Cecil Papers: December 1599, 16-31

Calendar of the Cecil Papers in Hatfield House: Volume 9, 1599. Originally published by His Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1902.

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'Cecil Papers: December 1599, 16-31', in Calendar of the Cecil Papers in Hatfield House: Volume 9, 1599, (London, 1902) pp. 413-440. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-cecil-papers/vol9/pp413-440 [accessed 25 April 2024]

December 1599, 16–31

Richard Vennard, of Lincoln's Inn, to Sir Robert Cecil.
1599, Dec. 16. Is imprisoned at the suit of Richard Lowe, who has contemned the orders of the Council for a final end to their controversy. Though her Majesty has commanded the Lord Keeper and others to hear his cause, he cannot obtain hearing. Prays for Cecil's hand to the enclosed letters to Mr. Justice Gawdie to accept his bail, whereby he may have liberty to attend Cecil, and manifest such matters as are not fit to be concealed from the Queen. As to the intolerable wrongs he has received from the Lord Keeper.—16 Dec., 1599.
Holograph. Endorsed :—“Some verses upon my late Lord Treasurer's decease.” 1 p. (75. 35.)
Amb. Jermyn to Lord Lumley.
1599, Dec. 17. Received his letters of the 12th inst. on the 17th, being away from home. Will be detained so long that he doubts Mr. Secretary will have made choice of some other man nearer at hand; but prays Lumley to excuse his delay, and win him time till Christmas, or till the end of the first holydays.—Paston, Dec. 17.
Holograph. Endorsed :—“1599.” 1 p. (75. 36.)
Sir Thomas Egerton to Sir Robert Cecil.
1599, Dec. 17. Yesterday I was revisited with my fever, that I could not wait upon her Majesty as I desired. This morning I find myself somewhat better. What observation the Earl of Essex his physicians have made of this night's accidents, they have written to D. James. There seemeth to me great weakness and declination in him. He desired this morning to speak with me. The matter was, that the two gentlemen, Wyseman and Tracye, that are allowed to attend him, are overwatched and tried out with their long and continual pains. He desireth that for their ease some other two might be permitted to watch with him in the night, to come at 9 and to depart at 7 or 8 in the morning, so that thereby these that be with him might be somewhat relieved, and better enabled to perform their service. This I have thought good to make known unto you, and so to leave it to your good consideration. I loathe and curse mine own weak health deprives me so long of my comfort to wait upon her sacred Majesty.—17Dec., '99.
Holograph. 1 p. (75. 37.)
Sir Thomas Egerton to Sir Robert Cecil.
1599, Dec. 18. I trust I shall be able to attend at my Lord Tresurer's to-morrow, according to her Majesty's gracious pleasure, howsoever I shall find my health; if I can stand, I will adventure it. This afternoon about 2 I received this enclosed out of Ireland. The messenger is one Chamberleyne, sometime a servant of mine. He came from Yoghall and arrived at Padstou in Cornwall on Friday last.—18 Dec., '99.
Holograph. 1 p. (75. 38.)
Captain Thomas Lee to Sir Robert Cecil.
1599, Dec. 19. Since my last letters I have received intelligence from Ireland that the great commanders there have suffered all those parts upon the Barrow side to be by the traitors invaded and the subjects devoured. Myself in particular have sustained the greatest loss that a poor gentleman may, having al my lands laid waste, my tenants undone, and a new town utterly wasted and burned; and now fear that my house, which is a place of great importance for the Queen's service, will be surprised, unless it pleases you to prevent it by speedy letters that 500 of the soldiers may be drawn back unto Athye, not only to preserve those places near my house, but also a country of 15 miles of the Pale lying betwixt Athye and the Naas, where the forces are now ingarrisoned. The charge will be all one, the service better; for where they are the Nass, the army can do no good either in offending or defending. At Athye they may save the subjects and annoy the rebels (chiefly those of Lease) the better by the assistance of James Fitzpiers, who will be still doing service upon those Moores of those parts, though he never have aid of any other the Queen's soldiers, saving his own and mine in pay, and such voluntary followers as depend upon him and me,. And for this poor gentleman, howsoever by mistake he have been termed and thought a traitor, I assure you, if he be but encouraged by a few lines from you, there is not a truer tall man in all that kingdom, nor one that dare and will do her Majesty better service.
I have thought good to send certain letters of Sir Mathew Morgan's and others, which came lately to my hands; yet since the dates of them, my state is merely overthrown, and all that 15 miles of the Pale aforesaid will be lost except your instant letters thither prevent the same. The matter is of great moment, and never gracious Prince was so ungraciously served by commanders, who quit a place of great importance and defence of the subjects, to retire the forces to a place where they can do no service, but devour the Queen's subjects.
My private estate is even as a bear's bond to a stake to be baited with dogs; for the disgraces and imprisonments which are and have been inflicted upon me, both here and there, have so encouraged the traitors that they dare and do daily spoil me and mine. But were I at liberty, and in good grace and employment, they durst not do so. I was also bold in my late letters to present a piece of work to you whereof I am writing, and might I receive any encouragement from you to proceed, I should the sooner and better finish it. If not, I shall but linger in the same, having no honourable patron to countenance that and me : who are not of least worth to be hearkened unto for matters of Ireland. I recommend to you Walter McEdmund, a captain of galliglass, whom I brought into the State. He commands 100 of the Queen's soldiers in pay, yet standeth in peril for want of his pardon. My suit is for your letters to the Lords Justices that, in such sort as James Fitzpiers had, he may have pardon for himself and such for whom he will undertake, to encourage him to do her Majesty the better service.
I have a matter of great importance and so much consequence for seedy expedition of good service for the Queen as I dare not commit it to ink and paper, but reserve it to impart in private to you.—19 Dec., 1599.
Holograph. 1½ pp. (75. 39.)
H. Hardware, Mayor, to Sir Robert Cecil.
1599, Dec. 20. Received Cecil's letters of the 5th on the 11th, and caused the packet which was enclosed, directed to the Lords Justices of Ireland, to be delivered to Christopher Hoole, for the speedy conveyance thereof.—Chester, 20 Dec., 1599.
Signed. Endorsed :—“Mayor of Chester.” ½ p. (75. 41.)
The Earl of Pembroke to Sir Robert Cecil.
1599, Dec. 20. My place, I hope, shall excuse me for thus often troubling you touching her Majesty's service at her Council in the Marches of Wales. The letters which her Majesty pleased to write, I speedily sent, and signified by my own that as her pleasure was not, by the naming of any in those letters, to give other pre-eminence to any than was before due unto hi, and therefore no man should thereupon presume to take to himself what did belong to another; so her Majesty did expect that they should duly obey and carefully perform what was therein commanded. When the term was ended, I then delivered my own opinion touching the attendance this vacation; wherein I tied myself to her Majesty's late letters; but what answer I received and what is intended, this bearer shall show. I am bold of both to say thus much; that as by her Majesty's said direction her charge will be so much increased, that I do not know, if it be long continued, how it can be defrayed by the commodities there accruing to her Majesty; so, unless to Council show more obedience, how that commandment will be performed, or the causes of the subjects warrantably determined, I cannot imagine. The undeserved countenance which Mr. Towneshend hath found, and the causeless crosses which myself have received, dismay me much, and in a sort make me doubtful to deliver my opinion for remedy thereof; yet, knowing that you respect nothing so much as her Majesty's service, I will be bound to say this, that there is not other remedy for all than that her Majesty will be pleased speedily to place a justice there; and as I presume not to recommend any, so I yet hope it shall be allowable for me to say thus much, that he who shall be placed must be a professed enemy to papists, and a resolute chastiser of thieves; both which sorts of bad members do over much increase in those parts.—Ramsburie, 20 Dec., 1599.
Signed. Endorsed :—“E. of Pembroke. Against Justice Townesend.” 1 p. (75. 42.)
George, Earl of Cumberland to Sir Robert Cecil.
1599, Dec. 20 Has received from the Lord Chief Justice so good words with regard to his suit that he things he will have his best furtherance. The Lord Treasurer delivered him her Majesty's warrant, and wished him to send it to the Privy Seal, and then the Lord Treasurere would take order for the money to be paid; out of which he (Cumberland) appointed there should so much go as should redeem those things which he has of Cecil's, but this stay will draw such an unexpected charge that he entreats Cecil to let them continue for three months longer.—Dec. 20, 1599.
Holograph. 1 p. (75. 43.)
Edward, Lord Zouche to Sir Robert Cecil.
1599, Dec. 20. Reminds Cecil of his words “which you uttered in persuading me to take the journey into Denmark in hand; which was, that there was no indifferent thing in her Majesty's grant where money came not out of her Highness' coffers, but you durst undertake to get it for me.” Begs Cecil to further his suit for the reversion of this government of Guernsey after Sir Thomas Leighton.—Guernsey, 20 Dec., 1599.
Holograph. 1 p. (75. 44.)
Henry, Lord Cobham to Sir Robert Cecil.
1599, Dec. 22. I send you here enclosed the examinations of Thomas Fowkes, William Conwey and John Conwey, who meant all to pass over at Dover, but were stayed by my lieutenant. I well remember that Thomas Fowkes was, by my Lords your father and mine, known for a great conveyor of gentlemen's sons beyond the seas. He was by their letters committed to Newgate and there remained a good time. He was the more suspected because, to one Gilbert that then was searcher, he offered an 100l. by the year, to suffer him and such as he should bring with him to pass and not be stayed. I think it very requisite that he and the rest should be brought up hither. If he be well handled, much may be discovered by him. I pray you let me know your pleasure herein.
From my house in Blackfriars this 22 Dec., 1599.—Your very loving brother-in-law.
Signed. ½ p. (57. 107.)
The Examinations enclosed :
1. Thomas Foulkes of Fleet Street, London, tailor, aged about 50. On Wednesday last the 19th instant, he came from London with George Foulkers his kinsman and two youths of 14 or 15 years of age, named William Conway and John Conway, his kinsmen also although he knoweth not whether the be brothers. George Foulkes is a Staffordshire gentleman's son. He knows not his father's name nor whether he has brothers. He has been acquainted with George these 4 or 5 years. He has only known the youths 4 or 5 weeks. They are his kinsmen by the mother's side. Her name was foulkes. He does not know who her father was. About two weeks past, George Foulkes came to the examinant's house, and said he would shortly go over into France, with two other young men. The examinant said he would bring them on their way to the sea-side. So they all three came to his house, and thence to Dover. He thinks Foulkes goes over because he is in debt, and that the youths would join their father who has dwelt in France 3 or 4 Years. Being demanded whether he were ever in Kent, he said he was not this 26 years farther than Gravesend. Confessed he was once since at Rochester, but would be sworn and take his death he had not been any further, till directly charged with having been at Faversham, when he confessed having been there, but said he had forgotten it. (57. 105.)
2. George Foulkes. Age about 26 years. Has known Thomas Foulkes about one year. About two weeks ago he told the said Thomas he would go into Kent to speak with one Forster, a servant to Sir Richard Leveson, Admiral of the Narrow Seas. Thomas introduces the youths saying that their father was in France and their mother dead, and that the friends who kept them in London would be glad to send them over. He, George, then said he would not mind going as far as Flushing with them. They agreed to go all together to Dover, and meeting at Billingsgate on Wednesday last, they came by water to Gravesend and thence on to Dover, where they made merry in their lodgings with Forster. Examinant would have been content to go to France with the youths and thence on to Flushing. (57. 105d.)
3. William Connaway. Age about 15. Born at Brewood in Staffordshire. His father whose name is William Connaway, has been 3 or 4 years in France. He has been brought up in Denbigh in Wales with one Richard Vaughan, his uncle. About three weeks ago he was sent to his grandfather, whose name he knows, at Brewood aforesaid, where his brother lived. They were sent by common carrier to London to Thomas Foulkes their uncle, to be conveyed to their father. Vaughan gave him 3l. and his grandsire gave his brother 20s. In London they lodged with one Bridges, a tailor in Shoe Lane. Thomas Foulkes has had 20s. of the examinant.
4. John Connaway. His father, he has heard is in Spain. He, John, was brought up by his uncle, John Pierson of Brewood. Thomas Foulkes is his great uncle.
Memorand.—Both youths said they had never been to church, nor did Richard Vaughan use to go, though his wife did.
Copies. (57. 106.)
Adam [Loftus], Archbishop of Dublin, to Sir Robert Cecil.
1599, Dec. 22 In recommendation of the bearer, Mr. Cambell, the Dean of Limerick, who is, in this general combustion and calamity, for want of maintenance forces to forsake his place of dwelling, having his living wholly possessed by the rebels; and purposes to repair to Cecil to be a suitor for somewhat that may be a stay unto him in these evil times.—Dublin, 22 Dec., 1599.
Holograph. Endorsed :—“Bishop of Dublin.” 1 p. (75. 45.)
James Gerald to Sir Robert Cecil.
1599, Dec. 23. Acknowledges Cecil's favour and offers services. The Queen has signified her pleasure to MR. Lieutenant that some order should be taken for the satisfying of his debts; but the order has not yet been given. Prays for Cecil's furtherance. The matter troubles him more than his 20 years' imprisonment. —The Tower, 23 Dec., 1599.
Holograph. Endorsed :—“Mr. Fitzgerald, prisoner in the Tower.” 1 p. (75. 46.)
Sir Horatio Palavicino to Sir Robert Cecil.
1599, Dec. 23. The favours bestowed by you a few days ago on the University of Cambridge have made all its members desire to be under your protection. Now at the death of the Master of Clare Hall, Mr. Bois, of that college, was elected under the statutes to fill that place. But the Vice-Chancellor of the University has refused to admit him, wishing to put another in by a special writ from the Queen. Accordingly, not only that college, but many others here wish that you would consider Mr. Bois' deserts and the wish of the electors, that no prejudice may be caused to him. And I am requested to be the means of making this request known to you.—Baburham, 23 Dec., 1599.
Italian. Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (204. III.)
Members of Clare Hall to Sir Robert Cecil.
1599, Dec. 25. Informing him that they, being the greater part of the Society in Clare Hall, have elected to the Mastership William Boys president of the House and senior proctor of the University, in which two places he has carried himself so discreetly as, in their conscience, they do repute him the fittest man for the government of the house, and thereupon they have taken their corporal oath, as their Statutes require.
By testimony under the hands of Heads of Colleges, it will appear they have proceeded in sincerity ad for the good of the college, the statutes whereof do not permit the full admission of the said Master until seven days more be expired. In this time, notwithstanding their election, they may be commanded by her Majesty for some other; for the prevention of which, they pray him to be a means whereby they may enjoy liberty of conscience, their statutes and privileges, whereof the whole University doth thankfully acknowledge him to be an honourable maintenance.—Clare Hall, December 25, 1599.
Signed :—Edward Wood, Jo. Allerton, Augustin Lindsell, George Ruggle, John Fulnetby, Richard Tomas, Richard Thomaso, Edward Manistie. Endorsed :—“Some of the Society of Clare Hall to my master. Mr. Wm. Boyes elected to the Mastership of that House.” 1 p. (136. 78.)
Sir Horatio Palavicino to Sir Robert Cecil.
1599, Dec. 25. Enclosing a letter of eight pages from the fellows of Clare Hall, announcing the election of Mr. Bois as Head, with only three dissentients.—Baburham, 25 December 1599.
Italian. Holograph. ½ p. (179. 103.)
Sir Thomas Lascelles to Sir Robert Cecil.
1599, Dec. 26. Prays Cecil to stay a grant of certain lands of the manor of Soweby, Yorks, to J. Fawewether, and that he (Lascelles) may have it in fe simple, his ancestors having been farmers of the said land, and he having now a lease of the land for nearly 20 years.—Walbronn in Yorkshire, 26 Dec., 1599.
Holograph. 1 p. (75. 47.)
Sir Edward Hoby to Sir Robert Cecil.
1599, Dec. 26. Good wishes for Christmas. He is stayed yet as idly here from his intended home, at the pleasure of the master of this house, fearing it will be his last Christmas with him.—Minories, St. Stephen's Day, '99.
Holograph. Endorsed :—“26 Dec. 1599. Sir Edw. Hobby.” ¼ p. (75. 48.)
H. Hardware, Mayor, to Sir Robert Cecil.
1599, Dec. 26. Having lately, at the request of Mr. Reekes, servant to Lord Mountjoy, passed away letters directed for her Majesty's service to his master, by the running post, and being eftsoons required by Reekes to do the like, he begs to know Cecil's pleasure whether he shall continue the same course hereafter.—Chester, 26 Dec., 1599.
Signed. Endorsed :—“Mayor of Chester.” ½ p. (75. 49.)
Sir John Smythe to Sir Robert Cecil.
1599, Dec. 29. Prays Cecil to further his petition to the Queen, thereby to save him from undoing, or at least from the chargeable sending up of his wife to be a suitor.—Tofftes, 29 Dec., 1599.
Holograph. ½ p. (75. 50.)
Herbert Croft to Sir Robert Cecil.
1599, Dec. 29. The continuance of the Irish wars makes us in these parts to fear that our countries are like to feel the burden ere long of levying more soldiers, with which we have been for these many years exceedingly afflicted, by reason that my Lord of Essex hath not gone any journey but that, out of a pretended interest of the affection of this county of Hereford unto his Lordship, he has ever drawn a charge upon us such as we groan under but know not how to remedy; and therein hath my own particular grievance been the greatest, in respect that being much occasioned to be absent out of the country, such as have had the sway of those services have had scope to impose the heaviest burdens upon such as are my well-affected friends, which manner of partiality is not peculiar to this county, none almost that I know being free from partakings and factions. I am therefore a suitor to you to favour me so much, as if there be any purpose to send into these quarters for the raising of any forces before the beginning of March, you will let this poor county be exempted only for this time, which upon very good reason may be yielded unto, in respect of the many extraordinary charges they have of late sustained of the like kind though in truth the chief motive of my suit is that, in respect of my account to be passed this next term for my receivership, I must be absent hence till March, so as my poor friends may thereby sustain the like inconvenience as they have formerly done.—Croft, 29 Dec., 1599.
Holograph. 1 p. (75. 51.)
Thomas, Lord Burghley to Sir Robert Cecil.
1599, Dec. 29. In favour of Sir Thomas Lascells, who has for many years been tenant of a manor, which certain persons have now procured to be included in the last sale of the crown lands; he desires Cecil's influence with these persons to resign the fee simple to him, being willing to pay any charges they have incurred.—York, 29 Dec., 1599.
Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (179. 104.)
Jesus + Maria.
1599, Dec. 29. Brevis dialogismus exhibitus in festo Sci, Thomæ Cantuariensis Angloru patroni, anno 1599, Audomaropoli.” It consists of a prologue, nine scenes and an epilogue.
Latin. 8 pp. (139. 116.)
Sir Calisthenes Brooke to Sir Robert Cecil.
1599, Dec. 31. I beseech you, as you were the cause of my imprisonment, to grant my releasement. I have been here as many more days as the Lord, though he were the commandment-breaker, as appeareth by his challenge. It is imputed a fault in me that I presented not myself to punishment as he did (a course against nature) yet did I never hear that there was warrant or officer appointed to search after me, so as I hope in that point I have not been disobedient. True it is that some friends of mine did let me know there was such intentions, and did harshly advise me. I know you will interpret all these as excuses impertinent to my suit, which is only to make known that I am exceeding penitent for my transgressions, and do humbly desire your honourable favour and my enlargement; also, that you will be pleased to pardon this bold solicitation of mine, which I am forced into in regard I have no friends that have recourse amongst your honourable selves to be a petitioner for me.—From the Fleet, last of December.
Holograph. Endorsed :—“1599.” 1 p. (75. 52.)
Dr. Robert Some, Vice-Chancellor of Cambridge, to Sir Robert Cecil.
1599, Dec. 31. It pleased her Majesty to write to me and the Society of Clare Hall in Dr. Mowtlowe's behalf, for the Mastership of that College. They were received and read with all duty, and they of Clare Hall had a copy of the same. On Sunday last they proceeded to the new election of a Master, wherein I had no voice. How they have dealt in that matter, wherein I understand they were much divided, I cannot yet affirm, but I have and do forbear the admission of any, however elected, until her Highness be satisfied with all duty, It is supposed here that only a divine is capable of the Mastership. I think you for your favour to our University in the late subsidy matter.—Cambridge, Dec 31, 1599.
Note on the back :—“My father, being a lawyer, was long before the time of his choice to the Mastership of Clare Hall dispensed withal both by her Majesty's letters patent and also by the Archbishop of Canterbury out of the Court of Faculties, to be capable of a prebend in York, which was a living to him that was professed divine, and in that regard was supposed to be also qualified for the Mastership of Clare Hall.”
Holograph. ½ p. (79. 136.)
Sir Arthur Gorges to Sir Robert Cecil.
1599, Dec. Refers to the proceedings in a suit in which he is concerned in which Mr. Attorney is on the other side. The judges require the counsel on both sides to give their arguments in writing; which he, on his part, has long since done; and he prays Cecil to be a means to the Queen that the other side's opinions may be required therein. The reckoning is very hard on his side, as he is now to be censured, whether he shall be turned a begging, or only be suffered to enjoy the poor fortune gotten by his own industry which will scarcely give bread to him and his. Refers to his many years of faithful service, and what he has presented to her Majesty.—Undated.
Holograph. Endorsed :—“Dec., '99” 1 p. (75. 53.)
Lord Willoughby to Sir Robert Cecil.
1599, Dec. Begs him to further the enclosed supplication to the Queen from his servant Waterhous, “the whole plotter for Ashfield's apprehension.”—Undated.
Holograph. Endorsed :—“Dec., 1599.” ½ p. (75. 54.)
The Prisoners in Newgate to Sir Robert Cecil.
[? 1599, Dec.] They are in number six score and odd, and crave his compassion, being grievously afflicted with hunger, cold and nakedness, so much the more increased by the loss of Cecil's father, their special benefactor : as also Cecil's hand of mercy was withheld from them at Christmas last, perhaps contrary to his meaning. They beseech his bounty to relieve their extremities against this blessed time.—Undatd.
Petition. ½ p. (186. 112.)
Mr. Skinner to the Lord Treasurer.
1599. There is no bond to be taken for the 3,000l. which you mention, but acquittance only by such person as the King doth authorize for receipt and discharge thereof, whose name is to be expressed in the privy seal, which is ever a special privy seal as her Highness shall be pleased to grant the same, being in the name of a gratuity.
Holograph. Endorsed :—“1599.” Seal. ½ p. (67. 80.)
B., Countess Dowager of Bedford to Sir Robert Cecil.
1599. Your many favours to me bind me with all thankfulness to acknowledge them, as a token whereof I pray accept this poor remembrance, which what it wants of value in itself is largely supplied with my best good wishes and love.
Holograph. Undated. Endorsed :—“1599.” ½ p. (75. 58.)
John Byngham to Sir Robert Cecil.
1599. Having made a brief note of some part of my services in Connaught under my brother Sir Richard Bingham, I have presumed to present the same, desiring you to be a mean for me unto her Majesty for some recompence, whereby I may have some means to live.—Undated.
Signed. Endorsed :—“1599.” 1 p. (75. 61.)
The Enclosure :
My first employment in Connaught was in the county of Mayo, in July and August 1586, upon the Burkes, Clandonnells, O'Malyes and Offtarlyes being entered into action of rebellion. I was sent into the mountains, with four companies of foot under colours, and 600 kerne, having the chief command of the whole force, where after I had prosecuted them some 20 days and killed some of the chief traitors, and taken their “prea” [prey], they submitted themselves to the Governor and put in their pledges.
My second service was upon the Scots, who entered the Province about the last of August 1586, to the number of 2,000, and were led by Donnell Borrum and Alexander Carragh, whom we fronted at Sligo Coolony and Ballingafad some 14 days, ad followed them to Ardnary, where upon 22 Sept. 1586 we overthrew them. And in this service, under God and the Governor, I was a principal actor. And this service took the better success by the speedy and well performance of the first. And all without any charge to her Majesty.
After this I was employed again in the county of Mayo in many pieces of service for the settling thereof, and for the taking up of her Majesty's rents and revenues there.
In April and May 1589, the Burks and Clandonnells entered into a new rebellion, against whom I was employed with the forces, whom having followed in the mountains some three days, I was sent for by the Governor to return, he having received direction from the Deputy to surcease from prosecution.
In February 1589, I was employed in the county of Roscommon against the O'Kellyes, O'Connor Roes, McDermotts, with others, then I action, of whom having killed divers, I caused them to put in pledges for their obedience to her Majesty, and so I quieted that county.
In July 1590, the Clandermott Reoghs, and Clandermott Roes, having combined themselves with the Orworks, McGrannels, McMurryes and McLoghlins, I was sent with the forces to prosecute them; in which service I was employed from July 1590 until April 1592; save only in the month of October 1590 I was employed at the winning of Logh Lymm, where I received a shot in my side. In this service I quieted all Mynteroals, and the better part of the Breamy Orwork, and made them put in their pledges to the governor.
The last of June 1592, about midnight, Tubbott Ne Long, with the Burkes and Clandonnells, gave an attempt to Clonicashell, thinking to have surprised the Governor and Council holding a Sessions there; whereupon the Governor was driven to lev forces and enter into a prosecution, in the which, having brought a great part of them to put in their pledges, he left me with the forces to prosecute the rest. Whom in short time I compelled to submit themselves, or forsake the province.
In June 1593, McGwyre made a road into the county of Roscommon with 1,000 foot and 120 horse, whom the Governor encountered with a troop of horse in number about 70. In this service the popish primate was slain, McGwyre himself unhorsed, and divers gentlemen of sort killed. In which service I was a chief under the Governor; and brought to this service the number of 17 horsemen of mine own, well appointed.
In May 1594, when the forces of the province of Connaught were employed about the winning of the Castle of Ennyskillin, I was directed by the Governor to lie at Sligo upon the frontiers, for the defence of the province in absence of the forces.
In August 1594, we attended the Lord Deputy to the victualling of Ennyyskillin, to the very great charge of us all.
In June 1595, after that Ulick Burk had betrayed the Castle of Sligo, I was employed into that county for the exchange of certain prisoners; and at the bridge of Ballasidarragh met O'Donnell unlooked for, where with the number of 250 foot and 40 horse, I endured a whole day all that O'Donnell durst proffer with 1,000 foot and 150 horse. And came from him only with the hurt of Captain Conway, and brought away our prisoners safe.
In September 1595, my last service was in the county of Mayo, where in a skirmish at Neffin we killed of the rebels some 60, and hurt at the least 100; but that with almost the like loss to ourselves, being very much overlaid with numbers of men.
Thus I have been bold to make a brief declaration of some part of my employments in the Province of Connaught, having omitted for brevity's sake much more than I have set down.—Undated.
3 pp. (75. 59.)
John Cartaret to Sir Robert Cecil.
1599. Details proceedings with regard to his suit respecting lands in Jersey. It has been referred to Sir Thomas Leighton, Governor of Guernsey, who very rarely comes to Jersey, and is altogether unacquainted with its laws, privileges and customs Prays that if Leighton does not come to Jersey within three months, the suit may be referred to Sir Anthony Powlett, Governor of Jersey.
Holograph. Undated. Endorsed :—“1599.” 1 p. (75. 62.)
Chester.
1599. Sir Thomas Egerton, the Earl of Nottingham, and Sir John Fortescue.
We have considered the petition of the merchants of Chester, and find the true state of the matter to be thus. They having sustained great loss by the French, especially of St. Malos, had a suit for restitution of their goods, and had some French merchants in prison for the same; but before they could obtain any recompence, they were willed by Mr. Secretary Walsingham to discharge them, and cease their suit, and become suitors for some other thing in recompence. Whereupon, in consideration of those losses, and of the great charges they daily sustained for the service in Ireland the Queen, about 12 years since, granted them a licence for transportation from Chester of 10,000 dickers of claves skins beyond the seas, paying 12d. upon every dicker for custom. By reason of the embargo between England and Spain, they have yet transported but 2,906 dickers, 4 dozens and 7 skins; nevertheless the time limited in the grant is expired. Their suit is to have their licence renewed for 12 years longer. It appears that country yields no other commodity for them to transport. Besides, the city is greatly impoverished, and yet during this rebellion in Ireland has been very much charged for the Queen's service, which they can hardly continue, unless they be by some good means relieved. Wherefore their suit seems to us very reasonable, if it may stand with your Majesty's pleasure.
Singed as above. Endorsed :—“1599. The Lords' opinion concerning the petition of the merchants of Chester.” 1 p. (75. 63.)
Robert Ellyott to Sir Robert Cecil.
1599. According to Sir Henry Nevell, her Majesty's Ambassador in France, his instructions given me, and your word assured me by Mr. Winward, his Lordship's secretary, I am here arrived, and desire to present myself before you, and to that end expect your pleasure. I enclose the letter that Sir Nevell hath sent by me. I desire that my dangerous travels and the fruits of them may deserve her Majesty's grace and your favour. I remain at the sign of the Talbot in old Beanford, expecting your pleasure.
Holograph. Undated. Endorsed :—“1599.” 1 p. (75. 68.)
Robert Ellyott to Sir Robert Cecil.
1599. Prays Cecil to be mindful of him. His money is almost spent, and he is like to fall into misery.
Holograph. Undated. Endorsed :—“1599.” 1 p. (75. 69.)
The Earl of Essex.
1599. Debts owing by Robert Earl of Essex, “for which we are bound.”
Creditors named : Sir John Spencer; Wm. Mill; the Chamber of London; Wm. Craven; Mr. Darcye; James Bagge; Mr. Serjeant Heele; Mr. Jo. Robinson; Charles Venpeen; Sir Jo. Harte; Tho. Sutton; John Sille; Jo. Porter; Mr. Campion, brewer; the executors of Simon Meyrick; Mr. Standen; executors of Bernard Dewhurst; Mr. Tolderbye Robt. Evelyn; James Osten; Williams, goldsmith; Edmond Phillips; Mr. Vanlor; Mr. Stone; Farmers of impost. Note at end :—There are divers sums of money due to her Majesty for Parrot's lands, to Mr. Vanlor and others, not herein set down, which his Lordship oweth and we stand charged with.
In several cases the dates are given at which the money is due; 1588–1600. There are marginal notes as to communications to the creditors. Endorsed :—“1599.” 1½ pp. (75. 71.)
W. Gylbert to Sir Robert Cecil.
1599. Report on the illness of Lady Derby.
Holograph. Undated. Endorsed :—“1599. Mr. Doctor Gilbert.” 1 p. (75. 72.)
Sir Artrur Gorges to Sir Robert Cecil.
[1599.] With respect to Lord Lincoln's application for a toil, and the provision of deer.
Holograph. Undated. Endorsed :—“1599.” 1 p. (75. 73.)
Mr. Hickes to Sir Robert Cecil.
[1599.] Has sent Cecil's enclosure to John Styleman, the contents whereof he will accomplish. His arrangements with Friar and Crawlie, the bargainees for Cheston House. . Proceedings with Cooke, as to the park and deer, and the question of disparking. A valuation of deer referred to : 10s. being named as an over valuation, and 6s. 8d. as under. Notes as to the park tithe : encloses a letter from the vicar on the subject.
Unsigned. Undated. Endorsed :—“1599. Mr. Hickes.” 1 p. (75. 74.)
George Langley to —.
[1599.] Appealing for help in his necessitous state. Is alone and almost naked, and can neither pursue the study of letters nor is capable of any mechanical art. Latin.
Holograph. Signed :—Geo. Langleus. Endorsed :—“1599. Langhley.” 1 p. (75. 79.)
Coinage.
[1599.] Two documents, viz.:—
(1.) A memorial of answers to the questions of Mr. Myddleton. To the first. Her Majesty shall be a loser if she give above the value of 25l. a 1,000. And for the manner of making the price by composition or by jury, it is left to the discretion of them that are sent down. Memorandum, that a merchant shall be provided to further the making of the price. [Margin :—Note that Bulmer was of opinion her Majesty should give 26l. 6s. 8d.]
To the 2nd. It is answered in the first.
To the 3rd. Mr. Harrys and Mr. Myddleton to take order that the tin be kept in the coinage houses or elsewhere, and charge given to the Mayor or other chief magistrates to provide for the safe keeping of it till further order be taken.
To the 4th. Let the two commissioners inform themselves of there sufficient men in every stannery and take their bonds for the distribution of such money as shall be lent, and to provide for the distribution of such money as shall be lent, and to provide for her Majesty security by bond to her Majesty of sufficient men.
To the 5th. Against the 21 of June, 7,000l. shall be sent to Plymouth, and from thence it shall be distributed to the several places of coinage.
To the 6th Upon declaration of your account, you shall have a discharge.
To the 7th. They shall have such other as they shall have cause to like.
To the 8th. Answered in the 7th.
To the 9th. That shall be done by Mr. Bulmer.
To the 10th. If it cannot be at first, it must be forborne.
To the 11th. Certify their names.
To the 12th. That is done by the merchants' assent.
In the handwriting of Sir Robert Cecil. Undated. Endorsed :—“1599.” ½ p. (75. 80.)
(2.) 8,000, the gain that will be made if the merchant give 35l. and the Queen pay but 25l. They will ask for the coinage of that which is transported, 1,600l. The Custom, 800l. [Then follows a row of figures with the total 4,267.] If the Queen can have it for 25l. she shall gain the sum of 5,600l. If her Majesty be forced to pay the sum of 26l. 13s. 4d., her Majesty shall gain 4,266l. Nota, that the Queen must send down ministers, and must lay out at the least 6,000l.
In the handwriting of Sir Robert Cecil. Undated. Endorsed :—“1599. Coynadge.” 1 p. (75. 66.)
Navy.
[1599.] Deficient men in her Majesty's ships.
In the Repulse, are wanting 100 men of her number, and above 40 of them that are aboard are altogether insufficient for any service. Tho. Vavasour.
In the Defienc, are wanting 50 men of her number, and above 20 of them that are aboard are altogether insufficient for any service. Will Monson.
In the Reynbowe, are wanting 50 men of her number allowed, and of them aboard, 100 are watermen and such as never were at sea before. Alex. Clyfforde.
In the Foresyghte, there want 20 men, and of those that are, there are 15 that are good for nothing in the world. Thomas Sherley.
In the Nonperell, there lacketh 60, and of them there be not any men to make a master's mate, pilot, quarter's master, or above 50 that knoweth their labour. Robt. Crosse.
I have not been myself as yet aboard, and therefore knoweth not. But the report of my master is that there lacketh of her “cuplement” 50 men by the least, and that some of these, being sick and diseased, are now to be discharged. John Troughton.
In the Hope, there is wanting 50 men of her number, and 20 more insufficient to do any service at all. J. Gilbert.
In the Crane, there is wanting 18 men of her complement; besides, there is four insufficient of those aboard. Jonas Bradbery.
(All the above notes are Holograph.)
The Gardelande and Marie Rose not being here, we found the same wants in them at Quinborowe; but how they be supplied since we left them, we know not.
Undated. Endorsed :—“1599.” 2¼ pp. (75. 81.)
Penelope, Lady Riche to Sir Robert Cecil.
[1599.] I have been a very importunate suitor unto her Majesty for leave to see my unfortunate sick brother, and have received so much comfort of her, though she hath not granted it, as I may hope to obtain it if you will vouchsage me so much favour as to mediate my humble suit, which I pray you very earnestly to do for her that will never be ungrateful in acknowledging your kindnesses done in so distressed a time.
Holograph. Undated. Endorsed :—“1599, Lady Riche.” 1 p. (75. 83.)
Bridget, Lady Norreys to Sir Robert Cecil.
[1599.] I beseech you with pity to peruse this letter, the which I have procured of my friend, and to consider my present unfitness to plead for my distressed self, and give me leave only to remember your Honour of the reward for me and my distressed infant's relief.
Holograph. Undated. Endorsed :—“1599, Lady Norreis.” 1 p. (75. 84.)
Examination of Jasper Oseley.
[1599.] Monday, the 13th of August, I did meet with Mr. Humfry Staforde, of Westbury, in the county of Bucks, at one Mr. Cotes his house in Hansloppe, and in talking with the said Humfrey, asked him what news of the Spaniards, who told me he heard credibly there were no Spaniards, whereupon I asked Stafford what should be the cause of all this mustering, and Stafford said to me he doubted a worse matter. “What is that?” said I, and Stafford answered, “The Queen is either dead or dangerously sick,” and in the end he did affirm to me that the Queen was dead. At which words I greatly grieved.
Signed. Undated. Endorsed :—“1599.” 1 p. (75. 85.)
Gunpowder.
[1599.] Certain reasons to move her Majesty to sign the books for the making of saltpetre and gunpowder. Refers to a new patent which has been drawn in accordance with her Majesty's pleasure, and is ready for her to sign. It was yielded, upon the motion of the Council, that 20 lasts of powder should be delivered monthly for her Majesty's service, upon hope that the book should be presently signed, it being so signified by Sir George Carew; and the difficulties are detailed of keeping up this supply, as well as the supply, as well as the supply for her Majesty's subjects, without the new patent; the principal one being that many more new furnaces must be set up at a large cost, which cannot be recouped under the short term now to run of the old patent.
Undated. Endorsed :—“1599.” 1 p. (75. 90.)
The Scottish Pledges to Thomas, Lord Burghley, Lord President of the North.
[1599.] In most humble and lamentable manner your poor and daily orators, the Scottish Pledges remaining within her Majesty's castle of York, beseech your Honour, for God's cause, be pleased to take pity and commiseration upon them, being deeply afflicted and more than can be expressed. In regard whereof they most humbly you're your favour to bail them in such manner as the English Pledges were bailed by the King's Majesty of Scotland their dread Sovereign or otherwise to vouchsafe and accept their eldest sons in their stead, with sufficient security for their true imprisonment, and also themselves to enter at any time within 40 days when they shall be called for either to your Honour or to the wardens, or else to pay everyone for his name, according to the indentures set down by the Commissioners. And if none of these may seem sufficient and pleasing to your Lordship's grave wisdom, then they most instantly entreat your Honour to set down in writing what demands your Lordship shall think fitting for them to do and perform; and if it be in their powers, they will yield unto the same most willingly, and so for ever become bound unto your Honour, in relieving them out of this misery, living in irons, wherein they be like to perish, except it may please your Lordship to grant them release thereof.—Undated.
Signed : William Elloit, Symeon Armestrange, William Elloit, Robert Frissell, Richart Rutherfurd, Thomas Ainslie, James Young, Davd. Apringill, Rauphe Burne, William Carte, William Hall, Rechert Zouch, Davd. Daweson.
Endorsed :—“1599.” 1 p. (75. 91.)
Thomas, Lord Scrope to Sir Robert Cecil.
[1599.] As soon as I received your letter, I assured myself that you ha procured my desire to come up, in respect I saw it written of your own hand; and though others have been earnest solicitors to you, yet must you not be offended, though in good faith my love to you shall be as is fitting for an honest man, for requital of so many honourable favours. And so, hoping to see you very shortly, yet in such time as you have advised me, I rest.
Holograph. Undated. Edorsed :—“1599.” 1 p. (75. 93.)
Sir Henry Wallop.
[1599.] The names of those that Sir Henry Wallop employed about his accounts at the time of his death.
Gives some particulars as to the following persons :—Dudley Norton, Richard Hopper, Charles Huett, Philip Hore, John Browne, William Bricknell, Richard Cross, Richard Parkins, James Carrali, Richard Archedeacon, and Harold Kinseman.
Undated. Endorsed :—“1599, Sir Henry Wallop's men.” 1 p. (75. 96.)
Sir Edward Wotton to Sir Robert Cecil.
[1599.] I once moved your Honour for my friend Mr. Richard Lee about the Moscovia Embassage. It pleased you to promise your furtherance. I beseech you to favour him therein what you may, the rather for my sake. The gentleman desires it greatly, and methinks he should not have many competitors. But whether he have or no, what difficulties cannot your wisdom and fastness to your friend overcome? For myself, I esteem it a great part of my earthly happiness to be well thought of by you.
Holograph. Undated. Endorsed :—“1599.” 1 p. (75. 96–2.)
[George Nicholson] to [Sir Robert Cecil].
[1599.] I found the King greatly grieved at the words used on our coast; he said to me he was evil used and neglected, and that they durst not speak without some warrant from some good ones, that he must be at better or worse point with it. Sander Browne hath promise that, in case he be not redressed within two months, he shall have new letters for stay and taking his payment of Hull ships, which shall not b discharged but to his satisfaction, or else that he shall be suffered and privily aided to take by his own so much goods of any of Hull, that the one deed may be set them for the other. This I cannot prove, but I assure your Honour it will prove the self; for it is true, and some Councillors have said little less to me, accounting it but great reason. It were best that the muskets, bandoliers, staves and two rapiers and daggers may be sent, as in my former I humbly desired; otherwise no good will come of it. Thus your Honour may see what comes of such snatching and snatcher dealings, and what it may breed. I am warned to beware how I walk in the nights and abroad out of the town without good company, lest I get a mischief which, my informer says, is meant me. 97 (Sir Thomas Erskyn) and 96 (David Murray) and that sort may possibly think that NP (Nicholson) evil entreaty may cross 99 (Belcress), which they wish, notwithstanding their letters written in his favour. I hear Sir Edward Chute is at London; if he be wisely enquired, he can tell how I should have been slain for Ashfield's matter, though I was clear in it, and who should have done it. Please you to cause this be learned, that I may be warned, as I judge I am of the parties. How often I have been in these dangers, when I have never taken knowledge of it, God knows, and I beseech you to move her Majesty to help me to something to be my comfort in my discomforts here. For our Borders causes, our Wardens think I look nearly to them as they possibly think much with me, as therefore those matters to themselves. Yet thus much for this time, praying your Honour to prepare to avoid the inconvenient as advertised thereof others than me. The Grames do now ride very much, and if the warden please, he may stay; yet I have more than reason to think that they are combined with too many Scots broken men. They ride upon Baucleughe, and say, when he is gone, they will live on his goods. He endures all for her Majesty's sake, and hopes my Lord Scrope shall mend and stay all, having sent to him for this cause. If this be not mended and stayed, it will or choose but do a strange mischief. But this to your good care reserving me secret. For the Middle March, the offended of Tevidale wants and waits but opportunity to do something—I say no more. I received your letter of occurrents; it had been opened, to my judgement, and it appears most plain to have been so. Of Sir Conyers Clifford's death we heard, as also we hear of a new conflict of 3,000 more, which God grant be not true. Having told Mr. Saunders of the suspicious manner of his coming hither, as also that I had certified you that the was here, hath written the enclosed to you. As yet he doth nothing, but lives quiet, I think till the King come.
Unsigned, but in Nicholson's handwriting. Undated. 1¼ pp. (88. 173.)
Plymouth.
1599. (1.) Ordnance delivered into the charge of Sir Ferdinando Gorges for the defence of Plymouth Fort, since the 1st Jan., 1596/7.
1 p. (141. 215.)
(2.) Certificate from Sir Ferdinando Gorges of the wants that are most necessary to be supplied for the defence and security of her Majesty's fort and island by Plymouth.
Undated. 1 p. (75. 86.)
(3.) Memorandum by J. Lineewraye. There hath been divers ordnance and other munition delivered into the fort from the town of Plymouth; likewise divers parcels (as I take it) delivered out of ships, and otherwise by Sir Francis Darke. For al which, the officers of the Ordnance can impose no charge upon any man. For her Majesty's better service therein, it may please the Lords that a special remain may be taken of all munition in the said fort, and so the same to be delivered over by indenture. Whereas there hath not been any hitherunto taken. It may likewise please their Lordships to take the like course for Portsmouth, &c.
Holograph. Undated. 1 p. (75. 87.)
(4.) Instructions to Sir Ferdinando Gorges.
1. You shall make your present repair unto your charge.
2. Upon your arrival, you shall send for the Mayor of Playmouth and the rest of the justices and captains, from whom you are to receive (upon any sudden occasion) the men appointed for defence of that place; unto whom you shall give order for the present view of the said men, and see them that they be well and sufficiently armed and furnished with all necessaries for those services.
3. Also, you shall confer with the said Mayor and justices, and thoroughly inform yourself what provisions there are at all times upon a sudden to be had in the said town or country near adjoining, whereof you shall make certificate under his and your hands.
4. Further, you must take order that there be careful watch and ward kept at the beacons along the sea coast for the discovering of any fleet or number of ships extraordinary.
5. Likewise, that during this present time of danger, you permit no extraordinary number of ships (whereof you be not well assured what they are) to enter within the harbour before you have sent aboard them, or be certainly informed what they be.
6. That as near as you can, you are to take care that all things may be done with as little trouble or charge to her Majesty or the country as is possible.
7. But forasmuch as there hath of late complaint been made by your lieutenant of some of their negligencies and contempt in performing of their duties, whom we hope hath by us been sufficiently warned to avoid the like; notwithstanding, we thought it fit, by way of instruction, to let you to know what our wills are you should do in the like case, which is, that upon the like (if they be officers, or in authority) you bind them presently to make their appearance before us to make answer unto their said contempt in that behalf, or other ways, in respect of the trouble that there may be in the country (if you cannot take that course), you proceed according unto your authority of lieutenancy for the due punishment of any such offenders, they being then under the said authority.
8. Of these our particular directions, you are to give a copy unto the Lord Lieutenant, with whom our wills is that you should confer, and from whom you shall receive such farther direction as may stand with his Lordship's knowledge of the state of that country.
9. Lastley, all things else appertaining unto your charge not at this present thought on by us, we commend to your discretion and hones care, not doubting of the accomplishment of your duty.
Draft. Undated 2 pp. (75. 88.)
The Expedition to Ireland.
[1596 or 1599.] The number of all the horse are 183; of which the number of horse directed to go to Chester for embarkation is 140, and the number to go to Bristol is 43.
2/3 p. (83. 16.)
John Norden.
[1599.] Petition to Sir Robert Cecil praying for the ratification of his pass for the finishing of the descriptions of the shires of England, begun at the instance of the late Lord Burghely, and continued since his death at great cost to the petitioner. Being mistaken for another man of the name of Norden, a Kentishman (though himself born in Somersetshire), he has been, under colour of some charge unknown, deprived of his pass, and is unable to proceed in the business. M. Waade is deputed to tender the pass at the Council table.
Undated. Signed 1 p. (103. 27 (2).)
H. Malbie to the Earl of Essex.
[1599.] According to the uttermost course of law, has been delivered from prison upon very sufficient bail; and by Essex's favour has been defended ever since from the injurious practices of his unjust enemies. Understands that there is present employment for Ireland, but cannot so safely attend his lordship as is convenient. Therefore asks that his wife may be allowed to make application on his behalf; or, failing that, that he may have protection whilst he waits upon “Essex to dispose of him from hence, whiter he only came to be directed in his lordship's service.”
Holograph. Undated.
Addressed :—“To the Earl of Essex, lord high marshal of England.”
Seal. 1 p. (168. 80.)
Mary, Lady Clifford to Sir Robert Cecil.
[1599.] I presume I shall not need to beg your favour to have an impression of the miseries my distressed mind dwells in by the loss of him that was crucified both in body and mind for the love he had to his prince and country. I desire only the Queen's compassion for my son, in yielding what my husband laid out by her commands and those of her council, as it shall appear from the accounts of the Auditors of Ireland and Sir Henry Whallop's clerks. My weakness and being with child makes me the more importunate, that I may keep my son from the world.
Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (179. 109.)
[? 1599.] Munitions and arms for her Majesty's service in Ireland.
Sent thither; powder 100 lasts, cannons 4, culverings 2, muskets 1,000, calivers 2,000, swords 6,000, pikes 1,800. The number issued also given.
Undated. ½ p. (186. 74.)
Jo. Roins [Rawlins] to Edward Reynolds.
[1599.] Good wishes. “Commend me to William Foulkes, and so into the East.” Will send him a barrel of uskebagh.
Undated. Endorsed :—“J. Rawlins to Mr. Reynold.” ½ p. (204. 130.)
Thomas Guer to the Earl of Essex.
[1599.] Has been with Essex in his Cales voyage, and in his last voyage, and now with Lord Cumberland at sea. Prays for employment on Essex's now going into Ireland.—Undated.
½ p. (204. 133.)
Sir Horatio Palavicino to Sir Robert Cecil.
[1599.] The disputes in the University are increased, because you have not declared in favour of any one. I think many champions should come forward, to make the victory more striking. But it is quite time now for you to appear. The candidate is very deserving, and only needs to be known at Court.
Holograph. Undated. Seal. 1 p. (179. 124.)
The University and the Town of Cambridge.
1599. (1.) Wrongs done to the chancellor, masters and scholars of the University of Cambridge by Robert Wallis and others, mayors, bailiffs and burgesses of the town there, contrary to their charters, exhibited and proved at Lambeth, 41 Eliz. 1599, before the Archbishop of Canterbury, Sir Thomas Egerton, Lord Keeper, and Mr. Cooke, Attorney-General, appointed by her Majesty to hear the same.
1. They have enlarged divers persons being in execution by sentence of the Vice-Chancellor, to the utter overthrow of the jurisdiction.
2. They disfranchised divers burgesses for presenting ingrossers of corn at a leet holden by the University, at which they were charged by .force of a special charter to enquire of engrossing.
3. They deny and resist the University officers in the search for light persons, or suspected of evil, except in victualling houses, which search is granted by charter for the better safety of young gentlemen students, whereof some have been and daily are endangered to be drawn into contracts and marriages with mean persons of the town, and would be much more practised were it not for this privilege.
4. They do in their town leet and sessions enquire of victuallers and victualling, contrary to charters of the University absolutely inhibiting the same, thereby infringing the known privileges of the University, notwithstanding her Highness' express will to the contrary, in a letter to the mayor and burgesses directed and delivered Anno 6.
5. They have wilfully imprisoned divers, of the body of the University for matters of misdemeanour, as was pretended for not serving at musters etc., quite contrary to the tenor of her Highness' grant and many other privileges.
6. They do ordinarily procure writs of habeas corpus and such like for removing themselves out of prison, and their causes out of the Vice-Chancellor's Court, notwithstanding her Majesty hath commanded the contrary.
7. They do, for their private benefit and the secret defrauding of her Majesty, provide that there shall be no public persons appointed to be cessors for the subsidy, quite contrary to that which is provided for by composition between the University and town.
Wrongs continued in greater excess, since the former were complained of and heard.
1. They refuse to receive and keep offenders committed to their gaol, they still commit purleyed persons whom they ought not to censure, and enlarge our prisoners in execution.
2. They still deny and withstand the proctors' wonted search, which service is means to prevent disorders, and especially clandestine contracts with our pupils of best note.
3. They proclaim their mayor sole regent and governor, they tumultuously put down the “skoles” of the clerk of the market. They summon privileged persons by sub pcena 100l. and subscribe their writs teste me ipso, and they still intermeddle with victuallers.
4. They unduly vex, by impleading before foreign judges, University men of all sorts.
5. They assess in subsidy and other charges scholars and scholar servants, notwithstanding the charters, act of Parliament, their own composition, the Privy Seal, and orders of the Exchequer to the contrary.
6. They have enclosed and let to farm divers parcels of the commons, and planted willows in great abundance, which they have appropriated to divers persons and their heirs, to the great prejudice of privileged persons, notwithstanding all the manors of the town belong to colleges.
7. They do make on privileged persons violent assaults, batteries and frays, walking armed contrary to proclamation, and so threaten public officers that none dare apprehend them upon any warrant.
2 pp. (136. 83.)
(2.) “Articles answered and replies examined at Lambeth, 1599,” with regard to the enlarging of prisoners, disfranchising of burgesses and other matters relating to Cambridge.
1 p. (245. 7.)
Victualling.
[?1599.] Proposals made to “Your Lordship” for provision of victuals in the Western ports.—Undated.
1 p. (75. 94.)
George Sherley.
[1599.] Petition to Sir Robert Cecil. Was maimed in the Irish wars and dismissed, and cannot obtain relief. Prays Cecil's favourable letters to the Justices of Middlesex, where he was pressed.
Endorsed :—“1599.” 1 p. (P. 157.)
[1589–99.] Petition of Richard Lunne to Sir John Fortescue, Treasurer of the Exchequer. Upon complaint of the Earl of Kent, has been condemned to imprisonment and fine for not aiding the bailiff of Olney in the arrest of offenders. His refusal due to his maimed hand. Prays release.—Undated.
½ p. (P. 289.)
William Boys.
[1599.] Petition. Has been elected to a mastership, but is denied admission by the Vice-chancellor. Prays to be admitted, or to have his cause judged.
Endorsed :—“1599.” ½ p. (P. 359.)
Sir Henry Wallop to the Privy Council.
[1599.] As to a bill of Sir Christopher St. Lawrence's of 100l. towards the answering of money borrowed by the Earl of Ormond of the city of Waterford, for relief of the Queen's army in June, 1598, which bill has been left out of reckoning. Prays that the 100l. may be stayed out of the remainder of the reckoning assigned to be paid to Sir Christopher.—Undated.
1 p. (469.)
Gyles and Katherine Comen to the Queen.
[1599.] Complain that they have been defrauded of their lands in Wexford by Christopher, son of Patrick Chevers, to whom their father had entrusted their property as their tutor. Christopher has expelled Gyles and committed Katherine to prison. Pray to have their cause examined and their lands restored.
Endorsed :—“1599.” 1 p. (699.)
Nicholas Hillyard, the Queen's servant, to [the Privy Council] .
[1599.] Of proceedings against him for non-payment of bonds, and of his suit to borrow 200l. of the “Orphanage money.”
Endorsed;—“1599.” 1 p. (782.)
John Daniell to the Queen.
[1599.] For further reward for his services.
Endorsed :—“1599.” 1 p. (1009.)
Robert Phenwick, William Phillips and Others, Newcastle Merchants, to Sir Robert Cecil.
[c. 1599.] Losses and sufferings sustained by the taking of their ship and goods in 1591 by two ships of M. de St. Luke's. Detail their proceedings from 1591 to 1599 to obtain redress. Pray for allowance for prosecuting their suit therein in France.
Undated.
1 p. (1473.)
[? 1598 or 1599.] Draft warrant by Sir Robert Cecil, as bailiff of the city and liberties of Westminster, appointing Ralph Dobbinson his deputy, and John Bird, John Baker, and Hugh Peachey as Dobbinson's servants.—Undated.
Note thereon that Mr. Dobbinson is advised that he being a deputy, can make no arrest by any of his servants, nor by them levy any distress, unless such servant be nominated by Cecil the chief officer; and he therefore prays Cecil to sign the warrant.
1 p. (1975.)
Tenants for the Mines Royal in Cornwall, Merioneth, and Denbigh, to the Governor and Company of the Mines Royal.
[1599.] Complain that the chiefest mine, and the best for yield, is withheld from them by Mr. Trevanian, contrary to their lease; although they have followed such courses for remedy as were directed by the Company, and by letters from Sir Walter Ralegh. As a consequence, they have wrought all this year to their great loss, the other mines not yielding profit to bear half the charge, and are unable to pay the rent of 200l. Pray the Company to remit the rent, and take order that they may enjoy the benefit of their grant, or else accept surrender of the lease.
Endorsed :—“1599.” ½ p. (2028.)
Richard Wright.
[? 1599.] Certificate that Richard Wright, one of her Majesty's gunners, has well and dutifully behaved himself where he has been employed in the wars, as well in the Low Countries under the late Earl of Leicester, as also in France under the now Earl of Essex.—Undated.
Signed :—Essex, R. North, C. Mountjoye, R. Sydney, John Wyngfelde, Fr. Vere, Tho. Baskervile, Math. Morgan, Fra. Croft, and others.
1 p. (75. 97.)
Sir Richard Champernown.
[? 1599.] Answer to the complaint of the Earl of Bath. The companies appointed him are as ready as any companies in Devon. He had no notice from the Earl of Bath, or the deputy lieutenants, or the captains of the hundreds of Arme and Plynton, of any such order. He was in London at the time that the order was concluded, or he would willingly have performed his duty. The constables of the said hundreds had no precepts or warrants to raise men in arms shewed to them. Neither he nor any of his company have denied or will deny his Lordship's warrants
Undated. 1 p. (2327.) [See S.P. Dom. Eliz. CCLXXI. 128: p. 263 of printed Calendar]
Lord Henry Howard to the Earl of Southampton.
[1599,] April 27. Though warning be sent to me of this bearer's departure one day sooner than I looked for, yet can I not let him depart without testifying my desire to do you service. I doubt not but you shall hear by some other means of the constancy of some friends of yours at this last election. Northumberland was very gallant on your side. So were Worcester and Mountjoy, notwithstanding the Queen's special bar with special injury. But there was another, whom I will not name, that was not afraid to run upon the pikes of some that will be thought to be very special friends of his, to show that he valued your friendship and noble virtues more than other men's caprices and partialities. But hereof you must never take notice, because I tell tales out of school, and would not impart so much to any other than yourself. The world is more calm with us of late since your worthy general's and my dear Lord's arrival. Even now the Queen perceives, though somewhat too late for the world's satisfaction (that wondered at so many showers without clouds) that a course was taken rather to prove constancy than to tax negligence. I have learned by these storms, raised without ordinary causes, to seek out new grounds in philosophy, and to prepare myself with patience against the next assaults when “probabily” may give shadows to exception, or envy take advantage out of best deserts to check forwardness.
The Queen begins to storm exceedingly at my Lord of Rutland's incorporation into Jason's fleet, and means, she says, to make him an example of contemning princes' inhibition's to all that shall come after him. God send him a good share in the golden fleece of honour which our worthy Lord shall compass by his valour, and then we will less fear the punishment that is inflicted upon generosity. The whole Court rejoiced much at your safe arrival, and will rejoice a great deal more at the next news of your happy success against the enemy. There want not some in this place that set light the service, as an enterprize achievable with weaker force than the State employs. Many of your friends are well and some are too well, if you will give me leave to be merry. We are only occupied in entertaining Dutch ambassadors that before dinner speak not very wisely, and after dinner not very warily. We are only now in expectation of your first attempts, and thereupon I shall be able to give you some light of the Court's construction. The Queen excluded my Lord Keeper from nomination in this last choice of knights, and though she named him not, yet gave cause to some to conceive that his being named at the election before was. the cause why she would not suffer any enrolment of the scrutiny. Keep this to yourself, I beseech you, or I might be made a reporter of his disgrace whom, for his virtue and his kind love to my dear Lord, I love and honour. Please you to advertise my Lord of this because I had forgotten to write of it.—This 27 of April.
[P.S.] —I beseech you to let my worthy Lord know that I delivered a packet to Mr. Cary to be delivered to his Lordship's hands, at the same time I wrote this to you, which will come a day later, but I trust no less safely.
Holograph. 2 pp. (67. 65.)
Robert Osberne to Edward Reynolds.
[1599,] July 21. I am never jealous of my friend's favour, but I would you did lay the fault on my Lord, for you know what I have said of the well deserving of her, but his lordship is in those things little respective. Wherefore you shall do well to remember his lordship thereof. For I must be plain, if things continue so cross against his lordship, I am afraid that now, being bound to absent myself by reason of this office of Master of the Horse, and she seeing things not to fall out as she expects, may change as others have done. But I must ride it out, and trust upon the goodness of “good” (? God), and in meantime entreat you, as my good friend, to make known to his lordship of her well deserving, and that if he do not grace me, I am likely to receive a greater disgrace, and not in respect of myself, but in regard of the small account he makes of me, and that others do use such persuasions to her in my absence, and that those that do the same are his enemies, and do it to draw her thereby from him, that there might be nobody left to him. I know you are wise and can do this passing well if you list; which if you do, you may say, upon conference with her, you find she does not regard me as she hath, and that suddenly she is fallen off. In doing of this you shall command me, and what I may do to requite you shall be assured. I have received a letter by Sir Francis Bacons (sic) and Darcy, and Captain Noris this day, being 21 July. In the next letter I will send order for “venson.” My Lady Dygbye's letter I received. We had no news but that these are knighted since our coming home, and that honest Nyck Nyn died 17 July, and was buried the next day, with shedding of many tears of his friends.—21 July.
The following list of names, and note, are on the margin of the letter.
Lord Gray, Lord Montegle, Lord Cromwell, Sir Thomas Weste, Sir Robert Vernon, Sir Henry Cary, Sir Ar. Champernoun, Sir George Manors, Sir John Daves, Sir William Constable, Sir John Powly, Sir Cary Renolds, Sir Francis Locon, Sir Will Courtny, Sir Will Kedolfyn, Sir Robert Basset.
Captain Tolkerne made great suit to be Master of the Horse, but my Lord gave it me unsued for : what horses are in England, be bold to demand any what you like of Rich. Sparchford. I pray you deliver these enclosed letters.
Burn my letter for an heretic.
Holograph. 1 p. (87. 11.)
Filippo Corsini to Sir Robert Cecil.
1599, Oct. 19. I enclose engrossed a petition relating to William Bicciere. I humbly beg you to sign me an order that I may take legal proceedings against him, as you allowed me to do against William Ferys; since this Bicciere will pay nothing. My friend is having the two paintings made, and you will soon have them.—London, 19 October, 1599.
Italian. Holograph. 1 p. (74. 40.)
— to Sir Robert Cecil.
[c. 1599, Nov.] Advises a commission for the examination of certain inhabitants of Dublin, Walter Sedgrave and others, who can give information concerning the concordatums, bills, dockets and other warrants, due by the Queen for the service of Ireland, which they have received as instruments to Sir Henry Wallopp and his officers. Mr. Philip Hore, Mr. Hopper, John Browne, and James Carall were chief under Sir Henry, and James Rainolds a great instrument in these affairs. If the above course be taken, the charge which the Queen shall be at for the commissioners already appointed for Ireland, for other matters and objections against Sir Henry and his officers, shall be freed. As to the course pursued with the servitors for their entertainment, during the time of Sir William Russell, of Mr. Hore, deputy to Sir Henry, and of Mr. Charles Huett, now deputy under Sir George Karie. List of names follows.
Undated. 1 p. (1985.) [See Lord Dunsany's letter of May 27 (p. 183 supra) and S.P. Ireland Eliz. CCVI. 47; p. 274 of Calendar.]