Border Papers volume 2: February 1598

900. Sir George Hume, &c., to Sir W. Bowes. [Feb. 4.]

Your sudden departure, and leaving this indent "in sic termes as are not reasonable, nor conforme to our reporte to his Majestie in the matter of pledges: whereanent our meanings and words were allwaies, that the twoo keepers should be entred for sic pledges of Tyndayle and Ridesdayle, as in the tumult escaped, and beis not reentred the day now appoyncted for that effect. Whereas by this writt presented to his Majestie by George Nicholson, and your last conference had with my lord of Newbottle, you meane that your entringe of the keepers should be in defalt of sic pledges as were of new named; quhilk is absurde, that bothe ye should name the pledges, and suppose a defecte in their entrie." Wherefore to clear our conference, and incline you thereto, as we believe you are so, we have written this, and sent the indent "conforme," trusting you will neither make our report to his Majesty false, nor refuse so equitable a condition, thereby to incur the charge of hindering "this gude and godly worke you have so longe been about, to come to the above gude effect: for neyther we nor ony els heere do thinke otherwaies nor is abovesaide, neyther are we perswaded in your reason you thinke otherwise your selfe. So expectinge your lordshipis readie consent by your subscribinge thir indents quickly returned." Edinburgh. George Hume, Carmichell, M^r George Younge.

¾ p. Copy by Bowes' clerk. Indorsed: "Coppie of a lettre to Sir William Bowes from the Lord Comptroller, Sir John Carmichell and M^r George Younge. Feb. 4° 1597."

901. Agreement for delivery of Pledges. [Feb. 4.]

Edinburgh, 4 February 1597.—Grounds agreed to by his Majesty, with assent of the Queen's ambassador for immediate delivery of pledges.

First for Liddesdale — Because Baclugh's detaining in Berwick prevents his procuring relief by entering his pledges, that the Queen be moved to deliver him on entering his son as caution, that before the last of April next he shall deliver pledges indented betwixt Sir William Bowes and him, or re-enter himself to the keeping of the Governor at Berwick.

For the English East and Middle Marches—So many of the old pledges as can be got shall be delivered, and for those absent, Sir William Bowes shall enter to Lord Hume or his deputy at Fowlden upon the 13^th instant, Henry Bowes for Tynedale, and Raphe Mansfeild for Redesdale, to remain till those absent are entered.

For the Scottish pledges of the East and Middle Marches, Sir Robert Kerr shall enter those formerly agreed on, in the town of Berwick to M^r John Carey governor, or Sir Robert Carey warden of the East March, or Sir William Bowes, upon the 14^th instant: and on default in all or part, Sir Robert shall enter himself with one of these three, to remain in custody till the defect is supplied.

For the Scottish West March pledges—As such of them as the King lately "inwarded," have escaped, the English warden or his deputy shall with expedition send 12 new names of the same clans to Lord Ochiltree lieutenant there, under his hand, of whom the said lord shall supply those wanting, delivering the deputy warden in default—which delivery shall be made at Torday forth, on the 1^st March next, to Lord Scrope, Sir William Bowes, or to Henry Leigh, or some sufficient person authorized under one of their hands: the English pledges being delivered at the same time and place; and for those absent, others of the same clan next in kin, to be "lyked of" by said Lord Ochiltree, on signification of their names by M^r Leigh—failing which, the deputy warden shall enter to the lieutenant to remain in Scotland till full entry of the pledges failing.

Touching the late tumult; a trial shall be taken by his Majesty and such noblemen of Scotland, as the Queen or her commissioner Sir William Bowes shall nominate.

They shall on honour and conscience, fyle or clean according to last treaty, such Scottishmen as shall be given up on the Queen's behalf, as suspected thereof, and examine on oath such witnesses as are nominated by her or her commissioner. James R.

1½ pp. Copy by Bowes' clerk. Indorsed.

902. Sir W. Bowes to Edward Gray. [Feb. 5.]

In my late employment in Scotland, finding no other means to bring it to a conclusion, I have indented with the King that on Monday the 13^th instant at Fowlden, I shall deliver all the old pledges, or in default of them, deliver for Tynedale my brother Henry Bowes, and for Redesdale, Raphe Mansfeild; and charge you in the Queen's name at your utmost peril, that you warn the said Henry Bowes and Raphe Manefeild hereof, with all expedition, by riding yourself, or making one trusted as yourself, ride, to them, with this my letter, and before sufficient witnesses, laying the charge on them; farther that they bring with them so many of the old pledges as they can get, to be present with them here at Berwick on Saturday the 11^th instant. To avoid unnecessary scruple, you shall let them know that I have taken care for their good intreating during their abode in Scotland, and for better means of their delivery than I may here conveniently write.

You shall also straitly command both those keepers to put themselves in special safety, because it is evident that Cesford will leave nothing undone to keep back any of our side, to divert the fault from him to us; and they must be extraordinarily careful against any sinister device.

By the King's indent, I am to receive at Berwick on the 14^th instant all Cesford's old pledges or himself, so the matter so highly concerns her Majesty that the utmost diligence and care must be used.

Certify me with speed of your doings, that I may frame my proceedings accordingly. Berwick. Will'm Bowes.

1¼ pp. Copy by his clerk. Indorsed.

903. John Carey to Burghley. [Feb. 6.]

On Saturday last at night being the 4^th, Sir William Bowes returned from Scotland to this town.

He was very graciously received by the King, and had great entertainment by his Council, and has good hope of the accomplishment of all his "adowes."

A new day is appointed for delivery of pledges, and things have appearance of good success. We have no fear but of want of victuals. Master Vernon also came on Saturday, but his coming gives us no encouragement of amendment. Our horsemen are clean overthrown and beggared by their continual want of their allowance, which is nothing relieved by his coming.

My lord, it were good time now, if it so pleased her Majesty, to make known her pleasure for a treasurer here, both who it should be, and also that he might be fully established, for midsummer will shortly draw fast on, and besides here be many oocasions daily for use of money, as for one thing amongst many others—"ther hath leyn in Chopwell wod this iij yeres the tymber that was redey cute and framed for the repayringe of this brige, wiche dothe ley rottinge ther for want of xxl. to defraye the charge of bringinge it awaye; wherbey the want therof, thos rotten and decayed plases of the brige have byn left unrepayred, wiche hathe put the hole brige this year in great danger of beinge broken and carreyed clean awaye, bey resun of the great aboundans and stoer of eyse that is come dowen, havinge had so great frostes as hear hathe not byn the like this maney yeares. If it will pleas youer lordahipe nowe ones agayen, if you fynd it not desperat bey her Majestes determination beforhand to Ser Williame Bowes, to move her for me, that I maye knoe her Majestes pleser therin: asseweringe youer honer that if she doe dispos that offes on Ser Williame, then must her Majesty nedes ether alowe me the governors fee, or elles take me cleane awaye from this plase; for I cannot possebell hold it out aney longer, to spend a thowsand powendes a year bey mayntayning the governers place and port, havinge but to hunderd powendes and thertey a yere, never havinge had aney incres of fee sins my fathers dethe! It cannot be so cut out of my livinge aney longer, havinge mad all the honest shiftes I cane all redey, ether bey myselfe or my frendes: wherin as youe have ever stod my honorabell good lord, I doe nowe withe all "humilleite intret youer honorabell consitheration and forthcrans hearin; for uppon my faythe I doe not onley consume my estat hear in her Majestes servis, wiche I willingeley yeld unto so fare as I ame abell, but all that I have in the world beseydes runes to wracke and rewen, and everey bodey makes havocke and spoyell of that littyll I have. And I hope her Majesty dothe not mean to make me the onley president,—thoughe my serves I confes deserves no better but an overthrowen estat—yet my willingenes and faythefull care to do well, wold challenge a better hope.

"I wold farther intret youer honer to sertefey me youer plesser tuchinge my offes of chamberlinshipe, whether you will dispos of it to aney of youer followers fitt for it or noe? For if youer honer doe not dispoes of it, I must be fayen to sell it to helpe my mayntenans hear, so hardley ame I dreven." Berwick. Signed: Jhon Carey.

1½ pp. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed. Swan wafer signet.

904. Sir W. Bowes to Sir George Hume, &c. [Feb. 6.]

I have received your letters by M^r Nicholson, with your King's indent as to pledges, altered from the copy signed by me, as his Majesty and you the lords of his Council liked best. For defence of my own behaviour and reputation, and at your request, I answer thus to the four points in your letter.—

First.—My departure was not sudden, my message being delivered—the King's answer received—my leave taken of his highness—and the time of my departure verbally signified by me to himself and your lordships.

The substance of the indent was agreed on, for I had debated the matter at large before the King and Council, proved that the old pledges were not to be "answered" by the Queen under indent, but new pledges only as "gratifficacion." And you three appointed by the King to confer with me, received brief notes in writing, with the names of two new pledges for each old one wanting, verified as their brother or next of kin in their clan, whereof the King was to choose one of each two for final conclusion. Whilst awaiting this, on same day, I received very unlike propositions from the Lord of Newbottle, Sir Kobert Melvill and you M^r George Young, viz., that on Cesford's doubts and requests to the Council, they thought they might alter pledges, or give Sir Robert Kerr's brother "in lyke cases proportionable to that requyred by me"; and failing the East March pledges, Sir Robert Carey the warden might be delivered. I answered that these were very strange and unexpected, and I showed by the King's and Lord Hume's own letters that they were altogether untenable, and finding that they proceeded from more than "palpable partiallityes," procured by former hinderers of this good work, I found it unfit to tarry, and therefore took my journey as already determined.

To the second point—That the indent signed by me was not conform to your report to the King: I refer to my first answer, as to the Queen's free offer of new pledges for the old who cannot be had.

To the third—I answer that my offer to "deliver my loving brother to make good the Queens gratification aforesaid" proceeds from no other cause than that I am better assured of his entry, than that of "other persons whom I knowe, and your lordships cannot be ignorant, to have ben inserted by Sir Robert Kerr for no other purpose," but in hope of diverting some of them, and hindering this honorable action.

For the imagined absurdity, you will excuse my not seeing it, if you think it reasonable now to offer Sir Robert Kerr's brother in default of some of his pledges.

The fourth point "is answered in the former."

For conclusion—Your lordships seeing my grounds for insisting in my former overture in writing, will acknowledge "the reason of my reason, and the absurdity of that absurdity imputed to so reasonable a proposicion."

For my assent to the King's indent, which you require me to signify by letter, and return of "the double," signed by me: I assure you I have inquired if Mansfeild can be had or no? And if he can, will sign and return the double with speed. If not, I will keep the rest of the "particulers" mentioned therein, and instead of Mansfeild, deliver you another of my brothers or M^r Edward Graye deputy warden of the Middle March, on Monday next at Fowlden, soon after ten hours in the forenoon, expecting that his Majesty will be pleased to release the said gentlemen on delivery of new pledges in due time. Berwick.

3½ pp. Copy by his clerk. Indorsed: "Coppie of Sir William Bowes his answere to the lettre from the Lord Comptroller, Sir John Carmichell and M^r George Younge. Feb. 6, 1597."

905. Agreement at Lammerton. [Feb. 7.]

(1) That if Raphe Mansfeild cannot be had according to the first indent, the King will accept Robert Bowes Sir William's brother, or Edward Gray deputy warden, till Mansfeild or his pledges be got.

(2) That the pledges' names be delivered under some of the commissioners' hands, for more certainty.

(3) That the meeting at Fowlden be between 10 A.M. and 1 P.M.

(4) That not more than 40 English enter Scotland to guard the pledges. The whole company of Scotland to stay half a mile from Berwick, only 40 to bring the pledges into the town: the delivery to be between 10 and 1 o'clock.

(5) That the King will be pleased to accept of new pledges, "reasonably named by his Majestie, secretly without privitie of any other except Sir John Carmichael and Sir Walter Scott," of equal condition and the same clan with those wanting, and so the new redeemable by delivery of the old, and the officers either by old or new.

(6) That the King will be pleased to send one of credit to join with Lord Hume or his deputy, in the above deliveries.

(7) That these overtures be speedily imparted to the King, for his approval in whole or part. Meanwhile all things in his indent shall be performed on the English side, except it fail in Mansfeild, and then Robert Bowes or Edward Gray to be delivered. Will'm Bowes, George Houme.

1 p. Copy by Bowes'clerk. Indorsed: "Propositions made at Lammerton by Sir William Bowes and Sir George Hume of Wedderburne, Feb. 7, 1597."

906. Sir W. Bowes to Cecil. [Feb. 8.]

Reporting the course of his negotiations with the King and Council since his last letter—his statement at audience, that the Queen had commanded him to gratify the King in delivery of new pledges, "and to honour him with the remitting of Bucklughe according to the desyre of his lettres." Then the King's rising from Council, conference with him apart, complaint of the sharpness of the Queen's letter about his speeches in parliament—his inquiry if the Earl of Mar had not reported it to Bowes? and he would send an ambassador to expostulate with her, as Bowes advised him to do—their argument on the matter of "gratuitye" on the Queen's part as to the delivery of pledges—the King's complaint of the Queen's "not so much as anaswering his servantes," and that Cecil had told them he "durst not move the Queen in it."Bowes' exposition of the Queen's good reasons for anger, seeing her borders wasted, subjects slain, castles surprised, &c. The King's dislike of Bowes' "severe censure" therein, and his saying "earnestlie, that if the sleight of M^r Eandolphe had not ben, this annuity had ben inserted into the written league,"—Bowes' explanation of the Queen's refusal to answer his servants, and necessity of giving the Queen satisfaction—his subsequent conference with Lord Newbottle, Melvill and Young sent by the Council, on Wedderburne and Carmichael's refusal, with alterations of the agreement, according to the copy inclosed—their discussion till midnight, and his intention to depart next morning. On his departure, the King's bringing M^r Nicholson before his Council—their endeavour to find "some starting hole " for Cesford—and demand of Mansfeild besides Henry Bowes—the letter (of which a copy is inclosed) being drawn in the King's cabinet, signed by the commissioners, and with an indent under the King's hand, both sent, by M^r Nicholson as messenger, to Bowes that night—the King finally giving the Comptroller two blanks for directions to Lord Hume and Cesford, signed by his hand, to be filled up as the Comptroller and Bowes should agree—their meeting at Lamerton the day before, as the note inclosed shows, when though willing to do so, the Comptroller durst not absolutely indent.

That he has written to the Archbishop of York to send Mansfeild if there, also to Lord Eure at his house if in the bishopric, and to his deputy, as the copy letter shows.

That he has done his best endeavour, and if the service "miscary uppon Monday and Tewsday next," he will have little hope of settling it in this way.

He has received Cecil's letter touching Buccleuch, and will report what is done in his next letter. Berwick. Signed: Will'm Bowes.

4¼ pp. Addressed. Indorsed. Wafer signet (Bowes).

907. Sir W. Bowes to Cecil. [Feb. 15.]

Since my last advertising the King's indent with me, and mine with the Lord Comptroller in the matter of pledges, though great suit and many overtures have been made to the King for a longer day, and some other alterations of the indents "(suche is the carriage of that cuntries affayres, as by cunninge importuuitie they can hope to alter any thinge)"—yet these, motions by M^r Nicholson's "discreete diligence," were well avoided, and the King persisted in his former resolution. And for better "towardnes," he signed another indent, reforming in some points the former between the Comptroller and me at Lammerton, viz., that I should deliver M^r Edward Gray, if Eaphe Mansfeild could not be had, and reserving the naming new pledges to himself. Agreeable whereto, upon Monday the 13^th hereof, I met the lord comptroller (returned again from the King) at Foulden, where I delivered to him by indent such old pledges as could be had, and my brother Henry Bowes and Raphe Mansfeild for those awanting within their charges. Yesterday the 14^th, M^r Governor, the lord warden, and myself, awaited performance of the Scottish indent at the castle, between the hours of 10 and 1, as appointed; the Scots came not, albeit the comptroller attended near the Bound rode from 10 A.M. "till the sunne sett." To whom I sent M^r Robert Claveringe with the King's indent and a safe conduct for Lord Hume, his deputy, and 40 horse to enter the town. About sunset Lord Hume sent a gentleman to the lord warden desiring to speak with him; who by M^r Governor's and my advice, met his lordship on Hallowdowne hill. There Lord Hume "protestinge many kyndnesses" to him, showed that while by the indent he might deliver Sir Robert Kerr either to the lord warden, the governor, or myself, he had chosen his lordship, earnestly commending Sir Robert Kerr to him, "as the freinde of all the worlde he loved best, with great entreatie of lettinge passe former unkyndnesses, and to receyve him to his favourable custodie." The lord warden answered with like courtesy, but said as I was charged to receive as the Queen's commissioner, he could only gratify his lordship's request with my consent. I being loth to impeach the delivery, consented to Lord Hume's motion, and the lord warden received Cesford according to the King's indent, "in substance, exceptinge tyme, being indeede about the sunne settinge when he entred this towne." I was moved to receive Farneherst in defect of the wanting pledges, "appertayninge onely to him," but I said the honour of my sovereign bound me to insist on the King's indent. To which Cesford, protesting his loyalty, yielded obedience, and remains in the lord warden's keeping.

For the redeeming of my brother and M^r Mansfeild, I have both given order to the wardens, and instructed M^r Nicholson how to proceed with the King.

The pledges being thus dealt with, her Majesty may now be pleased to name such honorable persons of Scotland, as she will have to fyle or clear such Scottishmen as I shall give up for the tumult at the West ford.

The fittest seem to me such as are opposed or free from Lord Hume's faction, "as the Duke, the Erle of Marr, the Treasurer, the Comptroller: to whom for some other good respects, may be added the Lord Seton, the Lord President and Sir John Carmichell." On her Majesty signifying her choice, I will name such Scots as are thought to be fowle, and M^r Nicholson I hope will do the rest.

In "Baclughe's enlargement," I look for his son to be here this day, to remain pledge for his father on his dismission, to deliver his pledges or reenter himself.

Herein the absence of my brother Henry Bowes will te an impediment to a matter of consequence to our Borders, viz., to break the force of Liddesdale, which might ensue in this sort.—Some of the principal Ellots and Armstrongs, breaking their faith to Buccleuch formerly to enter as pledges, have stirred up in him an earnest desire of revenge, besides recovery of his liberty by regaining these pledges. Finding this disposition in him before my last going to Scotland, and hearing from time to time of the outrages in the Queen's people "by these wretches—namely, the killinge of M^r Whitfeilde, and then instantly foure within my brothers office of Tyndale, I caused a platt to be sett betweene Baclugh and my said brother, to tame these outlawes, that Baclughe should restrayne all his freinds, and suffer our men to scourge the rest." Though this purpose was discovered by some Scottish thieves coming into England to steal that night, yet the Ellots and Armstrongs were "so proude, and contemninge poore decayed Tyndale," that though they rose to the fray, they removed not their goods, and my brother took 200 of their cattle, "and slewe three, whereof the principall killer of M^r Whitfeild was one."

This act has caused implacable displeasure between Buccleuch's friends assured by him, and not putting hand to the fight, and the other outlaws that suffered the damage. And if it might now be seconded by my brother holding hand afresh to Baclugh, and their getting no reset in the English West March, Liddesdale would be made easier to deal with, " and Baclugh him selfe stand such neede to the favour of Englande, as he should become a much better neighbour then he hath beene."

To further this, I have agreed with Baclugh that he become suitor to the King to commit my brother to his keeping, in furtherance of his highness's service, and to work it by other privy means, so the Queen's minister shall not be seen in it, or complaint made of her people for this "wracke" to the outlaws. But it must be kept secret from the under officers of the West March. These things I trust will help to restore the Borders, if her Majesty please to give timely direction in such wants as I will be ready to lay down to advance the objects of the late treaty, and set justice again on foot. Berwick. Signed: Will'm Bowes.

3 pp. Addressed. Indorsed by Essex. Wafer signet (Bowes). Marginal notes showing Burghley's careful perusal.

908. Sir R. Carey to Cecil. [Feb. 15. 1597–98.]

Omitting as needless what has passed between the King and Sir William Bowes hitherto, as I know he has informed you from time to tune, your honour shall understand that yesterday Lord Hume sent his deputy to deliver Sir Robert Kerr to me to be kept till redeemed by the pledges which he should have brought in. In my opinion, his abode here will be very prejudicial to the place, "as well in regard of his owne private affection and bad mynde, sufficiently already knowne, as in respect of the dayly repayre of others of lyke disposition to him, during his contynuance here, which wold be well considered of." If it would please you to move her Majesty, the sooner the better he be removed with speed. If he is to be in this country any time, the fittest place in my judgement will be with the Archbishop of York. I leave it to the Queen's pleasure and the Council's—but it is not convenient he be kept in these parts (this town especially) for many other respects. I beseech your speedy answer and order for his remove. Berwick. Signed: Ro. Carey.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed partly by Essex. Swan wafer signet.

909. Sir W. Bowes to Cecil. [Feb. 18.]

Since my last letter as to the pledges, I find in conference with Cesford, an earnest desire to remove her Majesty's hard conceit of his former behaviour, with very large offers of well deserving at her hand, not only in his own person, but also in his Court friends. Which grow "(saith he)" as well from his knowledge of the King's resolution to keep fast amity with her Majesty, as from his own particular to preserve his own honest reputation, and avoid the danger of his own estate, likely to ensue by her Majesty's high indignation, intimated to him and his best friends by my report.

In discourse hereof, I find him "so large, particular, and earnest," that I ought not to suppress his overtures, either in hate of the past, or by suspicion of that to come. "His apologie for former falts is grounded upon transferringe the originall causes unto the unskillful inconstancie of his oppoites; wherein, as he concurrethe with his brother Baclugh far ueerer in vehement assertion of this, then in love one of them to another: so do I thinke the particuler instances and large circumstances fitlier delivered where indeede they should be examined, by any other man then by me." The substance of our conference rested in this—how he should present to her Majesty this his satisfaction both for his supposed faults, as for assurance of his future good behaviour. He pressing me to be his mediator, I showed him in what peril I should place my self, by interposing my poor credit (dearer than my life), as surety for him to her Majesty, thus putting myself wholly in his hand for more than my worth. In serious debate, that he might not be frustrated of the hope which solely caused his entry, seeing his pledges were ready, he opened to me "by waie of counsell" his earnest desire to be admitted to her Majesty's presence and speech, wherein he desired my help. I showed many difficulties arising—that I knew not how it might stand with her honour to admit suddenly to her presence a prisoner who had done her so many dishonours: yet, as it showed his good intention, while I could not answer it directly, having to repair elsewhere in her Majesty's service, I would take time to bethink me what advice to give him therein, and give my opinion in a few days. My purpose therein was to know her Majesty's pleasure on this desire of his—whether I should entertain it, or altogether forbear hearkening to it? And as the knowledge of his motives may afford light to judge, I have set down what I think these may have been. First—when I was last in Edinburgh, he had good reason to see his friends could no longer bear out his evasions; while the King, straitened by her Majesty's last letters to give her more than ordinary satisfaction, on my showing him that dis patching an ambassador with good words, leaving bad deeds behind him, would be less than nothing, and Sir Robert Ker was not worth balancing against the Queen's merit, resolved and has persisted that Sir Robert should assuredly give her satisfaction. Secondly—Sir Robert saw plainly, that the Duke and Earl of Mar with their faction who favoured Baclugh, to further his delivery by her Majesty, supported my proposals in Border matters, and when Baclugh was dismissed, what advantage he had gained by his entry, and with the favour of England might become too strong for him in their depending quarrel, himself remaining under her displeasure—and therefore the danger of his "wracke" near at hand, if he does not recover her Majesty's better opinion and grace, with the favour rather than the malice of this town of Berwick, and the wardens of these Middle and East Marches. Thirdly—while he wavered in doubt whether to enter himself or his pledges, fearing malice borne him by the Governor, Sir Robert Carey and my self: he travelled earnestly with M^r Robert Claveringe (a gentleman of special account with me, who had gone with me to Edinburgh) to ask any favour from me, and he would enter himself. But I refused all conditions, leaving him hope that his only course to honour the Queen was by his entry, and have since used him well, to his great satisfaction; so he seems to rest his hopes in me, though I have given him no other comfort than as aforesaid. For his better proceeding herein, he has laboured to reconcile himself with the Governor and Sir Robert Carey, having shown that their former quarrels have been nourished by misunderstandings, and has requested us the three last mentioned, to signify to her Majesty his earnest desire to recover her good opinion for which cause only he entered himself; we being privy that he had all his pledges, save one of Ferneherst's easy to come by, and that under the indent he is to remain no longer than he enter his pledges. Now whether her Majesty shall think better for her service to cast him off, andretain Baclugh in good opinion, or make them strive which shall be strongest in her favour; or if she is pleased to hearken to Cesford, how her highness shall find good "to tie as fast a knott upon his faithe as the substance thereof will give," and whether by her instruments here only, or allowing him to approach nearer her, I trust she will signify her pleasure timely, that he be not driven to despair. For I think the man for his parts and friends, better furnished to do hurt on these Borders than any other of his nation. "So as I see no midst, butt eyther to winne him or so to cast him downe as he can not hurt; which latter, seinge he is the cheife champion in the Kinges deepe-rooted offence against Bodwell, and he so well befreinded by a stronge faction: how it can be effected, I do not understande." I expect your honour's further direction herein how to deal with him. Berwick. Signed: Will'm Bowes.

3¼ pp. Addressed. Indorsed. Marginal notes by Windebank.

910. John Carey and Sir W. Bowes to Cecil. [Feb. 18.]

As directed in your letters of 29^th of the last, "we have signified unto Baclugh her Majesties gracious acceptacion of his former requests made for his dismission, to travell effectually in the entrie of his pledges; agreable whereunto, we havinge first receyved his sonne, now in the keepinge of me John Carey, proceeded to indent with the said Baclughe under our hande writings "—the conditions whereof are in the inclosed copy.

"The next day, we with the horse garrison of Barwicke, and the lord warden of the East Marche guarded him to the West foorde beyonde Norham, where his owne companies, about 150 men, receyved him. At our parbinge one from another, I William Bowes, accordinge to the commaundment before given unto me by lettres from the lordes, signified unto Baclughe—First, that he was receyved without condition by me in that place; Secondly—that albeit the best allegation for him were admitted, yett were there no "couler of right to presse the Queene for his deliverie untill his pledges were entred: that these notwithstaudinge, such is her Majesties honour and grace towards his Kinge, his nation, and him selfe, that upon his highnes lettres of request and his owne humble peticion, her Majestie is content that we there present, should enlarge him to the purposes expressed in the late indents made betweene us and him. Heereby, as he must needs see her Majesties exceedinge bountie and grace freely vouchsafed unto him: so must he remember that her princely greatnes and wisedome, so justly valuinge her honour and right, did not by this enlargemente accquitt him of her touche in honour by his surprise of her castle of Carlisle, nor of such rights as her lovinge subjects were by course of justice to demaunde at his hande. It remayned therefore that his future actions should effectually make good that protestation of thankefullnes which he then delivered by earnest speeche; to which thinge his honour and whole worthe remayned deipely engaged in Englande, and that openly in the eyes of all men.

"Baclugh, in his answere to this speeche, acknowledged the severall partes for true, affirminge largely, that he wold leave to be a man, before he forgett to be thankefull to her Majestie for her goodnes towards him: onely he was hartily sorie that her Majestie kept in suspence and over his heade, that marke of her displeasure before rehearsed; to the removinge whereof he wold leave nothinge undone that lay in his power; and so he instantly requested us to further her Majesties gracious perswation of him.

"The gentleman duringe his abode in this towne, hathe behaved him selfe in all apparances verie well and honorably, and left good opinion and hope of his behaviour heereafter. His sonne is about x yeeres olde, a propper and towarde childe." Berwick. Signed: Jhon Carey, Will'm Bowes.

1½ pp. Addressed. Indorsed, marginal notes by the indorser (Windebank).

Inclosed in the same:—

Indent between John Carey esq. governor of Berwick and Sir William Bowes knight her Majesty's commissioner &c., "on th'one partie, and Sir Walter Scott knight larde of Baclughe. on th'other partie"—Berwick, 15 February 1597.

Whereas her most excellent Majesty has signified her pleasure unto us John Carey and William Bowes, to enlarge Sir Walter Scott upon reasonable conditions: it is agreed between the parties, "first—that the said Sir Walter Scott shall first enter his eldest sonne unto the said John Carey or William Bowes, to be kept within Englande where they shall appoynct," there to remain till his father either re-enter himself to remain in the town of Berwick till lawfully dismissed, or the Queen be satisfied by the pledges he is to deliver her under the indent of the late commissioners. Also, that after the entry of his said son, Sir Walter Scott shall have licence to go to Scotland, to possess himself of the pledges so indented, and deliver them to such persons as the Queen shall appoint to receive them, or if they cannot be got, suche others as her Majesty shall "like of."

Such entry of pledges to be made before the last of April next, and in default of any of them, Sir Walter shall re-enter himself to the governor or M^r Porter's hands, for the time being, on or before said day, there to remain during the Queen's pleasure, and his son to be dismissed and depart on his father's entry. Baclughe.

1 p. Copy by Bowes' clerk. Indorsed. Annotated on margin by Windebank.

911. John Carey, &c., to Secretary Cecil. [Feb. 19.]

Since the entry of Sir Robert Kerr, he has traveled to reconcile the offences depending between "me John Carey, me Robert Carey, and himself," acknowledging his errors in some, in others "transferringe the blame to us": resting the most part on misunderstandings on both sides: which he seems glad to remove. The chief reason of his entry, is the King's resolve to keep fast amity with her Majesty, and his own earnest desire that she will think better of him than he has hitherto merited: and he has entreated us "beinge in conference with him," instantly to commend this to her Majesty's knowledge, and that no other reason moved him to enter or remain as a prisoner, than his desire to do her honor and recover her Majesty's grace, on his desert in time to come—for neither want or favour of his pledges induced him, as they were always in his power and ready for delivery, if he saw necessity.

And as a farther proof of his good intentions, he was ready to give up his office to such other hands as the King his master might think meeter.

So at his earnest request we have signified thus much to your honor. Berwick. Signed: Jhon Carey, Ro. Carey, Will'm Bowes.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed. Swan wafer signet. Annotated and indorsed by Windebank.

912. R. Vernon to Burghley. [Feb. 19.]

All the grain shipped from Lynn before I came here has arrived, and I daily expect more from Lynn and Hull, as I wrote formerly to your honor, so that every man shall have the Queen's allowance as hitherto. The horsemen lacked beans and pease for their horses for a small time—but "theie never lacked soe much as one ounce of bread or one pynte of beare of thair allowance." Though the winds were contrary, there was always 14 days' provision at the least, and money delivered for supply out of the country till the provisions came from Lynn, so that when M^r John Carey wrote that "the laste batch was in the oven," there was in meal and at the mill to serve 12 days, and my men told him they were ready to go and buy more in the country, till the ship, then at Tillmouth, should come; but he would needs write, and I think he would rather have had want indeed, than merely fear of it. I understand the freemen are suing for Gainslaw, which if granted, the garrison must eat "poudered" beef from Martinmas till Midsummer, as they do in the Queen's ships—which they will not like—for all the hay got in the Snewke and Maudlin fields will not serve the cart and mill horses, and keep the oxen at grass in summer. Berwick. Signed: Robert Vernon.

1¼ pp. Addressed. Indorsed. Wafer signet: quartered shield—indistinct.

913. Sir R. Carey to Burghley. [Feb. 27.]

"I have acqueinted Sir Robert Kerre with her Majesties pleasure touching his remove to the Archbusshopp of Yorck: who seames to be very well pleased to undergoe her pleasure in this, or in anything els, that yt shall please her to command him in." It is known for certain, that he had all his pledges ready before his own entry, and he may have them now at a day's warning and free himself at pleasure. But he assures me very confidently, that his only end in entering was to let the Queen know his willingness to satisfy her displeasure by his humble submission, and that he purposes to repair the past by doing her acceptable offices, hoping before his departure to be tried therein, or he will never return to bear office in Scotland.

"I dare not advise, but (with pardon) I think ther may be better courses taken for the good of the borders with him self, then any way by delyverye of his pledges." But I leave this to your consideration, and will cause him to be conveyed to York. He earnestly desires for his better provision for such a journey, that I will suffer him to remain here 20 days, before leaving. This I will warrant shall be without danger of his escape.

I have sent in a schedule the names of my pledges which you desire, also the names of those delivered for Tyvidale. "The qualytie of myne is very meane, and thei are no yll doers. But those of Tyvidale are all great ryders and the worst men in the countreye. The cause of there delyverye I take to be to satisfy the trespasses of there surnames, till all be discharged that is to be demanded of theme; which in my opinion will never be effected, for thei are to be delyvered for more then all Tyvidale is worthe ! So that there skynnes will be our greatest gayne. For the indent is, that at the yeares end wee may hang theme that have not made full satisfaction, and call for others in there places, of the same surnames; which if yt be streightly observed, ther will be evill getting of moe! Therefore as I have said, if yt please your lordship, I imagyne there may be better courses taken by well handling there commander, now he is in handes. Sir William Bowes can better satisfye you then my self in thes demandes, who I think is with you by this tyme."

Your lordship gives me to understand in the end of your letter that my lord Willoughbye shall come down governor of Berwick and warden of the East March, and that I shall have the Middle March to govern. I am as ready to resign the place I hold, as I was to receive it from her Majesty: but the government of the Middle March is too hard a task for me, and I know the state of it so well, that I cannot govern it with credit. I should weary your lordship with my reasons for refusing it, and desire leave to come up before Lord Willoughbye's coming down. It will not be so great a discredit to me, to resign to him when at Court, as it will be to resign in the country.

This wardenry has not been so quiet for 40 years as now, and I will leave the gentleman porter in charge till his lordship comes down, and till then I will be answerable for any losses. And when at Court I will show her Majesty and your lordship sufficient reasons why I am unfit to govern the Middle March, or else I will accept of the charge and return with the patent. "But good my lord, as ever you favoured the state of a poore gentleman," let it not be settled that I have the Middle March till I come to Court: for if the patent be sent me to receive it here, it will be to the discredit of the Queen's service, and my utter overthrow.

I beseech you for my leave with all speed, and I will bring Cesford to York on my way. Berwick. Signed: Ro. Carey.

2½ pp. Addressed. Indorsed. Noted by Burghley.

914. John Carey to Burghley. [Feb. 27.]

"Youer letter of the 19^th of Febreuarey, seyned bey youerselfe and my lord of Essexe, tuchinge the aprehendinge of George Care and the secretarey, came not to my handes till the xxiiij^th of the same at vj in the nighte, even at the gates shuttinge, wherin ther is a great fault in the postes and negleygent carlesnes in them, to make so slowe hast withe letters of suche import. Yet never thelest the same nighte I sent presentley a wise discret fellowe to Eymowthe and to Fauscastell to understand whether ther wear aney shipe latley areyved, and likwyes to knowe what passengers wear in them?" But none have landed in either of those places this three weeks. But I have laid such secret "wayghte," that I am promised word within 3 hours, of any ship that lands in either, and what passengers come. I have also laid secret "wayghte" at Holy Island, Dunbar in Scotland, and at Leith, so I shall hear what ships or passengers land at these ports, and if he comes to Edinburgh, I shall hear of him. But it is most likely he will land in the West among his friends; and if he land "near hearawaye, I will geve an adventer to catche him." I will slip no opportunity to further this service.

"Nowe maye it pleas youer honer to geve me a littyll leave in my owen privat." I understand by flying report, it has pleased her Majesty to bestow the government of Berwick on my lord "Willowebe," and now I hope it will please her to establish me marshal, after five years' trial of my service, wherein I humbly desire your favourable furtherance. Your honour knows I have served these 5 years without any great assurance or authority, and now if her Mjesty think me worthy by my former service, I would be glad to have some further "assewerans by pattent." Nevertheless I commit myself to her Majesty's will and your censure. Berwick. Signed; Jhon Carey.

1 p. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed.