Edward VI: July 1548

270. Palmer and Holcroft to Somerset. [July 1. 1548.]

We hear this morning that yesterday at 2 p.m. the French came to view Haddington "on the syde wher I Sir T. P. showyd your grace ther best approche was," most part barbed horse; our foot issued and with help of the great ordnance, put them back and slew many, one much lamented by Monsieur Dessé and others: but when Dessé saw that one, called "the Frenshe quens kynsman, which was sor hurt with an arcabus shotte upon the pappe, should lyve, he held up his hands and gave thankes, makyng small mone for the rest." Some take him to be Pedro Strozzi [Strose]. Another great man is struck through the shoulder and in great danger. All the wounded were carried to Clarkington, where the town, as the spy says, shoots in at every shot. Their ordnance is 6 cannons, 4 "moyanne," and 8 fawcons, and they mind to beat the face of the great bulwark on that side, and some pieces to beat the flank of the half bulwark "that answhereth it." The Governor is lodged at Lethington [Lyddyngton] ½ a mile from Haddington on that side; Monsieur Dessé lies 3 miles from thence. Last night the spy reckons they intrenched, and to-night will plant their ordnance. That they have appointed some pieces on the cragg, and to-morrow shall be again their battle. We hope for some pleasant news shortly, I have taken order for hourly intelligence. We hear 4 galleys and 6 ships (2 of them Scots) sailed 3 days ago for Dunbarton, to take the young Queen to France. Berwick this Sunday 1^st July. Signed: Thom's Palmer, Th. Holcroft.

The spy that brought this word, is one that of all others we most trust.

3 pp. Holograph of Palmer. Addressed. Indorsed.

271. Palmer and Holcroft to Somerset. [July 1.]

Since our dispatch at 3 a.m. this morning, we look hourly for more news from Haddington.

We are informed as follows:—

First—Monsieur Dessé is lieutenant; Pedro Strozzi admiral; "Nawnt Willyat," coronell of the French; the Ringrave chief of the Almaynes; Count Vertue; La Shappelle, treasurer.

Galleys, 18 and 1 brigantine; ships of war, 26; one of 400 [tons?], 3 of 300 each, 4 of 200, and the rest of 100.

Victuallers:—80 Flanders "pynckes," of 40, 50, and 60 tons a piece.

My lord of Angus, lieutenant for the Scots; George his brother, "in great creadyt"—both have got their pensions from France.

The Governor goes with the Queen to France to receive a dukedom. Angus has received the "bulles of Arbrothe."

"Beyton" that should have had Arbroth, to be rewarded with a bishopric in France. The abbot of Paisley to be made cardinal, and great livings given him. All their proclamations are in the French King's name. We are promised the covenants of the contract in 3 days. The Legate is at the point of death, and there is a "stryveffe" for money he brought with him. Berwick. Signed: Thom's Palmer, Th. Holcroft.

2½ pp. Holograph of Palmer. Addressed. Indorsed.

272. Palmer and Holcroft to Somerset. [July 2. 1548.]

This morning at 8 o'clock, one that left Haddington at midnight, tell us that the captain and his garrison are most "gladyst" men now they shall be assailed, and doubt not giving good account of the town, fearing no ordnance, as they can place themselves in "cabonettes" on the ramparts, lodging in the town only at need. The captain and Mr Woolstrop told him at parting, that we need not care for them, as they were strong enough for all the world.

The Almaynes are beyond the bridge, and trenching along the waterside to the mill that was fortified, but abandoned by our men as untenable.

The French and Italians "dou ly" towards Clarkington between Haddington and the water where their best approach is. The rest of the camp on the other side of the hill towards Lethington, where the Governor lies. The ordnance remains at Clarkington where they are making maunds. Much of it was in 3 great ships that "drave" to sea this last great storm, and they have no news of them yet. No men are on the other side of the hill nor at the "Justyce," but they mind to intrench and plant ordnance there to-night. The rest of our news, which came while this was "awryghtyng," we send by the letter come from thence, to be sooner in your grace's hands. Berwick, this Monday 11 o'clock a.m. Signed: Thom's Palmer, Th. Holcroft.

2¼ pp. Holograph of Palmer. Addressed. Indorsed.

273. Palmer and Holcroft to Somerset. [July 2.]

At 8 o'clock this night one that was in the camp at 10 before noon, brought word that the French encamped towards Lethington have passed the water on that side with 7 battery pieces, and 9 others, and have intrenched on the "hayth of the hyll" where the bulwark out of the town was meant, and mean to-night to plant their ordnance there. They have brought 10,000 faggots, some say to fill the ditch, others to make a mount: but we think to "ramforce" their battery trench, being so near the town. The Scots in no great strength, lie at the "Nunre" a mile from the town towards us,—the northland men to encamp on the Cragge. The report in camp is the Scots will be in the field by the 8^th; the Governor and Angus to have the "vanward," the Almaynes the first assault.

One who was in Edinburgh at 8 a.m. yesterday, says he saw a close cart brought to the Black Friars by the chief of the camp, and at 9, the Queen and her ladies with the bishops and other religious, "accompaned the corsse which was taken out unto the Gray Fryars. He hadd about his neck a great chayne many fold, and about eather arme oone; his hose and doublate of crymesen satten, embrotheryd with gold very rychely. After Mass was doon he was interred with no small seremoney, the Quene wepyng many teares." No King of Scots he said had been more solemnly buried. He knew not who it was, but we judge either "Count de Vertue or Dandelot Shattyllyons brother." He says there is more moan for one hurt, than for this and all the rest. They call him "Perys,"—we think it is Pedro Strozzi, for they say the King would think a less loss of his whole army, than this one man.

The walls of the church yet stand, and the enemy has shot with "cutthrottes" into Haddington from the top of the steeple, but the town ordnance made him leave it. The "vawltes" of the steeple and church were broken, the church uncovered, the pillars cut and under propped, "thynking they might have turnd it over when they hadd lyst"; but they have failed, and we think it shall do no hurt, for our ordnance beats through the steeple at every shot, and yesterday slew 6 men at two shots, on the far side of the church "rosting ther meat," also many pioneers working in the trench of the approach, so that the French scant find men willing to work. For all their cunning "they shall fynde enowgh to truble ther heddes withall." Berwick, this Monday at 9 o'clock at night. Signed: Thom's Palmer, Th. Holcroft.

4½ pp. Holograph of Palmer. Addressed. Indorsed.

274. Brende To Paget. [July 2.]

Haddington is now besieged and enclosed round about—they are making trenches, and to-morrow I judge will plant their artillery. The French viewing the town have lost divers men, and on Saturday 3 captains whom they greatly lament. The Scots are not yet come, but the nobility are, and the Earl of Argyll "moche contrary to all mens expectacion."

There has been so great wind for 3 or 4 days, that the French ships slipped anchor and took the sea, being wonderfully "disparkled," 2 aground at North Berwick, one in pieces at "Habarlady." They think surely to win the town, ours to keep it. The Captain has pretermitted nothing, and is wonderfully esteemed and beloved of all. He must trust to himself, for he is unlike to get relief from us. I marvel money is "stykd at at this tyme." All things in Scotland pass in the French King's name, and the lords are all agreed to the new marriage. The old and young Queens and the Governor, all go to France. Berwick. Signed: John Brende.

I have abstained writing to my lord protector's grace for not meddling in other men's offices—but if I thought he looked for it I would do it. I pray you make my excuse if you think it needed.

2 pp. Holograph. Addressed: "To . . . Sir William Pagett knyght of thOrder, comptroller," &c. Indorsed.

275. Palmer And Holcroft To Somerset. [July 3.]

We are informed that this day the French have battered the side towards Lethington with 4 or 5 pieces, but not done much hurt, for they within make it up faster than they without beat it. They expect more ordnance in 4 days to be planted round the town, and to assault after one day's battery. But we have good hope in our willing men, which be all of one nation, to repulse a greater number by God's help. Berwick, this Tuesday 3^d July at 11 o'clock at night. Signed: Thom's Palmer, Th. Holcroft.

2 pp. Holograph of Palmer. Addressed. Indorsed.

276. Brende to Paget. [July 3. 1548.]

I cannot write more than is contained in the enclosed, brought hither this evening by a spy sent to Haddington. Berwick, 3^d July 8 o'clock in the night. Signed: John Brende.

⅓ p. Holograph. Addressed (to Paget). Indorsed.

Inclosed in the same:—

(T. Gower to Brende.)

The French camp lyes in the valley beside the mills of Haddington next Clarkington, their battery is placed in the little cornfield betwixt it and Wyndam's bulwark, with but 2 cannons as yet, which began to shoot at 10 o'clock this day, not at the houses, but at the "vaumure" of the "rampare," and very often shoot over. The cannon of Dunbar is come to the "Nonre," and shall be placed to-night at the mill "off the backesyd the Fryars to shote into the towne alangst." They are not laying any ordnance at the rock against Bowys' bulwark. Argyll is come with not past 60 men, "but it is sayd they do come." He is lodged in Ledyngton, the Governor at the "Nonry," Angus at a little house beside it. The Scots are now 4000 men "off evyll naghyt (?) and lytell harnes and worse wepen for the most parte." But they have great plenty of victual from "Lethcow" and Stirlingshire, which countries are all come forth. There came 8 galleys today to Aberlady with ordnance to be landed. Some say the galley slaves shall be taken to give the assault. Haddington church is "upp styll," and a great band of foot lies behind it; their hacbutters go to the top and shoot into the town at random, but our men lie close, and shoot to some purpose, for Frenchmen go daily away in carts to be buried at Edinburgh and I take them to be gentlemen. Aymouth. Signed: T. Gower.

I have laboured in vain and put this town to charge preparing for 50 horse who do not come. So I am not worthy the company of a captain of horse!

2 pp. Holograph. Addressed (to Brende as master of the musters of the army and garrisons in the north).

277. Palmer and Holcroft to Somerset. [July 4.]

At 3 o'clock this morning the enclosed letter came, and lest your grace think it is one of our cannons that is broken, it is one of theirs —for they write "the y and the r above, for thier and not for your." The cannon that was brought last is so "rent and crased," that they dare not shoot "hir," as the bringer of the letter told us, and our men slay the French so fast one way or other, that they carry them off hourly in carts, dead and wounded. He that was hurt on the "pappe" is dead, he could not tell whether it be "Pedro Strose" or no, but we think it is. Berwick, this Wednesday morning at 3 o'clock. Signed: Thom's Palmer, Th. Holcroft.

"Otterborne is sore hurt on the head, and his servant slayne at his helys, some thynk by the Governors commandement." This is his tidings that brought the letter. Your grace must understand that the master gunner and 8 more are slain, for so it is written "though not well to rede." The mount is the great bulwark on that side.

1 p. Holograph of Palmer. Addressed. Indorsed.

278. Palmer and Holcroft to Somerset. [July 4.]

This evening one that left the siege at 8 o'clock this morning, says that last night Monsieur Dessé and the Governor, hearing that the flanks were taken away and the breach "resonable to sawlt," came with divers "gallanttes" to view it—and while they stood debating, 9 or 10 shot came out of the upper flanks of Wyndam's and Tayler's bulwark, among the thickest of them, and killed 4 or 5 out of hand, "and bare away the leages of a dooson at the lest" of the bravest. For they say our guns have that property to pick out "the best of the hearde"! The Governor and Desseé retired, somewhat out of order, glad they escaped so, "not contentyd of the ontrew report, wherof they were lik to have borne wytness." They have begun the battery this morning with one piece more from Dunbar, "but all for nawght" he says, they within are so diligent. The Scots say they will be hanged when the French win it. The spy says they have promised to deliver it to the French king by Tuesday next: and are now trenching towards Holcroft's curtain to plant ordnance there. It is the strongest side, but they tarry for more aid from Edinburgh, where they say 4000 men have arrived, and will be forward as to-morrow night. Our men have so beaten the church that no man dare show in it. Lord Grey intends to put in men and powder between this and Monday. Pedro Strose was hurt, "but alas! not enowght;" he is well again. He says the French are not past 5000 foot and 500 horse, and the Scots about 4000; but increase daily. "But within thes v dais they wyll we thynk dyscrease mooch fastre."Berwick, this Wednesday at 10 o'clock at night. Signed: Thom's Palmer, Th. Holcroft.

3½ pp. Holograph of Palmer. No address leaf.

279. Brende to Somerset. [July 4.]

I send your grace a book containing the state of Haddington, according to the musters taken 6 days before the siege; and in a few days shall send a note of the monthly charges in these north parts. Berwick. Signed: John Brende.

½ p. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed.

280. Brende to Paget. [July 4.]

I would write to you of Haddington, if I could add to M^r Palmer's, "whiche so exactly doith examyn our spyes." The enemy have battered these two days, but ours repair in the night more than is done in the day. We expect to hear of the assault, and ye must await the repulse. We intend to succour them with men and powder in 4 days. Till matters of moment, I will not write, being so careful of my charge, but I scarcely breathe from business. Berwick. Signed: John Brende.

1 p. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed.

281. Palmer and Holcroft to Somerset. [July 5. 1548.]

This night at 9 o'clock, one of our most assured spies is come from Haddington—where he was at 11 o'clock. He says it is true they made as if they would assault last night, "that Pedro Strose ys shote through the [t]hygh with an arcabuse of crok, and was carryed away in a cart [by] hys men in crymosen and whight velveit," and that he said he knew himself a dead man, but his last service to the King his master was to advise them to cease battering, and make a small trench to the brink of the ditch, cast in earth and faggots to hinder the flank, and then assault round about, for he saw there were not sufficient men to keep the walls. On this counsel they have trenched to the ditch at Wyndam's, and gone towards Bowes' bulwark, bringing many faggots and boards, meaning to-morrow or next day to assault. They have moved the Scots to assault one part, but they refuse. They have intrenched some Almaynes at the Justyce with 2 pieces, which batter the town, but our men are all lodged under the ramparts. "The Quene" came to Hermandston [Hermestone] 2 miles from Haddington, to hold, it is said, a general council for the marriage, for the French say they will assault when it is concluded, and not before. We are determined to-morrow or next day, to aid Haddington with men and powder. Berwick, Thursday 10 o'clock at night. Signed: Thom's Palmer, Th. Holcroft.

4 pp. Holograph of Palmer. Addressed.

282. Palmer and Holcroft to Somerset. [July 6.]

Last night the enemy finding at the outer corner of Wyndam's bulwark, a little wall of a house left, battered it down, whereon they gave a shout and assaulted both sides, but our men valiantly repulsed them, slaying a great many and one principal captain. This morning it was so made up, "that it was not seen wher any goon hadd light." I inlarge no further hereon, not to keep it long from your grace. Berwick, this Thursday (fn. 1) 6^th July. Signed: Thom's Palmer, Th. Holcroft.

1 p. Holograph of Palmer. Addressed. Indorsed.

283. Brende to Paget. [July 6.]

The French have not yet assaulted, "nor I thinke will not, I care not though thei do not, and if thei do, I doubte not." They tell the Scots they may win it when they will, but will not till the lords have assented to the marriage. Therefore the Queen is this night come to the camp, and the sceptre, crown and sword sent for to be delivered to the Lieutenant of France. They shoot no great ordnance, but prepare ladders, faggots, and boards. The town is stronger than ever, even of itself, but to-morrow its succour shall be attempted. Berwick, this Friday night 6^th July. Signed: John Brende.

1½ pp. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed.

284. Holcroft and Brende to Somerset. [July 7. 1548.]

Though M^r Wilforde's letter, sent your grace this day by Lord Grey, might cause you to doubt the safety of the town, yet seeing who the men are sent in succour, there is as good cause to hope. There are 110 of Wyndam's band, under his own guiding, 150 of Gamboa's under Petro Negro, of Bagshotte's band and volunteers of all sorts, 100, including your grace's servant Chetwoode only of those from the Court. They are all mounted hackbutters each with a bag of gunpowder and a roll of match before him. They are ordered to start from Lynton bridge "upon the spurres," and enter between Bowes bulwark and the water side, where the town lies open unbesieged. On arrival they shall cry "Socours" and 200 light horse are appointed to bring their horses back; if not, to kill them and do their best to return to the "battaile" at Lynton bridge with the lord warden and M^r Palmer. Lord Grey remains with the foot on this side the "Peace," to await the return of the horse, being 2000 men, 400 of them demilances. I pray God it prosper, fór it is of much moment. The French cut off and undermine the point of Wyndam's bulwark, and he having "dampned" both flanks, they purpose to fill the ditches and assault there. They have silenced our ordnance, and so the matter remains "to be tryed at the pointe of the wepon"; battery there is none made. Many of our men are slain, and among others, Hennege, Tiberio, and Pelham hurt. It is "happie" they have not made the assault to-day, for they keep parliament to conclude the marriage. To-morrow they purpose to attempt it, if not "lettyd" by this enterprise. It is said they can[not] long endure there, and if their purpose takes not soon effect, will depart. M^r Palmer begs excuse for not writing, being so busied. The plain on this side the Pease, Saturday, 7^th July at 9 o'clock at night. Signed: Th. Holcroft, John Brende.

2¼ pp. Holograph of Brende. Addressed. Indorsed.

285. James Henrison to Sir John Thynne and William Cecill. [July 9. 1548.]

"Calling to mynd as I do ofte, moist speciall freindis, the e (fn. 2) [vill?] discentioun betwene thir two realmes, I wounder that amangis [sik?] polutict rewlarris, the mischeif being so weill espyit, the [rameid?] is not bettir found: for be ocht that I can persave, thay . . . lay on the brandis to feid the flam, whiche innemeis to . . . (fn. 2) and concord wold fanest have, hes innutrament (fn. 3); thairof the moste part of all our dissavouris and frounteiris reso . . . (fn. 2) hidder by thair personis or counsellis. By occatioun [of] the whiche, and persavyng the mischeif so grit, the awtor . . . (fn. 2) so mony and menteinarris so stronge, hes of tyme spen . . . (fn. 2) hartis that be loste, and of the grit suspetioun that ru . . ., (fn. 2) I am in dispair of ony amyte or freindschip, thocht the mater [be?] nevir so pythely perswadit, or so lyvely opynnit. Whair[for] at I it may serf outher for ane testimony of the honest . . . (fn. 2) of your humyll fallow and servand, or minister occatioun to bet[ter] leirnit men to delait the mater better heireftir toward the rameid, at tyme quhen God schall appoynt, whairby we are amb . . . (fn. 2) hostillite "may ceis, and concord tak place: I wold of your accustomeit goodnes ye schuld procure me leif to put in p[rent? (fn. 4) ] the littill booke with suche tittill as my lordis grace schall think good; the faultis whairof being correctit by his godly prud[ence] yf it schall pleis him, hes in ane recompence of my good . . . (fn. 4) service loiss and daingerris sence I come to his service [als?] weill by wrang raportis as be battellis, I may have the [rest?] of my pure pentioun sence Januarij, and ane yeiris frutt . . . (fn. 4) thairof to pay my dettis, hes leif to go to the Empriouris cunt[rey for] one yeir (whair I have bene sclanderrit with moste offence) to . . . (fn. 4) sum thing of it suld be awing me (loste as I think by lo[ng] tary). Whairby heireftir I may the bettir serf the Kingis m[ajestie] and my lordis grace, hes not to be ane evill exampill by p . . . (fn. 4) who schuld by promis have bettir reward, or by dissartis yf thay mycht be exemminit. This have I written unto you becaus honest hartis can not be inopertune suyttoris, and that God is . . . (fn. 4) so favorable to me as Fortune to my lord Whartoun. The grace [of] God be with you, Amen."

Also inform my lord's grace, that my lord of Huntly shows himself not only in words, "wilfull" to do service, but also has such "naturall men and freindis, as contrary no King will demand his quarrell." And as his grace has been "abusit" with him and his vice-chancellor, now the Abbot of Paisley's man, I wish if invasion be made, that Huntly cause his servants "brek the cuntre, or ly abak," and that he should write tenderly to his neighbours, to concur with them, in fortifying the conclusion of parliament and a commonwealth. Which letters, if other prisoners do likewise, shall make more men stay at home, than is come from France, if the bearers be put in full credit. If not, I wish him and the rest kept away from the French ambassador. A spy is gone to France that I caused Edward Welche give notice of a year ago. If there was any intelligence between the Bishop of Winchester and our ambassadors, the parson of Stoke who "delaytit his fallow" to the bishop "for preching of the gospell" can best tell. A servant of mine who went to France, and on his way back to Scotland, was taken, and is now in Colchester, I would wish him "exemint." The ring his grace made "the grit inquisitioun for, at on Edmistoun," he said he gave it to the Laird of Langton; which if true, his grace may get it by a letter. Signed: Jamis Henrison.

2 pp. Holograph, closely written. Addressed: "The humill sute of Jamis Hendersoun to Schir John Thyn, knycht, and M^r Cecill, servandis of moste creddeit with my lord protectouris grace." Indorsed: "9 July. From James Henrison to M^r Thynne and my master."

Inclosed in the same:—

(The Godly and Golden Book, &c.)

[Extracts.]

Preface:— Laments the depopulation, murders, calamities "in famous regions by domesticall discord and unnaturall contraversie," as "Rome haith felte, Italy can testifie, Fraunce can beeyr witnesse, "Beam [Bohemia] can tell, Denmark can shew, and inespeciall thes two noble realmes of Englond and Scotland, beyinge but one countre, can apperentlie declare and make demonstracion. For who abhorreth not to expresse the heynous factes commytted in Rome by civil warr, betwen Julius Cesar and hardy Pompey, by whos discord the birth glory of the tryhumphant Rome was eclipsed and shadowed! Who can reherse what myschefe and what plages the pleasand countre of Italy and Holland haith taisted and suffred by the sedicyouse faccions of the Guyelphes and Gebellynes, as of Howkes and Cabellyres! Who can reporte the mysery that dailie haith ensewed in Fraunce by the discorde of the howses of Burgon and Orliantes! Who can curiouslie endite the monyfold battels that wer fowght in the realme of Beame betwen the Catholikes and the pestiferous sectes of the Adamytes and others! What dammage discencyon haith donne in Germany and Denmarke, all Cristians at this day can well declare, and the Turke can bere goode testymonye, wich by the discorde of Cristen prynces, haith amplified greatlie his seignory and domynyon! But what mysery, what morther, what execrable plages, haith this famous regyon of Great Bryttaine suffred by devision of our most renowmed howses of two kinges, indwellers of the same, intitled the Rose and Thirstle otherwyse the Liberd and Lyon, as by the intestyn battelles that haith been in ether of them betwen brother and brother sonne, and father uncle and nevewe in the north, as betwen the famous howses of Lancaster and Yorke named the Rede Rose and White, in the sowth, wich owr wytte can not comprehend nor our tonge declare, nor our penne fully set forth! For what noble man livith at this day or what gentleman of any auncyent stokke, blood, or progeny, is there whose lynage haith not felte the plages wich this unnaturall devysion haith brought forth"! So men may see clearer than the sun, that as Discord causes decay, so Concord brings renewal and relief!

"By unyon of the Godheid and manhead, man was joned to God, wich befor by the temptacion of the subtell serpente, was from hym segregate and devided. By the union of the Catholike churche and owtworne Synagoge, not onely the hard ceremonyes and dedely payns of the Moesycall law was abolesshed and maid frustrat, but also Cristian libertie is infarred and Cristes religion stablished and erected! By the unyon of man and woman in the holy sacramente of matrymony, the generacyon is blessed and the synne of the body clerlie extincte and put away! By the union of marrage, peace betwen realme and realme is exalted and love betwen countre and countre is norished! By conjunctyon of matrymony, malice is extyncte, amyte is embraced, and indisolvable aliance and consanguinite is procured! Which unyon matrymony and amyte to address amonges us of this Ile of Great Bryttane, we pray God the worker of all goodnes, to steir up the hartes of our nobilles to sek that thing that may be moste to his glory, ther honour and wealth of both the realmes, wherby this longe warr pestilence famen and infamyne may take an ende."

"The godly thinges that James Herrison did wishe the Kinges Majestie of Englond to sett forth in his highenes name for the welth of both the realmes, and by lake that our lordes of Scotland sent no commyssion to sewe, ther for all perryshed."

1. To begin by stopping all evil mouths and declaring God to be honoured throughout this island, as was ordered by the primitive church of Christ, and his apostles—and this by advice of the most godly and prudent men of both realms, since the general council is stopped by the bishop of Rome, to take effect till one be freely held.

2. That there be no other arms among us but the "Crosse of Criste," as our first Christened king gained at expulsion of the Romans; and that our laws and customs shall be over seen by the said "prudentes," as the civil law was by Justinian, the worst repelled, and the best observed, and printed in the mother tongue, that none perish through ignorance.

3. That two sessions of these "prudentes" shall sit, one at Aberdeen [Haberdyne] for justice to dwellers north the water of Forth, the other at Edinburgh for justice to dwellers betwixt the bishopric of York, and "the Scottes sees of Ireland," and to prevent future "ranker and ire, other by fayned prophecies, bookes, battelles, and cronicles againste the verite, composed by sediciouse persons," all such to be burned.

4. That to remove the mischievous suspicions craftily sown by Satan's ministers among the people "through dyversite of names, crosses, poses and orders, they being descended of other, as of one nature tonge and bredd in one ile compased with the see," henceforth they shall marry together, from high to low, greatest peers' sons and heirs to have the King's near kinswomen, to be on his Council, and have the order of the Garter, on discharging their bloody league with France.

5. That seeing the danger of any foreign prince reigning in Scotland, if the nobility assist the King's "godly pretence," he will not only remit their offences, but give them better pensions than they have had for maintaining mischief, and without hurt to the Governor, part the realm among them for better rule.

6. Mean barons and younger brothers who get nothing from France, if they take the King's part, shall have some augmentation, those "broken" in France for light occasions, shall be placed about the King's person and provided for—and if it offend not "your" Three Estates, young children, orphans, shall have part of their parents' lands for life, "to keep them from vyce," to return again to their house as in other countries.

7. That to prevent quarrels among the borderers, assythments shall be provided for losses, murders under assurance, &c., if they will agree to serve for the King's purpose.

8. To help the poor labourers of the ground, "whos common welth is mischeffe, and libertie mor servitude than was the children of Israell in Egipte," their land shall be set to them in feu or long tacks [taxes] for the present rent, and they shall have their own tithes so far as not set to the lords—and their bishops and parsons so doing their duty, that they may live as substantial commons, not miserable cottars, charged daily to war and to slay their neighbour at their own expenses, or also with "codixe, blakk malles, herials, corspresentes, and uppermoste clothes," and the like extortions.

9. For relief of popish errors, petty treasons, thieves and oppressors, and "the endlesse abhominable coni[s]tory lawes," wherein the churchmen are judges, their causes shall be pleaded at home before their barons and parsons, saving great matters, as errors, treasons, dissolving marriage, &c., which shall be pleaded before the Sessions, wherein "dyvyns" shall sit as others. "And we for our parte shall maike the "reshebush to kepe the poor wifes husbonde from deadlie food, and cow from theves, or racompense forth of our coffers."

10. To prevent partly the oppression of labourers by ingrossers of corn and cattle, who make dearth by bringing same out of the hands of a multitude to that of a few, and bestial only on land that once fed both man and beast,—no churchmen shall occupy merchandise, nor plenish steadings, nor buy green corn, nor store corn in houses after Candlemas, except what may reasonably sustain themselves, and if they sell any, to have no more than the Candlemas price.

11. Also to relieve old failed lame persons and bringing up youth, and that they may pray for our union: We will that alms houses and hospitals be built up again, which evil churchmen, contrary the founders' mind, have pulled down for their lucre and profit, and that every parish shall uphold their own sick and impotent, after God's law, and every bishop shall keep a free school in the head town of his diocese—that universities be kept with the divine and moral doctrine of the founders, and that parsons dwell at their parish churches.

12. And being informed that many parish churches are rent or falling down, and the fruits spent "in whordom," and the most ignorant that can be got for least hire, put to serving the cure, We will that the superfluous rents, beyond an honest maintenance for the minister, shall be employed to repair said churches, and that all "your connynge men, as well religious as others, wherof some be banyshed for light offence, shalbe put with honest hyers to the sarving of their cures, and that all bisshopps shall kepe suffragans unto suche tyme they be better devyns, for suplie of others ther cures, that by lakk wherof mony sowles perished in your Iles and Highlandes."

13. And for "florishemente" of your burghs, seeing God has sufficiently punished them, being informed of the great number of idle men, "We will give them a hundrethe fisher shipps with all there apparell for wynnyng of your ryche fishenges, that straungers gettes the holl profittes of, and pay the wages of a hundreth fishers to lerne them to take them and make them, and beyld certan havens where shalbe nedefull, for savegard of there shipps and lives"—and besides, free them of all custom &c. for 5 years, and to pay less customs in other countries, and be "forborne" of all nations who now make prize of them.

14. Likewise hearing that the substance won by lawyers and merchants in burghs is "wared" on sold lands, and that some craftsmen "for gude cheipe of livinge, passes to the countre to dwell, and that other dispise there craftes," so that they bear no office nor sit on council to distribute the common goods, as in other civil realms: in remedy, We will that for a term of years none of these "bye or bygge other landes then burrow lands," and all craftsmen, saving smiths, shall dwell in burghs, and bear office in council &c., making accounts of their common goods in presence of the masters of craft: and to prevent debates, that no merchant shall bring out of other countries "maid workes" in prejudice of the crafts, and no craftsman shall "occupie" merchandise to the hurt of merchants and poor craftsmen.

15. And to help them to riches, We shall cause come home and dwell in your burghs at our charges, 100 craftsmen of all sorts, and pay their wages for 3 years, to "lerne" your idle people to perfect your commodities of "myndes, wull, skynne and hide," before sending these out of the country, "as myners, cutters of mosses for makinge "of mean landes of thos that be but marresse, makers of iron mylls, saw mylls and others, collyerdes, dighters of wull, websters, wallers, tappishers, makers of wursates and serges, workers in the scole, diers of skynnes and hides, as bowers, fletchers and such other." And to encourage merchants and craftsmen dwelling abroad by reason of the little justice in your country, to return, we shall do no less "then Romulus did for the first inhabitinge of Rome."

16. And to save more effusion of Christian blood, and that the idle may get labour, "We shall garr wynne your myndes of gold, copper, iron, lead, and other, and garr draw the weste and easte sees togither," that vessels may go between at our charges and hasten the union of the whole isle.

17. Willing you not to think we say this for fear, for God has provided us more remedies against your princes &c. than to all our predecessors who "conqueste" your country with less title: certifying that whoever takes any landed or other substantial man contrary to us, shall have half of his inheritance and goods, our churchmen a years fruits of their benefice &c., and such as bring victual to the camp, shall have reasonable prices, and those dwelling within 10 miles, who bring none, shall be burned.

"Fair well. God save the Protectour, by whom this was corrected, and the speker defended."

9½ pp. Small quarto. Contemporary hand. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk): "James Henryson." Titled: The Godly and Golden Booke for concorde of England and Scotland."

286. Brende to Somerset. [July 11.]

My lord Grey wrote to your grace of one Richard Suffolke in the French camp, practising for his pardon. In case your grace does not know him, I judge him to be one some time as I have heard "a barbour in London," then in France called himself "Delapole the sonne of Edmonde Delapole." He was imprisoned at the suit of M^r Bryan then ambassador, and then sent into "Piemount," where I saw him. He was there "rather symply mayntayned then estemed, and served for xx crownes the moneth. He is a proper man, more hardy then wise, a fantasticall hed, as it aperith by his counterfett profession." Berwick. Signed: John Brende.

1 p. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed.

287. Brende to Somerset. [July 11.]

I send your grace a book of the monthly charge, and the certain number of all the garrisons &c. here—except Haddington, sent before, and Broughty, which I do not know—as mustered on the 1^st instant. From this book my lord great Master may rule the money to be sent the treasurer, who also sends your grace the estimate for a full pay till the last of this month. The money due and spent for victualling Roxburgh, Hume, Lauder, and Eyemouth, amounts to 1000£., which has been spent in extraordinary charges, which chance in the wars. But this full pay made, I trust things "shall appere unto your grace as in a glasse before your eyes." Berwick. Signed: John Brende.

1¼ pp. Addressed. Indorsed.

288. The Privy Council to Shrewsbury. [July 11. 1548.]

Since our despatch to your lordship yesternight, we have letters from Lord Grey, that for relief of Haddington, he has put in 400 harquebusiers with powder and match. Yet, as we hear that 1000 men must be put in for perfect succour, we pray you, notwithstanding our said despatch for preparation only, to give order that 3000 or 4000 of your best men at hand, "which you must brute to be ten or xij^m"— shall follow you immediately to Newcastle, advertising Lord Grey to meet you at Alnwick, and there determine with him whether to march forward or return. If forward to Haddington, your lordship to remain on the Border as our lieutenant till Lord Grey return. There are coming to you by sea from the East, 2000 Almaynes "exceedingly well in ordre," who have been this fortnight on shipboard tarrying only the wind, and on Friday or Saturday next Lord Clynton departs from Harwich with a strong force of ships and men. Having thus discoursed what is to be done, we pray you to use such celerity and diligence as the great importance of the matter requires. Your own charges herein shall be duly considered, and the rest must also be content, "good my lord we pray you," with as little charge as may. And we trust to your good handling the matter, whether the men march forward or return.

2½ pp. Draft by Paget. Indorsed: "xj° Julij 1548. M. to thErle of Shrewesbury."

289. Brende to Somerset. [July 12. 1548.]

Hearing of the Almaynes coming, I require to know if I shall meddle with them? and if I had the copy of their covenant, could do good service. The works and pay of labourers have been done confusedly, without controlment, and I have taken on me to act therein. Wherefore I pray your grace to allow me pay for 2 more clerks or I cannot dispatch the business passing my hands. For myself, I ask no more but your grace's remembrance "for some certeintie of lyving," for which necessity, much against my nature, moves me to be a humble suitor unto you. Berwick. Signed: John Brende.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed.

290. Palmer and Holcroft to Somerset. [July 13.]

We hear this morning by "sondre wayes" that the French will assault Haddington to-morrow morning at 8, and have placed their ordnance, ladders and faggots for the ditches. The Scots will not promise to assault. There is no breach, nor flank taken away. Their platform in the church is useless, the town has so beaten the stones about their "years." Two pieces on the mount dismounted, their mine countermined, and a great mount raised that masters their bulwark, as they outside may see. Yesterday our men, 60 hackbutters, 20 pikes and 20 "ryepars," went out to cut green corn for their horses, on the north side. "Jayme Dogg" with 100 horse, some foot and Almaynes, attacked them, but with help of the great ordnance, they killed 2 in the field, one being Captain Mare lieutenant or chief officer under the Rhinegrave, hurting above 60, most to the death, and brought in their burdens of green corn in despite of him. The French demand Edinburgh, saying they have no place for their treasure, munition, &c., but the Governor sticks till the assault at least be given, saying then all promised shall be performed, and "peradventure more."The Queen is this day gone to Dunbarton to deliver the young Queen.

The Scots "skale apace." Argyll is gone, but promises to return with northland men. In a few days your grace shall see what comes "of all this gere." Berwick, Friday at midnight. Signed: Thom's Palmer, Th. Holcroft.

4 pp. Holograph of Palmer. Fly leaf with address gone.

291. Palmer and Holcroft to Somerset. [July 14.]

One in camp at 9 a.m. brought word that the French have driven off the assault till to-morrow, and this day only shouted to annoy the town. They have now tried battery, mine and annoyance, and for famine they can have no hope, the Scots know the provision so well. Lord Grey will send all his horsemen to the Pease to-morrow, and will follow next day with the foot to encamp there, better to annoy the enemy. But it is not this force that can dislodge them, if they tarry. Yet we cannot see what hope they have "to stryve agenst the streame." They hope farther power will land in the west. Berwick, Saturday 12 o'clock at night. Signed: Thom's Palmer, Th. Holcroft.

2 pp. Holograph of Palmer. Addressed. Indorsed.

292. Palmer and Holcroft to Somerset. [July 15.]

We hear by one that was at the camp at 4 o'clock this morning, that yesternight the French and Scots were ready for the assault, "and all the conttre, man, woman and chyld, came to see it," but at discovering themselves, so much shot flew out of the town, "that well was he that myght fyrst turne bak and hydd his headd!" But they lost a captain and 3 or 4 score with him with many hurt. Monsieur Dessé told the Governor that to-day he would assault, and if not, in 15 days he knew how to have it, if they assisted him. The Governor said they did nothing but destroy the country, which he lamented much, and gave fair words, but saw no hope of getting the town. Then Dessé "in collor," said the fault was in him to suffer us to dig when he might have helped it, and all was lost that was done for such ungrateful people. Thus the two contended, and the Scots so wearied of it, that 1000 stale from the field this morning. The French say they will await Argyll's, and the Northland men coming next Wednesday, before assault. The lord Lieutenant has appointed the lord Warden and "me Sir T. Palmer," to set out this night with the horse, and lie at Coldingham, and to-morrow to encamp at the Pease, whither he will send "me Sir T. Holcroft" with the foot; from whence we shall put in more men to the town. He himself remains to meet my lord of Shrewsbury at Alnwick on Wednesday next, to take order for bringing in or stay of my lord's men, as cause shall offer from our camp. "I Sir T. Palmer am now redy to lepe on horsbak, and therfor shalle truble your grace no ferder." Berwick, Sunday 3 o'clock afternoon. Signed: Thom's Palmer, Th. Holcroft.

We hear yet nothing of our ships.

3½ pp. Holograph of Palmer. Addressed. Indorsed.

293. Brende to Somerset. [July 17.]

Though lord Grey has signified to your grace these unhappy news, yet cannot I but write also that I know. Lord Grey hearing of the Scots' departure, and likelihood of the French retiring, sent all his horse and foot to encamp at the Pease, and molest the enemy—my lord Warden, Sir Thomas Palmer and I, with the horse, on Sunday, and Sir Thomas Holcroft with the foot on Monday. That night some light horse sent to Haddington, reported in the morning they were all right and fearless, that the French were on the point of departing. My lord Grey sent for me to go with him to my lord of Shrewsbury; Sir Thomas Palmer said he would go to Haddington: it was said "to what purpose"? To see the state of the town. 'Content,' quoth my lord Warden, 'adventure nothing,' quoth other. He left at 7 this Monday morning, passed Lynton bridge, and warned the captain of his coming, to meet him with his horsemen. The captain (I heard) wished him to retire, telling the enemy's force. Their horsemen showed on the hill, when ours repulsing them, marched towards the town. Sir John Ellerkar, who led 400 light horse new come, passed "in the tayle" of the demilances, holding their staves to be like them. The enemy suddenly descending the hill, attacked the "tayle," so Sir John was forced to charge, and the demilances and men at arms also charged, overthrew the French, killing many, and taking their ensigns. Meanwhile the "battaile" of the French foot approached, and ours cried "to the retyre," but none of the unexpert turned again saving the old soldiers and gentlemen, "whiche remayne in maner taken or slayne." Sir Thomas Palmer and my lord Warden taken, Sir Thomas Holcroft escaped to Haddington, as I did here. Gamboa served nobly and escaped, so did Sir John Ellerkar, Francis Aselaby and others. The chace endured 8 miles and as I conjecture there are 700 or 800 taken and slain. The foot on these news, retired back with the rest that escaped. The most of the Northumberland men got away, for they did not much enter the fight. Thus with victory in our hand, this mischance has altered things, discouraged and weakened the town by the number that issued on horseback. Some foot came also, but I trust these got back safe. It is thought many of the "overthrowen" recovered the town again—if so it is in better estate. The town besides wasted much powder, which might have "stande them in stedd." Our principal horsemen are "consumed," and the chief footmen are in the town—therefore I think it not good to adventure anything by land except with a "royall force." The hope remains by sea if it come in time with sufficient power. Berwick, Tuesday at midnight 17^th July. Signed: John Brende.

4¼ pp. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed.

294. Shrewsbury and Grey to Somerset. [July 19. 1548.]

On arrival of me the Earl of Shrewsbury here at 9 a.m. this day, we consulted with advice of Lord Dacres and M^r Brende as your grace appointed—and as not above 5000 foot can be here on Tuesday night, the rest to follow as I have signified: second, the loss of our men at arms and demilances last journey, who even though they were redeemed, are "ruyned of horse and arms": thirdly, the flight of our light horse to their houses; and lastly, waiting the arrival of Lord Clynton, daily looked for: we resolved to place these foot in the eye of the enemy, and if we conclude with his lordship, then he to pass by sea, and we by land not beyond the Pethes, till we shall hear "resolutelie" from your grace, whether if the siege be not levied, we shall give the battle for that purpose? Berwick. Signed: F. Shrewsbury, Wyllyam Grey.

Postscript: As these 8000 men increase our number, your grace may please send money speedily for pay: and signify also how they shall be satisfied if they return?

1½ pp. Addressed. Indorsed.

295. Wilford to Grey of Wilton. [July 22. 1548.]

On Friday last I wrote to your lordship, that I "dowbted litle" the Frenchmen's power, and still do so. Desiring your lordship not to adventure battle, unless very strong, for the town is five times stronger than when they came. We want nothing but powder, shot, and working tools. Haddington, 22^d July, by the Captain of the same.

⅓ p. Copy by Grey's clerk. Indorsed.

296. Wilford to Grey of Wilton. [July 23.]

Yesterday and on Friday I sent your lordship two letters advertising the strength of the town. All that the enemy had digged down is made up better than at first, and all their work overthrown. What I need might be brought hither by night on horseback, but do not adventure battle, wherein success is doubtful. Since their camp came, I have had neither letter nor message, so beseech you as soon as possible, for the state of things, and what you mind to do. Haddington, 23^d July, by the Captain of same.

¾ p. Copy in same handwriting.

297. Brende to Somerset. [July 24.]

I have this day a letter from M^r Holcroft in Haddington, whereby your grace may see their state, that of the enemy, and the last enterprise, better than before. This coming army of 9000 foot is like to put the King to great charge. Our horse are sore diminished by this overthrow. Of 300 demilances, but 36 fit for service; of 450 new light horse, not 100—one half of the Northumberland men wanting,—not 6 of the men at arms remaining. The West March horsemen spoiled both assured Scots and Englishmen, and left with a full booty for their houses. Many come from Court with letters to have pay at Lord Grey's discretion: having neither horse nor harness, get captain's pay and do no service: 40 of them consume the pay of 300. They are under no control, for they were sent in post and cannot provide themselves. It may please your grace henceforth to appoint pay to such.

I desire your pleasure whether the prisoners shall have pay or no? And for the great business I have, am again a humble suitor for more clerks. Berwick. Signed: John Brende.

1¼ pp. Addressed. Indorsed.

298. Shrewsbury and Grey to Somerset. [July 26. 1548.]

Yesternight I the Earl received your grace's letters of 22^d, and as directed shall take order for the soldiers and sparing victuals, and with Lord Clynton on his arrival, which we daily look for. For light horse, I the Earl have already issued letters to all places in my commission—among others to my Lord of Derby, as by the enclosed copy, and if your grace think his coming not convenient, to stay him by your letter, so that his horsemen come. We think the bruit of his preparing in person, shall much advance the service there, otherwise we shall have few or none from thence. Berwick. Signed: F. Shrewesbury, Wyllyam Grey.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed.

Inclosed in the same:—

(Shrewsbury to Derby.)

Begging him, for advancement of the King's service, much stayed for lack of light horse, knowing his good will, and that the county of Lancaster is well furnished of men and horses, who would serve better under him than otherwise—to raise as many light horse as he can, and either march to Berwick with them, which would much discourage the enemy, or send them before to bruit his coming, so as to arrive by the 7^th of August; and follow himself. Beseeching his reply with the names of the men and time of their arrival. Berwick, in haste. 26^th July 1548.

1¾ pp. Copy by Grey's clerk.

299. Brende to Somerset. [July 26. 1548.]

Both in prosperous and "unfortune" enterprises, the matter seems most grievous at the beginning, as your grace prudently considers, and takes the mischance graciously, to our comfort serving here. I cannot hear by the Scots' own account of 100 slain, and not 6 known persons. Petit was one, and Baptista Crean the Irishman, as good a soldier as ever that region brought forth. The loss gave the enemy no hope of the town, or boldness to stay, for sending away their great artillery, they next day removed to the Nunnery a mile on this side the town, leaving our men free scope abroad and for their work, and victual in plenty. Their scaling ladders are burned, and I think they will lie but for a space, to save their reputation; some think in hope to give battle, others to fortify Dunbar, Aberlady, or Leith, the last "most lykest." The longer we delay the better, for the Scots cannot tarry long, and pass not 2000 or 3000 coming quarterly. The most of their fleet lie under Blackness, and will remain there unless reinforced. Their encamping is no prejudice to the town, for they weary and waste, get the hatred of the people, and cause the Scots to revolt. So if the matter "be tempered without stroke," we shall in the end drive them out of the field, and do as we list in the enterprises mentioned by your grace. Pardon the boldness of my rude discourse, for with the charge of my office, I have no leisure to do your commands for news. In this doubtful time only Ormiston, Brynston and Langton have remained—the first two showing more good will than service, Langton marvellous earnest in all service, not only taking our men that fled from Haddington, but rescuing such of ours as "have [been] taken." Cesford, Ferniherst and Hundelee constant in proffers of service—the rest either enemies or doubtful friends, for neither Leveston, Colston, Hugh Douglas of Longniddry, Wytingham nor any other of Lothian, have showed either good will or service. Berwick. Signed: John Brende.

2½ pp. Addressed. Indorsed.

300. Brende to Somerset. [July 27.]

The intelligence of our fleet arriving yesterday at the "Ilande" has altered the French purposes. For yesterday and the night before, they drew their navy out of the Frith, so that at 5 o'clock last night their last ship was seen beyond the Basse, and at 8 same night they were seen north of the "Maye." Either they fear to be shut in the river and prefer to be at sea, or intend to enter the Tay—but having embarked no number of men, who are still encamped at Hales, I think they mean for the West seas, to embark the Queen and depart; the land power remaining to fortify divers places against us. As they have landed much victual at Dunbar, this I take to be most likely, but the space of a few hours shall declare. They cannot remain in camp, for I hear the Scots are all gone. My lord Clynton victuals to-day at Holy Island, taking on board 1000 of our men, and will proceed as instructed.

I shall as your grace commanded, practise with the "lorde of Rithen and Melven," and advertise our device therein. We have small hope of the Almayns, for they are not yet heard of, though the wind has been marvellous good. Berwick, Friday 27^th July. Signed: John Brende.

2¼ pp. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed.

301. Brende to Somerset. [July 29.]

The French fleet I last reported beyond the "Maie" to the North east, is now at anchor betwixt Leith and North Berwick. It is said they will fight, but this is not likely, as the siege continues, and they have drawn no men to the ships. They will now continue the siege till a land force raise it. Argyll is coming, and all the countries on this side Tay are warned to set forwards. Lord Clinton, having victualled this day, will set forward to-morrow if wind serve, without the Almayns if they stick serving at sea, before refreshed of their sea travel and hard diet. They reached Tynmouth on the 27^th, but are still on board, and would hardly go to the Island "by sea." In the French fleet there are not, with the galleys, above 26 men of war, but we have no certainty but "by gesse of the eye," for the Scots are not suffered among them. A relief for Haddington is proposed, of which I trust your grace shall soon hear. When Lord Clynton sails, orders will be needful for this land power lying here idle. I have done nothing yet with the Master of Rythen and Melven, for they were in Lamer More on their affairs. Petit, whom I reported slain, is alive and prisoner. Berwick. Signed: John Brende.

2 pp. Addressed. Indorsed.

302. Thomas Fisher to Somerset. [July 29. 1548.]

This day about 1 o'clock p.m. I overtook Sir Richard Lee at Belforth and we came on hither, arriving about 6 o'clock, not sooner, for lack of horses. Going to sup to my lord Grey's house, I met the post with a despatch from him to your grace—whom I stayed that I might write this. This morning I reported to M^r Cecill what of my commission I had executed, to declare to your grace, adding that M^r Uvedale at Newcastle told me a French galley had been taken, which I now hear is "contrarye," and humbly beseech pardon; wishing nevertheless "both one and all were in your graces devocion betwene Shene and London bridge." Berwick, "hastelly this Sonday" 29^th July. Signed: Thom's Fisher.

1 p. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed.

303. Fisher to Somerset. [July 30.]

Having last night and this morning "participated" my instructions to the Earl of Shrewsbury, Lord Grey and M^r Brend, they are most desirous to follow the same, and my lord Grey humbly thanks your grace for the comfortable message by me, saying, the loss at the late conflict is no loss at all to him (though he has neither horse nor harness left him), if it had been for the King's service, "as (saithe he) yt was not, but all for glorie, whiche he confesseth God woll not alwayes suffree." The substance of the men at arms is taken by the assured Scots, which with their horses he hopes ere long to get back and be revenged of the enemy. [The number of men at arms, &c., given as in Brend's letter, No. 297.] To-day lord Grey has given your grace's pleasure to my lord Clynton, and the rest shall be done with diligence. Order is also given for reinforcing Haddington with powder, &c. (sent to Warke this morning) under charge of John Carr, whose service (as the best here report) is most worthy remembrance. The manner how the same shall ("by the suffrance of God") be conveyed, Lord Grey has signified to your grace, and in cipher to the Captain with your grace's thanks, and wish to know its state.

This morning the wind "being very large" at south west and by south, the King's navy 38 sail, passed by this town, "plyeng at this present thwart S^t. Abbes hed, northwardes, so as contynewing the wynde as yet yt doth at southwest and by west, they woll (as it is thought) be with the next fludde in the mouthe of the Frithe, yf by the waye, they fynde not elles to do with the galleis, whiche to the "nombre of xiiij^ten saile, ryde presently at an angree thwarte the Peese, betwene Donglasse and a place called Colbornspethe." The rest of their fleet, I hear, yesterday plyed northward from the Frith. M^r John the engineer whom your grace meant to employ with Pettit surveyor of Calais, at Brent Island, is yet at Newcastle, but M^r Lee saith will be here to-night or to-morrow. Pettit is a prisoner in Edinburgh, and was only heard of to-day when he sent to M^r Gower, that Sir John Dalavelle's son has a Scottish prisoner "brother to the lady of Buclughe," who "(saith he)" would ransom both Pettit and M^r Wood a man at arms, as good as any in the band. Wherefore your grace may consider as to their delivery.

This town is wonderfully "pestred" with soldiers, and little order yet taken for their dispatch.

M^r Stonehouse has but 40l. in hand received for victuals, and more than that to pay; and can do nothing till a general pay is made, nor has he cattle to supply Haddington, as your grace instructed, nor knows where to get them (even if he had money) on this side Trent, for Boulogne is provided thence; and beseeches that M^r Southwell and M^r Ryder may help him there. Though he has 400 oxen in store at Holy Island, presently come from Yorkshire, these are for the ships only. He is so busy both here and Holy Island, I assure your grace it is impossible for him to do without assistance, which it may like you to consider. M^r Lee after putting in order what he was sent for, minds to view all the "pieces" on the frontiers, some of which we hear are out of order, and reform them. Nothing shall be wanting on my part, though of all your servants most unworthy, to advertise of all things here. Berwick, 4 p.m. Signed: Thom's Fisher.

Postscript: Baynbrig a garrison man here, who led the last convoy of powder and men to Haddington, and returned at the conflict, has undertaken this second "adventer" thither. I rendered him your grace's thanks. He says he "cannot be quiet" till there again. This night he goes with Carr. "God be theire guyde."

3 pp. Holograph. Closely written. Addressed. Indorsed.

304. Fisher to William Cecil. [July 30.]

I had no time since my coming, to copy my instructions, meaning to send them by next latter. I have written to my lord's grace of some things they occasioned me to touch, and as I know "you shall be made privie," beseech you at convenience, to "wryte me two wordes, in what parte his grace taketh the same ? for because I have very bluntely both wrytten and termed my lettre, I doubt his graces contentacion therin." But I hope he will bear with me, and as I shall hear from you in answer hereof, by that time "I doubt to espie and smell out thinges here aboutes so farr out of ordre and lack &c., as I feare me wold not a lytell troble my lordes grace tunderstand." Peter Strose is alive and in the galleys again. One Knyfton his grace's servant who led some horsemen at Haddington, was taken at the conflict, by whom I cannot yet learn. Sir John Ellerker is here with "woundes and blowes ynowe," but well amended and walking abroad. I pray you tell M^r Stanhope who thinks he was slain. "There is mo men and horses wantyng here then you told me at Sheene." Praying to be remembered to your "bedfellowe," M^r Steward, M^r Chamberlain and M^r Comptroller, "to John Seymour also, with the rest of my fellowes in the chambre," I take leave. Berwick. Signed: Tho. Fisher.

I doubt not with my lord Grey's letter, ye shall receive good news from Sir John Luttrell at Burthe Cragg.

1 p. Holograph. Closely written. Addressed: "To the right worshipfull Master William Cecill attendyng my lorde Protectors grace." Indorsed.

305. Brende to Somerset. [July 30. 1548.]

My lord Clinton, having victualled for 20 days, left the Island this morning, the wind south west, "blowing good cole"—but at S^t "Hebles" head for want of "apt winde," cast anchor, the galleys lying in sight off Dunbar, and the rest of the French ships on the far side of the Frith towards "Kynkerne." My lord embarked 1200 foot, leaving the Almayns, who landed at Tynmouth and are marching hither. The French Almayns have left the camp at the Nunnery, and are encamped where the French lay before, to intercept our victuals &c. I should write oftener, but my time scarce suffices for my daily work at musters, warrants for pay &c. and your grace may please to pardon me. Berwick. Signed: John Brende.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed.