Elizabeth I: volume 130, July 1587

July 1587

July 1. Dublin.

27. Lord Deputy to the Privy Council.—Thinks that Turlough Lynagh will not rest satisfied with the composition made by their Lordships for the Earl of Tyrone. Thinks Turlough Lynagh should be made Earl of Omagh. Turlough's wife, Lady Agnes, has gone into Scotland to appease the war between Agnus M'Donnell and the M'Elanes. The King of Scots has commanded Agnus M'Donnell to bring companies over to disturb Ireland. pp. 2. Encloses,

27. I. Sir Richard Byngham to Sir John Perrot. Six ships with many proper men, apparelled in silks and velvets, with chains of gold about their necks, landed a party at Inyshkeye in Mayo. They intend to some great purpose with secrecy. June 17, Roscommon. pp. 2.

July 1.

Copy of the above letter. [Entry Book, Irl., F., V. XII., p. 45.] pp.2.

[July 1.]

28. The humble petitions of Turlough Lynagh O'Neill to Queen Elizabeth.—First, that where it pleased your Majesty to grant him heretofore by letters patents the title of Earl of Clanconnel and Baron of Clogher, it would now please your most Excellent Majesty to create him by the name of Earl of Omey during his life only.

Item, to grant him during his life to his said earldom, such lands as are granted to him already by your Highness' governors to his captainry and chieftainship of the Neills. That is to say, from the Blackwater to the river of Fynn and Lough Foyle, and from the lough or river of Earne to the river of the Bann, with the governments belonging to O'Cahan and Maguire, to have them likewise during life.

Item, to have authority to legitimate his son Sir Arthur O'Neill.

Item, to grant authority to him to constitute and make such one able person as he shall nominate to be his heir, and he to be Baron of Dunnalong or Strabane, with the perpetual inheritance to him so-named, and his heirs males of that part of the country beyond the mountains which he now possesseth, and not leased to the Earl of Tyrone, and his son, Sir Arthur, together with Glenconkeyn, paying for the said barony and lands to be granted therewith, to your Majesty and your successors, such reasonable rent and rising out, as may be thought convenient to your Deputy and Council of your realm of Ireland.

Item, he desireth to have so much granted in his patent of the fishing of the Bann and Loughfoyle as he now possesseth.

Item, inasmuth as the Baron of Dungannon payeth not his rents nor fulfilleth his covenants, bonds, or promise with your suppliant for such his lands, as by the order of the Lord Deputy and Council he did set unto him, to write your Highness' letters to your Deputy to command the Baron to satisfy him of his rents, according to covenants, or to restore him his lands again which he let in lease to him, and his son, Sir Arthur.

Item, to grant unto him creation money, with the patronages and advowsons of spiritual livings within the said barony.

Lastly, He humbly beseecheth your Majesty to grant him some pension to maintain horsemen to serve your Majesty, whereby he may be the better able to serve your Highness at perilous times, and when your Deputy shall call for him. pp. 2.

July 1.

29. John Long, Archbishop of Armagh, to Burghley.—Commends the petition of the sovereign and corporation of Kinsale. p1½

July 3. Dublin.

30. The Lord Chancellor Loftus to Walsyngham.—The corporation of Kinsale having sent hither to excuse themselves to my Lord Deputy for not performing his Lordship's direction for some fortification there, have so reasonably acquitted themselves, with show of so great willingness, as there was none but pitied them; and understanding of their purpose to seek relief at Her Majesty, I thought it reasonable, as well in regard of their former loyalty, in the times of peril in those parts, as their continual and faithful forwardness in Her Majesty's service, humbly to recommend them to your Honours, not doubting but your honourable considerations of them will work Her Majesty's gracious favour towards them. [Copy.] p1½

July 16. Dublin.

31. Sir Nicholas White, Master of the Rolls, to the Lord Treasurer of England.—According to the tenor of my Lords of the Council's letters directed to Mr. Justice Gardener, myself, and Mr. Fenton, we do severally upon our oaths certify the speeches and actions that happened between the Lord Deputy and the marshal, wherein, if we differ, I hope there will be a reasonable construction made of us according to the measure of our several remembrances. So much of your Lordships' letter as seems to touch myself upon information from hence, I have simply and plainly answered the same in this manner. First craving pardon of your Honours, to say, it seemed strange to me who should give this information, by reason that my good friends and companions, Mr. Justice Gardener and Mr. Fenton (to whom so much as happened of this matter was, as I thought, only known, and seemed then unwilling that anything should be said thereof) hath now in presence of the Lord Deputy, and also in private to myself disavowed to be the informers of the same. But to the matter. I advertised your Honours that soon after this accident, the Lord Deputy commanded Mr. Justice Gardener, Mr. Fenton, and me, to bethink ourselves of the speeches that then passed betwixt the Lord Deputy and the marshal, that the same might be jointly or severally certified to his Lordship, according the tenor of a commission which we received from him in that behalf. And we thereupon coming together, and beating diversely upon the memory of the words according to our several remembrances, Mr. Fenton took paper, and laid down in writing certain memorials concerning the same. And I upon our rising up (as men weary of that occupation) calling to mind, the lie given by the marshal to the Lord Deputy, which (to my seeming) was not then by him set down, thought good not to omit the same, lest perchance it would be objected for an estopel to my memory at another time when I should be called on, took pen, and with mine own hand wrote words in the said Mr. Fenton's draft to this effect, that I, Sir Nicholas White, did hear the marshal give the lie to the Lord Deputy, whereupon we brake up without any signing or subscribing to the said paper or draft (as was informed), which paper Mr. Gardener and Mr. Fenton took with them. In the interval of our meeting (which was many days after) these words of my handwriting, carrying with it (as it were) a singularity of testimony from the rest, was made known by some means to the marshal, who, together with some of his, gave out such threats, as I had secret warning sent me to look to myself, and that some of his would do me a mischief by bullet, or otherwise. Thus much I imparted to some of my good friends here, praying them to take care of me, if any such revenge should be offered me. And the Lord Deputy urging a new meeting for returning of his commission, Mr. Fenton and I went by his Lordship's commandment to Mr. Justice Gardener's lodging; and there Mr. Fenton showing me (afore the justice's coming to us) both that paper, and also the engrossing of the same under their hands without my privity or signature, wherein, whether the said words written with my hand be inserted or no, I know not, I thought good for mine own safety in avoiding the increase of further malice, if the same should be further showed to my disadvantage, to cancel the same as a paper of no moment to them when they had engrossed it, but to me only dangerous in regard of my hand, and so left it cancelled with Mr. Fenton, since which time till the day of the date hereof, I did never see it, neither have I it, and if I had I would most humbly and willingly have sent the same to your honourable view, but seeing they "interpretate" your Lordships' letters that the sending thereof belongeth to them, I leave it to them. And if my hard handling in this (as I took it), or the fear of those that threatened this revenge for it, might not have drawn me to this, I most humbly refer myself to your Lordships' most honourable and favourable consideration, protesting that I did it simply to avoid inconveniency to myself without purpose to add or diminish anything more than the truth of that which to my remembrance happened between the Lord Deputy and the marshal without respect of either side, &c. The cause why my certificate went not in company of Mr. Gardener and Mr. Fenton's was because they sent theirs by the marshal's man, whom I durst not well trust. pp2 ¼

July 3. Dublin.

32. Fenton to Burghley.—Decayed state of the ancient town of Kinsale. Her Majesty to grant them a fee-farm or some benefit. pp. 2.

July 3.

33. Fenton to Burghley. [Copy of the above.] p. 1.

July 4. Dublin.

The Lord Deputy and Council of Ireland to the Privy Council.— It may please the same [i.e. you] to understand that I, the Deputy, the 4th of July (long after Philip Williams' bailment), did let call unto me Sir Henry Wallop, Sir Lucas Dillon, and Sir Nicholas White to examine the said Williams according your Honours' directions, touching his undutifulness towards me and the State in discovering such secrets as were by me committed unto his charge, which had been done long ere this, but that, I, Sir Harry Wallop, was absent the space of five weeks by reason of my wife's sickness. And the said Williams being called before us, I, the Deputy, upon great occasion offered me, told him I understood his wife had exhibited a petition in England touching the detaining of her husband in prison with request he might be sent over, because he had matter that greatly touched Her Majesty and the State to inform. I, the Deputy, in their presence, commanded him that if there were any such matter in his breast that concerned Her Majesty and the State, that upon his duty and allegiance he would reveal the same to me and these councillors. But if it were any matter that he had to charge me withal, I commanded him to open the same to the said councillors in mine absence. Whereunto, after some pause used, he answered that his wife, as he understood had given out somewhat there, as for himself he had not, as yet, written much. Hereupon I, the Deputy, urged him to express his mind in this matter, which, if he did not, I said it were good to use means to make him to utter the same, whereunto he answered that, if he were to be torn in pieces with wild horses, he would not reveal that which he had to say, to any creature living, nay, to no councillor in England or Ireland, but to Her Majesty herself, saying withal, it was to be revealed in England and not here, because here it was not to be remedied. Upon the show of so great a pretended secrecy, I, the Deputy, surceased mine action against him. And for my love and duty to Her Majesty laid the same aside, and sent him over with speed unto your Honours, not doubting but upon the moment of his declaration, your Lordships will hold him either as a man necessary to follow so great a service, or return him hither to be examined upon his faults committed against me the Deputy. [Entry Book, Ireland, Folios, Vol. XII., p. 47.] p. 1.

July (4?)

34. Lord Deputy Perrot to .—Sends certain examinations touching a letter written in the name of O'Neill complaining against him whereof he beseeches their Lordships to have consideration. Extract. pp. 4. Also on same paper,

July (4?)

34. Lord Deputy to .—Report of the accident, fallen out between him and the marshal. Extract. pp. 4. [There are extracts of other letters here, but the letters are calendared at their respective dates.]

July 5. Cork.

35. Cormock Carty to Walsyngham, to further his suits by the bearer Nicholas Skiddy.—The Lord Deputy appoints him to remain in Ireland for service. Sends a goshawk. Autograph. p. 1.

July 9.

36. The state of Connaught, how I, Sir Richard Byngham found it when I came first thither, and how I left it at my coming thence. (1.) At my entrance into the charge thereof I found no sufficient pledge in durance for the security of the province, or for any part thereof. (2.) I found Her Majesty's revenue rents due yearly within the same so far in arrear that it appeared the twentieth part thereof was not paid as it ought, but detained without any care had by any of Her Majesty's officers for the rearing of it. (3.) I found that the composition rents, agreed upon by Sir Nicholas Malbie, were so unequally and confusedly reared and brought in, that it much grieved the inhabitants, and yet the same fell short of the sum due to Her Majesty 200 or 300l. yearly, and yet the country through the iniquity of the collector, were pinched and charged with well nigh double the whole rent, yea, and haply, some one man's distress taken for the due of a whole barony. (4.) I found also that this, notwithstanding the country was charged with the cess of soldiers, horses, and horse boys in sort as if no such composition had been made. (5.) I found the country also far indebted to Mr. Brabazon, Captain Woodhouse, Captain Coxen, and divers others, for the charge of soldiers employed there in Sir Nicholas Malbie's tiem, besides divers other old challenges and demands of cuttings by the lords of the countries, and in their behalf by merchants and such as they stood indebted unto. (6.) I found the castle of Ballimote being Her Majesty's ancient inheritance, and the only place of service for those parts, detained from Her Highness by a sort of base beggars, to the great indignity of the state, and to the encouragement of the ill affected of those parts. (7.) I found that O'Rourke, Sir Morrough Ne Doe O'Flaherty, Mahon O'Brien, and many of the bad Burkes, of the county of Mayo refused to come to the provincial governor, as they in duty ought, to the disgrace of the government of all the ill-affected within the same. (8.) I found that all extraordinary charges accidentally happening within the province were "exhauused," out of Her Majesty's treasure, or otherwise extorted from the country, or else from both Her Majesty and the country. (9.) I found that Her Majesty had never any benefit out of that province for any fines of pardons and such like. (10.) Lastly, I found that the receipts of the province served not to defray the ordinary charges of the same by 1,400 or 1,500l. yearly, the defect whereof was supplied out of Her Majesty's coffers, over and above the extraordinaries, as aforesaid.

(1.) But now since I had charge there, I have taken in and left in durance sufficient pledges for the security of the whole country, not children, or mean and weak persons, but men of action, yea, and such as are of very bad and dangerous action and quality, as the two sons of Sir Morrough Ne Doe O'Flaherty, Hugh O'Conor Don, Coghe O'Madden, Turlough M'Mahon, Cahill M'Dermot, Richard Burke of Mayo, Robert M'Peter, and many others, for whose durance the whole country is the better, and for the enlarging of whom at my coming thence I might have benefited myself if I would 2,000l. and upwards. (2.) I have made collections of all Her Majesty's revenue rent due in the province since my time, even to the last penny for these three years past, besides the getting in of divers and desperate arrears due before my time, so as it is there confessed by the auditor of the realm that the like was never done in that province before in any man's memory, no, nor the like is not now done in the English Pale of Ireland. (3.) I misliking the unorderly rearing of the composition rents and finding ma[n]y inconvenient properties in the same, conceived a better course for the rearing and augmenting of it, and wrote to my Lord Deputy mine opinion therein, desiring that I might have commission to compound with the gentlemen of the country in a better sort, both for Her Majesty and also for them, who directed commission to that end to me, joining with me in the same, Sir Nicholas White, which composition hath since taken good effect, and had taken far better, if the course I first took had been well followed, as indeed it was altered in many points by Sir Nicholas White, whilst I and mine associates attended the administration of justice in that circuit, deposing our whole trust in his sufficiency. (4.) At my first entrance into the charge of the province, I even then drew all the soldiers from lying on the country to a garrison place, both for the ease of the country, who indeed were in that sort pitifully extorted upon, as also for the ready and sufficient service upon all sudden occasions. I also so provided, although to my great charge, that neither a horse or a horse-boy of my own lay upon them, other than such as I placed on the lordship of Roscommon, and abated for it the rents, and this course wonderfully liked the country and prepared their minds the more willingly to the new composition. (5.) All the said old challenges, debts, and demands, which did hang in great disorder I have righted and caused to be paid and discharged without grievance to the country. (6.) I have (although to my charge) brought Ballimote into Her Majesty's hands again, which ever sithence has bridled the ill-affected of those parts, and is a great safety and assurance for the state, against Scots and such like strangers sallying in upon the province, from the north: which place is holden now by my brother, George Bingham, who in the last troubles, in Mayo, as is well known, did very good service in those parts, as well before as after the overthrow of Scots; for he slew, at the least three or four score of them in the chase through the county of Sligo, with the ward of that castle and his own servants. (7.) Since my coming into the province O'Rourke, Sir Morrough Ne Doe O'Flaherty, Mabon O'Brien, the bad Burkes, and all of them of account, have come in to me dutifully, which indeed they have done more for fear than for any other cause, for the Irish assuredly obey not for love but for fear, and yet I praise God, all the well affected there love me, and the ill affected fear me. (8.) In the winning of Ballimote, Cloon-oan and Castle Ne Callye, with divers other places, as also in subduing the Burkes, and overthrowing the Scots, or any other service within the province I have not put Her Majesty to one penny extraordinary charge, a small matter in bringing in of O'Rourke's pledge and some money given to messengers unexcepted, which also the fines of the province hath defrayed, with an overplus, and yet it is well known I levied and paid 300 soldiers footmen for twelve weeks, besides many horsemen, and kerne, during that service, the charges thereof amount unto, at the least 1,400l. and 1,500l., which hath been done without charge to Her Majesty or burden to the country. (9.) I have accounted for 300l. or 400l. in fines, since I had charge there, which the auditor assureth me to be more than Her Majesty hath in that time in all Ireland besides. (10.) Lastly, although I have received 1,000l. or 1,200l. of the treasurer since I had charge, yet accounting that which he hath received for it out of the province in that time, it shall appear that since I had charge, the revenue and receipts of the province hath defrayed all the charges of the same ordinary and extraordinary, and I see no reason but that every province within that realm should also do the like, if things were carefully handled for Her Majesty. pp. 3.

July 10. Dublin.

37. Lord Deputy Sir John Perrot to Walsyngham.—Understanding at my first coming hither that Sir Nicholas Malbie (in his time) had made an uncertain composition in the province of Connaught and Thomond, in lieu of all cess and galloglas pay, amounting to about 1,700l. sterling, yearly, not passing the same by indenture, or other authentic writing, how or in what due order the same might be levied; whereof there could not be collected at any time above 1,200l. by the year, or thereabouts, as by the said Sir Nicholas's reckonings, delivered to the auditor, appeareth; the rest being left as supers, and no part thereof to be obtained. The people of that province, at my first coming thither to settle Sir Richard Byngham there, making great rumour and exclamation against the manner of that charge, and collecting thereof; some of them affirming they never consented thereunto, and other that agreed to the same alleging that they granted it, but for a time during the troubles, showing therewithal the great inconvenience that did ensue thereof, as well by the unequal levying of the same, as by the abuse of those horsemen and footmen that collected it, who took up the cattle of whole parishes and townreds, as they came next unto their hands, leaving the countries without all order to plot it amongst themselves, as well as they could, by reason whereof the poorer sort bore the whole charge, and the greater men went free; I entered into consideration how this confusion and great enormity amongst them might be reformed, as well there in that province as throughout the whole realm; where there was no certainty in cessing, cutting, or over-charging the people, and thought it good first to begin with Connaught as a precedent for the whole. And thereupon calling to mind the small pamphlet of my opinion delivered to Her Majesty and you, touching the estate of this realm, after I had first persuaded and won all the noblemen and chief gentlemen of the country to agree thereunto, I did (according my conceit expressed in my said book) make choice of Sir Richard Byngham, Sir Nicholas White, and other commissioners to proceed in the same, according a commission and certain instructions set down by me in that behalf; by virtue whereof they travelled through the whole province, and extented the same by offices and presentments, setting it down into quarters of land, each quarter containing six score acres, or thereabout, and passed indentures, according the copy herewith sent unto you between Her Majesty and the lords, as also between the lords and their tenants, for a certain rent to be had out of every quarter of land there, reserving to Her Majesty the rising out of certain horsemen and footmen, as well to repress rebellions within that province, as also to be ready at all general hostings otherwise; besides the banishing of the Macs and Ooes; the said province also being thereby divided into nine seignories or honours, for Her Majesty; whereby in short time Her Highness (besides her ancient revenue and impost there,) will reap yearly by this composition 4,000l. sterling, with sundry escheats and other royalties, as by a breviate of a book which I send you herewith may appear. All which was granted with great contentment, as by the copy of the lords' and captains' letters contained in the said book is manifest, which they paid with very good will, because they are come to a certainty. And for due proof that this service hath had good success, the composition this year will amount to 2,800l. ster., or thereabout. And the same by continuance of this peace will daily increase, so that within a year or two it will accomplish the sum aforesaid. There is besides that such a general knot of obedience tied to Her Majesty and the State thereby, as Her Highness shall stand assured of a round revenue; the lords have thereby agreed with their tenants for a certain rent; the tenants understand what they are to perform to Her Majesty and their lords, every man knowing what is his, and depending now upon the law, and not one upon another. The like composition whereof (or as good in some other kind) I was in good hope to have brought to pass throughout most part of this land, which might have yielded Her Majesty a great and honourable revenue, if my purposes had not been stopped. This counterpane is the double of one part of that province, whereunto, as unto the residue, I should have set Her Majesty's seal, and my hand, but I would not adventure it before Her Highness' pleasure first known, although I am assured the same is both profitable to Her Majesty, a great surety to her people, and doth breed an universal quiet among themselves. And the lords and gentlemen do daily call upon me to have the same passed unto them by letters patents under the Great Seal according to the limitation of the said composition; the rather because they have passed the same by indenture from themselves to Her Majesty already, under their hands and seals. I had stayed the certifying hereof till my coming over, but that the said lords and gentlemen do earnestly call for their said assurance, leaving the declaration what rent and beeves I have otherwise gotten for Her Majesty in the North and other places, till my coming thither, at which time I intend to declare the same by word of mouth; yet I may not but deliver unto you hereby that Sir Richard Byngham and Sir Nicholas White did travail carefully in the execution of my commission and instructions; Sir Nicholas White drawing the offices and indentures with his own hand, the same containing very near four-score skins of parchment, without whose presence there, you will hardly understand the effect of the premises. I was enforced to grant certain freedoms to some of the nobility and chief gentlemen, to win them the sooner to this composition, but if any shall allege there were many freedoms given, it may be answered, it was reason to give them somewhat of their own that gave so much freely to Her Majesty, &c.

Postscript.— I trust you Sir will impart this work to Her Majesty and my Lords, and send speedy order to me to pass assurance to the lords and chieftains by letters patents of that which should come from Her Majesty, for I would be glad it were ended before my coming thither that other do not reap the thanks of my travail. [Autograph, the postscript being in Perrot's hand.] pp. 3. Incloses,

37. I. The Composition Book of Connaught and Thomond. Copy. pp. 20. Oct. 3, 1585.

37. II. Letter of the lords and chieftains to the Lord Deputy Perrot. Copy. Sept. 27, 1585. p. 1.

[Other copies of these two documents are calendared at their respective dates.]

July 10.

Copy of the above letter of Lord Deputy to Walsyngham. [Entry Book Ireland, Folios, Vol. XII., p. 48.] pp. 2.

July 12. St. Sepulchres.

38. Adam Loftus, Archbishop of Dublin and Lord Chancellor of Ireland, to the Lord Chancellor Hatton, Lord High Treasurer Burghley, and Sir Francis Walsyngham.—The hurt that a poor gentleman, one Mr. Philip Williams, hath received, though not altogether by mine occasion, yet for my sake, doth not a little move me in conscience, thinking myself bound in Christianity to purge him of the guiltless blame that my Lord Deputy, his late master, would lay upon him for discovery of some letters written by his Lordship against me and Sir Henry Bagenall. Though no protestation or oath can satisfy my Lord here, who is most eagerly bent to blemish the credit of the man for some other respects as may be gathered, yet I have no doubt but your honours will make better reckoning of that I now write in this case. I avow unto your Honours in the presence of God, upon the salvation I look for, and the duty of allegiance I owe unto Her Majesty, that he and his man Zacharie, that was also touched with him, are free from this discovery, and likewise from all infidelity or yet negligence concerning the same. The accident fell out first of my Lord's own open dealing in his chamber [underlined by Burghley], which some other that is towards him, whom he least suspecteth, gave ear unto at his chamber door, and undesired of my part, and at that time also utterly unknown unto me, was moved, when by hearing the letter read he perceived I was so maliciously shot at, and so watched an opportunity while Williams was sent away to write other letters in his own chamber, to convey that letter from my Lord's own board to a friend of mine [in the margin by Burghley, "a great abuse,"] that brought it to me when I was sitting in the chancery, and returned it again to the place whence he took it, before Williams could come back again with the business he had in hand. In as strange a manner, though after another sort, was the copy of the letters against Sir Henry Bagenall gotten and brought unto me, without his knowledge or fault; yea, I do so far acquit him of either infidelity or negligence therein, as it was not in his power, how provident or careful soever he was, or had been, to avoid it. I do therefore humbly beseech your Honours to stand his good Lords, and to afford him your favour and good opinion nothing the less for this wrongful imputation, for the which he hath over-dearly smarted, notwithstanding his former good deserts in service, wherein not only I, but all other of Her Majesty's Council in this land, can witness he hath bestowed his time as painfully, as trustily, and as sufficiently as ever did any before him that supplied his place, without any notorious touch or reprehension, though such a way were taken by seizing his chamber on the sudden, and so much search and ripping up of his whole life and doings since, as had been enough to find a fault, if any were. pp. 11/2. [Holograph.]

July 12.

39. A note of certain articles, the answer whereof the gentlemen undertakers for the peopling of the province of Munster, in Ireland, do most humbly crave from the Council in England that it may be presently sent over to the Lord Deputy, for that at this instant they stand sundry ways discomforted to proceed in the action, Imprimis, whether the Desmond's lands, called the chargeable lands, are the Queen's, and to be divided among the undertakers or not; if they be, that then notice be given to the Lord Deputy thereof.

Item, whether the lands of Condon, the White Knight, and the Seneschal, shall be distributed and apportioned among the undertakers and their associates or not; if yea, then that the Lord Deputy have knowledge thereof, and warrant for the delivery of the possession thereof, the which said lands, if they be not to be divided and distributed, many of the undertakers with their associates and all their tenants must forthwith, of necessity, return into England (notwithstanding they are most desirous and ready in this service), for want of their lands promised, having bestowed exceeding charge in travail to their great loss and hindrance.

Item, they desire to know what shall be done with the lands of those who have their pardon for their lives, not having their lands granted under Her Majesty's Great Seal.

Item, whereas it is granted in Her Majesty's letters patents that the complaints of the Irish shall be heard by commissioners, and determined by them, their humble petition and request is, that if any Irish shall make challenge to any lands, whereof Her Majesty is seised by office of record, that they may seek their remedy in the Exchequer at Dublin, as her subjects do in England in like causes. p3 ¼

July 12.

40. Lands in Munster allotted to the western undertakers claimed by the Irishry. County of Cork. Claimed by Sir Warhame Sentleger. Kyerrey Whirrey, which with the chargeable lands would make near about two seignories.

[A letter to be written to Sir Warhame Sentleger to repair to the court.]

Contained in the first claim of Clancar, but not prosecuted. Clandonnel Roe's country in Bantry, esteemed to be about . . . . entire seignories.

[The Earl of Clancar and his counsellor Meaghe to be sent for.]

Claimed first of the behalf of McCarthy Reagh, and now claimed by one of the Mahones. Kynalmeca the country of Conogher O'Machone, containing near two seignories and a half.

[An offer to be made to . . . .]

Claimed by certain inhabitants. The castle of Guynes, with the territories thereunto, one seignorie.

["Forborn." Referred to the commissioners to deal, either by composition, or to proceed by trial.] The "Forborn" is by Burghley.

Claimed by the Seneschal and tenants. Imokilly containeth with the chargeable lands near three seignories.

["Forborn." Direction to be given to Sir William Fytzwylliams to deal with the Seneschal.] The "Forborn" is in Burghley's hand.

Claimed by the Lord Roche. Carringlymleery with Dryver containeth near about one seignorie.

[Referred to the commissioners.]

Claimed by Patrick Condon. The Condons' country containeth near about three seignories.

[The like direction to Sir William Fytzwylliams as in the case of the Seneschal.]

Used by the White Knight, having some of the castles only in lease. The White Knight's country, being about a seignory and half, forfeit to Her Majesty and waste.

[The commissioners to deal with the White Knight by composition.]

Sum total, 16 seignories.

So there is not left unto the western undertakers free, without claim, not above three seignories, except those allotted to Sir Walter Rawley.

Instructions.

To understand what is meant to be done with these lands of the Seneschal, the Condon, and the White Knight.

What their pleasure is touching the other lands claimed.

What is to be done touching the chargeable lands for the clause of the patent.

How the Lord Deputy is to be answered for the matter of the new commission looked for touching the admeasuring, &c.

That the Lord Deputy make expedition to give direction to the vice-president for placing the undertakers.

To resolve the question moved of the difference conceived between the undertakers and their associates.

[Signed] John Popham, Thomas Hannam, Edward Rogers, John Cowper, Roger Warre, Amys Banfyld, Vane Becher, Michael Siddenham, Ed. Reade, Ed. Sands, Arthur Hyde, Hugh Worth, Richard Hippesley, Roger Keat, Hugh Cuff, Philip Cuff, John Robinson. [Copy.] pp2 ¼

July 13. Dublin.

The Lord Deputy to the Privy Council.—Upon the receipt of Her Majesty's letters for the sending over of Sir Richard Byngham to serve in the Low Countries I presently sent both for him and Sir Thomas Le Strange, who was to supply his place in Connaught by Her Majesty's order, and have despatched Sir Richard thither, who could not finish his business here before this present day, as he informed me. And having both the gentlemen before me, Sir Richard Byngham required to have the allowance of the fee of 100l. per annum, and the 6s. 8d. allowed out of the casualties during his absence; as also that he might dispose of the 25 horsemen allowed to attend upon the chief commissioners of that state. Whereunto Sir Thomas Le Strange answered that as he was appointed to the place, which according to his duty for Her Majesty's service he would accept, so he must for his credit sake maintain the state there in such sort and with as good countenance as Sir Richard did, otherwise it would be a dishonour to Her Majesty, a hindrance to the service and a great blemish to himself. And for the horsemen, he said, that as they were the servants of Sir Richard in household, who continually attended on his person wheresoever he went, whilst he occupied that room; so if the said Sir Thomas might not have his men to attend him in like sort, the horsemen being at Sir Richard's direction, could not be near him when he most needed them. And for himself he was not able to keep the countenance of the room, or be in safety without those horsemen to be always about him; for, said he, the money allowed for the diets will no way find the place. And for that I had not warrants by my letter to deal in the disposing of the fees, or the said horsemen, but only to place the said Sir Thomas in Sir Richard's absence, and to show those which Sir Richard left behind him all favour, I forbare to deal in that matter any way, referring the ordering thereof to your honourable and grave considerations, being loth to offend any of the gentlemen. [Entry Book, Ireland, Folios Vol. XII. p. 51.] pp. 2.

July [13.] Dublin.

41. Sir H. Wallop to Burghley.—The repair now over into England of Sir Richard Byngham doth give me cause to trouble your Lordship with a few lines concerning him, as an office in respect of myself, and my devotion towards you, and of his desert and worthiness needful and requisite for me to do. And that the rather, for that I know it is not unknown to your Lordship that he hath been hardly dealt withal, and his service not graced here, as in right and conscience it ought to have been; but howsoever for dislike or passion, others may seek to deface his service, I cannot for my part but think it not only mine, but the duty of all others serving in this place, to testify frankly and truly what our opinion is touching his proceedings, as well by our private letters as our public. And, therefore, as by former letters of mine, I have signified unto your Lordship my opinion of Sir Richard Byngham's service, so would I not now suffer him to return without some confirmation of the same unto your Lordship, not only to refresh your memory with the contents of my said former letters, but also to accompany him with such recommendation to your Lordship as I conceive is due unto his worthiness and virtue, having besides that singular and notable exploit of overthrowing the Scots, so tempered his government of the province committed to his charge, as he leaveth it in good quiet and peace, with such fruits of the same as all the rest of the realm may not only take example thereof, but do also taste good and commodity growing thereby; for that even in these hard years, and dearth of corn and all other necessaries universally, only that province hath yielded plenty towards the relieving of the rest, with great store of cattle, and some corn, and hath allured numbers even out of the Pale to forsake their habitations here, and to settle themselves within that province, wherein as it is to be said that God hath blessed his travail and endeavour by yielding such testimonies of his favour upon the country ruled by one that feareth him, and hath had great regard to the administration of justice, which is so acceptable a thing to his Divine Majesty, so do I wish that notwithstanding the displeasure or disgracing of any other, this gentleman may obtain a gracious and favourable acceptation and liking of his service, the rather for that in truth it hath been somewhat too rare in this country, to see men directly strive to purchase credit and reputation, with sincere and virtuous regard of doing their duties, and that his course hath even from the first been such, as in my opinion hath deserved to be specially well liked and esteemed in that behalf. Whereunto, if this my testimony to your Lordship may add any moment, I shall humbly beseech you, that it will please you to give him to understand that as well my private mediation, as my public hath not failed him so far forth, as the authority thereof could extend. pp1 ¼

July 13. Dublin.

42. Wallop to Burghley.—Recommends the bearer Charles Egerton to his honourable favour. p. 1.

July 13. Dublin.

43. Sir Thomas Le Strange to the Privy Council.—By virtue of Her Majesty's letter directed to the Lord Deputy, I have received commandment from his Lordship to take the charge of that place, which Sir Richard Byngham late supplied in Connaught; wherein, as in all other things tending to Her Majesty's service I shall be most ready to employ myself, life, and goods; but inasmuch as the credit and honour of the place requireth that, I entering thereinto should maintain the same in as good sort as my predecessor hath done (a thing which will be both expected and looked for at my hands) I may not, considering the great charge and burden thereof, but be an humble suitor to your Lordships, that as the charge may no way be decreased for the honour of the place, so it may please your Lordships to have that honourable consideration of me and it, as the same allowances Sir Richard had may be continued unto me, the rather for that Sir Richard before his departure disposed Roscommon to the use of the heir, whereby I must be forced (my own house being far unfit for the receipt of suitors, by reason there is no town near it but Roscommon, which is three miles off) to keep my most residence at Athenry or Galway, where I must live only upon the penny. The castle of Ballimote also assigned unto me by the Lord Deputy being as far unfit as mine own, for the purpose aforesaid, but otherwise for service sake a very convenient place. And for the 25 horsemen and the fee which Sir R. Byngham requireth to be at his disposition, if the horsemen should be taken from me, which were wont to attend Sir Richard's own person, being his ordinary men in household, or the said fee I should neither be able to maintain the countenance of the place, nor perform the service that shall be requisite. p. 1.

July 13.

Copy of above. [Entry Book, Ireland, Fol. Vol. XII. p. 52.] pp. 2.

July 14.

44. The Privy Council to the Lord Deputy.—Whereas we wrote unto you about February last, requiring your Lordship to give direction to the Vice-president and Council of the province of Munster that upon notice given them by the undertakers, or any six of them, they should presently give order to see them put in possession of the seignories allotted unto them by their particulars. Forasmuch as we do not understand that the Vice-president of Munster hath "not" as yet received so general commandment from you as was meant by the tenor of our said letters, though you have recommended some particular parties unto the said Vice-president, these shall be therefore to pray your Lordship to give present and general order and charge to the Vice-president and Council there, for establishing in possession of all the undertakers and their associates, according to the contents of our former letters, excepting only the castle of Guynes, with the territories thereunto belonging; as also the chargeable lands appertaining to Imokilly, for that we think meet that some consideration be had of the said castle and chargeable lands before they shall be disposed. And we are further to require you that such of the Irish as shall pretend any interest to the lands granted to the said undertakers, whereunto Her Majesty is entitled by office, may show good matter of record or writing to maintain their said pretended title, before Her Majesty's possession, or the possession of the undertakers, or their associates therein be displaced, or removed, giving express charge and order to Her Majesty's attorney and solicitor there to have special care of the just defence of Her Majesty's title. We pray your Lordship in like manner that the said undertakers and their associates may receive all favour, furtherance, and encouragement that may be in any reasonable sort yielded unto them. Likewise whereas in the said letter [p. 271, no. 64] we did also require your Lordship to enter into consideration how the seneschal of Imokilly and Patrick Condon, pretending interest to part of the lands granted to the undertakers, might be agreed withal. Forasmuch as we have as yet heard nothing of your proceeding in that matter, we are to require your Lordship to let us to be advertised with speed from you what hath been done in that behalf according to such direction as you received. (fn. 1) Withal we are to require you to certify hither in what estate the White Knight's country doth stand, and what is the interest he hath, or pretendeth to the same, or to any part thereof, and in what sort Her Majesty is entitled. Moreover, whereas we wrote at the same time to your Lordship requiring you to grant forth a new commission to Thomas Wiseman, Arthur Roberts, and others, for the measuring superficially the lands of the seignories with that expedition that might possibly be used which as yet hath not to our knowledge been thoroughly performed; we are in like case to pray your Lordship that present order be taken that the surveyors appointed thereunto may proceed in the execution of the said commission with that diligence and speed that is requisite. And whereas we are given to understand that some question hath been made there of the difference between the undertakers and their associates, we have thought it not amiss for the removing of all scruple and doubt that thereby might grow to signify unto your Lordship that they are both to be held and reputed to be of one degree and like quality in all respects. (Minute.) pp. 4.

July 14.

Copy of above. [Entry Book, Ireland, Fol. Vol. XII. p. 66.] pp. 2.

July 16. Dublin.

Lord Deputy to the Privy Council against Henry Eyland, late sheriff of Roscommon, whom he wishes apprehended and sent back to receive punishment. [Entry Book, Ireland, Fol. V. XII. p. 53.] pp. 2.

July 17. Dublin.

The Lord Deputy to Burghley.—Since the writing of my last letters to my Lords, wherewith I sent the examinations taken before certain of Her Majesty's council here, and others, concerning Sir Henry Bagenall's bad practices in writing of complaints to Her Majesty, in Turlough Lynagh's name, against me, whereof the said Turlough was never privy, or consenting unto. Understanding that a young man, a Scot, being named Davies Omey, that attendeth upon Turlough Lynagh, writeth for him, and keepeth his seal, could say something in that matter, I sent to Turlough for him, but some devices were wrought to convey him out of the way, as by my letters now written to my Lords, which I know shall come to your hands, shall appear. Notwithstanding, at the length he was sent unto me, who being upon certain interrogatories examined, hath confessed the authors, devisers, and writers thereof, whose depositions, together with the copy of the Irish letter which was the ground of that Latin letter which Turlough meant to have sent to Her Majesty at the first, with the translation thereof in English, under the hand of the said Davies. And a letter which Turlough himself hath now written unto me touching that matter I have sent to their Lordships. All which being compared with the Latin letter that was devised and sent to Her Majesty will lay open the whole practice how I have been used therein, and I verily believe in other matters through the like devices. But though they may play with me, being Her Majesty's Deputy, yet they ought to have better advised before they had presumed so upon Her Majesty, and therein I think your Lordship shall find Sir Patrick Barnwell to be a principal author. All which I humbly refer to your honourable consideration, beseeching your Lordship to be a means that no such abuse towards Her Majesty and her governor be lightly passed over, considering how lewd a matter it is, and how hard to be found out. [Entry Book, Ireland, Fol. Vol. XII. p. 54.] pp. 2. Mentions as sent,

I. O'Neill (Turlough Lynagh) to the Lord Deputy. Sends the Scottish boy and the Irish copy of the letter which he wrote at the last session of the last Parliament. If there be any more in the Latin than is in the Irish it is falsely inserted by the translators. The bearer Laurence Taaf entrusted with the rest of O'Neill's business. July 5, Newcastle. p. 1. [Entry Bk. Irl. Fol. Vol. XII. p. 55.]

July 17. Dublin.

45. Sir Thomas Le Strange to Burghley.—Recommends the bearer, Mr. Fowle, who has long served Her Majesty. The inhabitants of Connaught do very greatly like of his proceedings. p. 1.

July 18. Dublin.

46. Wallop to Burghley in favour of the bearer, Mr. Lodowick Bryskett, whom he commends most especially. p. 1.

July 15 & 20. Dublin.

47. Wallop to Burghley, for licence to come over with his account and auditor Jenyson, and everything requisite to relieve him from so heavy a burden. His willingness to have the abbey of the Boyle in exchange for his interest in Athlone. The commissioners have made an end of his account till Michaelmas 1586. pp. 2.

July 22. Dublin.

48. Wallop to Burghley, for payment of 500l. borrowed of the Earl of Ormond. p1 ½

July 24. Newry.

49. Sir Nicholas Bagenall to Lord Burghley.—Sorry I am to have occasion any way to trouble your Lordship, specially in so busy a time as this, but being thoroughly persuaded of your honorable good favour, I trust you will with patience bear what necessity urgeth me to; for my Lord Deputy hunting me to the death and worse, I have no refuge but to God, Her Majesty, and your Honours. It is hard for a man of my years and sort, after so long service, blood spent, and some credit and countenance in the world, to be driven, contrary to my determination, to travel so far by sea and land. I will not impertinently trouble you with a rehearsal of the Lord Deputy's proceedings against me, but do humbly pray I may refer you to understand the same more at full by the copies enclosed of that I have now written to Her Majesty and your Lordships, humbly praying your favour and furtherance of that I have thereby motioned. Otherwise, surely I will rather put myself into Her Majesty's merciful hands by relinquishing my charge without licence, than live in danger and extreme discontentment under a kind of tyranny. p. 1. Incloses,

49. I. Sir N. Bagenall to Queen Elizabeth. Prays for her express warrant to license his access to her presence. Copy. p1 ½

July 24, Newry.

49. II. Sir N. Bagenall to the Privy Council. The Lord Deputy has addressed a new commission and interrogatories to inquire of boys and vile persons, seeking to add an infamous end to the outrageous disgrace which he offered Bagenall. Copy. p. 1.

July 24, Newry.

July 25. Dublin.

50. Wallop to Burghley.—The issue of the treasure. Extremity of the garrison. Wallop is very little in Her Majesty's debt. Great preparations making at Cadiz for the invasion of Ireland. pp1 ¼ Incloses,

50. I. Certificate of the issue of 10,000l. of the Privy Seal of 27 April 1587. pp. 16.

July 26.

51. Lord Deputy Perrot to his servant Richard Harding to arrest certain persons and send the inclosed letters to Wheeler, of Perrot's chamber. p. 1.

July 26. Tralee.

52. Mr. Edward Denny to Burghley.—Fears he shall not be able to make his rent of Tralee, a very remote place, unless Her Majesty be pleased to abate it. Connologh much better and less rent by 50l. a year. Repines at Clancarty getting so much of Her Majesty. A follower of O'Sullivan More brought in question, for saying he knew no other queen he had but O'Sullivan More, and adjudged to lose his ears. His nephew Darci will move his suits in England. pp. 2.

July 27.

53. Sir John Norreys to the Council.—Having returned from service in the Low Countries, he desires to resume his office in the government of Munster, and for his brother Thomas Norreys to be allowed an extraordinary entertainment of 40s. a day, as his vice-president, until Her Majesty shall license him to repair thither. p. 1.

July 30. Waterford.

54. James Wyse, mayor of Waterford, to the Lord Deputy, Sir John Perrot.—The 29th of this present, three merchants of our town (whose goods were stayed at Lisbon, as I formerly advertised your Honour, and lately released by warrant from the king) arrived here, who came over in two ships of Drogheda, who landed them in a fisher-boat a seaboard our haven the day before, and fearing lest any impediment of contrary winds or otherwise might happen to the said ships, I have thought good to signify unto your Honour such news of that country as our said merchants do tell, which is as followeth. The first day of this July the said ships of Drogheda departed Lisbon, at which time and a seven-night before the Marquis de Santa Cruz, with his navy, was ready to set into the sea, being in number about 40 or 50 sail, small and great, whereof were nine Biscayans, the least being 300 tons, very well appointed and nine greater ships of the king's, far better appointed; besides the Duke of Florence's ship, which might be of 700 tons, having in her 55 pieces of brass ordnance, and so upward unto 30 ships, the [least] being of 100 tons: the rest above that number were smaller vessels, of lesser burden. And having examined our said merchants whether any Irish bishops, priests, or gentlemen were to pass in the said fleet, they said there were none that they could espy or learn, but a son of James Fitz Maurice, and one Maurice Fitz James, cousin german to the Earl of Desmond, and one of the Ryans, were to come in the said ships. They tell further that they heard that a fleet which was made within the Straits was then ready at Cales [Cadiz]; whither the one or other was to go no man could tell, but said it was by some it was for the islands of Azores, to meet the king's ships coming from the Indies. Whithersoever they are bound is kept very secret, and few knoweth the certainty thereof among themselves. Fearing lest my neighbours of Drogheda would not speedily certify your Honour, I thought it my duty to certify your Honour of such news as "this town's men doth" tell. Aut. pp. 2.

July 30.

Copy of above. [Entry Book, Ireland, F. V. XII. p. 76.] p. 1.

July 30. Kilmallock.

55. Sir Ed. Phyton to Burghley.—A general claim is laid to the lands appointed for the undertakers. The country generally wasted, but yet not a pile in any place, but full of the poorest creatures that ever I saw, so lean for want of food as wonderful, and yet so idle as they will not work, because they are descended either of kerne, horseman, or galloglas, all three the very subversion of this land. Sermon not once in seven years. The churchmen collect their tithes with most rigour, and neither give food temporal nor spiritual. James Fitz Maurice's wife has sent a messenger to her son in Spain. The White Knight's son hath sent word to his mother that they shall have liberty shortly. M'Gibbon's son, whom they call the White Knight, is with Sir Wm. Stanley. Autog. p. 1.

[July.]

The Lord Deputy's complaints (15 articles) against Sir Richard Byngham.—His kindness ill requited. Abbey of Boyle. Ill usage of his kinsman Francis Barkley, Sir Brian O'Rourke, Sir Morogh Ne Doe O'Flaherty, and others. Athlone. Roscommon. [Entry Book, Ireland, Folios, Vol. XII. p. 56.] pp2¾

[July.]

Note of Sir Richard Byngham's answer to my Lord Deputy's complaints, exhibited by John Birt, secretary.—Sir Richard's great journey and sickness. The hurt in his knee. His camping 12 weeks. The Deputy charged with hard measure. [Entry Book, Ireland, Folios, Vol. XII. p. 58.] pp. 4.

[July.]

Note of Sir R. Byngham's reply to the Lord Deputy's letter of 30th June 1587, exhibited by John Birt, secretary of Sir R. Byngham.—Inconvenience of dividing the band of 50 horse. Unnecessary fees to a Provost Marshal and Serjeant. Athlone the key of the province fittest for the governor. Merit of Henry Eyland. Note in margin: No such letter written by Sir Richard Byngham of complaint as he is charged withal. [Entry Book, Ireland, Folios, Vol. XII. p. 63.] pp. 2.

About July.

56. Substance of Her Majesty's grant to the undertakers of the attainted lands in Munster. pp. 2.

July. The Court at Theobalds.

57. Privy Council to the Lord Deputy.—His Lordship to desist from oppressing Sir Richard Byngham's men during his absence. Gerald Comerford, Attorney of Connaught, shall be continued. Henry Eyland, late Sheriff of Roscommon, shall stand clear from arrest. Capt. Thomas Woodhowse, Grene O'Moloye, George Goodman, John Byrt, Richard Mapother, Francis Dutton, Henry Weekes, Daniel Dalye, Edmund M'Costolo, and his son, or any other depending on Sir Richard, shall not be troubled for any criminal offence. Ballimote, Castle Barry, and the Boyle. Draft. pp. 21/2.

July.

58. State of the garrison in Ireland in July 1587, presented to Sir F. Walsyngham. (Damaged.) pp. 2.

[July.]

59. Sir Richard Byngham's Discourse touching the state of the Province of Connaught at the time of his first entrance, and how it has been improved by him; to be left with the Lord Treasurer at Byngham's going into Holland.—At the time of my first entrance into that government I saw a great confusion in the gathering up of Her Majesty's rents, for that the same was altogether in the will of the collector, to receive what he list, upon whom he list, and to account for it to Her Majesty as pleased himself; upon which consideration we entered into the way of the last composition, which was laid down in some good sort at the first. And charging the waste lands as well as the rest, it is drawn in sum to a 3,000l. by the year and upwards, whereof I received the last half year before my coming away, about a 1,200l., which in the year amounts to a 2,400l. Besides that the Lord Deputy had released O'Rourke of 100l. per annum, and the Kellie's country of 100l. more, after the composition was laid, which otherwise had been received also.

At the same time also I found the country in some arrearages to Her Majesty of the revenue rents, which since I found means to recover, and have reduced it to a certain way to be received every half year, amounting to the sum of 341l. 17s. 5d. per annum; after which rate I received the last half-year's rent before my coming away.

The casualties, as fines of pardons, and forfeitures of recognizances, hath since my time there accreased [increased] to the sum of 100l. per annum, or thereabouts, according to a certificate under the attorney and clerk their hands.

The impost money of Galway hath for this three years last not amounted much above the sum of 100l. per annum, one year with another, which was set the year before I came thither at 1,000l., and was received before my time, save 300l., which I received.

The ordinary yearly charges of the province, viz., the several entertainments of the footband and horseband, the chief commissioner's fee, and diet of himself and the Council, with the entertainments also of the justice, attorney, serjeant-at-arms, provost marshal, clerk of the council, and the rest of the officers, amounting yearly to the sum of 3,300l. All which since my coming thither hath been defrayed, with the rents and revenues of the province itself, which will every year be better and better, and no doubt but after a year or two more it will discharge the entertainments and ordinary charges of the province, and yield some yearly overplus into Her Majesty's exchequer. The reason why it hath now defrayed itself is, for that I found some arrearages due to Her Majesty, upon the country, which after great care and pains taken, I received and have accounted for. And though it may be alleged that I have received some 1,200l. at several imprests from the Treasurer, over and above the receipts of the province, I say that the Treasurer and the Lord Deputy hath carried away a more sum out of the province since my time (which should have been answerable for the ordinary charges there) according to a true note thereof, herewithal delivered unto your Honour.

And besides this ordinary charges of the province, there hath been almost 2,000l. of extraordinary charges defrayed within the province by myself, and hath not been charged upon Her Majesty, as appeareth by the account herewith delivered unto your Honour, which was defrayed in the good husbandry of myself, by the preys and booties taken from the rebels, with somewhat of my own laid unto it, which was more than my ability might well spare, though to keep myself from the danger and malice of the Deputy I was forced to do it.

The books of the said composition of the province the Lord Deputy hath sent over hither, to have them confirmed under Her Majesty's hand and your Honours', which is very unfit they should until some better order be taken. For since the laying down of the said composition there hath been much "partialityes" used in the engrossing of the books, and that very prejudicial to Her Majesty. Besides that the Lord Deputy hath released O'Rourke of 100l. per annum (laid down in the said books), for what cause I know not. And as I do understand he hath let fall some yearly sum to Theobald Dillon for the barony of Castulo, but how much I cannot tell, for it was done since my coming away.

After the composition was once laid, the Lord Deputy took all the books from myself, and would not give me so much as a copy of that which in effect was my own work, whereby I was driven to search it out with infinite labour and pains, and in the end brought it to such a pass, as shall appear by a book herewith delivered unto your Honour. So that the several rents of the province now come in clearly at the day appointed, or within a month after, and is paid altogether in money, and with great willingness from Her Majesty's subjects, which before my time was ever a gathering all the year long, and still confused. So have I also ended the greatest quarrels and controversies within the province, either touching land, or matters of revenge, and the province "much more easier" to be governed now, and kept in quiet, than of a long time before it hath been. And much more quieter in my time might have been, had they not been thrust out most maliciously by others, which I will leave further to make repetition of, for that it doth touch some of the great ones, who will be better advised hereafter (I doubt not) how they enter again into the like. Most of the ringleaders and worst disposed men in the province are meetly well consumed and cut off, being justly scourged in their own deserts to be so lightly put out by any.

Sithence I won Ballimote from the rebels I have maintained a constable and seven warders there, without any penny charges to Her Majesty, saving that I have small relief by the lands and demesnes of the house, which is yearly employed, and more too, upon the building of the castle, for which the Deputy makes me pay both the old rent and the new composition. The like he makes me pay also for the abbey of Boyle, and the demesnes of the same.

If it shall please your Lordship to procure warrant from Her Majesty for the granting of a corporation to the town of Sligo, myself will find such means as the town shall be walled without any charges to Her Majesty.

That it will please your Honours to give such order for the general service of the province, as there may not be any leases granted of the abbey of Boyle, or of the houses of Castle Barry, or Ballimote; for that they are places fit to be detained in Her Majesty's hands. It were convenient also that all such bridges as have been built at the country charges (though Her Majesty hath been contributory to them) should be freed from all exactions and customs, for that it grieves them to pay any of those impositions, when themselves have been helpers to the building of the bridges, as namely, the bridge of Athlone, and the bridge of Ballinasloe, which myself built new with 50l. charges from Her Majesty, and 150l. from the country. Also I built a strong gaol at Roscommon, all of my own charges, saving some small help from the country.

Seeing I do pay the charges of the constable and seven warders at Ballimote, methinks it were very requisite that the several rents for the house, might be allowed unto me, towards the defraying of the said charges of a constable and seven warders there. [For other copies of the inclosures mentioned, see p. 224 inclosures in No. 22. Also Calendar for 1585, p. 582, and other papers.] pp. 31/2.