James I: December 1603

James I: December 1603

169. Mr. Davis, Solicitor of Ireland, to Cecil. [Dec. 1.] S.P., Ireland, vol. 215, 114.

It were too much presumption on his part to trouble and interrupt Cecil with his trifling advertisements, but that he performs his duty therein and obeys Cecil's own commandments. Upon his arrival (which was the 20th of the last month) the face of things appeared very miserable, for he was presently informed both of the pestilence and famine which rageth in this town; however, this was but prima facie (as law phrase is), for as soon as he had seen and observed the courts of justice (for the term did then continue), he saw so many causes depending, and such good forms of proceeding, as he was much comforted; for the people of this island (as it is observed of all northern nations), if they suffer injustice, either in deed or in their own opinion, resort presently to the sword to right themselves, being impatient of the delays that are found in the ordinary process of law; but being overassubjected, and their swords over-mastered, they appeal as willingly to the scales of justice and become the most litigious of all other. Mr. Chief Baron, Sir Edm. Pelham, states that in his circuit the last summer made into O'Donnell's country, he found a greater confluence and appearance of people there than within the Pale, and that the multitude that had been subject to oppression and misery, did reverence him as if he had been a good angel sent from heaven, and prayed him upon their knees to return again to minister justice unto them; although indeed, he adds, divers of the better sort in the province of Ulster did refuse to accept of the King's commission for the peace, until they had received warrant from the Earl of Tyrone so to do. So that he (Davis) conceives a very good hope that, after a Parliament wherein many mischiefs may be removed and prevented, and after the people are acquainted with the forms of justice, which, without doubt, is most welcome unto the greater number which have been subject so many years unto rapine and spoil, this kingdom will grow human and civil, and merit the name of a commonwealth, which at this time may properly be termed a common misery. For the truth is, that this State doth suffer that punishment that Tantalus suffers (by the poet's fiction) in hell; that is, it pines in plenty, for though there be no want of corn, no want of cattle, no want of anything necessary for the life of man, yet because the wants mensura publica, which is money to measure the price of all these things, they that want these things cannot have them; for the money which is now current by proclamation (that is, the money of the new standard containing three parts copper), albeit the same be decried from 12d. to 4d., yet it carries such dis-estimation with the people, as they will not accept it for the basest commodity at that rate. And because my Lord Deputy, following the reason of State in maintenance of the King's proclamation, hath committed divers tradesmen for refusing to accept this money, thereupon the farmer dares not send his country commodities, nor the townsman expose his wares, fearing lest he should be compelled to accept that money with which he is not able to feed his family; every man offers already to give the shilling for 2d., albeit there be 2½d. and 3d. fine silver in it, and divers merchants do buy up great sums of it. And therefore in the opinion of some it were more honourable and more profitable for the King to resume the money at the same rate; for which he (Davis) ventures to say His Majesty shall have more prayers and praise and acclamations in this poor kingdom, than for all the pardons which he hath given, and yet he dares affirm that he hath pardoned nearly 20,000 persons. Hopes that Cecil will not think he speaks this in regard of his own particular (though for signing of patents and pardons they offer him no other than copper fees), but rather in the behalf of the King, whose rents and customs and forfeitures are all paid in this base standard, so that his revenues, which were never great, are now become of very little value. Nevertheless they that are his poor ministers could have wished (if it had stood with his princely pleasure) that His Majesty had not in such great quantities granted away his ancient crown land here; for, howsoever some may diminish the value of this land, as if it were no better than if it lay in Greenland, yet he assures Cecil the land which the patentees do pass is as good as any in Kent or Essex.

About a fortnight since there arose a tumult in Galway about this base money, but, by the discretion of the commanders, it was well appeased. Has presumed upon Cecil's favour, whereof he has had a long and sweet experience, humbly praying him to pardon him in this, and hold him in his wonted good opinion, whereof he shall ever make a most precious accompt.—Dublin, 1 December 1603.

Hol. Pp. 3. Sealed. Endd.: "Mr. Davis, solicitor of Ireland, to my Lord from Dublin." Add.: "To the Rt. honorable the Lord Cecyll, Baron of Essenden, &c."

170. Proclamation of Monies of Ireland to be current here in England. [Dec. 3.] S.P., Ireland, vol. 215, 115.

"Whereas after our entry into this kingdom, as soon as other affairs would give us leave, we suppressed a coarse money of late years ordained for our kingdom of Ireland, because of the great inconveniences we were informed the same has bred to our subjects, both of that realm and of this, and instituted for that our kingdom a new money of nine ounces of fine silver in the pound weight, according to the standard which of ancient times had been used in that kingdom, commonly called "Harpes," containing in every 12d. by name 9d. of sterling silver, and the pieces of 6d. and 3d. after the same rate; of which monies we have caused a good quantity to be coined here and sent into our said realm, as well for the payment of our army as for other uses of our subjects there; and whereas we think it necessary that, for the use and benefit of our subjects of all our realms having intercourse each with other, the said monies should be current in all our dominions; we have therefore thought it tit hereby to publish, that the said monies of nine ounce fine silver being coined into pieces of 1s., 6d., 3d., and marks, being our lawful monies for our said realm of Ireland, are by us appointed and ordained to be lawful and current in other our dominions, for the just value which they are worth in fine silver, (that is to say) the piece of 12d. for 9d. sterling, and the pieces of 6d. and 3d. after the same rates. Whereof our pleasure is that all our subjects take notice, and that in buying, selling, or exchanging, bargaining, and other intercourses between men and men, they be taken and received at the rates and values hereby by us appointed; for that at those rates we have appointed them to be our lawful and current monies."

Pp. 3. Endd.: "Proclamation concerning monies of Ireland, 3 Dec. 1603."

171. The King to Sir George Carey, his Deputy of Ireland. [Dec. 4.] Philad. P., vol. 1, p. 13.

Directs that Carey shall make to John King and John Bingley, tenants for divers years yet to come, of the abbeys of Boyle, Conge, Ballintubber, and St. John's of Athy, a lease in reversion of same, with the rectory of Donamore, for the term of 50 years after the estate now in being, at the present rent.—Wilton, 4 December, in the first year, &c.

Copy. Pp. 2. Endd. in Sir Arthur Chichester's hand, applying to this and other foregoing letters:—"The King's letters.—Taken out of the Rolls, for grants in fee-simple and fee-farms past in the tyme of Sir George Carie, who hath the original letters."

172. The King to the Lord Lieutenant and Deputy. [Dec. 9.] Docquet Book, Dec. 9.

Letter to the Lord Lieutenant and Deputy, for [Robert] Draper to be made Bishop of Kilmore and Ardagh.

[Printed in full by Erck, Calendar, p. 30. Patent dated March 2, 1603–4.]

173. Sir George Carey to the Attorney or SolicitorGeneral. [Dec. 10.] Carte Papers, vol. 61, p. 122.

Warrant for a fiant for renewing the Earl of Thomond's commission to be commander of the forces in the counties of Clare and Thomond, pursuant to the King's letters dated from Tottenham, 4th September last past, addressed to Sir George Carey, Lord Deputy.—Dublin, 10 December 1603.

Add.: "To His Majesty's Attorney or Solicitor-General."

174. The King to the Lord Lieutenant and Deputy. [Dec. 10.] Docquet Book, Dec. 10.

Letter to the Lord Lieutenant, for George Wood to have grant of the constableship in reversion of the palace of Carrickfergus.

[Printed in full by Erck, Calendar, p. 34.]

175. The King to the Lord Lieutenant and Deputy. [Dec. 10.] Ibid.

Letter to the same, in behalf of Sir James Ley, Knight, to be Chief Justice in the room of Sir Robert Gardiner.

176. Lord Deputy and Council of Ireland to the Lords of His Majesty's Privy Council. [Dec. 12.] S.P., Ireland. vol. 215, 116.

Have received the King's letters, dated; at Woodstock, the 16th September last, with instructions enclosed, signed by their Lordships, upon which they have had two or three special meetings; and, as the instructions are all very apt and necessary for these times, so they find that many of them, being of great weight and consequence, cannot well be proceeded in this season of the year, the terms likewise coming so near together, wherein many of those who are fittest to manage that service must of necessity be employed, to which also most of the gentlemen of the country will repair for their private occasions; and therefore they have purposed to defer meddling with those which concern the inquiry of wastes, escheats, and such like in the remote provinces, till the spring of the year, at which time they may be best and most fitly dealt in; but, in order to lose no time, they have given charge to the auditor to do those things, that appertain unto him touching the arrears and compositions, which are now in hand and will quickly be finished.

[Referring to the undertakers of Munster in terms very simila to those of Carey to Cecil, 20 Nov., supra, p. 108, they suggest that it is proper that they] "be commanded to repair hither whose names we make humbly bold herewith to send unto you." They purpose likewise in the meantime to deal with those of Leinster, as they are near, touching those matters which concern them in the Articles; and they will do what else they can in this winter season in accomplishment of His Majesty's pleasure in those instructions, signifying at this present thus much only, in order that their Lordships may perceive what they have done and how they purpose to proceed (God willing).

And now they would humbly acquaint their Lordships with the state of the mixed monies, which they have endeavoured by all the means they possibly could to hold up; but, notwithstanding many proclamations upon great pains and severe executing of them as strictly as they could, yet such is the backwardness and practice of these merchants, that they cannot work the people to esteem of it, but day by day all things grow to intolerable rates. Hence they make humbly bold to signify to their Lordships their opinion, grounded upon experience, that if His Majesty shall be pleased to decry to 2d. that which now is a groat, and at that rule to take it in, His Highness shall thereby give much contentment to this people and be no loser himself by it; which they humbly wish His Majesty would do, and so ease his subjects of that which they esteem such an intolerable burden, rather than that it should be left to the pay of the greedy merchants, who, through their cunning and subtle practices, draw this people so basely to esteem of it, and by that means make daily merchandise of the coin, buying it far under its true value in silver, whereby they raise to themselves an exceeding great commodity. Further, they humbly signify that the magazine of victual for Leinster hath these three months been altogether empty, and in all parts of the kingdom besides is nearly spent. The want of this store the Deputy has with much ado supplied by taking up of beeves and otherwise, all which means are now at an end; and to cess the soldiers upon the country will procure very great inconvenience, neither will the country be able any while to endure them, by reason of the great famine and scarcity that is in the same. And therefore they humbly pray their Lordships to give order that a proportion of victuals may with all speed be presently sent thither to the magazine, and in time likewise into Munster and Ulster, for the relief of the garrisons there; otherwise they will not be able to prevent some great inconvenience, either to the soldier or country, or both, which they humbly recommend to their Lordships as a matter of extremity. Hope they will take order that, by the latter end of this next month of January, at the farthest, there may be a supply of treasure sent thither; for otherwise they will be in too miserable estate, which they humbly beseech their Lordships in their provident foresight to prevent.—Dublin, 12 December 1603.

Signed by 8 of the Council: George Cary, A. Dublin, Edmund Pelham, Arthur Chichester, Jeff. Fenton, Pcy. Cooke, G. Bourker [Bourchier], Oliver Lambert.

Pp. 4. Signed. Sealed. "Lord Deputy and Council of Ireland to the Lords." Encloses,

177. The Names of such of the Undertakers in Munster as are now resident in England, viz., [Dec. 12.] S.P., Ireland, vol. 215, 116a.

Hugh Wrothe, Esq.

Thomas Saye, gent.

The heir of Arthur Robins, gent., deceased.

The heir of Edmund Spenser, gent.

Thomas Fletchman and Marmaduke Kidwan, gent.

Sir William Courtney, Knight.

Robert Strowder, Esq.

Henry Billingsley, Esq.

Sir William Trencherd, Knight.

The heirs of Sir Henry Grotred, Knight.

Edmund Manwarninge, Esq.

Robert Ansleye, gent.

The heirs of Sir George Beaston, Knight, deceased, and Lancelot Bostocke, Esq.

Sir Edward Fitton, Knight.

The heirs of Sir Edward Demyn, Knight, deceased.

The heirs of Sir William Harberte, Knight, deceased.

Charles Harberte, Esq.

12 Dec. 1603.

P. 1. Endd.: "The names of such of the undertakers in Mounster as are now resident in England."

178. Sir George Thornton to Cecil. [Dec. 26.] S.P., Ireland, vol. 215, 120.

Has been given to understand by Sir Roger Wilbrayham, Knight, Master of the Requests to His Highness, of the great care and pains taken by Cecil and the rest of his friends in procuring His Majesty's letters for the passing of the traitor's Piers Lacie's lands in fee-farm to him (Thornton) and to his heirs. Notwithstanding, so it is, that the said lands were passed in a general grant to one Mr. Fullertoun, a Scottish gent., before His Highness' letters came to the Lord Deputy's hands. In respect whereof he (Thornton) made his repair to the Lord Deputy, hoping to have procured his license for his going into England; but in respect he was both employed here by the Lord Lieutenant and President, he was denied leave. Yet it pleased the Lord Deputy to give him letters of recommendation, both to Cecil and the rest of the Lords, which he has made humbly bold, with His Majesty's letters also, to return them by this gent., whom he has entreated to make humble suit to Cecil to continue his favour towards him, in being a means to His Majesty to grant him so much of his lands in fee-farm here as Cecil and the rest shall think fit. And so, leaving himself and his many poor children to Cecil's honourable care, he humbly takes his leave, &c.— Killmallock, 26 December 1603.

P. 1. Signed. Sealed. Add.: "Sir George Thornton to Cecil."

179. Carey to Cecil. [Dec. 28.] S.P., Ireland, vol. 215, 122.

Has received Cecil's letters, importing a complaint of my Lord of Ormond's that one Crosby and others went about to pass a reversion of some parcels of lands, which he hath to him and to his heirs male by grant from the late Queen's Majesty, and commanding him (Carey), in His Majesty's name, not to pass any such lands in reversion. Marvels much that Ormond should trouble Cecil with any such complaint, whereas he (Carey) had given caution that neither his lands of that nature nor any other should be passed from him; and, according to his desire, had renewed his leases that he held of the King, wherewith he might have been pleased to rest satisfied. Thinks, however, that he has herein a farther intent, viz., that upon this complaint His Majesty will be pleased to grant him the fee-simple of all those lands formerly granted unto him and his heirs male; for his Lordship and his counsel knoweth very well that no man is so mad as to undo or hurt himself to benefit my Lord of Ormond; for if any man should purchase the reversion out of the King's hands, then might my Lord of Ormond presently (the remainder or reversion being out of the King's hands) by a recovery, gain the fee simple unto himself. Sees that, how slender soever the occasion be, they are never satisfied except they must trouble Cecil. Has also received letters from him and some others from my Lords in the behalf of Mr. Doctor Forde, that none of his leases or lands be passed to any in fee-farm or otherwise. Begs Cecil to conceive that Mr. Doctor is no servitor, and holdeth divers impropriations by lease from His Majesty; and he (Carey) thinks it good service, under his Lordship's corrections, that some of those leases should fill up the books of those that have His Majesty's late grants there with the ancient lands of the kingdom; notwithstanding, in respect of Cecil's commandment, he will forbear the passing of the same until his pleasure be farther known; only he desires to have leave to pass some 6l. or 7l. per ann. of impropriations that Mr. Doctor Ford holds by, for the which he has already passed his hand and promise, and which Mr. Doctor, if it shall please him, shall buy at reasonable rate.

Is sorry to write the news that the plague increaseth in the city, and is much dispersed in the country. They are in great distress for want of victuals. For three months there has been no victuals to maintain the soldiers in Leinster, being 2,000 foot and 300 horse, and all the rest of the provinces will also very speedily be in want. The kingdom is in famine and great scarcity, and victuals are not to be had here, but must be supplied from England.

Wishes His Majesty may be pleased to decry this mixed money to 2d., and to take it all into his hands, which would be much pleasing to the people and profitable to himself, for now the merchants do make a very mart thereof.—Dublin, 28 December 1603.

Hol. Pp. 2. No address. "Lord Deputy to Cecill."

180. The King to the Earl of Devonshire, Lieutenant of Ireland, and in his absence, to Sir George Carey, the King's Deputy there. [Dec. 29.] Philad. P., vol. 1, p. 11.

Explaining the King's letter of 8th August, in favour of Sir Arthur Chichester, the King's intention being that he shall be invested with the government of Knockfergus, and of all other forts and commands, with the Lough Neagh, with the fee of 13s. 4d. per day for life; to grant also to him and his heirs for ever the Castle of Belfast, the Fall, Myllone, the Towagh of the Sinament, and the fishery of the Lagan, &c. mentioned in a custodiam granted unto Sir Ralph Lane, Knight, by the late Queen, to be holden as of our Castle of Knockfergus, in free and common soccage.—Hampton Court, 29 December, in the first year.

Copy. Pp. 3.

[Printed in full by Erck, Calendar, p. 31.]

181. Earl of Clanricard to Cecil. [Dec. 31.] S.P., Ireland, vol. 215, 123.

Though he knows Cecil's great and weighty business, yet notwithstanding, he will crave pardon rather than his pen shall be silent, since he has no other way to express his thankful mind. Professes himself entirely devoted to Cecil's service. Will request my Lord Harry, his worthy friend, to acquaint Cecil still with the affairs and proceedings of this place, being unwilling to detain him from the great weight of business which lieth upon his hands by reading of tedious discourses.—Galway, the last of December.

Hol. Pp. 2. Add.: "E. of Clanrickard to Cecil."

182. Earl of Clanrickard to Cecil. [April.] S.P., Ireland, vol. 215, 118.

Cannot with too much thankfulness acknowledge Cecil's favour and special care of him; and if he were able by any service to express how much he is Cecil's, protests unfeignedly (wherein he will perish rather than fail) there is not that man alive that is more desirous to let him know by all demonstrations that he has an absolute power both to direct and command him. Knows there be many that perhaps in power and words exceed him, but in true sincerity to Cecil they shall never come near him. Never affected but where he found worth, and where his affection is settled upon a disposition that hath tied him by favours, the world cannot remove him. All that he can now do in absence is to pray for and defend Cecil, if there should be cause, against any that shall seek to detract from him.

Though very unwilling to mingle matter of business with these lines of thankfulness, yet has thought it convenient to let him know that upon his arrival here, he delivered the King's letter for his place in Connaght, which he received in matter, power, and command, according to Cecil's direction, as Sir Richard Bingham and Sir Conier Clifford had it; but, coming to the point of entertainment and fees, finds himself short of them, by reason the words of his letter were "to have his entertainment according to the establishment," which originally was but 10s. a day, in respect that, before the composition of Connaght, the governors in those times might make an infinite gain without limitation; but since the composition, because by that they were tied to a certain allowance, Sir Richard Bingham, in whose time the composition was made, got an increase of 10s. more, and procured some other small fee to be annexed to the place; the same was continued to Sir Coniers Clifford; and now he (Clanrickard) fails of it until such time as Cecil shall signify, either from himself or from the Lords in general, whichever shall seem best to him, that it is the King's pleasure that, as he (Clanrickard) has the same power and command Sir Richard Bingham and Sir Coniers Clifford had, so he should have the same fees, entertainments, and allowances they had. The difference is not much; notwithstanding, he should be unwilling in anything to come short of them, whom he will strive by his best and faithful service to the King to exceed. Beseeches Cecil to pardon him for troubling him with this long scribbling letter from his more weighty and serious businesses.

Hol. Pp. 3. No date and no add. Endd.: "E. of Clanrickard to Cecil."

183. Gaol Delivery. [June.] S.P., Ireland, vol. 215, 119.

Copy of the indictment of William Mead [Recorder of Cork], the jurors' names, and their verdict.—Cork, June 1603. No date.

184. A Brief of the [Parties] against the Jurors that acquitted William Mead. S.P., Ireland, vol. 215, 119a.

A brief of the cause wherein the King's Council are plaintiffs ore tenus, against the jurors of the county of Cork, which, being impannelled for the trial of William Mead, indicted and arraigned of high treason, acquitted the said Mead falsely and contrary to their evidence.

The Names of the Jurors.

1. Richard Fitz David Oge Barrie, of Robertstown, ar.

2. Thomas Fitz John Gerald, of Rostelane, gent.

3. William Power, of Shangarrie, gent.

4. Gregorie Lombart, of Buttevant, gent.

5. David Nogle [Nagle], of Mondaumny, gent.

6. Myles Roche, of Killeahie, gent.

7. Donell O'Donvaie, alias O'Donvane, of Castle Donovane, gent.

8. John Ronane, of Youghill, gent.

9. Nicholas Galwane, de eadem.

10. Mohenus M'Shehie, of Killinetworragh [Kilnatoora], gent.

11. William Hadnett, of Ballivoady.

12. Donogh Moell [Moyle (fn. 1) ] M'Cartie, of Fiall, gent.

The Effect of the Indictment.

1. That William Mead and other false traitors, the first day of May in the first year of King James, did traitorously assemble themselves at Cork, and levy war against our said Lord the King and his army.

2. That the said William Mead did also then and there traitorously contradict and deny His Majesty's right, power, and pre-eminence royal.

3. That the said William Mead did then and there traitorously withhold from our Lord the King a fort of his, situate in the suburbs of the city of Cork, on the south side of the said city.

4. That the said William Mead did then and there traitorously demolish the said fort.

5. That the said William Mead did then and there traitorously and of malice prepense, murder and kill John Sutcliff, professor of divinity, Logree Litle, and William Hoddien, soldiers of His Majesty's army, and other of his faithful subjects.

6. That the said William Mead did traitorously detain the munition and victuals provided for the maintenance of the King's army, and did deny and forbid the issuing of the same for the strengthening and victualling of the said army, and did also traitorously convert and dispose the same to the destruction of the King's army; contrary to his allegiance and contrary to the peace of our Sovereign Lord the King, his crown and dignity, and divers statutes in such cases provided.

The Treasons laid in the Indictment are of two kinds.

1. The denial or contradiction of the King's right and title to the crown.

2. The levying of war, consisting in three principal acts of hostility, viz.:—

1. The withholding and demolishing of the King's fort.

2. The detaining of victuals and munition for the King's army.

3. The diverting of the King's munition to the destruction of the King's subjects.

The Evidence that was given to prove the several points of the Indictment.

Touching the contradiction of the King's right and title to the crown.

Precedents of the Court of Castle Chamber, whereby it appears that jurors have been censured in that court for giving of false verdicts against their evidence.

A jury of Kilkenie punished by fine and imprisonment for finding ignoramus upon an indictment which was proved them by many witnesses. — May, anno 1578, 20 Eliz.

A jury punished for false verdict, with fine, viz. 100l. the foreman and one other, and 50l. a piece the rest, and with pillory. May 1581.

A jury punished for a false acquittal of one that was endicted of an escape, with fine and pillory. November 1590.

Pp. 4. No date. 1603. Endd. in Carey's own hand: "A brief of the parties against the jurors that acquitted William Mead, the Recorder of Cork."

185. Carey to Cecil. [This followeth a letter of 12th Dec.], S.P., Ireland, vol. 215, 121.

On the 6th of this present received His Majesty's list for the abatement of the army. Has given direction for the speedy effecting thereof, but it will be this month at least (by reason of the remoteness of the garrisons) until that change be settled. Has also received his proclamation to keep the money in credit, but doubts it will little avail, for he has heretofore presumed to publish the books in His Majesty's name, with more severe words and punishments, and rewards to those that should discover the offenders, and has inflicted punishment without respect or favour, but as yet it hath wrought no great effect; for the merchants making a very mart of this coin, have possessed the country people with an opinion that it is of no value, and their ministers underhand buy it up for little or nothing, and send it into France or England. Will do what he is commanded, though the murmur will be great towards him, supposing that he might help a great part of this their miseries. Perceives by Cecil's letters that the King's coffers are not so well stored, that this money may be decried, and bought in only to His Majesty's use. If this cannot be done, he suggests the expedient proposed in other letters, of buying in the coin for the King's account before the next half-year's receipt. Will take order before that, that he will have but little of the mixed monies in his hands, and so the King shall sustain little or no loss, other than that he sustained upon the first decry; for he holds a course in his payments to utter two parts mixed monies and one part silver, which is not without much grudging; but he must endure it, and give them fair words, promising and assuring them that, when this is uttered, they shall be never more troubled, but receive always silver.

Is sure that if His Majesty will be pleased to hold this course, to decry the monies after this fashion, it will be profitable to him in his receipts, and most pleasing both to the servitor and country; and in the managing of this business he must very humbly entreat that His Majesty will be pleased to trust him only therein, without making any of the Council here, or many in England, privy therewith, that he may be sure to carry it so that it may be for His Majesty's profit and good services. Hitherto he has been very sparing in calling in of the King's arrearages, but when the monies are once settled he will be more quick. Humbly beseeches Cecil to send hither the Chief Justice and the Master of the Rolls. It is a very pitiful thing that this kingdom should want the service of the Chief Justice a year and half and more. The King's entertainment goes on, and the service is neglected; the courts are not duly kept, nor the half-year's circuits, whereby the people may talk of justice and learn how to live under law; he himself is but weakly assisted, having only the Sheriff Baron. This is not well. Humbly beseeches Cecil to let it be reformed. Has directed Thos. Watson to acquaint Cecil with a list of the army, and His Majesty's charges when the same is reduced. He (Watson) shows how he is bound to pray for Cecil, for his honourable favour in procuring him the reversion of a teller's office, the next that falls. Joins in this acknowledgment, and thinks himself exceeding much bound to Cecil in his behalf. Prays God make them both able to deserve it. He writes that Cecil continues his honourable good Lord, and hath promised to be a means to the King's Majesty to grace him with his favour. Shall be ready to do him service, and not leave this kindness undeserved.

Hol. Pp. 3. No date. Add.: "Lord Deputy of Ireland to my Lord Cecil."

186. Popery. [1603.] S.P., Ireland, vol. 215, 124.

[A letter, seemingly from the Spanish or French ambassador, giving an interesting account of the King's proceedings with certain delegates of the Irish Catholics. But although both headed and endorsed 1603, it bears internal evidence of a date posterior to that year, and is therefore reserved to be calendared in the year (probably 1613) to which it properly belongs].

Pp. 2. Endd.: "1603. Popery."

187. The rates of the lands sold by the Commissioners in the Sales, anno 43 Eliz., and secundo Regis Jacobi, 1603. S.P., Ireland, vol. 215, 125.

Pp. 2. No date.

188. King's Letter for Mr. Boork and his Four Kinsmen. S.P., Ireland, vol. 215, 126.

That upon the suit of our subject Richard Fitz William Boorke [Burke (fn. 2) ] of Killonan, in our county of Limerick in that our realm of Ireland, gentleman, (whose father was slain in the service of our Crown in our late dear sister Queen Elizabeth's time), made unto us in behalf of himself and others his kinsmen; namely, Geffrey Fitz Richard Bork, of Killonan aforesaid, gentleman, Edmond Fitz Walter Boork, of Ballenygard, Geffrey Fitzulige [Fitz Ulick] Boork, of Ballinary, and Edmond Fitzulige Boork, of Kissycheck [Kishyquerk], in our said county of Limerick, gentlemen; and in consideration of the service and merit of the said Richard, his father, together with his own, and his said kinsmen's good and loyal endeavours in the service of our Crown in the late wars of that our realm of Ireland, we are graciously pleased and do hereby require and authorize you to accept the joint or several surrenders of all the manors, castles, and other possessions, within the county of Limerick in Ireland; and then (by virtue of these our letters, and of our commission for strengthening of our subjects' defective titles, directed unto you,) to cause a grant or grants, under the great seal of that our realm (and without fine) to be made to the said Richard Fitz William Boork, and to his four kinsmen, reserving yearly out of every ploughland 6d. of lawful English money. Moreover we do hereby require and authorize you to cause a grant to be passed to the said Richard Boork and his heirs, in his own lands, by the name of the manor of Lysmothane, with liberty to make free tenants, to hold from him as the manner is within the limits of his said lands only, and with liberty to keep court baron there, and likewise to grant unto him the said Richard and to the said Edmond Fitzulige Boork, and to the heirs, one yearly fair and one weekly market to be kept upon their land of Lismothan and Cloghnedromyne.—1603.

Pp. 3. No date. Endd.: "The letter for Mr. Boork and his four kinsmen."

189. A Taxation (fn. 3) of the Principal Towns according to their several Abilities. [1603. S.P., Ireland, vol. 215, 127.]

* * * * * * *

Pp. 1½. Endd.: "Ireland, 1603."

190. A List of such Pensioners as are payable out of His Highness' Treasure coming out of England; when they were granted, and by what warrants, viz.:— S.P., Ireland, vol. 215, 128.

In the government of Sir Henry Sidney, Knight, L. Deputy.

Pp. 11.

[The last entry in this list being Nov. 4, 1603, it cannot be assigned to an earlier date than the end of that year. Probably the date is really later, but it is placed with the papers of the volume for 1603, among which it is found.]

191. Instructions to be given to Mr. Birchensha [Comptroller of Musters], 1599. S.P., Ireland, vol. 215, 129.

To be considered by your honourable Lordships for the benefit of His Majesty's service, and to be put into execution by the Comptroller of the Musters.

1. Companies of horse and foot to be garrisoned in one certain place, where the officers of musters may take view of them, and not to be dispersed as usually they are, so that one company of 50 heads in five or six days cannot be brought together.

2. That all pensioners, as well mentioned in the establishment as payable out of the revenue, may quarterly be viewed and mustered, and that all such as may be found absent may be subject to check, except such as by His Majesty and Lords of his Council in England, shall be privileged to be absent or else have lawful passport for two months' limitation from the Lord Deputy, for dispatch of their lawful and necessary affairs; and if they exceed the time limited, then to be checked from the first day of their passport, except by wind or sickness they be hindered; and that the said pensioners may attend the Lord Deputy from time to time, as to that end most of the pensioners were intended.

3. That special order be given to the Comptroller of the Musters not to remit any cheques by the authority or command of any, except from His Majesty or else of the Council in England; or otherwise that it may be lawful for the Comptroller to remit, and give allowance of any cheques the Lord Deputy shall remit by warrant from himself or by his own commandment.

4. That certain branches of the Lords of the Council's letter, bearing date the 19th of November 1599, and directed to the Treasurer-at-Wars, may be revised, the copy of which branches hereafter ensueth.

These two heads are to great and special purpose.

That there be kept between you and the Comptroller one book of weekly imprest, delivered by you or your paymasters to the several companies, as well of horse as of foot.

That there be likewise one book kept between you and them of all the country bills which shall be made by the particular captains to them, to be defaulked by you upon the captains reckoning and to the countries use, &c.

Lastly, upon the shutting up of every half year, our meaning is the several captain's reckonings be made up by you, the treasurer, whereby may be seen what is remaining unpaid to every captain and soldier; to the end order may be taken for clearing their reckonings, unto which half-year's reckoning the Comptroller shall set to his hand, and until then no account or reckoning of any captain, either of horse or foot, shall be allowable, &c. 19 November 1599.

5. If the like course be observed in the payment of the revenues, it will stand to good purpose and benefit of His Majesty.

If it shall please your Lordships to give allowance of these, or any part of them, then there must be special letters and instructions drawn for them accordingly, wherein in all humbleness I attend your honourable pleasures.

Pp. 2½.

Notwithstanding the above date, arranged among the papers of 1603. Endd.: "Instructions to be given to Mr. Birchensha."

192. Touching such Grants as the Kings of England have made of Ireland, and which of the elder sons and younger of the Kings of England have been Lieutenants in Ireland. [1603.] S.P., Ireland, vol. 215, 130.

"Whereas it appeareth by records in the Tower de a° xxxviii. Hen. 3, that he granted unto the Prince his eldest son, and to the heirs of his body, totam Hiberniam, and that terra Hibernia per sigillu Principis exhibeatur et justicietur. There is not in all the records the like precedent since that grant; but King Henry II., a° 23 (fn. 7) of his reign, at a Parliament held at Oxford, did nominate and entitle his son John to be King of Ireland; and then gave unto him all the lands there, excepting some which he gave at that time unto others, but to hold of him and of his son, and reserving unto himself the city of Limerick; and then the King assigned unto him a council of Normans and English, and put in especial trust about him, Geraldus Cambrensis, and so sent him into Ireland, unto whom the Irish Lords did homage.

"And it appeareth, a° 7 Edw. 2, that the P. Edmund Butler, Governor of Ireland, did upon St. Michaell's day, in the Castle of Dublyn, create 30 knights.

"King Edw. 3, having established his Exchequer in Ireland, did receive from thence in yearly revenues and other profits, 30,000l. per ann., and in a° xxxvi. he constituted Lionell his son (whom he created at that time Duke of Clarence) to be his lieutenant in Ireland, who in his time created divers knights there of the principal gentlemen. And in a° 43 E. 3, there were two subsidies granted.

"King Rich. 2, in the 10th year of his reign, did create Robert Vere, E. of Oxford (who was then Marquis of Dublin), to be Duke of Ireland. And in a° 18, the King himself went over into Ireland and kept a Parliament there.

"King Henry 4, in anno 6, did by his letters patents grant the Lieutenancy of Ireland unto his youngest son Thomas (High Steward of England) for two years, with all profits, revenues, customs, subsidies, &c., which gave him power during the said term, and to execute by deputy; 2. to pardon treasons and homicides; 3. to make grants for any estates whatsoever of the lands escheating by the rebels; 4. to bestow all ecclesiastical dignities; 5. to give and nominate the great offices of treasurer, chancellor, barons, &c. But with this clause in the end of the patent: Si filius ceu deputatus suus quidquid contra legem nostrum fecerint, tunc per concilium nostrum corrigantur et reformentur.

"Henry 6 did grant this lieutenancy unto the Duke of York, for 10 years.

"Edw. 4 did grant it unto his brother, the Duke of Clarence, for life.

"And Edw. 4 did afterwards grant it unto his younger son, the Duke of York.

"Rich. 3 gave this office of Lieutenancy unto his eldest son, Edward.

"And Henry 7 did grant it unto his second son, Henry."

Pp. 2. Not dated. Perhaps 1603.

193. King's Children of England, Lieutenants of Ireland. S.P., Ireland, vol. 215, 131.

1. John, E. of Morton, afterwards King John.

2. Edward Longshank, eldest son of H. 3.

3. Edward the Black Prince.

4. Lionell, Duke of Clarence.

5. Thomas of Lancaster, second son of H. 4.

6. Richard, Duke of York, father to E. 4.

7. George, Duke of Clarence, brother to K. E. 4.

8. Richard of Shrewsbury, Duke of York, second son to E. 4.

9. Edward, eldest son of R. 3, the Usurper.

10. Henry FitzRoy, Duke of Somerset, natural son of Henry 8.

Perhaps 1603. Endd.: "King's children of England, Lieutenants in Ireland."

194. Duplicate of 193. S.P., Ireland, vol. 215, 132.

195. Allowance to Admiral Charles Pleasington. Domestic Papers, Eliz., 1590, p. 95, dorso.

Note of the rate of allowance, viz., 5s., to Charles Pleasington, in the "Tremontana," Admiral in the north part of Ireland.

196. The like for Ellis Lloid. Ib.

197. The like for Robert Jemyson. Ib.