Edward VI: March 1548

178. Grey of Wilton to Somerset. [March 1. 1547–48.]

Where your grace is of opinion that I cannot be spared from service, but may send one fully instructed to you: I have none such, but if it please you to give me but 10 days' leave, I could take your full instructions for future proceedings in the King's service, leaving Sir Robert Bowes in charge here. I humbly beg your pleasure as to the Scottish Queen's servant stayed here, for whom great suit is made, and what I shall do with his letters? I shall observe your instructions for the surety of Berwick, "the Ilande and Hartylpoole," in case the French navy come.

For recompensing the late service on the Borders, the "booke" herewith sent will show it is done, "and I thinke your grace have seldom had a jorney of lesse chardge." Your grace thinks sending news from Borthie twice a week costs little, and besides has been "all upon brutes and rumers": I trust you may remember they were true, and nothing can be done in this country without great charge! If I could do it without costing the King "one peny," I should rejoice. But I feel the country so chargeable and cannot "husbande" for his highness, that I and mine are like to be undone, unless his majesty and your grace please to consider it. The necessity and sharpness of the case only force me to utter this. Berwick. Signed: Wyllyam Grey.

2 pp. Addressed. Indorsed.

179. Grey of Wilton to Somerset. [March 1.]

After my return home, the Governor attacked and won by undermining, the house of Saltoun held by the laird of Ormistoun for me, killed 5 of the garrison and hanged other 5 out of hand— one only spared. They were of Ormistoun's best men. He also burned and spoiled Ormistoun's house and all he had, "and within it the cheife substance of the lorde Brympstone." Till your grace's resolution is known, I stay placing any men in the different strengths as proposed, and they lie at Dalkeith with Sir George Douglas, ready to annoy the enemy. But as the country will "bende allwayes to the master of the felde," this rather hinders service. Sir Robert Bowes, myself, and others have pondered the matter, and think no course so good as your grace sending in a great power to fortify Dunbar or Haddington, wherein "I cannot but wyshe agayne and agayne" that it might please your grace I come up in post. Hearing this instant the Governor is bent to lodge this night at Haddington, I have assembled 1000 men including some assured Scots, to attempt his damage, knowing he is not in great force. If I do less than your grace looks for from me, think it is by want of knowledge not of good desire. Berwick. Signed: Wyllyam Grey.

2¼ pp. Addressed. Indorsed.

180. Grey of Wilton to Somerset. [March 6.]

I hear that the Governor "(who hath sent me expresse worde he wold make a waye for hymselfe, wiche with his honour he may well do, for that the Frenche King fayled to gyve hym the supporte he promysed at Candelmasse last)," minds to send Argyll and Rothes commissioned to commune with me for peace, which if he continues in, though I hear he is "very fykle," I desire your grace's pleasure whether to debate with them or refer to yourself? He fears our re-entry with a greater force. It may please you to cause the Archbishop of York to levy men to suppy the light horse bands who have been "cashed" as your grace knows; and more demilances among them would much avail, for I see with these horsemen, "wich soever gyve the greter showte, the other flee." The pensioners and men at arms might well lie here also.

Saltoun was lost, as Ormistoun was surprised, his men not complete, and those there without weapons. The strength of this house and others, with Dunbar, will appear when I send "plattes" of them. At the Governor's attack on the assured men, I placed 700 horse under Bulmer and Wolstropp to annoy him: whereon without more doing, he retired to Edinburgh. Warkworth. Signed: Wyllyam Grey.

1½ pp. Addressed. Indorsed: "vj° Marcii, the Lord Gray 1547."

181. Lennox to Somerset. [March 6. 1547–48.]

But for the occasions which this bearer can declare, I intended shortly after arrival here to have repaired to your grace, to thank you for my employment in the King's service, wherein I shall be always ready to bestow my body and goods when it pleases you. I hear that one Patrick Colquhoun a Scotsman, has desired "of your grace won Penysse (?) to go and vewe an ilelande nere to Donbarton" for fortifying the same. As I know this Patrick to be a very untrue and crafty fellow, and have proved him so in time past, as Thomas Busshopp can best declare to your grace, I do no less than my duty in warning you to put no trust in him. Wreyssell Castle. Signed: Mathew Lewenax.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed. Wax signet, indistinct.

182. Grey of Wilton to Somerset. [March 6. 1547–48. ]

I have read "over and over" your book of rates, and answered thereon as your grace commands. Touching myself: where at "Bullen" the King allowed me 60 household servants and 16 halberdiers, now these are "abated," my secretary &c. taken away, while I am so charged with demi lances, that I would gladly give 100l. a year to be rid of them. Thus I am at the point of being utterly undone, "wich though with mutch greaf I conceayve, yet with mutch more I complaine," and if I were able to bear it, would not thus have resisted.

I herewith send your grace the Spaniards' muster books—finding many absent, some with Gamboa, some in Flanders—both officers and men. They fill up at muster days with boys and Englishmen. Kent tells me there is no fit captain here, but only seekers of their own gain, and "Vila serga" whom they esteem little. So please your grace appoint Gamboa or an other "creadyble" man. I send your grace the letters brought by the Scottish Queen's servant, and must remind your grace there is not here above 6000l. for us, the seamen and the Spaniards—the greater part unpaid for 5 months, and the least for 4; the foot of Roxburgh for 7 months, and for want of pay in great misery. Let me understand what pay Kent is to have, whom your grace has ordered I see to remain here. Newcastle. Signed: Wyllyam Grey.

2¼pp. Addressed. Indorsed. Wafer signet: a classical head.

183. Palmer and Dudley to Somerset. [March 6. 1547–48.]

The ditch of the fort is before the bulwarks 20 foot broad, and before the curtains 54 foot, and 8 foot deep round about. We mind to "truff" it in 4 or 5 days, and place ordnance on every bulwark, and put in hand some house for stowage of victual. We have neither frames nor timber, but shall make shift with some houses from Dundee, whither I Sir Thomas intend going this day to see if I can put "some corner" in strength. Sir John Luttrell came here on the 2^d and I mind to put him there, till your grace's further pleasure.

Argyll is at "Coopre" and M^r Breane is ridden this morning with "my lord Grey" (fn. 1) to communicate with him there. God send agreement: wherein we see by lord Gray there is likelihood at least of fair promises, "and it may chaunce one Skote to be trewe." There are 20 sail or more here with the victuallers. The countries on both sides are in great fear, the Earl of Rothes and others of the chief asking assurance—but we say generally, without they bring pledges, they labour in vain. Broughty. Signed: Thom's Palmer, Andrew Duddeley.

I Sir Thomas intend God willing to repair towards your grace in 6 or 7 days "at the ferdyst."

3 pp. Written by Palmer. Addressed. Indorsed.

184. Sir John Luttrell to Somerset. [March 6.]

As your grace ordered, I have "ruynatyd" the fortifications of Combys Ynche and the house, and arrived here on the 1^st March, with such munition, &c., as I could remove, for one of the hoys sent me took her course elsewhere, and I had to burn the timber, &c., that I left behind. I humbly thank your grace for giving me charge of Dundee, if fortified. I have been there with Sir Thomas Palmer, and as we take it, there can be no perfect citadel cut out, and it will need 600 men at least to keep it, by reason of 3 mounts within the town, of equal distance asunder, and nearly equal height, which command every part of the town and water, "and ar of suyche braverye thatt yff the thinge were raysyd by the hand of manne, as hytt aperyth to be naturall, I juge colde nether be of more force ner raysyd yn more convenyent placys." We are going this day again, as Sir Thomas intends to see whether these mounts only may not be fortified to keep the town, with less charge to the King, and as effectually. Meantime I shall aid M^r Dudley the best I may. Brothe Cragg. Signed: John Luttrell.

2 pp. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed.

185. Thomas Wyndham to Somerset. [March 6.]

The Marlen one of the King's small ships is come hither with provision both for ships and forts. The Mary Hambrowe brought Sir John Luttrell and his company from "Coymesyenche." One of the hoys I sent him to bring away his stores, stole away in the night, and he was forced to burn what he left. While the Mary Hambrowe rode at Inchkeith, the weather was so foul and boisterous, that she broke her "bowlspret" and her "bekehed," with the principal "kney" which runs down upon the stem; and the solle(?)is reson from the stem, and her ovarlope ys so sanke, scaysse abull to bere her ordynans, and her quartar beym afore is rent frome the one yend to the other, and with a shot in the starne at the seyge off Burthy, hathe rent the roder and the post, and rent a beyme and brake a kney with the same shott: so she cannot serve without repairs, which cannot be done nearer than Hull or London. If it be your grace's pleasure, I will take most of her crew to man the other ships, which are short. If it pleased you to take all the small save one, and send instead great ships with two long boats each, we could land 600 or 700 men at once and do service. If your grace let me take the fleet to the Frith, as we are "well cabled and ankard," we could ride on one side or other: for lying here in harbour does your grace no service. "Onles that your grace will have them handelyd with fyar and sword, they will nevar be good, but geve yowr grace fayre wordes and will parforme notheing." In the Barke Ager in the river of "Taey." Signed: Thomas Wyndam.

2 pp. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed (by Thynne): "Sir Thomas Windham vj° Marcij 1547."

186. Palmer to Somerset. [March 7.]

Yesterday I viewed Dundee, but find no meet place without taking . . . (fn. 2) and intended to depart, but for the news brought me this day, viz. that on Saturday last proclamation was made at S^t Johnstons that all men from 16 to 60 should muster at Dundee next Friday on pain of death, with 15 days' victual: also this day sevennight, Argyll called before him in the Tolbooth at S^t Johnstons . . . (fn. 3) and said . . . (fn. 3) 'that I have taken the King of Englandes money, but I shall prove my self trewer then a great many of ye that say so. Helpe ye to furnyshe me with a thowsaund men, or money to pay so many, and I shall gete ye . . . (fn. 3) yf I wyne not Broghtty . . . (fn. 3) Now it shalbe seen who is a trew man.' Then he departed, ordering his Highlandmen and others should be at Dundee next Thursday. Also on Saturday last, the Governor's and Rothes' pursuivants were with him at S^t Johnstons, whence he dispatched them with one of his own, to the Governor next day. With the report of an overthrow in the west, the Scots have taken heart. I think they mean to keep this town till foreign succour; but in my conceit, if we fortify it, we stay all Angus and Fife. Meantime I will make things as sure as we can about Broughty. Dundee. Signed: Thom's Palmer.

3¼ pp. Holograph. Address leaf lost. Indorsed.

187. Grey of Wilton to Somerset. [March 7. 1547–48. ]

This instant I hear from M^r Harrie Ewre that my lord his father is dead, as to whose offices of the East March and Berwick your grace may please to resolve. As "the same Harrie" was joint patentee with his father in some things, he will be undone without your grace's favour and remembrance. Warkworth. Signed: Wyllyam Grey.

½p. Addressed. Indorsed.

188. Sir A. Dudley to Somerset. [March 7. 1547–48.]

M^r Brend has spoken with Argyll at Cowper Abbey in Fife on 6^th March, trusting your grace shall have him, "if a Scotesman may be trustid"—as M^r Brend can declare more at length. Lord Gray of Scotland has taken great pains in these matters, and has been "in hand" with me divers times for the 20s. a day your grace promised him, and the 300 horse. The fort on the hill "goeth forth a pas"— but there is no lime come yet, nor timber nor lead for the platform of Broughty Craig tower: the top whereof is not yet taken down as your grace commanded, for want of the timber and lead. The Master of Ryvan has sent divers times to ask if I had answer from your grace, what his father Lord Ryvan and he shall have for joining you and delivering S^t Johnstons? Broughty Craig. Signed: Andrew Duddeley.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed.

189. Grey of Wilton to Somerset. [March 8. 1547–48.]

Asking his favour for Unfrye Tompson post of Berwick, who has served very honestly in his charge. Warkworth. Signed: Wyllyam Grey.

½ p. Addressed. Indorsed.

190. Robert Moffet to Wharton. [ March 9. 1547–48.]

"Our Quene and . . . (fn. 4) past to Dunbarton castell and enterit thairin on Frydaye last bipast . . . (fn. 4) ane greit peill of artailriery schoit at the west sey." There are 8 or 9 ships lying beside Bute, and it is believed are Frenchmen to take her away. The Lord Lieutenant left Haddington on Saturday for Berwick, leaving the Laird of Brunston in the Nunrawe, the laird of Langnwdry in Halis, George Dowglas in Yester castle, Hirdmaston in the laird's own hand, Salton in the laird of Ormiston's, and Wauchton to the laird's self. My lord lieutenant desired George Dowglas "to conwaye hym agaytwart, and the word is he hes tane hym awaye with hym in Yngland." The lord Governor with his friends and 3 pieces of "artaillierye" is passed to win these houses back. "For uther novellis thair is nayn." . . . "Writing at Moffet the first Frydaye of Merche be your lordschipis servand." Signed: "Robein Moffet of the Grantoun."

1 p. Holograph. Indorsed: "The lorde.Muffet to the Lorde Wharton."

191. Grey of Wilton to Somerset. [March 8. 1547–48. ]

Recommending William Farewell as a man of honesty and ability, for the office of surveyor of the King's . . . (fn. 5); in Northumberland, which the Captain of Aymouth desires to surrender. Warkworth. Signed: Wyllyam Grey.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed. Damaged.

192. John Brende to Somerset. [March 9. 1547–48.]

On the 6^th instant by the Earl of Argyll's appointment, I repaired to him in Lord Gray's company at Cowper Abbey near S^t Johnstons, and before many present, I presented to him your grace's commendations, as in my instructions, and showed my commission. He said the war had brought great damage, and desiring to know what your grace required, on my offering to declare, "he badde staye. 'I am had,' quod he, 'in a mervelous jelousye, and here be' (he said) 'certeyn of the Counsell mortall enemyes to your parte; I wold therfor' (quod he) 'to coloure the matter, ye shuld devise to speake somwhat openly to me before them of suche matter as ye thinke good, whiche shalbe a meane that without suspecte ye may treate secreatly with me of suche thinges as be of moment.'" Then he called the Abbot of Cowper, the lord of Masen (fn. 6); called Stuarde, Sir John Camell and others, to hear what I said. Then I declared how strange it was after so many writings, books, and offers of peace, and this godly marriage agreed to by the country and parliament, the malice of a few should hinder it, bringing about invasions, the capture of Broughty, and further force to be sent against such resisters only, and I am sent to declare again to you the lord lieutenant of this country the above purposes, before any more damage shall be done, and if you for the good of your country, stay the wilfulness of the other party, it might bring about peace. Then I "plucked out" and presented to him part of my instructions, touching a present contract of marriage, delivery of Edinburgh and Dunbar as pledge for the Queen's entry to England, and the conditions of peace. Then he said how fair means might prevail, and how violence kept things back, which words were confirmed with "a churme" (fn. 7) of the bystanders. Then I excused cases for violence, and when princes might use the sword. Here he drew me aside, and said 'we shall colour our treatie and blynde thiese wolves eyes' and told me to go on with my secret commission. I again showed your grace's good hope of his good offices "howe divers had shott at that prycke, but none yet had hytt yt"— and how good will joined to his power, would effect it beyond doubt —what increase of honour it would bring his house—and showed the advantages of the Queen's delivery for peace, intercourse, &c. He stayed long space after I spoke, and then not seeming to mislike it, said 'If all things had chaunsed well, she had been in my handes or this, for if after the battale, persute had been made, she had come into my countrey; and she did write to me,' quod he, 'for the same purpose at the laste entre of the Lorde Grey. But nowe,' quod he, 'she is in Dunbryton.' 'And yowe may easely come by her,' quod I, 'or ells devise howe she may be had.' 'No,' quod he, 'it is impossible, the castell is stark, and if force could prevaile, it were unfytting for me to enforce my naturall ladie: but therin,' quod he, 'ther is presently no good to be done'; but hereafter as occasion served, he would devise therein. After great dispute on the point, he agreed, as the paper of articles signed by him and sealed, sent herewith, will show your grace. Though not quite to the full effect of my instructions, I took his promise and "descendyd to the seconde degree, whiche he lyked mervellously well, . . . saving he thought the preistes not provyded for in the articles." Then he said on going to Court he would persuade the Queen and Governor at once to send ambassadors to Englande. 'And if,' quod I 'thei will not agree to your request, what will ye do then ?' 'What wolde yowe I shuld do?' quod he. Then I plucked out "a paper of the thirde degre (as I had them all foure severally written)" as to taking open part with the King. He required it to read by himself and put it in his bosom. Then knowing the envy between Huntly and him, I spoke of that Earl; "when he harde hym named, he sterted, and beating his fyste upon the borde, said, 'If ye lett hym home, ye marre all.'" Then I said it behoves you to take this in hand, for if not, he may be persuaded himself to enterprise it. These words methought moved him "mervelous moche," and he said 'Marie! I will do yt in deade.' Then said I, if the Governor still looks on at the ruin of his country and stands out, what shall become of him? 'No Governor,' quod he. 'Who is then,' quod I, 'so mete as your lordship'? 'I thinke,' quod he, 'I have moste frindes and power.' 'If then,' quod I, 'ye have the favour and power of Englande joyned therunto, who shall withstande yowe?' 'It is trewe,' quod he. Finally he agreed to the third article thus—If the Queen and Governor would not agree to these, then he would go straight to Argyll, call his friends together, declare his mind for their assistance, then send one to your grace to conclude on certain points, and in the mean season confer by Lord Gray of Scotland with the captain of Broughty. And said also he should require nothing but as he deserved. On causing my lord Gray to feel him thereon, I see he would require aid against his enemies in the north, by sea, and also that the Earl of Lenox [Lynes] should have no power over his lands in the west. Seeing this, "I did not touche the iiij^th degre otherwise then that he shuld lett (fn. 8) the conveyans awaie of the Quene." He asked an assurance for his lieutenancy till Easter, but I said I had no power to grant it, and if I asked the King's captains, they would think it but to win time. But on his showing the unfitness of his country being destroyed, while he was "perswading" the peace, I promised him 15 days' assurance if the Captain agreed, till answer came from your grace: the "effectuall" words whereof I enclose. When I had drawn and subscribed the covenants granted by virtue of my commission, the copy whereof I enclose, "he wold in no wyse subscrybe nor setto his seale; many thinges he shewed of the inconvenyence might come therof, and perill unto hymself, howe the worde of a nobleman was of more force then writing, that he had never made yet promyse to Fraunce nor Englande, and that he had never vyolated his worde." I reasoned to the contrary, that writing put things in certainty against "promyse breakers," and without it I neither would nor could conclude; "and so goode disposicion I felte in hym that I durst boldly breake of, and so did." But late at night, when all were in bed, and the contrary faction removed from him, I sent Lord Gray to persuade and prick the Earl "furthe in thoise pointes I had felte his humour bent in before," and finally Lord Gray, after four or five times going and coming "in the dedd tyme of the night," brought him to condescend next morning to the effect your grace may perceive. Therefore I have written "the thing" more largely that you may see his meaning. I hear him reported to be "moche constant"; and found him "humayne, wise, and grave, in whom I coulde have beleved all thinges that he said, if I had not determyned in them to trust nothing at all. I judge hym gredy of gere, desyrous of auctorytie, and impacient of perteners (fn. 9) and therfore moved unto this by the envie he beareth to the Governour, and the emulacion he haith with therle of Huntley, whiche wilbe ever of the contrary parte to hym." So the matter in my opinion stands thus—whether your grace will effect your purpose better by letting Huntly home, to raise factions between them, or by detaining him, have Argyll wholly yours, "if so be he will stande unto his promysse." When taking my leave, I asked the Earl if he had any "advise" for your grace? He said 'Commende me to his good grace, lett this be kept secret, lett hym take my advise and he shall come to his purpose, and when he shall here of the Frenchmens commyng, lett me have knowledge.' He showed me a letter he had from the Queen to this effect—" On the west borders thei have done metely well, on thest borders my lord Governour haith amendyd that was amys, and therefore we trust ye will see that your charge take no scathe." I then departed to Broughty with my lord Gray, "of whom I cannot omytt to declare unto your grace the fydelytie, the diligens, the paynes, and the good wille that I have seen hym shewe in this busynes," and I doubt not his unfeigned furtherance of the King's affairs, and it should much encourage him and give hope to others, that he and his assisters might receive both thanks and "benyvolens," among whom he says the lord of Tyllybarne is chief. I have reported all my proceedings to my lord lieutenant, and although your grace's orders were that I should abide here with him till further instructions, as his lordship is preparing to come to your grace, I thought good to accompany him thither for your commands. Warkworth. Signed: John Brende.

9 pp. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed.

193. Orders by Grey of Wilton. [ March 15. 1547–48. c.]

Orders by Lord Grey at his repair to Court out of the north.

[Extracts.]

Sir Robert Bowes with the force of the two marches, to muster at Warke, on Sunday 18^th March, and next day to take certain ordnance and munition to Lawther.

350 labourers to be employed in the new works at Berwick and Roxburgh: the township of Berwick to help there.

Sir Hugh Willoughby captain of Lawther, Tuttie and Garton, with their bands, 200 Spaniards, 300 pioneers. To stent the villages round to victual him as they can for ready money.

At Yester Captain Bagshot and band, with 50 pioneers.

All the horse to stay at Lawther till the fortification "well raysed."

M^r Bulmers, M^r Crowches and Colbies men to keep Roxburgh.

How the pay stands and how much will make a thorough pay?

2¼ pp. Written by his clerk. Indorsed.

194. Earl of Argyll to Lord Gray. [March 15. 1547–48.]

After my last writing sent to you, and the departing of the Laird of Tullebarne from me, Master Alexander Gordon brother to my lord of Huntly came to the Queen's grace at Dunbarton, I being ready to pass to Argyll. She sent for me, and at the castle in her grace's presence, Master Alexander showed that ye told the Laird of Fyvie to break the northland, and commit slaughter there, for Huntly would not come home while the war lasted. Also that I favoured England whatever they did here, and "that I swld ly abak," for which I had got instantly a great sum of "angell nobillis." And that Fyvie showed the same to a great man in the north that ye said this to him. Which great man I believe is the Earl Marschal. And on the Queen writing for them, these gentlemen will come and prove ye said these things, and one will offer to fight you in the quarrel, which ye cannot refuse for your honour. "We belief ye ar nocht the man that will alleig syk taillis upon ws, nor will never trew the samyn, quhill we se the contrarie, considering the grett familiarite kyndnes and kynred betwix ws." Praying you to deal honestly and wisely herein, and put the same off you, for when Fyvie and the man he said your tale to, come before the Queen, I will be sent for to hear them. So I advertise you beforehand that ye may be readier to defend this honestly. Advertise me with diligence what ye think of this tale, and answer the writings sent to you before, and Tulybardan's credence. And be secret till I advertise you of the gentlemen's sayings before the Queen's grace, which I shall do with diligence. "I pray yow to tak the pyne to commend me to my cumer (fn. 10) and barnis." The Master of Maxwell and Laird of Drumlanryk came to Dunbarton this last Wednesday. "At Castell Cariik." Signed: Yowris Erl of Ergyll.

1 p. Addressed: "To my lord Gray, &c." Indorsed.

195. Ninian Cockburn to Somerset. [March 16.]

On the 20^th February I wrote to your grace that the Queen desired me to return to you with an answer of the writing that I brought from your grace. "My anesor wos, I wald nocht go with ane trefell to your grace, nor to non that bair reuell onder your grace, bot with ane mater of fek (fn. 11); I wald nocht lat to go: bot gef scho vor myndit hoderwayis, sand ane Franche man—as scho did. Had I gotten ane ansor from your grace, I culd haf had ane hesay acke of her mynd, bot I wrat scho vald nocht nor dorst nocht do by (fn. 12) Frans, lyk as it is prowen lat be expereans. Scho hes wylled the Franche men to be masteris in Dounbertan. The Govorner com thair the viij, and taret all the ix and x of Marche in the toun of Dounbertan, and is lyk to rag for desplesor that scho hes sufferit . . . (fn. 13) Ane Sande Doram is kypar of the yet, (fn. 14) as quho say ane Scottes man wor kypar of it, bot quhen ever he gois to the yet thair gois x or xij Franche gonares with him becaus of the stratt kyping of [it?]. The word gois the Prenses is ded quhilk as I trast is nocht ane varete. The Quhen is marwalous glad that scho is in yon hous and out of Scottes menis handis. Scho hes playet me ane plesor becaus I wald nocht cum with the anesor of her bell, scho hes mad the Govorner to be my wter eneme, and Gorge Douglas and the Abot of Drybroucht in lyk vys. Scho hes sad to the bessopes, gef I prosper I will nocht fall to travell so with your grace to gat haim the men of Scanct Andros quhilk wor ane he desplesor to our Antecrestes, and thaer ar so mere of the vrak of the lard of Ormestoun, that thair may no man lef be syd thaim; and so fors it is to me to raman oder with my lord louftenand or with Schir Andro Doudle in Brouchte Crag, to I her sum better fortoun of the lard of Ormestoun, as I trast your graice vell ramember him. [I] thenk the lard of Ormestounis part onestar nor the Master of Maxvelles or the lard of Closbournis; lat evere man jug as he lest! The Govorner porposses to caus cut doun the lard of Ormestounis vod evere stek, and bare to Edenburghe, lay the rest to geder and burn et. Thay are ledand the stanes of the lard of Brounstounis plas to Edengbourghe to yon (fn. 15) neu blak hous quhilk well nocht cum abof the erd. Affor Pas (fn. 16) it is trouet her that the Quhen prenses and Govorner sall go in Frans, and bydis bot on schepis, and Franche men salbe layet her in strenttis to kyp to efter quhull frendis (?) may be her with ane gert soupport. I haf causet Schir Andro Dudle wret ane he voll to me, makand menseon, hou the Scottes pouttes thair trust in Franche men galayis, bot hes so well provydet if so be thay cum, that thay shall mak no rous at thair ratourning, with hoder he wordis aneu: the quhilk bell I causet ane gentell man delyvar to the Quhen. He and I devyset et to that afek that scho and her Franchemen sould se et; bot I haf gotten na a(n)sor as yet hou scho hes tan vitht it.

"As my lord louftenand thoucht that I gaf hem nocht ane forder wort at his rad in Lodeane at thes tym, I consedert thenges that he consedert nocht for troble, as it aperet to me gef hes compane had ben als well wellet as he wos hem self, he wald haf and dorst adoun that one man dorst haf doun; bot your grace mesteris (fn. 17) no mor pruf bot he is noder in Ingland nor Scotland that well nocht, and haldis it abomenabell to et flesche in Lent, trast well your grace wanttes hes hart. Thairfor I hald that thair is in the northt partes of Ingland alswell as in Scotland that wanttes 'scant cum scant cam' in thair cred no mor. Bot that lord wos nocht so well acompanet as I wald he had ben at thes tym. I sad ever thair wos our mone Scottes men in his compane and feu vorde of trast. Put tham to ane pruf and than shall ye haf expereans. . . Be your graces hommell servand at all pouar. Of Colston." Signed: Nyniane Cokbourn.

I have closed here a letter come from Sir Andrew Dudley to me.

2 pp. Holograph. Closely written. Addressed. Indorsed.

196. Sir John Luttrell to Somerset. [March 19.]

The fortification of Dundee not having proceeded, as Sir Thomas Palmer shall better declare to your grace, I remain unplaced, awaiting your pleasure. Having been required both by Sir Andrew Dudley and Sir Thomas, I have taken charge of the new fort lately raised near Borthy, and thus obeyed your grace's pleasure in your letter of 4^th February, to repair hither on Argyll's being at Dundee, and receive your further orders by M^r Dudley. I am right well content, having no respect to places, so long as I serve the King and content your grace, doubting not to give a good account of my charge, if death do not prevent me. M^r Dudley's spies say the Governor will be here shortly "upon Ester," and the young Queen is dead. But on 18^th March came a Scot who did me much pleasure at Colm's Inch, and was at Stirling, who declared on his life, she was alive, and had lately recovered of "a dyseas that they call here the mawlys or messellys"; and many think she is taken to Dunbarton, to attend the arrivals of the galleys, come rather for her transport to France than to annoy us. The Laird of Barnbowgell likewise told him to advertise your grace and my lord lieutenant, that the Laird of Resythe now prisoner in England, has sent letters by a poor old woman to the Governor, telling him what he heard there of Barnbowgell's and other gentlemen's good will to the King: and makes humble suit that said Rossyth [Resyethe] may be so looked to that his malice may be prevented. I humbly sue your grace for my commission, if you continue me here. The new fort beside Broughty. Signed: John Luttrell.

2 pp. Holograph. Addressed: "To the ryght hyghe and myghty prince, my lorde Protectors grace." Indorsed.

197. Earl of Huntly to Somerset. [March 20.]

We arrived here on the 18^th and have heard no word of Scotland "excep" by a man of mine who came with my lord lieutenant, and met me on the way. I hear the Governor repents "our Mastres" going to Dunbarton, and is labouring to bring her grace back to Stirling, which is promised "how sone hyr grace beis hoyll in person. Sche hes bene veray seik in the small pokis and nocht yit hoyll." I hear he may be brought to good appointment, and I "lyppyne" to get hasty word that commissioners shall come to the Border to end these affairs. What service I can do in furthering the King's purpose your grace may be assured of, as you shall shortly know in deed, and I pray God send peace to the weal of both realms so long at discord. I give your grace most humble thanks for your great goodness and humanity shown to me, "quhilk hes evyr yit desserwit the contrare: albeit gyff it be in me possibyll I sall mak syk ane amendis as my wyt or power may serwe." Newcastle. Signed: "Your grace humyll serwitour att pouer" [name effaced by damp].

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed: "xx Martii 1547. Therle of Huntley to my lord Protector."

198. Huntly to Sir Ralph Fayne. [March 20.]

This shall be to advertise you of "owr arivell" at Newcastle on the 18^th. I have had no word of Scotland, except by a servant from my country, that all friends are well. The Governor is at a good point to agree and end all matters, wherein I hope my part shall be found also. "Now guyd maister, I am nevyr abyll to quyt yow and gyf yow thankis, and my gud ladie your bedfallow, off the gryit kyndness schawyne me, nocht allanerlie off gryt cheir, guyd intertenement, bot als in setting fordwart of my estimacioune and effaris, quhilk I haiwe and beir guyd wyll to acquyit quhill God provyid I may do the samen." I hold Gold your man here till your hawks and "grew hundis" come here which I have sent for, and other things the bearer will show you. Please take the labour to have me most heartily recommended to my lady, her daughter and Sir Rolland with the rest of our good company. Newcastle. Signed: Your most luffing frend and prisoner Huntly.

1 p. Addressed: "To the rycht wirschipfull and my luffing frend Schir Ralf Fayne knycht." Indorsed: ". . . Therle of Huntley to Sir Rafe Vane."

199. Sir John Luttrell to Somerset. [March 21.]

On the 19^th I wrote declaring to your grace I had taken charge of the new fort, and now at Sir Thomas Palmer's departing, have entered on the same, and I trust to give a good account of the charge, if famine do not hurt us more than fear of other attempts. The King's new fort beside Broughty. Signed: John Luttrell.

½ p. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed.

200. Sir Andrew Dudley to Somerset. [March 21.]

The new fort on the hill against Broughty groweth in good strength, as Sir Thomas Palmer the bearer will inform your grace: trusting in God that Sir John Luttrell and I shall give the King a good account of both forts. I humbly desire your favour for M^r John Rosset the Italian; by Sir Thomas Palmer's and my advice he has taken charge of the ordnance, bearing the name of Master of Ordnance —desiring your grace to continue the same to him, "the which he rejoyceth not lytle in." Broughty Crag. Signed: Andrew Duddeley.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed.

201. Patrick lord Gray to Somerset. [March 22.]

I hear there is a cruel report made to your grace, that I have not furthered the King's affairs and your service, nor aided the King's servants here. I pray it may be tried both by Sir Andrew Dudley and Master Wyndam, and if any fault be found in me, I am content of your grace's correction. "Suthly," I have served the King and your grace with "als fervent luif as it were to my awyn hort." If I had not stood their friend "that is heir," there had been little known —but I desire no praise, and would every man did the like.

After the departing of my friend and servant Alexander Whytlaw, Argyll came with 7000 men to S^t Johnston, to destroy me and my friends; I consulted with Dudley and Wyndam, who both thought we could not resist with our small force and open town, and it was thought needfull to save the country "be sum way"; which I could only do by appointing with the Earl, as the captain advised. When Whytlaw came home, often in danger of his life for advertising the castle, I laboured under your grace's directions by him, to draw the Earl "to your graces effect which is procedyt, as your graces knawis, which lay in no other manis power." Whytlaw told me your grace had ordained 20s. sterling to me in the day, and 300 horsemen in wages, but I have got nothing but 1000l. for my house, by Sir Andrew Dudley, and I would not have taken 5000l., unless it had been to further the King's godly purpose. I would your grace knew that I have been the instrument of all that has been done in this country: and if I had been the King's enemy, none durst have shown him friendship. "I suspect that I do the servyce and otheris gettis the thankis." I refer all the premisses to your grace's consideration, and desire your pleasure. Dundee. Signed: Patryk lord Gray.

Please your grace remember my friends in France, "at ane pour poynt."

1½ pp. Written by Whytlaw. Addressed. Indorsed.

202. Alexander Whytlaw to Somerset. [March 22.]

My lord has written to your grace of the evil report against him, and desires to have it tried. I know he did nothing but by the captain's advice, and had it been done otherwise, the country would have been destroyed, and the King's service more hindered than furthered. If I knew my lord otherwise than minded to serve the King, I should advertise your grace. For news, I refer to Sir Andrew Dudley, whom I advertise of all things. Dundee "the xxij of Merche instant." Signed: Alex^r Whytlaw.

The Earl of Argyll "is heichly suspectit wytht the Quene and Governour." I shall advertise your grace what proceeds from time to time.

¾ p. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed: "xxiij° Marcii 1548. . . ."

203. Sir John Luttrell to Grey of Wilton. [March 22. 1547–48. ]

Since coming here, I well know Lord Gray's honourable doings in the King's service—so apparent, that his life and inheritance is in danger of the Governor, and he has spent so much of his own, that if not recompensed, it will discourage all others. If he had 300 light horse in pay, I believe Angus must become the King's, as they might be daily burned by lord Gray, me, and M^r Dudley—and if they joined us, they could defend the passage of S^t Johnstons, whose bridge we might break and burn the town. And Fife must be half rendered, having frontier wars on both sides, Angus on one, Lothian on the other: and if Argyle be entertained, how could the Governor abide? I hope this be revealed to the Council with good success. The new fort beside Borthy. Signed: John Luttrell.

If Lord Gray's service has been hidden, some are much to blame.

1½ pp. Holograph. Addressed (To Grey of Wilton as lord lieutenant of "Bullyn and Bullynoys" and all the King's frontiers and garrisons in the north). Indorsed.

204. Sir Robert Bowes to Grey of Wilton. [ March 22. 1547–48.]

I am already here, and find it very hard to get any number of carriage horses among the Scots, and very small and weak beasts. I have appointed the carriages, &c. to lie at Kelso to-night, and to-morrow 23^d at break of day to set forward to Lauder, for the way is so "deip and dangerous" that the guides dare not undertake it by night. I hear the Governor with 300 or 400 men is at Edinburgh, and "brwted to come to Peibles." Angus and George Douglas with like force are at Dalkeith. "Some say they be at discorde, outher say that they intend to joyne against us." The Master of Maxwell, Drumlanrig and Buccleuch with others of the west are assembled in force, but their object is unknown. Lord Wharton at my request, "pretendeth a contenance" to invade, to keep them from drawing towards us. I wrote to-day to George Douglas to meet me at Lauder on Saturday morning next and shall deal gently with him for intelligence, and advancing the King's service at Yester, &c.

M^r Dudley captain of Hume and M^r Pellame were here yesterday and reported that the late lieutenant of the Spaniards and the "Ytalione" that your lordship appointed to be sent to Hume, while conveyed thither by the constables between the towns of Fenton and Foorde, escaped how I know not, and are fled into Scotland. At my request they are to write and send their report this morning which I shall forward to you. I have also written to Sir Thomas Gray and Henry Eure, to make all inquiry before my return, and keep those culpable in safeguard to answer. Roxburgh. Signed: Robert Bowis.

Postscript: I enclose herein a letter of Ninian Cockburn to my lord Protector, and as no captain is yet appointed for the new fort to be made at Lauder, I think your servant M^r Twtie would diligently serve the same.

2¼ pp. Addressed. Indorsed.

205. The Queen Dowager to Patrick Lord Gray. [March 23. Eg. MSS. 1818, fol. 2.]

Acknowledging to have received him into her service, as he has given his band and letter of manrent to serve the Queen her daughter, and herself, "leillyle" and truly against all enemies, and binding herself in return to pay him from her "coffres" 500 marks Scots yearly during his good service, or till she provides any friend he pleases in "ane benefice or pention of ane thousand mark." Dunbarton. Signed: Marie R.

Broad sheet. Indorsed. Wafer signet: Scotland impaling Lorraine.

206. Petition of James Skea to Somerset. [ March . 1547–48.]

James Skea born in Orkney, who about Christmas last came from Edinburgh to England and has since remained "for feare of burnyng for the word of God," being thus cut off from his living, prays for charity, either to be admitted to the lord Protector's service, or for some living; being ready and willing to show all the use, fashion and order of his country as may be most profitable to England, now in the time of these wars. No signature.

½ p. Broad sheet. In a fair official hand. Addressed at head (to Somerset). Indorsed.

207. Petition of Henry Durham to Somerset.[ March .]

Your grace's servant and orator, Master Henry Durham Scottishman, for the favour I bare to the true setting forth and knowledge of the Gospel, and to the King of England, am exiled not only from my native country, wife, children, friends, inheritance, &c., but of late days, being captain of Broughty Castle, and lessee for life from Lord Gray of the fort and fishings, worth yearly to me 100 marks sterling, over and above the rent of 50 marks sterling paid to his lordship: also lessee of M^r John Leslye brother to the Earl of Rothes, yearly worth 50l. sterling to me, beside 25l. yearly paid to said John Leslye: also a "ferm" of the Laird of Basse worth yearly to me above the rent, 20l. sterling, also the office of the great custom of Dundee, with not a little profit: have surrendered said castle to the King and lost the above revenues, &c., as my lord Clynton and Sir Andrew Dudley will testify, hoping to receive recompence of the King. I earnestly beseech your grace to accept me as the King's and your servant with some competent living for my encouragement, which if not obtained, will not only discourage others from serving the King, and occasion the enemy to rejoice "at my evyll furtheraunce and decaye." Desiring your grace to remember that ye sent me word by Lord Clynton, Sir Andrew Dudley, "and my brother Doctour Durhame" that if I surrendered the castle of Broughty, I should be no loser. Besides I delivered to Lord Clynton 8 last of salmon, and to Sir Andrew Dudley for the King's house 1 last. Not signed.

2 pp. Holograph (?) No address. Indorsed (by Thynne).

208. Whytlaw to Somerset. [March . 1547–48. ]

These are to certify your grace that I have advertised Sir Andrew Dudley at length of all purposes, "so far as God has gyffin me grace to knawleg," and shall not fail in the like at all times, "that he may advertys your grace in wryt, becaus I knaw nocht the rycht fascheon to wryt en to your grace." My lord has written a short letter to your grace, referring the rest to Sir Andrew: "for suirly, my lord standis in gret danger and his frendis at this tym." It may please your grace to advertise me what you would I did— which I shall do diligently and truly "so far as God shall gyff me grace" for I think my lord and his friends "wyll do sum part of my consall."

I think to get Robert Gray my lord's brother, to do your grace some good service; for he is well minded to it. In next writing your grace shall hear who are your friends, and what each man's part is, after I have spoken with them. Signed: Alex^r Whytlaw.

1 p. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed. No date.

209. Cardinal Alessandro Farnese to the Queen of Scots. [March 26. 1548. Add. MSS. 33, 531, fol. 17.]

That on learning the pleasure of her most Serene Majesty, as to the churches of Dunkeld and Glasgow, from her letters and those of the Protector of her realm, he applied himself with all authority and favour he had with his Holiness, to obtain the appointment of those named by them: but though his Holiness was greatly inclined thereto, yet, from the keen controversies and disputes between the parties, and for other reasons not to be despised, as her Majesty shall clearly perceive by his Holiness's copious letters and the speech of his nuncio, he cannot grant her prayer, seeing if these sees were granted to others than he has designed, there would be no end of strife, to the great disturbance of her realm, whose tranquillity and safety is the chief care of the Holy See. He begs of her Majesty and the prince that the Pope's decision be taken in good part, and approved by them, which will be most pleasing to his Holiness,—Rome, 26^th March 1548. Signed: Humilis servitor A. Cardinal de Farnesio.

1¼ pp. Latin. Addressed: "Serenissimæ Scotorum Reginæ ac" [blank]. Indorsed (by Hay). Trace of seal.

210. Grey of Wilton to Somerset. [March 27.]

Your grace may please remember the return of the letters in cipher brought from Scotland by the Frenchman. As for M^r Gamboa's complaint of my evil welcoming the Spaniards in the North, I would have called him to make the same when with your grace, "had not my contynuall busines with your grace lettid it." I believe the men themselves will not say more than that I restrained their accustomed robbing the King, which I shall permit to none. Gamboa may act like a Spaniard, but I having an English heart, "not dredfull of Spanysh, Italion, nor other bragges," will not take revenge after his country's manner. Signed: Wyllyam Grey.

Pardon my writing thus, but I am "kindeled" to see men making false reports. If Gamboa come down to see their usage he will find reason to recant.

2¼ pp. Addressed. Indorsed.

211. James Cockburn to Somerset. [March 27. 1548.]

The Earl Bothwell lately sent a servant to the Governor, that he "wes haldyn agane his wyll," and that I and Dawyd Fowrus persuaded him to go, and lays the whole burden on us, praying the Governor not to be extreme to him, but receive him to favour. "Giff he change purpois, mak fast. It is no merwell, quhowbeit your grace giff nocht moiche traist be daylye experiens we suld be detestyt throw the hayll warld for faythles creatures, and wers nor beistis. The moir gentylle we be handyllyt, the moir wyld be we. Quhen your grace sendis oni power in Scotland, haiff the heifft (fn. 18) and blaid in your awyn handis quhil forder occasione be seyn."Angus and George his brother are come to Temtallan for fear of the Governor, with whom George "sall" not agree: but it is said he will suffer the Earl to agree. Signed: James Cokburn off Langtown.

1 p. Holograph. Address lost. Indorsed (by Thynne).

212. Huntly to Somerset. [March 29. 1548.]

Robert Carnegy brought me this day from Scotland a letter from the Governor, which I inclose to your grace. The meeting for 10^th April is to treat of the things which by your grace's advice I commanded Robert to propone to the Council. The Bishop of Dunkeld is content to come and speak with me here, which may further the King's affairs—therefore I pray your grace send a safe conduct for him and 40 horse to pass and repass for a month. The Queen's grace our mistress has been lately sick, now "weill convalescit," and in the castle of Dunbarton with her mother. The Governor has agreed to exchange the men in the castle of S^t Andrews, with Scots prisoners conform to your desire, and has sent me commission therein as I shall show you at my coming to London: or if you send your mind to my lord Warden, I shall appoint with him. The Governor has written to the King of France to send the men taken in S^t Andrews to Rouen, to be ready for the exchange. Newcastle. Signed: Your grace humyll serwytor Huntly.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed. Wafer signed, indistinct: 4^th quarter 3 fraises. "G.H. G.H." on either side of shield, a coronet above.

Inclosed in same:—

(The Governor to Huntly.)

We received your letters "fra Robert Carnegy of Kynnard and hes hard his credit." For answer we have ordained certain of the Secret Council to convene with us on the 10^th of April, and these shall advertise you of our mind—whereof the said Robert will show you, to whom give credit. Edinburgh, 26^th March 1548. Signed: Yowr gwd frind James G.

½ p. Addressed. Indorsed.

213. Grey of Wilton to Somerset. [March 31.]

I presently received a letter from Sir Robert Bowes, saying that Sir George Douglas had written to him of his readiness to have met him at Lauther as he was required, if the journey had taken effect as he looked for. Though he committed no credence therein to Sym Penhango his man the bearer, yet the said Sym "as by comaundement," said to Sir Robert, that the Scots were assembling fast, as the Governor had told them our power was very small, and they may get good advantage of us. That his master bade him tell the Lord Warden, not to enter far into Scotland without a strong force, nor past Tyvidaile or Marshe under 3000 or 4000; for if we did, he would neither come to us nor "mell" with us, for if we were overthrown he should bear the blame. Your grace may prudently consider, "whether he is to be suspected herby, thrugh his fynenes to seke our abuse, by offeringe dowptes without cawse, or else as he wolde be taken hymself like a burnte childe to dred the fier!" For my part I expect nothing of Scotsmen except as their sincere works give occasion, and being more doubtful of Douglas, not for any frauds I have discovered in him, but from your grace's often expressed experience of his past misdoings, I note with a vigilant eye every step he takes, resolving to stay no proceedings on his "scruphelles," and trust your grace will put us in good strength by sending the demilances and the strangers especially Captain Andrea, whose worthiness in service causes me to remind your grace that I repose in him more confidence than others, and believe, except your grace, he will rather serve under me than other. On Tuesday next my lord warden is to proceed to the appointed fortifications and other things prescribed to me. Ferebrigges. Signed: Wyllyam Grey.

2¼ pp. Addressed. Indorsed.

214. Instructions by Somerset to Grey. [ March . 1548.]

As to discharging the ships; meantime to fortify Lauder [Lodar] Hume, &c.—while fortifying Haddington, to furnish it with 2 months' victuals out of the country, and as much straw as will feed 500 horses for a month. To burn as much corn and houses beyond Muskulborow water "as ye cane," during the fortification.

1 p. Holograph of Somerset.

215. Instructions by Somerset to Grey. [March .]

As to Broughty Craig—their pay, provision, &c.

The garrison for the castle and the new fort on the hill to be 300.

As to the levies on the frontiers to be ready on an hour's warning from the lord lieutenant.

[Otherwise similar to the preceding number.]

2¼ pp. Corrected draft. Indorsed: "The lorde Grayes remembrances."

216. Estimate for Lauder. [March.]

"Anne estymate what workmen and laborers with the provycyone and caryages must be hadde for Lawdar."

Carpenters, 6, "wallars," 20; labourers, 350.

For carriage of timber, tools, &c., 12 carts.

Wages for the 26 workmen at 7d. per diem for a month of 28 days, 21l. 4s. 8d. The same for 350 labourers at 6d., 245l. The carriages, 30l. Sum total 296l. 4s. 8d. It may please your lordship to remember the carpenter that came from Calais [Callys].

2 pp. Contemporary copy. Indorsed: "Labourers for Lauder."

217. Memoranda by James Henrison for Somerset. [March .]

"Certane adverteismentis whairof I wold my lordis grace schuld be informyt."

That I, his humble servant being of counsel to the service that every Scotsman pretends, and knowing their "habillyteis," I cannot think that any one will attempt service at their suits, unless garrisons were laid in Lothian. Item—as to my lord of Huntly, though he might in Scotland do more than any other, yet here least of any great man, and his "convoy" who hath been ever contrary, if it is known, shall make of friends enemies. The "sure service" he may do is to write and "ger" his friends, &c. assist Lord Gray and Sir Andrew Dudley. Item: As no Scotsman will do anything for borderers, it were best that my lord by his own accredited servant, comfort every man of ability by reward. The Queen and Governor think only to deal with France for our princess and strengths. Item—If Dundee is fortified and then lost, it shall be "ane nusum nychtbour" to Broughty crag. Item: As to Lord Bothwell, he may be got to serve for a reward after. Also the Master of Hume, and all his surname—" geif to begin, one William Wodmansye one Inglisman that is grit with my lord Hume, had his perdoun." And the surnames of Mers and Tividale for small reward would do no less than the West borderers.

Item—I would my lord's grace grant passports to 4 or 5 of my friends in Edinburgh to come by land from France, as they are against the Governor—also that he would ransom reasonably some poor merchants of same town, prisoners in Colchester now for a year, or let them go abroad there on surety not to "inchew." Though I have been wrongously reported of and prevented doing good service to the profit of this realm, yet I will serve at the borders, if I may have the deanery of Auckland [Oikland] in the bishopric of Durham to live on in heritage, till otherwise provided in Scotland, as promised for my damage and losses: whereon I will renounce it to whom my lord shall please. Signed: Jamis Henrison.

1¼ pp. No address or indorsement.