Calendar of the Cecil Papers in Hatfield House: Volume 19, 1607. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1965.
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'Cecil Papers: January 1607, 16-31', in Calendar of the Cecil Papers in Hatfield House: Volume 19, 1607, (London, 1965) pp. 11-33. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-cecil-papers/vol19/pp11-33 [accessed 19 April 2024]
January 1607, 16-31
| Sir Thomas Lake to the Earl of Salisbury. | |
| 1606–7, Jan. 16. | To other parts of your letters to his Majesty and the rest that came with it, his Majesty makes his answer by his own letters. But concerning these two copies of letters sent to the King of Poland by Bruce, I am commanded to return them to you, and to learn from you the case of sending them, for that neither in your letters to his Majesty nor in Bruce's, there is no relation to them: and if there be cause for aught to proceed from his Majesty upon them, he will give his answer when he hears from you what it is, which he conceives to be contained in some letter of Bruce's to you. He is offended with Bruce for the unreverent form of his writing to his Majesty, which indeed is without all good fashion, beginning it with commendations to his Majesty, and ending with a subscription of his name so close to the lines of his letter as there is almost no distance between. But for the matter, seems to be glad of the King's success, as liking not any actions of subjects in such a kind, in what form of state soever. |
|
Your packet was opened before it came hither, as I doubt not
but you have heard ere now by Sir Roger Aston, who sent it to
me from Waltham. The letters seem to be all here: but the
post boy tells of a box missing, which we know not what to judge
of, because your letters speak not of it.—From the Court at
Royston, 16 Jan., 1606. Holograph. 1¼ pp. (115. 64.) |
|
| The Same to the Same. | |
| 1606–7. Jan. 16. |
Encloses a letter from the King.—16 Jan. Holograph. ½ p. Postal endorsements: "Royston 16 January at past eight in the night, hast hast hast hast hast for lyfe lyfe lyfe. Royston 16 of Januarie at past 10 in the night. Ware 17 Jan. at one in the morninge." (115. 65.) |
| The Same to the Same. | |
| 1606–7, Jan. 16. |
I send these bills which his Majesty signed
this morning: the commission for the jewels, a letter for timber
for the ships, the letter for Mr. Cooke, Sir William Godolphin's
bill, and one of a renunciation for Robert Douglas.—Royston,
16 Jan., 1606. Holograph. ½ p. (115. 66.) |
| The Same to the Same. | |
| 1606–7, Jan. 16. |
After I had written my other letter, and
while his Majesty was closing his, he commanded me to send you
word that my Lord of Dunbar has apprehended of late divers,
both on the English side and on the Scottish of the most ancient
thieves and receivers of thieves that were there abiding; and
many of them such as durst not beforetime be meddled, which his
Majesty thinks by this time to have suffered the law. And the
Earl has some other notorious service in hand of the like nature,
but complains that there is no order given to the horsemen allowed
to attend the Commissioners of the Mid Shires, nor of the garrison
to be at his command for service: which his Majesty thinks an
omission in the former letters of authority sent to him, and very
well to be supplied, making no alteration in his power, and yet
being requisite for his service. Wherefore he thinks fit that you
in his name, or some of the Council joined with you, give order
to those who have the charge of those horsemen appointed for
that service, and any others in Berwick or elsewhere, but specially
the horsemen, that whenever my Lord of Dunbar shall require
their service they shall obey him. The names of the men taken
are herewith sent. This warrant is to go by the post with all
speed possible.—Royston, 16 Jan., 1606. Holograph. 1½ pp. (192. 67.) |
| Sir John Scott to the Earl of Salisbury. | |
| 1606–7, Jan. 16. |
Thanks him for the wardship of Burdett's
heir, which proved more to him in value than he ever received
from any person living, his father and wives excepted. Asks
whether it is fitting for him to renew his suit to the King for a
debt of above 500l. due to him for his service in the Low Countries,
and for apparelling his soldiers on his own credit.—16 Jan. Holograph. Endorsed: "1606." 1 p. (115. 67.) |
| Don Pedro de Cuniga, Spanish Ambassador. to the Same. | |
| 1606–7, Jan. 17/27. |
I have always preferred to withhold my own
personal affairs than to weary his Majesty, your lordship or my
Lords of the Council with them, trusting that the King's servants
in his Courts of Justice would follow his will in maintaining justice
in his realms. The Chancellor has held up for three weeks
execution of the sentence awarded me in the Court of Admiralty,
under pretext of an appeal on the question of possession. I believe
that reason is on my side and beseech you to be a means with the
other Lords of the Council with the Chancellor for execution of
the sentence to take effect or that the appeal be held without
leaving the matter longer in suspense, since the interest of the
cause and of its justice is so notable by these delays in regard of
the sugars which are being lost. I pray you to give Dr. Tailer
what answer you please.—27 Janvier, 1607, stylo novo. Holograph. French. 1½ pp. (115. 80.) |
| Captain Jo: Baxter to the Same. | |
| 1606–7, Jan. 17. |
He begs Salisbury's favour for the enclosed
petition. He is willing to content himself with Salisbury's
allowance for those things in Connaught; and desires but this
one thing in the Pale, and will give as much rent as a stranger.
Refers to his long service and old debts due to him.—17 Jan.,
1606. Holograph. ½ p. (116. 68.) |
| The United Provinces and the Archdukes of Austria. | |
| 1606–7, Jan. 17/27. | The States General of the United Provinces of the Low Countries having heard and ripely examined that which Mons. Walrave de Wettenhorst, assisted by Mr. John Gheraerts, licentiate of the law, had on the 13th of this month propounded by word of mouth in their assembly and afterwards delivered in writing, in the name of the Archdukes of Austria. according to a certain instruction of the 6th of May with letters of December 12, and a commission of the third of this present month; and having also taken the advice both of his Excellency and of the Council of State touching the same: for answer thereunto do hereby declare, that as the Low Countries were at the first enforced to take arms by the extremest necessity and weightiest reasons that could be, even for the defence of themselves and their inhabitants in their souls, bodies and goods, together with their liberties of rights, against the exorbitant tyranny of the Spaniards and their adherents; so there is not anything which they have more desired and craved of God ever since that time than that they might attain to an honourable and assured end of these wars, whereon might follow the welfare and safety of the said countries and people: in which desire they do still persist with like earnestness of heart. But seeing that by the aforesaid instruction of the 6th of May (whereto the letters and commission have joint reference) it is manifest that their Highnesses do still continue their unjust pretence and claim of the right which they would seem to have in and to the United Provinces: whereas notwithstanding the States hold it as evident to the world and irrefutable, that nothing can be pretended by any title but only violence or war; seeing also that on the other side, the States of the aforesaid countries in general have always sought, upon just causes and by warrant of equity, to restore unto that union which had once been formed among them all the Provinces, towns and places which have been withdrawn from the same either by force or secret practices, to the infringing of that solemn decree whereby the Low Countries for sundry most weighty reasons were declared to be a free State or States; which decree within the space of 25 years last past hath been confirmed by divers public acts and treaties and by the mightiest kings and potentates of Europe, and lastly through the singular mercy of God, and the assistance of great princes, together with the careful endeavours of the United Provinces, their several parts, towns and inhabitants have been hitherto maintained by the States aforesaid, both for themselves and their sworn confederates, of which number there are many thousands, who sincerely affecting the rights and liberties of the Low Countries, and sighing under the subjection of the Archdukes, do heartily desire the restitution of that aforesaid union: for the compassing and effecting whereof by the continuance and enlargement of the same mercy, assistance and endeavours the said States are likewise resolved constantly to prosecute their designs. For this cause as heretofore upon sundry like overtures and propositions, and not long since upon that which was made to them in the Emperor's name, they have declared, that it should be neither pleasing to God nor standing with their honour and safety to treat with those who contrary to the aforesaid decree and to the rights of the United Provinces, still being in such sort maintained and confirmed, do continue their pretences against the same. In like sort they do now again declare themselves and firmly persist in their former resolution, protesting before God, the whole world, and especially the Low Countries, that they hold themselves guiltless of all the miseries, harms and spoils which either they or the confining provinces have, and hereafter may sustain, by reason of this unjust pretence; and that consequently their farther proceedings in this necessary and enforced course of maintaining their right, cannot any way be justly taxed. |
| Copy, underwritten: "It was dated the 27th of January, 1607, stilo novo." Endorsed: "1607. Th' answer of the States General to the proposition of Vanderhorst (sic) about a treaty for peace or truce." 2 pp. (120. 31.) | |
| Lord Haryngton to the Earl of Salisbury. | |
| [1606–7], Jan. 17. |
I have received your letter and therewith
the jewel of a diamond, a ruby and a pendant pearl, the diamond
set about with little diamonds; which was delivered to the Lady
Elizabeth from the King, which she received with great joy as
an assured testimony of his favour; which not a little encouraged
her to proceed in all good qualities and virtuous exercises wherein
she is exercised, and so profits, as no doubt will be very pleasing
to his Majesty and honour to herself. Her Grace gives you many
thanks, whom she assures herself to have been a great mean of
this favour. My wife has received plate from his Majesty which
she values much. We think ourselves happy to understand by
you his Majesty's good allowance of the poor service we can
perform to his worthy daughter.—Coumbe, 17 Jan. Holograph. Endorsed: "1606." 1 p. (192. 68.) |
| The King to the Same. | |
| 1606–7, Jan. 18. |
Grant to Richard Harris, one of the gentlemen ushers quarter waiters, of the benefit of the conviction of
Mary Morgan of Westham, Warwickshire, widow, recusant, whom
he purposes to prosecute.—18 Jan., 4 Jac. Endorsed: "Copy of his Majesty's letter to the Earl of Salisbury." 1 p. (115. 69.) |
| Sir Thomas Lake to the Same. | |
| 1606–7, Jan. 18. | Your letter arrived this morning about 9. at what time his Majesty was calling for paper to write to the Queen by Lord Montgomery, and said he would do the like to you. Touching the letter for Lord Dunbar, he commanded me to signify that by letters newly received from him he perceives that he is to journey hither within 8 days, so as the letter cannot now be of any great use. Yet has he sent it to him by the post, that if he will he may use it before his coming. Also to let you know that neither it is Lord Dunbar's desire, nor his Majesty's intent, to attribute to him thereby any power that may make alteration in the government, but only that he may use such as have pay to do service and lie idle for his Majesty's service. His Highness thinks it reasonable that any man of quality resident thereabout ought to have them at command in the like case; and named expressly Lord William Howard; but not with order that any such warrant should be directed for him. Touching whose service mentioned in the Council's letters, his Majesty is not informed of the particulars, because the letter which should express it is not sent within their letter as intended. |
|
For Sir Ed. Grevill, I find his Majesty somewhat stiff that he
should have no part of the money but out of that which shall
come in of the assarts, and says he never understood it otherwise;
and will yield no further than that the warrant shall contain the
500l. to be paid presently, or as soon as my Lord Treasurer may
spare it, as your letter is penned, and not presently without any
such condition, as Sir Edward would have it.—Court at Royston,
18 Jan., 1606. Holograph. 1½ pp. (192. 69.) |
|
| R. Cocks to Thomas Wilson, at Lord Salisbury's. | |
| 1606–7, Jan. 20. | This 20th of January your packet with the book and other letter came to my hands, which I dispatched for Valladolid. It appears you sent me a former letter by way of Paris, but that never came to my hands; but the other by Mr. Dorington came with this last. By way of Paris is longsome, and doubtful they will never come to my hands. In two or three former letters I have advised you of all matters. I have again and again perused your letters, and for four or five months will have a care to effect your directions from St. Sebastians to Valladolid. It would have fallen out so fitly if the consulship had effected, that heart could have desired it no better. You say you thought Mr. Wiche would not keep the place. For the first, he has taken a house in St. Sebastians; for the last I confess he is more capable than myself. It will be a great trouble to him who has it, if he perform it as he should. |
| I notice the continual pains you have taken about the establishing of the Spanish Company. If it had not been by your diligence it had never taken effect. I apprehend their unthankfulness in not making you free of the Company, as you desired; therefore no marvel if they gave no ear to you when you spake in my behalf. I am sorry you took so much pains about it. Your reason alleged in your letter is of consequence, yet I am assured that my Lord is so fully possessed of your good parts that such a thought cannot enter his mind. It may fall out that you may be even with some of them who have made so small account of your merits, namely Mr. Wiche and those of their fraternity, who lade ships in other lands and send them directly for Spain; and do so grease the fists of some in the world that they can bring attestations and quits that the goods were discharged and customs paid in England. | |
| For our being taken prisoners at St. Jean de Luz, I would we had never spoken more of it, for it is construed otherwise than it was effected; for you write me it was adjudged to be an injury offered us by a private man. Truly if the bailie or mayor of a place be a private man, then we were so injured, for it was the bailie of St. Jean de Luz, called Gerant de Sanson la Groo, that gave permission to Villa Nuefe to do that he did, and sent his man with him. | |
| Your letters touching the recando for Valladolid being well perused I committed to the flame, remembering the Spanish proverb Cartas hablan y barbas callian. The kerseys sent to Valladolid are come to Mr. Williams's hands, as appears by the enclosed note from Thomas Forman. I am promised the swordblades, but they are not yet come. Mr. Dorington writes me very earnestly to come away. If he had laboured as much as you, matters had gone forward in other sort. Now there is no remedy. I make account Mr. Hawkesworth will pass this way shortly. My Lord Ambassador has offered me so honourably, that I acknowledge I am unworthy of so favourable acceptations. Mr. Hawkesworth and Mr. Osely have used me very kindly. I perceived by Hawkesworth's speeches that there is little goodwill betwixt them. I would I were in the country where I was born. I could live with a piece of bread and cheese and a cup of small drink, rather than with all the dainties in the world in these parts. It was told me by men of account that a fool, jesting with the King of France, or rather the King with him, the fool told him he would neither be Pope, King nor pork. And wherefore? said the King. Because, said he, the Popes are no sooner chosen but they are dispatched, for there have been three or four within less than three or four months. And for Kings, said he, they stand upon a ticklish state, for their own subjects went about to kill them: as for example, said he, you and the King of England. And for a pork, said he, he is no sooner fat but his throat is cut. | |
| Men speak very broadly that there was a great power ready in the Archduke's country to have passed into England from Dunkirk, if the treason had been effected, and that Spinolo should have been their leader; but the treason being discovered, Spinolo went post for Spain. | |
| This day two English gentlemen are come here from the Court of Spain. One, a very young man named Knevett, is gone to Paris to his uncle, who is with the Ambassador of England. The other, Mr. Edward Onuye, is gone into the Archduke's country. Mr. Hugh Bourman is come over and gone consul for Seville, with a stipend of 200l. per annum. | |
|
PS. (on separate sheet headed: "kept until the 6 January
1606").—At St. Jean de Luz the Marquis Spinalo gave over his
post horse and took a pinnace, and so went by sea to Fonterabia;
and Monsieur de Sansac is this day arrived in this town of Bayon,
and is very angry towards the Bailie of St. Jean de Luz because
he suffered him to go by sea for they interpret it that it was for
no other use but to take view of the coast as he passed along;
and that which confirms them the more is certain reports given
out that as the Marquis Spinalo attended the making ready of his
dinner at the paluma at St. Sprit (who is now postmaster), walking
up and down the chamber and talking with one of his followers,
he told him that he thought the wars were proclaimed at Paris
before that day, which was the 4th present. He spoke it softly,
thinking nobody had heard him, but by fortune there was a man
did lie upon one of the beds in the chamber, and being well covered
with clothes they did not see him, and so he made report thereof
after they were gone. It is said that the Marquis Spinalo is sick
at Fuenterabia; and it is certain he has sent for the Portingale
doctor, who dwells in this town, and for a Spanish doctor from
Sebastians. So Edward Estman tells me, who is now arrived
from thence. Yet these people are jealous that he feigns himself
sick. because men should not enter into suspicion of his stay at
Fontarabia. It is said that the secretary to the Spanish Ambassador is at Paris about this matter, pretended to Marcelles. Holograph. Endorsed: "1606." 5 pp. (115. 48.) |
|
| Sir George Cary to the Earl of Salisbury. | |
| 1606–7, Jan. 21. |
He certifies to the good services of Captain
William Cole in Ireland at the siege of Kinsale and in charge of
the boats erected at Ballyshannon. As that kingdom is now in
good obedience, he begs Salisbury to give Cole favourable letters
to the States of the Low Countries, for a foot company there.—
Kensington, 21 Jan., 1606. Holograph. 1 p. (115. 70.) |
| Ralph Winwood to the Same. | |
| [1606–7], Jan. 21. | I send herewith the answer of the States General, translated out of the Dutch, to the proposition of Vander Horst sent from the Archdukes, to mediate a treaty for peace or truce, which in effect is the same which was made to the Emperor's Ambassador, Maximilian Coche, in the year 1605: the copy whereof I sent you by my letters of June 3. I cannot perceive any great comfort conceived of the overture which Arthens brought with him out of France: be it that it is not believed that good faith is intended, or that it is doubted it comes too late and will not be entertained. |
| The States of most of their Provinces are assembled in full number, and will here remain until some resolution be taken, though not for the settling of their estate, yet for the entertainment of this next year's service. The season of the year, which is so far advanced, requires the effect rather of their resolutions than the attendance of longer deliberations. | |
|
Yesterday I received a packet of letters from the Count of
East Frizeland in which were these, which I now send, to their
Majesties and you. In those the Count writes to me he earnestly
requires that I would humbly beseech you, which I do, to move
his Majesty to recommend him by his letters to the Emperor
(which letters he himself would deliver at the diet which is to be
held at Ratisbon, as I take it, in April next) and therein vouchsafe
to give notice of his affection towards him, and of the care he has
had to pacify the troubles of his province, for the public good of
his State, and the assurance of his posterity. He writes, these
letters would give him great grace with the Emperor, and much
advantage the advancement of such causes which a subject of
the Empire is necessarily occasioned to follow in that Court.
He likewise entreats his Majesty's intercession to the King of
Spain and Archdukes for the neutrality of the town of Emden,
from whence now the States have withdrawn their extraordinary
garrison. The Chancellor writes that his Prince has a desire to
reform the religion of his province according to the canons lately
published by his Majesty, whose exhortation and encouragement
he wishes for the better countenance of the cause. To this latter
point I have answered the Chancellor that if his Prince shall first
reform his Court in religion, his Majesty, upon information
thereof, may commend his zeal and judgment, and so may rather
wish than advise that the like form of religion were observed
through his whole province. For the letters. I have answered
I would solicit you, which if you should be pleased to procure,
I would have care to send them with all expedition. This fruit,
I understand, the Count has already received of his late peace,
that thereby he has made his accord with his two brethren for
their "partage" at an easy rate, whereby his province remains
entire to himself, and so will fall undivided to his succession.
The Count Ernest of Nassau, going shortly to solemnise his
marriage with the daughter of Brunswick, the States intend to
honour him with the dignity of the Marshal of their army.—From
the Hague, 21 January. Holograph. Endorsed: "1606." 2 pp. (115. 71.) |
|
| Sir Thomas Lake to the Earl of Salisbury. | |
| 1606–7, Jan. 21. | Herewith you shall receive a letter from his Majesty which he has spent this morning to write, having abstained from his delights. In answer of yours to me, I have no other direction but that touching the addition to Sir H. Wotton's letter, you have done well to explain it to the Ambassador, although his Highness takes it to be inclusive in the letter in those words that he should sound what certainty there was in Fr. Amb. overture. |
| The letter of Lord Dunbar his Majesty has stayed here, thinking it cannot come now to any great purpose for use before his journey which the former letter will not perform: and for any authority in his absence, his Majesty thinks that may be considered by consultation with him when he is here. But if upon his next letters it appear that his journey be deferred, or that he will need this "ampliation" of his authority, the letter shall be sent to him. | |
| His Majesty has also perused and given his liking to the proclamation, which is returned to you, and is ready to sign it when it shall be offered to him. | |
|
You shall receive also herewith the bills for recusants.—
Royston, 21 Jan., 1606. Holograph. 1 p. (192. 70.) |
|
| Sir Thomas Lake to the Earl of Salisbury. | |
| 1606–7, Jan. 22. |
His Majesty yesternight, after the packet
was dispatched to you, commanded to put you in mind of a
matter which he had heretofore recommended to you, and wherein
you had taken some pains: which is the dealing with the Bishop
of Winchester for the exchange of Farnham. Although I replied
that I thought nothing could be done in it now, because the
Bishop was not in town, yet his pleasure was I should write, and
to say further that you might confer with my Lord Treasurer
about it; and if he were too straight in the composition you
might overrule him, for that it is so commodious for his Majesty's
pleasures as he would not stick at a little to purchase it by
exchange. The letter for the Bishop in Ireland is not yet signed
by his Majesty, but shall be sent to you when it is.—The Court
at Royston, 22 Jan., 1606. Holograph. 1 p. (192. 71.) |
| "[symbol]" Lat, to his father, or brother in his absence, Mr. H[symbol]. | |
| 1606–7, Jan. 22. | Speaks of "the evil dealing of your near neighbour in showing his greatest rigour upon our dearest friend." |
|
We heard by our captain that my brother and his companion
were well arrived to the end of their long desired journey, but as
yet I have not received any letter from them. Family affairs.—
22 Jan., 1606. 1 p. (206. 36.) |
|
| Thomas Gough to the Earl of Salisbury. | |
| [? 1606–7, after Jan. 22]. |
Is bailiff of the Queen's manor of
Newberry. Sir Robert Hitcham has made a patent of deputation
of the bailiffwick of the town of Newberry to Bartholomew
Yate and others, who oppose Salisbury's authority and deprive
petitioner of his profits. Prays him to read information and
petition annexed, and yield him relief.—Undated. ½ p. |
| Two enclosures: | |
|
(1) Information of rents detained by Yate, etc. Endorsed: "22 January 1606." ½ p. |
|
|
(2) Petition of same to the Council. Of certain tolls from
"the waste" near the town bridge of Newberry which bring in
only 1s. 4d. per ann. to the Queen. Prays for lease of the
premises and offers 30s. per ann.—15 May, 1606. ½ p. (P. 257.) |
|
| The Mayor and Sheriffs of Carmarthen to the Council. | |
| 1606–7, Jan. 23. |
The Council by their letters of Dec. 18
required that Charles Lloyd the priest lately apprehended, now
in the custody of the sheriffs, be delivered to Sir John Vaughan
and Francis Lloyd esq. to be conveyed to the Archbishop of
Canterbury. Vaughan has since last November continued in
the county of Radnor, being busy about law causes before the
Council of Wales, and was not able to undertake the charge. As
the Council did not require them to deliver the priest to Lloyd
alone, they still detain him till the Council's further pleasure be
known.—Carmarthen, 23 Jan., 1606. Signed: Evan Long, Mayor, David Edwardes and John Morgan. 1 p. (115. 75.) |
| The Earl of Salisbury to King James. | |
| [1606, Jan. 23.] | When first I did receive your Majesty's letter yesterday, beheld the length and read it over, I was confused within myself what I should do. To be silent had been more than too absurd, though oft times greatest passions speak not at all. To answer it as it deserved was impossible; for how can I sufficiently express how I admire the justice of those rules by which you are contented your servants' actions [be judged?], or what can I speak that were enough to acknowledge that grace according to the value which reflecteth in due measure from the highest cedar to the lowest hyssop? And when shall I be able to demonstrate the comfort I take in the virtue and benignity of your proceedings with me that feel so much disproportion between my merit and my obligation? All which considerations laid together I resolved only upon this course: |
| First, to crave pardon of those royal hands which I have put to so much trouble and for which I can make no other return but humble thanks until by the outward sign of kissing them I may confirm the inward love and reverence wherewith my heart doth honour the instruments of so much goodness. Next to beseech your Majesty if you have noted any sadness in my face (being the true seat of love and cares) that you will judge thereby how deep an impression the least shadow of distrust will work in those spirits, whose affections no art hath power to make dissemble; for the honest hearts ought ever to dwell in the eye and in the tongue according to the old verse, Intima per mores cognovimus exteriores. Accept, therefore, I pray your Majesty this plain and humble answer, not as any apology from which I see how far your princely judgment driveth me as no way necessary, but to let you know that the changes which I observed (as became me) in former times (when the age and sex were full of change and passion) did not so much trouble me as the least cloud that I should see gathering in your countenance, whom all men hold a King so full of wisdom and temper, nay which is more, so full of constancy (where you have placed confidence) as had not you that depth of judgment which enableth you to the piercing and searching (yea, the making an absolute separation of mixed considerations and to dispose accordingly of all your own affections) I protest to God I should take virtue sometime to be half an error in your mind; whereby your Majesty sees how far I am from giving you the attributes of a jealous natured prince (under which my life would be more miserable than ever any man's), so much must I acknowledge also that not myself alone but by others generally it is observed that the virtue of your trust is ever accompanied with such a greatness, as when any of those chords are so much as touched, you disdain to speak in any other voice than as they stand tuned high or low. In which your Majesty also makes us happier than many others who serve those masters that think it a piece of wisdom to cover their ulterior thoughts; of which there never followeth good effect to king or subject. | |
| These and other observations being laid by me together, who next to God profess to study yourself and your commandments more than anything on earth (as the person for whom I chiefly am born) I must plainly profess that the first speech your Majesty had with me of this matter bred in my mind a great anxiety, the rather when I considered how continually my place was subject to the smart of false report and envy; and withal I do acknowledge that since I received your Majesty's first letter of caution I was grieved to imagine what could be the new occasion; in which doubts and sorrow as I confess to have received the most gracious and most welcome effects of your favour, so far to the joy and comfort of my heart as it thirsteth no less for means to deserve the same than does the hart for the water-brooks, so I protest if it were possible for you that are the true fountain of justice to do to me the greatest injustice it could never stir in my thoughts so much as an excentrical motion from the individual centre of faith and duty; and therefore I will here conclude that I esteem myself a new-born child of fortune to find now by such a placard signed that I am safely entered in that port where the least pinnace, as safe and calm a riding as the greatest and strongest vessels, the comfort whereof is such and th' infinite obligation as your Majesty shall be sure to find Mr. Andrew Melvin [Melville] no more precise in swerving from his fancies than I shall be to vary from the rules you have given me, who know so well that God doth challenge the whole heart and allows no man two masters as your Majesty shall never have my service but in corde uno et via una in saecula sacculorum. | |
| And so beseeching your Majesty to impute it to the day of Council and the first morning of the term that you had not this to-night I humbly take my leave this Friday evening the 23rd of January. | |
|
This day her Majesty being in one of your galleries attended
by the Earls of Arundel, Suffolk, Worcester, with myself and her
Vice Chamberlain and some others, it pleased her to look upon
all the chairs and stools which were provided for Duke Charles,
whereof she hath given my Lord of Arundel and all [of] us each
a suite of chairs and stools, and sent the rest to her new house at
Theobalds. This is it I am bidden to write and therefore in your
absence must obey be it good or bad news; so as if your Majesty
find them all here again I hope your Majesty will rather impute
it to some of our new conjurers' works than to my inclination to
write news, whom your Majesty shall find your true Beagle and
humble servant. Copy. Endorsed by Salisbury: "23 Jan., 1606, a copy of my letter to the K'." 3½ pp. (134. 89.) |
|
| King James to the Earl of Salisbury. | |
| [1606–7], Jan. 23. |
My little beagle, because ye are lying idle
there in mew I have found you an errand to deliver a letter of
mine to the fairest unpainted lady in all the Court; and because
Tom Potte hath a fine kennel of very little beagles ready to carry
to France, I would know in time if ye mind to be one of that
number, for that King would be a fine huntsman for you, except
that ye could never trust his hallowe. I think the Rochelle
needs to give him no other answer but if that his Majesty would
with his tongue feel the want of his tooth, they are sure he would
never press them to admit the Jesuits amongst them. For news
here we have none but that we fear ye shall think us all turned
puritans for such a feasting night as was made upon Friday last
in this town, wherein I assure you it chanced well that the Act of
Parliament against drunkenness is not yet passed, otherwise the
justices of peace had had much work ado here at that time.
As for your last letter I need not answer it, for in my former
I sent you the true image of my mind; if Tom Laike [Sir Thomas
Lake] did in my name desire to be informed for whom that bill of
recusants was made, it was merely out of his own curiosity, for
I verily thought that they were for the matter of the chain, and
therefore gave him no direction for any such question: and so
farewell.—Undated, Holograph. Endorsed: "From K. 23 Jan." 1 p. (134. 140.) |
| Fr. Gansneb Tengnagel, Counsellor of the Empire, to Viscount Cranborne (sic). | |
| 1606–7, Jan. 23. |
I am leaving shortly for Prague and must
ask a favour before I go. The Emperor has heard of the swiftness
and excellence of great Irish hounds and of English trotting horses
(equorum gradariorum), and his desire for them has been confirmed by his late Ambassador, the Landgrave, who has recently
returned to Prague. I received special instructions from him a
fortnight ago to request the King to give him some in exchange
for some excellent Turkish horses. I have some hesitation in
making this request, especially as the Turkish horses are not
arrived, but can put it off no longer, so apply to your lordship to
let me know privately whether such a petition will be acceptable
to the King or not.—From my Inn, London, 23 Jan., 1606. O.S. Holograph. Latin. Fragment of seal. 2 pp. (115. 74.) |
| Sir Thomas Lake to the Earl of Salisbury. | |
| 1606–7, Jan. 23. |
I send herewith the letter for the Bishop
recommended out of Ireland. An information is made by
Mr. Ellis Rothwell to his Majesty, that where he had apprehended
by a warrant from my Lord Chief Justice one Richard Hawley
and his wife, receivers of priests in the city of London, and had
them in prison to abide their trial this last sessions, the Recorder
has not only forborne to give them their trial, but bailed them,
wherein Mr. Ellis takes his credit to be much interested. The
King told him he might have addressed himself to you or others
of his Council, and not troubled him; and for the matter,
conceives that the Recorder, whom he knows to be no favourer
of priests nor their abettors, would not do aught that he cannot
justify; but yet was pleased I should write to you to speak with
the Recorder, and hear his reasons. For the priest, his Majesty
thinks that he might make some doubt, by reason he is the first
that has been put to the point of trial since the proclamation for
their avoidance, for the point only of being a priest without other
matter, and would not therein proceed without direction. But
for the receivers, if there be not warrantable cause for their
liberty, his Majesty thinks they might have continued committed, or be committed again till the next sessions and have
abided their trial; and if there were after any cause why they
should be favoured, his Majesty might use it at his pleasure.
This is the point Mr. Ellis most insists upon, and thinks his
reputation wronged, because it should seem they have used their
liberty with some ill language of him. But the King gave me
no other direction but that you might speak with the Recorder
and with my Lord Chief Justice, by whose warrant they were
apprehended, and do that which was fit for his honour to be
done.—The Court at Royston, 23 Jan., 1606. Holograph. 2 pp. (192. 72.) |
| Sir Thomas Lake to the Earl of Salisbury. | |
| 1606–7, Jan. 24. |
This letter is dated at Royston, 24 August.
1606, and so appears in Part XVIII of this Calendar at pp. 247,
248. It is, however, endorsed 24 Jan., 1606[–7], which appears
to be its correct date. (192. 124.) |
| The King to the Lord Treasurer. | |
| 1606–7, Jan. 24. |
Grant to Edward Carpenter, gent., of the
benefit of the recusancy of Sir John Webb of Oddstock, Wilts,
John Preston of the Manor, in the county of Lancaster, esq., and
Cressacre Moore, late of Leyton, Essex, gent., standing convicted.—Westminster, 24 Jan., 1606. Contemporary copy. Endorsed: "Copy of his Majesty's letter to my Lord Treasurer." 1 p. (115. 76.) |
| John Corbett to the Earl of Salisbury. | |
| 1606–7, Jan. 24. |
Acknowledges Salisbury's favours. Describes
his sickness. He has again fallen into a kind of ague, and in
danger of a "hectich," unless by change to some dry place and
better air he may find remedy. He attends Salisbury's directions
before he resolves on anything.—Totnam, 24 Jan., 1606. Holograph. 1 p. (115. 77.) |
| The Bishop of Durham to the Same. | |
| 1606–7, Jan. 24. |
The enclosed I received this day from a
learned and grave preacher, Chaplain to my Lord of York and
beneficed in the bishopric of Durham. He writes that he has
acquainted some Justices therewith, who, he doubts not, have
imparted it to the Council at York. Hereby you may see that
the envious man sleeps not, and what "lymitours" our northern
countries yield. By this letter I conceive the priest to be one
Francis Stafforton, lately taken at the house of George Collingwood
at Eppleden in the bishopric of Durham; and by his Majesty's
pardon one of them that were appointed to be shipped over seas.—
Durham House in Strand, 24 Jan., 1606. Signed. 1 p. (115. 78.) |
| Advices out of Italy. | |
| 1606–7, Jan. 24/Feb. 3 and Jan. 30/Feb. 9. | "Points of the ordinary advices out of Italy the 3 and 9 of this present February 1607, stilo novo." |
| The death of Boscay (fn. 1) in Transylvania the 9th of last month, much commotion thereupon, divers in arms, pretending to that principality. The Emperor will set Sigismond Battori into that state again, which the Transylvanians and Hungarians have resisted. | |
| Ambassadors arrived in Poland from the new Emperor of R[ussia?] demanding restitution of the damages done there by the Pollacs that came in with Demetrius. A nephew of Demetrius yet in arms hath given a great blow to this new Emperor. | |
| The marriage shortly to be solemnised betwixt the Emperor and the Duke of Savoy's daughter. | |
| A conspiracy amongst the Jews in Germany and other parts of Christendom to contribute great sums of money to the Turk to hold on his wars with the Emperor; and a Jew lately turned Christian, of the Emperor's Chamber, a chief plotter in the business. The Turk hath not yet subscribed the articles. Sir Thos. Glover is arrived at Constantinople. The Turk hath promised to help the Venetians by land and sea. | |
| Fuentes nominated general for the church, and Carlo Doria Gonsalomero or standard bearer. | |
| The Genoese have disbursed money to the Swiss for the King of Spain to make them ready for the service of the Church when need shall be. | |
| The D[uke] of Feria is dead in Naples as he was coming towards the Diet in Germany, who died in the viceroy's house the 26 of last month. | |
| Forty companies levied in the kingdom of Naples for aid of the Pope ready to march under the conduct of the Marches Sta. Agatha, maestro del campo. | |
| Four thousand foot levied in Campagna and Romagna to put into the garrisons of Marca d'Ancona and Ferrara. | |
| The Venetians continue their preparations still, but it begins now to be given out that they do it to assist the Grisons to raze the Fort Fuentes which is such an eye-sore to all the princes and States of Italy. | |
| For Civita Vechia is arrived great quantity of arms brought in by the Genoese. | |
| Two Spaniards that had charge in Naples [are] sent for by the Pope by the King of Spain's consent to command in the Pope's army; the one called Don Alonso d'Avalos who shall be general of the cavalry, whereof there is to be had small choice in Italy. so that the Pope is sending into Germany to buy horses, but they report that the provision is but made in words for no money goes out for them, as doth from the Venetians who are said to have [ (fn. 2) ] companies of horse about Crema and other parts of Lombardy. of whom it is written che mostravano poca volunta di accordarsi. | |
| There are 1,500 foot levied for the Pope in the State of Genoa, whereof 500 are Corsi, the best soldiers of Italy. | |
| The Duke of Urbin is required by the King of Spain to let him levy 3,000 foot [in his] state, which he means to employ in the Pope's service and pay them himself. | |
|
There is exceeding provision on all hands and yet there will be
taken 100 to 50 that before Easter all will be accommodated. 2 pp. (120. 49.) |
|
| Stephen Lesieur to the Earl of Salisbury. | |
| 1606–7, Jan. 24. | Herein I . . . you the Articles of Peace with Bochkay, come to my hands . . . . . . those between the Emperor and the Turk. Bochkay is . . . . . . to live . . . . . . so discontented at the favours which the Emperor shows to Count de Belgioso (to whose tyrannical government the cause of the late revolt in Hungary is imputed) that he refuses to deliver up certain places according to this treaty, for which the Emperor is much offended. |
| Store of ducats are said to be in Poland, with the picture of Bochkay, and this inscription: Moulta aurca Regis Polonia. | |
| The Emperor continues from Prague in respect of the infection. He has displaced his Chancellor Coraducius and his Secretary Barnitzius (the cause kept secret) and has placed Stralendorf and Hannywald in those offices. | |
|
The intended marriage of the Emperor with a daughter of
Savoy is entertained.—24 Jan., 1606. Holograph. Damaged. 1 p. (192. 73.) |
|
| Nevill Davis to Sir John Popham. Lord Chief Justice. | |
| 1606–7, Jan. 25/Feb. 4. |
Occasion being offered I am emboldened to
send these few lines to signify the misery of divers poor men here
prisoners that were taken in a small ship of Plymouth called the
Richard, whereof was captain Henry Challines, and as it appears
[they] were set forth by Sir Ferdinando Gorges and other gentlemen. They report your Honour to be one of the chiefest adventurers in this their pretended voyage, being for a new discovery
in the norwest parts, under the latitude of 41 and 42 degrees.
They were surprised by seven merchant ships which came from
St. Domingo, meeting them some 150 leagues to the norward of
Porto Rico in the height of 27 degrees or thereabouts. Here are
18 of them and two "salvages" [savages] of the country they
went into. The captain and one Mr. Thomas St. John we have
released under sureties. The relation of their proceedings from
the time they departed from Plymouth I refer to their writings
and report of some that have escaped. All their examinations
are taken and sent to the Court last week; by their confessions
it appears they have committed no offence against any of this
King's subjects, only to do good to a Spanish friar and preserving
his life was cause they fell into these troubles. I will assist
them in what I may, being sorry their pretence should so unfortunately be overthrown. I have advertised my Lord Ambassador
hereof, who I hope will seek their enlargement. The Spaniards
here seem nothing pleased with this attempt and I think they will
endeavour to prevent us from going into those parts, if by any
means they can: wherefore in the attempting it again those
which are to manage it must deal very circumspectly for being
intercepted. I hope God will open those remote and unknown
places to us, whereby in time our country may find a more
profitabler trade than we have done here since the peace; for
I assure your lordship what through the sundry molestations by
divers officers here and the excessive impositions which we pay
inward and outward upon our goods, we are and shall be consumed
by this trade, as I refer me to the general report of those which
do adventure hither and feel the loss. I am sure if a true calculation were taken it would be found his Majesty's subjects have
lost near 80,000l. by the trade of Spain. Our woollen commodities for the most part are in no estimation here, as before
the wars, and daily will be less and less by reason of the great
store of cloth made here, and for this hot country far better than
ours. Wherefore it is requisite we seek other places for the
venting of our cloth.—Sivel [Seville], 4 Feb., 1607, stilo novo. Holograph. Endorsed: "Nevil Davis to my Lord Chief Justice. Concerning the men that went to Virginia." 1 p. (120. 53.) |
| Sir John Egerton to the Earl of Salisbury. | |
| 1606–7, Jan. 26. |
He has been put to infinite charge and
trouble about the cause of Byddston, and begs Salisbury's
furtherance to the Earl of Derby and my Lady that he may
enjoy his lease of the same; or else that they would give him
consideration for his remaining years therein.—26 Jan., 1606. Signed. ½ p. (115. 79.) |
| Sir Thomas Lake to the Same. | |
| 1606–7, Jan. 26. | Three letters have been signed by his Majesty for the gift of recusants. The one is for Mr. Barcklay, a Scottish man's son born in France, whom his Majesty is willing to reward. His demand was for 7 or 8, but his Highness willed him to deliver what composition was offered him, and it appeared by his own notes that it would arise to 1,000l.; whereupon his Highness commanded me to will him to abridge it to 1,000 crowns. So the gentleman brought the names of those who are contained in his letter as offering him so much, who are three or four, if none of them be already disposed. Another is for M. Myners, serjeant of the carriages, who is recommended by Lord Worcester, for his attendance in two journeys out of Scotland, one upon the Lady Elizabeth, the other upon the Duke of York. He has delivered the names of four, and desires reward to the value of 1,000l. and says that my Lord Worcester told him the King would give him to that value, but that these do not amount to 1,000 marks. I am not able to judge of their value, but if my Lord Treasurer and you find these persons be of value more than 1,000 marks, his Highness thinks that a good reward for him, and to that proportion you may reduce him. The third is for my Lord Colvile, of whom he seems to have care, and would have him rewarded to the value of 2,000l. He has five or six names in his letter whom he hopes will serve his turn, but if any of them fail or are disposed of, his Majesty permits him to supply that person with another, so as he may get 2,000l.—Court at Royston, 26 Jan., 1606. |
|
PS.—His Majesty has been moved by the bearer, Sir Robert
Osbern, touching Mr. Carvile, for whom you sent hither a bill to
be passed to Mr. Wright, alleging that he was given to his wife
by the Queen, and that advantage is now taken against his lease
for non-payment of rent which grew during the time that all
things concerning recusants were in suspense. His Majesty
thinks it hard to take advantage thereof, and would have further
proceeding in the bill forborne till his coming, to satisfy the
gentleman: but doubts not but you have good reason for that
which is done. Holograph. 3 pp. (192. 74.) |
|
| Francis Beaumont to the Earl of Salisbury. | |
| [1606–7], Jan. 26. |
He understands that Salisbury mediated
for him with the Lord Chamberlain to obtain the reversion of the
Mastership of the King's cocks; and though he did not speed
therein, yet he desires to acknowledge Salisbury's favour.—
Leicester, 26 Jan. Holograph. Endorsed: "1606." 1 p. (192. 76.) |
| Officers of the port of Lyme Regis to Viscount Bindon. | |
| 1606–7, Jan. 27. |
We received from you a copy of the Lord
Admiral's letter touching what "sail" [sale] of ships of extraordinary burden, with their ordnance, have been made within this
port or creek of Lyme Regis to strangers, etc. There have never
been any such ships within this creek, or any other of what
burden soever sold to any strangers since his Majesty's reign.
The greatest ships of this creek are under 80 tons. We never had
any direction since his Majesty's reign to take bonds to such
effect; and such as were taken in her late Majesty's time were
taken by the then Vice Admiral's Deputy, and remain not with
us in the Custom House.—Lyme Regis, 27 Jan., 1606. Signed: Rich. Wright, Customer; Ric. Carpenter pro Controller; Anthony Moone. 1 p. (115. 81.) |
| Sir John Ogle to the Earl of Salisbury. | |
| 1606–7, Jan. 28/Feb. 7. |
I make my choice rather to write little to
your lordship than nothing at all. The Estates of the Provinces
remain yet busy in their consultations, and what will be resolved
of touching the offensive war in the West Indies is not yet fully
decreed of. Touching the defensive in these parts there is now
order this day expected for the reinforcing of the troops. An
Admiral with 30 ships of war is upon his present departure for
sea to go lie upon the coast of Spain; with him are appointed
certain land captains, and with each of them 120 musketeers,
those furnished out of several companies of several nations. The
better hope is had of his expedition in regard of the loss of the
seven galleons in the last great storm, which here is credibly
received to be certain, having in them 500 pieces of artillery.
The small head of the new mutiny grows not yet much greater,
but they hope ere long to be 2,000 strong. Those grounds are
but deceivable for us to build anything upon, and in my poor
opinion that wherewith we will offend the enemy must proceed
rather from our own power than their casual weaknesses which
by experience we see quickly repaired. I beseech your lordship
except [sic] of this testimony of my duty till a better occasion
present itself.—Hague, 7 Feb., 1607, novo. Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (120. 68.) |
| Officers of the port of Poole to Viscount Bindon. | |
| 1606–7, Jan. 29. |
We received your letter desiring to be
advertised what ships of 100 tons and upwards, with their
ordnance, have been sold to strangers. We do not know of any
ship of that burden belonging to our place nor of any ship with
ordnance at any time sold to strangers.—Poole, 29 Jan., 1606. Signed: Chr. Sugar, pro Collector; Nicholas Sympson, Controller. 1 p. (118. 82.) |
| The Bishop of Carlisle, Will. Lawson, Joseph Penningtonn and Edward Gray to the Earl of Salisbury. | |
| 1606–7, Jan. 29. | By our letters of the 8th inst. we advertised you of our purpose to hold a gaol delivery on the 27th, which we have done. |
| John Armstrong alias Stowlugs, Thomas Armstrong alias Edwards Tom, Christopher Urwen alias Gifford Carleton, Robert Grame and William Grame alias Floughtaile, were tried and are executed. The condition of the three first we certified on the 11th, the fourth was a fugitive from Brill and returned from Ireland. The last, having long been a pestilent thief and most infamous murderer, was taken a day before our gaol delivery in the bishopric of Durham, by the great charges of Lord William Howard, whom we still find a great furtherer of justice, and a persecuter of those wicked cankers of our country. So many and so much noted offenders have not at any one time been brought to justice, by whose execution the poor country has received better satisfaction. | |
|
A late accident has happened in Westmorland wherewith the
peace of these parts, being reasonable well settled, is much
disturbed. The 13th inst. Mr. Craven, his Majesty's Deputy
Receiver for these counties, was robbed in his travel between
Penreth and Kendall. About 200l. were taken from him, besides
his books of account, and bills and bonds for greater sums.
We find upon examination more than vehement presumptions
that the fact was committed by John Musgrave of Fairbank,
servant to Sir Richard Musgrave, younger, Sir Thomas Musgrave,
son of Sir Richard Musgrave the elder, and Christopher Pickering,
a young gentleman, late servant to Sir Richard Musgrave younger.
The better to confirm their guilt, the parties are all fled with the
money, leaving the books and papers near the place where the
robbery was committed, which the owner has since heard of.
We have written to the Lord President and Council at York, as
also to the Mayor of Newcastle, for apprehension of such persons.
We have many reasons to believe that John Musgrave of Caterby
procured the robbery to be done. He confesses he accompanied
them all the night before in Penreth and harboured two of them
in his house at Caterby. We have examined him and detain
him till directed to enlarge him. If he were at liberty, the
principals by his practices would be further from apprehension.
If persons of their note escape unpunished, it will prove a
dangerous example. If his Majesty's receivers cannot pass with
safety, the estate of private men must be lamentable. If the
matter were well handled, the offenders might be apprehended
either in Yorkshire or about London.—Carlisle, 29 Jan., 1606. Signed. 2 pp. (115. 83.) |
|
| Officers of Weymouth and Melcombe Regis to Viscount Bindon. | |
| 1606–7, Jan. 31. |
We received from you a copy of a letter from
the Lord Admiral concerning what ships of extraordinary burden,
with their ordnance, have been sold to strangers, and by what
warrants, and what bonds were entered into for not selling the
same. Within this harbour of Weymouth and Melcombe Regis
there have been only two of such burden; one a flyboat of
Mr. William Waltham's, now at Lychborne, the other lately
bought by Mr. John Pitt, now Mayor, of a Fleming, which now
remains here, with one piece of iron ordnance. We have received
no order since his Majesty's reign for taking any such bonds.
Such as were taken in the late Queen's time by Mr. Thomas
Bellott the Customer, we know not how he disposed of them.
There has not been any ship or ordnance sold to any stranger out
of this harbour at any time to our knowledge.—Weymouth
Melcombe Regis, last of Jan., 1606. Signed: Ralphe Lighter, Deputy Customer; Richard Rainoedes, Deputy Controller. 1 p. (118. 85.) |
| The Earl of Ormond to the Earl of Salisbury. | |
| 1606–7, Jan. 31. |
Certifies to the services of Captain Edmond
Wodleiff under him as Lord General and Lord Lieutenant of the
forces there; and recommends him for pension.—Carrick, last of
January, 1606. Holograph. 1 p. (115. 86.) |
| The Earl of Salisbury to King James. | |
| [? 1606–7, Jan.] | Having duly observed as becomes me all the parts of your letter which was brought me this morning by 7 of clock I have thought it my duty to return you my humble answer as followeth. |
| Concerning the Venetian quarrel your Majesty hath so rightly and so judicially limited your own censure as there remaineth nothing for me to add but my diligence in executing your commandments, only I have thought good (before I made any dispatch) to send your Majesty this last advice, not in respect there is anything in the same which ought to change your Majesty's path, but only to move you (if so you please) to give your own excellent rules the warrant of your own hand; as well because I have been importuned for it by the Ambassador once or twice since he embarked himself in this cause, as also because I would be glad to make it appear to so careful a minister that his endeavours do not only pass your Majesty's view but are particularly approved by your own immediate judgment; such being the affections of men employed, as they are encouraged by the sight of their sovereign's gracious hand to serve you, and those directions are strengthened wherein your ministers must ordinarily assume the knowledge of your pleasure. For this purpose your Majesty hath Sir Thomas Lake, who will either readily conceive your directions or may receive them by your dictating, to which pain I confess I would be willing to put you rather than this matter should lack his infusion from your own lucky genius. In the time you are not scanted, for the post departeth not before Wednesday for Venice. | |
| For the Earl of Dunbar his worthy services I need write nothing to your Majesty, to whom his habit of well doing is so well known; only it remaineth with me to congratulate with the happiness of such a friend, and thus far to move your Majesty only for the furtherance of your services as to suffer Sir Thomas Lake to draw some warrant for yourself to sign, whereby the garrison of Berwick may be authorised to attend the Earl in all those services, because there is a clause in one of the instructions whereby Captain Bowier that shall command them is restrained from suffering them to serve by any other warrant but under your Majesty's hand. Nevertheless I send you now a letter signed by some of us, (fn. 3) in case your Majesty shall not approve my humble motion, lest any delay should work prejudice. | |
| Concerning the matter of the ordinaries either as it toucheth the highest or the secondary offenders, although my course both hath and ever shall be so inseparable from your Majesty's royal judgment and just intentions as I shall never seek any other testimony towards God than the witness of a good conscience. which his divine Majesty ever accepteth. yet because the eyes of the wisest princes on earth can go no further than the outward actions of men, which are sometime subject to our own affections and sometime to the reports of others. I humbly beseech your Majesty to receive this much for answer to that part of your letter, wherein you vouchsafe to remember me of your trust, that I will prefer my Master before any particular friend dead or living; that I desire the continuance of that confidence no longer nor in no greater measure than you shall find me worthy for my faith and zeal; of which trust my hope must ever be as great as your grace because I know myself the father of that son, who shall have more need of your protection, when I am dead, for the sour fruits which all your greatest subjects have gathered from the trees of his father's poor credit (whensoever your interest came in question) than for any other arrearage which I shall leave him to pay, for any reckonings, whereon my private friendships have hurt your Majesty's benefit; and yet I think your Majesty conceives that particularity is no rare quality found amongst the sons of men. This I presume to write as an answer to that general caution which you have given me and by which I shall ever hold myself (the oftener you vouchsafe it) surer registered amongst your servants; for as for this particular your Majesty knows I neither had my hand or part in it, so I hope you believe so well of my poor discretion as I would not choose to be a proctor for his dead ashes, in whom as with grief I note a great fault, so to you I think it will prove felix culpa, seeing it will clearly define the nature of these offences, and by the provident bridle many others. | |
|
This day my Lords are busy about the debts in the Wardrobe
which is the cause that we delayed the master falconer, by whom
your Majesty shall receive an account after Monday, and withal
shall be made privy to certain costly articles, which are set down
by the Lady of Hatfield for the King of Brittany to subscribe, or
else there can be no clock for the red house or the red deer park
near Waltham; wherein lest your Majesty should conceive too
sadly of this accident, being matters dependent upon that sex
which commonly loves to have their will, I am contented to
assure your Majesty thus much in the meantime, that if her
conditions cost you any sums unreasonable above 500 maravedis,
that they shall be helped by the conscience of your Majesty's
humble servant and faithful beagle.—Undated. Copy. 3½ pp. (134. 87.) |
|
| Edict of Henry IV, King of France. | |
| 1606–7, Jan. | Edict of Henry, King of France and Navarre, establishing in his town of Paris a Chamber of Justice composed of certain officers of the supreme courts to be appointed by the King to determine civil and criminal cases arising out of frauds practised upon the revenues of the Crown. The judgments given by these officers are to have the same force as the decrees of other supreme courts. On account of the difficulty of proving such frauds except with the aid of those concerned in them, accessories to them may be pardoned upon giving such information as will lead to the truth being established. Informers are to have their costs and one-sixth of the fines adjudged. Papers in the registries of different courts and offices of state necessary to prove the said frauds are to be produced by the officers of those courts and offices upon the requisition of the judges and commissioners of the said Chamber. |
|
"Donné a Paris au mois de Janvier mil sixcent sept et de nostre
regne le dix-huietiessme." Copy. French. Endorsed: "Edit pour l'establissement de la Chambre de Justice." 3 pp. (194. 60.) |
|
| John Vawdrey to the Earl of Salisbury. | |
| [1606–7 ? Jan.]. | Two petitions: |
|
(1) His property was taken from him by sentence of Sir Henry
Townsend in the Exchequer of Chester, and given to Edward
Vawdrey his nephew, a retainer of Salisbury's. The King has
twice ordered his cause to be tried by the Earl of Derby with the
assistance of judges: but Edward seeks to stay its rehearing.
Prays Salisbury to further its being heard.—Undated. 1 p. (P. 19.) |
|
|
(2) For answer to his former petition. Prays Salisbury not to
be influenced against him and his friends by the imputations of
Edward Vaudrey.—Undated. ½ p. [Cp. Cal. S.P.D. 1603–1610, p. 344.] (P. 301.) |
|
| Edward Vaudrey to the Same. | |
| [1606–7 ? Jan.]. |
Encloses particulars of his suit against his
uncle John Vaudrey, and prays for redress. Charges him with
forgery, suppression of deeds, subornation, etc.—Undated. 1½ pp. [Cp. Cal. S.P.D. 1603–1610, p. 344.] (P. 1276.) |
| Lord Hay. | |
| [? 1606–7, c. Jan.]. |
Memorandum signed by the Earl of
Salisbury as to "the Lord Haie's debt". The King has promised
to bestow on Lord Haie "8,000l. for the settling of 2,000l. a year
of Lord Denny's lands upon him." Gives amounts of money
lent and borrowed, and bonds entered into. Hopes the King will
cause payment to be made at the due time, whereby his son and
his estate "may be freed from this, which I did only in performance of his Majesty's pleasure for the plantation of a noble
gentleman."—Undated. 1 p. (P. 1301.) |