Cecil Papers: July-December 1596

Calendar of the Cecil Papers in Hatfield House: Volume 13, Addenda. Originally published by His Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1915.

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'Cecil Papers: July-December 1596', in Calendar of the Cecil Papers in Hatfield House: Volume 13, Addenda, ed. E Salisbury( London, 1915), British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-cecil-papers/vol13/pp577-591 [accessed 3 December 2024].

'Cecil Papers: July-December 1596', in Calendar of the Cecil Papers in Hatfield House: Volume 13, Addenda. Edited by E Salisbury( London, 1915), British History Online, accessed December 3, 2024, https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-cecil-papers/vol13/pp577-591.

"Cecil Papers: July-December 1596". Calendar of the Cecil Papers in Hatfield House: Volume 13, Addenda. Ed. E Salisbury(London, 1915), , British History Online. Web. 3 December 2024. https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-cecil-papers/vol13/pp577-591.

July-December 1596

Sir George Gyfford to the Earl of Southampton.
1596, July 5. Departing Plymouth the 9th of June, "hallynge" between 30 and 40 leagues off, for being discovered upon the coast we ran in upon our height the 20th of the same for Cales (Cadiz), and the day before Sir Walter Rawly having given chase with some other of his squadron to 9 sail bound for the Indies, was by 4 o'clock in the afternoon in manner come up with them, and an unfortunate and sudden fog (despiting the good success that we were in hope to have) took us that we were not able for that night till 12 of the clock to see two ships' length from us; whereby we were frustrated of that hope, and the next morning we found ourselves very near the shore, where one of them that we gave chase unto, a ship of 600 tons, laid her bones, and we having sight of our fleet bare with them, and by 9 of the clock the same day, being Sunday, our Generals came to an anchor in the mouth of the haven of Cadiz, where one fort played upon us, but to small purpose. Within the harbour, under the forts of the town, there rode 18 galleys, some 54 sail of great ships, whereof some 12 of them were of the King's chief men of war, the Phillipe being admiral, for the wafting of 24 great ships bound and laden for the Indies. Of the residue there were two carricks unrigged, two argosies laden for Lisborne, and the residue were Flemings and hulks. Our Generals spent the most part of this day in consulting and setting down what they thought fit to be done, and towards the evening they weighed, and anchored again somewhat nearer for that night. The next morning by sun rising having fitted all things for the fight, weighed and bare towards them, having only a stirring gale. The galleys first presented themselves towards us, and gave us their prows. The forts from the town plied their ordnance, and their ships at anchor defended and offended to the uttermost of their powers. But our General resolutely went on, and noble Sir Walter Rawly led, who by his valour, judgment and wisdom showed that day, won throughout the army great praise, love and honour; though he bought it with some small hurt that he received in the fight; but being exceedingly well seconded by the Earl our General, my L. Thomas, and divers others, the galleys within two hours gave way, and were fain many of them to bring themselves on the careen, upon the point of the island under the fort towards Puntall. Which done our fleet came to an anchor, and Sir Walter Rawly being headmost anchored nearest the Phillipe, our General, my L. Thomas, the Lord Marshal, the Earl of Sussex and Sir Conniers Clifforde were the next, were continuing a sore fight for 3 hours. The galleys having mended their leaks, came up again, but received so bad a welcome that they were discomforted and retired, and immediately all their ships weighed; the Phillipe, the Saint Andrea, the Santa Marta, with some one or two more ran themselves aground, and the Phillipe with one other that lay board and board by her set themselves on fire, and every man sought to save themselves. The commanders and chief were carried away by the galleys, the soldiers and mariners leaped into the sea, some drowned, some swam, and many escaped by the compassion that was had of them. The residue of the fleet ran all into shoal water, and being aground, some the same night, and the residue the next morning, set themselves on fire, only the Saint Andrea, the Vice Admiral, and the Santa Marta, Rear Admiral, by diligence were saved, which are manned, and by God's grace we shall bring them safe into England, in token of the great victory that God has blessed us with. Immediately upon the discomfiture of the Spanish fleet our General without more "pase" landed 4,000 soldiers and appointed the rest to follow with speed, 2,000 whereof himself led to the town, other 2,000 he appointed to the conduct of Sir Conniers Clyfforde to march to the bridge, for keeping the passage whereby they enter out of the main into the island, which is distant from the town of Cales 14 miles. Our General with the Lord Marshal approaching near the town, there issued out of the town 600 horse and 500 foot, which our General bravely encountering with, put them to retire, and pursued them so fast that we entered the gates pell mell with them, himself, with the Lord Marshal, Sir Edward Wynkefilde, Sir John Wynkefelde, and many other brave men were of the first, and never stayed until he came to the market place, where Sir John Wynkefilde paid his last duty to nature, and there were not slain beside above two more of command and quality, and not above 200 in all slain and hurt; which if you had seen the strength of the place you would esteem a miracle to have it won with so small loss, assuring you 1,000 soldiers within may well defend it against 10,000 without. But thus favourably God dealt with us yet in one day we took and burnt all their ships, drove their galleys to run away by the bridge, took the town and castle, and all rendered to mercy; the loss whereof one way and other to the King and his subjects is above 50 millions, and yet few of the better sort, unless it be 3 or 4 of the chief commanders, much the better by it, but the common soldiers and mariners have had great spoil. We held this town 14 days English, and the same day fortnight that we came into it we left the town and set it on fire. Yet have our generals won great honour, yea, even of the enemy, by their mercifulness in suffering man, woman and child to depart with their lives and with what they had about them.
I beseech you remember my love and duty to the good Lord Mountjoye and God bless you both. What course we shall now take I cannot advertise you.—In Cales Rode, 5 July, 1596.
Holograph. Endorsed: Sir George Gyfford. 2 pp. (199. 54.)
Roland Primault, Merchant of Rouen, to the Council.
[1596, after July 20 ?] According to his request presented by the Duc de Bouillon, his suit against Guillelme Bouguenault, for a debt, was committed to the hearing of Thomas Camber and others, to whose decision Bouguenault refuses to submit. Prays the Council to give them authority to compel him to fulfil their order.—Undated.
French. ¾ p. (1805.)
Aeneas Odalaghan to Sir Robert Cecil.
[1596, before Aug. 1.] He has delivered letters to the Council from the Lord Deputy and Council of Ireland, commending his services there, and recommending him for pension. He is utterly maimed and past service, and without money, and prays for speedy relief. He is a cousin of Sir Charles O'Carell's lady, and Sir Charles is willing to do Cecil service before any nobleman of England.—Undated.
½ p. (186. 117.)
Forfeited Goods.
1596, Aug. 5. Appraisement of goods brought into Southampton for pillage in the Jacob of Rotterdam, wherein was Captain William Hubbert. The goods are shumac, copperas, "Indeas heeds," iron shot, lignum vitae and other woods. Total 47l. 18s. 8d.—5 August, 1596.
1 p. (214. 29.)
The Duc de Bouillon to the Earl of Essex.
1596, Aug. Ung de mes desirs est de vous voir, mes tous sont de vous honorer et servir. Uses ainsy que vous jugere convenir du temps de nostre veue. L'antremise de ce messager m'est fort agreable.
Endorsed: "D. Bouillon, Aug., '96." Holograph. ¼ p. (135. 203.)
Cuthbert Armorer.
[1596, Aug.] "A declaration of some of the facts and misdemeanours committed by Cuthbard Armorer, deputy of Norham, his sons and nephews, all which shall be sufficiently and manifestly proved."
Details his participation with the Scots in numerous raids upon the borders: his spoils and robberies there: his dealings with regard to Earl Bothwell in 1593: and the proceedings of David, Clement, Robert and Harry Armorer.—Undated.
10 pp. (244. 1.)
[See letters of Sir Robert Carey and John Carey to Sir Robert Cecil, of August 19, 1596, Cecil Papers, vi. 342.]
The Duc de Bouillon to the Earl of Essex.
1596, Sept. 8/18. Ceste cy vous sera ung adieu du corps et non de l'esprit quy voulle ces plus ordinayres pansees pour prevoir le moyen que je de vous servir. L'on desire tres fort ce secours de deus milles hommes an Franse et ce d'autant plus que l'on juge cella susfisant joynt aus forses qu'a le roy pour maintenir le logis qu'a pris son armee dans le pais d'Artoys. Vous voyres que la desfete du Mareschal de Biron est de consequanse. Si vous vous oublies de nous bien fayre nous oublierons de l'esperer.—A Morgat ce 18e Septembre.
Endorsed: "D. of Bouillon, Sep. '96." Holograph. ½ p. (135. 204.)
The Duc de Bouillon to Queen Elizabeth.
[1596,] Sept. 8/18. Je faillerois trop de partir de vostre royaulme sans rendre les tres humbles remerciements que je doibs a vostre Majeste des continuels tesmoignages qu'il luy a pleu de me rendre d'honneur et de bonne volonte a mon particullier durant le sejour que j'y ay faict, ne pouvant (quoy que je craigne que ce sera en vain) luy representer combien et a propos elle peult assister et secourir le Roy mon maistre des deux mil hommes qu'il luy demande pour fortiffier son armée, a ce qu'elle ne soit contrainte de repasser la riviere de Somme et luy oster par la le moyen de mettre comme il pourroit, et qu'il est delibere de faire (ainsy que me le mande le Sieur de Villeroy par une lettre qu'il m'a escripte) a bon escient la main a recouvrer des moyens par lesquels il puisse non seulement maintenir son armée, mais rendre a ses voisins ce qu'ilz luy ont presté; ne mettant en cela ceste petite somme de vingts mil escus, de laquelle Monsieur de Sancy et moy sommes obliges qui pouvons sans ruyne en satisfaire et bien tost vostre Ma, sans que pour cela les affaires du Roy meritent d'en estre retardées, ainsy qu'il le semble par l'escript que Monsieur Cicille m'envoya si le dellay du passaige des hommes est dillayé jusques a ce que vostre Ma sache le Roy en Picardie avec son armée et que cela soit mandé par vostre ambassadeur qui peult estre retenu en son passage par le vent ou ses lettres d'advis au retour. Je croy, Madame, que s'il ne plaist a vostre Ma donner le secours au besoing qu'en a le Roy qu'estant passé ou par l'evenement ou par le temps que vostre Ma sera marrie d'avoir perdu l'occasion d'executter tres utillement ung des principaulx points contenus en la ligue. Je la supplie prendre en bonne part ma franchise comme proceddant de l'affection de celuy qui desire ses deux couronnes aussy joinctes comme le Roy d'Espagne monstre les vouloir diviser, et de tesmoigner a vostre Ma que sur tous autres il veult demeurer vostre treshumble et tres obeissant serviteur.—A Margat ce 18e Septembre.
Endorsed: "Copie de la lettre de Mr. le duc de Bouillon a la Royne." 1 p. (135. 212.)
[The original is in S.P. Foreign, Eliz. France, in the Public Record Office.]
Sieur de Reau a M. Cecile.
[1596, Sept. 13/23.] Je vous envoye une lettre que Monsieur le duc de Bouillon escrit a la Royne, que je vous supplie luy fere voir le plustost qu'il sera possible, par laquelle sa Majeste connoistra davantage la necessite que le Roy a de la prompte assistance des deux mille hommes pour empescher que les ennemis ne contraignent son armee de repasser la riviere de Somme et lui donner cependant loisir de pourvoir a l'establissement de son entretenemant par l'ordre qu'il se delibere mettre en ses finances, ainsy que Monsieur de Villeroy luy escrit derechef; chose qui luy sera plus difficile si ce secours ne s'advance pour ne pouvoir sy promptemant tirer le fruit de ses finances: suppliant tres humblemant la Royne considerer que si sa Majeste dilaye de fere passer ses gens de guerre jusques a ce quelle ayt eu advis de l'advenement du Roy en son armee suivant vostre dernier escript, combien il se peut escouler de la bonne saison a cause de l'inclemence du vent dont nous avons maintenant bonne preuve et les dangers par consequent que son armee peut encourir, dont je m'asseure que la Royne recevroit par apres regret and deplaisir. Tenez au reste pour certain que le Roy n'aura si tost satisfait a la venue de Monsieur le Conte de Scherosberey quil ne s'achemine en Picardie, et pouves juger quel contentemant et advantage ce luy seroit de trouver ce secours si a propos qui luy donneroit loysir de respirer et attendre les ennemis en cas qu'ils tournassent la teste a luy comme y en a apparence, sur la victoire obtenue par Monsieur le Mareschal de Biron dont je vous envoye maintenant le discours plus au vray que celuy qui venoit dernieremant d'un marchant de Dieppe.
J'attenderay vostre reponce et la resolution derniere de sa Majeste pour en fere incontinant une depesche en France, et sur ce . . (ends).—Undated.
Endorsed: Copie de lettre du Sieur de Reau a Mr. Cecile. 18th century copy. 1 p. (213. 98.)
Sir A. Ashley to Sir Robert Cecil.
[1596,] Sept. 20. Whatsoever hard conceit you have heretofore had of my honest proceeding, let me now entreat and expostulate your belief so far forth as you shall find just cause, and not to think that I am so void of grace and resolved in malice, as to revenge myself with the forgery of an untruth, and thereby to aggravate my offence. Sir Gelly Merrick on Friday night last, being at supper at one Best's house, a scrivener within Temple Bar, that deals in many matters for my L. Essex by Sir Gelly's means, in midst of supper, in the company of Best himself, Sir Arthur Savage, one Welles, a scrivener likewise, whom I think you well know, and some others, using many words in my great disgrace, showing a letter that one Rafe Okeover, my competitor for my father-in-law's lands, had written to him out of Staffordshire concerning my wife's sickness and my present trouble; after having said that Sir Arthur Savage could witness that the Queen said unto him that she never took me but for a knave, said also (with an oath), "but now the world is turned I perceive, and it has cost him 2,000l. to the Secretary." Some other words of that nature were also then uttered in great bravery to your prejudice, which I will learn more certainly before I presume to deliver them. They concern corruption. My author is Henry Delabere, who lies in Mr. Welles his house, brother to Mr. Dr. Delabere, and well known to be of good worth and conversation. Before this my trouble I was also felt (haply by some great man's direction) what I had bestowed on you since my return, for, saith he, it is reported that you have given him a very great present. And this I am assured proceeded from Sir Gelly, or from his better. If you do call my name in question, it may turn to my destruction, for I find that Sir Gelly is too mighty for me, and had I credit with you as formerly, I could, if need were, by good witness prove Sir Gelly's tongue to have done you more wrong than ever I did imagine so base a man by birth durst to have done. But he hath good means to shroud all under his great patron, whose affirmation it becomes me not so much as to gainsay, and so I am utterly overmatched. Deliver me from this labyrinth, and let me not fall into other through my zeal to yourself, whom once recovered I will rather lose all the world than hazard to lose.—20 September.
(P.S.)—All the other means I have used in Court to my good have been only to obtain your favour, without which I know nothing will be done.
Holograph. 1 p. (75. 57.)
The Same to the Same.
[1596,] Sept. 22. I pray God make me worthy of your extraordinary favour, assuring you that whilst I live I will be warned and have in mind what it is to keep or lose so honourable a friend as yourself. But what is it that breach of trust or too familiar inwardness of a mighty person may not overthrow in so mean as myself, as by particular I can at large deliver to you at fit time. Yet all this is continued at this very instant, as it seems by messages and speeches much against his will. The sixth article (fn. 1) is purposely left out, albeit, upon good reason I can assure you that Sir Gilly and Sir Arthur are very inward friends as partners in one offence, and in the foot of one of the great bags I found a Spanish note answerable proportionably to the sum mentioned in the articles which Sir Gilly himself saw. It were good also, for your better satisfaction and more sound proceeding, that you heard privately at time of leisure my proofs to every article; but all will seem malicious and proceeding from practice and duress if I be not at liberty before the matters be set on foot; and then dic verbum in this or ought et fiat; and haply you will think me very unfortunate or unwise when you shall understand what good testimony in discharge of my duty in the late expedition I have hitherto concealed, in fear to draw more burden on me, and in hope out of honour and justice at last to be relieved, without others' help: but I am glad that I have made this proof of honourable faith (with your favour be it spoken, who of all others have undeservedly deserved best of me). I need not express the grief I conceive at the continuance of her Majesty's hard conceit, yet exceeding glad in that by this means I shall be tried and thoroughly known, for (I beseech you note attentively what I say) if there be creature that can but probably touch my loyalty, trust, faith, or service to her Majesty or the State, in the whole course of my life, I renounce all manner favour, pardon or remission at God's or man's hands; nay, contrariwise, if upon examination I make it not manifestly appear that in her Majesty's services of greatest trust I have refused mighty bribes, when with little labour I could have carried very cleanly the things desired to the contentment of all sides, I am contented to receive sharpest punishment; when haply some others did not so. Be not so earnest for my liberty as to have me produced presently to the answering of all manner objections, especially the matter of the L. Chancellor (though it be only for my own private purgation and not touching his L.) and the matter of the 8,000l., or aught else whatsoever, and then I doubt not but you shall have just cause to think me an honest man, and worthy of love and trust. But I doubt these matters will be procrastinated, except you strike the stroke. I have sent you herewithal some two or three leaves in haste written, of the discovery of Sir Gilly's late practice against me; vouchsave the perusal, excusing the errors escaped in writing, and I dare warrant that before I have done with the gentleman I will make him fit to return whence he came, when his worship was first taken up by Sir George Devorox from playing at whippergundy (a Welsh play) in a poor red pair of hose, his father the priest, Sir Richard, not being of ability to maintain him otherwise: and was afterwards preferred to his lordship. This man, as will be proved, hath his finger, if not his arm, deep dipped in this treasonable practice against me; and was, as I am informed, part of the speeches that passed the last day when you was wronged, as I writ yesterday. Howbeit therein I must in some sort reprehend myself, for I have since by more diligent enquiry learned that they supped not at Beast's the scrivener's when this passed, but without Temple Bar towards the Strand they dined at the Chequer on Thursday last; and Mr. Thexston, Mr. Chancellor's secretary, was also present with the rest at dinner, when Sir Gilly came into them and used the matter as yesterday I writ. Much more will be revealed hereafter: for I purpose, if you please, to cause my friend at fit time to attend on you. I do think it also meet to advertise that Best the scrivener departed in great haste towards Plymouth, about businesses of great importance and secrecy, on Thursday also, towards night by direction of Sir Gilly, who employs this man often in like causes that he would not be known of. If you would send some direction by post to those parts, some good matter would [fall out ?] to her Majesty's service. I pray you return me this enclosed when you shall have perused it, and to vouchsave in respect of my poor self and my friends to keep all close. I doubt not but the L. Keeper will so absolutely satisfy her Majesty in the petition of Mrs. Rise, that neither herself nor her like will hereafter have any great will to exhibit like stuff.—22 September.
Holograph. 3 pp. (75. 55.)
The Duc de Bouillon to the Earl of Essex.
1596, Sept. 22/Oct. 2. Je suis apres a avanser les moiens d'arester le cours des victoires du roy d'Espangne et de nous joyndre an nos dessyns. Ce a quoy je voy les choses fort avansees et espere que nous aurons la diligense de vos esfets plus grands que n'aura este l'anvoy des deus milles hommes. Le prinse Maurisse a travaille a randre les armes des ces messieurs dissiplinees et fortes pour les mesurer avec surete contre celles des ennemis. J'avansere mon retour le plus que je pourre pour me trouver a l'assamblee que fet le roy.— A la Haie ce 2e Octobre.
Endorsed: "D. of Bouillon, 2 Oct.. '96." Holograph. (135. 206.)
The Same to the Same.
1596, Sept. 29/Oct. 9. Je ne puis plus tarder de vous ramantenoyr vostre vous mesmes. Je suis issy an hastant lentemant les afaires. J'oy quelque bruit que l'on a quelque dessyns ou vous este pour ung efect quy nous regarde; sy c'est pour diminuer les esfets d'issy vers nous a quel propos sy a bon essiant pour antreprandre, l'on se trompera an ne nous le disant; ce que fesant et vostre royne y portant le plus l'on ne scauroyt commant luy desnier la conqueste. Je vous parle obscuremant a ce que, sy ce vous est chose inconnue que je sasche avoyr este trompe; sy elle vous est connue que vous sachies mon avis. Je ne vous puis rien dyre de Franse sinon d'ung Fransois quy uny de coeur et de foy avec ung Anglois vostre cousin se porte bien. Il a este voir les villes de Hollande.—A la Haie ce 9e Octobre.
Endorsed: "D. of Bouillon, 2 Octob. 1596." Holograph. 1 p. (135. 205.)
Impost on Wines.
1596, Sept. 29. Account of impost of sweet wines and Spanish wines arrived in the ports of Southampton and Dorset, as well by the way of merchandise as transported to and from the said ports, from Lady Day, 1596 to Michaelmas, 1596.
7 pp. (233. 1.)
Louys Comte de Nassau to the Earl of Essex.
[1596, Sept.] Je suis este fort marri qu'en prenant mon conge de vostre Exellence je ne la pouvois tenir telle harangue, comme les grandes obligations que jay a icelle et les fabveurs et courtoisies que je receus le requeroyent; mais je me fie autant, sans toutesfois l'avoir jamais merite, en la bienveillance de vostre Exellence en mon endroit, que je m'assure que ne faites tant d'estat des paroles courtoises que fairez d'un povre soldat, qui vous avoue pour son Capitaine, et qui en recompence du bon traictement que luy avez fait et de l' obligation perpetuelle qu'il vous a desire et vous jure qu'il sera a jamais vostre tres hymble et fidel serviteur, et qui en effect s'efforcera de monstrer que vous l' avez rendu le vostre propre. Ce que je vous supplie de vous en asseurer comme de celuy qui vous a choisi pour son maistre et qui vous servira et a toulx ceulx qui vous appartienent jusques au dernier gout de mon sang. Et jespere fort que l'occasion sera telle en peu de temps que je vous pourray monstrer que je ne ment point, car ce matin jay parle a un de Messieurs des Estats Generaulx, Monsieur Redanus, qui est de mes amis, qui ma asseure que Messieurs sont fort enclin a quelque nouvelle flotte de mer vers ce coste d'Espagne pour prevenir quelque entreprince que le Roy d'Espagne pourra faire pour se revanger de vostre Excellence, ce que je prie Dieu qu'il ce puisse faire, et vous supplie tres hymblement qu'en ce cas ne vouldriez oublier vostre serviteur, comme jay aussi ceste ferme esperance que fairez; car je vous asseure, qu'il m'ennuict fort desja icy, et le plus grand desir au monde que jay cest de vous pouvoir faire service, comme je les vous ferais a toutes occasions du monde.
Je prins la hardiesse, puis que je scay que me faitez cest honneur de m' aimer, de vous supplier tres hymblement de prendre ceste paine pour l' amour de moy, que de me recommander bien fort en la bonne grace de ma maistresse Madamoiselle Vernem, et la supplier de ma part qu'elle ne veille faillir a la promesse qu'elle me fait de m' envoyer une charpe, car ce gan que je porte pour l'amour d'elle, au depit de toutes les belles dames de la Haye, me fait beaucoup la guerre; ce que je vous supplie dautant que je scay bien que vous la gouvernez absolument, et qu'elle fera tout ce que vous luy commanderez comme vostre treshymble fille, pour laquelle je serois content de vous avoir servi cept ans et serois content de vous servir encore sept aultres.—Undated.
Endorsed: Count Lodowick, received in September, '96. Holograph. 2 pp. (199. 55.)
A[rthur] G[regory] to [? Edward Reynolds].
[1596, Sept. ?] Her Majesty is unworthy to have the service of those she will not entertain. He is worn as far out of reparation in stuff and instruments for this turn, as he is out of hope of preferment. But for the Earl's (? Essex) sake, whom he specially honours, and his love to his correspondent, he will show the latter many things next week to conjure the devil withal. Being malcontent, let him be at defiance with all the mechanical peasants that have pensions for toys. He wishes the Earl would tell the Queen that he would do service in more substantial sort than others, and execute all with his own hands. If the Earl will be drawn to some more reasonable motion, he will engage his life to save the Earl's honour.—Undated.
Holograph. Endorsed, apparently by Reynolds, Essex' secretary: "A resolute letter." 1 p. (186. 49.)
He. Malbie to Sir Robert Cecil.
[1596, before Oct.] He begs for employment at Roscommon, "wherein I will be saving of her Highness's present charge there, and the small proportion of 150 men, 700l. yearly." If it be otherwise disposed, then, as the place he holds is merely waste, he begs the Queen will take it into her own hands, and give him the value in that realm: or give him leave to alienate his estate.—Undated.
Holograph. Endorsed: Captain Malby. 1 p. (186. 96.)
Townsmen of Lincoln to Lord Cobham and Sir Robert Cecil.
[1596,] Oct. 7. They have received their letters of Sept. 8, requiring them to bestow the office of sheriff's clerk on Edward Wadeson. Detail the circumstances under which they have appointed Edmund Shuttleworth to that office, and pray allowance in the matter.—Lincoln, 7 October.
Signed by John Hansonn and Robt. Parkins. Endorsed: 1596. 1 p. Much damaged. (213. 71.)
Richard Staperr to Sir Robert Cecil.
1596, Oct. 9. I received your letters for Mr. Barton, her Majesty's ambassador, which I have sent on by post; and by this bearer I send you a letter from him. As to the letter from you and the rest of the Privy Council to Mr. Michael Lock, requiring him to desist his suit at Venice against the [Levant] Company and to come to England where the cause may be determined, I am informed that he means to come no more to England, yet to give colour to his stay there, he demands of the Company two thousand ducats to clear him of charges incurred by him at Venice, and then he says he will desist his suit and come home. There is no reason that we should pay him more money for his charges than his demand came to; wherefore the Company prays you as our honourable patron to move the Queen to send letters to the Senate of Venice to dismiss the cause and return him home. And to remove all impediments, we have given order to our factors to pay him five hundred ducats as soon as he desists his suit and comes home.—London, 9 October, 1596.
P.S.—We have an advertisement written from Venice that a merchant of Genoa has there given out 2,000 crowns upon this event, that London shall be Spanish before anno 1599, a copy of which I enclose.
Holograph. 1 p. (55. 107.)
English Troops for Picardy.
1596, Oct. 9. Muster roll of 405 soldiers delivered to Sir John Aldridge, Captain Raphe Boswell, and Captain Edmond Wylton, by the Mayor &c. of London, for her Majesty's service in Picardy.
12½ pp. (223. 2.)
(This is an enclosure in 45. 58, Lord Mayor to Lord Burghley, Oct. 10, 1596, p. 426 of Cecil Calendar, vol. vi.)
[? Lord Zouche] to the Queen.
[1596 ?] Oct. 11. At his coming into these remote places he received the Queen's leave to write to her, and he desires to express the infinite joy he has received by her gracious letters. Offers services.—"From your Majesty's Castle at Ludlow," 11 October.
Endorsed in Zouche's hand: The copy of the letter directed to her Highness. Contemporary copy. 1 p. (186. 174.)
Lord Edward Seymour and Mr. Champernown.
[1596, (fn. 2) Oct. 18.] Answer by Lord Edward Seymore to the objections of Mr. Champernowne to the increase of his company; and reasons for allowing the South division of Devon to be thus newly divided into three parts, whereby a part may be allotted to Mr. Richard Champernown.
pp. (141. 187.)
Earl of Nottingham.
1597, (fn. 3) Oct. 22. Letters Patent creating Lord Charles Howard Earl of Nottingham.
Latin. 6 pp. (142. 161.)
Sir John Popham to Mr. Bacon, Mr. Cary and Mr. Ashley.
[1596,] Oct. 30. Asking them to examine into the slaying of Thos. Wattson of Peeterwinch, Norf., by Thos. Thirsby of the same county. This gentleman, the bearer, can give the names of witnesses to the quarrel.—30 October.
Copy. 1 p. (46. 13.)
John Clarke to [Lord Burghley].
[1596, Oct.] For a lease of Radge Coppice in the Queen's Forest of Pewsham, Wilts.—Undated.
Notes by Burghley thereon. 2 pp. (740.)
Charges for the two Diamonds.
[1596, Oct.] "A true note of money laid out concerning the two diamonds, and which shall be approved upon our oaths, and others, for any matter wherein you doubt."
The charges, which are for "our two parts" share, include the cost of the stone 4 years ago, paid to Hill of Limehouse; for travel beyond seas; for interest at 10 per cent; paid to Gilbert for his third part; payments to stonecutter, and due more unto Peter Vanlore; board for the stonecutter and his men for a year and better; for cutting the patterns of crystal to shew the Queen; for setting the patterns of crystal in gold to show the Queen; and for setting the two diamonds in gold; total 1,791l. 16s. 8d. Note follows as to the higher offers they had for the diamonds at Frankfort, also from the French Ambassador and Sir Anthony Ashley, but they were content to accept of this 2,100l. so that the Queen would accept it for her use, and pay for all charges of cutting. They received of Sir John Fortescue 2 years ago 500l., and 200l. a year ago, the interest on which is balanced by the money they have laid out on other charges.—Undated.
Endorsed: A note of charges which the diamonds standeth us in. 1½ p. (98. 80.)
Streatley, Berks.
1596, Nov. 1. Survey and rental of Stretley, Berks.— 1 November, 1596.
2 pp. (132. 22.)
Plan of the Thames.
1596, Nov. 16. Plan showing the Thames from London to its mouth, the South coast round to Winchilsea, the course of the Medway from Maidstone, and the Stour from Chartham. Inset enlarged plan of Gravesend and district. By W. Borough. —16 November, 1596.
Vellum. (Maps 1. 56.)
Thomas Nichols' letters.
[1596, Nov. 26.] "I hope of no good for Jhon Eston nor soft clothiers by Fra Yong nor from Powel, therfor I discover thos things to put debat and distrust among them. Trust you me [it] is trew, the manor of Oglebys going from Stuard. Sir Hra Englehild [Francis Englefield] wrot to me, not to Bayns as yt is layd down in my letters; if you like not to medle in the matter as not profitable or secure for you then I pray you to writ out in som unknowne hand, saving the begining, and give to al a cover and find means it be left in Rafe Jons hous, for if this be not delivered the like shal be sent another waye. If the Queen or the brokers be prive to Puri Oglby's procedings for Fra Yong then the matter wil be the les estimed; if not it is worth thanks and more. I deal with you confidently therefore I dout not but you wil answer my expectation or say plainly you may [or] canot. I have yors dated October and of No: I pray you folow on your coars you do very wel, only desyre you could advrtys somewhat afore hand yt myght be prevented to give good fond to your credit, adeu."—Undated.
Addressed: "Al mag. Petro de giovanni, a Furensa." Cipher, with contemporary decipher above. 1 p. (213. 79.)
The Duc de Bouillon to the Earl of Essex.
1596, Dec. 1/11. Je rompray mon scilence pour vous dire que je n'ay en aucunes nouvelles de vous depuis que nous nous separasmes. J'en atends en bonne devotion vous suppliant m'en mander, quand a celles de ceste Court n'y fesant que d'arriver.—A Rouen ce 11e Decembre, 1596.
Signature. ½ p. (135. 207.)
P. del Castillo to Don Payopatino Alexandrino, of Cadiz, on the Admiral's ship.
1596, Dec. 20. I have heard that the prisoner who was at Dunkirk is free in England. His Excellency the Count [Earl of Essex ?] gave me to Don Guillermo, his major-domo, (fn. 4) in order that they might give that prisoner, his kinsman, to him for me; and to effect this the Duke gave me a letter to the Prince Cardinal [Albert], which Don Guillermo keeps; who has arranged (?) the liberty of that prisoner for whom they were to exchange me and claims to make some other exchange for me. Be pleased to inform the Lord Admiral and Lord General of this, that they may not allow me to suffer wrong, but that I paying whatever that prisoner had to disburse for whom I was to be exchanged, may be free, as justice and reason demand. Send me notice of what you obtain to the house of Guillermo Constantin (?) where I dwell.— Plymouth, 20 December, 1596.
Spanish. ½ p. (174. 54.)
The Duc de Bouillon to the Earl of Essex.
1596. Dec. 31/1597. Jan. 10. Je suis an peine de la sante de vostre moytie de laquelle le Sieur de la Fonteine ma mande la maladie. L'on vous desira a Diepe et je le cuide nescessere pour infinis resons mes la dispossission de vostre court vous doit principallemant conduyre. J'escris ung mot au dict de la Fonteine qu'il vous communiquera. Le dessing est grand et diverses considerassions y peuvent esmouvoir et desmouvoir. Il me samble que vostre ambassadeur connoit mieus nos aferes qu'il ne les dit au moins au Franses. Vous scaures toute ma vie quy je suis et quel je seray cheminant par les voyes que je vous ay dites. J'examine aussy ce quy vient de vous par ceste mesme regle. Je suis an tout a vous et sans fraude. Je m'an vois an Guienne d'ou vous aures de mes noles. Je desirerois avoir quelque adresse a Bourdeaus. —A trois lieus de Roan ce 10e janvier.
Endorsed: "Rec. Janu., '96." Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (135. 199.)
Fredrike Genibelly to the Council.
[1596, Dec.] To verify the great error committed of Mr. Spicer in the fortification of the Isle of Wight, he has demanded for commissioners the gentlemen of the Island who know and may certify all that has passed: in room of whom is committed Sir Edmonde Udall and Captain Price. On Sunday he desired of Mr. Wade commission and instructions to go with them, but was answered "he should see it as it was time." Yesterday he desired Price to show him the commission and instructions, and desired to go in their company. Price answered he should meet them on Friday in the Island, and there know the commission. The Queen and Council cannot be verified of all that he has declared, unless he is given a commission with authority and assistance of the justices to examine upon oath: and a letter from the Queen to the gentlemen of the Island and to the commissioners, commanding that everything shall be justly examined. He prays for that commission and letter, and that the commissioners be stayed so that he may go and come in their company and keep in their protection.—Undated.
1 p. (186. 51.)
Jeronimo Lopez to the Earl of Essex.
[1596, Dec.] In August 1595, at Plymouth, he lent 165l. to Sir Nicholas Clifford, Essex' nephew, being then bound upon his voyage to India, which sum Essex promised to see repaid. He has been long suitor to Essex' officers in vain. Prays that if he shall procure his friend Martin Fetherigo, a merchant stranger, to cause a ship called the Salamander to come from Candia to England laden with muscadells, that then the petitioner may be appointed Essex' officer to receive the impost due on the same, and satisfy himself out of it for the debt.—Undated.
1 p. (186. 93.)

Footnotes

  • 1. The articles by Sir G. Meyrick against Ashley are printed in the Calendar of S.P. Dom., 1595–7, p. 283.
  • 2. This would seem to be the paper said to be enclosed in letter of Seymour to Cecil under this date, printed in C.P. vi. 443.
  • 3. This must be an error for 1596. Charles Howard was created Earl of Nottingham on 22 October, 1596.
  • 4. Probably Sir Gelly Merrick, who was Essex's steward of the household and went with him to Cadiz.