monsignor Ottavio Acquaviva to Norcia, Marcello Acquaviva to Camerino, Volta to Spoleto; and that Monsignor Passamonte is confirmed in La Marca. Also that Rusticucci thinks of retiring from his charge in the Place; that the Pope has granted the indulto (fn. 4) of the churches of Brescia to Cardinal San Marcello, as he will to other cardinals those of their bishoprics, and that he has modified the order concerning the creation of cardinals only in December, declaring it may be done in case of necessity, for nephews of Popes and for princes. | |
| Venice, May 31.—Prince, Signoria &c. at solemn mass in San Marco on the feast of Pentecost. Troops expected from Candia, cassed by the General there, and those already embarked here for that place disbanded with half pay. On news that Turkish corsairs have taken two barks from Comacchio full of people, and four more with merchandise, Donato Marcello, governor of the slaves, has gone with his galley and another in search of these pests, one of which he has taken. The people of this city and especially the women, on hearing the preaching of a Minorite friar, who lives as a hermit, and this Lent preached in the church of the Incurables, and since then in almost all the others, are so stirred up that they run after him as if mad, saying that he is a saint and works miracles, and not omitting to declare that the father having blessed the water of the wells in the Ghetto of the Jews, those wicked people have caused them all to be dried up. | |
| From Constantinople no news save that Ferat Bassa was to leave Scutareto for Persia on the 4th of this month, and that the nuptials of Ibraim Bassa were shortly to be celebrated. Two Persians arrived in that city report that their master has raised the siege of Tauris, it having been succoured, and is treating for peace, but private letters stated the contrary, which was the rather believed as the men going to the camp were being hurried, even with blows to embark on the galleys. | |
| The last from Madrid, of the 28 of last month, say that the Marquis of Santa Crux was making ready to go to New Spain, to encounter Drake; but the money not being ready it was believed the armada would not start till the end of June. | |
| The Duke of Medina Sidonia had been sent by the King to his own territories to raise 6,000 foot and to prepare all things needful for the war. By this and other signs it was believed that they had certain advice that Drake had returned to England, and that all these preparations would be turned against that kingdom. The King had gone to Angieves [?] and the Prince and Infantas were about to follow him. | |
| Letters from Paris confirm the harm received from Condé's men. The King has replied to the Danish ambassador that he was resolved to have no religion in his country save the Catholic one, as had his predecessors, and although at other times he had made an accord with the Huguenots, it had been in order not to turn the whole kingdom upside down; thinking that little by little they would repent them of their errors, but seeing them continue to increase, he meant to put an end to them. | |
| Biron has gone into Poitou, to prevent mischief from Condé in those parts, who was there with a good number of troops; yet, with all these preparations, there was a rumour that in June an agreement would be come to, for want of money, and the country being ruined by dearth. M. de la Valette had retired to Grenoble with those few troops left to him, perhaps 2,000 in all. | |
| From Milan they write of the death of Count Alfonso de Somaglia, leaving an only daughter. [Details of her fortune.] | |
| It is confirmed that Panicarola is made coadjutor of the Bishop of Ferrara, at the instance of the Prince, who will assign him a thousand crowns yearly, charges for ten people, and a house furnished, with coaches, horses &c., besides the future succession to the Bishopric. [Miscellaneous local news.] Last Saturday in Padua, the Holy Office burned the dead body of one Battista dall' Oglio, accused of heresy, who had strangled himself in prison. The French ambassador has gone to the Baths of Padua. Horatio Pallavicino has arrived at Frankfort, sent by the English Queen to raise 5,000 reiters for the service of Navarre. Some companies have arrived from Candia, whence Signor Latino Orsini is daily expected. | |
| Venice, June 2.—The Emperor's ambassador has stood godfather to a Jew in Murano, baptised by the Bishop of Torcello. The ambassadors from Bergamo have arrived to congratulate the Prince. | |
| Addressed to the “Magnifico Domino Gio. Stocher,” at Lyons. Italian. 9 pp. very closely written. [Newsletters XCV. 32.] | |
| May 24. | Doyley to [Burghley]. |
| Since my last of the 9th by Mr. John Watts, his Excellency, having viewed the horsemen at Niekerken and given them some contentment, marched by Rhenen and Wageningen to Arnhem; and the 11th Sir John Norreys encamped before 'Niemegen' on the Betue, where the enemy held a sconce and two fortified houses, named Bemel and Van Loove [or Loone. Cf. p. 634 above], and entrenched himself with two forts on both sides the enemy's scone. Sir Martin Schenk, with some Dutch and two English companies, went into the Duke of Cleve's country, to the place where the Rhine divides into two branches, and there made a strong fort with five bastions, and cut a ditch behind him “to make both the rivers meet.” The place is impregnable and so guarded by two men of war that nothing can pass into Niemegen. The two younger Norryses, Edward and Henry, accompanied him. | |
| The 13, the governor of Flushing came to Arnhem, and here has heard of the death of his father. | |
| The 15, after seven canon shot, the house of Bemel yielded, only their lives saved. Sir John Conway is master of the Artillery for these services. “There Mr. Digbie did peremptorily control Captain Wilson, a brave old soldier, because he would not take his direction from him, alleging that he was a colonel and a councillor at the war; but Captain Wilson answered he would take his direction of Sir John Norreys and none other under his Excellency. The same day the Ambassador of the Duke of Cleves dined with his Excellency, who expostulated Schenk's enterprise on their master's ground, and to know if his Excellency would avow his action; but the next day he parted with a dilatory answer. | |
| “The 16, his Excellency with the Prince of Portugal, the Prince Elector, the lord North and the lord Governor of Flushing went to the camp and lodged in the general of the horsemen's quarter, and the same day the house Van Loove [?] which the 'Ampman' of Tiel battered from the water, yielded, only their lives saved. | |
| “The 18, Captain Syms, a brave, honest man, was slain by Niemegen, who came with the lord governor of Flushing, being one of the captains of his garrison, and next day his Excellency went to see Schenk's fort, and the same night we lost Lieut. Winter and Lieut. Poel and twelve soldiers. . . | |
| “The 20, Sir John Norreys having entrenched himself so close to the enemy that he debarred their intercourse by boats into the town, the sconce yielded with condition to part like soldiers. . . and so the next day his Excellency returned to Arnhem. | |
| “The 22, there was a view made of seven companies which came fresh out of England, Captain Barro, Captain Chatterton, Captain Pawlett, Captain Latham, Captain Tanner, Captain Barnes and Captain Lee, and they were brave men and 1,200 strong, and they are marched to Berkshoft, to the which the cannon is sent, which if we get, the whole Betue on this side the river shall be cleared of the enemy. | |
| “The 23, Sir Thomas Heneage arrived at Arnhem, of whose return there are sundry guesses and interpretations. This day the gabions are planted, and the artillery mounted against Berkshoft, and his Excellency goeth thither. . . | |
| “They of Amsterdam having set a coining some double rose nobles without any difference from her Majesty's coin, but that they are much worse, Gorkum and other privileged towns by their example have coined a great number, which cannot be but a discredit to her Majesty's coin, and great loss withal and prejudicial to our estate, for they are already in divers places not passable for above sixteen guilders, whereas her Majesty's are rated at seventeen.” | |
| I have seen three letters from honest men of Embden against Mr. William Hearl's embassage thither, reciting “his needy shifts and cosening tricks played there, so that they desired, of a zeal to the credit of our nation and to the cause of his negotiation that he might not be sent, and yet he is gone, and further it is reported that he is sent by her Majesty with allowance of five marks a day. | |
| “It is given out that Mr. Henry Goodeare, Captain of the Guard, shall be sent into Denmark to the King and our English 'tomblers' with him. | |
| “The Grave van Moeurs is notably discontented because the Grave van Hohenlo commandeth as Lieutenant General of the Camp next to his Excellency, whereof his commission is drawn; which he taketh the rather in dudgeon because the Camp is within his own government. | |
| “Our camp lying before Niemegen, the Grave van Hohenlo being at Gertrudenberge, a controversy was kindled by some bad instruments, who should direct, the Earl of Essex General of the Horse, or Sir John Norreys General of the Foot, wherein Capt. Williams was a great stickler. | |
| “Niemegen within these three days, which heretofore always refused garrison, by the practice of Haultepene, brother to the Count Barlamont, hath received three companies, which argueth their resolution against us and our former supposed correspondences with the town to be weak. | |
| “Colonel Digbie first practised to have drawn a regiment out of Sir John Norreys', and told him before a number at Utrecht that he doubted not but to do her Majesty as good service as he. I was present, and Sir John Norreys answered he was glad his Excellency was furnished with able men; the time would happen when he should need the ablest them both. And since this way he could not compass a regiment ready made without his pains or purse, there is another shift devised. The two Welsh companies, Captain Thomas and Captain Lloyd each having two hundred, also the serjeant major's company of three hundred with others shall make him up a regiment, and to better the same for him, these men shall be put under the Queen's pay, and other Captains shall be changed from the Queen's pay to the Estates, to their great disadvantage and disgrace, whereof these are named:—Captain Hill of the Brill, Captain Richard Winkfield of Flushing, which both accompanied Sir John Norreys out of Ireland; also Captain Cromwell and Captain Syms, whose company is given to Captain Randall; also one of Captain Henry Norreys' companies shall be cast to shuffle in a newcomer to the Queen's, wherein he finds himself grievously interessed, especially since Captain Read hath three companies. These devices cannot but breed great garboyles, especially since already almost all are discontented that the lord North, Colonel Digby and Mr. Candish do so wholly possess his Excellency when sufficienter men wait at the door, and are excluded his presence. If this be not countermanded in England some inconvenience will ensue. | |
| “The Prince of Parma is resolute, and hath set up his rest against Grave, and hath brought and is bringing forty-four cannons and pieces of battery. If he get it, it will cost him dear, and the flower of his camp. The town is strong, well fortified, victualled for a year, and hath store of munition and artillery, with principal engineers and miners; there are 1,400 soldiers besides a number of burghers, very resolute, and the Prince hath already lost before it above 1,200 brave men, most part Spaniards, and yet I fear he will get it. | |
| “Both the sconces at Berkshoft and Niemegen were gotten once before by Sir Norreys, and lost again when his English companies were drawn out of them, through the clamorous speeches and letters of some, as if the places were not so important; and yet now all our main forces are employed to recover them, whereby we dismask the humor of those who so greatly complained of that service; for by it not only the gate into Germany is opened, but also the whole Betue, a fat soil, is cleared of the enemy and we masters of the river. | |
| “Sir John Norreys hath his commission to be Colonel General of the Infantry, and to make nominate all foot captains, notwithstanding his Excellency hath ever since disposed them to his appetite. In that and all other injuries, if I could ship myself from kindred and affection, I could have a singular subject to commend his valour and wisdom, but above the rest his especial patience and temporizing, wherein he exceedeth most of his age. | |
| “Having so sure a messenger as my good uncle the Treasurer at wars, I have boldly wrote the truth, and I protest with a mind well affected to the advancement of our honourable proceedings in this so main a charge.—Arnhem, 24 May, 1586. | |
| Postscript.—“Before the sealing of this letter Berkshoft sent and offered to yield upon any condition to have their lives saved, but they endured sundry canon shot. Accepted they are, but upon what condition I know not.” | |
| Endd. 3½ pp. [Holland VIII. 41.] | |
| May 24. | Capt. Thos. Wilson to Walsingham. |
| I thank your honour heartily for your good speeches used to the Earl of Leicester in my behalf, “who hath promised me to do for me, but I cannot find it,” [Concerning the advance to Nimegen and taking of the sconces, as in other letters.]—Our lieger before “Nimigen,” 24 May, stilo Angliœ, 1586. | |
| Postscript.—Prays him to give the bearer a warrant for eighty men who received press money, board wages, swords &c. from himself and then “came away” from him. Desires to have them apprehended, and some sent over to “fulfil his company.” | |
| Signed by mark. Add. Endd. ¾ p. [Holland VIII. 42.] | |
| May 25. | Sir Philip Sidney to Walsingham. |
| Praying that express command may be given to Mr. Treasurer that “as soon as the treasure lands at Flushing, the garrisons of the cautionary towns be paid, with the service money due to the two companies above her Majesty's proportion. My lord would have the treasure all brought hither first,” but for the great importance of those places and churlishness of the people, especially of Flushing, he must crave that they be first looked to.—Arnhem, 25 May, 1586. | |
| Holograph. Add. Endd. 1 p. [Ibid. VIII. 43.] | |
| May 25. | Sir Thos. Heneage to Walsingham. |
| “I greatly thank you for your private letters, which show your love and good opinion, both most dear to me. I wish I could follow your counsel, but sure the uttering of my choler doth little ease my grief or help my case. But this surely shall I tell her Majesty, if I live to see her: That except a more constant course be taken with this so unconstant a people, it is not the blaming of her ministers will advance her Highness' service or better the state of things. And shall I tell you what they now say here of us (I fear not without some cause), even as Lipsius wrote of the French: De Gallis quidem, enigmata veniunt, non veniunt, volunt, nolunt, audent, timent, omnia ancipiti metu, suspensa et suspecta. God grant better and ever keep you and help me.” | |
| Pray excuse my not writing to Mr. Vicechamberlain, “my leisure being so little and my business so great.”—Arnhem, 25 May, 1586. | |
| “Desire my Lord Treasurer to let her Majesty know where I am, and how we shall confer to-morrow.” | |
| Holograph. Add. Endd. 1 p. [Ibid. VIII. 44.] [Quoted by Motley, i, 448.] | |
| May 25. | Heneage to Burghley. |
| “I have received your lordship's letters together with Mr. Vice Chamberlain's and Mr. Secretary's, all tending to the explanation of her Majesty's will touching my last direction. As you agree in the matter, so I wish you did in the form; but that I find not, which cannot but much trouble me, having experience in this service that every prick I make is made a dash, and to follow the words of my directions from thence is not enough except I likewise see into your minds. And surely mine eye sight is not so good, but I will pray to God for his help herein, and with all the wit I have, use all the care I can, first to satisfy her Majesty, as God knoweth I have ever most desired, then not to hurt this cause, but that I despair of, for it already begins to start. And if my lord here did not now carry himself with more patience and wisdom than I believed he could, you were like to hear news that would little content any of you, so great business being in hand, and the enemy more strong, lying so near. | |
| “I have conferred with my lord about this we have to do, in whom the greatest fault I find is an overforwardness to do that is appointed us. And yet (all things considered) I have cause to make as much haste as needeth. The Council of the States will this day all meet here, and tomorrow I mean to confer with them, and after I find what can be done, shall repair home and make report thereof. As your lordship writes her Majesty's will is for news I refer your lordship to Mr. Treasurer, who can better inform your lordship than I am yet able.”—Arnhem, 25 May, 1586. | |
| “Before the sealing up of the letter, news be brought hither to my lord that Bergus Hoofe sconce offereth to parley; but because they have abidden forty shot of the canon, and my lord hath heard they have railed at her Majesty, and our Estate, he will not accept parley; but will have execution done of those that have so evil deserved favour.” | |
| Holograph. Add. Endd. by Burghley. 2 pp. [Holland VIII. 45.] | |
| [Quoted by Motley, i, 448, where, l. 28, for “gash” read “dash."] | |
| May 25. | Norreys to Burghley. |
| I have waited here long for the clearing of my account, and answering certain articles delivered me by the Auditor, and now he being sent away hastily, the matter is left imperfected. Nevertheless, I send your lordship my answer, telling the Treasurer that I doubt not but you will be fully satisfied; and as for my account, if her Majesty is not re-imbursed the money lent as speedily as was looked for, it may please you to bear with it, as by that loan she and the country “have benefited at least ten thousand pounds,” for whereas 4,000 soldiers prest and sent over cost four pounds a man at least, besides coat and conduct money, transportation and victuals; I furnished 1,400 men for Flushing and the Brill and 1,000 to make up the 5,000 her Majesty had undertaken to pay, without any charge either to her or the country. A parcel of the money lent me-partly by order of her Council in England, and partly by the Earl of Leicester here- I used for the levy of my company of lances, and I trust you will not think it too much when you know “the state and equipage of it,” and especially as the money is to be re-imbursed out of the money appointed in England for the levy of the thousand horse. | |
| The progress of our actions here I refer to the report of Mr. Treasurer, who is suddenly commanded over, recommending him to your favourable opinion, that if anything is urged against him, either for confusion or delay in his account, you will hear him, and not suffer him undeservedly to be put in disgrace with her Majesty. And I hope that as he has always had care of his reputation, so in this special charge, to which you the rather advanced him at my instance, he will so acquit himself that no just fault shall be found in him.—Arnhem, 25 May, 1586. | |
| Holograph. Add. Endd. 2 pp. [Holland VIII. 46.] | |