Elizabeth: October 1569

1158. Mary to Elizabeth. [Oct. 1.] Cott. Calig. C.I., fol. 444. App. I., No. 19.

Seeing the suspicion of me, the sudden change of my guards and treatment of my servants, when I looked for very different usage after my trust in you—left with but 20 attendants, my poor women driven away without money or shelter, far from their country— I feel this harder than I could have believed, being without news of Scotland or France—forbidden to go out and intruded on in my chamber with pistolets and arms in fear of my life! My coffers, my people, searched and nothing found to injure you, and looking for yet worse treatment: I make these last requests to you—1^st, to give me an interview to satisfy you; 2^nd, to send me back to my country with your help, or to France, or at least, to communicate with the bishop of Ross on my affairs and reply by letter or message; and 3^rd, if you will keep me prisoner, put me to ransom and not let me waste away in tears and vain regrets—or place me in the hands of some keeper not suspected by my friends. From my prison at Tutbury. Signed: Marie R.

1 p. French. Holograph.

1159. Huntingdon to Cecil. [Oct. 3.] C.P., vol. IV.

Because this bearer may bring me something from you, I am bold to trouble you: hoping that this day or tomorrow we shall hear from you—when as you know, if "the D." [Norfolk] come to Court (as I hear he does) I am in hope my abode here shall not be long. Tutbury Castle. Signed: H. Huntyngdon.

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

1160. Murray's instructions to the Commendator of Dunfermline. [Oct. 5.] Cott. Calig. C.I. fol. 445.

Sent in embassy to the Queen of England from Kelso.

First: to do all to satisfy the Queen's discontent with the Regent's answer sent by his servant Hume. (Second to sixth): to declare the insuperable objections against her proposal that the Queen and her son should jointly rule—which moved them against sending any commissioners to confer thereon—relating also Mary's violation or evasion of her promise at Stirling before her marriage to the king's father, in presence of 22 of the chief nobles, that she would establish true religion and abolish papistry: but on performance thereof being craved of her in parliament by Sir Walter Ker of Cesfurd, Sir John Stewart of Tracquair, Sir Andrew Murray of Balward, and Maisters George Buquhanan, John Row and George Hay directed from the kirk, she partly denied and partly frustrated her promise—meantime trafficking with the Pope's nuncio in Paris to set up the papal religion. Also to remind Elizabeth of the "mynt" Mary made to the crown of England, her arms etc.—the utter impossibility of obtaining any surety for her promises—requesting her detention either in England or Scotland, as Elizabeth pleases, and repeating the charge of her being accessory to her husband's murder, and describing the documents produced to prove the same—eight letters in French of her own hand written to Bothwell [with a list of other documents touching her demission, divorce of Bothwell, marriage, etc.] Copies of all which were delivered to M^r Secretary, and remain with him. Finally expressing great wonder ("admiration") at some words in the Queen's majesty's letter of 20^th August last, showing her displeasure with his delay and pursuing Mary's adherents etc.—giving Murray's contrary statement, that he is not in mora, and her majesty must explain her meaning.

14 pp. In a Scottish hand. Not indorsed.

1161 Murray to Elizabeth. [Oct. 5.]

Being at Kelso when your highness's safe conduct came for my lord of Dunfermling, I sent for him, and he being ready has addressed himself to your majesty so soon as possible. Trusting your majesty will give him favourable audience and firm credit according to that trust the noblemen have reposed in him. Kelso. Signed: James Stewart.

⅓ p. Addressed. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk): " . . . By the L. of Dunfermling." Wafer signet (as before).

1162. Murray to Cecil. [Oct. 5.]

Requesting credit for the Lord of Dunfermling as for himself. Also desiring that when Dand Ker called of Sheilstokbrayes, a notorious trespasser now in prison at Berwick, has satisfied for his offences there, he may be delivered to him or his officers to answer for others done on this Border. Kelso. Signed: James Regent.

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

1163. Questions on disposal of the Queen of Scots. [Oct. 6.] Cott. Calig. C.I., fol. 458.

Memoranda on the dangers and commodities (1) of her being kept in England and (2) if she return to Scotland, and as to the number and rank of the hostages to be delivered for her safety in the latter case.

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

1164 Cecil to Elizabeth. [Oct. 6.] Cott. Calig. C.I., fol. 456.

Many causes move me rather with this short wr[iting] to deliver my mind to your majesty "than by oppen speche befoir your counsell." No true councillor can be without inward grief to see this unfortunate case of the Queen of Scots, become so "troobloose" to you. But it is their part either to diminish your grief without peril, or show that the causes appear greater than they are. Under your favour, I am bold to show my opinion thus:—The Queen of Scots is and shall always be a dangerous person to your estate: yet there are degrees of danger. If you would marry, it should be less; whilst you do not, it will increase. If her person be "restrayned" here or in Scotland, it will be less; if at liberty, greater. If by law she cannot marry while Bothwell lives, the peril is less; if free to marry, the greater. If found guilty of her husband's murder, she shall be less "a person perillooss"; if passed over in silence, "the skarr of the m[urder] will weare out, and the danger gretar."

"Now for the Duke": whilst unmarried, his hope to match with her will continue; if he marry elsewhere (most necessary) all pernicious intents depending on him shall cease.

If charged, but not convicted of treason, his credit shall increase. I cannot see how his acts are within the compass of treason.

Wherefore I am bold to wish your majesty would show your intent only to inquire into the fact, and not speak of it as treason: and if you consider the words of the Statute, I think you will agree. These are in the "French book in anno 25 Ed. 3. Si home leva de guerre ov[eq] nostre Seignor le Roy en son royalme, ou soit adherent aux ennemyes nostre dit seignor le roy en son royalme, aux eux donnant ayde et comfort en son royalme, ou par alliours et de ceo probablement soit atteynt de overt fayt par gentz de leur condition etc."

1½ pp. Draft by Cecil. Indorsed (by him): "6 Octobris 1569. My advise to the Q. Ma^ty in the D. of Norfolkes case."

1165. Interrogations for Earl of Arundel. [Oct. 9.] C.P., vol. IV.

1. When her majesty was at Greenwich, at what time did "he" first hear of the intention of marriage?

2. In what place there did the Duke first break this with him?

3. Whether he heard of it at Hampton Court?

4. Whom did the Duke name that were "great" with both Queens, and liked of it?

5. Did he allow it, or dissuade the Duke, or advise moving it to her majesty before proceeding further?

6. Whether and how often the Bishop of Ross has been with him in any of his houses, and when did he confer first with him? And what passed between them on this marriage, or anything else touching the Queen of Scots?

7. Did he ever hear of letters to her from any lords of the Privy Council?

8. Did he ever talk of this marriage with Lord Lumley?

9. What messengers have "you" received from or sent to the Duke since your "restraynt"?

10. Have "you" not received a message from him how he had provided for his children whatsoever came of him, and had "made estates of his landes for sixten yeares to Sir Thomas Cornw. (?) and others"?

11. Who told him he was charged with treason by M^r West?

1 p. Draft by Cecil. Indorsed (by him).

1166. Shrewsbury and Huntingdon to Elizabeth. [Oct. 10.] C.P., vol. IV.

As your majesty commanded, we have dealt with the Queen of Scots for the letters which the Earls of Pembroke and Leicester wrote to her. She confesses receipt since Whitsuntide of one signed by both, sent by the Bishop of Ross, and no more. We have earnestly desired a sight of it, and used many persuasions, and are forced to tell your highness she will not let us see it, nor say where it is, but says she will send for it if we will let her. We have offered to send for it, but she will not agree, saying that one of her own shall fetch it, or nobody. Though we offered one of our own to go with one of hers, she utterly refused.

A servant of Lord Herries brought letters to her, which we send to your majesty, as your pleasure was to keep her from all intelligence, and also a letter from the Bishop of Ross: none of which she has seen. M^r Secretary has advertised us of her complaint that we came to her chamber with pistolets suddenly to her great terror. We must confess that the night we searched her coffers, some of our men carrying pistolets, attended us as usual to the doors: and to confess the truth to your majesty, one or two entered the chamber, the rest following; seeing which, we turned and stayed them, commanding all without and within, to lay aside their pistolets— "whiche she dothe very well knowe," and we marvel at her complaint of this—knowing your majesty's pleasure that we use her with gentleness. Tutbury Castle. Signed: G. Shrowesbury, H. Huntyngdon.

1½ pp. Addressed. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk). Wafer signet: a talbot, and garter motto.

1167. Huntingdon to Cecil. [Oct. 10.] C.P., vol. IV.

"Immanuell":—The bearer takes our letter to her majesty on the letters written by the earls of "P." and "L." to this Queen, about Easter as her highness writes—though she says brought since Whitsuntide—so I omit more: only adding that I gather by her speeches, they are neither in her keeping, nor in Scotland, nor with the Bishop of Ross. "Allmost in playne wordes she utteryd to me alone no lesse: but I toke yt sumwhat to hastelye, which I was sorrye for, and then she callyd yt backe agayne, saynge I shulde not knowe wheare hyr creddytte was in England." We have reduced her number to 32 persons—the rest are gone. She is now quiet and not without great hope—"tho she wolde have us to thynke that she ys in utter despayre" of any good here. I pray God assist the Queen and you her councillors in the spirit of wisdom and fortitude, considering the causes, the time, and the persons you have to deal with. Tutbury. Signed: H. Huntyngdon.

I have committed some credit to the bearer.

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

1168. Shrewsbury to Cecil. [Oct. 10.] C.P., vol. IV.

This Queen hearing this bearer's despatch, desired us he might take her letter to the Bishop of Ross, which we thought good, so it come first to your hands: and in my lord Huntingdon's absence 2 miles off, I send it to you inclosed. Tutbury. Signed: G. Shrouesbury.

"My ille nebur the goute" I trust will not visit me." (fn. 1)

postscript: One John Levingston, master of her horse, lies I hear in Yorkshire. He left her at Wingfield, and being a chief practiser, I advertise you to move the Lord President to apprehend and examine him as you think good. His wife is here with this Queen.

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

1169. Norfolk's petitions to the Vice-Chamberlain. [Oct. 10.] C.P., vol. IV.

1. To explain his letter of submission to the Privy Council "a Mundaye laste": (fn. 2) that he meant not to deny, but confess, his offence to her majesty in not making her privy to his proceeding with the Queen of Scots touching marriage, "before hande."But as to forgetfulness of his duty of allegiance he is so clear, "that he utterly refuseth or defyeth marcye."

2. That I should deal with all his friends for her majesty's favour and "releace" of his punishment.

3. That Banyster his solicitor may repair to him in presence of the Lieutenant or Sir Harry Nevell, for ordering his suits and payments.

4. That he may send open letters for ordering his house, children and servants, and receive answer.

5. That he may have space to walk in and take the air for his health.

6. That Anthonye his servant may attend him in place of Sharpe.

7. That Schymen his servant may bring him "aelle drynk freshe and freshe" for his health.

1 p. Written by Sir F. Knollys. Indorsed (by him) and (by Cecil): "Presented by M^r Vichamberlen."

1170. Arundel's second examination. [Oct. 10.] C.P., vol. IV.

Lord Keeper; Lord Marq. of Northampton; Lord Chamberlain; M^r Secretary:—

1. The motion was made by the Duke to him when last at Greenwich: but he cannot remember if her majesty was there.

2. He does not remember the place.

3. Never heard of it at Hampton Court.

4. He (fn. 3) named none specially: but in general as before answered.

5. He never procured the Duke to proceed, but does not remember his answer.

6. The Bishop at Nonsuch this summer, delivered to him a letter from the Queen of Scots, generally in favour of her causes, as to the other lords: he had no conference there or elsewhere with the bishop. Had another letter from her, but when, knows not.

7. Cannot tell whether he ever heard thereof or no.

8. Cannot tell if he ever talked with him or no: but if he did, it was neither to set it forward or backward.

9. Never received or sent message from or to the Duke since restraint.

10. Received no such message as in the article.

11. He advertised the Lords by his servant Stoughton, that the first time he heard the bruit of M^r West reporting of him, was by his son in law Lord Lumley: and confesses this only to satisfy her majesty.

1 p. Draft by Cecil. Indorsed (by him).

1171. Murray to Cecil. [Oct.12.]

Requesting that the enclosed letter may be delivered to the lord of Dunfermling as soon as may be. Kelso. Signed: James Regent.

¼ p. Addressed. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk).

1172. Shrewsbury and Huntingdon to the Council. [Oct. 13.] C.P., vol. IV.

According to your letter of 8^th instant, we each sent a servant of trust to the house of Richard Cavendishe in Nottinghamshire, where his goods and folks remain, to apprehend him: but he has not been there since Midsummer. They searched the house diligently, but could find no writings. Those in it said he is in Suffolk at his brother's house night Ipswich. We can learn no more about him. Tutbury Castle. Signed; G. Shrouesbury, H. Huntyngdon.

(fn. 4) His man said he was at "Grymson Halle besydes Ipswyche."

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

1173. Elizabeth to Murray. [Oct. 13.]

"To the Regent":—We have received your letters and writings by George "Carie" our cousin, whom we are glad to see you have found a meet person to deal with: and where it appears to us that the Duke of Norfolk did first motion to you the matter of marriage with the Scottish Queen, we earnestly require you to consider well, and procure as many proofs with circumstances, as you can well compass, to make it appear that the said Duke moved it to you or any of yours, and that it was not moved by you to him, as we were informed of late, and had cause to think, before receipt of your late letters. "And herin the more evident the prooffes shall be to mayntean your advertisementes, the better shall we allow of you and your actions." We desire only to know the truth hereof, thinking ourselves not well used, "if any have reported that we did ever allow of any such mariadg, as indede we never did, nor in reason shall do, and so we assure you." Requiring speedy advertisement, which you may safely send in writing by William Drury, marshal of Berwick.

1 p. Draft by Cecil. Indorsed (by his clerk).

1174. Memorial by the Bishop of Ross. [Oct. 15.] C.P., vol. IV.

Since the abbot of Dunfermline is come commissioned by the Earl of Murray and others to treat on the differences between the Queen my mistress and her subjects: it will please the Queen's majesty (as her affairs may permit) to enter thereon, whereby my mistress may have resolute answer: also to cause Murray desist from sieging Dunbarton.

Also to grant safe conduct to Lord Boyd to come to England and remain in her company.

And as I am required to produce the copy of a letter, whereof the principal is with my mistress, and have no special command from her therein, and the copy I have is not "autentyk": that her highness would grant me a passport to send a servant for the "autentyk" copy, and know her pleasure for my proceedings.

½ p. Copy by Cecil's clerk. Indorsed (by another).

1175. Elizabeth to Shrewsbury. [Oct. 15.] C.P., vol. IV.

Referring to his letter in September for help in case of his gout returning, when Huntingdon was sent for relief, hearing that the Earl has no lodging in the castle meet for his health, and his servants have to go for their meals to the town, far distant: advises him to see these things amended, and in order to this, to reduce the number of the Queen of Scots' servants, and have good heed to his own, many of whom are reported to have been seduced to favour her practices, without his knowledge. Under her signet.

postscript: Thinks that his former desire to have sole charge of her without Huntingdon, came not of himself, but of some about him too much "affectionated" to her.

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

1176. Questions on disposal of the Queen of Scots. [Oct. 17.] Cott. Calig. C.I., fol. 462.

Extracts.

The dangers if she remain in England:—In the (7^th) head it is stated that she is able "by hir great wytt, and hir sugred eloquence, to wyn even such, as before they shall come to hir company, shall have a great mislykyng"; (8^th) continual solicitation for her by herself, the kings of France, Spain, and danger of her marrying a foreign prince "by a lettre"—war following thereon; (9^th) commiseration of her state; (10^th) casualty of her death; and (11^th) the unquietness of the Queen's majesty's mind for all these reasons.

Reasons why she should return to Scotland:—In one of the objections, it is stated that her majesty might either keep her a perpetual prisoner "being her capitall ennemy in clayming hir crowne, or might do that which in other tymes ar seene by manny historyes, kynges and princes have done—that is by justice to take hir liff from hir" etc.

[Summing up]:—The Queen's majesty has most reason to send her to Scotland: "wher hir majesty is to provyde that she may lyve the naturall courss of hir liff in suerty, and to that end is to have a sufficient nombre of hostages."

4¼ pp. Draft by Cecil. Not indorsed.

1177. Shrewsbury to Elizabeth. [Oct. 19.] C.P., vol. IV.

In answer to your majesty's letters of 15^th hereof: my desire to serve in this charge alone, proceeded only of myself, and not of the advice of any other creature, but rather contrary to the mind of any one about me, and for no other respect than to show my zeal in your service. For my lord Huntingdon's lodging in this your castle: he is placed the best in my judgment of all others here, next the Queen of Scots; and though I have required him to choose any other, he denied to remove. For his servants: such as have not tarried at meals, have been sundry times moved by my officers, and shall be again, to tarry. Though by your majesty's direction, the number about this Queen is diminished, yet no part of the diet is, that was allowed to her and her train either at Bolton or since. Touching the suspicion of my servants practising: I beseech your majesty to think I am most vigilant to every person about me; and I cannot find after examination and other trial, but that they are faithful and zealous to serve your majesty. Divers indeed I avoided before coming last hither, seeing some cause to fear of their seducement. Tutbury Castle. Signed: G. Shrouesbury.

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

1178. Shrewsbury to Cecil. [Oct. 19.] C.P., vol. IV.

Will be evermore greatly bounden to him for his friendly advertisements. As it seems to him that her majesty does not yet think well of his "mocion" in September to serve alone: begs him to be a mean for her gracious interpretation thereof, and to assure her he is ready to serve her in any way. Confesses to him that he feared the ordering of his men by others. Has not a doubt of the truth and zeal of his servants: but should Cecil suspect any, will not fail to send them up forthwith. Tutbury. Signed: G. Shrouesbury.

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

1179. Huntingdon to Cecil. [Oct. 19.] C.P., vol. IV.

I have received your letters, the copy, "etc." Nothing is imparted to me plainly, "but in darke and colleryke tearmes, sum thynge ys utteryd." I mind not to agree to any alteration for the time I shall tarry here, "but, as one ignorante what hyr majesty hathe wryttyn, passe yt over, and doo as I have don; I knowe yt wylle please hym, and be my best meane to quenche that as ys kyndlyd. I am sure also (under correction) thys to doo wylle prove best for hyr majestyes servysse and my quiet"; and therefore humbly sue her it may be passed over. For my travail, it is but my duty, and for my charge, she has already recompensed me, and I count no expense bestowed in her service: "so for Godes sake let yt be."

The bearer, who is honest and trusty, can inform you of all things, as I have imparted to him for brevity what else I would have written. Tutbury. In haste. Signed: H. Huntyngdon.

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

1180. Murray to Elizabeth. [Oct. 22.]

At receipt of your highness's letter of 13^th instant, I was ready to enter Liddesdale in pursuit of thieves, and all the requisite writs touching the matter are sent back to Edinburgh, seeing I looked not to have written to your majesty till my return; all letters being stayed by my order for the difficulty of passage—as my intercepted letter last year when in "thir" fields has given me experience. The "order" of moving that marriage I have already declared by M^r Carey, and whatever I can collect further to make the truth "mair evident" shall be sent to your highness as soon as possible. Hawick. Signed: James Stewart.

½ p. Addressed. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk). Wafer signet (as before).

1181. Murray to Cecil. [Oct. 22.]

Explaining that he was near Liddesdale when the Queen's letter arrived on the 19^th. Is uncertain whether Norfolk is free or not from any contract. "Thir wordes of his lettre to me in that respect ar to be considerit: That he is sa fer proceidit in that matter, as with conscience and honour he cannot turne bak." Has received no answer in one thing he specially asked advice, viz., how to behave himself in uttering the matter moved by Carey, and yet keep it secret: for he must first "taist" the minds of divers. No diligence shall be wanting in him to give her majesty all the information he can on the marriage. Prays him to move her majesty not to take 2 or 3 days' delay in evil part; and give her his humble thanks for the assistance of her wardens, and the marshal of Berwick. Hawick. Signed: James Regent.

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

1182. Bishop of Ross to Herries. [Oct. 23.] C.P., vol. IV.

Our sovereign wrote to me from Tudberry on 10^th instant that the Queen of England wrote to Murray to pay the men of Carlisle the money she had borrowed from them: he then by John Wod excused himself, that Huntly had received the crown fruits etc. of the north, and if he might get them, he would pay it. This will not serve him now, therefore as commanded, I moved the Queen at Windsor on 15^th instant, to desire Murray earnestly to pay the "puir" men: when it pleased her majesty to say that he having disobeyed her letters to him in favour of our mistress's faithful subjects, "for that and sum uther respectis, wald not truble him with forder writtingis in theis caussis at the present." Therefore as you and I obtained the first letters at Hampton Court to Murray, I pray you earnestly to travail with him therein, according to your wisdom and diligence. I doubt not ye know the estate of this country, which though partly altered on wrong reports, yet I believe her majesty and wise council will shortly take order to her contentment and the comfort of our mistress (?). (fn. 5) The King of France gained a battle on 3^rd instant, against his enemies, and has written here he will be more able to support our mistress, and undoubtedly intends to do. Commend me to my lord Duke and other friends of your company. London. Jo. Rossen.

1 p. Copy in a Scottish hand. Addressed at foot: "To my Lord Hereis." No flyleaf.

1183 Elizabeth to Murray. Elizabeth. [Oct. 23. 1569.]

To the Erle of Murray:—

We have heard the bearer, the commendator of Dunfermling, in his charge from you in answer to our letters in August last, sent to you by your servant Hume: and allow his sufficiency. Certain of our Council also heard him by our command, and on their report we ourselves did advisedly peruse the writings exhibited by him. Finding the matters we propounded very weighty, and your answers well conceived, and mostly reasonable; yet as we see no clear resolution from you how a convenient end may succeed without evident peril, we have showed our mind to the said bearer, who is well able to discern the dangers, and on his report wish you to consider it, and with speed advertise us.

1 p. Draft by Cecil. Indorsed (by his clerk).

1184. Maitland to Cecil. [Oct. 23.]

Hearing from Arche Stewart lately returned, the continuance of your accustomed favour, I most heartily thank you. No man can be long employed in princes' affairs, without one time or other tasting of the malice of the world and envy of Court: which my present lot is to feel in my own person. Though many be "conjured" against me—most part bound for private benefits, and some advanced by me to chief offices of the realm, and enjoyment of their lands: yet (praised be God) I have as good friendship of the noblest and best as any man of my degree. Though my lord Regent has been more moved to yield than of his own "naturall" I am assured he would: I hope in God he shall show himself so "indifferent," that in the end their counsels shall be disappointed. If they can by their calumnies, as they have done here, make me odious to the Queen's majesty, they will endeavour: but I trust her majesty knowing my uprightness and sincerity in negotiations since she came to the crown, will not believe them till I be allowed to purge myself. By Stewart I learn, that conferring with the Earl of Lennox's servants, you have discovered that Crawfurd who accused me at Stirling, had no such commission from his master, whose letter to him you have read: if possible "retyre" the said letter and send it hither to convict the malice of my enemies; praying your answer with speed. Castle of Edinburgh. Signed: W. Maitland.

2 pp. Holograph, also address. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk).

1185. Kirkcaldy to Bedford. [Oct. 23.]

Your lordship I doubt not will be desirous to hear of the Laird of Lethington's committing to ward: whereof many here marvel. I can declare no better ground than the malice of his enemies whom your lordship knows "off auld," who craftily induced my lord Regent to do what he was most unwilling, though at first he knew not their designs. I am assured in his heart he repents yielding to them; but now since Lethington presses a trial, it will end to his honour and confusion of his enemies. So whatever your lordship hears, I pray you and your friends suspend your judgments.

I think you have heard of myself, that in handling this matter, I have not done my duty to the Regent: some indeed have tried to persuade himself—but in vain, for his grace has had long experience of my affection and constancy. I desire your lordship to think nothing will ever make me "spot my poore honesty," whereto I have greater respect than my life. I have done nothing but what I ought both for my friend and my Lord Regent's "awin weill," as himself allows; and pray your lordship to believe this, till ye see the end. Edinburgh Castle. Signed: W. Kyrkcaldy.

1½ pp. Holograph, also address.

1186. Elizabeth to Sir Henry Norris. [Oct. 26.] Cott. Calig. C.I., fol. 466.

Signifying that the French ambassador lately solicited her very earnestly for the Queen of Scots, both in the name of his master and the Queen mother: which she thought was urged rather by some of Mary's friends in England. But seeing by his letter of 5^th instant the special request of the said king and his mother by him, and for other reasons, she commands him to repeat to them the Queen of Scots' misfortune since the murder of her husband, re-marriage with the murderer, captivity and flight—Elizabeth's saving her life and honourable usage of her, notwithstanding her offence in claiming her crown—the subsequent proceedings in her cause—Mary's assurance that she would never seek other help—the conspiracy to marry the Duke of Norfolk, and suppress all proofs of her guilt—threats to murder the Regent if he did not consent etc. Farther to say to the Queen mother, as by her years more experienced than her son, that in this long practise, begun in October and not well known before August—a space of almost 10 months—many things were found showing it was but an entry to her greater designs. And if it is said she complains of her strait keeping, he is to assure the king and his mother it arose of her own doings, and if anything farther is sent to them by her or her servants, to suspend their judgment till further answer, believing they would have done the like.

9 pp. Draft carefully corrected by Cecil. Addressed at head. Indorsement (if any) covered up.

1187. Elizabeth to Shrewsbury and Huntingdon. [Oct. 28.] C.P., vol. IV.

Having learned and daily learning many things since the discovery of the intended marriage betwixt the Queen of Scots and Norfolk, moving us to doubt of her surety: we advertise you thereof "in generalty" by our trusty servant Henry Skipwith the bearer: requiring also your joint opinions as to her safe keeping, and advertise us plainly. And as the greater part of the duty has long rested upon you our cousin of Shrewsbury, to the hindrance of your health, we desire to know thereof certainly, being loth to increase your infirmity, by the increased requisite care. Inform the bearer what numbers the Queen has about her, and who they be—and your own numbers also—and credit him.

1 p. Draft corrected by Cecil. Indorsed (by his clerk): ". . . To thearles of Shrewsbury and Huntington joyntly by M^r Skipwith."

1188. Murray to Elizabeth. Elizabeth. [Oct. 29. 1569.]

In answer to your majesty's letter of 13^th instant, I have already declared to M^r Carey my proceedings in regard to the marriage between the Queen mother and Norfolk: but for your fuller satisfaction, I shall to my best remembrance collect the things omitted, towards manifestation of the truth. That the Duke did first directly in plain words, motion the marriage to me, "I can not weill affirme"—howbeit the circumstances well considered, I think it shall appear that others "hes gayn about and compassit to mak me the author and instrument of the executioun of thair devises, and aganis my naturall, to mell in sic kynd of dealing as with my hart I have evir abhorrit." When first in York, I was moved to sue familiar conference with the Duke, as a mean to procure us expedition and end of the matters we had in hand: I suspected nothing less than that he had any way pretended to the said marriage. "Bot now and oftymes sensyne, I have considerit how the course went: for I persave it wes then preissit at to mak me the motionar of all thingis." What was talked betwixt him and Lethington the day they rode to Cawood was without my command or "foirknawlege." Indeed, after speaking with the Duke, I partly "smellit" his intention, though he spoke not plainly of marriage, for when he, who chiefly had the hearing and reporting of matters, was so careful of the said Queen "to have her schame coverit, hir honour repairit, schew hir interest to the title of the croun of England, and that the same title had sa mony freindis—that it wes convenient she had ma children, thair being bot ane baib proceidit of hir, and the Hammiltonis my unfreindis having the nixt respect, and that I suld esteme the yssue of hir body wald be mair affectionat to me and myne then ony other that culd atteyne to that rowme: it mycht weill be thocht be sic spechis and purposes, layed out be him, quhat he pretendit to, seing him fre and able to compleit mariage"! But of any direct moving it to me or mine in plain terms, there was nothing "substanciall" more than is already written with M^r Carey: "saulffing that the Duke willit me to mak nane previe to that quhilk wes spoken betuix ws in the park at Hamptoun Court, bot onlie Lethington and M^r Johnne Wod; and nane of his suld knaw of the same bot his man Liggenis." I was also not to find strange though he sent me no writing or message for 2 or 3 months. One word I may not forget that when I required that Bothwell might be sent for to be executed for treason, he said your majesty would never "sollist" that, but hold him living above the Queen's head, to stay any other marriage. When after the pacification at Glasgow, I directed Wood to declare the order thereof to your majesty, he had no instruction from me to the Duke, who then I thought not at court—but only general words of "benivolence." Yet after Wood had been 20 days at court conferring with the Duke, he willed him to write to me to know what I would do in the matter of marriage? Whereof Wood had no instruction from me: and this was the first motion in plain words. For he willed him to say that if I got her restored to her honour and crown, and her unlawful marriage with Bothwell dissolved, the third should follow, viz., her marriage with the Duke, and all things to my weal and surety. Being thus peremptorily charged, and advised to show him good will, and thus "redeme tyme" in respect of his credit and greatness, I wrote again to Wood "in chiffre" to impart it to the Duke, conform to my declaration sent with M^r Carey. Then on conference between the Duke and Wood, the Duke liked my answer, saving in one point—"quhair I desirit hir mariage with sic a persoun as we mycht truist, to preceid hir restitutioun": he willed Wood to certify me in "chiffre," that this was a dangerous delay, and more dangerous to be opened, and pressed her restitution before the marriage. Seeing he could not prevail with me, then was your highness urged (as we judged) to end her causes, and require her restitution. So we, uncertain what your majesty was determined, or what your contentation might be: I thought no better mean to "redeme tyme" than to require the consummation of the marriage betwixt them, to precede the restitution—"jugeing that your majestie suld nevir allow of the first, and sua the nixt of necessitie suld faill." And when it came to the next point that your highness was induced, "be quhais persuasioun your majestie knawis best," to move her restitution, by your credit and articles sent with M^r John Wod, I was constrained to refuse the same, in plain declaration how far I misliked the matter, as well as the uncertainty of your majesty's inclination. The words of his own letter in "chiffre"—that he is so far proceeded that he cannot with honour or conscience pass back, nor yet proceed till the "stumbling blokkis" were out of his way: meaning her marriage with Bothwell dissolved, and she restored, "ar probatioun of his doyng quhilk he assuris me of, as a mater quhairin I wes of before dowbtfull." I say not that any ever reported that your majesty allowed the marriage; yet the circumstances gave us matter enough to think your highness had been "foirsene" in the Duke's design. And misknowledge of your resolution has caused things to be otherwise handled than if you had given us some "taist" of the issue of her cause. Yet I have ever protested that your highness's good will and allowance should be procured; without which I never meant to have "any melling" in the matter. Dumfries. Signed: James Stewart.

2¾ pp. Closely written by Hay. No address—probably enclosed in the next.

1189. Murray to Elizabeth. [Oct. 29.]

According to my promise in my letter from Hawick on 22^d instant, I have sent presently to your majesty, "sum notes collectit of that omittit in my discourse maid to M^r Carey your hienes cousing, quhairin I have left na thing untwechit serving for this purpose." And having dealt sincerely and plainly, so I beseech your majesty to consider it, and according as your mind is, that I may have some knowledge how to proceed. Dumfries. Signed: James Stewart.

½ p. Addressed. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk). Doubtless inclosing the preceding.

1190. Murray to Cecil. [Oct. 29.]

Being ready to enter Liddesdale with a force, at receipt of her majesty's pacquet, I was constrained to write to you as I did: farther resolution I could not make, "without I had returnit, and left the purpose interprisit, quhilk praised be God, hes takin gude successe." I pray you move her majesty not to think ill of the short delay. The things you required in your letter are here inclosed, for in coming here I sent M^r John Wood to Edinburgh for them.

I cannot blame you for finding the late proceedings strange, neither trust I ye will think it marvellous that "we heir hes not alwayes followed ane cours, quhen as we culd not see our exemple with you that we must nedes followe." As matters now stand, if her majesty had, on our proceedings in England, resolved on the cause of the Queen mother, "we had loukit to na other end. Bot seing hir hienes sa earnestlie travelling for hir restauracioun, I culd not think it proffitable to loisse the benivolence of sic as seamyt bent that way, having na taist of hir hienes mislyking of the purpose, bot rather dalie pruif of the contrary. It is na tyme now to dissemble: incertaintie with you hes bred incertaintie amangis ws, and bettir late provide the remedie than nevir! I do you wrang to answer your breif and sentencious lettre with this pluralitie of wordes: bot bipast experience and present necessitie enforcis me sa to do — wishing that on baith sydes the mater may be main planly and frankly handillit nor it hes bene heirtofore—quhairin ye sal have na lak on my part, and all byganis must be byganis, as the people of thir cuntreis cravis." I can do nothing till I hear from you in the matter moved by M^r Carey. Our ability ye know as well as ourselves: so to write is but loss of time. I am sorry you are so troubled with our "fashieux materis," and wish they may take good end. Confer with my lord of Dunfermling, and certify me by him. I think "greit lang" to hear of matters in France. These past days I have been inclosed in an unhappy country "plenist" with thieves, and have taken such order as doubtless ye understand by Lord Scrope and Sir John Forster, with whom, and the Marshal of Berwick, I have had good concurrence. Dumfries. Signed: James Regent.

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

1191. Shrewsbury to Cecil. [Oct. 30.] C.P., vol. IV.

I hear to my grief that "suspycion is hadde offe ovar myche good wyll boron by my vyfe to this Quene, and offe untrw delynge by my men. For my vyfe, thus muste I seye she hathe nott othervyes delte with that Quene than I have bene preve unto, and that I have hadde lyking offe"—and so I have been the more able to discharge my trust. And if she for her dutiful service to her majesty, and true meaning to me, shall be suspected, we may think ourselves unfortunate. And so far from her persuading me to continue this charge, "afore God she hathe bene in hande with me as farre as she durst, and more than I thought well offe, cynse my sykenes, to proqure my descharge. I ame nott to be ledde by hur otharvyse than I thynke well off." If I had not found myself well recovered, I would have been a humble suitor for my despatch. For my men: I dare assure, as far as any man will do for his servants. I humbly sue that those who for malice or otherwise have incensed her majesty, may justify their words. I am sure her majesty will not discredit me by taking "hur" from me and committing her to my lord of Huntingdon, to whom I think myself not inferior for service. What suspicions I have that her majesty hath heard of the untrue reports by Morton, or those he has uttered them to, I refer to Mr. Skipwith's declaration. Tutbury Castle. Signed: G. Shrouesbury.

1½ pp. Holograph, also address: "To my very lovynge frend" etc. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk).

1192. Shrewsbury and Huntingdon to Elizabeth. [Oct. 31.] C.P., vol. IV.

Where your majesty by your letters of 28^th of this present, requires our opinions on the keeping of the Queen of Scots: while we cannot do so much as we would, yet this we may safely promise and perform, that your highness need not doubt but that by God's grace we shall be able always to give your majesty "a true accompt of her parson." Leaving the rest to the report of the bearer, and "beseching the hevenly Lord to preserve your majestie for ever." Tutbury Castle. Signed: G. Shrouesbury, H. Huntyngdon.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk): ". . . by M^r Skipwith."

1193. Huntingdon to Cecil. [Oct. 31.] C.P., vol. IV.

"Because I wolde be gladde to know what shalle becum of me and my sute," I send the bearer with these few lines, to attend your pleasure. I have also written to my lord of Le[cester] for his furtherance for my discharge. Tutbury Castle. Signed: H. Huntyngdon.

"I trust M^r Sk[ypwith] hathe tolde you howe he founde lykynge and myslykynge and in what."

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

1194. The Queen of Scots' attendants. [Oct.] C.P., vol. IV.

"Premierement":—M. de Leviston, a gentleman and page; Madame de Leviston, a woman and man; M^lle de Cetton, a woman and man; M^lle [sic] de Leviston, wife to John of Levynston; M^lle de Brusse, daughter to the Laird of Arthe; Courcelles, a French woman; Ellas Bog; Cristine Hog, wife to Sebastian; Gin Canatte, (fn. 6) a maid; M. de Betton, "maitre dhostel"; M. de Craffort, "escuier tranchant"; M. du Castel, medecin; Le Contreolleur Gyott.

"Valletz de chambre":—Bastien Pages; Balthazard Hully, "valett de gardero"; Guillebert Courlles, secretary; Guillaume Douglas; Ange Marie, "Itallion"; Jaques Lader.

"Huissier de chambre":—Archebel Betton. "Tailleur":—Jacques de Senlis. "Portchaise":—Florenc Brossier. "Officiers de panneterie et eschansoundrie":—Guillaume le seigneur "sommellier de panneterie"; Guyon Lasselan, aide; Didier Chiffard "sommellier de schan^re"; Gilles le Roidde, aide.

"Officiers de cuisine":—Estienne Havet, "escuier"; Martin Huet, "maitre guetix"; Pierre Medart, "potaiger"; Jehan du Bois, "pastieur"; ung porteur; ung galloppin; ung huissier de cuisine.

"Serviteurs:—Ung homme a Madamoiselle de Leviston; ung homme au M^re dhostel; ung homme au medecin."

2 pp. French hand. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk). Notes by Cecil.

1195. Mr. John Wood to Cecil. Elizabeth. [Oct. 31. 1569.]

please your honour to understand my lord Regent's prosperous journey on the frontiers, and return to Dumfries, accompanied with the Earls of Mortoun and Cassillis, Lords Maxwell, Owchiltre and Yester and the chief barons of the Borders. I have written to my lord of Dunfermling, who will declare the conditions offered by the "brokin men." Some were used with necessary severity. Dunbarton is thought in great strait, and some have been put forth, to relieve the house of charges: but are most part returned. Things here are quiet: there is great expectation of this day of law of the Secretary's: the issue whereof may quiet or trouble the state.

"I dar not omitt one thing: that you cannot tell how to forgywe me, that wes not so playn with your honour as you thought I suld hawe bene: and peradventure frome the botome of my hart I wyshed, with preserwation of my honour, I myght haif bene! Remember, I beseik you, my protestation that I wald nouther carye nor return reportis. Yff I haif done, or procurit any thing to be doyn, prejudiciall to the Quenes majestie, or that state, or your personne, yea! or gif I did not only to your honour plainly declare what I wald do befoir my departing from you, I craif na pardone. Butt yff my naturall shaymefastnes wald not suffer my toung to be reportar of sic thingis as mycht bene my diffamation, whair na necessite requyreyth, your honour will beyr I truist with that my rusticite, the sawyte of my maister from ane present wrayk, maid me moyr curious in the practises inwented and nowrished by otheris, nor my naturall inclination almoist wald permitt. Seing I mwst dip that far, I chuised rather to tak one blott nor two; and as yit do not repent me—only frome my hart I repent your honour suld consave any sinister opinion of me. Yff you esteme the same ane faill, butt (fn. 7) replying I will craif your pardon of my closnes." And if faithful service to her majesty, her realm, and your honour in particular, may amend it, I will promise faithfully the same, my duty to God, my prince and master reserved. Manderstoun. Signed: M. Jhonne Wod.

1½ pp. Holograph, also address. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk).

1196. Maitland to [A Friend]. [Oct. 31.] Cott. Calig. C.I., fol. 471.

I doubt not ye have heard how I was calumniously "delated at Striveling be ane Thomas Crawfurde as giltie of the king his [sic] sones murther," wherein as my own conscience bears me record of my innocence, so I trust that no man that has seen my behaviour in times past, both since the beginning of "this caus as of befoir, will suspeck me." I have summoned all parties interested, to compear in this burgh the 21^st November next, to produce whatever matter they can against me—"quhilk day my lorde Regent has appointed for my tryall"—and have also written to all my friends etc. to be present to see I have justice. Wherefore I affectuously desire you to be here on the 20^th of said month, accompanied with your friends and servants, that I may have your counsel and assistance in my just cause. It is the weightiest I have ever had to do in, as thereon depends my life and my land—and what I esteem more than both—my honour. And I trust I have not made so evil cause to my friends in times past, that any of them will refuse me. Send me answer with the bearer. From the Castle of Edinburgh. Signed: Youris assurit to my uter powar, W. Maitland.

¾ p. Holograph. Address covered up, and has been obliterated. Very faint.

1197. Murray to [Cecil]. [Oct.]

"This my lettre is formed upoun the verie wordes and devise of the Laird of Lethingtoun. Howbeit, to be plane with you (to quhome I will na wys dissemble, in respect of that honest dealing and sinceritie that I have alwayes fund with you) he hes flatlie denyt to me in ony sort to be ane accuser of the Duke of Norffolk, thinking he sall escaip thir stormis. And I cannot bot greitlie marvell of his doyng, considdering he wes the cheif, and almaist onlie powissair of me to proceid as I did: albeit now he denys to haif had speciall desire of the Duke sa to do, bot did the same of his awin motioun, upoun conjecture of that thing, quhilk in his apparence, wes like to fall furthe." So I pray you earnestly consider well what is in hand, and signify frequently your mind on handling things, for we have none else there to look to. For the matter the Commendator of Dunfermling had "in memoir" to impart to me: as to the "forme, it mon tak some reasounable tyme," but I will use no delay. Ye have heard by the wardens of this my "viage" on the Borders: we yet lack a warden on our West Border; Herries gives good words, and would fain be at liberty, but I cannot be sure of him, and he must remain where he is "quhill farthermair." Lord Maxwell is young, and though I have been in hand with him and his friends to accept the charge, they are not yet content, and as soon as I can, I must repair to the West Border again, to supply the place. Though I had Lethington's promise not to write to England without my knowledge, yet I learn from himself within "thir xij" days he wrote to you, and "lettis na tyme slip, unmakand sic moyen as he can." Commending myself to my lady, and by you to my lord of Bedford, "declaring to him that the greit papist auld Lard of Seyfeld (quhome he knawis) is becum a gude Cristin man and a favorer of the gospell." Signed: James Regent. Receive Paris' depositions "in auctentik forme."

On a small slip attached:—After closing my letter, I had new conference with Lethington, but could try out no more than I have written. He counts it no wisdom on my part to have touched the Duke's accusation; and looks to win furth of this strait, and acquit such as bear him small friendship.

1¼ pp. No address or indorsement.