Border Papers volume 2: September 1596

Calendar of Border Papers: Volume 2, 1595-1603. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1896.

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'Border Papers volume 2: September 1596', in Calendar of Border Papers: Volume 2, 1595-1603, (London, 1896) pp. 183-199. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-border-papers/vol2/pp183-199 [accessed 26 March 2024]

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In this section

357. Eure to Burghley. [Sept. 1.]

"Understandinge that within these two daies the person of Simmonburne within three myles of Hexham . . . is departed, and not doobteinge your lordship care that a godlie and learned man may be placed there for the better instruct of the people, whoe standeth greate need thereof," I beg the presentation, which by the "valew" is in the Queen's gift—for Mr Crackenthrop my chaplain, "a Master of Arte in Oxenford of the Quens Colledge, and is a devoute godlie and learned man," as Doctor Robinsone and Doctor Reignoldes can assure you. He is my son's tutor, and I would keep him beside me.

Also that I may have the sequestration of the "meane profyttes," till the "presentor" is admitted by your favour, which "will doe the man muche good at his first entrie towardes the payment of his furst fruites." Hexham. Signed: Ra. Eure.

¾ p. Addressed. Indorsed.

Inclosed in the above:—

"vij.° Septembris 1596 anno regine Elizabethe, &c., exxviij°.

Dunelm.—Symondesborne rectoria per annum clare valet xxxiiijl. vjs. iiijd. Decima inde lxxiijs. cijd. ob." Signed: J. Tailer, deputat. Edw. Stafford.

358. William Selby to Burghley. [Sept. 2.]

As her Majesty has been pleased to appoint me comptroller of the office of Ordnance in the North, I find she has been over charged, but I cannot act, for my power is less than Captain Erington's was.

In 1588 a proportion came down to Newcastle, of about 1500l.: and a year since munition from the Tower, amounting to 1841l. 1s. 5d., came for this town, Newcastle and Carlisle.

As I ought to do every year, I sent a man to view the munition at Carlisle, with a letter to Lord Scrope, but he and the master of ordnance would not suffer him, without first seeing my authority. I have drawn up the inclosed instructions, which if you approve, and subscribe, I will proceed Berwick. Signed: Will'm Selby.

¾ p. Addressed. Indorsed. Small armorial wafer signet.

359. Eure to Burghley. [Sept. 3.]

Sir Robert Kerr after his "fayer showe" at Cocklaw on the 24th August, in person with sound of trumpet and 200 armed men, on Friday night, the 27th, broke into Swinburne a house of Henry Woodrington's, took one James Young alias James of the Coave, whom Ralph Selby of the East March committed to Woodrington—"(the same man for whome the controversie was between Raphe Gray and Raphe Selbie when the lord Hunsdon lyved)"—also Roger Woodrington, Henry's brother, "tying him to his enterie by promise of his hande."

Woodrington detained "this Scot" without my knowledge or leave, and this, with a private quarrel between him and Kerr, begun in Sir John Forster's time, is the alleged cause of Sir Robert's act, without demanding justice of me.

I think for this act he ought to be entered to her Majesty, being warden. The breach of the house, though showing malice, yet caused no blood, and I am doubtful what the redress should be. But taking Roger Woodrington, and his promise to enter, is "meare unlawfull," and his absolute release ought to be demanded, as against her Majesty's dignity.

The offence to myself, is breach of assurance, and to the "gentleman" disgrace and despite, &c. But these are so common in that country, I must mend them "as I maye."

Woodrington's fault is detaining the Scot not lawfully bound to himself, but to a man in the East March, having no complaint either himself or his friends, but out of private quarrel with Kerr, thus procuring "this contemptious and insolent acte." Craving your pleasure, I have meanwhile acquainted her Majesty's ambassador therewith, that order may be taken with Sir Robert, to whom I have also written. If these matters do not offend her Majesty's proclamations received on the 29th August, then the course of peace will not be hindered. Hexham. Signed: Ra. Eure.

pp. Addressed. Indorsed partly by Burghley.

360. Scrope to Burghley. [Sept. 5.]

Having some desire during the quietness here, "to spend some thre or fore dayes in huntinge with Sir Thomas Cecill, and aboute myne owne important affaires, at myne owne howse," Thomas Carleton landsergeant of Gilsland, took advantage of my absence, and set out for London without my privity or leave. I hear credibly that he comes to your lordships with complaints against me, and has procured letters of commendation to himself. If he came up "with such errandes" and without being sent for, your lordships will do me a "verie honorable favour" to stay him till I be allowed to come up and answer him, or at least till you understand "what manner of man he is." I send this with such haste, lest he be returned before you could hear from me. I published the proclamation as you directed. Carlisle. Signed: Th. Scroope.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed.

361. John Carey to Burghley. [Sept. 6.]

As her Majesty will not let me come up for 6 weeks on my business, I am forced to be more troublesome. I understand by my wife that the Queen is "in sum good likinge" to renew a lease which I already hold of her for 3 lives. One of them is dead, and I hear she is pleased I shall renew it "for yeares"—wherein I humbly desire your favour and furtherance.

I am very hardly dealt with by my own friends, and if you could get me 6 weeks' leave, it would do me great good, my estate being in very dangerous order, and full of "contreverseyes." Berwick. Signed: Jhon Carey.

1 p. Holograph, as also address. Indorsed.

362. Eure to Sir John Stanhope. [Sept. 7.]

I send you what I casually hear, which I pray you impart.

"It is feared and privately bruted that the love of the King of Scots is not so firme to her Majestie as her highnes haithe worthely deserved, espiynge all tymes to satisfy his malicious humors." Lately he and "seaven of the Octavians" subscribed letters to the King of Spain, intercepted in France, of which her Majesty doubtless knows.

The convention at Dunfermline begins on 29th instant.

The Earl of Arrell arrived certainly in Scotland 10 dayssince. "The Queene haithe mightely traveled with the King for Huntleys pardon and his, and had drawne the King very farre on, but so vehement are the ministers and burgesses againste them, that neither the King can nor may shew them that favor that willingly he wolde. There is a very harde opinion conceaved of the Queene for lainge her self so open at this instant to be a worker in these actions." On Friday night last a post came from her to the King at Lithquo, that she was "very sicke," whereon he rode in great haste to Dunfermline. It is thought a mere device of hers to get the Earl's pardon at the convention.

Last week Angus Maconnell one of the "cheife of the Iles," came in on protection to the King at Lithquo—but not liking the composition offered him, "he sliped his way and toocke not his leave."

Much is expected when the convention breaks up.

On the Borders things are "tickle"—Lord Hume, though in kindness with the warden of the East March, has granted assurance to Sir Robert Ker to pass through the Merse to annoy the garrison of Berwick, in revenge of blood late taken by Sir Robert Carey.

The Laird Johnston, warden of the West March, has taken assurance of Sir Robert Ker warden of "the Easte," and the Laird of Baclughe keeper of Liddesdale, to pass through their offices to annoy me, for "blood taken by justice." Thus cunningly is her Majesty dealt with by the King's privity.

I shall think myself beholden in return, for some of your occurrents. Hexham. Signed: Ra. Eure.

Postscript:—If the office of Berwick which the late Lord Chamberlain had, be not "bestowed," I would willingly sue to serve there as my ancestors have done, if you and my other friends think I may attempt without offence: I pray your advice.

pp. Holograph: also address: "To my honorable good freinde Sir John Stanhop knighte at the Courte . . ."

363. John Carey to Burghley. [Sept. 8.]

Though there are "no newe novelties or state matters," yet I must inclose a note of the victuals in store, brought to me this day by the chief officers of the palace, who also signify that though they have written monthly to their "maister," and Mr Swyfte, of the low stock, they hear of none coming, and fear great scarcity. They say, and I know, unless it come from the South, it will not be got here, so doubtful is it if we shall have any harvest, the weather is so unseasonable. Wherefore I pray your lordships' help in these straits—"for everie pufte of wynd, or yll wynters day, puttes us in a ferefull perill of our lives . . . for I assure your honor upon my faithe, the pallice faylinge us, I do not knowe, yf our lives lye upon it, and the losse of the towne, where we should gett xxti quarters of corne, to serve us one weke, in all this countrey, so scarce and skant it is." I also pray your honor "that yf my poore wief, who is but a bad shuter, and will sone be checkt," have any request, you will grant her your assistance, finding her reasonable. Berwick.

pp. Addressed. Indorsed; ". . . receaved the xiijth of same at Grenewich."

Inclosed in the same:—

(Note referred to.)

Remain of victual within the palace or office of victual 3d September 1596.

Wheat, 78 qrs., 6 "kenu"; rye, 38 qrs., 7 "kenn"; meal, 17 qrs., 4 "kenn"; malt, 231 qrs., 3 pecks; beans, 50 qrs.; oats, 2 qrs., 1 "kenn," 1 peck.

Oxen, 23; kyne, 9; sheep, 97.

Salt fish, 110; butter, 4 firkins.

½ p. Indorsed.

364. John Carey to Burghley. [Sept. 8.]

[In similar terms, and inclosing a like note of procisions.] There is "alredie a great death growen by reason of darthe and scarsetie in this countrey." Berwick. Signed: Jhon Carey.

pp. Addressed. Indorsed.

Inclosed in same:—

(Note referred to.)

Same as in last No.

365. Sir R. Carey to Burghley. [Sept. 9.]

I have received your letter with the King's complaints against the East March. The copy I had from Mr Bowes before, and answered him as I now do your lordship. I had them read before the country, who desired that many should be referred to days of truce. Many I myself know are untrue and can be so proved before "indifferent hearers." But suppose them all true, what are they to the calamities of this March, daily spoiled by Teviotdale. All through the pride and insolence of Sir Robert Kerr, and so long as he shall be officer "(say what he will to the contrarye)" it will be no better with us!

Your lordship knows the state of the Middle March, and if there was any honesty in him, it should be very quiet, after the meetings between my lord Eurye and him, and great protestations of friendship, kindness and justice on his part, "but all is one . . . for his theves have libertie and thei take the spoile of eyther Marche as there occasion ys offred." No justice will be done while " this wicked man beares office." He must be removed or compelled to keep days of truce which he has not done for 3 or 4 years.

The 20 horsemen can be ill spared, and I beg your resolution by the 26th instant, when their three months end. Berwick. Signed: Rob. Carey.

pp. Addressed. Indorsed.

366. John Carey to Burghley. [Sept. 9.]

"Havinge this viijth day receaved your honors of the first," I am greatly bound by your honourable acceptance of mine of 26th ult. And for answer of the 49 complaints of slaughters, &c., in the East March, "enformed to her Majestie by Mr Addam Fowndes—the informacion is like the informer, most false and untrewe, and onlie to serve their owne tornes." For the first and chiefest complaint, which only touches me, if there was a penny or penny's worth of goods taken from him (fn. 1), I will lie in prison for my life, and pay 100l. for every pound taken away. For although the men there saw 2 of my stolen horses in his house, they would not bring them away, being ordered to the contrary by me, much less any goods of his. For the other complaints, Sir Robert Carey being in charge, will answer more largely. I wonder that the King and Cesford should make such complaints and threaten this town and country as they do. To show their honest dealing, two days after the 17th August, when Cesford and Lord Eurie kept a day of truce, a band of Scots with some of Cesford's own household servants, came into the "middest" of Alnwick, thinking to have found two gentlemen at supper, and to have killed them by shooting in at the windows: which purpose failing, they broke open an honest man's house in the town, taking his goods and cattle. And the fray rising, they hurt to peril of death one Mr Clavering a justice of peace and others. Cesford himself came 30 miles into England to Mr Henry Woodrington's house of Swynborne, taking away a prisoner in his keeping, and some gentlemen in the house prisoners also. "And so sownding his trumpett upon the topp of the house, when he had taken his pleasure, went his way." They have also taken my lady Selbie's sheep and shepherd into Scotland, and hurt the man—also goods from Gryndon rigg a town of "one Mr Selbies"; and from the towns of Downeham and "Eglingjham," killing one man and hurting another at the latter. "Yet we must still suffer." Berwick. Signed: Jhon Carey.

(fn. 2) I humbly pray your continued goodness to the tenants of "Harlese, that theye maye be no moer trubeled withe extentes."

pp. Addressed. Indorsed. Swan wafer signet.

367. Thomas Musgrave to the Privy Council. [Sept. 9.]

"Uppon the retorne of the pouermen of Bewcastill from your lordshippes," I received your letter, that if no justice could be had otherwise, I might recover the worth of their goods as " I cane." Wheron with my kinsmen and friends, I took from John Armstrong of the Hollus, " the leder of thes incurcions, somme vj or vij scor of cattill," and made restitution to the poor men. Your letter of command will be my discharge, presuming to remind you of the same. Carlisle. Signed: Tho. Musgrave.

½ p. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed.

368. Eure to Burghley. [Sept. [10]]

I fear that my divers letters to your lordship of late may have miscarried, having had no answer.

The "mutabillitie" of Sir Robert Kerr still continues, in tolerating roades by his people, and the country hopes her Majesty will appoint commissioners to enforce redress.

I pray your favour in continuing these soldiers this winter, and as their time draws near an end, a warrant on the receiver of Yorkshire for their future pay.

I humbly remind you of my suit for Simmonburne parsonage for a learned preacher to be resident there, in my letter of 26th August. Hexham. Signed: Ra. Eure.

I would gladly know what hope I may have in continuing my suit for the place at Berwick, or to "surcease" it.

¾ p. Addressed. Indorsed partly by Burghley. Wafer signet as before.

369. Scrope to Burghley. [Sept. 10.]

Having received your letter of 2d with the book of complaints delivered by the King's agent to her Majesty, I have as directed, considered the same, and send for answer to the agent, these inclosed of the outrages done here and in Bewcastill by the broken men of Scotland. As there was no appearance of redress from the King (with whom I had "travelled" but got nothing but words), and he left the opposite wardenry long without an officer—Buccleuch also being more inclined to lay our frontier waste than do justice as his place requires—I could not restrain her Majesty's subjects from taking what amends they could get, or prohibit their incursions, rather than bear the indignities now of late by Buccleuch's procurement, a copy of which our complaints I lately sent to our ambassador in Scotland—these being the very occasions of our doings which are expressed in the King's agent's information herewith returned. If your lordship meant me to certify the true number of our incursions, and the value of the "scaithes" done by us, or if there were as many as the agent alleged, I pray you understand the practice of the border is—"for one pound loss, to make their bill to the prince or warden of twentie; and when twentie men ar seene in a roade, to suppose and informe of a hundred"—standing good till it comes to swearing—so the warden has great difficulty till then, to know the true value.

I write this in case the princes intend to cause redress of any particular bills, &c., that care be taken in exchange of "bill for bill," a bill of 1000l. be not paid with a bill of 20l. "prised equall with the other in the eye."

I inclose the Captain of Bewcastle's letter as to his incursions, showing by what warrant he acted. Carlisle. Signed: Th. Scroope.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed.

370. Eure to Burghley. [Sept. 10.]

Give me leave to be a suitor in behalf of my kinsman Mr Raiphe Gray of Chillingham, for the treasurership of Berwick. Though he has the "willing consent" of Mr Bowes now ambassador in Scotland, he determines not to deal with "my cousine" Bowes, without your countenance.

The office would be much strengthened by his getting it, seeing the force he has at hand ready to do her Majesty service—his honest mind for true dealing with the soldiers, his experience in council, judgment and loyalty—"and his estate of lyving alwaies redie to be answerable to anie defaulte shalbe layd uppon him." Hexham. Signed: Ra. Eure.

½ p. Addressed. Indorsed. Wafer signet as before.

371. Sir R. Carey to Burghley. [Sept. 14.]

"This night being abroad with the xxtie guarrison men allowed me, a watching, it was our good happe to mete with iiijor of the Burnes, the principallest theves of Tyvidale, with goodes dryving before theme which thei had stollen. Wee kild twoe of theme furthright, tooke the third sore wounded before he wolde yeald, and the fowrth, the night being darck, unhappelye scapte awaye." Before the winter passes, I expect many such morning works, if I continue here, and this small backing is allowed me, and will either weary them of night stealing, or they me of watching.

The country dare not kill such thieves for fear of feud, which the garrison men care not for—and I hope that this "poore groate a daie" may be continued to them for this winter. Since my coming I have hanged 4 notable thieves, and will hang this fifth man, unless his life may do more good than his death. I hear the King and Sir Robert Kerr will write for his life (for he and the other slain were his houshold servants), and will offer any conditions that I desire. They must be for the benefit of the country, "or he shall goe the waie his fellowes went before him." Berwick. Signed: Rob. Carey.

1 p. Marginal notes by Burghley. Addressed. Indorsed. Swan wafer signet.

372. R. Vernon to Burghley. [Sept. 16.]

Petitions him (1) to note on the margin what sums shall be allowed him, and procure the Queen's warrant. (2) As the dearth continues, that he may be allowed new rates. (3) To order the treasurer of Berwick to pay over 600l. in his hands, to make farther provision. (4) That the garrison from Michaelmas next, take their supplies only from him. (5) That her Majesty would grant him a lease in reversion, "to countervaile" his great losses in her service. (6) That he may have a "supersedious" to discharge the "prosses" against him and his sureties, that he may put in others in place of those dead. Not signed.

1 p. Written by his clerk. Indorsed.

(2) Another copy. Noted by Burghley. Indorsed: "Mr Vernons request."

373. Sir R. Carey to Burghley. [Sept. 17.]

"The theefe last taken I have caused to be hanged. He hath bene a great spoyler and undoer of this poore countreye (as by his owne confession appeares) for besides many spoyles and outrages commytted by him (the nomber of theme being so great, he could not remember the one half of theme) he confest he had commytted fyve severall murders with his owne handes at severall tymes upon innocent Englishemen that had never offended him. So that I think your lordship wyll saye I should have offended God, my prince, and countrey, if upon any condicions I should have suffred so wicked a man to have lyved." But if I am not maintained, there will be great trouble here, for the pride of Sir Robert Kerr is so great, that though as chief officer he should give a good example, he is determined on revenge for "this his man whom he so dearlye loved (as a fytt instrument for anye his divelishe enterprices)," that he has given up kindness with all in this country, especially the Armorers and their friends (as they were chief actors in the late action), and made all the surnames of Tevidale do the like.

This country has become almost slaves to the Scots, and dare do nothing displeasing to them. If the country rise upon them when they are stealing in England, and either kill one by chance, or take him "with the bloody hand," delivering him to the officer for execution, "if they be but foote lownes and men of no esteame amongst them," it may pass unrevenged: but if he is of a surname, "as a Davyson, a Younge, a Burne, a Pringle or Hall or any thei make accompt of," then he who killed or took him is sure himself, and all his friends (specially those of his name) is like, "dearly to buy yt," for they will have his life or of 2 or 3 of his nearest kinsmen, in revenge of their friends so killed or taken stealing here. So there is hardly one gentleman that dare take or kill any of them, even "if at any tyme thei be able to be there maisters." I will set your lordship one example of one of the chiefest gentlemen in Northumberland, that you may "gesse in what estate the meaner sorte is. Sir Cuthbert Collingwood now lyving, upon a fray, rose himself with his household servantes and tennantes, and commyng where the theves were dryving his neighboures goodes, did his best to reskew them: and ere thei parted one of the theves was slayne, which was a Burne, brother to this man I have now hanged." For whose death thus honestly done in defence of prince and country, he has had 17 of his tenants and servants slain, and himself driven to leave his house and live in the bishopric.

I must ask your lordship to let me have authority from her Majesty to revenge such wrongs as they are offered, which will encourage the country to do their duty, as they will if maintained, "or els for Godes sake," appoint another in my place to do so by other means—but I see none other than revenge for revenge and blood for blood, as "the onlye waye to breake the necke of this evill custome,"—wherein the officer must be maintained by her Majesty.

It was never heard of before that the warden himself dealt in such matters, but only the friends of the thieves slain or executed. But this man not only means, but openly gives out he will have revenge, such as never yet has been, and his devilish mind is such that he will procure it.

I cannot prevent him, for he will do it suddenly and close in the night. And I fear before you receive this, we shall hear news of him.

The country and my 20 horse are not a force sufficient to oppose him. I have two requests to make—the first is for 100 foot to place on the border this winter. Lord Scrope has little need of the 100 at Carlisle, his March being now quiet. I would you caused my brother to send for them home, and I shall see to placing them. We shall have great need of them. My second, is her Majesty's warrant for my "security to revenge" if Cesford or any for him, spill the blood of an Englishman for the hanging of this man, or killing or hurting the others. If this be not granted, I have a third suit, that I may be recalled, as I cannot live where I am disgraced and my country undone, which will both happen, if my second request is refused. Berwick. Signed: Rob. Carey.

pp. Annotated by Burghley. Addressed. Indorsed. Swan wafer signet.

374. John Carey to Burghley. [Sept. 17.]

Two causes "ymportunes" me to write now: The one is to remind your honor of our want of victuals, which will not serve us past Michaelmas, and no prospect of more—whereby we live in great fear of distress.

The other is an "accydent" presently fallen out, through the many "reftes, stelths" and murders, since your honor sent down the proclamations. My brother Sir Robert sent out on Monday night the 13th instant, some of the horse garrison to watch the country, who chanced to light upon some thieves driving stolen sheep; in the fight to rescue the goods they killed one thief, hurt two who escaped, and brought another to Berwick. Being taken with "the bloody hand," my brother caused him to be arraigned next day, when he was condemned on his own confession. He said he was "worthy to dye," for he had done five several murders with his own hand, besides so many other murders and "stelthes" he had been at, he could not reckon them. So he was adjudged to die. And this Thursday morning being the 16th, he was put to death: whereon his master Sir Robert Kerr has not only given up all kindness with our garrison and their friends and surnames, but also he and the surnames of Teviotdale have given up kindness with those with whom they were in friendship, and bid them look to themselves, I fear to the great danger and trouble of this country.

I think we should have our 100 men at Carlisle, home, that border being now quiet and strong, and I dare not put out any more, looking to the safety of this town. Therefore suffer me to recall them, for I fear mischief for the death of this notable thief, who was Sir Robert Carr's chief man. What justice can be had from the master of such servants? Berwick. Signed: Jhon Carey.

pp. Addressed. Indorsed.

375. Sir R. Carey to Burghley. [Sept. 19.]

Two or three troops of Scots, 14 and 15 in a company, very early this morning, were riding in Norhamshire, with intent to get revenge for the Burne I hanged—Sir Robert Kerre himself lying in ambush with 100 horse for their rescue. They took sundry men in many towns, but let them go as they took them, not being of the surnames they looked for, which are the Selbys, Armorers and Ourdes. They came to Norham town and divers gentlemen's houses about, "but as God would," they seeing them so bold in day time, doubted the worst, and kept their houses. So they drove away some cattle about 11 A.M.; hoping some would rise to the fray "that they desyred." When they came to Sir Robert Kerre, he ordered them to drive the cattle back again, as it was not goods but blood he desired, and he would be revenged "ere he had done."

They hurt 2 or 3, one in peril of life, but as they were "men of no accompt," they left them "unkild." It is thought he will not break up this company till he gets some lives, for my "doing justice upon a notable murdering theefe." I commend our state to your consideration for speedy assistance. Berwick. Signed: Rob. Carey.

pp. Addressed. Indorsed.

376. Arthur Gregory to Sir R. Cecil. [Sept. 19.]

"The uttermost cover contayneth a request only to Mr Bowes to see the inclosed convayed with speede to his brother."

In his brother's letter he writes of some "knavery" in Hunter's bill of 400l., as it was sent back not protested as "use is." And he had prepared satisfaction by other means than "the Kinges money."

He writes further that "the longsome dodging out of miserable" 3000l. has somewhat stayed full satisfaction of his brother's affairs, but fears it will breed greater mischief "in irritating his Majesty and counsell, 'but' (saith he) 'I have no witt: for I have ben no lesse miscourteous to crave, then they impudent and shamelesse to deny. I hope his Majesty upon good consideracion shall runne a better course both for his honnour and commodity.'" This is the substance of the letter, wherein he writes he means to see him shortly.

I humbly desire your honour to pardon "importunacy," and to be assured that no man will more patiently attend your leisure, or gratefully acknowledge your favour. "Only I wish her Majesty (making difficulty) might know that if my pencion were a poore lyving, I would serve still and crave no more. But this is profitable to her and a satisfaccion for all that which I shall ever be able to do." Signed: Art. Gregory.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed. Fragment of small wax signet.

377. John Carey to Burghley. [Sept. 21.]

Reminding him that he had often written to himself and Sir Robert Cecil, of their want of victuals, hoping for speedy relief. That they are now suffering famine followed by disease and death, and he did not know what would become of them. Berwick. Signed: Jhon Carey.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed: ". . . the great darthe at Barwick." Swan wafer signet.

Inclosed in the same:—

Note of victuals at Berwick on 21st September 1596.

Wheat, rye and meal, 75 qrs., 6 "kenn"; malt, 177 qrs., 3 pecks; beans, 50 qrs. Oxen and kyne, 46. Wethers, 76. Butter, 3 firkins. Salt fish, 70.

½ p. Marginal notes by Burghley of the weekly consumption. Indorsed.

378. Scrope to Burghley. [Sept. 24.]

After writing "this other" to the Council, the Grames arrived at this town, "in gret flant," and hunting by the way. And my self not being "very well at ease," and also credibly informed by a gentleman "of accompt," before they came to show themselves to me, "that as well by the waye before they came to the towne, as when they were alighted from their horses and at dynner in the towne, they utered verye lewd and disdainefull speeches of me": I have not let them come to my presence, but sent them to their own houses, till I am perfectly certified of the truth of this: which if I find untrue, I shall willingly receive their submission. Carlisle. Signed: Th. Scroope.

½ p. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed.

379. Scrope to the Privy Council. [Sept. 24.]

Acknowledging their letter of the 18th signifying the Queen's pleasure to send commissioners to decide controversies on the Borders, and directions to him to prepare complaints from his wardenry before hand, to prevent delay—giving his opinion that the time from which redress should begin ought to be first agreed on between the princes—suggesting that it should be either from his father's death, or his own entry on office (with certain exceptions, Falkland, &c., and late roades for which he had warrant). Awaits their farther direction. Carlisle. Signed: Th. Scroope.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed.

380. Submission of the Grames to Scrope. [Sept. 25.]

We all jointly and severally submit ourselves to be commanded by your lordship as warden under the Queen, our sovereign lady—that neither ourselves nor any with our privity shall hold intelligence with any Scotsman or English outlaw, but resist their inroads and aid in recovery of goods stolen by them. Humbly beseeching your lordship to withdraw all offence justly conceived against us, and restore us to your favour. We willingly subscribe this and shall be ready to affirm it with our oaths before any justice of peace in this wardenry.

¾ p. Contemporary copy. Indorsed: "Submission subscribed by the 2° Grames."

381. Eure to Burghley. [Sept. 27.]

I received your letters of the 18th yesterday, wherein you noted my oversight in forgetting the day of the month in my last, for which, as also my "distrustfullnes" of my letters reaching your lordship, I crave pardon.

Your favour for Symmonburne greatly binds me, "and eyther shall the worthines of the man, whose suite I humblie present, being a batchelor of divinitie, merritt my honorable Ladie of Warrwick her good oppenione, as a worthie member of the churche and necessarie in this cuntrie, with all honorable condicions, to the other younge batchelor of arte Mr Ewbancke and assurance of future advancement in due tyme, fittinge his procedinge in learneinge,—or els submitt my self to her will, whose honorable favoure I doe desyer and will deserve."

Before I was thoroughly acquainted by the Woodringtons of Sir Robert Kerr's true proceedings at Swinburne castle, I had messages and fair words from him, and particularly a relation which he desired to be sent to the Privy Council: which I forbore till now, in the hope he would release his claim on Roger Woodrington, not yet done.

As to my fault, inquired of by you, in allowing a Scots prisoner to be committed and kept without my privity, I briefly admitted it in my last, but will now enlarge it more.—[Here the question whether this is capital and march treason, or only penal and contemptuous, is discussed, his delay in making either charge, being caused by awaiting the Scots' proceedings. The manner how Young was taken from his lawful captor Ralph Gray, by Ralph Selby to Berwick, and redelivered by the late Hunsdon's order to Selby, who took him to Swinburne castle, is related.]

In answer to your inquiry for fit men in Yorkshire to join the Queen's commissioners for March controversies, the Bishop of Durham, Sir William Bowes and Doctor Colmor—"the three knightes be aged, I knowe not whether Mr Vaughann hath ever attended the like service or noe, I remember well Mr Richard Goodricke did once attend with the Earle of Ruttland and my father . . . at Barwick. In this county and in Cumberland, the perfectest I knowe of, is Raphe Gray, Richard Lowther and William Selbie, porter of Barwicke."

For your satisfaction—"Sir Robert Kerr is sonne to Sir William Kerr, the father yett lyveinge, and is tearmed the younge Lard of Cesford; his father injoying his possessions and landes."

[Here follow his views on the difficulties in proving the English claims by "vowers," advice as to doing so by the wardens' honour, and the date from which claims should be made before the commissioners.] Hexham. Signed: Ra. Eure.

pp. Closely written. Noted by Burghley. Addressed. Indorsed. Wafer signet as before.

382. Eure to Burghley. [Sept. 27.]

I pray your lordship to take pity on this poor gentleman the bearer, whose fault I will not presume to excuse, but present his humble petition to you and any whom his fault doth concern. Craving to make known to your lordship his "good vertues" in Border service, "for his penn or collections of lawes, customes, and observaciones, are worthie imbraceinge, whereof I have partelie tasted—and otherwaies hath manie good partes, and drowned with one oversight of layte committed to his good lord the Lord of Durhame, not willfully or contemptiouslie, but which cannot be denied, overtaken as souldiors be sometimes, the myd hower of that daie overpast, did worthelie offend his lord." He has offered submission and every satisfaction, and being ordered to appear before you, humbly desires you to hear his offence, and vouchsafe your ear for his public confession. He is my kinsman, descended out of the house of Taylboies of Lincolnshire, which causes this my humble suit for mercy, not as justifying him, but till now his service in the bishopric has been always acceptable without offence to his neighbours or his lord. Hexham. Signed: Ra. Eure.

¾ p. Addressed. Indorsed: ". . . In the favour of Mr Talboys."

383. Sir R. Carey to Sir R. Cecil. [Sept. 28.]

In reply to the Council's letter desiring bills and proofs to be prepared against the commissioners' arrival: reminds him of the old difficulty of getting Scottish "vowers" of English bills, from the risk of deadly fend. While the Scots get "Englishmen ynowe to fyle" theirs, the gentlemen of the country say they cannot "for every twentythe bill procure a fyler" and if not remedied, they were better not to meet. Berwick. Signed: Rob. Carey.

¾ p. Addressed. Indorsed: ". . . Receaved at Nonesuche, 3 October."

384. Sir R. Carey to the Privy Council. [Sept. 28.]

To the same effect as preceding letter, and praying them to provide a remedy. Also recommending the date for claims to begin since last meeting of commissioners 8 or 9 years before. Berwick. Signed: Rob. Carey.

pp. Addressed. Indorsed.

385. Sir R. Carey to Burghley. [Sept. 28.]

To same effect, referring to his letter to the Council as more "at lardge."

Requests the Queen's pleasure for his 20 horsemen, as he continues to pay them himself, though the 3 months for which he received pay "is owt." Berwick. Signed: Rob. Carey.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed. Swan wafer signet, good.

386. Works at Berwick. [Sept. 29.]

Brief note of works done in the year ended 29 September 1596.

Extracts.

Works by the Lord Treasurer's and Governor's warrant:—

The new Cow gate called "Carey porte," and bridge over the "stanck" there, 498l. 4s. 9d.

Making a long "pen" or vault going under the new made "rampier," for carriage of ordnance into the flanker at "Bedford mounte," 89l. 15s. 3½d.

Removing a great hill of earth "which dide cloye and stop the passadge to the newe gate and rampeire," 21l. 13s. 7½d.

"All thes above reperasiones have byn dun in my knolege and verey nedfull." (fn. 3) Signed: Jhon Carey, John Crane, Will'm Acrigge.

Works by order of others:—

By the comptroller and surveyor.—Repairing of the "greate lighte and other smaller boates, for the service of the bridge," &c., 113s.

By Sir Robert Carey's order.—Repairing the powder house at Norham castle, 54s. 9d.

By Sir William Reade.—The fort and houses at the Holy and Fern islands, 44l. 9s. 3d. Locks and keys, &c., for the town gates, by the gentleman porter, 34l. 3s. 8d. Sum total of the whole works, 1843l. 8s. 3d.

Signed: John Crane, Will'm Acrigge.

pp. Indorsed.

387. Pay, &c., at Berwick. [Sept. 20.]

Account of Christofer Sheperson for pay of garrison and charges at Michaelmas 1596.

Receipts:—From the receivers of Lincoln, 2000l., of York, 5000l., of Northumberland, 2000l., in all, 9000l.

Payments:—Balance of pay at the Annunciation, "nowe clered," 551l. 10s. 3½d.; the Lord Governor, and other officials, garrison, horse and foot, pensioners, gunners, 8 captains, &c., in all, 9,835l. 6s. 4½d.

"So in surplusage" these payments over the receipts 835l. 6s. 4½d.

2 pp. Written by Sheperson. Indorsed.

388. Surcharges in victualling Berwick. [Sept. 29.]

Provisions bought by R. Vernon and R. Swift for a year since 29th Sept. 1595, 5,457l. 10s. 3½d.; freights, &c., 1093l. 14s. 5¾d. Sum total, 6551l. 4s. 9¼d.

Victuals delivered to the garrison, &c., within said time, 3775l. 11s. 4d. There remain of victuals at the prices they were bought for, 649l. 12s. 11¾d.

"So the surchardge for the whole yeare ended the laste of September 1596, ys"—2,126l. 0s. 5½d.

1 p. Indorsed.

389. Vernon and Swift to Burghley. c. Michaelmas.

It appears that by note in Sheperson's hand inclosed, we had only received from him in the year now ended, 2,533l. 17s., and "in all the yeere before," only 80l. ready money, and 910l., expended by the receivers of York and Lincoln on former provisions delivered to the garrison by his lordship's order, but nevertheless charged on us, by "Mr Auditor." Also that the auditor demands besides our oaths, certificates by each captain, of provisions delivered to his company; for which we have sent to Berwick. We have brought as commanded the Book of Provisions for the garrison since Michaelmas, amounting to 3023l. 8s. 2¼d., with freights and charges of not less than 400l.; to meet which we have in hand no more than 1020l.—though "Mr. Auditor" makes it 120l. more, and have disbursed and stand indebted in 2300l. more than we have received, and though this were paid, nothing will remain for new provision.

We therefore beseech your lordship, as we shall receive nothing from the treasurer till Midsummer next, by which time we shall have borne a whole year's charge of not less than 6000l., and only get one third thereof from him, that we may have a supply of money to discharge what is already due by our bonds: for without ready money we can get nothing in this time of dearth.

1 p. Written by Swift.

390. Provisions at Berwick. Mich.

Note of money "defalked" by the treasurer of Berwick for victuals delivered to the garrison and works, for the year ended Michaelmas 1596.

For first half year ended 24 March 1595 1,640l. 6s. 2d.
For second half year ended last of September 1596 1,925l. 0s. d.
Total, 3,565l. 6s. d.

½ p. Indorsed (as title); "28 of March"—in another hand.

391. Money due R. Vernon. [Sept. 29.]

Due him as surveyor, for victuals delivered as charged in his book given to Mr Treasurer, for the half year ended at Michaelmas 1596, and for works done for the year 2,533l. 17s.
Whereof assigned to Mr Offley for provisions bought of him and sent to Berwick 290l.
So there is clearly due to Mr Vernon 2,243l. 17s.

Signed: Ex. per Chr. Sheperson.

He has a claim against the Lord Governor of 27s. for his "poore," this half year, and for victuals formerly delivered to himself, 591l. 3s. 9½d., in all, 592l. 10s. 9½d.—and prays allowance of what is due the Lord Governor this half year.

1 p. Written by Sheperson. Indorsed.

392. Vernon's rates for provisions.

Rates at which he is bound to serve the garrison.

On flesh days from Christmas to Midsummer—and from Midsummer to the 1st January.

Showing that with the charges of all sorts and losses and casualties by sea and land he is a heavy loser.

pp. Contemporary. Indorsed.

393. Surcharges in victualling, &c., Berwick. Mich.

Brief abstract of the account of Robert Vernon and Richard Swifte esqres, showing the surcharge arising both on the provisions issued by them to the garrison, &c., and other payments "growing" thereon.

[The prices of purchase and of issue of all kinds of provision are detailed—with the loss or gain on each—and the surcharge arising thereby is brought out as 2,211l. 2s. 5¾d., for the year 1596.]

1 p. Large broad sheet. Indorsed by Burghley's secretary: "10 Aug. 1597. The surcharge for the victualinge of the garrison at Barwick for one yeare endinge at Michaelmas 1596."

394. Vernon's Book of victuals. Mich.

Book showing what is due R. Vernon victualler of Berwick for the half year ended at Michaelmas 1596—and balance due him for the half year ended at the Annunciation last—also the debt of the Lord Hunsdon late lord governor, for victuals from the Queen's store.

[Amounts delivered and their value in detail, to the Governor, officers, pensioners, horse and foot garrison, &c., for the above periods, with each man's name, in all, 3,127l. 18s. 3¾d.]

6 pp. Written by Vernon's clerk. Indorsed.

395. Men at Berwick to be victualled. [Sept.]

The number to be victualled by us is the whole number in pay, and the workmen there not exceeding 500. Besides the workmen, which were many this last year, there are not usually less than 900 men in pay.

The rate per man is 13s. 4d., a month, granted on the captain's warrant to the surveyor for his company at that rate.

The money "defalked" from pay for victuals so delivered, was last year, but 3,557l. 8s. 5d.; whereas, if every soldier had drawn what he might have had, the money "defalkable" for 900 men would have been 6,288l. 15s.

Your lordship will please understand that the time of many payments I am bound for, is come, and the parties here in town daily importunating me, and some ready to molest me, so I am likely to be much endangered and disabled from doing service unless I have order for the money due for provision made since Michaelmas, which is no more than the amount of this year's surcharge.

1 p. In Swift's writing. Indorsed.

396. Note of non-performance towards Vernon.

First.—He was to have had Sir Valentine Browne's stock, and an imprest of 2000l.—a great part of which for certain years has never been paid him "till this day."

Item.—He was to be paid half yearly for his victuals delivered, but has not been.

Also.—The Queen was to bear losses by the enemy or by fire, which has not been performed.

[Here follow the rates of provisions to the garrison—his fees and the heavy expenses and charges defrayed by him.]

pp. Contemporary. Indorsed.

397. Warrants for Eure. [Feb. 3–Sept. 30.]

A privy seal to direct the receiver of Yorkshire to pay 130l. monthly for 4 months for 80 horse under the warden of the Middle Marches, besides 20s. for coats and conduct money. On margin:—They entered on pay 21 March and the 4 months ended 11 July 1596.

15 June 1596.—A letter to the Lord Treasurer as warrant to continue their pay for 3 or 4 months longer. On margin;—These 4 months ended 30 Oct. 1596.

"Ult. Septembris 1596."—A privy seal to continue the payment 4 or 5 months longer. On margin:—"Thes 5 monethes shall end the 27 Feb. 1596."

1 p. In two hands, one Burghley's secretary. Indorsed.

398. Sir R. Carey on the Scottish Complaints. [Sept.]

Declares that so much of Sir Robert Kerr's complaint to the King, sent on to her Majesty, as is "untroth," shall be now declared.

[Answering 15 heads only of the 49 articles of the complaints.]

Extracts.

1. When John Dawglise of Wydeopen was killed, there was not "so much as one groate" taken away, "but one pistoll which he had in his hand." This of my own knowledge.

2. As to Robert Pringle's death. A man of Learmouth having 7 oxen taken by Scots, and hearing they were on the border side, got his friends to go with him, and finding them pasturing among Scots cattle, drove away his own only. Priugle and others pursued him, and though urged to let them pass quietly, the English being "a farre overmatche," would not yield, but was the first to shoot his "pece or pistoll," killing one John Ewart of Carham, whereon himself was slain and some others hurt. This also of my own knowledge.

3. George Chisolme Sir Robert Kerre's "heard," was his chief guide to Killam and Woller, and was killed on English ground returning, by the brother of a man killed by his master that night.

4. There are no men in the East Wardenry called Peter Pott and Jock Pott "the bastard."

5. Dandy Dawglise was slain 16 years ago, but not by Albany and Henry Rotherforth.

6. The horses of the Yettam tenants were lawfully taken in English ground carrying away wood. This of my own knowledge.

7. If Dand Tate of Bareasse was taken, it was before the Commissioners last met.

11–12. There are no such men or towns in the East March.

15. The complaint by the Laird of Mowe "was done six yeare agoe comme Mertinmesse next," and found by assise before the wardens to be no "troblance."

19. Roger Gray and Bewick are not in the East March.

27. Butler of Aykeld charged by William Kerr of Hayopp for stealing 24 ewes, &c., "is already hanged by the Scottes."

43. The town of Middleton is not in the East Marches.

48. This charge against the garrison is "altogether untrewe" to my own knowledge.

49. The goods were restored by my order to the Laird of Grenehead and his tenants of Redden.

As for the rest of the complaints in the note, to which no exception is taken, the general opinion of the gentlemen of this March, &c., is that they will easily be answered at a day of truce. Signed: Rob. Carey.

4 pp. Indorsed partly by Burghley.

399. West March complaints against Buccleuch, &c. [June-Sept.]

July.—William Grame "Richies Will," upon the Lairds of Edgerton and Bedrulle with 20 men taking 24 horse and mares and 100l. sterling, insight.

19 July.—Anthony and Clement Hetherton of Torcrossett, Robert Reydone, &c., upon Geordy Simpson, Will Ellott of the Steile, Anthony of the Benks, with 100 men, on a day foray on Kinge water, took 100 nolt.

John Hetherton of the Cairs, upon same, with Arche Ellott alias "doge pintle," for taking 20 kye and oxen.

August.—Leonard Corbett of the Orchard howses, upon Arche Ellott of the Hill, his 2 brothers, Arche "doge pintle" and his 2 brothers, for 12 kye 2 nags, burning 4 houses and 100l. sterling insight.

"Mondaye the vjth of August."—Alane Hudson and Robert Storer of Castle Carrock upon John Nixon of the Higheshies, &c., for 20 kye and oxen taken from Gelsdalle.

8th Sept.—The wife of Andrew Routledge alias Leatche, in Bewcastle, upon the Armstrongs of Whittleye for wilful murder of her said husband.

June.—Robert Graime of the Laike upon Watt Scott of Harden, Wille Ellott of Lairston, and the young Laird of Whithaugh with 60 men, for taking from the Leabecke at Wilkinskarre 300 kye and oxen, 20 horse and mares, spoil of 2 houses, "golde money" and insight worth 100l. sterling.

July.—Thomas Graime of the Croftehead, upon the Laird of Edgerton with 50 men taking from Carwinley 12 score kye and oxen, 20 horse, &c., spoil of 4 houses and insight worth 100l. sterling.

Aug. 1.—David Graime of Bankhead, upon Sir Walter Scott laird of Buccleuch, with his trumpeter and 500 men, for coming to the "stone howse of Banckheade upon Eske," forcibly bursting and burning the door, and the "irone yeat," taking prisoners Robert Graime of the Laike, William Graime of Logane, and Davide Hellydaye, a browne gelding price 20l. and household stuff worth 400l. sterling.

Richard and William Armstrong, &c., the Queen's tenants in Gilsland, upon said Watt of Harden, young Whithaugh, John and Gib Ellotts sons to Martine, with 400 men "arrayed in most warlike manner," running a day foray, taking 300 kye and oxen, 20 horse, &c., burning 20 houses, taking and burning gold money "apperrell," &c., worth 400l., and mutilating many of them.

The tenants of Whitehill, lately Christofer Dacres esquire, now his son's her Majesty's ward, upon Sime and Joke Armstronge alias "Calfehills" Pawtie of Harelawe, Ekie "braidebelt," Willie "of Briggomes," Willie "Kange," with 100 men, for burning 6 tenants' houses, and steadings, with goods worth 200l. sterling, and taking the six tenants prisoners.

Aug.—Robert Forster of Allergarthe, &c., upon Willie and Geordie "Kange," James Ellott alias "todde," with 20 men, for 20 kye and oxen, 30 sheep, 20 "gaite," a "younge meare," and their insight.

Wedowe Malles Blackburne of Dormontstead, upon George Graime of Lameclewghe, Riche and Hobbe Grame sons to "Priors John," and Jamy Ellott "todde," with 20 men taking 24 kye and oxen.

Wedowe Blanche Forster of Allergarthe, upon Jamy Ellott "todde," and 12 men, for 20 nolte, and spoil of her house 20l. sterling.

William and Jamy Armstrong and Thomas Crawe of the Leishills, upon "Armestranges Christie," young Bowholme, "nebles" Geordie with 30 men, for 30 kye and oxen, burning divers houses, &c.

Fergie Grame "Wills Fergie" upon Will Bell "read clooke" with 20 men, for taking 200 kye and oxen from Sarke, 10 horse and mares, spoiling houses of 100l. sterling.

The said Anthony Hetherton, &c., upon the younge Goodman of the Hollowes, Willie Yrwen "Kange," with 200 men on a day foray, for 200 kye and oxen, 20 horse, &c., burnt 10 houses and stuff, worth 200l. sterling.

George Hetherton of Hawehills, Roger Hetherton, &c., upon Jocke of Monkbehirst, Simes Arche, Pawtie of Hairelawe, Jocke and Sime Armstrongs of Calfehill, Willie and Geordie Yrwen alias "Kanges," with 16 persons, burning his houses and insight worth 200l. sterling, taking 40 kye, &c., 10 horses, &c., 40 sheep and "gaite."

The tenants of Walton, late Christofer Dacres esq., upon said Sime "Calfehill," Pattie Harelawe, &c., with 200 men, for taking 80 head of cattle, 20 horse and "naiges," and household stuff worth 200l. sterling.

The tenant of Thornby more the late Christofer Dacres', upon said Sime and others "last above written" with 100 men, who burned 10 houses of habitation, 20 out houses, goods moveable and unmoveable, taking some prisoners and detaining them, with 4 score kye, &c., 20 horse, &c., and insight worth 100l. sterling.

4 pp. Double broad sheets. Indorsed partly by Burghley: Attempts by Buccleuch, &c., on the West Marches of England.

Footnotes

  • 1. The slain Dalglish.
  • 2. Holograph.
  • 3. Holograph.