Border Papers volume 2: July 1597

674. Scrope to Sir John Stanhope. [July. 1597.]

Inclosed I send you the last attempt of the Scots against the West Marches, accompanied with the Grames and Carletons—praying you to acquaint M^r Secretary that M^r Musgrave, whom the country much desires if the Queen please to make trial of him, in my absence, may be sent down before further spoil is done, or else that M^r Secretary or you, write to M^r Richard Lowther commanding him to take the office in hand in my absence, and have a care to keep it quiet, and her Majesty will be "mindfull" of his service. For the gentlemen all say that these troubles are procured by him and his friends, which I pray God be not true, though there is great appearance thereof. Signed: Th. Scroope.

½ p. Holograph. Addressed: "To my honorable frende Sir Jhon Stanhope knight." Indorsed.

675. Eure to Burghley. [July 5.]

The late "untowardues" of the Scots regarding the pledges, and their insolence and vaunts of revenge, so greatly aggrieved my men of Tindale, that they have made a roade into Liddesdale, bringing off booty and cattle, and slain an Ellot of Martin's clan called "Martin's Gibbe"; which action though without my privity and against the treaty, I pray your lordship's assistance in defence of. This slain Ellot was a notorious offender in England, and besides, being a soldier and trained in war, was a captain and principal leader, and of chief account; so his death may greatly avail this poor country. Hexham. Signed: Ra. Eure.

Postscript.—I humbly beseech your lordship I may have leave to go sometimes to my house at Witton not past 7 miles or thereabout distant from my March. For the plague is so dispersed through the country, that the Queen's justices of assise on careful consideration held no assise in this country: and I am forced for doubt to remove my wife and most part of my family, "the infection beinge within a myle or two of me on every side—yea and I feare within Hexham towne."

1 p. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed. Wafer signet: quartered.

676. Eure to Cecil. [July 7.]

As the Scots have made malicious reports of me to their King, I have thought good to make known to you "seazonablie with truth" the late events befallen, that though it may seem "offensive, taken in this seazon," yet with your countenance the poor men "actors therein" be not discomfited, the rather as the same "presedentes" have been done often to us by the Scots without redress.

On Sunday night last the 3^d instant, some Scotsmen came in and stole from a "pooer creature" in Tyndale 3 kine; when the fray rose, and some of my men from the Waste, joined the company mostly footmen.

They failed to rescue these goods for want of warning; but knowing of a number of cattle to be had, the soldiers without a leader ventured into Liddesdale with the country foot, and in a "loane" where the cattle were folded, belonging to Martin Ellot and his clan, they "raysed" 200 cattle, 100 sheep, some goats, nearly 20 horse and mares. They entered his "sheeld," and in the violent resistance, "one Martins Gibb Ellott light in the handes of one Dodd of Tyndayle (which Doddes kinsemen the said Ellott had formerlie slaine), yt pleased God, this Ellott for the punishment of his sinns, was by the said Dodd now slaine, some others woonded." This clan of Ellotts are great offenders to England, Arche the son of Martin a great rider. Martin's Gibb now slain, with others defended Martin's tower, when besieged by the "ould" Lord Scrope and Sir John Forster. He was brought up in the wars in Flanders and France, and has since been a leader to that wicked race, and I trust his death shall not be offensive to the Queen since his heart was no better to neighbourhood.

The overthrow of our chief leaders and continual spoils have so "dreaned" this March, that I humbly crave we may have 200 horse more, when I trust in time to suppress the insolent pride of the "Lard" now governor in Liddesdale, who at the late meeting at Norham, and at all times, offers disgraces to the Queen our sovereign. Hexham. Signed: Ra. Eure.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed.

677. Scrope to Burghley. [July 7.]

Being at this very instant returned from Yorkshire, and receiving these short accounts, thought good to inclose them. So soon as I know how things go here I shall certify you. Carlisle. Signed: Th. Scroope.

½ p. Holograph; as also address. Indorsed.

Inclosed in the same:—

"Occurents out of Scotland."

The King of Denmark is gone back. A great inquisition is devised against the Catholics by persuasion of M^r Bowes.

Lord Hereis is convict afore the Secret Council for giving a great sum to "Ladelanes" (fn. 1) who thought to have surprised the "He of Ailsay" for the Spaniard.

Border affairs are in great dispute and not fully condescended on.

Johnston is hardly watched on here by the Hamiltons and Maxwells.

½ p. Indorsed by Burghley's secretary.

678. Provisions bought for Berwick. [July 7.]

A brief note of the provisions bought for the garrison from Michaelmas 1596 till 7^th July 1597, with charges, &c.

Wheat, 959 qrs. at 42s. 3d. per qr.; rye, 456 qrs. at 35s. 3d.; malt, 909 qrs. at 26s. 9½d. [besides sundry other provisions], in all 5967l. 7s. 9d.

Proportion of those remaining on 1^st August 682l. 15s. ¼d.

Rye sent since 1^st August, "but bought longe before" 100 qrs., 200l.

Remainder not yet sent to Berwick nor delivered by the sellers, "but forthwith to be received." Wheat, malt, pease, &c., value 282l. 3s. 4d.

The money account.

Received in February from Exchequer, 2,315l. 16s. 10d.

Received from the receivers in part of money due for victuals delivered to the garrison in the half year ended at the Annunciation last, 1,400l., 3,715l. 16s. 10d.

Against which:—

1½ pp. Wrilten by their clerk. Indorsed.

679. Richard Graime's Arrears. [July 10.]

Arrerages of Richard Graime gentleman, bailiff of the manor of Askerton parcel of the baroney of Gilsland late the possession of Leonard Dacre attainted.

Cumberland.—Arrerages and issues of office due for the said manor at Martinmas in winter, 38 Elizabeth, 55l. 18d.

¼ p. Indorsed by Burghley's secretary.

680. Eure to Burghley. [July 10. 1597.]

By your letter of the third I find to my discontent, your lordship is not satisfied with my answers to the accusations of the jury, and that divers other complaints are presented requiring answer.

I humbly pray you for the love of justice, to confront the accusers and accused in presence of her Majesty, that justice may be done.

According to your pleasure, I have made known to the soldiers that no warrant will be had for the last 2 months' pay, or for continuance of it farther; wherein I am hardly beset in this time of feud and my March so weak.

I humbly pray you vouchsafe me a copy of the general verdict, that I may prepare my answer to the objections where with I am not yet acquainted; and that my humble petition may be presented to her Majesty's hands, to whom I appeal for trial. Hexham. Signed: Ra. Eure.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed by Burghley.

681. Eure to the Queen. [July 11.]

Petitioning his "moste gracious and dreade soveraigne" &c., as the "sole myrror" of justice for leave to present himself on his knees at the footsteps of her throne, to answer the charges against him. Hexham. Signed: Ra. Eure.

¾ p. Addressed: "To the Queenes moste excellente Majestie." Indorsed.

(1) Another copy of same.

682. Scrope to Cecil. [July 13.]

"At the late Assises holden heere at the citie of Carlel" the 11^th and 12^th instant, two notorious thieves, viz. "Jhou Grame allias Jock of the Peertree, and William Grame allias Will of the Layke of Eske" in Cumberland, lately taken in the "over" part of the county for stealing certain geldings, colts and mares, and sent by a mittimus from a justice of peace to the Queen's gaol here to be kept till due trial; yet the "gayler" under the sheriff of the county "that now is, as it now falleth forth to bee well knowen," not only kept them in his own house, never putting them in gaol as directed, but suffered their wives and friends of the country of Eske to have daily common access to them; whereby the prisoners devised with their friends named in the inclosed "sedell" and others yet unknown, and on Tuesday last the 12^th the second day of the assises about 4 A.M., some of them came to the gaoler's house in said city and took away the two prisoners, having horses ready for them: while others of them "with gunnes and dagges" lay in wait outside of the city gate, to shoot or stay any who should pursue, and when the felons were clearly gone, followed to protect their retreat. Carlisle. Signed: Th. Scroope.

1½ pp. Holograph; as also address. Indorsed. Wafer signet.

Inclosed in the same:—

(Note of those who aided the rescue.)

"Jhon Grame of the Laike, Georg Grame his sonne; Richard Grame of Aikshawehill; William Grame sonne to Hutchins Richie; David Grame his brother; Watt Grame brother to Jock of Peertree; George Grayme alias Geordie Carlel."

683. Eure to Cecil. [July 15.]

It is my duty to certify what happens here, though not my fortune to report "comfortable actions, but rather the contrarie." Though I am slandered as the ruiner of this my country, my conscience witnesses that I speak the truth that its ruin is increased by the "perverse, basse and vyle" condition of our own people in the March, and look for no better as their officer, hoping some other may be more fortunate in my place.

On Thursday the 14^th instant, Buccleuch I think in proper person, though I am not certain, with the force of Liddesdale, some horsemen out of East Tividale and the West March in proportion to his own, had assembled at hunting, not unknown to me; but the negligence of this country suffered the entrance of his men into Tynedale, thus showing the three opposite wardens' consent to outrages in disobedience to the King. That morning, Watt Ellatt alias Watt of Harden, with other East Tividale lairds had 300 or 400 able horsemen, laying an ambush of 300 or 400 foot, "brake a day forray a myle beneathe Bellinghame, spoiled the townes men in Bellinghame, brake the crosse, toke all the cattell upp the water to the number of thre or fower hundreth beastes at the leaste, hath slaine three men of name and wounded one allmoste to deathe, fired noe houses., The fray rose and being brought to me at Hexhame about ix° or x° houers in the morning, I rose myself with my houshould servauntes, caused the beacons to be fired and sent the fray eche way rounde aboute me, and yet could not make of the force of the countrie iiij^xx horsemen and some six score footemen. I followed with the horsemen within twoe or three myles of Scotland, and except M^r Fenwicke of Wallington, together with the keaper of Tindaile M^r Henry Bowes, ther was not one gentleman of the Marche to accompanie me, or mett me at all; and when all our forces were togeither, we could not make twoe hundreth horsse, nor above twoe hundreth footemen … With shame and greife I speake it, the Scottes went away unfought withall." The dishonour to her Majesty by the insolent pride of Buccleuch, her greatest enemy if his power were equal, is intolerable, and I fear to the shame of manhood, I shall sit without revenge, unless you assist me with some forces. For the country has no spirit to do anything, or furnish themselves for service. I humbly beg that Sir William Bowes and the commissioners may relate to you the pitiful state of the country, and pray you for leave to come to your presence to do the like. If you would grant me "some assistaunce of horsse," and order by letter 200 foot of Berwick for 5 or 6 days' service when I call for them, "I will adventure the bringing of Baclugh quicke or deade, to the Queene, or hazarde myne owne life in the action, yf so it please God." I beseech your honor to speak with Sir William Bowes how necessary and beneficial this might be. I will write more particularly in my next. Hexham. Signed: Ra. Eure.

Postscript.—I am persuaded that this is but a beginning of their malice.

1¼ pp. Closely written. Addressed. Indorsed:"… Rec. at Grenewich the xxj^th of same." Wafer signet: quartered.

684. Eure to Burghley. [July 15.]

In precisely similar terms to the preceding. Hexham. Signed: Ra. Eure.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed. Wafer signet: quartered.

685. Eure to Burghley. [July 17.]

"This Sonday being the xvij^th of July, Hughe Birde bailife of Tynmothe and servaunte to the Earle of Northumberlande, … in searching of Scottishe shipp nowe laitelie come into the river of Newecastle, hath found a Scottishe gentleman called M^r John Wedderborne as he tearmethe him selfe, disguised in marrineres apperell and that of the meaneste sorte. By his discourse he saith he is a follower of the Lord Both well, and came from thence some twentie dayes since, toke shipping with a Scott att Bullyn, landed at Yarmouthe, where as he saith he sawe M^r John Colvyn shipped for the Lowe Countries, and eschewing his companie leaste hee should bee knowne, hee toke another Scottishe shipp, wherin one M^r Dent of Newecastle came. His errand which hee seemethe to make knowne to me and Hughe Birde, is that the Lord Bothwell should send him into Scotland with purpose to use all the meanes possible to take away the life of Sir Robert Kerr—and hee hearing theese broyles betweene the wardens and us, dothe desire to make the same knowne unto me, not craving myne ayde in the same, but relying upon his owne force anil freindshipp. The manner howe he will doe the same is by traynes of powder in the castle at Halleden to blowe him up, or otherwise to intercept on the way or surprise him in some house. This Wedderborne hathe the Franche tongue reasonable well and hath served in Fraunce on pleasure not under anie charge: he informethe that the King of Fraunce is nowe before Amyenes, and that he was employed by the King to have brunt a madrill of the Spanyardes wherin victall was, who with twoe Franche captaines undertaking that service, profered their service to the Governor of Amynes, and the secrete service being formerlie discovered, the twoc Franche captaines were hanged and this man perdoned for that he was a Scottisheman.

"Theese vauntes, togeither with the wise cariage, his birthe and manner of disguising, yealding unto me apparaunte suspicion of more devilishe practises then he revealeth, I thought good to stay him in the safe keaping of the said Hughe Birde till your lordships further pleasure were known to me for him. The personne of the man is thus to be decerned—of reasonable stature, verie square bodyed, bigg legged, one or two scarres in the hight of his foreheade, faire complexined, yellowe berded, the haire of his heade like unto white amber a little rounde bauld on the crowne of his heade, his left arme from the hight of his shoulder to the ende of his fingers on thatsyde, of eache side of his arme and hand, is spotted, as reade as bloode. He conveyed lettres from Yarmouthe as he saith to some the Lord Bothwells freindes, but I feare they were lettres of greater importaunce. He seemeth to be verie cuning in Staite causes, whose wisdome overreaching my small skill, I presume to make knowne thus mutch to your lordship, craving knowledge of your honorable pleasure with speade, what shalbee done with the man. He is an ingyner, proferring to make for me petares and garnettes, ingynes of warr, in both which I am contented to bestowe some waiste money upon him till I heare your lordships pleasure, to the ende he without suspicion may remaine with pleasure."

On the last rode of which I told your lordship, there was chosen men of these clans of the West March—Armstrongs, Bells, Carlills and Urwines—from the Middle March of East and West Tividale, the Rotherforths, Younges, Burnes, Mowes and Pyles; of Liddesdale, the Ellottes, Armstrongs, Nixsons and Crosiers, with the lairds of Liddesdale and Tividale. "The laird Baclughe as is thought, not in presence, but colorablie at Edenburghe," but his household servants and chiefest friends at it. "I humblie pray your lordship … comforte me so mutche as to assiste me to doe one honorable dayes service in adventuring the gayning of Baclughs heade and yf your lordship like, Sir Robert Kerres likewise, which with the grace of God, might be performed with a small assistaunce, the joynte forces of the three wardens, and some helpe out of Barwicke." Hexham. Signed: Ra. Eure.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed. War signet as before.

686. Eure to Cecil. [July 17.]

A similar letter to the preceding. Hexham. Signed: Ra. Eure.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed: "17 July 1597. Lord Eure to my master. M^r John Wedderburne stayed by the captain of Tynmoth. Rec. at Grenewich the xxj^st of the same." Wax signet: quartered.

687. Scrope to Cecil. [July 17.]

I have written to you already of the Grames' proud attempt about taking away Jock and William Grames "from the sherifes gaole." Their great brags of the favor they say they got at London puts them in greater glory than ever, but for that, I do not believe it, but rely on your father's and your own favour against these notorious villains, "which be now at the hight (I hope) of thire pride." At the last assises of Aplebie, Gerard Carleton, Thomas's son, "would needes have forsed a thiefe to have excused Gaye Carletons death, the theife being condemned to death: but he prayed him to holde him excused: and Gerard was so inportunat, that at length the theife brust out in these wordes 'that Gaye Carleton was privie of 6 or 7 fellonies which he knew; and for Tho. Carleton, that he was the notorionest theife that was in that place.'" I was not present to hear the words, but the judges can certify you of this and what men they are.

Lord Eure has I think certified you of Buccleuch and his company's outrages in Tindale. "The nexte turne (I suppose) wilbee oures." I pray you we may have the Queen's authority to revenge, and some assistance from Berwick.

"Yeesterdaye olde Gerard Lowther departed this transitorie life to goe and yeelde an accompte of his stuardship in the Soveraygne Court."

On the return of my man from Scotland, I shall certify his news to my lord your father, who will impart them to you. Carlisle. Signed: Th. Scroope.

1½ pp. Holograph; as also address. Indorsed. Wafer signet: quartered.

688. Munitions at Berwick. [July 18.]

Berwick, 18 July 1597.—A brief note of the most serviceable munition, &c., in the store at this instant.

Callyvers furnished, 395; pykes, 1078; long bowes, 294; lance staves, 620; light horsemen's staves, 922; arrows, 95 "sheif"; "Almayne corseletter," 122; "Flaunders corselettes," 114; spades and shovels, 470; pickaxes, 342; long carts, 10.

1 p. Contemporary hand. Indorsed.

689. Ordnance, &c., at Tynemouth. [July 18.]

"The remayne taken at Tynmouth castle xviij° Julij 1597, anno regine Elizabethe xxxix°."

Brass.—A saker without wheels, lying in a stock decayed. Another, dismounted. Falcons dismounted, 3.

Cast iron.—Culverin, mounted on bare wheels, stock and wheels serviceable" as she standethe." Demiculverin, mounted on bare wheels, stock and wheels decayed.

The above being utterly decayed, the charge for repair is estimated at 44l. 15s. 2d., as by the particulars will appear, viz.—

8 ton oaken timber, 20s. a ton, for 7 carriages with transoms to same, 8l.; land and water carriage at 12s. a ton, 72s.; English iron for binding the carriages, 1½ ton at 14l. the ton, 21l.; 4 sawyers at 10d. each daily for 12 days, 40s. Naves, 7 pair at 5s. a pair, 35s.; "felloes," 91 at 8d. a piece, 60s. 8d.; "spoakes," 176 at 2d. a piece, 29s. 2d., in all, 6l. 4s. 10d.

Extraordinary laborers to be employed in the time, 78s. 4d.

1½ pp. Contemporary hand. Indorsed.

690. Declaration by William Selby. [July 20. 1597.]

"The new declaration and report of the woordes passed the xx^th of Jully 1597 betwixt M^r Jhon Carie governor of Barwicke and William Selbie gentleman portar of the sayd towne, set downe by the said William Selbie within one quarter of an hower after they wer spoken, viz."

The 19^th July being advertised that the Duke, the Earl Marshall, Sir Robert Carr, and many others, were with Lord Hume in Hume castle, about 10 miles from this town, I told M^r Carey, who said he had the like intelligence.

About 11 "a clock" that night, I sent for the clerk of the watch and told him, willing him to see that those going out next day "to scurry," should according to ancient order, go with jacks and spears, and to order them to have "a vigilent eye" about them, lest some of "that company should come into the Bowndes previly to espy our order of watch and scurradge."

I also told him I had been that night at locking the upper gates next Scotland, and when the watch came, I thought them "verie slender," asking him how many watched every night? He began to tell me their stations, which I told him to give me in writing, and meant, if not sufficient, to confer with M^r Governor as to amendment.

Next day "the xx^th of July," the clerk asked me and I gave him leave to acquaint M^r Governor therewith, if he would, knowing the governor would allow it, "I being a counsayler" and having right to know the number and changes, if any, of the watch,—in good faith meaning no ill to any man, but only the good of this place, and discharge of my oath and duty in the Queen's service—and that which I asked of the clerk is known to the soldiers here that have watched "eyther in scowt or search."

M^r Carey at 2 P.M. the same day, sent for me about the pensioners' wages, which ended, M^r Raphe Bowes and I walked into "M^r Governors gardine," into which he came himself 4 or 5 times "with a verry angry countenance" making show as though he had something to say to one of us. When we parted, he met me, and I going back to the garden with him, began "in a frendlie manner" to tell what M^r Bowes and I had been talking of. Also that when I took leave of my Lord Treasurer, he said the Queen was at great charge for works in Berwick—that I said I was ignorant thereof, for none told me—when his lordship replied it appertained to me to know, and he looked to hear from me as from others before any works were taken in hand, and also of the musters. While talking, I saw his countenance alter, and then he said, what had I to do asking the clerk the number of the watch? I said I sometimes went about the walls to "search the watch," and if I knew not their number, I could not tell if any were wanting. "In a great fury he would not allow of hit. I was contented."

He said with "vehemencie," now he saw the report was true—"that I sought to looke into him." I said, neither into him nor any other, but thought it my duty to see to the Queen's service and the safety of this place. "He bad me look well to my self, for he would make me doe my dutie and that he would be even with me. I answered I was made allready, and he could not make me againe, but he might comaund me and I would obay him. Being in his gowne, he said in great fury he wanted a weapon: I answered, he neaded to use noe weapon against [me] … He said he would geve thre fyngers of his hand to have me, in that caise he hath had me. I answered, his lose of his fyngers would be greater nor his gaine, and yf he knew any thing by me, otherwayes then an honest and trew man, I askid him noe favor. He said he would writ to M^r Secretary, to know yf the Queene had sett me to be an overseer to him? I tould him I had noe such offyce, and I wondered what moved him to use theise wordes to me. He contenewing in his bitternes, I said I would leave the towne, because I would aveyd his quarrelles, and then he shold governe all him self." Since then, he told the clerk of the watch that if he had given me the note I required, "he would have hanged him over the walls."

Though he took this occasion, he had and has something else on his mind, which so far as I can learn is that he thinks I have informed her Majesty and my lord Treasurer, of the abuses in this town, and thinks himself "touched." Signed: Will'm Selby.

2 pp. Indorsed by the Secretary's clerk.

691. Consents by Gilsland men. [July.]

"These presentes testiffyethe and bearethe recorde, that we and others whose names are here underwritten and specifyed, doth confesse and frelie acknowledge ourselves jounctlie and severallie" contented and pleased with the indents and agreements between the right honorable Lord Scrope and Sir John Carmichael of that Ilk knight, touching the freedom of such of us as were taken prisoners at the late day foray in Gilsland, also such goods cattle insight and "skaithe" then sustained, and sworn to by us, confessing ourselves greatly beholden to his lordship for obtaining such redress, and daily praying for his health and prosperous estate. Witness our hands the 15^th of July 1597.

"The names of the tenants spoyled at the lait daye forraye being comytted the xx^th daye of Julie 1597."

… blame (?)—William Bell, John Bell, Richard Bell, Thomas Bell, Humfrey Bell, George Bell, David Peares, Stephen Peares, John Courten, Alexander Thirlwaye, David Bell, Isabell Bell, Henrie Bell, John Mylburne, Robert Parman, Peter Bell.

Nether Denton.—John Forster, James Davison, Thomas Bell, Emond Bell, Christoffer Bell, Richard Hetherden, John Bell, Isabell Hetherten, Humfrey Bell, John Bell, George Richeson, Edward Bell, Henrie Bell, David Hall, John Halle.

Over Denton.—Peter Bell, John Bell, Jefferey Bell, John Bell, John Bell, Thomas Tweddell, Edward Thirlwaye, Margaret Bell, Humfrey Bell, George Bell, William Newton, "with dyvers other, and prisoners to the nomber of 100 persons taken at the sayd rode."

1 p. Written by Scrope's clerk. Indorsed: "Copie of the consentes of those that were taken prisoners and spoyled within Gillisland."

692. Scrope to Cecil. [July 21.]

I lately certified you of Buccleuch's "mightie" invasion of the Middle March, leaving particulars to my lord Eure's relation: assuring you the next should be ours, as has proved too true. I begged Thomas Carleton to let me know the time he was setting out for London, that I might put a deputy in his absence; but had no attention to my reasonable request. Yet I directed strict nightly watch specially among the Bells over whom I had greatest authority. For all this, on Tuesday last, 600 of Liddisdale ran a day foray at 6 o'clock A.M. on those poor Bells, carrying off about 200 head of cattle, and 100 horses and nags—having laid "ambushment" to take the poor men following the fray—also many prisoners to Scotland. The officers and country here, as they got ready, also followed, but (the Grames unwilling to enter Buccleuch's office) they went into another part of Scotland great offenders to us, and brought some cattle, how much I know not yet—"which cattle, the Grames rift from our men, by the way returning home."

I heartily intreat you (as I have very often written to the Council) to let us have some speedy help to withstand these incursions, and also to favour us by allowing the officers and oppressed people to take their own revenge when they best may, which will embolden them in defence. Carlisle. Signed: Th. Scroope.

Postscript.—I pray you certify me if the soldiers may be hoped for, for I have 200 men lying here, and yet they threaten us.

1¾ pp. Holograph; as also address. Indorsed. Wafer signet as before.

693. Scrope to Burghley. [July 21.]

Sending such advertisements as he has even now received from Scotland. That he has written to M^r Secretary on Border affairs, to whom he refers his lordship. Carlisle. Signed: Th. Scroope.

¾ p. Holograph; as also address. Indorsed.

694. Eure to Burghley. [July 21.]

"I presumed to go to my house to Wytton, where my wif stayed being sick; and I remayned some ij° or iij° dayes," in which time news came to me of Buccleuch's outrages on my neighbours in Bewcastle and Gilsland, with other news delivered to me this day. To my simple judgment, seeing we got no redress,—the grace and favour those wicked instruments have of the King, often threatened but seldom punished—the shameful course to the Queen's ambassador Sir William Bowes at Norham on 25^th June,—the approval of their disobedience by the Scottish council—the King's fair show to receive the pledges into his own hands—Buccleuch's threats "chaisinge of" his pledges, seeming desirous to present them to the King—his present peace with some, and remission of others—"confirmeth (in my thought) dissimulacion in the Kinge, tolleracion and approbacion of theis wicked instrumentes, and provident preparacion in the Kinge, rather to annoy us, then by justice to recomfourth us Inglishe."

Robert Anderson a Scotsman of "Dundey" in Angus, being at Newcastle, reported to M^r John Wedderborne (the man of whom I lately wrote) that the King has secretly charged all the leaders of his country, to have all persons between 16 and 60 in readiness on 20 days' warning, especially on the Border, telling them the Queen of England intends royal revenge for late indignities, and he intends nothing but war, and has sent M^r John Colvyn to the Low Countries to press the States for their promises "maid att the baptysme," and crave farther aid from them—and if not given, threatening to join the King of Denmark to make war on them.

I present these, true or not, to your lordship, craving you to cause a view and muster to be taken of the men and horses in this March, that her Majesty may know her strength; also that you will cause the ruined places to be viewed, whereby you will see the stratagem of the Scot to make an open passage on our frontier for the entry of an army: "and haith by litle and litle, murdered and taken away the worthyest gentlemen leaders of our countrye: the which foretelleth the event of the proude threates and preparacions thatt now are maide."

I am ready on being allowed, to repair to your lordship and make known more secrets of our distress here. Wytton. Signed: Ra. Eure.

1½ pp. Addressed. Indorsed by Burghley. Small wax signet: a bend cotised charged with 3 annulets.

695. Eure to Cecil. [July 21.]

In precisely similar terms to last. Wytton. Signed: Ra. Eure.

1½ pp. Addressed. Indorsed: "… R. at Grenewich the xxv^th of the same."

696. Richard Musgrave to Burghley. [July 22. 1597.]

Whereas by privy seal dated 10 July 1595, her Majesty granted 200l. yearly for repair of her storehouse at Newcastle, called "the Mannour," nnder which I received 200l. myself, and secondly for last year by this bearer my servant William Marton, who delivered to your honour a book showing the particular charges for the first year: I have now sent him with a book showing the last year's charges for the same house, and to entreat your honour for an order for 200l. for this year. I informed you of the great decay of the carriages of the Queen's ordnance in Tynemouth castle, and had your reply to send the cost, when a warrant would be issued. But not having received it, thought good to send a second note of the same—also note of the remain of all the Queen's munition in my charge.

Having but little ash timber in store, and the workmen likely to be idle, I presumed to move the bailiff of Chopwell woods to let me have 40 ton to make carts, cartwheels, handspikes, &c., for which I humbly desire your warrant, as also one for more timber for this year's work. If you please to examine this bearer, he will let you understand, how under colour of a lease for her Majesty of the underwoods in Chopwell, these will go to waste most likely, though most necessary for her use. Berwick. Signed: Rychard Musgrave.

1½ pp. Addressed. Indorsed. Wafer signet: shield with 6 annulets—3, 2, and 1, a mullet on chief point. Crest: two hands holding an annulet. Clear impression.

697. John Carey to Burghley. [July 23.]

Master Rafe Bowes has brought the half year's pay and paid the garrison to every man's content, which I hope will "prolonge youer life and continew youer helthe longe, beinge beged at the handes of God bey the humbell and hartey prayers of so maney poer men, whoe doe dayeley praye for you." I have also received the Council's warrant for certain works which I caused to be presently taken in hand, especially on the water side, for which the time is somewhat late. The rest cannot proceed as they should, for we can get no victuals out of the palace for our workmen, "wiche will caus the workes to goe but slenderley forward, bey resun theye have nether meat nor money."

I have no foreign news worth certifying, but if there be not some better order taken, the most part of Northumberland will be laid waste next the Scottish border. I have often written to your honour that it might please the Queen to send down some fit man as governor, alleging many reasons, as my want of authority, which I now find true. "For that the gentyllman porter havinge gon thorowe with his last bad cause so well, and havinge in sted of his dwe ponishement for so fowell a matter, reseved faver and credit extraordinarey, is nowe pufte upe withe suche preyd as he thinkes ill delinge a vertue, and rewardes to prosed from dangerus attemtes: for havinge escaped so well in his laste bey his cunninge untrewthes, so formaley beforhand plased in ther hedes to whoes hearinge it was to come, he thinkes nowe like wayes to win himselfe fame bey borninge Dianas tempell, for he hathe sines his comminge hom hether, preveley without aney order, insinewated himselfe into my offes, and beinge demanded bey me the cause in my owen garden, I havinge byn befor verey sike, and but neweley gotten out of my chamber, he did ther fall out withe me and braved me in suche comparinge maner, as I was never so used in my life, nether cold I a borne it if resun had as littyll reuled me as it did him in the quarrell betwen Master Graye and him, wherin he ded so myghteley indanger the towen. He dothe not styke to saye he will have to doe in all thinges as well as I, beinge a noffeser as well as myselfe, countermandinge allredey men uppon there alegans contrarey to that wiche I befor had commanded;—thus terifeyinge and thretoninge my offesers withe whom he hathe nothinge to doe, sayinge and perswadinge men that I ame but in a maner governer not absoleut governer; wheruppon his usinge me in this brave maner, the compeneys of the towen gether together and in parteyes doe flocke, sume mormeringe what this shold mean, others muteyninge agayenst the government and stat and everey humor fittinge his owen cogeytasiones, all eyes staringe bothe good and bad. What the sequell herof will be, himselfe styll kepinge a counsell at his howes for all men to utter ther venime agayenst me, sendinge about into all the corners of the stretes to inquere of my delinges, and not so muche as of my owen domestycall affayers, but he serches and inqueyers after, to the intent to leybell agayenst me if he cane gett aney matter worthe wryghtinge. But I hope he shall hardley fynd caues enofe to calle me upe. But shewer my lord this towen is in a wonderfull uproer bey his bad delinge withe me and the worser sorte take advantege to scorne of my aughteoretey; wherfor I praye you my good lord, if his good desertes and faythefull servis have deserved suche credit and trust withe her Majesty, that she will have him my fellowe governer, then rather lett me be taken awaye then the least danger or perill shold happen to the towen bey aney muteney or ill disposed persunes. And shewerley my good lord, I doe deseyer uppon my knees, if so it ples her Majesty, that I may be taken from hens, so I may goe as I came with her Majesties good faver, the wiche rather then to want I wold deseyer to be torne in peses withe wild horses. The resun whey I nowe so deseyer to leave this plase is for that I knoe I shall have suche a regester over me as I cane hardley escape; beseydes if aney mischefe or dishoner shold happen to this towen I ame perswaded he wold be glad and rejoyse for my disgrase: so fyndinge him that shold be my assistant to be my resistant, I have resun to deseyer to be absent or at the least to have on suche that shold reule us bothe, wiche good my lord, procewer even for the saftey of the towen wiche is fare out of square sines his comminge hom … He hathe forther sent awaye his ij neves, (fn. 2) the on a captayen, and the other a soger in this towen, to the see in ouer flett that is gon withe my lord of Esexe, without ether my prevetey or ever askinge of me leave, havinge his charge in this towen." Berwick. Signed: Jhon Carey.

2 pp. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed.

698. William Selby to Cecil. [July 23.]

This day I received the inclosed letter from Roger Aston, servant to the King of Scots, with earnest request that I would send it with speed to your honour, as it concerned her Majesty's service. And though I have no direction from you to receive or forward each, I sent it by post, hoping there is no fault, and praying your instructions in a like case. Berwick. Signed: Will'm Selby.

½ p. Addressed. Indorsed.

699. Scrope to Burghley. [July 25.]

As last year many heinous spoils, &c., were done by Buccleuch in Gilsland, the chiefest procured by Thomas Carleton the land sergeant, as remains on record by Hetherington's examination: "so now upon Wednesday last (as the whole countrey suppose) the chief frinds of Tho. Carleton in Scotland to the number of 600^th (wee preventing by night watches the inconvenienses when men were secure)," ran a day foray on the Bells in Gilsland, taking "200^th horses [oxen?] and kye, 40^th horses and nagges" and a number of English prisoners. "The conductors for the Englishemen were these—Will Tailler Tho. Carletons man, Gayfry Carleton and yong Heardhill," who were his counsellors, and as is well known, do nothing without his procurement, and the Scots were the greatest friends that he and Brakinhill have there. I assembled the people to pursue them, but finding themselves unable to "inconter with Liddisdaill upon the suden," they went to Kinmonth and took "300^th horses and kine," which I ordered to be delivered to the poor people in Gilsland, "but the Grames reft them all from them by the waye: and as M^r Eglionbie and divers others of the companie do affirme, they had Kinmonth prisner and lett him goe." But though I fear this is true, I mean not to bring new charges against them: yet finding these disorders, &c., daily increasing, the poor people forced to leave the country for want of redress from Buccleuch, notwithstanding the King's show of justice by putting him in ward, I earnestly entreat you to move the Queen, not only for the "bandes of Barowik" to remain here for defence, but also in the meantime, she would be pleased that 40 of the garrison horse be sent to Gilsland, to imbolden the people to remain on their farmholds. "Thus much I have writen to my lord Chamberlayne, and now to your lordships only selfe, I send you herinclosed bothe a lettre that Baclughe wrote to a great man in Scottland to afferm more then I have writen: and also a coppie of the examination of the men, confirmed by Baclughe; assuring your lordship that if they may have condigne punishement, all shalbe affirmed, so I may have leave to come up, to bring with mee the proofes for the same, though it will hinder mee of many good advertisementes; but the matter is of recorde, and to apparant, and the least is to acknowledge a truth: and I wilbee advised as it shall please your lordship to advise mee. And therfore I pray your lordship to let me know by M^r Secretarie what you wishe me do doe." Carlisle. Signed: Th. Scroope.

3 pp. Holograph; as also address. Indorsed partly by Burghley.

Inclosed in the same:—

(1) (Bucclcuch to a great man in Scotland.)

"I acknowledge my selfe debt-bound unto you many wayes, and shall God willing according to your direction, addresse mee to Edenburgh agayne the twentie daye of June to bee at your lordschipis owne house before I come to my lodging. In the meane tyme, I praye your lordschip to send mee worde by this bearer, what, and how farr yee have accorded with my Lord threasorer in my matter? and gife he hes full comission of the Duck of Lennox to delle in that purpose like his owne arbitrement, or gif hee bee limitat to certaine boundis and articles, that your lordschip wilbe so good as to obtayne mee the coppie therof to bee sent hither, that I maye bee advised therwith, and therafter I shall declare to your lordschip my oppinion by tonge, to th'effect we may the mar easalyee bee brought to concord by your lordschipis good intercession.

"Wheras your lordschip desires by your lettre to know of mee what borderers of Ingland were my greatest frinds for the recovrie of Kinmonth, I remember I told your lordschip that matter at full lenth when I returned to Edenburghe efter that turne was done: yet to satisfie your lordschip, I assure you that I could nought have done that matter without great frindship of the Grames of Eske: and speciallie of my guid frind Francis of Cannabie, and of his brother Langton, frinds to my brother Bothewell: and of Walter Grame of Neytherbye who weare the chief leaders of that clan … From Sawile (fn. 3) this 12 of June 97. Your lordshipes guid and affectionat frinde Baclughe."

¾ p. Copy by Scrope's clerk. Indorsed: "A coppie of the lettre the Lard Baclughe wrote unto a great man in Scottland."

(2) (Examination of Andrew Grame.)

"The examination of Andrew Grame taken before the right honorable the Lord Thomas Scroope, lord warden," &c.: "and Sir Robert Carey warden of the East Marches of England, touching the breaking of her Majesties castle, and the takinge from thence Will of Kinmonth, and his knowledge therin, as followeth." On margin.—"Taken at the castle of Carlel the 25^th of Aprill anno 1597. The castle was broken the 12 of April 1596."

"This examinat saith" that about 7^th of April 1596, he went with Richie Brackenhill and Wills Jock from Brackenhill's house to a place called Carvinley, above the house of Simme Tailler in England, and there they met with Thomas Carleton, Lancelot Carleton his brother, and one Thomas Armestrange: and from thence they all rode together to a place called Archerbeck, in Scotland, where they met "the Larde of Baclughe, Gybb Elwood allias Robes Gibb, and Walter Scott alias Hardinge: and at thire meeting, Baclughe asked of them where the rest were? at which the sayde Brackinhill presently plucked forth of his hoses a lettre, and gave it to Backclughe and saith hee thincketh that will serve him for the rest; and upon sight therof, Baclughe sayd, that Hutche and Rosetrees might well have bene there: and Brackenhill answered, what need more then all there hands at that lettre for performance of the same? and then Thomas Carleton sayd, 'For all your hast, exept you make som waye with the watch, you canot prevaile.' To which Wills Jock answeares, that som of the wattchers were made privie therwith, and it weare a dangerous thing to make any other acquainted: and then Lancelot Carleton sayd, 'If this come to passe, it will make an end of my Lord Scroope, and devide M^r Salkeld and him.' And this was the effect of that he did heare. But he saith they weare together foure houres, that he did not know nor heare anything. And he further saith that at the sayd meeting, lettres and speeches were about the breatch of her Majesties castle of Carlel, and the deliverie from thence of Kinmouth, as the said Brackiuhill told him—and that all the Grames mett at the Sandbeds the day before, as the sayd Brackinhill likwise told him. Thomas Armstrange dothe confesse as muche as is above sayde. Baclughe."

¾ p. Copy in same writing as last. Indorsed: "A coppie of the examination of Andrew Grame. Subscribed by the Lard of Baclughe."

700. Scrope to Cecil. [July 26.]

Understanding on the return of my man from London, that the Council desire to be further satisfied of the "prufe" of the witnesses touching the breach of Carlisle castle: though I have already certified their confessions made twice before, and thought them sufficient, yet I have had them again examined thereon, and on some other articles which I see by my man, their lordships were desirous to be informed on, and send them inclosed to be "shoed" to their lordships, as you think convenient—all which the witnesses are ready to prove in person.

The Scots made a great incursion on Friday night last in Gilsland, taking 14 score cattle and nags and many prisoners, and I appointed a rode to have taken place on Sunday night last, on some of the offenders, summoning (among others) men of Graystocke barony under government of "one M^r Dudley"—it fell out, as M^r Dudley himself tells me, "that one Gerrard Carleton sonne to Thomas Carleton, accompanyed with John Grame alias 'Allreames,' uncle to Wills Jock Grame, and a sonn of the said Wills Jocke "called 'Jocks Wattey,' servant to Lancelott Carleton, in the night tyme, as the men appointed for that service were orderlie goinge towardes the doinge of the same, came to the said M^r Dudley and his companye: and there the said Gerrard Carleton did verie evill intreate dyvers of the companye of the said M^r Dudley, beinge but symple countreymen, so as they were therbie greatlie discouraged disgraced and hyndered from the performaunce of the said service"—using also "greate wordes of disabilitie" to M^r Dudley to discourage him. Whereby and other misdemeanours, "the said service was at that tyme utterlie frustrated and disappointed," which if suffered without sharp punishment, will be a great danger in future. Carlisle. Signed: Th. Scroope.

1¼ pp. Addressed. Indorsed: "26 July 1597 … Rec. at Grenewich the xxx^th of same."

701. Eure to Cecil. [July 27.]

The 23^d of this month, 200 of my March assembled—chiefly foot who were spoiled and nearly beggared in the last roade at Bellingham: and made a roade into Tividaile, intending reprisal on their chief spoilers, but lighted not on them, and spoiled the town of Newbegine belonging to the Laird of Farnihirst, driving off 100 head of beasts and the horses about the town, with household stuff. This will be complained of and aggravated, as Farnihirst is well affected to the Queen's ambassador and of honest disposition, and we are in love and favour: therefore I pity this loss should fall on his tenants, rather than on those who better deserved it. Yet if some of them were at the Tindale roade, they are worthy punishment.

My lord your father comforts me by his letter, that he will procure my trial before her Majesty and the Council, trusting I may also have your countenance therein, whereby I may prove my innocence of the charges brought by my enemies. Hexham. Signed: Ra. Eure.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed. Wax quartered seal, good.

702. Eure to Burghley. [July 27.]

[Gives the account of the raid on Newbiggin as in last No.]

This day by 4 A.M., I received your letter of the 22^d, which has given me greater comfort than any letter "of long tyme," giving you many thanks for the same, and craving your means to procure my repair to answer the presentments against me, and that John Browne and some other of the jurors, as M^r Fenwick of Wallington and others of the best sort, may be commanded to appear, "and I wishe to God that my chefeste enimies of this country, viz., the Woodringtons and William Carnaby," may be present to accuse me.

For those whom your lordship desires me to name to you for deputy warden in my absence, there is M^r Raphe Gray of Chillingham whose house is within the March, "his strength the moste of the East Marche," M^r Edward Gray his brother, who lies at Morpeth in the heart of my March, whom I have sometimes employed, M^r Robert Delavall who lies in Castle ward nearer Newcastle, far from the dangerous services of the country: these with M^r Fenwick of Wallington, are of the best sort of the gentlemen in this March. "Yf your lordship please to have the names of strangers gentlemen serviceable in Yorkeshier, there is Sir Thomas Fairefax the younger, M^r Richard Godericke and such like, all which I bouldlie like Bayarde present to your lordship, though I knowe your lordship hath more perfect calendar of the worthy gentlemen of the country." Hexham. Signed: Ra. Eure.

Postscript.—The Lairds of Buccleuch and Johnston were both committed to Edinburgh "tower" for not delivering their pledges to the King. In a fray by Johnston on Dumladericke and Sir Robert Kerr's people, two of his men were slain.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed.

703. John Harding, &c., to Burghley. [July 27.]

While in discharge of our duties, we stay "shipp and goodes" for her Majesty's rights, M^r Mayor sends away the ship, and though we set "the Quenes marke" on the goods, he disregards it, puts his own on them and keeps the goods, alleging your lordship's pleasure "that neither freman nor stranger shall paye custome for goodes inwardes," and thus the stranger passes away "without imployment, for ought that we cann doe." We thought good to acquaint your lordships hereof, as he has been mayor these three years together, and is loath to leave the place.

There lately came to this port 10 craiers all with foreign commodities, and the mayor says, if the Queen's custom is taken, it would drive strangers away. The answer is, the Queen's due being taken, "may take away his benyfite," but discourage no stranger, for they are most willing to pay it, if he did not hinder it. Berwick. Signed: Jo. Harding, Jam' (?) Lany, Jo. Watson.

½ p. Addressed. Indorsed: "The officers of the port of Barwick …"

704. John Carey, &c., to Burghley. [July 28.]

The mayor and corporation have moved us to consider a controversy betwixt them and the customer. On the late arrival of 2 small ships with a little timber, some deals and spars, he demands custom which they refuse, for none was ever paid on "the like sithenc Barwick was Inglish"—and also, as your honor heretofore in like case ordered the officers to forbear the same. And as we see it is but a small matter that comes yearly, and yet so necessary "to cherisse and entreat the stranger, which otherwise will not come," we being required, pray your accustomed goodness herein. Berwick. Signed: Jhon Carey, Will'm Selby, Rychard Musgrave.

½ p. Addressed. Indorsed. Wafer signet: the town seal, faint.

705. Scrope to Burghley. [July 28.]

Sending him "such small occurents as this instant can afforde," with assurances of his lifelong devotion. Carlisle. Signed: Th. Scroope.

½ p. Holograph, as also address. Indorsed.

Inclosed in the same:—

"Scottishe occurents."

Many Scots gentlemen are come out of France, "in marveillous good equipage, and on the new mode, halfe Frenshe and halfe Spanishe, with fathers on thire fore heads. Eyther of these according to his grandeur and creadit, are desired to solicit men to returne with them in Franse for service of that King.

"Her is a new matter put into the Kinges head, to wit, that the landes of the earledom of Marche did somtyme appertayne to the crounne: and therfore should now be called back. The ground wherof proceeds, that they would have the castle of Dunbar to be buylded agayne, and his Majestie to dowell there as in an ordinar palace, that the countrey by his presence may be reformed in all points, and the rents therof appointed for his sustenance. This matter is now highly in question before the senat; and his Majestie gives great presence and attendance theron.

"Among other gentlemen of reputation, Sir James Lyndsay hath brought writinges frea the King of France and from the Bishope of Glaskow: what they contayne shalbe advertised at another season.

"Jhonston is to be tryed by his peares at Sterlinge the 16^th of Agust next, and is to bee kept in prison heere to that daye.

"The King dares not set Buclughe at libertie, though many make sute for it, for displeasing the Queene: howbeit, I feare his inprisonement will not proove long. Anguss Makonell hathe slayne the Irlande knight, as the report is come heere. Therfore his sonne is inprisoned in the castle of Edenburgh."

¾ p. Written by Scrope's clerk.

706. The Privy Council to William Selby. [July 29.]

"It hath been very strange to us to heare of your proceading with M^r John Carey, to whom her Majestie hath commytted the goverment of her towne of Barwycke, wherin you have gone about to crosse him both underhand in all thinges, and lately have used your selfe towardes him, farro from that regard which it becommeth you, considering the place he holdeth; being such if it be true, as, if he had not used more discrecion and greater pacience, then by your provocacions some other man peradventure would have done, there might have growen some suche inconvenience as would have ben bothe very dishonorable and very prejudyciall to her Majesties servyce. In consideration wherof, wee have thought good for prevencion of the same, to lett you knowe that if you shall by any meanes goe about to disobey his commandmentes in what concernes her Majesties servyce, or by disseminating any disgracefull reportes, seeke to drawe his aucthoritie in question (out of any perticuler spleene of yours towardes him) the place consydered, and the circumstances of all thinges in those partes, which stand but uppon tyckle termes, it will prove a matter of such nature as you will hardly be able to aunswer. And therefore wee do hereby commaund you to avoyde all manner of contencion, and to carry your selfe as becomes you unto your Governor, and if you have any matter wherwith to charge him for misgoverment in any thing towardes her Majestie of his dutie in the towne, it were a fytter way for you, by wryting hither or otherwise, to make it knowne, then whisperinglie or contentiousely to nourishe a faccion against him. And thus, not doupting but you will reforme your selfe of theis thinges, wherby wee may have no mor cause of complaynt, wee bydd you farewell."

1½ pp. Draft by Cecil's clerk. Indorsed: "29 Julij 1597. Copie of a lettre from some of the lordes to M^r Selbye gentleman porter of Barwicke."

707. Eure to Cecil. [July 30.]

I convened the gentlemen of the best sort here on the 28^th instant to consult as to the best means "to suppresse this raiging furie of tho opposites, and insafe themselves." They answered that though by general consent and my authority, a spoil might be made on the enemy, they know not how to defend themselves afterwards—and are unwilling to take any revenge on the "speciall malefactores, but rather on the honest personne whose goodes are easilie compassed." Though we agreed on good orders for watches, rising and following frays, &c., it was concluded that without help, these are insufficient, and they prayed me to urge their suit on you—which is that if the Queen would vouchsafe 12d. a day for 200 horse, in four bands, with the wages of 4 captains, 4 lieutenants, &c., till the country regains its strength, to "remaine certeine for 5 yeares": they will furnish them with horses and armour out of their common funds without levy or assessment on any other country. In addition, they offer to furnish horse and armour for 100 more men so long as the other 200 remains, likewise paying them 12d. per diem. They crave her Majesty to leave the appointment of the officers and men to the warden and 12 of the gentlemen of the Middle March elected by him.

I humbly pray your "favorable protection" of their humble suit. Their offer amounts to 6000l. for furnishing 300 men with horse and arms at 20l. for horse and man—and they give 2000l. yearly to maintain the 100 men and their officers, "which in five years amounteth to ten thowsande poundes, both which are within seven (?) thousaunde poundes equall to the Queenes charge in theese five yeares, which out of so poore a countrie voluntarely proferred, I trust by your honors meanes shall gratiouslie be accepted of her Majestie." Hexham. Signed: Ra. Eure.

1 p. Closely written. Addressed. Indorsed.

708. Robert Vernon to Burghley. [July .]

Petitioning that the money in the receivers' hands over and above the payments authorized by his lordship, may be paid to M^r Swifte in satisfaction of money due to M^r Clarke of Linn, and M^r Offelie of London for provisions bought of them and expended since Michaelmas last.

For the 3000l. received by M^r Swifte, &c., out of Exchequer, he petitions that on his own and M^r Swifte's accompt being made for the whole year ended at Michaelmas 1596, that the "surchardge" thereof he allowed them, towards answering "the saide" 3,128l., and "what there shall wante to be paide" to Exchequer by the receivers, out of such sums as shall be due for victuals delivered to the garrison and works within the said half year, and that M^r Coniers may receive their month's books to finish the said accounts sooner.

Also notwithstanding his honor's order to stay proofs against his sureties, and that he should procure others to replace those dead (which he has done),—yet M^r Fanchawe having still sent proofs against them, and had some of their lands "extended," has so terrified some of his new sureties that he is driven to seek others elsewhere. Therefore he prays a "supersideous" to discharge these proofs till further order.

Also to consider his past losses for which he has petitioned, and allow any sums granted by her Majesty therefor, to be employed to buy victuals, without troubling his lordship for "imprestes." And for further losses, to consider the same "in consciens," seeing they have arisen in the Queen's service, and most part for want of due payment of her grants to him. Not signed.

1¼ pp. Written by his clerk. Indorsed.

709. Sureties for R. Vernon. [July. 1597.]

The names of M^r Vernon's sureties for whom he desires a "supersideous."

Thomas Vernon, William Leversage, Thomas Smethwicke, Thomas Duncalf, John Morton, Robert Folehurste, Robert Aldger, Thomas Manweringe, Roberte Sparke, Ralphs Leftwich.

Those that are dead.—John Gryffith, 200l.; Thomas Vennables, 300l.; Ralphe Done, 200l.; Thomas Lee, 100l.

¾ p. Written by his clerk and another. Indorsed.

710. Note as to Berwick Garrison. [July. 1597.]

That the garrison and works be paid monthly beforehand, which impresting 7000l. half yearly to the treasurer beforehand, will do. Then the garrison may either deal with the Queen's store, as they and the victualler agree, or provido themselves in the town.

If this be liked, there must be a staple of victuals, also bakers, brewers, &c., ready, on occasion arising. This way of victualling will "cutt of the greate userie "of the said town, and in my opinion is best for the Queen and the soldiers. Not signed.

¼ p. In same hand. Indorsed.

711. Rations at Berwick. [July. 1597.]

[Ranging from 5¼d. on a flesh day, to 5d. and 3¾d. on fish days.]

The horse from Michaelmas till May day—either with oats at 6s. per quarter, 2 bushels weekly, 18d.; or beans and pease, at 14s. per quarter, I bushel weekly, 21d.

Memorandum—That since they are no longer compelled to take his victuals, if they take for flesh days they must do so for fish days also.

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

712. Rates of Victuals at Berwick. [July. 1597.]

Rates received by the surveyor for the soldiers' victuals per diem.

[Ranging from 5¼d. to 3¼d. per diem, according to the season and whether a flesh day or fish day.]

1 p. Written by Vernon's clerk. Annotated by Burghley. Indorsed.

713. The Soldier's Daily Allowance. [July.]

"A computacion of one souldiers allowance for one daie."

Bread, 12 oz., 1¼d.; beer, 3 pints 1d.; cheese, ¾ lb. 2d.; butter, 1 qr. lb. 1d—5¼d.

Bread, 12 oz., 1¼d.; beer, 3 pints 1d.; beef, 1½ lb., 3d–5¼d. By the day, 5¼d.; by the week, 3s. ¾d.

½ p. Indorsed by Burghley.

714. Division of the West March. [1597.]

[An imperfect note of the subdivisions, Carlisle and its socage tenure, Bourgh barony and Holme lordship, where it ends abruptly.]

1 p. A broad sheet. Indorsed. Noted by Burghley as "entred." Similar to the first 4 paragraphs of Vol. I. No. 743 by Edward Aglionby.

715. Surcharge for Victualling Berwick. [1597.]

[In three parallel columns—(1) the cost to the Queen, (2) the price as issued to the garrison, and (3) the surcharge, which is brought out for the year 1597 as 2915l. 4s. 8¼d.]

2 pp. Broad sheet. Written by Vernon's clerk. Indorsed.