Cecil Papers: February 1595

Calendar of the Cecil Papers in Hatfield House: Volume 5, 1594-1595. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1894.

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'Cecil Papers: February 1595', in Calendar of the Cecil Papers in Hatfield House: Volume 5, 1594-1595, (London, 1894) pp. 100-128. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-cecil-papers/vol5/pp100-128 [accessed 18 March 2024]

February 1595

H. Maynard to Sir Robert Cecil.
1594/5, Feb. 1. My Lord [Burghley] hath appointed me to send you this letter enclosed, freshly received out of Ireland by my lord Deputy's servant, to be shown to her Majesty and the lords. He is not able to write himself, being much pained with gout in his hand. After he had read your own letter he caused me to burn it.—From my lord's house in the Strand, 1 Feb. 1594.
½ p. (25. 8.)
Richard Carmarden to Lord Burghley.
1594/5, Feb. 1. Encloses a note of what is due to her Majesty for custom and subsidy (?), inwards and outwards, in the port of London from every particular collector, from the 30th December, 1594, to the first of February following. Proposes to deliver a similar account monthly. Gives reasons for a respite of 12 months to Mr. Phillips to enable him to pay his debt to her Majesty.—London, 1 Feb. 1594.
Holograph, Seal. 1 p. (25. 9.)
Jo. Stileman, to Sir Robert Cecil.
1594/5, Feb. 2. Concerning the waste of deer in the two walks whereof Austen and Cordell and his partner are keepers, and the inefficiency of one North whom Lady Warwick desired to be a keeper. Her Majesty doth require every year for her household six bucks, six does : my Lord doth look to have deer for his own use and his friends, and your Honour for yourself and your friends, besides Mr. Chancellor and the officers of the Duchy; but I see no care had for preserving the deer.
Holograph. No date. Endorsed :—“2 Feb. 1594.” 2 pp.
Enclosed.—A note of such deer as hath been killed by North and his man with or without warrant.
1 p. (25. 10.)
Posth. Hoby to Sir Robert Cecil.
1594/5, Feb. 3. I beseech you to sign this letter enclosed, directed to H.M. Masters of the Court of Requests, concerning a matter depending in their court between my uncle, William Hoby, and one Mr. Hikford, relating to money paid to Mr. Rogers who married my uncle's daughter. Mr. Hikford married a daughter of Mr. Rogers by a former wife. Thus most humbly beseeching you to excuse me in that I did not (as my duty required) give my attendance at the late great feasts, which in respect of my mother I could not, which grieved me not a little, I protest. But not being admitted to see my mother since my last return into England, if I should the first time have seen her in so public an assembly, either I must have made them all privy to her unkind strangeness, by offering to do my duty which would have been offensive to her, or else I must have omitted that which I am bound to perform, which, God willing, shall never be found in me.—3 Feb. 1594.
Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (25. 14.)
Sir Thomas Cecil to his brother Sir Robert Cecil.
1594/5, Feb. 3. I send you from my lord, my father, a breviate taken out of the examinations, with the examinations themselves at large, that were sent up unto the Lords of the Council from the Alderman and the Recorder of Stamford. And for that I perceived by a letter brought unto me from you by the pursuivant, that upon a bill exhibited the whole Board were resolved to bind them over to the assizes, which is a frivolous order, and by your good motion it is deferred until Wednesday next, I hope their lordships shall find by the examinations just cause to take a straighter order with them, and, if they will needs deliver them, yet that they will please to write to the Alderman and the Recorder of Stamford to tie them all with good and sufficient sureties to the good 'aberyng,' or else, I dare assure you, it will cost the shedding of a good deal of blood, which by these means may be avoided, for otherwise this delivery of them will but animate such a company of drunken and unruly fellows to commit the like, when they shall find so great an outrage so lightly punished. I pray you speak with some of the Board apart, and let them be possessed against they sit upon Wednesday next. This night I will deal with my father therein, and to-morrow, if you come not from the Court, I will write unto you his answer.
Holograph. Endorsed :—“3 Feb. 1594.” 1 p. (170. 94.)
Thomas Bodley to the Earl of Essex.
1594/5, Feb. 5. Relating the conversations with Mr. Valke and Col. Stuart at Middleburgh, as to the Scotch negotiations with the States.—Hague, Feb. 5, 1594.
[Murdin in extenso, p. 681].
Holograph. 1½ pp. (25. 15.)
[? Thomas Bodley] to Lord Burghley.
[1594/5], Feb. 5. When I came to the Hague the 27th of the last, I found the most of the States away, being all invited by the Count of Hohenlo to be at his marriage with the Countess of Bueren, which was solemnised at Bueren, a little town with a castle appertaining to the Countess, between Culenbourg and Tiel. The provinces have not yielded as yet to the Council's proposition for the extraordinary contribution of this year, for which they have demanded eight score thousand pounds sterling, which is 70,000 more than was ever yet required, the last year excepted. How it will be obtained it is very uncertain, but yet all men are in hope that it will be raised in the end; albeit I am told that my coming here so soon will rather hurt than help it forward. For I do serve myself of divers reasons to draw them on to pay their debts, of which some will take hold to excuse their contributing; that if their grant had been passed before I had come hither, it had been undoubtedly a far fitter opportunity. Yesterday morning I had my audience of the States, of whom I was heard in a full assembly, but I had no other answer than they are wont to deliver in all such affairs; that they will take some time to think upon it, requiring to have my proposition in writing, whereof here enclosed I send the copy to your Lordship. I will hasten their answer as much as I may, and solicit them the while to give Her Majesty content, first by some good portion of money in hand, secondly, by some annual payment till all be discharged, and lastly, by abating a part of her present expenses. They are very much troubled with this matter, and wax so silent upon it as I cannot yet imagine what success I shall have; but I am in good hope to learn out somewhat of their purpose and to write it in my next. This day I am to deal with the Council of Estate, to whom I will deliver Her Majesty's letter, and “participate” as much as I proposed to the States. But Col. Maurice is in Gelderland, with whom I must deal altogether by letters if I see any likelihood that he will stay in those quarters. Col. Stuart is come hither from the Scottish King, and hath delivered his message, whereof all that I can learn is that he seeketh to renew the ancient amities and alliances between the two countries, and withal is a suitor to be assisted against his rebels at home. Whether the King's desire be for money or men, I shall not be able to signify directly, till I have spoken with the Colonel himself or with some of the States. The report of the German Ambassadors that should come to treat of peace is still afoot in these countries. It is determined, they say, that of twelve special persons deputed thereunto, there shall six repair to Brussels and six to this place; to wit, two from the Ecclesiastical State, two from the Princes, and other two from the towns; and that certain heralds, wearing their coats, shall be sent before to declare to the people in places where they pass, the occasion of their coming. But I cannot yet perceive that they have yet resolved here what course they will take for admitting or stopping their coming, though I see no inclination that they will enter into treaty. Here hath gone a speech of late of three towns taken by the Duke of Bouillon in the land of Luxemburg, Ivois, La Frette and Chevancy, which lie upon a branch of the Meuse (Mose). Withal it is said that he hath defeated 11 cornets of the enemy's horse; but though the news came hither about six days since, it is no further yet confirmed. About the same time we were also advertised that the castle of Huy, a strong place in the land of Liege, lying upon the Meuse, near to the city of Liege, is surprised by certain soldiers of the States, which were presently seconded by other troops. But how they will speed it is doubted very much, because the country there is populous and full of gentlemen which are very well provided of warlike furniture. But if they chance to hold the place, considering that the Duke of Bouillon is there at hand with his army, which are said together with the States' forces to be 9000 foot and 1500 horse, it will prove a very special annoyance to the enemy's actions. It is held for certain here that the Italians mutinied have accorded with Ernestus, for which many men blame the States of these countries, that they cut them not in pieces when it was in their power. It is written from Antwerp, that Richardot, Assonville and Vasseur, principal persons of the Spanish Council at Brussels, are displaced by the King; but there are that doubt the certainty. They are greatly grieved here that they cannot stand assured of these English troops which they entertain, being hindered by it in making their designs, for not knowing what forces they may employ in any enterprise. At my being in Middleburgh, I received a letter from Sir Robert Cecil with a second discourse of the Scottish affairs, whereof having no other matter to write to him, I beseech you to give him some intelligence.—From the Hague, Feb. 5.
[P.S.] Here is a bruit at this very instant that both the castle and town of Huy are in our possession; but withal it is said that of the numbers of our horse that went to succour those places, being seven or eight companies, returning home with their prey which was very great, three or four cornets in the advance-guard were clean defeated by an embuscado of the enemy, and the rest put to flight. How true it is I cannot signify; but it carrieth a great likelihood and it is reported very constantly.
Endorsed :—“Copy of my letter unto my Lord Treasurer.”
No year. Unsigned. A copy, possibly that enclosed in the preceding letter. 2¾ pp. (25. 18.)
Robert Kisbie, the Minister, to Sir Robert Cecil.
1594/5, Feb. 5. Prays for his liberty, &c. Prison is consuming his body, expense his money, grief his mind. Has already had one month of fever; another will be the death of him. Has sinned and acted rashly. But hopes in Cecil's clemency.
Latin. Undated. Endorsed :—“5 Feb. 1594.” 1 p. (25. 17.)
Ed. Nevyll de Latymer to Sir Robert Cecil.
1594/5, Feb. 7. Innumerable are the most humble thanks I am bound to give unto you for the honourable favour you obtained me of her Majesty. Whereas the world doth imagine some controversy depending between your brother, Sir Thomas Cecil, and me for the time to come, which may hinder the good liking which otherwise your father and self might bear to me, I do offer to make you arbitrators and judges betwixt him and me, and whatsoever you shall command me in that behalf, I do bind myself to perform; whose favour may stand me in much greater stead that the damage I have hitherto sustained by that part of my house which he holdeth. How desirous I have been of the amity of your house, God himself doth know, and how I would endeavour myself to deserve it (if it would please you to take me into your protection) the world shall witness. Remember how transitory all human things are and how seldom or never good actions go unrequited, for though men are oftentimes ungrateful, yet God who is the everlasting perfection, remunerateth—From the Tower, 7 Feb. 1594.
Signed. ½ p. (25. 22.)
Sir Edward Norreys to the Earl of Essex.
1594/5, Feb. 7. Your lordship shall perceive by my letter to the lords of the Council that there is a new alarm of the enemy's coming before this place. Yet I am not of opinion that it will prove anything, only I am advertised that a prisoner of this garrison, to save his life, promised to show some places which would be very easily battered and entered, by reason of the new fortifications not half perfected. So that thereupon La Motte made great provision and sent men hither to discover the places, but now, they seeing we are ready to receive them, and provide[d] to prevent all inconveniences, I cannot believe that they will proceed any farther in it, for I do not think either their estate to be fit for such a siege, nor the place to be easily carried; yet will I be upon my guard, and omit nothing that I can advise fit to defend the place, and defer my desire to go into England until it be certainly known what will become of it.—Ostend, this 7 February, 1594.
Holograph. Seal. 1½ pp. (170. 95.)
David Williams, serjeant at law, to the Queen.
1594/5. Feb. 7. Prays for a lease in reversion of certain tithes and lands, in view of his sixteen years' service as the Queen's Attorney.—Undated.
Note by J. Herbert, that the Queen grants the petition.—Greenwich, 7 February, 1594.
1 p. (416.)
David Williams, serjeant at law, to Lord Burghley.
[1594/5, about Feb. 7.] In reward for his services as the Queen's Attorney in South Wales, her Majesty has granted him certain quilletts and parcels of lands in reversion. Prays Burghley to fix the fine and term.—Undated.
½ p. (422.)
Michael Stanhope to Sir Thomas Heneage, Knt., Vice Chamberlain and Chancellor of the Duchy.
[1594/5, Feb. 8.] Her Majesty upon the perusing of your letter willed me to signify that it doth not stand with her justice to have any of her subjects oppressed in that sort, and that the greater the person be that offers the wrong, the more necessary to have an exemplary punishment. And therefore her Highness's pleasure is that no stay be made unless it be with the gentleman's consent : nor doth she mind to lose the benefit of the fine due to her. These two things being regarded and well foreseen, her Highness, of her gracious disposition, could have been well pleased that so great a person might have been freed from open trial, but without this the matter to proceed.
Holograph. Undated. Endorsed :—“8 February 1594.” ½ p. (25. 21.)
The Queen to the Moslem Emperor.
1594/5, Feb. 9. Illustrissimus Transilvaniæ Vayvoda, Sigismundus, princeps nobis amicissimus, legatum ad nos cum litteris hiis diebus misit, quibus de ejus provinciæ statu nos certiores fecit petiitque ut ejus res, non mediocriter jam perturbatas apud imperialem vestram majestatem, intercessione nostra sublevaremus. Percrebuit enim apud omnes Europæ principes jam fama vestræ majestatis in nos benevolentiæ, quâ illi freti nostram suis rebus opem sæpe implorant. Hoc igitur nulla ratione ei negare potuimus cum propter veterem ejus familiæ erga nos amicitiæ conjunctionem tum propter eandem religionis Christianæ formam quam nobiscum colit, rejectâ Romani pontificis superstitione et imaginum culturâ.
Cum igitur is se et Transilvaniæ statum in nonnullis rebus per ministros vestros contra fœderis initi rationes, atque etiam præter majestatis vestræ beneplacitum, prægravari autumet, imperialem vestram majestatem etiam atque etiam rogamus ut ejus humillimis precibus excelsas aures vestras clementer accommodet, et auditis ejus querelis per idoneos homines, quos visum erit, remedium iis secundum legem et bonum adhibeat.
Quod, propter conformem ejus status nobiscum religionem et antiquam nostram cum ea familia amicitiam, et necessitudinem, ab imperiali vestra majestate toto animo vehementer expetimus.
Deus optimus maximus, cœli ac terræ conditor, majestatem vestram salvam et incolumem servet.
Datum e regia nostra civitate Londini, die mensis Februarii 9mo, anno Salvatoris nostri, Jesu Christi, 1594, regni vero nostri 36te.
Addressed :—“Musulmanico Imperatori.”
Copy. 1½ pp. (133. 120.)
Sir Edmund Uvedall to the Earl of Essex.
1594/5, Feb. 9. About eight days ago there passed into England one William Sterrell, an Englishman, who told me he was employed in these parts by your Honour; and understanding so much of him also by English merchants I let him pass. This present, I took in this town one John Gatacre, an Englishman, about whom I found a letter directed to the afore-named Sterrell, which letter and also Gatacre his confession I have herewith sent you, and when I shall find fit means I will send you Gatacre.—Flushing, 9 February, 1594.
Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (170. 96.)
M. Beauvoir la Nocle, French Ambassador, to the Earl of Essex.
1594/5, Feb. 9/19. Vous scavez en combien de sortes et combien de fois je vous ay recommandé le sieur Le Fort, present porteur, ayant recue de luy beaucoup de plaisirs en mon particulier et beaucoup de service pour les affaires du Roy. Cest pourquoy je suis contraint de vous importuner encores ce coup en sa faveur pour deux causes. La premiere est qu'on le veut troubler pour avoir faict vener des vins-d'Hespagne, desquelz on dit que les vaisseaux ne sont pas de gauge; ce n'est pas sa faulte. Ils prennent les vins en Hespagne telz qu'on leur donne, davantage il a bien et loyaument payé la coustume et si de plus il n'en a pas vendu encores une pinte. C'est pourquoy il me semble que celuy qui le veut troubler et l'a faict appeller a l'Exchesquer s'en doibt deporter, ce qu'il fera sans doubte s'il en a commandement de vous. La seconde est que vous luy veuilliez continuer vostre bonne faveur en une requeste qu'il presentera aujordhuy à Messieurs de Conseil, elle me semble de justice. C'est pourquoy je m'asseure que vous le favoriserez.—De Londres ce 19 Febvrier, 1595.
Signed. 1 p. (171. 84.)
The Attorney General (Sir Edward Coke) to John Stanhope.
[1594/5,] Feb. 10. By perusal of Marino de Grossie's will, I find he hath bequeathed great sums of money to monasteries and religious or rather irreligious houses in Italy. I am of opinion that it is not convenient that the treasure of her Highness's realm should be carried over and disposed to the members and ministers of the Pope, that is capitalis inimicus to our gracious Sovereign and country. There be also great sums of money to be disposed in operibus charitativis by his executors which I think it convenient should be employed in this realm for the benefit thereof (where he hath attained to this riches) and not beyond sea amongst the ministers and vassals of the Pope. Concerning the money he had beyond sea, let that (in God's name) be at the disposition of his executors to the performance of his will. Nicholas de Mensie is his executor, and Corsini his overseer. It were necessary to command them to stay these sums in their hands to be disposed as law and reason require.—10 Feb.
Holograph. No year. Endorsed :—“1594.” Seal. 1 p. (25. 23.)
Thomas Honiman to Sir Robert Cecil.
1594/5, Feb. 10. Sends the declaration of [Bernar. Caresana]. He told me of a letter that Griswell would have him bring from Don Juan Deydiaquez and then he would direct him the service that should be done in England. Discusses the man's good faith, etc.—London, 10 Feb., 1594.
Holograph. ½ p. (25. 25.)
Richard [Fletcher], Bishop of London, to Sir Robert Cecil.
[1594/5,] Feb. 11. As you have conceived and profess the endeavour of working my pardon with her Majesty, so I beseech you let me remember you thereof. This day I received from my Lord Buckhurst a sentence of much discomfort, that her Majesty's pleasure was that he should confer with my Lord of Canterbury about sequestrating me from my function of bishopric. If it be for marriage, it must be the cause of many, and then I trust my case will not prove singular. I am a most sorrowful man that I should so far offend that Majesty of whose gracious favour I have had so manifold experience. And surely I must needs confess that her Majesty's motive and prudent advice to me in that behalf should have been to me as an oracle from Heaven if that other oracle, Omnes non capiunt verbum hoc, had not enforced me to another resolution. My promise and vow, as it were, not to marry is especially pressed, where against, because it pleaseth her Highness to propound it, I neither dare nor may contest. But unto you I must say in the word of Christianity I remember it no farther than that I prayed that there might be no snare cast upon my conscience. I did not then meditate any such matter; but my marriage shall never be a hindrance to my painfulness in my function or a bar to anything required of a man of my vocation. And concerning my disavowing this particular match, bruited a quarter of a year since and coming to her Majesty's knowledge, it is most true that I so did; for at that present there had been neither motion nor intention to that purpose. But that very bruit wrought afterwards to this conclusion. I do much put myself upon your aid in this honourable occasion, as I do interpret it.—Chelsea, Feb. 11.
Holograph. No year. Endorsed :—“1594.” Seal. 1½ pp. (25. 26.)
Richard Topclyffe to Sir Robert Cecil.
1594/5, Feb. 11. In favour of a young man sent him by Lord Cobham, who came to his lordship from Brussels, of purpose to give knowledge, amongst other priests, of his own brother, come to England, a priest (with condition to have his brother's life saved), and what rancour he found in the hearts of Holte and others towards her sacred Majesty and his native country. Never found anyone he had a better liking to, or more trustworthy to live in the company of Father Holte, Stanley, Jacquess, and that rabble of traitors. He served at Brussels as an attendant of Holte and Stanley; he asks that he may have but twenty crowns, or what can be gotten. Durst adventure 100l. of his head, he shall earn a better recompense.—11 Feb., 1594.
Holograph. 1¼ pp. (25. 27.)
Sir Francis Vere to the Earl of Essex.
[1594/5,] Feb. 11. For that her Majesty resteth satisfied with my excuse, I do assure myself that your assistance was not wanting, for which I give you most humble thanks. The Lord Treasurer writeth also that the companies shall stay until these men have made answer to her demands, and then as she shall receive satisfaction she shall accordingly resolve concerning us. Of this have we very small hope, because these men, though never so well inclined, cannot perform what is expected from them without the overthrow of their present estate. It is true that now they have a large grant from the Provinces, but the same so disposed of that the want of any parcel would disorder their proceedings. Mr. Bodley shall have enough to do in the matter, and by him you will undertand ere long to what end things will be brought, for the States cannot make any long delay, the season growing on, and they yet have made small or no preparation, neither will they till this ambassage be answered. News are very small. Some places have been won by the Duc de Bouillon, of no great strength but of good service for him, Ivoys and La Ferte being passages over the river of Chier, and Montmedy a place of good receipt for his men of war. His success has been such as these men conceive hope of further good by that action. The Count Philip is continued there, and were these small towns reduced which are beyond the Rhine, it is not unlikely that they would make their chief war in those quarters of Luxembourg and Namur. The Government of Breda hath taken Huy, a fortress in Liege. It will serve wonderful conveniently for a passage to the Duc de Bouillon, and therefore, though it be no good prize, I think it shall not be rendered in haste.—Hague, 11 Feb.
Endorsed :—“1594.”
Holograph. 1½ pp. (25. 28.)
Lord Mountjoy to Sir Robert Cecil.
[1594/5,] Feb. 12. On the subject of a desired meeting at the Lord Treasurer's with the Earl of Essex and the Lord Admiral, to consider what the Queen would have done at Portsmouth.—12 Feb.
Endorsed :—“1594.”
Signed. Seal. ½ p. (25. 30.)
The Lord Keeper (Puckering) to Sir Robert Cecil.
1594/5, Feb. 12. Desires his presence at the hearing of the cause between Mr. Ayscough and my Lord of Lincoln, like to proceed to hearing to-morrow in the Star Chamber.—York House, 12 February 1594.
Signed. Seal. ¼ p. (25. 31.)
Sir John Fortescue to Sir Robert Cecil.
1594/5, Feb. 13. Having conferred with the Lord Treasurer thinks it most meet, if her Majesty shall agree, that a licence for 500 tuns of beer to be transported out of the port of London, be granted to such person as Cecil writes of.—From the Wardrobe, 13 Feb. 1594.
Signed. Seal. ¼ p. (25. 32.)
Col. Stewart's Instructions.
1594/5, Feb. 14. Des instructions données par sa Majesté d'Escosse a Sieur Guillaume Stewart, Chevalier d'Hounston et Commendador de Bittinweme, son Ambassadeur vers Messieurs les Estats Generaux des Provinces Unies du Pays Bas.
Apres avoir sallué fort affectueusement Messieurs les Estats Generaux, nos bons amis et confederes, vous signifierez le grand desire et affection que nous avons que l'amitié et mutuale correspondence de paix, de longue main contracté entre nos predecesseurs et ceux qui gouvernoyent pour lors, et depuis n'est gueres ratifié et approuvé par nous et les dits Estats, soit continuée et augmentée.
Vousleur declareres que sur la continuance des practises de l'Espagnole en seduisant un nombre de la noblesse du premier rang de notre royaume, descouvertes depuis deux ans, dont estoyent par vous mesmes advertis de notre part, nous n'avons sceu moins faire au regarde de leur commun interest, que leur monstrer de bonne heure la grandeur de leurs dangereusses dissains, tant enemie au repos de ceste isle en general que a leur estat en particulier, ne prognosticant autre chose que la totalle subversion de la religion et la ruine de tous nos estats, afin de nous rendre esclavs a leur tyrannie et extraordiner ambition, et establir leur seurtée es cendres de nos estats, comme leur frequentes messagis et argent envoyé de temps a autre temoignent suffisamment, si de bonne heure quelque propre remedé n'y soit applicqué.
Signifieres quel soing nous avons tousjours eu de totallement reprimer leur insolence depuis que leurs practiques nous ont esté primierement descouvertées, taschans directement et indirectement de remettir par tous moyens doulces et bonnes, les principaulx de la sedition a l'obeissance auquel ils sont tenus, et de ne se point meller plus des aucunes menées intestines et forrains, prejudiciant aucunement a la religion et repos de ceste isle; les asseurant si au contrair ils faisoyent, que nous serions contraints pour le respect de la commun cause de mettre a part tout affection au regarde de proximité de sangue, et enfin de proceder entre eulx par notre authorité royale en toute extrimité.
Enfin, ne voyant point d'apparence d'amendement en eux, vous leur notiferes qu'au tres instant desire de nostre tres chere et tres aymée soeur la Reine d'Angleterre, comme pareillement interessé avec nous par ses divers ambassadeurs, librement prometant son assistance en une si bon ouvre, nous estions plus volontiers esmues avecque plus grande celerité de faire la part d'un bon chirurgien, en rescindant du corps de notre bien publicque les membres tellement putrifiés, qui avoyent refusés auparavant d'estre gueries par les remedes tant honnestes qu'ordinaires, et non obstant que la sentence de forfaituer estoit donné contre eulx, ils ne laissirent pas de continuer leurs trahisons et se joindre avec nous autres tres ignomineux traiteurs, pour donner plus de rigueur et force a leur rebellion.
Vous leur signifieres aussi quelle diligence nous avons faict en dressant une armée pour reprimer l'insolence des dits papistes et leurs associats, et a rompre leur desseins, en poursuyvant leurs persones et rasant leurs maisons et chasteaulx, qui auparavant estoyant receptacles d'Espagnolises Jesuistes et prestres seminaires, a cette heure testimoines de leur unnatural rebellion contre nous, en distribuant aussi leurs heritages et terres aux autres et mettant a mort quelques uns de leurs dits associats.
Vous signifieres pareillement que non obstant ceste nostre severe procedure contre eux, toutesfois au regarde de la grandeur des principaux de la faction en pouvoir et amis, n'estans pour le present en mains, il est certainement a craindre qu'ils continueront leurs menées pour establir leur papale dominion, avecque la hazarde de la religion et ruine de nos estats, si ne soit par prévoyance et forces prevenus. Et ainsi, pour obvier a l'imminent danger en temps et heure, nous, par advis de nostre conseil, avons trouvé tres necessaire et expedient demander d'eulx, comme non moins interesses que nous, si l'Espagnole soit permis de mittre pied en terre en nos dominiones, le millieur advise, conseil et assistance le plus propre et suffisant pour la plus brief et bonne achevement de ceste ouvre si heureusement par nous commencée.
Demanderes aussi que, selon equité et raison et le traicté de paix entre nous et eux, tous nos subjets, sans exception, ayant le benefice de leur loix, et en quoi ils ont eté jusqu'ici damnifiés que doresenavant ils puissent avoir telle redresse que peut justement estre demandé. Vous ne fauldres pas de rapporter avecques vous la confirmation du traicté depuis n'est guère faicte entre nous et eux, tout ainsi qu' il estoit couché icy par éscript signé de nostre main, et seelé de notre grand seau en cire rouge, et que la dite confirmation soit seelle de leur grand seau. Voes faires effacer hors de leurs registres, si l'en est, la narrative de traicté que leurs Ambassadeurs derniers porterunt par deca en ces termes qu'il estoit premierement conceu.
Faict et exhibée le 14em de Feburier 1595. William Stewart.
Endorsed by Bodley. 2¼ pp. (30. 64.)
Thomas Bodley to the Earl of Essex.
1594/5, Feb. 14. Since I sent you my last, the 5th of this present, I have spoken with Colonel Stuart, who hath signified unto me as much as I have written unto my lord Treasurer. Methinks it is apparent by the general confession of the causes of his coming that his errand tends to that your Lordship knows already; wherein I am confirmed by some talk that I have had with Colonel Murray, who is Colonel of the Scottish regiment in these countries, a gentleman of a chief family in Scotland, well informed of the state of his country, and to me in particular a very good friend, but nothing well affected to Colonel Stuart, for which he hath been the freer in delivering his mind. He assureth me that Stuart is employed in this message at his own earnest suit, and by means and friendship of the Chancellor, for that the King was unwilling and had no liking unto him, insomuch as he supposeth, and so it is written by his friends unto him, that either the charge of his voyage is borne by himself, or partly by himself and in part by the Earl of Orkney, in whose behalf he hath to deal for Count Maurice's sister. He telleth me also, that although he knoweth not so much by Stuart himself, yet he hath advertisement by letters out of Scotland, that Stuart is willed to intreat for 1,000 foot and 500 horse for six months, or rather for a sum of money for the levy and pay of so many men. But as for men, saith he, they are not here to be had, nor he saw no likelihood of obtaining the money, and though it should be delivered, there were such about the King as would practise to get it, and presently convert it to their private uses. For where it is pretended that it shall be employed against the Earl Huntley and his associates, he made no manner of doubt that if the King were so disposed, he might of himself subdue them out of hand. But it is the counsel, he saith, of some about him, and especially of the Chancellor, that things should be carried in that kind to see if Her Majesty, for fear of the sequel, will yield the King to his demands some better satisfaction. Howbeit, he is advertised from the Earl Mar, who writeth often to him, that there is a plot laid for displacing the Chancellor, with the King's good liking. This I have written to your lordship alone, because I would not, with my will, that the name of Colonel Murray should come in any question through his speeches to me.—From the Hague, Feb. 14, 1594.
Holograph. 2 pp. (170. 97.)
W. [Chaderton,] Bishop of Chester, to Sir Robert Cecil.
1594/5, Feb. 14. Postquam mihi renunciatum fuit, honorate Cecili, me plane ignarum tuæ, erga me, pietatis, atque officii, pluribus, iisdemque amplioribus meritis abs te cumulari, quam vel expectare, vel sperare possem a tan to viro. Primum quidem mihi ipsi, non tam alicujus emolumenti, aut dignitatis, quam amoris, ac studii, in me, tui nomine gratulabar. Deinde quoniam tantam tuam, tamque honorificam humanitatem, ac benevolentiam neque animo complecti me posse video, neque promereri : quod restabat, non arbitrabar esse prætermittendum; ut tibi, quas possum maximas, pro tua immensa, atque incredibili pietate gratias agam; teque mihi proponam, quem eadem, qua sapientissimum, ac clarissimum virum patrem tuum multos jam annos complexus sum, fide, officio, atque observantia, perpetuo colam; vehementer te rogans, ut quod cœpisti, illud tua authoritate perficias. Nemo enim est quem Regia Majestas vel magis diligat, aut cui in secretioribus, ac gravioribus regni negotiis plus credat. Deus optimus maximus te honorificentissimo patri tuo patremque tuum tibi, utrosque vero reipublicæ ac bonis omnibus ad summam usque senectutem servet incolumes, ut laboribus ac consiliis vestris fœlicissimis perfruamur.—Mancestriæ; 16 Calend, Martii 1594.
Signed: W. Cestren. Punctuated as in the original. Seal.
½ p. (170. 98.)
[Thomas Bodley] to Lord Burghley.
[1594/5,] Feb. 14. Upon conference with Mr. Barnevelt and others to advance his service, sees her Majesty's message troubles them exceedingly : they seem very loth to return a naked answer, and plead inability to give her good content. Their greatest doubt is whether in this conjuncture, both with them and the enemy and those that endeavour to draw them to a peace, considering also this year's contribution is not accorded by the Provinces, it were convenient to impart to the people her Majesty's demands. For they say they can do nothing without their approbation for contenting her, and to publish her demands they hold very dangerous in this present concurrence. They have been often together upon it, but are at no conclusion. Expects every day some to come in conference with him, and by that shall guess how they will frame their present answer and what success in the end he is like to have.
Colonel Stewart has been with him and declared his coming to the States is, first, to renew an alliance between the King and them; secondly, to acquaint them with the present estate of Scotland; and lastly, to request their advice together with their succour. This he pretends to be a course the King is forced to take; for since he cannot be supported by the Queen of England, by whom he saw his estate but slenderly regarded, to whom should he seek but to these Provinces? Through those discourses he received of Sir Robert Cecil was stored with good matter to answer his complaint, which he uttered without passion and with dutiful words of respect for her Majesty. Saw by that little, and by other conjectures, that Stewart used other phrases in other company. Has done what he can to feel the States' disposition to gratify the King, but cannot yet perceive they are bent thereunto; not for want of affection (undoubtedly they are that way forward), but if they will relieve him it must be only with money (for men they cannot spare), which if they had or could devise to come by, doubts not some good portion would be granted her Highness; and to content the King besides there is no manner of probability. It is signified to him by the Colonel that to straiten the league between the King and these countries, he hath in charge to motion a match between the Earl of Orkney and Lady Emilia, Count Maurice's sister; which he hears them say is labour lost, for the Earl's dwelling is far off, and it is said he hath no assurance of the Orcades because they have been claimed by the Kings of Denmark, and it was a late speech of the Queen of Scotland that she hoped her son should enjoy those Isles. For his lordship's letter of 25th ult. putting him in mind of the suit of the Merchants Adventurers about the taring of their cloths, and the abuse of those of Middleburgh about the currency of their moneys, has dealt in the latter point there and at Middleburg, and it was carefully followed by Mr. Gilpin before, who will certify what reformation is intended by the States. For the former, watches an opportunity to recommend it; now is certain he should come out of season to cause them to assemble for a matter of that quality. As to the numbers remaining of the English regiment in the States' pay, their commissary, by whom they were mustered very lately, reckoned 900 or more very able and soldierlike men; of the residue, many are run away, many gone with licence, and divers consumed with sickness and in service. Are no longer in doubt that the castle and town of Huy or Hoy in Luycke are surprised and kept with 600 foot and 200 horse, Harawguieres, Governor of Breda, commanding in the castle. If the place be so strong as reported, or can be strengthened by art and industry, situate as it is upon so famous a river and in the midst of so many rich provinces, it will be brought to yield a large revenue by new contributions and impositions that may be raised upon the country and river. Moreover the passage between the enemy and Italy will now in a manner be closed clean up, the sooner through the Duke of Bouillon's aid, who hath his army there within 16 Dutch miles. It is thought the taking of this place will cause a great alteration in the actions of that country; hopes it will advance his negotiation. The defeat of their horse has been verified, but there were but four cornets in all, and they have lost but 70 horse. The States purpose, if they find Huy strong and tenable, to take and fortify some place midway between it and Breda, which will add a great assurance to the holding of the town and do the enemy more annoyance. The bishop of Liege has sent ambassadors to expostulate this taking of Huy, being a neutral place, but they have had no audience yet.
The Scottish King has commissioned the consul of the Scottish merchants in Tervere in Zeeland, to continue as his ambassador ligger with the States. His name is Robert Denniston. The States' agent in Scotland advertises that the King there of late has set his moneys at a higher rate than their value, and has procured by his merchants out of Zeeland 10,000l. to be conveyed unto him in coin, which some interpret to be a special token of a great alteration like to ensue.
Endorsed :—“Copy of my letter to my Lord Treasurer, February 14.”
[Birch's Memorials, i. 207, 208.]
pp. (171. 81.)
Charles de Tassy to Lord Cobham.
1594/5, Feb. 15/25. As the ordinary couriers from London for this town and hence to London can no longer pass by Calais by reason of the prohibition there published of all commodity and traffic with this country, which is to the discommodity of the merchants of both places, whose letters are delayed by the necessity of sending them through Holland, by which route the courier, Gaspar de Ferard, is now proceeding with the ordinary letters; he sends this letter to request his good offices in causing Her Majesty to move the Governor of Calais to allow letters to pass through that port, as well for the merchants as for the poor couriers, who have no other means to provide subsistence for their wives and children.—Antwerp, 25 February, 1595.
Holograph. French. 1 p. (23. 66.)
Matthew [Hutton], Bishop of Durham, to Sir Robert Cecil.
1594/5, Feb. 16. Relative to his election to be Archbishop of York on the 14th inst. in accordance with the congé d'elire, which election the Dean and Chapter now send up for the Royal Assent. Expresses his obligations to Cecil and his father.—Auckland, 16 Feb., 1594.
Signed. ½ p. (25. 34.)
Mons. de Sancy to the Earl of Essex.
1594/5, Feb. 16/26. Encores que vous m'ayez donné l'addresse à Monsieur de Sidnay, si n'ai-je voulu laisser partir ce porteur sans vous donner advis par luy de sa depesche, qui vous donner amoyen, aymant le Roy comme vous faictes, tesmoigner qu'il aime la Reyne sincerement, et son estat. Car vous descouvrirez par ceste depesche choses aussy importantes à l'Angleterre que vous en ayez encores descouvert. On nous donne advis de toutes parts que vous sollicitez l'Espaignol et ses ministres de paix. Vous pouvez avoir pareille jalousie de nous, encores que par une aultre depesche que ce porteur vous communiquera, vous puissiez voir que nous en sommes recherchés et ne tiendra qu'à nous que nous ne l'ayons. Mais pour oster touts ces ombrages, tenez la main, au nom de Dieu, à ce qu'au plustost il soit faict une bonne ligue, offensive et defensive, entre ces deux royaumes, de personne à personne et royaume à royaume. Nous aurons la paix tant plus advantageuse de notre ennemy commun quand il nous verra bien estroictement unis, si nous la voulons avoir; et aurons cependant bien plus de moyen de l'attacquer. Jusques à ce que cela soit faict, il ne cessera de jecter des semences de jalousie entre nous. Vous ne pouvez avoir de plus seurs amys que nous, ny de qui la grandeur vous puisse estre moins suspecte. Le Roy n'a point d'enfants à notre grand regret; et semble que ses prosperites apprestent plus de repos pour l'Angleterre que pour la France. La depesche que vous porte ce porteur vous fera cognoistre que notre commun ennemy a plus de dessein sur votre ruyne que sur la notre. Neantmoins, nous ne refuserons aulcune condition raisonnable d'une bonne ligue, tant contre luy que contre nos aultres ennemys. Nous n'en avons point d'aultre que luy; mais nous tiendrons touts vos ennemys pour les notres. Cest entreprise est digne de vous : j'y apporterai de deça tout ce qui sera en moy. Je m'asseure que vous ne vous en repentirez point. J'attendray sur cela de vos nouvelles et vos commandements en tout ce qu'il vous plaira me les despartir, vous suppliant me conserver aux bonnes graces de la Royne.—De Parys, ce 26 Fevrier, 1595.
Holograph. 2 pp. (171. 102.)
George Margitts to Sir Robert Cecil.
1594/5, Feb. 17. Giving information of an opportunity for a profitable exchange of lands in the west of England. Has another principal card, lying in the deck, of very good value and commendation—he means, well pleasing to the Commons. Would willingly have it pulled out by Cecil.—Stratford at Bow, 17 Feb., 1594.
Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (25. 36.)
The Lord Mayor of London (John Spencer) to Sir Robert Cecil.
1594/5, Feb. 18. Touching the loan of such sums of money as belong to the heir of Sir Cuthbert Buckle, the disposition resting not in myself alone, I propounded your request to my brethren, the aldermen, in very earnest and effectual sort, whom I found very willing. Some part was bestowed upon certain of the citizens shortly after Sir Cuthbert's decease—but what is remaining, 1500l. or thereabouts, I have given order to be searched out and to be informed at our next Court, when a letter directed to the aldermen as well as myself will further the accomplishment of your desire.—London, 18 Feb., 1594.
Holograph. Impression of seal loose. ½ p. (25. 39.)
W. Waad to the Earl of Essex and Sir Robert Cecil.
1594/5, Feb. 18. I find the Italian committed unto me to be either somewhat troubled in his wits or very simple. I doubt he is no Italian unless he be of Naples. Pedro Furtado doth judge him to be a Spaniard. His carriage showeth great folly and vanity. He is desirous to speak with the Italian Minister who may easily discover his humour and whether he be a Savoyard. He hath served in the Low Countries, as he himself doth say, ever since he was 20 years of age and hath been four years in Spain. I never saw any man fuller of words and to no purpose. All that I can get of him is that finding a desire in himself to do some service that might deserve commendation, the Jesuits did persuade him that the best and shortest course was to undertake to kill her Majesty, and that Father Creswell, an English Jesuit at Seville, did deal with him to that effect, whereupon he did present to Don Juan d'Idiaques a memorial offering thereby to do any service, but had no-answer but commendations for his forwardness.—From my house in Wood Street, 18 Feb., 1594.
Endorsed:—“Bern. Caresana examined.”
Signed. 1½ pp. (25. 53.)
Dr. William Whitaker to Sir Robert Cecil.
1594/5, Feb. 19. Inviting him to stay at his lodging, “but mean,” during his approaching visit to Cambridge.—St. John's, Feb. 19, 1594.
Holograph. Seal. ½ p. (25. 40.)
The Lord Mayor and Aldermen of London to Sir Robert Cecil.
1594/5, Feb. 20. As to the loan of the money pertaining to the heir of Sir Cuthbert Buckle. Find that it was wholly committed into the hands of certain honest and substantial citizens in November last, done thus expeditiously because the money was to rest in the hands of two very young men, executors to the wife of Sir Cuthbert, being herself but an executor.—London, 20 Feb., 1594.
Signed by the Mayor and Aldermen. Seal. 1 p. (25. 42.)
George Smythe to Mr. Beestone.
1594/5, Feb. 20. Relative to certain charges upon a moiety of a tenement in Whimpell, called Barnhouse, in Devon, which he purchased from Sir Robert Cecil for 130l.—From my lodgings in Milk Street, 20 Feb., 1594.
Holograph. 1 p. (25. 43.)
Martin Trott to Sir Robert Cecil.
1594/5, Feb. 21. A letter of recommendation for the bearer.—London, 21 Feb., 1594.
Holograph. Seal. ½ p. (25. 45.)
Lord Zouche to Sir Robert Cecil.
1594/5, Feb. 21. Having understood from Lady Laighton how favourably Cecil dealt with her Majesty in his behalf, writes to thank him, etc.—Hackney, 21 Feb., 1594.
Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (25. 46.)
W. Waad to the Earl of Essex and Sir Robert Cecil.
1594/5, Feb. 21. I caused the Italian Minister to speak with the prisoner in my house, who is not able to discover of what country he is by his tongue, but by his writing he should be an Italian. Those things he doth set down in writing are as fabulous as his speech, which is tedious and foolish. I beseech I may be rid of him.—From my house in Wood Street, 21 Feb. 1594.
Endorsed : “Concerning one Caresana, an Italian.”
Holograph. ½ p. (25. 47.)
Captain Amyas Preston to Sir Robert Cecil.
1594/5, Feb. 22. I understand by my brother, Hugh Preston, that you made a doubt of my going to sea with Sir Walter Rawleigh, for that it was generally given out to the contrary. If my business had been in any reasonable forwardness (as it was altogether imperfect at his departure) I would not have been an inch behind, as well to satisfy your intent herein, as for the better performance of matters already determined. Yet nevertheless (if God permit) we shall meet again at a place appointed, where I know he doth earnestly expect my coming, and have his directions to that effect. I have here four ships and a pinnace, and am able to land 300 strong, and will by all means possible find him forth as soon as wind and weather give me leave to proceed forward.—Plymouth, 22 Feb., 1594.
Signed. Seal. 1 p. (25. 48.)
Thomas Bodley to the Earl of Essex.
1594/5, Feb. 22. Besides that which I have written unto my lord Treasurer, whereof I send the copy to your lordship herewith, I have asked other matter to signify presently. Colonel Murray, though he bear the affection of a dutiful subject to the King of Scots, and doth rely very much upon his favour unto him, yet he makes it a clear case, that if this succour of money, which Colonel Stuart doth require, shall be drawn from the States, it will be wholly divided among some about the King; being such as partly need it, and partly, as the Chancellor that have lent unto the King. And therefore, as a practice by abusing the King to make their private benefit, he would not willingly have it speed. Still he doth persist in his former assertion, and affirmeth upon knowledge that the King hath no need of any such aid as the States are made believe. For were it so that it were his desire, or that it had been heretofore, to suppress those Earls of his country, they had either been taken or slain or chased out of Scotland a great while ago. But what cause he allegeth, why it is not effected, I shewed your lordship in my last. It were too long to hold your lordship with rehearsal of discouses which I have had with divers persons, and with Barneveldt in special, about the Scottish demands, but though I find them very forward to gratify the King, yet I hope I have obtained by way of good persuasions, and intimation of some perils, that they will neither take his part in any dangerous practice, nor second him otherwise in any action at all, if it be of importance, unless they notify the same to Her Majesty before.—The Hague, Feb. 22, 1594.
Holograph. Seal. 1 p.
Encloses :
Thomas Bodley to Lord Burghley.
1594/5, Feb. 22. To that effect that I writ the 14th of this month, there have been certain deputed in the meeting of the States to come in conference with me about my proposition, and this they have delivered from the rest of the assembly : that they were greatly perplexed through those demands of restitution, not knowing how to frame the course of their proceeding. For though they cannot but acknowledge, and do it most willingly, that through Her Majesty's succours, next to God, they are in far better state of security and assurance than they have been heretofore for many years together, yet they have not attained to that ability and power as they can therewithal discharge their debts unto Her Majesty. They allege many lets, but nothing so much as the intolerable burden of their extraordinary subsidies, which have grown upon them more and more, for these four or five years; and are raised of late to a very high sum, occasioned in part by their offensive exploits, and partly by their often and chargeable relieving of the French King in his manifold distresses. By reason whereof, they do infer that the chief contributing Provinces are far in arrearages, and pay excessive sums of money for the use of that they have borrowed. And though it might be surmised that they have aided the King, not so much in regard of his urgent necessity, as de gaieté de cœur, and to win his affection, for hidden respects, yet they protest thereupon with very great vehemency, that they were evermore far from any such jollity and would not have him to enjoy a foot of ground in their country. For that which drew them on to help and assist him was the general consideration of his condition, and their own : and they made this account, that for as much as Her Highness did support him with her forces, if they in like manner should strain their estate to uphold him a little, it would both be a means to save him from falling, and to divert the enemy from themselves : whereas, otherwise, if those of the League had prevailed against him, these Provinces at last must have borne alone the weight of these wars, and then been subject in the end, and Her Majesty no less to an apparent great number of most perilous inconveniences. And whereas it may be argued that their late reduction of so many good towns hath both greatly assured the state of these Provinces and richly augmented their general means, whereby they are enabled to some portion of reimbursement, they make remonstrance to the contrary, that in every of those Provinces they have rather been surcharged than anything eased hitherto; and that by reason of the excessive charges of new garrisons, of necessary reparations, fortifications, and other extraordinary occasions, and because the boors' contribution is very little bettered of that it was in former times. Moreover they say they find it in debating very doubtful and dangerous, in what sort they should proceed for the answering of Her Highness to my proposition; for in a matter of that quality to make a resolute answer, without the privity and good liking of the Provinces and people, they dare not of themselves, and it will not stand for good, and then, to acquaint the vulgar sort with Her Majesty's demands were to make it also known to all the enemy's Provinces, and so to all men in general; whereupon it would be bruited that Her Highness hath withdrawn her accustomed assistance, and hath required present payment of her monies disbursed, which they are mightily all afraid would turn very quickly to their infinite detriment, as well for that the enemy, who is now in all appearance at a very great after deal, will be heartened thereby, and put in practice new designs, and multiply his forces by all possible means, as because, on the other side, the people of these countries will be cast down in courage, and despair of withstanding the puissance of the Spaniard. For where they might have hoped after so many years' endeavours, so large contributions, and so many late victories to reap some solace and ease of their burdens and travails, if now they should perceive that for many years hereafter, their taxes and exactions will fall a great deal more heavy than they have been heretofore, first by means of their ordinary and extraordinary charges of the wars, and then by the loss of Her Majesty's forces, and most of all by this reinbursement, it were very greatly to be doubted that they will run a wrong course in the heat of their dislike. For that is that which they affirm to be a principal cause of their late entertaining of this English regiment, that the actions of their wars might be countenanced always with the name and opinion and report of assistance continued to them by Her Highness, in so much as they pretend that for the most the meaner multitude are no otherwise yet informed but that they serve as a part of auxiliary forces, and are in pay of Her Majesty, so as always they have found in all the time of these troubles that they have not only made wars and annoyed the enemy, with the aid of men and money, but with very opinions and conceits that they were favoured and protected by the greatness of Her Majesty.
These things thus delivered, they said they were also charged to participate unto me the Scottish King's letter, and his request by Colonel Stewart, whereof they told me the contents, and then read the letter to me, and the Colonel's instructions, translated into French, which I send here enclosed, copied truly by the originals. Their speech unto me upon it was this in substance, that they for themselves were nothing well instructed of the state of the King, nor of those proceedings of his rebels, but if it were so as those writings imported, and they had further understood by the Colonel's relation, there was great occasion offered to move Her Majesty and them, and as many as are embarked in this common cause together, to heed it in good season, and to afford the King a round assistance. For sith the enemy sped no better in his former attempts, all men might conjecture that he would not let slip a fit opportunity to make a breach by Scotland for the assaulting of England, and so to compass all at ease, both here and in France, all his other designs. For their own parts, they for their ability would be willing to do anything to meet with those dangers, not stirred unto it, as some men might imagine, for some secret purpose, but only in regard of the general cause, which provoked them at first to assist the King of France, and doth move them at this time to tender the estate of the Scottish King, and if Her Highness, in her Irish commotions, should have any kind of need to use their means or service there, they would stretch their strength to the uttermost to accomplish her desires. And this they uttered with words of great assurance and earnestness. They concluded, in fine, that first for the matter of re-imbursement they would lay their allegations open to Her Highness before such time as they would publish her message to the Provinces, and would beseech her to balance the weight of their reasons with her princely consideration. They expected within a seven night the coming of the deputies of Gueldres and Overeisel, who were busied in those quarters in persuading the people to this year's contribution. As soon as they were returned, I should presently receive their answer in writing. They prayed me the while to intimate so much by letter to Her Majesty, lest perhaps it should be deemed that they have an intention to use some delay.
And then secondly, they requested me in the name of the States, sith they could not well determine what course to embrace in the foresaid motion of the King of Scots, that I in that respect would frankly communicate my counsel unto them, to wit, what I thought would best accord, both with Her Majesty's acceptance and the pleasuring of the King, because it was their full desire to proceed in those actions with good correspondence and not otherwise. I made my answer to this effect, that as touching those points which they had proposed, to manifest first their want and inability to satisfy Her Majesty, and then the danger of dealing with the people therein, they might very well presume that Her Highness had examined those reasons already, and that their Agent in England had pleaded them often, and that she thought them insufficient to dissuade her from her purpose. For where they do complain that the annual burden of their extraordinary contributions, doth lie so heavy upon the country, it easy to demonstrate that the country was in case to perform a greater matter. They have now in contribution, which they had not heretofore when they treated with Her Majesty, the greatest part of Brabant and Flanders, the Ommelandes, the Drent, Twent, Linghen, the lands of Limburg and Valkemburg, and sundry other quarters, which yield them every month a very rich revenue; besides that Guelderland and Zutphen and all Overyssel do pay a far greater subsidy than in former times. They are also enriched by reason of their imposts in towns lately taken, as in Nimeguen, Zutphen, Deventer, Steenwick, Breda, Holst, Steenbergen, Groningen, with other forts and places of special importance. Moreover they have had of late years a wonderful augmentation of their customs and tolls, by means of their fishing and traffic by sea, which was never so great as it is at this present, nor this country was never so full of inhabitants, nor frequented of foreigners, so as hardly houses in most places can be hired for money. These were evident and known means, as there were many more besides, to shew the wealth of these countries, that if the revenues thereof be not greater than the charges, yet no doubt they are equivalent. They could not judge otherwise, howsoever some discoursed, but that Her Majesty both spoke and thought very honouring of their succours sent for France. Nevertheless it is a great presumption that it comes of great abundance when any country shall make war, and win upon the enemy, and yet spare of their stores to help other Princes. For which Her Highness had good cause, after so many years' aid, the consumption of so much treasure, and the loss of the lives of so many of her subjects for defence of these countries, to call for restitution. But how much she would demand to be presently restored, I could not say upon certainty, though I thought it might be less than they peradventure make account. For so that order might be taken for good payment hereafter, it would suffice for the present, by some little good beginning, to shew their thankful inclination to give her good satisfaction. And where they made it a question, whether it were expedient, as their present state standeth, to impart so much unto the people, it did but carry a show of a dilatory answer. For Her Majesty's demand was justly made, and kindly presented, and if the Deputies of the Provinces would accompany the same with such kind of persuasions, as they knew in their wisdoms how to appropriate, it would either be accorded, or nothing ill interpreted.
As concerning those affairs which Colonel Stewart did negotiate, it was out of my commission to say anything unto them, and for aught I could conjecture they were unsignified to Her Majesty, and therefore, if they pleased to accept of my advice as privately given and not otherwise, I knew not how they could do better, than to write unto her of it, and to crave her good direction; as also for hereafter, not to deal with that country in any cause of consequence but with Her Majesty's foreknowledge and with continual correspondence. My answer herein, and the rest of my speeches to the point of restitution, they promised to signify in their public assembly, seeming every way to me to allow of my advice as fit for them to follow for the matters of Scotland. Colonel Stewart in private communication has entreated me to further his message to the States, declaring how near it concerned Her Majesty as well as the King, and that questionless my service would be grateful to them both, with other pertinent inducements. Upon which I enquired whether the King had imparted that matter to Her Majesty. His answer was that Her Highness was acquainted with the state of the King, and saw he should be forced to crave the aid of his friends, for which she could not but allow of his proposal to the States; but yet, otherwise also, he thought that she knew it long ago. Whereunto I replied, that I was sure she had notice of his public employment before I came out of England, but that I did verily believe that his errand to this people was unknown to Her Highness. Howsoever it were, not having had in charge to deal in his affairs, I was to pray him to excuse me if I were not very forward, only this I would promise, that if the States by way of talk should happen to ask me, I would wish them to write and take advice of her Majesty, and that for many respects, but most of all, to prevent misconstructions and jealousies. For he knew well enough that neighbours, princes though they live in good amity, will conceive a little jealousy, of one another's actions; and whether Her Majesty, now in this present case, all kind of circumstances weighed, which I would leave to his discretion to examine thoroughly, might not think somewhat strange of the King's proceedings, and more peradventure of the States if they should yield to his demands and never ask any question of Her Majesty's liking, he himself might be judge. As for me, my endeavours should tend to do good offices, and there could not be a better, to my little insight, than to minister all occasions of mutual intelligence between Her Majesty and them and the States of these countries. I cannot tell very well how he liked of my counsel, but yet “my thought” but indifferently. Nevertheless, he bare me in hand that both it pleased him well and he would presently despatch to move the King and the Chancellor to address to that effect some letters to Her Majesty, which he also affirmed to be required by the States, whose remonstrance unto him was chiefly directed to show how much it would please the generality here to understand that the King would frame himself in all his purposes to give Her Majesty good contentment.
I had this talk with Colonel Stewart somewhat after that I had spoken with those that were sent from the States unto me, who, as I am persuaded, told him presently upon it what I had signified unto them, with such token of approbation as it caused him the sooner to yield to me in my former speech. Being asked since of a friend, how he went forward with his suit, he said he could not tell, for that he found himself crossed; whether he meant it of me, I am not certain, but I suspect it by divers conjectures. I am told by some about him that he hath promised to bring 10,000 Scots to serve against the Turk, if the Princes of Germany will give him entertainment, for which he and his friends are earnest solicitors, and as I am informed have a grant in a manner, so that now he doth but treat about the assurance of his pay, for which he requireth bonds of some of the Hanse towns.
Of the death of Ernestus I think your Lordship hath notice, and had it as soon as we in this place, because our first intelligence came by letters out of Zealand. It giveth occasion of much discoursing, whether, every thing considered, it will prove beneficial or hurtful to this country; but the most are glad of it, and they take it for a blessing, the rather for that it comes in a time when the mutinied Italians are discontented afresh, and others since have begun to follow their example in divers places of the frontiers, besides that everywhere we hear, that as well the Commons as nobility were never more distasted of the Spanish Government. Such opportunities as these are not offered oftentimes to ruin downright such an enemy as the Spaniard, and if the power of this people were but half so much more as it is at this present, they would think to effect it in very short time. That which I advertised in my last to your lordship, of the carriage of money out of Zealand into Scotland, was signified unto me by one of the States, but enquiring of it since it hath been told me by others, that the money was taken up in royals of plate by the merchants of the Mint, to whom the minting of money is farmed in Scotland, and that it was for their own use. February 22.
Endorsed :—“Copy of my letter to my Lord Treasurer February 22, 1594.” (170. 101.)
7 pp.
Sir Edward Norreys to the Earl of Essex.
[1594/5, Feb. 23.] Since my last, which by contrary winds hath been long kept from your lordship, it seemeth that the state of these parts is greatly altered, for the taking of Hoey and the French incursions on all parts do wonderfully arouse the whole land. They do gather to recover Hoey, and the Bishop of Liege doth raise an army to assist them, but the death of Ernest and the discontent of the nobility under the new governor, Count Fuentes, will cause little good success, as it is thought, the rather because of a new mutiny of Spaniards, not far from Dunkirk, which are said to be twelve hundred.
They are also fain to send forces against the Turk, whom they fear greatly this summer both at Vieme and Sigatt. The Count Maurice his camp also is greatly feared in these frontiers, and if better order come not out of Spain than this country itself is like to yield, the King of Spain's greatness here will not be so terrible to his neighbours as it hath been. I cannot learn that the whole land is able to make 10,000 men, and these very raw soldiers, and many frontiers to keep, so that they are almost at their wits' end, for the dearth and poverty is very great amongst them. As summer comes on, we shall be able to give some more assured judgment.—Ostend, 23 Feb., 1594.
Holograph. Seal. 2 pp. (170. 106.)
Lord Hunsdon, Lord Chamberlain, and Sir Robert Cecil to the Earl of Pembroke.
[1594/5, Feb. 24.] With regard to the controversy between you and Sir Henry Barkley about Norwood Park, whereof the Earl of Essex hath the grant from the Queen, her Majesty can in no sort allow of an extreme course to be taken by you against the gent., it being far from her meaning that any should (by any second gift of hers) get an advantage to the prejudice of anything formerly bestowed upon so good consideration as the lease of that park was, being only given in recompense of his father's service. Therefore if you have gone through with the Earl of Essex for his estate, which the world may suspect you did the rather enter into in regard of former unkindnesses between you and Sir Hen. Barkley, seeing the gent. pretendeth that he hath made so many large and reasonable offers of composition, it behoves you (even in honour and conscience) to take what shall be reasonable of him who only desires to buy his quiet, rather than by any hope of taking advantage by her Majesty's second grant to molest and trouble him in his estate long since given by herself, a course which she neither can nor will allow to any, especially to such a gent., well born and of good credit and reputation in his country. Having written this by her Majesty's direction, we must entreat some answer with as much speed as conveniently you may.—From the Court at St. James', 24 Feb., 1594.
Signed. Seal. 1 p. (25. 50.)
Dowager Lady Russell to her nephew, Sir Robert Cecil.
[1594/5, Feb. 24.] I trust your divinity stretcheth not so far as to think any man bound in conscience to impair his own estate to the good of others and to his own disgrace : by commandment of her Majesty, if he should remove to his own detriment for others' benefits, I would think it hard for the recompense of his so many years' service in being so godly and worthy a labourer in God's vineyard, and I dare affirm him to have been as learned and good a preacher as any hath been of his time, and more fit for counsellor than either Burne, Boxall, or Whitgift. But since your father and you set so slightly by so grave and worthy an old servant, of more worth than as you write, I have done. I desired that he might have been of London, which happening not, your father in his wisdom set down with his own hand and nominated him to Durham, wherein more than your young experience perhaps yet thinketh on, he, I say again, in his great wisdom, without offence to any, discharged himself with nominating Day to Durham, to be free from anything may happen hereafter in her Majesty's service there, contrary to her Majesty's good by Matthew's working head more to the contentment of some private man's humour than will in end fall out perhaps to the good of her Majesty's service—wherein, as your good friend also, I wish you to be no doer for fear of afterclaps by her Majesty's indignation. For when my lord, your father, set down Day for Durham it might have been an oracle to you to think that there had been great difference, and Day more fit for Durham than Matthew for the good of the Queen's service in the Scottish banks. But quœ supra nos nihil ad nos, but in my love to yourself. By the holy God I never yet found Day willing to remove for to be Bishop of Worcester, nor, I think, will not, on my faith, without “anm ersbisiop.”
Endorsed :—“24 Feb., 1594.”
Holograph. 1 p. (25. 51.)
Thomas Bodley to the Earl of Essex.
1594/5, Feb. 26. I send you the copies of two intercepted letters, having also sent the like unto my Lord Treasurer. They were sent from Brussels to Rome, and written by one William Creytton, a Scottish Jesuit, a man of credit and experience, and the chiefest plotter, as I have heard, of these troubles in Scotland. One of the letters is addressed to Cardinal Caetan, and the other to the General of the Jesuits. Thomas Tyrie, who is thought to be the man that can do them so much good, is nephew to James Tyrie, in time past a famous professor among the Jesuits of Paris, but now abiding in Rome. The lord Humes and the wife of Thomas Tyrie are brother and sister's children.—From the Hague, Feb. 26, 1594.
Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (170. 108.)
The Enclosures :
(1.) 1594/5, Feb. 10. William Crytton to James Tyrie, at Rome. Heri reversus Duaco accepi litter as vestras datas 15 Januarii. A patre Gordonio nihil adhuc accepimus, et timeo ne quicquam accipiamus donec ipsemet revertatur, ut scribit ex Hispania M. Valterus Lindsey. Non est mirum Vestram Reverentiam esse perplexam, et incerta istue scribi quia hic oppugnat omnia quœ a nostris agantur 169, et quamvis omnia quœ dicit sunt plena mendaciis et calumniis, tamen habet plus fidei apud 582 quam nos qui sincere agimus, et apud 584 plus habet fidei 582 quam nos, et per consequens apud 181. Est flagellum Dei quo castigantur peccata nostra, nec est mirum quod pater Gordonus parum promoveat negotia : putabat n. se reperturum omnia in ea dispositione in qua ea reliquit, sed omnibus in tantis turbis constitutis, non fuit illi liberum discedere a suo nepote, nec potuit ire ut tractaret cum eis a quibus omnia pendent. Prœter, ut novit R[everentia] V[estra], est pusillanimis, et quamvis pacifico tempore sit bonus, tamen in talibus tempestatibus est animo prorsus prosternato. Sepius jam scripsi ut mitteretur Ruus. Vasionen', sed timeo ne 200 impediat, qui multum est a consiliis 582, et habent aliquam sympathiam ut neuter sit valde aut discretus aut secretus. Et nisi 181 alium hic habuerit ad res gubernandas et dirigendas, nullum bonum expecto ego rerum successum, quia 582 omnia delegit 200 et cuidam 428, et per consequens norunt omnia, multi 428 et scribuntur in 427. Hœc est gubernatio rerum nostrarum, et tamen non audemus conqueri; juvet nos Deus! Habemus prœ manibus quœ velimus, quasi, sed quia aut nescimus aut nolumus uti occasionibus ex aptis instrumentis, timeo vehementer ne omnia pereant. Ille qui ex 415 scribit se in 429 redditurum habebit secum 15[?] 384, quod multum proderit si ex nostra parte esset correspondentia. Sed de Vasionensi nihil novi. D. Thomas Tyrius terga vertit versus Neapolim, ita cancrorum more incedunt nostra. P. Myrtonus discessit hinc versus Camferam, jam est quasi mensis, a quo tempore nihil ab illo accepi, et quamvis non sit secutus meum consilium in multis, potest tamen fieri ut bene suo officio fungatur. He bouht new cleis and left me the auld, bot he wold let me see yam. I counselled him to goe in a servant's weede, rather not in an gentleman's, for brave cleys make men curious to cast yair eyes upon him, and to sper him out quhat he is, and swa F. Hay, F. Gordon, I and all our fathers was swa cleide, bot he wold be brave. He said to me yat gif he had not promised till him to send Mr. James Gordon yat is yair for superior to the mission of Scotland, yat he wold not in any way [have] departed out of Rome. I feir he sall not obey F. Gordon yat is in Scotland; of me he wold have no dependence; sometymes he wold be heir, and not have begonne to say his matings neir supper tyme, and sometyme for negligence omitte to saye messe. All yat thinges gevis me feir and matter to suspect euill. Yit yai are bot fondements of suspicious; he may preue, as I hope he sall, ye honest man, for ye know him best yair. He hes over gud opinion of Navarra and our turbulent Frenchmen, and over greit aversion from Spagnarts and Inglismen, quhilke F. Holt, F. Jonas, and other hes noted heir and told me. I am sory to wryte zou this malancolie matteres, bot zit ze being in the places ze are, is gud to knaw all. As I saye, I dart not have euill opinion of him; sik generoux hie hartes sometyme preuis weill. Venerunt in hanc provinciam omnes nostri Rhotomagenses et Angenses, in singulis civitatibus reperiuntur aliqui, qui se offerunt ut aliquos nutriant. A montibus quidam consiliarius obtulit victum pro quatuor. Velim rogare V. R. ut mihi concedatur Adam Vachorum ut circumeat istos prelatos et urbes aliquas, ad petendas eleemosinas in virtute litterarum exhortatoriarum summi Pontificis; ea ratione aliquod nos spero accepturos, et ut P. N. scribat R. P. provintiali in hunc finem.
Duaci est magna caritas annonœ propter vicinos paganos destructos et penitus depopulatos a militibus Regi Catholici, quod militi non solvitur, deinde jam in omnibus urbibus Galliœ prope Belgium et indictum publicis tubis bellum contra omnes ditiones Regis Catholici, et est periculum ne Duacenses includantur. Et ideo misimus Cortracum eos operam qui dabunt litteris Aumanioribus, relictis Duaci eos qui student theologiœ et philosophœ. Et eo quoque consilio ne deinceps admittantur ad seminarium, nisi ii soli qui daturi sint operam aut philosophiœ aut theologiœ, ut eo citius prodire operarii in vinea Domini, et ne alii nos urgeant in admittendis ad studia humaniorum litterarum.
Constituimus Dem Cheyneum superiorem seminarii solummodo pro gubernatione et ut ejus nomine fiant contractus, litterœ procuratoriœ ad lites et alia necessaria. Constituimus prius alium Flandrum, sed factus est modo ad res tales inhabilis, ut doctor nostros nutriat ac vestiat, non est ad hujusmodi inclinatus, et nostri omnes habent nescio quam ab eo aversionem. Habetur tenax, est tamen vir bonus, et qui nos juvabit ad emendam domum pro seminario. Serenissimus Dux Bavariœ misit ad nos 300 aureos in eleemosinam pro nostro seminario, quos recepit P. Oranus. Agemus gratias ejus serenitati. Scribit P. Johannes Laurini Mediolano esse collectos tantum 50 aureos pro seminario Mediolani, non fuit bene predicata, &c. De militensi negotio concordavimus cum mercatore pro 600 aureis pro nostra parte, sed postquam habuit sententiam et pecunias debuit, recipere, supervenit procuratio a Magistro Jacobo Irwyng Parisiis ad Colonellum Patten, qui obtinuit litteras pecunias arrestandi ad instantiam domini Irwyng, et sic novas habebimus turbas. 200 laborat ut litteras habeat a 100 quibus hic fiat legatus. Cum alium non habeamus oportet isto domino uti, quamvis non sine aliquo nostro dispendio quia 169 favet et eum fovet, etiam si sciat illum malitiose agere : sperat n. ejus opera se habiturum litteras legationis a 100 et juvari pecunia qua abundat. 428 quidam vir bonus et 100 studiosus qui novit multa in 427, voluit agere cum 181 aut 38 de disp[osition]e 481. 11. contra 75, sed quia intellexit 181 tam prœstitisse quœ potuit et 38 non favere 100, saltem ut esset dominus 427 vertit se versus 429 quo est profectus bene instructus, et habens plurima corgta., quibus efficacissime probat 100 nunquam posse pervenire ad 427 nisi 319. Misi cum illo M. Davidem Law novum sacerdotem. Si 100 audiverit hunc 428 habebit ex 427 multos 374 et 375 et multas 379. Si non acquieverit evit datus in reprobum sensum et nihil boni erit de eo sperandum. Quamvis V[estra] R[everentia] existimet nihil esse timendnm a lite Hybernorum, tamen timendum erit, ne eorum importunitas aliquid efficiat, propterea esset vigilandum. Dicunt comites ab Huntley, Errol, Angus et Boduel esse in Catnesia, est n. comes ille fr[ater] uterinus Boduelli, et cognatus Huntley maritus suœ sororis, et ibi expectare suppetias ex. 415. In illo prœlio ceciderunt plures heretici quam scripsimus, et pauciores Catholicos; sed comes Argadiœ non fuit interfectus sed is qui suum exercitum ducebat.
Hic omnia versantur in magnis miseriis, Inimici Hollandi acceperunt urbem et castrum de Huy, super Mosam, inter Namurcium et Leodium. Est locus natura valde munitus et erit magna plaga harum partium. Nihil vincimus et sumus in continuo statu perditionis. . . . . Bruxellis, 10 Febr. 1595.
[P.S.] It is a special providence of God yat ours are banished out of France, for noyer the authoritie of the F. Gl. nor any satisfaction yai could have made wald ewer have bin sufficient to purge yam of the indiscreat aunswear made to the pley made against yam at Paris, and that by the Pl. [Provincial] himself. Yea, had yai remained yai had maid an schisme and stuking with Navarre against the Paipe, for syndry of yam said that sen he hes asked his absolution and downe his deutie, he is not oblised to maire, and yai maye with saiffe conscience obey hym and sweir him fidelitie. Gyf ye Pape put not remed by ye nomination of an King be his awen plene power, France is cleere lossed and all heretick or thre yers passe; for his proceedings is not against ye persons of our companie, but against ye religion yat yai professe, and ye diligence yai use to bring up the yoweth in ye Catholick religion, quhilk is styled by him corruption of ye youth.
Underwritten by Bodley : “Inscriptio, Rdo in Xpo patri P. Jacobo Tyrio, assistenti Societatis Jesu, Romœ:” and endorsed by him : “Copie of Wm. Crytton's letter to James Tyrie at Rome.”
See Birch's Memorials, i. 216.
3 pp.
(2.) Extract from the above, commencing “428, quidam vir bonus . . . .” down to “de eo sperandum,” with marginal notes in a later hand, “428, Anglus; 427, Anglia; 429, Scotia. Vid. Bodley's letter to Lord Treasurer, 17 August, 1595.”
½ p. (171. 87.)
1594/5, 10 Feb. William Creytton to Claudio Aquaviva, General of the Jesuits at Rome. Nel principio de xbre arrivono il padre Giovani Myrton et il padre Roberto Jonas, et poi in Genaro il padre Giovani Hayo. Il padre Giovani parti verso la Scotia par Zelanda nel mese passato, ma il padre Hayo aspetta alcuni giorni per trovar secura commodità. Dal padre Gordono non habbiamo ricevuto alcuna nova perticolare da se stesso. La persecutione delli heretici e tanto furiosa che non puo lui senza grand pericolo partirsi dal settentrione dove stano gli suoi, gli quali stano anche crudelmente persequitati, per andar doue conviene per trattar suoi negotii, et pocchi fideli destri et secreti si trovano ch' hanno credito, et alli quagli il Re ò altri vorebbono scoprirsi. Cosi io ho informato qui piu volteil Illsmo. Nuntio, et piu volte ho scritto a V. P. Rda. et al Padre Tyrio, ch' il seg. Thomasio Tyrie fosse rimandato per questo effetto : per che in tutto il regno nó ce constante Catholico nessuno ch' habbi tanto credito col Re et col Baron d'Hume, capitano de sua guardia, come il detto segr. Thomasio, per esser cognosciuto fidele, prudente et secreto, et per no' esser segr. grande ò vistoso che desse ombra ò suspetto; et pregho la reverenda Pta. V. che se sia possibile, che sia rimandato con tutta diligentia possibile, per che sono de parer che per il credito et industria sua faressimo piu che per molti milliaria d' huomini in tutto quello che noi desideriamo tanto. Gia e stato scritto a V. P. R.da. come gli n[ost]ri sono scacciati da Francia. Sono gionti in Belgio quelli delli Collegii de Roano et de Eu. Gia si vede che la persecutione non é contra la persone ma contra la dottrina essendo il padre Gio. Guynart impiccato et brusciato per quella dottrina sopre l'Euangelio, Reddite quæ sunt Cæsaris Cæsari (che tiene St. Thomasio et gli. dottori del tributo et obedientia che si puo, ò si deue, dar a un heretico denonciato et escommunicato nominatim) et fatto morir senza degradatione ò rispetto alcuno hauuto alli sacri ordini et stato ecclesiastico, puramente come fario gli heretici a Geneva; et per la clausula del bando et dechiaratione fatta dall Re de Navarra stesso, dove e detto esser crime de lesa Majesta d' andar alle nostre schole etiando fuori del regno, è manifestoche la persecutione è piu contra la dottrina che contra le persone. Ma è providentia divina che siano scacciati, conciosia che senza grande inconveniente vi puoteuano restare, et se alcuni desiderauano de guadagnar il Re de Navarro, benche havessestato colla perdita d' altri amici suoi, adesso giustamente fano la penitentia et si purgano dal immoderato desiderio. Questri giorni passati sono stato a Duay doue in nome de V. P. Rda. secondo la patente che mi mandò, ho nominato il seg. dottor Giacomo Cheynes, canonico de Ste. Quintino, superiore del seminario. E Scozece, huomo maturo et prudente et dotto. Lui non cì fara spese nessuno, anzi ci adgiutara de comprar una casa; pur vorrei che piacesse a V. P. Rda. ó scriverli, ó ch' in suo nome li scrivesse il padre Turio, comme ha noticio da me comme sia fatto superiore de quel seminario et che in quel governo si servesse del consiglio de quelli che parera a V. P. Rda, massime nel ricevere nel seminario à mandarli fuora ò al paese. Noi habbiamo mandati quelli che studiauono grammatica ò rethorica al Collegio de Corbray; per non tener nel seminario ne admettere se non quelli chi sono per studiar philosophia ò theologia; per haver piu presto operarii, et per la caristia, et pericoli della. guerra, estando Duai oppresso gli confini. Questi giorni passati duoi furono, fatti sacerdoti, delli quali l' uno e mandato in Scotia, l' altro aspetta per studiar et formarsi piu.
Il Duca de Baviera ci ha mandato 300 scudi per nostro-seminario. Ho paura ch' il padre Gordon senior, vedendo la difficolta che si troua de negotiar in Scotia, non ritorni de qua senza altro; et però saria buono che fosse mandato in Scotia un superior de quella missione per induzzar gli nostri, gli quagli altrimente puotriano cascar in inconvenienti. Se il sigr. Thomasio Tyrio fosse in Scotia, et hauesse alcun modo honesto per contentar un solo sigre. de tanto quanto perderia, credo che faria un servitio tanto segnalato che non salamentenon saria de bisogno ch' il padre Gordon salisse da Scotia ma che tutti potessimo andarli con molto secorta, et insieme un nuntio appostolico. Questo parera strano a V. P. Rda. et a molti, ma a me che so la dispositione delli huomini et delle cose non mi pare punto strano anzi facillissimo. . . . . . .Da Bruxelles, a di 10 de Febraro, 1595.
Underwritten by Bodley : “Il sopra scritto, Al molto Rda. in Xpo. padre nostro, Il padre Claudio Aquaviva, Preposito Generale della Compa. di Giesu a Roma.”
Endorsed by Bodley : “Copie of a letter from William Creytton to the General of the Jesuits at Rome.”
Mentioned in Birch's Memorials, i. 216.
3 pp.
Arthur Gregory to Sir Robert Cecil.
1594/5, Feb. 28. To be the better able to perform my promise touching the safe making of my sealing metal, I have so well practised therein that I can show you a way to work it cold like wax; and for any other mystery that belongeth thereto, I will most frankly discover the depth of my skill and deliver to you the box with the perspective glass, furnished with all these subtleties, and instruct you in the secret use thereof. And further, for the Irish “plattes,” no man shall be able to show the like. I hope that the surrender of 40l. per ann., my sufficiency, the use of my secret services to be continued without charge, my other manifold services not unknown, the giving of good caution for honest dealing, besides my knowledge in any engine, matters of munition for the Navy, or whatsoever, will be found sufficient occasions to move her Majesty. And if ever there were found so easy a coach as I have for her Majesty, I am content to lose the hope of her favour. If her Majesty make choice of others rather than her poor servants that only depend upon the doing of her services that yield no benefit but bare fees, being both troublesome, chargeable, and dangerous, the same will discourage men of best deserts. Your word to my good lord, your father, would greatly further my hope.—29 Feb. 1594.
Signed. 1 p. (25. 52.)
William Lee to Sir Robert Cecil.
1594/5, Feb. 28. Making certain charges against John Three, gent., (a deep, dissembling papist) lately crept in for to be Sub-Warden of the Fleet, the which office he hath sought more to afflict the Queen's Majesty's loving subjects, and to animate the discontented persons, than for any other cause. He giveth out that he hath such friends about my lord, your father (now that he keepeth his chamber through weakness), that nothing can come to his lordship touching him which shall not either be intercepted, or at least, after his perusal, be readily conveyed unto him.—28 Feb. 1594.
Holograph. 1 p. (25. 57.)
Bernardino Caresana.
1594/5, Feb. Declaration of Bernardino Caresana, son of John Estevan Caresana and Antonia Palavesina, “natural” of Barrely, a city in Lombardy subject to the Duke of Savoy.
Purports to give the history of his life, etc.
2 pp. (25. 58.)
Earl of Essex to Sir Robert Cecil.
1594/5, Feb. I told you to-day whither I was going and how the Queen had answered me. I must acquaint you further that the Queen offering to talk with me this morning about sea causes, I told her my lord Admiral was in the house, and Sir Francis Drake and Sir John Hawkins were in the town. I had drawn all my thoughts within the cliffs of our English sea coast. She presently sent for my Lord Admiral, and I went out. But at my going I told her that Mr. Vice-Chamberlain had given me her answer, and that I was now at a full point. She desired me not to speak of it till she were better. I answered I did only desire that she should know I had received the answer; the efforts must speak for themselves. I do acquaint you with this to the end that if the Queen mislike my going down, you may tell her that I did acquaint you with her Majesty's message by Mr. Vice-Chamberlain, and told you I did retire myself to give myself some solace, being more amazed and thrown down than I would make show of.
[P.S.] If the Queen object that I go away now she doth mean to use me in her business, and to have me present at those consultations for the sea, you may say I told you I would serve her with my person as her subject, but would, with her favour, retire from all business.
Endorsed :—“Feb. 1594.” Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (25. 59.)
George Beverley to Lord Burghley.
1594/5, Feb. Was appointed to the charge of victualling causes in Ireland. His substitute, Robert Newcom, being unable to continue, he is ready to return to the charge, if Burghley pleases.—Feb. 1594.
1 p. (953.)