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The Earl of Salisbury to Sir Thomas Edmondes. |
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1605, May 16. |
I have written to you two or three days since
by the ordinary post; the occasion at this time is only to
accompany this gentleman, Mr. Powell, one of the "quiries"
[equerries] of his Majesty's stable, who is now sent from his
Majesty to the Archdukes to present them with some horses
and other things which this country affordeth, as you shall
more particularly understand. All which being but pledges
of his Majesty's good affection towards those Princes and not
requitals for their stately present sent by them, you shall
endeavour that they be received accordingly and assist this
gentleman in all things for the better performing of it. His
Majesty hath written by him a letter to the Archdukes, whereof
I send you a copy.—From Salisbury House this 16 of May
1605.
Copy. 2/3 p. (227. p. 28.) |
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The Enclosure:—His Majesty's letter to the Archduke by
Mr. Powell, beginning "Monsieur mon cousin et frere." Cannot
delay to acknowledge the signal proofs he has shown of his
affection. Does not know whether in the choice of the
Ambassador he has sent he should praise more his judgment
in the sufficiency of that person or his sincerity in his prudence
(preudhomie), for in all that the Ambassador has done since his
arrival he has impressed the King with the firm opinion that
he will have no other object than to gain his friendship. The
King has also received from him on the Archduke's part a present
so magnificent as to represent well the greatness of mind which
prompted it and he esteems it both on account of its value and
rarity but principally for its reflection of the likeness of the
giver and as a proof of his affection. Prays him to receive
what he is sending, things namely which are found more
frequently in this country than elsewhere, as an earnest and
assurance of his desire for the establishment and permanence
of their friendship and of his readiness to accommodate the
Archduke with anything which his countries can furnish that
the Archduke may desire.—"De nostre maison de Greenwich
le 12e jour de May 1605."
Copy. French. 1 p. (227. p. 29.) |
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Sir Thomas Edmondes to the Earl of Salisbury. |
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1605, May 16. |
When this gentleman your servant came to
this town I was departed to Antwerp to attend my Lord of
Hertford so far on his way, so as I could not assist to the delivery
of your present to the Count of Aremberg; but since my return
hither I have performed your commandments both towards
the Count of Aremberg and President Richardot, who acknowledge much thankfulness to your lordship. This gentleman
can inform you how well your present was here liked, in the
best part whereof the Archduke himself would needs partake,
for this morning he sent to the Count of Aremberg to have also
your horse for his own use. |
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Having understood how it hath pleased his Majesty to honour
you with the increase of dignity which is due unto your merits,
give me leave amongst the rest of your most devoted creatures
to testify the joy which your favours have bound me to acknowledge for all your happy fortunes. |
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Count Maurice since the taking of Vau hath made show of
some troops near to our army here which lies encamped some
little distance from the walls of Antwerp: but these men have
been unwilling to entertain any skirmish with him, for they
are not yet able to make head to him, having not joined all their
troops. Upon which confidence it is advertised that Count
Maurice is now gone to besiege the Castle Horstraten, which
is a place of good strength and giveth them a further feeting
[sic: footing?] into this country of Brabant for the intercepting of the intercourse between Antwerp and Bolduck and
the other places thereabouts. It was said that Spinola was
lately in great danger with some other principal persons to have
fallen into an ambuscado of Count Maurice's horsemen, if he
had not been suddenly forewarned by a "paisant." The
mutineers are now paid and have agreed to disperse into other
companies; but the principal persons to the number of 120,
which were the council of their party, have by stipulation
obtained passport to withdraw themselves. I send you herewith an advice from Rome of them which are the pretenders
to be preferred to the Papal dignity.—Brussels, 16 May 1605.
Copy. Noted: "Sent by Mr. Palavisino." 1¼ pp. (227.
p. 10.) |
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Sir Thomas Morgan to Sir Francis Vere. |
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1605, May 16/26. |
When your brother and you were in this
place in your young years you thought well to serve yourselves
of my friendship, first to make you acquainted with the Duke
of Guise that was massacred at Bloys, and with the Ambassador
of her Majesty of Scotland of blessed memory. In these points
I served your turn to your satisfaction; and I think that the
first arms that ever you bare was under that noble prince,
which afterwards encouraged you to follow the wars, as I have
heard. You and your brother were at that time utterly disfurnished of money to supply your necessity, in so much that
you both demanded of me the loan of some money. As my
store was not great I advised you both to address yourselves to
serve your turn with Sir Amyas Paulet and other principal
personages of our nation then resident in this city. After you
had been with them you came to me again and told me you
could have no money at their hands. Whereupon of the small
provision I had I delivered you about a hundred crowns, which
you promised with many thanks to render me again in short
time. But since I never heard from either of you both, but
assured myself always that at the last you would acquit yourselves towards me as honour and conscience command you.
And with that assurance I stayed to this day and never by pen
or by mouth demanded either my money or any pleasure at
your hands. And were it not that the necessity of my business
urges me to call upon you for reason herein, I had rather pass
this matter with silence as I have done of many years than
revive your memory, seeing you cannot take pleasure to hear
of your error committed towards me; though I easily forgive
it, but desire you to restore my said money to Sir Robert Dormer
to help to acquit me of some money I had of the Duchess of
Feria his sister; and you shall find me ready to serve you.—
Paris, 26 May 1605. |
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PS.—If your brother be living I pray you to commend me
unto him.
Holograph. 2 pp. (110. 153.) |
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Richard Stapers and Robert Sandy to the Earl of
Salisbury. |
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1605, May 16. |
It not a little grieves us thus to trouble you
concerning the impost of our first currants, which may amount
to 300l.; for we have paid above 450l. for the impost of those
we have had since. Our suit is only that you will appoint
Mr. Wright, Mr. Ingram and Mr. Hamersley or any others to
view such currants as we have come home and to report to you
how they find them; for they be so bad that they are not to
be sold or spent, there being above 40 cask of them, otherwise
we would never trouble you for it.—16 May 1605.
Signed. Seal. ½ p. (110. 154.) |
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The Deputies of the Hanse Towns to King James. |
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1605, May 17. |
Have received his letters, dated 25 September
last at Hampton Court, through the envoys they sent him.
While rejoicing that his Majesty offers free intercourse of trade
to their merchants, and restitution of residences and houses
of right belonging to them, are greatly disturbed that restitution
is denied them of the privileges their predecessors (majores)
formerly earned in England, and that such denial is defended
under the form of right. For it has been very often shown that
those privileges, long used and finally supported by right of
conventions, by no desert of theirs, by one endeavour only of
a few to establish a market, have been snatched from them. |
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If those privileges had drawbacks and seriously disturbed
the state of the kingdom (as is suggested to the King by the
envious) or their people had failed to moderate their privileges,
they could understand the denial as more just. But the envoys
in their many conferences showed themselves not aliens by the
yielding up those which, though not extravagant, might seem
less moderate, and from desire of peace descended to the conditions which the King's Councillors and Commissioners
proposed and judged fit for the business. They had come to
a sure hope that his Majesty would not have suffered further
hindrance to their most just petitions, because their letters
indicate that the welfare of his subjects and care of the whole
state had been committed by God to his good faith, and that
their advantage ought not to weigh against that of his subjects.
Could not acquiesce in the King's answer, but have thought
fit with all due reverence to entreat him anew to weigh the
whole matter more carefully and kindly, and to deign to give
them such answer that they may not be convinced by experience
that the hope they conceived of him was vain. So will it be
very honourable to his Majesty and for the welfare of both
peoples.—Lubec, under the seal of the city, 17 May 1605.
Latin. 4 pp. (110. 156.) |
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Sir Robert Hicham to the Earl of Salisbury. |
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1605, May 17. |
I am required by Sir Lewis Lewknor, as from
your lordship, to certify you what estate her Majesty may pass
in the granting of the manor and demesnes of Selsey in Sussex.
In the demesnes whereof I find that Sir Lewis Lewknor has an
estate for his own life and his son's, so as he may take a lease
in reversion for 3 lives or 21 years, or surrender his two lives
and take a lease for 3 lives, or for one life by one lease and
presently after for 21 years in reversion upon that, which is all
that her Majesty may do. And for the services of the manor
they are grantable but during her Majesty's life except they
had been in lease before, which I find not.—Gray's Inn, 17 May
1605.
Holograph. 1 p. (110. 155.) |
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Mr. Langley to the Earl of Salisbury. |
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1605, May 18. |
The copyhold tenants of Edelmeton
[Edmonton] upon your motion to my Lord Treasurer on their
behalf, and his allowance have by Mr. Serjeant Foster and Mr.
Serjeant Altham, their learned counsel, two several times had
the perusal of the court rolls, yet can they not give satisfaction
to my Lord Treasurer or Mr. Solicitor to maintain a certain
custom to pay but one year's quitrent for a fine: so my Lord
Treasurer has appointed to have the custom presently called
in question, and to be heard and determined in the Exchequer
Chamber. In my poor opinion you shall do well to have an
eye that none prevent you of any grant of the manor by lease
(it being contained in the entail of annexation), yet if you should
deal before the custom be tried the tenants would much exclaim.
And if the custom should not be altered it were not of any
value. All which I leave to your consideration, craving pardon
that I attend not in person, being ridden to Edelmeton to keep
the court.—18 May 1605.
Signature torn off, but endorsed. "Mr. Langley to my Lord."
Seal broken. ½ p. (110. 159.) |
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Sir Ferdinand Gorges to the Same. |
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1605, May 18. |
Here has been and still is a report of certain
troops of Spaniards that purpose to pass along the coast to go
into the Low Countries. If they shall touch in these parts I
desire to know his Majesty's pleasure what course we shall
hold both for his honour and also his security against any
sinister practice; for your wisdom knows it is not fit to
stand at the devotion of a friend when a monarchy shall be in
question. Further it shall much satisfy the people of these
parts to see order taken for their securities, who do not stick
in a manner to say that they are now left to the devotion of
their enemies. Wherefore I think it were not inconvenient
that commandment were given to the several captains to take
notice of the defects of their companies and to see them furnished
out of hand, as also some private caveat to those of the better
sort to be ready on all occasions to follow such directions as
shall be given them from his Highness and your lordship, a
matter that will give to all much satisfaction. Another thing
I thought necessary to inform you of is the daily outrages and
enormities committed upon the coast by pirates of our own
nation, under pretext of commission of those of the Low
Countries, who do by their misdemeanour much scandalize our
nation and impeach the trade of honest merchants: the which
courses might easily be prevented if authority were given to
any that knew what to do and would be careful of their duties
and licensed to exercise their best means for prevention thereof.
The remedy would prove the easier if advertisement were given
to those of the Low Countries not to permit any commission
to be given them of our nation to attempt anything on this
side of the Islands of the Traceres and Canaries. For beyond
those Isles it is not known that his Majesty has league or
alliance neither may his subjects trade with any of those people
but at their hazard and extreme adventure, and therefore
those the less to be excepted against for their enterprises.—
From his Majesty's Fort by Plymouth, 18 May 1605.
Signed. Seal, broken. 1 p. (110. 160.) |
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— to [the Earl of Salisbury ?] |
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1605, May 18. |
Being come to Middleburgh I found there
other views than I had hoped. M. Magnis, deputy from the
States General to his Excellency, being presently at Lillo wrote
to the Council under date yesterday evening that Count Ernest
having with the fleet passed the forts of Grilan (?) and Galeo
came to a certain dyke called Cloppersdyche, and there landed
some 200 of our Zelanders to discover the enemy and moreover
to enable him to put on shore the rest of his army. But the
enemy having perceived the intention of our men, threw themselves upon them with such fury that they were compelled to
retire without waiting for the others to land, so that the Count
caused them to retire; of whom there died on the spot Captains
Logier and Duke, they say also Captain Tatelier with his brother
the lieutenant; others taken and wounded to about fifty or
sixty. Colonel Dorp having been in very great peril of his life
was eventually saved, but lost his baggage with two or three
other boats. The said Count with the whole army rushed
forthwith to the council of Brabant at Sostevleet (?). There
he found his Excellency, with whom it is not yet known what
resolution has been taken. If I hear other news I will not fail
to advertise your lordship.—From Midel[burgh], 18 May 1605.
Signature torn off. French. 1 p. (110. 161.) |
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Walter Mathew, Mayor of Plymouth, and John Ryder,
deputy vice-Admiral, to the Same. |
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1605, May 19. |
We have understood by your letter received
this day of a complaint made to you for the victualling and
setting forth of a ship of war in Plymouth by Captain Young,
a Hollander. The said Young was lately about to victual and
set forth his ship from the port of Plymouth, and entertained
English mariners to serve in her; whereof stay is made according
to his Majesty's proclamation, and the same ship shall not
depart hence without order from your lordship.—Plymouth,
19 May 1605.
Signed. Seal. ½ p. (110. 164.) |
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King James to the Earl of Dorset, Lord Treasurer. |
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1605, May 20. |
On behalf of Mr. Ambrose Dudley, about the
lordship and demesnes of Chopwell, Durham.
Sign manual, much damaged. Seal. 1 p. (213. 41.) |
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Lord Chancellor Ellesmere to the Earl of Salisbury. |
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1605, May 20. |
The desperate causes and business of the
last term brought an unwelcome guest unto me that is loth to
depart. I am desirous to give myself a little rest and air, to
enable me the better to bear the tempests of the next term if
the like storms arise, as I hope there will not. I will therefore
salute you as Horace did his great patron—
Si me vivere vis sanum, recteque valentem
Quam mihi das œgro, dabis ægrotare timenti,
Mœcenas, veniam. |
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I desire but a few days breathing, yet if you see anything
wherein the poor "myte" of my service may stand in stead I
will come creeping and limping, with lame Mephibosheth, and
always faithfully wait upon our most gracious David.—20 May
1605.
Holograph. Endorsed: "L. Chancellor to my Lord, about
his weak body." ½ p. (110. 163.) |
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Sir Ralph Coningesby and Sir Thomas Pope Blownt to
the Same. |
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1605, May 20. |
Upon return unto you of the examinations
of witnesses taken before us upon the petition of Thomas
Bawforn exhibited to you and others of the Privy Council against
Nicholas Whittell, parson of Shenley, Herts, you require our
certificate of their behaviour and conversation; which we
signify for this three or four years to have been very malicious
the one against the other, to the great offence of their honest
neighbours in the parish and disturbance of his Majesty's
peace; for which they have been often called in question and
appeared in Sessions. Also they are very offensive to most of
their neighbours, Whittell being admitted a preacher both
undiscreet and unlearned. Bawforn in like manner noted to be
malicious amongst his neighbours and known to have committed
felony pardoned by his Majesty's general pardon. Concerning
the disloyal speeches in a sermon wherewith Whittell is charged
in the petition, albeit they were undiscreet and offensive, yet
in our opinions he had no purpose of disloyalty. The words
used in private by Whittell to Hemmingway are by
Hemmingway denied, yet affirmed in the examination of Robert
Howe as spoken to him by Whittell, and affirmed by John
Warcuppe as from the report of Hemmingway; Howe and
Warcuppe being uncle and brother to the wife of Bawforn and
special instruments of the continual malice against Whittell,
and noted to be of small credit.— 20 May 1605.
Signed. Seal. 1 p. (110. 165.) |
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Sir G. Hervy, Lieutenant of the Tower, to the Earl of
Salisbury. |
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1605, May 21. |
At my delivering of Bywater's last book to
you, upon some doubt moved by me, you said he might be
permitted at any time to write unto the Lords; upon which
ground I have presumed to send you these enclosed, which
last night late he sent to me by his keeper and which otherwise
I would have suppressed.—From the Tower, 21 May 1605.
Holograph. Seal. ⅓ p. (110. 166.) |
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The Enclosure:—Thomas Bywater to the Privy Council:
I have hitherto been sparing in soliciting your favour. I
thought so hot displeasure against me would ask some time
of allaying. I hoped that out of your disposition to mercy you
would of your own accord have rem[itted] if not removed, your
severity. But my hope has hitherto failed me. It may be my
silence makes you forgetful of me, and because I say nothing
you are altogether careless of me. I beseech you let that be
no longer any prejudice unto me. I now beseech you for the
restoring of my freedom and liberty. I have now been
imprisoned almost a quarter of a year, and that in a very
afflicting manner. My friends all kept away from me, none
suffered to come at me or see me. I am greatly endamaged by
my imprisonment, it has cost me almost 10l., a grievous punishment if you knew my want and poverty. I am deprived of the
means of my maintenance, and I know not whether of the good
opinion of my Lord. I am almost deprived of the means of
my study and altogether distracted in the course of it. I am
altogether barred of the means of my ministry, the greatest
cross of all the rest. Compassionate the afflicted estate of a
faithful subject in such bondage: vouchsafe me my liberty.
If that be not yet grantable I ask that at least my friends may
be [allowed] to come to me. You at my first appearing seemed
f[avourable] unto me, and by the words of his Majesty none of
th[ese things] should have come upon me. I beseech you that
[for] my own sake you will show me neither favour nor mercy
[but] at length after so much imprisonment make good [the
word] of his Majesty to me.—In the Tower, May 20.
Holograph. 1 p. Much damaged. (110. 162.) |
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Noel de Caron to the Same. |
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1605, May 21. |
Acknowledges the letter from the Earls of
Suffolk and Salisbury with regard to the Dunkirk shallop,
taken by a Flushing warship at Margate or the North Foreland.
Will write of the matter to the States, in order that they may
carry out the King's wishes. If the shallop was taken in the
King's waters (which he doubts, as he heard the Admiral,
when the Dunkirkers took from the States a ship coming out
of Feverson [Faversham] before Reculver, argue that these
roads should be esteemed the open sea) it is reasonable, if the
Archduke restores what the Dunkirkers took from the States,
that the latter should restore what they have taken from him.
He has already twice restored what the States had taken from
the Dunkirkers; but in spite of the King's and Council's letters
to the Archduke and to Count d'Arenburg his Admiral, they
have never obtained the restitution of a halfpenny. The latter
scoffed openly, saying that they wished "d'en avoir a tel pris
cent fois davantage." The losers by the firstnamed vessel are
for the most part States traders, refugees here for their religion,
who should therefore have more respect for the closing of the
ports, but who traffic through them, even in the ships of the
States' enemies, the ship in question belonging to Dunkirk and
coming directly thence. They should show more gratitude,
for God has marvellously blessed them under the happy reign
of the late Queen, so that they are become extremely rich; but
they keep themselves out of the fray, and will not contribute
in the least to the States' wars, rather favouring the States'
enemies through their extreme avarice.—Suydtlambet [South
Lambeth], 21 May 1605.
Holograph. French. 2 pp. (190. 87.) |
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Lord Cobham to the Earl of Salisbury. |
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1605, May 21. |
What my Lady of Kildare has said to you
you know: what is truth from me you have heard. It is my
comfort that you are wise, and not ignorant of her disposition:
otherwise your favour, which is my only hope, might have failed
me, and then what an undone creature should I have been:
for to continue in this life and place I am in, I more desire death
than life. This freedom by your means I hope to have: which
if your favour should leave me, I know for ever I should be
rivetted in this place. Your Christian proceeding with me is
worthy of yourself, for it shows your disposition to be more
charitable than to be led by her malice. More than I have said
herein I cannot, for God is witness how false and untruly she
has wronged me.—The Tower, 21 May 1605.
Holograph, signed: H. Brooke. 1 p. (190. 89.) |
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Sir Fulke Grevyll to the Same. |
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[1605], May 22. |
According to your commandment I have
been at Tibballs [Theobalds] and there taken view of your
horses first because they are most properly in my own occupation.
And touching your little grey jennet, I am confident his colts,
if he get any, will neither be of honour nor of use to you by
reason he is of small stature, weaklimbed, and colts, like the
logical conclusions, will ever follow the worse part. So as with
pardon be it spoken, there is none of the 4 which stand by him
but are much more worth for that or any other use. Your pool
I have surveyed with the best discretion I have, and methinks
the 5 islands as they are show pleasantly one in proportion to
another. Notwithstanding, if they were taken out your judgment is true, that you should have the more water; but because
it is so well already I dare not counsel a change. The banks
that lie all along under the water were in my poor opinion much
more necessary to be removed. In your buildings I have some
little quarrel to the windows of your new old gallery. I mean
those next to the leaded terrace; but because it is envious for a
man to speak ill of his old acquaintance I will shortly wait upon
you and deliver my conceit and my reasons in private to you. |
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The alteration in your lodgings is passing good and will amend
them both for sight and use exceedingly; yet if the old windows
even in them had been carried up a little higher the commodity
would thoroughly have recompensed any little eyesore without,
if any such must have grown by it, which I doubt of. Your
principal workmen were absent these holidays so as I may
mistake, because I could have no informer but my own eyes.
Your stags come on apace and I found all things well and in
good order there saving poor Mr. Flint, who was so extremely
ill with the stone as I could not see him, though I had a desire
to do it.—From Harolds Park, this 22 of May.
Holograph. Seal, broken. Endorsed: "1605." 2 pp. (110.
168.) |
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Sir Francis Vere to the Council. |
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1605, May 22. |
According to your commandment I warn
my Lieutenant Governor to receive and bestow in the bands of
that garrison the 50 Norden men to be transported thither by
your order. The bands are usually so full and complete, as
may appear by examination of the musters taken from time
to time, that as many or few less of the old soldiers must be
discharged out of them to make place for this supply, unless his
Majesty be pleased to increase the strength of his garrison and
of his ordinary charge by so many heads, which I perceive not
to be his and your intent. Therefore not requiring in the
meantime your order to the contrary, I will discharge the like
number of the soldiers of that garrison of such as may best be
spared.—Tilburye, 22 May 1605.
Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (111. 1.) |
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Sir Francis Stonor to the Earl of Salisbury. |
|
1605, May 22. |
A letter of congratulation on the late increase
of his honour and the continuance of his health. Sends by the
bearer two brace of tame pheasant hens and a pheasant cock.
Stonor, 22 May 1605.
The following names are noted on the back of the letter by one of
Salisbury's clerks: Mr. Art. Gregory, Mr. Ed. Seymer, Sr. Jo.
Russell, Mr. Heriott, Sr. Ed. Talbott, Sr. Jo. Talbott.
Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (111. 2.) |
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Papists in Wales. |
|
1605, May 22. |
The Earl of Worcester's proceedings in Wales
concerning the Papists. Gives the names of persons concerned
in various seditious and papistical proceedings, with notes
whether apprehended, or fled, or of sentences passed upon
them.
10 pp. (144. 184.) |
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Papists and Recusants. |
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[1605, May 22]. |
List of repairers to the Darren (Herefordshire) to hear mass: of those accused of rescues intended or
attempted: of resorters to Popish burials and of repairers to
the Darren for the defence of the place against the Bishop of
Hereford.
[Apparently part of the foregoing proceedings of the Earl
of Worcester.] 18 pp. (144. 219.)
[See Cal. S.P. Dom.: 1603–1610, p. 225.] |
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Sir W. Waad to the Earl of Salisbury. |
|
1605, May 22. |
My Lord of London and my Lord Chief
Justice have thought it fit, if it stands with your good liking,
that a letter should be written to the effect of the enclosed for
the apprehension of the printers, and seizing of those books in
hand and upon the press, wherewith you were made acquainted.
This letter may be signed by you, the Lord Chancellor and
the Lord Chief Justice or more of the Lords, as you think
convenient.—22 May 1605.
Holograph. 1 p. (190. 88.) |
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Sir Roger Aston to the Earl of Dorset, Lord
Treasurer. |
|
1605, May 23. |
His Majesty has commanded me to signify
to you that these bearers, Richard Brasse and Robert Walker,
his huntsmen, are the men he spoke to you of concerning a lease
in the Bishopric of Durham. You are to speak with them and
take such order in their business as you shall think convenient.—
From Greenwigh, 23 May 1605.
Signed. ¼ p. (111. 3.) |
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Sir George Reynell to the Earl of Salisbury. |
|
1605, May 23. |
I am very sorry to hear your opinion to be
that I am combined with Mr. Trench against Mr. Tirrell. They
have greatly abused your lordship that have so informed you,
for I stand so assured of the justness of my cause both in law
and equity as I need not seek indirect means to farther me.
To the end you shall know that you are not abused by mine
adversary in this on information only but in the very main
points of what is decreed against me in the Court of Wards,
I pray you to understand but of that only which this last term
has brought forth. I will not trouble you with the information
in the Star Chamber which is stayed, containing three foul riots
by Mr. Tirrell and his company besides the misdemeanour or
perjury of a jury, by stay whereof his Majesty may be prejudiced
well near 3000l.; nor will I meddle with the riot followed by
Mr. Trench nor trouble you with nine other riots followed by
myself, nor affirm perjury in Mr. Tirrell, howsoever his own
confession shall make against him. My suit is to be advertised
of so much only of his confession upon record as concerns the
decree made for him in the Court of Wards, that you may then
discern whether the Court have been abused by him or not.—
23 May 1605.
Holograph. 2/3 p. (111. 4.) |
|
Sir John Parker to the Same. |
|
1605, May 23. |
Touching my going to my charge at Falmouth, whereof I was bold to use some speech to you, I find it
needful chiefly for his Majesty's services as for my credit and
maintenance of the liberties of the Castle, which lately are
offered to be infringed by the deputy's lieutenants, namely,
Sir Fra. Godolphin and Mr. Vivion, the like never offered before
since the Castle was founded until this time. I will show you
their commanding letter to my lieutenant, as how I doubt not
to do his Majesty acceptable service there with the help of
your countenance and authority. For many reasons I have
desired to live in good neighbourhead and friendship with Mr.
Vivion. He has showed to desire the like and there has passed
promise from either of us to love and friend each other, which
I for my part have carefully performed, but have found him
before this time apt to wrong me more than once, because I
conceive he is bound likewise to you and we both have cause
to love and reverence you, though I most. I heartily desire
you would vouchsafe to call both of us before you, now when
he comes to London, for I understand he must be here this
term upon complaint of three men for wrong imprisoning them,
and I hope you shall make reconcilement between us that we
may join in concord for the furtherance of his Majesty's services.
—From my lodging near Charing Cross, 23 May 1605.
Holograph. 1 p. (111. 5.) |
|
Memorandum by Francis Neale. |
|
Reliefs. |
|
1605, May 24. |
By the Common Law of England every one
that holds his land by knight's service and is of full age at
the death of his ancestor, is to pay his lord a relief, viz. if he
hold his land by a whole knight's fee, he is to pay 100s. and so
according to the rate; if the tenure be in grand serjeanty the
relief is the value of the land for a year. Every baron is to pay
66l. 13s. 4d. and every earl 100l., etc. |
|
These reliefs are accounted for in the Court of Exchequer.
Only in the several counties of Wales, Chester, Lancaster and
Durham there has been omission of due service herein, the
reformation whereof will rest upon some pains which I will
undertake. May it therefore please you to sign the warrant
to the Auditor of the Court of Wards to certify the tenures of
those shires, whereby you may presently understand what the
value of this oversight amounts to and then dispose thereof at
your pleasure. |
|
Heriots. |
|
Every copyholder for term of life at his decease pays an heriot
according to the custom of the manor. These are to be charged
by the stewards of the manors at every court and to be collected
by the bailiffs. |
|
Moreover in all leases granted by the King for term of life it is
ever provided that the tenant who dies in possession shall pay for
a heriot optimum averium or else such a sum of money as is mentioned in his grant. Of these I suppose there are many unpaid. |
|
Rents concealed. |
|
In many patents of concealed lands granted in fee farm
the rents that have been reserved are of great number and
amount to a great value. The nature of them are diverse, viz. |
|
1. Some part has been surrendered by the patentees. |
|
2. Some part discharged by plea and other matter of record. |
|
3. Some part is in charge with the several auditors. |
|
4. Some part has (by the patentees) been conveyed to
strangers who could never recover. |
|
5. And some part remains in the patentees' hands.
Of all these there is no rent in equity to be demanded. |
|
6. But there are some part of these lands which are assured
to the tenants in possession, who, misdoubting the validity of
their present estates, have by this means purchased the King's
title and have covenanted to pay the King the rents reserved,
of which few would be denied if they were demanded. If it
shall please you to use my service herein, I hope to deserve
well and will be ever ready at your appointment. And if it
shall please his Majesty to grant the moiety of the arrearages,
I will do my best to make the suit worthy the grant of so gracious
a prince.—24 May 1605.
Signed. Endorsed: "1605. Aud. Neale." 1½ pp. (111. 6.) |
|
The Earl of Dorset to the Earl of Salisbury. |
|
1605, May 24. |
I told this bearer that you would procure
Sir Rob. Stapleton to deliver for him 100l., though whether it
shall be paid by Sir Rob. to you or to this bearer I must leave
to yourself. But you know the King also said that he should
pay this 100l. Now therefore the procuring of this 100l. must
come wholly from you and not from me. And as for the other
part of his suit for lead, I have said to him that if upon the
consideration thereof by the judges it appear to be lawful for
the King to grant and not prejudicial but beneficial to the realm
as is suggested, I will give my voice unto it and I am sure so
will you. And, therefore, I pray you help to dispatch this
poor man with such means from you as lies in your power and
I will help him in that which is in mine.—24 May 1605.
Holograph. 1 p. (111. 7.) |
|
Lord Balmerino to the Same. |
|
1605, May 24. |
Having understood by my brother's relation,
bearer hereof, how kindly you have dealt with him in a little
suit he had at his Majesty's hands, I have taken the boldness
to render you most hearty thanks, the only means whereby
I may signify the desire I have not to be reputed ingrate. I
desired Mr. Hay to acquaint you with the estate of his Majesty's
affairs here that by him I might receive your commandments.
If at any time your leisure serve to call for him he will faithfully
deliver the same and I shall be also glad to have your advice
and approbation in any thing may concern his Majesty or the
estate of this country.—Halyruidhous, 24 May 1605.
Holograph. 1 p. (111. 9.) |
|
Lord Sheffield to the Same. |
|
[1605], May 25. |
Congratulates him on his late though
worthily received honour. Urges again that some course may
be taken touching Roger Woddrington, who has great commands
in Northumberland and overthrows all that country, being a
notable recusant, as may appear by the letters enclosed. Desires
that the writers of the letters may be understood in the best
sense, and encouraged, they doing the King very faithful service
in those parts. If Woddrington be not removed, and those
that be well affected in those parts comforted, and the Papists
curbed, it will come to mischief. Their course of late is something strange. In all these parts they sell their goods, estate
and lands, leave the country, and repair to London, where they
dwell with great contentment as their friends give out here,
hoping to receive much favour. He hopes Salisbury will make
some use of this information, for the good and safety of them
of the religion, who only rely upon the protection of the State.
Truly they are in great fear, which no means he can take can
free them of. If such as Woddrington be still graced, he will
receive disgrace, and the State prejudice.—Nor[manby], 25 May. |
|
PS.—Morton, whose letter Salisbury receives, is Archdeacon
of Northumberland. Sheffield begs Salisbury to note that he
does not write from York. Till now it has not been sound of
the plague, and the house by reason of his absence in such
decay, that till some cost be bestowed on it, it is not fit to live
in. As yet he can get no help for it from the Lord Treasurer.
His own house is within 16 miles of York, and the affairs of the
State will not be neglected.
Holograph. Endorsed: "1605." 2 pp. (190. 90.) |
|
Sir Thomas Edmondes to the Earl of Salisbury. |
|
1605, May 25. |
It was here conceived when he last wrote
that Count Maurice intended to besiege Hoestraten for he was
marched up with his vanguard very near that place. But it
appears it was only done to amuse them here for in the meanwhile he embarked his artillery and carriages at Bergen op
Zome to transport himself into Flanders, whither he is now
passed. Since his landing he attempted to cut some dikes
about the Sasse of Gaunte but he has been so close followed
by the army of this side by the commodity of a bridge of boats
which Spinola has made from the town of Antwerp over the
river as that they were interrupted in that design. It is said
they are since retired to Isendike. |
|
It is thought Count Maurice is troubled since the failing of
the enterprise of Antwerp which way to dispose himself and
that these two great armies waiting so near each other will
hinder each other from undertaking any great enterprise. But
these men give forth they will no longer spend their time
unprofitably than till the arrival of the Italian troops, when
they hope to be furnished with another sufficient army to
besiege some place, which Spinola exceedingly desires to gain
himself honour. The army of this side is now grown strong to
the number of 16,000 foot and almost 3000 horse. Spinola
sent away some regiments beforehand for better assuring the
country of Flanders, for it was advertised that those of the
garrison of Ardembourg made lately a road as far as Courtray
and there turned a fair village which refused to pay them
contribution. They have news here that the Millanois troops
(reported to be above 2000) are advanced as far as Luxemberg,
but it will be long ere the Neapolitains arrive. They have
besides newly given order for the levying of a regiment of
Liegeois. |
|
It is appointed that from the end of June forwards the army
shall receive their full pay, two parts in money and the other
third part in bread. A late dangerous mutiny was begun in
Ostend by a regiment of Lansquenetts out of discontentment
for unsatisfied pay, but it was prevented by the Governor
assisted by the companies of Wallones which serve there and
divers of the authors have been executed. Three also have
been executed in the army charged with having forced the
lieutenant of the Castle of Van to render the place without
enduring any cannon shot. But it is said the place was not
tenable for want of munition and victuals. |
|
The money raised out of Antwerp for the payment of the
Mutineers has clean drained the stock of that place and left it
unfurnished of means to answer the course of exchange for the
payments incident here, which they hope to supply by the stock
they expect to receive by their fleet which is coming out of
Spain. |
|
The English soldiers in the service of the States daily disband
in great numbers and come to this side, complaining of ill
treatment by their captains. The Marquis either dismisses
them with passports and money or else entertains those that
will serve here. |
|
News has lately been received here of the election of
Cardinal Borghese to be Pope by the style of Paul V. He was
vice-protector of the English nation and creature of Cardinal
Aldobrandin. It is said he was brought in by conjoining the
parties of the said Cardinal and the French King and the
Venetians. He is by extraction a Siennois but born at Rome,
of the age of 55 and of a strong constitution. He is reported
to be of good life and a lover of the peace of Christendom. It
was much desired by these Princes that the fortune might have
fallen upon Cardinal Sauly, uncle to the Marquis of Spinola. |
|
Here is a gentleman from the Emperor to solicit the payment
of certain money which Spinola has order from the King of
Spain to furnish for the war of Hungary. The Archdukes
Matthias and Maximilian have been lately with the Emperor
to represent the desperate state of Hungary and enforced how
necessary it was that the Emperor should proceed to the election
of a King of Romans that might better attend the care of the
said wars than the Emperor's own health would give him leave.
It is said that the Emperor gave assurance that he would order
all necessary supplies for the war but would advise further
concerning the other proposition. |
|
Here is newly arrived the Count of Briere, base son to the
Duke of Barre, to serve in these wars. The Count of Sores, long
since employed by these Princes into Spain, is expected here
this night or to-morrow. Edmondes has been entrusted by the
Treasurer of the Archdukes' house to recommend the enclosed
request to Salisbury's favour. Has begun to write to the
King's Ambassadors in France and at Venice and is preparing
by the next opportunity to write into Spain but the ordinary
means of sending there are seldom. Sends a letter which the
Duke of Arscott writes to the King in thankful acknowledgment
of the letter which his Majesty was pleased to write him.—
Bruxelles, 25 May 1605.
Copy, noted: "Sent by Chaffe the post." 4¼ pp. (227. p. 11.)
[The original is in the Public Record Office, S.P. For.,
Flanders, 7.] |
|
Sir Thomas Edmondes to the Earl of Salisbury. |
|
1605, May 26. |
As he was ready to close these letters he
received by this bearer Salisbury's letters of the 11th inst.
Has already begun to enter into treaty with the Count of
Aremberg and the Council of the Admiralty concerning the
complaints of the Hollanders and especially that of the outrage
upon the person of the gentleman of Lytuania and found that
the said Council are very earnest to justify the doings of their
men of war but took time to consider further what answer to
make. If this does not yield him better satisfaction than he
expects, he will not fail to prosecute the matter effectually
according to Salisbury's direction. Finds by discourse with
some of the principal here that they cannot like the proposition
to withdraw their ships of war out of the Narrow Seas but would
rather entertain the other offer for accommodating a course of
trade for Antwerpe.—Bruxels, 26 May 1605.
Copy. 1 p. (227. p. 18.) |
|
[The original is in the Public Record Office, S.P. For.,
Flanders, 7.] |
|
The Bishop of Norwich to the Same. |
|
1605, May 27. |
I write very seldom to you because I know
your affairs of state much possess you and my intelligence in
this country as yet is but small. Most ready I rest ever to do
you or your meanest follower any good office.—At Ludham in
Norfolke, 27 May 1603.
Holograph. ½ p. (111. 10.) |
|
Witchcraft. |
|
1605, May 27. |
Certified copy of the following clause in a
privy seal dated 22 May 1605. |
|
"For the charges of two maids suspected to be bewitched
and kept by our commandment at Cambridge for their trial
such sums of money as from the Earl of Salisbury, our Principal
Secretary, Chancellor of that University, you shall be required
so as the same exceed not the sum of 100l." |
|
With this extract are two papers setting out the charges of
the two maids at Cambridge suspected to be bewitched. From
25 March to 14 May the sum total of the charges for the diet,
lodging, firing, candle, washing, etc., of the two maids Frances
and Beatrix together with those for their four keepers and for
their apothecary's bill was 39l. 15s. 4d. The account is signed
by Jo. Cowell, the Vice-Chancellor. Allowance is also claimed
for the maids' charges from 14 May until the end of twenty
days after "for so much time your lordship alloweth them
to prepare themselves for their dismission." There is also a
claim for the expenses of the messenger on his journey from the
Vice-Chancellor, and a reminder that out of the principal 6d.
is to be deducted for every pound. At the foot is a note in
another hand "Besides his Majesty's reward to the physicians,
20l."
2½ pp. (111. 11.) |
|
[The Earl of Salisbury] to Lord Dunbar. |
|
[1605, May 27]. |
Having omitted some particulars in my
letter which I wrote at some length I thought good to add thus
much, that his Majesty has resumed the petition of grievances
to his own order hereafter, though there has been labour in the
House to amend it themselves by some laws, which fashion his
Majesty liked not. But sending for 40 of them, heard their
petition at great length and so is determined by advice of his
Council and due examination of all circumstances to sever the
chaff from the corn and by his own authority to keep the good
and reject the bad according to truth and not according to
clamour. Secondly, I assure you without flattery that the
King has so failed between both extremes, either of using too
much authority or suffering too little respect to be used towards
him, as I think whatsoever has been effected (and more was
never effected in any of our Parliaments) may be in effect
wholly attributed to his excellent temper and great judgment.
We are now therefore like to spend this summer in less
occupations of this nature. For until 18 November the next
session is deferred. God grant we have not a northern wind
in the heat of summer from the coast of Norway that will either
blast our cherries or rather empty the Exchequer of many a
bag, though in other kinds I cannot deny but the interview
must bring both honour and comfort. I gave Mr. Haye a
writing to send you, being the protestation made by the State
of Venice against the Pope's excommunication, being glad
that the world should know that other wise states are sensible
of his usurpation as well as my master. It is most true that
the State for point of jurisdiction stands stiffly, has banished
all the Jesuits and would have proceeded against all the rest
of the Spiritualty, had they not yielded to do their office, notwithstanding the interdiction of their holy father. But (my
Lord) it were too happy that this fire should still continue,
neither is it to be expected, if that State would dispose themselves to any further violence against the Pope, but that other
princes of Italy would out of private ends adhere to their holy
father. And yet I am of opinion, howsoever in the end other
princes will interpose themselves to reconcile the quarrel, but
that the Pope will rather be contented to let the matter fall
than to try any further strength. |
|
We have heard that you have lighted upon some of the
Gramies upon the Borders, though some ill accidents defeated
a good part of the plot. I would to God when your Parliament
is done that you would come to our buckhunting, or at least
to see how our brave knights will perform their tilt and tourney
in the defence of this quarrel, that no fair lady can be false
nor any man wise but lovers. |
|
Our challengers are four by the name of Knights of Destinies:
the Duke, the Earl of Arundell, the Earl of Pembroke and
the Earl of Montgom[ery]. Now have you all my news saving
that Sir Roger Aston is become so popular in the Lower House
they made choice of him and Mr. Recorder to be sent to the
King to complain of one Doctor Parker, who, very indiscreetly
speaking of a piece of scripture where there is mention made
of the Parliament of Trees, did so inveigh in the pulpit at Paul's
against their proceedings in the Lower House, as I confess did
merit both blame and punishment for such a presumption,
all circumstances considered. Upon their complaint to the
King, his Majesty very graciously called Doctor Parker before
him and Mr. Recorder to charge him, and then, though he
excused himself to have meant only the Puritans that should
defend deprived ministers, yet his Majesty committed him
prisoner to the Dean of Paul's, where yet he lies, which gave
them great satisfaction at their upshot, the rather because the
King promised them in his speech that day, that howsoever
he might hereafter clear himself for any ill meaning, yet he had
done so much the rather to correct his indiscretion; concluding
with a smiling countenance, in his public oration, that although
he would ever challenge a power to reprove them and reform
them if they did err, yet he never meant they should have any
more corrections.
Draft with corrections. Endorsed: "27 May. To my Lo.
of Dumbare." 7 pp. (111. 14.) |
|
John Fitzwilliam to the Earl of Salisbury. |
|
1605, May 27. |
I have now, though much hindered by my
unjust adversary, obtained Wednesday next to present my
cause, in the Star Chamber before you, wherein I am plaintiff.
I am informed that the plaintiff ought to exhibit briefs of the
cause, which I have forborne and only presume hereby to desire
your Honour to suspend your opinion of my proceeding against
my adversary, my elder brother Sir William Fitzwilliam,
until you hear the cause. You shall then be able to judge
whether the service I owe to the church of God, the King, my
parents' honest memory with my own safety have not enforced
me to this proceeding. For in contempt of all these he has in
a famous riot in the night in London, the seat of authority and
justice of the kingdom, broken open five doors upon our sick
mother on her death bed, affrighting the ladies then there with
his and his companions' swords drawn, hereby to work my
disinheritance by surprising the evidences of my small portion
of land then in my mother's keeping, and to strip me of my
legacy by suppressing our mother's will before the executors
could enter, being then both in the city. Having kept my
land above two years by strong hand to the admiration of all
men, he now forces me to sue for the main profits of the same
and my goods to the value of 4000l. at the least, and that with
money borrowed at interest to maintain both my life and law.
The cause is short which I submit to your patronage, beseeching
you to hold me excused that I wait not upon you, which my
weak state of body will not give me leave.—From my poor
house at Gainsparke in Essex, 27 May 1605.
Signed. 1 p. (111. 19.) |
|
Sir John Harper to the Earl of Salisbury. |
|
1605, May 27. |
I was very lately informed by a servant of
mine that one John Heathcote of Duffeilde in this county
should utter most lewd and unseemly words of your lordship
to one Richard Mason your cook. Whereupon I immediately
sent for the said Heathcote (Richard Mason being with me)
and after examination committed him to Derby gaol, where
he now is. The copy of which information and examination
you shall receive here enclosed. My humble desire is to know
your pleasure, whether you would have him sent up, for it
may be thought he is animated to this villainy by some others
or that you will have him at our next Quarter Sessions after
Midsummer publicly or privately to receive such condign
exemplary punishment by whipping or otherwise as the quality
of his offence deserves. I am the rather emboldened to entreat
your pleasure, for his friends sue to have him bailed.—At
Swarkeston, 27 May 1605.
Signed. Seal. 2/3 p. (111. 18.) |
|
The Enclosure:— |
|
The information of Richard Mason, servant to the Earl of
Salisbury, taken at Swarkeston, 21 May 1605. |
|
Upon Wednesday last, 15 May, coming to Duffield about
4 o'clock in the afternoon upon some business, he happened
into the house of one John Heathcott, "teylier" and victualler
there, in the company of Francis Burton, of Weston, yeoman.
Not long after their being there Heathcott came into his house,
and a stranger present asked this informer whose servant
he was? who answered that he belonged to the Earl of
Salisbury; whereunto Heathcott said, Then thou servest a
crooked knave! Whereupon Mason gave him a box on the
ear, and then drawing his dagger to have stricken him they
were parted by certain persons present whom he knew not. |
|
The examination of John Heathcott, same day and place,
Who says he had credibly heard Mason was departed from the
service of the Earl, and therefore spoke those words to have
pleased Mason; at which time he was so overcome with drink
that he knew not well what he said, and therefore craves mercy
and to be freed from that punishment which he confesses he
worthily deserves.
Undersigned: John Harpur. ½ p. (110. 167.)
Copy (18th century) of the above. 1 p. (249. 235.) |
|
Viscount Lisle to the Earl of Salisbury. |
|
1605, May 27. |
The suit of this bearer, Mrs. Malby, I trust
will be found reasonable. She brags of your goodness to her
heretofore, and her nearness of blood unto me is such, that a
greater fault than her preferring a petition may I hope by your
lordship be borne withal.—Greenwich, 27 May 1605.
Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (182. 35.) |
|
Duke of Holstein. |
|
[1605, May 27]. |
Preamble of letters patent, granting a
pension to Ulricke, Duke of Holsteyne, brother to the Queen,
stating the reasons moving the King thereto.—Undated.
Draft, with corrections by Salisbury. Endorsed: "1605."
2½ pp. (191. 98.)
[The patent dated 27 May is enrolled on Patent Roll,
3 Jas. I, part 4.] |
|
Salisbury House. |
|
1605, May 27. |
Provision made for his Majesty's dinner at
Salisbury House.—27 May 1605.
17 pp. (199. 106.) |
|
The Earl of Pembroke to the Earl of Salisbury. |
|
[1605], May 28. |
In favour of this poor gentlewoman his
cousin, who has already been much bound to Cecil for his
compassionate consideration of her misfortunes.—Greenwich,
28 May.
Holograph. Endorsed: "1605." 1 p. (86. 63.) |
|
Sir John Leveson to the Same. |
|
1605, May 28. |
I have according to your direction sent up
George Smyth the bearer to attend your pleasure about such
mares as you shall appoint for your race at Canterbury Park,
where I have appointed him to take the charge and care of the
grounds for breeding of colts. He was the rider to the late
Lord Cobham and his father and has good experience in the
ordering of a race, wherein he is desirous to do you service. I
will undertake for him that he shall honestly and faithfully
perform what shall be committed to his charge.—Hallyng,
28 May 1605.
Holograph. ½ p. (111. 20.) |
|
The King to Sir Thomas Edmondes. |
|
1605, May 29. |
This bearer Wm. Lindsey has received loss
by the spoil of a ship of his and the goods in her, taken from
him by one Captain Dierickson serving the Archdukes: and
although he has often sought restitution as he alleges, he has
not yet obtained it. Wherefore he importunes us to procure
for him that which by his own suit he cannot get; and we
have thought it most convenient to address him to you, and
to require you to deal with the Archduke, or such of his Council
as you shall think meetest, in our name to do him right, as they
will expect the like at our hands in the complaints of their
subjects. He goes with these our letters himself, and will
inform you of the particulars whereby you may be instructed
of his case: and by these you shall perceive that our will is
you do your best to help him to redress it.—"At our manor of
Greenwich," 29 May, 3 James I.
Copy. 2/3 p. (227. p. 41.)
[A draft of the above much damaged and partly torn off is
in the Public Record Office, S.P. For., Flanders, 7.] |
|
Sir Arthur Gorges to the Earl of Salisbury. |
|
1605, May 29. |
Has lately written to Salisbury and the Earls
of Worcester, Suffolk and Northampton, concerning his suit to
the King, which Lord Montgomery has solicited in his behalf,
and often told him the King has promised to take a fit time of
leisure to do it. Desires Montgomery may move it when
Salisbury and the others are present.—Kewe, 29 May 1605.
Holograph. 1 p. (86. 65.) |
|
J. Fouler to the Same. |
|
1605, May 29. |
Pardon my presumption to which the care
of her Majesty's service moves me. For if such reference were
made as is desired from you, your Honour should be less
importuned and her Majesty's affairs with more order got better
forward than where none, knowing the borders of his office,
runs blundering without warrant or precedent into others'
calling.—29 May 1605.
Signed. Endorsed: "Mr. Fowler the Queen's Secretary to
my Lord." ½ p. (111. 8.) |
|
Noel de Caron to the Same. |
|
1605, May 29. |
He will write again to the States of Zeeland
with regard to the mariners and prisoners found in the Dunkirk
shallop. If his letter is in time it will stay proceedings against
them. The master of the shallop has caused the greatest
miseries to the States' poor sailors: the others are all "overloopers" as they are called, namely those who, having served
the States, have gone over to the enemy. The States will do
what is reasonable to meet the King's wishes, notwithstanding
that the Dunkirkers detain many of their mariners and
prisoners who, according to the sentences of the Admiralty
Court, were taken in the roads and havens of the King and
consequently ought to be restored.—Suytlambet, 29 May 1605.
Holograph. French. 1 p. (190. 91.) |
|
Ulrich, Duke of Holstein, Bishop of Schleswig and
Schwerin, to the Earl of Salisbury. |
|
[1605], May 30/June 9. |
That I may not appear ungrateful for the
kindness received from you during my visit to your country
I write to assure you of my gratitude.—Hamburgh, June 9.
Holograph. Endorsed: "Duke of Holstein to my Lord."
Two seals on yellow silk. ½ p. (134. 68.) |
|
Peace with Spain. |
|
1605, May 30/June 9. |
Account of the ceremony of the swearing to
the Peace with England by the King of Spain and the
reception of his oath by the Admiral of England on behalf of
his King. |
|
On Corpus Christi Day, 9 June 1605, between 5 and 6 p.m.,
the Constable of Castile issued from his house accompanied by
the Gentlemen of the Household and others of the Courts, with
the Marquis de la Bañeja by his side, to meet the Admiral at
his house. |
|
The Admiral came out wearing a white suit trimmed with
pearls, a black cloak with many gold buttons set with precious
stones, the great Collar of St. George, worn as the Knights of the
Golden Fleece wear their collars, and the Garter: he had 60
gentlemen with him who were provided with horses from the
royal stables. He walked between the Constable and the
English Resident Ambassador, and his train mingled with the
Gentlemen of the Court, and so they reached the palace.
Here they alighted, entered, passed through the hall, saloon
(saleta) and ante-chamber. As they entered the Chamber,
the King came to meet them from the room beyond preceded
by his Majordomos and Grandees and followed by the Marquis
de Velada, principal Majordomo, and the gentlemen of the
Court. His Majesty took off his cap and ordered it to be
placed beside him. The company then proceeded to the door
of the passage leading to the Count of Miranda's house where
the great saloon has been built. At the entrance of the gallery
stood the Kings of Arms and the Serjeants at Mace with the
Sword of State (Estoque). The King took the sword and gave
it to the Duke of Lerma, bidding the Grandees to be covered.
Twelve were present: the Dukes del Infantado, of Dea, Alva,
Sesa, Albuquerque and Pastrana, and the Counts of Alva de
Aliste and of Lemos. The procession went in the usual order,
first, the persons of title and gentlemen both English and
Spanish, then the four serjeants with their maces, then the
Majordomos with their staves, next the Grandees, then the
four Kings of Arms in their tabards (cotas), behind them the
Duke of Lerma, uncovered, with the naked Sword of State on
his shoulder. Next came the King with the Admiral by his
side, to whom he talked freely both going and returning. After
the King walked the English Ambassador, covered, the Marquis
de la Velada, and the Gentlemen of the Chamber, the interpreter,
and some of the Admiral's gentlemen and servants. |
|
The great Saloon was hung with the Tunis tapestry, and as
they entered the trumpets and cheremias [hautboys], stationed
by the door, sounded. Here was a canopy embroidered with
the royal arms, and a chair to match, upon a dais one step
high. The King sat down, the Duke of Lerma standing on the
dais on his right with the Sword of State, and the Marquis of
Velada on his left: Two Kings of Arms and two Serjeants at
Mace on each side. To the right of the dais was a crimson
velvet chair for the Cardinal of Toledo, who had been waiting
for the King, and on the left a crimson velvet settee (banquillo)
for the Admiral and the English Ambassador. Below the
Cardinal's chair was a bench for the Grandees covered as is
usual in the Chapel. |
|
His Majesty commanded the Cardinal, the Admiral, the
Ambassador and the Grandees to sit down. Behind the
Cardinal stood the two Secretaries of State, Andreas de Prada
and the Count of Villalonga. |
|
The King having signed for the oath to be read, the Secretary
Prada gave it the Cardinal who rose, made a reverence to the
King and read it. The King swore in general terms to observe
the articles of the treaty signed for him by the Constable
specifying that of the 30 per cent. The Cardinal made another
reverence, replied that he should so swear, folded the paper and
gave it to the Admiral and the Ambassador, who had risen
when it was read. Then the Cardinal and the Principal Chaplain
presented the stool with the Gospels and the Crucifix. His
Majesty then knelt, and laying his hand on the Crucifix, swore
by the Gospels and the Crucifix to observe the oath. At this
point the Admiral took the articles of the treaty from the hands
of the Ambassador, written in a little parchment book, kneeling
held them over the stool beside the Gospels while his Majesty
swore. The King having sworn laid his hand on the articles
repeating that those were the articles he had sworn to observe,
and the Admiral kissed his hand very fervently. The stool was
then removed and the trumpets and hautboys again sounded.
They were at once stopped, while the Admiral requested a
signed copy of the oath, to which the King replied that the
Secretary Prada would deliver it. As the Admiral wished to
have it at the time, the Secretary Prada wrote it out on the
paper before mentioned. The King meanwhile bade the Cardinal,
the Admiral, the Ambassador and the Grandees to be seated.
The Secretary Prada then knelt and presented the oath in
writing to the King with pen and ink and the King signed it.
The ceremony then closed, the Cardinal remaining and the
others returning as they came to the Chamber, where the King
took off his cap and took leave of the Admiral, who was then
escorted as before to his house.
Spanish. 6½ pp. (190. 96.) |
|
Lady Penelope Riche to the Earl of Salisbury. |
|
[1605], May 31. |
This gentlewoman has entreated me to
recommend her suit to you, of whose good success I should be
very glad because she is one I have been long acquainted with
and is of the best disposition that ever I found any of her nation.
Favour her that if it be possible she may obtain some satisfaction, if her desires be not unreasonable.—Envile this last of
May.
Holograph. Endorsed: "1605." 1 p. (111. 22.) |
|
John Ferrour to the Same. |
|
[1605, May]. |
Is emboldened by his lordship's assurance
of favour towards him upon the recommending of his unsuccessful suit to the King concerning the printers by the Earl of
Southampton, to beseech his furtherance in his suit for a lease
in reversion of a manor, parcel of the Duchy of Lancaster in
Norfolk, near the place of his birth and abode, and rented at
41l. a year. There yet remain more than thirteen years to
come of the now lessee's estate. It was lately entered into Sir
Roger Aston's book but left by him upon knowledge of its true
value being much less than he expected. If in reward of his
services he may obtain it, it will add some reputation to him
in his native country.—Undated.
Holograph. Endorsed: "1605 May." 1 p. (111. 23.) |
|
Lord Cobham to the Council. |
|
[1605, May]. |
It is proper for every man to address himself
to those whose place and credit gives them means to help and
relieve men in their distress. It is likewise a great happiness
to be the means of relieving the afflicted. The happiness of
this time both in the King and in his election of you his grave
councillors frees me from despair, for why should I expect
otherwise from him than from a King that will pardon, and
from your lordships as furtherers of his heavenly disposition;
for your mediation can no way eclipse or take away that due
which of right is his. This does but show the blessedness of
the time that Prince and Council both agree and expresses the
duty and affection you perform in counselling him to that
which will make him and his posterity for ever happy. For
my thought I was condemmed. If my thoughts were as well
known now, compassion would move your lordships to be
mediators for me. For never man was more sorry and ashamed
of his weakness than I have been. Mercy I now beseech from
my gracious and religious sovereign; your lordships as
mediators for it I humbly entreat. So I take my leave a poor
prisoner.—Undated.
Holograph, signed: H. Brooke. Endorsed: "Maie 1605.
The late Lord Cobham to the L[ord]s." 1 p. (111. 24.) |
|
The Earl of Salisbury to the Attorney General. |
|
1605, May. |
Directs that whereas Elinor Woodhowse, widow,
late wife of Fraunces Woodhowse of Caston, Norfolk, deceased,
Kathren Gawen, widow, late wife of Thomas Gawen of
Norrington, Wilts., deceased, George Tettersall of Stapleford,
Wilts., gent., and Thomas Gawen of Hurcote, Wilts., stand
severally indicted or convicted for recusancy, he is to cause a
book to be drawn fit for his Majesty's signature whereby the
full penalty due to the King by the indictment or conviction
of the said parties may be granted to Sir Hughe Carmichell,
knight, and James Woodshawe, gent.—From the Court of
Greenwich, this — of May 1605.
Draft. Endorsed: "My Lord to Mr. Attorney-General."
½ p. (111. 25.) |
|
The Earl of Exeter to his brother, the Earl of
Salisbury. |
|
[1605, ? May]. |
I thank you for the procuring my licence
for absence, which I hope now shall not be very long, having
I thank God recovered that swelling in my leg, which I came
for. In my opinion the Cross Bath is so temperate a bath as
it would do your constitution of body more good than any
sovereign thing else you can take. Besides it accidents with
it to be freed from business for a time. I would I could persuade
you this next fall of the leaf to try it but you must use it without
all physic saving the drinking of the water if you find the bath
do bind. You shall need no other physician than your true
loving servant John Wyntar, who, if his skill were to the
affection and honour he carrieth you, I am sure he would be a
proud man to wait upon you. I have sent your lordship my
proxy and I pray you use my voice as yours being absent,
which if I were present should for the most part concur with
yours. |
|
PS. I am glad of your new honour which is as due to them
which labour in the commonwealth with their minds as to the
martial men that serve in their bodies; and therefore it is
more honourable unto you not only in having of it but that
in all men's mouths you deserve both that and all the rest
of the honours that have been bestowed upon you.—Undated.
Holograph. Endorsed: "Erle of Exceter to my Lord from
Bathe." 1 p. (118. 154.) |
|
Recusants' Lands. |
|
1605, May. |
Draft form of grant of recusants' lands, with
corrections by Salisbury.—Court at Greenwich, May 1605.
½ p. (190. 92.) |
|
The Infant of Spain. |
|
1605, [May]. |
Account of the christening of the Prince of
Spain, born at Valladolid, Good Friday 8 April 1605 (N.S.)
at 9.40 p.m. |
|
On Whitsunday the 29th May between 6 and 7 p.m., the
baptism took place as follows. The guests assembled in a large
house adjoining the palace which the King had bought of the
Count of Miranda. The insignia were placed on a table or
sideboard in one of the rooms nearest to the covered way which
led from the palace. From this room the procession started
as soon as the Duke of Lerma entered with the Infant in his
arms, wrapped in a scarf of white taffeta which depended from
his neck. The Grandees took the insignia: the Constable the
marchpane, the Duke del Infantado the saltcellar, the Duke
of Alva the veil, the Duke of Pastrano the cap: all this in large
gold basins with very rich handles (?) (fruteros). The Duke of
Albuquerque carried the basin and jug and the Count of Alva
de Aliste the ewer and towel. A great crowd of titled persons
and gentlemen came first, then four serjeants with their maces,
then the King's Majordomos. Only one grandee followed
them, viz. Don Philip of Africa without insignia owing to his
coming late. Then the four Kings of Arms, and then the
Grandees above mentioned, uncovered with the insignia, and
some pages among them to help them to carry them. Behind
them the Duke of Lerma alone with the Prince in his arms,
dressed in white, with a great cape (ropon ò bohemio) of cloth of
silver embroidered with gold, and breeches of the ancient fashion.
A little behind the Duke came the godfather, the elder Prince
of Savoy, then the Queen's Majordomos with their staves,
then the godmother, the Infanta in a sedan-chair (sillita) carried
by four yeomen of the Queen's Chamber (Reposteros de Camas),
on each side a Maid of Honour holding the Infanta and on the
left H.H. the younger Prince of Savoy, Grand Prior of St.
John, as esquire to her Highness. Then followed the Countess
of Altariva her governess and then a great number of wives
of Grandees, and persons of title each upon a Gentleman's arm,
as also the Queen's ladies very richly dressed. It would be
impossible to describe all the dresses and liveries; as also the
tapestry which decorated both the rooms and the new corridor
built for the occasion between the house and the gate of the
Convent of St. Paul, where, in order to go down to the church,
a staging was built with two staircases (descanços) and the steps
covered with carpets (alhombras) so that the people could see
every thing. |
|
The Duke of Lerma took especial care that everyone should
be able to see the Prince, stopping and showing him at every
window in the corridor, at which everyone cheered. At the
gate of the church were the King's trumpets and drums. Inside
there was some instrumental music and much singing, and the
whole church was draped with tapestry. At the end of the
corridor, where the stage was set up, there was a window through
which their Majesties saw the procession pass into the church. |
|
When the Duke was within a few steps of the church the
Cardinal Archbishop of Toledo came out accompanied by the
Archbishop of Burgos and the Bishop of Valladolid, Grand
Inquisitor, (all with their mitres), the principal Chaplain, and
the Chaplains of the Chapel Royal. The questions were put
and the other ceremonies were as usual, the name being given
as Philippus Dominicus Victor. On entering the church the
usual prayers were said, this was also witnessed by their
Majesties through a little window made for the purpose at the
entrance to the church. Hence they passed to the Capella
Mayor where at the foot of the High Altar there was a dais
four steps high upon which stood four solid silver pillars
supporting a canopy, and beneath it the white stone oval font
in which St. Dominic was christened. At each pillar stood a
King of Arms and a Mace-bearer. Here the Duke placed the
Prince in the arms of the Countess Governess, and she undressed
him on a bed with richly brocade curtains on the Epistle side,
and gave him to the Prince godfather. The Countess Governess
then took the Infanta, the godmother, in her arms and they
went to the font. The Cardinal then baptized the Prince with
the usual solemnities, he crying lustily all the time. After this
the Prince godfather restored him to the Countess Governess
and she went and dressed him again on the same bed, the
physicians making great haste and the nurse gave him milk.
All this was seen by their Majesties through the lattice
window on the Gospel side. |
|
The Prince being dressed was given back to the Duke and the
procession returned as before, except that it went once round
the square before the church, and that the Grandees having
laid down their insignia returned to their usual place walking
between the Majordomos and the Kings of Arms with their
hats on. The Cardinal took his place on the Infanta's right,
the Archbishop of Burgos with the Grandees, and when they
reached the room from which they had set out the procession
terminated. |
|
All the Council attended, most of them taking part in the
procession. However seats were provided for them all in the
Capella Mayor. The Admiral of England saw the procession
enter the church from the window of the Count of Rivadavia's
house, and afterwards watched the proceedings at the font
from a passage above the altar of Christ. Through the same
window he also witnessed the customary procession of the
order of St. Dominic on the convention of a Chapter-General,
which opened that day in the Convent of St. Paul. As many
as 300 walked from that church to the Cathedral where there
was a Pontifical Mass and a sermon. His Majesty also assisted
at the procession, both going and returning, accompanied by
the Ambassadors, Grandees, Persons of Title and numerous
gentlemen, in gala costume with jewels.
Spanish. 6½ pp. (190. 54.) |
|
Martyn Slatiar to [the King?] |
|
[? 1605, before June]. |
Is one of his Majesty's servants and
has been chosen by the Duke of Holstein to select a company
of comedians to attend his Grace here or elsewhere, and having
made choice of them is unprovided of a house to play in, as
others of their profession have. The petitioner willing to show
himself in the best manner he could for his Grace's service together with one Aaron Holland, servant to the Earl of
Devonshire, having jointly the lease of the house betwixt them
for 30 years, has altered some stables and other rooms, being
before a square court in an inn, to turn them into galleries, with
the consent of the parish who have subscribed their name to
a petition, with due consideration for divers causes, and
especially towards the poor of the parish, who have allowed
them 20s. a month towards their maintenance; and likewise
for the amending and maintaining of the pavements and highways have bestowed upon the same 500l. Since which time
the Privy Council have stayed the finishing of the same. They
pray to have such privilege as others of their quality have, and
to finish the work.—Undated.
Petition. 1 p. (199. 91(2).) |
