Elizabeth: September 1570

Calendar of State Papers, Scotland: Volume 3, 1569-71. Originally published by His Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1903.

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'Elizabeth: September 1570', in Calendar of State Papers, Scotland: Volume 3, 1569-71, (London, 1903) pp. 328-366. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/scotland/vol3/pp328-366 [accessed 24 March 2024]

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In this section

437. [Bishop of Ross'] Audience with Elizabeth. [Sept. 1.] Cott. Calig., C.II., fol. 121.

"The discourse of the audience with the Queen's Majestie of Ingland the first daye of September 1570 at Ricotte."

First,—I declared that I have received advertisements from Scotland, as also from the Queen my mistress, which is the cause of my repair to her at this present.

The effect thereof is, that divers in Scotland write to me, that the whole nobility of the Queen's party were content to agree to the treaty, and to have assembled to choose commissioners to that intent, but the stay thereof is made by Lord Sussex, for two reasons; the one, that he demands of them more than is either contained in the letters of the King of France's ambassador sent to them, or in the Queen's instructions sent with Lord Livingston, affirming that I had agreed thereto, especially in two points;—the first, touching the stay of foreign forces, which does not consist in their power; the other, that no innovation be [made] in the government of the realm, different from the state wherein it was at the death of Murray, until the return of the messengers offered by the Queen of Scots' party to be sent to the Queen of England, or some other convenient time certainly prefixed. Whereby it is meant that the Queen's authority should cease in Scotland, and the authority of their pretended Regent to take place, of the which there never was a word spoken of in the treaty. The other cause of stay made by Lord Sussex "is procedit" of his letters sent to Lord Livingston and Lethington, that although they offered to satisfy the said articles reasonably &c., yet he would not suffer them to assemble themselves; and if they did, he assured them that he would enter with his army, and join with the Regent against them; which letters, with such other assurance as they had from hence, as is reported in Scotland, made the other party so bold that they have executed such cruelty upon the Queen's subjects, that the like has not been heard of these many years. "Whilke I delated at grete lenghe in presence of all her ladies and counsalors present," declaring that Lennox has caused thirty-four soldiers, with three captains, to be hanged in his own presence, after he had agreed that they should depart safe.

Item:—He has proclaimed a parliament to be holden on the 15th of October to "forfalt" all the noblemen upon the Queen's part.

Item:—It is given forth by him and his band, that the Queen of England promised to maintain him, and has given him money.

Item:—Lord Sussex is reported to have entered into Scotland. I besought her to take some good resolution &c.

The Queen of England's answer was,—she never heard anything before of Lennox's cruelty, which she affirmed to be cruelty indeed, but judged the same to proceed rather of the counsel of others than of his own nature, who was but a simple man, and therefore, suspected Morton's counsel. She would also have excused the stay made by Sussex of the nobility to assemble, affirming [it] would have been for the overthrow of Lennox, which she could not suffer during the treaty; and, yet, hearing the deed was done so far north as Brechin, she could not maintain the same to have any good colour. As to Sussex's entering into Scotland, she believed he was not yet entered. As to the treaty, she is willing to pass forward "there intil" according to the appointment, although she understands by sundry letters intercepted, of Huntly and Flemming, that they have no will thereof, and the stay thereof has been only abiding the answer from Scotland of the nobility of the Queen's part.

To this, I answered, that although the Borders are closed so that these three months past none are permitted to return with Lord Livingston's answer, yet we have some "moyenis" by sea, and by that way the Queen is certified of the mind of her nobility, which she will declare as soon as any shall come to her upon the Queen's part.

To this her majesty answered she was glad thereof, and would send two of her Council, and I should be licensed to pass at the same time, "and yat owt of hande," and would advertise me in four or five days of the time and persons. But, shortly thereafter, Mr. Secretary and Sir Walter Mildmay were "nomynat," and command given to Mr. Secretary to write for Mildmay to come to Court.

After this, the Queen declared to me a purpose written to her from France of the coming of Mr. David Chaliner there, that he was with me at London, and had letters and "constructions" with him from the Duke of Chatelherault, whereof she received the "doubles," as they were given to the Duke of Alva and the King of France, wherein she alleged he speaks very dishonourably of her. I answered,—'Trew it is he was with me at Lundun but one night onely, and come in a shipp accompanied with marchandis, but assuredlie he had neyther lettres nor instructions that I did see, for gif any was, he resseaveit thame in France or Flanders thereafter, and albeit thay sutted for ayde in France to the Duke of Chattillerault, yet yat sall not staye us here from anie good appointment with her majesty gif sho pleas to put heastie ende thereto, therefore their doinges sall not be impute to us here.' Then the Queen confessed that she believed it was against our will here that he made such suit, for his proceedings were clean contrary to our meaning, for he and divers make suit for the Duke's help, and I only for the Queen, and therefore, she would have more respect to the Queen's weal and honour than to all the rest in Scotland as most tender to her in many respects &c.

"The conference with Mr secretarie primo Septembris 1570."

I declared to him, that the Queen, my mistress, and I have followed him with all the best means possible for obtaining his kindness, requiring him to do nothing but what might stand with his duty, and yet we can have nothing but words &c. All Princes press the King of France to move the quarrel for relief of the Queen of Scotland, or rather the realm of Scotland, oppressed by the maintenance of the Queen of England. And although the Queen of Scotland were dead, yet the King of France and his Council are resolved to maintain the Duke of Chatelherault as nearest and most lawful to have the government, as they have done in time past against King Henry the Eighth, when the same Lennox was chased forth of the country by the Duke, then governor. Mr. Secretary's answer was,—he liked well of my plain speeches, but the burden was over heavy which I had laid on him. As long as the Queen of Scots pressed to pull down the Queen, his mistress, and set herself up, he gave counsel to maintain his own mistress, When he sees the Queen of Scots willing to yield, and content of her own, and not to press to pull down his mistress, he gives counsel to her unto her desires, and in that case he will leave nothing undone—that may stand with his duty—for the Queen of Scots, and so far she may trust him, and no farther, for he was not subject to any faction, and there was never yet one in England that heard him speak an evil word of the Queen of Scots, for she is a Princess born and tender to his mistress, although it has been said of him, that she accounted him as one of her smallest friends, and there was some evil instrument in Scotland that stayed the treaty. Therefore, he has given counsel plainly to the Queen, his own mistress, to deal with the Queen of Scotland's self by her own counsellors, and make end with her. He assured me of his friendship to the end.

4 pp. Fair copy, closely written. Indorsed.

438. Thomas Randolph to Sussex. [Sept. 1.] Cott. Calig., C.II., fol. 385.

Has received his letter by Reade, Lord Morton's servant, and has heard his report. Has moved the Regent this day for the meeting. He ca[me to this] town on Wednesday, chiefly to take order therefor. There came to this town with the Regent only the Earl of Mar. This day there came Lord Lindsay. To-morrow Lord Ruthven is looked for, and others, if they be not stayed at home, to see what will become of the convention this day at Dunkeld, where meet certain the Duke's friends—Argyll, Atholl, Huntly, Lethington, and many others of that sort to give answer to Lord Livingston for the assurance of England, and to give audience to the two foreigners who came out of Flanders with Mr. John Hamilton. The havens and coast of Aberdeen and Montrose have lately been sounded by men set to work by the Earl of Huntly. A proclamation was lately made by him that all men should be in readiness within 24 hours' warning to withstand the old enemies of England, who were coming to besiege the Castle of Edinburgh.

Lord Seton is departed into Flanders, and the Lady Northumberland with him. Is told that the Earl of Westmorland, Tempeste, and some others are ready to depart. Moon is found to be a trafficker with the contrary party to his master. Above twenty letters found about him. They shall all be sent to his lordship. Begs that he may retire from this place. Edinburgh. Signed: Tho. Randolphe.

2 pp. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed. Faded. Edges worn. (Printed, Wright's "Elizabeth," vol i., p. 376.)

439. M. De La Mothe Fenelon to Leicester. [Sept. 6.] Cott. Calig., C.II., fol. 17.

"Monsieur," I find myself so confused concerning the contents of a letter which they have caused me to see from the Earl of Sussex, which makes mention of his last expedition into Scotland, that I do not see any more means how I can justify myself to the King, my lord, to have him made to disarm, and to have caused him to defer the succour which he was held to give to the Scots, and to have caused him to refer all the differences of the Queen of Scotland and her subjects to a treaty, seeing that to this hour they do not strain anything so much in this realm as to violate and interrupt it every day. I call God, the Queen, and you, Monsieur, to witness that I have the royal word of her majesty, and that of all the lords of her Council, that you will cause the things happened to the contrary to be repaired by reason and justice, so I cannot fail so much in the King's service, who is in many ways interested and outraged in this, as not to require her and all of you very justly to be pleased to provide for it, and to consider, if you please, that the honour on which they pretend to have founded such an enterprise—which is but by the opinion of one—ought not to be preferred to a greater honour of the observance of the word given by her majesty and the Council of this realm to the chief Prince that her said majesty and her crown have in their alliance.

I am writing a word to her said majesty, to whom I pray you, sir, and Mr. Cecille, that it may please both of you to cause her to see my letter, and that it may please her to tell me how she desires that I may now write to the King, and what I shall have to tell him touching the success of the said treaty; for Monsieur de Rosse, since his last audience, has given me good hope. But, sir, I have to complain of you more than of any other, for nothing has made me assure the King so much of the Queen's good and clear intention on her part as the good words which you have held out to me, of which you will be no small part to the shame that I can receive, because the effects do not prove alike. But, for all that, the virtue and goodness of the Queen appear to me to strongly incline to deliver us and all of them from this evil. Islington.

1 p. French. Copy. Indorsed: "Copie d'une lettre par le Sr de La Mothe Fénélon à Monsieur le Comte de Lecester."

440. Thomas Randolph to Sussex. [Sept. 6.] Cott. Calig., C.II., fol. 387.

The Regent, the Earl of Morton, Lord Lindsay, and Lord Ruthven are now here. They are earnestly in hand to take order for the meeting with your lordship, and, to that end, mind within two or three days to send one to you with their minds, and what they desire that matters may be handled the more effectuously to the weal of both the realms, at your coming together. I can write no certainty to you what is concluded at this convention at Dunkeld, for answer both to Lord Livingston and also those who arrived at Aberdeen out of Flanders. A sudden and great fear lately came upon many honest in those parts of the Spaniards' arrival—given out, perchance, by the noblemen of the late assembly to some advantage, as they may suppose. It is true that Lord Seton is departed into Flanders, and with him the Lady of Northumberland, whose husband takes it very evil, and lays much upon her of many other deeds, besides the "fowle brute" that is here very large of her. I wrote to your lordship touching Lord Lindsay's charge and trouble with those Englishmen he has. He is very weary of them, but loath to deliver them but with safety of their lives. I know he looks to be considered of the more for that he had large offers by Lord Atholl to let them escape. I am now earnestly pressed to write to your lordship that he may be shortly relieved, and herein I know further of his meaning than he speaks, which I doubt not but her majesty will honourably consider. I have as much to write from the Laird of Lochleven for the Earl of Northumberland.

I am now called upon for discharge of my credit—but further in my next letter in a day or two. On Friday or Saturday I believe your lordship will have with you the Lord Justice Clerk or Mr. Archibald Douglas. Without your lordship's charge my cousin Moore minds not to return to take any further part of my hazards here, for whom— but that I know how well your lordship is minded—I would be an humble suitor, that, if it may be, his people may remain under his charge. His luck has been evil hitherto. I trust he will now be bettered by your favour.

I think it good (though I care not much for the report) to advertise you of the strange speeches of the envious faction of the over[throw] of "Anande" and Lord Maxwell's houses, the sparing of Lord Herries, and harrying of the Earl of Morton's towns. These things have been largely spoken of, and written of from place to place with much more spite than honestly I can write, that you intend but to harry the country and weaken the Borders. Edinburgh. Signed: Tho. Randolphe.

2 pp. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed.

441. Bishop of Ross to Elizabeth. [Sept. 6.] Cott. Calig., C.II., fol. 36.

"Pleas your excellent majestie," the favourable presence and audience of your highness at my last being with your majesty, the loving and friendly answers, with the good and zealous affection which appeared principally in your majesty's self, and also in your trusty Councillors then present, to put some final end to my troublesome suits, caused me to return hither with comfortable hope of some good shortly to follow, for your honourable satisfaction, for the Queen my sovereign's comfort and the common quietness of this whole isle. "But now, madam, in place of hope dispaire begins to take howlde, yf your Majesties owne goodnes shall not suddenlie put remedie thereto," for, whatsoever your own clemency and bountiful nature would have done to the aforesaid end, is stayed by your ministers, as appears, without your highness' knowledge or command, for I have seen the double of a letter sent by Lord Sussex to your majesty, declaring his rigorous and extreme proceedings in Scotland in his late journey upon the West Borders, throwing down ten of the principal castles (two of which are most strong—Annand and Hodoun— pertaining in property to the Queen my mistress and the crown of Scotland, and the rest to her subjects), with burning of corn, spoiling of the country, and doing divers injuries—not yet all known to me— excusing himself to your majesty for this rigour used, as he had been forced thereto for your majesty's honour, and his own honesty; so that thereby it appears that it was done of himself, without your knowledge or command. Besides, the encouragement that he and Randolphe have given to the Queen my mistress' enemies and rebels in Scotland—which has moved them to use such cruelty against her good subjects as Lennox and Morton have lately done at Brechin, as I declared to your majesty what kind of dealing this seems to be— what "contrarietie" is in these proceedings is more than manifest to all the world, as, while your ministers maintain rebels and invade the country, they seem to favour and treat of agreements, "breakinge all hope of, and forcinge to seeke desperat waies, besides the indignitie of such maner of dealinge to be imputed of all estates to your majestie, and the example that all princes will take by this in all your highness' treaties and promises that your majesty shall have or make ever hereafter, howe muche this importes to your majesty's honour and credite," I leave it to your highness' own good wisdom to consider. Did not your majesty agree in the treaty, that it would be sufficient to your contentation if your rebels were abandoned or kept in surety? Yet the Earl of Sussex required them to be rendered to him by Lord Herris; and because they were not, he has made this destruction of our country contrary to the tenour of the treaty. Your majesty also agreed with the French ambassador and me that good peace should be kept betwixt the two realms, which assuredly has been observed on our part; but your lieutenant and ministers will not suffer it to take place. Likewise, your majesty agreed that no kind of innovation should be in the government of Scotland from the beginning of the treaty—which was the 21st of May—nevertheless, the Earl of Sussex required the Duke of Chattelerault and others to seal and "subscrive" articles bearing that no innovation be in the meantime made in the government of the realm differing from the state wherein it was at the death of Murray, affirming that on behalf of my sovereign I had agreed thereto, albeit there was no such thing spoken to me either by yourself or your Council. And, in the meantime, how well the same is kept by the other party by the choosing of their pretended Regent, it doth well appear. Thus briefly I am forced to "meave" unto your highness, protesting always in the presence of God, that the Queen, my sovereign, and I, her simple minister, do mean sincerely towards your majesty, and would do with heart and hand all things which might be to your reasonable satisfaction. "Therefore, madam, let us not have occasion to seke forreyn aide," for all Christian princes have their eyes bent upon your majesty, expecting your resolution in my mistress' affairs, and if they shall hear of this rigour, the chiefest of them will not fail to employ their forces for maintaining her authority in Scotland, and relief of her oppressed subjects and country, although her person be kept by your majesty in prison, "and so, willingelie, your majestie shall enter in suche horrible warres as shall impoverishe your selfe and endanger the state of this hole ile," which I would be sorry from my heart to see or hear of. I humbly beseech your majesty to ponder diligently the sequel of this matter and presently put remedy thereto, and cause the injuries done during the treaty to be repaired, and that "out of hande" you will take some order with the Queen, my mistress, for her restitution, seeing she is so willing to satisfy your majesty in all respects, and that your highness will send your Councillors to treat with her according to your appointment without further delay. "Islingtown." Signed: Jo. Rossen.

pp. Addressed. Indorsed.

Inclosure with the same.

"The extract of Liddington's letter bearing ye articles sent to him be therle of Sussex ye fourt of July."

I received a letter from Sussex dated the 4th of July wherein he desires me to procure a letter subscribed by the Duke and the rest of the Queen's favourers, bearing the articles following:—

½ p. In the same hand as the covering letter.

(The articles follow.)

Cott. Calig., B. VIII., fol. 180.

Copy of the bishop of Ross' letter.

442. Bishop of Ross to Cecil. [Sept. 6.] C.P., Vol. V.

Having received news of Lord Sussex's journey to Scotland, it rendered it necessary for him to return towards the Queen's majesty. Thought it not good to trouble her highness with an audience at present. Has written a letter to her majesty which he prays him to present. Islington. Signed: Jo. Rossen.

Postscript:—The Queen of Scots since she heard of the cruelty by Lennox, at Brechin, has fallen sick, and hearing of this rigour used by the Earl of Sussex, fears she will fall into despair of all goodness. Prays him to further some dress to be made for her comfort. Sends a copy of the articles sent by the Earl of Sussex to Maitland. Islington. Signed: Jo. Rossen.

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

443. The Regent Lennox to Elizabeth. [Sept. 7.]

By such intelligence as I have from the north parts of this realm, it is reported as truth that there is a certain expectation of foreign force to be sent into this realm by the Duke of Alva from the Low Countries, and landed in Angus, towards Montrose, where some strangers sounded the water. The purpose towards this country is thought to be kept very covert, and for that end, that the foot should be shipped in the east parts of Holand,—who are undoubtedly looked for by the adversaries to be here within fifteen days, and the advertisement seems not improbable—some of your majesty's rebels accompanied by Lord Seytoun having lately sailed to Flanders. Although I am well assured your majesty lacks not certain intelligence of all the said Duke's preparations, yet I thought it not my duty to hold back the intelligence I have received. I doubt not your care to obviate the imminent peril, and pray that your lieutenant in the north may have commandment to enter into Scotland with your army, as soon as the foreign force take land or approach the coast. Edinburgh. Signed: Mathew Regent.

2/3 p. Addressed. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk).

444. The Regent Lennox to Cecil. [Sept. 7.]

Being informed from the north that there is a force looked for there from the Duke of Alva within fifteen days, and that although this realm may feel the first harm, yet her highness' own estate may be "inquietit," he prays him to further the petition contained in his letter to the Queen by all the good means he can. Edinburgh. Signed: Mathew Regent.

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

445. Thomas Randolph to Sussex. [Sept. 8.] Cott. Calig., C.II., fol. 389.

It is even now determined that both the Justice Clerk and Mr. Archibald [Douglas] shall be with you at the furthest on Monday next with full advertisement of the Regent's mind concerning the meeting upon the Borders, and for conference to be had with you before hand on those matters that are necessary to be concluded of at Lord Morton's meeting with you, at such time as you shall accord with these men, who, as I cannot assure them where your lordship is, I desire may be advertised by your letter to be at Berwick at their coming, where they shall find you. I have no certainty of anything done at the convention of Dunkeld. Edinburgh. Signed: Tho. Randolphe.

Postscript. There is great suit made to me to be a suitor to you for licence to buy horses.

1 p. Holograph. Addressed Indorsed. Wafer signet.

446. Margaret Countess of Lennox to Cecil. [Sept. 8.] C.P., Vol. V.

"Gud mester sekretory," understand that I have heard of some Commissioners who are going to the Queen of Scots to "tret" with her of matters tending to her liberty, of which she herself already makes an assured account; the knowledge whereof being to me no small discomfort, considering that notwithstanding the grievous murder which by her means only was executed upon my dear son, her husband, divers persons in this realm yet doubt, and a number credit, that since her coming hither she is found not culpable of that fact; because, as they say, that since all the conferences had between the nobility touching that matter, it has not been made known that the said Queen was found any way guilty therein. Much more so when they, already displeased, shall see her released to go home at her pleasure, though on some devised conditions to serve the present, their former "conceytes" shall be verified, and they being satisfied, it may appear that she has sustained insufferable wrongs in being restrained so long for no offence. The rest I refer to your wisdom. My husband being there, whither if she do come, he cannot so well serve the Queen's majesty's turn as now. Just as nature binds me respecting the state of the young King in his minority, I am forced to crave your friendship herein, and to impart this my meaning to her majesty, whose highness, I trust, will hold me excused, considering whereon I ground my desire for stay of her who, otherwise, I doubt, will stir up such ill as hereafter—all too late—may be repented. If the Queen and her Council think it right that she be delivered, I trust my Lord and the nobility there shall be made privy to that order before its conclusion. Beseeching you to impart this my letter to the Earl of Leicester, whose friendship I assure myself of in this behalf. Somerset Place. Signed: Margaret Lennox.

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

447. Sussex to Cecil. [Sept. 8.]

I received yesternight letters from Mr. Randolph, whereby I perceive that the Earls of Huntly, Argyll, and Atholl, some from the Duke of Chatelherault, the bishop of St. Andrews, Lords Livingston and Lethington, and divers others have convened to give answer to Livingston and the two strangers who came with John Hamilton, but what they have resolved therein, he knows not yet. He confirms Lord Seton's going into Flanders with the Countess of Northumberland, and that the Earl of Westmorland is much grieved therewith, and lays upon her the cause of all his misfortune. The Earl of Huntly has caused all the havens in those parts to be sounded, and it is given out in this convention that the Spaniards are daily looked for, and that Seton is gone for them, which breeds great fear to the King's side, and great courage to the contrary side in those parts. Huntly has made proclamation that all men should be ready upon twenty-four hours' warning to withstand their old enemies of England, who were coming forwards to besiege the castle of Edinburgh. It seems that Moone has practised great treasons to his master. I have written to him to use all the means he can to understand what message the two strangers have brought, and what answer they receive. And because I think it very convenient that the Queen's majesty should with speed understand Livingston's answer, I have written earnestly to him to procure the Regent's safe conduct for Livingston to return the nearest way, by Edinburgh and Berwick. Warkworth. Signed: T. Sussex.

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

448. Thomas Randolph to Sussex. [Sept. 9.] Cott. Calig., C.II., fol. 394.

Prays him to send a licence for a couple of geldings to be bought in England to requite a pleasure received at a friend's hand. Edinburgh. Signed: Tho. Randolphe.

p. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed.

449. Thomas Randolph to Sussex. [Sept. 9.] Cott. Calig., C.II., fol. 391.

I have had of late long conference with Mr. Archibald Douglas, sent to me from Lord Morton upon divers matters concerning his lordship's self, whereof he desires me to write to you, and declares to me the grief his lordship has of the late usage of his tenants in the west, and what loss he is like to sustain thereby yearly, if it be not remedied in time; in which he doubts nothing of your goodwill, but sees how hardly and sparingly her majesty deals, which breeds such doubt and coldness in men here, that they think their only safety is in that which is their own, and are loath to spend of that further than their necessity requires, and thereby are forced to forbear in some times of service to do that they would, and are compelled to omit such opportunities to do good to the common weal of both the realms as need requires, and as willingly they would do, if that want were not; wherein, there is no man who would be more forward than his lordship, if that mght be relieved—not with any great charge or such sums as may be burdensome to her majesty—but to be a means and way to wipe away and cut off other expenses that would be more importable, whereby her majesty may always be assured that between the Regent, of the one part, having the authority, and his lordship, of the other, for the goodwill he has to her majesty's service, and power of friends and servants, being great in number and equal in courage with the best of this nation, and always at hand, be it either to subdue the thieves on the Borders or to pursue the rebels, that this country shall remain at her devotion, what practices soever may be intended or devised—as many have been and still are—to hinder the same.

To bring this matter to more certainty, and to be thoroughly privy to his lordship's desire, I prayed him to know what his lordship would be at, if the matter was moved to your lordship, and so broken to the Queen's majesty. It was answered to me, that the Regent being now established, it was not decent that any men of war should be kept by any person than the Regent's self, and, therefore, he desired to be discharged of those who are led under his name, at the end of this month, and being paid by your lordship for the time that they have served under him, may be joined to those of the Regent, and himself to have in name of pension, or otherwise, so much that he may be able to keep about him fifty light horsemen above his ordinary household servants; who, ever being ready, may serve for any sudden service needful to employ them in for the commodity of both the countries. This way—without the coming in of foreign power—her majesty shall not need to keep above her ordinary force on the Borders, nor to doubt of anything that shall be done in this country that any way shall breed great charge to her majesty. Whereby also she will be assured that she shall want nothing of her desires that may stand with the weal of both the countries. This may be as secretly handled as her majesty wills, nor example taken hereof to do the like to the others, who are not able to stand her majesty so much in stead.

I, being desired to advertise you of this, and in my own opinion not misliking thereof, finding undoubtedly that her majesty must of necessity be at some charge here, think that this will be the easiest— 300 footmen and 100 horse for the Regent for a space, and some ordinary pension to be bestowed upon the other, to the effect above said. Where also necessity is, and best service may be done by any other, if some consideration at some times be had, your lordship well knows what virtue is in liberality, and how much it avails sometimes "pecuniam in loco negligere." As I wish well to this cause, so do I but lay before your eyes what is desired, and how much it may profit for a time to have them holpen who are best able to do ourselves good.

I send you a little memorial left by Mr. Archibold [Douglas] what he accounts my Lord Morton's hindrance to be, if it be not holpen by your good means. I must again—being required—put you in remembrance of the Laird of Lochleven, how greatly he is charged by reason of the Earl of Northumberland being with him. Lord Lindsay stands in the same case, and looks for the like. Edinburgh. Signed: Tho. Randolphe.

22/3 pp. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed.

Inclosure with the same:—

"The Nowmer of the guides takin furth of the barony of Prestoun under the Fell."—" Four scoir hors and meris. Thre scoir nolt. Twelf hundreth sheip. The haill insycht of the barony extending to jm (fn. 1) pundis. And tuke Harbert Maxwell, Johnne Maxwell, his sone, and Harbert Maxwell his oy with ix uyer men prisoneris. The skaith that my lord erll of Mortoun hes sustenit be the heirship of the said barony extendis to xxxij chalder victuall and ijc li. money. Be resson the tenentis wantand yer guidis ar not able to pay him his rent and dewitie." Sept. 9th, 1570.

p. (Fol. 392.)

450. Sussex to Cecil. [Sept. 10.]

I received even now a letter from my Lord Regent, and therewith a packet of letters to you, which, with a copy of his letter to me, I send you herewith. Warkworth. Signed: T. Sussex.

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

Inclosure with the same:—

(Lennox to Sussex.)

[Informs him of the danger, as contained in his letters to the Queen and Cecil of this date.] Edinburgh. 7th Sept. 1570. Signed: Mathew Lennox.

1 p. Copy.

451. Sussex to Elizabeth. [Sept. 10.]

The Lord Herries, for performance of his promise made by his servant, has now sent his letters wherein he promises from henceforth to forbear from receiving your rebels. By report of his messenger, it seems that he stands in great fear of two matters; the one, that the Regent should come upon him with force to compel him by violence to submit to the King's authority or flee the realm; the other, that strangers will deal harshly with him, because he has promised to be contrary to all who shall join with them. He prays to understand your majesty's good pleasure towards him, and the maintenance of him and his. I know not what he will perform, for (as your majesty knows) I give little trust to all his nation. But surely his writing is good, which binds him in honour; his messages, delivered by a man that he trusts as himself, carry with them as much as can be required, and if they be not performed, will show in him great "impudency." He rests constant towards the Queen, which gives ground to credit him the better in other matters. He promises to be in the contrary of all who seek to bring in strangers. He has always been the uprightest man in Scotland for all "justiciall" causes upon your Borders. He offers to be in your service before all other Princes (his natural sovereign only excepted). Warkworth. Signed: T. Sussex.

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

Inclosure with the same:—

(Herries to Sussex.)

Please your right honourable lordship, I received your writings of the 30th of August. I desire your pardon that I have not so hastily answered them as required, the cause being the Laird of Lochinvar's absence. I understand that the cause wherefore we have lately received of your lordship these great scaiths and troubles is for receiving the Queen's majesty's rebels, and if we will no more do so, and keep the peace, you assure us that we shall receive no further harm. In my former writings I showed your lordship, that what little I had to do with the fugitives, I was constrained to do upon courtesy being sought to my house to give some gentlemen of them right short time part of my meat, never presuming to contemn the Queen's majesty's commandment. Commodity to myself, I sought none. If your honour had known the truth of my part, I doubt not that I should not have received such inconvenience as I have done. The Laird of Lochinvar had never to do with them, and will not in times to come. I promise not only to refuse the "recetting" of those wherewith the Queen's majesty is offended, whose names shall be given me by the Warden, but also that I will do nothing wittingly that may offend her majesty. If any of her highness' subjects be "playnteis" by just cause of me or mine "worthe one grote," I shall restore it with ten. I have subscribed a writing, amongst other noblemen, to desire support of France against such as in this realm have done us great violence and injuries, and have usurped the Prince's authority, as we are constrained to take it. We offered to agree to whatsoever 10 or 12 of the wisest men of this realm should find, and if on any points they could not agree, we would refer it to the Queen of England and her Council, and promised never to bring strangers into Scotland, if they would do the like. This being required of divers noblemen sundry times, we could receive no like answer, which constrained me and others to desire support, no ways meaning to offend her highness. If any man goes to bring in strangers, I will signify unto them that I will maintain that appointment which the Queen's majesty shall make with my sovereign. Seeing I am of this mind, I beseech you that I may know the Queen's maintenance of me and the Laird of Lochinvar, and my friends. Terregles. 5th Sept. 1570. Signed: Herris.

Postscript:—As to my young nephew, the Lord Maxwell, he says he will cause your lordship to understand his part towards the King by the Regent.

pp. Copy.

452. Thomas Randolph to Sussex. Elizabeth. [Sept. 10. 1570.] Cott. Calig., C.II., fol. 396.

I have received your letter of the 6th instant, in which you desire to know what resolution is taken by the Regent for the Earl of Morton's meeting with your lordship for the matters upon the Borders, whereof I doubt not but you are advertised by this time by my letter of the 8th instant; which determination yet holds, saving that it is like to be Tuesday before they are with you. Mr. Archibald shall have private letters and instruments to your lordship, that you may be fully informed of the state of all things here, and he [is] to receive your advice, what you think good to be done for the commodities of both the countries, or may tend to her majesty's service. Your advertisement of the departure of the Lady of Northumberland and others in her company is true, but no full assurance what is become of the Earl of Westmorland, for he was twice aboard, and came again to land, but I verily believe that he is departed. The convention held at Dunkeld ended on the 7th instant. There were present at it the Duke, Argyll, Huntly, Atholl, Arbroath, Lethington, Coldingham, Balfour, and Livingston, the ambassador. It is thought that the chief cause of their assembly was for the despatch of him to the Queen, their mistress, and to choose a convenient personage to be sent to the Queen, our sovereign, minding to have had the Earl of Argyll, who was specially written for by their Queen; who has given his answer, that without he may be assured that by his coming she may have her free liberty, and be restored to her country, he would be loath to take that travail. Of this your lordship shall be better informed by Mr. Archibald, who has his wife's letter to that Queen to show you, which was taken on Moone, with many others, which he will show you. I shall know more certainty of all their resolutions within these three days. Another cause of their assembly was to give audience to Mr. John Hamilton and the two strangers, who, some say, are departed, but came not to the assembly.

I have two special causes to give you thanks for:—the one, that shortly I shall be relieved out of this pleasant place—as comfortable for me as when I was among the "Moscovites," saving I esteem these the honester men;—the other, that my credit shall be discharged. Understanding somewhat of your mind that way, at the Regent's going towards Brighan, I caused to be delivered to him 300l. sterling. Since that time, knowing the want, he has received 100l. more, which I have also promised to see paid, and for more than this, I am not bound either by word or writing for any man, and yet knowing how much more is looked for, and what the charges of the soldiers amount to, I send you a note of the whole who serve the Regent, as also what the Earl of Morton has disbursed, and must disburse to his at the end of this month, for the payment of which he would willingly have had my promise. I also send you a note of my whole charges from my coming into Scotland until this day, for the discharge of which, and for so long as you mind that I shall tarry (which I trust will be but a short time) I know you have consideration, and desire that therein I may have your favour, with this request especially, that I may attend upon you when you go to the Court, for if I remain behind, I have no hope of my life nor care what becomes of me. If it may stand with your pleasure that I may return when Lord Morton goes to you. I shall think myself much bound to your lordship. Edinburgh. Signed: Tho. Randolphe.

Postscript:—There is yet no full accord between the Regent and the Laird of Grange, but like to be, unless it be hindered by one "unfriend" to Lord Morton, who was pursued by some servants of his and rescued into the castle. whom the Regent requires to be delivered.

pp. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed. Note on the back. "Delivered at Barwyke the x off Sept. at iij off the clokein the affter none. William Drury."

First inclosure with the same:—

(Randolph's Charges.)

The whole charges of me Thomas Randolphe from 7th June till the 10th Sept. 1570—187l. 14s.

Whereof, received of Mr. Treasurer of Berwick—70l.

On a small slip of paper.

Second inclosure:—

(Morton's Charges.)

Beginning the 1st of June 1570, —100 footmen with the "memberis," in the month—600l. Scots.

Item:—Fifty horsemen with the captain and "membiris" monthly, beginning the said day—654l. Scots.

Sum in the month—1.254l. Scots. And so in four months viz.— June, July, August, and September—5.016l. Scots. [In Randolph's hand.] Sterling—2003l.

Of which sum I have answered—400l. sterling.

The charges of the Earl of Morton's men amount to about 200l. sterling ending at the end of this month.

p.

453. Thomas Randolph to Sussex. [Sept. 10.] Cott. Calig., C.II., fol. 400.

This bearer, Mr. Montcourre, having sustained great loss, as he reports, on the seas, by one Mr. Northe, who took his ship from him, with goods in the same, and arrived at Holy Island, where he made open sale of the merchandise that he unjustly took of divers honest men, and for the recovery of the ship has been a long time suitor to Lord Hunsdon, Governor of Berwick, and can have no sufficient redress of his losses, whereupon he has been suitor to the Regent that he will be a means to you to take the matter to your own hearing. My Lord Justice Clerk has commission to deal with you in his behalf. Signed: Tho. Randolphe.

½ p. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed.

454. Thomas Randolph to Sussex. [Sept. 10.] Cott. Calig., C.II., fol. 402.

I need not further recommend to your lordship these two gentlemen, sent from the Regent to your lordship with his full mind for the Earl of Morton's meeting with you, whereby he doubts not but such order will be taken on the Borders as shall be occasion of great quietness in time to come. How willing also you shall find these two gentlemen to do all good offices that belong thereunto, I dare take much upon myself in their behalf. The Lord Justice Clerk not being acquainted with your lordship further than by good report that he has heard, is the more desirous to take this journey both to be known to you and also to give occasion that your acquaintance and his together may serve to the commodity of both the countries. I need write little of Mr. Archibald [Douglas], whom you know to be a good friend to our country. I would I could, for that friendship that I have found in him, be a means that he might receive at any man's hands as much as he has deserved. Edinburgh. Signed: Tho. Randolphe.

1 p. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed.

455. Chatelherault, Argyll, and Huntly to Elizabeth. [Sept. 10 and 15.] C.P., Vol. V.

At the commandment of the Queen, our sovereign, and for full declaration of the good affection we bear not only to the continuance of amity between the two realms, but also to do whatsoever we are able, whereby your highness may be moved to set at liberty our said sovereign, and restore her to her realm and authority, we have presently directed towards your highness the bearers hereof, John, Bishop of Ross, Alexander, Bishop of Galloway, and William, Lord Livingston, with full commission and sufficiently authorised from us as her majesty's lieutenants. Praying your highness to give them audience and credit, etc. Dunoon and Strathbogy. Signed: James Hamylton. G. Huntlye. A. Argyll.

½ p. Addressed: "To the Ryght excellent Ryght Hiegh and Myghty Princes the Q. matie of England." Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk): "10, 15 Dec. 1570 The Duke Shatiller. L. Huntley et cet. to the Quene. Scotland."

456. Thomas Randolph to Sussex. [Sept. 11.] Cott. Calig., C.II., fol. 404.

I have received your letter of the 8th instant, and for your desire to know what resolution is taken for the meeting upon the Borders, your lordship knows partly by my letters, and shall very shortly know more by those who go to you to that end, and are already departed out of this town. I have moved my Lord Regent for a safe-conduct to Lord Livingston, whose answer is that he [the Regent] will do nothing therein without advice of the Council, who presently are all absent, saving such as he desires should be least privy to any such matter. and most earnest enemies against him. It is thought by the Regent that he means nothing less than to demand it, or to come this way— but rather the other way he came—to speak with the Lords Flemming and Herries, and so to pass by Carlisle, and [is] judged to be as unwilling to speak with your lordship (if he can escape it) as with any here. The certainty of the resolutions of their Council at Dunkeld cannot be so soon known, and, as I have heard, [are] not all known to some of the chiefest who were there present—so circumspect are they in their doings. No, not yet one word has come to the Castle thereof, nor is he yet returned who went with Lord Leicester's letter. The way to "Blare" is very strait, and watch is continually kept at all the passages that none pass without he brings a token from my Lady, at Dunkeld, that he has been there, and many have their letters taken from them and sent to "Blare," and themselves tarry at Dunkeld till the answer is returned; notwithstanding, the Regent has a trusty servant presently with Lord Atholl to see again if he can move him to come to the King's obedience. There has been some speech of late that the Laird of Lethington would willingly depart out of this country. It is certain that his brother, Thomas, is gone with Lord Seton into Flanders. Of John Hamilton and the two strangers, I can learn no certainty. Moone is stayed to be examined again upon some new occasion of a letter in cipher found in the pocket of his hose after the others were delivered. He has confessed nothing of any importance. He denies knowing the bishop of Ross more than by sight, but ever delivered his letters to, and received them of one Cragge, a Scot, who names himself "Hareson," attending upon the bishop, and acquainted with him by the means of one Mr. Chamber, a priest, son of the Lady Chamber.

Verac, the Frenchman who was at Dombriton from the King, arrived there on Thursday last with twenty-eight mariners—neither chests nor great appearance of any treasure. More of his message or doings as yet, I know not. He has an account to make for the spo[il] of a Scottish ship that he and his company made at his last departure out of this country. As soon as I can, I will speak with Lord Lindsay and the Laird of Lochleven to know their minds more particularly. How great soever speeches are of your doings in the west, I find no honest man here who mislikes it, considering their des … and for that Herries deserved as the rest, it is wished that he had had as the rest have had. Of all other men, the Regent has spoken least, only he wished that "Annande" had been saved. What hope there is of Grange, Mr. Archibald [Douglas] best knows. To-morrow I mind to speak with himself, which I did not this month. I have known him so honest, that I think it a pity that he should not do so that he may always [be] so reputed. Edinburgh. Signed: Tho. Randolphe.

pp. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed.

457. Sussex to Cecil. [Sept. 11.]

M. de Vyracke. who was sent from the French King to the lords of Scotland who convened at Lythko, and returned with capitulations accorded at that convention, is now returned again into Scotland, and landed certainly at Donbryttan on the 7th of this month, with twenty-eight persons in the ship he came in. What he brings, I know not. I am sorry to learn by Mr. Abyngton's letters of your sickness. I hear divers reports of the peace concluded in France, and therefore I beseech you to send me some note of the articles concluded. Warkworth. Signed: T. Sussex.

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

458. The Laird of Bargany to the Regent Lennox. [Sept. 12.]

"It will pleis your grace to be adverteist of sik novellis as I hawe hard in yis cuntre sen my departing from zour grace." I have spoken with a friend who is familiar with the Lord Boyd, who received a writing from London on the 15th of August, in cipher, from the bishop of Ross, the effect of which is, that peace is taken between the King and the admiral, the conditions whereof were not expressed. Secondly:—that the Duke of Norfolk was "lattin to libertie and hoipit suddanly to be ane gud curtioure." Thirdly:— that there was a treaty betwixt the Queen of England and our sovereign's mother touching her liberty, "quharof yer was gud aperance"; and also, that the Duke of Alva was "apon ye se wyth ane greit arme," and the Queen of England had sent to him "to wit quhy he maid so greit preparatioune." His answer was, "for keiping his masteris subjectes in gud ordur. and farder to repair and redress sik injureis as he had sustinyt of sik as war his masteris enemyes." Which answer was "thoct of gret arrogance," and the Queen "had set to ye sey" 28 ships, and was preparing to await on the Duke's further "procedance."

I wrote to your grace before of the Earl of Cassillis' handling of the abbot of Crosraguell, the King's "fre leige." I shall look for good remedy at your hands." Bargany. Signed: Bargany.

1 p. Addressed.

459. Proclamation by Sussex. [Sept. 14.] Cott. Calig., C.II., fol. 134.

Proclamation by the Earl of Sussex, reciting that the Queen of England had signified to him that she had concluded certain articles with the bishop of Ross on behalf of the Queen of Scotland etc., and promising that he would not only procure by all good means he could, that all such persons in Scotland as profess the King's obedience should for two months cease from arms, but also that he would restrain, for the said two months, all her majesty's subjects under his rule from entering into Scotland in hostile manner, and that he would observe good peace on the part of England, so that the same be not broken on the part of Scotland: provided that the Duke etc., with good faith execute the writing by them subscribed. Warkworth.

2 pp. Copy. Indorsed by Cecil.

460. Shrewsbury to Cecil. [Sept. 14.] C.P., Vol. V.

Understanding by the Queen's majesty's letters of the 7th of this month that her highness is informed of some secret practices hereabout, I desire you to declare to her majesty that I use such means in avoiding all evil occasions to that end, that I am certain there is no danger presently. I had intelligence of suspicion towards some in the sea ports, whereupon I gave order to prevent danger. For more surety, I have of late divers times assembled the country folk hereabout to see them furnished with armour and weapons, whom I find ready and willing to serve her majesty under me. The example, I am certain, is a terror to as many as have any intention of evil practice. Inform her majesty that since my last letters to her, neither man nor woman (other than such as be "ordinary" in this house) has come within sight of this Queen.

Yesternight Alexander Bog came to her out of Scotland (as I understand, by sea), whose access I could not deny conveniently, as he has her majesty's passport. I perceive she is very much grieved at the stopping of the passages, whereby she cannot receive intelligence or answer out of Scotland. Perceiving her willing to write to the Queen. I thought good to further her thereunto. Chatsworth. Signed: G. Shrewesbury.

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

461. Sussex to Elizabeth. [Sept. 15.]

Incloses copies of writings. The probable suspicions of the going of Seaton and Lethington's brother into Flanders in the company of her rebels, and the return of Vyrack out of France, moved him to pen more straitly the proviso in the end of his writing.

The Justice Clerk and Mr. Archibald Douglas have been with him to confer upon the Border causes, and to resolve in what sort the Earl of Morton and he should proceed at their meeting. Whereupon certain articles were drawn up, wherewith they returned to confer with the Regent and the Council therein. Incloses a copy, and beseeches her to inform him whether he and her Wardens shall proceed according to the effect of those articles, for he perceives that the Earl of Morton is earnestly affected to all things therein as shall be thought most honourable for her etc., and when they are executed. a very small force will suffice here for any action in Scotland, if no foreign force be received there. The messenger of Lethington and Livingston upon their return mean to advertise their Queen of their doings, and hope that he will from henceforth permit their messengers to pass and return. Desires to know her pleasure therein. If they send any in the meantime, whom she has not commanded him to stay, he means to grant him a passport, with proviso that he shall repair directly to her majesty. Warkworth. Signed: T. Sussex.

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

First inclosure with the same:—

(Articles between Chatelherault and others and Sussex.)

The Earl of Sussex has required us to subscribe and seal certain covenants bearing the substance of the articles following, to the end that the treaty begun between the Queen, our sovereign, and the Queen of England may proceed.

(1) That all arms and hostility shall cease on our side bond fide.

(2) That we shall abandon the Queen of England's rebels, or detain them in surety, to be forthcoming at the end of the treaty.

(3) That no foreign forces shall be received by us into Scotland.

(4) That no innovation shall be made on our part in the government of Scotland in the meantime, and that we shall keep true peace for two months next following the date hereof, and further as the treaty shall require. "And hereunto we oblise us apon our honours and fidelity as we wilbe accompted worthy of the name and rank of noblemen without any cavillation fraude or gile"; provided that the Earl of Sussex will cause the faction professing the King's obedience too bservc like conditions, and no ways trouble us, unless they be by arms provoked thereto. Provided also that the treaty in the meantime proceed directly etc. Which articles we promise upon our honours to perform, etc. Strayth Tay, 3rd Sept. 1570. Signed: James Hamilton. Huntly. Argyll.

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

Second inclosure:—

(Articles by Sussex.)

Is contented to accept the said writing from the said Duke and Earls in good part. [Recapitulates his own covenant], and promises that he will not only procure the King's party to cease from arms, but will also stay all the Queen of England's subjects from entering Scotland in hostile manner, provided the Queen of Scots' party perform the writing subscribed by them. Warkworth. Signed: T. Sussex.

pp. Copy. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk).

Third inclosure:—

(Maitland to Sussex.)

Has received his letter of 14th of August and one to Lord Livingston and him of the 16th of August. At his request the Duke and the Earls of Huntly and Argyll came to these parts, as the inability of his body would not permit him to repair towards them. Has procured their subscriptions and seals to the articles mentioned in Sussex's letter of the 4th of July. Has purposely directed this bearer to him with the said articles, and begs him to return his answer with a "reciproque" promise. Desires him to provide that he may bring his letters safely to him without trouble of the other party, for which he trusts that three lines signed by him will serve. Blair in Athoile, 7th Sept. 1570. Signed: W. Maitland.

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

Fourth inclosure:—

(Sussex to Maitland.)

Has received his letter of the 8th, and therewith a writing subscribed and sealed by the Duke of Chatelherault and the Earls of Huntly and Argyll, and although he might have taken exception to divers parts thereof—wherein more matter is contained than was expressed in any writing of his; yet, because he considered that such exceptions would breed delay, he has thought best to receive the writing as it is, and sends another writing signed and sealed by himself, which he promises to perform with good faith. Has willed the bearer to declare to him certain things wherein he rests unsatisfied. Warkworth, 14th Sept. 1570.

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

462. Sussex to Cecil. [Sept. 15.]

Has received from Lord Livingston a writing subscribed by the Duke of Chatelherault etc., and has returned another writing to him subscribed by himself, copies whereof, with copies of Lethington's letters, he has sent to the Queen's majesty. Has also received a note of the articles drawn for the Border causes when the Justice Clerk and Archibald Douglas were with him here. The Regent sent him certain copies of letters and some originals taken upon Moone, which he sends herewith. Has seen a copy of a letter from the Countess of Atholl to the Queen of Scots, whereby he perceives that he is thought to be a hard dealer for those causes, and that great blame is laid on him for keeping the passages so strait that no letters can pass. Prays God to restore him to perfect health. Warkworth. Signed: T. Sussex.

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

463. Sussex to Thomas Randolph. [Sept. 16.]

I have received a writing from the Duke of Chatelherault etc., whereby it shall appear that they and I have done what to either of us belongs for the performing of the articles contained in my letter to Lethington of the 4th of July last. It rests now only that the lords who profess obedience to their King should also subscribe and seal to a writing to be by them made, wherein "they should conteine particularly all things to be by them done that may bonâ fide correspond to the other writings," and so send the same to me with as convenient speed as possible, that I may send a copy thereof to the other side. I conceive that they will be very unwilling to yield to these matters at present, because they have the forehand; but they must remember, that all which they have has been brought to them by the Queen's majesty's countenance, and must by her means be continued, otherwise they cannot keep what they now have, therefore it behoves them to follow her advice. I need not recite what cause they have to repose their whole confidence in the Queen's majesty, and to rest assured that she will not consent to do anything wherein their King's surety and their own shall not be provided for, or to consent hastily to the alteration of that government. You have the copies of her letters which declare those matters. Her majesty is bound to proceed according to the articles accorded between her and the bishop of Ross, so that the noblemen who acknowledge their King's obedience need not by the proceedings in this cause take any "discorage." I pray you to deal earnestly with the Regent and the rest of that nobility that they will pen their writing substantially, so that there may appear good faith to be meant for the performance. As it may breed delay to assemble all the Council, it will satisfy if the writing be signed and sealed by the Regent and the Earls of Morton and Mar, and that they promise for the rest. I think it good that they provide some fit personage to send to her majesty sufficiently instructed according to the effect of her letters. Warkworth.

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

464. Thomas Randolph to Sussex. [Sept. 16.]

Your lordship, I doubt not, has so good information of the proceedings at Dunkeld by the Laird of Lethington's servant, who lately came from thence with their resolutions, that I think your lordship is resolved "in all ther myndes," saving perchance he could not or would not let you know how that both the Earl of Atholl and Boyd so much mislike of their doings, that they utterly refused to assist them, knowing that, notwithstanding the three lieutenants' promises and subscriptions which you have received, they practise daily for the coming in of strangers, and look for it as assuredly as they mean little good faith in all their doings. They have, indeed, put the rebels from them, but have sent them into Flanders to work more mischief than if they had remained. How well the conditions are like to be performed, having only their subscriptions, who so many times have broken their promises, your lordship can well enough conceive. For trust and credit, I would rather have had the Earl of Atholl's hand alone than all the three together. The Earl of Atholl has now assured the Regent that he will remain at the King's obedience, and will be with him without fail very shortly. Lord Boyd is thought to be of the same mind. The Earl of Crawford makes his means to the Regent by Lord Lindsay, who is presently with him, and thinks he will bring him with him to this town. Lord Oglevy, by his mother, travails with Lord Morton to make his way; Lord Home, by the Earl of Marr and the Laird of Dune; Lord Somervell by the Earl of Morton; the Earl of Cassillis by Lord Glammis, and Montgomery (fn. 2) by a friend of his own, who is looked for this night. The sheriff of Ayr is here suiting for himself. What Lord Harries does, your lordship knows best, who has Donlamorick as busy for him here as may be. Lethington, as you have heard, would fain be out of the country. Grange is coming in, and will deceive your expectation. The Tivedale men are presently here. Farnyhurst, Buccleuch, Johnston, Bedroul and others offer their obedience, and are willing to do all things in their power to satisfy both England and Scotland, but are very loath to give pledges, if they could be received upon any other conditions, which in nowise will be granted.

There is of late secret knowledge come to the Regent from my lady that the Queen has promised to send Mr. Secretary and Sir Walter Mildmay as commissioners to the Scottish Queen to end all matters between them, which, when it is known—as yet it is only to the Regent and the Earl of Morton—I believe will make a good number start back from that which now they are willing unto, and hereof I think the Regent will write unto you. There came lately a letter to Lord Boyd from a friend out of England, which he showed to the Earl of Montgomery, advising him to do for himself, if he saw opportunity, as it would not fall out with the Queen as he looked for. I hear that Lord Livingston minds not to return—so is he persuaded by his friends and the Laird of Kilsyth sent from them to him for that purpose. It is told me that Hamilton with the two strangers are departed. They remained at Straughboggy till after the convention, and were despatched by the Earl of Huntly after his return. They embarked at a place called "the Bank" above Aberdeen, not far from his house. Of their errand, we know no more than at their coming they offered a supplication to the Earl of Huntly about matter of traffic between those parts and Flanders, which seemed a colour to some other intent than that which they pretend. Of the sounding of the havens, "it is most assured whereupon the brut rose of the Spaniards coming, and also that the Earle Marshall certifie the Donnotter with all the spede he can for fear least his gold becomme a botye to the pore Spaniardes" if they come into these parts, where I assure you that few men have any will of them. What men M. Virack brings, I know not. The bishop of St. Andrews is no more received into Dumbarton, as it is told me. It is also said that Arbroath and Killwinning will "owt of the countrey," and the rest know not well what will come of them. Your lordship willed me to deal with Lord Lindsay and Loghleven—neither of them is presently here. The lords of the late convention were never in their lives so near a shrewd bargain as at the place where they met at a house of the Earl of Atholl's called "the Garth," where a company of the King's friends were assembled, "who mynded to have cutt all ther throtes," had it not been stayed by the Lord Atholl's self.

As soon as it shall please your lordship to make me able to discharge my credit, and have wherewith to bring me out of town, I mean, God willing, to wait upon you in the meanest kind of service you will put me unto, for assuredly I am weary of this life, and cannot thrive with this craft, and therefore would fain give myself to some other occupation more commendable than this art of mine is now esteemed in the world. Edinburgh.

Postscript. There was within these two days a Scottish man here, who is servant to my Lord Deputy of Ireland, despatched from his lordship to Donald Gorme, to entertain him in the Queen's service against the Earl of Argyll. The Regent has sent a servant of his with him, and fair offers also for his part, "if he deserve well as moche as the fermorship of the bishoprik of Rosse whose master is in England." Signed: Tho. Randolphe.

pp. Copy. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk).

Cott. Calig., C.II., fol. 406.

Original of the same.

4 pp. No flyleaf or address.

465. The Regent Lennox to Elizabeth. [Sept. 16.]

Being "enterit" on the weighty charge of the "regiment" of this realm, I am "constrenit" to signify unto your highness such things as fall out here. Touching the weal of this young Kirg, I will forbear to make long letter to your majesty; but, having instructed my wife to declare the same unto you. I humbly beseech your majesty to grant her audience, and in that which she shall speak on my behalf, to credit her. Edinburgh. Signed: Mathew Regent.

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

466. The Regent Lennox to Cecil. [Sept. 16.]

Trusts he will still continue that good instrument he has always declared himself for the amity betwixt the two realms. Doubts not that he will give his wife advice in such things as she shall impart unto him. Signed: "Your very assured lovyng frend," Mathew Regent.

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

467. Sussex to the Regent Lennox and the Lords of the King's Party. [Sept. 16.]

Has received from the Duke of Chatelherault and the Earls of Huntly and Argyll a writing sealed and subscribed by them, wherein they promise to cease from arms etc. It rests now only that their lordships will subscribe and seal a writing wherein they will promise upon their honours to perform what to them belongs in the premises. Has instructed Mr. Randolph to deal with them at good length. Warkworth. Signed: T. Sussex.

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

468. The Regent Lennox to Sussex. [[Sept.] 16.]

Right honourable and my very good lord. I have heard some "brute" (which appears not altogether vain) that the Queen's majesty intends to enter into accord with the Queen, mother of the King here. It is likewise affirmed here, that in the late convention kept by the adversaries, they have, for the furtherance of the same matter, given affirmative answer to Livingston's message, and to the four articles contained in your letter to Lethington of the 4th of July. But, howsoever they intend by their declared dealing to abuse others, yet I am well assured—since your lordship has found no manner of upright proceeding on that part—that you will not be induced further to trust them than you shall see certain good matter for you, and in consideration that their present practice seems so dangerous, I cannot but give you knowledge of it. What surety the Queen's majesty can have by an accord, I leave to your consideration. The end—by appeararance—cannot be but prejudicial to the interest of the King and this realm. The practice of the adversaries is, that now, when a Parliament is proclaimed for confirmation of me in the "regiment," they frankly agree to it, but they mean not to perform it. They travail to have me revoked, and called again to England. I earnestly pray you to let her highness understand the inconveniences which this treaty and accord in this sort may breed. I pray your lordship to grant favourable passage with commission for post-horses to the bearer hereof, William Stewart, my servant, whom I have sent to my wife with some information in this behalf, and with letters to my friends at Court. (fn. 3) Edinburgh. Signed: Mathewe Regent.

12/3 pp. Copy. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk).

469. The Regent Lennox to the Countess of Lennox. [Sept. 16.]

"My good Meg, I have considered the letteris broght unto me by this berair Williame Stewart, aswell from zour self as from the Court, with suche other thingis as he reported by mouthe, and in respect of thestate of matters, baith in that realme and heir in this cuntrie, I have thoght meitt to returne him agayne with speid unto zou, with suche informacion as for the present is meitt to be sent, whill as I maie have the commoditie to send a messinger instructed sufficientlie in all behalffes to deale aswell with the Queens Matie, as with my lordes of the Counsell in the same matters, and suche others as shall occur, and unto that tyme yow must susteane a part of my burding to use the place of a sollicitor and agent, aswell in delivering of my lettres to her Matie and to my lordes according to the direc- tionis, as also in declaracion of suche thingis, as ar conteyned in the memoir and notes heirwith enclosed." I cannot well commit the handling of those matters—being of such weight—to any other than yourself; neither am I assured if other messengers would be so well liked of, nor if the personages with whom you have to deal would be so plain and frank with others, and so I thought not meet to commit them to this bearer (although I could well trust him), he being so young. I have also sent unto you herewith two letters written in "chiffre" by Lethington, and "apprehendit with Johnne Moone," which you shall deliver to Mr. Secretary, for "peraventur he may find the moyen to dischiffre theym." Edinburgh. Signed: "Yor own most lovyng husband," Mathew Regent.

Addressed: "To the Rigt honorable the Lady Margaret [m]y wyf."

470. Bishop of Ross to Cecil. [Sept. 17.] C.P., Vol. V.

Waiting since his last audience to receive advertisement from Court to make the voyage towards the Queen, his mistress. Understands that his sickness, for which he was right sorry, was apparently the stay thereof. Has received letters from the Queen of Scots by the servant he sent lately to her, who has returned with a letter to be presented to the Queen's majesty by reason of advertisement come to her from Scotland by Sandy Bog, which she wills him to declare. Prays an audience with the Queen to that effect. Islington. Signed: Jo. Rossen.

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

471. List of Scottish Nobility. [Sept. 18.]

"Thir noblemen and yair freindis ar presentlie obedient to the Kingis Matie and his auctoritie."

[Extracts.]

"The erle of Angus, unmareit."

"The erle of Mortoun mareit ane of the dochters of the last erle of Mortoun."

"The erle of Mar, mareit the dochter of the laird of Tullybardin."

"The erle of Erroll, auld, his sone the Maister quha dois the service, mareit the heritrice of Lyne of yat hous, quha was my Lord Regentis sistar dochtar."

[Also particulars concerning] the Earls of Lennox, Gleneairn. Menteith, Montrose. Marishal. Buchan, Caithness, Sutherland. Cassillis. Eglinton, Athol, Rothes, and Crawford, Lords Semple, Ruthven, Lindsay, Methven, Glammis, Ochiltree, Cathcart, Crichton of Sanquhar "ane puple, his haill freindis obedient to the King." Yester, Borthwick, Gray, Sinclair, Lovat, Saltoun, Forbes. "Sanet Johns," Drummond, Maxwell, Elphinstoun. Home, Rosse, Oliphant, Somervell, and Ogilvy.

"Thir noblemen pretendis thair obedience to the Quene."

The Duke of Chatelherault, the Earls of Huntly and Argyll.

Lord Boyd, "mareit the dochter of a gentleman named Colquhoun." Lords Fleming, Livingston, Herries, and Seton.

[Their marriages are given in each case.]

pp. Written on a long sheet of paper. Indorsed by Cecil.

472. List of Scottish Nobility. Elizabeth. [Sept. 18. 1570.]

[List of Scottish Nobility dicided into factions, with notes by Ceril.]

1 p. Written and indorsed by Cecil's clerk.

473. List of Scottish Nobility. [Sept. 18.]

[A list of the Nobility of Scotland.]

1 p. In a Scottish hand. Indorsed.

474. Elizabeth to Sussex. [Sept. 19.]

Although we have at sundry times in secret sort caused knowledge to be given to the principals of those who obey the young King of Scotland, how we have been pressed both by the French King, the King of Spain, and other potentates to restore the Queen of Scots to her liberty upon good and honourable assurances to be made unto us, and being also offered the like from her, we could not devise how in honour continually to refuse the same, yet we ever determined not to proceed otherwise with her for ourself, but that we would have the like respect for the safety of the young King, and of the nobility and others who acknowledge his authority. We require you to impart unto them secretly, by some discreet person, or by writing, this our intention, and move them to choose such means as they shall think meetest—by trusty messengers or by writing—to give us information what they shall think requisite for us to deal in on the behalf of the King and themselves, and you may let them know also, that having been importunately thereto pressed by other Princes, we have at length assented to send two of our Privy Council to the said Queen, to understand from her what assurances she will make; who shall also have commission to deal with her in such matters as may tend to bring quietness betwixt her and her son, and assurance for such as obey him. So that, if they shall be disposed to send any persons instructed with such matters, you may help to address them to the place where our Ministers shall be with the Scottish Queen.

We received your letters of the 15th, with the copies of the bond sent by the Duke of Chatelherault etc., and your answer very circumspectly made thereto. We have ordered certain treasure to be presently sent with all speed possible, and pray that in the meantime you will prepare to discharge some of your numbers.

22/3 pp. Draft. Corrected by Cecil. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk).

Cott. Calig., C.II., fol. 410.

Original of the same: "Given under our Signet at our Towne of Reading" etc.

475. Elizabeth to Sussex. [Sept. 20.] Cott. Calig., C.II., fol. 412.

Whereas, with your letter of the 15th, amongst other things, you sent us a copy of certain articles for orders for the Border causes, whereupon you desire to know our pleasure. We give you to understand, that we like very well of the same articles, and are desirous that therein yourself or our Wardens may proceed without delay, to the furtherance of justice, and relief of our subjects who have been spoiled. And whereas also we gave you to understand of late that we would have our charges there diminished, finding no cause to have any extraordinary forces longer there continued, considering the ill neighbours of Scotland have been well tamed and broken under by you; and yet, having some regard lest upon an universal [discharge], the adverse party in Scotland might take some new courage, and the King's party also be thereby discouraged, especially whilst we are in hand to treat with the Queen of Scots for some end, we have resolved that you shall dissolve one half of the extraordinary bands as soon as you possibly can, by the help of the treasure that is going there, wishing you in the meantime, if you can, by your credit, to procure some portions of money beforehand to pay and discharge as many as the time will suffer you, and in the doing hereof we will that you should devise all the good means that you can that the dissolution of these numbers may be done in such secret manner that the inconvenience before mentioned may be avoided, and that you discharge the most unable to serve, for that the country may be well answered of their horses and armour. "Geven under our Signet, at our town of Redyng" etc.

1 p. Original. Addressed. At the head: "Elizabeth R. By the Quene."

476. Sussex to Cecil. [Sept. 20.]

I received even now a letter from Mr. Randolph, and thought fit to send a copy to you. It seems that the Regent has goodwill to proceed with diligence in the Border causes, and therefore I beseech you that I may with speed know the Queen's majesty's pleasure therein. Warkworth. Signed: T. Sussex.

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

Inclosure with the same:—

(Thomas Randolph to Sussex.)

Yesternight there arrived here the Justice Clerk and Mr. Archibald [Douglas]. They have spoken very much of the honour received at your hands, and the favourable answers given in such causes as they dealt with your lordship in, which are so well accepted and liked here as to be to every man's contentation who have regard to honour and justice. They mind out of hand to resolve upon the time of meeting, and immediately to give your lordship knowledge, wherein I mind to press them as earnestly as I can.

There came yesternight to this town, the Earls of Mar and Glencairn, chiefly for that cause. Upon Thursday the Tividal lairds bring their pledges to this town I hear no further of Virack's message than that there is a compaction between the Lord Fleming and the Grand Prior of France that the Castle shall be delivered into his hands. I know no certainty hereof further than I believe the Regent writes. He has brought with him bullets for divers sorts of pieces, lead to make shot, some wine, and other provisions. One of the vessels that came with him is gone herring fishing, and of the other you may shortly hear some news, if an enterprise take effect, for which cause some are this day despatched out of this town. Edinburgh, 19th Sept. 1570. Signed: Tho: Randolphe.

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

Cott. Calig., C.II., fol. 408.

Original of the same. 1 p. Addressed. Indorsed.

477. Thomas Randolph to [Sussex]. [Sept. 21.] Cott. Calig., C.II., fol. 414.

I have received your letter of the 16th instant with letters and copies of letters to be delivered to the Lord Regent, which I have done, and have also declared the credit committed to me by your lordship to be showed to him and the Council here—of which there were present at that time with his lordship, the Earls of Morton, Mar, and Glencairn, Lords Ruthven and Dunfermline, Master of the Requests, Clerk of the Register, Justice Clerk, and the Laird of "Dunne." This being done, and as many persuasions used as I could to induce them both to allow of the matter, and also not to have any doubt of their King's state or their own surety—considering what her majesty had done hitherto, what she had promised, and how well she is minded, if good cause be given her to go forward in that course she has begun— I thought that their lordships could not refuse to yield to that, being so well advised upon by the Queen, my mistress, proceeding from such Princes as have been such earnest motioners there, as also to be a way to avoid greater inconveniences that may ensue, if in this so reasonable a matter they make such difficulty.

There was objected against this very much by divers of them—as the present state of the King and country, the ceasing of justice, the stay of parliament that should confirm the authority—that they could not deal in that sort with the King's rebels and murderers of his father and uncle, that all commissions directed as well for the quietness of the Borders or other parts must cease, and the borderers hearing hereof might take liberty for two months to live as they list, being of that faction against whom, for so long time, no man may deal in any sort, and thereby the meeting determined between your lordship and the Earl of Morton like to be void. Upon these matters we reasoned a long time, as also upon their faith and promise that so many times have been broken, that yet they never ceased by all practices that they could use both to bring in foreigners, and to work what mischief they could at home, or against the Queen's majesty's self, as shall be made evident to your lordship at the Earl of Morton's meeting, if this occasion be no stay thereof. They desired, notwithstanding, to have some time to consider upon these matters. The next morning there came to my lodging the Earls of Morton and Mar, Clerk of Register, and Justice Clerk, sent from the Regent by the advice of the Council. They renewed the former day's talk, and confirmed it with many more reasons collected into writing upon the assurance your lordship sent to the contrary party, and thereupon resolved, that by that which they had seen in your writing, it was forced that all authority, justice, and power should cease, if they should accord to the like as was granted to their adversaries by your lordship, which would greatly prejudice the King's estate and the authority of the Regent. To satisfy them in that point, I put them in remembrance of her majesty's letter to you of the 6th of July, of which they have a copy.

Being, as it seemed, in great perplexity, they desired if I knew any further of your mind or was able to resolve them any further of your meaning, this being so hard for them to yield to, and too great a gap for their enemies to enter at, they being now so far beforehand. I told them, as you advised me in your letter—that they should think from whence that advantage came to them, and by whose means, and that I could rather advise them to yield to it than that I could say any further than I had done. In this sort they departed, promising to send to me again that night. Towards evening there came to me the Justice Clerk, and told me that the Regent and Council had resolved to send him again to your lordship to be further satisfied by yourself, trusting that you, understanding so much as had been said to me, would see the justice of their cause, and be otherwise resolved or give such advice as might be most for the weal of this State, being now in towardness of quietness. This being the Regent's determination, I thought good to advertise your lordship with the most speed I can, assuring you that nothing shall be omitted on their parts that lawfully they can do to her majesty's contentment, wherein they yield as much to your advice as they do to their own judgment, knowing how much you tender their cause. I conjecture that if your only meaning is, that this party shall only cease from arms for the said space, and no further pursue them of their lives for any offence committed, that then they think your desire not so hard to be accorded unto as otherwise. To-morrow, being Friday, the Justice Clerk repairs towards your lordship, but I suppose it will be Sunday before he is with you. He has made so good report of your honourable entertainment and good usage, that I doubt not but he will be very welcome again to you. Edinburgh. Signed: Tho. Randolphe.

3⅓ pp. Holograph. No flyleaf or address.

478. Margaret Countess of Lennox to Cecil. [Sept. 21.] C.P., Vol. V.

"Good Mester sekretory." Such letters as I have received from my lord, I send you to peruse, and if I had been at the Court, as my lord hoped, I would have imparted them to you myself. My hope is only in God and your wisdoms to foresee the dangers that may happen if that realm should understand the "parlementyng with the quen of Scots," as by these notes you may perceive. I have sent to you my old and trusty servant, Monpaston, with this bearer, to impart to him your good pleasure. Committing you to God's holy protection. Somerset Place. Signed: Margaret Lennox.

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

479. Thomas Randolph to Sussex. [Sept. 22.] Cott. Calig., C.II., fol. 416.

As your lordship is not ignorant of the cause of this bearer the Lord Justice Clerk's going, I need not at this time trouble you with any long letter, nor further recommend the cause he goes for, knowing how willing you have been at all times to set forward anything that might concern the weal of this country. Edinburgh Signed: Tho. Randolphe.

2/3 p. Holograph: Addressed. Indorsed.

480. Memoranda of the Bishop of Ross. Elizabeth. [Sept. 22. 1570.] C.P., Vol. V.

To write to Lord Sussex to make no impediment to Lord Livingston and others who shall be sent from Scotland to the Queen, their sovereign, and the nobility as commissioners in this treaty. The whole number to be thirty persons.

To write to the Earl of Lennox to retire towards Berwick or into England, there to remain till the end of the treaty, to the effect that no impediment be made for the said deputies to travel through Scotland. Also that he will cease from troubling Lord Livingston and all other her subjects, their lands or goods during this treaty; and that he will set Lady Seton at liberty, whom he keeps as a prisoner, being the Queen his mistress' special servant, and one of her Dames of Honour.

Item:—A passport for the bishop of Ross with six servants to pass towards the Queen his mistress.

Item:—A passport for M. Roulett, secretary to the Queen of Scotland, to pass towards the Queen [of Scots] with a coffer and such other baggage as he has.

Item:—A passport for Archibald Seton and his wife, who are coming from France into Scotland.

Item:—A passport for Patrick Crommy, merchant, to pass into France.

¾ p. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk): "22 Septbr. 1570. A remembrance of the B. of Rosse."

481. Elizabeth to the Regent Lennox. [Sept. 23.]

Whereas you heretofore had licence to repair into Scotland as well to see to the estate of the young King as for your own private affairs, and as the time is almost expired, we license you to remain in Scotland as long as it shall seem convenient to you, except we shall find any reasonable cause for our service here to send for you. Whatsoever may by sinister means be reported to you of any lack of consideration in us towards you, we would have you assure yourself of the continuance of our favour.

1 p. Draft. Corrected by Cecil. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk).

482. Sussex to Cecil. [Sept. 24.]

Has received the Queen's letters of the 19th and 23rd, and sends copies of them to Mr. Randolph, with the best advice he could how to treat with the King's party to bring to speedy end her majesty's intention. Has received letters from Mr. Randolph of the 21st declaring how unwilling the King's side are to lose their present advantage, and for their better satisfaction, they have resolved to send the Justice Clerk to confer with him (Sussex), who will be here this night. He is a man of good capacity and tractable, and therefore he trusts to return him satisfied. Has received his letter of the 19th requiring his opinion privately in certain matters, and refers him to his letter to the Queen's majesty of the 8th of July, and the copy of his letter to Lethington of the 5th of July, which is as much as he can presently write. Warkworth. Signed: T. Sussex.

2/3 p. Addressed. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk).

483. Thomas Randolph to Sussex. Elizabeth. 1570. [Sept. 25.] Cott. Calig., C.II., fol. 420.

I received yesterday your letter written the 23rd instant, with a copy of the Queen's majesty's letter in the same. I went presently to the Regent, with whom I conferred long concerning the contents of both. He showed himself willing to yield to all things that may be to our sovereign's contentment, as far as in duty to this State he can, and concern the maintenance of the King in his authority, knowing that absolute power is not in himself to do what he will, nor to determine aught touching the State without the advice and consent of the Council. I pressed earnestly to have his answer to that which I had [said], and as near as might be to her majesty's liking. The Earl of Morton, being then at Dalkeith, was sent for to be here this morning. At whose coming I declared again the contents of her majesty's letter. We reasoned long upon the inconveniences that might ensue upon that communication by the commissioners, considering the present state of matters here like to have prospered marvellous well, and of the hindrance it has bred, and is like to breed in many good purposes, concluding that they saw no other but great peril to this State to have that Queen put home among them, but hoped much on the Queen's majesty's promise for the King's surety, and surety of themselves, having those chiefly their enemies who are as much her majesty's as theirs—as experience has showed. Touching the sending of any man to the place where the commissioners shall meet, they allow very well thereof, and wish that they had had continually some man attending on her majesty hitherto, for the weight of the causes that depend between the two countries, and also to be a daily solicitor in their matters, and to answer such accusations and calumnies as are daily cast forth and spread against them by their adversaries. But how to send presently before the States are assembled, that it may be done by common consent, they know not, and to do it without their allowance and advice, it may not [be]. To have them together before the day of the parliament, cannot be done. If the meeting of the commissioners with that Queen may be deferred, they doubt not but the whole nobility will condescend not only thereto, but to all other things that with honour, duty, and safety to this State they may lawfully yield to.

Touching the draft your lordship requires to be made by them— such as they shall willingly accord to—your desire is already satisfied therein, and sent by the Justice Clerk, trusting that your advice will be to alter as little thereof as may be, being much more than willingly they would consent to, but that they know with whom they deal, willing to show themselves as ready to please as may be, and so trusting on your favourable aid in their causes, they leave it to your discretion. Who is appointed Secretary, and who Warden of the East Marches, I think your lordship knows—the abbot of Dunfermline the one, and Lord Ruthven the other. Edinburgh. Signed: Tho. Randolphe.

2 pp. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed.

484. Memoranda concerning the Commission. [Sept. 25.] Cott. Calig., C.II., fol. 39.

At the head: "The sume of the Commission."

Motions made by the French King and others to hear the Scottish Queen's cause.

The Queen's majesty's disposition to live in accord with the Queen of Scots etc.

"The articles" (short notes under 13 headings).

"The manner of assurance" (7 short notes).

"Resons to nove ye Queen" (divided into two sections, (1) containing 8 brief notes, (2) containing 4).

"For England" (14 paragraphs).

2 pp. In Cecil's hand. (The date is at the head in a different hand.)

485. Elizabeth to Sir Henry Norris. [Sept. 25.] Cott. Calig., C.II., fol. 47.

Whereas the French King and the Queen mother have often moved him in very earnest manner to advertise how meet it were and agreeable to them that she should take some good way with the Queen of Scots, he is to declare to them, that at sundry times she determined to proceed to some treaty with the said Queen, and at every time heretofore, partly by her [the Queen of Scots'] own doing, and by such of her subjects as she committed authority to, she was utterly impeached to proceed as she intended, having her rebels not only maintained openly there, but aided to make invasions into her realm, so that she could not with honour or surety do otherwise than she has done, which is to defend her realm, pursue her rebels, and chastise those who aided them. But now, finding the said Queen and her subjects contented to forbear their former evil usages, she has certainly resolved to send persons of trust, being of her Privy Council, to understand the mind of the said Queen, and has also given safe-conduct to such of the nobility as the Queen of Scots has thought meet, to come freely into her realm to her, and by their advices to proceed to some reasonable end for her, as well for matters betwixt her and the Queen of Scots as betwixt her and her subjects. Desires the King to interpret her intention to the best part. If it is asked whom she will send, he may name them to be her principal Secretary and Sir Walter Mildmay. Is to inform the King that she understands that one Vyrack, a Frenchman, naming himself the King's servant, is lately come to Dumbarton with soldiers, munition, and such like, giving comfort in the King's name to such of the Scots as have little desire to have any accord in Scotland, and require of him that she may understand his intention herein. Is to inform him that she hears of certain ships of war prepared in Brittany by one De La Roche, with pretence to carry men of war into Ireland, and considering his ambassador has with great vehement speech made her assurance of the King's full determination to observe peace with her, she cannot but inform him of these things, requiring him that order may be given to his governors in Brittany that no such attempt be taken in hand by any person.

pp. Draft in Cecil's hand. Indorsed.

486. Elizabeth to Sussex. [Sept. 25.]

We are informed by the Scottish Queen how the Duke of Chatelherault, and the Earls of Huntly and Argyll have subscribed the articles, how they and the rest of the nobility depending upon her are agreed to send two of themselves to us—for which purpose a safeconduct is required, which we have granted—and that they are all fully resolved to keep the articles sent to you. It is now required that no innovation be attempted by them against the Queen's party, and that if they will so promise to us, it may be notified to the Queen's party, and if they will not promise to observe the articles, that then it may also be so notified. We require you to use such good means as you shall think meetest to impart these things to the Earls of Lennox and his party, and move them to assent thereto, and to observe them. Considering that this cause must have some end, and—if the Queen of Scots shall not refuse reasonable conditions— we do not see how with honour and reason we can continue her in restraint. We would that the King's party should have regard how, and with what reasonable conditions, we might provide for their surety. If they would send some to confer with our Ministers we could the better proceed in the whole matter. We hear also that the Regent has summoned a Parliament against the midst of October, which we are required to procure to be stayed, and not surely knowing the intent thereof—although we wish that party well—yet we find it not reasonable to have any such thing now renewed whilst we are in communication with the Queen of Scots, and therefore we wish that they might be induced to prorogue it. We know it will be hard to induce that party to yield in anything at this time, for fear of revolt of many from them, but the necessity of the cause must rule all our actions, and in the order hereof as much wisdom must be used as may be not only continuing of them in concert, but also in providing for their sureties.

pp. Draft in Cecil's hand. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk).

Cott. Calig., C.II., fol. 418.

Original of the same. "Given under our Signet, at our Manor of Reding," etc.

487. Charles IX. to Chatelherault, etc. [Sept. 26.] Royal MSS., 18 B. VI., fol. 288, b.

Cousin, having heard of the sackings and ruins made by the rebels of the country of Scotland on my sister, the Queen of Scotland, and you her subjects, and that for some time past they continued their evil doings there, how many of you, the lords, gentlemen and others having an affection for the Queen my said sister's service have lost your houses, which have been burned, I have much wished to write you this short letter to tell you how I have just now told the Queen of England by the Sieur de Walsingham, that if she does not give order that such deportment cease, and cause those to be punished who should undertake such things, I will resent it, and that would urge me to help my said sister, and give her the means to use it for revenge. For I desire to succour my said sister, the Queen of Scotland, and her subjects with all the assistance that shall be possible for me. Likewise, at present, I have the means, being favoured by God, peace being well established in this my realm. Hoping that when the said Queen of England shall have heard that which I have told by the Sieur de Walsingham, the Englishman, that she will provide for it, and that following that which by the same means I have written her, and prayed, she will proceed freely and with good speed in the negotiation, which I think treats at present to put my said sister at liberty, and also to put all things in quiet and tranquility in her realm. And for this cause, I pray you to persevere and continue to labour with the affection you have always had for the service and weal of the affairs of my said sister the Queen of Scotland, without having fear of the pretended Regent; holding you assured that I will not permit that the evils which they have done to the said country of Scotland commence again, nor that the good and loyal subjects of my said sister be thus molested. Paris. Signed: Charles.

Postscript. Cousin, because there are many other lords, gentlemen and others remaining good subjects of my said sister who are in the same trouble as yourselves, I pray you advertise them of what I have written you, and assure them that I will always give all the assistance possible for me to my said sister and her affairs.

½ p. French. At the head: "Copie le da lettre du Roy de France à Monsr le Duc de Chastelerault . . . ."

488. Elizabeth to her Lieutenants and Wardens of her Marches, Mayors, etc. [Sept. 26.] C.P., Vol. V.

The Queen of Scots has requested her that two noblemen of Scotland might come to her realm to speak with her, and afterwards repair to treat with her (Elizabeth). Which two might be chosen from the following, viz.:—the Earls of Huntly, Argyll, Athol, Rothes, and Caithness, the Bishop of Galloway, the Lords Boyd, Livingston, or Herreis. Elizabeth licenses any two of the said Earls etc., with thirty persons, or under, in their train, to enter her realm, they giving notice to the Wardens of the Marches where they shall enter, being viewed and registered by order of the Warden, and with their plate, money, jewels, apparel etc., to repair through this her realm as directly and conveniently as they may, by the ordinary way, to the place where the Queen of Scots shall be, and from thence to her (the Queen of England) to treat with her, and to remain for six months if need so require it; and to return again to Scotland. During all the time of their remaining here, she has taken them into her special protection, requiring all her officers and subjects to see them well used and entertained with all humanity and gentleness, and furnished for their reasonable money with able post-horses and such other things as they shall need. Commands them to suffer any two of the said noblemen with their train to enjoy the whole benefit of this licence, as is prescribed, to the uttermost. Provided always that before their entry into this realm, they shall give notice to the Earl of Sussex, lieutenant general in the North parts, which of the two noblemen shall enter. Reading.

22/3 pp. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk): "Copy of the safe conduct granted to ii of the Nobillity of Scotland to come into this country." Corrections in Cecil's hand.

489. Thomas Randolph to Sussex. Elizabeth. [Sept. 27. 1570.] Cott. Calig., C.II., fol. 422.

This bearer, Mr. Archibald Stewart, is of my old acquaintance, of whose honesty I have such assurance that I cannot sufficiently commend him. I must crave your favour for his passport to the Court for some causes of his own against a countryman of his, who owes him a great sum of money. I send you also a letter from the Laird of Lethington sent to me out of the Castle to be sent to you. I perceive that all things pass by common consent between them, and that they are so linked the one with the other, that whatsoever course the one runs, the other follows the same, for whereas within these ten days I had brought the one to a very good pass, I find him now as far off as ever. I have spoken of late with Lord Lindsay to know at what point he would be at for those Englishmen he has in hand. I find that he has a great eye to his own profit, and yet very desirous to be quit of them for the great trouble and charge he is at, but to any resolute point he will not grow more than that he would gladly be quit of them. He would the Queen should well pay for them, and yet would have them stand in assurance of their lives, otherwise he thinks it a great disdishonour to himself to deliver them. If you find it good that I shall deal further with him, I will [do] as your lordship commands. I have also spoken with the Laird of Lochleven, who is as desirous as the other is to be discharged of his guest, and stands almost in the like terms as Lord Lindsay does—desirous to have his life saved, and will be content with any consideration for his charges that it pleases the Queen's majesty to give, desiring me also to move the same to your lordship; whose cause I pity more than the other's, for I know his state, and how he is charged many ways, besides the great loss he had of the R . . . ., his brother's death. I would to God, therefore, that there could be some good way taken for him, and that he were relieved of the charge. I send you a letter given to me by the Regent, written to him by the Earl of Northumberland. The Regent's answer was that there wanted no goodwill to do him good, but that there wanted much [in] himself, who had not sought it where it is to be had, which is only at the Queen's majesty's hands, by humble submission and acknowledging his offence, until which were done he could not do for him as he would. This letter his lordship desires to have sent to him again.

This morning Lord Morton and I have talked of many matters, especially of the Border men, who have been here ever since Thursday to deliver their pleadings, as was agreed before the Regent. What moves them to find so many delays, your lordship may easily conjecture. I hear out of Atholl that the Laird of Lethington is removed farther into the country to another place of the Earl of Atholl's. It is told me that he intends to go into Caithness to remain there with the Earl of Caithness. I am required by Lord Morton to let you understand that he has delivered his company of soldiers to the Regent, and what otherwise his desire is, your lordship knows, and he doubts not of your goodwill. The Regent, also sore charged, has no recourse but to your help. If he discharges any of that small number he has, divers incommodities may arise. A strange thing lately come to my hand, whereof I thought it my part to inform you before any other, that it may yet be seen and known what hope there is of sincere dealing where such devices are, as by this bearer you shall receive in a box, in which is a token to the Queen of Scots, which when you behold, and read the inscription with other devices about it, you may think that somewhat more is looked for, that at this time all matters shall take an end. The box I have sealed with my own seal. Two letters are in it also, which I have not opened. I would pray you, that after you had seen the device and read the letters, the whole may be sent to Lord Leicester by this bearer, as I have written to his lordship that so it shall be. It is known to no man here that it is either come to my sight or shall come to your lordship's—but only to this bearer, whom I can sufficiently trust. Signed: Tho. Randolphe.

pp. Holograph. No flyleaf or address.

490. Thomas Randolph to Cecil. [Sept. 28.]

How much or how I have been beholden unto this bearer, Mr. Stewart, I will not now trouble your honour to read, but send herewith a short note of his requests. I beseech that this my friend want not your favour, for I can well assure myself of his honesty. He served the late Regent. I have written by him to Lord Leicester, and have sent his lordship a thing to behold that by this man's means came to my hands, whereof your honour can judge well enough what is meant. It may be used, as also the letters, as pleases the Queen's majesty, but such pretty tokens argue unhappy meanings, whereof, as her majesty has had many warnings, so I trust her highness will provide for those who so imagine and daily practise against her. Edinburgh.

This bearer has 20l. to be given to Lady Livingston. Signed: Tho. Randolphe.

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

491. The Regent Lennox to Cecil. [Sept. 28.]

The gentleman, bearer hereof, named Archibald Stewart, who was familiar servant to the Regent who rests with God, having married in Edinburgh, and the goods belonging to him and his wife, being either in France or Flanders, were all seized by the procurement of one d'Avillor, a Frenchman, who depends on the Queen, the King's mother, and by her licence, sent into France. The bearer came to England about this time twelvemonth to travail for restitution of his goods, but found no expedition in his suit. He is constrained to return to that realm to renew his suit. Pray show him all the favour you can. Edinburgh. Signed: Mathew Regent.

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

492. Sussex to Cecil. [Sept. 28 and 29.]

The 26th of this month the Justice Clerk came hither with letters of credit from the Regent, and instructions containing 48 articles, the effect of all which consisted upon three special parts. The one to show that whatsoever the Queen's party promised by word or writing, they used those words and writings only to delude for the winning of time [Relates what they practised to do], as appears by Virac's letters to Lethington which were intercepted. The second was to declare what hindrance would grow to the King's side by subscribing at this time such a writing as I demanded, for all the principal men (the Duke and the Earls of Huntly and Argyll only excepted) and the loose Borderers had offered submission. The third was to declare that the Regent, without assembling of the nobility of the King's side, could not send by messengers or write his opinion touching the King's surety, and that he could not well assemble them before the day appointed for the Parliament. After we had a long time conferred upon the particulars of every one of these, according to his instructions, we accorded upon a writing to be subscribed by the Regent, and that the Regent should also send to me some secret note of their opinion for the King's surety, which should be delivered to the Queen's majesty, as my opinion conceived of their intention, and not as their opinion, and that nothing shall be treated on in this Parliament but the confirmation of the Regent's authority.

The treasure came yesternight, or will come this day to Durham, and I have given order for the musters, and considered who shall be discharged, and who shall remain. Which being done, I shall remain an unprofitable servant, and therefore I beseech you to let me understand when you think I shall be revoked, or for what cause I shall be longer stayed here. Warkworth, 28th Sept. 1570. Signed: T. Sussex.

Postscript. After the writing hereof I stayed the letter one day hoping to have heard from you whether your journey holds to the Scottish Queen, and hearing nothing thereof yet, I thought to stay this no longer. Sept. 29 1570.

2 pp. Postscript holograph. Addressed. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk). Wafer signet soiled.

493. Minutes of Instructions. [Sept.] Cott. Calig., C.II., fol. 40.

"Articles mete both for England and Scotland."

It is thought meet that there be presently a Parliament held in Scotland in the name of the young King, and that nothing be concluded therein but these things following:—

In primis:—That the demission of the crown by the Queen of Scots be recited as done bonâ fide, and that in the King's name it be declared, that the King being yet of so tender years, it may be enacted that his mother shall resume the crown from a certain day, saving to the King that he shall have as great authority as any first begotten son of a King of Scotland lawfully had, and that when his mother shall die, or she shall be pleased, when the King shall come to maturity, to join him in the government or demise her crown to him, he shall be enabled to be King without any new coronation or inauguration.

Item:—Subjects to owe and bear him their allegiance. Homages already done to him shall bind the cession of the crown by the King to his mother, with these conditions, viz., that all acts done by the King or his Regent from the day of the Queen's demission till the end of this parliament shall be adjudged good and lawful.

Item:—The Queen of Scots shall, before the beginning of the parliament, cause certain noblemen on her part to be delivered as hostages.

Item:—The Queen of Scots shall without delay cause a parliament to be holden at Edinburgh without force, and without creating any new lords, and nothing shall be concluded therein except a general remission from her to all her subjects, and a confirmation of all acts done during the King's reign. in the best manner that may be devised by twelve lords of parliament, whereof six to be of those that are obedient to the King.

Item:—The Queen of Scots shall, before the beginning of that parliament, make choice of a certain number to be of her Privy Council, so that one half shall be of those who obeyed the King [with conditions].

3 pp. Draft in Cecil's hand with many corrections.

494. Summary of Instructions. [Sept.] Cott. Calig., C.II., fol. 42.

It shall be enacted that the young Prince shall have an assignation of lands etc., meet for his maintenance, to be as large as any Prince of Scotland has had, and amongst others the castles of Dumbarton and St. Andrews.

Item:—He shall present to the bishoprics and abbeys as they fall void.

Item:—He shall have all the lands of the Earl of Bothwell, and the office of Admiral of Scotland.

Item:—All statutes and ordinances made for establishing of religion since the Queen's demission shall be kept. Whosoever shall make suit to Rome for any faculty or benefice shall be accompted as a traitor to the crown of Scotland, and if the Queen of Scots shall not prosecute the offender within six months, it shall be lawful for the Prince and his Council or for any other to prosecute. If the Queen of Scots shall revoke any laws made for establishing religion otherwise than with the consent of the estates of the realm, it shall be lawful for the subjects of Scotland to persist in the observation of the former laws.

Item:—Of chose who have continued their obedience to the King since the Queen's demission, none shall be impleaded either by the Queen or by any who have disobeyed the Queen, but before special judges. Neither shall the Queen make any gift of wards to any who have been adverse to the King, whereby revocation of former malice might arise.

The Queen of England shall be named "the defender of that parliament," and shall be sworn to do her uttermost to defend it indifferently, and if any doubt shall arise for the doubtful understanding of any article thereof—being a matter of great weight—the decision thereof shall be made by the Queen of England, so as she shall have the consent of the greater part of the Lords of Parliament in Scotland, who then shall be living, of such as were at the confirmation of the said articles in parliament.

Item:—If the Queen of Scots shall proceed contrary to such determination—it being notified by proclamation on the Borders—it shall be lawful for the subjects of Scotland to observe that which shall by the Queen of England be declared, with the consent abovesaid.

Item:—If any subject of Scotland shall break any of the said articles, whereby any great troubles may be likely to follow, and shall be denounced by the Queen of England, with the assent abovesaid, and shall not reform himself, he shall be adjudged ipso facto as a traitor etc.

Item:—The heir of the Earl of Murray and his executors etc., shall be discharged by parliament for all things done in the time of his government, by his warrant.

Item:—Restitution shall be made to the Earl of Lennox of all such lands as he assigned to Lord Darnley.

Item:—The Earl of Lennox, in consideration of the loss of his said son, shall have the best abbey that he shall name in Scotland, that is either void or shall be void within two years after the Queen's resumption of her crown. Finally;—the Queen of Scots shall be moved to assent to all reasonable assurances that the Lords of Scotland obeying the King shall reasonably require.

"Reasons to move the Queen of Scottes to accord to ye articles above expressed for suerty of hir son and his party."

She is to be charged with the murder of her husband, father to her son. She first advanced the chief murderer, Bothwell, to great estate. She married him, being already married to another wife. She procured his acquittal by force. She never prosecuted the murderers, but favoured them, and followed their counsel, etc. She has favoured the Hamiltons, enemies to her son, more than the Stewarts.

4 p. Rough draft, corrected by Cecil. Indorsed by him: "A summary of our Commission and Instructions. Sr Wm Cecill. Sir Walter Mildmay."

495. Petition by [Archibald Steward]. [Sept.]

William Aikman as factor to William Birny, burgess of Edinburgh "restith awand" to Archebald Stewart's wife as only executrix of the testament of the said late William her "lait spouse" great sums of money "quhairof he hes maid na rekning." "Pleis your honour" to procure by your letters such favour to the said Archibald that he may compel the said William to give account.

pp. Fair copy.

496. Margaret Countess of Lennox to Cecil. [Sept.] C.P., Vol. V.

I thank you for your communications by this bearer, and also for your "lynens" sent by Monpaston to me, wherein you wrote "my prayer would fyght with my Lord in his affares." I assure you I do what I can in that and all other ways. Such as I receive I send you herewith, which are two copies, although I doubt not but you have the one before, which is the principal suit to my lord lieutenant. I sent you a packet by the post to London, in which there were two books "of wretyn hand," and one letter to yourself, and another to my lord concerning John Moon—which now I perceive God has caused to be opened—to my lord. God doth much for him. I beseech Him so it may continue. Signed: Margaret Lennox.

1 p. Holograph, also address: "To my very frend [M]ester sekretory Cecyll." Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk).

497, Commission for Cecil and Sir Walter Mildmay. Elizabeth. [Sept. 1570.] C.P., Vol. V.

Commission by Elizabeth, appointing Sir William Cecil and Sir Walter Mildmay to treat with the Queen of Scots concerning better amity between the two nations, and for the ending of controversies and differences between her and her son, now accepted as King of Scotland, or between her and her subjects, "sondry motions" having been made by the King of France and his mother the Queen, and by other Princes to "heare and understand what offers and conditions" the Queen of Scots will make. They are not to make any conclusion with her therein. Certain articles are annexed, by way of memorials, respecting which they are to enter into communication with her, without making any full conclusion therein; but, according to the last article, to require her to assent to anything that shall be reasonably devised by him for their surety, unless any persons authorized by her son's party shall come to them whilst they shall be with her to inform them what they shall demand. In which case they are to "motion" to the Queen of Scots such things as they shall require, if they are acceptable to reason.

2 pp. Draft in Cecil's hand.

Cott. Calit., C.II., fol. 424.

Copy of the same.

498. The Articles. [Sept.] C.P., Vol. V.

"Reasons to move the Queen of Scots to assent to the articles for the Queen of England, which may be used as cause shall be gyven by her manner of answers."

[Extracts.]

First:—Her manifest injury against the Queen's majesty in pretending title to the Crown of England etc.

Secondly:—She has refused to confirm her renunciation.

Thirdly:—She allured Lord Darnley to come into Scotland, and married him against the Queen's will.

Fourthly:—She maintained fugitives out of England to "practise" with them against the Queen's majesty.

Since she came into this realm, she has had intelligence, and practices against the Queen's majesty.

She practised secretly about a marriage without the Queen's consent.

She had intelligence with the Earls of Northumberland and Westmorland, the Countess of Northumberland, and other rebels, and procured their rebellion.

She caused them to be aided in Scotland to spoil the Borders.

The Queen's majesty saved her life at Lochleven.

The Queen's majesty has forborne to publish "such matters as she might have done to have touched the Queen of Scottes for murdre of hir husband."

The Queen's majesty has forborne to take full part with her son, and to protect his title: which, if her majesty had done, all Scotland had obeyed his authority.

1 p. Fair copy by Cecil, and indorsed by him.

Cott. Calig., C.II., fol. 425.

Copy of the same.

Footnotes

  • 1. 1,000.
  • 2. Sir Neill.
  • 3. The date 16th December on this copy is an evident error.