Elizabeth I: volume 186, January 1596

January 1596

Vol. CLXXXVI. 1596. January—February.

Jan. 1. Chester.

1. George Beverley to Burghley. Sends 300l. towards Milford by John Perrie. Victual ready laden for Carlingford. Autog. p. 1.

Jan. [1]. Chester.

2. Geo. Beverley to Burghley. Finds the richer sort of farmers not willing to thresh out their wheat, expecting greater prices. The treasure for Ireland remains stilt at Neston for wind. [This is a kind of postscript without date to Beverley's letter of the 1st January.] p. 1.

Jan. 2.

3. William Becher and G. Leycester to Burghley. For allowance of their demands for victualling Sir John Norreys's Bretagne troops lately sent to the service in Ireland. Autog. p. 3/4.

Jan. 3. Dublin Castle.

4. Lord Deputy to Burghley. Fears an attempt of O'Donnell to disturb Connaught. It is very doubtful whether Tirone will come to us or no. Great want of money. Five companies sent into Connaught. It is certain that the Countess of Tirone (Marshal Bagenall's sister) is dead. Autog. p. 1. Incloses,

4. I. Mayor of Waterford to the Lord [Deputy]. Spanish advertisements. A patasho said to be driven back from the coast of Ireland. Large fleet. Some sent in pursuit of Sir Francis Drake. Tirone has written for Spaniards. Thaddeus, Bishop of Clonfert, is his agent. Report that 70,000 Turks had been slain by the Prince of Transylvania. 1595, Dec. 26. Waterford. Copy. p. 3/4.

4. II. Sir R. Bingham to the Lord Deputy. Danger of the wards in Sligo, Colmonie, Ballymote, Castlebarr, Clonigashall, the Boile and Tulske, which are like to be lost for want of relief. The rebels have taken a castle in the Reillies' country called Cloncurrie, and another called Barrindearge. O'Donnell has appointed all men to meet him at the Bridge of Assadara [Ashrow], with 15 days victuals. Dowaltagh O'Conor's sons threaten to burn this town by water. 1595, Dec. 25. Athlone. Copy. p. 1¼.

Jan. 3.

5. Memorial by Burghley. Observations on the letters of 26th December. Account of treasure. All victual to be sent from England. The whole realm is ready to rebel, if the wars in Ulster continue. More soldiers to be sent and better captains chosen. p. 3/4.

Jan. 7.

6. Queen Elizabeth to the Lord Deputy and Council. Reproof for loss of Monaghan. Censures their personal jealousies. Will make it appear, by the smart of whomsover she shall find culpable, how sensible she is of any distraction that may prejudice Her service. The treasure to pay the soldier, and not to be spent in concordatums, rewards, and other wastes. Draft. pp. 5.

Jan. 8.

7. Queen Elizabeth to the Lord Deputy, Sir John Norreys, Sir Henry Wallop, and Sir Geff. Fenton. Private letter. Her general letter of January 7. Wonders at the delay of the rebels in embracing Her pardon. Permits them to dispense free pardon to Tirone, O'Donnell, and all the rest named in their letters. Good and honourable conditions. Fair draft. Cal., Carew, p. 131 No. 181. pp. 2¼.

Jan. 8.

8. Rough draft of the above. pp. 3¼.

Jan. 8.

9. Note of 83,608l. sent into Ireland and paid for Irish causes at several times since 25th September 1593. p. 1.

Jan. 9. Dublin.

10. Sir Geff. Fenton to Burghley, Confined to the house for eight days by cold. Danger of losing Connaught through the rebellion of the O'Kellies. O'Donnel has made a M'William, an O'Dowde and a M'Dermode of such as were of his own faction, being persons base and far off from that dignity. Fenton fearing Spanish invasion wishes to stay all the domestical rebels by a present large pardon from Her Majesty. Autog. pp. 2.

Jan. 10. Dublin.

11. Sir H. Wallop and Sir Ro. Gardener to Burghley. Will set forward on their journey on Monday January 12th. Complaints against the general commissions to find concealed, attainted, or detained lands, being granted to base persons. The undertakers of Munster grieved. The case of Francis Shane. Boyle the Deputy Escheator, Capstock. When the ancestor of a ward is slain in Her Majesty's service, the wardship is not granted to the benefit of his widow. Autog. pp. 4. Inclose,

11. I. Note delivered by Patrick Crosbie to Sir Henry Wallop and Sir Robert Gardener, detailing the proceedings that had taken place between him and his fellows, Francis Capstock, Morice Stacke, Nic. Kenney, James Hussy, Sir Geffery Fenton, Patrick Grant, Henry Shea, William Dougan, and Anthony Harpeny in obtaining concealed lands of great value (about 200 plough lands), at very low rates, to the impoverishing of Her Majesty's Exchequer, and the injury of the ancient possessors. p. 1.

Jan. 11. Dublin Castle.

12. Lord Deputy to Burghley. Mr. Treasurer Wallop and the Chief Justice of Her Majesty's Bench will be sent to Dundalk on the 14th to see what Tirone and O'Donnell will yield unto. Daily advertisements from Spain strengthen them in their rebellion. Countess of Tirone's death. Connaught in much danger. The whole province up to the Castle of Athlone is burnt by the rebels. Autog. pp. 2¾. Incloses,

12. I. Earl of Clanricard to the Lord [Deputy]. My very good Lord. May it please your Lordship to be advertised that since my last letters sent unto your Lordship, divers spoils and outrages have been committed by Hugh O'Kelly's sons, some of the murderers at Sligo, with divers others of their confederates now in action and upon the peace, to the great hindrance of the inhabitants and subjects in the Province, and have thereby broken the peace, and likewise do threaten to come with a far greater force into this country, to the no little fear of the country, for that we are not able of ourselves to defend us, neither have we any other force to aid us, insomuch as I doubt, my good Lord, we shall be overrun here ere your Lordship be advertised of this. These burnings and spoils were committed upon the next day after St. Stephen's day, whereupon some report of it came that day unto me after they were gone, but I could not as then write any certainty to your Lordship until this morning, some of the chief of the Kellies country came unto me, as Ric Boy O'Kellie, one of the best in that country, and Dermond O'Daily, another gentleman of the same country, who have set down the effect of all as is here underwritten, and withall have made me acquainted with the great danger they stand in of their lives and goods trusting to a peace which is not kept, but I could not otherwise answer them but advise them to stand as much as they could upon their keeping, until such time as I heard further from your Lordship, and therefore do beseech your good Lordship to take such order as in such a case is necessary, all which I leave to your honourable consideration. Loughrea 28 Dec. 1595. Copy. p. 1.

12. II. Capt. A. Brabazon to Russell. Since your departure hence O'Donnell hath made Tibbot Fitz Walter Kittagh Burke M'William, and hath apprehended the Devil's Hook, John Bourke M'Richard Itermyn a pledge from Edmund Burke of Conge, and another of Davie Enrie Burke, uncle to Tibbot, that now is made M'William the youngest of the Burkes of any account; he hath likewise taken two pledges from the galloglasses, fearing they would have withstood those whom he hath placed. All those that were rebels of this Province do now in this time of peace for greater spoils than they did in time of war, and do come under colour of peace, where they durst not come before, and take great spoils. Nothing is done against them, but are suffered to use their own pleasures. There are some of the Kellies entered into rebellion since your being here, and have burned all Mr. Francis Shane's towns and corn, and have taken three preys with them; this was done the 27th of this instant month December, and they are yet in the country and may stay as long as it shall please themselves for any head I see is like to be made against them, those which murdered Captain Bingham are in company with those which burned and spoiled Mr. Shane, and have with them of shot and Scots two hundred. More of the Kellies will join with them shortly, and so we shall be all spoiled, if you do not presently take some good order for us, either in causing the Governor to prosecute them, and thoroughly to maintain him with forces, or by some other means, as shall seem best to you, but no way I assure you without good force; they are grown marvellous proud and will never come to that good stay they were at, unless a number of them be cut off, or some other way the country rid of them. I moved your Honour for Tibbott Ne Longe, who I am assured if he be countenanced by your Honour and enabled will do far better service than any that will be placed there, and especially now that O'Donnell hath made this man M'William, whose ancestors have been ever enemies to Tibbot ne Longe's ancestors. 1595, Dec. 29. Ballinasloe. Copy. p. 1¼.

12. III. Sir Richard Bingham to [the Lord Deputy]. The Mayor of Galway reports news from Spain of preparations for invading Her Majesty's dominions. Desires a strong garrison may be placed in Galway. 1595–6, Jan. 2. Copy. p. 1¼.

12. IV. Martin Linch, Mayor, to the [Lord Deputy or Sir Ric. Bingham]. Preparation of a great army at Lisbon. Pray that Galway may be strengthened with good garrison, munition, and provision of victuals. Great spoil by the rebels. 1595, Dec. 29, Galway. Copy. pp. 2.

12. V. Sir R. Bingham to the Lord Deputy. May it please your honour; this instant Saturday morning Ulick Burke, with many of the Kellies accompanied with a great number of the rebels of this Province, came an hour before the break of the day to this town of Athlone, this side the bridge, and furiously assaulted the stable, and attempted the burning of it, as well round about the same, as on the north side the Castle, but we answering the alarum beat them from it, so as they burned but a few outhouses of that side. We saved the stable, Edmund O'Fullones, and the Tamores' houses, and all the houses near the garden from burning, with great difficulty; and upon their repulse divers of them were slain and hurt, whereof one was a principal gent of Moilurge, and they killed two or three of our men; they threaten to come hither this night and burn the town of both sides, and we will provide for them, the best we can God willing; but your Lordship doth know what slender forces we have to resist them; and now that the rebels have got all the cows, and wealth of this country into their hands, and either burned or wasted the corn, we are like to be hardly distressed for provision, which we had heretofore for our money out of the country; and much more, shall these wards, that are beneath the Curlews, and at the Boyle, and in other places in the counties of Roscommon and Mayo be like to sustain great and extreme misery, and myself having bought certain beeves a day or two before, for my ready money, they were taken away from me this morning by the rebels in such sort as I know not how to provide meat and drink for the ward of this house, or mine own household and specially beef, but shall be driven to fetch corn as far as Dublin, and beeves in some other place. It is told me, your Lordship intendeth to send hither some soldiers, if you do so, I pray God they may be good soldiers, and such as we dare trust, wherein it shall be most requisite also that victuals be provided for them. I assure your honour by reason of these great spoils, and waste made by the rebels, they shall hardly get anything here, but what they bring or what is provided for them elsewhere; for this Province, being as it is well known an Irish country, may sometime be inhabited to day, and the next day spoiled and made waste; and therefore preparation must be made accordingly, if it be meant as I have written many times, that this country be kept for Her Majesty it is most requisite that a victualler be sent hither, and a staple of victuals be kept here for the soldiers as in other places hath been. I have at this very instant received advertisement that those who were brought to your Lordship at Galway by Mr. Malbie, namely, Hugh M'Tirlagh Roe and O'Houley being then under law are now gone out into rebellion, and O'Connor Roe's son in like manner, to whom by the mediation of Mr. Malbie you also granted peace the same time, under your Lordship's correction, I said it would be so when you were here, also four or five of Mr. Malbie's own horsemen are gone out and were at the taking away of Mr. Justice Dillon's cows, and five or six hundred more out of the Muntsland, near this house, in company with the rest this morning, although six or seven thousand cows were passed over this bridge the evening before. 3rd Jan. 1595–6, Athlone. Copy. pp. 2¼.

12. VI. Hugh O'Donnell to the L. Deputy and Council. My very good Lords, I received your letters concerning Her Majesty's most gracious clemency, and princely care, in recalling us from such actions, as have hitherto been cause of her indignation against us, which thing is so much the more grateful by how much it was unlooked for: but as touching my repair upwards, by reason that I was not at home, at such time as Her Majesty's pursuivant came into this country; I am humbly to crave you not to impute it unto me as a fault, if I cannot come at the appointed time, which I do not omit for any slackness, to find such Her Majesty's favour, but for want of time to make ready for such a journey, and if it may please or seem good to your Lordships to defer the day until the 15 of January, which is the same day sennight, I will not fail to attend you in the borders of the Fues. 2nd January, 1595–6, Liphe. Copy. p. 1.

12. VII. Earl of Tirone to the Lord Deputy and Council. My very good Lords. You should have found me most ready, to have answered your direction touching the time of meeting, if the matter had been only depending upon myself; but forasmuch as it was requisite, that O'Donnell should also be present and I could not hear from him before this present day, therefore finding the appointed day of meeting, to approach so near, as we cannot anyways despatch that journey so shortly, I thought good to request you to defer the time unto the same day sennight, being the 15 of January, and then both I and O'Donnell will not fail to wait upon your Lordship upon the borders, expecting what gracious course our noble Prince hath set down for admitting us again to Her wonted favour. Jan. 4, 1595–6, Dungannon. Copy. p. 1.

Jan. 12. Dublin.

13. Sir G. Fenton to Lord Burghley. It may please your Lordship. This bearer Mr. Weston, having in the beginning of the year, at the motion of the States, made a voyage to Danzig in person, with his own ship, and at his own adventure, brought from thence a lading of "Dansk rie," which gave great relief both to the country here and to the army, having in effect no other means of succour but such as came out of England, he hath now again with the privity of the State, and at their desire, sent out 2 ships to Newfoundland for fish and other provisions, the better to furnish the army and country in this hard year, and apparent towardness of scarcity of all victuals. And those ships being to touch at Poole or some other part in the west of England, he feareth they may be staid by some general restraint of shipping, and therefore he humbly desireth your Lordship's honourable favour, that his ships may be free from restraint, the rather for that they are employed for provision for this realm, a matter which except by himself, is neither offered nor performed by any merchant or other in this realm; besides, he hath at sundry times, lent his money for Her Majesty's service, voluntarily, and without gain, and of late seeing the great want of money here, when others were backward he came of himself to me and made offer of 300l. sterling to answer the necessity of the service, saying that rather than Her Majesty's affairs should go to the ground for want of money, in this needful time, he would strain himself and stock to the uttermost. He hath now brought letters to your Lordship for repayment of his money lent, having occasion to employ it, to whom it may please your Lordship to show favour, both for speedy payment of his money, and freeing of his ships from restraint, he being a person well deserving to be encouraged and countenanced. This Weston hath a brother with the Earl of Tyrone, and of good reckoning with the Earl, of whom I have in sundry my former letters, made mention to your Lordship, of the good intelligences he gave to the State since the Earl's revolt, a matter wrought chiefly by this gent; and not known to any other than the Lord Deputy and myself, besides it was by his means that the Earl's letters written for Spain in the kalends of October last, were intercepted at Drogheda, together with the priest that was the messenger, which priest hath lately broken his neck in the castle of Dublin, making trial to escape, and the letters were sent to your Lordship by the Lord Deputy, as he told me, about Michaelmas last, such offices as this done in Her Majesty's service, and with so manifest hazard of life, I have not known in any of this country birth, and therefore am the bolder to recommend this man to your Lordship's wonted honourable countenance and favour. Aut. p. 1¼.

Jan. 13. Neston beyond Chester.

14. Richard Crosse, Sir H. Wallop's man, to Burghley. The packets for Ireland have been detained more than a month for wind. Aut. p. 3/4.

Jan. 14. Dublin.

15. Council of Ireland to Burghley. Have determined an account of Robert Newcomen for four years ended September 30th, 1592. Auditor Conyers to restrain a certain entertainment from George Beverley and to charge him in super 2,000l. Autogs. p. 1.

Jan. 20.

16. State of Connaught. p. 1¼.

Jan. 20.

17. State of Connaught. p. 1½.

Jan. 21. Athlone.

18. Sir R. Bingham to Burghley. Thanks for not suffering him to be condemned unheard. The Lord Deputy has not supplied him with force sufficient to keep the field against the rebels 10 days together. Causes of the rebellion of Connaught. Thomond and part of Clanricard still obedient. O'Donnell sends many loose men of Ulster with some Redshanks to the Connaught rebels. Prays for payment of his arrears out of Her Majesty's treasure. Cotton had been remitted two former mutinies before he was executed. Desires license to repair to England. Autog. pp. 3. Incloses,

18. I. The state of the province of Connaught. Force of the rebels 3,640 foot and 392 horse. Her Majesty's force 471 foot, horse 86. 1595–6, Jan. 20. p. 1¼.

Jan. 21. Dublin.

19. Sir Geff. Fenton to Burghley. Universal expectation in all parts of the realm awaiting what will be concluded with the North. Connaught is revolted even to the gates of Athlone. Roscommon burned. Ballynasloe is distressed. Sir Richard Bingham is sending his wife and children to England. Autog. p. 1½.

Jan. 25. Dublin.

20. Warrant by the Lord General Sir John Norreys to the Sheriff of Dublin, touching the placing of certain horses upon the country. Sends 50 soldiers and their leader to assist the undersheriff in the execution of the commission. [See Feb. 12 below, where this is mentioned.] Copy. p. 3/4.

Feb. 4. Madrid.

21. Philip, K. of Spain, to Brian O'Rourke, of Leitrim. To the noble and greatly beloved O'Rourke, Philip by the grace of God King of Castile, Leon, Aragon, both Sicilies, Jerusalem, Portugal, Navar, and the Indies, &c. Noble and greatly beloved, seeing it is so notable a work to fight for the Catholic Faith, when as the enemies thereof endeavour so mightily to tread the same under foot, I may not doubt, but that you who hitherto (as we hear) in the defence of God's cause, have so well laboured, will now with might and main give yourself to the same course; for mine own part I would be a director unto you, that you prosecute the same hereafter, lest the obdurate enemies of true religion, damnify it at all, but rather they be repulsed. The which if you perform, you shall do me a most grateful work, and always find the same favour, wherewith I accustom to grace the true defenders of the Catholic Religion. Copy. p. 1/2.

There are several other dates belonging to this paper, which was formerly in the manuscript collection made by Dr. Meredith Hanmer, the historian, now placed at the end of Queen Elizabeth.

Jan. 26. Dublin Castle.

22. Lord Deputy to the Privy Council. Their letters of 29th October touching preparations made in Spain. The purpose of the rebels to win time for the Spaniards' arrival. They have made a M'William in Mayo, an O'Kelly, and an O'Rourke in Longford. 3,000 foot to be levied in England and put in readiness to embark. Autog. pp. 3½. Incloses,

22. I. Thomas Waddyng, Mayor, to [qy. the Lord Deputy]. The examinations of Teig O'Hogan, son to Ogan O'Hogan, of Ardcrony in Ormond, and of a base son of the Earl of Ormond, who have arrived as passengers from Spain. 1595–6, Jan. 19. Waterford. Copy. p. 1.

22. II. Examination of Teige O'Hogan, born in Tipperary, before the Earl of Ormond. Joy of the Bishop of Coimbra at the overthrow given by Tirone to Her Majesty's forces. 40,000 men in readiness at Lisbon. Teig O'Ferral, pretended Bishop of Clonfert is Tirone's agent in Spain. The eldest of Baltinglas's sons died lately, the other is a priest in Rome. 1595–6, Jan. 18. pp. 3.

22. III. Examination of Philip Roche, of Kinsale. He saw the Bishop of Killaloe at Lisbon. 40 ships prepared to transport forces for England next spring. General Sabior was to take charge of the squadron of Biscay. 1595–6, Jan. 25. Copy. p. 1½.

22. IV. Report of [Garret] a merchant of Dublin, touching such occurrences as he learnt at Lisbon. 17 ships under the command of one Sebeau, appointed to convey the Bishop of Killalowe, and one Cahil O'Conor, of the King's County, whom they call Don Carolo, thinking that he is Lord of Offaly, with 12,000 Spaniards to Ireland, by way of St. George's Channel, to Lambay. Bernardino de Mendoza appointed to make after Sir F. Drake, who had passed by with a fleet to the Indies. 1595–6, Jan. 20. Copy. pp. 2¾.

22. V. Instructions delivered to Sir Henry Wallop and Sir Robert Gardener, on their going to parley with the Earl of Tirone and O'Donnell. To understand how far they are engaged to the King of Spain, or any foreign powers. 1595–6, Jan. [8?]. Copy. Calendared. Carew, p. 132, No. 182. p. 1.

22. VI. Wallop and Gardener to the Lord Deputy and Council. Our very good Lord. Although we cannot as yet assure your Lordship what full effect our labours will in the end receive, yet we have thought good by way of "taste," to present unto your view, what in presumption will prove the best of the same, and for better understanding thereof we are bold to send as well the letters received from Tyrone as our answer to the same in order as they were sent and received, whereby it may appear with what difficulty we had his presence, as standing upon time, place, and manner, for our meeting, grounded as he saith upon suspicion of former practices; whereupon as by one of our letters may appear (finding him to deny his coming to Dundalk) we wished him and the rest of his associates in writing to set down his and their demands, with such offers as they in duty would make to redeem Her Majesty's wonted favour, we thus thought it good the rather that by knowing the same we should be the better enabled to accept or refuse what might stand best for Her Majesty's honour and quiet of her people. Hereupon yesterday by our messenger (who had hard access unto him) the ways being guarded by his company, we received such insolent demands, with no dutiful offers of his and their parts, as by a copy of them which we have thought meet to send unto your Lordship, will appear, and thereupon they present, we finding no better means) assented to meet with Tyrone and O'Donnell, in this manner, viz., that we would come to some open place in the field, by us named one mile from Dundalk, near unto Sir John Bedlow's house, having in our company, only the sheriff, Sir Henry Duke, and Garrett Moore, and they to have as many, which should stand within our view all without weapon, except swords, during the time of our parley. And so about ten of the o'clock this present we went forth accompanied as aforesaid; until we did see Tyrone and O'Donnell with about two hundred horse and foot, coming towards us, whereupon we stayed sending unto them, that their coming was not according to our agreement, but after many messages on both parts, that the former conclusion should stand, and further that on either part two should be sent to search and view the ways, and what weapons either part had, and that their troops should stand one quarter of a mile distant from us, and we to have two horsemen betwixt us and their troops, and the like for them between them and Sir John Bedlows; and so we meeting made choice that one of us should parley with the Earl, and the other with O'Donnell, because we judged it the best way to deal with them dividedly. After we had laboured to remove their suspicion, and to make our coming acceptable, we thought best at the first not to make known our articles, but orderly as their demands are set down to require upon what grounds they conceived the same, and to use our best endeavour to lead them by persuasion to desist any further therein, because the grounds by them alleged were in part false, and in the rest by them in duty not to be mentioned, but rather to submit themselves to Her Majesty's mercy, and to be willing to meet your Lordship and some of the Council at Drogheda, which they should do upon good assurance, because Dundalk and borders thereof would be for many respects by us delivered, most discommodious. At which their coming they should plentifully not only taste of Her Majesty's mercies, but also receive allowances most fit for themselves and their countries, but to come thither or in any other town to your Lordship they utterly refused. In this treaty we continued this stormy and windy day, about three hours on horseback, because to alight they refused, and in the end we found them to continue very untoward, not much drawn from their former Articles of demand, and especially O'Donnell, who was most resolute. After our parley thus apart, we joined again together, and then after many reasons, with persuading courteous speeches, we wished them to better conformity setting down some hard examples, they were like with their whole countries to fall into, if they so persevered, but in the end they answered, if we would stay some reasonable time, they would return to their company, and give unto us a resolute answer, which short time of consideration by them demanded, gave to us suspicion they would conclude in their former disloyal desires, and thereupon we said it were better for them to return and take longer time of consideration in so great a cause, with some speeches to like effect, whereupon we agreed to meet at the former place again tomorrow, we also gave them some taste of one of the most easy demands in Her Majesty's behalf, partly presuming they would hardly digest the stronger until they were better prepared: but chiefly because, under your Lordship's reformation, we thought it best, if they shall persevere in such their undutiful course; rather to take advantage of their said disloyalties, and thereupon to insist, to their greater condemnation, than to give them cause (although without cause) to judge Her Majesty's demands over hard, except your Lordship for any respect by you to be considered, by your next shall otherwise direct, which we desire may be with speed, as well because the cessation now agreed upon doth end with the end of this month, as also because we did let them understand, we had authority to prolong the same, of which they seemed not to take any great hold: and if these our proceedings of this day be not so full as were to be wished, we trust your Lordship will impute the same to the unfitness of place, being in the field, and unseasonableness of the weather which then happened. We have thought good in this haste to give your Lordship and the rest a taste, what may be gathered by their demands, a copy whereof we send, whereby both what they intend may be known and provision in time made for the same. 1595–6, Jan. 20. Dundalk. Cal. Carew, p. 138, No. 197. Copy. pp. 2½.

22. VII. Earl of Tirone to Sir Henry Wallop and Sir. Robt. Gardener. Will attend for them on the borders nigh Dundalk. Wishes that the last truce may be cleared according to the Lord General's order. 1595–6, Jan. 13, Maherlacoo. Copy. Cal. Carew, p. 135, No. 185. p. 1.

22. VIII. Sir H. Wallop and Sir R. Gardener to Tirone. Hope he will repair to Dundalk. They have commission to grant him and any else safe conduct. 1595–6, Jan. 15, Dundalk. Copy. Carew, p. 135, No. 187. p. 1.

22. IX. Tirone to Wallop and Gardener. Will be ready to answer for anything that has been done by his people contrary to the truce. O'Donnell has not yet arrived. 1595–6, Jan. 15, Agheneskey. Copy. Carew, p. 136, No. 188. p. 1/2.

22. X. Wallop and Gardener to Tirone. Urge him to come to the conference without waiting for O'Donnell. 1595–6, Jan. 16, Dundalk. Copy. Carew, p. 136, No. 190. p. 1.

22. XI. Tirone to Wallop and Gardener. Will meet them on Monday next or to-morrow at the "Narrowe Acker" towards Dundalk. 1595–6, Jan. 17. Copy. Carew, p. 137, No. 191. p. 3/4.

22. XII. Wallop and Gardener to Tirone. Urge him to repair to a conference at Dundalk. Assure him a safe conduct. The bearer, Philip Hore, Secretary to Sir H. Wallop. 1595–6, Jan. 17. Copy. Carew, p. 137, No. 192. pp. 2.

22. XIII. Earl of Tirone to Sir Henry Wallop and Sir Robt. Gardener. He may not satisfy their expectation of his going to Dundalk. Will attend their pleasures in any place sufficient for his personal safety. 1595–6, Jan. 18. Copy. Carew, p. 137, No. 193. p. 1.

22. XIV. Sir H. Wallop and Sir R. Gardener to the Earl of Tirone. To set down in writing his offers and demands. 1595–6, Jan. 19. Copy. Carew, p. 138, No. 194. p. 1¼.

22. XV. Demands of the Earl of Tirone, O'Donnell, and others. O'Donnell claims a service of 120 horse and 240 galloglas with certain rents out of Sligo; also certain duties in Tyrawley. They will suffer no garrison, sheriff, or officers to remain in Tirconned or Tirone except at the Newry and Carrickfergus. 1595–6, Jan. 19. Copy. Cal. at full. Carew, p. 133, No. 184. p. 1.

22. XVI. Wallop and Gardener to the Lord Deputy. No likelihood of a safe or honorable end of their treaty. Tirone denies having written any letters to Spain, excepting those of October which were known. Want of victuals at Dundalk and the Newry. The wife of the late Sir Hugh Magennis would not deliver the Castle of the Narrow Water to Francis Stafford. 1595–6, Jan. 20, Dundalk Copy. See also Carew, p. 140, No. 199. p. 1¾.

22. XVII. Sir H. Wallop and Sir R. Gardener to the Lord Deputy. Philip O'Reilly, the chief counsellor, to Tirone and O'Donnell for the article requiring the recal of our troops from the Cavan. Their intention of meeting with Tirone and O'Donnell. 1595–6, Jan. 21. Copy. See Carew, p. 141, No. 202. p. 1.

22. XVIII. Tirone and O'Donnell to the Commissioners. Desire to be informed what they allow or dislike of their requests. Require that certain soldiers gone into the county of Cavan may be recalled or they will account the truce violated. Jan. 21. Copy. Printed, Carew, p. 140, No. 200. p. 3/4.

22. XIX. Lord Deputy and Council to Sir H. Wallop and Sir Rob. Gardener. The demands of the rebels are far more large and insolent than in reason were to be expected. Tirone's own letter to Capt. Sentleger. Commissioners must not leave the rebels desperate, but deal with them to prolong the truce two months. 1595–6, Jan. 23. Copy. Calendared Carew, p. 145, No. 206. pp. 3.

Jan. 23. Dublin Castle.

23. Lord Deputy Russell to Burghley. It may please your Lordship. The former several advertisements of the Spanish preparations for these parts are once again confirmed by a merchant of this city, and that in such secret and particular manner as he greatly feareth to be discovered for the author thereof. His report I leave to your wisdom, not doubting but your Lordship will be pleased to have that due consideration thereof, which in a matter of that weight is most requisite. Our commissioners for the treaty of peace being now upon the border at Dundalk do find the traitors offers and demands most insolent, and unlike to their submissions, as may by their letters appear, the copies whereof I now send, having long time expected little better. Philip O'Reylly hath of late showed himself openly with the Earl and by him hath gotten the title of O'Reylly, meaning thereby to command all the Brenny. Bryan O'Rourke hath gotten the title of O'Rourke, and meaneth to sway the whole county of Longford. One Glasney Mac Cawley according to the custom of tanistry, is made Magennis by Tirone upon the death of Sir Hugh Magennis, to the disinheriting of Arthur his son, notwithstanding he married the Earl's daughter. So that to discharge my duty and deal plainly, I protest I think all the Irishry in general are either in action or conspiracy of rebellion; insomuch as the whole kingdom will be lost, if we be not better supplied and that presently, unless Her Majesty will be pleased now whilst they are in their treaty about the peace, to send over three hundred good horse, with which we should yet make good shift to stay the Pale; being a champion country without wood or bog; and meet for the service of horsemen. Her Highness's charge need not much be increased, for that I purpose to cashier as many Irish horse and foot (which now may no longer well be trusted) as shall countervail the charge of the said horse, or at the least the greatest part thereof; though I could wish they might be allowed a groat a day more than ordinary, for else will they never be able to live, all things being far dearer here than in England; and yet must they have oats conveyed hither from thence after the rate of a bushel and a half a week for a horse, here being neither oats now nor hay to keep them, but what must come from thence. The rebels first demand touching freedom of religion is a matter so dangerous to be made known here, as I have thought fit to keep the same secret, even from those of Her Majesty's council here, assuring your Lordship that without such a number of horse, to be a stay for the Pale at the present, and some bruit of three thousand men to be drawn out of Scotland of whom they do most stand in fear, in respect of a foolish prophecy they have, that none but the Scot shall prevail against them; and of the levying of the like number in England to be in readiness upon the sudden to come over; so as they may have some reason to assure themselves that Her Majesty will proceed roundly with a war, upon their neglect of her mercy: here will neither any peace be concluded, their demands are so insolent and unreasonable: nor means to defend the English Pale, but that "all will to wrack" upon the sudden. I most humbly therefore entreat your Lordship to further the sending of the horse presently according to the necessity of time, and before the rebels do get notice thereof, in which respect I have moved it, without the rest of the Council here, that they might the more freely go on in the expectation of the peace, which hitherto they have had too great a conceit of. That money likewise and victuals may be despatched over, which with much hinderance to the service we have long wanted. pp. 2¾.

Jan. 26. Dublin.

24. Lord Deputy to Sir R. Cecil. To send over 300 English horse, money, and victuals. All the Irishry are in action or conspiracy of rebellion. A bruit to be raised that the Queen will employ 3,000 Scots whom the Irish greatly fear. p. 1.

Jan. 27. Dublin.

25. Sir Geff. Fenton to Burghley. My duty used. Since my last to your Lordship of the 21st of this present, which is this day returned by contrary winds, a second and third letter is come from the Commissioners in Ulster, declaring their further proceedings with those traitors, but little or no change or alteration from their first immoderate demands, by which I gather, that they are bent to avoid all conclusions of peace, unless they may have their own will. The State hath returned to the Commissioners three letters in answer of theirs, with advice to be more resolute to propound to those traitors Her Majesty's conditions, and not to give them so much way as they have done, to insist so wilfully upon their own demands, which have no coherency with their submissions, but are merely contrary to the same. The copies of these letters I send to your Lordship herewith which is all in my hand to send, the residue remaining with the Lord Deputy, whom I have put in mind to transmit them unto your Lordship if they shall work an enlargement of the time of the cessation, as they are directed by the State, it will be some commodity to us, to put in order those weak forces we have here, and divide them upon places most needful for defence, besides Her Majesty may have thereby some advantage of time, to make provision for the war, if Her Highness will take that course, and likewise the small remain of corn in the English Pale, which lieth open in the haggard without cover or defence, may be preserved from burning under the benefit of the cessation prolonged. I cannot consider what may carry these traitors into this height of wilfulness and stomach, except it be their expectation of the succours of Spain, or that they think Her Majesty will not long bear the burden of a resolute and sharp war, which is an old opinion retained from hand to hand by the traitors of this realm, and gathered chiefly of Her Majesty's princely custom, to take in offenders by mercy, thinking thereby to bind them faster in duty and obedience afterwards, which rare virtue in Her Majesty hath been always lost upon them, who have no feeling of the due end and purpose it was used for. They have no reason to be confident in the support of Spain, considering how vain and fallible the Spanish promises have been heretofore, both to them and others in this realm, and it may be thought that the uttermost that Spain will do at this time, is to bear up the quarrel with money, whereby a war may be kept on foot, to the end to divert Her Majesty from the aid of the Low Countries or Brittany, or to hold her engaged in Ireland, that she may have the less means to trouble the Spaniard in some parts of his own territories. But whatsoever may be gathered of their hopes or helps out of Spain, I pray God all means may be used by Her Majesty, either to eschew the war, or at least to put it off till a more commodious time, for besides that the main charges of the war will rest upon England alone, this country being not in case to minister any helps, no not to answer their ordinary risings out, yet the calamities and sequels of the war cannot but put in hazard to shake the whole State, the most part thereof being either ready to stagger, or not in hope to be stayed, other than by a present peace. The people are discontented, and from discontentment they begin to grow to contempt, which will soon sort to disobedience, if it be suffered, and if the Commissioners now employed to Tirone and O'Donnell do return without making a good conclusion with them, I see not but many of the borderers of the English Pale will be driven to patch with the rebels, if they do not worse, and the dearth and scarcity of corn and victuals is so great in the Pale, as if they should but hear of the preparation of another war, it would be enough to make them think they should starve and perish under the burden thereof. These matters are sour, I know they cannot be acceptable to your Lordship to read them, no more than they are pleasing to me to write them, but the vow and law of duty must be kept by me howsover the matters I write do savour either sweet or sour. pp. 2. Incloses,

25. I. Lord Deputy and Council to Wallop and Gardener. Jan. 23. Copy. pp. 2. Cal. above, p. 456, No. 22. XIX.

25. II. Lord Deputy and Council to the Commissioners to impart Her Majesty's Articles of conditions to Tirone and the other rebels. To use special care for prolonging the cessation for two months in any wise, always for seeing for their own safeties if they cannot get the time enlarged by returning before January 31. Answers for Brian M'Hugh Oge and Ever MacColley. 1595–6, Jan. 26. Copy. Cal. Carew, p. 148, No. 212. pp. 2.

25. III. Lord Deputy and Council to the Commissioners for the Northern causes. Wish the cessation may be made for two months, but not till Michaelmas. 1595–6, Jan. 27. Dublin. Copy. Cal. Carew, p. 149, No. 214. p. 1¾.

Jan. 28. Dublin.

26. Sir Geff. Fenton to Sir R. Cecil. Right Honourable, I have this day received from your Honour, by the hands of Sir John Norreys's secretary, a packet closed with three seals in hard wax, directed on the endorsement to me, wherein, touching the charge committed to me by the spirit of authority, I will not fail to use the same secrecy and fidelity in the carriage of it, as I would do for the preservation of my life. But where I am commanded not to deal in the sovereign point of that charge till Tyrone be come to the Lord Deputy, and not before, not being directed what to do in case he shall not come in. I beseech you that by your motion, I may be likewise directed in this point, by the same rare and sacred fountain of authority, or by yourself signifying Her pleasure for, by the observations I have and still do make of Tyrone and his doings, I can find no probability of his coming in at all, at this time, neither will the Lord Deputy (as I think) draw up in person to meet with him upon the borders, seeing he hath and doth refuse to confer with the Commissioners elsewhere than in the wild fields, upon his own frontiers as the Commissioners, who are now in that negotiation, have advertised, it may please your Honour therefore that I may receive speedy commandment either to suppress, or how to proceed in the said main point of my charge, being confident for mine own part, that he will not come at all into any walled town or other place meet for the Lord Deputy to commune with him. I think myself infinitely bound to your honour for your grave advice and caution given me in this matter, without which I might have erred though not of will, yet by infirmity, and as well for this, as for your further honourable help to increase Her Majesty's trust and opinion of me, I will retain it as a perpetual bond of my duty towards you so long as I live. p. 1.

Jan. 29. Chester.

27. Beverley to Burghley. Victuals sent into Ireland. A brewhouse finished at Carlingford. Rate of wheat, 40 shillings the London quarter. His writing to Mr. Henry Wallop touching 600l. appointed for provision of corn. Autog. p. 1.

Jan. 30. Dublin.

28. Sir Geff. Fenton to Burghley. The articles with the whole proceedings of the Commissioners for the Northern causes are now sent to the Privy Council. Hopes that there may be a new meeting with Tirone appointed. Will inquire as to the manner of executing young Cotton. p. 3/4.

Jan. 30. Dundalk.

29. Francis Stafford to the Lord Deputy. Right Honourable and my singular good Lord, before the receipt of your letter the 28th I had upon your former direction entered into an examination of the offences of Sir John Dowdall's soldiers, and finding matters more plainly delivered than formerly I had done. I have fulfilled your Honour's commandment, and caused to be executed three as I deem of the principal offenders, in that bad action, and have respited the rest still in prison, to abide your Lordship's pleasure, and I most humbly beseech you that I may not taste of your displeasure, for a little forbearance of time, for my intention is and ever was, to obey your commands and by all dutiful regard and service to insinuate myself into your favourable conceit. And for your honours determination for Russell, I must with pardon impart unto your Lordship the truth, I have not as yet used that public punishment decreed for Russell, the cause is that he hath been extreme sick this 14 days of a very bad and loathsome disease and thereby so feeble that he is not able to go or stand. I thought upon so good a ground I might tolerate his punishment until his better recovery, for the which if I have offended I must with all humility submit myself to your honourable judgment. Autog. p. 1.

Jan. 31. Dublin.

30. Lord Chancellor and others of the Privy Council of Ireland to the Privy Council. Recommend the pains of Christopher Peyton Her Majesty's Auditor. To have allowance for the foreign accounts. Copy. p. 1. Incloses,

30. I. Concordation for payment of 365l. 14s. sterling, to Thomas Jenyson, the auditor for his travel in the foreign accounts of Ireland. 1569, July 16, Dublin Castle. pp. 2¼.

[Jan. 31.]

31. Rough draft for the letter from the Privy Council to the Lord Deputy, for granting an allowance by concordatum to Christopher Peyton Her Majesty's auditor for his pains in making up the foreign accounts and extraordinaries. [To be obtained by means of Sir R. Cecil.] pp. 2.

Jan. 31. Dublin.

32. Lord Deputy and Council to the Privy Council. Promise a state of the country together with the opinions of such as are of the Council at Wars, touching what shall be done to "redress" the rebellion. The Commissioners for the northern causes had good ground of reason for enlarging the time of the cessation for two months. Our weakness to make good a defence against the rebels. pp. 2. Inclose,

32. I. Sir Hen. Wallop and Sir Rob. Gardener to the Lord Deputy and Council. Tirone's secretary Nott has brought in the several demands of Tirone, O'Donnell, Maguire, M'Mahon, Philip O'Reilly and O'Rourke. They seek the disherison of the crown. Jan. 25. Cal. Carew, p. 147, No. 211. Copy. pp. 3.

32. II. Lord Deputy and Council to the Commissioners for the Northern causes. Send the copy of a special letter from Her Majesty concerning those traitors. Directions for their declaring Her Majesty's resolute pleasure. 1595–6, Jan. 28, Dublin. Copy. Cal. Carew, p. 154, No. 220. p. 1.

32. III. Commissioners for the Northern causes to the Lord Deputy and Council. Our very good Lords, by our last of the 25th of January sent by John Birmingham the pursuivant, we signified that we had agreed to have another conference with the Earl and O'Donnell the day following, being Monday last, and what we should gather by the same we would with speed advertise, and so from time to time as occasion should be offered and thereby require a speedy resolution to the effectual parts of our said letters, which as yet we have not received, but have received yesterday at 11 of the clock as we were going to a further parley, your Lordship with the Council's letters in answer of ours of the 23rd, whereby amongst many your Lordship's grave advices you wished we had at the first imparted Her Majesty's articles unto them, which would have been a means to have driven them from insisting so stiffly upon their own frivolous demands, and to have inclined to Her Majesty's conditions when they should have been brought to see they had been drawn from their own submissions, and thereby a good ground to work a continuance of a cessation for two months or more, if it please your Lordships to review our former letters it will appear we did intimate all the reasons by your said letters wished, with some others as we thought fit for such a purpose, except the showing of Her Majesty's articles, which we reserved until we might compass a new cessation fearing they would seem to them too hard, and not alterable being sent from Her Majesty, and thereby not to have agreed to any such cessation, yet as we formerly noted we imparted all the easiest of them, as from ourselves in Her Majesty's behalf devised, whereby they would the rather have been inclined to conceive full hope of some change of them, as we judged, which they would not so readily have done, if we had said they came from Her Majesty neither then would they have suffered any further addition or alteration as might probably have been conjectured, and fearing the worst, and finding O'Donnell's often disposition to depart, have since our last letters unto your Lordships laboured as well by divers conferences as by letters, messengers, and other devices, to draw them first to a cessation, and thereupon to impart Her Majesty's demands and merciful disposition towards them, by granting unto them free pardon for life, lands, and goods, which cessation for two months certain, and further for a third month, if it so shall please your Lordships, with many difficulties we have obtained, the copy whereof we send, and fearing that O'Donnell would depart immediately after yesterday's conference we thought good to devise certain articles in Her Majesty's behalf, for by the articles from England little is said touching O'Donnell, which we delivered unto him, immediately after his hand obtained to the cessation, and we perceiving he had great dislike of the said articles, notwithstanding our many reasons and long persuasions, in the end we advised him to consider thereof against this morning before his departure, at which time he intended to depart, which as we think he performeth accordingly, and to set down by way of postile or quotation, his liking or disliking, which we promised presently to impart unto your Lordship; to the end that within the time of cessation Her Majesty might be made therewith acquainted, and signify thereupon Her full pleasure; from whom we said they needed not to doubt but to obtain bountiful mercy, and in likelihood some change of our demands to his good liking; but now the cessation being obtained, and your Lordship's pleasure by your letters signified we may without the danger before conceived, offer unto the Earl such articles as came from Her Majesty with some few additions of our own which we are agreed upon, and according our promise have sent the same unto the Earl this morning requiring him to signify by quotation, or other writing, to how many thereof he shall assent, and to how many dissent, which may be transmitted to Her Majesty as we formerly promised to O'Donnell, whom we find to continue as arrogant and insolent, as formerly we have signified, but the Earl in terms submissive which shows conformable, but still persisting he could not conclude without the consent of the rest according to his oath to them formerly made. The Earl yesternight did press us for his departure this morning, by want (as he said) of provisions, but in the end at our earnest motion he said he would stay until Friday if he might find means so long to relieve his company, at which time if he shall depart by your Lordship's favour we mind the next day to return homeward. 1595–6, Jan. 29, Dundalk. Cal. Carew, p. 159, No. 225. Copy. pp. 2¼.

32. IV. Articles for the cessation of arms concluded on between Sir Henry Wallop and Sir Robt. Gardener, Commissioners for the Northern causes, and Hugh Earl of Tirone and Hugh O'Donnel, their adherents and followers. With the points objected to by the rebels in the margin. 1595–6, Jan. 26. Copy. Cal. Carew, p. 149, No. 213. pp. 2.

Jan. 31. Dublin Castle.

33. Lord Deputy to Burghley. Hopes the 12,000l. come, and 20,000l. to come will give new courage to Her Majesty's forces, which have long dropped through want. p. 3/4.

Jan. 31. Dublin.

34. Sir J. Norreys to Lord Burghley. Right honourable, my very good Lord. I have not had commodity to write unto your Lordship these many weeks, by reason there was no shipping, and that such despatches as the Lord Deputy hath sent over, were secretly sent by two small boats pressed upon the coast, without my knowledge or any of the Council's; by which two despatches I doubt not but the Lord Deputy did advertise how little appearance there was that any conditions would be received from the rebels that might be honourable and safe for Her Majesty's country; for long since there appeared great alteration in his proud and arrogant answers, which was certified from those that have the commanding of the garrisons of Armagh and the Newry. Whence this alteration should grow, I can but deliver your Lordship my conjectured opinion, yet grounded upon such true advices as I have received; after I had so far dealt in this pacification as there was likelihood it should have been brought to an honourable end, some of the best here, not desirous that such a work should have been finished by me, entered into secret treaty with the rebel, and by their instruments, it was given him to understand that he took a wrong course to depend upon any treaty from me, for that I was presently to be revoked, and that if I did remain here he could not look for the performance of any goodness towards himself, from me, who depended upon your Lordship, his chiefest enemy; but that if he would come unto the Lord Deputy he should have what pledges he would desire and after receipt of his pardon have the government of the North, this cross manner of dealing bred in the rebel unexpected effects, for first it made him extreme jealous, doubting it was but a bait laid to intrap him, but the continuance of this wooing course, made him grow proud, and to set himself at a higher price, for all his speech and proposition to the Commissioners, tended to have the whole government of the North, contrary to the submissions and protestations that he had formerly made. I do nothing doubt, but that this information is true, and myself can avow many presumptions, but the informer being not willing to be brought in question, it may please your Lordship to use the matter as shall seem best unto your wisdom. What may be looked for from these insolent rebels, or what course is fit for Her Majesty to hold, I defer to deliver my opinion, till the Commissioners have made relation of all their proceedings; but I was ever of opinion that no such conditions would be had from them that would be safe for Her Majesty, but that the managing of any conclusion, must be Her Majesty's advantage, and by that means a pacification will be little diminishing of Her Majesty's charges, for whatsoever the rebels do agree unto, they will never yield to abate their forces, and when Her Majesty shall be weak they will be the stronger. The continual alarm that the Spaniard will hold Her Majesty in, of invading this country, will put Her Majesty to great charge, which being well handled may serve both turns, both to defend her realm and extinguish her rebels; and this prevention of invasion must not be neglected, for then it will make the discontented and yet undiscovered rebel to animate the stranger to his attempt. Whether Her Majesty should resolve of war or peace, there must be supplies of men and victuals sent over, which were requisite to be here before the end of March or rather sooner, and certainly 2,000 footmen and 200 horse, will scarcely fill up the companies already in entertainment; in such sort as would make them able to do service, and of these men there would be better choice made than of the last, which proved in effect an unprofitable charge to Her Majesty's country. Holog. pp. 3.

Jan. 31. Dublin.

35. Sir J. Norreys to Sir R. Cecil. Your Honour will marvel, I am sure, at so great alteration in the rebel's disposition, who now insolently and contrary to his vehement protestations, doth seek to embrace the commanding of all the North, such conjecture as I have cause to make of the occasion thereof, I have written to my Lord your father, to the which it may please your Honour to be referred, and withal to remember that I was never of opinion that any safe conditions would be drawn from him; for I assure myself he will never yield to diminish his forces, nor to separate himself from such as are combined with him; but advantage must be taken of him in the well managing of such treaty as shall be made with him, which likewise will never be made to good purpose if Her Majesty be not the stronger; I know not how you will allow of the continuance of the cessation, but necessity caused us to consent unto it, for at that time, we neither had forces, money, nor victuals, and the sudden falling away of Philip O'Reilly, with all the Brenny, the most part of the O'Ferrals in the Anneley, and the (almost) general revolt of Connaught, had made the rebels so strong, as our force would have but weakly served to make a defensive war, which would have been no honour to the State; and for Connaught it is now in that state that whosoever shall have the charge of it, shall well deserve the profit that shall rise by it, and I think Sir Richard Bingham would not be sorry to be rid of it, his reputation saved, for he is not in state for such an action as the reducing of that Province to obedience, for the which he will look for little less force than for the war of Ulster, having already 15 companies of foot and 4 of horse with him, and yet calleth for more, not having to do but with the Provincial rebels. Her Majesty's sharp reprehensions would much trouble us, if our guiltless consciences did not comfort us, for myself I assure your Honour there can be nothing written or said, that can add anything to the desire I have to do Her Majesty service; which I have testified by so good proofs as I trust none will doubt of it; the answer to those Her Majesty's letters will be sent by the next, and most of the Council are of opinion, that myself should come into England to inform Her Majesty of the perfect state of all this country, but whether my Lord Deputy will assent unto it I know not, yet thus much I thought good to advertise your Honour to the end it may please you to prepare Her Majesty if it fall out so, not to mislike of it; and then I shall myself fully satisfy Her Majesty how more unable I grow every day to follow this service. Holog. pp. 2.

Jan.

36. Sir J. Norreys to Sir R. Cecil. The wind being contrary and having put back the messenger gives me this means to advertise your Honour that my Lord Deputy will not in any sort agree that I should come over, but hath made choice of Sir Robert Gardener, by whom or before, there will be sent to my Lords of the Council, a plot or estimate of such forces as shall be necessary for the compounding of armies and placing of garrisons, for the utter overthrow of the rebels, which though it may seem to your Honours to be very large, yet in respect of the general revolts, and suspected discontentment of the nobility and inhabitants of the Pale, it was not thought fit to make a lesser demand, and besides I was unwilling to urge a lesser rate, because I doubt I shall not be able to be an actor in this matter and then it would have been said that I was willing to put other men to the service with less number of men, than I would have required for myself; and if there should come any strangers whereof there is here an assured expectation, then must a greater force be sent; and it is true that the soldiers here have taken such taints under these leaders, as it will not be good to venture them any more with those leaders, except they be strong; whatsoever Her Majesty resolve on, it is most necessary that that 2,000 footmen and 200 horse for supplies be sent over as soon as may be, and good choice made of the men and conductors, and if they were here, I am yet of opinion, that with good handling, the Earl would be drawn from the combination with the other rebels and made an instrument to break their necks, and if my Lord Deputy cross me not, I will prepare the matter till I may have your Honour's advice; which at the least may serve the turn to entertain the rebel, that he take not the start of us, by breach of the cessation, whereunto O'Donnell doth vehemently urge him. Some of my Lord Deputy's friends do give out that I shall be revoked which in truth should be for the good of Her Majesty's service, for I protest I look not that it shall be possible for me to do Her Majesty service as long as I shall have such a counterpoise; and perhaps he would do better if being alone he did put his wits to it; and thus leaving your Honour to take further light by Sir Robert Gardener's despatch. I take leave. Holog. pp. 2½.

Jan.

37. Note of the companies 15 foot and four horse now in Connaught. p. 3/4.