Elizabeth I: volume 182, August 1595

August 1595

Vol. CLXXXII. 1595. August.

Aug. 1. Dublin.

1. Sir H. Wallop to Burghley. I doubt not but your Lordship is advertised by my Lord Deputy and Lord President of the state of the army here, how they mind to employ the same, and of the wants they find through the lack of money and victuals, and also of the great decay of the bands, especially those that came last out of England, who, as I understand, were as well furnished as any that ever came from thence to this place, yet if now they should be mustered, it is thought few of the captains will be found to have above 40 able Englishmen in the band; and the British companies are also decayed by death, but much more by running away, for that they like not this country service; which defects my Lord Deputy hath given order that the muster-master shall thoroughly examine and certify with all expedition, but in the meantime through these occasions the service is much hindered. Therefore finding Her Majesty's charge exceeding great I have drawn a brief estimate thereof for a month of 28 days, and so for a year, whereof I have delivered a copy to my Lord Deputy, and have presumed to send you another, thinking it my duty to acquaint you therewith, beseeching your Lordship, if Her Majesty shall be pleased to continue the prosecution of this action with so great charge, to be a means unto Her Highness to send money, munitions and victuals answerable, that the same may be effectually followed, and the soldiers with furniture and relief encouraged, else hunger and cold will consume many of them, which some of their captains through want are not able to prevent, and some others so careless as they will not. And now the year being so far spent, for my own part I conceive not how much more will be done between this and Hallowtide than one road or incursion to be made into the enemy's country, the Blackwater and Armagh fortified, and at winter the traitors to be fronted with strong garrisons that shall be well able to encounter them; and when the forces shall be laid in garrisons I think it will not do amiss, that some of the most decayed bands be cashiered to supply the want of others, and ease Her Majesty's charge until spring. And so craving pardon for my overboldness herein, I leave the further consideration thereof to your wisdom. Autog. pp. 1½. Inclose,

1. I. Estimate of the charges of the army and sundry extraordinary causes monthly and yearly. p. 2½.

Aug. 1. Dublin.

2. Sir John Norreys to Burghley. Although I trust your Lordship do rest satisfied how I was wronged in the complaint made of me, that I contented not myself with such commission as it had pleased Her Majesty to order by the certificate which Her Majesty's Attorney hath made, who had the drawing of the said commission, yet for the better clearing of myself, I delivered unto my Lord Deputy and Council, that some person from hence had reported to some of the Lords of Her Majesty's Council that I had refused to take such commission as Her Majesty had ordered, which being a matter far from truth, I humbly desired his Lordship and the whole Council, who were the best witnesses of all that passed, to clear me from that accusation, whereunto the Lord Deputy hastily answered, that it might be somewhat was written into England which was misconstrued, but it was of no great importance, and therewith rose from the table. I appealed to the rest of the Council for their testimony in my justification, but they, guessing by the Lord Deputy's taking the defence of the matter upon him that the complaint came from himself, are not willing to make any certificate thereof, except they shall be urged thereunto by my Lords of the Council from England. This extraordinary manner of dealing of the Lord Deputy doth argue how pleasing my being here is to his Lordship, and consequently what service I shall be able to do Her Majesty having him thus affected unto me, of all which I beseech your Lordship to have good consideration. I have stayed in this town since my Lord's return from the journey, attending the coming of Sir R. Bingham, before whose arrival the Lord Deputy could not dispose of the manner of the prosecution of the war, insomuch as Her Majesty by letters had earnestly recommended the recovery of Sligo; at his being in Council it was propounded what course was fittest to be held in the employing of Her Majesty's forces; the true state of each part of the country considered, Sir Richard Bingham declared the state of the Province under his charge to be very dangerous, infested with 2,000 rebels, dispersed almost in every quarter, and that for the recovery thereof, it were requisite some person of greater authority, and more pleasing to the country than he was (though undeservedly), were employed, that nevertheless he would not so disable himself, but that if he might have 1,500 footmen by the pole, and 300 horse, that he should reduce the Province into obedience and be able to offend Tirconnell and Tyrone. As for the recovery of Sligo, he did assure himself that as soon as any small force should pass Athlone, the rebel would break it, which is very like, in respect the place is not strong, and the haven not good. The Lord Deputy did make an estimate that with 2,000 or 1,800 footmen and 300 horse the rebels might be prosecuted in Tyrone, and some garrisons established, and that for himself to remain upon the borders he could have no less than 600 footmen and 200 horse. These demands being compared with the numbers that are already here, we found that there are scarce men to supply the one half, for towards this journey into Tyrone, which the Lord Deputy hath appointed me to being the 11th of this present, the garrisons of the Newry, Carlingford, the Narrowwater, Lecale and Armagh being provided and 200 men sent with Sir Richard Bingham, there will not be left 1,600 footmen to enter the rebels' country. This then was the conclusion of our Council, that these 1,600 men should be prepared for the journey, the Lords of this country to be sent for, and advised withal, how the Pale may be defended, and 200 men sent with Sir Rd. Bingham, which men, in my opinion, will not enable him to any other service than to bring in the harvest in some part of the country, and when the 1,000 footmen and 100 horse which we hear to be at the seaside shall arrive, they shall be disposed as shall seem good to the Lord Deputy. There is order set down for the levying of certain kern and pioneers, provision of masons, carpenters, and boats, and a number of carriages set down upon the country. All which how they shall come in, at the days appointed, I will then advertise, but I fear we shall be as ill provided as the last journey, and then our journey can take no great effect. There were landed in the Ardes a good number of Scots, but there is a report that they are shipped again and distressed by Her Majesty's ships, for discovering the truth whereof the Lord Deputy hath sent out some boats.

I have made some motions to the Lord Deputy, the copy whereof I send herewith, together with a list of the companies that are to be employed as well in garrisons as in the field, and the state of their numbers set at the highest rate, and withal the state of the victuals as the victualler himself hath delivered it, whereby your Lordship shall see that if the wind do not favour us to have some fresh provision from England, we shall be forced to shorten our journey, and to put those victuals we have into Armagh and Monaghan, and by that means Her Majesty's service shall be little advanced by this year's great charge.

This being all that I have to advertise touching Her Majesty's ser vice, I must beseech your Lordship that I may make this humble petition unto your Lordship, that if hereafter either my Lord Deputy or any other, shall make any complaints of me, I may not be censured till I be heard, assuring your Lordship that no respect shall make me swerve from entirely affecting Her Majesty's service; but I must protest to your Lordship that if it shall not please Her Majesty speedily to enable me in my means to live, that I shall not be able to continue this service. And as often as I call to remembrance the dangerous services I have performed, the long time spent in them, my years and little advancement either in reputation or profit, I wish it had pleased God to appoint me to follow some other more grateful profession, and thus referring the consideration of my hapless estate to your Lordship's best furtherance, I will ever continue yours most assuredly to command. pp. 3. Hol. Incloses,

2. I. List of the companies that are to be employed in the North as well in garrisons as in the field. And the state of the victuals being but allowances for 16 days as the victualler himself has delivered it. 1595, July 29. p. 1.

Aug. 1. Dublin.

3. Sir John Norreys to Sir R. Cecil. Your Honour will please to be referred for that [which] is past to my letter to your father, and in this only to be advertised that your Honour's letters to me were certainly opened, and to consider that if they be so bold with your Honour, it is not strange if they be bolder with me. I do assure your Honour I do look for all the crosses that may be used against me in these parts; all my motions receive slow and slender despatch now I am here. What shall I look for being absent ? Every man that frequenteth me is noted to be of the faction, and to conclude there is no assurance that I shall do Her Majesty any service whilst the Lord Deputy shall so well affect me, and this cause with my former griefs made known unto your Honour, doth increase my desire to be rid of this burden, whereof because I purpose very shortly to write more at large by my brother Henry, whose mislike of his usage doth make him retire himself, I will now humbly take my leave. Hol. p. 1.

Aug. 1. Dublin.

4. Sir R. Bingham to Burghley. By your letters of the 20th of June I understand your Lordship hath not received any letters of mine this long while, saving one which importeth the loss of Sligo, and murdering of my cousin Captain George Bingham, wherein I assure your Lordship I have been ill dealt withal, for usually upon every occasion I am bold to write unto your Lordship. But lying so far off in remote Connaught, my letters are safely sent, but seldom [delivered], unless it be when I am in this town, my ability being unable to employ messengers purposely at all times, without any manner of allowance. Now I am bold to advertise your Lordship of the present estate of things here, namely, how myself was very lately by command from the Lord Deputy and Council sent for to Dublin to confer with their Lordships of this Ulster action, and the proceedings and conclusion is thus to the date hereof. I find my Lord Deputy and the rest resolved to make two forces to proceed in their prosecution withal, and the one force to be led by myself through Connaught, the other and the greater by Sir John Norreys. Upon which I delivered the Lord Deputy and Council my opinion as followeth. First I declared the estate of Connaught, how three whole counties were revolted since the losing of Sligo, namely, the counties of Leitrim, Sligo, and Mayo, but especially Sligo and Mayo, which before the losing of Sligo Castle rested in good assurance of quietness, and by those countries the rebels were so much the stronger, and we the more to be regarded with forces; for that of very provincial men, one and other, we had to deal against 1,400 or more, besides the general forces of the traitors of Ulster, which no doubt would all bend against me if I should go into Tyrconnell with an insufficient strength to prosecute. After which I delivered my opinion that, seeing Sir John Norreys was to take the action through the Pale, and my Lord Deputy purposed to lie upon the frontiers with some competent force, to answer the invasions of the traitors, if any should be during Sir John Norreys his prosecution, his Lordship being drawn thereunto by the Council. That it were much better the Deputy himself should go in through Connaught with the forces assigned to me and his other strength appointed for guard of the Pale and meet Sir John Norreys in Ulster, seeing otherwise the prosecution could go onward but one way, in which myself to attend his Lordship; and as we proceeded to take in Sligo and Ballyshannon, as with God's favour I assure myself his Lordship might easily do. But the Council thought it meeter to have the Lord Deputy lie upon the frontiers of the Pale, with a force to defend, then I to be supplied the second way to prosecute. After this when I saw his Lordship would not be permitted to go in person otherwise than to lie upon the frontiers, although himself was very willing, I made this offer, that if I might have 1,000 strong of English footmen and 500 of this country birth, with 200 horse, I would undertake, by God his favour, to win Sligo and Ballyshannon, and go in upon Tyrconnell to meet Sir John Norreys at the Lifford or any other place in that country, not doubting but to answer the service sufficiently both for the suppressing of O'Donnell and assuring of Connaught from any road or invasion by them of Ulster, besides the clearing of the province of those rebellious septs which now are in hope to resettle there. But in the end the Council thought meet only to deliver me two of the new English companies to add to the other companies which be in the Province already, and so rest upon a defensible war much to the detriment of the Province and hazard of losing more, which in respect of Her Majesty's general service I am much grieved at, for I did, and do so much thirst after the subduing of that traiterous Earl, and to cut off Her Majesty's charges, which by detraction is and will be great, as I prefer the service thereof with singular desire to spend my life in it; but if I be not in some good sort enabled I am so far from winning more as daily I doubt how to keep that which we have. These two companies now assigned me for this service as I hear are very weak, and in the one not above 40 Englishmen, and I had before half an Irish company under Captain Street, another low Irish company under Captain Heigham, and two new English companies under Captain Mostin and Captain Conway, in both which are not one hundred English at the most, which is all the force I have had, and yet have, saving the garrison company of the Province, which always, or so many English in their stead, must remain in assurance of such holds as we keep whensoever we shall put into the field. In the judgment which I have of this service against Ulster I think (under correction), and so have ever said that there is no better mean to conquer Ulster than by taking first Tyrconnell and placing garrisons at Ballyshannon and Belleek, for in so doing the Province of Connaught is assured wholly, and O'Donnell and his rabble beaten into Tyrone, which cannot long hold out, if they were but held in and not prosecuted further; but seeing the Council will not allow of that course, for I find my Lord Deputy much of my opinion, I cannot go forward as I have a desire to do, much grieving to see a whole summer spent so greatly to Her Majesty's charges and the country's hindrance and little done to any purpose, for seeing I have no better means to go forward, having so many beggarly traitors daily bent against the Province, and now seeking to settle themselves in the several parts in wards I must do as my strength shall serve, and save the rest if I can, till God shall send better, and in this sort and this morning (God willing) riding homewards into the Province, hoping that by God's favour, the forces I have shall be so employed as I shall be able to give good account of their service and mine. Your Lordship most honourably and with great judgment foresaw the manifold inconveniences that have happened to Connaught upon the losing of Sligo, which is apparent now to all; and till it be regained we can look for no quietness in Connaught, unless they be stopped at the Earne, and then Sligo is of the less reckoning as made "inutile." If it were not for Ballymote and the Boile Her Majesty had no footing now, so far as Roscommon, saving what I have lately built at Tulsk. I hope the best of the Earl of Clanricard, although this detestable fact was done by his near kinsman, for hither unto he continueth in all outward appearance loyally affected; but my general opinion is, that he and the rest will stand fast as long as Her Majesty's army in the realm shall be strong, and otherwise doubtful. And thus have I boldly declared the course of things here, craving pardon and ever to be continued in your Lordship's favour till I shall merit the contrary, being not without mine enemies in this most malicious and clamorous country. Where it pleased your Honour to make mention of mine accounts that your Lordship had a note of 10,000l. 15s. 0½d. by me received in Connaught, but no particular how the same was issued and by me answered, having had speech with Sir Henry Wallop thereof he assureth me he hath in that behalf lately satisfied your Lordship, imputing some blame in his man, for it appeareth the same hath defrayed the entertainments in Connaught, the Province in a manner defraying itself; but this year the revenues will fall short. Aut. p. 4¼.

Aug. 2. Dublin.

5. Sir John Norreys to Sir R. Cecil. The passage being stayed yesterday by a contrary wind, which did put us in hope of some relief from England, though now changed again, hath yielded me this means to write unto your Honour, whereby it may please you to understand, that there cometh daily such pitiful complaints from the borders of the misery of the soldiers, who have neither money, victuals, nor clothes, as no man but hath compassion thereof, and the fruit will be the overthrow of the service; for the soldier groweth into desperate terms, and spare not to say to their officers, that they will run away and steal rather than famish, others of better humour endure, but are so sick and weak as not able to do service, insomuch as the most part of the companies will not be able to bring 50 strong men into the field, I did let my Lords of the Council understand before my coming out of England, that if there were not better provision made both for paying and victualling of the soldiers than was accustomed, the service would be hindered and the country spoiled, for when there was but seven or eight companies in this realm, and those employed in service not past six or seven weeks in the year; though their pay came not over in three or four months, yet they were able to live, for they were dispersed into the towns, and best parts of the country, where they would make no difficulty to give them victuals if it were for a year; but now when there are 50 companies, and those must either be employed in service, or else placed on the borders, in great numbers, where the towns being spoiled by the enemies, and overlaid with numbers, can yield no relief; if they want their pay but 15 days, they must live upon that they can catch, by which license the country is wasted the towns unpeopled, and all discipline subverted, and that which will be most regarded, Her Majesty's charge unprofitably expended. There were no doubt but if there were good order and good provision, not only these rebels might be in short time extirpated, but the country reduced into such terms as they should never be able to lift up their heads; and made to pay the charge of their own yoke; but whilst those that have the chiefest disposition of things here, care not how long the war last so they may make their profit, and in England the chiefest hope of the good event, reposed upon accidents whereby timely provisions are neglected, and the time lost, you can look for no other success but an unprofitable expense, and a lasting rebellion. We have discovered that the rebel's forces is nothing so great as those victuallers of Monaghan did make them, and we have advice that the chief rebel is troubled to rule his associates, whereby I am of opinion that by a composition She might be brought first to ruin his partners, and afterwards himself; so that, whilst that matter were treated, the war were hotly prosecuted, and no light given to the rebel that there were any desire in us to compound, but to prosecute; but not having received any answer from your Honour of that I have written to you to this effect, I dare not enter into the matter till I receive your Honour's opinion. The dangerous state of Connaught was so much discovered by Sir Richard Bingham's own speech, as it was strange to me to hear it, and he vehemently urged that it was necessary some other were employed in the reducing of the Province to obedience than himself; confessing that he must be strong enough, both to command the rebels in arms, and the rest of the country undiscovered, or else he durst not avail himself of the assistance of those there, that yet make show to be good subjects. There hath been an overture made to me by some that take upon them to know very well the state of that Province, to undertake a journey thither, assuring me that without any great force I should bring the country into very good terms. I could do no less but advertise your Honour hereof; not that I seek to intrude upon Sir Richard Bingham's government, being a gentleman of long service, but that I wish anything to be done that may advance Her Majesty's service.

I wrote to my Lord, your father, in the behalf of the Earl of Thomond, who showing his great affection to the advancing of Her Majesty's service, hath offered to serve Her Majesty with a company of 150 soldiers, whereof he will put 50 of them on horseback; the Lord Deputy, as I hear, hath granted him 100, and for the other 50 hath referred him to my Lords of the Council; insomuch as his quality and often proved service requires some more respect than every private captain, it will please your Honour to favour this his motion. And thus praying your Honour to have the state of this poor troubled country in recommendation I take leave. Hol. pp. 4.

Aug. 3.

6. Lord Deputy to Sir Rob. Cecil. Sends a cast of falcons. p. ½.

Aug. 3. Dublin.

7. Sir R. Lane to Burghley. Four thousand Scots landed in the Great Ardes. The Earl offers to give in marriage to the bachelors of them generally through the army, the daughters of his gentlemen and freeholders of Tirone, every one a wife of degree proportionable to the man that is to marry her. The sickness is very great amongst our Bretagnes, who truly are as sufficient men for action as ever came into Ireland, although in respect that they came unarmed at the first (generally without murrions, and not many of them armed with corselets), they had no good impression with the Lord Deputy and the State, but in truth they are found in proof very good, though they like so ill of the country that they run away as fast as they can by any means escape, and get shipping to pass. This the Lord Deputy and Sir John Norreys endeavour to prevent not only by proclamation, but also by hanging some for an example to the rest. Twenty sick in every band. Aut. pp. 2. Incloses,

7. I. A journal of the Northern journey from 18 June to 17 July. Tirone fires all the houses of his special gentlemen, his own town of Dungannon, and razes the castle to the ground. Loyal and valiant carriage of Patrick M'Art Moyle. M'Mahowne, Sheriff of Monaghan, in victualling the garrison of Monaghan. The traitor has preyed the Newry and Sir Hugh Magennis, of 1,500 cows and burnt the Marshal's mills. The Lord Deputy falls into an ambush. O'Hanlon, Her Majesty's standard bearer for Ulster, hurt. The Ulster war delivered over to Sir John Norreys. Oalendared more fully Carew, p. 113, No. 158. 1595. pp. 13¾.

August 3. Chester.

8. Geo. Beverley to Burghley. The Deputy's letter does not name the kinds of grain or victual to be sent from England for winter store. Proposes to take up wheat in England and Ireland. 2 pp. Incloses,

8. I. Declaration of the money defrayed by G. Beverley and of that remaining in his hands. pp. 2½.

8. II. Declaration of corn, victual, &c. laden in nine barks, with notes on such as are arrived in Ireland and where the others remain. 1595, August 2. pp. 2.

August 3. The Glinns.

9. Donald Gorme M'Donnell to the Lord Deputy. His father, the Lord of the Isles, was well entertained by Queen Mary in time of his banishment. Offers his service on the Deputy sending him his handwriting to satisfy him of his pay. He will go and remain in Scotland till he shall hear Deputy's answer. Copy. p 1.

August 4. Dublin Castle.

10. Lord Deputy to Burghley. Want of victuals and money to help Sir John Norreys. Wishes he could assist Sir Richard Bingham in person for his great desire and forwardness to prosecute the rebels and his hatred to their pride and treachery. Knows not how to help the weakness of the companies unless he have money and victuals. Need of Commissaries for the Musters. Incloses,

10. I. Mr. John Morgan to —. Her Majesty's ships have met with the Scots and sunk seven of their gallies. They came of purpose to the Earl, who was in Claneboy taking up cows for them. 1595, August 1. Copy. p. ¾.

10. II. Mar. Whitchurch to Marshal Bagenall. The priest O'Quiran has fallen sick by the way. Ferdaragh M'Ever. Victory gained by the Queen's ships over the Scots. 1595, August 1. Copy p. ¾.

10. III. Sir Daniel Quiran's declaration relative to the Scots whom he descried from the top of a hill. 1595, August 1, The Newry. Copy. p. 1.

10. IV. Sir Thomas Norreys to the Lord Deputy. Spanish news by Richard Stanton, merchant of Cork. 100 sail of the King's ships to be upon the coast of Ireland in a little while. 1595, July 27. Copy. p. ¾.

10. V. Lieutenant W. Martin to [Sir R. Bingham]. Donell O'Horan has returned from the villain Ulick Burke. Ulick Burke will attack the Boyle in two or three nights. O'Donnell, Magwire and Brian Oge will be at Sligo in nine days. Tirone has sworn to come himself or send all his shot. If the Earl of Clanricard will not join the rebels they will make Ulick Burke Earl. Eighteen of Captain Willis's soldiers are to desert to Tirone. Farrioughe M'Hugh and Shane O'Rourke, intend to attack Athlone or burn Ballinasloe. 1595, July 22, The Boyle. Copy. p. ¾.

August 4. Dublin Castle.

11. Lord Deputy to Sir Robt. Cecil. Sir John Norreys has resolved to set forward northwards with all the forces last there the 10th of this present. Aut. p. 1.

Aug. 5. Dublin.

12. Sir H. Wallop to Burghley. Has borrowed 1,350l. towards the payment of 14 days victualling money. Extreme misery of the poor soldiers. They are destitute of brogues, shirts, mantles, or any thing to defend them from the weather, and driven to go naked. Burghley to be a mean to Her Majesty for money and victual answerable to the necessity. Aut. p. 1. Incloses,

12. I. Docquet of 1,350l. borrowed of divers persons for impresting the army. 1595, Aug. p. 1.

12. II. Declaration of the issue of 18,543l. 1s. assigned for growing charges by Privy Seals dated 16 May 1594, 28 August 1594, and 28 Jan. 1594–5. 1595, May 16. pp. 2.

Aug. 6. Dublin.

13. Lord Deputy and Council to the Privy Council. Necessity of invading Ulster with two armies. Levy of 1,000 foot and 300 horse in the English Pale. Cork, Limerick, Waterford, and Tipperary contribute money. Cashing of weak bands. Strabane razed by the Earl, and poor old Tirlagh Lynogh driven to ensconce himself in some place near to it. The traitors of Connaught combined with the traitors of Ulster. Autog. pp. 5. Incloses,

13. I. Sir John Norreys' project to place 500 foot and 50 horse at Loughfoyle, with victuals for five months. Henry Norreys to have command of the same. 1595, Aug. 6. p. ¾.

Aug. 6. Dublin.

14. Lord Deputy and Council to Burghley. Touching victuals, money, accounts. Victuals to be sent to the Newry, Carlingford, and Dublin. Victualling houses. Grain purchaseable in Ireland. 1,350l. borrowed. Arrival of treasure, Aug. 5. Wallop will send the certificates for money mentioned in this letter. Autogs. pp. 4. Inclose,

14. I. Brief declaration of three barks of victuals sent from Chester, together with an apportionment for how many days they will victual the army. p. 1.

14. II. Declaration of ready money and proportion of victuals sent by Geo. Beverley to Robert Newcomen, from 1 Jan. 1594–5 to 12 Aug. 1595. 1595. p. 1¼.

14. III. Note of money sent into Ireland since Aug. 1594. 1595, Aug. 9. p. 1¾.

14. IV. Declaration of the monthly charges of the garrison signed by the muster master. 1595, Aug. 11. pp. 19¼.

14. V. Lord Deputy and Council to Geo. Beverley. To send the rates and charges of his several emptions. 1595, Aug. 9, Dublin. Copy. p. 1¼.

Aug. 6. Dublin.

15. Sir Geff. Fenton to Burghley. Fears Satan has put a vexing spirit into Connaught of purpose to cross the service of Ulster. Some temperate course to be holden with the fugitive Burkes. Till Connaught be reappeased there is little hope of an honourable end of the war in Ulster. It were more profitable to Her Majesty to recover and resettle Connaught than to reform Ulster. For as the action of Connaught would be easy and short and the end fruitful by a large revenue, so the war of Ulster cannot but be long, and yet by the effect thereof Her Majesty may stand doubtful to have either obedience or profit. 500 soldiers arrived from Chester, whereof 300 are sent into Connaught. p. 1¾.

Aug. 6. Athlone.

16. Sir R. Bingham to Burghley. Having perused the copy of a letter which I despatched to you at Dublin, I find it not so fully to carry the matter as I would have desired, and therefore I make bold to supply it by this my letter. The state of the question at Dublin was this, to know of me what force I would have to undertake the prosecution of the Ulster action by Connaught as Sir John Norreys by the Pale, to which I answered as followeth, that in regard the Province was much altered since the traiterous action committed at Sligo, it being evident that a great part of the Province was united with the Ulster rebels, and therefore generally not to be trusted by me, I was in reason to demand the greater force, for that I should be sure of the greatest part of three counties and divers septs out of the fourth (which is Roscommon) to be against me, which of necessity I must clear by fight before I entered, either carrying them before me into O'Donnell's country, or Maguire's, or the next parts of Ulster, and then when these rebels should be joined with them of Ulster they would be more stronger this way than the other way that Sir John Norreys goeth, for that the traitor, the Earl, would bend all his force against me when he should hear that I were the weaker. Now the forces, right honourable, that are here are so small as they will not furnish all their addresses; that as the Lord Deputy with 500 foot and 200 horse to lie upon the frontiers of the Pale, Sir John Norreys with 2,000 foot, 400 horse and 400 kern, besides divers companies laid in garrison that way as he entereth for his help likewise, and myself with 1,500 foot, 200 horse, and 100 kern, which was all that I demanded, the forces be unable to furnish all as I say, except the Lord Deputy should with his force go in with us by Connaught, or else remain himself in Dublin, and the forces assigned to his Lordship to go with me; this was the point that was long stood upon and debated at the Council board, and in the end resulted as followeth. That it was more fitter the Lord Deputy should have 1,000 foot and 400 horse than that small force, for that it was the hold of the whole kingdom if the Lords and English Pale should swerve from their duty, so then would there be no force lest for me to prosecute by Connaught, saving a few weak and broken bands to make a defensible war withal in which resteth small hope of gaining; but I could have been of another opinion drawn thereto by necessity, and so much I delivered which was that the Lord Deputy with his force, and the other assigned to me, should have gone in by Connaught, and so by his Lordship prosecuting one way and Sir John Norreys another way, to have made short of the action, as by God's help might have been by Michaelmas or anon after, or at the least have broken the heart of it, which under reformation I hold better than by this long and lingering course to hazard to more dangerous event than the distress of the English Pale which may be the descent of foreign aid to assist the rebels, as Spaniards or others, besides the great charges and other manifold inconveniences that lingering wars draw on, for civil and intestine wars ought to be sharp and short, the one to punish, and the other to resettle the country and commonweal again. But it might be objected who was the stay of the kingdom when both the Lord Deputy and Sir John Norreys were in the last journey, the charge of the whole being committed to the Lords of the Pale themselves, and in this necessity might not the like have been done now, or else most of the Lords and principal men carried along in the journey, some with the Lord Deputy and some with Sir John Norreys, and the defence of the Pale otherwise supplied for the time, for so should the prosecution go on roundly, or if the Lord Deputy might not go by Connaught his Lordship to stay at Dublin and myself to have had his forces, for I do not think any alteration will happen in the Pale so long as Her Majesty's sword stand up in strength, especially two forces being at once on foot to chastise the best of them, unless any foreign force should come to their aid. Thus much I have presumed to deliver to your Lordship in satisfaction of your Honour in this behalf, being newly returned thus far into the Province, where I find no alteration of things since my departure towards Dublin, only I am advertised from Ballymote that Maguire and Brian Oge's forces should be at Sligo, and O'Donnell about Ballyshannon, making head into the Province ward, but if all stand fast inwards, as I hope they will, especially if I be supplied with any reasonable force in time, I doubt how they dare to come on for all their rabble of beggars as well of their own as this Province itself. Yet have I been severally advertised that such a journey is intended. Although the Earl of Clanricarde is like enough to continue dutiful as in all outward appearance he showeth himself, yet the villainous fact of Sligo being committed by them so near unto him occasioneth the people generally to think that it was the Earl's own doing, so as upon the matter he is conceived to be out, and so bruited of him both in Ulster and Connaught, by which all the Irish in this part are to be held more doubtful. The Devil's Hook and some of those Burkes returned from Ulster, are now in Mayo in hope to settle there, being promised by means of Sligo Castle to be supplied still by O'Donnell, whereas none of them durst to have come there so long as Sligo had been Her Majesty's. Now it appeareth how profitable the having of it was to all the parts of this Province, as I trust it shall again ere long be: only Ballymote continueth warded still without any manner of charge to Her Majesty, which is all we have now in that county; and in Mayo we keep Beleeke, Castlebar, and Clonygashell, with great wards chargeable, and so the Boyle in the lower part of Roscommon, without any kind of allowance, as of late in a manner we did Sligo, the wars of Ulster had so wasted all the barony of Carbury and the livings of that house, and near the other places which we have now voided. Our frontier would be the county of Galway and the town of Roscommon, where as yet we keep hold within 12 miles of Sligo, that none of the traitors there abideth nearer than between Sligo house and Ballyshannon. If these few companies I have were in reasonable strength I would think, by God's favour, to do good service with them, but the two Irish companies be low and doubtful how to be trusted, especially Captain Street's be but half a company, the rest being in ward in Feagh M'Hugh's country, and of the other two English companies the one is almost converted wholly into Irishmen, and the other not much above half his number, and the other two companies which are coming towards me are no better as I am credibly informed, by which defects in these and the other companies, Her Majesty's service must needs be greatly hindered, for your Lordship may perceive the strength of Her Majesty's English forces is far otherwise than the same is thought to be. That of 3,000 men there is not 1,500 of the English birth but half fallen away through our own default, and instead thereof none at all, or else such doubtful Irish as when time shall serve will be as ready to fight against us as the rest, and work us much detriment, whereas the State in these treasonable times ought to be carried in all assurance against the wicked rebels in the judgment of man, always leaving the success to God. Aut. pp. 4.

Aug. 6. Chester.

17. Anthony Dering to Burghley. I am still bold in all humbleness to beseech at your hands some better allowance for these poor horses, which boldness I am assured your Lordship would pardon if you saw how fast they pine and fall away through want of provender; some of them will not be worth the transporting. They have been shipped even upon the very first breath of a likely wind and remained aboard two nights, whereby they are wonderfully impaired. The men so long as they had money bestowed it upon them now they want both for their horses and themselves, for their hosts where they are cessed do grudge to find them for 3d. the meal. The beholding and consideration of these wants much grieveth me, and I know not to whom to appeal for redress, but only to your good Lordship, whom yet once more I most humbly pray to consider of it, or else this troop of horses will be utterly spoiled and become unserviceable. The reasons I have showed to your Lordship heretofore in many lines, wherewith now I will not trouble you, but most humbly take my leave. p. 1.

Aug. 6. Chester.

18. F. Aldersey, Mayor, to Burghley. Has received 400l. from John Brown. The footmen, horsemen, and horses are still expecting wind, continuing great daily charge to Her Majesty. besides the danger of their running away. p. 1.

Aug. 6. Chester.

19. Mr. John Frauncis to Mr. Peter Proby at the Court. Has long since written to Sir G. Fenton of the receipt of the 20l., but the wind has been contrary for Ireland. Hol. p. 1. Incloses,

19. I. Jo. Walley to Mr. John Frauncis. Sir G. Fenton wishes to know if John Frauncis has received the 20l. due to Mr. Proby by Pratt. Dublin, Aug. 2.

Aug. 6.

20. Sir Ch. O'Carroulle to Sir Rob. Cecil. Extremity wherewith the Earl of Ormond prosecutes an ancient discontentment against him. His indictment without any notice. p. 1.

Aug. 8. Dublin Castle.

21. Lord Deputy to Burghley. Sir John Norreys intends to begin his journey Aug. 10. Deputy can be content to enter into the prosecution of the rebels by way of Connaught if the Lords of the Pale can defend the borders. pp. 2.

Aug. 9.

22. Memorial by Burghley for Ireland causes. pp. 2¼.

Aug. 11. At the Court at Greenwich.

23. Petition of Captain Thomas Lambyn to the Queen. Desires a lease in reversion of certain lands in Ireland for 40 years without fine. Referred to Sir Robert Cecil to write to the Lord Deputy to pass the same to petitioner for the term of 30 years. The said letter was written Aug. 16, and is printed in Morin, p. 407. No. 41.

Aug. 11. Chester.

24. Geo. Beverley to Burghley. The soldiers in Ireland will not be able to victual themselves with money. Has two barks lading of victual ready. The 1,000 foot and 100 horse embarked for Ireland. Capt. Dering put back by contrary winds. Wheat 34s. 4d. the London quarter. p. 1.

Aug. 12.

25. Sir Rob. Cecil to Sir John Norreys. Her Majesty would be content to see what were in the traitor's heart and what he would offer. So the Queen may have it appear that his proud heart is so come down as to offer to stand absolutely to Her Majesty's mercy, it will not be denied him. By the spring without fail Tirone will have foreign aid. The Queen desires not the blood of such a traitor whom she raised from the dust. Extract in Bacon's handwriting. Indorsed: Copy of a part of my master's letter to Sir John Norreys. pp. 2.

Aug. 12. Dublin Castle.

26. Lord Deputy to Burghley. Defers to answer divers letters till the next passage. Autog. p. ¾. Incloses,

26. I. Rowland Savage to Captain Izod. Worshipful good Captain. Whereas your worship desired me to send you all the news of the Scots. All the news that I can learn your worship shall know it; the whole army is as yet at Copland Islands, and the Queen's ships keep them in there. There was six gallies that was coming after them; the Queen's ship met the five gallies and sunk two of the gallies, and took two of them, and the other ran ashore and saved their men. The Earl of Tirone came not to Claneboie as yet. The soldiers of Knockfergus came to help the ships with all the barks and boats of the town, and what news we get I will certify your worship from time to time. No more unto your Worship at this time, but God have you in his keeping. From Strangford, this present Tuesday. Strangford, August 1. Autog. p. ¾.

26. II. Maguire to one that hath been employed to him. Accepts thankfully his message. Cannot agree that both pardon and patent should be detained from him till he may do service upon the chief of the North. Wishes that those who have too much power over him might receive some foil. He is not able to bear a sheriff or officers for a time. He will do nothing hurtful until he receives an answer. 1595, July 20, Enniskillen. Copy. p. 1¾.

Aug. 13. Dublin Castle.

27. Lord Deputy to Myles Sandes, Esq. His son has shown himself very forward and valiant in the late service. He is about to deal with Sir George Bourchier for his company being of the old garrison bands. p. 1.

Aug. 13. Drogheds.

28. Sir J. Norreys to Burghley. The bareness of the soldiers is such that they will not be able to endure the war either in field or garrison. The soldiers have victualling money after the rate of 4d. the day. In all the commissions given by the Lord Deputy for placing soldiers in towns, it is expressed they shall pay 6d. the day for their victuals. There is not one stone left upon another at Strabane, the Lifford, or the Derry. The Tanist of O'Donnell's country and O'Dogherty are willing to do Her Majesty good service. Holog. pp. 3¾. Incloses,

28. I. Schedule of the companies and provisions appointed for Ulster. pp. 3.

Aug. 13. Drogheda.

29. Sir J. Norrey's to Burghley, in favour of the bearer, Mr. Francis Shane. p. 1.

Aug. 13. Drogheda.

30. Sir J. Norreys to Sir Robt. Cecil. The matter of Capt. Cadell, of Galway, may put the Spaniards out of taste with trusting to the Irish. Norreys's horse company extolled. His cousin Doyley and his brother Thomas Norreys will solicit certain suits. pp. 2¾.

Aug. 13. Dublin.

31. Sir Henry Wallop to Sir Robert Cecil. I have hitherto forborne to write unto you, not as negligent, or forgetful of so honourable a friend, but for that no matter of special importance hath fallen out since my arrival, and because indeed by reason of my long absence, and the many changes and alterations since I left Ireland, I confess I find myself not altogether perfect, but somewhat to seek in the state of some things as at this present they do stand; so as now also I rather write to excuse my silence past, and to discharge my duty for the present, than that I mean to trouble your Honour with any tedious discourse, presuming assuredly that from my Lord Deputy and others here, you are largely and particularly advertised, as hereafter I shall likewise be bold to trouble you with the like, when by my longer continuance here and observation of things I shall grow riper and fitter for the same. In the meantime, as I see no reason to alter my first conceived opinion that this war would prove chargeable and dangerous and longer lasting than was expected, so I am very sorry that this summer is passed over in so much silence (as I may term it) that little is yet done to the furtherance of the service, and nothing at all to the daunting of the enemy's pride. The reason whereof I impute partly to the unseasonableness of the weather, the north of Ireland being more subject to moisture and tempest than all the parts of Ireland besides, to the general waste of the country wherein no relief is to be found for the army, but what they bring, the strength thereof, and defects of all kinds, and namely of bridges, but specially to lack of victual, which hath happened through contrariety of winds, and the decay and weakness of the army, through death, running away, and passport given by such captains as greediness of gain hath caused to hinder the service, and their own reputations, by selling leave to divers of their soldiers to depart, wherein I both wish punishment may be used, and that also this may serve for an example to show, that it is rather fit to send able and well chosen captains out of England, such as are of "haviour," and stand upon terms of credit, and are well known to the companies, they being, than to appoint the leaders here, who being strangers to the soldiers have the less care of them, and being poor and needy grow so greedy of their pain and gain, as in these regards they will rather wink at their running away, or give them leave by passport to depart. As little hath been done this summer, so do I doubt it will fall out the next, unless the army be so strong as able to invade the traitors' countries three several ways at once, and that fortifications be made and holds taken in places convenient, and that their bakehouses, brewhouses, storehouses, and such like necessaries be built, which though will be some ways chargeable, yet other ways will be great saving to Her Majesty, who by baking and brewing in England, here, and other places, and sending the same from place to place, as need requireth, is charge with great waste and loss, besides the hazard that contrary winds, and foul weather and danger of the rebels in land carriage may bring, even to the peril and loss of Her Majesty's soldiers and holds. That the prosecution may in this manner be followed, I beseech your Honour be a furtherer and withal a mean to my Lord your father, to solicit Her Majesty so as money may be sent in such large measure, as in some proportion may be able to answer the greatness of the charge (whereof I have sent an estimate to my Lord your father) that the poor soldier be not too much discouraged, nor the service hindered as many times it may be, when for lack of money there is not means to attempt or execute according to the present occasions offered. As in the beginning of my letter I promised to meddle with no discourse, so for my reason alleged I still fear to enter too far, only thus much for Feagh M'Hugh O'Byrne. It hath pleased Her most excellent Majesty, upon the means that hath been used for him, and such offers as he hath made, to grant him protection for four months, he performing what he hath offered, for which (as was required) he hath had 15 days' respite. By reason thereof he lyeth still unprosecuted, and yet hath done nothing since the coming of Her Majesty's said letters in performance of his said offers, though the said 15 days be expired, so as he not only enjoyeth rest for himself and his lewd crew, which was almost tired out, but hath increased his number, and hath means besides to make provisions against the winter, which will be a great help to him, if upon his not performance of conditions it shall be thought fit to follow him again, whereas if he had not been forborne I assure myself by this he had been overthrown or starved. I doubt not but as means hath been made for him already, so there are that will still deal on his behalf; but for my part, as one that have known him ever since I knew Ireland, to have lived in contempt to the State, not only a robber and spoiler of Her Majesty's good subjects about him, but a receiver and a harbourer of all thieves and murderers from every part of the realm, and the receiver and conveyer away of the prisoners and pledges that break out of the castle of Dublin, which hath specially bred this, Her Majesty's great charge, and country's spoil by war. I wish the overthrow and confusion of him, and his lewd sons and loose crew, who in my time of service here, because I once knew brought thus low, then pardoned, and so by time raised to the pride they lately were in, I now fear lest the like favour by such length of time may breed the like hereafter, a matter easily avoided, for his present state considered a small number will now soon root him out. Thus far I am bold to enlarge to your Honour, whom I think not fit to trouble further at this time; hereafter as occasion shall happen I shall be bold to write unto you, in the mean season and always I desire earnestly, and so will deserve to dwell in your good opinion and honourable favour, and thus do humbly end.

I know Sir Henry Harrington and others, the neighbours and near dwellers to Feagh M'Hugh, as they have earnestly laboured the pardoning of Feagh M'Hugh, and enlarging his wife, who remaineth condemned of treason in the Castle of Dublin, so they will still follow the same. For the pardoning of Feagh I have before written my opinion, and for enlarging of his wife I do specially wish the forbearance thereof, because whilst she is detained prisoner there is no better tie upon him to cause him refrain doing of mischief, until such time as it be resolved of or on how to deal with him; and for himself the late prosecution hath so spoiled and wasted his country as now he must needs be forced to break out, which if he do it will be more easy to light upon him than formerly it hath been. The country who have charged themselves with the service already and made party against his wife will fear to be forward hereafter in service if Feagh be not now prosecuted, who will take his times hereafter to be revenged on those that have now served against him. Autog. pp. 4.

Aug. 14. Dublin.

32. Sir Henry Wallop, Sir Rob. Gardener, Sir Anth. Sentleger, and Mr. Solicitor Roger Wilbraham, to Burghley. Their purpose of proceeding in execution of the two Commissions for passing lands to undertakers, and for the composition in Munster. Pray Burghley's further direction. Autogs. pp. 2.

Aug. 14. Dublin.

33. Sir H. Wallop to Burghley. Beverley's mutual consent to his bringing over the whole of the 7,000l. Three of the nine barks sent by Beverley have not yet arrived. Some of the six arrived escaped with much peril. p. 1½. Incloses,

33. I. Corn laden for Ireland in nine barks, converted into London weight and measure. pp. 2.

Aug. 14. Athlone.

34. Sir Ric. Bingham to Burghley. In favour of the College of Dublin to have lands of persons attainted in perpetuity till their book be full. The bearer, Mr. Chanlenor, fellow of their house, is a very godly person. Autog. p. 1.

Aug. 14. Dublin.

35. Sir Geff. Fenton to Burghley. Galway and Thomond stand firm. 2,000 rebels in Connaught. Captains Nowell, Pigott, and Parkins sent with 300 men sent to Sir Richard Bingham. Doubts other parts of the realm will break loose, seeing Ulster and Connaught have broken the ice. Fenton's inclination to a pacification. The monthly charge is far higher than is set down in the muster master's certificate. Lamentable poverty of the English Pale. Autog. pp. 2.

Aug. 14. Dublin.

36. Sir R. Napper and Sir Ant. Sentleger to Burghley. The lands of the late attainted persons, and such escheats as have grown by attainders of felony within 20 years, and lands of dissolved monasteries ought to be put in charge for Her Majesty. They have not any one acre of land, other than they rent near Dublin. pp. 2.

Aug. 15. Dublin.

37. Lord Chancellor to Burghley. Dutiful demeanour and forwardness of Sir Charles O'Carroll in Her Majesty's service. Troubles lately happened between him and some of the Earl of Ormond's tenants adjoining to him. Autog. p. 1.

Aug. 15. Dublin.

38. Sir H. Wallop to Burghley. State of the accounts. Sends duplicates of the issues of certain Privy Seals, lest he should seem to cross Burghley. No account yielded for Munster these two years past. Means to take the receipt of the rents in Munster into his own hands. 800l. remains in his hands. The army behind for half their pay. pp. 3¾. Incloses,

38. I. Declaration of the issue of a Privy Seal of 8,000l., dated 13 Jan., 1594–5.

[Mem.—There was a copy delivered to Burghley by Wallop, see Wallop's letter, July 21, 1595.] pp. 16.

38. II. Certificate of the issue of a Privy Seal of 7,000l., dated 20 May 1595. pp. 11.

38. III. Certificate of the issue of part of a Privy Seal of 5,028l., dated June 14, 1595. pp. 9.

38. IV. Certificate of money delivered to George Beverley for provision of victuals to be made at Chester. 1595, June 14. p. ½.

38. V. Certificate of the receipt and issue of the revenues in Ireland between the last of February and the 12 of Aug. last. pp. 19½.

Aug. 15. Chester.

39. Capt. Anthony Deringe to the Privy Council. The storm that drove them back August 8. Much ado to keep their horses' throats uncut. Open small vessels. 4d. per diem too little for his horses. p. 1. Incloses,

39. I. Privy Council to Capt. Anthony Deering, touching a proportion of provender for the horses under his charge at Chester. 1595, Aug. 5, Court at Greenwich. Copy. p. 1.

Aug. 15. Chester.

40. Geo. Beverley to Burghley. The Lord Deputy has taken no knowledge of his care, but writeth much by the incensement of others. Some of the barks of victuals and soldiers returned back to the coast by the scanting of the wind. Four barks have arrived in Ireland. pp. 2.

Aug. 15. Chester.

41. F. Aldersey to Burghley. Diet of the soldiers driven back. Desires a further sum of money out of the treasure remaining for Ireland. Burghley's letter to Sir Geff. Fenton entrusted to a substantial man. p. 1. Incloses,

41. I. Note of 1,510l. 11s. 0½d. disbursed for the soldiers sent to Ireland. p. 1.

Aug. 16. Dublin.

42. Lord Deputy and Council to the Privy Council. Sir Richard Bingham's return to Dublin. He doubteth many in Connaught will throw off their mask. Bingham has yet before his eyes the murder of his kinsman a gentleman of very good worth for valour and good direction in the wars. 50 horse newly erected in lieu of Capt. Harcourt's band. p. 1. Autogs. Inclose,

42. I. Estate of Connaught delivered by Sir Ric. Bingham. The rebels in Tyrawley, the Owles, Irris, Carro and Gallen number 700. M'Swiney ne Bane married the sister of Tibbot Bourk M'Water Kittaughe. The Castle of Innisbofin, which Wm. Fildew farmed, betrayed to the rebels. Foot company at the Boyle. Abbey of Tulsk newly repaired by Sir Ric. Bingham. The traitors fortify the castle of Sligo. State of the six companies containing 315 men sent to the supply of Connaught. 1595, Aug. 16. pp. 2¾.

Aug. 16. Dublin Castle.

43. Lord Deputy to Burghley. The custodian of the Temporalties of the Archbishopric of Tuam. Her Majesty's comfort at the razing of Dungannon and the traitor's desire to speak with Sir John Norreys. Wishes he might not receive blame for the failure of the service for want of victuals, as that hath otherwise too much grieved him. The Lords of the Pale have met and yielded to find 1,000 foot and 300 horse for one month. pp. 6¼. Incloses,

43. I. Capt. George Thorneton to Marshal Bagenall. Sent him a letter long since by Capt. Merriman. Anchored with the Poppinjay and the Charles at Oulderfleet. Learned of Moyses Hill that the Scots were landed at the Ardes. Anchored in the bay of Copland Isle. Parley with Steward, Secretary to Agnus M'Connel Gorme. Attacks the Scots gallies. Takes their pledges. Newcomen forbad the delivery of the butter to him which Bagenall had appointed. If he have not a supply he will be forced to return to Dublin. Copy. pp. 3¼. Incloses,

43. II. Agnus M'Connell and Donnel Gorme to Capt. G. Thornton and Capt. Rigges. Offer two pledges to be put in the Governor of Claneboy's hands till they shall have returned to Scotland. Their desire to send a messenger to the Lord Deputy to offer their service against Her Majesty's enemies. 1595, July 28. Copy. p. 1.

43. III. Same to same. Sending as pledges the heir of Agnus M'Connell's father's brother and a gentleman of Donnel Gorme's. 1595, July 28. Copy. p. ¾.

43. IV. Agnus M'Connell of Dunaveg, and Donnell Gorme of Sleatt to Capt. Thorneton, Capt. Riggs and Capt. Bethell. They desire to pass over to the other shore and send to speak with the Governor. 1595, July 30. Copy. p. 1.

[Aug. 16.]

44. Examination of Sir Fargus Cavell and Sir Patrick O'Beren, priests, touching the Scots who are upon the Copeland Islands to the number of 3,000. Captain Thornton hath sunk three of the Randles' ships with all the men and taken two others. The Earl of Tirone cannot have conference with the Scots in regard of Her Majesty's ships. p. 1.

Aug. 16. Dublin Castle.

45. Lord Deputy to Sir Rob. Cecil. Bewails the taste of bitterness in Her Majesty's letters of 25 July. The darkness of Maguire's offer. Deputy leaves the war to Norreys. Desires a letter of comfort from Her Majesty for that his hazard and pains have been greater than any of his predecessors. Holog. Seal, with arms. p. 1½.

Rec. Aug. 16.

46. Suit of Neile M'Hugh M'Phelim O'Neill coming in on the Proclamation. 500 foot and 50 horse would enable him to reduce both the Claneboys. He hopes to draw Arte M'Baron to serve Her Majesty. Desires the country and pension of Shane M'Brian O'Neill. p. 1.

Rec. Aug. 16.

47. Humble suit of Neile M'Hugh M'Phelim O'Neill of the North Claneboy, with offers of service to Her Majesty. The day that his father and brethren were slain by Alexander M'Surley, the Scot, the petitioner saved Captain Eaton's colours, and brought them away from the enemy. Copy. p. 1¾.

Aug. 17. Dublin.

48. Sir R. Bingham to Burghley. Hoped to have had force sufficient to take Sligo and Ballyshannon. The Lord Deputy seemed willing to go through Connaught, but the Council have not assented thereunto. The Lord Deputy's journey to the borders of the Pale interferes with the Connaught service. Autog. p. 1. Incloses,

48. I. Estate of Connaught delivered by Sir Ric. Bingham. 2,320 rebels in Connaught. With a postscript that O'Donnell with 700 Scots intends to distress Ballymote and the rest of the holds. Calendared above pp. 369, No. 42. I. pp. 2¾. pp. 3.

Aug. 18. Dublin.

49. Lord Deputy and Council to Burghley. Recommend the suit for maintenance to be given to the New College. Chalenor has been a careful and painful instrument for the building of it. Autogs. p. 1.

Aug. 18. Dublin.

50. Sir Geff. Fenton to Burghley. By Mr. Chalenor in favour of the suit of the College. Autog. p. 1.

[Aug. 18.]

51. Mr. Walter Travers, Provost of Trinity College, Dublin, to Burghley. Mission of two fellows to supplicate Her Majesty for 100l. of attainted or concealed land in fee farm. Intreats Burghley's favourable furtherance of the suit. Received Sept. 4. Autog. p. 1½.

Aug. 18. Dundalk.

52. Capt. John Price to Burghley. Run away soldiers. The rebels attempted to burn the Newry. The King of Spain has sent to Tirone great store of gold and treasure. Would place three armies, one in Claneboy, the second in the heart of Tirone, and the last to go through Connaught. Holog. pp. 2.

[Aug. 20.] Court at Greenwich.

53. Privy Council to the Lord Deputy and Council. Touching the indictment of Sir Charles O'Carrol for the murder of Cantwell and others. Seriously recommend the same to be with all equity considered, because the gentleman is in question for his life. Signed by Burghley, Buckhurst, and Sir R. Cecil. pp. 2. Inclose,

53. I. Sir Charles [O']Carroulle to Sir Robt. Cecil. Prays that his country of Ely O'Carroull may be reduced to shire ground, or else annexed to the King's or Queen's counties. The causes why Sir Charles O'Carrol could not serve in person in the present expedition of the Lord Deputy in Ulster. 1595, July 16, London. Autog. pp. 2.

[It is possible that the above letter was never despatched, nor yet its enclosure, but a letter from the Queen to the Lord Deputy Russell to the same effect is inrolled on the Patent Rolls in Ireland, and given in Morris, p. 405, No. 40, and Carew, p. 121, No. 166.]

Aug. 20. Dublin.

54. Lord Chancellor, Archbishop, to Burghley. Recommends the suit of the new college of Dublin. Autog. Seal, with arms. p. 1.

Aug. 20. Dublin.

55. Sir Richard Bingham to Burghley. O'Donnell hath thrown Scots and Irish into Connaught to trouble us, and win Galway and Clare. Much practice to procure the Earl of Clanricarde to join with them. Importance of Sligo house. Ballymote never appertained to O'Connor Sligo. Autog. Seal, with arms. pp. 3.

Aug. 24.

56. Computation of the money sent at sundry times since the 13 Jan. 1594–5. pp. 4¾.

Aug. 25. Camp by the Newry.

57. Sir J. Norreys to Burghley. Rumours spread that the rebels did offer to submit upon any conditions, which was denied them. Fear of Her Majesty's purpose to a conquest and prosecute the ruin of all the Irish. Proffers of submission to the garrison of Armagh. Capt. Sentleger and Capt. Francis Stafford sent to hear what this rebel would offer. Tirone's petition for O'Donnell showeth the venom of his rebellion. Money that the poor soldier may be clothed. A vice-treasurer to be appointed at the Newry, or those who have most need will be last served. Holog. Seal, with arms. pp. 2¾. Incloses,

57. I. Tirone to the President of Munster. Beseeches that Her Majesty's most gracious pardon and favour may be extended to him and the inhabitants of Tirone. 1595, Aug. 22. Copy. p. ¾.

57. II. Declaration of the numbers of horse, foot, kerne, and pioneers at present employed in the province of Ulster, and the monthly charge containing 31 days, under the hand of Sir Ralph Lane. 24 Aug. pp. 5½.

Aug. 25. Dublin.

58. Mr. Francis Shaen to Burghley. Against the proceedings of Edmond Barret, Patk. Foxe, and others to procure a reversion of his living. Holog. pp. 2¼.

Aug. 25. [London.]

59. Sir Charles O'Carroulle to Sir R. Cecil. Sends letters for Lord Burghley which he has not time to deliver. Leaves his affairs with his counsel, Mr. Stafforton, of Gray's Inn. Autog. p. 1.

Aug. 10 and 25.

60. General memorial by Burghley of sundry matters to be considered for Ireland. pp. 3.

Aug. 25.

61. A computation of the increase of the numbers and charge of the army since February. pp. 4.

Aug. 26. The Camp by the Newry.

62. Sir J. Norreys to Sir R. Cecil. Thinks Tirone meaneth but to win time. All the country doth extremely desire a cessation of arms. The rebels bury their oats as soon as they cut them. There must be better order for the relief of the soldier. His brother to be placed in Loughfoyle. Holog. Seal with arms. p. 1½.

Aug. 26. Dublin.

63. Sir Geff. Fenton to Burghley. The running away of soldiers should be put a stop to. Poverty of the English Pale. The rebellions in Connaught and Ulster. Tirone has his powder from Glasgow. pp. 2. Incloses,

63. I. Copy of the cipher which Burghley sent to him with an addition of names omitted. p. 1.

[Aug. 26.]

64. Cipher for Ireland. [See also July 12, p. 340, No. 25.]

Aug. 26. Camp at Kilmonaghan, within four miles of the Newry.

65. Sir Rafe Lane to Burghley. Fortification of Armagh. Want of garrons. Prey of 2,500 creights brought in from the rebels. Sundry letters of Tirone rejected. Con M'anEarl and Art Bradagh O'Hagan received as pledges from the Earl during a parley. Capt. William Warren taken prisoner and his convoy of 40 horse slain in a pass. His suit for charge of a garrison. pp. 3.

Aug. 26. Chester.

66. Geo. Beverley to Burghley. There is not the fourth part of the wheat wanted to be had at Chester. West season. A bark laden for Carlingford. Two additional barks. The North of England and the Isle of Man to be preferred for victualling. A brewhouse and ovens. pp. 2. Incloses,

66. I. Lord Deputy and Council to Geo. Beverley. Touching the rates and charges of his several emptions. 1595, Aug. 9, Dublin Castle. Copy. p. 1.

Aug. 26. Chester.

67. Geo. Beverley to Sir Rob. Cecil. All the nine barks which tarried so long for wind are now safely arrived in Ireland. p. 1¾.

Aug. 26. Chester.

68. F. Aldersey, Mayor, to Burghley. Allowance of 6d. a man and 4d. a horse per diem. 400l. received of Crosse. Soldiers waiting wind. Two of the runaway horsemen apprehended at Durham. p. 1.

Aug. 26. Chester.

69. Capt. Antho. Deringe to the Privy Council. That Henry Evans and Roger Gittoes being committed for hurting one Browne of Chester may be bailed by their Lordships' order. p. 1.

Aug. 26. Chester.

70. Captain Anthony Deringe to Burghley. That Cross may have warrant to imprest him some money. p. 1.

Aug. 27. The Camp by the Newry.

71. Sir J. Norreys to Burghley. Want of garrons for victualling Armagh. The prey taken stolen away again. Manner of Capt. Warren's capture by the rebels. Rumour of Spaniards sent into Scotland. pp. 2½.

Aug. 27. Camp by the Newry.

72. Project of Sir J. Norreys for carrying on the war for a certain sum of money. Norreys to have the nomination of all persons that shall be employed in the service. pp. 2.

Aug. 27. The Newry.

73. Muster of horsemen, kern, and pioneers. pp. 3.

Aug. 27.

74. Memorandum of 66,891l. sent to Ireland in 1594 and 1595. p. 1.

Aug. 28.

75. Sir Rafe Lane to Burghley. Continual falling sick of the new supplies. Complains of Her Majesty's thrift. Want of Commissaries. Holog. p. 1.

Aug. 31. Dublin.

76. Lord Deputy and Council to Burghley. By Mollineux the victualler's man for victualling matters. Salted beef and herrings. If the garrison shall exceed 2,000 men the proportion of victuals must be increased. pp. 2. Inclose,

76. I. Proportion for victualling 2,000 men for six months. p. 1.

Aug. 31. Dublin.

77. Lord Deputy to Burghley. Thomas Fleming's proferred service. Russell's course to induce Irish rebels to cut off some principal traitor before he would show them any favour. Tirone has good intelligence both from Dublin and the Court. The purpose to place Capt. William Warren as commander over the forces at Knockfergus. Feagh M'Hugh's demand for 30 days respect. Treasure safely arrived. Holog. pp. 4. Incloses,

77. I. Sir J. Norreys to [the Lord Deputy.] Captain Warren appointed to take charge of Carrickfergus. M'Quillin's faction will do service. Refers the success of the journey to the relation of Capt. Russell. It were necessary the whole Council should be consulted on Tirone's offers. 1595, Aug. 25, The Camp [by the Newry]. pp. 2. Incloses,

77. II. Tirone to Sir John Norreys. I confess unto your Lordship that I have offended Her Majesty, and I am heartily sorry for it. I humbly beseech Her Highness' most gracious pardon and favour to be extended towards me, and all the inhabitants of Tyrone, for which I will give such assurance for the continuation of my loyalty, as shall be thought meet upon further conference. And withal I humbly crave Her Majesty's gracious pardon unto all those that have adhered themselves unto me in this action, they also yielding the like security for their loyalty. For that, since the time I was proclaimed there hath passed an oath between us to hold one course. Thus humbly submitting myself to Her Majesty's most gracious favour, desiring also your furtherance herein I commit you to God. 1595, August 22. Copy. p. ¾.

Aug. 31. Dublin.

78. Sir Geff. Fenton to Burghley. Vindicates himself from a charge of neglect. The cause of delay in answering certain letters. Reasons of his writing to Mr. Vice Chamberlain and Lord Buckhurst. pp. 2.

Aug. 31. Dublin.

79. Robert Newcomen, Victualler of Ireland, to Burghley. Will advertise what defalcations for victuals are due after the return of his ministers. p. ¾.