Elizabeth: September 1563

Calendar of State Papers Foreign: Elizabeth, Volume 6, 1563. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1869.

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'Elizabeth: September 1563', in Calendar of State Papers Foreign: Elizabeth, Volume 6, 1563, (London, 1869) pp. 516-536. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/foreign/vol6/pp516-536 [accessed 24 April 2024]

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September 1563

Sept. 1190. The Parliament of Paris.
1. Upon the edict touching the King's majority the Parliament of Paris makes the remonstrances following:—
2. As to the declaration of the King's full age, they think it was nothing necessary, the full age having been resolved by an ordinance of Charles III. in 1370. (fn. 1)
3. The confirmation of the edict of pacification has been much debated, as it appears that the King would establish two religions. As regards the graces contained in the same, the Parliament will pass them without difficulty, but they cannot in their conscience allow two religions. To these it may be answered that the Parliament may perceive that the King's intention is to continue in the ancient religion, and that it is not his meaning that he will plant and confirm the said two religions. The confirmation does not enlarge the previous edicts of January and March.
3. As to the taking away of arms from the citizens of Paris, they confirm this as of obedience to the Prince, and would that he should signify to the Parisians that this is done for them thereby to give example to other towns to do the like.
Copy, endd. partly by Cecil: Sept. 1563. Pp. 4.
Sept. 1. 1191. Proclamation.
The admirals, captains, and other officers of her ships are warned not to molest the subjects of the King of Spain. If any of them be taken by the French, the English are to do their best to recover them.—Windsor, 1 Sept. 1563.
Copy. Endd. Lat. Pp. 2.
Sept. 1. 1192. Challoner to Cecil.
1. The Prince of Spain's fits decrease, although they are not yet wholly rid. Complains that five weeks after the loss of Havre he has had no advice thereof, whereupon to account unto these men how it happened. Next month his two years' service will be fully up. Commends his old man, Brackenbury, to him.—Madrid, 1 Sept. 1563. Signed.
2. P. S. (fn. 2) —People tell him that the Duke of Alva has withdrawn himself to his own house, not to return until he is sent for; if it be so this Court would have a great "miss" of him. Ruy Gomez and the other faction pass not much, though by Alva's absence they rule all alone. The King at this time consigned arrearages to the Duke of his estate of Maggior Domo, 30,000 ducats, and further in reward upon the next treasure from the Indies, 75,000. Sembably to Ruy Gomez 40,000 ducats, to the Count De Chynction, Treasurer of Arragon, 30,000 ducats, to Don Luys Mendez De Haro, 20,000 ducats, to Secretary Erazzo, 10,000 ducats, and so to sundry others. The Bishop of Aquila's factor showed him the King's sedula for 3,000 crowns for his master.—Madrid, 1 Sept. 1563. Signed.
Orig. A few passages in cipher, deciphered. Endd. partly by Cecil. Pp. 3.
Sept. 1. 1193. Corrected draft of the above.
In Challoner's hol., and endd. by him: Sent by Brackenbury. Pp. 6.
Sept. 2. 1194. Throckmorton to the Constable.
Complains that he has been arrested, and understands that it was done under pretext of the treatment of the French hostages in England. The cases are not similar; for besides the safe-conduct that he has under the hand and seal of their Ambassador, the hostages by attempting to escape contrary to their promises have give occasion for their treatment, which his imprisonment will not amend. He will do all he can to appease the present difficulties, and to show how wrongly he was accused of seeking to make a breach. Desires leave to confer with Smith, and to have the letters and packets which have been sent out of England; also permission to send into England to inform the Queen how courteously he has been treated by Captain La Salle, by whose encouragement the present letter is written.
Copy. Endd.: 2 Sept. 1563. My letter to the Constable. Fr. Pp. 4.
Sept. 4. 1195. Randolph to Cecil.
1. On the 1st. inst. he arrived here. Heard by the way that the Queen was at Cragmillor, but that Murray and Lethington were here. To these he addressed himself first, to make an entry into such purposes as he should have with the Queen. Found nothing in them that misliked him, nor discouragement why he should not boldly attempt the Queen herself. Dined that day with them in company with the most part of the nobility. Found in them all good liking of his return. After dinner they repaired altogether towards the Queen. The honour he received at his arrival might have contented a much greater personage. The Queen's letters were gratefully received. Declared her mind given in his instructions; many interruptions were made by the Queen and many questions demanded, so that scarce in an hour he would utter what might have been spoken in a quarter. Does not yet know her liking of the matter. She willed him to confer with Murray and Lethington, and desired that no man might be farther made of council. At his departure she requested him to give her his Sovereign's mind in writing. Purpose to deliver her some notes of his sayings, and to purchase an answer, conferring in the mean season with others. Finds as many here as evil willing of the match that is making as they are themselves. Fears that she is more Spanish than Imperial.—Edinburgh, 4 Sept. 1563. Signed.
2. P. S.—Is assured that the intercourse of messengers and packets with France is nothing prejudicial to the amity. He put these men in as great fear as he can that notwithstanding any safe-conduct, no man for any money will transport them. He made Raulet quake for fear, and shortly Cecil will have Hamilton again, that came last.
Orig. Hol., with armorial seal. Add. Endd. by Cecil's secretary. Pp. 3.
Sept. 4. 1196. Mr. and Mrs. Saunders to Challoner.
Send him a copy of Thomas Farnham's will. The goods to perform the same were thoroughly appraised, and amounted to 1,187l. The funeral, the tomb, and housekeeping during widowhood have drawn away a large portion. Debts unpaid amounted to about 100l.; so that the jointure apart, which amounts to 100 marks a year, there remains not much more water than the ship draws. His friends in Leicestershire are in good health. "Our brother Haddon" has lain at Colderton much part of this summer.—Stoughton, 4 Sept. 1563. Signed.
2. P. S.—Their brother Francis lies at London in all this plague to follow his suits, but there is nobody to attend to him. His wife is of such a disposition that they cannot delight in her company. Complains of John Challoner, whose children she has had charge of; he has never written a letter of thanks, so she means to rid her hands of them. The wench has lost her favour by reason of the love betwixt her and William Raven; and the boy cannot learn here so well as in some good school. "Our brother Bowyer and sister are in good health." Commends a servant of his, Rafe Sargant.—Staughton. Signed: "Your loving sister, Ellen Saunders."
Orig. Hol. Add. Endd. by Challoner: From my brother Sanders. Pp. 4.
Sept. 4. 1197. William Alleyn to Challoner.
Wrote to him that here was a writ out of the Exchequer to extend upon such lands as were his father's for a debt owing for one Skypwith, amounting to 100l. Now there is another writ for its payment at Michaelmas. There is no remedy but that it must be paid, unless he writes to the Queen's Council to stay the process until he be come into England. By his letter of the 15th of June he says that he has written to Cecil for the stay hereof, but he has done nothing.—London, 4 September 1563. Signed: William Allyn, Alderman and Sheriff of London.
Orig. Hol. Add. Pp. 3.
Sept. 4. 1198. Marsilio Della Croce to —
Letters from Milan of the 25th ult. say that a tumult had occurred there in consequence of the attempt to introduce the Inquisition, as in Spain. Letters from Rome of the 28th mention the return of the Pope, in excellent health, from Veletri, and that on the Sunday a solemn Mass was to be sung in thanks for the taking of Havre. Intelligence respecting Italian affairs from Genoa, Venice, and other parts of Italy. —Venice, 4 September 1563. Signed.
Orig. Hol. Endd.: Advices. Ital. Pp. 4.
Sept. 5. 1199. Gurone Bertano to [Antonio Bruschetti?]. (fn. 3)
1. Has received his letter announcing his willingness to serve the Queen through the medium of the writer. As a beginning sends the copy of a letter which he wrote a year ago to Signor Paget, before he knew that he was Secretary to the Queen, to which no answer has been received. He now understands that it never was delivered. Trustworthy intelligence might have prevented the Queen from believing that Condé and the King of Navarre would repay what they owe her before coming to terms, and that they would deliver Calais, which they have not done, and will not do. Sends other letters direct to the Secretary, which must be kept secret, as they are of importance. Let it be understood that he must be allowed liberty of opinion and expression as to the matters about which he writes, nor will he touch upon matters of religion, in which he will believe as he pleases. Offered in his former letter to send his son into the Queen's service as a pledge of his own honesty. Does not wish to be called a Papalino. Professions of devotion to the Queen's service.
2. A diabolical discourse (which he sends) has been addressed to the Pope, who naturally would harm no one. It is clever, but objectionable; and the writer has expressed his opinion that no armed attempt should be made against a realm which in former days had been so beneficent to Rome. Nor indeed would it he safe to try this, especially while the Council is sitting. No such attempt will be made, and the writer has taken care that the person who made this discourse shall have no further interviews. It was made to please the French, to whom such a league as it contemplates would be particularly conveniently. Has discussed this with his late brother the Cardinal. Thinks that the Pope has no design upon this realm.
3. The King of Spain has asked for a continuation for five years longer of the fruits of the Church to support his galleys. The French also asked to be allowed to alienate 100,000 crowns for the payment of the German troops and the preservation of religion, also to pay the Queen of England. The Cardinal of Ferrara has arrived from France, with contributions from thence to the Pope. Condé shall have the reward promised to the King of Navarre. The Council will close with a reform, which will satisfy at once the Pope and the Princes. Can forward the Queen's wishes.—Rome, 6 August (kept back until 5 Sept.) 1563.
Orig. Hol. [?]. Endd.: Del Sor. Gurone Bertano, and afterwards by Cecil's secretary, 5 Sept. 1563. Ital. Pp. 5.
Sept. 5. 1200. Gurone Bertano to [Antonio Bruschetti?]. (fn. 4)
The session of the Council has been to the satisfaction of the Pope, for both the Spanish Ambassador and Bishops have agreed to the wish of the Synod. The Cardinal of Lorraine will do all in his power for the interest of the Roman See; on his return from France the Council will close, and he will be appointed Legate in France, for life. The Pope will act with the Emperor, with France, and with Spain, by each of whom reform is desired. There have not been wanting wicked men who have advised the Pope at the conclusion of the Council to declare that the Queen of England is deprived of all right in the realm by her disobedience to the Council and the religion, in the belief that the Catholics would rise, which the writer does not think probable. It would not be amiss however to say something civil to the King of Spain (who the writer is certain loves the Queen) and to the Emperor. On the arrival of the news of the taking of Havre there was here a great festival; for the Pope thinks that the Queen Mother and the King of France will be able to free that realm from the sect of the Huguenots. The Emperor wishes to obtain for his people Communion in both kinds, and the marriage of the priests, conditionally. The King Catholic wishes to obtain from the Pope the establishment of the Inquisition at Milan, as it exists in Spain. Although the Pope would gladly please the King, the writer does not think that this will be granted.—Rome, 5 Sept. 1563.
Orig. Hol. [?]. Endd.: Del Signior Gurone Bertano, and again by Cecil's secretary, 7 Sept. 1563. Ital. Pp. 5.
Sept. 5. 1201. Sebastian Bruschetto to [Cecil?].
Knowing that he will have other information, adds only such things as may probably be new. The continuance of the Council is uncertain; matters of very great moment still remain to be considered. It is said that the Emperor wishes to transfer the empire to his son Maximilian. The common report, however, is that the Council will end before Christmas. The Emperor still demands Communion under both kinds, and the Catholic King wishes that the Inquisition should be introduced into Milan, as it is in Spain. There has been an insurrection of criminals in Calabria, who have killed 800 Spaniards. The marriage of the Queen of Scotland with the Emperor's son is spoken of, which will not be acceptable to England.—Rome, 5 Sept. 1563.
Orig. [?] Endd.: Di Sebastiano Bruschetto, and by Cecil's secretary: 5 Sept. 1563. Ital. Pp. 4.
Sept. 6. 1202. Smith to Throckmorton.
Has answered his letters of the 1st inst., sent by M. De Verberie. The writer is prisoner in the Castle of Melun, with the same liberty that Throckmorton has. His keeper is M. De Mauvisiere, who was Captain of Tancarville, and once prisoner in Newhaven. All his letters, writings, and ciphers were consigned to M. De Verberie, amongst which were Throckmorton's letters. Is forbidden to receive or write any letters. Knows that Killigrew is come, who through his folly passed him [Smith] and is prisoner at the Court, where the packet addressed to the writer is stayed. This is done because their Ambassador and packets are so served in England. Hopes to be shortly at the Court. Of Middlemore he can hear no word. His keeper handles him gently.— Castle of Melun, 6 Sept. 1563.
Copy.
Sept. 6. 1203. Cecil to Challoner.
Garcias arrived here on Friday last. King Philip referred the Queen to his Ambassador, who died on the 24th ult., so as without a messenger to heaven nothing is to be learnt. The French make means for a truce. The Queen has a navy on the narrow seas to defend her own and friends, as by the proclamation herewith sent he may see. Doubts some evil meaning (by the King's secret going to Caen, and by bruits of Martigues assembling of men in Brittany,) towards Jersey and Guernsey; Sir Thomas Cotton has gone thither. The death doth only now trouble them. His coming home is not forgotten. They wish to have an ambassador in the Low Countries, and none in Spain. How can that be compassed without offence?—Windsor, 6 Sept. 1563. Signed.
Orig. Hol. Add. Endd. by Challoner: Received per Farnham, at Balbastro, 23 Jan. 1564. Pp. 2.
Sept. 6. 1204. Sir Richard Shelley to Cecil.
Another copy, his letter dated 14 Aug.—Madrid, 6 Sept 1563. Signed.
Orig. Add. Endd. Pp. 8.
Sept. 6. 1205. Challoner to Cuerton.
Perceives that he has delivered to Henry King 1,031 reals of plate, whereby he is his debtor to 2,000 odd. Desires him to make more express mention of the receipt of the 1,000 reals, and at whose hands. This new sum delivered to Henry King he will pay ere he comes to Monçon. Desires him to help the bearer, Richard Brackenbury (a gentleman of a good house), to a passage to England. He is a good fellow, and came out of Italy of goodwill to see Challoner here.—Madrid, 6 Sept. 1563.
Copy. Endd. by Challoner. Pp. 2.
Sept. 6. 1206. The Duke of Holstein to the Queen.
Henry Billinghausen, one of his subjects, whilst serving for the King of Denmark against the Swedes, captured a Revel ship in the Baltic and carried her into the Thames, where he disposed of her cargo and purchased clothes and lead for the said King's use. As he was about to return he was stayed (on the information of certain Hollanders) by the captains of her men-of-war. The writer desires that the Queen will give orders for Billinghausen's release, and also that he may have satisfaction for any loss which he has suffered.—"Ex arce Tritonio," 6 Sept. 1563. Signed.
Orig. Add. Endd. Lat. Pp. 3.
Sept. 7. 1207. Smith to Throckmorton.
The Constable and he have interchanged letters. Smith wrote that being kept as he is accord is impossible, and that they have taken all honour from their Ambassador; for by his assurance, hand and seal, Throckmorton and Killigrew were entrapped. The Bishop of Aquila is dead in England. Hopes by this that the Queen knows how they are treated. They have sent De Champ or De Pre into England with the writer's open letters and passport. If they do well they will stay him there for Killigrew.—Melun, 7 Sept. 1563.
Copy.
Sept. 7. 1208. Clough to Challoner.
Has received his letter charging him with 2,000 ducats to pay on the 15th Sept., which bill he has accepted, though Challoner's bills from London do not amount to so much. There are 6,000 people dead of the plague in London. The Court is at Windsor, and he hears that one of the Queen's maids is dead of the plague, as also Lady Strange. Looks for Gresham within a day or two. The saying is that the Prince of Piedmont is departed; there is likelihood of war between France and this country. "Sir N. Frozemortone" is in prison at St. Germain, and Smith in the Castle of Melun. —Antwerp, 7 Sept. 1563. Signed.
Orig. Hol. Add. Endd. by Challoner: By the ordinary of Flanders; received at Saragosa, 3 Oct. 1563. Pp. 3.
Sept. 8.
Labanoff, i. 184.
1209. The Queen of Scots to the Queen.
Asks for a passport for James Hamyltoun, the bearer, lately come from France, to return thither.—Holyrood House, 8 Sept., 21st Mary. Signed.
Orig., with armorial seal. Add. Endd. Broadside.
Sept. 8. 1210. The Queen to Challoner.
Has written to the King Catholic in favour of the bearer, John Hawkins, of whose cause she directs him to inform himself, and to assist him.—Windsor, 8 Sept., 5 Eliz. Signed.
Orig. Add. Endd. by Challoner: Received by Hawkin's servant, at Balbastro, 23 Jan. 1564. Pp. 2.
Sept. 9. 1211. Henry Cobham to Challoner.
Has received his of 20 July. Throckmorton is stayed in France, and shall not be let return till the hostages be released. The Vidame and M. Beauvoir are in Germany, and hope to recover their country by means of the Chancellor of France. The Bishop of Aquila died the 22nd Aug. Sir Morris Denys died four miles from Portsmouth. The Lady Lennox, her husband and son, have waited all this progress, and now have leave to go into the north. The Earl of Warwick is at the Court, and is well countenanced by the Queen. They hope shortly to have peace with France.— Windsor, 9 Sept. 1563. Signed.
Orig. Hol., with seal. Add. Endd. by Challoner: Brought per Farnham. Pp. 2.
Sept. 10. 1212. Throckmorton to Smith.
1. His of the 6th and 7th inst. he received the 9th. The King lodges at Vernon, Mantes, Vigny (a house of the Constable's), Pontoise, and so to Paris. The Duke of Savoy is dead, and the King of Spain's ministers begin to seize some places in Piedmont. Perceives that these men mean little good to him, nor are they in any towardness of composition. Of Killigrew he hears nothing. Thinks he will do well to advertise how they are treated, and prays him to make his case no better than it is, for now it waxes worse and worse; and also how William Killigrew is retained, and his letters kept.
2. If the Bishop of Aquila be dead, the King, his master, and the Queen, their mistress, have no great loss. Hears that the whole house of Guise comes to Paris to prosecute the law against the Admiral and others for the death of the late Duke. The King has passed the Seine at Poissy, and means to take St. Germain in his way towards Paris. Prays him to make him privy to the particularities of the accord, if any be made, or towardness, and whether he perceives by his advertisements forth of England the Queen's conformity and resolution in those matters; so that in case the Constable or any other will treat with him (which he looks for) about an accord, he may follow her instructions. Asks him to send such articles as for the peace have been handled betwixt him and the men here.—Castle of St. Germain-en-Laye, 10 Sept. 1563.
Copy.
Sept. 10. 1213. Mrs. Damascene Stradling to Challoner.
Has shown the Count and Countess the cause why Challoner wrote not. Mrs. Clarentius, Mrs. Harington, with the rest of the gentlewomen, and Mr. Kempe and Mr. Thurland kiss his hands. Don Lorenzo has had a continual burning fever since Aug. 10, so extremely handled that it is to be marvelled how he lives. "He hath not been let blood; my lady would in nowise consent thereto."—Safra, 10 Sept. 1563. Signed.
Orig. Hol., with seal. Add. Endd. by Challoner. Pp. 2.
Sept. 10. 1214. Challoner to Clough.
Makes account that Clough will have by September 623l. 17s. 1d. Flemish money of his in his hand. Sends him a bill receivable at Michaelmas at the mint of Mr. Stonley for 20l. 6s. 8d., and also a bill of allowances for money laid out by him in the Queen's affairs. The two amount to 53l. 18s. He shall perceive by his next what consideration he has of his friendly travail, with some remembrance more than bare thanks.
Copy. Endd. by Challoner: 10 Sept. 1563. Pp. 4.
Sept. 11. 1215. Henry Killigrew to Challoner.
1. Has received his of 12 Aug. May say of himself, Try me and trust me. Lord Robert is his friend, and imputes his silence to want of messengers. Would have him in his advertisements to private councillors enlarge on graver matters.— Windsor, 11 Sept. 1563. Signed.
2. P.S.—They stand yet in good terms with Scotland, whence they heard this day from Randolph great bruit that the Prince of Spain would match that way. The Earl of Bedford is despatched to the Borders. Between France and England wars. It would be gratefully accepted if Spain would take up the matter between them. For the Bishop of Aquila's death, and such like, he refers him to the messenger.
Orig. Hol. Add. Endd. by Challoner: By Farnham. Pp.3.
Sept. 12. 1216. [Gurone Bertano?] to Antonio Bruschetti.
1. There is very great dissension in the Council about reform. The Cardinal of Lorraine will speedily return; why, Antonio knows, as also to arrange with the Pope as to the conclusion of the Council, which will be at Christmas. Since the declaration of his majority the King of France has sent hither the Papal Nuncio, Santa Croce, who is charged with two matters, viz., the alienation of ecclesiastical property and the transference to France of the State of Avignon by the Pope, which the writer thinks will not be granted, though others are of a different opinion. Would have written more fully, but is confined to the house by an injury in his arm.
2. Finds, now he has been out of the house, that, in regard to Santa Croce, Latet anguis in herba, but will not communicate all that he knows, for many good reasons. They are worthy, however, of great consideration and mature judgment, as they may possibly affect the interests of the Queen. He will send Bruschetti's son into England with the information, if he hears that his fidelity and devotion towards the Queen and the Secretary are likely to be rewarded.—Rome, 17 Sept. (fn. 5) 1563.
Orig. Hol. [?], with armorial seal. Add.: To Ant. Bruschetti, in London. Endd.: Dal Sr. G. Ital. Pp. 4.
Sept. 12. 1217. John Cuerton to Challoner.
1. Will despatch Richard Brackenbury in the ships for Flanders. Yesterday he received from James Coldwell the Queen's packet for Challoner. Has sent to Coldwell 400 reals of plate. Challoner owes him 1,873 reals of plate, which he desires him to send as soon as may be.—Bilboa, 12 Sept. 1563. Signed.
2. P.S.—Hears that the nobles of England cannot agree.
Orig. Hol. Add. Endd. by Challoner: Received by a footman courier at Saragosa, 26 of the same. Pp. 3.
Sept. 12. 1218. Cuerton's Account.
Account by Cuerton of money due to him by Challoner for carriage of letters, &c. from 9 May 1562 to 12 Sept. 1563.— Signed.
Orig. Endd. by Challoner. Span. Pp. 3.
Sept. 13. 1219. Smith to Throckmorton.
Received his of the 10th this day at Paris, where he has tarried since the 9th, sick by riding from Corbeil in a cold wind on Thursday last. This day goes to Poissy. Is still as ignorant of all things as he was the first day of his imprisonment. His books and papers are still locked up, and all knowledge of Killigrew and English matters is kept from him. The writer's keeper is every day more gentle to him, and his company would make him forget any sorrow or imprisonment. The Duke of Savoy is not dead. It is true what he wrote of the house of Guise, but he thinks the matter will be compounded.—Sept. 13, 1563.
Copy.
Sept. 13. 1220. Answer to the German Envoys.
The two envoys, Gulielmus Fabri and Hertochus Corfe, having brought letters from John Clott, Lord of Nartelen, offering to serve the Queen of England, she has ordered her Secretary to say that he is not known to her, and that some of the great German Princes are engaged to render her this service.—Windsor, 13 Sept. 1563.
Corrected draft, in Cecil's hol. Add. Pp. 2.
Sept. 13. 1221. Copy of the above. Endd. Lat. P. 1.
Sept. 13. 1222. Robert Moffat to Challoner.
Complains that he has received no answer to his letters to him, the Countess of Feria, and Mrs. Stradling, although he has sent above twelve. Will not cease to pray for them, and for that "nowble impe," Don Lorenzo. My Lady, my Lady's sister, is in health, and her good father also; but knows not whether her mother-in-law is alive or dead. The sickness is so great in all places almost that men dare not visit their friends. Mr. Farnham will tell him all the news.— Windsor, 13 Sept. 1563. Signed.
Orig. Hol., with seal. Add. Endd. by Challoner: By Farnham. Pp. 2.
Sept. 14. 1223. Throckmorton to Smith.
Received his of the 13th. Smith has good means of knowing where Killigrew is bestowed, for he will be brought thither, and therefore Mr. Sadler, Jamb De Bois, or Symon (all of whom know Killigrew) may dog him to the place where he is bestowed. As Smith can guess whereabouts the accord will be, and what points will be accorded on both sides, the writer would know his conceit therein, and what presumptions he has of the towardness of an end, as well from home as from hence. The best place to watch Killigrew pass thither is upon the bridge.—Castle of St. Germain-en-Laye, 14 Sept. 1563.
Copy.
Sept. 14. 1224. Smith to Throckmorton.
Yesternight when he came here he found a man of the Constable's, who delivered Killigrew unto him, and two packets. Has word to attend the King here this night, and promise that all his papers shall be delivered, which are at Paris. Of articles of accord he hears nothing. They must first talk of the restitution of Throckmorton, Killigrew, and himself to liberty.—Poissy, 14 Sept. 1563.
Copy.
Sept. 15. 1225. Throckmorton to Smith.
1. Both he and his are kept straighter than they were. Killigrew is in hope to speak with him, by the Constable's promise. That must rise rather by Smith and Killigrew than by the writer, who amongst these folks is in no credit.—St. Germain Castle, 15 Sept. 1563.
2. He must devise another messenger, for this man is discovered.
Copy.
Sept. 15. 1226. Sebastiano Bruschetti to [Antonio Bruschetti?].
1. Wrote on the 5th by way of Venice, and sent letters "of your friend" and other writings as promised. Have they been received? Some persons here keep back suspected letters, and the last despatch was larger than usual. The friend has had no word from the Secretary, so there is no inducement to send more important information. When they are more definitely informed of his wishes he will be glad to be more explicit, and will do her better service than any other in Rome. Hopes he will keep things quiet.— Rome, 15 September 1563.
2. P.S.—"Your friend" has already written, but he cannot make the necessary additions to his letter in consequence of a hurt in his arm, which confines him to the house, therefore he does not send it now, but it shall be forwarded on Saturday by Venice.
Copy. Endd. Ital. Pp. 3.
Sept. 16. 1227. The French King to M. Mauvissier.
The Constable having informed the Queen Mother of what passed between him and Smith about a reconciliation, the writer grants licence to four of Smith's servants to come and go when he thinks fit; like as it is also granted to M. De Foix. Young Killigrew also is to be allowed to go to Throckmorton with his letters. Mauvissier is to conduct Smith back to his lodgings in Paris, on his promise not to leave the kingdom without permission. Melun, 16 September 1563. Signed: Charles—De L'Aubespine.
Orig. Add. Endd. Fr. Pp.3.
Sept. 17. 1228. — to —.
1. Since he left England he has not written to his correspondent, not that he has forgotten the benefits he there received from him, and also from the King deceased, who, when the writer was leaving, told him that if he would abandon the service of the Pope he would make him the first man in his country. At that time the writer could not answer as he desired. Being now at liberty he can do as he will, and would be happy to serve the daughter, especially considering the present state of affairs. If employed he would write to the Queen as honestly as he wrote to her father, who, when he withdrew from the Roman See, employed the writer to make the protest, which he did. In Cromwell's time he had a present of 1,000 crowns for having saved the King 100,000. Professes great devotion to the Queen, whom he is anxious to serve, and in token of his fidelity will send one of his sons into England as a hostage. Has served in Venice, Flanders, and England.
2. The Pope is about to send a Cardinal Legate into Spain upon the affairs of the Council. The Emperor goes by Inspruck to Mantua, where he will meet the Pope. Thinks that the King of Spain would not object to take the Queen and her kingdom under his protection. She should not marry without his approval, or at least his knowledge. By his help she might recover Calais at the due place and time. The affairs of France are better known to his correspondent than to the writer. Hopes to hear that his letters are acceptable to the Queen and the person addressed.
Orig. Hol. [?] Ital Pp. 4.
Sept. 18. 1229. Intelligences from Rome.
The Prince of Spain is very ill of a double tertian; his father has sent for the two sons of the King of the Romans. The coming of M. De Santa Croce was to require the Pope to consent to the alienation of 300,000 crowns of spiritual rents, to be employed against the Huguenots; also to exhort him to enter into a perpetual league for the defence of France against England; France to be bound for the defence of the universal Church. He is like to depart without a full answer, it being thought that the resolution should be reserved to the end of the Council, then to make a general league for the executing of such things as shall be concluded on the same. Santa Croce is also said to have asked the Pope not to grant the legation of France to the Cardinal of Lorraine; but this is thought to be untrue. It is also said that the Queen Mother wished for a conference between the Pope, the Emperor, and the King of Spain.
Copy. Endd.: 18 Sept. 1563. Pp. 4.
Sept. 19. 1230. Throckmorton to the Queen.
1. Captain La Salle, captain of the castle where he is, has had sundry conferences of late with him on behalf of the Constable, tending to have him make overtures how to compound the differences betwixt her and the French King; and albeit he would neither write nor make such overtures, yet being pressed by him he wrote the 2nd inst. to the Constable (being persuaded the same might be a means for his enlargement), which the Constable answered on the 6th, and which he [Throckmorton] answered on the 11th; copies of which letters he sends herewith. Desires to know how he should order himself.
2. The 17th, the bearer, William Killigrew, was suffered to have access to him, who can inform her how he is treated. Cannot complain of Captain La Salle, who has him in charge; but considering that he is her Ambassador, and that he is imprisoned like a criminal, he has great occasion to complain, and the rather for that her inclination is not easily bent to show like rigour to the French Ambassador there.—Castle of St. Germain-en-Laye, 19 Sept. 1563. Signed.
Orig. Add. Endd. Pp. 3.
Sept. 19. 1231. Throckmorton to the Privy Council.
1. What has passed betwixt the Constable and him upon the motion of Captain La Salle they may understand by the copies of such letters sent them herewith.
2. The 17th inst. the bearer, William Killigrew, (who has endured almost a month's imprisonment in the castle of Caen,) had leave to see him.
3. On the 28th ult. Smith was carried from Paris to Melun, where he was kept with liberty to hunt and go abroad when he would seven or eight days, having M. De Mauvissiere to accompany him. The 8th inst. he was brought back to Paris and so to the Court, and is now restored to liberty.
4. The breach of the peace and the proclamation of war arose from hence the 16th August, and therefore he marvels and complains that the French Ambassador there finds not in all things the like usage that he does here.—St. Germain-enLaye, 19 Sept. 1563. Signed.
Orig. Add. Endd. by Cecil's secretary. Pp. 3.
Sept. 19. 1232. Throckmorton to Cecil.
1. By his of the 19th ult. it appears that the violence showed him here is not taken as it ought to be; for how could the Queen, her Council, and the realm suffer a greater outrage than to see their Ambassador imprisoned and treated like a criminal? The French Ambassador there is under such restraint as differs little from entire liberty. Smith is greedy to do all alone.—Castle of St. Germain-en-Laye, 19 Sept. 1563. Signed.
2. P.S.—Has willed the bearer to deliver to him the discourse of the winning of Havre set forth in print, wherein the author names him an Ambassador in the said treaty, which is authorized with the King's privilege. Complains that he has received no money from him.
Orig. Hol. Add. Endd., by Cecil's secretary. Pp. 3.
Sept. 20. 1233. Throckmorton to Cecil.
1. Smith has returned this month two of the writer's letters addressed to Cecil. He might have sent them well enough before his arrest. Perceives that at home they fear these men more than they need. Hears that they suspect the French will invade England. "God knoweth they be far from it, and unable to do. They fear your sea war more than you need do theirs. This King is able to make no ships to the seas, otherwise than to provoke his subjects to arm on their own adventures. Their poverty is such, the revenues of the Crown so spoiled and wasted, their credit so diminished as they be unable to make any attempt but within their own realm. Their late war of Newhaven, if it had been to be executed abroad, would have been but weak. Assuredly those that put doubts into your heads of invasion do play with you as folks do with children when they tell them of Robin Goodfellow."
2. Is sorry they have discovered how greedy the English are for peace, and how little provision he gives there to annoy them.
3. The Papists of Paris will not deliver their arms, according to the King's order. The Protestants of Lyons remain in the same terms.
4. The discord betwixt the houses of Guise and Châtillion is so great that the whole realm is divided thereabouts. As many great personages are on the Admiral's side as on the other. If Cecil means to set the writer at liberty he must not suffer Smith to negotiate anything without him, for by that means he will serve the writer's credit of an Ambassador. But in no wise must he suffer the French Ambassador there to have better treatment than he has here, and asks him to believe no other advertisements but his. Cannot allow that no other persons should have conduct to pass to and fro but such as Smith has named of his own servants, who are not the fittest men for such a time and such messages. Barlow can run well and has discretion. Refers to Smith the nomination of two of the four of his servants, yet asks leave to nominate two others, viz., John Barnaby, servant to Lord Robert, and John Rogers, his own servant.
5. Three marriages are taken here for concluded, wrought by the Cardinal of Lorraine, viz., the French King with the second daughter of the King of the Romans, the Prince of Spain with his eldest daughter, and Charles of Austria with the Queen of Scots.
6. The French Ambassadors at Rome and Trent are revoked, and the French King means to protest against the Council. The Queen Mother is sick and in danger. If she dies, the Prince of Condé, the Constable, and the house of Chatillion will rule all; here are likely to be great garboils, especially if she dies. They are not to show themselves too greedy of a peace, specially to Smith. The King of Spain makes show to trouble the Queen of Navarre's country, and invade Navarre; he is therefore about to crown Don Carlos, his son, King of Navarre.
7. The Prince of Condé, accompanied with the Prince of Pourçain and Conte Rochefoucault, is departed from the Court and gone to his house in Picardy named Murette.
8. Since the 19th, when the premises were written, the Queen Mother is past all danger, so all things are likely to go here as before, all at her devotion. This day the house of Guise repairs to the Court to Meulan, and the King means to keep the feast of St. Michael at Poissy.
9. These folks are in some unkindness with the Duke ot Savoy, because in his sickness he sent his son to the Castle of Milan, whereby he means his house should run the fortune of Spain. It is not the least good turn that England could demand the death of Baron De Clere; for besides that he was not the best affected to them, he was a shrewd seaman, and with half a dozen more was slain in a particular quarrel at Caen.—Castle of St. Germain, 20 Sept. 1563. Signed.
10. P.S.—Prays him to credit no advertisements touching his usage but his own.
Orig. Endd. Portions in cipher, deciphered. The P.S. in Throckmorton's hol. Pp. 2.
Sept. 20. 1234. Frederick II. of Denmark to the Queen.
1. A certain Englishman has been taken in Norway who had letters from the King of Sweden to her sewn up in his coat. They contained calumines against himself. He has made war on the King of Sweden because he has violated the treaties made between the two countries.
2. Begs that she will not allow any of her subjects to go to the assistance of the King of Sweden.—Elsburg, 12 Cal. Octob. 1563. Signed.
Orig. Add. Endd. Lat. Pp. 3.
Sept. 20. 1235. Frederick II. of Denmark to the Queen.
Is informed that Henry Billinghausen, one of his subjects, (whom he sent by sea to prevent supplies of arms being brought to the Swedes,) has been seized with his ship and goods, and is detained in prison, and that he is not able to show his commission. Asks that he may have his liberty and goods.—Elsburg, 12 Cal. Octobr. Signed.
Orig. Add. Endd. Lat. Pp. 4.
Sept. [20]. 1236. Complaint of Henry Billinghausen.
Billinghausen, a subject of the King of Denmark, on the 3rd July was lying with his ship off the coast of England, when he was boarded by Captains Spencer and Gourelay, of her ships the Falcon and Phoenix, who took all their goods and money from him and his mariners, and carried the ship into Dover, where she was sold to a Hollander for 16l. Has been in the prison of the Court of Admiralty in London for sixteen weeks. Begs that he may have restitution of his ship and goods.
Orig. Endd. Broadside.
Sept. 22. 1237. Bernardino Ferrario to Cecil.
Wrote of certain matters for Cecil's information through Gio. Battista Castiglione. Certain powerful Princes (with the consent, authority, and help of the Pope) are about to proceed against the Crown of England. Professes devotion.—Pavia, 22 Sept. 1563. Signed.
Orig. Hol., with seal. Add. Endd. Ital. Pp. 2.
Sept. 23. 1238. Articles between the Queen and Mary Queen of Scotland. (fn. 6)
Lord Scrope, Sir John Foster, Sir Thomas Gargrave and John Rokeby are the Commissioners for England, and Sir John Maxwell and Sir John Bellenden for Scotland. The first part provides for the redress of grievances on both sides, the appointment of wardens and the constitution of their courts, the continuance of ancient customs, and the punishment of offenders. The second part provides for the manner of holding of assemblies on the Borders, and authorizes the warden of one country to pursue offenders across the frontier; it also provides for the division of the debateable land.
Copy, dated by Cecil, 23 Sept. 1563. Endd. Pp. 16.
Sept. 23. 1239. Another copy of the preceding. Signed.
Pp. 12.
Sept. 23. 1240. Another copy of the above with notes by Cecil.
Pp. 13.
[Sept. 23.] 1241. Another copy of the above.
Pp. 16.
Sept. 23. 1242. Another copy of the above. Signed.
Pp. 19.
Sept 23. 1243. Another copy of the above. Signed.
Pp. 16.
[Sept. 23.] 1244. Treaty on the Borders.
A remembrance of certain imperfections and defaults in the laws and customs of the Marches. It provides for the punishment of manslaughter, encroachments upon either realm, the burning of houses and corn, and other offences.
Copy. Pp. 3.
Sept. 23. 1245. Smith to Cecil.
Sends herewith the French King's letter for his liberty, which he has got of M. De Mauvissier. It is more than two months since he sent by Barlow a box staved and sealed and directed to the Spanish Ambassador in England for the Queen. The Ambassador of Portugal sent it; it contained perfumed gloves. The French Ambassador's secretary has been the occasion of their stay, as Killigrew can tell him. —Paris, 23 Sept. 1563. Signed.
Orig., with seal. Hol. Add. Endd. by Cecil's secretary. Pp. 2.
Sept. 24. 1246. Lord Robert and Cecil to the German Envoys.
Have received their letters of 17th Sept., stating that they could not come into England. The writers are at a loss to know what they mean by bidding the Queen beware of the Kings of Denmark and Sweden. Unless they could show better reasons, the writers do not think it would be meet to entertain the Duke of Brunswick for a month and a half at the expense of 20,000 crowns; nor do they approve of their scheme of levying other forces and entering France in order to recover Calais, and afterwards Metz, which would cost 100,000 crowns a month, besides 35,000 crowns conduct money. Where they say that it is necessary to treat with the Duke of Mecklenburg in order to raise thirty ensigns, the Queen has other Princes who are bound to levy that number within a month. They need not remain in those parts unless they have something better to propose, as their communications up to the present have been of little importance.—Windsor.
Corrected draft in Cecil's hol. Endd. by Cecil's secretary: 24 Sept. 1563. Lat. Pp. 2.
Sept. 26. 1247. Smith to Throckmorton. (fn. 7)
1. Killigrew went hence with his despatch on Thursday last, having tarried for the French Ambassador's secretary. The Queen is more sick than they would have it known. The house of Guise has denial of any process to be made against the Admiral. The Pope's Nuncio has gone from the Court here secretly.
2. The Parliament of Paris will not agree to the King's majority. The Procureur General protested against the articles and accord made at Orleans. This week the King wrote a sharp letter to the Parisians.
3. About Lyons and Languedoc all is quiet, and they desire peace with the English. Also has written to the Queen and Secretary for him.—Paris, 26 Sept. 1563.
Copy. Endd.
Sept. 27. 1248. The Duchess of Parma to the Queen.
Has written to the secretary of the late Bishop of Aquila in behalf of the goods and ship of a merchant of Antwerp named Martin De Weidbien. She begs the Queen will attend to this application.—Brussels, 27 Sept. 1563. Signed.
Orig. Add. Endd. Fr. Broadside.
Sept. 28. 1249. Throckmorton to Smith.
His of the 26th he received the 28th. The Queen Mother is well amended, and the King and she will be at Poissy on Friday next, and thence go to Madril or Paris. The matter of the house of Guise has found such favour that the King, his mother, the Constable, and most of the King's Council have signed their request and remitted it to the Court of Parliament at Paris. The Prince of Rochsury on and the Duke of Nevers refused to sign the bill exhibited by the house of Guise. The Admiral, well accompanied, is at Châtillon, and Condé at Meurette, besides Soissons. The departing of the Pope's Nuncio grows upon the revocation of the French Ambassadors both from Rome and Trent. Accords with him that these men would have peace, and thinks they have reason to seek it.—Castle of St. Germain, 28 Sept. 1563.
Copy. Add. Endd.
Sept. 28. 1250. Gresham to Cecil.
1. On the 25th inst. at five o'clock at night he took ship at Harwich on board the Swallow (Captain Handshewe), and arrived next day at Armuden. Next day he took passage to Barowe, and arrived without the town of Antwerp this day, for he could not get leave to enter the town because of the great plague in London. Trusts the Lords of the Town will shortly license him to enter. It is said here the Queen Mother in France should be departed. Since his coming the governor and company have requested him to write to the captain of the Swallow to stay there till Saturday for the wafting of two ships that they have laden here, because of the French men-of-war that are abroad, which he has done. Desires Cecil that the 2,800l. may be paid to Candiler for paying his bills of exchange, for there is no money to be found in London by exchange in consequence of the plague, nor here either.
2. Sends his commendations to Lord Robert Dudley and the Lord Keeper.—"From the subeyrds of Antwerp," 28 Sept. 1563. Signed.
Orig. Add. Endd. Pp. 3.
Sept. 28. 1251. Mundt to Cecil.
1. The Elector Palatine and the Duke of Wurtemberg have sent a messenger into France to solicit the marriage of the French King and the daughter of the King of the Romans, who was despatched on the 22nd inst. Mention was made of this marriage by the Cardinal of Lorraine to the Emperor at Inspruck. On 20th August Maximilian was crowned King of Hungary in a field near Presburg. It is said that the Emperor Ferdinand was there with 16,000 horsemen and 200,000 on foot. If the Emperor died, Charles might be King of the Romans; as Ferdinand, the second son, is disliked by many of the Princes on account of his zeal for the Papist superstition. Wrote to him on Feb. 15, 1560 what the Duke of Wurtemberg had told him about the disposition and character of Charles, and again on Dec. 9, 1561,
2. The Vidame of Chartres who was here lately, is now in the Palatinate, trying to obtain the mediation of the Elector and other Princes for his return into France. Wrote lately to Henry Knolles, enclosing a letter from the principal inventor of the warlike engines. Thinks that perhaps he may be persuaded to go into England and make experiments there. The Queen Mother wrote lately to the Guisian brothers at Joinville, recalling them to the Court and promising them justice.—Strasburg, 29 Sept. 1563. Signed.
Orig. Hol., with armorial seal. Add. Endd. Lat. Pp. 3.
Sept. 28. 1252. Challoner to Cuerton.
Received his letter of the 12th at Saragossa, where, as he has the ague, he purposes to tarry for five or six days, and so go forward to Monçon. As soon as he comes there he will peruse his paper of reckoning, and send him the rest out of hand. Trusts to see him ere three or four months are at an end, as he has written earnestly for his revocation. Prays him to send him the cloth for his liverise; the barrel of shoes and shirts he may sell, as it will not quit the cost to pay the double diezmos thereof, both for Castile and Aragon.—Saragossa, 28 Sept. 1563.
Copy. Endd. by Challoner. Pp. 3.
Sept. 30. 1253. M. Paloiseau to Cecil.
Thought that by means of Cecil's letter to the Lord Mayor he would have had justice for his goods and money which were stolen, but the Mayor says that the time was inconvenient on account of the plague, and the witnesses and the jury refused to attend. It is not right that he should lose 500 crowns, which is the value of the things of which he has been robbed. Begs for speedy justice.—Napledoré [Mapledurham?], 30 Sept. 1563. Signed.
Add. Endd.: From M. De Paloiseau, one of the French hostages. Fr. Pp. 3:

Footnotes

  • 1. Charles V. in 1374?
  • 2. The rest of the letter is in Challoner's hand.
  • 3. This letter is addressed, Molto magnifico quanto fratello.
  • 4. The writer addresses his correspondent, Magnifico quanto fratello.
  • 5. Originally 12 Sept.
  • 6. Two other copies of these articles exist in the R.O., viz., Laws of the Marches, vol. I., f. 114. b., and vol. II., f. 64.
  • 7. This is the first of a copy of certain letters which passed between Smith and Throckmorton, from September 26 to October 19, 1563. The series consists of 12 pp., is addressed to Cecil and endd. by his secretary.