|
| June 2. |
47. Judgement given in the Court of Wards, touching the dower
of Frances, widow of Henry, late Viscount Howard, of Bindon, for a
commission to persons nominated by Edm. Stansfield, her husband,
and by Arthur Gorges, trustee of the heir of the Viscount, for settlement of the dower, and of her right to a third in all the manors
and lands of the said Earl, taken from the time of his death, the
escheator of Dorchester having only assigned her a part of the same.
[1¼pages.] |
June 4.
Westminster. |
48. Patent exempting John Burgoine, of Sutton, co. Bedford,
aged 60, and blind, from being called upon to execute the office of
justice of the peace, sheriff, escheator, or collector, or from payment
of any fines for non-performance thereof. Endorsed "A patent for
jurors." [By Cecil. 3 sheets.] |
| June 4. |
49. Earl of Oxford to Lord Burghley. Carmarden's reasons
in favour of the offer made by Lord Buckhurst of 4,600l. for the
pre-emption of tin, rather than the imposition of a noble, 6s. 8d. per
cwt. are, if there by 1,500,000 Ibs., 300,000 being left for the realm,
the 1,200,000 would yield but 4,000l., or if it yield 1,200,000 Ibs.,
3,000l, making the Queen's receipts 600l. or 1,600l. less. If the
merchant strangers refuse to buy on such an imposition, she loses all. |
|
I reply to the above, that the produce is 1,500,000 Ibs., and the
consumption in the realm is not 200,000 Ibs., leaving 1,300,000 Ibs.
for export; and as the merchant strangers pay double customs,
the profit will be 4,333l., being greater than Lord Buckhurst's
offer. His offer would disquiet Devonshire and Cornwall, which
the imposition does not. Increase of price does not always cause
reduction of sale, as proved by cloth and wine, of which more
is sold now the prices are higher. |
|
The value of the tin should be considered, which in Devonshire
and Cornwall is 40,000l. a year. If bought at 25l. a thousand,
which is 40s. more than merchants have given for 14 years, except
the last when they raised it on purpose, and sold at 50l. a thousand,
the gain would be 40,000l., or at lower rates, 20,000l., or 10,000l.,
The Queen should have one agent in Cornwall and another in
London. Lord Buckhurst upon such gains would, after paying the
4,600l., gain 35,400l., 15,400l., or 5,400l., according to the rate of
buying and selling. Pardon my scribbled hand. I want the Queen's
agency in Cornwall for Roberts, he putting in good securities for
20,000l. [3 pages.] |
| June 4. |
50. Statement of the difference between Lord Buckhurst's offer
of 4,600l. for the sole pre-emption and transportation of tin, and
the imposition of 6s. 8d. upon every cwt. for sole transportation,
without the right of pre-emption; giving reasons in favour of Lord
Buckhurst's offer, and adding the advantages likely to accrue to
the tinners thereform. |
| June 4. |
51. Copy of the preceding. |
| June 5. |
52. Instructions by Lord Burghley and Sir J. Fortescue for Thos.
Myddleton, sent into Devonshire and Cornwall. To require leave
to be present at the coinage of the tin; enquire into any abuses in
keeping it back from coinage, what quantity has lately been raised,
how much sold in the realm, and how much exported; also the rates
of sale, and any hard dealing towards the tinners, whom the Queen
wishes to be used with favour. How soon tin is coined that is
sent in after the coinage; how the blocks are made into cwts.,
and how payments are made; what are the present prices, and
whether it would not content the country to fix on a reasonable
price, and continue it hereafter. [Copy. 1¾ pages.] |
June 6.
Plymouth. |
53. Thos. Peyton, Customer of Plymouth, to Lord Burghley.
I want permission to surrender my place of Customer of Plymouth
in favour of William Marwood, my son-in-law, a sufficient person; a
former request for him to join me in my patent having been refused. |
| June 6. |
54. — to Lord [Burghley]. Robt. Beale has a life grant
of the secretaryship at York, and has exercised it for five years
through Ralph Rokeby, now deceased. He wishes to exhibit a
petition to the Lord Treasurer, presenting five men from whom to
supply the place, either as deputy or joint patentee, as the Queen
pleases. Two are specially commended, Mr. Gee and Mr. Trotte.
Beale has petitioned the Earl of Essex, who favours Mr. Trotte.
We beg you to obtain the Lord treasurer's favour for Mr. Gee, who
is very fit, is recommended by the Archbishop of York, and well
known to the Earl of Huntingdon. We shall accomplish our first
offer, and any further consideration you like. Annexing, |
|
54. i. Account of William Gee, alderman of Kingston-upon-Hull. He came 50 came 50 years ago from Leicestershire, where
his kindred live, to Hull, as a merchant, and has benefited
the town more than any in the memory of this age. He
has been mayor three times with great credit. He has
spent— |
£ |
|
On repairs of the great church
|
150 |
|
In building a free school, the town being
very populous, |
300 |
|
In a large building in the market place,
to keep corn and other victuals brought
there dry, |
200 |
|
In a hospital for ten poor people, to whom
he gives a good weekly allowance, |
1,000 |
|
Great sums towards mending the highways. |
|
He offers towards bringing the fresh water
in lead pipes, which now runs in corrupt ditches, |
200 |
|
He is ever ready to give charitably and liberally for the
good of the town; was never sued nor called in question
for usury or hard dealing; but has spent his life and
substance most Christianly, both to the public and private
good. June, 1595. |
| June 7. |
55. Confession of [John Hacker]. Particulars of a visit to
Mrs. Williamson, to reclaim the Earl of Shrewsbury's writings,
which she refused. I left some one to see that nothing should
be taken out of the house. At last she consented to deliver
the writings, if my Lord would be good to her, as she was poor.
I saw three or four great bags of writings, marked "Kingston,
Sawley," and great parchment rolls and evidences. Many were put
into a sack, and all delivered to Edw. Longley and Hen. Widowson. There were two other chests of books, in the gallery, a down
bed and mattress, and in an old chamber much trumpery, with a
sack of old papers, which were left there till Mr. Harpur could
fetch them; there were six feather beds, some flax and hemp, &c.,
which she said did not belong to my Lord; also an old papistical
book. They were then locked and sealed, and left for Mr. Harpur to
take to Sawley. The old Countess of Shrewsbury said she wished
the things had not been removed; I told her that a constable and
justice of the peace were present. I objected on her account to
perusing the deeds, but Harpur insisted, if it were done in Mr. Willamson's presence. There were among them no letters to or from
Williamson, nor any mention of him. The papers belonging to
Sawley were put into one bag, and those belonging to Kingston in
another, and all deposited in my Lord's house at Sawley, sealed.
There were some old papers and books about, during the examination of the papers, some of which the maid carried away. [4pages.] |
| June 7. |
56. Sir Thos. Egerton to the Attorney General. I send a discourse written by Mr. Hacker, that you may examine him further, if
you think fit. Endorsed [by Att. Gen. Coke], "Draycot, late a
solider in the Low Countries, and dwelling at Draycot, in Derbyshire, within a mile of Sawley; Winson, Pearsall's wife's son; Sir
Geo. Hastings." |
| June 7. |
57. Edward, Earl of Oxford, to Lord Burghley. I wonder at
Carmarden's impudence in avowing such intolerable untruths to
Her Majesty. I remember his earnestness against Lord Buckhurst's
proceedings [about in]. I was set on by him to move for the imposition of the crown upon the cwt., on assurance that the tin
came to 1,500,000 Ibs,; but he is running a treacherous course. I
think it right to lay this before your Lordship, that there be not
vain confidence placed in him. |
|
It is true that some blcoks are but from 50 Ibs. to 200 Ibs. weight,
and there is deceit practised in having the lion stamped on some
given for household provision, or in exchange for-wine, and thus not
entered in the Customers' books, so that the true quantity does not
appear; but this is no reason why the Queen should not be paid. In
Cornwall the blocks do not average 400 Ibs. I dare challenge survery of those in Aldermen Some's and Taylor's warehouses, to show
them for the most part under 300 Ibs. Allow me to nominate a
man to send with mr. Myddleton, to gain more certain inforamtion,
Myddleton being wholly for the party against which I inform. By
delay, the Queen may lose this coinage, and so the benefit of the
whole year. An order should be sent that no tin be bought or sold
till July. The old custom was not to sell till all the merchants
were brought together, and many abuses creep in through delay. If
my messenger have equal authority with Myddleton, this plan will
take away all doubt about the exact quantity of tin. [2 pages.] |
| June 9. |
58. " Advertisments delivered by one lately come from the city
of Lisbon." On 25 Jan. Last, two armadas and five fly-boats left
for Bluett, with 700 men, 420 being soliders; since then, 12 other
fly-boats have gone, chiefly to Fandebuck, to fetch the goods of the
carrack lost there. The carracks were ordered to leave Letchbourn
(Lisbon) within 14 days of Easter; they were weakly manned, but
richer in treasure than usual; seven vessels with 500 soliders were
to escort them 500 leagues to sea, and then go to the Havannah,
where 14 vessels are wanting men, by reason of sickness. |
|
Eight ships of the Indian fleet have come in, bringing in two
English captains, John Middleton, and Capt. Goddard, Lord Cumberland's man, and nine or ten mariners, who report that in the South
Seas, the Dainty is taken, with Capt. Hawkins, who had taken great
treasure. All shipping was stayed in Portugal for three months,
but discharged May 18. Many hundred horse have come thither
from Sapin. In the castle of Lisbon, 250 men are added, making
the garrison 1,600. In March and April, 8,000 or 9,000 fled, on a
report of Sir Fras. Drake's coming with 140 English ships, 90
French, 80 Hollonyes (Hollanders ?), with as many soliders as could
be got, and 600 or 700 horsemen, shipped from Plymouth in April;
so they ahve replenished the coast with soliders. The Carnaries and
Terceras (Azores) are also fortified agaisnt Sir Fras. Drake, and
a fleet of 25 sail is preparing. Wm. Lambert, of Liverpool, is at
Lisbon, building five such ships as the King had not the like before.
[1¾ pages.] |
| June 11. |
59. Declaration by John Harpur. Details of how I found the
writings in Mr. Williamson's house at Wilne; they were viewed the
following morning at Sawley, by Mr. Bowne, Mr. Hacker, and myself.
When Lord Shrewsbury last went up to London, he made Longley his
bailiff for Kingston and Sawley; I was ordered to assist the bailiff. I
went with him to pay Sir Thos. Stanhope the rent of the manor, and
found that there wanted important evidences, which were kept by
Nich. Williamson. I went to Mr. Williamson's with him for them.
Details of the difficulties made by Mrs. Williamson in giving them
up. She wanted the Earl to give her an adjoining close, which
would keep six kine. She said there were other of his Lordship's
evidences in a friend's hands, whose name she would not confess,
which should come to his Lordship if he dealt well with her.
Details of furniture found in the church steeple near; the deeds were
left, some in the steeple and some in amill near; I sent a clerk back to
seal the lock. Hacker got other writings from mr. pearsall, in Staffordshire. Account of the transfer and opening of the papers, and their
final sealing up and depositing. I will swear that the key is as it was
then delivered. I saw nothing among the papers that could be
offensive to Queen or State, nor knew that N. Williamson was
charged with treason, or other offence than being a fugitive. The Earl
has given Mrs. Williamson nothing since her husband's departure,
but four or five quarters of corn. With note affirming the truth of the
above, by Thos. Pomfret, Harpur's servant. [4 pages, chiefly a
reptition of the examinations of May 29 and June 7.] |
| June 11, 12. |
60. Examination of Rob. Purnell, before Lord Chief Justice
Popham and Sir Wm. Brouncker. Nich. Bridges confessed to being
the person who robbed him last Jan. 31, between Western Burt and
Box well, but would not say who helped him. Was coming from
Paul's fair, Bristol, and had 135l. taken. Edw. Guildford confessed to
George Huntley, of Boxwell, that he founda wallet of Chris. Purnell's
with 135l. Was advised by Sir Thos. Throckmorton not to meddle
with the money without the Lord Chief Baron's opinion. Applied,
with his brothers Christopher and Thomas, to two justices of Ciciter
[Cirencester ?] for examination of Brdiges and Guildford, who were
bound over to appear next assizes. Dared not tell what Bridges and
Guildford had confessed, being threatened that they should not have
their money again unless they showed favour, in which case they
should be satisfied. [3 pages, in Popham's hand.] |
| June 11, 12. |
61. Like examination of Thos. Purnell, clothier, On Jan. 31, he
and his brothers Robert and Christopher, were robbed at Cromwell
heath, coming from Bristol fair, he of 120l., Robert of 135l. in a
wallet, and Christopher the same, who also was much hurt. Particulars of the capture, &c. of Bridges and Guildford; of Bridges' confession, the finding of the money, 220l. in all; of the Purnells hesitating
to take it without the Lord Chief Baron's opinion; of Chas. Bridges
giving wool to the Purnells, as no more money was to be had; their
examination and release on bail, &c. [4 pages. in Popham's
hand.] |
| June 12. |
62. Like examination of Chas. Bridges, of Walton-upon-Wye,
co. Hereford. Details of the accusation of Nich. Bridges, his base
son, and Edw. Guildford, for robbing the Purnells; their examination,
release on bail, and the bargain by which he delivered wool to
the Purnells in lieu of 100l. Was never told of the money found in
Mr. Huntley's court, nor of Nich. Bridges's confession, nor of any
composition made with the Purnells for the robbery, but offered to
satisfy them if he could. Is a justice of peace; went to Ciceter
[Cirencester ?] to see if the prisoners were to be bailed, and Mr.
Huntley went there to Mr. Masters, to be discharged of the prisoners.
[3 pages, the last in Popham's hand.] |
| June 12. |
63. Like examination of George Huntley, of Boxwell. Was made
justice of peace during the suit between Sir Edw. Hoby and others
upon an attaint. Before the robbery, Nich. Birdges and Edw.
Guildford told him they were going to Bristol. After the robbery,
men came to his house with hue and cry; sent six or seven men on
horseback to raise the country and next towns, for apprehension of
the robbers; during their absence, Bridges and Guildford came into
his yard; hesitated to admit them, lest they should be concerned in
the robbery, and Bridges rode away; took Guildford, but he refused
to confess the robbery. The Purnells thought Guildford to be one
that robbed them, and the same of Bridges, who was taken soon after,
but would not swear to either. Pressing them to confess, they half
acknowledged that the money was somewhere near. Found a
wallet of money behind a log, and had it carried secretly into
the house. They offered to discover the money, went to the
log, and finding it gone, said they were undone; promised to restore
it, if they would discover the rest, and in two days 93l. was brought
in, which, with the wallet, was delivered to the Purnells. Still, out
of 400l. they had only received 135l. and 93l. Chas. Bridges was
willing to satisfy the Purnells in wool, not having money. Took them
to Ciceter [Cirencester ?], where Rich. Davers and George Masters, two
justices of peace in Gloucestershire, examined them. Gave evidence
against them on their trial. Never heard of their directly confessing
the robbery. Was not present at their examination. [7 pages.] |
| June 12. |
64. Like examination of John Nest, of Chasteley, co. Worcester.
I heard at Gloucester of the Purnells' robbery, which was thought to
be done by Lord Chandos's men. I drew to my Lord's to bed, and
heard that two of his men, Nich. Bridges and Edw. Guilford, were
stayed on suspicion, at Mr. Huntley's at Boxwell. I went and reproved them for their conduct, as discreditable to my Lord. They
swore their innocence. Before that, Wm. Richardshon and Thos.
Willis, two of Lord Chandos's men, brought me some money, and
asked me to keep it for Bridges, he being in trouble; I took the
money, and told him and Guildford of it, but when they counted the
money, there lacked 5l. of what it was said to be. |
June 12.
Southampton. |
65. John Sedgewick to Lord Burghley. I want the place of
comtroller of Southampton, in case of the death of John Caplin,
the present comptroller, whi is likely to die. I will give 200l. for it,
testimony of my sufficiency, and security for my honesty. |
| June 12. |
66. Thos. Phelippes to Lord Burghley. I was forced to detain
the letter, on account of the multitude of characters. I will gage my
credit on the names I have set down, and have made a fair copy
of the letter, quoting the characters, that they may be wrought out
by some better &cElig;dipus. I ground myself on other intelligence of
proceedings beyond seas. I have good warrant for my conceit of
73. The ground of the faction abroad is that the Pope has put
some of the English in good hope of the King of Scots, if he will
give liberty of conscience; some, as Parsons, Holt, Owen, &c., second
the Spaniard's designs, which permit no mention of him. Yet the
taking the money from the King of Spain, supposed to have come
from the King of Spain, but discovered to be from the Pope, makes
me think that by 73 is meant the King of Scots, especially as he
says his wife is reconciled [to the Catholic church]. Encloses, |
|
66. i. Dr. W. Gifford to Thos. Throgmorton. On Friday, Mondragon's secretary took Moody in bed, carried him to
the castle, and thence to a secret prison. He should
be punished if he deserve it, but if innocent, these
ministers cannot so check their doings as to clear him,
nor will Owen, Holt, and others permit him to escape,
but seek all the world for matter, and even should none
be found, he will still lose his pension and be banished.
Holt said before that he ought to be dismissed. Holt
is melancholy, swears he will not live in this state, and
told the Duke of Feria that any stratagem in England
might call his honour and life in question. Owen and
Holt labour to bring Fitzherbert out of trouble. |
|
The Spaniards are two leagues off, and the boors have
attacked them and killed some. The Spaniards burned a
village. Owen and the rest laugh at Casano's being
Cardinal, and it is thought that it will rather be Cajetan
or Parsons. They accuse Cassano of being Scottish, and
plot his ruin and utter overthrow. I wish our countrymen would end this controversy about a Cardinal, as it
causes much faction. A letter was subscribed in favour
of Parsons, but Fitzherbert hindred it. Sir Fr. Englefield causes all this broil, by favouring first one and then
the other. No trust should be given to the King of
Spain's ministers, but Cassano should build on the
Pope. |
|
The Archdeacon of Malines has that bishopric, and the
Archdeacon of Bruges the bishopric of Bruges; it is said
that Lord Ross is to have that of Namur. Bruce is
at daggers drawn about a piquante letter, written by
Father Creighton, and related by 147. Ogilvy (a
Scottish lord), says the King of Scots is well inclined,
and will venture all to be free, if he see an army in the
field. Paget swears that Cecil the priest is gone to Spain,
with consent of the council of England. I do not think
Englefield and Cassano can ever be brought to concur.
I am much indebted to the Nuncio, having him at my
beck; I have got from 104 [Spain ?] the book by 62, on the
title of the King of Spain, corrected by Parsons; it is the
most pestilent ever made; the first part is stolen from
Mr. Reynolds'; the second alleges all titles, but confutes
all, especially the King of Scots'; extolling that of the
King of Spain, and arguing the advantage of a stranger
King.I have did the Nuncio prepare the minds of the
Pope and the rector of the Jesuits,and I will send
them the book. He says Parsons will never rise while
the Pope lives. 54 is troubled about some one being
sent over to kill him. I have given an abstract of
Parson's book to the Nuncio, who is mad with him,
and says he could not have done anything more disgusting to the Pope. Your last letters were lost in Holland; send the duplicates. I am unfortunate in all
worldly matters. Fathers Gordon and Creighton are
come from Germany. I know not what relation they
make of Scotland, though they have talked three hours
with the Nuncio. I am going to the Spa. [Decipher,
by Phelippes, of the original, of which only the last leaf
is preserved; with two marginal notes, about feminine
pronouns being used in the cipher letter as a disquise.
The passages in roman character are in cipher in the
original. 3½ pages.] Brussels, June 5/15, 1595. |
|
66. ii. W. Gifford to [T. Througmorton]. Original of the last
leaf of the preceding letter. Brussels, June 5/15, 1595. |
|
66. iii. Chas. Paget to Thos. Throgmorton, Rome. I have heard
nothing for three weeks, all the packets being taken, and
not recovered. The Frenchman has accused Moody, and he
is taken prisoner, and Sliferd also. I will tell the King's
ministers my mind. I told the Duke of Feria that these
things were strange, and that he could not go to the Spa,
as Moody would rely on his attestation. Count Fuentes
mislikes the English, and seems glad of an excuse for ill
treating them. I want a recommendation from the Pope
and Cardinals to the Prince of Liege, to get an entertainment of him, or elsewhere. I am weary as long as
0 governs. he threatened to have Moody put out of
the country for complaining that 0 had used hard
speeches of him to his superior. He is a dangerous
and malicious man, and has spoken ill of George and
Glement Throgmorton, and of Dick Gifford, and tries to
disgrace them. He is in great credit with Stephen
D'Ibarra, and it will be fortified when the Cardinal of
Austria comes. I wish he could be removed, for his
presence only causes faction. I have imparted some
things which will give a sound blow to 67. There is no
reconcilement with these men, and they had better be
known as enemies. Master Ogilvy, a Scottish gentleman of an ancient house, and a good Catholic, has come
from Scotland, and reports well of V., who will come
this fall to Rome; let him be well used. Colson, who has
brought four boys and two women from England, reports
the persecution there against Catholics more tolerable
than it was, except against the Jesuits, who are thought
great practisers. Father Walpole suffered at York, but
the rest he wrote of did not suffer death. |
|
The hatred between the Spaniards and boors increase
daily, through murders on both sides, and it is feared
the garrisons and army will mutiny for want of money. |
|
It is time the Cardinal of Austria came, or all will go
to wreck. Discontent is general, and the English here
will be driven to take some desperate course. Fuents is
near Cambray, and in his absence, the Marquis de Avery,
presides. [1½pages; the last paragraph in cipher,
undeciphered.] Burssels, June 6/16. |
June 12.
Cambridge. |
67. John Du Port, Vice-Chancellor, and eight Principals of the
University of Cambridge, to Lord Burghley, Chancellor. Controversies have lately arisen, and there have been sermons and disputations about predestination and justification by faith, which doctrines
have been impugned. Mr. Barrett, of Gonville and Caius College,
in a sermon in the University church, asserted that justifying faith
may decay, and that salvation was therefore doubtful, contrary to
Calvin, Peter Martyr, &c., and heing ordered by Dr. [Ralph] Some,
vice-chancellor's deputy, to recant, did it in an offensive and irreverent manner, so that mischief will ensue unless he is dealt with.
We send Dr. Some upon the subject, and request directions and
assistance. |
| June 13. |
68. Note by Hum. Basse, that the money disbursed by Mr.
[Otwell] Smith, for the ordnance and munition at Dieppe eight
months since, amounted to 73l. 13s.; cannot state what the expense
has been since. |
| June 13. |
69. Edward, Earl of Oxford, to Lord Burghley. I fear Myddleton
will be ready to return before any one else can arrive at the place,
yet wishing, in spite of discouragement, to come at the truth, I
desire a warrant for Alderman Catcher to join with Myddleton. |
| June 14. |
70. Edward, Earl of Oxford, to Lord Burghley. I do not think it
matters for the Queen to send any one to join with Myddleton, as his
message will rather hinder than advance the service, and no care is
taken of my wish that she should not lose the benefit of the year.
I wanted her letter for the stay of tin this month, till she considers
what is best, and not for her to suffer so great a matter to slip her
hands. The quantity of tin will be better discovered here than from
Sir F. Godolphin's rolls, as the deceit there cannot be perceived.
The money which he yearly pays declares it; if he pays 2,400l. rent,
at 40s. the 1,000 lbs., it will be 1,200,000 lbs., and the remainder
left on to the next year may be 200l. or 400l. more. The deceit
lies where the tin is transported; where four blocks should be
1,000 lbs., only three attain to that quantity. If the Queen think
it to her benefit to appoint a couple of agents, I will advertise
Roberts to draw in his money. I will send down Alderman Catcher,
who will not be negligent; if he is ready with his moiety, it only
needs to appoint another for the other moiety. If Alderman
Haughton was ready to take the charge alone, it will be easier of
him joined with another. Since he has already deceived Her Majesty
of 40,000l., when he had for 12 or 14 years the impost of wines
under his master, why should he think much to recompense the
same in her service, raising a great commodity to her, and no small
revenue to himself? If 40,000l. laid out yield 25,000l. why should
not the Queen halve it with them? and 5,000l. or 6,000l. may
content Haughton, though few noblemen in England come up to
his living. I request the Queen's letter to Sir F. Godolphin for stay
of the sale of tin, as divers merchants are gone to buy it up: let
Alderman Catcher, who is now going down about my affair and
Roberts's, carry it down. I should not like to be accused of causing
the Queen to lose 8,000l. or 10,000l. a year, when the fault is theirs
who would have her content with little, that they may deceive
her of much. [2 pages.] |
| June 14. |
71. Examination of David Lawe. "The great lease of the manor
of Kingston, bought of Frances Molineux, and taken in N. Williamson's name. My Lord purchased the fee simple of Kingston of Fras.
Babington. Mr. Rye, that is toward Lord Darcy, sold also some
interest to my Lord [Shrewsbury], and thinketh the interest conveyed to Williamson." [In Coke's hand.] |
| June ? |
72. Notes [by Att. Gen. Coke]. Nich. Williamson and others were
convicted, 10 May 1594, in the Star Chamber, of riot, and he committed close prisoner, 13 March last. Hacker confessed, 29 May,
that the Earl of Shrewsbury wrote to him to fetch away some
evidences from Pearsall's house, lest some enemy shoulg get them
away. Nich. Williamson told him he should have the writings,
which were in custody of his brother Thomas. Particulars of
Pearsall's getting the writings, of the reclaiming of them, as detailed, and of their being removed and sealed in a chest, similar to
previous examinations. [1¾ pages.] |
| June ? |
73. Statement by John Hacker, that at Williamson's house, in a
chamber without a door, was a sack of writings, to which any one
might resort, but Mr. Harpur said they were old papers, and need
not be taken to the mill with the others, but he afterwards brought
them to Sawley, to be locked up; the sack contained very old deeds
with seals, court rolls, leases, &c., and some torn papers about the
lands late the Babingtons', and all the sacks were locked in a chest;
in the last were some writings relating to the jointure of Williamson's
wife. |
| June 14. |
74. Declaration of John Hacker, touching the search of Mrs.
Williamson's house for deeds and papers, and their transfer to Lord
[Shrewsbury's] house. |
| June 14. |
75. Examination of Nicholas Bedle, of Woselworth, co. Gloucester, before Lord Chief Justice Popham. Being father-in-law of
Chris. Purnell, was asked by George Huntley to take charge of
the wallet of money belonging to Christopher Purnell, found in
his court, till the Lord Chief Baron's pleasure was known. Did
so, by advice of Sir Thomas Throgmorton, and afterwards had
93l. more. Also bought 100 tod of wool from Charles Bridges;
120l. of the money to go to satisfy the Purnells, and 25l. to Bridges
himself. After the assizes, delivered the money to the Purnells, &c.
[2½ pages, in Popham's hand.] |
| June 15. |
76. Edward, Earl of Oxford, to Lord Burghley. It is of no use
for the Alderman to go down with Myddleton, to enquire the
quantity of tin, which could be better found from the Exchequer
books and tin merchants here. Both the country and the Pewterers'
Company agreed for 24l. the 1,000 lbs., as tin has been cheap this
18 months, through engrossers who kept it at a low rate 12 years,
yet now put it up to hinder a good cause. The Queen may make
her benefit this summer, if she even give 25l or 26l. the 1,000, and
may have 3,000l. in the agents' hands at five or six per cent.,
if the sale be stayed till the agents go. St. James's day is the
right day by stannary order. I want two agents to buy the tin
for the Queen this season, and sell it at 40l. the 1,000 lbs., the
present London price; the quantity of tin being worth 40,000l., this
will make it 60,000l., which is 20,000l. gain; 10,000l. a year is
better for the Queen than 4,000l., and yet the bargain will be good
for the merchants. [1¼ pages.] |
June 16.
Greenwich. |
77. [Lord Burghley] to the Earl of Oxford. I am sorry that
my letters do not satisfy you, and that I misunderstood your
meaning. I see the Roberts, not Catcher, was your informant. I
have spoken to the Queen earnestly to stay the delivery of tin, that
it might be bought for her profit, but was sharply rebuked for
reiterating it, so I mean to deal no more therein. I am not won from
you. I can prove that those who say so slander me. |
June 16.
The Court. |
78. Lord Burghley, Chancellor of the University of Cambridge,
to the Vice-chancellor and Heads of colleges. I have read
your account of Mr. Barrett's maintaining Popish doctrine in a
sermon delivered to the University, and of his irreverent manner in
the recantation which he was obliged to make. Also your request
to me, as chancellor, to assist in repressing like offences. I am sorry
to see such a scandal as the teaching of unsound doctrine. I have
perused the recantation, and am glad to see in it so plain a revocation of the erroneous doctrine; I wish his publication of it had
been simple and sincere, without reiterating his disposition to continue in error. I find by the statute that any one preaching against
the established religion may be compelled to retract, by order of the
Chancellor and Masters of colleges, or be expelled, and what can be
done by the Chancellor may also be done by the Vice-chancellor;
therefore you do not need my assistance, but may command Barrett
to humble himself in his recantation, or else expel him. I hope
he will reform on second admonition, like St. Augustine, and other
fathers of the primitive church. I first thought of submitting the
case to the Archbishop of Canterbury and Ecclesiastical Commissioners, but have decided to leave it to your wisdom, and not
alter the course of the University statutes. I hope no such matter
will occur again. [2½ pages. Draft.] |
June 19.
Cornwall. |
79. Confession of Sampson Porh, of St. Keverne, sailor, before
Hanibal Vyvyan. While fishing, with three others, in Falmouth
Bay, 7 May last, they were taken by a shallop of Bluett, commanded
by one Ferris, a Fleming, and manned with 16 sailors and 20 soldiers; were carried to Bluett, and brought before Don Diego, general
of the army there, who, by an Englishman that was in one of the
galleys there, examined them on oath as to what preparation of shipping was being made in England, and under whose government.
Told him there was about 100 or 120 sail, and that Sir Fras. Drake
was general. He urged them to say whither they were bound,
but they could not tell; after a re-examination, had a pass to leave
in a bark belonging to Mr. Sayer of Dartmouth. Wm. Jones, late
of Bristol, gunner in a Spanish ship, who could not have leave to
pass home, desired them to tell the next justice of peace that they
could speak with after their return, that there were four galleys and
10 ships of war in Bluett, and that they expected 7 more galleys
and 10 more ships, which were appointed to be sent to Guernsey,
Jersey, and Scilly, to surprise and take ships lying there, or coming
that way; accordingly told the same to Mr. Rouse, one of the justices of this shire. |
| June 19. |
80. "Answer to articles sent to an English fugitive, with Mr.
Antony Bacon, by the Lord Treasurer, and delivered by the Earl of
Essex." 1. In Valladolid College there are 30 English scholars, as
many in Seville, 10 in each able to preach, and as many to be sent
into England. |
|
2. They are usually sent in their missions by the rectors of the
colleges, without limit of time prescribed. |
|
3. Knows none who have returned from England, so cannot say
what report they bring of their success, nor what class of subjects
they converse with, to reconcile them [to the Catholic Church]. |
|
4. They have no secret authority to licence any to go to church to
avoid punishment, as the going to church is, in England, the distinction between Protestants and Catholics. |
|
5. The reconcilers find most comfort and safety about London. |
|
6. Knows not what reports they bring from Oxford, Cambridge,
or the Inns of Court in London. |
|
7. Some fugitives think England would be best invaded by Dover;
others say Milford Haven, Hull, Scotland, and Ireland. |
|
8. There are many who will aid the King [of Spain], if they see he
is likely to prevail; the malcontents will do the same, and those
who go to church against their consciences look for a day of redress. |
|
9. The Pope's nephew's embassy to the King [of Spain] was to procure aid for Hungary, and also to invade England; this was gathered
by a relic of St. Alban, protomartyr of England, sent to the King by
the Pope; it was also said that he brought the King leave to receive
a third of all the revenues of the clergy of Spain, to effectuate war
against England. Knows not with what resolution he departed.
Knows of no disposition on the part of the King or his council to
make peace with France or England, and thinks that for his own
honour, he will never do it but on very unequal conditions. [Endorsed
by Burghley. 1¾ pages.] |
| June 19. |
81. Note of the revenues of the Bishop of Chester: 313l. 3s. 10¼d.,
and his necessary payments 239l. 15s. 6¼d., leaving for him 73l. 7s. 4d.,
which is all his allowance for household charges, &c. He has paid
tenths and subsidies for Bangor parsonage, and maintained three
curates, and now when he should receive the fruits, it is bestowed on
D. Bullen, dean of Lichfield. Statement of sums due to him next year,
which should pay but one subsidy. The dilapidations of Lincoln are
above 1,000l., and nothing can be got for them; the Bishop of Lincoln
cannot maintain his household, keep some hospitality, and furnish
and repair one house, unless restored, like former bishops, from the
vacancy. The Bishop lost 200 marks by being debarred from his
triennial visitation, through letters on behalf of an honouralbe person,
who yet profited nothing thereby. [1¼ pages. William Chaderton,
Bishop of Chester, was translated to Lincoln, April 1595.] |
June 19.
Lime Street. |
82. Lisle Cave, W. Bland, and J. Dowse, general surveyors of
Ports, to Lord Burghley. We recommend George Holland, of Bristol,
to a waiter's room in that port. He has served about the customs
since Sir F. Walsingham's farming of customs there, and is fit for
the place. |
| June 20. |
83. List of 70 captains who served Her Majesty in the wars of
France and the Low Countries, since the 28th year of the Queen's
reign, but 38 are since dead, and 32 were slain in the wars. |
| June 22. |
84. Charles Lord Montjoy to Lord Burghley. I have disbursed
for workmen's wages 500l. of the 1,000l. received for the works at
Portsmouth, and 200l. for emptions, and have not enough for another
pay-day, so desire order for another 1,000l., which will, I hope,
complete the greatest part of the works. |
| June ? |
85. Title of a memorial for Lord Montjoy, captain of Portsmouth, of the resolutions taken for the better fortification of the
town of Portsmoth, in which he is to use the service of Paul Ivey,
with suitable allowance. |
| June 22. |
86. Capt. Hum. Covert to Lord Burghley. I think Capt. Whitstock has been already satisfied for the money which he pretends to
have advanced for the troops at Pempole. M. St. Luke ordered the
burghers to advance me money, which I confess to have received,
and when they were unwilling to pay the tax, he threatened to take
their wine, grain, cattle, &c., according to the Queen's allowance, for
relief of the garrison; so the parishes were taxed, but on giving the
money to the lieutenants, he took their receipts as though he had
paid it out of his own purse. The gentlemen of the country threatened to complain of his foraging upon them. A discreet man of
Sir Thos. Layton's government should be sent to inquire about these
things. |
|
P.S.—He has quickly got 1,500l. to put to use, whilst I, who took
pains for the conservation of Pempole, want bread. |
| June 23. |
87. The Queen to the Lieutenants of the several shires. We require more troops to serve in Ireland, but not wishing needlessly
to burden our subjects, we have limited the levy to small numbers
in sundry counties. We request that these may be furnished with
coats and weapons, and sent to the sea side. [Draft by Lord
Burghley.] |
| June 24. |
88. The Council to —. The Queen having inquired about the
progress of the works and fortifications at the Hoo, between the
sea and Plymouth, the charge, the payments already made, &c., we
choose you to repair thither and examine them, and to report on the
wants and charges for the same, and for housing of a captain and
eight men to keep them. Also what ordnance is requisite, and
what can be had there belonging to the Queen or the town. Also
how much has been contributed thereto by free gift, by the contributions of the country, and by the imposition on pilchards, and how
the further sums required may be raised without delay. |
|
Also you are to ascertain the state of readiness of the soldiers
appointed to defend the town and fort when needful; to see their
arms put in order, if needful, and charge their leaders to be always
ready to conduct them. We wish your reply in writing, by Stallenge,
clerk of receipts and payments. [Draft by Burghley, 2 pages.] |
| June 24. |
89. List of munition and arms remaining in store at the Blockhouses and Castle of Kingston-upon-Hull. [2 pages.] |
| June 26. |
90. Abstract of six grants of lands, made by the Queen, at
request of the Earl of Essex, viz.:— |
|
To Thomas Crompton, Rob. Wright, and Gelly Merrick, of Englefield mansion and manor, co. Berks, and Shiplake, co. Oxon; value,
121l. 3s. 3¼d. 30 March 1589. |
|
To the same, lands and tenements in cos. Salop, Berks, Oxon,
Devon, and Wilts, late possessions of Sir Fras. Englefield, attainted.
9 Jan. 1589. |
|
To the same,—in consideration of Strixton manor, and other lands
in Strixton and Wollaston, co. Northampton, and of houses near
Charing Cross, and tithes in Hooton Cranswick parish, co. York,
exchanged by Robert, Earl of Essex, Sir Thos. Cecil, and Thos.
Crompton,—lands in cos. Oxon, Bucks, Gloucester, Hereford, Worcester, and in London. 24 Jan. 1590. |
|
To Thos. Crompton, Rob. Wright, and Gelly Merrick, lands in
cos. York, Somerset, Wilts, Suffolk, Norfolk, Hereford, Leicester,
Bucks, and Northampton. 11 Nov. 1592. |
|
To Gelly Merrick and Hen. Lindley, Wigmore manor and castle,
and Bringwood Forest and chace, co. Hereford; value, 103l. 14s. 0½d.
2 May 1595. |
|
To Thos. Crompton and Hen. Lindley, Newenton and other
manors, co. Bucks. Also to the Earl of Essex, and the heirs male
of Walter Lord Ferrers, the site of Pembroke priory, South Wales.
26 June 1595. [7 pages.] |
| June 26. |
91. Examination of Rich. Danvers before Lord Chief Justice Popham and Lord Chief Baron Periam. Coming to Cicester [Cirencester?]
14 Feb. last, was requested to come to George Masters' house; found
there George Huntley, Chas. Bridges, and three of the Purnells,
and joined in the examination of Nich. Bridges, and one Guildford,
accused of robbing the Purnells, but the latter refused to charge
them, though the robbery was done in the day-time, the mist being
thick. Masters and Bridges wanted the men only to be bound to
appear in 10 days, if anything was found out meanwhile; objected
to this, and they were bound over to appear at the assizes. Huntley
pleads a supersedeas, and would not join in the examinations. [3
pages.] |
| June 26? |
92. Like examination of Chas. Bridges. When his son Nicholas
Bridges and Edw. Guilford were taken for robbing the Purnells,
the elder Purnell said they had confessed to the robbery; told
Purnell he would perform what his son had promised. Does
not remember being told by Mr. Huntley of Boxwell, that the
money was not sufficient to satisfy the Purnells. Moved his
brother Henry Bridges, and also Huntley, to examine the prisoners, and to bail them if they could, but they refused. One being
the examinant's brother, and the other his son-in-law, solicited Mr.
Masters to go to Sir Hen. Winston to examine them, and to take
bail, but Sir Henry, being unwilling to deal in the matter, pretended
to be not at home; took the prisoners to Mr. Masters's house at
Ciciter [Cirencester?], where there were two other justices of the
peace, who consented to take bail in two sureties in 50l. each;
protested against this as beingtoo much.[1½ pages.] |
| June 26 ? |
93. Abstract of the confession of George Huntley, of Boxwell.
The Purnells being robbed of 385l., hue and cry was made, and
Nich. Bridges and Edw. Guilford, two of the thieves, came to
Huntley's house at Boxwell; he laid hold of Guilford, who hid a
wallet containing 135l. in his court; Bridges fled, but was taken
and brought to Boxwell. On promise of favour if they would restore the money, the prisoners wrote to their friends and obtained
93l. more, but as there was still 200l. deficient, Huntley asked
Mr. Charles Bridges to satisfy the Purnells before the prisoners
were bailed; he said he had no money. They took the prisoners
from Boxwell to another house of Huntley's, at Froster, and Mr.
George Masters went to Sir Hen. Winston about them, but he
said he was not at home. Huntley delivered up the prisoners to
Masters and Mr. Danvers, justice of the peace there, who examined
them, and the bail was taken. Huntley never acquainted the
justices with the finding of the wallet of money, nor with Guilford's
confession, nor with the promise to satisfy the Purnells, nor with the
93l. received from the prisoners, alleging afterwards that it would
have been too treacherous to have done so. The bail was but 50l. a
piece and the prisoners in 100l., and they thereupon fled, and never
made their appearance. Huntley dealt with Charles Bridges to satisfy
the Purnells, and he delivered 70 todd of wool, and the wallet of
money, and the 93l. [1¾ pages.] |
June 27.
London. |
94. Sir John Spencer, Lord Mayor of London, to Lord Burghley.
I have apprehended Anne Dryland, and committed her to the
Counter, there being no room convenient to keep her close prisoner
in Newgate. I have also examined and sent to the Counter Edw.
Flower, for contemptuous words spoken against my authority and the
decree of the Star Chamber, to the encouragement of the apprentices
that committed this riot. Endorsed with notes [by Coke] relative
to concealment and composition of felony. Encloses, |
|
94. i. Examination of Rich. Garret, silk weaver, of St. James's
Garlickhith, London before the Lord Mayor. Last Christmas, took Anne Dryland into his house. Heard her say
at Shrovetide that the Queen would die in three years, and
the land be overrun by the enemies, and that she would
go to Spain, and be welcome for what she could do.
She had also sat up one night in his kitchen, raked up
the ashes, and foretold by the holes in the ashes, the birth
of a child, and a change of servant, both which came
true; since revealing this, his wife and maid have been
ill; would have told these speeches before, but did not
know they were contrary to law. June 27, 1595. |
|
94. ii., iii. Like Examinations of Rich. Edey, porter of the
Marshalsea, Henry Robinson, girdler, and Garret Saxton,
shoemaker, all of Southwark. Edw. Flower, husbandman of Knightsbridge, being at Robinson's shop door,
said there was a great stir in London with the apprentices for the good of the Commonwealth; that
1,800 of them had pulled down the pillories in Cheapside and Leadenhall, and set up a gallows against the
door of the Lord Mayor, whom they would hang if he
dared come out, but he dared not; and that 3,000 were
lying in the fields, with bills and clubs, to rescue the
apprentices, if anything were done to them. Edey told
him he deserved apprehending; he replied if he were
committed, the Lord Chamberlain should fetch him out,
for where the Lord Chamberlain or Council had punished
two, the Lord Mayor had punished seven; whereon Edey
fetched a constable and had him committed. [1½.pages.]
June 27, 1595. |
June 28.
Alderman
Radeliffe's house,
London. |
95. D. Ch. Parkins to Lord Burghley. All things are left in good
order in Poland for the safe trade of the English merchants. I will
give an account to Her Majesty of my negotiations, on any time
appointed. |
| June 28. |
96. Examination of Sir Thos. Throckmorton, before Lord Chief
Justice Popham, and Lord Chief Baron Periam. When Edward
Guildford and Nicholas Bridges were apprehended on the robbery
of the Purnells, sent to advise George Huntley, of Froster, not to
bail them. Huntley was gone, but Hen. Bridges said he would
not bail them. George Masters was at Froster the night they
were brought there. |
| June 29. |
97. Like examination of Christopher Purnell. Details particulars
of the robbery of himself and his brothers by Edw. Guildford;
did not inform against them, being afraid, but was greatly amazed
at their release on bail. [1½ pages.] |
| June 30. |
98. Examination of George Huntley, of Boxwell, touching the
robbery of the Purnells, to the same purport as that of June 12.
Was not privy to any request that the prisoners should not be
bailed. [Draft, 2¾ pages.] |
| [June 30.] |
99. Effect of George Huntley's confession and examination in
the above case, similar to those of June 12 and 30. [2½ pages, in
Popham's hand.] |
| June 30. |
100. Petition of Richard Nashe to the Queen, for the farm for
60 years, on rent of 3,000l., of a concealed revenue of 3,000l. a
year, discovered by him; the realm will thereby be benefited, much
bloodshed quieted, and 5,000 poor comforted, without exacting new
customs or raising penalties. Refers for information to Vice-Chamberlain Sir Thos. Heneage. |
| June [30.] |
101. The Queen to the Earl of Pembroke. Forces are wanted in
readiness to augment the army in Ireland, if required; but not wishing
to charge any county with a full band, we determine to have only—footmen raised in Somersetshire, and the numbers named in a
schedule in certain counties of Wales, whence 380 have been lately
levied; they are to be able men, well armed, and made ready to be
put into bands of 100, and sent if required. [Copy.] |
| June 30. |
102. The Queen to the Lord Lieutenant of Essex and Hertfordshire. Similar letter for levying troops in those counties.
[Copy.] |
| June ? |
103. Observations [by Att. Gen. Coke], collected from Williamson's
discourses. His prying into matters of state about England, Scotland, Spain, France, Denmark, and the Low Countries. His being a
dissembling discontented Papist. As he could not have got these
intelligences in matters of state beyond sea, he must have intelligence in England, as he confesses in his letter of 10 June, speaking of seeing his letters and conferring with his friends. [These
letters should be seen and friends known.] He was sent by
Creighton, the Jesuit, to persuade the King of Scots to be Catholic,
by saying that he could not else attian to the Crown of England, as
the Pope, at instigation of the King of Spain, would excommunicate
and depose him. [Proved by Creighton's letters.] The French
King, who is now Catholic, is to be absolved, on condition of being
with the Pope and King of Spain, unless against the King of Scots,
he too becomes Catholic. He could thus revenge the death of
his mother, martyred for religion, on those who consented to it.
Many of the Englsih nobles and others would then take his part.
[Quere, whom of these nobles? they were none of the lords that
consented.] This practice proceeds from Jesuits and other ministers
of the King of Spain, but seems a plot to make the Scot discontended, and disable him from stirring, and to draw some of England
for Spain, to have the easier conquest. Note the disabling of
Arabella. By Creighton's advice, he was not to serve the King
unless he were Catholic. The Pope was to aid him with money, if
they would take some course for England, and France also, but
Denmark is wavering. |
|
"Remembrances; where and what his writings be; who his friends
be; of Dracot, Winsor, Sir George Hast[ings ?], &c. The disabling
of Arabella. Copy of the Queen of Scots' will." [The passages in
brackets are marginal notes.] |
| June ? |
104. Notes of charges of high treason committed by Williamson
beyond sea. He fled without licence. Being with the Queen's
friends in Holland, he went to the enemy at Antwerp, and collected advertisements there; there was a supposed wonder of a
bloody cross in his linen. |
|
His overt acts are conferences with sundry English traders abroad
named, especially Geo. Moore and Fras. Dacres attainted; the latter
persuaded him to go to Scotland, to Lords Hume and Buccleugh.
His associations with David Lawe, a Douay priest, Creighton, the
Scottish Jesuit, Forman, his confessor; conferences with Stanley
and others, to stir wars and invasions in Ireland, Scotland, and
England; having a book about the King of Spain's title to the
crown, and the Queen of Scots' will. Hoping to stir four earls in
Scotland to rebel. With extract from a Latin letter [of Creighton]
about sending Lawe and Willimason to the King of Scotland.
[By Att. Gen. Coke. 2 pages, containing also several points named
in the preceding.] |
| June ? |
105. Similar paper to the preceding, with a few queried about
Williamson's conferences with Creighton, and his associations with
Lawe. [1¼ pages.] |
| [June.] |
106. Account of charges disbursed by Thos. Cæsar about alnage
and subsidy of the new draperies, from 14 Feb. to 5 May 1595; total,
30l. 19s. 4d., of which half is borne by Mr. Fitzwilliams, and a sixth
part eachh by Rob. Webbe, Mr. Hayes, and Mr. Cæsar. With notes
of other accounts between the same parties, Sir George Delves, and
"my brother Peck." [2 pages.] |
| June ? |
107. Statement of the conditions between Her Mahesty and Sir
John Hawkins, who has undertaken a voyage to the south ward.
She is to put in order and through furnish, at her own charge,
six ships, the Mary Rose, Hope, Nonpareil, Rinbows, Swiftsure,
and Foresight, for which she is to have a third part of any
booty taken from her enemies; and Sir John is, at his own charge,
to victual the said ships for four months, for which he is to have
another third part, and also the remaining third to satisfy the
sailors and servitors in those ships, or otherwise to pay them such
wages as is usual in Her Majesty's service, or as shall be agreed
upon between him and them. |
|
If Her Majesty shall stay the journey, the charges disbursed by
Sir John are to be repaid to him or his assigns, and if she shall
employ the said fleet in any other service, she, for that time, shall
pay the wages and victuals, by the allowance of the Lord Admiral.
[1¾ pages. Draft.] |
| June. |
108.— to Lord [Burghey]. Capt. Price, late LieutenantGovernor in the Brill, now come to England, has enriched himself
to the value of 10,000l., all or most part of which he has converted
into lands and tenements in the Low Countries; what he has else
in stock is in the States' hand, He has married a woman of that
country, and wholly addicts himself to the pleasing of the States.
As he has now come over to sue for a continuance of the place, I
thought it good to advertise your Lordship of this, that you may
consider the great danger that might ensue, if such a man should
have authority in the Lord Governor's absence. |
| [June.] |
109. Sir Chas. Danvers to Sir Rob. Cecil. I never doubted but you
apprehended your friend's misfortune, and am sufficiently persuaded
of your care by former proofs. I am grieved to be served from
the place, and mean to do you service. If time only can be my
cure, I will expect the accomplishment thereof with patience, hoping
that the return of Her Majesty's favour will not stretch it to its
uttermost limits, but leave some time to make an end of a tedious
life in her service; I would then esteem my end more glorious, than
my life happy in a foreign service. If it would please her to confine
me in Ireland, where I might do her service with the loss of my
blood against the rebels, I should think myself highly favoured, and
endure this tedious cure of my disease with better patience than I
can do in this place, where I hear the cause my Prince has to use
her servants, and see myself deprived of the means of employing
myself therein. |
|
Thanks for your favour to my mother, and especially for making
it appears to her that it is for my sake. If I knew what toys
would please you, I would provide them, my fortune being very
capable of such service. Your letter is the greatest comfort I have
received during my banishment, which, as my enemies will seek to
lengthen, so I desire my friends to shorten. I beg comfort and
advice. [2 pages.] |
| June? |
110. Notes [by the Burghley] that against the adventure of the
two noblemen, it is to be considered that, in their absence, there will
be a want of sufficient men to command a navy, and of ships to
withstand any foreign force, and as the strength of the enemy has
been increased, it is doubtful whether the damage to be done by
our navy will countevail the charges; if it should not, the journey
will be unprofitable and dishonourable. It may happen that the
enemy may come to sea and be too strong for Her Majesty's forces,
which will be greatly weakened by the loss of Sir Fras. Drake and
Sir John Hawkins, as they are fittest for sea service, in absence of
the two Lords. The special purposes in view are, first, to withstand any navy that shall come to invade England or Ireland this
summer; secondly, to destroy the enemy's ships of war in their
ports, and munition and other apparatus, so as to make him unable
to arm a navy this next year to go to the Narrow Seas, which he
otherwise will attempt, having assurance of a good harbour at
Calais. If the voyage is stayed, the enemy will be emblodened to
go to sea, and give aid to the rebels in Ireland, and may attempt
landing, and burning some of the western parts of England, or
taking and fotifying Milford Haven, or the Isles of Scilly, Jersey,
or Guernsey, all which attempts the army now provided will probably be able to withstand. It wil also have to be considered, if the
voyage is stayed, how the two Lords are to be discharged for the expenses
penses of their own provisions of arms and victuals, and their imprests
to captains for levying soldiers, and payments of the same, since they
came to Plymouth. The enemy will think the stay is for fear, the
rather for the loss of the voyage of Sir Fras. Drake and Hawkins;
and the Queen's friends will think this desertion of an enterprise so
far forward a great diminution of the honour that would have been
gotten thereby. |
|
A third motion is that the Lords may be personally spared, and if
there be not sufficient noblemen of knowledge to purse this action,
then the charge of ships and men should be diminished by onethird, provided none of the Hollander's ships nor Low County
soldiers be discharged. Against this motion, it may be said that it
will be hard to find men to supply the places of these two nobelemen,
both by sea and land. That many men of value who, from particular
affection, would serve under them, will adventure under no other,
because they will fear lest the forces, when diminished to a third, will
not be strong enough either for defence or attack. It is to be considered how the discharged seamen are to be paid, and employed,
as the merchats' voyages are passed for this summer, also those for
Newfoundland, and the herring fishery will not being before August.
Also how the land soldiers are to be dismissed to live peaceably,
without committing robberies, and how the safety of horsemen,
clothiers, and travellers by the way is to be provided for. [3 pages.] |
| [June.] |
111. Note that 153,000l. was paid to Rich. Huddlestone, treasurer
at war in the Low Countries, during a year and 142 days, commencing 2 Aug. 1585 and ending 1 Feb. 1587, for the forces there,
and 505, 369l. 11s. 10d. to Sir Thos. Sherley, the present treasurer, for
three years and 258 days, beginning 2 Feb. 1587 and ending 16 Oct.
1590; I cannot state what the latter has received since, either for
the Low Countries, Normandy, or Brittany, not having seen the
accounts. [Noted by Burghley.] |
| [June.] |
112. Accounts of Sir Thos. Sherley, as treasurer at war in the
Low Countries, for three years and 258 days, viz., from 1 Feb. 1587
to 16 Oct. 1590. [Small book of 22 pages.] |
| June. |
113. Report of Auditors Hill and King to the Council, on the
above accounts, with their objections thereto, and Sir Thos. Sherley's
answers. [Large book of 10 sheets.] |
| [June.] |
114. Accounts by Sir Thos. Shereley of the weekly pay required for
officers and troops mentioned, serving in the Low Countries, for two
months, from 9 July to 2 Sept. 1595; total, 7,677l. 17s. 4d. [3¼
pages.] |
| June. |
115. Effects of the suits of Sir Thos. Wilkes, one of which he
desires for his present relief; a licence for 21 years of the sole
export of sea coal; a fee farm to such value as will satisfy his
debts, and enable him to maintain himself in Her Majesty's service,
or any otehr speedy relief that she may think good. |
| [June.] |
116. Copy of the above. |
