Elizabeth: September 1569

1131. Shrewsbury to Leicester and Cecil. [Sept. 3.] C.P., vol. IV.

By their letters from Basing, understands the Queen's majesty's licence for removing this Queen to his house at Sheffield, and is preparing accordingly. As his desire is to avoid any assembly or meeting at her remove, but pass quietly, he desires them in his name to assure her majesty that neither he nor his wife nor any under them, have suffered any such resort to her as has been reported, nor can any prove it. Feels by certain tokens that his gout is returning, and trusts if need be, to have their friendly aid. Wingfield. Signed: G. Shrouesbury.

1 p. Addressed (to Leicester and Cecil). Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk).

1132. Murray to Elizabeth. [Sept. 5.]

I have received of late three letters of your highness: one by my servant Alexander Hume, the next by one Maister Thomas Flemyng, and the third by my lord Governor of Berwick, for deferring the execution of one Paris a Frenchman. All I have well considered: and concerning answer of the articles brought by Wood, by advice of the king's council "is deliberat" to send to your highness with all speed, Robert, commendator of Dunfermling, instructed to confer on the matters in your highness's letter and the three heads of consultation brought by Wood. For the present, seeing your highness requires speed: the information brought by the said M^r Thomas that I prepare any force for the west, is void of all truth, for I only came to Stirling to see the king and await my servant Hume with your majesty's message—nor is there any other besieging of Dunbarton than a very mean number of soldiers to resist their daily depredations of the poor country people. According to your highness's requisition, I have suffered Fleming to return, though his behaviour merited less favour, and have sent my answer to your majesty by my lord Governor of Berwick, and the ordinary post, rather than by him. As to Paris the Frenchman, partaker with Bothwell in the king's murder: he arrived at Leith about the "middis" of June last, I being then in the north parts far distant. Whereupon at my return after large time spent in his examination, upon 16^th August last he suffered death by order of law, 17 or 18 days before receipt of your highness's letters, which otherwise should have been most willingly obeyed, for its "sa gude reasoun." But I trust his testimony left shall not seem doubtful neither to you nor to those who by nature has greatest cause to desire condign punishment. Praying your majesty for letters of safe conduct for the said commendator and 12 companions to come to your presence and return at pleasure for 40 days, to be sent to me by means of the Governor of Berwick. Stirling. Signed: James Stewart.

2¼ pp. Addressed. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk). Wafer signet (as before).

1133. Murray to Cecil. [Sept. 5.]

By two of your letters received of late, I understand her majesty's mislike of my answer to her by Alexander Hume, and am "hartely sory": reposing as I do on her highness's favour. To let her well understand, I mean with all speed to send to her a personage of reputation and experience to confer, as she requires, and refer you to my letter to her highness's self—craving expedition of the conduct for my lord of Dunfermline. You wrote of Lethington that I do not use him as I have done: "the fault thairof as God knawis, was nevir in me." But since my coming here there was a public accusation of him and Sir James Balfour that they were of "the counsell foirknawlege and devise" of the late king's murder, and on the accuser's petition (a servant to Lennox) they were put in surety till due trial. I forbear to say more, as by my lord of Dunfermling "ye may mair amply understand the inward of my mynd." Thanking you for your admonition not to hazard losing her majesty's good opinion, I will always accept what she pleases to write, with that reverence whereto I am obliged. Stirling. Signed: James Regent.

1¼ pp. Addressed. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk).

1134. Hunsdon to Cecil. Elizabeth. [Sept. 8. 1569.]

This packet sent you, came to me this morning with a letter from the Regent, whereby I find my advertisement of Lethington is true. James "Bawfurd" (fn. 1) was taken out of Fife with certain horsemen and harquebusiers. They are accused by one "Craforde" a servant of Lennox, as consenting, aiding and devising the murder of Lord "Derle": and I think Parrys lately executed, affirmed no less. I hear Atholl is also in his house on "band." Craforde's accusation may be partly cause of their imprisonment, but surely the principal is a convention lately at Atholl, practising some matters for the Scottish Queen. Alnwick. Signed: H. Hunsdon.

¾ p. Holograph. No flyleaf or address.

1135. Sussex to [Cecil]. [Sept. 11.] Cott. Calig. C.I., fol. 443.

By your letters of 6^th received yesterday, I perceive you have heard that I have been no small worker in the matter of the Scottish Queen's marriage; "and yet you assured yourself that my entent was honorable and loyall, as you have fownd my lord of Norfolkes to be sens he made you pryve to the matter. And in thend you requyer me ether to deale playnly with you, or not to deale at all: for yf I showld varrye with you, the hurte myght be youres, but the dyshonor showld be myne." I thank you most heartily for your good opinion of my intent, and will give you no cause to remove from it.

My lord of Norfolk, as I wrote in my last, sent me word by Cantrell (since I came from Berwick) that the Earls of Arundel, Pembroke and Leicester had earnestly moved him to marry the Scottish Queen; wherein he required my advice as a friend whom he trusted. I answered I would give no advice until I first knew how the Queen's majesty liked it. Thereon I still depend, and if any person has said otherwise of me, or that I knew thereof sooner, or know more than I write to you, I say in plain terms, he has said untruly. I am glad you find Norfolk's extent (since he made you privy) to be honourable and loyal, and trust he will not digress, and truly I know no more than I have written. If the Queen's majesty had married with the Archduke Charles, wherein you write she now utters her disposition, it had been the best way for her surety; but the matter has been so handled as on one side it is desperate that she will bonâ fide intend marriage, and on the other side doubtful whether, after the hard dealing past, they will be induced to any further talk. God work in her heart for the best.

I have written plainly, I do write plainly, and I will write plainly to you, so as by my dealing you shall take no hurt nor I dishonour: and I will not vary, for with my prince and my friend I deal bonâ fide and know no cunning. My conscience shall be at God's direction, my heart and hand at the Queen's commandment, and all I may do with duty and honesty, at my friend's devotion. Cawood. Signed: T. Sussex.

2 pp. Holograph. No flyleaf or address.

1136. Shrewsbury to Cecil. Elizabeth. [Sept. 12. 1569.] C.P., vol. IV.

Having occasion to send my servant thither, I only move you to have me in remembrance to her majesty for a further sum of money for this Queen's diet in time, the last being already expended, and a good part of my own revenue therewith. Touching health: by the "ache" of my joints, I fear my old grief of the gout, against which as I must apply care, so my very trust is in your friendship, when I shall desire it. Wingfield. Signed: G. Shrouesbury.

¾ p. Addressed. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk).

1137. Elizabeth to Huntingdon, Shrewsbury etc. [Sept. 12.] C.P., vol. IV.

Having certain matters of importance to impart, sends her servant the bearer Henry Skypwith esquire, one of her equerries, to declare these with full credit, renewing to Shrewsbury her former commands and instructions as to his charge.

1 p. Draft by Cecil. Indorsed (by his clerk): "12 September 1569. M. of the Q. majesties 3 lettres to the Earls of Salop, Huntington and Viscount Hereford, sent by M^r Skipwith the equyry."

1138. John Bateman to Cecil. [Sept. 15.]

Here is great care and pensiveness taken for Lethington, being as it is informed, in great peril, and most earnest desires and wishes made that ye will stand his good friend in this his extremity. I am thus bold, being moved by those that "singlerly" trust to you. Wingfeld. Signed: John Bateman.

½ p. Holograph, also address. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk).

1139. Bishop of Ross to Cecil. [Sept. 15.] C.P., vol. IV.

Master Thomas Flemyng arrived here this Wednesday, (fn. 2) whom I send to you to declare his proceedings in Scotland—with Murray's answer to the Queen's majesty's letter—as also to her majesty's self, if it be her pleasure to hear him. I understand her desire as to Dunbarton is not obeyed, but rather more vehement pursuit used; wherefore my mistress has commanded me to repair to your sovereign for her resolution conform to her appointment made at "Fernhame" to abide only 20 days, now past—and what relief she and her subjects may look for, seeing this summer is almost past without any comfort to them? And I hear by the bearer, that Murray has invented new occasion of delay by sending one from Scotland, which I hope her majesty will not accept for a sufficient answer from them, so prejudicial to my mistress's causes—and it is time for her to advertise other princes, her friends and confederates of her proceedings here. I pray your honour move her majesty to appoint me audience and advertise me thereof. London. Signed: Jo. Rossen.

1 p. Written and addressed by his clerk. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk): " . . . By M^r Fleming."

1140. Shrewsbury to Cecil. Elizabeth. [Sept. 18. 1569.] C.P., vol. IV.

By the Queen's majesty's letters and credit to M^r Skipwith, I see her pleasure for this Queen's safe keeping, wherein I shall have the assistance of the Earl of Huntingdon and Viscount Hereford to resist any attempt for escape. Having declared by my humble answer my obedience, my suit by you is for her authority to levy men etc. as needful: praying credit for the bearer my servant Nicholas Browne. Would that my body were fit to serve, but for want of rest, I hourly feel danger to my life by "relaps," notwithstanding all counsel of physic in this "my restles charg." Wherefore I give you foreknowledge, that I may have your help for my release. Wingfield. Signed: G. Shrouesbury.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk).

1141. Shrewsbury to Elizabeth. [Sept. 19.] C.P., vol. IV.

Acknowledging receipt of her letters and commands by M^r Skipwith, which he will obey to the uttermost of his power. Praying sufficient authority to carry them into effect: and will execute them as far as the weakness of his "paynfull bodie" will suffer—which is in extreme danger by lack of rest. Begs speedy consideration of this great charge. Wingfield. Signed: G. Shrouesbury.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk). Wafer signet: talbot and garter (good).

1142. Maitland to Mary. [Sept. 20.] C.P., vol. IV.

Murray, (fn. 3) so far as I can learn, assures himself the Queen (fn. 4) will never support you, nor digest that you marry Norfolk. This feeds his humour and makes him more obstinate. All contrary advertisements and "terrours" he esteems but wind. Yet I assure myself, if he thought you in earnest, he would yield; if he saw you remove northward to the New Castle "he wald put water in his wyne." If the Queen let you come, and will assist with some force, I think ye shall not see a man here "yn your contrar, at least nane that is able to cast the ballance." If she but feeds you with words, and drives time to see how things go in other countries, my opinion is you solicit that Sir Nicolas Throkmorton may be sent with the Queen's commission, not only to Murray but the whole nobility. She has a good ground for this, for at the convention at S^t Johnston, when her instructions by Wood were opened, it was marvelled why she sent not one of her own, if she minded to accord the matter. Besides, Murray "wesshis at al tymes" his own hands of it, and lays the burden on the nobility. If one of her own came, "it may be other langage wilbe holden then yit hes bene." I know Sir Nicolas is a wise man and your friend, and has credit with many here. "Atour," if the nobility assemble, I dare undertake a few factious men shall not overthrow good matters. It were necessary I knew of his coming beforehand, to write to my friends, that so many assemble, as there shall be free speech. If the Queen will help your cause, even at small charge, there will be no contradiction—if not, and she entertain both sides, there is a remedy, if men see it is but vain to trust to her, and reform what is amiss. There are enough that have will and force to do it: but building on two foundations will never help us. What Sir Nicolas will say will be taken here for the mind of the English nobility, and most of ours will be brought to it. I have of late dealt with divers ministers, who will not be repugnant to good accord: "howsoevir I think Nox [sic] be inflexible." Grange, who can do much by "this castel," bears you as good will as any subject you have. He will ever press to dress good ways for Murray, who must be rather drawn on by necessity, when he is in a strait, than he will yield before he sees danger. Meantime find the means to keep him on the Borders: and if the opposite wardens drive time, matters will frame better in the "in country." I had no leisure to write to Norfolk (fn. 5) hereon: so please your majesty impart this my letter. I did not plainly tell the bearer I would write to you, only to Norfolk in his and Alexander Clarke's favour. Please show them favour as I promised to Grange their friend. Ye know the bearer is S^t Colme's brother your affectionate servant: and though you esteemed Clarke "ane onfreind," he is not now so; "Tyme alteris wonderfully mens myndes." Robert Mailvile marvels ye write nothing to him this long time: on my faith ye have not a trustier servant, or that has more ill will of your unfriends, yet never ceases to do good offices for you. From the Castle of Edinburgh.

2 pp. Cipher.

(2) Decipher of same.

2¾ pp. Written by Cecil's clerk. Indorsed (partly by Cecil).

1143. Lords Huntingdon and Hereford to Cecil. [Sept. 21.] C.P., vol. IV.

Though M^r Skypwyth can tell you how my lord Shrewsbury sent for us, we thought good to give you the particulars.

First, my lord imparted to us, that while he thought convenient to remove the Queen of Scots, he now utterly misliked Sheffield—partly as she wished to go, partly as he likes not this country, and that "worsse," and chiefly as farthest from us—and concluded as for the best, to go to Tutbury, whither she goes this day and we in company, as he earnestly required. We came hither on Monday night (fn. 6); and yesternight "at evenyng prayer" we saw her, and not before. The sum of her talk with us (as my lord also heard) was our sovereign's unkind and strait dealing, to whom she committed herself, hoping for aid, but was now in utter despair of going home: "for (to use hyr aune tearme) she sayd Tytteburye was fromwarde hyr heame. 'But,' saythe she, 'yf my gude syster wylle doo nothyng for me, then I wylle trye what other prynces wylle doo for me.'" You can better judge than we, of what force it is. She greatly desired to send up one of her own with letters, and used many devices—but my lord denied it, and so we advised him to do, till he heard further. We offered to carry her letters, but she declined with thanks. Wingfield. Signed: H. Huntyndon, W. Hereforde.

2 pp. Holograph of Huntingdon, also address. Indorsed.

1144. Shrewsbury to Cecil. Elizabeth. [Sept. 22. 1569.] C.P., vol. IV.

[Reporting his conference with Lords Huntingdon and Hereford, and their joint decision.] This Queen arrived here yesternight, accompanied by the said lords and myself. I was moved to this by the weakness of Sheffield, in respect of this castle (though also not strong), and their near assistance if needed. She showed herself at first unwilling, though she came quietly to outward appearance, without uttering any "undecent wordes." She had some talk with Huntingdon, whereof I doubt not he has written, as he made me privy. Tutbury. Signed: G. Shrouesbury.

On slip attached: Postcript: I have stayed all commissions for sending her letters anywhere till I know the Queen's majesty's pleasure.

1¼ pp. Addressed. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk).

1145. Bishop of Ross to Cecil. [Sept. 23.] C.P., vol. IV.

The Queen my mistress has advertised me of her letters to the Queen's majesty by M^r Skipwith, desiring audience for me; and as commanded, I came this Thursday (fn. 7) to Windsour, where I attend her majesty's pleasure. Praying you to move her majesty to hear me, as her leisure may spare: "and the sonar wilbe the more acceptable—quhairof it will pleis your honour advertis me with this berar." Windsor. This Friday. Signed: Jo. Rossen.

¾ p. Holograph, also address. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk).

1146. Huntingdon to Cecil. [Sept. 24.] C.P., vol. IV.

Yesternight at Leaster [Leicester] I received her majesty's and your letters sent by Lord Shrewsbury's servant, and this day I came hither, and find that my lord has "cut of" most of this Queen's train, and she now has but 40, as he tells me. For her safe keeping: as he is as able by himself, as with me and but my 2 men, for want of lodging: so I do go to my house of Ashbey, (fn. 8) but 8 miles hence, so we may hear every hour from each other, and I can do as good service as here. I pray I may know her majesty's pleasure speedily herein, as I do it for the best. Tutbury. Signed: H. Huntyngdon.

1 p. Holograph, also address. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk).

1147. Elizabeth to Shrewsbury, Huntingdon and Hereford. [Sept. 25.] C.P., vol. IV.

Since our last, we have cause to reiterate our former charge; for the Duke of Norfolk, who was named to marry the Queen of Scots, lately departed our Court to London on pretence of private business: writing on 22^d instant he would return in 4 days; yet beyond expectation, next day left London for Keninghale, whence he wrote on 24^th he doubts our displeasure, yet asserts his loyalty. Wherefore trusting in you three, we require you to have your friends ready against any attempt to "recover" the Queen of Scots "awey," employing none corrupted by her faction. You shall jointly arrange to be in her company, and as we much doubt some of your (Shrewsbury's) servants are corrupted by her or her faction, we will that they are removed, and others of yours (Huntingdon) placed there. Also that the multitude of her servants be removed, leaving only a competent number for her chamber, and to dress and serve her meat—not allowing her to go out of the castle, or receive any messages, till our further pleasure—yet all with good speeches to her, as we know you can, and that this change is caused by herself, till we know the truth.

If you thought a search in her own or her servants' coffers might reveal writings meet to be known to us, we fully warrant you to make such and advertise us.

3 pp. Draft by Cecil. Indorsed (by his clerk).

1148. Shrewsbury to Elizabeth. [Sept. 25.] C.P., vol. IV.

Expressing his thanks for her command that Lord Huntingdon be joined with him during his weakness—but as he is now well recovered, and as able to serve her as ever, prays that she will graciously continue him in his charge. Tutbury. Signed: G. Shrouesbury.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk).

1149. Shrewsbury to Cecil. [Sept. 25.] C.P., vol. IV.

Referring to his letter to her majesty, and seeing that he is now recovered and as strong and healthful as ever, entreats that he will move her still to use his services in the great trust, without Huntingdon being joined to him; which would be as great a discredit and dishonour as could chance to him. Has reduced the Queen of Scots' number to 30 persons besides women—removed all suspected, and ordered that none shall be received in towns etc. about, or leave them without his knowledge. Tutbury. Signed: G. Shrouesbury.

prays credit for the bearer his servant Browne.

1½ pp. Addressed. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk).

1150. John Bateman to Cecil. [Sept. 26.] C.P., vol. IV.

Though at M^r Skipwith's departure there was some peril of relapse feared of my lord, yet as he immediately well recovered by "due evacuation and order of phisick," he is now as well and able for his charge as ever. In the physician's opinion, there is no doubt of his former "grief" before next spring. Yet he is in some discomfort and perplexity at the thought of being removed as unwilling or unfit to serve her majesty. He has increased the number of his own servants and reduced that of this Queen's. He wishes it would please her majesty to send some trusty gentleman (as M^r Skipwith) to remain about him. I dare not presume to mention how sorrowfully this Queen takes the matter of her cause. Tutbury. Signed: John Bateman.

1 p. Holograph, also address. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk).

1151. Elizabeth to Shrewsbury. Elizabeth. [Sept. 26. 1569] C.P., vol. IV.

Seeing by his letter of 25^th brought by his servant "who caried our late lettres from the Vyne," that he desires to be in charge alone: assures him that no manner of doubt of his fidelity or diligence moved her to give him assistance, but only his sickness—and though glad to perceive it does not now hinder his service, yet thinks it better in its uncertainty, to provide for surety, but has no meaning to discredit him by joining a nobleman his neighbour to assist him. She is more moved thereto, by the sudden departure of the Duke of Norfolk from London without her knowledge; from whom till she hears somewhat, as matters have been "sinisterly handeled," she has good cause to see to the safety of his charge. Windsor.

1 p. Draft by Cecil's clerk. Indorsed (by him): " . . . Sent from Windsor by M^r Nich. Brown."

1152. Shrewsbury and others to the Council of the North. [Sept. 27.] C.P., vol. IV.

Having lately received her majesty's direction to have good regard to the Scottish Queen: as it seems by her majesty's letters that "something hathe bene purpossed by some towching" her, and her majesty is doubtful how they mind to proceed: we are desirous to understand from your lordship and the rest, the state of the countries under your charge, trusting for answer by the bringer. Tutbury Castle. Shrowysbury, H. Huntington, Hereforde.

¾ p. Copy by Bateman. Marginal note by Shrewsbury.

1153. Shrewsbury and Huntingdon to Cecil. [Sept. 29.] C.P., vol. IV.

The bearer Archbald Stuert, came hither desiring to speak with the Queen of Scots. He had no letters but those we send in a packet under our seals, for you to peruse and do as thought good. He spoke with her "for his owne causes," we being both present to hear what he said. Tutbury Castle. Signed: G. Shrouesbury, H. Huntyngdon.

½ p. Addressed. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk).

1154. Shrewsbury and Huntingdon to Cecil. [Sept. 29.] C.P., vol. IV.

Since writing our other letter which "this berer" brings, we have had much to do with this Queen as to her attendants; and have driven it to the number of 42 persons, which she says cannot be lessened, and further trusts the Queen's majesty doth mind she may be used as a prince and not as a common person. She says also she can send none of them into Scotland, except she would send them to be hanged: but if the Queen will imprison them, her will be done—for says she 'Nowe my self am a prisoner, my folkes may be prisoners also'—and many such speeches. When we consider the persons and their places, we cannot well see how to diminish the number, and send you the copy, staying till we hear again from you. Tutbury Castle. Signed: G. Shrouesbury, H. Huntyngdon.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk).

1155. Shrewsbury to Cecil. Elizabeth. [Sept. 29.] C.P., vol. IV.

The Queen's majesty's letter of 26^th was greatly to my comfort: and I will answer her good opinion with shedding of my blood, "when occasyon requere." No servant or friend moved me, as she thinks, but it came wholly of myself. But now, in this doubtful time, I am right glad of the assistance of any her majesty pleases. I have removed all persons in whom I find any cause of suspicion. Tutbury Castle, Michaelmas day. Signed: G. Shrouesbury. Credit the bearer Jhone Ryston, whom I well trust.

1 p. Holograph, also address. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk).

1156. Examination of the Earl of Arundel. [Sept. 29.] C.P., vol. IV.

On margin:—Lord Keeper of Great Seal; Marquis of Northampton; Lord Chamberlain; the Secretary.

The Earl says that before the Queen was at Greenwich last, ho never heard of intent of marriage betwixt the Queen of Scots and the Duke of Norfolk, and heard of the Duke there were that liked it, which were great both with her majesty and that Queen. Never dealt otherwise in it, but thought if well considered, it might be to the weal of the Queen and the realm.

(2) Never allowed it should be opened to the Queen of Scots before being declared to the Queen's majesty, for he never heard of such practise.

(3) He never saw nor heard of any letters from or to the Queen of Scots thereon.

(4) Nor of any money given or sent to her or hers.

(5) Nor ever advised the Duke to depart from court, or to persist in the matter without her majesty's consent.

[Some question omitted.] He answers that if M^r West has reported anything of him, and will deny it, he is satisfied. But M^r West being asked if he ever reported to her majesty or her council, anything to touch the Earl with treason, denied any such report to any person living, or knowledge of such.

"Secondly:"—M^r West being asked whether he said he was willed by the Queen's majesty to repair to Sussex to inquire of the Earl's proceedings? says he never so reported or used the Queen's name; but being asked by the Earl if he so inquired privately, answered that thereto he was not presently to answer. Whereon the Earl said that when West would answer therein, he also would show those of whom he had the report mentioned in his letters.

He never had any message of importance from the Spanish ambassador, but such as he had written to M^r Secretary this last summer, when the ambassador's servant said he had dealt therein with my lord of Leicester at London.

He never dealt with the French ambassador on any matter of importance.

1¼ pp. Draft by Cecil. Indorsed (by him).

(2) Another copy of same.

1¼ pp. Written by Cecil's clerk. Indorsed (by Cecil): ". . . Erle of Arundells first examina."

1157. Murray to [Cecil]. Elizabeth. [Sept. end of. 1569.]

Requesting him to procure sharp commandment to Sir John Forster to answer grievous complaints of Scottish subjects against Englishmen of the West March who go through Sir John's charge, committing divers enormities and spoils, not yet redressed. [Kelso.] Signed: James Regent.

½ p. No flyleaf or address.