Venice: October 1609 | British History Online

Calendar of State Papers Relating To English Affairs in the Archives of Venice, Volume 11, 1607-1610. Originally published by His Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1904.

'Venice: October 1609', in Calendar of State Papers Relating To English Affairs in the Archives of Venice, Volume 11, 1607-1610, (London, 1904) pp. 358-375. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/venice/vol11/pp358-375 [accessed 23 April 2024]

October 1609



Oct. 2. Minutes of the Senate, Roma. Venetian Archives.	643. Commission to our Noble, Francesco Contarini, Cavaliere, Ambassador-Extraordinary-elect to the King of Great Britain.
	“ldquo;Our intent that the friendship which exists between the King of Great Britain and our Republic should not be broken by any accident, and the great pain with which we have heard the representations of his Majesty's Ambassador on the subject of the 'Apologia,' which he presented to us the other day, and which placed that friendship in doubt when he informed us that for the future we were to consider him as a private gentleman and not as his Majesty's representative, have induced us to make election of thee, Francesco Contarini, our beloved noble, as Ambassador-Extraordinary to his Majesty.”rdquo; Express confidence in his experience. In God's name he is to set out as soon as possible for England, to visit the Sovreigns through whose territory he passes. Arrived in England he is to put himself in communication with the Lieger, gather from him what information may seem needful, and, together with him, to seek audience. He will present credentials, and will congratulate the King on the state of his health. Will explain that the desire to preserve and to demonstrate to the world the regard for the good understanding between the two Powers has induced the Republic to send an Embassy-Extraordinary. Is to confirm all that has been said by the Lieger in justification of our action as regards the “ldquo;Apologia,”rdquo; and to explain our surprise at the attitude assumed by his Ambassador in calling in question this good understanding without orders from his Majesty to do so. To set out the great satisfaction we should feel if he would make clear to the whole world that he has our preservation at heart and returns the benevolent affection we feel for him. To use every effort to convince the King that what has been done is not the result of defective goodwill, but is entirely due to the rules of good government. To develop the ideas which he will find expressed in the official answer to his Majesty's Ambassador and conveyed in the dispatches to the Ambassador Correr, of which a copy will be given him.
	When this commission has been accomplished the Ambassador-Extraordinary will pass on to say, in this or in later audience, that the Republic is greatly grieved at the dissemination of the libel by the hands of one in the service of our Ambassador. That it is pleased to hear that the Ambassador has acted in all sincerity. Though we trust that on your arrival in England the King will have already disposed of the priest and the porter, still, if that has not happened, you are to see it done.
	To present credentials to the Queen.
	To present letters to the Prince of Wales.
	To visit the other Prince and the Princesses, the members of the Privy Council and Lord Salisbury as the Ambassador Correr may suggest.
	If he perceives that his mission, to clear his Majesty's mind of doubts, is accomplished he may return at once; if not he is to await further orders.
	“ldquo;Thou shalt have for thy expenses five hundred ducats of gold in gold for each month, without any obligation to present accounts. Of this amount we anticipate to thee two thousand crowns, four months' pay. For equippage, covers and trunks, three hundred ducats of Lire 6 Soldi 4 per ducat, of which no account need be rendered. Three hundred ducats for extras, for which thou shalt present account.
	To the Secretary a present of one hundred ducats for furnishings.
	Thou mayest take, at the risk of the State, plate to the value of four hundred ducats.”rdquo;
	Be it further decreed that two thousand ducats of Lire 7 each be paid to Contarini, and three hundred more for outfit. To the Secretary one hundred ducats, and to the two couriers forty ducats a-piece.
	Ayes	131.
	Noes	3.
	Neutrals	13.
	[Italian.]
Oct. 3. Original Despatch, Venetian Archives.	644. Simon Contarini, Venetian Ambassador in Constantinople, to the Doge and Senate.
	The French Ambassador (de Salignac) came to see me and told me that he believed that peace had been made between him and the English Ambassador (Glover). A certain English merchant called Edward, a person of great prudence, had been dealing with the matter for some weeks. The agreement was that the profits of the Flanders (i.e. Dutch) trade were to be divided equally between the Consuls of England and France, as had happened earlier when the Flemish (i.e. Dutch) were still covered by the English flag. The English Ambassador had expressed a desire to visit the French Ambassador, who had willingly embraced the arrangement which he now imparted to me, knowing that I would be glad. I said I had always expected such an accommodation in view of the great experience of both gentlemen.
	I went recently to visit the English Ambassador and among the first things I did was to offer my congratulations on the arrangement. The Englishman began to laugh and said that it was true that they had talked about being friends, but at the moment of signing the terms the French Ambassador said he had never agreed to nor did he recall a clause by which seven hundred ducats were to be restored by a French to an English Consul. “ldquo;I sent to assure him by many persons who were present at our conferences that the matter really stood so, but as he denied it I refused to proceed further with the agreement, and told him I would a find a way to refresh his memory.”rdquo; His Lordship showed great indignation. I said what I thought necessary and passed on to other topics. But whether it is his nature or whether his recent illness has weakened his memory, the fact is that the French Ambassador often says a thing and then withdraws it or declares he has no recollection of it, and that always happens when there is something that does not suit him, as was the case with me about the thirty parcels of cloth.
	The ship “ldquo;Liona”rdquo; has been captured again and taken into Modon.
	The English Ambassador sent to tell me that he has news from his consul in Patras that some French had burned fourteen privateers lying in the port of Tunis. He had sent to ask confirmation from the French Ambassador, who, however, has only old despatches from Patras.
	Dalle Vigne di Pera, 3rd October, 1609.
	[Italian; deciphered.]
Oct. 3. Original Despatch, Venetian Archives.	645. Simon Contarini, Venetian Ambassador in Constantinople, to the Doge and Senate.
	A certain Launcelot Draper (Draperis), dragoman to the English Embassy, holds a right (jus) over the Church of St. Peter, as appears from the papers which the Bishop (of Tine) has seen. His ancestors have more than once invested the Dominican Fathers. The Jesuits, with the help of the French Ambassador, are endeavouring to compel Draper to dismiss the Dominicans and to put them in their places. With the help of the English Ambassador and working secretly I hope to prevent this.
	Dalle Vigne di Pera, 3rd October, 1609.
	[Italian; deciphered.]
Oct. 3. Original Despatch, Venetian Archives.	646. Simon Contarini, Venetian Ambassador in Constantinople, to the Doge and Senate.
	The Jesuits have brought here the picture of a plant which grows in the Indies. In it one sees, designed by nature, all the mysteries of the most Holy Passion of our Lord. For those who do not admit a miracle in the world of nature it is very difficult to accept this drawing.
	Dalle Vigne di Pera, 3rd October, 1609.
	[Italian; deciphered.]
Enclosed in preceding despatch.	647. A Latin Poem.
	“ldquo;De Frutice (sic) ac Flore admirabili qui passim enascitur hoc tempore in Occidentalibus Indiis.”rdquo;
	Triumphus crucis.
	Carmen ad Socios qui ex Europa missi Indos excolunt.
	Also a pen and ink sketch of the flower and fruit. (fn. 1)
Oct. 3. Original Despatch, Venetian Archives.	648. Giovanni Mocenigo, Venetian Ambassador in Rome, to the Doge and Senate.
	Don Robert Sherley arrived in Rome on Monday. He is an Englishman, Ambassador from the King of Persia. He was received with the same honours as the late Ambassador and is lodged in the same house. He was dressed in Persian costume, in a cloak of black velvet trimmed with gold; he wore a turban with a cross on the top of it to show he is a Catholic. He has had audience of the Pope in the presence of some Cardinals, and after presenting his credentials he made an elaborate oration setting forth the esteem in which the King held his Holiness, the good treatment Christians received in Persia, the wars with the Turks and the victories gained, the hope that his Holiness would take steps to unite Christian Sovreigns against the common foe. When the Turk was defeated and Constantinople taken, the Ambassador said that his master intended to become a Christian and to render entire obedience to the Apostolic See.
	In obedience to orders to assist Angelo Gradenigo I sent my secretary to visit the English (sic) Ambassador with instructions to congratulate him on his safe arrival and to beg him, as a favour to me, to set Gradenigo at liberty.
	The Ambassador replied courteously to the compliments, but when it came to the subject of Gradenigo he showed no good will. He concluded by saying that he was not the man to desire the death or ruin of any one, and although the Emperor had handed Gradenigo to him to be taken to Persia, still if Gradenigo would see that certain moneys which he said he had at Alexandretta were counted down to the English Consul there he would let him go, as it was enough for him that his master should be convinced that he had recovered all that was possible of the debt due from Gradenigo to the King. That same evening the Ambassador sent a gentleman to return the visit. I thought it well to speak seriously to him, pointing out the displeasure that would be aroused in Venice and the bad name this act would procure for them in Christendom. The same evening the gentleman returned and assured me, in the Ambassador's name, that he would order Gradenigo's release.
	Rome, 3rd October, 1609.
	[Italian.]
Oct. 3. Minutes of the Senate, Mar. Venetian Archives.	649. That to gratify the Ambassador of Great Britain the Proveditori all' Armar be instructed to release Thomas of London, an Englishman, lately arrested in the galley of Francesco Loredan, and that he be remitted his debt of Lire 106 contracted while on board our fleet.
	That this be communicated to the English Ambassador.
	Ayes	158.
	Noes	3.
	Neutrals	2.
	[Italian.]
Oct. 3. Original Despatch, Venetian Archives.	650. Marc' Antonio Correr, Venetian Ambassador in England, to the Doge and Senate.
	The King, during these last few days, has honoured the Count of Neuburg and the Prince of Oldenburg by inviting them to the chase and keeping them to dine with him. Oldenburg has left, very well satisfied, and Neuburg has taken his leave preparatory to going to Germany.
	In Düsseldorf they are expecting the Marquis of Brandenburg with a thousand horse from Prussia. He has sent on four hundred and fifty thousand dollars. Count Solms, his Ambassador, has not reached this Court yet. He is coming from France.
	The day before yesterday the Florentine Ambassador dined with the King. He has frequently sought leave to depart. He has an answer not entirely to his liking. He will be leaving in a couple of days.
	Axcelè, (fn. 2) Secretary to the Council of State, a few days ago came to disagreement with the Earl of Pembroke, on account of a certain confiscation bought by the secretary to the infringement of the Earl's office. Pembroke was supported by Salisbury and the Secretary would not give way. Axcelè was suspended and is in danger of absolute ruin, for his enemies have taken the opportunity to declare certain errors committed by him.
	The merchants of the East India Company are in great glee at the arrival of a great ship bringing a cargo mostly of pepper. She had been looked for for many days and there was some anxiety.
	Colonel Vere (fn. 3) (Weren) has died. He was in command of the troops sent by Queen Elizabeth to help the States of Holland, and in many brilliant and successful engagements he gained a reputation above that of any other in this nation. His loss is universally mourned. He held the Captaincy of Brill in Zealand and of Portsmouth (Polcimua) in England. These posts have not been filled up yet, as they are sought for by various gentlemen who have weight with his Majesty. (fn. 4)
	In Lingen and Friesland a mutiny broke out. Eleven mutineers were hung. There is great discontent in the Archduke's States on account of the truce. The soldiers say it means ruin and the population cannot support such large forces shut up inside the walled towns, especially in Antwerp where there are one-thousand-eight-hundred troops instead of the usual garrison of five hundred. His Highness readily grants leave to all Italians who ask it. He re-enlists some who desire it, and makes large provision for the gentlemen. The Spanish, on the other hand, do not find it so easy to get away. I hear that the total of the infantry is to be reduced at once to ten thousand men, and the cavalry to one thousand five hundred.
	The Dutch have enrolled a thousand picked troops from among those disbanded by the Archduke. This causes no little jealousy. Nevertheless the Commissioners of both parties are already at the Hague to settle the few difficulties which remain.
	The contagious disease is raging in this city, but no special remedy is employed. In this parish (contratta) alone thirty-six people have died this week. It is the most infected of the parishes. I am busily seeking a house outside the city.
	London, 3rd October, 1609.
	[Italian.]
Oct. 3. Original Despatch, Venetian Archives.	651. Marc' Antonio Correr, Venetian Ambassador in England, to the Doge and Senate.
	The arrival of the Courier Extraordinary sent me by your Serenity has caused some conjecture here. The real reason for his coming, however, has not been discovered. His Majesty did not communicate it even to the Members of the Council. Some say it is to return thanks for the book presented.
	By the ordinary Antwerp post came the despatches of the 11th. The Earl of Salisbury has just informed me that the latest from the Ambassador Wotton are of the 6th. His Majesty accordingly has knowledge only of Wotton's first representations in the Cabinet made on the 30th August.
	A person very intimate with the Earl of Salisbury and who assists him in all serious business, has informed me that such a violent method of procedure as that adopted by the Ambassador is greatly resented, while the extreme dexterity of your Excellencies is highly appreciated. All the same this personage (Wotton) is held in high esteem and everything will be done to preserve his reputation.
	The King publicly announced the prohibition of the book “ldquo;Pruritanus.”rdquo;
	London, 3rd October, 1609.
	[Italian; the part in italics deciphered.]
Oct. 4. Collegio, Lettere Secrete. Venetian Archives.	652. To the Ambassador in England.
	Announcing election of Francesco Contarini as Ambassador-Extraordinary to England.
	The English Ambassador, after this appointment was made, came to the Cabinet and announced that he would resume the garb and style of Ambassador.
	It happened that the galley “ldquo;Loredana”rdquo; put into Venice; on board she had a galley-slave, an Englishman, who had been sent to the galleys on suspicion of being a pirate. The Ambassador, hearing of this, went in his gondola to the galley to enquire into the case. While that was going on the officer in command of the paid oars, came up to the galley-slave and knocked him aside with a stick, and, not content with this, when the Ambassador complained of his proceedings, he insulted the Ambassador and challenged him to fight. We were informed of all this by the Ambassador's Secretary, and we ordered the arrest of the said officer, and, as the inquiry confirmed his offences, we have sent him to prison for life, and if he escape and then be caught he will be hung. We have also set the Englishman at liberty in order to prove our regret for the episode.
	Ayes	14.
	Noes	0.
	Neutrals	5.
	[Italian.]
Oct. 5. Copy of Original Despatch, Venetian Archives.	652A. Marin Cavalli and Francesco Priuli, Venetian Ambassadors in Germany, to the Doge and Senate.
	This week Achmet, Turkish Ambassador, is expected in Prague. He has been met at the frontier, lodged and fed. He brings presents.
	Prague, 5th October, 1609.
	[Italian.]
Oct. 5. Collegio, Lettere. Venetian Archives.	653. Letters Patent.
	Passport for Francesco Contarini, Ambassador-Extraordinary to the King of Great Britain.
	Credentials to the King of Great Britain.
	Ayes	21.
	Noes	0.
	Neutrals	0.
	[Italian.]
Oct. 5. Collegio, Lettere. Venetian Archives.	654. Credentials for Francesco Contarini to the Queen of Great Britain, the Prince of Wales, the Duke of York, his Most Christian Majesty, the Queen of France, the Dauphin, the Duke of Savoy, the Archduchess wife of the Archduke Albert, the Cardinal of Savoy, the States General of the United Provinces of the Low Countries, the Archbishop of Mainz, Elector, Archbishop of Cologne, Elector, Prince of Hainault, Count Palatine, Elector, Count Palatine, Philip Ludwig, Marquis of Anspach, Marquis of Baden, Duke of Wirtemburg, Landgrave of Hesse, Count Maurice, Count of Fuentes.
Oct. 5. Collegio, Lettere. Venetian Archives.	[Italian.]
Oct. 7. Senato, Secreta, Communicate dal Consiglio de' Dieci. Venetian Archives.	Expulsis Papalistis.
	655. Marco Foscarini, Venetian Ambassador in France, to the Chiefs of the Ten.
	Informs the Chiefs that M. de Champigny knows what Foscarini writes in his despatches and tells the King. M. de Champigny gets information on most points by means of the Nuncio at Venice.
	Paris, 7th October, 1609.
Expulsis Papalistis	[Italian; deciphered. (fn. 5)
Oct. 7. Original Despatch, Venetian Archives.	656. Antonio Foscarini, Venetian Ambassador in France, to the Doge and Senate.
	The English Ambassador went to Court yesterday week, and the following day had audience. He confirmed his Master's intention to follow the King in the matter of Cleves. The Ambassador asked for pay in part, if not in whole, of the debt to the English Crown.
	The day before yesterday M. de Vandermyle, Lord of Belgens-grave and Doopledam, arrived here on his way to announce to your Serenity the conclusion of the truce.
	Paris, 7th October, 1609.
	[Italian.]
Oct. 7. Original Despatch, Venetian Archives.	657. Antonio Foscarini, Venetian Ambassador in France, to the Doge and Senate.
	The Sig. de Jacob arrived at Court on the 28th. The King sent for him at once, and the Ambassador, in the name of his Master, the Duke of Savoy, invited the King to declare war immediately on Spain and send sufficient troops to allow Savoy to attack Milan, or to announce the marriage so as to allow the despatch of Prince Filiberto to Spain. He urged that this was the best time to turn the Spanish out of Italy, as they were short of money and their troops in Milan reduced.
	The King urged caution, and suggested a league. The King of England had promised to join.
	Paris, 7th October, 1609.
	[Italian; deciphered.]
Oct. 7. Original Despatch, Venetian Archives	658. Marc' Antonio Correr, Venetian Ambassador in England, to the Doge and Senate.
	The Court and the Ministers are scattered about the country to escape the fury of the Plague, which has spread to many villages. Little work can be done and the ordinary sittings are put off for three weeks. All the same, though there is little to report, I do not think it right to leave your Serenity without despatches.
	On Friday last the Ambassador of Brandenberg arrived and on Sunday he promptly had audience of the King at Hampton Court. All his negotiations relating to the succession to Cleves are warmly supported, and as yet he has only had to mention them by word of mouth.
	I have exchanged courtesies with him, and thought it well to do the same with the third-born of the Palatine of Neuburg, who is on the point of departure for Cleves, via Holland.
	Two other Ambassadors, one from Brandenburg, the other from Neuburg, are expected. On their arrival the Ambassador, who has just come from France, will leave. The King has sent a document, signed by himself, rehearsing the obligation of himself and his Most Christian Majesty to see that the terms of the truce are observed as agreed on. As soon as possible the States will send a similar document here to be presented on the King's return to Hampton Court. At present he has gone to Bagshot. I have had occasion to see it, and I notice that the States are pledged to make no alliance without the consent of these two Kings, while the Sovreigns bind themselves to do nothing to the prejudice of the States. In the secret convention with the Archdukes their Highnesses promised not to use the title of any of the Provinces owned by the States, but in spite of this the Treasurer, the Councillor Mas and the Audientiary, Verreiken, took to the Hague powers in which the Archdukes are styled Counts of Holland and Zealand. This has caused a great commotion. The Commissioners took back their powers and promised to have them corrected. They lay the blame on the Secretary who drew them up. They are staying on at the Hague till the correct formula arrives.
	On the 23rd of last month Vandermyle, elected as Ambassador from the States to your Serenity, left for France, where he will see the King.
	The Marchese Spinola intends to leave soon for Spain. His place will be taken by Don Luis de Velasco, at present commanding the cavalry. I have been assured from a safe quarter that up to to-day the King had not heard from his Ambassador, Wotton, except a report of the first representations he made in the Cabinet on August 30th. The Earl of Salisbury, who came to London yesterday, was waiting letters with some impatience. They were handed to him this evening just as he was stepping into his carriage to return to Hampton Court. He started before reading them. By next courier I hope to send you news.
	London, 7th October, 1609.
	[Italian.]
Oct. 8. Original Despatch, Venetian Archives.	659. Marc' Antonio Correr, Venetian Ambassador in England, to the Doge and Senate.
	After yesterday's despatch had gone the Earl of Salisbury sent this morning Kyrkham (Cherken), his secretary, to tell me that he had received despatches from Ambassador Wotton, in which he reports the interviews and the replies of the Senate in the same terms as I had represented them to the King and to his Excellency. The Ambassador admits that he was swept too far by a profound confidence and hope that he would obtain the revocation of the orders issued by the Inquisition to the booksellers not to sell his Majesty's book; but seeing that he was unable to achieve his object he returned to the Cabinet and resumed his character as representative of his Majesty. He embraced the opportunity offered by the display of regard for his Majesty implied in the prohibition of the book called “ldquo;Pruritanus”rdquo; and the appointment of an Ambassador-Extraordinary. Kyrkham assured me that the Earl was very glad that this disorder had been so easily and quickly reduced and all occasion for gossip removed. The King will be informed of this arrangement on his return to Hampton Court. I begged the secretary to return thanks to the Earl of Salisbury for his courteous communication. I said that as the affection between the two Powers was equal, so must their satisfaction be at the removal of any shadow or occasion of disagreement. The secretary told me, further, that his Excellency had information that the Ambassador had given an account to the Cabinet about this book called “ldquo;Pruritanus,”rdquo; and had greatly commended me and my action in the case. That the populace of Venice were displeased at the accident. That Wotton had praised me in Cabinet. I replied to their compliments and said I only regretted that our two accounts were not absolutely identical, for the priest came from the French Embassy, not from the Flemish. Nor did the King employ Parkins as being familiar with my house, for he had never been in it, nor should I have known him by sight. It was Parkins who of his own accord said to me that I might assure the priest that if only the books were discovered the King would want no more of him. I can also assure your Serenity that the priest was never sequestrated in this house; it was Sir Julius Cæsar who begged me not to dismiss him as I wished to do, so that the King might interrogate him as to the origin of the book. Cæsar told me to treat the priest well, as he had nothing to fear, and I did so. I desire to assure your Serenity that at the very first interview I had on this subject I renounced all claim to immunity or privilege for this house, and I was prepared to go further had I seen how I could either serve or please his Majesty. I further beg you to believe that I should hold myself unworthy of the name of good citizen and servant of my country were I to represent things as other than they are. I should consider myself in the wrong if I answered the voices of the public streets, though I am better able to endure a diverse interpretation from my masters than false slanders that have no sound roots.
	London, 8th October, 1609.
	This very moment, by a piece of luck, there has fallen into my hands a note addressed to me by Christopher Parkins. I send a copy. It has served to refresh my weak memory on certain points, and it will prove clearly that I was not slow in offering to send the priest to his Majesty's Ministers, and also that they proceeded with great caution in this affair.
	[Italian; the part in italics deciphered.]
Enclosed in preceding Despatch.	660. My most Illustrious and Honoured Lord.
	I have reported to the Lord Treasurer everything that has taken place in your house, both deeds and words; and I understand that, as all the suspicion falls upon the priest alone, he hopes and kindly begs your Lordship to give orders that the priest be secured so that he in no way may escape, but that it may be possible to examine him again for the further satisfaction of his Majesty. This may very well be done if your Lordship will send the priest to me to be sent on to the Treasurer for this very purpose. I beg for an answer to this at your hands.
	Lambeth, 21 July, 1609. o.s.
	Your Lordship's affectionate Servant, Christopher Parkins.
Oct. 10. Original Despatch, Venetian Archives.	661. Giovanni Mocenigo, Venetian Ambassador in Rome, to the Doge and Senate.
	The Persian Ambassador has been dismissed, after exhorting the Pope to unite Christian arms against the Turk.
	The French Ambassador urges the Pope to forbid any writing about the King of England's book.
	Rome, October 10th, 1609.
	[Italian.]
Oct. 12. Copy of Original Despatch, Venetian Archives.	662. Francesco Priuli, Venetian Ambassador in Germany, to the Doge and Senate.
	The Ambassador Cavalli left yesterday. He had with him, during his Embassy, two nephews.
	Prague, 12th October, 1609.
	[Italian.]
Oct. 12. Original Despatch, Venetian Archives.	663. Girolamo Soranzo, Venetian Ambassador in Spain, to the Doge and Senate.
	As the Flotta was entering the Seville Canal Simon Danziker, with eight galleons and two galeottes, hung upon their rear and captured a great galleon and two ships; half a million of gold in booty was taken and that, one may say, in the very harbour of Seville. A large quantity of false coin has been introduced by English ships.
	Madrid, 12th October, 1609.
	[Italian; the part in italics deciphered.]
Oct. 15. Original Despatch, Venetian Archives.	664. Marc' Antonio Correr, Venetian Ambassador in England, to the Doge and Senate.
	The King heard with great satisfaction that his Ambassador had returned to the Cabinet and had been kindly received by your Serenity. He has frequently praised the Serene Republic and has shown great satisfaction at the prohibition of the book “ldquo;Pruritanus.”rdquo; Before leaving Hampton Court for Royston he told the Earl of Salisbury to inform me that, apprized by Wotton of the correctness of all I told him at Wanstead (Valstild), he confirmed again all he had then said and that he intended to repeat it all to your Serenity by letter.
	This week there has been great talk in public about this outburst of temper on the part of the Ambassador. Your Serenity is in no way blamed. On the King's behalf they let it be known that he never felt the smallest annoyance or suspicion at the procedure of the Republic. I repeat this to all who touch on the matter and I endeavour to keep to generalities and to explain all in the way best suited to your service.
	The King is living in some anxiety as to the steps they will take in Rome against his book, and as to the replies that will be made to it, about which he has no news as yet. He is also watching the movements of the Earl of Tyrone, as he holds it certain that the present conjuncture of affairs will tempt the Pope to foment some of his old designs. I have this from a very sure source.
	London, 15th October, 1609.
	[Italian; the part in italics deciphered.]
Oct. 15. Original Despatch, Venetian Archives.	665. Marc' Antonio Correr, Venetian Ambassador in England, to the Doge and Senate.
	The Treasurer does not cease to attend to the augmentation of the revenue and the royal income, although he has frequently been compelled to yield to the King's lavishness. The Treasurer is now thinking of putting all the pepper in London up to auction. It is calculated that the capital embarked is about 400,000 crowns, if this were sold at half price it would realize 200,000 crowns, if the major part does not go into private pockets, as usually happens. The affair is very far forward, and if hostile rumours do not interrupt it, it will be carried to a conclusion. In that case they will from time to time tax all that comes in without depriving any one of his freedom of export; and so this will come to form an ordinary source of revenue.
	The King left on Tuesday for Royston for a whole month, and this has determined the Ambassador of Brandenburg to leave without waiting the two Counts of Solms, one of whom is coming from Brandenburg, the other from Neuburg, and who would not leave Paris till the dismissal of the Imperial Ambassador.
	The Elector of Brandenburg has gone with a large force of Cavalry to the Count Palatine of the Rhine.
	The Archduke Leopold has gone back from Cologne to Juliers and brought his family there. He is victualling the town and forts. He has a thousand infantry and a body guard of one hundred horse and they say he intends to raise two thousand foot and three hundred horse. Brandenburg and Neuburg have about twice as many. There is a rumour that while the Archduke was at the chase one of his guard was killed by a harquebus. There is suspicion of a mutiny in the Castle of Antwerp.
	The Marchese Spinola and the Marquis of Guadalech (Guadelaste?), (fn. 6) his Catholic Majesty's Ambassador in Flanders, went on the 11th of this month to Dunquerque to despatch the twelve ships lately built. Their crews have been sent on. They will be floated out on the spring-tide of the 13th.
	London, 15th October, 1609.
	[Italian.]
Oct. 15. Original Despatch, Venetian Archives.	666. Marc' Antonio Correr, Venetian Ambassador in England, to the Doge and Senate.
	Sends an account of the revolution at Emden and the sacking of three of the Count's castles, to the value of two hundred thousand dollars.
	London, 15th October, 1609.
	[Italian.]
Oct. 15. Original Despatch, Venetian Archives.	667. Marc' Antonio Correr, Venetian Ambassador in England, to the Doge and Senate.
	The caution which every one exercises in Flanders in entering into contracts in view of the penalty of death entailed thereby, has rendered it impossible for me to obtain before this a list of soldiers and engineers in obedience to your orders. It seems that they did not make much account of the engineers, for they considered the method of the Captains, in attack as well as in defence of fortresses, both more expeditious and less costly than the regulations of expert engineers. They have a pupil of the Count of Bucquoy's who, I hear, has composed a fine book on fortification and instruments of war. The Archduke won't allow it to be printed; the author is satisfied with a sum of money. He has a great reputation besides his fame as a student.
	The Ambassador names and discusses other officers.
	London, 15th October, 1609.
	[Italian.]
Enclosed in preceding despatch.	668. Memorandum of the Officers who are at this moment in Flanders.
	Among others is mentioned:—
	“ldquo;an Irishman, son of the Earl of Tyrone.”rdquo;
	“ldquo;English Colonels.
	Colonel Cecil, (fn. 7) nephew of the Earl of Salisbury, commands a company of horse.
	Colonel Vere (Veren).
	Colonel Ogle (?) (Oogl).”rdquo;
	[Italian.]
Oct. 17. Original Despatch, Venetian Archives.	669. Simon Contarini, Venetian Ambassador in Constantinople, to the Doge and Senate.
	The secretaries of the French and English Ambassadors have brought, for safe custody in this Chancery, a deed of accord between them. I enclose it.
	Dalle Vigne di Pera, 17th October, 1609.
	[Italian; deciphered.]
Enclosed in preceding despatch.	670. In Nomine Domini Amen. Anno a Nativitate Domini Nostri Jesu Christi, 1609. Die vero duodecimo Mensis Octobris, Indictione Septima.
	To terminate all differences which have arisen between the subscribing Ambassadors and to prevent the occurrence of others in the future, their Lordships in accord resolve and agree:
	That, of the consular fees exacted from the merchant ships that come from the seventeen provinces of Flanders and the Low Countries or from elsewhere into the Levant, a fair division shall be made, the French Consul taking half and the English Consul half, both of imports and exports;
	the English Consuls may not take fees from any other shipping than that of the seventeen Provinces;
	the present accord shall hold good during the entire period of the Ambassadors' residence. They pledge their word of honour to make no innovation of any kind whatsoever;
	the moment this accord is signed both parties shall inform their respective Consuls, that they may at once conform their conduct to its terms;
	the accord is to be signed and sealed by both Ambassadors and given to the Illustrious Bailo for custody and reference in case of dispute, but each must inform the other of this reference and if one does not appear at the time intimated the other shall be at liberty to consult the document;
	if difficulties arise as to the interpretation of any clause, the Bailo with two French and two English merchants shall decide.
	[Italian.]
Oct. 17. Original Despatch, Venetian Archives.	671. Simon Contarini, Venetian Ambassador in Constantinople, to the Doge and Senate.
	He has induced Draper (Draperis), through the English Ambassador, to grant a reinvestiture of St. Peter's to the Dominicans.
	Dalle Vigne di Pera, 17th October, 1609.
	[Italian; deciphered.]
Oct. 20. Collegio, Secreta, Esposizioni, Roma. Venetian Archives.	672. The French Ambassador renews proposals for a league with Venice and other Princes. The scheme had been dropped because of the difficulty of passage through Savoy, doubts as to the good faith of the Grisons, the jealousy of other Sovreigns. These difficulties are now smoothed away.
	[Italian.]
Oct. 20. Minutes of the Senate, Roma. Venetian Archives.	673. That despatches from our Ambassador in England be awaited before drawing up the instructions for the Ambassador-Extraordinary.
	Ayes	30.
	Noes	64.
	Neutrals	23.
	[Italian.]
Oct. 20. Original Despatch, Venetian Archives.	674. Antonio Foscarini, Venetian Ambassador in France, to the Doge and Senate.
	The Spanish were informed from England about the conspiracy of the Moors. Some Moors had ventured to confer with the English on the strength of their being protestants and they now complain that the English have broken their faith.
	Melun, 20th October, 1609.
	[Italian; the part in italics deciphered.]
Oct. 20. Original Despatch, Venetian Archives.	675. Marc' Antonio Correr, Venetian Ambassador in England, to the Doge and Senate.
	In obedience to orders sends in extraordinary accounts down to August 20. Must say, in order not to prejudice his successors, that the Embassy has need of a Chaplain, a man of letters and integrity, and of an Interpreter, a man of ability and intelligence, “ldquo;for it takes many years to learn this most difficult language.”rdquo; The charges are very heavy. Everything is very dear; even the things in which the country is rich, such as bread, wood and hay, cost twice and three times as much as in Italy; wine ten times as much. The journey is long and dangerous and thousands of ducats would not suffice for the transport of baggage.
	London, 20th October, 1609.
	[Italian.]
Oct. 21. Senato, Secreta. Despatches from Milan. Venetian Archives.	676. Giovanni Francesco Marchesini, Venetian Resident in Milan, to the Doge and Senate.
	Ambassador Sherley, the Englishman, who gave his word to his Excellency the Ambassador in Rome, that he would give orders for the liberation of Messer Angelo Gradenigo, has never sent any instructions as yet. It is therefore necessary to proceed by way of justice and to send an agent to consult with counsel. I will do all I can to help the cause.
	The Bishops of Casal and Novara have gone to Rome to obtain the final decrees for the canonization of the Blessed Carlo (Borromeo).
	Milan, 21st October, 1609.
	[Italian.]
Oct. 21. Original Despatch, Venetian Archives.	677. Antonio Foscarini, Venetian Ambassador in France, to the Doge and Senate.
	Reports that the King has been unfavourably disposed towards Fra Fulgentio by Cotton and the Jesuits.
	Melun, 21st October, 1609.
	[Italian; deciphered.]
Oct. 22. Original Despatch, Venetian Archives.	678. Marc' Antonio Correr, Venetian Ambassador in England, to the Doge and Senate.
	On Saturday the King sent Preston (fn. 8) to inform me that John Gibbons, who had been arrested in Scotland, at my request, for having carried off the wine from Candia belonging to Giovanni Antonio Tizzoni, had been brought to London and was at my disposal; that I might try him myself or send him to your Serenity to be punished on the scene of his crime.
	I begged Preston to return dutiful thanks to his Majesty for so singular a mark of favour, and I said “ldquo;the fellow merits a thousand deaths both on account of the theft and because of the bad influence upon trade generally; but I know well that his Majesty's Ministers are just and I desire nothing but that the man should be punished here according to his merits. Your Serenity's instructions only authorised me to seek the punishment of such people and the indemnification of those who had suffered loss.”rdquo;
	Preston replied that when the King was petitioned for the arrest of Gibbons he used all diligence to have him in his hands, and his Majesty has now made an extraordinary demonstration of favour. Gibbons cannot be tried here as he is a Scot and arrested in Scotland. If he be sent back to Scotland his friends and the inconvenience and cost to the Venetians in establishing his guilt, would all contribute to defeat the ends of justice.
	I confined myself to my original observations but, as Preston urged, I promised that I would report home and wait for orders. The prisoner meantime is well guarded.
	The Archduke Leopold has increased his forces to two thousand infantry and three hundred horse. He is waiting other thousand foot. He won't accept either Italians or Spanish. On the other hand, those of Brandenburg and Neuburg are more inclined to an accommodation than to further procedure in the troubles of war. For on the one side they do not feel safe in receiving a French army, while on the other they are alarmed at seeing that the Landgrave of Hesse has disbanded the infantry raised at their request.
	Her Majesty when I was at audience on Monday showed that she hoped that the Elector of Brandenburg, brother-in-law of her brother, the King of Denmark, would remain master in those States. She declared that he will prove a great Prince, and regretted that his grand-nephew was not old enough to marry the Princess of England.
	From other heated remarks of her Majesty I gathered that the intention of his Most Christian Majesty in sending M. de la Boderie here on pretext of business about Cleves, really turns on the marriage. I do not know whether the idea has vanished on account of the negotiations with Savoy being too far forward, or because here they never liked the notion.
	The Lord Treasurer's plan of having the India pepper in the King's name has forced up the price. This and the complaints of the merchants have induced him to postpone it.
	The Plague is not only active here, but is spreading everywhere to such an extent that the Queen said they were safe nowhere. Last week she lost her groom of the robes.
	London, 22nd October, 1609.
	[Italian; the part in italics deciphered.]
Oct. 23. Consiglio de' Dieci, Parti Secrete. Venetian Archives.	679. That the summary of despatches from England be consigned to Francesco Contarini, elected Ambassador to England.
	Ayes	13.
	Noes	0.
	Neutrals	2.
	[Italian.]
Oct. 24. Collegio, Lettere Secrete. Venetian Archives.	680. To the Ambassador in Rome.
	Orders for the arrest of Cesare Saita, checking-clerk (scontro) in the Mint, Piero di Bernardini, cashier, Paulo, his son, and Zuane Colonna, deputy custodian (masser sostituto) to the Camera di Commun, who are wanted for theft in that office and at the Mint. If they are in the country to which the Ambassador is accredited he is to demand their arrest and extradition to the officers of the Republic, which promises similar friendly offices.
	The same to the Ambassador in England.
	[Italian.]
Oct. 24. Original Despatch, Venetian Archives.	681. Giovanni Mocenigo, Venetian Ambassador in Rome, to the Doge and Senate.
	Orders from Spain to the Spanish Ambassador to give the Earl of Tyrone some money to pay his debts. They are paying him more attention than heretofore.
	Rome, 24th October, 1609.
	[Italian.]
Oct. 25. Original Despatch, Venetian Archives.	682. Girolamo Soranzo, Venetian Ambassador in Spain, to the Doge and Senate.
	The English Ambassador on taking leave of his Majesty, wished to present his Sovreign's book, but the Duke of Lerma warned and implored him not to. (fn. 9) His Catholic Majesty was resolved not to accept it. The Ambassador abstained, but gave a brief account of its contents to his Majesty, and told him that the King of England wished for an answer to any points which appeared unsound or erroneous, and if the arguments seemed convincing and genuine, perhaps the King would assent to them. His Majesty turned the conversation and gave no reply on that subject. There is a rumour that the son of the Marquis of Vigliena, who was sent to Constantinople, has become a Turk.
	Madrid, 25th October, 1609.
	[Italian; deciphered.]
Oct. 28. Senato, Secreta. Despatches from Milan. Venetian Archives.	683. Giovanni Francesco Marchesini, Venetian Resident in Milan, to the Doge and Senate.
	Encloses the order for the expulsion of the Moors and Moriscoes from Spain, as issued in Valencia, 22nd Sept. 1609.
	Milan, 28th October, 1609.
	[Italian.]
Oct. 28. Original Despatch, Venetian Archives.	684. Girolamo Soranzo, Venetian Ambassador in Spain, to the Doge and Senate.
	Acknowledges the receipt of documents relating to English affairs. Madrid, 28th October, 1609.
	[Italian.]
Oct. 29. Original Despatch, Venetian Archives.	685. Marc' Antonio Correr, Venetian Ambassador in England, to the Doge and Senate.
	The Plague has not only spread to Hampton Court and caused the death of one of the Queen's grooms of the wardrobe, and another after him, but it has reached Royston and the King's household. The King has left Royston and is to be at Hampton Court on Saturday. By November 7th they will both be in London, where the Plague has decreased by half this last week. The nobility is beginning to arrive in town. Parliament is to meet one day next week. The Lords of Council reach the city every day. The Ministers are anxious about Cleves. Affairs in Spain also occupy their attention and they are interested in the news that the King has embarked the Moors in order to send them out of the Kingdom.
	At the Hague there is an Ambassador from the King of Marocco. He is negotiating about commerce and also about the threatening attitude of Spain; but the States General do not seem willing to risk the peace secured by the truce. The Ambassador has presented Prince Maurice with two horses and many pounds of amber, and given the same to several members of the States.
	The question of transit has been settled by a reduction of two-thirds on almost all goods. The people of Brabant are not entirely pleased; they desired transit to Antwerp to be entirely free. The people of Zealand insist on the reverse, however, because of the great injury to Middleburg and Amsterdam. They promise, however, to revise the tariff if imposts are reduced in neighbouring States. Meantime the troops are kept on a war footing.
	The Princes of Brandenburg and Neuburg are increasing their troops in Cleves. All points to war.
	Messer Zorzi Silvestri has presented your Serenity's letters. If he requires my aid for the recovery of his credit, I will willingly take pains on his behalf as I always do for all subjects of your Serenity.
	I acknowledge receipt of other despatches of the 26th and 29th September, with information about the Abbey of Vangadizza and about the Count Palatine of the Rhine. Also despatches of the 4th of this month about the re-appearance of the English Ambassador in the Cabinet and the despatch of the Ambassador Contarini, whom I will serve as in duty bound to your Serenity and by his worth.
	London, 29th October, 1609.
	[Italian.]
Oct. 31. Original Despatch, Venetian Archives.	686. Simon Contarini, Venetian Ambassador in Constantinople, to the Doge and Senate.
	The French and English Ambassadors have exchanged visits. The English called first.
	Dalle Vigne di Pera, 31st October, 1609.
	[Italian; deciphered.]
Oct. 31. Senato, Secreta. Despatches from Florence. Venetian Archives.	687. Giacomo Vendramin, Venetian Resident in Florence, to the Doge and Senate.
	Danziker has revolted against the Algerines and slain one hundred Turks and freed three hundred slaves. He then went to Marseilles where he took booty to the value of 400,000 crowns. He was met by the Duke of Guise with every sign of joy. (fn. 10) An Englishman from whom Danziker captured a vessel has left here in order to recover it. There will be trouble. This is expected to be the utter ruin of Ward. God grant it be so.
	Florence, 31st October, 1609.
	[Italian.]