Elizabeth: December 1571

Calendar of State Papers Foreign: Elizabeth, Volume 9, 1569-1571. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1874.

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'Elizabeth: December 1571', in Calendar of State Papers Foreign: Elizabeth, Volume 9, 1569-1571, (London, 1874) pp. 567-584. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/foreign/vol9/pp567-584 [accessed 24 April 2024]

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December 1571

Dec. 2. 2153. English Ships stayed in Spain.
An account of the four English ships which were arrested at San Lucar de Barrameda on the 2nd Dec. 1571.
Endd. Span. P. ½.
Dec. 3. 2154. The Regent Marr to Lord Burghley.
Prays him to be a means to obtain the Queen's special and good answer to the bearer, Cunningham.—Leith, 3 Dec. 1571. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. ⅓.
Dec. 3. 2155. Henry Killegrew to Lord Burghley.
1. After some delay he had audience with the King on the 30th ult. at Duretal, and told him of the Queen's goodwill towards him, and of her intention to send over some person of credit and value to him, which was only delayed by the dangerous practices of the Queen of Scots and others. The King desired him to write to her for the restitution of 2,000 crowns belonging to his ambassador. He answered that he understood that the Queen Mother had confessed that the money belonged to the ambassador of Scotland as part of his mistress's dower. The King declared his readiness to assist the Queen, and seemed glad of the discovery of the Queen of Scots' and Duke of Norfolk's practices, but desired that the said Queen might be well used. When Killegrew came to that point, what misliking the Scottish Queen had of the amity between France and England, of the express charge to conceal their practice from him and his of the conveyance of her son into Spain, and inclining that way, he told him that he was glad that Her Majesty had such good cause to trust him, and promised to continue all friendly offices.
2. Killegrew was then conducted to the Queen Mother's chamber, who in Spanish willed him to render Her Majesty most hearty thanks; and from thence to Monsieur, who did the same. On the next day he had further audience with the Queen Mother, with whom he proceeded in the same way that he had done with the King. She confessed that she had said that the money was not the King's, but was of the Queen of Scots' dower, but afterwards she had found the contrary, and therefore besought the Queen to restore it. He replied that it was sent to the Queen's enemies, and therefore by law confiscated. In conclusion, she insisted upon this point, and also in recommending the Queen of Scots' cause, but he perceived that the matter was not very earnestly handled. Many of the wisest sort desire the increase of amity betwixt the Crowns, and therefore look for him whom the Queen will send very shortly. Perceives also that the Queen Mother is favourable to it. Suspects that this alteration of recommending the Queen of Scots proceeds because Her Majesty proceeds not roundly in those affairs, and therefore in the end they doubt lest some other Spanish practice take effect, for which cause they go warily to work to the intent not to lose utterly the hope they have on that side.—Saumur, 3 Dec. 1571.
Add. Endd. Pp. 4¼.
Nov. 29. 2156. Secretary Brulart to Killegrew.
Is desired by their Majesties to express their regret at the delay in his reception, which has been caused by the indisposition of the Queen Mother, and to appoint to-morrow for his audience.—Duretal, 29Nov. 1571. Signed.
Add. Fr. P. ½. Enclosure.
Dec. 3. 2157. Advertisements from France.
The King has commanded all his bishops to send him a particular certificate of all their temporal lands; and also commanded all abbots and priors to make all cures of 40 francs by the year worth 120 francs. News of the battle of Lepanto and the loss of Famagosta. Attempt to induce the French King to join the league against the Turk. A packet of the Ambassador of Spain being taken in Dauphigny, there is deciphered some practice of the Catholics who favour Spain, and mislike this present government, and also words touching the King and Queen Mother, which aggravate their grudge against Spain. They are also verily persuaded that their daughter and sister was poisoned in Spain, which they have confirmed by her physician, who is come thence, by reason whereof the King will let fall sometimes very bitter words against his brother-in-law. The marriage between the Prince of Navarre and Madame Margaret is like to take place, but the Queen of Navarre will first confer with the King and the Queen Mother. The Prince of Navarre had lately a great fall from his horse, and was sorely bruised, and has blemished his face, which when Madame Margaret understood her sad and altered countenance revealed her good affection towards him. The Queen of Navarre has reformed the religion in her country, where the mass was before. Count Ludovic is the King's avowed pensioner, and much account is made of him, the Admiral reverencing him as the worthiest man of war of this age. There is some enterprise to be done by sea by Philip Strozzi, either against Spain or Portugal. Captain Piles' ship has taken a great carrick of Portugal, going towards Brazil, in which were 100 friars and monks, besides nuns; the men he drowned and the women he put on land, and the ship laden with artillery and munitions he has brought to Rochelle. Expected coming of ambassadors from the Protestant cantons of Switzerland to conclude a league. The Admiral sent to the King to advise him to spare more time from his hunting to attend to his weighty affairs. The Guises are sent for to the Court, the Admiral desiring to know plainly whether he is to take them for friends or enemies; they have answered that they will do whatever the King likes. Great presumptions of war between France and Spain. Lord Fleming has gone into Scotland with a good sum of money. The Ambassador of Scotland has received letters from his mistress. Captures and losses at Lepanto. Death of Marshal Vielleville.
Endd by Burghley: 3 Decr. 1571. Advices from H. Killegrew at Saumur. Pp. 4.
Dec. 3. 2158. Henry Killegrew to Lord Burghley.
1. Praises Mr. Bele's ability as shown in the discourse which he sends herewith and desires to know how much of it he should use if he has again to deal with the Queen Mother touching those matters about the Scottish Queen. Thinks that she will deal with the King to revoke his request in the behalf of the money, and for the usage of the Queen of Scots. Means to have Bele's discourse translated into French, and sent to the Admiral and others who bear great stroke with the Queen Mother. They are well bent to the amity with England, and desire that the Queen will assure herself of the Scottish Queen, for they fear lest at length some of her wicked practices take effect. Thinks that the doubt hereof is the cause why the King, or rather his mother, so often commends her case. Delivered to Du Pin in Paris one of the Latin books lately set forth against the Scottish Queen, which he promised to have translated into French and printed. Saw by the Queen Mother's speech that she begins to incline towards the young King of Scots' party. Has no word of the Bishop of Ross, nor of any forces sent into Scotland. The Queen Mother told him that her son was pressed to enter into the league against the Turk, which he refused. The greatest sign of their intention against King Philip is, that the Queen Mother wrote to Marshal Cosse, requiring instructions how to defend against, and also to annoy the King of Spain. If the Queen does not send, according to her promise, he fears that they will take another course.
2. Desires that M. De la Mothe may understand that he finds his entertainment at this Court very good. The Spanish Ambassador's secretary and the Scottish never left to follow him while he was in Court; the latter very inquisitive of some of his people whether his mistress were alive or dead. Marshal D'Anville assures him that the Queen of Navarre, the houses of Bourbon, Montmorency, Longueville, and others, will hold together to maintain the edict, further the amity with England, and cross Spain. Desires some token how best to use himself for the Queen's service.—Duretal, 3 Dec. 1571. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 4.
2159. Mr. Bele's Pamphlet.
Gives reasons why the French King should not recommend the Queen of Scots' cause, being chiefly on account of her unworthiness, and the greater advantage that France would get by an alliance with England than with Scotland. He recommends that "some of Buchanan's little Latin books" should be presented to the King of France and also the noblemen of his Council, as they will serve to good effect to disgrace the Queen of Scots. Fortifies his arguments by numerous examples from history.
Pp. 8. Enclosure.
Dec. 3. 2160. Robert Bele to Lord Burghley.
Desires pardon for not writing so often as was his duty. As it has pleased Mr. Killegrew to send a certain pamphlet of his, which he desires he will take in good part, and which he would have enlarged with more examples, but is destitute of time, books, and other necessaries. Thinks it unmeet to be offered to his wise and learned consideration. As he did not suspect that it would have passed Killegrew's hands, he is content that he shall have all the praise it deserves if he will also bear the blame. Declares that he meant not of malice to write anything against the Queen of Scots, but has always thought her to be a pernicious and viperous enemy to Her Majesty, and never could be persuaded that she or any of her "rabblement" could by lenity be won to be Her Majesty's good friends. Thinks it behoves the Queen for her own safety to disgrace her as much as she justly may, and to induce the French King to join with her in good amity.— Saumur, 3 Dec. 1571. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 2¼.
Dec. 7. 2161. Lord Hunsdon to Lord Burghley.
1. The bearer's coming is only to hasten the Queen's resolution and to procure the levying of 200 horsemen and 500 footmen and the money, which is very necessary if she means to set up the King's authority. Is sorry that the Duke has deserved so ill as to be proceeded withal to judgment, but it is necessary to go through with him and the rest, for Her Majesty and he cannot continue in one realm. Their boldness of her mercy has emboldened them to this. Would not willingly counsel her to blood, but sees that the preservation of her life and estate requires it, without which no honest man is sure either of life or living.—Berwick, 4 Dec. 1571.
2. P.S.—Has just received his packet of the 29th, whereby he perceives that there is some unlikelihood of Her Majesty sending forces into Scotland, and then surely all the money she has or shall bestow upon them is lost. Wishes that she had made use of some other instrument to make demonstration of having the castle by force, for it is neither honourable to her nor credit to him. Is sorry that his son used such extraordinary revenge, and thinks him well worthy of punishment, although Cartwright well deserved that or worse. Is sorry that the Queen should be so offended at the matter. He might have been punished without those extreme and cruel words from her, having not used the like of any that have offended her most, "belike it is for the good service that Cartwright and his wife's friends have done her." His son has deserved better at her hands than to have her so grievous displeasure, for such a notorious knave as he is known to be. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 12/3.
Dec. 7. 2162. Walsingham to Lord Burghley.
The Marshal De Cosse has been employed of late here by the King to procure a loan, which is granted. Marshal Mont morency repaired here on the 3rd instant, accompanied with 300 horse. He and De Cosse conferred with the chief of this town about plucking down the cross, which is resolved on, the masons employed in that behalf being guarded by harquebussiers. The common people ease their stomachs only by uttering seditious speech. The Protestants, by the overthrow of this cross, receive great comfort, and the Papists the contrary. Fears that it will be the latter end of next month before he shall return to his charge, for that he is diseased with three sundry carnosities.—Paris, 7 Dec. 1571. Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. Printed by Digges. P. ¾.
Dec. 8. 2163. Killegrew to Lord Burghley.
The Queen Mother has, according to her promise, spoken again with the French King touching the money and the recommendation for the usage of the Queen of Scots, who, however, continues in the same mind. The Court is so small that there is none from whom he can learn anything. Has given the Queen's thanks to the Duchess of Uzes for her good offices, which was taken in very thankful part. A merchant of Rochelle that came of late from Antwerp reports that the French agent in Flanders gave them warning to dispatch thence as quietly as possible. There have been constant reports which he holds as false, whereupon there have been no other speeches but war with Spain. It is said that the Queen Mother and the Queen of Navarre shall meet first at Chenonceau and confer of the marriage before the latter shall come to the Courts. The Italian states wax jealous of King Philip's greatness and credit increased by the late victory.—Saumur, 8 Dec. Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. Pp. 2.
Dec. 9. 2164. Walsingham to Lord Burghley.
There are preparing at Caen two ships for the transportation of munition into Scotland, in which shall go 200 soldiers. On the 8th inst. certain of the common sort took arms, to the number of 3,000, and repaired to St. Innocents' churchyard, where the foundation for the cross was preparing, and brake down the gates and destroyed the foundation which was laid for the said cross, which done every man retired quietly to his own house.—Paris, 9 Dec. 1571. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. 2/3.
Dec, 11. 2165. The Venetian Ambassador in France to the Queen.
Excuses his delay in sending this letter, which, he assures her, proceeds from want of diligence in the couriers, and not from any lack of goodwill and respect towards her on his part.—Tours, 11 Dec. 1571. Signed: Sigismondo di Cavalli.
Add. Endd. Ital. P. 1.
Dec 12. 2166. Edmond Hay to Lord Seton.
Excuses his not writing before. When they were at Rome, Lord Seton's son Alexander was presented to the Pope's Holiness, who commanded that he should be treated in the college of Almains as his own son. Desires him to send 150 crowns to the college that his son may not want anything, also that he may be allowed to write a letter to the Carninal of Augusta as if from his Lordship, with the promise of a couple of Scotch hackneys.—Paris, 12 Dec. 1571. Signed.
Add. Endd. by Burghley. Pp. 2⅓.
Dec. 14. 2167. The Speech declared to the Spanish Ambassador.
The Queen has of long time forborne to make any such demonstration of her misliking of him, as his disordered actions have provoked her to do, but now he is to be reminded how within a short space after his coming he began to do very evil offices, and specially in procuring an universal arrest of all Her Majesty's subjects and their goods in the Low Countries and Spain, extending the same to such a cruel imprisonment of some that divers perished in the prisons by famine and other extremity. Although the Queen has written both to the King of Spain and the Duke of Alva, that some other person better qualified might be sent in his place, to her great grief this remedy has not succeeded, and she finds rather an increase of his evil disposition towards the conservation of the amity. Accuses him of continually using secret practises with the Queen's subjects, to alienate such as be good from their duties, and to irritate such as be mutable to commit horrible offences against their native country, comforting them by invasions to be made at his appointment within the realm. These his latest practices the Queen cannot longer endure as she did of late years his former dangerous practises in stirring up and nourishing the rebellion in the North, and procuring and divulging certain bulls from Rome, and next after that his furtherance of certain practises tending to an invasion happily discovered in the end of last summer. Of all which as well as his continual travails to trouble the state by his practises both within the realm and in Scotland and on the other side of the seas, Her Majesty and Her Council have full proofs. Her Majesty has commanded that he shall be warned to depart out of her realm within three or four days towards the seaside, whither he shall be safely conducted by persons of estimation. In the meantime he shall have a gentleman of reputation to attend upon him in his house, to the end that none of the subjects of this realm shall offend him, nor he so openly as of late continue his practises with any of her evil subjects.—14 Dec. 1571.
Endd. Pp. 22/3.
2168. Copy of the above in French.
Endd. Pp. 2⅓.
Dec. 14. 2169. Declaration made to the Spanish Ambassador.
Draft of the above corrected by Cecil. Endd.: 14 Dec. 1571. The speech declared to the Spanish Ambassador in English. Pp. 2½.
Dec. 14. 2170. Lord Hunsdon to Lord Burghley.
1. There is daily conference between the King's side and them of the castle, and sundry practise used to bring them to accord without the Queen, for they of the King's side do as much mislike to have Her Majesty send in any force as the other side (a few only excepted), but the Regent and Morton will make no appointment without her. On Tuesday last, a gentleman of his being at the Regent's board heard them reasoning what charges and expenses the French King had been at yearly with Scotland; Morton answered that he thought it stood him in 40,000 or 50,000 crowns a year; nay, said Captain Colborne, I can show proofs that it cost him above two millions yearly, all manner of ways. Dinner being done, his man asked Archibald Douglas what meant that reasoning, who answered that the money that came yearly out of France; the revenues of the crown being small, made many to be more addicted to France than to England. Has refused to allow those of the castle to send Andrew Melville to the Queen, having himself authority to treat and conclude upon reasonable conditions.
2. Lady Home is coming to treat with him about the redelivery of her husband's houses. On Monday there was a skirmish, when the Regent's side drove the others into the town and took fifty or sixty and slew four or five. Sundry Scottish merchants from Flanders affirm that of late was a council held at Brussels, whereat was the Cardinal of Lorraine, and that Lords Fleming and Seton were there to procure some aid of men and money. Sundry of the meaner sort of the English rebels are returned into Scotland, forced by poverty, for whom he has laid baits. It is affirmed that the French King has proclaimed all his ports free for the Prince of Orange's navy.—Berwick, 14 Dec. 1571.
3. P.S.—"It has been an old saying better a friend in court than a penny in purse, which by like, my Lord of S. has found." Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 12/3.
Nov. 2171. Admonition to the Regent of Scotland.
Copy of the ballad warning him against calling in the English forces.
Endd. Pp. 3¾. Enclosure.
Dec. 15. 2172. Advices from Italy.
1. Rome, 8 Dec. 1571. Account of the triumphal entry of Marc Antony Colonna into Rome. Death of Signor Ascanio Della Coigna.
2. Venice, 15 Dec. 1571. News from Paris of the intended marriage of Madame Margaret with the Prince of Navarre. Tumult at Constantinople.
Endd. Ital. Pp. 7.
Dec. 15. 2173. Queen Elizabeth to the Duke of Alva.
Has often complained of Don Guerau Despes, the Spanish Ambassador resident at her court, and desired that he might be removed. Having now discovered him trying to corrupt her subjects, and promising his master's aid to the evil disposed, she has thought fit to order him to depart without entering into any particular dispute or debate with him, for which he has a natural talent.—Westminster, Dec. 1571.
Copy. Endd. Fr. Pp. 1½.
Dec. 15. 2174. Sir Thomas Smith to Lord Burghley.
Was forced to stay at Dover, the haven being so stopped with pebbles that no ship might have passage out. Being weary of staying there he passed over betwixt three and four this morning, the wind blowing as evil as might be. In some part of the way not only the passengers but the mariners also were brought to desperation of their lives. Was so sick that life and death were to him all one. Arrived at Calais at 9 a.m. On landing was entertained gently by M. De Gourdon, the governor.—Calais, 15 Dec. 1571. Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. P. 1.
Dec. 16. 2175. Queen Elizabeth to Philip II.
Informs him of the dismissal of her Ambassador, Don Guerau Despes, on account of his complicity with her rebellious subjects. Requires him to accept this as done only to be delivered of the perils which by his continuance she would have just cause to doubt of, and to accept her offer of continuance of the ancient amity.
Draft in Burghley's writing. Endd.: 16 Dec. 1571. Pp. 22/3.
2176. Another copy in Latin.—Westminster, 16 Dec. 1571.
Endd. Pp. 2⅓.
2177. Another copy in Latin.
Endd. Pp. 3.
2178. Fair copy in Latin.
Add. Endd. Pp. 2¼.
Dec. 16. 2179. Francois De Halewyn to Lord Burghley.
As the Queen has thought proper to dismiss Don Guerau D'Espes, he desires that she will inform the King of Spain of the cause of this extraordinary proceeding, so that he may have an opportunity of clearing himself.—London, 16 Dec. 1571. Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. Fr. Pp. 1¼.
Dec. 17. 2180. Don Guerau D'Espes to Philip II.
In favour of Ralph Scudamore, an English catholic, who has rendered His Majesty service by furnishing intelligence of what passed in England.—London, 17 Dec. 1571. Signed.
Add. Span. P. ⅓.
Dec. 17. 2181. Henry Killegrew to Lord Burghley.
During the King's abode at Bourgueil, hears that it was debated whether he should leave the Scottish Queen's protection and favour her son's party; the greater number were for the young King, for which cause M. De Croc was despatched to the Guises to know their mind. Is advertised that a man of Lord Fleming's has an assignation of 10,000 francs to convey into Scotland. The King being advertised of some brags of the house of Guise, that they would be revenged on the Admiral, has commanded them to come with only their ordinary train. On this occasion the Admiral had likewise his friends resorted to him, wherewith the King was not offended. The court removed towards Amboise on the 10th, and on the same day was Lignerolles slain by Villequier's nephew. It was a set matter and foul murder, for he was accompanied with forty or fifty. Their pardon was granted the same day, the rather for that the King and Queen Mother suspected him to be the dissuader of the Duke of Anjou from the marriage. The Bishop of Glasgow has sent to know when he may visit him. Desires to know the Queen's pleasure how he may use him. The Ambassador of Venice desired him to forward a packet to Her Majesty, by whom he perceives that the Venetians begin to suspect King Philip's greatness, and are waxed weary of these wars. On the 11th inst. was proclamation made, that if any Huguenot had had any goods taken from him during these troubles, his complaint should be heard and justice done. Count Rochefoucault has visited him, and the Princess of Condé has sent to him, both wishing to do the Queen any service they can. Rochefoucault was well received by the King, which makes the Papists murmur.— Tours, 17 Dec. 1571. Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. Pp. 3¼.
Dec. 18. 2182. Lord Hunsdon to Lord Burghley.
Perceives by his letter of the 13th inst. how unlikely it is that any forces will be sent hither. Is not desirous to put his countrymen nor himself to any winter journeys, and especially for other men's quarrels, but is forced to hold to his opinion that the Queen being resolved to set up the King of Scots' authority, should do it with her own people, for so shall her money be bestowed upon her own subjects, and make more soldiers of them. On the other side if she thinks to do it by the Scotch, she will enrich them with her treasure, and breed them more good soldiers than they ever had, and yet want of her purpose. They of the castle have promised the French to hold out to the uttermost. They are promised both men and money from Alva. It is certain that Lord Seton has been twice upon the seas, with a good sum of money and some men and Leonard Dacres with him, and put back again by tempest. This support is but to maintain them till the spring, when they have sure promise to want neither men nor money, and then whether the Queen will be forced to greater charges, Burghley can best judge. The King's party is utterly overthrown in the north, their houses taken, and they forced to swear obedience to the Queen. Complains that the Regent has flatly denied him a safe conduct for Andrew Melville and Lady Home. Hopes that the Queen will resolve quickly what to do. If the Duke be condemned as his doings deserve, though he dare not ask his house in London as a gift of the Queen, yet asks him to be a means with her that he may have the keeping of it. They are so subtil on both sides that a right wise man will find his wits occupied to deal with them, and therefore begs that the Earl of Bedford or Sir Ralph Sadler may be sent down.—Berwick, 18 Dec. 1571. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 1¾.
Dec. 16. 2183. The Regent Marr to Lord Hunsdon.
Divers of the Queen of England's rebels are come from Flanders, and some landed in England. Lord Seton and Leonard Dacres. Hard treatment of the King's party in the North.—Leith, 16 Dec. 1571. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. 2/3. Enclosure.
Dec. 20. 2184. Franciottus to Lord Burghley.
Explains the perils that are likely to arise through this great victory over the Turk.—Paris, 20 Dec. 1571.
Add. Endd., with seal. Lat. Pp. 2⅓.
Dec. 21. 2185. Sir Valentine Browne to Lord Burghley.
The sum total of the extraordinary charges is 421l., whereof 110l. to Sir William Drury, for secret causes. Also the 300 new soldiers taken in by the Governor, at 8d per diem be behind for thirty days. Perceives that the Scots had rather have their money and munitions than their company, seeking the continuance of troubles rather than any pacification, and not without suspicion of some secret conveyance between either party for the prolongation thereof. It is not rare at the Earl Morton's table, and namely when any English be there, to have the bounty of the French set forth, how they did not only bestow upon them yearly in pensions 100,000 crowns, but also otherwise in service millions of crowns. At this present they are grown to greater strength by wealth and service than ever they were. Desires him to have some consideration towards him, as he has received many losses these two last years. Com, if the restraint of carriage out be not very straitly looked to, will be as scarce before Easter as it was in any year these twenty past. Wheat is at present at Emden 40s. a quarter, and barley or malt 20s., and far dearer in the Low Countries.—Berwick, 21 Dec. 1571. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 1⅓.
Dec. 26. 2186. Edward Hat to Lord Seton.
Although he wrote to him lately by the gudeman of Bothwelhaugh, he thought it expedient to write again to desire an answer to the said letter. Lord Seton's son William is in good health, and makes progress in virtue and letters.—Paris, 26 Dec. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. ½.
Dec. 26. 2187. Sir Thomas Smith to Lord Burghley.
In the same tempest that they came to Calais there was a ship driven ashore on the sands between Boulogne and Ambleteuse. Understands that his passport will serve him no more, so is fain to send to M. De Montmorency for a new one to the Court. Walsingham has done marvellously well in those matters on which they have communed together with M. Du Pin. Such of the religion who have visited him have guessed straight wherefore he came, and were not a little glad of it. They like not the being here of Cavalcanti; first, because he is an Italian, and secondly, lest he should make a double negociation, and so trouble Smith's. They fear that he has no authority to conclude the marriage, meaning a commission under the great seal of England. Has assured them that if the matter comes so near, that they lack but that there shall be small time lost. Promises to do all he can to understand the truth of the matter. Those who are careful of this matter would not have him make any great haste to the Court, till either Montmorency or the Admiral be there.— Paris, 26 Dec. 1571. Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. Pp. 2½.
Dec. 27. 2188. Charles IX. to Queen Elizabeth.
On behalf of two of his subjects who are kept prisoners in England on a false charge of piracy.—Amboise, 26 Dec. 1571. Signed.
Add. Endd. Fr. Royal Letter.
Dec. 27. 2189. The King of Portugal to Francisco Giraldi.
In reply to his letters sends him commission to treat with the Queen of England, for a concord between their realms, and when he has his advice that the matter is concluded, will immediately send him sufficient authority that he may with the more solemnity confirm the contract and articles of the same.
Copy. Endd. by Cecil. Port. Pp. 1⅓.
2190. Translation of the above.
Endd. by Cecil: 27 Dec. 1571. P. 1.
Dec. 27. 2191. Treaty between England and Portugal.
Summary of the articles for a treaty between England and Portugal, providing for the restitution of goods stayed on either side, and that the Queen will forbid her subjects under pain of her displeasure from interfering with the King of Portugal's rights to certain navigations.
Endd. by Cecil: 27 Dec. 1571. Port Pp. 1¼.
Dec. 28. 2192. Henry Killegrew to Lord Burghley.
Encloses such occurrents as he has been able to gather since his departure from Tours.—Amboise, 28 Dec. 1571. Signed.
Occurrents since Killegrew's coming to Amboise.
Great doubt of the marriage of the Prince of Navarre and Madame Margaret. Coming of the Cardinal of Alexandria to move the French King to join the League against the Protestants, and the Turks. Mutiny at the taking down of the cross at Paris on the 19th inst. The house of Guise secretly encouraged by the Duke of Anjou. Money for Scotland. Movements of Scottish noblemen. Enterprise of Flanders. The ambassador of Florence's secretary has offered to do what service he can, as has likewise the Duchess of Uzes. Recommends that some jewel be bestowed upon her; as in King Henry's days the best intelligence came partly by such means. William Lesly made secret offers of great service to him but found nothing in him. News of the court. A seditious book against the King called in again. Christening of the Prince of Spain.
By letters from Venice, 17 Nov.
Daniel Veniero chosen general for Candia. The Bishop of Aix was not then departed towards Constantinople, sent by the French King to procure peace for the Venetians and war against King Philip, whereby he might the better proceed with the enterprise of Flanders, to which he is moved by the Prince of Orange and his own Huguenots.
From Rome, by letters of 24 Nov. and 1 Dec.
Proposed triumphal entry for Marc Antony Colonna. Indecision of the Holy League. Fresh naval preparations of the Turk. Cartel between Mark Antony Colonna and Don John of Austria.
Add. Endd., with seal. Pp. 6¼.
Dec. 29. 2193. Francis Walsingham to Lord Burghley.
The King gives but a deaf ear to the Scottish causes. If something be not obtained for the relief, they mean to repair into Flanders where Lord Seton has received from the Pope 20,000 crowns. Lord Fleming looks for a bark about the end of this month in which he means to repair into Scotland with such forces as he can get. Grange's brother means to protest to the King that unless they may have men, money, and munition out of hand they will be driven to yield to such composition as shall be made by the Queen of England, which will not tend to the benefit of France.—Paris, 29 Dec. 1571. Signed.
Add, Endd., with seal. Pp. 2/3.
Dec. 29. 2194. Lord Hunsdon to Lord Burghley.
It seems that Her Majesty takes it that he was not of opinion to have her send any forces thither and that now his mind is altered. What his opinion therein was is unknown to any, because he was never asked the question, and he did not presume to give it, knowing himself far unable to give advice in matters of less moment than this. Excuses himself for not procuring what conditions of accord Morton and that party would yield to those of the castle. Has done his best to bring them to accord upon reasonable conditions. Knows not what those of the King's party will do, as their soldiers be at that point for lack of money that they do as they list. Touching his son's deliverance, as he thinks the fact deserves punishment, yet he must pardon him for thinking that it did not deserve so strait punishment or so hard and grievous words as Her Majesty used towards him, not only before her own subjects but unto strangers, to his great shame and Hunsdon's great discredit, wherein he has heen hardlier dealt withal than either he or his son have deserved; but according to the old proverb, "Better for some to steal a horse than some others to look on." Howsoever Her Majesty shall deal with him and his, he trusts he will not forget any part of his duty towards her. The Borders are quiet. Has written to Her Majesty that the only way to accord the matters of Scotland by fair means is, to deal harder with the Scottish Queen, for as long as she remains in this sort, her party lives in hope of her deliverance by one practise or another, which is the principal cause of their obstinacy.—Berwick, 29 Dec. 1571. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 1½.
Dec. 29. 2195. Lord Hunsdon to the Queen.
Finds by her letter of the 21st instant that she cannot yet resolve how to proceed in matters of Scotland, but seeks still to have them done by treaty: also that she charges him to be of another mind than he was at his departure from her. Touching the alteration of his opinion (under her favour) he found not himself to have that credit to be asked any question of any matters of Scotland, either by her or any of her council; but finding in his instructions no article to demand any surety for her, he was bold to ask her what she looked for at their hands, and finding her resolved to trust to their promises, said that he could see no reason why she should buy them so dearly as he never yet heard or read that ever they kept promise with any longer than served their own turn. Has left nothing undone in dealing with them of the castle by treaty and persuasions that was in his instructions. Has never written for forces or presumed to advise her thereunto, but knowing her to be resolved to reduce those of the castle to their King's obedience, either by fair means or force; according to her commandment he put both ordnance and munition in readiness, and gave notice to both sides of her resolution therein; but finding all their proceedings to be but delays he wrote his opinion what forces were fit for such an enterprise if she resolved to deal that way. Excuses himself for not "feeling" what conditions of accord the Earl of Morton and that side would offer to their adversaries on account of the unreasonable demands of the latter. Has presently sent the under Marshal to the Regent and the other party, upon whose return she shall know their uttermost resolution. Unless she deals otherwise with the Scottish Queen she will never bring them to accord by fair means, as whatsoever she makes to set up the King's authority, she remaining as she does, her faction will live still in hopes of her deliverance. The way to bring them to accord is to deal harder with their Queen.—Berwick, 29 Dec. 1571. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 2.
Dec. 29. 2196. Henry Killegrew to Lord Burghley.
Doubtfulness of the marriage between the Prince of Navarre and Madame Margaret. The Admiral has had secret intelligence from a councillor of the Court to look to himself, for that all is not gold that glisters. The wisest think that if he agree with the house of Guise that it will be to his greatest danger. Upon this little broil at Paris, about the pulling down of the cross, divers things have broken out, as at Angouleme the Papists took the guard of the gates, and divers of the followers of Guise have not letted to say that the Duke of Alva knew the way to Paris gates. These suspicions keep the Queen of Navarre, Montmorency, and the Admiral from the Court, in whose places are Morvilliers, Limoges, the Count De Retz, and Tavannes, by whom the Queen Mother is guided. Has made D'Anville, De Foix, and others acquainted with the causes of Sir Thomas Smith's coming, assuring them that unless the Queen finds friendly dealing at the French King's hands it will cause her to make some end of the controversy with the house of Burgundy. Told Cavagnies and Teligny that his coming was by procurements of the Protestants chiefly, and therefore it behoved them not to be idle. Found by them that there would be many lets for the league such as religion; the alliance both realms have with King Philip and the altercation which would grow by reason of the Scottish Queen; "to be short, they were of opinion that her life is the greatest impediment of any other to the weal of all three realms," by reason of the house of Lorraine standing in expectation of her greatness and succession to the crown. They marvelled that she was let live, especially seeing the late danger which she brought the Queen into, by which she had justly and by law (as one said he would prove by good learning) deserved death, and, further, said how uncertain a thing it was to capitulate with England during her being in that realm. Was offered the discourse in writing to prove her worthy of death if the Queen would put it into execution, otherwise he is too well acquainted with that Court to send any such matter thither. He answered that no such matter depended on the Queen of Scots, as Her Majesty had her in safe keeping, and was better assured of her than before her coming into England. Has given one of Buchanan's Latin books to the Ambassador of Venice. There is a bruit that the Duke of Ferrara has gone to the Emperor to try and persuade him to join the league against the Turk, with the offer of the entertainment of 6,000 horse and 12,000 foot for three years.—Amboise, 29 Dec. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 3½.
Dec. 29. 2197. Count William De la Mark to the Queen.
Is not able to quit Dover, as the port has been blocked up by a storm. Complains of the arrest of one of his ships, notwithstanding her safe conduct. Signed.
Add. Endd.: Rec. 29 Dec. 1571. Fr. P. 1.
Dec. 30. 2198. Answer to M. De Zwevenghem.
Recapitulates the circumstances of the stay of the Spanish money, and of the arrest of the ships in England, and contending that the release from the embargo should commence in Spain and the Low Countries, and that the money belonging to the Genoese should not be included in the negociations on the ground of their not being the King of Spain's subjects.
Endd. by Burghley. Lat. Pp. 8⅓.
Dec. 30. 2199. Advertisements from Walsingham.
1. On the 20th between two and four a.m., the cross was plucked down, the masons and others being guarded by the town guard of 500 shot and 200 horse. The people seeing the cross plucked down ran up and down the streets crying out of the King, and saying "Let us kill the Huguenots."
They spoiled two houses and burnt the stuff they found in them in the midst of the street. They continued thus from seven a.m. till four p.m., and being weary of ill-doing ceased, rather through providence than by any good policy used by the heads of the town, for it was generally feared that the whole city would have been spoiled as well of the one religion as the other. M. Montmorency on the 30th entered Paris with 400 or 500 horse, as is said to do justice on those who have committed this disorder.
2. It is said that the young Marquis of Baden through the persuasions of the Duke of Bavaria has chased the ministers out of his dominions and planted papistry.
Endd.: 29 Dec. Pp. 22/3.
Dec. 31. 2200. Francis Walsingham to Lord Burghley.
Has caused K. to understand the trust reposed in him by the Queen, and how much she desires his presence at the Court, whereby Sir Thomas Smith may be assisted by his advice. Has used the like office towards Marshal Montmorency, who has promised to repair to the Court with what speed he may. Lignerolles, who was by the house of Guise and the Spanish faction, made an instrument to dissuade his master, was slain on the 9th inst., whose death is no small furtherance to the cause. Encloses certain advertisements sent by the King's agent out of Flanders, by which he may partly guess what is the King's intention, and see what was intended towards England by Her Majesty's good brother of Spain. Desires to know how he shall answer the Elector Palatine.—Paris, 31 Dec. 1571. Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. Pp. 2.
Nov. 28. 2201. The Elector Palatine to Walsingham. Desires to know what has become of William Melville, a young Scotchman of his household, whom he sent over to the English Court some months back, and also that he will procure the arrest and surrender of Adam Neuser, formerly a minister of the word in his dominions, who has fled into England.—Heidelburg, 4 cal. Dec. 1571. Signed: Frederic.
Add. Endd. Lat. Pp. 1¾. Enclosure.
Dec. 31. 2202. Walsingham to Lord Burghley. Though he left at his departure from the Court the matter of marriage most desperate, it may be now that Lignerolles' death and the Turkish victory may have yielded new life to the same. He is sorry, therefore, that Sir Thomas Smith's instructions are not more absolute, for if they mean to proceed religion will not be their let, and whilst a courier is sent and returns there may grow some changes, as this nation is subject to sudden alterations. Besides, the enemies at home, when they understand that Her Majesty has absolutely yielded to marriage, will not hazard to impugn the same. A party has gone to Count Lodovic to resolve upon the day of executing the enterprise of Flanders. Has been asked whether that enterprise having good success, and the French King lending all his forces to the conquest of Flanders, the Queen of England would be content to [enter] foot in Zealand, Middleburgh being delivered into her hands. They fear that the French King will not be content with Flanders whatsoever is promised, and therefore they desire a bridle. There is great suspicion that the house of Guise embraces some new enterprise, and that the Duke of Anjou will be a party. Fears much that the Duke will never be brought to marry, as his chancellor is a great enemy thereto. Those who love Her Majesty here are sorry to see her remiss dealing towards the late conspirators. His health is better, but he will not be able to return to his charge till the middle of next month.— Paris, 31 Dec. 1571. Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. Pp. 3.
2203. Taxation in the Low Countries.
Declaration by the Duke of Alva concerning the new taxes on all real and personal property to the amount of the 100th denier on each kind, and also upon all transfers.
Translated out of Flemish into French. Endd.: 1571. Pp. 62/3.
2204. Taxation in the Low Countries.
Similar declaration by the Duke of Alva.
Translated out of Flemish into French. Endd.: 1571. Pp. 13.