Elizabeth: July 1586

544. Elizabeth to James VI. [July.]

The Master of Gray, understanding England had sent forces into the Low Countries under the charge of the Earl of Leicester for the maintenance of the present state of religion exercised there, and for the protection of the inhabitants there, made offer to the said Earl to repair to him and serve under him in furtherance of the said cause, with a convenient number of Scottish subjects.

Therefore prays that he will license the said master to accomplish his good meaning in his offer to pass into the said country with such number of his [James'] subjects as he shall think meet.

Doubts not to find him readily disposed to gratify them, considering how well inclined he is himself to further the common cause of religion, and the demonstrations that have of late passed between them of good will and friendship towards one another.

Will give order to the Earl of Leicester that the said Master and his company be used and entertained by the United Provinces in that honourable sort as shall be fitting.

2 pp. Draft, altered in Walsingham's hand. Indorsed: "M[inute] to ye K. of Scotts, from her majesty. Not yet sent."

545. John Colvile to Walsingham. [July 1.]

Would have written oftener, but knew he had been sufficiently informed from time to time by his [Colvile's] ambassador.

Is glad to have the occasion of his [Walsingham's] brother's coming to let him know, without suspicion, what he dare not commit to paper.

Has no cause to alter his opinion that men here are very constant in inconstancy and dissimulation.

Is willed to write by Lord Hamilton—who is in great sorrow after the death of his son—that he will be as obedient to him [Walsingham] as was Walsingham's son Sir Philip, and will go at his command to any part of the world. He desires he will assure her majesty also of his fidelity and thankfulness. He says, which he [Colvile] fears is overtrue, that all the crafty in Europe, as well here as elsewhere, thirst for her blood. Thinks it so clear here that he marvels at the blindness of those who do not perceive it.

Refers all other matters to the sufficiency of the bearer. Stirling. Signed: Jo. Colvile.

1 p. Holograph, also address. No indorsement.

546. Mary to Lord Claud Hamilton. [July.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

Being as yet not very sure of this new way, will content herself hereby to testify to him the liking and contentment she has had of what the English lord's brother and Fontenay wrote to her in his name before his return to Scotland. He is now in place to correspond effectually to the expectation of herself and all hers. Will not fail him in anything in her power or that she may obtain by her credit of all Christian Princes.

Prays him that, upon that which she committed last to be imparted to him by the said English whose credit she desired, he will let her know his resolution and the inclination of others her subjects that, according thereto, she may proceed with her principal friends. This last league of her son has offended them. Desires to understand the particulars thereof, and whether anything passed therein concerning her, either in the public treaty or private letters.

Is advertised that the unhappy Master of Gray labours with all extremity against her. Therefore is moved to fear that, as long as he remains near her son, she and her son are not likely to have much good intelligence together. Prays him to find means to shift him, he having behaved so traitorously to her as to deserve all punishment. The deliverer hereof served her very faithfully in this country. Trusts he will do the like in all in which he is employed there for her service, especially for the sure convoy of their letters by this way.

²/3 p. Copy. Marginal notes in Thomas Phelippes' hand, also indorsement: "Q. of Scottes to the L. Claude Hamilton. Reference to the English traytors. Touching the league betwene England and Scotland. Detestation of the Master of Gray."

547. Mary to Charles Paget. [July 2.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

Since the receipt of his letter dated 10th April, acknowledged by hers of the 20th May, has not heard from any part whereupon she can take new occasion in anything concerning her affairs to direct him or any other servant. Is kept so close and with so small a commodity in the house whereby to hear news from abroad. Means that the pension he has of her should continue. As her treasurer knows well, she was never minded otherwise.

Has let him understand that his putting him in the contrary opinion has displeased her, and that he be paid from time to time of the "redyest" money he has in his hands, which pertains to her and which she would rather spare from herself than him.

Thanks him for the offer of the 3000 crowns owing. Would be as sorry to disaccommodate him of them as she was that he should want them so long. Has written of the whole earnestly to the pope and King of Spain's ministers, who may best further the payment thereof.

Hopes to obtain a speedy answer of the same or that one of them will see him reimbursed ere long.

Has written to Lord Claud Hamilton by a new way on this side, but not so amply as she would because of the uncertainty as yet of the passage, to refer him to the credit committed to him [Paget] to treat with him in her name. His dealing in some points would be fitter than hers. Prays him to follow her former letter if he thinks to find sure correspondence on that side.

Being unacquainted with the present state of that country or any other, knows not what else to treat in, or whom to trust. If her own means could answer her will and she were not so behind for her own urgent needs, Lord Claud should have money quickly to serve the turn he [Paget] writes of. Failing that, is constrained to make suit to others for the furniture. Has recommended the Earl of Westmorland to the pope, is sorry she may not help him otherwise, and marvels that the King of Spain's support fails him now more than ever.

Morgan shall want no comfort she can give and procure for him.

[Note from Curll:—] Has no occasion to trouble him for his own part, yet would be loth to omit the assurance he ought always to give him of his continual good will and affection to do him and his all the service in his power. Prays God daily to send him his heart's desire.

1¹/8 pp. Deciphered copy. In Thomas Phelippes' hand. Indorsed by him.

Cott. Calig., C. IX., fol. 369.

Copy of the same.

548. Mary to Don Bernardino de Mendoza. [July 2.] C.P., vol. XVIII

This note will be chiefly to acknowledge the receipt of your last letters of the 4th of April, and to assure you that I do not in any wise whatsoever impute the delay of your designs to anything lacking on the part of the King your master my good brother, having always seen him proceed steadfastly as well in the cause of religion in general as in all that which I have requested for myself, so that I should show myself ungrateful if I held any other opinion of him. Since it is the will of God that I still suffer, I am ready to yield and to bend my neck under the yoke. And, on my conscience, I have not so much regret at this delay for myself as for the misery and affliction that I have seen and see daily of so many good folk of this realm, feeling the public calamity more than my own private one.

I have given charge to my ambassador to speak to you on my behalf about the payment of some money advanced about three years ago by Mr. Paget, Arondell and Morgan, upon the assurance that was given to them of repayment in the name of his holiness and of the said lord the King your master. I pray you to employ yourself so much as you can to satisfy them of it, as it is very right, and important not only for the discharge of their agents who have concerned themselves therein on their behalf, but also for my safety here. Charteley. 2 July 86.

½ p. French.

Cott. Calig., fol. 369 b.

Copy of the same.

549. Mary to Thomas Morgan. [July 2.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

For the great care which I see by your last dated 24th April, and which you have incessantly, of all that may bring me comfort, although I would (fn. 1) yet I cannot "retayne" to give you thanks therefor, and wish to God I might let you feel in effect what mind I carry, to make my thankfulness appear towards you.

Your advice shall be followed and your travail for intelligence with everyone met with on my side as occasion and opportunity offer. But as by my former of the 26th I told you that none of those whom of new you had mentioned to me made demonstration directly of their good will otherwise than to convey the letters you committed to them into the French ambassador's hands, except only one who coming here to this house sent me your aforesaid last which he delivered by Pietro's means, and the same man having written to me a very honest letter in Pietro's alphabet has omitted the uttering of his name therein, nor given me any sign whereby I may know how to discern him assuredly by another.

I have not, nor cannot yet employ him, albeit I have sent him my answer with a particular alphabet for himself, whosoever he is. It was not for me to retain Pietro here longer, seeing the imminent danger he was in during his abode in the country, besides his own earnest desire to the contrary, when he had established, as he has done, the honest brethren, kinsmen of his to serve the turn in his absence. I assure you they have hitherto acquitted themselves very honestly of the charge, and are likely to continue with more security than Pietro could have done, who ere now has informed you of the whole by mouth.

I have no other to trust to for the service, saving only him whom Pietro "practised," nor for whatsoever "platt" I can lay, to win me any other hope thereof, and therefore lost [no] time and labour to send you the names of such as are here, my keeper being so extremely watchful over them all that they almost dare not speak or look to any of mine. Some others fit for the purpose were preferred anew, whom I wished to have as almost instructed before their coming.

I understand "he" [Mary's keeper] is to be changed before Michaelmas next, and I pray God it may be so, for a worse I think cannot be found. I remain in continual grief for the money owing to Hert and to so many others, as long as it has been, the whole amounting to 5000 crowns, because, if you remember, I caused you to be paid 1000 thereof by my treasurer. I would that those who encouraged you to purchase the loan and advancement of so much had been a good way from thence at that time, or that my own means might relieve the same as they may not, albeit it was done before I was aware thereof. There is now no remedy but to call upon the authors and answerers for the payment, especially the pope and the King of Spain, to whose chief ministers who had any knowledge of the matter I now write for reimbursing of the sum, specially to Mendoza. Likewise I command my ambassador to solicit the same importunately, which I hope shall work some good effect to the satisfaction of you and "whosoever."

I thank you for your advertisement of the Bishop of Nazareth, who comes to supply the room of the pope's nuncio; but to supply the want I have written to David Lewis and committed the whole credit to him to deal with the pope for my causes.

Mendoza I hope will work somewhat for your pension seeing I write thereof so "vively," besides which you shall want nothing for your relief that my means may reach to, although, sorely against my will, I find them too short, as well for that purpose as for helping Barasino. Yet by one way or another I hope to let him and his know my thankfulness and good remembrance of my obligation to them.

Hert and Fontenay both effectually recommend your man to me. He shall, according to your desire, be satisfied by the next commodity, and the two brevets of prebends sent to you are to be employed as you like best. God Almighty have you in His keeping. Chartley.

[Note from Curll:—Hopes he will excuse the errors and blots herein, as in many more of his "scribled." Prays he will be of good comfort, and assure himself that her majesty is careful thereof, resisting and rejecting continually whatever sinister report can be moved concerning his behaviour to hers and her service.]

1½ pp. Deciphered copy, in the hand of, and indorsed by Thomas Phelippes.

550. [Gilbert Curll] to [Thomas Barnes]. [July 2.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

The last of yours which came to my hands was dated 17th June, since when I have written to you twice, once on Sunday seven-night, and the other on the 4th of this instant, but have had no word from you of the receipt of either. Herewith is the packet mentioned in both, which her majesty prays you to send by your boy or otherwise "surely" to the French ambassador. So expecting you will by the next commodity communicate to her majesty such news as you hear, I pray God to preserve you. Chartley.

On a slip of paper, in cipher. Deciphered by Thomas Phelippes. No address or indorsement.

551. Thomas Germyn [Thomas Morgan] to Nicholas Cornellys [Gilbert Gifford]. [July 3.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

Left some testimony of his good will towards his father and others of his friends—as he told him heretofore—with "A" [the Queen of Scots] which was agreeable with his duty towards the Queen of Scots and his love of his country, and deserved well. Is glad that he shall now find proof thereof, though it is more advanced by his discreet dealing in the points whereof he knows.

A few days after his departure the Queen of Scots' letters arrived. Was required thereby to thank him for his good will and labour lately taken for the good of his [her] service.

"A." has assigned him [Cornellys] a prebend of his [her] donation in the collegiate church of St. Quintin, where there are 70 prebends all of one value, every one estimated to be worth to a resident a thousand francs or thereabouts communibus annis. According to the Queen of Scots' commandment, and his own desire to do him good at home and abroad, will see he is provided with the first vacant prebend.

Was also required by the Queen of Scots to tell him that he [she] does not bestow this prebend as recompense for his past service, but for an argument of his [her] devotion to advance his good fortune, to be expected at his [her] hands according to the means God shall present to him [her].

He knows that the Queen of Scots has been and still is profitable to that realm and the whole band of banished afflicted Catholics in some way or other, yet he is the first preferred by the Queen of Scots, so prays God will send him much joy thereof.

Accounts this matter settled by the power of God, and that he may further demand the Queen of Scots' helping hand, which is ever ready where it may profit such as deserve well. Yet, as his friend, advises him to make his father participant thereof, and to intreat him by his own pen to thank the Queen of Scots for his [her] favours to him. It may be securely done by the means he knows of. He should not let his father make any difficulty herein, considering the sweetness of the Queen of Scots' nature, and that the cause requires that his father should discover himself to be thankful therefor. It may move matter further to his good and the comfort of all his friends.

Although his father has not dealt with the Queen of Scots in times past, yet he [she] knows him and his merits sufficiently, and will take in good part whatsoever a gentleman of his condition shall write to him [her], as he will find. Therefore trusts that he will not omit to do what is fit to be done by him and his friends towards the Queen of Scots.

No alteration has happened in the state of this country since his departure. Two Jesuits have been sent into England—Father Southwell and Father Garnett, both very young men. Prays God will prosper them and their labours and preserve him. Entreats him, as heretofore, to conserve in his father's good graces, which he will desire of him and his if he can. Written in haste in the place where he left him. Signed: Thomas Germyn.

Postscript.—Reminds him to deal with the party he knows of to further the speedy convoy of all [letters] (fn. 2) as well from thence as hence. The party must travail with such as have power to do so, of this side, and may serve his turn on that side. The sooner his father writes to the Queen of Scots to the effect abovesaid the better it is. Leaves it to his good consideration.

2 pp. Partly in cipher. Deciphered by Thomas Phelippes. Addressed: "A Monsieur Nicholas Cornellys la part ou il sera." Indorsed by Phelippes: "From Thomas Morgan to Gilbert Gifford."

552. Thomas Morgan to Mary. [July 4.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

This King by his own authority, without the consent of this parliament, caused certain edicts to be published a short time ago, and sent them to many parts of this realm to be carried into effect; but I hear now that at Troys and Champaigne and at Bloys the officers were killed who were employed upon it; whereby your majesty may perceive in what esteem this King stands towards his subjects; and this notwithstanding, he is not at all disposed to reform himself, nor to provide for the reformation of what is out of order, with such sincerity as his state requires: which being embroiled as it is, I pray God that the King of Spain may grasp the opportunity to advance his enterprise, which I hope he will not fail to do, as well for the common good as for his own.

There is a priest named Ballard who has laboured much in this country and is very well affectioned to do your service. He makes offer of himself to your majesty, which having done, you might thank him by a short note: but I must warn your majesty that the said Ballard is pursuing some affairs of consequence, of which the issue is uncertain. Therefore while he is after doing his business it will not be for the safety of your majesty to have any intelligence with him for fear that he or his partisans be discovered, and thus by tortures or other accident they disclose your majesty having had intelligence with them, which I would not have happen for anything in the world, having quite expressly admonished the said Ballard in no wise to negotiate with your majesty so long as he is pursuing the affairs which he and others have taken in hand, endeavouring to do good: which I pray God it may thus happen, and so by the divine power your majesty will be aided.

½ p. French. Intercepted July 1586.

553. Thomas Morgan to Curll. [July 4.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

I am not idle although I am in prison thinking of the estate of her majesty and of your own; and there are many means which are being embraced to remove the beast which troubles all the world.

3 lines. French. Intercepted July 1586.

554. Thomas Germyn [Thomas Morgan] to Nicholas Cornellys [Gilbert Gifford]. [July 4.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

There is no such expedition for the convoy of our letters as I desire, which in this state I cannot redress. We may not be importunate with others to do it, who yet may do it. Yet therein travail you there with such as may help us therein according to your discretion.

I have written twice to my mistress since your departure two sealed packets. Therefore demand them in the accustomed place and help to send the same to her to "Wyllshyre" where she is, as soon as you can, and have a vigilant eye to the alteration of her state, which is likely to be moved from where she is, in a short time, to some other place, though to me unknown. Help that if possible she may be at your father's house, and that she is well served.

I have seen a fair and smooth letter from D. A. to your cousin, since your departure, in allowance of his insinuation of things to him. D. A. demands further who were joined spiritual and temporal, with him in those matters, and requires him to conclude nothing without him. Your cousin is apt enough to follow these instructions, whereby you may discern what is to be expected at his hands. Your cousin has warning to discover what he will, as he has begun, of his own dealing to D. A., but not to meddle with your proceedings or the actions of any others. But reserve this to inform yourself and write not thereof to him or any other. The little fellow is here and harkens to things well.

There was likely to be a mutiny in Paris lately, whereupon the King, being at St. Maur, came to Paris with all diligence. His presence stayed all things, and of his goodness he discharged the procurers of the imposition laid upon those who stirred "mouche" in the cause. Let one know if it be possible what news you have of your brother who is in Biscay, and where he is stayed, for it has been required at my hands since your departure. Some of the Huguenots were lately defeated by the governor of Angouleme in the country of St. Onge which adjoins Poictou. They talk of peace again, for the advancement whereof the Queen Mother is to pass towards Blois to the King of Navarre.

Monsieur Montmorency is entered into Provence and has taken a strong and rich place called Les Maris, so that the King's voyage to Lyons and Monsieur Deprognon's to Provence are altered.

There is an intention to put a garrison in the Bastille at Paris, and that the Bastille and Arsenal shall be joined in one to make a strong fortress to keep the Parisians in good obedience, and to serve to terrify other enemies. If the matter goes forward Monsieur Deprognon shall have the government of the fortress. This in haste. I pray God to preserve you. Signed: "Yours for ever, as you know, Thomas Germyn."

Postscript.—D. A. does not return to these parts until after Michaelmas.

2 pp. [With No. 551.]

555. Articles to be considered by the Commissioners. [July 4.]

"Becaus, nathing hes mair woundit the hartis of honest and gude subjectis in baith the realmes, nor seamed mair contrarious to the amitie in tyme bypast, nor the frequent and unlawfull attemptates of piratis be sey, sall it nocht be meit that all thingis that on ather syde may be waved for byganis, salbe redressed be ordour of commissioneris now convenyng? Specialie that quhilk is proven already before the admiraliteis on ather syde, and may be verifeit be actis and documentis extracted furth of the recordis thairof, leaving samany as are not yit intentit, to be gevin in sute, and sa sone as the party hes verifeit the quantitie and valew of his losse, to be immediatlie redressit to him be the said ordour, or failzeing yairof be the Princes on ather syde. And for the better repressing of that tred in all tyme cummyng, that ather of the Princes salbe debtour to the subjectis of the uther Prince complenyng upoun quhat sumever piraceis to be committit efter the conclusioun of this present treaty. And for the Princes' releif, that all shippes and vessellis be subject to some gude toun, and the toun to be debtour for all attemptatis to be done be the shippes and occupiaris of thame, and the toun to tak suretie of the awneris salaris and occupiaris of the same shippes befor they be sufferit to pas to the sey.

That also for the better increase of the said amitie betwene the twa realmes and subjectis thairof, all of the Scottis natioun be naturalised Englishe, and as free danisentis in all the Queen's dominions, and all of the English natioun to be naturalised Scottis, and as free danisentis in all the King's dominions, and that nather of the saidis Princes' subjectis be compellit to the payment of further custumes or impostis in the uther Princes' dominions quhair they sall appin to use the trade of merchandise then the naturell borne people within the same dominions, the force of all penal lawes to the contrary being dischargeit.

That nane of the guidis or debtis of the subjectis of ather of the Princes happynyng to depart this lyffe within any pairt of the dominions of the uther, salbe intromettit with or disponit upoun as fallin be confiscatioun, bot remane extant to the behove of the children, airis, or executouris of the defunct, any former lawes, statutes, or consuetudes to the contrary notwithstanding.

That, for the better repressing of the insolence of the disordourit subjectis inhabiting the Bordouris of baith realmes, ather of the Princes sall constitute a generall lieutenant ower the haill boundis of the Marches, quhilk heirefter sall heare and determyne the difficill caussis of contraverses that sall occurre in tyme cummyng and can not convenientlie be ordourit be the privat auctoritie of the ordinar wardanis. Specialie for blude, fyre, and sic uther materis of greatest consequence. And that the same lieutenantis be auctorised with the haill power of the wardanries of ather realme to convene in armes. together or severallie, as they sall agrie, and to persecute the rebellious and disobedient subjectis of baith the realmes, disturberis of the peais and amietie quhill they be chastised and reduced to perfyte obedience, and mak sufficient souertie for ye continewance thairin in tyme cummyng, and the saidis lieutenentis to have mutuall intelligence to that effect.

That for our better consonance and unioun in religioun thair be a conference of certane of the best theologues of baith the realmes licencit be thair soveranis, quharin a commoun confessioun in the doctrine of salvatioun groundit on Goddis word, and ane uniformitie of ecclesiasticall policie may be condiscendit on and observit in baith the realmes."

2²/3 pp. Indorsed, "A note of certayne articles necessary to be condescended unto by the comissioners for boothe realmes, putt by the Scotts 4 July 1586."

Cott. Calig., C. IX., fol. 367 b.

Copy of the same.

556. Elizabeth to the Earl of Rutland and the Rest of the Commissioners at Berwick. [July 4.]

We have this day seen your letters of the 29th of last month, written to our Secretary, whereby we perceive what time you and the commissioners for Scotland first met, and how they found fault with four or five of the articles, whereunto both the King of Scotland and we have assented by the subscription of our own hands.

We doubt not but that the King, continuing his friendly course with us, will disallow of such retractions by his commissioners, being mere cavillations to obscure the sincerity of our mutual friendly intelligence.

Therefore you may plainly say to his commissioners that we, hearing of this opposition, do call to memory such things as have passed heretofore from the King to you, Randolph, how, when you treated with him about the establishing of our mutual friendship by this league, he found some about him busy to disturb the course of this amity, so manifestly beneficial to us both. Thereupon we do assure ourselves that he will now decipher their "cautels," and find their scope to tend more to some of their own private respects than to his weal and honour.

Yet, when we consider the nature of the exceptions, we find no reason why, if as the lords say res esset integra, and no articles awarded beforehand, as they have been by long deliberations, this kind of quarrel should be uttered to shake the vigour of the matter herein contained. Therefore we will shortly send to you, to every part misliked by them, some short reasons to maintain the parts so oppugned by them.

First, they mislike in the second article the word offensionis, adding as reason that it is against God's word—a strange speech when the whole substance of the article was only specially approved by the King himself for the maintenance of God's word!

We think the meaning was not only that either of us should defend the other against them that would root out the Gospel from our kingdoms, but that we should offend them as enemies of the Kingdom of Christ, and we should be sorry if the King should think otherwise of this matter.

Secondly, in the fifth article, where it is motioned that the words dicti regis sumptibus should be sumptibus regine, we see no reason why the words should not stand. It is against all reason that the King might demand aid of 3000 horse and 6000 footmen to come out of our country into his, we know not how far, or for how long a time, without limitation of charges. But as the article is in words, if he mean not to be at any such great charge as are requisite for so great a number, it is remedied by the words, "minorem aliquem militum numerum ad arbitrium regis." To this might be added that in removing strange forces out of his kingdom, and in subduing the inward forces of his rebels, we never spared our own charges or required any recompense of him.

Thirdly, in the sixth article, objection is made that it is required that the King with his whole force join with ours if our realm be invaded, within 60 miles of Scotland, whereas there is not a reciprocal article for us to do the like. If the article be compared with the fifth, on our part, we are bound in a straiter bond, for our aid is of forces very many, in certainty, the King's are but of such as he can gather, which is to be interpreted by himself. And he is at no charge commonly to gather forces for himself with no charge of wages.

In the seventh article, we marvel it is found for a fault that a Prince should prohibit his subjects from invading his confederate's country. This matter has been moved to the King, as you, Thomas Randolph, do know, and never been refused by him.

Whereas it is said that divers of Scotland have been possessed of land in Ireland these 300 years, and have been put out by force, it is well known by what title they pretend, and why they have been put out, who with force have invaded the realm and maintained rebellion in most parts of Ireland, even where they pretended no title.

It is well known also that justice was never denied them when they asked it, as two at this very time in Ireland have proof of, in that one of them, Angus MacConnell, had that which he demanded granted to him by our deputy, and the other, Sorleboy his uncle, was reasonably well used, though his title was no other than an assign to his nephew Angus.

The last point is in the ninth article, wherein we think there is no reason to extend backward orders for "broken complaints" of such incertainty as these are upon the Borders, being so old that no good proof can be had. We make no doubt that the King will rather abridge the time than extend it, and as for omitting the article out of the treaty, we leave it to your consideration, so that hereafter two of you, with some others, may determine the same.

If these reasons to be used by you cannot determine the articles already accorded, we must conclude that there are some about the King so infested with the mislike of peace that neither the King's honour nor the force of reason will prevail with them, and that they were determined from the beginning to have no league concluded with our kingdom.

If you shall find any disposition in the commissioners there to persist in these untoward terms, we will that you certify us with speed that your labours be not there spent in vain, and then we doubt not but that with God's grace we shall, as we have done, govern and defend our good subjects in peace, notwithstanding the secret spurning of discontented persons.

One thing more we have omitted for answering the cavillation or rather sophistication of words in answering to you, that your commission was dated since the beginning of the articles, and therefore you might alter any matter in the article, since were contained words of tractandi and concludendi.

To this may be said that it is not inconvenient that authority be given to commissioners by words of tractandi to add some matters, if need were, for the mutual benefit of both Princes, but in no wise so abridge them or alter their force, for so servants would undutifully diminish and weaken the bonds of their masters' love, already soundly knit, which cannot but be judged as treachery, and no service.

For this purpose the words of tractandi may be well interpreted to serve to better the league, but not to impair it, as these cavillations, oppositions and retractions do manifestly import.

4½ pp. Copy. Indorsed.

557. James VI. to The Earl of Rutland. [July 5.]

"Richt trustie and weilbelovit cousing, we great yow hartlie weill. We have bene informit be our trustie servitour Mr. Archibald Dowglas what cair had bene taken be ye lordis of our dearest susteris Grevie Counsall to sie ane accident that of lait fell out be Sir Cuthbert Colingwod punishit, and that ye said Sir Cuthbert is now committed to presone because it did appear to yair lordships that ye accident did tuiche some of ye officiaris off our Bordouris in reputacioun. As we can not forbeare greatlie to praise yair lordships guid myndis in thair jugement, and not to allow of ye said fact, as ane mater that did tend to ane apperand contempt, so can we not forbeare to certifie unto yow that so far as we can be informit no great harme did follow yairupoun, and thairfoir maye easilie to be pardonit. Synce so it is that he had aknawlegit his offens, we maist hartlie pray yow to considre yairof, and gif it may ly in your charge to graunt him his libertie. Gif uyerwayes, ye may be moved ye rayer for yis my requeist to intercede at ye handis of uyeris for ye same effect. Sorie wald we be that for so small ane offens sa honest ane gentilman as ye said Sir Cuthbert sould suffer so great injurie as to continew ane prisoner. Speciallie gif be our requeist he mycht be relevit. Thus, richt trustie and weilbelovit cousing, we commit yow to ye protectioun of ye Almychtie." Falkland. Signed: James R.

½ p. Addressed. Indorsed.

558. James VI. to The Earl of Rutland. [July 5.]

Is informed, by the report of Mr. Archibald Douglas, of the special care he has taken to entertain good amity between the two crowns, and of his desire to see the league concluded.

Notwithstanding the good meaning between himself and his sister, the good cause now in treating has been—like other worldly matters— subject to some "overthortis" that the best devoted have ever been careful to see removed. Thanks him for his upright and honest proceedings taken in this matter, and regrets that it has not been his good fortune to see him in his realm, and to confer with him in all such matters as might entertain this friendship, begun for the comfort of all good men, and for the punishment of all perturbers of common quietness.

If he should come into this country, where he should be as welcome as in his own house, he should understand with what good will those here would perform any matter that might breed contentment to the Queen. Falkland. Signed: James R.

½ p. Addressed. Indorsed.

559. Mr. Archibald Douglas to the Earl of Rutland. [July 5.]

"May it pleis your lordship. It was his hienes my soveraynis command at my deperture from his majestie that I should gif onto your lordship in his name most hartye thankis for yat it was your lordship's pleasour to ressave his excuse of not cuming of his commissioneris in dew tyme unto your lordship in gude parte. Whiche be these few lynis according to commandment, I do humblye pray your lordship to ressave, as also to lat it be onderstand that it pleasit his hienes to ressave in verray gude parte your thankfull mynd anent ye concluding of this league, whiche he wilbe myndfull to requite wit anye actions of thankfulnes yat shall lye in his powar to perform to hir majestie, or onye gude subject in her realme.

I humblye pray your lordship that it may be your gude pleasour to lat his hienes onderstand that I haif acquyte myselff of my dewetie heirane. And so leving to trubill your lordship wit onye longar lettir, I humblye tak my leiff." Edinburgh. Signed: A. Douglas.

½ p. Addressed. Indorsed.

560. The League. [July 5.]

[Draft of the league.]

2½ pp. Latin.

Cott. Calig., C.IX., fol. 681.

Copy of the same.

561. The League. [July 5.]

(Text of the league in its concluding form.)

(Printed. Rymer's Fœdera, 2nd edition, vol. xv. p. 805.)

9½ pp. Latin.

Three copies of the same.

562. The League. [July 5.]

The articles subscribed unto by her majesty and the Scottish King are reduced into the ancient form of other leagues, and not concluded by indentures between the commissioners, as heretofore in "abstinces" from war or contracts for marriage has been used in the days of their predecessors, because this strict amity between these two mighty Princes is chiefly for the preservation and maintenance of good and pure religion in both their kingdoms, than which nothing can be more holy or of greater importance.

In the penning of which holy league the causes moving the Princes to enter thereinto, are declared in the beginning thereof, though in other words, yet to the same effect as in the said articles, and the commissioners on either side, by whom the same is ratified, are in that first entrance thereinto aptly named.

Of the which articles, being in number 13, in the league the 9th article is purposely omitted, because it is intended that all therein contained shall be fully accomplished in this assembly of commissioners at Berwick. So the league consists but of 12 articles.

Whereas in the 11th article it is agreed that either of the Princes, being required thereunto, shall both by their oaths, and under their great seals, confirm this league, and interchangeably deliver letters patent for the firmer ratification thereof at some such time as the Princes shall appoint, in the same article it is now set down that the Princes shall swear to this league, and interchangeably make delivery thereof to the deputy of either Prince under their great seals, and subscribed unto with their own hands, within six months after the conclusion thereof.

Immediately next after the 12 articles the commissioners are verbatim inserted into the league, and then the whole concluded with a date of the time and place wherein the same was concluded and subscribed, and sealed unto by the commissioners for either Prince.

1 p. Indorsed. "A note containing the alterations used in reducing of the articles agreed upon between her majesty and the Scottish King into the form of a league."

Copy of the same.

Cott. Calig., C. IX., fol. 365.

Another copy of the same.

563. The League. [July 5.]

[An extract of the twelve articles in the proposed league.]

2¼ pp. Indorsed.

564. Proclamation on the Borders. [July 5.]

Certifying that the lords commissioners for England and Scotland have now calculated the treaty of a straiter league between their sovereigns than has heretofore been between the Princes their progenitors.

For the better consideration thereof they mind to repair to the said Princes to consult with them about the most expedient means for removing all controversies between the Marches, and, so soon as they can understand their sovereigns pleasure, to put order to the premises. They therefore ordain in their sovereigns' names, and command proclamation to be made at all the market crosses of "hedborowes" on both the Marches that none take in hand or attempt any fire, slaughter, "hershipp," stealth, reif, unlawful taking, or any injury or offence whatsoever punishable by the law of the Marches against any subject of the other Prince, to his hurt, or interest in his person, goods, or gear, or to offer him any sort of displeasure in deed or countenance, to his just offence, from that day forth to the returning and meeting again of the said commissionres, and forty days thereafter, under the pain of present death, besides the ordinary redress of the party dampnified according to the laws of the Marches, certifying the contraveners thereof that the said pain shall be extremely executed with all rigour in example of others. Berwick.

1 p. Copy. Indorsed by Thomas Randolph, "Proclamation after the conclusion of the league at Berwick against thieves, subscribed by all the commissioners of both parts."

Another copy of the same. Indorsed twice, "Proclamation by the commissioners of England and Scotland touching the stay of the Borders, subscribed in Berwick."

Cott. Calig., C. IX., fol. 367.

Another copy of the same.

565. The Master of Gray to Walsingham. [July 6.]

"I resaveit this day your lettres of the 23 of Junii, ansuering to myn of ye 15 and 19. It is verie treu upon your advertisment and my Lord Tresaurer's, according to your advyse, I did tak deliberation to stay my voyage, bot since I have wrottin ye ansuer of yours 16 of Junii. Yet altogither I have not refusit to interpryse the voyage, bot condicionaly to go fordwart withe it, the same being craveit of the King my souveraine, seing nou I am enterit withe his majestie in yis same place I wes in of befor, and yat I resave present moyens for the levie, for the satisfaction of the gentlemen and captaines my followers.

This fare I think I wrot in my last lettres, and yit continouis in yis same mynd. Bot for satisfactioun of this last lettre of yours I shalbe verie plaine withe you. The Kyngis majestie hes advysit me very wysly, bothe for ye weil of his auin service heir and for the weil and advancement of ye Queen's majestei's service in the Low Countryis, to condiscend upon the two former condicionis to go, bot to retourne so schortly as poscibilie I can. And I may this far asshur you, if I go not my self oneis thair wil no man of accompt go, as I wrot of befor, and all quho are presently in service thair would not have gone agine bot for yat thay beleivit shurly to have haid me for their commander.

It is verie treu Captaine Hakerston may possibly, be my countenancing, transport sume feu troupes, bot no man of accompt wil follow any gentleman without a gryt certaintie, and cheifly quhen so many of our natioun has resaveit so hard enterteinement.

In consideratioun quharof I mynd, God willing, be my souveraine's auin advyse, to satisfie bothe the desyr of your last letter, and lykvayis thearle of Leicester's,—yours for yat I shall see th 'amitie betuix ye two Princes weil at point befor I go, and sall not stay long thair,— thearle of Leicester's, in coming to him withe verie sufficient troupes.

And this is the advyse as I have ellis said of the King my maister— yat if you think my remaining at home may be more prouffitable yan my going, I am content with very good wil, and shall do quhat in me lyis to send sutche troupes, as I can procure of my freindis and servandis. Bot no uther way I asshuredly promeis.

In the mid tym I shall do good wil so far as in me lyethe to see yis league at point. Bot, befor God, I have a Prince and maister als willing as myself or any man in ether of the realmes, as dayly he giveis sufficiently preuf in.

It is verie treu, as I wrot of befor, sundry practises indirectly are lede for the hinder of this amitie. And to thend by your advyse thay may be preventit, ye shall ever be acquentit withe sutche as lokis to my care and knoulege, ether by my self of Mr Archibald Douglas—quho I think schortly shalbe by his majestie imployit towardis the Queen your souveraine in sume affaires of importance.

Immediately efter Mr. Archibald send me your lettre tuitching the delyverie of the Carris, I presentit it to the King in contentis, who wes verie weil satisfeit, and immediatly hes given command that thay be delyverit befor th'earle of Rutland pert from Barvik. And I pray your honour yat promeis be keipt to the King reasonably.

And, befor God, I think heirefter ye Queen shall demand his majestie nothing bot shalbe grantit withe pleasure.

Thus fare I have commaund to signifie unto you from his majestie.

I must, sir, be bould to pray you by your nixt yat I may knou quhou hir majestie would lyk of it, yat the King should enter withe hir majestie in the maiter of ye Lou Countryis. I suppose sche may be jalouse, yit. yair be many good reasouns to bring hir from yat point. And I shall tak one hand to bring his majestie, if sche wer content to interpryse as sche should think meit. And in my opinion it ver for bothe thair weillis and gryt advantage.

I pray you oneis agene yat by your nixt I may know of hir majesteis mind, ether directly or indirectly in yis maiter, and I shall do yairefter in grace of God." Falkland. Signed: Master of Gray.

3 pp. Holograph, also address. Indorsed.

566. Scottish Commissioners at Berwick to Walsingham. [July 6.] Cott. Calig., C. IX., fol. 358.

Adam Fullerton, burgess of Edinburgh, attending here about the matter of the piracies, wherein we were instructed to have dealt, his honesty and upright meaning in good causes has moved us to recommend him specially to your good furtherance and favour in his "adois" there, namely in the "debtis" which his awaiting upon the common cause at court "involvit" him in, whereof the help and relief is only in your hands.

Praying your honour, most "affectueuslie" that as you hitherto have proven friendly to him in all his causes, so for our commendation you will continue and increase it so that he may find himself respected for our cause, whom you will have as ready and willing to please you, or any at your commendation, where we have any means or credit. So trusting your honour will not let this be ineffectual, we commit you earnestly to God's protection. Berwick. Signed: Bothwell, Boyd, James Home.

²/3 p. In a Scottish hand. Addressed. Indorsed.

567. Earl of Rutland to Burghley. [July 7.]

Having despatched the league according to their instructions, and their opposites having no authority to treat in Border matters, has advertised the Secretary of his and Lord Eure's meaning to begin their homeward journey.

The Scottish Commissioners departed yesterday, and having no particulars of their proceedings except the simple treaty of the league of which the Secretary has been advertised, will not trouble him further. Berwick. Signed: Rutland.

½ p. Addressed. Indorsed by Burghley's clerk.

568. Earl of Rutland to Walsingham. [July 7.]

The league is despatched according to his directions. Holds himself happy if he has done that which may be acceptable to her majesty.

The Scottish Commissioners having departed yesterday, means, with Lord Eure, to leave tomorrow, each to his own home.

Would be glad to tarry there 8 or 10 days, but has no other desire therein than his pleasure, therefore would know what he would have him do by the bearer. Berwick. Signed: Rutland.

½ p. Addressed. Indorsed by Walsingham's clerk.

569. James VI. to Mr. Archibald Douglas. [July.]

"Maister Archibald writt to Maister Randolph that the Carris be indelaydely deliuerit, and also that a uarden and Keipaire sall be chosin hou soone as possible is: as for youre selfe, serve me, and cair for na maire, for I promeis you ye shall euer find me the same man I uas quhen I spakk uith you last, and sa fair ueill. James R."

To Maister Archibald Douglas.

[Added in another hand] "And directed on the outside with his own hand, as was the rest of the letter."

½ p. Indorsed "The trewe coppie (literatim) of the Kinge of Scotte's letter to Mr. Archibald Douglas, written all with his own hand touching the delivery of the Carrs, a Warden for the West March, and a keeper for Liddisdall.

The letter was undated, and unsealed. (Sent from Falkland to him at Edinburgh, and by Mr. Archibald sent to Berwick, the 7th of July 1586.)"

570. Thomas Phelippes to Walsingham. [July 7.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

Desires three or four warrants to be sent by Arthur for the apprehension of Ballard otherwise Fortescue, and directed to some choice men, for all his pursuivants that are ordinarily used are very knaves. Ballard and H. Dunne have ridden out of town together: Ballard was seen at the Countess of Arundel's within these two days. Burden will deserve his [Walsingham's] favour therein, therefore prays he will further the signing of Honnis bill, which her majesty promised a second time within these two days. Burden shall receive 30l. and G[ilbert G[ifford] may have the rest. If it happened to be signed in his absence, prays it may be sent to his father's.

Is of opinion it were not amiss to lay a strait watch at the ports, for on Babington's apprehension there will be plenty of fugitives. Catlin would be safe to get a roll so soon as might be of those who converse with Babington. Divers have been to him to have his [Walsingham's] warrant to pass over the sea. Has suspected it, therefore prays he will not be "abused" in such names as are pretended. Somerfeld's sister required two men and a waiting woman. Burden being advertised will discover all such "abuses." For herself, thinks she will do little harm. Has left his man to attend his commandments upon all such occasions for Burden.

Prays he will give some direction to Sir Amias Paulet touching the apprehension or surprise of Babington if the matter fall out so that by what is found of her majesty's disposition, it is necessary to lay hands on him in this country. Such direction would follow them speedily.

Thinks Poley may "yet last" if he begins first to charge Babington to Paget for a suspected person for his readiness to offer him [Walsingham] service. Signed: Tho. Phelippes.

Postscript.—Beseeches him to make his excuses to the Lord Treasurer, for he dealt very graciously with him, notwithstanding his non-attendance, and crossed a request to the Queen for what he required of him. Prays he will say that, whereas he understands he [Phelippes] has a suit to his lordship, he would vouchsafe his favour and pardon his not waiting upon him, being employed by himself elsewhere. His lordship would be brought to the opinion he did other kind of service than deciphering.

1 p. Holograph, also address. Indorsed.

571. Babington's Conspiracy. [July.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

Things meet to be considered beforehand:—

1. Articles to be ministered to the practisers and conspirators. 2. A collection of the chief matters that touch the Scottish King and the French King. 3. Articles to be ministered to Nau and Curll. 4. To set down the names of persons suspected. 5. Burden to enquire who are Babington's companions, and the practising Jesuits in prison and abroad. 6. To make choice of spies to go to the ports. 7. To collect the chief matters showing the King of Spain's malice.

²/3 p. In Walsingham's hand. Indorsed: "Matters to be consydered about Babington's conspiracye."

572. Instructions Concerning Babington's Conspiracy. [July.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

1. To set down the names of the principal persons to be apprehended, the names of meet men to apprehend them, and who are before secretly to enquire the places where the persons to be apprehended lodge or frequent. 2. To choose some well affected citizens in whose houses they may be kept after their apprehension until they are thoroughly examined. 3. To choose some trusty and fit persons to have the guard of their prisoners whilst they are in the citizens' houses. 4. To set down certain general articles on which these prisoners are to be examined. 5. To appoint certain persons to examine them. 6. To learn with what Jesuit priests, in any of the prisons, Babington and Ballard had acquaintance and access, and which of the said priests are noted practisers in matters of state, wherever they are. 7. To order Davis to be restored to prison. 8. To order Wauton to look well to his port, to stay passengers. 9. One or two messengers to be bestowed at Rye. 10. Phelippes to set down the chief matters wherewith Babington and Ballard are to be charged.

1 p. No flyleaf, address, or indorsement.

573. Practisers with Babington and Ballard. [July.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

Henry Donne, Mr. Savage of Barnardstown, Robert Barnewall, Swithin Wells, Robert Gage lying in Chancery Lane, Vawdrey, and Roper at Southampton House, great with Babington: Lord Windsor and his brother, and Knight at Mistress Goode's in Chancery Lane, great with Ballard.

½ p. In Thomas Phelippe's hand. No indorsement.

574. Sir Amias Powlet to Walsingham. [July 7.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

Received his three packets of June last, the 3rd of this present, at 4 in the morning. Having perused the letters addressed to this Queen, finds nothing much worthy of advertisement, but thought good to trouble him with the inclosed note. Has refused to perform the contents of this letter inclosed from the ambassador. Would not wade in matters of this quality without warrant, nor give such precedent as might make them bold hereafter upon like occasions.

Mr. Darell has taken order by his [Powlet's] direction, upon very good grounds, for the defraying of the diet of this Queen's family. The master of her household was sent to him to know if he was acquainted with it.

Avowed the same, which being reported to her, she commanded her master of household to signify to him that in other things he was accustomed to say he had no commission to do this or that, and therefore, if he had no special direction from her majesty or from the lords of her Council, she would not yield to it. Answered that he would not fail to put the order in execution the next morning, and if his mistress complained, she should know his commission. Yesterday she sent her master of household with a new complaint about this matter. Receiving his resolute answer, she sent Curll to pray him to come to her chamber. There yielded her such reasonable matter for the justification of his doings as satisfied her.

She prayed him to advertise Mr. Pierpoint that his daughter should be delivered when sent for. Said that he could do nothing therein without a new direction from her majesty, whereupon she prayed him to signify her "profer."

Cordaillot sent to Nau by the carrier on his last journey the inclosed paper, betraying his lewd opinion of their nation. Thought good to retain it before it came to Nau's hands. Could wish it were returned to Cordaillot that he might perceive his slanderous conceits are bewrayed. Has compared the note with his other writings and finds it is written with his own hand.

Desires the inclosed to be delivered to Lord Norreys. Chartley. Signed: A. Poulet.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed.

Inclosure with the same:—

(Monsieur De L'Aubespine to Sir Amias Powlet.)

This poor boy is Scottish and served in France, but the wars and dearth have been the cause, as he will tell you, that he whom he served has taken the opportunity of an illness which he has had to get rid of him, so that he has been constrained to come hither to have recourse to his step-father and to his mother, who have been for a long time in the service of the Queen of Scotland, in order that he may have some means of passing into Scotland to some kinsmen whom he yet has there, or to live elsewhere if they shall think good that he return. He asked me to let him have a passport to this effect, but I have considered that being such as you will judge him at a glance, and as he will relate to you particularly, there was no need to trouble Mr. de Walsingham, still less her majesty, in this matter, who have always very willingly granted it to me on the like occasion. Furthermore, as he has nothing else to do there except about money, whereof I can assure you he has very great need as well as of other commodities, wherewith I have aided him as far as I could, especially since the time when he arrived here in ill health. By means whereof I have thought to send him to you, just as he is, and to pray you, as I do, to be willing to allow him to speak to his mother, before you or such of your people as it may please you, or otherwise to obtain for him some help from her, that he may retire and live somewhere; with assurance that you will have made a good exercise of charity, and that he will pray God for you. Moreover I do not think that her majesty would take it ill, nor my lords of her council, he being only what you will know of him. London. 4th July 1586.

Signed: De L'aubespine Ch'auneuf.

1 p. French, Indorsed: 4 July 1586. From the French Amb^r. to S^r. Amias Poulet. Addressed.

575. Nicholas Cornellys to Thomas Phelippes. [July 7.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

Two principal points—whereof many secondarily were derived as we discoursed at our last being together—were the cause of my coming here for the trial of the honest man, and the discovery of the second. In the first we have so far proceeded that the honest man is totaliter ours, who is too glad to have thus escaped with his 20l., besides many good angels, than to incur the same danger. He seeks nothing more than to win credit with the governor in this service. There never was so fortunate a knave, so that there cannot possibly be anything added to this point, and I think he is sufficiently charmed for admitting any other but the first man.

For the second, at my speaking with the honest man, he told me that the second messenger was gone to London a week and more before, and that his appointment with him was uncertain. I have amply written thereof to Sir Amias Poulet this morning, declaring the necessity of my return. The conclusion of my letter is:—

Either this party is at London or not. If not, he will not be long in these parts, as well for that I have his letter, as also to finger more packets. Besides that I will leave with the honest man an earnest letter for his coming up. If he is already at London, as is probable, not repairing to the honest man for so long a space, then it is likely that I shall find him there, coming up speedily, whence we will dispose of him. His name is Barnes. I know him well, but I think he has no chamber in London. Neither were it expedient for you to "lead hands of" him for the case I told, for that would spoil all.

But assure yourself, and I promise and undertake of my credit to cut him clear from this course, and to that end I have written to Z, the copy whereof you shall see at our meeting. I have no leisure but to commit you to God. Signed: Cornelis.

Postscript.—I trust you have displayed the arms of P. Let them be dainty at the first. Let scarce one of them be seen. I would gladly deliver this packet to [ ] (fn. 3) myself.

1 p. Holograph. Address: "To my very lovinge frende Mr. Thomas Philips, London."

576. Earl of Rutland to Burghley. [July 8.]

Doubts not but that he will be acquainted with the manner of their proceeding, and finishing the league, before the receipt of this. Therefore forbears to write any answer concerning her majesty's letter.

Rejoices if he has done what is to the Queen's contentment, and holds nothing so dear as her majesty's good opinion.

Received from Mr. Archibald Douglas, by Mr. Randolph, two letters from the King. Opened them in his [Randolph's] presence, and now forwards them, that the Queen may be acquainted with them.

Has also written to Mr. Archibald Douglas at his departure, having received from him, in Mr. Randolph's letters, divers courtesies and friendly messages. Sends the copy of his letter and of his [Mr. Archibald Douglas'] to him.

Commits all his other doings to his censure, being most bound to acknowledge the great debt of friendship he owes him, the least not being his opinion of him lately written to Mr. Randolph.

Will seek to perform what he may, if not for his own good, for the love he bears him, and hopes his actions shall demonstrate that nothing is written here but time shall prove it performed. Berwick. Signed: Rutland.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed by Burghley's clerk.

577. Earl of Rutland to Walsingham. [July 8.]

Has received his letter of the 4th instant. Though he was then advertised of the delay of this league, doubts not but that before the receipt of this he will be resolved of its performance, wherein Lord Eure and Mr. Randolph especially deserve great thanks. Mr. Milles should not be forgotten for his diligence in his journey to the King.

Hopes ere long to deliver particulars herein by speech, and so does not write more. Berwick. Signed: Rutland.

½ p. Addressed. Indorsed.

578. Thomas Phelippes to Walsingham. [July 8.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

Meeting with Sir Amias Powlet's packet between Shilton and Stamford, opened the same according to his direction. Has found a packet for the French ambassador from that Queen. Thought best to take it with him to despatch here and send up fit for his handling, with all speed, as he earnestly expects the same. By Sir Amias Powlet's and their friend's letters finds all things stand in such good terms that his own abode there will be the less, but for Babington's matters. Beseeches him to resolve thereof speedily and thoroughly. Shilton. Signed: Tho. Phelippes.

Postscript.—Left London last night at 9, and would have been at Chartley now but for the extreme carelessness of constables, and the contempt of some of them, wherein order must be taken upon special services such as this. Forgot to learn his pleasure touching the mad book that G[ilbert] G[ifford] brought, of Foxleye's. The greatest necessity of it is only the saving of G.G.'s credit. He pretends no other errand. In this respect, if he thinks good, it might in the meanwhile be "on the press."

¾ p. Holograph, also address. Indorsed.

579. Thomas Randolph to Walsingham. [July 9.]

Wrote so lately that he now has no cause for troubling him further, except that he would rather write of nothing, where he knew his letters were welcome, than that his letters should be wanted.

Thinks this will be the last time of writing hence before his departure for Edinburgh. Would know how he likes their negotiations, but is not ignorant how many, for less doings, have been better rewarded.

The nobleman has done wisely and liberally, beyond expectation, in the cause they dealt in. He gave 30l. to the shot of the bands in recompense of their powder, to the great guns 10l., to the pensioners a buck and 20 nobles, to the poor of the town 5l., and to the porters 20s. apiece. He [Randolph] continually entertained the captains at his own table, and feasted the nobleman with the best cheer. They parted all friends, and well pleased, except himself.

The judges at the assize gave the thieves their judgment that they should return to the place whence they came. Therefore must go into Scotland, though with the hope that no command be sent to keep him there longer than to kiss the King's hands, and to take his leave.

Trusts he is well pleased, and that he will look to it. Doctor Dale tells him that there is as much cunning to keep a friend as to get a friend.

Sends a letter from the Master and Mr. Archibald. The latter wishes him to know that the Master of Glammis looks for an answer to his letter.

May know from the inclosed ticket in what good grace Mr. Archibald is with the King, who wrote it with his own hand.

The inclosed pass will show how well accompanied the lords commissioners came to this town.

Prays God may have him in his good keeping, with the good lady, mistress of the house where he dwells. Berwick. Signed: Tho. Randolph.

1½ pp. Addressed. Indorsed.

580. Thomas Morgan to Mary. [July 9.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

I wrote hence to Mendoça to remember the affairs of England and Scotland, and to embrace the honest offer that was made of reparation of all that was disordered; adding also that he ought to admonish the King not so to conceive of anything lately come to pass in England or in Scotland as to be discouraged in his former designs, which he must put in execution if his majesty would advance the universal good and the repose of his own state. Moreover, I gave Mendoça to understand that you yourself, with the lively assistance of the King of Spain, had means enough to make a sufficient party in England and Scotland to embrace some good enterprise, if your intelligences with friends and servants could continue.

There are some members who await the opportunity of doing a turn of service to her of England which will appease many things (as I hope) if only it please God to assist the enterprise, for which I pray him daily.

½ p. French. Indorsed: "Extract of divers poyntes in the intercepted letters arguing the malice of Morgan and the rest of the Scottish Q.'s servantes in France both agaynst this state and y^t. Mis en francoys. July 1586."

581. Thomas Sansellen to Nicholas Cornellys [Gilbert Gifford]. [July 9.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

My honest and dear friend, I long much to hear of your health and well-doing, which I pray God to preserve. I have no great matter presently to write to you, unless I should recommend the courses to you which I know you hold at heart. Albeit as things have been handled there is no remedy, but you must seem to entertain Ballard and honour him; yet I pray you to do it discreetly, and as little as may be in the view of the world, and advise such as are most dear to you to do the like as long as the matter in question depends undecided. I doubt not but that you will give these cautions so that his credit is not hindered. It should be preserved for many causes, as you know I have lately received a very courteous letter from Monsieur Shouet, whereto you shall receive an answer herewith. I wrote him a few lines in my former letter, for he "haunts" Monsieur Lasquino [the French ambassador] and Signor Trianon [Cordaillot] that of himself he would solicit them to help to put me to my former state, which he has done, and confessed the receipt of my letters which were inclosed in yours.

Now they know I have an intelligence with him, which I desired to reserve from their knowledge, as I have reason to do considering my case. But that is past, and cannot be helped, but for the time to come I shall desire you to take all his letters for me into your hands, and warn him that he deliver no letters of his to their hands to be sent to me hereafter. But I pray you do not show him that I note anything herein to dislike, for indeed I would be contented to impart my blood to him. It is best that in time to come he write to me by you, and not by the above named, that they may find the continuance of his intelligence and mine, which I leave to your consideration.

Monsieur Shouet wrote that my letters were welcome to Signor Rugevio, and that he would answer them at the first opportunity. [I would] rather it came directly from Signor Rugevio's hands to the French Ambassador and Cordaillot or to you, than that the same should come through Monsieur Shouet's hands, which I leave to you to foresee. I have written a letter to a person of honour in that country and recommended the same to the French ambassador and to Cordaillot, and prayed them to use your advice for the safe and speedy delivery of the same, when I pray you help them. The letter is for my Lord Harry Howard. You shall find the means to send to him by means of some of your people whom the writer of the little letter inclosed has named to you before.

The matter of the removal of "A." [the Queen of Scots] is still in my mind as a matter of consequence; I pray you to have a viligant eye thereto, and for the conservation of his [her] "p and 40" [secret messenger]. If you have time to talk with him desire him, if it be a matter that stands in his election, not to leave the country where he dwells at present. I would he were at "D's" [G. G.'s] father's house, which may be accommodated for the purpose; but it is certain he cannot be for "eyre" and all other commodities meet for his turn in any better place than in the province where he now is.

This point I recommend to your care, to assist him with information of the place that is appointed for his habitation, which of all those named to him is most fit, which you know he cannot discern. Therefore in this and many other points he must trust to your instructions.

Although I am sufficiently recommended by the French ambassador and Cordaillot to Ruelle, yet I pray you to deal with him again, and to desire him to hold me and whatever I recommend in special recommendation, as you know it is requisite he should do. To say the truth, he uses me and my man with great courtesy, for which I desire them to thank him, and to renew their commendations of me.

I hear that Burden, who was in these parts, is a lewd fellow, and nevertheless haunts the French ambassador and Cordaillot to discover some persons or matters. Upon the information I received of him from good members, I thought it necessary to give the French ambassador and Cordaillot some caution of the merchant, which you may confirm, if you find cause to do so.

I pray you to learn who are the executors of the late will of Master Somerset. You may know it from Doctor Mowse, of the Arches [court], who is a very good member, or from his servant, and advertise me by the first opportunity. Here is a packet of letters to Monsieur Nau, who waits upon her majesty of Scotland. I pray you find the means to send the same to him by the secret messenger, and not otherwise. Some friends were with me yesterday who declared that Solomon Aldred had arrived at Paris to go in haste to England, but the English ambassador stayed him for three or four days for some causes importing the service of her majesty.

All here now tends to peace; for which purpose the Queen Mother is to depart shortly towards Blois to treat with the King of Navarre. Monsieur de Guise remains in Lorraine, and Monsieur Demayne at Bordeaux and thereabouts. It has pleased his majesty to remit the imposition laid upon the procurers, which is all I can say for the present; beseeching Almighty God to preserve you and to conduct your labours to a happy issue. Written in haste in the place in which you left me. Signed: Thomas Sansellen.

Postscript.—I pray you to have nothing to do with [ ] (fn. 4) brothers or sisters, in whom I hear much dishonour noted. If they say anything to seek to impair your reputation or to break your quiet state, which I hope is not in their power to do, stand upon your honour and reputation and denial of all their trumpery. For God's sake let me hear often from you, though it be of no more but of your health. Commend me heartily to Signor Petro Maria, and to all others at your discretion.

2½ pp. Holograph, also address. Partly in cipher. Deciphered and indorsed by Thomas Phelippes.

582. G[ilbert] G[ifford] to Walsingham. [July 11.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

Barnes has not appeared in any of his frequented places. Therefore thinks he has not yet come to town. Knows not whether he has been with the ambassador, and dare not go there till he can bring the packet with him. Is sure to hear as soon as he comes to town. Has his letters, therefore he must needs come.

Trusts Mr. Phelippes will meet the said packet by the way and post it without delay. Touching the practice in hand, in discourse with Morgan before last coming over "smelled" something thereof. Was told by him that he had sent one to solicit matters here, promising that in time he should know all as occasion should serve. It is their custom to discover things little by little, albeit they trust one never so much.

Was found out yesterday by great inquiry by Ballard. Was never well acquainted with him, but was told by him that he had sought him greatly, that he knew his endeavours on behalf of the cause thoroughly, and that he had purposed to come to him in the country where he thought he was. At length he broke into great complaint of Morgan and Charles Paget, saying that they promised him intelligence often, but that he never heard from them since his coming over.

Gave him some reasons for their delay. Was then told he was directed to him on his coming over, but not finding him he was in great perplexity. He thanked God they had met to be a help to each other, and told him that on Saturday night he was with the ambassador, who expected letters daily. He said also that if they did not perform what they had promised they could at least do their parts. By these words perceived he thought him to be privy to the course.

Asked him what was to be done. He replied that [ ] (fn. 4) hand and seal must be obtained to allow all that should be practised on her behalf, without which they laboured in vain, and these men would not hear them. Answered that it was a matter of great importance and that they should expect Morgan and Paget to do it. He said that the matter would be long and that he was in great danger. Said that hitherto it was never obtained by any man, and the granting of it would be hard. What persuasion, what probability of success could they lay before [ ] (fn. 5) to move him to grant it ? He undertook within forty days to procure their liberty.

Desired to think of it and answer him tomorrow. So he departed out of town and left his man for his [G. G.'s] answer, which Ballard is marvellously earnest in. He is the only man used in this practice. Cannot thoroughly discover it at first, but in time it will be easy, for he desires his help and company therein.

Desires to be informed how to answer him, how far to join with him and keep his company. So doing it would be impossible not to discover all.

He [Ballard] complained of Sir T. Tresson and his cousin Talbot for not hearing him, and threatening to discover him. He said that unless they obtained that from [ ] (fn. 5) all was but wind.

Beseeches him to convey the packet to him as soon as it arrives, by the bearer, before which he cannot go to the ambassador. Was told by Ballard that he [Walsingham] had had an inkling of some things, especially of the ambassador's intelligence with [ ]. (fn. 5)

Great regard should be taken to the very corrupt men his honour has about him. Was also told that Phelippes had gone to Chartley for the removing of Nau and Pieu. Trusts his honour considers how necessary it is to entertain D. G. and Gratley, for thereby they are persuaded that there is no dealing of his. But otherwise it were impossible that he should not be suspected.

D. G.'s coming over would colour him much. Can know his whole thoughts, and no doubt he would be greatly employed so that he might by him understand all their courses. He can hide nothing from him, though he protests that nothing shall pass his hands and hearing, but he [Walsingham] shall soon understand it. Signed: "Your honor's faithfull servant, G. G."

3 pp. Holograph, also address. Indorsed: "From G. G. secreat advertis."

583. Mary to the Bishop of Glasgow. [July 12.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

I hoped before this time to have received news of you more fully about that of which I told you before, which had made me delay replying to yours of the last day of March. Your proceedings with the ambassador Stafford please me greatly, and on account of his great friend I pray you to keep him in this humour with all the care you may. I do not see any appearance that my warden, although dependent in the same direction, is likely ever to be induced to this sufferance of intelligence, being so exact and precise even to the least things concerning his charge that he could not in this respect watch me and treat me more rigorously if he were the greatest enemy I have in this realm. I have heard some uncertain rumour that he is to be discharged from guarding me before the end of this summer, and that they are on the point of restoring me to the Earl of Shrewsbury, which I can hardly believe. I know indeed that this Queen is about to take some resolution as to my estate here for the future, whereof I await news by the first opportunity through the ambassador of France. I think you will know by this time the details of the league that she has lately concluded with my son, and not, as I am informed, without the consent and secret approbation of the King of France, so that I fear indeed that you will labour in vain with him to traverse the said league as I told you by my last: nevertheless, do not fail to do all that you can to break it. The greatest regret that remains with me about it is that the said league will entirely quench in the heart of all the Catholic princes what goodwill remained in them to aid in the re-establishment of things in this quarter, even finding all their affections so alienated from my son that I no longer know whereupon nor how to continue any correspondence with him, so in despair is every one, and myself most of all, that he will ever be for serving God's cause or mine. And therefore until some alteration take place in the present government in Scotland, or the pope and the king of Spain be better disposed to look to the things of this island, I cannot tell you anything for certain nor give order touching Scotland, and I do not see to what effect one can enter into any negotiation or expenditure there. The fathers who have been sent thither will be able, peradventure, to give us more light. And I much desire to know by your next how they have fared; and likewise whether the demeanor of my lord Claude since his arrival with my son has corresponded to his promises. I have always found him, even during his banishment in this country, very faithful and constant in his duty towards me, and I think that he will not fail now, having more means to give me proof thereof. It vexes me exceedingly that I have no means of making him some worthy gift, and likewise to make a fund there, as is very requisite, for the management and conduct of the negotiations as well of Scotland as of this country. But, as they say, necessity has no law, and you know as well as I myself the extremity to which I am reduced to furnish only what is needed for my own person and the wages of my servants, and pensions of those English to whom I am obliged. As long as I had means I spared nothing of my own, and of all the support that I have been able to obtain elsewhere not a sou has ever gone to my private use or convenience. I will try to furnish as well as I can for the maintenance of ways which shall be pointed out to me in this country, in order to continue my intelligence with you over there, but it is not in my power to do more; which I pray you to testify on my behalf to Charles Paget and Morgan, recommending to you as heartily as I may the payment of the pensions which I ordained for them, as also of Fuljambe and his brother-in-law. Cause to be continued to that young man Rolston what you have already caused to be appointed for him. As to the negotiations of Rome, I find it more expedient to commit them wholly to Dr. Lewes since he now makes his residence there, being a very sufficient personage, and well versed in the things of those parts. You will receive here enclosed a note for him, and another for the Cardinal de Montdevis, to whom you will give to understand the choice that I had made of him for the office of Protector of Scotland before I had knowledge of the nomination that his holiness had made of him; and you will recommend to him on my behalf with all earnestness the poor Scotch seminary, that it may please his holiness to continue to them the liberality of his predecessors, and to help them otherwise in their needs, which you will be able to explain to him more particularly. I made mention to you by my last of the twelve thousand crowns for myself, but I am in infinite trouble about the other four thousand which Charles Arondel and Charles Paget furnished about three years ago to Morgan for the service of his holiness and of the King of Spain, upon assurance that their ambassadors would make re-embursement to the said Morgan; for the which sum they now wish to make me answerable, forasmuch as the Duke of Guise and you intervened, and that in your presence a fund was shown them, as well in divers accounts as in silver plate, about equal to the amount of the said sum: I remember having formerly written to you about it, and I thought that it had been paid, the importance of the matter being of itself sufficient to remind those who are engaged therein to acquit themselves well therein. Look to it then, I pray you, that you insist as strongly as you may with the nuncio of his holiness and the ambassador of Spain to get this matter acquitted by their masters, since their ambassadors made themselves responsible in their name. The sum is small and of little consequence to them in comparison to the inconveniences which may arise even to myself for lack of it. Speak of it also to the Duke of Guise, and thank him for the communication of his good intentions towards me. Deliver the alphabet to him, that he may commit it to whomsoever he thinks good, but truly I would rather that he should hand it over to you than to any one else about him, fearing exceedingly that both he and I have been ill served in such things in the past by his secretaries. (fn. 6) What I have touched upon to you above as to the so urgent necessity of my affairs will serve as an answer to that which you write me of the Earl of Westmorland, and as I cannot succour him from my own, recommend him in my name to his holiness and to the King of Spain. I have hitherto been able to discover nothing about Cherelles at all approaching what you tell me; howbeit I find it only fitting to avoid his danger. Charteley. 12 July.

2¼ pp. French. Deciphered by Phelippes. Indorsed.

584. Mary to [ ]. [July.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

The more I deal with my warden, the more I perceive in him a very evil and sinister intention towards me and my pretention in this kingdom. Which I think to proceed from nothing else than an extreme and obstinate zeal which he has towards the puritan sect, professing publicly here against the injunctions of the Queen of England. And upon this rumour that he is about to be changed, he has set himself to use me with all the rigour that he can, even to the retrenchment of my ordinary expenditure, bearing himself moreover very insolently in all his demeanour towards me. Give advice hereof to the high treasurer by the ambassador Stafford and get him to point out to him on my behalf and that of all my kindred and friends that my life cannot be safe in the keeping and hands of my said warden (fn. 7) even if this Queen were to die. For besides the ill will which he shows towards me, he is not a man of credit, strength or power to preserve me in the house where I am against the attempts or surprises of my enemies, being a stranger in these parts, and making himself so extremely detested and hated there that in such an event he would himself be in no less danger than I. Therefore insist as strong as you can with the said high treasurer that he cause some other warden to be appointed for me as soon as he can, of greater quality and power, and better inclined towards me and my right after the death of his mistress, if it be the will of God that I survive her, yet asking nothing either of the high treasurer or of him whom he shall appoint here contrary to their duty towards her. Press this as much as you can; and in case of need, if the said treasurer will not listen, set it before the King of France, and cause him to be spoken to by the pope's nuncio and the ambassador of Spain, in order that it may please him to interpose his credit with the Queen of England to provide for my safety as well now as for the future. If some insurrection or tumult arose in this country, and my enemies would attack me on a sudden, this man is not capable of getting twenty men together to resist them. Charteley.

¾ p. French. In the hand of Phelippes.

585. Gilbert Curll to [Thomas Barnes]. [July 12.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

Received his letter of the 12th instant last night, with the inclosed by her majesty received. She thanks him for his diligence to please her in all she desires. Trusts he has caused her majesty's answer to be delivered to the second messenger, although, to speak truly, she agrees with his cousin Gilbert's advice not to employ him much.

She has not been willing at any time to exercise this course unneedfully with any but him, his brother and his cousin Gilbert. If Mr. Babington is come down to the country—for whom this character [ (fn. 7) ] shall serve in time to come—her majesty prays the inclosed be conveyed to him, otherwise that he will stay it till he hears from her majesty again. Will do his best to satisfy him touching the other characters. Chartley.

On a slip of paper, in cipher. Deciphered by Thomas Phelippes. No address or indorsement.

586. Monsieur Nau to Babington. [July 13.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

The Scottish Queen received his letters and the inclosed, which cannot be deciphered before this bearer's return. He is to return hither in two or three days, against which time her answer shall be ready. In the meantime would show him that great assurance is given of Mr. Poley's faithful service to her majesty, and by his own letters he has vowed and promised the same. As yet the Queen of Scots' experience of him [Poley] is not great enough to embolden him [Nau] to trust him much. He has only written to her majesty once, whereto she has not yet answered, not knowing his abode, nor to whose hands he first committed his said letters. Desires to know plainly what he understands of him. Chartley.

¼ Copy. In the hand of and indorsed by Thomas Phelippes: "Nau to Bab. 13 July."

587. Mary to Monsieur de Chateauneuf. [July 13.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

I thank you for having advertised me by this channel of the reply of the Queen of England to my requests, for by the ordinary I have since that time received no letters from you. Touching Pierrepont, I told you by mine of the 25th of last month how I have proceeded with my warden, and the causes which have made me retain her; whereupon I assure myself that you have not failed to exonerate me with the said Queen of England, and to procure that it may please her to receive the said Pierrepont into her service, or at the least that I may send her back honourably to her parents as I desired. I do not know what resolution has been taken about my change of lodging and the passport for my servants, but my warden for some days past has shown himself much more rigorous and insolent than is his wont, entirely cutting off all access to the parts about this lodging to every one whatsoever, and endeavouring to reduce the expense of my house as straitly as may be, contrary to the order which was settled and decreed in this respect last year by the said Queen and those of her council; so that, if such retrenchment continues, it is a sure means of wearying my servants yet more of this prison, and of making it altogether insupportable to them. I have heard a rumour, but an uncertain one, that my said warden is to be changed at the end of this summer, and some imagine that I am to be sent back to the Earl of Shrewsbury, which I can hardly believe. There is talk also of taking from me all the English servants whom I have in my house, but I dare take notice of nothing until my said warden broaches the subject, or you yourself, if you discover in those parts that such things are intended, send me advice thereof by the ordinary. In truth, I should not be at all sorry to change my host, for this one is one of the oddest and fiercest men I have ever been acquainted with, and in a word more fit for a gaol of criminals than for the keeping of one of my rank and quality.

Moreover, if anything should happen to the said Queen of England I should think my life very insecure in his hands, on account of his little rank, credit, force and power, and especially in these parts, where he is getting to himself infinite hatred and ill-will. There would be no harm in your dropping a word about it to the high treasurer, but it would have to be only by way of discourse and as from yourself, or indeed by the advice and remonstrance of some of my friends in this realm, without giving him any room or ground to suspect that the bruit comes from here I should very much like to know the true occasion of the journey of the Earl of Shrewsbury thither, and whether he is to remain near the Queen or to return to the country. You would do me a singular pleasure by imparting to me a copy of the last league between this country and Scotland, if you can obtain it again. You will receive with the present a little packet to be conveyed to Courcelles by the next safe opportunity that you shall have, taking order with him, if you please, whereby he may henceforth send you for me all secret despatches from that quarter. Continue, I pray you, to requite this lacquey as you shall think good whenever he brings you any letters from me, and employ him on my affairs. Chartley, 13 July 1586.

1½ pp. French. Signed: "This is by my hand. Nau. 2 Sept. 1586." Indorsed.

Copy of the same, with slight differences.

Another copy of the same [With C.P., vol. xix., No. 15].

588. Extracts from Intercepted Letters. [July 14.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

[Letters calendared under their respective dates.]

Copy of the same with slight differences.

589. Thomas Phelippes to Walsingham. [July 14.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

It may please your honour, the packet is presently returned, which I stayed in hope to send both it and the answer to "B.'s" letter at once. And so I send your honour her letter to the French ambassador, which was in "cifar," and her letters to the Lord Claud and Courcelles out of "cifar." Likewise the short note was sent to Babington, wherein is somewhat only in answer of that concerning Poley in his. We attend her very heart at the next.

She begins to recover health and strength, and rode abroad in her coach yesterday. I had a smiling countenance, but I thought of the verse, cum tibi dicit ave, sicut ab hoste cave. I hope by the next to send your honour better matter. In the meanwhile I humbly take my leave. Chartley. Signed: Tho. Phelippes.

Postscript.—It may please your honour to command the delivery of the letter, wherein is some matter for your secret friend to my servant. If the posts make any reasonable speed these will be with you by to-morrow noon, and "G. G." may have delivered his packet and received the answer by Sunday, which then despatched hither would give great credit to the action, for otherwise we look not to depart this seven-night, and therefore [it were] as good all that belongs thereto were done here as at London.

1 p. Holograph, also address. Indorsed: "From Phillips. Bab."

590. Sir Amias Powlet to Walsingham. [July 14.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

His letter of the 11th of this present came to his hands yesterday morning at eleven o'clock. Has nothing to trouble him with except to send the packet intercepted on the way by Mr. Phelippes, and to advertise him that the packet sent by Mr. Phelippes has been delivered and thankfully received, with such answer in writing as the shortness of time would permit, and with promise to answer more at length at the return of the honest man, which will be in three days.

Cannot thank him enough, first for his messenger and his own friend Mr. Phelippes, and then for this messages as well by mouth as by writing. Is prayed to convey the inclosed packet from this Queen to the French ambassador. Signed: A. Powlet.

½ p. Addressed. Indorsed.

591. Master of Gray to Walsingham. [July 16.]

"Sir, I have resaveit two lettres from yow. The ane from Captaine Hakerstoun, the uther from my lord embassadour, tending bothe to crave my resolution tuitching my going to the service of the Low Countryis, witche I send by theis feu lynis. I find the necessitie of hir majesteis service to requyr my auin personall going, the maiter being of weicht, for if I interpryse not my self thair is never on hyir aible to tak it in hand.

So of force I resolve to go myself. Bot to resolve hir majestie tuitching the doutis sche may conceave of my absence from the King my souveraine, I hoyp to procure of his majestie to Mr. Archibald Douglas sutche maiter as shall satisfie hir majestie in all pointis.

Befor I can be redy to pairt it may be yit tuo monethis, and befor yat tym Mr. Archibald shalbe redy to retourne, quho being present heir hir majesteis affairs can not go wrong. And in caise any doubt wer, I am ever redy to retourne quhan hir majestie shall think expedient to command.

In ye mid tym of my absence, I shall do good wil to place sum of my neir freindis about the King, so yat I pray you sir resolve hir majestie my going shall no wayis be hurtfull, bot prouffitable for hir majesteis service, as at more lenthe I shall signifie unto hir majestie at my coming to Court.

Thus far I wryt in heast becaus your lettres requyris heastie ansuer, and yat my lord Leicester and Sir Philip Sidney desyris the expedition of my troupes be reason of thair necessitie, in respect quharof I pray you sir to send some messinger expresly wit speide withe the 2000 crowns, and I shall have the troupes redy witin a monethe yairefter.

Albeit the 2000 crowns be not bastant for so gryt ane interpryse, yit upone my lord's promeis to be comptable at my arryvall, I shall do all I can to satisfie his lordship." Dunfermline. Signed: Master of Gray.

1 p. Holograph, also address. Indorsed.

592. Thomas Milles to Walsingham. [July 16.]

Is willed by the ambassador, who has not been well for the past twelve days, to signify to him—lest he should think it long since he heard from this country—that he has taken this house at Dunfermline, on his journey to the King at Falkland, for his better passage and greater ease. He shall be advertised if it fall out to his amendment or otherwise.

His disease is a great looseness in his body with sudden pain and cricks in his right side and back, and frequent sighing against his will. Notwithstanding the Master of Gray makes much of him in this place, he will to Falkland after one day's rest.

He shall receive herewith the Master's resolution touching his journey to Flanders. All other matters shall be committed to Mr. Archibald Douglas, who shall be despatched hence to her majesty with all convenient speed. Dunfermline. Signed: Tho. Milles.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed.

593. Mr. Archibald Douglas to Walsingham. [July 16.]

"Pleis your honour, I ressavit your severall letteris, for the which I do geve most harty thankis. Beand wyth my lord ambassador at Dunfermling at the recepte of such letteris as he ressavit concerning the Master of Gray his journey to the Low Countrey, we did fynd the sayde Master in this disposition that he thocht him self so far obligit to hir majesteis service, or to eny mater that may belong thayronto, that he wold not committ the credit of that mater to eny bot to hym self. And heirupon did geve this apparent resson that the sayd service culd not be so effectuall in the person of eny uthir for the embarking in effayres of his soverayn, as in his auin.

As for perrellis that may obtain induring his absens, albeit thayr lacketh no enemeyis at home, yit he hopeth be voyse dealing in materis to see ane grit part of thaym removed befor his departure, if hir majestie shall so deale as judgement doeth requyr in these common actionis betuixt these two Princes, whear such conformite in mynd and proceading may be inducit.

Because to the performing of gud materis it doeth appeir that thayr remaneth sum slownes in hir majestie, whiche is ane common falte to all Princes that necessite doeth not presse, it hath beyn my soveranes pleasour to command me to be in redines to repayr towardis hir majestie at my cuming to your honour.

I hoipe to lette you see sum near way how an grite parte of these dowbtis may be removed.

The Master of Glammis has takin in verray ill part that he ressavit no ansour to his lettir. How necessayr it wilbe to entertenny all men in gud expectation, I must leif to your moyr grave consideratioun.

I think it shalbe best done to geve him thankis for his favorable meaning, and to reffar the rest to such credit as you have wrytin to me to be delivered onto him.

The Master of Gray, because of pryvat promes passit betuixt his soverayn and him to remayn still wyt his soverayn in cumpany, desseris that hir majestie may be moved to wryt to his sayde soverayn, as not taken knauledge of eny promes, that he may be commandit to go fordwartis wyth his jorney towartis my lord of Leycester.

Fall uther materis I must reffar to my next, and so humbly I tak my leif, in haist." Dunfermline. Signed: A. Douglas.

1½ pp. Holograph, also address. Indorsed.

594. Thomas Morgan to Mary. [July 16.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

Recommends these few lines to Babington to move him to be more diligent in her service, and to put out his helping hand and further her intelligence, which he is able to do if he would apply his labour thereto, having many friends and kinsfolk in the parts where she lives.

Can do no more for her in the state he is in, but solicits the furtherance of her service by his pen. Would to God he could advance it with the effusion of his blood. Written in the place of his captivity. [Cipher.]

½ p. Deciphered. Copy in Thomas Phelippes' hand. Indorsed by him.

595. Mary to Anthony Babington. [July 17.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

According to the zeal and entire affection which I have known in you towards the common cause of religion and mine, having always made account of you as a principal and worthy member to be employed in both, it has been no less consolation to me to understand your estate as I have done by your last, and to have found means to renew my intelligence with you, than I have felt grief all this while to be without the same. I pray you therefore from henceforth to write to me as often as you can of all occurrences which you may judge important to the good of my affairs, whereto I shall not fail to correspond with all the care that is in my power.

For divers great considerations, which are too long to be deduced here, I cannot but greatly praise and commend your desire to prevent in time the designs of our enemies for the extirpation of our religion from this realm, with the ruin of us all. I have long ago shown to the foreign Catholic Princes, and experience proves it, that the longer we delay to put hand to the matter on this side the greater leisure have our enemies to prevail over the said Princes, as they have done against the King of Spain.

In the meantime the Catholics here, exposed to all sorts of persecution and cruelty, daily diminish in number, force, means and power, so that, if remedy is not hastily provided, I fear they will become altogether unable to rise again and to receive any aid at all, whenever it were offered them. For my own part I pray you to assure our particular friends that, albeit I have not any particular interest in this cause—that which I may pretend to being of no consideration to me, in respect of the public good of this state, I shall always be ready to employ my life and all I have or may ever look for in this world therein.

Now to ground this enterprise substantially and bring it to good success, you must examine deeply:—1. What forces on foot and horse may be raised amongst you all, and what captains you will appoint for them in every shire in case a general in chief cannot be had.

2. Of what towns, ports, and havens you may assure yourselves in the north, west, and south, to receive succour from the Low Countries, Spain and France.

3. What place you esteem fittest and of great advantage to assemble the principal company of your forces, and the same being assembled, whether or which way you are to march.

4. What foreign forces on horse and afoot you require from the three said foreign Princes—which would be compassed according to the proportion of yours—for how long paid, what munition and forts fittest for their landing in this realm.

5. What provision of armour and money, in case you want it, you would ask.

6. By what means do the six gentlemen deliberate to proceed.

7. Also the manner of my getting from this hold.

Having taken the best resolution upon these points amongst you who are the principal authors and as few in number as you can, my advice is that you impart the same with all diligence to Barnardino de Mendoza, ambassador for the King of Spain in France, who, besides his experience of the state of this side I assure you will employ himself therein most willingly. I shall not fail to write to him of the matter with all the earnest recommendations that we can, as I shall do also to any others who may be needful.

You must make choice, for managing this affair with Mendoza and others out of the realm, of some faithful person to whom only you must commit yourselves to the end things may be more secret, which for your own security I commend to you above everything.

If your messenger bring you back again sure promise and sufficient assurance of the succour you demand then—but no sooner—for it were in vain—take diligent order that all those of your party on this side make as secretly as they can provision of armour, fit horse, and ready money wherewith to hold themselves in readiness to march as soon as it shall be signified to them by their chief and principals in every shire.

For the better colouring of the matter—reserving to the principal the knowledge of the ground of the enterprise—it will be enough for the beginning to give out to the rest that the said provisions are made only for fortifying yourselves in case of need against the Puritans of this realm, the principal whereof, having the chief forces of the same in the Low Countries have, as you may let the bruit go, designed to ruin and overthrow the Catholics on their return home, and to usurp the Crown not only against me and all other lawful pretenders thereto, but against their own Queen that now is, if she will not altogether commit herself to their government alone.

The same pretext may serve to found amongst you all an association and general confederation as if done only for your own just preservation and defence as well in religion as in lives, lands and goods against the oppression and attempts of the said Puritans, without touching directly by writing anything against that Queen, but rather showing yourselves willing to maintain her and her lawful heirs after her, unnaming me.

The affairs being thus prepared, and forces in readiness both without and within the realm, then it will be fit to set the six gentlemen to work, taking order upon the accomplishment of their designs, I may be suddenly transported out of this place, and that all your forces at the same time be in the field to meet me in tarrying for the arrival of the foreign aid which then must be hastened with all diligence.

Now since there can be no certain day appointed for accomplishing the said gentlemen's designs, to the end that others may be in readiness to take me from hence, I would that the said gentlemen had always about them, or at least at Court, four stout men furnished with good and speedy horses, to come with all diligence as soon as the said design is executed, to advertise those who shall be appointed for my transporting, to the end they may be immediately hereafter at the place of my abode before my keeper can have advice of the execution of the said design, or at least before he can fortify himself within the house, or carry me out of the same.

It were necessary to despatch two or three of the said advertisers by divers ways to the end that if one is stayed the other may come through, and at the same instant it were also needful to assay to cut off the post's ordinary ways. This is the plot I find best for this enterprise, and the order whereby you should conduct the same for our common securities.

Stirring on this side before you are assured of sufficient foreign force were but to put yourselves in danger of following the miserable fortune of such as have heretofore travailed in like occasions. And to take me forth from this place before being well assured to set me in the midst of a good army or in some very good strength where I may safely "stay on" the assembly of your forces and arrival of the said foreign succours were sufficient cause given to that Queen, in catching me again, to enclose me for ever in some hole from which I should never escape, if she used me no worse, and to pursue with all extremity all who had assisted me, which would grieve me more than all the unhappiness that might fall upon myself.

Therefore must I once again admonish you to look and take heed most carefully and vigilantly to compass and assure all that shall be necessary for effectuating the said enterprise so well that with the grace of God you may bring the same to a happy end, remitting to the judgment of our principal friend on this side, with whom you have to deal, to ordain to conclude upon this present—which shall serve you only for an overture and proposition—as you shall find best amongst you. And to yourself in particular I refer to assure the gentleman above mentioned of all that shall be requisite on my part for the entire ex cution of their goodwill.

I leave also to your common resolutions to advise—in case their designs do not take hold, as may happen—whether you will or not pursue my transport and the execution of the rest of the enterprise. But if the mishap should fall out that you might not come by me, being set in the Tower of London or in any other strength with greater guard, yet, notwithstanding, do not "leave" to proceed in the rest of the enterprise. For I shall at any time die most contented, understanding your delivery from the servitude wherein you are held as slaves.

I shall essay, at the same time as the work is in hand in these parts, to make the Catholics of Scotland rise and put my son in their hands to the effect that from thence our enemies here may not prevail by any succour. I would also that some stirring in Ireland were laboured for, to be begun sometime before anything were done here, to the end the alarm thereby on the flat contrary side that the stroke should come from.

I think your reasons to have some general head or chief are very pertinent, and therefore it were good to sound obscurely the Earl of Arundel or some of his brethren, for the purpose, and to seek the young Earl of Northumberland, if he is at liberty. From over the sea the Earl of Westmorland, whose house and name may do much in the north may be had, as also Lord Paget, of good ability in some shires hereabouts. Both may be brought home secretly, amongst which some more of the principal banished may return if the enterprise be once resolute.

Lord Paget is now in Spain, and may there treat with all you may commit to him touching this affair, by his brother Charles or directly by himself. Beware that none of the messengers you send forth from the realm carry over any letters upon themselves, but make their despatches be conveyed either after or before them, by some other. Take heed of spies and false brethren amongst you, especially of some priests already practised by our enemies for your discovery, and never in any way keep any paper about you that may in any sort do you harm, for from like errors have come the only condemnation of all such as have suffered heretofore, against whom nothing could otherwise have been provided.

Discover to the French ambassador, now "lieger" in London, as little as you can of your names and intentions, for although he is, I understand, a very honest gentleman of good conscience and religion, yet I fear his master entertains with that Queen a course far contrary to our designs, which would move him to cross us if he should happen to have any particular knowledge thereof.

All this while past I have sued to be removed from this house, and for answer only the castle of Dudley has been named to serve the turn, so that by appearance I may go thither before the end of the summer, Therefore advise as soon as I may be there what provision may be had about that part for my escape from thence. If I stay here there are for that purpose but these three means following to be looked for:—

First, that at a certain day appointed in my "walking" abroad on horseback on the moors between this and Stafford, where ordinarily you know very few people pass, fifty or three score men well horsed and armed, come to take me there, as they easily may, my keeper having with him ordinarily but eighteen or twenty horsemen with daggers only.

The second means is to come at midnight or soon after to set fire to the barns and stables which you know are near to the house, and whilst my guardian's servants shall run to the fire, your company— having a mark whereby they may know one another at night—might surprise the house, where I hope with the few servants that I have about me to give you correspondence.

And the third. Some that bring carts hither ordinarily, coming early in the morning, their carts might be so prepared with such cart-leaders that being just in the middle of the great gate the carts might fall down or overwhelm, and thereupon you might come suddenly with your followers to make yourself master of the house and carry me away. So you might do easily before any number of soldiers, who lodge in sundry places forth from this place, some a half and some a whole mile off, might come to the relief.

Whatsoever issue the matter takes, I do and will think myself obliged towards you as long as I live for the offers you make to hazard yourself as you do for my delivery, and by any means that I may ever have I shall do my endeavours to recognise by effects your deserts herein.

I have commanded a more ample alphabet to be made for you which you will receive herewith. God Almighty have you in protection. Your most assured friend for ever. [Cipher]. Fail not to burn this present quickly.

[The following in Thomas Phelippes hand].

"C'est la copie des lettres de la Royne d'Escosse dernierèment à moy envoyées. Ainsy signé Arthonie Babington."

"Je pense de vray que c'est la lettre escripte par sa majesté ´ Babington comme il me souvenit 6 Septembre 1586. Ainsy signé Nau." "Telle on semblable me semble avoir esté la response escripte en Francoys par Monsieur Nau laquelle j' ay traduit et mis en chiffre comme j'en fais mention au pied d' une copie de la lettre de Mr. Babington laquelle Monsieur Nau a signé le premier. Ainsy signé Gilbert Curle. 5 Septembre, 1586."

6½ pp. French Copy. Indorsed, "Coppie d'une lettre escripte par la Royne d'Escosse à Antoyne Babington, le 17 Juillet 1586. Tournée d'Angloys en Francoys."

Three other copies of the same. In English.

Cott. Calig., C. IX., fol. 326.

Another copy of the same.

596. Extracts from Letters. [July 17.]

[Extracts from sixteen letters in C.P. vols. xvii. and xviii. already calendared under their respective dates.]

2¾ pp.

597. Mary to Babington. [July.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

[A letter in cipher to which there is no key.]

598. Thomas Phelippes to Walsingham. [July 17.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

Sends herein Mr. Harborne's letter in answer to his sent by Captain Ellis, and therefore sealed up and deciphered by himself.

Had letters from G. Gifford by Mr. Hugh Offley. He has great credit for his service and hopes to discover somewhat of importance, smelling—as he says—such matters as he would wonder at, protesting that of which there is no doubt, his care to discover it speedily. He says he finds that Morgan has sent over two of great government and discretion to set upon some other. Doubts not that if their intercourse continue they will be discovered, but wishes that for more assurance someone were advised to appear in his likeness before the French ambassador, which is the only want here.

If he thinks Burdon a fit man—for his part sees no cause for the contrary—it needs but to get someone to disguise himself like a gentleman of ability to come and talk with the ambassador as Emilio Russo, and he to give that credit to Burdon which should serve the turn hereafter. Any man might do this, but without question the ambassador will look for the party after one despatch at the farthest. Therefore desires him to think of it one way or the other. So takes his leave. Signed: Tho. Phelippes.

1 p. Holograph, also address. Indorsed: "Divers lettres and other papers concerning ye Quene of Scotts being prisoner in England."

599. Gilbert Curll to [Thomas Barnes]. [July 17.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

Since this afternoon, having received your letter of the 25th [new style] instant, and let her majesty see the same wholly deciphered, which has not a little augmented the good opinion she had conceived before of your affection towards God's cause and hers, she has commanded me hereby to give you her right hearty thanks therefor and to pray you in her name, until further occasion shall be offered to employ yourself otherwise, to continue in occurrences as you promise and now have done, and to make this inclosed surely delivered into the hands of Anthony Babington if he is come down into the country; otherwise that it be kept still in your or your brother's hands until Babington's arrival, or for ten days, within which time her majesty intends to have a packet ready to be sent to the French ambassador by your boy, who may by the same means also carry the other to Babington in London if he does not come down sooner.

Herewith is the addition to this alphabet, and I pray God to preserve you.

On a slip of paper. Cipher, deciphered by Thomas Phelippes. Indorsed with a cipher.

600. John Zott to Monsieur Segart. [July 18.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

Since your departure I have written once to you by a post, who stayed more than a fortnight after; in which time I received none from you but one by "Peeter Br." of your arrival, insomuch that I have marvelled not a little.

Well I, "persing" many misfortunes in imagination, suspect that Nutmegg's younger brother told something to his sister whereby Mr. Onley might be cruelly jealous.

Secondly, Mistress Quasmore told me that one Ball, a [symbol], lighted upon the soldier, who opened all odd stuff towards his good Mistress Overton. You may fear that if no child come of such open dealing, yet loss of honour is likely to ensue, for that [symbol] is an open boasting blabb. You are a courtier to give fair words for necessity and use your own discretion. I pray you give secret warning to all Zutfield's friends to take heed how they deal with him, for I am afraid of some sluttish trick by such indiscreet love.

Thirdly, I could wish Mr. Pelliston to furnish himself presently with money to be able to make a match with some other honest gentlewoman, though her friends break your present suit, whom now you affect.

Fourthly, Tomson gay and trim came even now to the town and means to come to Mr. Andros presently. He shall know nothing of Mistress Panslee, but she is gone away for some three weeks, perhaps to Xarnel or else his master, as the report is here.

Fifthly, do not let him know of your touching our writing against some, in any case. If you can, write presently to me of your estate both ways. If Pelloun were here again he should not so easily [go] back again. For fear of being espied or "afterclapps," if you go to any of Zallo's friends do it very secretly. Farewell my loving brother. I beseech God to prosper as I wish all your endeavours. Signed: "Yours to my laste, John Zott."

1 p. Addressed: "A Monsieur Segart." Indorsed by Phelippes: "John Zott to Monsieur Segart."

601. Thomas Phelippes to Walsingham. [July 19.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

You have now this Queen's answer to Babington, which I received last night. If he is in the country the original will be conveyed into his hands, and likely enough an answer returned. I look for your honour's speedy resolution touching his apprehension, or otherwise that I may dispose of myself accordingly.

I think, under correction, you have enough of him, unless you would discover more particularities of the confederates which may be even in his imprisonment. If your honour mean to take him, ample commission and charge should be given to choose persons for search of his house. It is likely enough for all her commandment that her letter will not be so soon defaced. I wish it for an evidence against her, if it please God to inspire her majesty with that heroic courage that were meet for avenging God's cause and the security of herself and this state.

At least I hope she will hang Nau and Curll, who justly make Sir Amias Paulet take upon himself the name she imputes to him of a "jealer" of criminals. He trusts that her majesty will have better consideration of all things necessary for his charge than it appeared to him she lately had by the Lord Treasurer saying he had too many soldiers and pinching at the charges, which is no small offence to him, I assure you. But he is wonderfully comforted with these discoveries.

I have sent your honour herewith, of the Queen's letters in the last packet that was sent, those to the Bishop of Glasgow, Dr. Lewes, and Morgan. You may see how she is weary of her keeper, who in truth has made no such change in his behaviour, but thought it policy to colour matters with his ordinary proceeding used before, thinking remissness would have discovered the packet. She is very bold to make way to the great personage, and I fear he will be too forward in satisfying her for her change till he sees Babington's treasons, which I doubt not but your honour has care enough of not to discover which way the wind comes in.

I am sorry to hear from London that Ballard is not yet taken, and that some searches, by forewarning, have been frustrated. There was great mean made to me at my coming away for one Thorowgood by your honour's favour to pass the sea. It was pretended that he sought to avoid Mr. Vice-chamberlain's wrath, being one touched with the death of Best. But it was a notorious enemy who was the setter of the suit, and Mr. Vice-chamberlain's man, and it was whispered to me that it should be Ballard to pass under that feigned name. I was not assured, and therefore rejected the motion, although a good gratification was spoken of, which made it more suspicious.

Howbeit I have had "oven" in this country that it should be he or as bad a man. If it please your honour by Burdon and my man to try it by a warrant which you may stop by a counter warrant to be sent to the port of Rye, where he may be apprehended, I would be glad if good come of it. If not, he shall have no great injury if it be Thorogood, and Mr. Vice-chamberlain may bear the name. So attending your speedy resolution I humbly take my leave. Chartley. Signed: Tho. Phelippes.

Postscript.—It may please your honour to inform yourself by Burdon or my man whether Babington is at London or no, which known we will resolve presently upon return.

1½ pp. Holograph, also address. Indorsed.

602. Elizabeth to Thomas Randolph. [July 19.] Cott. Calig., C. IX., fol. 382.

Trusty and well beloved, we greet you well. Whereas you have already accomplished the principal charges committed to you, for which you were despatched into that realm, which was the conclusion of the league, and, as we perceive by your letters, you find the King to stand now in very good terms of sound and constant friendship and amity towards us, and for that you are also become a suitor to us that we would now license you to return again to our presence in respect of some necessary private causes of your own that require your present repair hither, we let you "weet" that we have upon these considerations assented willingly to your revocation, the rather for that we hear that the French ambassador is now likewise upon his return out of that realm, whereof we having accordingly given knowledge to the King our good brother. Given under our signet, at our manor of Richmond, the 19th day of July, in the 28th year of our reign.

½ p. Original. Addressed: "To our trusty and wellbiloved servant Thomas Randolph esquier, our ambassador with our good brother the King of Scottes."

603. Report of Mr. Randolph's Last Journey into Scotland. [July.]

Thomas Randolph, esquire, master of her majesty's posts, was despatched into Scotland 8 February 1585 [–6] to treat with the King for a straiter league to pass between her majesty and him, propounded the summer before, but hindered by the slaughter of Lord Russell. In consideration thereof he was first to demand satisfaction for his death, and afterwards proceed therein as he found the King and Council well affected thereto.

He arrived at Berwick 21st February, whence he despatched his letters to the King's secretary desiring licence of the King to have free passage in his country. He received answer on the 24th, and thence set forward to Dunbar with intent to lodge at Edinburgh, where the King lay.

By the way he was met by Alexander Hume of North Berwick, and within four miles of Edinburgh by the Justice Clerk, with many gentlemen of the King's Chamber. In respect of his long journey, the next day, being Sunday, it pleased the King to defer his audience till Monday.

On Monday, the 28th, came the Justice Clerk, and conveyed him to the court, where he was met by the Master of Glammis, the Lord Treasurer, and the captain of the King's guard. Mr. Randolph delivered her majesty's letter of commendation to the King, and one other private letter from her majesty, written with her own hand, with some speeches she willed her ambassador to report to the King.

The King liked well of them, and accepted her counsel and good will, with a promise to follow the one, and be ready to require the other, and willing Mr. Randolph to use himself as no stranger. He then returned to his lodgings, accompanied as before.

He was there informed of the King's freedom from receiving any support from any Prince, and of his want, which must grow, if he was not helped by her majesty. He directed his course accordingly to hinder the French ambassador Monsieur D'Esneval's practices, which he found to hinder his purposes.

His second audience was on the 4th March, when he declared to the King, the Queen's willing mind to enter into a straighter league with him, and what great benefits he should receive thereby. He delivered to him a project of the league which the King delivered to his Secretary, Sir John Maitland, assuring the ambassador he should find him reasonable.

He also signified to the King that if the league went forward, her majesty's affection was such that she would be content to yield him some yearly pension, as a token of her good will, towards the maintenance of his great charge, his own estate having been weakened by the government of his mother, during his minority.

The King commanded his Secretary to give further conference with the ambassador upon the league, and to know further his offers and demands. At this time the ambassador put the King in mind of injuries done by his subjects on the Borders, specially of the murder of Lord Russell, saying that without due satisfaction thereof it could not stand with his mistress' honour to conclude the league. He yielded to anything that might stand with dignity and justice, and appointed his Secretary to deal with him in all these points. So for that time he was dismissed.

He had daily conference with the Secretary, and in perusing the articles of the league some controversy arose about words to be added to the ninth article, but in the end it rested upon the King's resolution.

Other things propounded to him by the Secretary were, that some name of dignity might be given to the King with her majesty's benevolence that there might be inserted, that nothing should be done hereafter prejudicial to his title and right to the crown, and that the King's subjects might be free denizens, as they were in France.

To the first, the ambassador answered that there was as yet no time to deal in the matter, to the second, that the King should be satisfied by private writing from her majesty, but that he knew she and her Council could hardly be brought to agree that it should pass for an article in the league, and to the third, that it could only be done by act of parliament.

On March 10th he again repaired to the King, whose pleasure was that those words set down in the ambassador's copy of the league should stand. The King discoursed with him how earnest his merchants were touching the point of free denizen, but he was content to forbear, seeing his debts were great, if he would be a means to procure him the whole sum offered by her majesty with expedition. He further commanded the Secretary to cause two books to be drawn up, one for her majesty, and the other for himself, to subscribe.

The ambassador, having so far proceeded, was secretly advertised that the French ambassador requested that the league might not be concluded, but that the King, having passed his word to her majesty's ambassador, gave so cold an answer to him that he departed from the court, more devoid of hope than before he had spoken. Intelligence was also given to Mr. Randolph that it was put into the King's hands to summon a convention of all the noblemen of the realm for better warrant of the said league. He at once repaired to the court to stay that determination, supposing it to be a device to occupy some time to hinder the purpose in hand, and having got the King to subscribe one book, he kept the same in his hands, and sent Mr. Thomas Milles with the other into England, that the like might be done by her majesty. The league being concluded between themselves, commissioners were to be named to meet at Berwick for the better assuring thereof, by which all practices were to be prevented and each Prince live in more security. In the "necke" of this, he understood that in an assembly of noblemen at the Earl of Montrose's house it was agreed to discourt all those in favour. Intelligence thereof reached the contrary part, and the others failed in their purpose, and whereas James Stewart and his associates thought to kill Angus, Gray, Glammis and the Secretary, the peril thereof was likely to fall upon themselves.

The ambassador finding the King resolute, his court and Council incensed against Arran, and nothing further spoken against the league, thought it a fit time to essay what might be done to expel him from the country, and to get the English Jesuits and those consenting to Lord Russell's death delivered into her majesty's hands. The King answered that, if Arran were not gone, he should not tarry long, but he thought he was in Ireland. Colonel Stewart had his charge to depart out of Scotland, and as for Holt and the rest, if they could be got, her majesty's desire should be satisfied. As for Farnyhurst and those of that conspiracy, he promised to have them entered, or else banished from his realm.

Not long after, Thomas Milles returned from England with the other book subscribed by her majesty, and with the money the King had requested. Upon his arrival the King sent to Mr. Randolph, and demanded what news he had. The ambassador answered he hoped none but what he would like, and let the King understand what sum of money had come to Berwick from her majesty. He said that he thought he was as worthy of the whole sum this year, which before had been promised, as in times past, but at the ambassador's reply that it was but a token of her majesty's good will, he seemed satisfied.

Mr. Randolph then delivered him a letter from her majesty which greatly altered his mind, insomuch he burst out in angry terms, and calling his Secretary, gave him the letter.

The ambassador desired to know what offended him, but, seeing he could not get from him what so moved him, departed. The Secretary came to him the same afternoon, and declared more at large the King's grief, conceived by the unkind letter sent from her majesty, and his discontent at the abatement of the sum of money promised, and that he was not satisfied by her touching his title of succession.

The next day the King again had discourse with the ambassador concerning the Queen's letter, of which he desired a sight. The King was content therewith, but that none other besides his Secretary, who had the keeping of it, should see it. This letter was written by her majesty's own hand, somewhat sharper than for that time behoved.

The ambassador persuaded the King to let go all matters of unkindness, and offered him the league, subscribed by her majesty, but he refused to take it. Being asked by the ambassador who should be commissioners for his majesty he answered that he had not thought upon them. The ambassador again desired to know his pleasure touching those that were consenting to Lord Russell's death, and he replied that his promise therein should be performed. On his praying to know whether he would receive the money sent by her majesty, he replied that it required no haste.

These answers seemed strange to the ambassador, who had before found him so constant in his determinations, and so ready to yield to any reasonable request of her majesty. Therefore he urged the King to know whether he wished to go forward with the league or not, since his speeches seemed to tend to no other end but to the refusal thereof.

The King replied that at this time it could not be otherwise, and that he would so write to her majesty.

When Mr. Randolph saw how backward the King was, he began to remind him what benefits he had received from her majesty, which ought not to be forgotten so suddenly, but nothing would ease him till he had taken the resolution to write back to her majesty, whereupon Mr. Randolph withdrew.

Shortly after the King sent to him, assuring him that, let all men say and do what they would, the league should take effect, therefore his pleasure was that the next day he should come to the court.

This news was very welcome to the ambassador, who was with the King next morning, and divers matters being talked of, the King in the end remained satisfied, and willing to yield to anything that might be to her majesty's reasonable contentment.

The Secretary withstood all the ambassador's doings, seeking to hinder the league, that it might not pass before some answer, which the French King had promised, came. But the King, misliking all delay, willed Mr. Randolph to write to her majesty that there should be nothing that might make unkindness between them, saying that as he had begun, so he would continue, and desiring him to be a means to persuade her that the rest of the money might be sent, and that she should grant him the instrument of assurance of his title.

The ambassador answered to the first that he would certify her majesty of his good will towards her; that to persuade her to anything, was other men's parts, and not his. He assured the King that he durst lay his sons in pledge that what her majesty had promised would be performed, with which the King rested so satisfied that he took the league from the ambassador with a note of his demands, which he willed the Secretary to see answered. He told Mr. Randolph that without further delay he would receive the money, and hereupon named his commissioners to meet her majesty's commissioners at Berwick.

Matters being so ended, there remained only the complaints of her majesty's subjects to be made ready for redress by the commissioners. On the 30th of May the ambassador went to court to let the King know that the next day he meant to go to Berwick, and desiring to know his pleasure what day his commissioners should be there.

The King told him that by his will the 19th of June—his birthday— should be the day for solemnising the league, whereupon two days after he came to Berwick, and was there busied with hearing poor men's complaints.

Her majesty, understanding of his repair thither, despatched the Earl of Rutland and Lord Eure with all speed to join him in the commission for knitting up the league. There they were met by the Earl of Bothwell, Loyd Boyd and Sir James Home of Cowdenknowes, sent from the King with the same intent.

The first day of the commissioners' meeting was the second day of the Scottish lords' arrival, being 29th June, and the place of meeting was the Tolbooth in the town of Berwick. Some controversy fell out between them about the ninth article, and it could not be decided, but by sending Thomas Milles to the King of Scotland, by whom order was taken that the said article should be left out, to be considered of by other commissioners hereafter to be appointed for the same.

After meeting three more times, the league was concluded between them. On 6th July the Scottish commissioners departed, and on the 8th the Earl of Rutland and Lord Eure took journey towards London, leaving Mr. Randolph to go back into Scotland to take his leave of the King. Being there honourably received, it pleased her majesty to call him home.

17 pp. Indorsed: "Report of Mr. Randolph's journey and doings in Scotland, in the year 1585."

Cott. Calig., C. IX., fol. 371.

Copy of the same.

604. Memoranda of Thomas Randolph's Proceedings in his Embassy to Scotland. [July.]

8 February 1585. Thomas Randolph was appointed ambassador.

21 February. He entered into Scotland, met by Alexander Hume, and near Edinburgh he was met by the Justice Clerk.

28. He was received at the court gates by the Master of Glammis. The ambassador delivered to the King a project of the league. About this time Stuart, Earl of Arran, was expelled.

28 April 1586. At this time Mr. Randolph was ambassador. The Queen's words are, "we never gave the secretary commission to direct Wotton to make offer of any greater sum than 4000l." At this time was Monsieur D'Esneval sent from the French king, son in law to Secretary Pinart, at which time there was Courcelles, secretary to Mauvissiere.

At this time the matter of Lord Russell's death was to be enquired into, and commissioners were named for a treaty which began at Berwick, in July following.

About 1 May Mr. Mills carried the letter of 28 April, and carried 4000l. with him to Berwick, where he delivered the same to Roger Ashton.

10 May 1586. The King of Scotland wrote an answer to the Queen's letters, misliking her majesty's rejection of the form of an instrument which he sent, as he saith, by advice of Mr. Wotton and Mr. Randolph.

2 June 1586. The Queen allows the King's disposition to enter into a league offensive and defensive and therefore her majesty writes that she has sent lately to the King a portion meet for his private use, though not so large as her mind would yield. This letter is shown by Sir Robert Melville.

19 June 1586. Being the day of the King's birth.

5 July. The treaty was concluded at Berwick by the Earl of Rutland, Lord Eure and Mr. Randolph for England, Earl Bothwell, Lord Boyd, Sir James Hume of Coldyknowes.

19 July 1586. Mr. Thomas Randolph was allowed to return.

1 p. In Burghley's hand. Indorsed: "An extract out of Mr. Randolph's discourses in Scotland."

Cott. Calig., C. IX., fol. 379.

Copy of the same.

605. Sir Amias Powlet to Walsingham. [July 20.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

The papers sent herewith contain matter enough to trouble him for one time, so will not trouble him with many words. God has blessed his faithful labours, and this is the reward due for true service.

Trusts her majesty and her councillors will profit by the merciful providence of God towards her and this state. Chartley. Signed: A. Powlet.

¼ p. Addressed. Indorsed.

606. Thomas Phelippes to [ ]. [July 20.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

I have received your last [letter] of the 12th July by my cousin Gilbert, as also your other two therein mentioned, which came in my absence to my brother's hands, who took order for satisfaction of her majesty touching the contents, but forbears to write as a thing which he always desired he might not be charged with.

The aforesaid packet is committed to my cousin Gilbert by himself to be delivered; who has likewise signified, as he tells me, so much that may content this second messenger that I hold it needless to trouble you with anything myself touching that point for delivery of the two letters inclosed in yours of the 4th instant. My brother at London despatched it accordingly thither, whence he received the packet sent herewith, which Mr. Babington said required great haste, and therefore the man returned without staying for any despatch from the French ambassador, who, he says, daily attends letters out of France.

I will take order for the delivery of Hert's letter myself. I find the Earl of Shrewsbury was greatly grieved with the stay that the Queen of England made of a book printed by him against one Babsthorpe, a gentleman, upon the statute of scandala magnatum, for lewd speeches uttered by the said Babsthorpe of the earl.

Howbeit the earl since his coming up has prevailed so far with his reasons of discontentment, that the Queen of England is content that the law shall have course.

For other matters I refer them to the next, this being short and speedy, because of Mr. Babington's request. I received your alteration of the alphabet, conceive the reasons, and wish for greater expedition also in writing that you would assign special characters for a number of the most common words. So God preserve you.

⅓ p. Draft, in Thomas Phelippe's hand. Indorsed by him: "Mr. Glenham, Mr. Longford. The bill to be signed. The book to be printed. To send over for G. G."

607. Mary to the Archbishop of Glasgow. [July.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

[A letter in cipher to which there is no key.]

608. Mary to the Archbishop of Glasgow. [July.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

[A letter in cipher to which there is no key.]

609. Mary to Monsieur La Rue. [July.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

[A letter in cipher to which there is no key.]

610. Mary to Charles Paget. [July.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

[A letter in cipher to which there is no key.]

611. Mary to Doctor Lewes. [July.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

[A letter in cipher to which there is no key.]

612. Walsingham to Thomas Randolph. [July 22.]

Has moved her majesty to write to the King for the employment of the Master of Gray in the Low Countries, but she finds his abode in Scotland more necessary, for that she has lately received secret advertisement from France that the French ambassador has given great assurance to the Queen Mother of great matters to be brought to pass by Lord Claud [Hamilton] and his party.

For the discovery of this practice, she would have him deal both with the Master of Gray and Mr. Archibald Douglas that they use some extraordinary care therein, yet with all the secrecy that is possible.

Is willed to write so much with all speed, and to send him her majesty's letter to the King for his recall.

Prays his haste may excuse his not writing to the Master of Gray and Mr. Douglas.

¼ p. Copy. Indorsed.

Cott. Calig., C. IX., fol. 383.

Copy of the same.

613. Francis Milles to Walsingham. [July 22.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

Received his letter yesternight by the bearer. About an hour after "C" came, who, left to his own choice to go or stay, by the advice of all the priests and other his seminary acquaintances resolves to make his progress to the chief persons and places named in his paper—which are here returned, as there is no need of them, having taken the doubles that he [Walsingham] may not want them when there should be need of them—and then forthwith to pass over. Desires he will direct the course of conveyance of his letters to him.

Was told by "C" that Barnewell, an Irishman, resident in and about London, lodged about ten weeks ago at Mistress Fuller's house in Fetter Lane, a common "ostrie" for such ill guests. He described this Barnewell as a tall, comely man, white-faced, flaxenbearded, freckled and disfigured with the small-pox. By this description it should be the same Barnewell that is now daily at Court, waiting to receive 700l. for his lord and master the Earl of Kildare. Remembers that Barnewell's first name is Robert, but "C" may be deceived.

"C" also said that this Irishman is a bad practiser, and he would enquire for him this day to speak with him. Mistress Fuller died about ten weeks ago, and so the birds were flown to new nests. "B" has not yet come to him, though he waited till 11 o'clock.

He may see in the book of the new Irish suits Barnewell's first name, and the person of the man hourly about the Court. Left that book, in case of need in his absence, with other Irish petitions and letters to be signed, with Richard Cook, who is as well acquainted with the same as himself. Tower Hill.

Signed: Fra. Mylles.

1 p. Holograph, also address. Indorsed.

614. Francis Milles to Walsingham. [July 22.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

By conference with "B," who was with him this afternoon, perceives that the plot for Babington's apprehension is referred by him to Gilbert Geff. Expects he is the person to come to him to-night, according to his last letter. Also perceives that Bal[lard] had been in hand before this time if Casy, Phillips' man, had not—wanting discretion—been. Except it be done to-night by Gilbert's means, it will not be done at all in or about this city.

The remedy must be at the ports. His warrant is to pass generally at any port, so it will be hard to stay him, the searchers and like officers being so corrupt, and Geymer of Rye, as he learns from "B," the worst of them all.

"B" desires to know his resolution whether he shall pass over with Fra. Ils., as the said Fra. desires. "B" is wholly at his commandment, but by his speech with him it seems that what Fra. has or can do to any great purpose either here at home or on the other side he must work upon the ability of "B," himself lacking language for foreign parts, which is no small "mayme" in any service to be done there.

Desires him to sign the inclosed few lines to the Lord Mayor, sheriffs and recorder of this city, for him to deliver to them as need shall require. Understands that "B's" lodging is in such a place that if need be he lacks not the assistance of a great number of the loosest people about this city. Has a warrant already, which "B" took to him [Milles] this day that may serve. Tower Hill. Signed: Fra. Mylles.

Postscript.—Desires him to command Basyll to attend on him. Thinks neither Newall nor Worseley will be got, and has sent Jenkyn to the Court to-day with letters to him, and is not yet returned.

1 p. Holograph, also address. Indorsed.

615. Francis Milles to Walsingham. [July 22.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

"C" has been with me, to whom I have delivered that you willed me to receive of Stubs. The matter "C" would fain have delivered to your honour yesternight is in effect contained in this inclosed note written with his own hand. He tells me further by word that this Dickenson is with his instructions from these four priests in the Marshalsea, and others directed to Dr. Allen in Rheims, that he is little above 20 years old, almost beardless, that beard he has somewhat red or yellow, he is also little of stature, to pass in the habit of a merchant and one that will not deny his name if by search he is sought to be apprehended.

His instructions are given him, "C" says, all by word, to avoid all peril of intercepting etc., so that it were easy if you please to apprehend him aboard ship. The vessel he shall take passage in here in the river "L" knows not, neither I perceive may be too inquisitive thereof lest jealousy be conceived of him. What course were best, if you so like, to have this Dickenson apprehended, or by what officers or other persons, I know not, and therefore cannot frame any warrant fit for this purpose. The wind being as it is, he cannot pass out of this river.

"C" says it will bring him into suspicion with the priests and others that now have such confidence in him, if he tarry overlong in the realm here before he go oversea to such persons as he is to be directed to from hence, and therefore thinks best that he hasten to repair to all the persons, especially the chiefest of the combination named in one of the papers he took to your honour, who dwell in sundry counties within this realm; and after he has received from them all such instructions, letters and credit as they will furnish him with, then before his embarking to deliver to such a person as your honour thinks best copies of all things committed to him.

Two things he is very desirous to be advised in by your honour, being not able to advise himself in the same. That is, first, whilst he remains travelling from place to place within the realm, how he may from every place every day if occasion should so require advertise you of matter important and requisite to be speedily known. Herein he told me that if you had any man of your own, not attendant at all on you in Court, and little elsewhere, and so unknown to be yours, he would have such a man to attend on him as his servant as long as he travels about in the realm, to deliver any letters to be written to you to some such honest justice of the peace next, that with secrecy the same may be conveyed to you. And this servant of yours he would have to be sworn by you to be true and secret in his attendance to this end on him.

The other thing he would be advised in by your honour is for the means of writing to you when he shall be beyond sea, but this may easily be done many ways. For the other, it needs some present resolution and direction from you if you will presently have him resort to the principals of this combination, with all of whom he persuades himself to have very great credit.

So, until I understand your further pleasure or that "C" gives me further occasion of matter, I cease to trouble your honour. Tower Hill. Signed: Fra. Mylles.

Postscript.—Of the other man your honour told me of I neither see nor hear anything, but mind to abide within doors expecting him, or any other man or matter to be directed by you to me.

2 pp. Holograph also address. Indorsed.

616. Walsingham to Thomas Phelippes. [July 22.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

He shall understand from her majesty's self on his return how well she accepts his service. Hopes a good course will be held in this cause, otherwise they who were instrumental in the discovery will receive little comfort for their travail.

At his return he should come as quickly as he may, for the practisers are jealous of his going down, and the gallows upon the packet sent have greatly increased their suspicions. Some of them are very inward with the post from London.

Hopes Ballard will be taken before his return. His [Walsingham's] friend still remains here. In haste, at the Court. Signed: Fra. Walsyngham.

Postscript.—Babington shall not be dealt with till his return. He remains here. The original letter to him he must bring with him.

1 p. Holograph, also address. "To his servaunt Tho. Phillyps." Indorsed.

617. Francis Milles to Walsingham. [July 23.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

It may please your honour, yesterday in the forenoon Phelippes' man delivered me your letter written on Thursday and promised me to bring Gilbert G[ifford] to me as you appointed him, yesternight, which if he had done I was ready, and attended up till one o'clock this morning. But since yesterday until this forenoon I heard no more of Phelippes' man, who now tells me that Gilbert came not to him all day yesterday as the appointment was between them, and that he thinks that he is ridden abroad for a day or two in the country with Ballard, for there was such a purpose of a little journey between them.

Phelippes' man has still the bill of exchange of Mr. Offley's, which Gilbert is to come to him for, and then I shall peradventure hear of him. Whereas you would not have "B" know that Gilbert is a dealer in Ballard's apprehension, that is known to "B" long ago, who also told me yesterday that he was almost six days ago willed to deal no further in Ballard's apprehension because the same was committed to the others whom he thinks able to work it, and [he] seemed very glad it be done by any man's means and to effect it, willing himself to do anything if you so please.

Until I may by Gilbert be assured where Ballard shall be lodged —for he has many changes of lodgings—I forbear to trouble the Lord Mayor or any other for assistance, which may be had at half an hour's warning, though at midnight. Only I have Newall, Worseley, and this bearer always ready, not acquainting them with the particularity of what is to be done.

"C" was with me yesternight, and tells me he was yesterday invited for his farewell to a banquet in the chamber of Lister the priest in the Marshalsea, where among other guests were three gentlewomen, very brave in attire, two of them daughters to Sir John Arundell, the third the daughter or wife of one Mr. Beckett. There was also one Browne, a citizen, and one Mr. Moore, with others. It was Magdalen's day, and the priest catechised the company he had with the doctrine of popish repentance, taking for his theme the story of Magdalen, absurdly applying the same to his purpose.

Your honour sees how well these kind of prisoners are looked to by their keepers. Thus I humbly cease. Tower Hill. Signed: Fra. Mylles.

1½ pp. Holograph, also address. Indorsed.

618. Francis Milles to Walsingham. [July 23.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

Will endeavour to do his best in the present service, and to help salve the error committed in this cause by acquainting Beard with what he should not have known, which happened before he had any knowledge or employment in this business.

Since what he wrote this day to him, Beard has been and told him that—belike before he was required by Phelippes' man to surcease his care of Ballard's apprehension—he committed one of the warrants signed by him [Walsingham] almost a fortnight ago to Sheppard, keeper of the Clink, thereby to apprehend Ballard if he happen to come to visit any in that prison, or otherwise to come in his way. Thinks this keeper one of the least evil of that sort, yet thinks none of them worthy to be trusted, unless it be Gray of Wisbech.

Thanks him for moving her majesty for the reversion in the Privy Seal, which, if God send him life, will be the best stay of living he will ever attain to. His great care and continual prayer to God is for her preservation in health and life to reign happily over her dominions, without which good men are not to account of their lives or of aught else they possess here.

If Ballard could be drawn to lodge within the city walls, his apprehension would be much easier. Though it be in the suburbs yet if he [Ballard] might certainly be known where, the day would be fitter than the night to prevent all his escapes. Tower Hill. Signed: Fra. Mylles.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed.

619. Francis Milles to Walsingham. [July 24.] C.P. vol. XVIII.

Has lodged Newall and Worsley with him these two nights past, to the end he might have them at hand to help do the service he is about here. They requiring this forenoon to go for an hour or two abroad, as he thought for their necessary private affairs, have returned having about Tuttle Street apprehended three priests and committed them close and several to the Compte in Wood Street. The names of these priests are in the little paper inclosed. The other inclosed papers they found about Robert Palmer, one of the three. They are worth reading to see how little they account of her majesty or her laws made against such traitorous varlets as they are, and what ground they think they have by the laws of this realm to stand against any law made in her majesty's time.

In the company of these priests was the wife of young Peckham, deceased, son to Sir George Peckham, but [she] escaped away because these two men had not belike ability to apprehend all the company, being as they were, ready to go to horse and ride away. Heard nothing all day of Casye, Phelippes' man.

Newall and Worsley say there is one Martin Area, set at liberty out of the Compte—a notable seminary priest—yesterday or very lately, which they are very sorry for.

[In the margin:—This Area was taken by them.]

Knows not whether he knows anything hereof, and if this Martin be used to any good purpose, but these messengers are sorry he is enlarged. Tower Hill. Signed: Fra. Mylles.

1 p. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed.

First inclosure with the same:—

(Names of priests apprehended.)

Thomas Smythe alias Deacon. Robert Palmar, Symond Godfraye.

Second inclosure with the same:—

(Indictment of A. B.)

Thou A. B. art indicted by the name of A. B. late of London, clerk, for that thou being made priest at R[heims] in the parts of France by authority derived from the see of Rome since the first year of our sovereign the Queen's majesty that now is, hast since the last day of the last parliament traitorously come into England contrary to the peace of our sovereign lady the Queen's majesty, her crown and dignity. Art thou guilty or not guilty?

Priest.

I do take exception to the jurisdiction of this court, for that I, being a priest, ought not by the statute of Magna Carta to be convented before a secular judge for any crime whatsoever, art. cleri. 15, Marlbridge, art. 27. which same remain yet in force unrepealed. And although you have authority given by this new law, seeming to make us offenders, yet the force of the former for our privilege is not abridged thereby unless the same were specially repealed. [In the margin:— Against this privilege there is an Act made, anno. 28 H. 8, c. 1, confirmed anno. 32, c. 3. Enquire whether it were not repealed in Queen Mary's days or whether it be since revived.] But if you will rule me over that I am notwithstanding to answer in this place, I will leave the judgment thereof upon your own souls to answer the same in another place.

[In the margin:—Excommunication pronounced in Westminster before the King and his nobles against the breakers of the privileges of the Church and liberties of Magna Carta, Henry 8. The not challenging of this privilege by others before me is no bar to me now demanding the same.]

Then to this indictment I demur in law, viz.:—

You ought by the law to give me a copy of my indictment, and time to argue. And I will not show any causes of my demurrer until the day of argument. And I may take exception as well to the form as to the substance, but if you will inforce me contrary to the law to argue without having a copy or reasonable time, then if the Queen's Council be ready to argue against me I shall be contented presently to do what I may, and I hope show sufficient matter to overthrow this indictment. [In the margin:—For the exemption of priests from secular judgment, see Concil. Calcedonense, c. 9. Carthaginiense 3, c. 7, 8, 9. Agathense, can. 7. Milevitanum, can. 19. Matisconense primum, c. 5, secundum, can. 9 et 10. For the civil law cod. Theodos, tit. 2. In Justiniano lib. 18, tit. 2. Against the privilege of the clergy see what is enacted, a. 18 E. c. 7.]

Argument.

I am here indicted of treason for being made priest since the first year of the Queen's reign by authority from the see of Rome and for coming into England since the last parliament, whereunto I have demurred in law. Now if this indictment be void in law then am I clear and not compellable to answer thereunto, and it is void in law if the substance thereof be in offence in law, and to prove it is so I say this indictment is grounded upon a void law, and being a void law, no offence, and so the indictment merely void in substance.

For proof thereof I make these three arguments:—

1. All laws that do directly impugn God's law or the neglecting of His commandment are void laws. This law directly impugns God's law. Ergo, etc.

2. All laws that debar Christian men of the way and mean to live in Christian society and of the way and mean of their salvation are void laws. This does so, ergo.

3. All laws within this commonwealth that do not concur with the ancient laws remaining in force, or be not made by the same authority use and custom that the laws of this realm have used to be made, are void laws. This does not so concur and agree, nor is so made according to the ancient use of parliament laws, ergo, etc.

For the first, against God's law. If you deny the major, I prove it thus, etc., that man is against God, if the King be enacted to be God, that none shall pray to God or believe in him, etc. If the minor, I prove the order of priesthood committed from God, sicut pater me misit, etc. It shall be better for Sodom and Gomorrah than for that city that doth refuse. Prove the name of priesthood. Go show thyself to the priest. Send for the priest, etc.

The ordering of priests always derived from Rome, that there is no priest but made by authority from thence, and the Protestants themselves allow them in their ministry without reordering, that all Christianity has been taught by none but priests. And so this law, making them traitors only for their office and function, is directly against God's law, and so void.

Second, against civilness of Christian people. The major I think you will confess. The minor I prove thus. By this law Christian men can have no use of the office of priesthood, without which they cannot live in Christian society nor come to heaven. They cannot restore wrongs done one to another, they cannot have their children rightly christened, they can have no remission of their sins as God has commanded, they cannot show themselves to priest as He has willed, they cannot communicate of His most blessed body in the sacrament, they cannot be fed as Christ's flock, and so barred of all order of goodness and of the way to Heaven by this law, and so a void law.

Third, against the laws remaining in force. The major, if you deny, I prove by the ancient use of this commonwealth. There is no book doth show nor any authority can be avouched that ever any ancient law were abrogated by the making of any new law, unless the ancient be first repealed or specially recited in the new law by way of repeal. The Prince is also sworn to maintain all the ancient laws that be good and repeal those that be evil, and so being unrepealed remain good by her oath, and so this latter void by the same. The minor, that this law impugns former laws, remaining in force, and is not made according to the ancient use of the laws of this realm, I prove thus:—

First, it impugns that law of Magna Carta remaining in force. E. 1. There was a law made that whosoever should strike a priest should be excommunicated ipso facto. About E. 2. That no man should trouble a priest carrying about him the blessed body of Our Saviour Jesus Christ. In Stamford's pleas of the crown, in title of clergy, appears many privileges granted to priests, all which laws remain yet in force unrepealed. And yet by this law is not only all privilege taken from their persons, but also the very name and office of priesthood made traitorous, and so repugnant to the ancient laws remaining yet in force.

Second, all Acts of Parliament heretofore have used to be made by the estates, and ought yet so to be made, or else are void laws. This is not so made, etc. For the want of bishops. And bishops ought to give consent to the making of laws amongst Christian men for the care and charge they have over the Church, and to see no law should be made against God and His Church. And this act doth recite it to be made by the Queen, the lords spiritual and temporal and the commons, and if there were no lords spiritual then is the act void.

Item. I prove they are no lords spiritual by three ways, by the law of God, by the law of the Church, and by the law of the realm. By the law of God they must be sent by imposition of hands derived from Christ and His Apostles, which they are not. By the law of the Church they must be consecrated, invested, and installed, and receive a pall and bull from Rome. The manner of use is thus, consecrated thus [blank] invested thus [blank] installed thus [blank]. By the law of the realm the statute of 35 H. 8 ordains that every bishop must be invested, consecrated, and installed by two other, and every archbishop by 3 or 4, which statute being revived in primo [anno] of this Queen remains in force, and so by the very statute law of this realm there are no bishops, and so no act of parliament according to the very laws of this realm. [In the margin:—anno 31, Henry VIII, it was enacted that the King might make bishops by his letters patent, repealed 1 and 2 Philip and Mary.] 8 Elizabeth, an act was made to establish their bishops, but what does that avail if they had no bishops at the making thereof.

To conclude:—And thus having proved by the law of God, by the law of nature and Christian nations, and by the laws of this realm that this law whereupon his indictment is grounded, is a void law, I have thereby proved this indictment void in substance and insufficient in law, and so ought to be discharged thereof.

In rest of judgment. I am a priest and within holy orders, and so ought not by the laws of the Church to receive judgment or execution before degradation, for any offence whatsoever, which laws of the Church are confirmed by Magna Carta in divers statutes, 25 E. 1, 9 E. 3, 28 E. 3, and excommunication pronounced in Westminster Hall before the King and all his nobles by Boniface, Archbishop of Canterbury, and all the bishops of the realm against all those that should consent, intend, or go about to break the liberties of the Church or the liberties of Magna Carta, which excommunication and laws yet remain in force unrepealed.

Show the cause and manner of degradation appointed by the Church.

That a bishop must be ordained by 3 bishops at least, see Con. Car. 3, Can. 3, 9, 4^um, e. 2.

3²/3 pp. Written in two hands.

Third inclosure with the same.

(Memoranda concerning priests.)

S. Ambrosius ad Valentinianum.

Augusta memoria pater tuus non solum sermone respondit sed etiam legibus suis sanxit in causa fidei vel ecclesiastici alicuius ordinis eum iudicare debere qui nec munere impar sit nec iure dissimilis—

hæc enim verba rescripti sunt; hoc est sacerdotes de sacerdotibus voluit iudicare. Quin etiam si alias quoque argueretur episcopus et morum esset examinanda causa etiam hanc voluit ad episcopale iudicium pertinere. Tom. 3, lib. ep. 5, Epist. 32. Vide plura ibidem.

S. Gregorius ad Mauritium.

Sacerdotibus autem non ex terrena potestate dominus noster citius indignetur, sed excellenti consideratione propter eum cuius serui sunt ita dominetur ut etiam debitam reverentiam impendat. Nam in divinis eloquiis aliquando sacerdotes dii aliquando angeli vocantur. Nam et per Moysen de eo qui ad iuramentum deducendus est dicitur Applica illum ad deos, id est ad sacerdotes. Et rursum scriptum est, diis non detrahes, scilicet sacerdotibus. Et propheta ait, labia sacerdotis custodiunt scientiam et legem requirent ex ore eius, quia angelus domini exercituum est.

Quid ergo mirum si illos vestra pietas dignetur honorare, quibus in suo eloquio honorem tribuens, eos aut angelos aut deos ipse etiam appellat deus. Ecclesiastica quoque testatur historia, quia cum piæ memoriæ Constantino principi in scripto oblata accusationes contra episcopos fuissent, libellos quidem accusationis accepit et eosdem qui accusati fuerant episcopos convocans in eorum conspectu libellos quos acceperat incendit, dicens vos dii estis, a vero deo constituti; ite, et inter vos causas uestras discutite, quia dignum non est ut nos iudicemus deos.

In qua tamen sententia, pie domine, sibi magis ex humilitate quam illis aliquid præstitit ex reverentia impensa. Ante eum quippe pagani in republica principes fuerunt, qui verum deum nescientes deos ligneos et lapideos colebant, et tamen eorum sacerdotibus honorem maximum. Quid ergo mirum si Christianus imperator veri dei sacerdotes dignetur honorare, dum pagani ut prædiximus principes honorem impendere sacerdotibus noverunt, qui diis ligneis et lapideis serviebant. Hæc ergo pietati dominorum non pro me, sed pro cunctis sacerdotibus suggero.

1⅓ pp.

620. Francis Milles to Walsingham. [July 24.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

If G[ilbert] G[iffard] is not in Ballard's company then I doubt all is not sound, and that Phelippes' man Casye is deceived, who saw not Gilbert Giffard since Thursday last. Casye being late with me yesternight assures himself they are together, and that Gilbert Giffard will come and keep touch with him in all things, with whom, if I might once confer, I trust Ballard should be so lodged as he should soon be forthcoming.

Yesternight late, by Paynter's son, B[abington] sent me the inclosed letter, and this morning early he also came to me. I perceive by Casye that Babington first understood that Gilbert Giffard was to be used in the apprehension, but Babington will take no knowledge thereof to the hinderance of the service any way, which he seems desirous to be furthered by any means, and assures himself to be able to take Ballard if you so please, and will have him to discover himself in the action thereof. But in my poor opinion it were better Gilbert Giffard did it, and so that he may not be discovered in doing thereof.

But in case it should so fall out that Ballard cannot be taken but by the means of one of these two to be discovered, then your honour is to consider whether of these two, Giffard or Babington, you think least hurtful to be discovered. And yet the matter might be so handled that Giffard or Babington might be apprehended with Ballard, and for a time committed, and in such sort get liberty as their credit may stand with the seminarists.

Babington will as of himself honestly avoid the journey when Ildes. comes to him thereabout.

I will not meddle with the Lord Mayor or Recorder. Mr. Martin I suppose will be these two days at Tottenham. Mr. Ratcliffe the sheriff is the man I like best at a sudden to give assistance, and if Mr. Young were in the town, being a justice in Middlesex, he may help, and will in person, if need be. But until it come to execution neither they nor the messengers shall understand the matter. The night has many inconveniences for this service, especially because it will be long before doors be opened, etc. If he can be trained to dine or sup in any place with half an hour's foreknowledge to be given, there were no such way.

C. was with me yesternight. I have given him such direction as you willed me for writing, etc. To-morrow morning he will begin his journey. It were good Tomson had word that if any letters of this mark [symbol] come to him he convey them presently to your honour. Tower Hill. Signed: Fra. Mylles.

1 p. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed.

621. Sir Amias Powlet to [Walsingham]. [July 26.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

Would do him great wrong to trouble him with long letters at this time, when Mr. Phelippes comes to him. He can inform him of the state of all things here. Mr. Wade shall be very welcome. Trusts his message will bring great satisfaction many ways. This Queen writes very truly that he is no fit keeper for her. She may say as truly that this house is no fit lodging for her. Leaves all these things to the better consideration of her majesty, and so takes his leave. Chartley. Signed: A. Powlet.

¼ p. Addressed. Indorsed.

622. Mary to Don Bernardino de Mendoza. [July 27.] C.P. vol. XIX.

You will have heard by my last letter of the reception of that which William conveyed to me on your behalf, and yours of the 29th of May has since been delivered to me, by which it has been a singular contentment to me to see that the King my good brother begins to avenge himself for the practices and attempts of this Queen against him, not only on account of the good which you cause me to hope may succeed in this island, but chiefly for the maintenance of his greatness and reputation in Christendom, which in particular I feel myself very bound to desire. You would not believe how much the appearance of the exploits of the Earl of Leicester and Drake has uplifted the hearts of the enemies of the said King throughout Christendom, and how his so long patience with this Queen had destroyed the confidence that the Catholics here have always had in him. For myself I will freely confess to you that I was so discouraged from entering into new pursuits, seeing the little effect of those of the past, that I have closed my ears to divers overtures and suggestions of enterprises that have been made to me for six months past by the Catholics, not having the means to give them any solid response. But upon hearing anew of the good intention of the said King in this direction, I have written very fully to the chief of the said Catholics about a design which I have sent for them to deliberate upon together, with my advice upon every point; for the execution hereof and to gain time I have bidden them despatch to you with all diligence some one from among them sufficiently instructed to treat with you, in accordance with the general offers which have already been made to you, about all things which they will have to require of you in this affair with the said King your master, wishing indeed to assure you for them, and upon their faith and word that they have given me, that faithfully and sincerely they will accomplish, at risk of their lives, what they shall promise by their deputy; and hence I pray you to give him all credit therein as if I had myself despatched him. He will inform you of the means of my escape from here, which I will myself undertake to effect, provided that I be beforehand assured of sufficient forces to receive me and to preserve me in this country while awaiting the entire assembly of the armies. Thank God my health is now better than it has been for three months past. I thank you very affectionately for your good offices towards the said King your master for the twelve thousand crowns with which it pleased him to aid me for my said deliverance, wherein they shall be employed and in nought else, it being indeed to my great regret that the other twelve thousand for Scotland have profited so little. I had already had advice from London of that which you tell me had been settled at Tassis for this respect, but without very urgent necessity I should always be very unwilling to be importunate in such things, and so much the more do I esteem the care that you have had therein, to which I recognise that I chiefly owe the grant of this sum. You will help me, if you please, to testify to the said King my good brother the obligation that I protest I have to him for it, and the good will that I have to acquit myself thereof whenever I shall have the means. With regard to yourself I hope I shall not remain ungrateful. I have given charge to my ambassador to receive what you will deliver to him, and to send it to me with all diligence by the secret means which I bade him. Charteley, 27 July 1586.

1¼ pp. French. Deciphered by Phelippes. Indorsed.

Shorter copy of the same. (C.P., vol. xviii., No. 79.)

Another copy of the same. (No. 80.)

623. Mary to Lord Paget. [July 27.] C.P. vol. XVIII.

Extract of a letter.

I do not doubt that you have already heard by your brother the overtures that a certain deputy of the Catholics has made on their behalf in this realm to have the general resolutions upon a plot which I have prepared for them, and to treat likewise with the King of Spain. I have referred them to you, and hence I beg you, in accordance with the confidence which I have in your prudence and solid judgment, deeply to consider the said plot, and all the details necessary to the execution thereof, and especially for the support as well of men, arms and supplies as of money.

The which things ought to be obtained from the pope and the King of Spain, in order that in my name and that of the said Catholics you may make more earnest request for them. I see well by the present state of affairs of the King of Spain, which you represent to me, that he is not for beginning any enterprise in these parts until he has recovered his isles of Peru, etc. Nevertheless, because all negotiations in that country usually are drawn to great length, it will be very fitting to enter vehemently into this one, to the end that upon the resolution which shall be taken therein with him all things here may be prepared while awaiting the opportunity.

½ p. French. Indorsed.

Copy of the same.

624. Mary to Thomas Morgan. [July 27.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

At Pietro's return from those parts, had at once three of his letters, one dated the 13th June for the most part in Pietro's recommendation, another of the 9th May, touching M., and the third of the 20th July, as it seems addressed to have been sent by means of Christopher Blount, but come to her hands with a letter of Poley, as she judges, by reason of some reward he thanks her for therein received in those parts. Otherwise the letter, being of an unknown hand and without subscription or name therein, is not assured from whence it came, Blunt being now with Leicester.

Cannot tell by whom to send back her answer of thankful acceptance of Poley's offers made courteously to her, because he has named no particular man to whom he has committed the sending of his, which came with an infinite number from divers others confusedly, "and to commit his name by guess" to any other, as she is not accustomed to do, but for the most security keeps them that she has to deal with all unknown so much as she can one to another, as well for fear that through apprehending of one, some more or the rest be discovered, as for shunning of jealousies conceived ordinarily amongst them to the overthrow of the whole.

Dare not hazard to address her answer to the said Poley before she may understand from him unto whose hands she shall commit the same; wherein, although the delay is long, yet fear of inconveniences makes her take this course. Prays him so soon as he can to show him this much from her and by their next to give her particular knowledge of the way he has already found hither, and thereby he shall find correspondence God willing to the contentment of both.

As to M. [Babington] he has both kindly and honestly offered himself with all his means to be employed any way she would. Hopes to have satisfied him by two of her several letters since she had his, and the rather for that by her third, before she opened to him the way whereby she received his, with his [Morgan's] aforesaid. He [Babington] has seen that hers have prevented him, with all true excuses shown on her side for the long silence between them. And for his jealousy of Foljambe or any other, truly she gave him no cause; and if her ordinary order aforesaid had not been marred through some of their own too liberal and unneedful declaring of the negotiations and goodwill in every cause, more of them had now been in place to have served both in general and particular to their own benefit and her greater comfort.

Notwithstanding, will do her best to entertain Babington according to his [Morgan's] advice. Thanks him there for with the rest, who from time to time bring her no small consolation.

Pietro at his last arrival wrote to C[urll] what he had to let her know, and at the same instant meeting with a packet of hers to be sent to the French ambassador, wherein was her former to him dated the second hereof, sent her word that he was presently to carry the same himself, without staying for her answer. Intends to signify it by her own letters as soon as he returns.

Since her aforesaid former, having advice, looked for some occasion from those parts whereupon to make an open despatch thither.

Has thus long deferred the sending of his brevets and expedition for his man, which by her next, and before it be long, shall be supplied.

Remembers one Phelippes, a gentleman whom he dealt with long ago to have served her about Walsingham. One of that name was here 5 or 6 days with her keeper this last Christmas. At that time made him be sought about to try if he had been his man or no. But neither of his side nor hers could know the same, no more than she has yet done in the space of a fortnight that he has remained here and departed from hence this same day, albeit both herself and some of hers have given occasion at hunting and otherwise to make them sign if he was the man written of. It is true he has been looked to as narrowly as any of hers, saving that without licence he might go abroad whenever he listed and is respected—thinks because he is named Mr. Walsingham's man—without demonstration of favour by her keeper, with whom he has almost made the companion in outward show, being together with his head covered as soon as the other.

This Phelippes is a man of low stature, slender every way, dark yellow haired on the head, clear yellow bearded, "erred" in the face with small pocks, by appearance of 30 years and of short sight.

Thought good to declare this hereby to the end that she may be informed by him against his return if by these signs he judges him to be his man or not, and accordingly to use him.

Prays him to continue to advertise her from time to time of every occurrence that may come to his ears of her country, and by his next to show her what he means by his advice to ask Sir Gervase Clifton's consent in bestowing Bessie Pierrepoint. Has never sought to bestow [her] in marriage on any, neither before nor since she caused the same to be propounded at the Countess of Shrewsbury's solicitation, and by her means, to the Lord Percy, now Earl of Northumberland. Thinks he has heard thereof.

Has had no intention for any other, but on the contrary has "suited" licence from the Queen this half year and more to be rid of her by reason she is now at her best, brought up her bedfellow since she was 4 years of age as carefully and virtuously as if she had been her own daughter, and, failing her own means accordingly to have her "preferred," that her own parents, for discharge of her conscience and honourable using of her, might relieve her of her loss of time and other inconveniences after she had offered her as a piece of her nurture to serve about the Queen of England, which is not granted. Yet on a sudden they would have taken her from her [Mary] to go to her father. Could not yield thereto for such honest furniture as was then in hand for her departure was not ready. Now she and it both are [ready] for an hour's warning.

But would be the rather quit of her for that there is much of her grandmother's nature in her behaviour every way, notwithstanding all her pains to the contrary. Would therefore be sorry to have her bestowed on any man that she would wish good to.

As this much was written, received his letters dated the 4th and 9th instant which by this and her former are for the most part answered, especially touching Pietro, whose father she will not fail to satisfy conform to his note, whensoever he shall write to her. Whether he does or not, shall remember his advice in using and employing him and his, so that they shall find no want in her of good will to pleasure them in what she can.

Is sorry for the diminishing of his health, and for relief thereof, at least by enlargement of his liberty within that prison and for his whole delivery has written to A. [the Archbishop of Glasgow] to employ all the friends she has, either in these parts or elsewhere.

Mercier, for whom he has sent an alphabet, has written nothing as yet to her. When he does he shall be answered to his contentment. Herewith are three other alphabets to be distributed as cause be found until more be sent.

Has heard of Ballard of whom he writes, but nothing from himself. Therefore has no intelligence with him.

Since he may understand by T. [Charles Paget] what further she writes in her letters to him, or by deciphering thereof, need not make repetition of the same as, before the receipt of his last, she thought to have done.

Thanks him for his advertisement upon the bruits given out of her [Mary's] death, [and] to take heed it be not hastened by indirect or extraordinary means.

So will with the grace of God, who has not yet set her so low but that she is able to handle her crossbow for killing a doe, and to gallop after the hounds on horseback. Intends to do so this afternoon within the limits of the park, and could otherwhere, if it were permitted.

2½ pp. Rough draft, in the handwriting of Gilbert Curll. Indorsed: "To [symbol]. 27 July, 1586."

Copy of the same. In Thomas Phelippes' hand. Indorsed by him: "The Q. of Scottes to Tho. Morgan. Decifred by Phelippes."

625. Mary to the Archbishop of Glasgow. [July 27.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

I have received with yours of the 29th of May those of the ambassador of Spain, confirming what you told me touching the 12,000 crowns wherewith it pleases the King of Spain his master to assist me. By the enclosed, which you will deliver to him with all affectionate thanks on my behalf for the good offices which he has rendered me therein, I tell him that I have given you charge to receive the said sum, and to send it to me with all diligence to be employed for the purpose of my deliverance, according to the intention of his said master. I have had advice from Spain that they have expressly sent but 4000 crowns at the beginning, to see how I shall dispose of them and what means you may have to get them to me here, and that according to that they will send or retain the rest, not wishing that this money serve for any other thing but for my coming forth from hence, for which I asked for it; and hence it is very necessary that you give all the assurance that you can to the said ambassador that the said sum will not be converted to any other use, and that you cause him to know how you send it to me, which you will easily be able to do by my new servants, if they come shortly, or in two secret hiding-places in the two boxes of a trunk full of boxes of comfits from Italy and Spain, as lightly filled as you shall be able. For besides that those things for my eating are more respected and less handled, as well on the road as here, being wont to have some sent every year there will be less suspicion that there is anything hidden underneath, I will send you the note of the comfits by the open way, and in case it be not delivered to you in time, do not fail to check them by previous lists of past years. You will have heard by my last the trouble I was and still am in as to the money due to Charles Paget and Charles Arundell, who, coming to know of the receipt of this, will not fail to insist on being repaid from it and helped in the so urgent necessity in which they now are. Therefore, explaining this reason to the said ambassador of Spain, take order with him that no other there but you and he alone know of the delivery of the said 12,000 crowns into your hands: and in case the said ambassador have already told the said Paget and Arondel that he had 4000 crowns ready for me, whereof in consequence you will be obliged to acknowledge the receipt, arrange so that the two other 4000 crowns which are to come be concealed from all there, giving them to understand that the King of Spain has again deferred them for some time, or indeed altogether: and for the said 4000 crowns tell the said Paget if he speaks to you of it that you have received them with very express charge and condition to send them to me with all diligence to aid my deliverance, the only purpose for which they have heen appointed for me. But while disappointing him and the said Arundell in this matter, I pray you to labour with all the care and diligence you may, as I bade you by my last, as well with his holiness as with the King of Spain, to induce them to pay what is due to them. The said Paget has lately furnished 60 crowns for my service, which you will order Des Chaulnes very expressly on my behalf to repay him without any hindrance or delay. The said ambassador of Spain has not to me directly touched upon what he told you of the intention of his master to make an attempt in this quarter, and I think also that he will hardly be able or wish to undertake anything before the recapture of his islands of St. Dominique and Cuba, and having the passage assured to the fleet of the Indies. Yet I should think well that you should labour at Rome by all means to advance the correspondence of his holiness with the King of Spain; and that as regards Scotland an effort should be made to raise up some new faction against that of England; towards which I think my lord Claude could now help much. As regards these parts I can assure you that all the Catholics generally were never better disposed to do well than they are at present, finding the chief among them very resolute to stake their all. Find out from my cousin of Guise in case peace is made in France whether the private estate of himself and of others of our house would allow him to intervene as he had formerly promised in the enterprise of the said King of Spain in this country. Which if he could do it seems to me that it would be best to fix the time of the execution of the said enterprise as soon as peace shall be concluded in France, in order that the Duke of Guise may have the help and service of the forces which he would be able to procure all in readiness upon the break-up of the armies, of which this Queen could not then have any suspicion. But in God's name let this thing pass between you and him alone, and after mature deliberation upon it let him tell you assuredly and freely what he will be capable of doing that he may abide by it, without entering as in the past into negociations of no effect. If my son despatches Chesholme thither, as you have been advertised, with any definite message to reconcile himself with me, show all favourable correspondence thereunto while awaiting that you can have my reply. But insist, as having already had commandment of this upon the first advice that you gave me of the voyage of the said Chesholme, that my son, in order to give me proof of the sincerity of his intention and of his proceedings for the future, remove far from him that traitor Gray, Archibald Duglas, and other such evil instruments and ministers, during whose stay and credit with him I can expect and hope for nothing but a continuation of the misdemeanours to which they have persuaded and induced him these latter years: and complain strongly in my name of this new league which he has made with this Queen, as to which I have been advised that no one of his council showed himself more eager than himself. It may well be that this was assumed in order to accommodate himself to those dependents of this Queen in whose hands he is at present. But I have already been deceived so many times by his secret promises, and excuses for that which he was publicly doing to the contrary, that I neither can nor will again take them for ready money, and he must resolve once for all to pursue in the future wholly and directly such a course as is his duty without more wavering hither and thither if he will that I be reconciled with him, and in a word that he be my son in truth and have me for his mother. I love him and hold him dear as much as mother may hold her child, but if he will ruin himself, I will not for him abandon the common cause of religion and of this island. I am not of opinion that you should show openly on my behalf any favour to James Ogilvie who is going thither, in order not to offend the Hamiltons, being moreover a man so corrupt and of so little faith that no reliance can be placed upon him, except so far as his adversity and necessity shall constrain him to depend upon the support that he will obtain from me. Yet as he cannot but be at this time very grievously offended against those of these parts and their partisans in Scotland, if you see by his designs and means that he can serve us in stirring affairs in Scotland, entertain him underhand with all fair words, and try to bring about some agreement between him and my said cousin my lord Claude, to unite them if possible in that which we shall have to do in those parts. Cause that impostor of whom you write to me to be pursued with all rigour, and rather than that he should not be punished according to his ill deserts set yourself against him in the joint name of myself and my son for the falsity which he committed at Rome, and demand justice for the same quite plainly from the King, which I do not see that he can refuse to you. Nevertheless it will be well that by giving hope to the said impostor of causing him to be set at liberty, you essay to draw from him the charges and more important commissions which he has had from Secretary Walsingham, by whom he has doubtless been directed. I am told that he now speaks of placing me in the keeping of my lord St. John, following the design which was made about it when Nau was in London, this man here being usually so afflicted by sickness and at present to such an extremity that it is necessary for them to provide another in his place. For already in order to relieve him they have sent him a substitute named Philippes, whom I take to be the same who formerly served as a spy in those parts for Burghley and Walsingham. My intelligences begin to be much renewed in the country, many having addressed themselves to me anew, by means of whom you will be able henceforth to write to me on all occasions, addressing your letters to the ambassador of France or delivering them to Charles Paget or to Morgan, who will cause me to get them safely. Charteley, 27 July.

What follows is a postscript by the hand of the Queen.

I pray you to labour by all means that you can to obtain some freedom for Morgan within the prisons while awaiting his entire liberty. He has great need thereof from what I hear for his health and for my service, but I should wish that he might indeed be let out.

3 pp. French. Deciphered by Phillippes. Indorsed.

Extracts of the same. [With C.P., vol. XVIII., No. 79.]

Copy of the above. [With C.P., vol. XVIII., No.. 80.]

626. Mary to Sir Francis Englefield. [July 27.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

My last to you was dated the 20th May, and I have seen what you have written to my secretary, Nau, by your letter of the 3rd thereof, which came not here before the 15th of this instant, the way not being then so well settled as thanks be to God, now it is. I ever thought well that your silence proceeded only from the causes which you write, and that in the meanwhile you left not to travail there for my affairs as occasion might offer, whereof I have now the fruits, specially by the grant of the 12,000l., which I impute chiefly to your good and diligent pursuit. I pray you to give right affectionate thanks therefor in my name to the King of Spain, letting him know how much I think myself obliged to him, and that for requital thereof I can offer no more than a confirmation of the entire good will that I have to serve in all I may for the weal of his affairs, and thereupon to make the course of mine depend for ever, without respect in that behalf of any other Prince in Christendom.

You may also thank Granville and secretary Idriaquez, assuring them certainly from me that the said sum shall be employed to no other use than to the accomplishing of my escape from hence, and that I have already taken order with my ambassador the Bishop of Glasgow, to send me it in all diligence by the means I have opened and whereof [blank] for better clearing of the matter shall be made participant. To tell you freely, seeing the length whereunto that suit was drawn, I have written already to the said Bishop of Glasgow and Father Parsons—who have undertaken to labour therefor with the Prince of Parma—to make no more instance for the same, being far against my heart, without extreme need in such things to show my self-importance.

It has been no small consolation to me as well for the good of this isle as for the particular of the King of Spain—whom I am much bound to affect—to understand that he begins to feel and take revenge of this Queen practising and attempting against him. For it is not credible how much the appearance to see Leicester and Drake prevail hitherto, and the insensibility of the King of Spain have discouraged his friends and made his enemies insolent here.

And yet I fear that the bruit that runs of a peace between the King of Spain and the Queen of England shall retire many from pursuing the designment of an enterprise anew dressed here, whereof be reasons too long to be deducted unto you, as for the many particularities, as also for that during these wars in Gascony I dread the intercepting of my letters in so long a way.

I only tell you that the principal Catholics of this realm, having about Easter last made a complot together to arise in Leicester's absence and before his return, which they fear greatly,—having nothing of myself wherewith to give them any substantial answer,— sent over into France one from amongst them to Charles Paget, who made their messenger declare the same their designment in general to Don Bernardino de Mendoza, to know if the King of Spain his master will hearken thereto, whereupon all good hope being brought back again to them, as they have signified to me, and finding the same in a manner confirmed by your letters, I have made them a very ample despatch. Thereby upon a plot that I have "dressed" for them, giving them my advice point by point on everything necessary for the execution thereof, and remitting to themselves to resolve thereupon, I have desired them that to lose no time they should, without sending again to me, despatch in all diligence someone among them, choice, faithful and sufficiently instructed, towards the said Don Bernardino to impart to him particularly the plot of the said enterprise as they may amongst them have resolved upon, and to inform to the same, if the said Don Bernardino like thereof, to require such support as shall be necessary as well of footmen and horsemen as armour, munition, and money.

Of these things, before they have sufficient promise and assurance, I have wished them plainly not to stir in any wise on this side for fear they ruin themselves in vain. Wherefore, not being able as yet to advertise you of the said Catholics' resolution, as a thing unknown to myself, I will only pray you for this time to require instantly the King of Spain in my name to let me understand plainly and resolutely upon so much as he may have known by the said Don Bernardino of this enterprise, whether he likes thereof or no, if he will intervene therein, when and how he means to make his forces march.

I fear much that the impediments which he has about the Indies shall occupy enough the army which he was to send thither until this next winter; namely, if the Turk—as it is said—hold hand to the said Drake; and from the Low Countries I see not how the Prince of Parma may spare so many forces as should be requisite for our said enterprise. But the principal is to have the King of Spain's plain and assured promise, and no artificial entertainment as heretofore has been given. For thereupon his commodity may be better awaited on, and in the meantime all things necessary provided for.

I have cleared the greatest difficulty which has been always objected to me in the like enterprises, to wit, my escaping from hence, and I hope to execute the same assuredly with God's grace as I have designed it. If a peace be made in France, the Duke of Guise, having already great forces in hand, may employ the same for us on the sudden before that this Queen be ever aware thereof. For Scotland, I am labouring that from thence our enemies here may have no succour.

But of my son I can give you no assurance, albeit of late he has endeavoured himself to give satisfaction, having written to me all that he may of his entire affection and obedience towards me. For notwithstanding all these good words in secret, I find him so variable to and fro, as the fear of danger wherein he finds himself and the allurements he has of England cast and move him, so that I can make no solid reckoning of his part. I doubt not but that the league which he has lately made with this Queen greatly offends all the Catholic Princes, but in those parts excuse him therein upon the power and authority that the Earl of Angus and his adherents have at this day in that country of Scotland, and that my son, his safety being in the said Angus's hands, and exposed to this Queen's forces without any assurance of any foreign support, durst not contrary them in any sort.

I think you are not ignorant of the sincerity of those towards me, of whom you wrote, that are in Spain, specially the Lord Paget, whose virtue and wisdom as heretofore I have experimented in divers occasions of importance. So would I be right glad to be now helped by his good advice and counsel in our said enterprise. Wherefore I desire that you communicate thereof with him in particular as I am sure he will willingly with you, having testified to him how much I find myself obliged to you for that which is past, and chiefly for the managing—which it pleased you to accept of as my ordinary agent in those parts—of all my affairs.

I pray you therefore recommend in my name to the King of Spain, as instantly as you can, the present need of Lord Paget and of the rest there, but "namely" Thomas Throgmorton—unto whom and all that pertain to him I am more beholden for my own particular than now I can tell you—they all having abandoned no small commodities not without hazard of their lives for God's cause, whom I pray for ever to preserve you. Chartley.

Postscript [added by Nau].—Sir, I hope you shall receive satisfaction by her majesty's answer hereinclosed upon that which it pleased you to write to me. I will only by these add thereunto that without fail the sum granted shall be brought hither and employed to the use which the King of Spain has destined the same unto. It is the first and only money that her majesty ever received of any Prince at all these eleven years past that I have had the honour to remain about her person, all charges having been hitherto borne as well for the common cause as for her own expenses. And of that which was given as before for Scotland, I pray you humbly to show that not only did she never touch a farthing thereof, but that the distribution of the same was neither altogether directed nor had issue according to her desire.

I thank you most affectionately for the good remembrance it pleased you to have of my brother Fontenay, whom I should esteem unthankful not to have continued his intelligence with you, as he is obliged for your manifold courtesies towards him if it were not that since his return from Scotland, the suspicion before begun of his voyage into Spain being augmented in the King of France's head, he has been constrained for a while to absent himself and abstain from all foreign negotiations. He and I both always rest at your commandment. And so I pray God to grant her majesty good success in all which is in hand, and to yourself long and happy life.

1½ pp. Cipher.

Deciphered copy. In Thomas Phelippes' hand. Indorsed by him.

Extracts of the same. French. [With C.P., vol. XVIII., No. 79.]

Copy of the above. [With C.P., vol. XVIII., No. 80.]

627. Mary to Charles Paget. [July 27.] Cott. Calig., C. IX., fol. 385.

I hope that these shall find you returned from your journey, of the stay whereof I would be sorry to dislike, but rather by the contrary I should of myself have pressed you thereto if I had known it had been needful to you, being obliged to have care of your health, as you have most vigilantly of all that may concern my service. Your remonstrance to commit to few the managing of my affairs pleases me right well, and I am exceedingly deliberate not to entertain from henceforth any ordinary intelligence with any man except those whom I will depute in every province, to wit, besides my ambassador, yourself and Morgan for France. Yet I would not that my ambassador meddle with the affairs of this side further than I shall commit to him to treat with my parents—for Spain the Lord Paget while he is there, and Sir Francis Englefield my ordinary agent; for Rome D. Lewes if he will accept the charge; for the Low Countries Liggons; for Scotland Lord Claud Hamilton, and Courcelles who was with Mauvissière for conducting only of my packets on this side. If Morgan should be constrained to leave France—which I shall seek to stop by all the ways I can—my intention is to appoint him to Rome. I cannot but praise you for the testimony you give me of his fidelity, and I may assure you he has deserved no less at your hands.

Upon the return of Ballard to this country the principal Catholics who despatched him over sea imparted their intentions to me, "conform" with what you wrote to me thereof, but more particularly asking my direction for executing of the whole. I have made them a very ample despatch containing point by point my advice on all things requisite, as well for this side as for outside the whole realm, to bring their designs to good effect, and have sent them word, for not losing time, that having taken resolution among themselves upon the said despatch, they make haste to impart the same to the ambassador of Spain, Mendoza, sending over therewith either the said Ballard or some other, the most faithful and secret they can find, and to be by them sufficiently instructed, having promised them that I shall write to the same Mendoza, as I do presently, to give credit to their said messenger or deputy.

So I trust that if ever the Pope and the King of Spain have had intention to provide for this State the occasion is now offered them very advantageously, finding therein universally the said Catholics so disposed and forwards that there is more ado to keep them back than in putting them to the contrary. And for all objections and difficulties that the said Mendoza can allege, as my getting forth of this hold or otherwise, he shall be sufficiently cleared and satisfied thereof.

There rests then only to pursue as hotly as can be both in Rome and Spain their grant of the support requisite, as well of horsemen and footmen as of armour, munition and money—if his holiness and the King of Spain will in any way yield to this enterprise, which I desire they should declare resolutely and plainly without drawing things to a length by artificial negotiation and vain hope as has been done hitherto, which is still my opinion.

I have written to the said Catholics that before they have sufficient promise and assurance of the Pope and the King of Spain for accomplishing that which is required of them, nothing be stirred on this side. For otherwise they will but overthrow themselves without any profit.

I well perceive that before the recovery of Cuba and Domingo, and the arrival of the fleet from the Indies it will be difficult to obtain any forces for this realm at the King of Spain's hands. But being things that are to be executed before the end of this summer at the furthest, the enterprise for this country may in the meanwhile be concluded on and upon the resolution which then shall be taken to prepare all that shall be necessary as well within as without the realm.

I like well that the succours should come from the Low Countries, as you write, but I hardly believe that the Prince of Parma being so near met withal as he is, may now spare so much as were necessary for the said enterprise for this side. I would have sent you a copy of the said despatch to the said Catholics were it not that I am sure you may know more thereof by their messenger than I can recite, he being to carry the resolution of the whole in those parts.

And for the same respect I have referred Lord Paget to be informed thereof by you, praying him only by my letter here inclosed to employ himself in Spain in all he can, for the furtherance of this affair, and to that I then propounded unto them.

I thank you heartily for the three score crowns you gave to the said Ballard, whereof I have commanded my ambassador expressly to make you be reimbursed without delay, but to have any more in store for the like occasion it is not any wise at this time in my power, my revenues, through these wars and bad treatment which you know I have at the King of France's hands, not being sufficient almost to bear my ordinary charges. The money of the King of Spain whereof you write to be now in Mendoza's hands is so expressly appointed me to be reserved and employed on my getting forth of this hold that, for the conservation of my credit, I dare not convert it to any use, especially that first parcel, not being assured of the rest.

I yet again now give a lively charge for that which is owing to yourself, Morgan, and Charles Arundell, and shall rather slay the pursuing of the rest of those 12,000 crowns than you be unsatisfied of so much as is due to you.

I would be glad to know how you proceeded with Lord Claud in the matter I wrote to you of not long since, which being effectuated should well concur with the enterprise here. And so I pray God to preserve you. Chartley.

[The following from Curll.] Sir, having nothing wherewith presently to trouble you, only in assuring you of my service, etc.

2¼ pp. Copy in Thomas Phelippes' hand. Indorsed by him, "The Scottish Q. to Ch. Pagett. Touching Ballarde's negociation. Decifred by Phelippes."

628. Monsieur Nau to Godfrey Foljambe. [July 27.] Cott. Calig., C. IX., fol. 386.

Has received his last letters of the 6th July, but none from him for the Queen of Scots. If he has written, he must enquire what has become of them. She never knew anything of his advertisement touching Mr. Morgan. The abuse of him, which he writes of, proceeded only out of France. Some not well affected to the said Morgan were very earnest to set a division between them, which would be prejudicial to the Queen of Scots' service.

Thinks he has fully answered the matter by his last, and can now do nothing more. Though he must many times yield to extraordinary courses, notwithstanding, will never suffer his credit here to be impaired by those means, and shall be as careful therefor as his own brother. Prays him to bear with the present time according to his wisdom, especially showing friendship to Charles Paget. Is glad of the relief granted to him by the Prince of Parma. Her majesty is informed by Mendoza that it is 30 ducats a month.

Will not fail earnestly to "remember" the Bishop of Glasgow and Monsieur de Ruisseau for the payment of his and his brother's pensions. Thanks them both greatly for their honest offers, which if he can in any way requite without ceremony he will not fail to do. Sends greetings to Eusebius, if he is come from Rome. Has heretofore sent him a new alphabet.

½ p. Deciphered copy. In the hand of Thomas Phelippes.

629. Mary to Mr. John Gifford. [July.] Cott. Calig., C. IX., fol. 363 b.

"Albeit, good neighbour, these years past until this present," yet by a good servant of ours and a lover of you and yours and his country we have been long since informed of your faith and merits and good disposition towards us, which we attend at the hands of such as you be, and have conserved likewise a good remembrance of you and others of your friends by whose labours we received grateful service, they shall not be forgotten with us and this good impression of you and your merits, well laid with us in times past, has been lately revived and confirmed by the commendable labours of your good son, mentioned in your letters, for the good of our service, whereof we hope well you will well allow.

For, though we say it, the public good of this realm is the mark whereat we shoot principally, and we would redeem the calamity thereof, which we lament not a little, with the loss of liberty for ever, and of life also. In the condition and state of life assigned to us at this present you and the rest that suffer to your eternal honour the heavy yoke of this time for your consciences, in the defence of your faith and religion may assure yourselves that we hold your injurious afflictions at heart, and we will not be found unmindful to employ your labours and prayers for the consolation of this country, "conform" to our sincere love and obligation to the same, and we hope well in God that our labours shall not be frustrated at the end.

So we much desire that yourself and the honourable members of the realm comfort yourselves in the providence of God and goodness of our quarrel, which will have at the last a happy issue. In the meantime you shall do us acceptable pleasure to salute on our behalf the Catholic noblemen and gentlemen that taste the malice of this time, among whom there are some of your own peculiar friends, whose faith and honour and devotion towards us is already by many means sufficiently known.

As for your good son, for whom you thank us, we have rather cause to thank you for him and for your fatherly care of his education in virtue and learning these years past, whereby he is grown—to your comfort and ours also—apt for the service of God, his Prince, and country. As for what we have already ordained for him, we hold the same much less than he and you deserve of us. If it shall please God to give us the means to advance him in his country he shall be assured thereof to the comfort of his friends and parents, and if it do not happen in our time, yet we hope well that we shall have the means to provide for him to live in banishment in a contented state, to pray God for us and for you also.

Yet we shall require of you that you do not hasten his departure out of this realm, but rather in that behalf to have part of his own desire and liking, which has no other mask but to do good, whereof we are well persuaded. We hold your long sequestration from your own house and country to proceed from no other cause but the love of God and us, though we make assured account that the same is no ways decayed to the one or to the other by these unjust proceedings against you and many more, to our no small grief.

Nevertheless, as you find matter for the public good of this realm —so dear to us—or for your private good, that we may advance by our labours, or that concern our state, let us hear from you. In the meanwhile, whether we hear from you or no, we always make good account that you have, wheresoever you be, a vigilant regard to your fortune. And so, good, neighbour, with our hearty commendations we commit you to God.

1½ pp. Deciphered copy, in Thomas Phelippes' hand. Written above: "The letter to be sent to Mr. John Gifford." [With Cott. Calig., C. IX., fol. 360.] Vol. VIII.

630. [ ] to Francis Milles. [July 27 or 28.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

Sir, Mr. Anthony Babington has this night bespoken a great supper at "the Castle" near to the Exchange, where he supped yesternight, and I hope Ballard will make one. If he do I have set one in the next room—I mean young Paynter—to sup there to the end he may be assured to see who comes thither.

May it therefore please you to take so much pains as to bestow so much labour as to come to the Exchange before 8 of the clock and there to walk somewhat disguised, and this bearer shall attend you to give you advertisement from Paynter, where you may use your discretion if he be there, for the place is most safe, though it have two doors. And for my part I will keep home to avoid all suspicions—if you think good—the rather for that Shelley and Carlton the priest come to sup with me, which will avoid all suspicion if he be apprehended at "the Castle" in the meantime.

And I am not out of doubt altogether that Ballard will come to me for supper, for that Shelley has promised to bring him to me when he shall see him, and within this hour Shelley has sent a capon and two rabbits to supper. It is "like" somebody comes with him, but who, I know not. But whosoever it is you shall understand at the Exchange. If it prove Ballard, it were good that he be dogged to his lodging, and there apprehended in the night, or else in the street near to his lodging. What is best to be done in the matter, or whether I shall discover myself if it prove Ballard, send me word. I have now no warrant, so in haste I end. Signed: "your mastershippe."

1 p. In Berdon's hand. Addressed: "To the right worshipfull his good frend Mr. Mylls yeve these." Indorsed: "Secreat advertisments. Babington."

631. Bishop of Ross to Mary. [July 29.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

Received her cipher of 22nd May here at Rome the 10th July last. Thereby she is mentioned to have had no intelligence of affairs abroad for 21 or 22 months before the receipt of his said cipher. Is very sorry therefor, both for the difficulty of convoy and lack of comfort to her, albeit in the meantime little matter occurred whereof she would have received contentment.

Her son is still forced to use the counsel, or rather command of the Lords Angus, Mar, and others of that faction. Lord Claud — whom he still entertains with intelligence — lies out, keeping in the north with Huntly and in [Pluscardyn] and comes seldom to Court. In his late letters to him he [Lord Claud] laments greatly the state of their country, that there is no mean to do any good offices therein. The ministers rule all at their pleasure. They have "put at" Huntly to enter his uncle Mr. James Gordon and some others of his order that are with him, but he refused, and since came not to Court. These fathers remain still in the country quiet, and it is thought, by connivance of her son.

Captain James Stewart still is of Arran, bides still also in Scotland, and is suffered to "bruke" his conquest lands by his money which the Lord Hamilton sought to have had comprised for redress of his intrusion with the fruits of Arran. But the King stayed the same, affirming that himself should be first paid for meddling with many sums of his and away taking of his jewels. Of these jewels the captain has sent back to the King by Trokuare's brother the best part, so that it appears he still bears affection towards him. If any changes happen it is thought able to come that way by assistance of Huntly, Crawford, Montrose, and Lord Claud with others that are malcontents.

The King has remained this summer at Falkland, and the French ambassador only besides him, and none of the lords, who hold their council at Edinburgh, and all is as they like. They had still diligent watch upon him for the bruit and suspicion they have that he would steal away into France, albeit few now think that course were good for sundry respects and dangers, being also uncertain what treatment he should find here, considering the troubles and little regard this King of France has towards any of her friends, namely, since this last enterprise for advancement of the Catholic faith. Whatever countenance he [the King of France] shows of favour towards them, is thought to be forced, and even now the Queen his mother is travailing for a new peace with the Huguenots—whereas they are already far agateward to be soon wrecked if the King stood constant—against the liking of the Princes her friends and all other good men.

The Duke of Maine in the meantime goes still prosperously forward, God be praised, in Guienne, winning towns and castles, so that none of the adversaries dare be seen on the fields against him since the great defeat given this last winter, where was slain Monsieur du Laval and his brother Dandelot's sons, with many others of mark, and two or three of the King of Navarre's chief captains overthrown beside Rochelle, so that that King and the Prince of Condé keep them within Rochelle, and it seems that they will be Catholics, which is thought to be dissimulation.

The King of Denmark and Protestants of Almaigne have sent ambassadors ofttimes to this King requiring him to keep his former edicts of liberty to the Huguenots; to whom he made answer that he would have but one religion in his realm. This was given by the advice of Monsieur de Guise, then present with him. But he gives over great care to the King of Navarre's ambassadors since Guise's absence from him. There are yet others newly come out of Almaigne to suit the said liberty with menaces and boasting to send in "Reysters" in case of refusal. But Guise and his friends take no regard of their coming, but prepare, if so be it, to give them battle upon the Borders for staying their incoming.

Great appearance of troubles is in this country. In the meantime, seeing he can obtain no certain benefice in these parts, must beseech her to send him some letters of recommendation, but in a few lines of her own hand, to the King of Spain, to the "Emperatrice" who is beside him, and to the Cardinal of Granville, with one other to the Prince of Parma praying them to cause him to be provided with some benefice in Flanders. Is put in hope to obtain by that means one of some value.

Sundry have gotten abbeys and priories, or at least pensions therein, by virtue of recommendations made to the King and Prince of Parma. Has no recourse but to her, and for the matter means not to abandon this country of France or her service to dwell in any other part, but as she shall please to command him, and with these letters would either make a voyage or send them as she shall think meetest.

Her rents in this country through the nobles are evil paid, and so he is answered of her pension, and worse of it that the Cardinal promised him by reason of the exorbitant charges which he contracted in this last godly enterprise, being chief of the league. Makes him likewise move her for the gift of "a particular" which will not take aught out of her coffers or rents, it lying as a thing unperceived and dead these nine or ten years past. Has divers times "walkened" the same to her Council in France, but they find so small appearance of profit or success that they are both to make any further suit or expenses thereupon.

Nevertheless, her Council of the lawyers in this parliament of Rouen has advised him to desire the gift of a part of it from her, with power to pursue for the whole against the "heretiers" of Monsieur de Val, lately slain. If it please her to grant it, will use diligence to recover the papers out of their hands, which cannot be got but by great labours to search the register books, considering also that many of the pieces are lost and cannot be recovered except by means, expenses and credits with the "Greffiers" and others who have had the handling thereof, of whom, as also of this whole parliament, thanks to God, he has sufficient favour.

Everyone will further him to be helped any way, specially in this case against the heirs of a heretic. They have dressed the form of the letters necessary to be subscribed by her for that effect. Has sent them in an open packet to the French ambassador, and beseeches her to cause them to be expeded. In recompense, if he obtains any profit, will employ the most part of it for her service where she pleases to command him, proposing to make a foundation in this country to pray perpetually for her, living or dead, by certain masses and obits that shall be founded for that effect.

Towards the entertaining and counselling of Lord Claud, and labouring for Morgan's release, will always do as she has commanded, the best he can, as in all other occurrences for her service, her faithful friends and servants.

The King her son wrote to him in April last desiring him to assist and help certain Scottish merchants whose ship and goods were lost lately upon the sea by the invasion and malice of an English ship which was laden with lead and tin pertaining to the Earl of Shrewsbury, whereupon the Scottish merchants obtained a decree in this parliament of Rouen against the Englishmen, and arrested their ships and goods to be "comprised" for the same. Herewith Shrewsbury was greatly offended, and perhaps he may complain of him [the Bishop] for soliciting the councillors here. But by reason he did it by command of her son, and the cause was not directly against his lordship, thinks he merits no blame. Has signified so to his solicitors in these parts, which he trusts she will not disallow. Would be loth to offend the Earl of Shrewsbury, but rather for her sake would do him any service he could.

Monsieur D'Albufe, now in this town, desires his humble service to be commended to her and, assured of the welfare of Messieurs de Guise, Maine and the rest of her friends, hopes to bring their godly enterprise to a good end, which he prays God to grant and to preserve her in health and long life. Rouen.

1¼ pp. Cipher, deciphered by Thomas Phelippes.

Decipher of the same, in the hand of Thomas Phelippes.

Another copy of the same.

632. Gilbert Curll to Emilio. [July 29.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

Her majesty gives him continual thanks for his care and travail taken to let her understand of such occurrences as he does. Frequently she cannot be advertised by others, as by the rare coming of secret letters to her hands which pass through his [Curll's], he may well judge.

His desire to have warning beforehand shall be satisfied as well as may be, which hitherto has not been much forgotten, and specially for the sending of this inclosed packet. Wrote thereof to him ten days before the day appointed for its despatch. It should have been sent on Monday last, were it not that those who came with his the same day caused it thus to be so long stayed. Her majesty prays him to send it away by his boy to the French ambassador as soon as he may, and if he thinks he can find Babington in London, by the same means to make her two letters which he has already be surely delivered to him.

Doubting by his former which he found difficulty in deciphering, and therefore some points were less intelligible than he wished, that himself has erred in setting down the addition sent, through some haste in despatching thereof, prays him to forbear using the said addition until, against the next, he puts the whole in better order, at more leisure. Hopes to do so for their greater ease.

If he has not mistaken his meaning touching the mark that is for him, it is his desire that in his absence her majesty's letters and his own requiring speedy deciphering have his mark twice or thrice on the back for his brother's better direction. It shall be done till he lets him know to the contrary. Signed: Curll.

Written on a slip of paper. Cipher.

Decipher of the same. In the hand of Thomas Phelippes.

633. Sir Amias Powlet to Thomas Phelippes. [July 29.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

Besides the familiar use of letters between you and me, I did not know if anything was contained in this letter inclosed which might require present execution, and therefore was bold to open it. I trust you are safely arrived at the Court, and it seems by Mr. Secretary's letters that upon your coming thither some resolution will be taken. God grant it be good, to whose blessed tuition I commit you. Chartley. Signed: A. Powlet.

½ p. Holograph, also address. Indorsed.

634. Sir Amias Powlet to Walsingham. [July 29.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

His letters of the 24th instant arriving here the 26th of the same at 6 in the evening, Mr. Phelippes was then 12 or 14 miles on his way towards him. Doubts not he is arrived safely.

Thanks God for the happy news received from Sir Francis Drake and thanks him most heartily for his advertisement thereof.

There is mention in these letters of a counter-cipher in these words "I pray you, sir, send me word whether the counter-cipher I delivered unto you, for that there will be use thereof in respect of the causes we are to deal in hereafter." It seems there is defect of a word or two, which makes the sense imperfect. So can give no other answer than that to his remembrance has had no cipher from him since his entrance into this service. Thought good to advertise him thereof, not knowing what hasty use there may be thereof. Chartley. Signed: A. Powlet.

1 p. Holograph also address. Indorsed.

635. Peter Young to James VI. [July 30.]

I embarked the 20th of this month at your town of Dundee [Dondy], and having by the favour of God and the good fortune of your majesty a very favourable wind, I arrived in this place the 26th before noon, where I have been for your majesty's sake very kindly received.

The king went hence the 25th of last month, so that had I come sooner I should only have lost time. He had gone to Luneburg, a town of Saxony, as I think, to see the new Duke of Saxony his nephew, son of his sister, wife of the deceased Duke by his first marriage, and also to see the widow of the late Duke, a young and rich princess, in order as is said to treat of a marriage between her and his brother the Duke of "Holcester," whose wife died not long since: so that by this means the house and the possessions may remain entirely at his disposal in the hands of his brother and nephew.

Other causes are also alleged: certain it is that there was a great assemblage of princes there, it is said to the number of ten or twelve. His majesty is awaited here from one hour to another. Meanwhile the captain of the castle of this town has told me, in the name of the king, that at his departure he had commanded him that if any ambassador should come either from Scotland or elsewhere, after having rested in this place some three or four days they should betake themselves to Copenhowen, where they would hear from the "rentmaister" —who is high treasurer—what they were to do next; whither I am setting forth with all speed to obey this command.

The Queen and all her train are at Fridrichsburg, three German leagues from here. On Tuesday or Wednesday next are to betake themselves thither the Duke of Mecklenburg and the duchess his wife, father and mother of the Queen, who arrived yesterday at Gossor by sea, coming from Rostock with some other princes, and are to stay in these parts about a fortnight. There, sire, is all that I can tell your majesty for the present, humbly beseeching you to hope well for the success of my message, which I expect that God will bless from heaven to his glory and the content of your majesty.

Postscript.—Since this was written I have been assured that the King had arrived at Fridrichsburg. Elsinore, 30 July 1586. Signed: P. Young.

1 p. French. Indorsed: "29 [sic] July 1586. From Mr. Peeter Young, Amb^r. for y^e Scottish King in Denmarke." Addressed.

636. Mr. Archibald Douglas to Walsingham. [July 30.]

"Pleis your honour, before the ressaving of youris, berand dayt 22 of this instant, I was myndit to haif writting onto you ane discourse of the state of this cuntrey, from the doing wherof I did absteyn during the aboade of my lord ambassadour, specially because I saw his lordship inclynit to deale onely wyth the King my sovereyn, as being boyth ressonable, and that way instructed, wherof also I did best lyk, albeit in verite the present state of this realm throw dyversite of factionis in religion and profession in mynd, obediente to syndrye authoriteis did utherwayse requir.

In this mater I haif beyn sumpart curious of layt, and hath discoverit dyvers materris to be misliked of. Ane part of thaym I mayde your honour acquaynted wyth of before, and thayr wytheall schew my opinion that the dayngerr apperit not to be greit oneles sum mater force shuld come from foreyn partis, that mycht alter the present state.

Be that letter I declared also from what grownd the ill did proceid, and the remedyis that did appeir most proper to reduce the state of this cuntrey to sum moir assurit quietnes. To this letter it was not your honouris pleassour to geve ony speciall anssour.

In respect wherof, and for discharge of my deuty and promes to her majestie, my Lord Tresoreir, and to your self, I haif accepted ane charge from my soverayn to be derected towartis hir majestie wythe materris of no small inportance, that be all apparence mycht helpe these materris, beand weill usit.

At the leist, my deuty in all respectis may appeir thayrby to be deschargit.

I am not ignorant of the dealing that men are presently traveling in to, in this realm, bot as yit I can not persave that thay ar lyk to tak effect schortlye, at the leist for this summer season, oneles the force shall come from foreyn partis.

And if the worst shuld fall out befor October I can not fynd ane better rameyde to helpe that mater, than that the Maister of Gray shuld be making his forces and preparationis reddy towartis the Low Cuntrey, quhill that season wer passit.

As for my awin part, if I war not so farr gone fordwart in this my intendit jorney taken on upon my auin chargis that I can not go back wytheowt declaratioun of sum misliking towartis my soverayn, and that my staying mycht dyvers wayis breade harm, to the gud effectis that my jorney apperis to produce, I culd be contented to remayn at home, and thayrbye avoyde the envy of such as hath inployit thayr hoill credit to procur my abyding, bot yit I can not persave that in the end ather the Maister of Grayis or my abiding or noo wyth us can be able to stay the intendit projectis, oneles materris be moir deiply sowndit, and the disease curit from the grownd, ather be medicamentis levytyve or corrosyve. I most leave fordar of this mater to sum uthir lettir or to my auin cumming.

As towartis this jornay intendit be the sayd Maister of Gray, I fynd him thayrin so inplacable sythence the recept of this lettir for staying thayrof, that I can not tell what way to deale wythe him thayr anent. He alledgis that his chargis bestowit for the advancement thayrof is so excessyv, that if his hoill heritage war solde, the price wold not pay his debtis; and that bessidis this losse of gudis, he thinketh him self so farr interessit in honour be contermandementis and dessir to go fordwart, that he can not leif in reputation in this realm, bot most neadis depart thayrfor to foreyn cuntreyis.

Heirof he wold imputt ane part of the blaym onto me. I knew his necessite of layte was so grit that, when he was myndit to settill his aboade at home, nine hundret pounds sterling for the whiche I becom caution was not able to cover his necessite.

What is to be done in this mater I pray your honour may be declared to Captain Halkerston his servant, send to knawe your honouris pleasser, what shall becom of him, and who knauis what chargis he hes beyn at of layte.

The particularyteis of these intendit projectis wold be long to wryt, bot this farre may appeir, that the general tendis to this end, that Protestant and Papist factionis for Kyng and Quein shuld all aggre in one to draw the King to thayr appetite, and I will assure you, contrayr to his awin wyll or mynd, as be this pryvate dealing partly may appeir.

Our Secretary hath so dealt wyth the Carris that was myndit to entre in to Ingland, for satisfaction of hir majesteis honour anent the murther of Sir Frances Russell, that be interposit personnis he hath mayd thaym to beleve how innocent that ever thay be, they wilbe ill usit, if thay shuld entre in that realm. Such terrour thay haif ressavit be his meanis, that thay are becummit fugytyve and denuncit rebellis.

The King hath dessirit of the ambassadour that thay shall ressave no favour in Ingland and hath promised that he shall cause thayr housis be possessed be utheris, and all uther rigour and extremite usit agains thaym. Albeit his meaning be heirin verray gude, yit in respect of these projectis, I must neadis dowbt of the performance.

This mater is of no small weycht. Thay ar the chefast men of that nayme, and the principal of that fronteir. In respect wherof I haif sythence the departure of the ambassadour, obtenit commission of the King to deal wyth thaym, and hath so far travelit that upon my vow thay ar contented to enter at Carlisle, when I shalbe ready to convey thaym thyther.

I think it shalbe weill done, to wryt to my lord Scrope for thayr saif ressaving, and keping to suche tyme as hir majesteis fordar pleassour shalbe knauin herin, if it mycht be your honouris pleassour. I wold be glayde to onderstand the intendit determination agains thaym, for sory I wold be, that dessir to do gud, to procur harm agains myself or freyndis. What hath beyn my dealing herin, Thomas Mylles can declayr.

In the end I must conclud this informall letter in these termes, if any mater shall fall owt in this cuntrey that may be prejudiciall to that realm, the irresolution of that state can not be wytheowt blayme, that will not put ramedy to materris when as thay may be helped.

And notwythestanding thayrof, this farre your honour may be assured of, that no thing shalbe left undone heir that may helpe materris in the best form it can.

Glayde I wold be to knaue if the layte intelligens hath any apparence to be dayngerus in schort tym.

I can persave no fordar be the Laird of Fyntrey than that which I wrot befor. He is presently in this town in dealing for ane mariage wyth Secretary Lethington his dochther.

I am effrayit that Mr. John Colvill his covetusnes to be in credit shall do no gude. Off one thing I must put you in rememberance, that you ar lyk to losse the Master of Glammis for lack of wrytting onto him. I was ever of that opinion that it was necessayr to keep all men in gud expectation." Falkland. Signed: A. Douglas.

4 pp. Holograph, also address. Indorsed.

Cott. Calig., C. IX., fol. 387.

Copy of the same.

637. Francis Milles to Walsingham. [July 30.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

The inclosed was sent by Berd. yesternight, at 7 o'clock. Preparation was made for the apprehension, but the party was in neither of the places supposed by the inclosed.

At the Castle there supped with Anthony Babington one Thornborough a merchant, one Savage a young gentleman of Staple Inn, and Pooley, known to him, a man as Berd. thinks, discovered a good while since by Babington. With Berd. supped Edward Shelley, who brought with him Carleton the priest, one Higham lately condemned for hearing a mass, and enlarged out of the "Compter," and one Robert Gage. He assures Berd. that Ballard was on Tuesday last in the city—the day that the messengers told him [Milles] they had by attending on himself lost a great booty of him—but by the name of Black Foskewe, and that he himself brought the said Ballard on Wednesday last towards night to his house to ride into Sussex. From thence Gage expects him assuredly in the city again to-morrow or Monday next, and promises to bring Berd. and him together.

Sees no certainty of all this, so leaves it to his judgment and further discretion. If G. G. wrote to him on Monday or Tuesday last as he said, it is likely that Ballard was also then in the city, and it may be now doubted that his going into Sussex is to take passage over in some vessel ready laid for his purpose.

Because Berd. in the end of his letters says he has no warrant, if it please him he should have one and discover himself in the execution thereof, prays he will let the like be made, with a blank, and signed by another of the Council as he pleases, and sent to him. Otherwise this may be returned and serve him if he please both he and him self appear in the warrant. Takes that not to be his meaning. Tower Hill. Signed: Fra. Mylles.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed.

638. Sir Amias Powlet to Walsingham. [July 30.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

Has no other cause of writing at this time than to convey to him the inclosed packet, which bewrays that this people is sharp set and writes with greediness, as the Almighty knows. Chartley. Signed: A. Powlet.

½ p. Holograph, also address. Indorsed.

639. Walsingham to Thomas Phelippes. [July 30.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

I would be glad to speak with you sometimes this afternoon at Barn Elms. I pray you send me word by this bearer at what time you may be conveniently here. I would be loth your repair hither should hinder the other good purpose if it shall not be executed before the receipt hereof.

I am sorry I did not know of the surveyorship's death before. The Queen's mason has already set in for the matter. I pray you tell Arthur that he shall not find me unmindful of him, as one that esteems both his sufficiency and his fidelity. At the Court. Signed: Fra. Walsyngham.

1 p. Holograph. Addressed: "To my servante Thomas Phillippes at his father's house neare Leadenhall." Indorsed.

640. Abstracts of Letters. [July.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

[Abstracts from letters between Mary and Monsieur de I' Aubespine, from 31st January 1586 to July 1586, described under their various dates.]

3 pp.

641. Monsieur de L'Aubespine to Mary. [July.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

Extract from a letter.

He sends her certain packets come out of France.

Touching a bruit that she was dead. Her refusal of Pierrepoint.

[With No. 640.]

642. Mary to Monsieur de L'Aubespine Chateauneuf. [July.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

Upon the receipt of your last of the 20th of June, which only came to my hands the 10th of the present, and the little satisfaction that I otherwise receive in all that concerns my estate here, I am constrained once for all to represent by you to the Queen of England my good sister my very respectful complaints in this respect, seeing that the more insensibly I have endured all this time here, in order to give proof to the said Queen of the intention which I had of accommodating myself in all things and by all means with her, so much the more I am reduced little by little to extremity, without any respect to my rank and due consideration of the condition of sickness and pitifulness to which 18 years of prison have brought me, nor remembrance of the promises that the said Queen has made to me to the contrary, so that it seems that my enemies who, assured of my speedy death amid my sicknesses, had last summer a little relaxed their rage against me, wish to resume their first course to advance by ill and unworthy treatment that which they will not or cannot otherwise execute in order not to render themselves openly guilty thereof. I have continually during the space of four years sought the said Queen of England by all most advantageous overtures and effects and correspondence to come to the conclusion of some good agreement with her; and moreover having at last sent my secretary to her almost with carte blanche, I made such offers to her that she herself and those of her council told me they could desire nothing more on my part: and truly no one has ever seen or read of a sovereign prince detained reasonable for himself. Not only were no further proceedings taken upon my said offers in the treaty of my deliverance as I had been assured, but almost nothing of what had meanwhile been promised me has been carried out. For instead of the journey of some of my people to my son, which had been granted to me, in order to abolish with him the hindrance that was alleged to me on his part to the said treaty, and which was said to restrain the said Queen from carrying it further, I have been altogether thrown aside and separated from him in order the better to reunite him to our common enemies here, and to commit or submit him to his rebellious subjects. For my safety in this captivity, there is no person of any judgment who does not deem it now less than in the hands of one of the peers and lords of this realm, of credit, strength and power sufficient to preserve me from the attempts of my enemies in every event: which has ever been my chief request since I was removed from the keeping of the Earl of Shrewsbury. And therein I do not mean to do any wrong to my present warden, whom I esteem otherwise a very honest gentleman and a very faithful servant of his mistress. As regards my estate and treatment here, which the said Queen had expressly told me she would establish in all things and by all means very honourably, even disavowing that of the past, I must say in one word that I find myself to-day rather confined in a gaol than not; in the captivity of a prince much beneath myself or who might justly be detained by right of war or otherwise. I am forbidden all private correspondence with my son, and as I feel myself bound to desire his welfare and preservation, so is it so much the greater affliction and torment to me not to be able to render him this maternal duty in the need and necessity that there often is. Of my other kinsmen and friends in Christendom none would dare to tell me anything of him, especially anything which might bring me any consolation, unless he wished by this means to close the passage to his letters. As to my private affairs, you saw the severity which was used towards Charles, coming to render me an account thereof, so that his journey had hardly any success for me in this respect. The despatches from my people are delivered to me with such delay, and mine to them, that the occasions have usually passed before I can provide for their necessity, this nevertheless being such as you may see by what I am told of it daily, so that I am, as they say, at my wits' end. This place where I am is rendered so odious by the severity which is used to all those who approach it, even for the ordinary commodities necessary for myself and my people, and it is so little permitted to me to do good to any one whatsoever whom I have about me, the distribution of my property having been taken from me this year, that it is only too apparent how much they intend to make me reputed and held for some barbarian and entire foreigner; and for criminals those not only who have any lawful respect towards me, but whosoever shall have any dealings with me and my people, ever withdrawing from it as from shameful society. I have not hitherto been able so much as to have any assured abode where I might establish myself with the conveniences necessary for my health, so that I remain as a passenger from hostelry to hostelry. Moreover, the state of the expense of my household remains at this conjuncture so uncertain that I am in no wise able to determine it, remaining always at the good pleasure of him who shall have me in keeping to retrench and dispose thereof as shall seem good to him: which the experience of the past makes me touch upon to you, in order not to fall into the misery in which I found myself, having wearied and discontented my people more than any other discomfort of my prison; and to tell you even more freely, necessity making me therein, to my great regret, ignore all shame. I begin to be very ill served as to my own person, and without any consideration of my sickly condition, which generally takes from me almost all appetite. Whereunto if they had been willing to permit me to supply at my expense I had never made any request.

As to the new servants that it had pleased the said Queen herself to grant me by word of mouth, I am to-day put in doubt of them, and cannot have those replaced whom I had dismissed in the hope of having others, which has not been and is not, I assure you, without a very great inconvenience to my health. The liberty promised for my exercise with some pastimes has not been kept to me, being today forbidden to go outside upon festivals, without consideration that by reason of my maladies and that the weather does not always serve, especially in winter, I must take it when I can. Divers other innovations have been made … to the restriction and growing worse of my previous estate, instead of being amended as was promised me, it being useless to say that the time has not been fitting thereto because of disturbances befallen in Christendom, as I have always been answered, unless it be that they wish more plainly to say that a fitting time cannot be found in which to do me good. For it is not right to make me bear the penalty of that of which I am not the cause, and peradventure the treaty between the said Queen and myself would have hindered a part of it, I have not ceased for all that to bind myself by my said offers, although she does not agree that they be accepted nor the mutual conditions performed, to take upon me the duty in all things that I could to observe exactly, and to cause to be observed by my servants and friends to whom it has been permitted to me to write thereof, what I had proposed to the said Queen for her entire contentment and satisfaction, hoping that such proof of my sincerity, quenching within her the impressions which had been given her to the contrary, would cause her good nature towards me to revive, and would bring me that contentment to pass the little time that remains to me to live in the close friendship with her that I have always so much desired. But alas! I much fear that the evil has gone so far that it is irremediable whatever duty I may take upon me to do. I dare most truly say that the price of good is evil, my enemies not being able to content themselves with my so long suffering and prison, nor that therein I have never any repose of mind or body. Therefore, sir ambassador, seeing myself more than ever beyond all hope of better treatment, and of assuring my estate and repose for the future, I have resolved to renew more urgently than ever the request that I have made all these past years to the said Queen for my deliverance, conjuring her in God's name, and as she values her conscience towards him and her honour before the world, to provide quickly for the same. And I pray you very affectionately to interpose therein as much as you shall be able the credit and intercession of the King your master, my good brother, as the mediator always proposed by me in this affair. Besides the considerations above, there is one very important one, to wit, that the doctors judge that there remain no means of preserving my life by strengthening my nerves (from the weakness whereof for lack of exercise all my ills proceed) but by some natural very hot baths, which being unable to obtain in this country, it seems to me that the said Queen, in the imminent danger in which she cannot be unaware that I am, ought knowingly to take upon her the burden of the inconvenience which may arise from her refusing me this last and only remedy. And in case she does not resolve so promptly upon my said deliverance, I entreat her in the meanwhile to provide for my aforesaid remonstrances, and especially [sic].

3 pp. French. Draft in Nau's handwriting.

643. Mendoza to Mary. [July.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

[In cipher, to which there is no key.]

²/3 p. Indorsed by Thomas Phelippes.

644. Mary to Lord Paget. [July.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

[A letter.]

⅓ p. Cipher. Described in Thomas Phelippes' hand, as: "Decifred the 16 of August 1586." [With No. 643.]

645. Anthony Babington to Monsieur Nau. [July.] C.P., vol. XIX.

Would be glad to understand his opinion of Robert Poley, whom he finds has "intelligence with her majesty's occasions." Is private with the man and thereby knows somewhat, but suspects more.

Certified by him to be a true copy of his letter to Nau.

Certified by Nau to be his letter from Babington, which Curll answered in his name.

¼ p. French. Copy. [With No. 644.]

646. Anthony Babington to Mary. [July.] C.P., vol. XIX.

Prays she will admit his excuse for his long silence, owing to her removal to the custody of a wicked puritan and "mere Leicestrian," an enemy both to her and the Catholic faith.

Had determined to depart from the land, and his purpose was in execution when he received by address from the parts beyond the sea one Ballard, zealous in the Catholic cause and her service.

Was informed by him of great preparations by her allies, to deliver the country from the miserable state wherein it has long remained. Understanding the same, advised means whereby good service might be done to her.

After consideration and conference with many, finds assurance of good effect and desired fruit of their travail. These things are first to be advised in this action, touching not only her life, but the life of all actors therein, and the honour of their country, being the last hope to recover the faith of their forefathers.

1. Assuring of invasion, sufficient strength in the invader.

2. The deliverance of herself, and the despatch of the usurping competitor. For the performance of this, all the actors have taken the sacrament.

Delay is dangerous, therefore prays her direction to enable such as may advance the affair to become heads to lead the multitude. Can recommend to her some fittest to be her lieutenants in the west, north, South Wales, North Wales, and the counties of Lancaster, Derby and Stafford, the fidelity of which parts is assured. Himself with ten gentlemen and 100 followers will undertake the deliverance of her royal person. Six noble gentlemen, all his friends, will undertake the "tragical" execution of the despatch of the usurper, for the zeal they bear the Catholic cause, and her service.

Desires that he may assure them from her, their heroic attempt shall be honourably rewarded in them if they escape with life, or in their posterity.

It remains to be only reduced into method, by her wisdom, that her deliverance be first, and that other circumstances so concur that the untimely beginning of one end does not overthrow the rest.

Will be at Lichfield on the 12th instant, expecting her answers and letters, in readiness to execute what shall be commanded thereby.

(Certified by him to be a true copy of his letter to Mary, and by Curll, to be the letter of which he has the cipher. The answer thereto was written first in French, by Nau, and then translated and put in cipher by him.)

2½ pp. Copy. [With No. 669.]

647. Goods taken by Scottish Men from the English. [July.]

"A brief declaration of the value of the attempts of Scotland committed and done upon the Queen's Majesty's subjects of England, from the year of Our Lord God 1573 to the year 1586."

Within Sir John Foster's charge in the Middle Marches, "the principal and singles of the geeres" taken come to 12,700l., besides the maims and slaughters.

The principal and "singles" within my lord Scrope's charge in the West Marches come to 6000l.

The principal and "singles" within the East Marches, under my lord of Hunsdon's charge, come to 800l.

So the single double and "saufe," amount to £58,500; which England is to receive from Scotland, for stealth committed within the Marches.

²/3 p. Indorsed by Burghley's clerk.

648. Mary to Don Bernardino de Mendoza. [July.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

[A letter in cipher to which there is no key.]

649. Mary to [ ]. [July.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

[A letter in cipher to which there is no key.]

650. Mary to D[ ] Lewis. [July.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

[A letter in cipher to which there is no key.]

651. Mary to [ ] Fulgram. [July.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

[A letter in cipher to which there is no key.]

652. Mary to Monsieur Fontenay. [July.] C.P., vol. XVIII.

[A letter in cipher to which there is no key.]

653. Complaints of Tenants in Ridsdale against Sir John Foster. [July.] Lansd. 49, fol. 162.

John Hall of Otterbourne, being keeper of Ridsdale under Thomas Earl of Northumberland, in the first year of her majesty's reign that now is, had charge of 50 light horsemen, all his own friends and surname of Ridsdale.

Ridsdale with the ten towns belonging to the Castle of Harbottle could have made 300 as able horsemen as the other 50 in the said year, and at this instant the whole liberty is scarce able to make 20 able horsemen.

The want and lack of one gentleman of service and countenance to lie at the said Castle of Harbottle as has always been accustomed to serve and defend that country in peace and war against the enemies is one cause of decay of the service, where now there is none, but the Castle in ruin and decay.

Another is the great robbery, burnings and "harriships" the liberty of Ridsdale has sustained at the Scots' hands in this long time of peace, and not redressed, such as follows:—

The spoil of Sopoth by 60 of Lidsdale, in the 11th year of her majesty's reign, who killed one Robert Hall, and took away 40 kine and oxen. Not redressed.

At the Red Swyre the Reades and Fosters of Ridsdale lost 120 kine and oxen, and delivery made for them to Sir John Foster, who never paid the owners of Ridsdale.

The Coxons and Fosters of Ridsdale were spoiled at Rowken in the 19th year of her majesty's reign, of 80 kine and oxen by 80 of Lidsdale and this not redressed, besides 20 prisoners taken, and some of them ransomed at the same time.

John Hall of Otterbourne was spoiled of other 40 kine out of the Dudleys, in the 10th year of her majesty's reign, by 40 of Lidsdale, at the which fray there were 20 men taken prisoners and lost their horses, yet never had recovery of kine nor horses.

John Hall of Otterbourne was spoiled of other 50 beasts out of Branchave, in the 21st year of her majesty's reign, by 20 of Lidsdale, and had no recovery.

Ralph Hall of Elshaw was spoiled of 50 kine and oxen from Elshaw, and himself murdered in his bed at Elshaw in the 24th year of her majesty's reign. Also Roger Wanles and JohnWanles his brother were slain by Lidsdale in the pursuit thereof, and never had recovery.

Ralph Hall of Branchave had Branchave burnt and lost 20 kine and oxen in the 26th year of her majesty's reign by 20 of Lidsdale and no recovery.

George Hall and Percival Reade were spoiled of 40 beasts from Burdhope in the 26th year of her majesty's reign, and in the pursuit thereof there was one Fletcher slain, and 40 men taken prisoners into Lidsdale, and lost 24 horses and most of the men ransomed by Lidsdale, and no recovery.

Sandy Hall and Tom A. Pott were spoiled of 40 beasts from Portsad, in the 26th year of her majesty's reign, by 60 of Lidsdale, and no recovery.

Elsdon and Farnyclough the chief town of Ridsdale were burnt by 500 of Lidsdale, and harried, and 4 men murdered in their houses, over 100 beasts carried away, and in the pursuit thereof 100 men were taken prisoners and 7 slain, and 60 horses lost. Divers were ransomed and paid their ransoms in Sir John Foster's garden at Alnwick in the 26th year of her majesty's reign and no recovery had, since which time the chief doers thereof, viz., Martin Ellwood, and Robin Ellwood of Lidsdale and their friends are agreed with Sir John Foster and his friends and have daily recourse to his house at Alnwick, and Ridsdale dare not find fault with them. Besides their goods are licenced to go into England.

The Halls of Averakiers were spoiled of 60 kine and oxen in the 25th year of her majesty's reign and in the pursuit two Halls slain, and no recovery had of Lidsdale.

Michael Hall of Stewart Shiels was spoiled of 400 sheep and 10 kine in the 25th year of her majesty's reign, and no recovery.

John Hall of Otterbourne had licence of Sir John Foster to seek and take revenge of the Ellwoods of Lidsdale for his own losses and his friends of Ridsdale, which he did upon Robin Ellwood and Gavin Ellwood, for which doing Sir John Foster did after deliver the said J. Hall to the Ellwoods for 1000l. sterling, which has been an utter overthrow and bondage to the said J. Hall and the whole country of Ridsdale, besides the hindrance of her majesty's service present and to come. If any of the liberty of Ridsdale sought or took revenge of Lidsdale or Scotland for any their losses Sir John Foster would either compel them to render the said goods again, or deliver the parties to the complainants of Scotland.

Lastly, he charged Farnihurst, in September last, to have 400 sheep which Ridsdale and Tyndale took of his, and at this present he keeps one Gregory Wanles in Harbottle Castle for taking William Carr's sheep of Ancrum, whose brother is supposed to have killed Lord Russell.

Sir John Foster took from Robert Hall of Munkridge and his friends 40 kine and oxen under the colour of a bond of suretyship, which the said Robert was bound to him in, whereof he nor his friends had never recovery.

Revisan Pott of Carrick had 20 kine and oxen taken by Lidsdale, the 25th year of her majesty's reign, and no restitution made.

Sir John Foster took 5 men of Rochester and kept them one whole year in prison, and when they were arraigned and acquitted he took their whole goods and kept it to his own use.

About September this 27th year of her majesty's reign 20 men of Ridsdale made a raid into Scotland, and there took 24 kine and 4 horsesand brought them into England; and one Gibb Ellwood and John Anderson, two of the murderers of the Elsdon men, hearing that their goods were taken, repaired to Sir John Foster for the same. He forthwith without further trial of the matter made delivery of the goods to them again.

Sir John Foster had one Hewse an Ellwood, delivered for a bill of John Hall, and would never suffer John Hall to make recovery of the said Ellwood.

The said Sir John Foster hath taken away the lives of many serviceable men of Ridsdale by indirect means, as Clement Hall of Burdup, Roger Hall of Branchaw, Anthony Pott and John Read of Corsenside, etc., since he had the keeping of Ridsdale.

All these are his majesty's tenants in Ridsdale and under Sir John Foster, particular officers having lost all their men and goods, and not one penny redressed since he had the office.

2 pp. No flyleaf or indorsement.

654. Plan of the West March of England. [July.] Cott. Calig. B. VIII., fol. 223.

[Plan of the West March of England.]

1 p. Broadsheet. In the hand of Thomas Phelippes.

655. Memorial for Thomas Milles. [July.] Lansd. 49, fol. 167.

The impediment why her majesty has retrenched part of the promised pension. [In the margin:—Two causes, the one her majesty's opinion and determination to have him; then her extraordinary charges in France, at home and abroad.]

That her majesty would not have Arran over eagerly prosecuted, but the King to be moved by way of advice and request not to permit him to stay in Scotland nor to resort to Ireland.

That her majesty has no liking to yield pensions.

Her mislike of Loveday between the Secretary and the Master of Gray.

To keep his Kirk matters apart.

The hard dealing against the Earl of Leicester.

To acquaint the Master of Gray with the proceedings of Sir Francis Drake.

Money matters to be recommended to the Lord Treasurer.

Private speech to the Secretary from Sir Francis Walsingham.

Glad to hear him continue so constant at the course for the amity, in which respect he will do him all honour. That it is incident to their places to be hardly thought of. For his part he will be careful to advise of all that he shall hear to touch or tend to his dishonour.

That as the King has, since the late removing of the ill instruments about him, yielded a good hope and expectation to the world of his inclination that he shall do well not to offend her majesty, but in all honourable sort to win by good behaviour, and that he shall offend her in nothing so much as in the matter of his marriage, for the interest she pretends to have in him. Therefore, albeit Denmark and Sweden, in respect of their religion a match fit [for] him, and such as her majesty is not like to disallow, yet it will move her to great jealousy if he shall seem to effect any such matter underhand.

That now it should be well for him to look into his estate and by all good means seek to settle it, and because parliaments are as it were physicians to the state, it were most fit that he assemble one and ap point special [men] as his commissioners to take up feuds and jealousies.

No states so perfect but being governed by regents and deputies. are subject to unquietness, which he now coming to years shall do well to look into and amend.

2½ pp. First part in Walsingham's hand. Indorsed: "A Memorial for Mr. Tho. Mills."