Elizabeth: April 1570

160. Thomas Randolph to Sussex. [April 2.] Cott. Calig. C.II., fol. 187.

Being better able to inform your lordship of the cause of the Frenchman's coming into this country than I was by my last letter, I thought good to let you understand as soon as I could both wherefore he came, and what is like to succeed of his coming, which you will find in these letters and copies which herewith I send you, which I pray you may also be sent to Mr. Secretary, to whom I have written that he will receive them at your hands. I wrote also of the arrival of a Scotsman called the Laird of Gartlie, of whom I have learned thus much,—that he was despatched out of France to come through England to be in Scotland by the time the Frenchman should arrive at Dombritton. He was directed to the ambassador of France to be a means for his passport and licence to speak with the Queen of Scots, from whom he has brought very many letters,—as of one I send you a copy. He came in at the West Borders, and passes daily from place to place to spread his news where he thinks it best welcome, or displease most those who mislike those, which has bred such hindrance to what I came for that it has lost me more friends within these few days than I have gotten in many weeks before. Therefore if her majesty intends to deal any further with this nation, and looks to bring her desires to pass in this country, she must work a more assured way than to let passage open to all who come. To write more of the state of this country, I cannot, nor will I trouble you further till I speak with yourself, and for that purpose intend to be on Wednesday next at Berwick. The abbot of Domefermeling will shortly be ready to depart ambassador to the Queen, my mistress, and has not as yet the Queen's majesty's passport. I am desired to write to your lordship for your safe conduct to the Court for himself, 20 in train, with bag and baggage, and to send the same to Berwick. Edinburgh. Signed: Tho. Randolphe.

1 p. Copy. Indorsed.

161. Thomas Randolph to [Sussex]. [April 7.] Cott. Calig. C.II., fol. 191.

Informs him of his arrival here, ready to attend to any commandment it shall please him to charge him with. As he has heard of his lordship's shortly being in this town, unless he knows some cause of speedy repair to him, has thought it better to attend his coming than to travel farther into the country, and not be able to do him any service. Berwick. Signed: Tho. Randolphe.

¼ p. No flyleaf or address.

162. Thomas Randolph to Cecil. [April 7.]

As I wrote that I would repair to Berwick, so I came to this town the 5th of this instant. The cause is the safety of myself since Gartlie's arrival in that country. I do not desire to have my services further spared than it shall please her majesty. I know no more of the state of that country than I have written in my former letters, nor is much to be "accounted of" till the Convention of Linlithgow be past. Against which time great labour is made that the assembly be great, that it may appear to the Frenchman who came to Dumbarton—and will be there—what parties the Queen [of Scots] has in that country. I suppose some will be there who "that way do beare smale affection." I am promised to be advertised here by one who is well able to know the truth of all matters. I spoke with the Laird of Lethington at his house as I came to this town. For the most part he keeps his bed. When he goes abroad, for the most part he is carried in a litter. This Friday Lethington will be in "Dawkethe" by appointment with the Earl of Morton. From thence he will go to Linlithgow, and will draw him thither with him if he can. He (Lethington) supposes that the Queen knows his affection towards her service, especially for the maintenance of amity between the two countries. I doubt not but it will be deeply enough considered before it shall "all togyther tayke place, not yet so rejected as all togyther withowte purpose, yf his wilbe to performe as myche as his power is to do good or hurte, or yt were as affectuously bente" to mantain the King in his state, as he is earnest to restore the Queen to her dignity. He desires earnestly that nothing be attempted against Lord Hume. I have found in Grange "great honestie and dewetifulnes" to his sovereign, not forgetful of the benefits bestowed by her majesty on his country, and offers himself to the uttermost of his power. Of him there is no small account to be made for the place he occupies, which he has promised to keep to the King's behoof so long as any in Scotland "stand with" his authority. I have told him at my coming what he may assure himself of the Queen's goodwill towards him, with further words as you advised me. He accepts her majesty's favour very thankfully, and desires to be judged as his deeds at this time shall show.

"The Bishop of Ross for all his close keapinge wrote lettres into Scotlande of the xxvj^th of Februarie." Signed: Tho. Randolphe.

2 pp. Addressed. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk).

163. Morton to Randolph. [April 8.] Cott. Calig. C.II., fol. 192.

I promised at my last speaking with you to send to you to Berwick that I might understand the state of matters there, and what I and my friends might look for after the coming of my lord lieutenant and Lord Hundisden to Berwick. We mind to keep the "peax," and to entertain friendship between these two countries as far as in us lies, and "beleivis" to receive the like at the hands of the officers there. If there be any appearance of the contrary, I pray you to let me be advertised, that we may make provision for ourselves, as other men do; for, truly, as yet we have transported nothing, for that we thought ourselves in no danger, and that for the goodwill borne to the amity of the two countries. "Marie," now we begin to take some thought "that our servandes ar mair straitlie handlit nor thairis quha giffis ye occasioun of ye trowbill," for on Monday last they of Wark, and the garrison there have taken the Laird of "Waddirburnis haill servandes of Darne the sice," and hurt to the number of a dozen of them, taken their "haill waipnis" from them, and "lattin themselves hame agane upon bandis of entre." This is more "straite" dealing than we looked for, or yet have deserved, and therefore we trust that you will speak to my lords there to see that matter amended, and, if you have received advertisement from Court, you might be so good as to let me understand your mind therein, with your opinion how matters will be "handlit" here. The convention at Lynlythqw (as we are informed) "haldis" on the 10th instant—upon what heads I am not yet able to show you. Many of the noblemen are "desyrit" to be there, and "syndre passis to se quhatt materis wilbe proponit, and to ressoun in ye contrar gif ony thing beis spokin to ye hurte of ye Kingis authoritie." After that convention I mind to send Mr. Archibald Douglas to you, by whom you shall understand our proceedings here, as also to let you know who they are that I will "assuir" for, who will keep the peace and friendship betwixt these two countries, and that neither they nor any of theirs will invade nor suffer England to be invaded, so far as they "may latt," if the officers there will take the like order with us. Let me understand by your writing what day you will be in Berwick, so that you be not absent when I send. If there is anything you would have done here let me be advertised. Dalkeith. Signed: Mortoun.

1 p. Addressed. Wafer signet.

164. Thomas Randolph to Sussex. [April 9.] Cott. Calig. C.II., fol. 194.

I have received your letter from Newcastle of the 8th instant, and intend, as soon as I conveniently can, to be with you—if not at Newcastle, at Alnwick or some other place—having only this cause to tarry here, that on Wednesday or Thursday I look for Mr. Archibald Douglas from Lord Morton, sent that I may assuredly know what is done [at] this convention at Lythecowe, where the Frenchman is who came from Dombriton. I mind not that he shall depart before your coming.

Lord Herres I think as evil an instrument to all intents between these two countries as any in Scotland a[nd there]fore can but advise that the worst be prepared for, [having] only this good point, that he differs from some others who would bring strangers into the country. His liberty is … fourteen days, of which nine are past, and his son in pledge for his … done chiefly to be at this convention at Lythecowe. I doubt but it will be very hurtful in many respects, for I know him [to be a pro]fessed enemy to the Queen's majesty, my mistress. I send you a letter received this day from the Earl of Morton. [Berwick.] Signed: Tho. Randolphe.

1 p. Addressed. Edge worn away.

165. Shrewsbury to Elizabeth. [April 10.] C.P., Vol. V.

Her majesty by her letters of the 3rd of this month referred to his choice the removal of the Queen of Scots either to Chatsworth or Wingfield. Intends forthwith to make preparation at Chatsworth, and to remove her as soon as may be conveniently. Means to make provision at Wingfield that when Chatsworth shall have need of cleansing, he may, with the Queen's licence, move her to Wingfield. Tutbury. Signed: G. Shrewesbury.

½ p. Addressed: "To the Quenes moost excellent Majestie." Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk).

166. Mary to the Bishop of Ross. [April 10.] C.P., Vol. V.

Reverend father in God, etc. On Thursday last we received your letters by the Earl of Shrewsbury's means, and having occasion to write to the Queen, our good sister, we have "towched" in our letter "conforme" to your advice, and likewise written to the lords of her Council declaring how we were informed that you should have been "putt to libertie" before "Pasche," and were granted that ere now you should have spoken with our said good sister. Nevertheless the same is delayed. We pray them that you may have audience, and to credit you as ourself; where you shall declare and propound such things as we have already commanded you, and in what the Queen finds not herself satisfied with us, or what she would have us do further, you shall advertise us. Also, you shall show to the Queen and the lords of her Council how far it is from all good reason, that both we and you, our minister, being in prison, and all "passages stopped," can hear no news from our faithful friends and subjects, there should any army be sent into Scotland by our good sister (as is "bruyit") to assist our rebels against our good subjects, which we cannot be "perswadit" to believe. We have written in like manner to the Earl of Leicester and Mr. Cecil, secretary, praying them to keep their promise which they made by advertisement sent to you by the bishop of London, and to ourself by Sandy Bog. Tutbury. Signed: Marie R.

Postscript. You shall herewith receive the said letters to the Council, and the others to the Earl of Leicester and Mr. Cecil, and also a letter from M. de Piguillon to us, wherewith you may advise touching the "fynence" making of silver for us, and see what you can do thereanent.

½ p. Closely written. Addressed. Indorsed by Cecil: "x Aprill 1570. The Q. of Scottes to y^c B. of Ross."

167. Elizabeth to Sussex. [April 10.]

Has considered how her intention of sending an army at this time under his conduction towards Scotland may be maliciously misreported to the intent to stir up some universal offence to the people of Scotland against her good meaning; therefore she has thought meet that some publication might be made on the frontiers of her intention herein, so that the same may appear to all sorts of people in Scotland. Wills that he give order that the declaration herewith sent be published and proclaimed in all her three wardenries, and places near her frontiers. He may do well to cause some notice of the declarations to be sent into Scotland, especially to such as he thinks will most favourably disperse the same to be universally known to the nation. Has given charge to him in the said declaration as her Lieutenant General. He shall by all means possible use the good subjects of Scotland who shall keep peace with her "in like favorable sort and them as nede shall require shall defend, as you may do our own good subjects."

1⅓ pp. Draft in Cecil's hand. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk): "x April 1570. M. of the Q. Ma^tes lettre to therle of Sussex."

Cott. Calig. C.II., fol. 196.

Original of the same. "Yeven under our signet at Hampton Court the x^th day of April 1371," etc.

¾ p. Addressed. Indorsed. At the head: "Elizabeth R."

168. Sussex to Elizabeth. [April 10.]

Having put all things in such readiness that, on the first repair of your army to the Borders, I may enter into the execution of your commandment, I thought it good time, seeing that Mr. Randolph has returned to Berwick, to send a special messenger with letters to the Earls of Morton and Mar, and the Laird of Grange to impart to them that which your majesty has demanded, and to understand what I should look for "eny wayes" from them; and to the end that I might be fully informed as well of their intentions as of the sequels of the convention with the French ambassador begun this day at "Lithekoo"), I have sent the messenger sufficiently instructed to "dessend in to pertycular conference" with the Earl of Morton in all matters that tend to these ends, which shall appear by the copies enclosed.

Lords Herries and Hume are gone to this convention, and openly "discover" themselves to be on that side, and Lethington differs little from them in matter, "howe so ever he cover it with cyrcomstances."

It is said that Lord Herries "shall retorne prisoner" after eighteen days, whereof nine are already past. In which time he has been on the west Borders, "hartened" all his friends, reconciled some of his enemies, assured others that were doubtful, made proclamation for all men to be in readiness at one hour's warning with fourteen days' victuals, directed "all his to be of the frendship of Dacres," and is departed from thence to the French convention. What he will do after fourteen days, I know not, but in the meantime his actions "shewe no good meanyng in him" towards your majesty or to any other that consented to his liberty at this time.

Your majesty has charged me to write to yourself of all matters that I shall think fit for you to know, and to inform you of all matters as I find them to be in deed. I thought it my duty to let your highness understand that, as I cannot hitherto understand by any "spyall" I can procure, or by any intelligence I can receive from any of your ministers that there is any intention in any person in Scotland who has depended on your majesty to join you with force in any of your causes now in hand, so I understand that all others of the contrary party knit themselves together and prepare their forces to offend you and yours "by all the meanes they maye."

Your highness knows whether such as have depended on you in Scotland expect answer from your majesty of any demands made by them, and if it so be, it will further your service to hasten your answer, lest in the meantime your receive "only words and the other syde all the dedes." On the return of my messenger with answer from the Earl of Morton and of other "spyalls" from other parts of Scotland, I trust to be able to inform your majesty more particularly. Newcastle. Signed: T. Sussex.

1½ pp. Addressed. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk).

Inclosed with the same:—

(Sussex to Morton and others.)

The Queen has directed me to repair with her army to the Borders, and given me commission not only to use her force for the defence of her subjects, and the "offending" of such in Scotland as have offered injury to her in open maintaining of her rebels, fugitives, and in joining with them in making hostile incursions into England, taking her subjects captives, and burning and spoiling their goods without any cause offered by her or her subjects; but also to join her forces with the forces of your lordship and such others of the nobility of Scotland as have showed yourselves well affected towards her. Having received the command to impart the same to you and certain other noblemen in Scotland, I have thought good (knowing the good affection you bear to the Queen, and the trust she reposes in you) to give you notice thereof according to her majesty's commandment, and also to pray you to impart the same to the Earls of Mar and Glencairn, the Laird of Grange, and others, and to let me know your opinions in what sort I may enter into any negotiation or action that may further any causes you and they have in hand.

Your lordship sees the Queen's force in the field, and you have fair promises of future matters from other places. You are wise and can "putt difference betwene the certen actions of England and the doubtfull promises of France." You have had "swete taste" of the amity of England, and have felt the smart of the French tyranny. I doubt not but you will wisely take the good you see you may presently possess, and leave to the simple to be fed with "winde of vaine words." I refer you to the credit of this bearer, Mr. Richard Wrothe. Newcastle. 10th April 1570.

1¼ pp. Copy. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk): "x April 1570, Copy of therle of Sussex lettres to therle Moreton and others. Sent by Rich. Wrothe."

169. Sussex to Cecil. [April 10.]

Has written to the Queen of England at length concerning his despatch into Scotland. Her majesty commanded him to write all matters of importance to herself, and has therefore written the letter with his own hand. Has declared therein some general matters concerning the state of things in Scotland at present. Beseeches him to help if her majesty cannot read his "scryblyng," and to advise her to hasten her resolutions. Forbears writing something he would like to write for lack of a cipher, and prays him to send one in his next letter. Has received his letters of the 7th whereby he perceives that Cecil has received his with the rebels' articles, and letters from Randolph of the 2nd. The horsemen are coming so slowly from the South that they will not arrive at the Borders before Saturday, where they shall not rest 48 hours before he enters Scotland, and trusts "before the lyght of this mone be paste to leave a memory in Scotland wherof they and ther chylderne shalbe affrayed to offer warre to England."

They have "thrasshed their corne, fledd their cattell, and untheched their howses," so that the spoil cannot be so great as it might have been at other times. Newcastle. Signed: T. Sussex.

1¼ pp. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk).

170. Sussex to Cecil. [April 10.]

Has this day received letters from Lord Scrope and Simon Musgrave. Perceives that Lord Herries has made proclamation for all men in his rule to be ready with 14 days' victuals upon an hour's warning, and has gone to the Convention at "Lithcoo" with the French ambassador, where Lord Hume will meet him this day. There is great "travell" to bring many of the nobility thither. Hears that divers of them forbear till they hear what articles will be propounded. There are many that lean to the Queen's party, and they differ in opinion. Some want to admit the French force, and others are loath to bring in strangers, yet it is likely they will consent to it in the end. Has written earnestly to the Council for money, weapons, and munition. Is sending into Scotland presently. Newcastle. Signed: T. Sussex.

½ p. Addressed. Indorsed by Cecil (and his clerk).

171. Articles touching the Queen of Scots' affairs. [April 12.] C.P., Vol. V.

"Articulis and offres presented to the Quenis Ma^tie of Ingland and her moste hono^le counsall be the Bishop of Ross Ambassadour for the Quenis ma^tie of Scotland toutcheing her hieghnes affarres."

At the bishop of Ross' coming to London from the Queen's highness, his mistress, in April 1569, he required aid and support of the Queen's majesty of England for restoring his sovereign to her crown, etc., of Scotland. Then her majesty's answer was; she would support her to be restored thereto as it might stand with her conscience and honour, and with her own surety and safety of her realm of England; and willed him to make certain overtures and offers, and to confer thereupon with the Council, as he did at that time, and now doth repeat, and add thereto in manner following.

First:—Because the satisfying of her majesty's conscience consisted in two points:—The one if it might stand with her majesty's conscience to restore the Queen of Scotland to her crown and authority, notwithstanding that the Prince, her son, was crowned as a King. The other was; if it might likewise stand with her conscience to "entre" the Queen of Scotland to her authority again in such manner that she might use rigorous execution, at her pleasure against such of her subjects whom she thought had offended her.

As for satisfying the first point; it is certain that the coronation of the Prince, and all that followed thereupon, was "onlaughfull, null, and of na force" from the beginning, as proceeding from the Queen's pretended demission made at Lochleven, she being in prison, by threatening of her enemies to put her to death unless she accorded to the same, as she was assured by message sent by three "principalles" of their own Council. Who were the Earl of Athol, Laird of Lethington, secretary, and the Laird of Tullibardine, controller of the realm, who sent to her Robert Melvill to assure her thereof, "with ane Ryng in spetiell tokne," which has been shown to the Queen's majesty, and is here present. And with the said Robert, Sir Nicholas Throkmorton, the Queen of England's ambassador, then resident in Scotland, also sent a letter counselling her to do the same for safety of her life. They all "affearmed" that the said demission would not hurt her in case she came to liberty and revoked the same, and thereafter Lord Lindsay presented certain letters of the said demission to her, "declaring in moste rigourus maner," that in case she would not subscribe the same, he was appointed by their Council to execute their determination, although, he affirmed, "sore against his owne wyll." And all these aforesaid persons are yet alive, and four of them were here present "the yeir bypast," together in the Queen's majesty's Court; and, as is assuredly believed, they did declare the same to her highness to be true, so by all law, reason, and good conscience the said demission should in no ways prejudice her. Especially, because, immediately after her escape from prison, her majesty revoked the same in the presence of her nobility, at Hamilton, in May 1568. By this it is manifest that notwithstanding the pretended coronation of the Prince, her highness should be restored.

(In the margin:—

Quæ dolo, malo metusve causa fuerit, rata non habebo; sed in integrum restituam, ait Praetor L. J. F. de eo quod metus causa.)

For the subjects of Scotland:—

As to the other doubt that in case of her restitution she would use severe execution against her subjects. They have good experience of her clemency, etc. Yet the Queen of Scotland is content to refer the whole cause (how they shall be used) to the Queen, her good sister.

Secondly:—For satisfying the Queen's majesty's honour, this aid and restitution can no ways hurt the same, but rather advance it in the sight of all Christian Princes. For the two most high and mighty Princes, the Kings of France and Spain, have both by writings and messages earnestly requested her majesty to that effect, offering to concur with their labours and forces. All free Christian Princes will do the like, for they esteem this a common injury done to them all.

Thirdly:—Touching her highness' own surety, which consists of the title of the crown of England. The Queen of Scotland offered, and yet doth offer to make security thereof to the Queen, her good sister, and the heirs of her own body, in most sure manner, as her majesty's own Council should devise. And because it was alleged by her highness' Council that she had already made a title thereof to the Duke of Anjou, at the Queen's advice, she sent to France, and obtained declarations of the King, Queen mother, Duke of Anjou, the Cardinal of Lorraine, and the bishop of Glasgow, her own ambassador, under their great seals and "hand wrytts," which the Queen of England and the Council have seen and found good, and what further results in that point shall be to her majesty's contentation.

Fourthly:—As to the safety of the realm, which consists in maintaining quietness betwixt the same and Scotland, the Queen, his sovereign, will do whatsoever may stand in her power for maintaining friendship, amity, and peace, and is content to make security by the advice of the states of her own realm in most sure manner that can be devised, and in all other things will use herself to the contentation of the Queen as may stand with her honour and estate, as well in the usage of herself, government of her realm, and treating of her subjects as in any other things. She is willing to be as obedient as if she were her majesty's own natural daughter.

If during the time of her detention in England, any of her subjects have offended the Queen, or broken the treaties, her highness will cause the same to be amended according to the laws of the Borders and treaties. For observing her part of all the aforesaid articles, she will pledge her honour and credit before all Princes, and if that may not serve, she will procure the King of France or Spain to be "oblist" for her, but rather would wish that credit were given to herself, and the nobility of her own country to be bound for her.

In consideration of the loving, friendly, and obedient offers made by the Queen of Scotland, for what respect, end, and purpose is her majesty advised to send an army into Scotland? And how can it stand with reason and conservation of the treaties of peace betwixt the two realms to invade the same? The said bishop in the name of the Queen, his sovereign, most humbly desires the army to be stayed. For if the same has been sent to suppress her rebels maintained there by such as are supposed favourers of the Queen of Scotland, and to be revenged of enemies and spoils made on the Borders of England by such as likewise are supposed favourers, no better means can be devised for such redress than to restore home to her own crown the Queen of Scotland, who will then cause both such order to be taken for not aiding the Queen of England's rebellious subjects as shall be to her contentation, as also make all reasonable amends for injuries and spoils made on the Borders according to the treaty of the League and the laws of the Marches. If she will send the army for satisfying her conscience in maintaining the Prince as a King, the same cannot be done in respect of the article, which answers the first doubt of conscience.

"The Incovenyents lyke to follow, yf ane army be sent."

First:—Her majesty "shall not attayne to the mark she doethe shote at" for suppressing the rebels, nor for recompense of spoil done, otherwise than by like spoil in the Scottish Borders, which would be a small satisfaction for the great charge and hazard of the said army. Because, if the rebels be not strong enough to resist in the field, they will retire safe into far and many places. If they be of strength to "rencountre"; then consider the hazard of battle, "whaire God strekethe the stroke contrary to expectatione!" But, admit that her majesty have victory by battle, then she may not think but blood being once drawn, the thirst thereof will not staunch till revenge be had. Yea, perhaps by those of the nobility of Scotland that now pretend great love and obedience to her majesty. For, though I must confess that hatred and discord are great in respect of private factions, yet will both reason and nature force the same to love and concord, when blood is shed by common, and (as they used to be named) ancient enemies, and that "conforme" to the old proverb is used and observed in Scotland, "although we see oure freynd need, yeat we wyll not see him bleed." It may be added that it is contrary to the treaty of peace to invade Scotland, and that in such respect the King of France both must and will (for performance of his League with Scotland) interpret the same as "break of peace"; and open war, and hostility like to follow. Besides, the King of Spain, for his honour and friendship, will not "wynk at it," nor neglect such an injury. So it remains that it would please her majesty to seek redress by quiet and peaceable means, etc.

3¾ pp. Closely written. Indorsed by Cecil: "12 Aprilis 1570. The articles sent from the Q. of Scotts."

172. Sussex to Cecil. [April 12.]

I am advertised that the French ambassador in Scotland minds to return to France as soon as he has concluded with those that treat with him in this Convention, and that he will deliver and receive writings for the performance of the matters agreed on either side. Although I cannot warrant this, it seems likely. If the Queen's majesty would cause two or three ships to be sent to sea from Chester "to attend upon" his passing by the Isle of Man and Holyheade, "it is very like he and all his writinges shold be takin," and thereby the intent of the French "irritated," or at least prolonged.

I thought fit to write this on the first intelligence. Pray declare it to the Queen's majesty. When I receive answer from such as I sent to Dumbarton on purpose to understand these matters, and whether the noblemen of the North seek to raise any power, I will advertise more certainly. Alnwick. Signed: T. Sussex.

½ p. Addressed. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk).

173. Bishop of Ross to Elizabeth. [April 12.] C.P., Vol. V.

"Please your excellent majestie." At my last being at Court in conference with Lord Leicester, Mr. Secretary, and the Chancellor of the Duchy, I presented a letter directed to your highness, which they promised should be delivered. Whereby I declared partly the estate of the Queen, my sovereign, and of my own calling, and did offer "brivelie" to accomplish all things that might stand in her power to your highness' full contentation. Beseeching thereby your majesty to have dissolved this my restraint. I have received no answer, although I was put in good "hoip" of my liberty by Lord Leicester and Mr. Secretary, but am here continued to my great grief, and to the "hindre" of the Queen, my mistress' affairs, and "rewyne" of my country. This has forced me to renew my "sutte" unto your majesty's self, for I have so long "travelled" with some of your majesty's Councillors, and yet have "proffeit" nothing. I beseech your majesty to grant me audience "conforme" to the Queen, my mistress' command, and the urgent necessity of the cause. At the Bishop of London's house. Signed: Jo. Rossen.

1 p. Addressed: "To the right hiegh right excellent and noble Princes the Queins majestie of Ingland." Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk).

174. Bishop of Ross to Cecil. [April 12.] C.P., Vol. V.

Considering with himself the great and continual suit he has made to him and Lord Leicester to be mediators to the Queen for his liberty, and notwithstanding many promises, has obtained nothing yet. Has therefore taken the "homelines" to address his suit to her majesty's self, and has written a letter to her to grant him audience. Prays him "affectuuslie" to concur that he may have her majesty's favourable answer. Requests a passport for Mr. Henry Ker to pass to the Queen, his mistress, for his [Ker's] particular affairs, as he wrote before. He [Ker] has tarried here a whole month. Bishop of London's house. Signed: Jo. Rossen.

½ p. Addressed. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk).

175. Thomas Randolph to Cecil. [April 14.]

This bearer has come so lately out of Scotland, and is so able to report what he has heard and seen, that I need write nothing of the advertisements I have lately received from thence. But this much I must again warn your honour of, "that yf suche libertie be graunted to the Scottis Queen to sende and wryte so ofte as she dothe, the Queens ma^tie hathe as myche neade to luke unto her self as the Regent had before he tooke his deathes wounde, unto which wicked acte I knowe that that Queen was not ignorant, and as willinge to have thende of thone, as she was cawse of the other." Some may think I have gone far enough, but I had rather bear the disdain of all my "mislykers" than hazard what "lyethe hereupon" if I speak not in time. From hence (Scotland, I mean) I find more mischief intended against us than France and Spain "is hable to bringe us," if we were quit of the "comber that that unhappie generation dothe bringe us unto."

Berwick. Signed: Tho. Randolphe.

¾ p. Addressed. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk).

176. Examination of Alexander Hervey. [April 14.] C.P., Vol. V

"Thaxamynacon of Alexander Harvy of Aberdene Skottisheman taken the xiiij of Aprill 1570."

(1) First:—He saith upon his oath, that he thinketh that he delivered the book shewed unto him upon this examination, intituled 'The defence of the honour of the Quene of Skottes' etc., to one M^r Wilkinson, or knew it to be delivered to him.

(2) Item:—He saith that he received the said book of his lord and master, being the Bishop of Ross, as he thinketh, about Easter last; and saith that the book was made twelve months since by the Lord Herries, Lord Boyd, and the Bishop of Ross, and hath lain ever since by the Bishop of Ross to be amended, translated, or changed as occasion should require.

(3) Item:—He further saith, that the Bishop of Ross willed that this said book should be printed, and this deponent spoke to the said Wilkinson for the said book to be printed.

(4) Item:—He saith that he knoweth no Englishmen privy to the printing of the said book, but only the said Wilkinson, and one Francis Bisshop, nor to the making of it.

(5) Item:—He, being examined why he should procure a book to be printed concerning the Queen's majesty or the realm without licence; answereth, that that "he did he did by the direction of the said Bisshop of Ros, his Maister."

(6) Item:—He saith that there passed no communication between Wilkinson and him touching the said book, but that he told him that it was the Bishop of Ross' will that it should be printed.

(7) Item:—He saith that he hath been acquainted with the said Wilkinson since midsummer last. But where the said Wilkinson lodgeth he knoweth not. But he saith that he meeteth him sometimes at "Powlles," and sometimes at "Powlles swerth," at the Bishop of Ross' lodging.

(8) Item: He saith that he hath not been acquainted with the printing of any book since he came into England, but this.

1½ pp. In an English official hand. Some corrections. Indorsed.

177. Sussex to Cecil. [April 16.]

I have divided the 1000 horsemen and the 3000 footmen appointed to my leading, in sort following; viz., to my Lord Scrope for the West Borders 100 horsemen and 500 footmen; and for that his lordship doubted much the people in his own charge upon their coming to the Borders of the Lord Harries, I was contented to permit him to retain for a time 100 horsemen more of such as were trusty in those parts, who shall be discharged upon some good sequel of his first journey: to Sir John Forster for the Middle Marches 200 horsemen and 800 footmen; the rest, being 700 horsemen and 1700 footmen, are placed on the East Marches. These three powers joined with the forces of the three Wardens to-morrow at night enter Scotland, so as upon Tuesday in the morning, upon the break of day, every of them may be at his place appointed for the service to be done in this journey, that every of the Marches opposite may be invaded at one instant, and thereby kept from joining their forces together, when every of them shall have cause to look to himself, and by invading in three places the greater spoil shall be done. Lord Scrope, for that he is too far off to meet with us at this time, enters and returns at his own discretion, and, as he sees cause, observes the hour appointed for entry. Sir John Forster enters at Espesgate, and I, with my Lord governor of Berwick enter at Wark, and meet together at Crayling, and so go to Jedburgh, and intend to take revenge going and coming of the offenders in Tividale, and return with the whole force of both Wardenries to Wark, and then suddenly in the night to return back to Scotland, and beset Hume; hoping by this means to get some within the castle upon their hope of security after my return, who on my first assembly will keep abroad. In all which, neither of these forces shall attempt offence against any person that has not received the rebels, or made hostile incursions into England. Lord Hume has carried with him the most part of the rebels to the convention at Linlithgow. The Lords of that Convention are gone from Linlithgow to Edinburgh, and the town of Edinburgh has refused to permit the Lord of Hume to enter, because the rebels were in his company. Whereupon he went to Linlithgow with the rebels, left them there, and came to Edinburgh. The Earl of Morton went to the Laird of Grange presently upon the receipt of my letter, and from thence to Stirling to assemble the King's Council, and has sent back Wrothe with answer, that Archibald Douglas shall be here to-morrow or the next day with full answer. Lethington rules the Convention at Linlithgow and Edinburgh. It is intended to draw presently both sides to this Convention at Edinburgh. What will succeed, I know not. Impart these matters to the Queen's majesty, and excuse my forbearing to write to her majesty until the coming of Archibald Douglas. In haste, at Berwick. Signed: T. Sussex.

After the writing hereof the Laird of Trebrunne came with letters and instructions from the Lords of the Convention of Linlithgow to me, and one Gordon with letters from them to the Queen's majesty. When I have spoken with them I will advertise what they bring. I think there are 80 of the 100 proclamations you sent to me delivered in Scotland.

1¼ pp. Indorsed by Cecil (and his clerk).

178. Chatelherault, Etc., to Elizabeth. [April 16.]

The present dangerous estate of this our native country, joined with consideration of the future, which threatens both the realms with fearful accidents (if love of our country move us not to avoid the peril beforehand), compels us to have recourse to your majesty as the Princess of Chrisendom, who has the best means, and, as we think, should have the best will to quench this heat begun amongst us before it burst out to a flame which may set both countries on fire. We confess the first harm is like to be ours, seeing the fire already kindled in our house, yet is the consequence thereof like to draw your majesty's estate into danger. We cannot be persuaded that your majesty will refuse us that comfort which will suffice to remove our inconvenience. Christian charity will not allow, nor policy permit, that, whereas we require water at your hands to repress the rage of the flame, you will bring oil, timber, or other materials to increase and nourish it. For so doing, with our loss of the less, you should procure the subversion to yourself of the more. Your majesty is not ignorant how this State is divided into factions, not only the persons of the nobility, but descending from them to the gentlemen and commons universally in "the haile liegis," and not so unequally divided that the one is so far like to overmatch the other; but the victory must be doubtful if matters be once brought to that point that force must try whose quarrel is best. The factions are grounded upon the diversity of two titles pretended to the Crown by the mother and the son. A pitiful case, God knows! We find in ourselves small conformity to appease the difference, for that the most part are partially inclined, for private or public respects, without indifferency, to follow the parties, and see no towardness of amendment. By reducing the two claims to one, the whole "foundament" of the factions will be put away. It is profitable for your majesty that strangers have no "pretensed cullour" whereby to enter this isle. It is honourable for your majesty to set at accord the two persons who are made the parties, being your next cousins. It is easy for your majesty to bring it to pass, as well for your credit and authority with all the parties, as that the principal party is presently in your realm. For our opinion, we see no more convenient means to reduce this realm to an uniformity, and consequently to procure the quietness of the whole isle, than that your majesty will enter on such conditions with the Queen of Scotland as may be honourable for all parties, sure for your majesty, safe for the nobility of this realm etc. We are the more bold to enter on this head with your majesty, for that a good part of us saw last year certain articles projected, tending to this end, and sent hither from your majesty to the late Regent by his servant, Mr. John Wood. Whereof, albeit at that time there was not so grave consideration had in an assembly of one part of this nobility convened at St. Johnstone to that effect, as the weight of the same and your highness' person required. Yet we found in the same matter of great importance, and pray your majesty to take the same in hand again, and follow that same tread, which we think the nearest, yea, the only way to divert us from the desperate course wherein we are already, or like shortly to enter for lack of godly union. We trust no faithful Councillor will advise your majesty to enter on the turmoil of a divided state, to bestow your forces, men, or money in an unnecessary and unprofitable exploit. Unprofitable it will prove in the end if your majesty join your fortune with a small portion of this realm where you may have the whole at your devotion if you will. To wit; if you "gae about to unit us as a flock onder the obedience of ane herde" by entering on conditions with the Queen of Scotland whereby the different claims betwixt her and her son may cease. In doing whereof your majesty shall "oblist" us (and so under protest) to do unto your highness what service we shall be able, "standing with our dew obedience and allegeance to our Soverayne." "Wrytten towardes thend off Marche 1570. Dispatchit frome Edinburgh the xvj off Aprile." Signed: James Hamilton; G. Huntlye; A. Argyll; Erroll; Atholl; Craufurd; Marshel; Monthet; Cassillis; Sutherland; Catheness; Eglyntoun; Alexr. Hume; Seton; Wm. Lord Forbess; Williame L. Borthuik; Ross; James L. Ogillvey; Somerwell; James Lord Innermeitht; William Lord Hay of Yester; Herys; Oliphant; Patrick Lord Gray; Flemyng; Boyd; W. Maitland; Tulibardin, "Comptroller"; Balfour.

2¼ pp. Closely written. Addressed: "To the Quenis Majesty of Inglande." Indorsed by Cecil: "16 Apll. 1570, Duke of Chastilherault & his associates to y^e Q. Ma^ty from Edenburgh by Jhon Gordon y^t was stayed at Berwyk."

Another copy of the same.

2¼ pp. Signed.

Another copy of the same. Signed.

2 pp. Indorsed by Cecil: "Cop. of y^e lettre sent from y^e Erles of Huntly. Argile &c. to y^e Q. Ma^ty 1570."

179. Lennox to Cecil. [April 16.]

"After my most hartie commendations unto you, good M^r Secretary." Having this day met with this bearer, my servant "Jhone Mowne," whom I perceive is "dyrektit" from certain of the nobility in Scotland that are of the King's party to declare the present strait of that realm unto you to be "impartit" to the Queen's majesty etc., he can declare to you such charges as I am like to be at on coming into Scotland, and what money I presently carry with me to bear that great charge, which I am "halfe ashamyte to wryt." I understand that the "litill thyng" I had in Scotland that remains of my living there, which I thought should have been some relief to me, is gone, and the Laird of Howston, who had the charge thereof, taken. Notwithstanding this, I mean to proceed forthwith to Berwick, and there to stay for a time, not only till I hear from my friends in Scotland, but also till I understand the Queen's pleasure in this my humble suit and request, which is, that I most humbly beseech her, that if her highness thinks I am able to do her any good service in Scotland, which I doubt not but with God's grace I shall, that her majesty would have some consideration of my poor ability and good will to serve her, so that I may have with speed some relief of money of her majesty before my entry into Scotland, otherwise I shall be "forcyt" to proceed no further. Boroughbridge. Signed: Mathew Levenax.

¾ p. Addressed. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk).

180. Bishop of Ross to Cecil. [April 16.] C.P., Vol. V.

I give your honour most hearty thanks for presenting my letter to the Queen's majesty, and obtaining "so gentle and humane an answer" which I have received of her goodness. According to which I have "put my mynd in forme," as I could best, by writing. Which I pray your honour present to her majesty; likewise this other letter to my Lords of her Council, and that you will be a "meane and procurer" to cause the same to be well pondered. I cannot omit to press you most "affectuuslie," that I may be relieved of this "compressed ayre" where I remain, which assuredly is able to "engendre" to me great grief unless your goodness do help with your good procurement at the Queen's majesty's hands. On the hope of your labours in this "I will repose me." I pray you let me not be "frustrat" of that good hope, for truly both the Queen, my mistress, and myself "lippinis" in your friendship, and we know how friendly you use yourself when you are gently followed, and your honour may be assured of her goodness towards you whenever it shall stand in her power to show the same to you or yours. I must not forget a passport to Maister Henry Ker. who has tarried this whole month thereupon. Bishop of London's House. Signed: Jo. Rossen.

1 p. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk).

181. Proclamation in Scotland. [April.] Cott. Calig., C.II., fol. 224.

Forasmuch as, although the former proceedings of the earls and noblemen and "borne" councillors of this realm presently assembled in this borough of Edinburgh sufficiently persuade all men how willing they have been to maintain the commonweal and liberty of this your native country; yet, to the end that the malicious calumnies of particular persons who still study to interpret to the worst, and that the nobility's sincere and honourable intentions shall not take place, the said earls etc., have thought meet to manifest to the world, especially to all the good subjects of this realm who fear God or have affection to their sovereign and commonwealth, the cause of this present convention, as also in what order they intend to proceed hereafter in all their actions tending to God's glory, the defence of the crown, the observation of peace with all confederate friends and allies, and tranquillity of the realm, which now and of late time has been and is so troubled, that without God's help and deliverance, and that the noblemen as his ministers according to the places they occupy, put their hands in time to the sustaining of this state, whereof they are chief members, neither can it retain the dignity, liberty, and estimation amongst other realms and free countries, nor yet can the nobility and other good subjects quietly enjoy their lands, lives, and substance; the ground of which troubles and discords need not now at any length be spoken of, the same being so well known to all persons of all estates, of whom the most part have felt some portion of the harm and danger that this intestine division and unnatural controversy has wrought; and without men will profess themselves blind, insensible, and wanting all judgment and experience, they must think, and before the world grant, that the end of all behoves to be miserable and unhappy if God be not as is beforesaid; and without all noblemen and other good Scotsmen be content to yield to consider the state of the realm in general, and every private man his own condition. True it is that the noblemen now assembled do acknowledge and will that all men shall so esteem and judge of them that they like well and allow of the first honourable cause enterprised by some other noblemen in the person of the Earl Bothwell, who, having presumptuously put hands on the Queen's person, and detained her as captive, environed in with a great guard of men of war, and others at his devotion, and thereby through just fear constrained her against her will, honour, and commodity to enter suddenly with him in pretended marriage, which neither of God's law nor man's law was tolerable; nor yet could the issue that might have been procreate betwixt them be lawful to relieve her of the bondage and tyranny of that godless unworthy man; yea, and to sequester her person from his society till he might be punished or "expulsed," as it was an action "in the self worthy, allowable, and deservinge immortall," so would the noblemen now assembled have been participant thereof, and have concurred with their forces to the same end in case they had been thereunto faithfully required. This was the only stop of their causes, as at the beginning they gave the world to understand: for, as in their proclamations is mentioned, "they made thereon by pretence to quarrel against the authors of the murder of the King, her husband," and their chief intent was to put her to liberty—which indeed were godly and honourable intents etc. But let the order of things since be passed over with silence, seeing the noblemen assembled are not willing by reporting of bypast matters to iritate any other noblemen or good subjects which, peradventure, [they] particularly touched, but rather are content that the original cause of the dissensions may be coldly reasoned and wisely considered in peaceable conference etc. Herewithall it is thought expedient to answer the calumnies of some who deface the security of the godly intentions of the noblemen assembled, "ashamed not to dinge in the peoples eares that this assemblie and matters therein to be treated tendes to the subversion and alteration of the state of the true religion and danger of the professors thereof." A plausible argument to many who delight in unquietness, and are well content of trouble and discord, so long as by it they may have gains and possess the goods! Howbeit, nothing is less true. For, as the noblemen presently "convenit" for the most part have professed, and do profess the same true religion, so they challenge to themselves that honour, that under God they were of the first and of the greatest instruments, and the promotion, continuance, and the establishment thereof. How shall they then be authors of the destruction of that in the building whereof you were labourers, preferring the advancement of the same to their lands or lives? Is it likely they would do against their own consciences, and anew hazard that which is more dear to them than their lands or lives ? But as this calumniation is maliciously spread, and laid out indirectly to make the noblemen and their actions odious to the people, so it is not to be doubted but God shall confound this "fech," and cause it to appear vain amongst all other seditious "practises and foircastes" stirred up to entertain uproars and civil dissension. Yet, to condescend further, as the iniquity of this cause craveth; if the noblemen now assembled should pretend—as they mean not—to set alteration of the state of religion, as is seditiously "bruted" and reported of late, "in whose power besides solie consist to withstand . . . . alwayes the noblemen convenit leaveing their wicked and sedicious calumniators while it shall pleas God to disclose them and their practises and to punish them accordinge to their malice and willing their care as they have done for the preservacion of the state of religion, being also most desirous of the union of the realme, that all noblemen and other good subjectes may enjoy their own rankes, callinge and places of peace and quietnes which may be the end of all controversies to Godes glorie and the common wealth." For this effect they have offered to convene with such others of the nobility as differ from them, in judgment, presently at convenient time and place, like as the nobility now assembled will carry their conjunction so long as possible and conveniently they may, if they show some hope of reason, measure, or conformity, wherethrough, by familiar conference etc., resolution may be taken by common consent for the "furth settinge" of God's glory for the Queen's majesty's estate, "that she remaine not to barren stock," but that fruit may be procreate of her body, that the succession of the crown may be more "stark," and he whom God of his mercy has granted to us for our comfort may be honourably provided for—as well the security of his person as for the good continuance of his estate—that the godly peace standing betwixt this realm and all other Christian commonwealths may be observed, that mutual amity may be among all noblemen and others, that justice may proceed, and that every nobleman and others may in surety possess their lands etc. And herupon the noblemen now assembled constrained to pronounce both for the realm and their own sureties, by which occasion may be brought in on all sides to the utter "wrack" not only "both of the religion," and then that the just blame of all the evil appearance to follow through the obstinate rejecting of reasonable conditions be imputed to the refusers, and that the noblemen now assembled be discharged before God and the world, and to the end that none shall pretend ignorance hereof, the earls etc., presently assembled ordain a herald or other officer of arms to pass to the market cross of Edinburgh, and all other places needful within this realm, and there, by open proclamation of the premises, require and admonish all subjects of this realm righteously to judge hereof, and to set forward the godly intentions of the noblemen now assembled, and nowise to assist or take part with whomsoever others shall attempt anything to the contrary under any kind of pretence, and that the said officers command all the lieges of this realm that none of them take upon hand to alter or innovate the form of true and Christian religion publicly preached and reasoned within this realm, or attempt anything against the laws, ordinances, and constitutions made in that behalf, with certification to those who do to the contrary, they shall punish according to the law, and the pains contained therein executed upon them with all rigour.

5 pp. Copy. Closely written.

182. Sussex to Elizabeth. [April 17.]

Received yesternight by the Laird of Treborne letters from the Lords of Scotland assembled in the late Convention at Linlithgow (who afterwards repaired to Edinburgh). Has also received other letters from them by John Gordon, who brought letters to her majesty from them. Sends herewith copies of all the letters and instructions (saving those to her majesty) together with his answer. Prays her to direct him what further answer he shall make to Gordon, who attends here with his letters and credit for that purpose, and will not disclose any part thereof to him or any of her majesty's ministers here. Has received a short letter from the Laird of Grange this morning requiring him to give credit to Mr. Randolph, to whom he has written at more length, and by whom she will understand those matters. Has sent copies of their letters and instructions, and of his answer to the Earl of Morton, as it is supposed that both sides will convene at Edinburgh very shortly. Is presently going "to horseback" towards Tividale, where he thinks he will find Lord Hume joined with Buccleuch and Farnyhurst. On his return he will advertise her what passes in their journey. Berwick. Signed: T. Sussex.

1 p. Addressed: "To the Quenes moste excellent Majestie." Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk): "17 April 1570. Therle Sussex to the Q. Ma^te from Barwick"; and by Cecil: "of the L. of Trebron, Jhon Gordon, Scott at Berwyk."

First inclosure with the same:—

(Instructions for the Laird of Trebrowne.)

"Instructions for the Lerde of Trabroune directed from the Nobillity of Scotlande presentlie convenite in Edinburgh, to the Earle of Sussex, Livetenant to the Quenes Ma^tie of Englande, upon the Borders therof next this Realme."

First;—You shall declare to the Earl of Sussex, Lieutenant on the Borders, that having respect to the present troubled estate of this our native country, and considering the place whereunto by birth God hath called us, that is, "to be the borne counsaillo^rs of this Realme," and at whose hands "for the Rowmes we occupye" a great part of the people of this land must crave defence, safeguard, and maintenance; we have presently assembled to confer together by what means this realm may most conveniently be reduced to a perfect quietness etc. We have thought good to move her majesty in that matter, and to that effect have purposely directed a gentleman towards her highness etc.

Next;—For that we hear the said Earl of Sussex hath brought with him some forces towards the Borders, we have directed you purposely towards him to inquire and know of him "upon what occasions" forces are brought so near us; for, if the same be only for the quieting of the realm of England, punishing of trespasses within the same, defence of the lieges thereof from injury, or only for ordering of your own country, you shall declare, that not only do we well allow thereof, but also will further the same. But, if the same be to enter Scotland with hostility, or to offer violence to the inhabitants thereof within the "neere grounde" of the same, then let him well understand that we will be forced to put ourselves also in arms. We trust his lordship will neither give occasion nor provoke us thereto.

You shall earnestly desire him to forbear from all hostility, incursion, or invasion, at least till such time as we may receive answer from his sovereign to the letters we have presently directed towards her.

If it be alleged by him that he has commandment of his sovereign to enter this realm for establishing, quieting, or maintaining any state within the same, you shall answer, that we will not believe her majesty will take upon her to order the realm of Scotland, or anywise to meddle therewith, principally against the minds and direct intention of the nobility of this realm, whereof we doubt not her majesty knoweth us and others joined with us in opinion, judgment, and friendship to be the chiefest, best, and most part, as well in forces as rank and degrees, and trust her highness will not set us at so little price as, for the pleasure of any other three or four in this realm, to offer us injury etc. If it be objected to you, that the forces are brought for the maintenance of the Borders against the invasions of these countrymen, you shall offer in our names, that the abstaining from all hostility against the inhabitants of Scotland, we will provide that quietness shall be altogether observed on the part of Scotland, and if any attempt shall be committed hereafter, we shall see the same duly redressed without delay, according to the laws of the Marches.

If they pretend any quarrel upon injuries done already, you shall answer, that if any Scottishman has gone about to violate the good amity betwixt the two countries, we will nowise allow their proceedings in that behalf etc. Offer in our names, that, the Queen's majesty doing for her part according to the overtures we have made to her by our said letters, we will take upon us to cause full redress to be made for all attempts committed by any subjects of this realm against the inhabitants of England. You shall desire him to consider whether it be convenient to enter on terms of hostility with us, or make any show thereof for the pleasure of a "fewe nombre," who for their own commodities intend to nourish division in this country.

The Earls who have subscribed:—Huntly; Argyll; Atholl; Cassillis; Crawford; Sutherland. Lords subscribed:—Lord Hume; Seton; Fleming; Somervell; Oglevy; Boyd; Borthwick; Herries; Oliphant; Yester; Balfour; Coldingham; Wm. Maitland, secretary.

3½ pp. Copy. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk): "15 April 1570," and by Cecil: "From Huntly, Argile &c."

Second inclosure:—

(Huntly, etc., to Sussex.)

Whereas we understand that your lordship is come towards the Borders with some forces at commandment of the Queen your sovereign, we have thought good to direct towards your lordship the Laird of Treborne, bearer hereof, to deliver to you our meaning and earnest intention to maintain the peace betwixt the two realms, and to confer with your lordship upon the readiest means to avoid all things tending to the violation thereof. We have directed another gentleman with ample letters to your sovereign for the same effect, praying your lordship to credit the bearer hereof. Edinburgh, 15 Ap. 1570. Signed: Huntly; Argyll; Crawford; Sutherland; Atholl; Cassillis; Oliphant; Seton; Fleming; Boyd; Oglevy; Somervell; Herries; Borthwick; Yester; Balfour; Coldingham; Wm. Maitland.

½ p. Copy. Addressed. Indorsed.

Third inclosure:—

(Same to same.)

For the respect we bear to the Queen your sovereign, and understanding her majesty's good mind to the maintenance of the amity between the two countries, we have taken occasion to write to her majesty, desiring your lordship to give this bearer, Mr. John Gordon, favourable and sure passage, with commission to get post horses, in respect that the letters he bears contain matters of weight and very great importance to both the realms, and such as we are recently persuaded shall be to the contentation of her majesty. This we thought expedient to declare to your lordship in case that the same messenger being stopped by you, her majesty should have no occasion to lay the blame on us who have done our duty. "Lithquo." Signed: Atholl; Alex. Hume, [etc. as before.]

1 p. Copy. Addressed. Indorsed: "16 April 1570. Copy of the Ll. of Scotl. lettre to therle of Sussex for Jo. Gordon's pasport."

Fourth inclosure:—

(Sussex to the Lords of the Convention at Linlithgow.)

I have received your letters of the 15th of this month by the Laird of Treborne, and have heard his credit, and, to the intent you might the better understand the Queen my sovereign lady's intention in the sending of certain forces towards her Borders, I have sent unto you herewith a proclamation set forth by her majesty, whereby her highness intention is sufficiently published to all such as with good faith will read it, which will in that respect fully satisfy you. Touching your lordships' request to me to forbear any hostile incursion of the lieges of that realm till such time as you shall receive answer from my sovereign of the letters you have presently directed to her, whereupon you hope shall follow a perfect establishing of universal quiet. Like as I will be glad according to her majesty's commandment to do anything that reasonably I may do to favour, aid, and defend all the true lieges of that realm; so, considering your offer made for redress is conditional, and depends upon my sovereign lady's doings in the overtures made by your letters, and not knowing what the effect is of your letters to her majesty, whereby I cannot judge whether the matter contained in them be such as might move her majesty to allow of any stay from the executing of her highness' commandment, and finding the former promises made for redress to be unperformed, whereby her majesty has been forced to send force to her Borders to seek her own redress, I neither dare nor will forbear to use her majesty's force either against her highness' rebels, wheresoever they be, or against such as be no lieges of that realm, but be "owte of liege and lawe," and with hostile incursions have by taking and killing of her majesty's subjects, and burning and spoiling of their goods, violated the good peace and amity between both realms, or against such as, contrary to the leagues and treaties, have maintained her majesty's rebels, and such others of that realm as have committed public and notorious offences against her majesty and her realm of England; which shall rather be an execution of justice, worthy to be allowed of all good Scottishmen, than a troubling of the amity. If any of you take arms for the defence of any of those wicked forces of people, whereby you bring yourselves within the compass of that wickedness, and by evil actions disturb the good amity further than reason would, I will not forbear in that respect to pass forwards in the execution of my sovereign lady's just intention,—honourable for herself, and convenient for as many of that realm as desire true amity. And, when I have discharged my duty therein, I will for my own particular be as ready as any servant my sovereign has to do anything that may breed an honourable continuance of the amity, and will also in the meantime use all good offices to all persons in that realm who shall have respect to the honourable doings of my sovereign, and shall show themselves willing to continue the amity by rejecting of her majesty's rebels and their maintainers, hostile invaders of her majesty's dominions.

I have also received your letters by John Gordon requiring me to permit him to repair with your letters to my sovereign, and, for that I perceive by his declaration that some persons' "bandes be at the lettre which have bene principall mainteiners of the majestys rebelles," and of such in Scotland as have "injuriusly made hostile incursions" into her dominions, and that it also appears, that in your late Convention you have had dealings with the French messenger and her majesty's rebels, and would not in your former Convention deal well and sufficiently with Mr. Randolph, sent on purpose into that realm by my sovereign; and lastly, for that, in your instructions sent to me by the Laird of Treborne, you affirm that you will put yourselves in arms against me if I enter within the "neere grounde" of Scotland, whereby you seem to offer open war against her majesty in the defence of her rebels and your "theves" that have violated the common peace, and made hostile incursions into her majesty's dominions, I dare not presume to permit any messengers or letters to pass to her highness from you, or from any that shall offer the like until I know her majesty's pleasure, and therefore I have stayed both, and advertised her majesty of my doings. Upon answer whereof from her majesty, I will take further direction as shall be to her good pleasure. Berwick. 17th April 1570.

1½ pp. Copy. In the margin in Cecil's hand: "Copye of y^e lettres to y^e Ll. of y^e conventyon in Lythkoo." Indorsed.

Cott. Calig. C.II., fol. 119.

Copy of the same.

183. Thomas Randolph to Cecil. [April 17.]

I send you here a letter from the Laird of Grange, of whose sincerity I do not doubt, "excepte Liddington inchaunte hym," whose course is to bring home his mistress, as I believe, rather to spite others than to profit himself. Berwick. Signed: Tho. Randolphe.

¼ p. Addressed: "To the right honorable S^r William Cecill, knighte," etc. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk).

Inclosed with the same:—

(William Kirkcaldy, Laird of Grange, to Thomas Randolph.)

"In my last I promosit to writ at mair len^t consernyng the Lordes cuming to this. Upon tuysday the xj of this present they qlk wer convenit at Linlytkuow writ a lettre to me, the Balzeis consaill and communaltye of this town desyring yat they might be resevit in the town as their predesessers haid bene at all tymes hertofore. Upon the quhilk desyr I causit certene of the forsaid & gert (fn. 1) reid the lettre oppinly befor them. So efter long consultation they send this answer to the Lord, that they sould be welcum. Many they laid sum burden upon me & desyret me to enter privetlye upon sum conditions with the Lordes, quhilk ar theis:—First, y^t they sould mentene the Religion presently professit. Secondlye, y they sould mak na alteration within this town of the K. authorite. 3, they sould mollest na indueller within the town. 4, yat nane of your Mistress rebelles nor Hamilton suspected of me Lord Regentes murther sould come to the town."

"All thir heades they have keiped, and ar to set out in writing quhat is thaire intention, quhairof I sall send yow a copie. The gretest defficultye I haid with yem wes about your cuntreymen, quhay wer cum to Linlytcou to be suters unto yem & this Frencheman to traivell w^t the Q. your M^r for ye restitution. As for the L. Herys, compleyne not befor ye have cause for I assure yow he is ane of ye maist modest & maist common men amonges them, for he doyth yat he can to bring all the nobillitye to ane accord qlk I hope salbe schortlye for they ar to meit w^t in ther thre days, & gyf they agre it may chance the erlles of Athell and Morton w^t sum uyeres visie your mistress. This keip to yourself. As to the L. Herys putyng to libertye, I did it without a warand and Morton consent. Yesterday this Frenche man cam & spak with me with quhom I have fond many fair wordes. He departes verye schortlye with mony gud wordes fra the Lordes. They have craiveit support in caice yo mistress wald invaid yem, uyerwayes they desyr none. Presently they have sent for y^e forcis to resist your army, gyf ye enter farther nor Teviedaill. As for our secreter he intendes to avow all his doynges quharof ye salbe maid participant. We thynk it verye straing y^t ye never mak mention of o^r Kyng in all your writynges and proclamations qlk makes as supect that your mistress will never tak the mentenance of hym upon her. Havyng na farther for the present to trubill yow w^t I commit yow to the almy^ty Godes protection. At Ed^r castell the 16 of Apryll." Signed: W. Kyrkcaldy.

Postscrit. "I wald wyshe ye haid tane your revenge upon sic of Tavedaill as hes offendit yow & yerefter leave of & lat yow & us take up all maters & remane gud freindes, for ye will fynd few or nane to concure with yow to the hurt of ony Scotes man. Yerfor be not drawin in be eny particular men, for they will not be abill to do yow eny gud quhen ye ar cum. For this contraire faction is gret, for they ar xxxij erles & Lordes in parlement quharof xxiiij hes subscryvet the writyng send with M^r Joⁿ Gordon to the quene your mistress. Our nombre growes small & will daily grow smaller & will be compellit to cum to agrement & gyf your brother stak not the better to yem the tuther wald scarslye cum to ony conferrence with yem. Follow brother Williams advyse anes, & it sall pass yer poweres to break the amytie betweene yow & us for bay^t the parties wilbe layt to offend hym & he agayne beyng a meane man mon be wrye were yat he gif yem not just occasion to thynk he takes mare upon hym nor becumis hym to do for he mon sum day leif leif [sic] a pure man at his awin house, yerfor I pray yow press hym not ower far for ye have power to command hym. Keip this to yo^rself."

2½ pp. Holograph. Addressed: "To his lovyng brother M^r Randolphe." Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk): "16 Aprile 1570 The L. of Grange to M Randolph," and by Cecil: "Of y^e Ll. coming from Lytchcoo to Edenburgh."

184. John Gordon to Elizabeth. [April 18.]

The greatest and chiefest part of the nobility of Scotland who have sent me towards your majesty "(ane onuorthy messager I most neide confes to come to suche a noble queen as your M.)" assure your majesty of their good and loving affection, for your majesty is the Prince in the world whose kindness they crave most, and whose displeasure they labour most to avoid. Their most humble request is that no misreport by the "onfreendis" may "ingennire" any suspicion that they should in any case carry in their "harttis" any evil mind against your majesty.

They humbly require of your majesty, that, as when they were "oppressit" with strangers your majesty did most lovingly aid them with your forces to the expulsion of strangers, even so now your majesty will, of Christian charity, labour to unite Scotland in one, which they think very easy for your majesty to do, humbly letting your majesty understand, that if you maintain a small number of Scotland against the rest of the ancient nobility (which they will not look for at your hands) that there is like to ensue great bloodshed and "superfluus chargis" to your majesty; whereas, on the other side, your majesty may have the greatest part of the ancient nobility of Scotland at your devotion &c.

The nobility of Scotland willed me, moreover, to show your majesty that M. de Virace, gentleman of the King of France's chamber, "hes brouchte theme from the Kyng his maister lettirs and offirs of greate ayde bothe of men and mony instantly and schortly and in suche nombre as they wille requyre," and that not only for the goodwill he bears to the Queen of Scotland, but also for the ancient alliance betwixt France and Scotland. But they "not willyng that any strangers shoulde entire in this ilande to zour M. mislykine, wille accepte no such offire onles zour M. refusyng ther amiable and reasonable requeste and offire and usynge of hostility aganist Scotlande, do compelle them for there releife and supporte to recave strangers in there contrey which, utheruays they woulde be lothe to do."

They do also request, that, whereas some "disordurit" persons on their Borders have taken occasion of the dessension in Scotland to invade your majesty's Borders without the consent of the nobility, and to their great misliking, it may please your majesty to enter on a treaty of appointment, that both "theire devydit estate" may by your majesty's help be united, and all wrongs done on your Borders be recompensed, earnestly desiring that your majesty will stay in the meanwhile all hostility, invasion, and incursion on the Borders of Scotland in revenging such harms as your majesty has sustained, for if your majesty's forces shall enter within Scotland, using of hostility in throwing down houses, "raisyng of fyre" on the lieges of Scotland, or driving away their "bestialle" the end thereof seemeth to them to be none other but the breach of the godly amity so long continued betwixt the two realms. Finally:—They humbly require your majesty's own speedy answer on all points contained within their letter, as their earnest request to your majesty's lieutenant (fn. 2) was, that I, the bearer of their letters, should have passage with all expedition to come to your majesty with diligence, but I, being "stayit," and their letters "refusit" to be sent to your majesty, I know not how that matter will be taken by the nobility of Scotland. If it be your pleasure to enter to appointment of the affairs of Scotland (which the nobility earnestly suit) they desire safe conducts for such Lords as shall repair towards your majesty. This much the nobility gave me charge to speak, but not being suffered to pass, I have taken the boldness thus "rudly" to write their offers to your majesty. Berwick. Signed: J. Gordon.

1½ pp. Holograph. Addressed: "To the Queennis moste excellente Majesty the bearere his Credit." Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk).

185. John Gordon to Cecil. [April 18.]

Being commanded by my friends' letters to return from England to my native country of Scotland, I was "constreynite" to retire to my own country. After my "homcommynge," being at my father's house, the greatest part of the nobility of Scotland sent for me, and commanded me to go to the Queen's majesty of England with their letters. My answer was, that the matter being good and godly, and tending to the weal of both realms, I would accept it. They then answered me that they sought nothing but the continuance of the true religion, the appeasing of the troubled estate of Scotland, and the preservation of the godly amity betwixt these realms. The which things they willed me to show your honour, and to request in their behalf, that your honour will neither have any opinion that they bear not a good affection and loving mind to England, or that they "ar waxite cawlde" in the true religion. For my part, if it should please God, amongst the rest of plagues, to send us the "rode of perseqution," I do not think that greater constancy will be found in any lords of Scotland than in the Duke, the Earls of Huntly and Argyll, and such other noblemen as have subscribed these letters which they delivered to me. They seek to have the Queen of England in goodwill and favour above all Princes etc. They pray your honour to remember how that the Queen hath greater assurance to deal with those who be the ancient nobility and born peers of Scotland than with a small remnant who more respect their own gains and ambition than the common estate of Scotland, and that if the Queen's majesty will not take the pains to bring the matters of Scotland to a concord, that her majesty assist neither the one nor the other. If the Queen's pleasure be to enter in appointment, request her to cause safe conducts to be sent for such as the nobility of Scotland shall agree to send into England, leaving place for the names. I came to this town on the 16th of April, and am stayed here, although I brought with me a request from the nobility of Scotland to my Lord President, and another to Lord Hunsdon to give me passage. Neither can I get my letters sent, although it was promised at my staying that they should be sent. Therefore I write beseeching you, that when these presents shall come, your honour will deliver these other letters to the Queen's majesty. I have fallen into a grievous sickness since my coming hither, uncertain of my recovery, so that I write these with great pain. Berwick. Signed: J. Gordon.

1¼ pp. Holograph. Addressed: "To the rythe honorable S^r Wilzam Cicill principal secretary to the queennis Majestie" etc. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk): "18 Aprile 1570. M^r Jo. Gordon to my M^r. R[eceived] the 28 of Apll."

186. Sussex to Cecil. [April 21.]

"Sir as I was overthrowyng of the Laird of Bucklewghes howse the Coppye of that letter was brought to me which the L[ords] of Scotland sent to the quenes majestie from the late conventyon at Lythkoo by John Gordon, and was with the messenger stayed here by me untill I knew her highnes plesuer in answer of my lettres to her majestie of the xvij^th." And for that I thought her majesty might upon sight thereof the better advise what she would do for the "eryshnall and the caryer," I thought fit to send the same presently to you to be showed to her majesty. The Duke of Chatelherault was certainly put at liberty yesterday, and Grange is vehemently suspected of his fellows. The army is already "dyslodged," therefore I pray you "bere with my short wrytyng." "In haste at Jedworth in Scotland," 21st April 1570, at 4 in the morning. Signed: T. Sussex.

After the writing hereof, it was told me, but I cannot warrant it, that Lord Hunsdon has taken John Swynborne, and some others of the rebels.

1 p. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk): "21 Aprile 1570, Therle of Sussex to my m^r from Jedworth," and by Cecil: "w^th the Copy of y^e lettre w^e Jhon Gorrdon shuld bryng to the Q. Ma^tye."

187. Elizabeth to Sussex. [April 21.]

Has received his letter of the 17th of this month. Perceives by the same what messages and letters he has lately received from the Lords of Scotland who lately assembled at Linlithgow, by the Laird of Trebrone, and his answers, of which she approves. He did well to stay Gordon, who has come thither from the said Lords, as his letters are signed by such as have both maintained her rebels and broken the peace by invading her subjects. If he has but letters, and no credit, he [Gordon] may send his letters to her. If he has credit, and desires to come up to her, he is to give him a passport to come directly hither without "swavvyng" out of the common post-ways.

Postscript. Likes so well his answer to the Scots, that she cannot but with these few words express to him that herein he has showed himself very wise, valiant, and faithful to her and her crown.

1 p. Draft in Cecil's hand. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk): "21 Aprill 1570. M[inute] of the Q. Ma^ties lettre to therle of Sussex."

Cott. Calig. C.II., fol. 189.

Original of the same.

At the head: "Elizabeth R." Countersigned: "Cecil." Addressed. Wafer signet.

188. Lord Scrope to Sussex. [April 21.]

"According to your Lordships direction I entered Scotland on Tuisday at night last the xviij^th of this April, and on Wednesday at night incamped at Hacklefegham within Hoddon distant from Carlile xviij myles, and within Scotland xij myles; and on Thursday in the morning I sent forth Symon Musgrave appointed by me as generall of the horsemen, accompanied with the gentlemen named in a scedule here inclosed, to burne and spoile the countrey, and to mete me at a place called Cumber trees, and the said Symon with the gentlemen aforesaid brent the townes of Hoddom and the Maynes, Trailtrowe, Revell, and Cockpole, the towne of Blackshawe, Sherington, the Bankend thre myles of Drumfrise, Lougher, and Lougherwodd, and Hecklefeghan, which townes were of the landes of the Lords Herris and Maxwell, the Laird of Cockpole and the Laird of Holme ende. And as the said Symon and his company camme to olde Cockpole, there was the Lord Maxwell with his forces and the inhabitantes of Dromfreise assembled and skirmissed with the skuriers and compelled them to retorne unto the said Symon, and then Symon marched unto the town of Blackshawe with his company where the Lord Maxwell was in order and his forces. And then Symon and Fergus Grame with the nomber of c^th [100] horsemen did give the chardge apon the said Lord Maxwell and made him flee and his company also. In which flight ther were taken the nombers of C^h presoners," of which the principal were the Alderman of Dumfries and 16 of the burgesses thereof. The rest were footmen. The chase was followed within a mile of Dumfries.

After which conflict the said Simon retired to Blackshawe and burned it, and seized a great number of cattle, and delivered the same to William Musgrave, Richard Sackeld, John Dalston, and Thomas Carleton and others to convey to me.

The said Simon with 100 horsemen rode to burn Bankend, Lougher, and Lougher Wood. "As the said gentlemen with ther company camme to a strait place nere unto old Cockpole, the said Lord Maxwell, the Lord Carlisle, the Lord Johnson, the Laird of Cockpole, the Lairds of Holmend, Closburne, Lagge, Hempsfeld, Cowhill, and Tenoll with the nomber of iiij^e horsemen and vj^e footmen charged them very sore and forced them to light and drawe ther company unto a strong place to abide the charge of ther enemyes, and so they remayned untill the said Symon camme unto them and lighted and put his company in order and sett his horses betwene his company and the sea, and so stode in order to receive the enemy and contynewed in this sort chardging and receiving ther chardges the space of thre howres, I being at Cumber trees aforesaid, a place before appointed betwene me and the said Simon for his relefe, being distant from him three myles. And having understanding of somme distresse, I sent my band of horsemen with my brother Edward Scrope and CL^tie shott with M^r Audelly and M^r Harbert to ther relefe, and the said Symon upon the comming of the said horsemen and shott gave the ennemyes the chardge with all his forces. Wherapon they fledd, in which flight ther was takin C^th prisoners, whereof somme was of the pety Lerdes of the countrey," Lords Maxwell, Carlisle, and Johnston, and the rest beforenamed escaped by the strength of the Laird of Cockpole's house, and a great wood, and a "marris" there adjoining. And so the said Simon repaired to me with his company, and so we returned home. Carlisle. Signed: H. Scrope.

Postscript. Drumlanrig's servants and tenants, whom I had given charge that they should not be dealt with, for that he favoured the King's faction, and the Queen's majesty, were as cruel against us as any others. I have not advertised hereof to the Court as yet, and therefore beseech you to send this letter to Mr. Secretary.

The names of the gentlemen who accompanied Simon Musgrave in the "Forrey":—Richard Salkeld, esquire, William Musgrave, esquire, and his son and heir, John Dalston, esquire, Humphry Musgrave, Henry Denton, esquire, Thomas Denton, esquire, William Skelton, esquire, "Cuttye" Musgrave, esquire, John Musgrave, gent., Thomas Carleton, esquire, Richard Sandfurthe, gent., Thomas Aglionby, gent., George Salkeld, gent., Robert Dalston, gent., Christopher Dalston, gent., Edward Birckbeck, gent., Rowland Vaux, gent., Andrew Hilton, gent., George Denton, gent., Gawen Eglesfeild, gent., James Harrington, gent., Richard Tolson, gent., John Appleby, gent., John Rigg, gent., Leonard Musgrave, gent., William Smetherley, gent., John Ellys, gent., Thomas Threlkeld, gent., Thomas Briscoe, gent., Thomas Chambers, gent., "Richie" Greame, esquire, and "Dick," his son, Fergus Greame, of "the Mote," Hutchons Andrew, "Robbie of the Falde," Fergus Greame, of "Noorie," and William Armstrong.

3 pp. Copy. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk).

189. Lennox to Cecil. [April 22.]

Since his coming hither he has not received any intelligence forth of Scotland worthy of writing, but refers all things to Mr. Randolph's advertisement, who can best inform him of the proceedings of that realm for the time; but as matters of importance come to his knowledge, he will advertise him. Desires him to send this other letter to his wife. Berwick. Signed: Mathew Levenax.

¼ p. Addressed. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk).

190. Sussex to Elizabeth. [April 23.]

To perform your majesty's commandment given to me for advertising truly to you of all matters here, as I find them, I thought it my duty to write some collections of matters past, and of matters present in Scotland.

Lord Lethington, immediately on the Regent's death, was delivered out of prison by the means and "travell" of the Laird of Grange. Since Lord Lethington's liberty, he has procured the liberty of Lord Herries upon the delivery of his son for hostage. These two have procured a Convention of the greatest part of the nobility of Scotland to treat at Linlithgow, where the French messenger had audience, and your rebels were present to give some show of a faction in England. In this Convention the Lords required aid of the French, and the French have assured it with all possible diligence; to which end the French messenger has, as I hear, already returned to France. From Linlithgow these Lords came to Edinburgh, where they were all received, saving the Hamiltons and Hume, who brought some of your rebels with him; who, when your rebels were lodged at Leith, were received into Edinburgh.

Since the Convention Lords Herries and Lethington have procured the delivery of the Duke of Chatelherault and all other prisoners. Chatelherault, as I am informed, travails to make Grange Abbot of St. Andrews, and Seton Captain of Edinburgh Castle and Provost of the town, which is like to take speedy effect, and Grange is now thought to be wholly revolted. The Lords who were at the Convention have returned to their countries with show of an intention to put themselves in arms, and to proclaim their Queen. It is thought they will call the Duke to the government for the time. The Lords on the other side fear your lack of maintenance to them, and the French maintenance to their adverse party. It is destruction to them if they do not provide in time, the rather because it is told them that your majesty intends to restore their mistress. The present state is,—the revenge, the deaths of Darnley and the Regent are forgotten, malice to the Hamiltons is pacified, the son's party daily decays, the mother's party daily increases, and if the matter be left to themselves the whole will be shortly on that side, and then no party but one,—the child's party. Signed: T. Sussex.

2¼ pp. Addressed: "To the Quenes moste [exce]llent Majestie." Indorsed by Cecil: "Of ye accidentes since ye Reg. deth."

191. Sussex to Cecil. [April 23.]

Incloses copy of articles. Mr. Douglas will amplify them by mouth, if they require further explanation.

Inclosed with the same:—

(Instructions to Archibald Douglas.)

"Instruction geven to M Archiball Douglas to be communicated and declared by the right honorable therle of Sussex, Lieutenant of the Q. M^ties armie, and L. President of Yorke."

[First part.]

(1) Ye shall in the names of our sovereign, the King's majesty, and of the Earls of Morton, Glencairn, Mar, and others of the nobility present at Sterling &c. give most hearty thanks to the said Earl of Sussex for the goodwill proffered in his last letter, sent from Newcastle the 10th of April instant; whereunto, as her majesty has uttered her goodwill to the advancement of the King our sovereign, and his faithful subjects' good action, so shall her majesty be "rancountred" with the goodwill and service of all the King's obedient subjects for continuing the amity betwixt the two sovereigns, and shall not fail to do such service against her enemies as her majesty shall have good occasion to think all favours showed to the nobility well bestowed.

(2) Item:—to enqnire how far he has commission to invade the inhabitants of Scotland who have maintained the rebels of England, who have ridden and made invasion upon the subjects of England, and if he has commission, or will use his commission to invade the inhabitants of this realm who have not ridden with the rebels, but have only received, and openly kept the English rebels in their company, and if he will use these two kinds of people after one sort, or what difference he will make betwixt them, and upon whom specially he intends to use execution.

(3) What may satisfy him against the rebels in times coming.

(4) If he has commandment, and will join himself and forces with the nobility of this realm professing the King's obedience.

(5) To see what concurrence he desires by the nobility for furthering his mistress' service, and what advice he will give in this behalf.

(6) To know what he means by the word 'negociation' contained in his letter; if he means to enter into any conditions with any who have offened his sovereign &c.

(7) To speak for Lord Morton's friends in the "Mers" and other places, and to make security for their weal.

[Second part.]

(1) To let it be understood upon what occasion this conference was devised, and what end it has taken.

(2) Item:—To show the direction of Mr. John Gordon, and the tenour of his letter, which contains chiefly the same articles which were presented to the nobility in St. Johnston in July last, and to obtain a safe conduct for an ambassador to be sent to them.

(3) To declare the despatch given to the Frenchman by whom they have written for support of men and money.

(4) To show, that (if they will be so wilful as upon sudden to proclaim [to] the Queen's majesty that the same is done only upon respect to break the amity) he will join the force of England with ours, and to know what day he will be ready, that we may meet him, or take the field by his advise.

(5) To know of Mr. Randolph if the conduct has come yet.

(6) Item:—To declare, that in the writing that Mr. John Gordon took away with him there were the subscriptions of seven or eight Earls and Lords counterfeited, who never came to them nor subscribed with them, namely, the earls of Erroll, Marischal, Caithness, Eglinton, Lords Forbes, Borthwick, Graye, Innermeath.

(7) To show that the Queen's rebels were carried about to their conventions in all places where they passed, except Edinburgh, where they were altogether refused. The cause why they so conveyed them, as we can learn, was "to let the Frenchman see that they had seed enoughe in Scotland to sowe discorde in Englande."

(8) To show who were in the "shipps that weare driven to Tynemouthe." Each part signed:—Morton; Patrick Lord Lindsay; Ruthven; R. Dunfermlin. "A. Douglas witnessethe this to be a trewe coppie."

1½ pp. Copy. Addressed: "To S^r W^m Cecill, knight," etc. Indorsed by Cecil (and his clerk).

192. Morton to Randolph. [April 25.]

Sir; since the directing of my letter with William Douglas to you there have been "tway" letters of yours come to my hands, the one by David Wans, in Leith, the other by Robert Home, son to the Laird of "Blaccater." I have sent to Stirling to know the minds of the Lords there touching the meeting my Lord Lieutenant "disirit," and thereafter I shall advertise you. Next Saturday we purpose to be in Edinburgh, where some of the other Lords for the present remain. I would he "travelit at my Lord Lieutenentes (fn. 3) hand" to cause him to write to Lord Scrope with all diligence, and cause him to stay the Lord Herries and Maxwell, and the Laird of Johnston "uncum" forth to Edinburgh. [See State Papers, Foreign, under date.] I perceive by your letter that "there wentis na brutis passing abrode," and that to the "disavange" of our proceedings, "that is not a littill of there craft," and yet I think no honest man will take thought of such things. We want silver to pay our men of war, and would be "supportit" to do the same, as I trust you know by the Laird of "Drumquhassill." The Secretary will suffer no man to appoint with you that "he may stoppe." Dalkeith. Signed: Mortoun. "Hast Drumquhassill to wr[ite]."

1 p. Addressed: "To the Ry^t worschipfull and My verie gude frend M^r Thomas Randolph esquyer, Maister of the Quenes Ma^ttes Postis of England." Indorsed (by Randolph): "Erle of Morton."

193. William Kirkcaldy of Grange to Randolph. [April 26.]

"Brother Thomas," I received your writing this Wednesday at 9 of the clock, and "persavis yerby of dyvers and syndre brutes ze have hard of me," and desire you to be assured either by word or "write" what you may trust unto. Therefore this is to assure you that I remain and shall continue the King's Faithful subject, and shall maintain his authority. As to the "persutte" of my Lord Regent's murder, I shall also be ready to the revenge thereof as any in Scotland, but I will not take the deadly "fead" upon me of all the Hamiltons, as some would I should do; for there are many who would that I should take the revenge only upon me, "the quhilk I will never do, knawin quhen I have bene heirtofor left as is not unknawin to you," for now "my gray heares hes latin me understand quhat truth and constantye" is in our nobility. Albeit I will not "enterprys" as I have done, yet I pray you and others not to have the "wers" opinion of me, for since he [the Regent] is dead I mind never to subject myself over far to any of them that are left behind, for I know the conditions "to weill." I am sure it has come to your ears that I should "gyf ower" this house for the Priory of St. Andrews to Lord Seton, which truly was never meant, nor yet laid to my charge, but is only the "sawin abrode be yem y^t haitis me and wald mak me odious to y^e warld." Your "seiging" of Hume cannot be well, seeing Lord Hume offers "mare nor resoun," and would be "accepted," were it not that you think by the division amongst us you will be both "juge and partye." Amongst other things, I am sure many evil reports come of me to you for the putting to liberty of my warders, but, when you have understood, I trust you will be satisfied. If your mistress please, she may take up this "haill devision" that is in Scotland, and make the "haill to be hirs and at hir devosion." I pray you to do as you would be done to, or else all the "clokes ze can cuver your cause with wilbe disclosit" in the end. I am preparing this house to resist all that shall pursue, and to hold you at the gate whensoever you put on your "jake." Edinburgh Castle. Signed: "Your brother in perpituum" W. Kyrkcaldy.

2 pp. Holograph. Addressed: "To his lovyng brother M Randolphe." Indorsed: "L. of Graynge."

194. Bishop of Ross to Cecil. [April. 26.] C.P., Vol. V.

This day my servant, Mr Alexander Hervy, is "commandit" to prison in the Fleet by my Lord Keeper on the occasion of the "litle treatie" for defence of the Queen my mistress' honour, which was "stayed at the prentar"; in which I am assured there is nothing to offend her majesty. I have sent the principal copy to the Queen's majesty to be "considerit." I beseech your honour to "interpone" for his relief, and furtherance of our affairs. Be so good as to further Maister Henry Ker to a passport. Bishop of London's house. Signed: Jo. Rossen.

½ p. Addressed. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk). No flyleaf.

Cott. Calig. C.II., fol. 200.

Copy of the same.

195. Lennox to Cecil. [April 27.]

I have been so extremely handled with sickness that I am not able to make long discourse, but must refer the discourse of my friend the Laird of Drumwhashell in such matters as he came to me for, to my lord lieutenant, who has heard him at length, and in my said Lord's absence—who yesternight set forward into the field again—I refer the same unto the report of Mr. Randolphe, who has had conference with the said Drumwhassell at length. I send a letter herewith to my wife to let her understand of my sickness, but not the extremity thereof. A small portion of money I had here of my own, at the earnest request of the Earl of Morton and the rest of the Lords, I have delivered to the Laird of Drumwhassell for paying and keeping together the 200 soldiers, who have done so good service at Glasgow. Berwick. Signed: Mathew Levenax.

²/3 p. Addressed. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk).

196. Lennox to Cecil. [April 29.]

I received your letters by my servant John Moone, on the 28th instant. I looked every day to have met with the Abbot of Dunfermline, or to have found him here at my coming, but the gentleman called "the Lard of Dromwhassell," who was with me lately, as you know, says that Lethington has put such a fear in many men, and so persuades with them, that the same is the cause of the Abbot's not coming. I trust ere long either he or another will satisfy her majesty in all things, otherwise I will never more meddle with them nor in their causes. Send this letter to my wife. Berwick. Signed: Mathew Levnex.

Postscript. I beseech you to impart the effect of this letter to her majesty. Lord Lindsay by his letter etc., speaketh much as touching truth of the Laird of Grange towards the King's authority there. I pray God it prove so.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk).

197. Sussex and Hunsdon to Elizabeth. [April 29.]

"It maye please yo^r moste excellente Majestie." Being at our return out of Tividale disappointed of our intention to besiege the castle of Hume (as we wrote in our former letters), we put all things in readiness for that purpose against the 26th of this month, and set forwards that night, so we came to Hume the 27th, and planted the battery that night, battered all the forenoon the 28th, and about one o'clock the captain sent forth a "Trompett" to desire to parley.

Whereupon we sent Mr. Drury, the Marshal, to meet him without the castle. His request was:—"that we wolde be contented to license him to sende a messinger to the Lord Hume to knowe his pleasure what he sholde further doo, and that we also wolde sende one with him whereby we mighte see he used no delaye, and staye our battry and small shott untill his retorne." Understanding by the Master of the Ordnance, that for lack of carriage, a great part of the powder had not come etc. we were contented to license the captain to send a messenger to Lord Hume. The messenger at his return brought commission from Lord Hume to deliver the castle without condition. Whereupon we took their armour and weapons, and licensed them to depart without bag or baggage.

"The scite is stronge, the castell newe fortified in a greate parte, moche stronger then it was, well furnished with small ordenance, and manned with nere cc persons, wherof abowte lx harquebuziers," so that, although we made certain "accompte" to have it by force within few days, yet it appears that we could not win it in that sort without loss of men, which was the only cause that moved us to receive them to mercy. This day we have left 200 men in the castle, and retired the army to the Borders.

The bearer, Mr. Ranulph Bowes, servant to Lord Leicester, coming into Yorkshire about his own affairs, has had goodwill to serve your majesty this journey, and has, without any entertainment, continued in the field at his own charges, and been present at every service, so that he can make particular declaration of all that passed. We have in all our doings so favoured the good subjects of Scotland, that we trust your majesty will not hear of any hurt done to any person who has not received rebels openly, or invaded England. Berwick. Signed: T. Sussex. Hunsdon.

1²/3 pp. Addressed. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk).

198. Aid for the Scottish Nobility. [April 29.] Cott. Calig. C.II., fol. 63.

"Hampton Court, in the presence of the Q. Majesty." The Queen imparted to the Council that she had received letters from the Earl of Sussex, which specially consisted upon these points.—What aid he should give to the nobility in Scotland professing the King's party, or what answer he should otherwise make to their demands? And, for that her majesty considered that the resolution hereupon must principally depend upon her proceeding with the Queen of Scots, she said it was meetest to be considered what should be done with her—whether she should be delivered upon such assurances as might be devised, and restored to her kingdom, or else to remain as she does. And, to the intent that every one of her Council might speak freely, she assured them that she herself was free from any determined resolution, so that she would first hear their advice, and thereupon make choice of what she should think meetest for her honour. Hereupon every one of the Council uttered their opinions, and most of them thought that the Queen's majesty could not have any assurance sufficient for her own safety if the Queen of Scots should be restored to her crown. [Their reasons given.]

In the end the Councillors who found it dangerous to put the Queen of Scots at liberty,—hearing that she had offered to the Queen of England to do anything with her honour to make assurance to the Queen's majesty not to make any claim to this crown during the life of her majesty and the continuance of the succession of her body,— wished that such kind of assurances might be conceived by such as should think that they might be made perfect, and thereupon they would yield to consent as far forth as it might appear to them to be sound. After this, her majesty said to those that were of opinion that they could not devise good assurance for her if the Queen of Scots was at liberty, that she would know of them, what then she should do at this time for intermeddling with the two parties in Scotland? Whereunto it was by all accorded, that, considering the party that was against the young King manifestly maintained her rebels, and for their advancement carried them about the realm, and gave them place to sit with them in their conventions, and that a great part of them had also invaded and spoiled all the three Borders of England, and that the party that obeyed the King offered no such wrong nor dishonour to her majesty, but rather to procure redress of the wrong if they might thereto be assisted by her Majesty, it was thought meet that the Queen's majesty should give aid to the party that favoured her, and kept peace with her. And for the aid to be given them, it was not misliked that they should have their own demands, which were so much money as would maintain 1000 waged soldiers for three months, and besides that the aid of the Queen of England's army now being levied.

6 pp. Draft in Cecil's hand.

199. Elizabeth to Sussex. [April 30.]

Has received sundry letters from him and Lord Hunsdon jointly, by which she learns of his journey with the army in Scotland, and his good service. Requires that he, Hunsdon, the Wardens of the West and Middle Borders, Simon Musgrave, and her faithful subjects may all understand how well she accepts their service, which she knows could not be without great difficulties, the season being such that in former times no army has so entered.

His other letters contain an answer from the Earl of Morton &c. sent to him by Archibald Douglas, with his [Sussex's] explanations of the obscure parts, and to the three or four articles of most importance, to which he requires answer, she will plainly impart to him her "concept," and commit them to him in special trust as to a most secret councillor. First:—He is not ignorant how dangerous a person the Scottish Queen has been, and may be to her. The dangers past are not to be treated, but to be kept in memory how to withstand the like. The rest that may come are to be considered with providence; wherein there appear manifestly but two ways only that are direct. Of the other indirect devices, she will not have regard. The one is to keep her as she is, and to maintain her son with his party. The other is to deliver her, with such assurance that she shall not molest her, as may be' by possibility devised. In either of these are so many difficulties, that the most difficult is to choose the least, for neither of them are without evident perils. The French King solicits her to deliver the Queen of Scots, and now begins expressly to pronounce his determination to aid her faction in Scotland. If she offends them, and aids her "contraryes," and—though she is not ignorant of French threatenings—yet she sees preparation of forces in France, that she cannot neglect it. Also, has cause to doubt the like of the King of Spain from the Duke of Alva. Perceives by Sussex's advertisement, and otherwise, the increase of her party in Scotland, and the decay of the contrary. Yet, how dishonourable it shall be for her to deliver her, as it were, upon these dealings, he can judge. Requires him to consider well hereof, and how her party there may be comforted, and the contrary stayed from increase whilst the Scottish Queen's cause may be considered with more leisure, and that she may have further time to consider whether she will deliver her or not. Before she consents to her delivery, she will regard the manner of the assurances, which, if they be not probable, she will rather venture to keep her than to give her liberty. Would have him use all good policy and demonstrations to comfort her [Elizabeth's] party there, and let them plainly understand that their slow manner of dealing, and their uncertain proceedings cause her to suspend her resolutions, and he may assure them, that in persisting with her in amity, they shall not receive any more hurt at their adversaries' hands than any of her own loving subjects. The contrary party would be dealt with by his means, by warning them, that if they continue in maintenance of her rebels, as they have done, they shall not win that they look for, and—thought they shall bring in strangers—he must not let them think but she will sufficiently defend her realm, and in so provoking her with ungratefulness, she will let them feel the reward of their own follies. Desires that Lethington may particularly understand that she cannot take his doings in such part as heretofore she has done, wishing that he would not be so hasty in his devices, but so to have regard for her, that the world may not note him as a vessel full of all inhumanity. Desires him to procure a suspense of this discord, to devise how her own party may be stayed from defection, the other induced to have more regard for her, and to seek by quiet means and messages the order of their cause by her. In his answer to them he is to follow the tenour of her declaration, by which, and by his actions they may see that she means not to offend any Scottishman that keeps peace with her, and that the wrongs done by them have only provoked her to enter into arms, which is both just and necessary. Knows he will still expect her determination for the open maintenance of the King. In which matter, as far as she presently thinks, she secretly lets him know that she cannot make a certain resolution, but if his party, being favourable to her, can recover their state, and suppress the contrary by such aid as she shall give, then she will gladly assent thereto. In this sort she would have him prove how they may be satisfied, and howsoever they shall answer, she requires him to advertise her what probability he finds for her to proceed with them. Prays him to remember, that, as it will much touch her in surety to have her party suddenly decay, so shall it in honour if she should by promises procure them to stand with her, and in the end not to see them maintained or well provided for. Thirdly;—it is also to be considered, that she be not "abused" by them to give them her money, and they not to serve her purpose therewith. Desires his advice, as the whole cause is full of doubts.

As to the articles, she does not bind him to her opinion.

The second article she finds as the rest—rather questions than answers,—and so they may be admonished concerning their uncertain dealing with him. But, for the substance, it may reasonably be said, that—as both the Scots who aided her rebels, and they who maintained them are injurious to her, and justly to be chastised—yet the greater avenge is due to those that have invaded her realm, towards whom she cannot use any moderation without amends made, or assurances for amends to her subjects damnified. The fourth and fifth also are questions where he may say he looked for an offer of a number of their party, and if they so make their offers certain, then will he also make to them plain offers in what sort he will join with them, so that the same may be with surety to her subjects who shall by his order enter Scotland.

The fourth of the second—being a question—is the hardest to be answered, and yet it may be answered, that if any of them who shall proclaim the Queen shall be of those who have aided, and do aid her rebels, or have invaded her country, he shall proceed against them as against her enemies, and if they reply by moving him to open himself plainly for defence of the King's title, and suppressing the Queen, he may say that he has "commission to deale with persons and not with titles," and he has charge to aid the persons who are her friends, and who also profess the King's authority, and to be an enemy to those who have aided her rebels. This matter, being of great weight, has moved her to make him plainly understand her mind, wherein he sees how meet it is that he should keep this letter secret.

6 pp. Draft in Cecil's hand. Indorsed: "Ult° Aprilis, 1570. The Q. Ma^ty to y^e Erle of Sussex."

Cott. Calig. C.II., fol. 201.

Original of the same. "Gyven under our signet ye last day of April 1570."

3 pp. In Cecil's hand. Addressed. Indorsed.

200. Dialogue on Scottish Matters. [April 30.]

Commences:—" On the xxx day of Aprile at ye hour yat ye sone had passit ye guis cruve, as I lay resting in a chalmer yair come in twa wyfeis and sat doun to ye drink. I can not tell yair names, for yair wes not ane hour in ye dur" &c. [The Bishop of Ross, the Duke of Chatelherault, the Earls of Atholl and Huntly, the Commendator of Culros, Lords Boyd, Borthwick, Yester, the Regent, and others are criticised with regard to their powers of governing the country, and the parts they have taken in recent political matters in Scotland.]

9 pp. In a Scottish hand. Indorsed by Cecil: "30 Aprill 1570; a Scottish dyalog betwixt 2 Scott, women of ye state of Scotland."

201. Bishop of Ross to Cecil. [April 30.] C.P., Vol. V.

Reminds him of his last letter to the Queen concerning an audience, the relief of his servant, and a passport for Mr. Henry Ker to pass to the Queen, or else to return to France. The old Abbot of Dunfermline, who is in France, has written to him to procure a conduct to pass through this country to Scotland with six horses in "cumpanie," bag and baggages. Prays him to move the Queen on these points. Also, that he may have licence to send a servant of his to see the Queen of Scots, "for none hath bene with her frome me this two monthes past." Is assured she has need of comfort hearing such news as comes from Scotland. Bishop of London's house. Signed: Jo. Rossen.

½ p. Addressed. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk).

202. Ballad. [April.]

"The Cruikit liedis the blinde."

Commences:—

"This warld it waghis I wat not how,
And na man may ane uther trow:
And everie man dois pluke and pow,
And that the pure may finde,
Our Court it is decayit now
The cruikit leidis the blinde."

"Althocht the warldlie wise be cruikit,
This commoun weill he has miscuikit,
Our Lords ar blinde and dois ouerluikit
He gydis thame as he list
Tak thay not tent he will not buikit
To gyde thame in the mist."

Ends:—

"My Lordis quhat in this that ze mene
I thinke the holkis ouergangis zour ene,
I wald sum man scheir zow clene
That ze micht se thir faultis,
And be not blinde as ze haif bene
Nor led with thame that haultis."

1 p. Broadsheet. Blackletter. "Imprentit at Edinburgh be Robert Lekpreuik, anno Do. 1570." 90 lines. Indorsed: "A ballet made of the La. of Lid."

203. Two Ballads. [April.]

(1) "The Bird in the Cage" and the "Lenuoy."

Commences:—

"A bailfull bird that wantis wingis to fle,
Nureist in a nest richt craftie wylis to hatche:
For fault of feit borne in ane Ark of tre,
In craftines to Simon worthie matche
A gylefuil grume all gude men to dispatche.
And be a gyde to blinde men in a rank:
Zit for sic service servis bot lytill thank."

"Evin so sum man that menis not in his mynd
Bot monstrously for to mantene misordour
Achitophellis air, ane Ganzelon of strynd:
Falser than cheus chat leuis on the bordour.
Quha craftelie his awin affairis to furdour,
Will think I speik of him in this my ryme
Johne Gukstounis Eye to bleir quhen he thinkis tyme."

77 lines.

(2) Commences:—

"Jak in the bokis, for all thy mokis
A vengeance mot the sall:
Thy subteltie, and palzardrie
Our fredome bringis in thrall.
Thy fair fals toung does still Impung
Our Crown Imperiall.
Lyke wavering thane thy proces bane,
Will brew the bitter gall."

Ends:—

"Amen, say ane and all,
Of faithfull in this land
And for trew concord call:
As God dois us command
Strang is the Lordis hand,
To keip all his from thrall:
And with his threuning wand,
Will mak his fais to fall."

1 p. Broadsheet. Blackletter. 40 lines. "Imprentit at Edinburgh be Robert Lekpreuik" 1570.

204. Ballad. [April.]

"The hailsome admonitioun &c."

Commences:—

"O Lamp of licht, and peirles Peirll of pryse,
O Kenely knicht in martiall deidis most ding
O worthy wicht most vailzeant war and wyse,
O Capitane ay constant to the King.
O lustie Lord, that will na wayis maling,
O Barroun bauld, of Chevalry the floure,
O perfyte Provest, but maik into this Ring
O gudely Grange, but spot unto this houre."

Exhorts Grange to three things—

"First in God's cause be constant to the end.
Syne nict our king with all thy micht defend
Himself, his lawis, his libertie and Croun.
Thirdly unto the world thow mak it kend
He was thy Maister Bothwell hauch put doun."

Ends:—

"Thow hes bene ane, sen first this caus began,
And als hes sene, how God gart it proceid
Heirfoir I pray zit do the thing thow can
Into God's caus, and to Revenge his deid,
And gif thow swerve, richt sait in hart I dreid,
That sindrie sall thy doingis discommend
Avise heiron sen now is tyme of neid
Mark weill I pray this Schedull that I send."

1 p. Broadsheet. Blackletter. "Imprentit" as before. 144 lines.

205. Letters of Elizabeth. [April.] Cott. Calig. C.II., fol. 185.

"An abstracte of the queen's majeste's lettres." April to June 11th.

[Abstracts of eight letters on Scottish affairs from Elizabeth to some person whose name is not given. They refer chiefly to the question of the delivery or detention of the Queen of Scots.]

3 pp. Probably written by Sussex.