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| Jan. 1. |
1. Philibert Du Bois to [Burghley]. Thanks for his entertainment and honourable salary; longs to show his desire for the service
of this triumphant Court. Offers to him some Italian psalms, lately
given to the light by his friend Horatio Pallavicini, and presented
to Her Majesty. [French.] |
Jan. 1.
London. |
2. Rob. Dow to Lord Burghley. Praises God for bringing his
Lordship safely to another year; sends him a small present. Gives
a list of 10 licences for beer remaining in the port, amounting to
4,450 tuns; is interested in some of them, in hopes of easing his
charge, but it has fallen out to his great hindrance. Asks his help
for liberty, after waiting so long, and so many restraints. These
licences could be uttered in two years, if no more came. |
| Jan. 2. |
3. Rich. Young to Lord Keeper [Puckering]. Mr. Worsley and
Mr. Newhall have been to widow Wiseman's house in Essex, and
found a mass preparing, but the priest escaped; they brought Robert,
her son, Wm. Clarke, a lawyer, Harry Cranedge, a physician, and
Rob. Fox, recusants, who all refused to take an oath to answer
matters touching the Queen and State; has committed them close
prisoners, apart one from the other. They also found in the house
Nicholas Norfolk, Sam. Savage, and one Daniel, Mrs. Wiseman's
servants, also Mrs. Ann Wiseman, widow, Mary Wiseman, her
daughter, Elizabeth, wife of Robert Cranedge, Alice, wife of Rich.
Jenings, and Mary, daughter of Geo. Wiseman of Upminster,
who is in the commission of the peace, all recusants. Thinks they
all ought to be sent for and examined, as Mrs. Jane Wiseman's
house is the only place of resort for all these wicked persons; she
was at Wisbeach with the seminaries and Jesuits, but repented she
had not gone thither barefooted. She is a great reliever of them,
and made a rich vestment and sent it to them. |
|
Delivered his Lordship's message to the Lord Mayor and his
brethren, touching a pipe for water, which they said they would
think of at their next court, but in the end they told him it could
not be done without the common council; told them that they,
with the Chamberlain, might do it, during the time his Lordship
remained in the house, but they still answered that it could not be
done. Thinks his Lordship should write to them, when it will not
be denied. With marginal notes [by Puckering. 1½ pages.] |
Jan. 4.
Compton. |
4. Rich. Willis to Sir John Conway, of Ragley. In Mr. Verney's
sheriff's account, 20l. is charged for against Luddington, and 10l.
against Arrow. There is some discharge in the Exchequer, but it
cannot be pleaded without charge. Begs payment of 20s., after two
years' delay, for defraying that charge, or permission to help himself
therein. During his time of office, lost 17l. fees, by persuading a
plaintiff who sent in an extent of lands to another course. Has
received no consideration, but relies on his benevolence. |
| Jan. 7. |
5. Memorial of necessary things to be put in execution towards
spring, viz.:—Letters to be sent by Council to lieutenants of
counties, for a return of all forces, both horse and foot, that have
lately been put into bands and trained, as Her Majesty thinks that
for two or three years past, an intermission has been made of the
musters, causing decrease of numbers, a diminution of horses,
and decay of armour and weapons; she therefore earnestly requires
them to view the bands, and devise how to supply their defects,
and to make a certificate to the Council of every band, as well
now as heretofore, and of their wants, as also of their services.
Thereupon Her Majesty will appoint special persons to repair into
the countries to raise such supplies, muster the bands, and consult
with the lieutenants for the training thereof, so as to be ready for
defence of the realm. Consideration is to be had as to what counties
lack lieutenants, by death or otherwise, and Her Majesty moved to
appoint others with the same authority as the former had. With
note of vacant lieutenancies. |
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Letters to be written to the towns appointed to have a staple of
powder and munitions in readiness for service, to ascertain its
condition and wants, that order may be given for supply out of the
Queen's store, at reasonable prices for ready money, if it cannot be
had of merchants bringing in foreign powder. |
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Memorial of things necessary for the borders of Scotland, viz., to
consider the certificate of the Earl of Huntingdon, concerning the
names of those put in two several commissions for strengthening
the frontiers against Scotland, as also a note from the Earl of the
names of persons proposed as commissioners. Also to have another
commission made according to the Act, under the great seal and
the seal of the duchy, as required, and for the Earl and other Lords
of those north parts to be directed to repair to and reside in the
same, in order to the furtherance of such commission. |
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Memorial for the Navy of the realm. The Lord Admiral to order
a perfect view of all the Queen's ships, and certify their burden and
readiness for war; also their wants for arms and equipage, and
what proportion is to be had out of foreign countries and out of
this realm. To consider what number of soldiers and mariners
should serve in the men-of-war, and where the mariners may be
provided; how many captains are to be engaged to serve under
the Lord Admiral if he go himself, or otherwise what men there
are of experience fit to be employed as admirals. Also what kinds
and quantity of victuals are to be provided for those employed for
five or six months, besides the rigging victuals, &c. Also the number
of merchants' and subjects' ships fit to accompany the navy, and to
see that none of them be permitted to go voyages that will cause
them to be absent beyond May. |
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The office of the Ordnance to be considered; how it is supplied
with arms and munition; the great ordnance with carriages, both
for sea and land; what are its wants, and where and how to be
provided. To take better order for bargaining for calivers, muskets, &c., for which unreasonable prices have been allowed, on
pretence that Her Majesty delays payment, which the Lieutenant
of Ordnance thinks ought to be remedied; also a view to be had
of certain engines made by Inglebert and his brother, where they
are, and how they may be used. |
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Like consideration to be had of the office of the Armoury;
what quantity of armour is in the Tower and other places of the
Queen's stores; how it is kept, and what is fit to be done to put it
in better order. |
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Concerning Recusants in the realm, the Archbishop of Canterbury
to certify such persons of quality as have been set at liberty upon
bond, and where they are bestowed; and to order the like certificates from the Bishops and Ecclesiastical Commissioners in the
countries, that the number of such ill-contented persons might be
known, and they disfurnished of any armour or such like, and
suspended from any office they may hold. The Queen to be moved
for a warrant for buying iron hoops, coming to 900l.; also for repairing the storehouses of Dover and Portsmouth, at cost of 600l.
A magazine of victuals to be provided in the north, in Berwick
or some other place, where it may be commodiously distributed.
[3¾ pages.] |
| Jan. 8. |
6. Particulars of the sizes and weights of 44 cables, received from
Mr. Marler, agent for the Muscovy Company; total, 1,624 cwts.
1 qr. 21 lbs., which, at 21s. 6d. per cwt., amounted to 1,746l. 6s.
[Damaged, 1¼ pages.] |
| Jan. 9. |
7. List of 17 ships forming the Bourdeaux fleet from London,
with the names of their commanders, and the numbers of men and
pieces of ordnance on each; also a similar list of eight north
countrymen which came into the fleet, with the names and stations
of three other vessels. |
Jan. 12.
Marshalsea. |
8. Declaration of Thos. Bleke, prisoner in the Marshalsea. Has
lived in France, Flanders, Italy, and Rome 16 years, getting his
living by his trade, or occupied in the affairs of English students
and religious men, who for conscience' sake abode in those parts.
At Michaelmas 12 months, was persuaded to bring a letter from
Mr. Skidmore at Antwerp to Mrs. Seaborne at Sutton, in Herefordshire; the contents were to crave some relief, which she denied; also
brought a letter from Dr. Lewis, a civilian, to his brother, an innholder, at the Castle, Distaff Lane, London, directing him to send the
goods of his wife, who had died in England, which he refused, but
sent an answer back. |
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Finding the passage open, attempted to return by counsel of
the Prior of the Carthusians, who gave him a letter to his brother,
Thos. Petts, at Staunton near Oxford, soliciting him to come to help
him to some part of his child's portion. and he came over with the
writer accordingly; took back also Wm. Clitheroe, late student in
Oxford, whose father was a butcher at York; Peter, a baker, and
Wm. Edsam, a page of 16 years. Made some benefit in buying
gloves, knives, &c., so came a third time, last Whitsuntide, to fetch
Mary Petts, the Prior's sister. Returned with her, four poor scholars
for Douay, brought by Mrs. Tipping, of Grub Street, and several
others whom he knows not; one was John Willoughby, who served
Lady Walgrave. Took shipping with them at Gravesend, landed at
Flushing, and went to Antwerp, where they parted. Returned to
England for the fourth time at Midsummer, with Capt. Thingless,
an Irishman, who served under Sir Wm. Stanley, was brother-in-law
of Lord Dunsany, and came over with a licence from Her Majesty. |
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When in London, met Edsam, father of a boy he had helped over,
who dealt with him for his own going over, and four other boys,
named; met them at Gravesend, where Mr. Leneker, a northern
gentlemen, lodging at the Three Crowns in Holborn, brought five
others for transportation, two being scholars from Cambridge. At
this last coming, made account, if the term had been at Westminster,
to have transported many, but some who should have come to
London did not, on account of the plague. Dr. Barrett, president
of Douay college, willed him to make very careful inquiry for the
best means to go to England for some special persons, whom he was
very loth to name until pressed, viz., Fathers Parsons and Creswell,
Dr. Gifford and Dr. Ele, Lord Dacres, and another lately made
bishop at Rome. Parsons and Creswell were coming from Spain
to Douay, where Dr. Gifford was on 1 Sept., and Dr. Ele was
president at Pont Mousson, in Lorrain, and reader to the Duke
of Lorraine in the Jesuits' college. Lord Dacres was coming from
Rome; they were to meet at Leds the 20th of last month. They
were to come in merchants' habits, divided into companies; could
not learn their enterprise, only that it was of great importance;
wishes the Queen to look to her safety, as there was talk of great
alterations. At the declarant's last return, had three young men
with him, Roger Weston, a scholar in Oxford, whose father dwells in
Clerkenwell, and Edmond Gettredge, a Leicestershire man;—they,
with a tailor, are in hold to answer for themselves;—also Mrs.
Hawley, who, on his apprehension, was suffered to pass with Bridget
Wentersell, late gentlewoman to Lady Hungerford at Louvaine. |
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Sir Edmond Udall ought to be written to, to be very secret not
to disclose the names of the personages coming, lest it might induce
them to alter their opinions; informed him of them in hopes of being
suffered to return, to effect better service to Her Majesty, but he refused leave. The passage was thought meetest by the Low Countries,
but the writer being apprehended, thinks it will be by Calais,
and their landing as near London as may be; in this they will
be directed by him, if they do not suspect him, which they will
hardly do, as they do not know that he has any notice of them. Is
willing to do Her Majesty service, and if he has offended, will make
amends. [3¼ pages.] |
Jan. 14.
Handsworth. |
9. Gilbert, Earl of Shrewsbury, to the Earl of Essex. Was
informed by Mr. Phelippes that his servant, John Markham, was
charged with misdemeanor beyond sea, and that his Lordship had
granted a warrant for his apprehension, which has been stayed.
Was advised to send him up; has sent his servant, the bearer, to
Markham, with the enclosed letter; supposes it will procure his
speedy repair to his Lordship; nevertheless, to prevent the worst, if
he should be unwilling, has given the bearer a warrant for safely
conveying him to his Lordship. Thinks the gentleman will prove
himself free from any offence to Her Majesty or the State. He was
brought up for many years with Secretary Walsingham, since whose
death he has served his Lordship (Essex), spent all his time in Her
Majesty's service in the wars, and been well commended. |
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He told the writer that, at his being last summer at Dieppe, where
he was forced to stay for want of conduct to the forces then in
France, he was cunningly sought to be undermined by one who
had instructions to entrap him, and who questioned him about the
writer, as to his religion, affection, and such like. As soon as Markham perceived this, he shook him off, knowing he was set on by
some enemy of his [the Earl's], who sought to overthrow him also;
he said he had informed his Lordship of this and other devices by
letter. Hopes that these are mere devices to call him in question,
that he may be punished for some other matter, as for writing certain
verses in defence of his credit, he having been most basely slandered
by certain libels thrown abroad in the night; Markham's were no
libels, as he subscribed his name to them. If he come to his Lordship, and should prove guilty of any manner of offence to Her Majesty
or the State, will wholly renounce him, otherwise beseeches his Lordship to favour him; is greatly deceived if he does not honour his
Lordship faithfully. He is the writer's kinsman; knows he has some
most wicked and malicious enemies. [Copy. 1¼ pages.] |
Jan. 14.
Handsworth. |
10. Gilbert, Earl of Shrewsbury, to Thos. Phelippes. Has taken
such a course upon his letter that he hopes the gentleman will be
with Phelippes before he has any suspicion that he is charged with
any offence; is persuaded he is free from offence to Her Majesty or
the State, and that the things wherewith he is charged are mere
practices, proceeding from his [the Earl's] enemies, to procure him
punishment for his verses written at Newark. If that prove to be
all, entreats favour for Markham, so that he may not think himself
betrayed by the writer, in sending him up in this manner; but if he
is found guilty, none living will respect him less than himself. He
served the same honourable and worthy master that Phelippes did
[Sec. Walsingham], and has since served the Earl of Essex, where he
still is; has known him as a gentleman of kin, and has always
heard a good report of his well deserving in the wars, which he
has long followed. Thanks for Phelippes' friendly respects in the
case, proceeding from a sound and good meaning. Would have any
man living, however near or dear to him, if accused of breach of
faith to Her Majesty or the State, to be strictly examined by others,
and have nothing to do with him, until cleared; is as clear as
crystal himself, and will not wittingly have to do with any that are
suspected to be otherwise. |
| Jan. 14. |
11. List of 14 counties out of which 1,500 soldiers are to be
raised for the Low Countries, giving the number to be levied in
each, and the places of embarking, 900 from London, 200 from
Harwich, and 400 from Southampton. |
| Jan. 15. |
12. Advertisements delivered by Emanuel Louis [Tinoco], a
Portuguese, headed " Advertisements to be made known to Her
Majesty, for the safeguard of her person." The stir the King of
Castile makes in France is to no other end than the winning of
England; the coming down of Ernesto is but to follow the order the
Duke of Parma had; he was thought not to follow it effectually,
because of his intelligence with the Queen. Ernesto brings 8,000
men and 800 horse, and by way of Italy, 3,000 Spaniards. They
are levying many companies in Castile, and preparing all the ships
in Portugal. |
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The King of Spain has determined to murder the Queen by a
priest of Galicia, who has come from Madrid, and is secretly remaining in Count Fuentes' house to pass into England; he intends with
a device of fire, at the celebration of some solemn feast, to despatch
both Her Majesty and all those present with her. Duke Ernesto
comes to invade the kingdom, whether the device is effected or not.
This priest, with a Jesuit companion and counsellor, is to pass into
France, embark in some coal boat near Dieppe, and land within
three miles of Newcastle; eight other Jesuits will take the same
course, having commission from the King to pass over great sums
to this kingdom; 49 days ago, five Jesuits came by way of Scotland, thinking that the surest. The King of Castile is likewise
determined to send sundry Flemish Catholics to Sandwich and the
Isle of Wight, to grow in amity with such inhabitants as are Catholics; his intent is to bend his course towards those places, and he
also intends taking the castles of the Downs by treason, or at
least one of them; he thinks this will be easy to perform, seeing
it is kept with few men, and negligently guarded, and he has
great trust in an Englishman, a friend of the captain. |
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They do what they can to grow in amity with the King of Scotland, representing to him the death of his mother, determining to
send much money to his kingdom; they also mean to send many
men into Ireland. The King is determined to burn all the Queen's
ships; a Portugal pilot, employed in the Queen's navy, has bound himself to do it, and will not leave to perform this service; they want
one Godri, a Portuguese or Spaniard, in Plymouth; cannot learn for
what, until his return, so he is not to be meddled with until then.
They must proceed very warily with Ant. Perez, as he is not taken
to be altogether estranged from the King of Spain's service; Count
Fuentes said of him, when reminded of his ill demeanour against
the King, that he would do such service to His Majesty as would
deserve not only pardon, but honour and reward. |
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The French King should take heed of the Aragonese in his company, especially of Don Martin de la Nufa and Gil de Mesa, as they
intend making their peace with the King of Castile, being weary
of a French life, and cannot do so without great service to King
Philip; Don Antonio, now in France, should be advertised thereof. |
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The French King is thought to have been ill counselled in consenting to a truce, contrived by the King of Spain, when his people
were mutinous, that he might thus appease matters, and more conveniently assemble his forces; the Spaniards desire very earnestly
to gain the haven of Brest. |
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There is great speech that, after the coming of Duke Ernesto, they
will diligently try to get the good will of the Governor of Calais, as
the King of Castile fears that if Her Majesty grant any new succours to the French King, she will demand this town [Calais]; they
mean to use Mons. La Mote, Governor of Gravelines, as their instrument; he was a great friend of the late Governor, who was uncle of
the present. |
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Don Pedro Valdez, who was prisoner in England, has great acquaintance here, and receives many letters; on returning, will learn
from whom, being familiar with his nephew, who came into England
secretly as a Frenchman; has reported many matters of Don
Antonio and his men. |
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The Low Countries are weary of the extreme tributes exacted by
the Spaniards; they like Count Maurice's dealing with his towns
and people, and do not spare to affirm publicly that they would rather
deliver themselves to him or the devil, than remain subject to such
oppression; they look for the coming of Ernesto to remedy these mischiefs, or they will seek means for their own benefit. Don Francisco
de Ibarra, in Paris, wrote to Stefano de Ibarra, the secretary, that
the priest remains firm, and for 2,000 crusadoes would deliver
the Castle of Arcos, as he had a mordepay of the castle, and two
soldiers, and desired to be assisted; this matter requires speed,
because by means of that castle, Dieppe would soon be taken, so the
Governors of Dieppe ought to be advertised. The King of Castile
has not 3,000 Spaniards in all Flanders, and has great want of men.
He has taken a memorial of all the towns and places, and charged
them with waggons for his provisions; 18 pieces (of cannon), eight
of which are great, have come from Antwerp to Dunkirk; the ships
are getting ready, and five have gone out. Count Charles is looked
for from Bruges, and Mons. de la Mota in Nieuport, where they will
make a fort, fearing lest the French King should make war that way. |
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Twelve Spaniards arrived at Calais on their way to Brussels,
one of whom said that 3,000 Spaniards had landed in Brittany,
and 2,000 were coming by way of Italy, bringing a million and
a half of gold for Flanders; and that the King said that before
the earth should have his body, he hoped to be satisfied for
the wrongs which England had done him, though he should sell his
shirt to be revenged; another said it would be easy to take Calais,
with soldiers coming as merchants in ships, and that Don Juan
Idiaques has a secretary who has intelligence with a secretary of
Cecil's. The reasons which caused the writer to leave the country
for Spain were— |
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First. From the day Don Antonio was proclaimed King, until last
July, always followed him with zeal, fidelity, and love; but seeing
him ungrateful, and poor of counsel and government, and in his sickness
remembering nobody but Diego Botello, &c., took counsel with
Estevan Ferrera de Gama to seek liberty for their country, considering
they had the Duke of Braganza, a young man, and well beloved
in the kingdom. Therefore went to Count Fuentes, to seek liberty
and favour of the King [of Spain], by means of Don Christofero de
Moro, for Ferrera and himself, and offered him service. Upon this
the King wrote to Count Fuentes to send the writer to England, and
that Estevan Ferrera should leave his wife and family there, and
feign in London that he had business in France, and thence go
with the writer in the most secret manner they could to the King,
who would employ them; for the less suspicion, Ferrera was to
go alone, and bring the writer orders what to do, and Ferrera was
to try and win Dr. Lopez, and endeavour to draw a letter from him,
promising to do service; he was to remind Lopez that he had
daughters, and that they should not want marriages. They were also
commanded to take knowledge of all affairs of England, especially of
any secret preparations of an army, how many ships the Queen has
at home and abroad, the names of their captains, and also to take a
good view of the Isle of Wight, and note the forts and the weak
places, as also of the Downs. |
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Considering that by occasion of the Duke of Braganza, they might
have persuaded the nobles of Portugal, who are all for the Duke,
that they would not lack help from the Queen, they thought good
to compound with King Philip, in order to win an opportunity to
execute their purpose. |
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It is said that Duke Ernesto is coming to give the States liberty
of conscience, and that therefore Count Maurice must entertain
them with all the liberty they require; also that there is some
motion in the council of Spain of giving liberty to Maurice's elder
brother, upon his word to be true to the King; they seem to give
him an opportunity to escape, and it was affirmed he had fled out
of Spain. |
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The King of Castile is in more fear than ever of Portugal, as he
understands the Duke of Braganza and his mother, Señora Doña
Caterina, have gathered together great treasure, and have all
the nobility on their side; but as they are not assisted by any
foreign forces, it is thought they will not rise during King Philip's
life. Some are for King Antonio, but considering he is an unfortunate
man, and all the nobles are for the Duke of Braganza, most will
join with the latter. Saw a note in Count Fuentes' secretary's house,
wherein a memorial was taken of certain desert places in Sussex
between Pamaze and Ostringe. Endorsed [by Cecil], " The memorials
of E. de L. translated out of Portuguese." [4½ pages.] |
| Jan. 16. |
13. Emanuel Louis [Tinoco] to Cecil. Has shown by the letters he
wrote from Calais, by the secrecy of his journey hither,—being accompanied
by two English servants of the captain of Dover Castle,—and by desiring expedition for his speedy return, his good will to do
the Queen service. Hopes soon to demonstrate his fidelity. Was confused
and encumbered by the cunning demands of the Earl [of Essex ?],
and faltered in three respects: first, was not able to deliver the proper
definition of every particular in the French tongue; second, was
struck to see so many Portuguese committed to prison, thinking
they had contrived some great treachery, a thing which he little
suspected; and thirdly, was confused with the manner of that
secret examination, though his heart was devoted to the service of
the crown. Was comforted by his Honour's acceptance of his offer
of service, and will show the true intentions of his coming thither,
so as to clear all doubts, and without reward, that being reserved
until it shall be lawful for him to demand recompence. Only
desires that it may appear that his love and good will to serve
have brought him to Court, where trial may be made of his manner
of proceeding and service. Came voluntarily and took the right
way to Court, where he arrived last Friday, but did not receive
the expedition which he expected, and now desires; gives his word,
as a gentleman, to serve the Queen with all possible diligence and
fidelity, by giving secret advertisements of all things. Has already
declared in his notes the orders he had from Count Fuentes for
affairs in this kingdom, and only came to declare what he knows,
and to serve Her Majesty. Will declare anything Cecil desires to
know, and not conceal anything. The points inquired about do not
relate to Don Antonio; will not serve him, as he little minds the
good estate of his country; hopes to see it delivered shortly from
the yoke of the King of Castile. Served Don Antonio 13 years,
and lost thereby all he had in Portugal, and the best part of his life;
for the remainder, will serve Her Majesty, but knows of nothing
that can do her service. |
|
Does not meddle with any of Don Antonio's affairs, and did not
come to be examined on points touching him, and especially concerning
such men as would rather die a thousand deaths than subject
themselves to the yoke of the King of Castile, and who have
determined that all their promises shall only serve to give good
information to the Duke of Braganza. |
|
As to the King of Castile's intentions, thinks Estevan Ferrera de
Gama should go his way, for by his means it may be known what the
King of Spain intends against this kingdom; the King will employ
him, and therefore commanded him to come over with all possible
secrecy, and to leave his wife and children, as he would shortly
return to London. Thought to have brought very good news to
England on this point, principally since Ferrera was to leave such
good pledges here as his wife and children; for if he would serve the
Queen, it would be sufficient to know that he came from the King of
Castile. Is trusted by Count Fuentes, and so could inform himself
of all things. |
|
Desires to be known as Cecil's servant, requests speedy despatch,
and will promise to do such service in a month as shall discharge
him of his word. [3 pages.] |
| Jan. 16. |
14. Notes by Henry Smith on the customs on cloth. If the customs
were 5s. a cloth, both to English and strangers, and the Queen
would let them to farm at that price, there would be as much
answered for the farm as has been in any year during her reign; if
reduced to 4s., the customers would have a better revenue for her
coffers than they have now. Her Majesty should revoke the statute
5 Edw. VI., for the true making of woollen cloth, which is so
abused that she has no benefit therefrom, yet the clothiers are
greatly charged, and the cloth no better made. The customs should
also be brought down to the same rate as 20 years ago; the
clothiers would be content to pay 3s. 4d. for every short cloth,
5s. for every one of 30 yards, 6s. 8d. for 40 yards, and for all others
after the same rate, which would amount yearly to a greater sum
than the present customs. If every man keeping sheep paid a penny
for every sheep at Midsummer, it would amount to a greater revenue
than any before recited. |
| Jan. 17. |
15. Thos. D'Arques to Sir George Carey, marshall of the household.
Sends what he can effect in gratitude. Will do his best to pay the
ransom of his miserable days; if hindered, hopes some other way of
accomplishing his desires. As to payment of his debt, will try to
find cautions before some judge. Begs favour in obtaining his
discharge, so as to hasten their projected voyage, and abridge his
father's misery. [French.] Encloses, |
|
15. I. Articles promised by T. D'Arques to Sir George Carey :— |
|
1. To go after his deliverance straight to Gibraltar, to Don
Martin de Padilla, Adelantado maggior of Castile, and
General of the Spanish galleys, to get a ship laden with
merchandise, and take charge of its sale where the
Adelantado appoints, and then bring it straight to the
Isle of Wight, where, upon a certain signal, it will be
seized by Carey. |
|
2. To bring word of the marks, quality, and quantity of any
merchandise he may discover in Spain, laden for
Spaniards on foreigners' accounts. |
|
3. Should this business fail, to send Carey what instructions
he discovers in Spain, either about merchandise or
affairs of State. |
|
4. In consideration of which, Carey is to favour the deliverance
of his father; will leave his own reward to Carey's
discretion. [French.] London, 17 Jan. 1593. |
Jan. 18/28.
Rouen. |
16. T. Fitzh[erbert] to Mr. Hopkins, at Sieur Vandersteen's, near
the English Exchange, Antwerp. Would have answered his of
21 Dec., but is unwell. Is glad of his recovery, and thanks him for
his occurrents; in requital, the enclosed, which he is to seal and send,
will give him what the writer knows. |
Jan. 21.
York. |
17. Examination of Edw. Lingen before Henry Earl of Huntingdon,
president, Hum. Purefey, and Ralph Rokeby, two of the Council in
the North, and Rich. Topcliffe. Never received letters or writings
from Hen. Walpole the Jesuit, nor Thos. Walpole, nor knows
whether they have received any, or whether they brought over any,
or have buried or made away with them. Refuses to say whether
he received some labels and notes like those shown him. Never
heard of the preparing of any ships beyond seas for invading England,
save one ship now making at Dunkirk, and which he denied
until remembered of it. Never heard Sir Wm. Stanley wish himself
in England with 5,000 men, nor use words to such effect;
refuses to affirm this examination on oath. With marginal notes
[by Topcliffe. 2 pages.] |
Jan. 21.
London. |
18. Rob. Dow to Mr. Maynard, secretary to the Lord Treasurer.
His Lordship being willing to enlarge the licences for beer, on seeing
how he proportioned the same last time, sends a copy of what he
did in 1587, 1588, and 1589, upon yearly advertisements of what
remained upon the licences, and how 2,000 tuns might be uttered
yearly upon the licences, besides the foreign beer allowed to victuallers
of the Low Countries, though his Lordship commonly stinted
a greater sum. Gives particulars of remnants of licences extant in
the port of London, amounting to 4,457 tuns, which may be easily
uttered in two years. Little or no beer is uttered in summer
until after Bartholomew-tide, when the shipping of it begins, and
continues till Easter; as the winter is spending, his Lordship's
speedy help is required. The officers should be charged to see the
number of tuns mentioned against each person's licence, without
favour or wrong doing, and certify if any refuse to observe the same. |
|
Details of ten remainders of licences. There is another old
license granted to Mr. Middlemore, whereof no part has been uttered
these 11 years, except at Sandwich, Ipswich, and other outports, by
reason of the great number of licences in London. This licence should
be set at liberty with the others, by some special words, unless his
Lordship will write to the said ports for it. |
| Jan. 23. |
19. Statement by [Manuel Louis Tinoco]. Emanuel Andrada
offered to him on behalf of Dr. Lopez, service to the King of Spain,
and brought a jewel of great value from the King of Spain to
Lopez, which he now has. Estevan Ferrera de Gama wrote to Count
Fuentes that Lopez would do his Majesty great service; brought
word to De Gama from the Count to retain the Doctor in that
good mind, and to procure a letter from him of his own hand. Don
Emanuel gave a schedule to De Gama, binding himself to the service
of the King of Castile; carried it to Brussels, but would neither
deliver nor show it, knowing it to be repugnant to his [the writer's]
duty to King Don Antonio, whom he served; has it yet in his
trunk at Brussels, and if required, will send for it. Good heed
should be taken to the letters of Jerome Lopez, as he is a great friend
of the Doctor's, and has intelligence with some in Antwerp. |
| Jan. 24. |
20. Certificate by Sir Thos. Sherley, of the amount required for
two months' imprest, for victuals of 2,000 foot and 100 lancers
serving in Brittany; total, 3,618l. 13s. 4d. |
Jan. 25.
York. |
21. Rich. Topcliffe to Lord Keeper Puckering. Knows not
whether the Lord President of the North has signified to him and
the rest of the Privy Council their proceedings with the three persons
taken on their arrival at Flamborough, viz., Father Walpole
the priest and Jesuit, his young brother, and Lingen, both soldiers
under Stanley; but being chiefly referred by Her Majesty in this
business to his Lordship, considered it his duty to signify how far
they have digged into the hearts of two of these unnatural traitors.
By incredible toil, day and night, the Lord President, with assistance
of his chaplain, a very mild divine, Dr. Favour, prevailed with
young Walpole, who is an amiable youth, and not so far gone over as
the others, to see his offence; and all the truth, secrets, and matter,
even against himself and the others, flowed from him as fast as his
Lordship could put the questions; this is likely to do great service.
Lingen and the other are so far given over in Popery and
bound to disloyalty, that neither of them will utter or confess to
any one letter brought over by them, or by young Walpole, or to any
cipher, mark, note, token, or direction, except salutations by word
of mouth, from one friend to another. Young Walpole confessed
that his brother, the Jesuit, gave him six small pieces of parchment
similar to three enclosed, and 12 letters; [" The very originals his
Lordship will send by me; they be not fit to be hazarded, nor the
letters."] and also three parchments cut in half, to Lingen, that
whoever should fly over with two of these notes to Dunkirk or
Nieuport would be received without stop or damage. Besides these,
Father Walpole read four or five other letters in his chamber at
Dunkirk, burned some, and tore one in pieces. Lingen denied all
knowledge of them. |
|
After the Lord President had examined them all, he sent the
Jesuit and Lingen to rest; but to prove young Walpole's honesty, he
sent him, well guarded, to the sea-side, to see if he could find the
place where he had buried his 12 letters; the bundle was found, but
all wet with rain, and brought to his Lordship, who leaped for joy;
after tenderly handling them, before a fire, 22 were unfolded without
blemish; young Walpole also delivered to his Lordship the
labels or private marks enclosed. [" His Lordship hath delivered
me them all."] God thus blesses Her Majesty by discovering disloyal
men and women about London, and in sundry counties in
England and in Ireland; she will see what a toiling Lord President
can do. |
|
After his Lordship had got this light, he glanced at the Jesuit, so
that he confessed to nine of the labels or parchment marks, but Lingen
shamefully and traitorously denied those delivered to him; the other
also confessed that they were to be used as passes. There was found
on the Jesuit a gold bracelet of a flagon fashion, with a cipher and
arms, that will betray the sender in Spain or the Low Countries,
and to whom it was sent; also a ring with a seal of arms engraved,
and a wedding ring which he was trusted with for another. [" These
I bring up to Her Majesty also."] |
|
Much more lies hidden in the Jesuit and Lingen, which cannot
be digged out without further authority than his Lordship has.
[" This must be gotten by Her Majesty's power and your wisdoms."]
They must be dealt with sharply, and more will burst out. The
countenancing of the services of the Lord President in the North will
appal traitors; will say so on his return; would not otherwise discharge
his oath, nor the duty of a true Englishman. The Lord
President still labours with young Walpole, and gets all out of him
he can remember. Will wait upon his Lordship at the end of this term;
hopes before that Her Majesty will direct the Jesuit and Lingen to be
brought up, as all Papists there have a great opinion of Walpole the
Jesuit. [The marginal notes, also by Topcliffe, are given in brackets.
3¾ pages.] Enclosing, |
|
21. I. Three small slips of parchment, respectively inscribed " Of
this is written a Spanish sentence hard to be perceived
but by the fellow." "Of the original of this is written a
name, joined with the other." " Of this joined with the
other, another name." |
| Jan. 25. |
22. List of persons having the custody of Don Lopez and the
Portuguese, viz.:— |
|
Jeronimo Lopez who lodged with Stockbridge, at the Three
Cranes, with Alderman Ratcliffe. |
|
John Francis Migliorini in Seething Lane, with Alderman Soame. |
|
Eliano Calvo in Shoreditch, with Alderman Lee. |
|
Fernando Alves, who has a house of his own in Christ Church,
with Browne, a messenger. |
|
Hen. Jorges, who was in Doctor Lopez's house, in the Counter,
Wood Street. |
|
Emanl. Pays with the son of the King Don Antonio; he delivered
of himself the packet he had to Don Antonio. |
|
Stockbridge, an Englishman, dwells at the Three Cranes in the
Vintry, and is forthcoming at his house. |
Jan. 26.
Westminster. |
23. Patent granting to Sir Charles Blount the office of Captain of
the Town and Island of Portsmouth, and of 20 soldiers in the castle,
from the death of Hen. Ratcliffe, Earl of Sussex; fee, 10s. a day, and
8d. each for the 20 soldiers. Endorsed, " Copy of the Lord Montjoy
his grant for the keeping of Portsmouth." [Latin. 7 sheets.] |
Jan. 28.
Bristol. |
24. Michael Pepwall, Mayor, and five Aldermen of Bristol, to
Lord Burghley. Recommend Rich. Colston for the deputy waiter's
place at that port, vacant by death of Mr. Shore. He acted as
Shore's deputy, but the charge for his admittance was so great that,
without his Lordship's favour, he and his wife and six children are
likely to be utterly undone. He was an honest merchant, but
decayed through losses at sea. |
Jan. 29.
Handsworth. |
25. Gilbert, Earl of Shrewsbury, to Thos. Phelippes. Writes in
great haste by two of his men, who carry their own weight [in
money] to be paid to Lord Huntingdon's men in London, next
Candelmas Day, and so must not be stayed. Is sorry for the young
fellow [Markham's] fond and lewd carriage in the matter; thought
his trouble had only proceeded from the malice of some of his
enemies, but sees there is more than that in it. Has written to the
Earl of Essex to thank him for his respect, &c., and to entreat that
none of the Stanhopes, who are the writer's enemies, may have
power to work their malice upon Markham, and so upon himself, as
they will interpret untruly; leaves all the rest to his Lordship.
Thanks Phelippes for his regard. Will always hold to such regular
ways as never to be justly touched with reproach, which rules are the
easier to follow, as they proceed from the truth of his inward mind.
Underwood has imparted to him all Phelippes's friendly proceedings;
Markham informed him that Parry used many questions to undermine
him touching the writer, and wrote him a letter which was
brought unsealed. |
| Jan. 30. |
26. Warrant for an order to permit Giovanni Bassadova, of
Venice, to transport thither 4,000 quarters of wheat, rye, or beans,
from those parts of the realm where, for cheapness, it may well be
spared, there being great dearth of corn in Venice. [Draft.] |
Jan. 30.
Deptford. |
27. Sir John Hawkins to Lord Burghley. Sends his accounts for
15 years, nine of which have been passed. The books for four
years have long been with the auditors, and those for 10 years are
lying with himself, confirmed by the officers. No time has been
neglected by him, yet is troubled with processes out of the Exchequer.
The business to be performed is great; his wife being weak, cannot
remove from Deptford, and passing in and out by water, hardly
escapes sickness. Asks leave to attend the Lord Chief Baron and
Mr. Fanshaw next term, as Her Majesty's service will be better
furthered. After serving a year in that office, wished to be delivered
from it. Mr. Gonson told him it was one of great care and charge,
and no benefit, and said, " I shall pluck a thorn out of my foot and
put it into yours." Would not believe him, but now finds it true.
There have not been in his time any fees or vails worth 20s., besides
his ordinary fee and diet, which he consumes in attendance on the
office; therefore prays to be delivered from this continual thraldom.
[Dated Feb., but endorsed 30 Jan.] |
| Jan. 30 ? |
28. [T. Phelippes to Sterrell ?]. [Dictates a letter for him to
Paget ?]. Wrote many letters before the plague, but as the answers
were cold, thought good to be silent during the plague; especially
as he made such little reckoning of the overture for Mr. Wheeler,
a gentleman of the Lord Treasurer's, to come and confer with him
at any indifferent place, where he might go without suspicion, and
Paget come without danger. Thinks him able and desirous to do
service, though not settled in religion, yet discontent with the State
and his master because he has formerly done service, but not great
because he was not in credit; he is besides dependent on the Earl of
Essex. |
|
Blames not Paget's suspicions, as he has been much abused, yet
marvels that Poley should be able to cozen him, who betrayed him
when he dealt with Sir Christopher Blount, and discovered the
gentleman who died for the Queen of Scots. The news is only
that old Dr. Lopez is in the Tower, for intelligence with the King
of Spain." [Draft.] |
Jan. 31.
Tewksbury. |
29. Edw. Alye and John Bub, bailiffs, and six other burgesses of
Tewksbury, to Lord Burghley. Recommend Edw. Barston, deputy
customs' officer for the port of Gloucester, as a fit person to succeed
Mr. Conway, who is about surrendering the customs' officer's place.
Barston has been greatly hindered by the hard suggestions of the
mayor and aldermen of Gloucester, who intend to place a burgess
of their city in the office, so as the more easily to gain to
themselves the whole trade of the river, which they have practised
many times before, to the great damage of Tewksbury. Think that
the office was erected for easing the whole country, but the city of
Gloucester surmises it to have been done only for their advancement.
Sue for his favour towards their neighbour Barston, who has
sufficiently demeaned himself in the service for five or six years;
was born in the town, bred in the trade of merchandise, and had
well profited therein, until through the embargo of Spain, he lost
the greater part of his substance. If Gloucester should be possessed
of the office for a burgess, they will bar the upper towns of their
trade upon the river, as much as in them lies. |
| Jan. 31. |
30. Ja. Quarles to Lord Burghley. Sends an account of the
victuals required for 8,000 men for three months, at 6d. each man
per day; total, 16,800l. If Her Majesty is pleased to have them provided,
asks imprest of part of the money, and letters of assistance,
with her commission to the lieutenants and justices of the shires
where these provisions are to be made, to levy them at reasonable
prices, not to exceed 20s. a quarter of wheat, 14s. the cwt. for beef,
1½d. per lb. for bacon, 3d. per lb. for butter, and 1½d. per lb. cheese;
otherwise it will be impossible to perform the service at the rate set
down. With note by Sir John Hawkins and three others, 6 Feb.,
that if the service is to go forward, Mr. Quarles should be doing, as
it will require a long time to make ready such a mass of victuals,
and he should have present order to provide 1,000 quarters of
wheat, 1,000 of malt, 500 oxen, and 1,000 tons of cask, with the
letters of assistance as required, and an imprest of 4,666l. 13s. 4d.
Order should also be given for getting ready the storehouses,
breweries, and bakehouses at Portsmouth and Dover, appointed
for such purposes. |
| Jan. |
31. Estimate of the charge for four months of 3,000 foot; total,
12,924l. Also for their levying, furnishing, and transporting into
the Low Countries. |
| Jan. ? |
32. Estimate of the charge of 3,000 men for Brittany for 12
weeks; total, 7,302l., and their levy, coat and conduct money,
and transport, 3,000l. |
| Jan. |
33. Confession of Jo. Annias. Left England in 1586 for Brittany
and France, to see the countries and learn the language. Has
never been to Rome nor spoken to Cardinal Allen. Has been in
Spain, and on his way there met Lewenthrop Thomas, who was in
suit for Lady Morley, and lent him 100 crowns, which he promised
to pay in Flanders, but did not. Got a commission from the Duke
of Parma in the light horse; served with Walter, John, and Richard
Stanyiers, Capt. Eustace, Rich. Creghe, and others; never served
W. Stanley nor Jaques. Knew Patrick Collen, but not W. Polwhele;
supposes they have come for England, to find means for attempts on
the Queen and Lord Treasurer. Saw W. Tompson at St. Omer.
Heard that Jaques was going to send Jas. Raule and Alex. Rifourth
to England. |
|
Capt. Dyer offered, if Stanley could procure a good ship, to fire
part of the Queen's ships by night. Saw Tompson last at Calais,
and believes he has gone back to St. Omer. Has known him two
years, and employed him for Dieppe with his fireworks; is acquainted
with them, having made them himself to bestow at Dieppe, where
he was appointed at that time by his Highness's secretary Cosmo.
After Tompson's escape, he said he broke prison on a Sunday at
noon, and loosed the irons he had upon his legs; that he was hanged
up by the hands by Justice Young, until he was almost dead, and
that his balls, which were made of gunpowder, brimstone, saltpetre,
&c. were found, but he never confessed to them. Knows of no others
employed except those named, and some Scotchmen, one of whom,
Rob. Bruce, remains at St. Omer, to give intelligence. |
|
Never told Tompson of Patrick Collen's business for England,
but when anyone comes from Brussels, they think it is for some
service, and some say to kill the Queen, the Lord Treasurer, the
King of Portugal, or the secretaries; Tompson would have promised to do anything if he could have got money, and tried to
cozen the writer in hopes. Saw him with Count Fuentes and
Stephen de Ibarra at Brussels. Saw a passport that Polwhele had of
Jaques, and told Tompson that they were of one company, and
probably of one business. Advised Tompson to be earnest to know
what Polwhele's pretences were for England; offered to cozen Jaques,
being bound for England himself. It was pretended that by the
means of one Smith, Ostend would be delivered, but the forces did
not come in time. [4 pages.] |
| Jan. ? |
34. Phil. Jacobson and Abraham Becks, in behalf of themselves
and the rest of the merchants, to Mr. Young. Have sent a Dutch
ship to Sandwich, to take in the goods saved from the ships cast
away, 4 Jan., on the Goodwin Sands and Deal, but the shippers of
the town will not permit the lading, as they wish to be employed
thereon. Beg Lord [Burghley's] order therefor. The goods do not
belong to the English, and the ship must be one acquainted with
the havens of Holland. |
