|
|
William Udall to Lord Cecil. |
|
1603, May 16. |
My keeper, I know not by what direction,
hath laden my legs with a great pair of bolts. I crave but
justice that the matters betwixt him and me may be examined;
if I have offended I crave no favour. I am used by the keeper,
and have been of late, most shamefully and most brutishly;
I appeal to the testimony of all the prisoners He hath no
quarrel against me but that I am enforced to find fault with
his extortions, his cosenages and his extreme vile practices,
which I will prove with the testimony of all the prisoners. He
doth object his prisoners must not be maintained against him.
If his courses were with honesty, his prisoners would be most
quiet, but they are intolerable and he maintaineth his credit
against his prisoners with shameful untruths. He told me he
clogged me with bolts because I was fighting in his absence.
Let all the prisoners witness if I had a stick in my hand or gave
one blow. All that I spake was in regard this poor gentlewoman could not nor cannot come to me without scolding of
the keeper and his wife, being ever reputed to be a bawd. The
bawdry in the Gatehouse will be proved. This is not the first
time I have complained of the keeper's barbarous usage of me.
I could never yet have that justice that matters might come to
examination. You know my cause of restraint in Ireland, for
which I was sent hither, was for saying that his Majesty which
now is hath and had the best right to the three crowns.—From
the Gatehouse, this 16 of May.
Holograph. 1 p. (100. 13.) |
|
Henry, Lord Cobham, to Lord Cecil, his brother-in-law. |
|
1603, May 16. |
It is confidently bruited that his Majesty on
Thursday doth go down to the ship, and from thence to Dover.
Of his purpose to come unto me, both from my lord Duke and
your lordship, I received the one and the self-same answer.
If he should come to Dover in this private manner I pray you
advise me what I should do.—From my house in the Black
Friars, the 16 of May, 1603.
Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (100. 14.) |
|
Edward Coke, Attorney General, to the Same. |
|
[1603], May 16. |
I have drawn a proclamation according to
the wise and grave direction which his Majesty himself gave
unto me, and have done it with all the expedition I could.
—16 May.
Holograph. Endorsed: "1603." ½ p. (187. 44.) |
|
Sir John Peyton to the Same. |
|
1603, May 16. |
It may please you to direct Mr. Wade for
drawing a warrant from the Council for the delivery of Anthony
Rowlestons, Thomas Herisonne, and John Stanley out of the
Tower. Edward Lyngen is attainted for treason, for whom,
as Mr. Wade informs me, it is requisite to have a special warrant
from his Majesty. Prays Cecil's favour and offers services.—
Tower, 16 May, 1603.
Holograph. ½ p. (187. 45.) |
|
Richard [Vaughan], Bishop of Chester, to "Sir Robert"
Cecil. |
|
1603, May 16. |
I and other justices of the peace in Lancaster
received the Council's letters concerning the dispersing of a
certain libellous Popish challenge, and the buying up of armour
by recusants. Concerning the challenge, Gawen Atherton,
servant to Mr. Garrard of the Brynn in that county, being
discovered to be an actor therein, is fled towards London, where
his master is said to be resident at present. He being
apprehended is able to decypher further practices of that sect.
Concerning armour, the fame was very great presently after her
Majesty's death, and much bespoken in Chester and Liverpool;
but on examination I find the sellers are loath to reveal the
buyers, and that the bruit was greater than cause was. As
by the short cessation of law and justice, and by the determination of the Commission Ecclesiastical, the vulgar sort are grown
so unquiet that her Majesty's late preachers dare not almost
look into their charge, for fear of violence to be offered to their
persons, being now reputed as men discharged from their
stations. These are to entreat you to be their favourable
patron to his Majesty for the continuance of their stipends,
and their speedy replacing in their charges, as the state of the
country and necessity of the time require. The bearer Mr.
William Harison, an honest, learned and painful preacher, yet
much maligned by the ill disposed, can more particularly relate
the state of that county, in which I wish him a more peaceable
continuance, or better preferment elsewhere.—Chester, 16
May, 1603.
Holograph. 1 p. (187. 46.) |
|
Charles, Comte D'Arenberg, to Lord Cobham. |
|
1603, May 16/26. |
In favour of the bearer, a friend of his, who
is returning from Italy and desires to go and see some of his
relations in England.—Brussels, 26 May, 1603.
Holograph. French. 1 p. (100. 47.) |
|
Dr. Goade to Lord Cecil. |
|
1603, May 17. |
Touching our College matter, wherewith I
acquainted you at Charterhouse, it pleased Lord Henry Howard,
not long since a very worthy student in our College, in his zeal
upon my conference with him, to inform the King and to deliver
to him the Bishop of Lincoln's letter, complaining of great abuse
toward him from our young multitude in his visitation, together
with the petition of himself, the Seniors and Fellows. And
shortly after he signified to me that his Highness had referred
the hearing to my lord Grace and you. May it please you to
let me know when I shall attend. I would now have waited on
you myself, but being not well, I dare not adventure on the
water.—From my lodging in London, the 17 May, 1603.
Holograph. 2/3 p. (136. 113.) |
|
R. Percival to the Same. |
|
1603, May 18. |
This morning one Prince and his wife were
with him whose petition to the King Cecil saw. Sets out in
detail the points of the petition and the answers thereto.—From
your house this 18th of May, 1603,
Holograph. 1 p. (100. 17.) |
|
The Elector Palatine. |
|
1603, May 18. |
Count de Solms and M. de Plessen with their
suite coming from the Elector Palatine to his Majesty desire
this evening to go to Canterbury, with the governor's
permission.—Dover, 18 May, 1603.
French. ½ p. (100. 18.) |
|
Lord Cobham to Lord Cecil. |
|
1603, May 18. |
This bearer, the searcher of Sandwich, has
brought up unto me two young men, who coming as passengers
from Calais were by him stayed at Margate, for that they refused
to take the oath of supremacy.—"From my house in Blackfriars, this 18th of May, 1603."
PS.—"The names of these two are Ralph Palmer and John
Cutler, both Londoners born, as they acknowledge."
Signed. 2/3 p. (100. 19.) |
|
Lord Sandys to the Same. |
|
1603, May 18. |
My sickness has withdrawn my presence
from you, but so soon as God sends health I will attend you in
Court and do my duty in rendering thanks to his Majesty.
My good friend Mr. Attorney [General] has dispatched my
business according to the King's good pleasure, and by your
most friendly directions, which I send you, praying some speedy
dispatch as to you shall be thought fit.—Charing Cross, 18 May,
1603.
Signed. ½ p. (100. 20.) |
|
John Tirrell, Mayor, and the Sheriffs of Dublin to "Sir
Robert" Cecil. |
|
1603, May 18. |
Having now sent these gentlemen Mr.
Talbot, Recorder, and Mr. Sedgrave, an alderman of this city,
to signify our duties and to be petitioners to his Majesty
amongst other things for renewing and confirming our charters
and liberties, we have presumed to recommend them and our
suits to your favour and good consideration.—Dublin, 18 May,
1603.
Signed. ½ p. (100. 21.) |
|
T. Lord Buckhurst to Lord [Cecil.] |
|
1603, May 18. |
I send you here enclosed the two bills for
Sir George Hume, the one for the office of Chancellor, the other
for the office of Under Treasurer of the Exchequer. The sooner
these two bills are signed by the King the better. For the
patent of either of them bears "teste" according to the day of
their delivery to the Lord Keeper, and until Sir John Fortescue
have made his surrender, you may be sure I will not offer them
to my Lord Keeper. And now again, until the patent for the
Duchy be signed by the King for Mr. Chancellor, he will not
pass his surrender, neither were it reason to urge him to it.
Therefore you must likewise hasten the signing of that patent
by the King unto Mr. Chancellor, and send it to me, and then
upon his surrender of the other two offices I will deliver him the
bill for the Duchy. You may assure Sir George Hume that
there is no necessity for him, as Under Treasurer, to speak first
in the Star Chamber, nor to be present there at all times except
he list, but at some times it is fit he be. And as for the first
speaker there, it is most fit that always the Puisne Judge begin,
and that will be in the power of my Lord Keeper and myself
to order. I assure you we have heretofore talked about it as
a thing fittest to have been ordered so, because as you know
Mr. Chancellor did sometimes watch late, and so was often
forced, as you know. These bills I pray you hasten to be
signed, as likewise the bill for the Duchy.—18 May, 1603.
Holograph. Endorsed: "L. Treasurer." 2 pp. (187. 47.) |
|
John Martyn, Mayor of Plymouth, to "Sir Robert" Cecil. |
|
1603, May 19. |
The Admiral of the Dutch men of war that
lately were upon our coast, desired me to inform you of advertisement; and for that you shall understand the very effect
I have sent it you here enclosed under his own hand, wherein
he seemed to be more earnest than he could well by his language
be to me understood. He made very little stay here, but only
took in fresh water and some other necessaries.—Plymouth,
19 May, 1603.
Signed. Seal. ½ p. (100. 22.) |
|
Lord Cobham to Lord Cecil. |
|
1603, May 19. |
Even now I received a packet from Dover,
that yesterday in the afternoon there arrived from Calais the
Count of Solms and De Plessen, ambassadors from the Elector
Palatine unto his Majesty, which I pray you to take notice of
and to acquaint his Majesty at your good pleasure. The note
written by themselves I send you here enclosed. I pray acquaint
me whether the King have signed his pass for the commissioners
from the Archduke, and likewise whether Sir Robert Mansfeld
be not appointed to go to Calais, there to attend with his
Majesty's ships to bring them over, for so it is bruited. I would
have been glad to have waited upon you yesterday when you
were in town, but that Sir Walter Cope told me he would bring
me word when you were come and when I should attend you.—
From my house in the Black Friars, the 19 of May, 1603.
Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (100. 23.) |
|
Dr. J. Chippingdale to the Same. |
|
1603, May 19. |
I do remember that I am your servant.
Your affairs are more than I know, not more than I
conceive; I dare not therefore trouble you with many lines,
only I crave that as it hath pleased you to accept my service
so you would in any condition use me.—From the Doctors
Commons, London, this 19 of May, 1603.
Holograph. Seal. ½ p. (100. 24.) |
|
William Massam to Lord Cecil. |
|
1603, May 20. |
I thought it my duty to impart unto you
that which I daily hear upon the Exchange, concerning the
farming of the custom of silks, granted unto you, and since
by you demised unto others. Of late it was generally reported
that you had resigned your patent unto his Majesty's hands,
whereof the under farmers (as the report went) were glad and
made means to obtain it wholly unto themselves; which divers
merchants hearing of preferred a supplication to the King
against the said patent, which they would not have done if
they had supposed you had not resigned the same. But they
did it to prevent such as execute the place under you, who for
the most part are men very evil thought of, and such as having
themselves been the means of stealing custom for other men,
do now deal very rigorously and discourteously with all merchants in general. And if you would retain the patent wholly
to yourself, placing honest men to see the execution thereof,
or farm it out unto any man of account, I durst pawn my life
it would not only give all merchants in general great content
but cause them to desist from further suit unto his Majesty.—
20 May, 1603.
Holograph. Seal. 2/3 p. (100. 25.) |
|
Fulke Grevyll to the Same. |
|
1603, May 20. |
I understand that by such mediation as your
self and my noble friends have used for me, the King is pleased
not only to stay that course of disadvantage into which I was
falling, but also to grace me with some mark of more near
favour. I was never 'trecher' nor unthankful man; I could
not say this that I presume to write for myself, and since men
that have fortune to do good must venture upon the honesty
of men let me press you the rather, because as the age shapes
I know your hazard will be every way as great wheresoever
you bestow your favour.—From the Austin Friars, 20 May,
1603.
Signed. Seal. ½ p. (100. 26/1.) |
|
Sir Richard Lewkenor to the King. |
|
1603, May 20. |
Great numbers of your subjects have already
waited on your Majesty to express their joy and comfort by
your highness being our most happy King; so are there infinite
numbers more whose desires were so to have done, if with
conveniency they might. Amongst which number I am one,
whose desire hath been to have been one of the first if I might
so have done without hazarding your displeasure by going from
my charge in these parts, where I hold the place of your Justice
of Chester and one of your council in your principalities and
marches of Wales, my charge being in the absence of your Lord
President as his is when he is here present. The directions of
the Privy Council were that I should stay here and in no wise
remove from this my charge. And shortly after I received a
like prohibition by your Majesty's late proclamation; which
together with the absence of the Lord President and the holding
of certain assizes and great sessions in your county of Chester
and other shires in Wales, and the holding of a term
here for hearing and determining of suits within the whole
principality and marches of Wales, have been the only causes
of my not attending on your Highness.—From your Majesty's
house of Tyckenhyll, 20 May, 1603.
Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (100. 26/2.) |
|
The Earl of Mar to "my Lord Principal Secretary"
[Cecil.] |
|
1603, May 20. |
It were but troublesome to you to read by
my evil hand that which I have at great length written to my
Lord of Kinloss and my Lord Treasurer of Scotland. I pray
you help them with your best advice in their follies in this
country, which in truth, if they be not wisely prevented, I fear
in end shall prove follies indeed. My Master's will ever was
and shall be a law to me but ceremony. My only comfort is
his Majesty thinks my young son and honest poor friends have
done nothing but served him faithfully, so as I am assured there
is some of my fellows have done the contrary. For my reward,
I seek nothing but that, for his Majesty's honour and safety
in time coming, they in some measure may know his Majesty
is offended. I hope to see your L. shortly.—Sterling Cassell,
20 May, 1603.
Holograph. 1 p. (187. 48.) |
|
Sir William Fitzwilliam to Lord Cecil. |
|
1603, May 21. |
There is question between my brother and
me for title of land and matters of riot on both sides, both which
are with such violence prosecuted of his part as notwithstanding
my willingness that he should have the land to him and his
heirs males as my father's gift was, with further proffers of
my part also that his wife if he marry should have a jointure
of the most of it (only desiring that if he died without issue the
land may return to the house) and that all other suits should
be compounded between us, yet nothing will content him but
a public hearing, which cannot turn but to the discredit of our
house and our own shame. How to receive comfort I know
not but from you. Be pleased to send for him and to cause
these untoward actions to be determined with least touch of
infamy to us both. Greater charity you cannot show than
either to end these causes yourself, or by your mediation to
work our dread sovereign to lay his commandment on us both
to stand to the order of such as he shall appoint. My brother's
right whatsoever should this way be nothing impaired, and
both our reputations be maintained.—21 May, 1603.
Holograph. 1 p. (100. 27.) |
|
Sir John Haryngton to Lord Cecil. |
|
1603, May 21. |
I am now in distress, in an honest cause.
I look for no relief but from the King. Your good word may
hasten it; it will cost you little, it will avail me much. Briefly
it is thus: I that never committed crime in my life (let all my
enemies object what they can) am betrayed by my kin into a
debt of 4,000l., and thinking to prop up a house not contemptible
and allied to you; being too weak a prop it is all fallen on me
and so must lie here. While John Skinner flourishes at Berwick
and flies with my feathers, old Markham dotes at home, and his
honest son Sir Griffin your kinsman, like an Æneas that would
carry his father out of the flame, is like to burn in it with him,
the lubber is so heavy to lie on his maimed son's shoulders.
I beseech you show yourself a friend to us both in this.—21
May, 1603.
Holograph. Seal broken. ½ p. (100. 28.) |
|
James Worsley to "Sir Robert Cecil." |
|
1603, May 21. |
My last unto you was written 15 May and
sent by Mr. Howe, a follower of my lord bishop of London,
certifying you of a Jesuit which went over and I thought would
land in Dover; where I had written unto Sir Thomas Fane for
his landing, but the wind shifting they were landed in Hastings,
and so my letter unto Sir Thomas was lost. His coming I
think was dangerous, he was so resolute in his going over, being
a man very fit for some desperate attempt here, and at Calais
hath passed many since the Queen's death, both Jesuits and
priests. I pray God you may have intelligence of them and
no doubt you will foresee all their ill meaning. Also I am to
certify a special matter which doth very highly concern you,
which I wrought out of a Scot, one that is very near about our
King and went over hence unto his Majesty the 17th of our
May. You shall find me a gentleman that hath friends and
means and one which doth love you, as in this when you shall
understand it. I would disclose it now in my letter, but many
letters I have written unto you and never have heard of any,
which maketh me think they are not delivered, and this I will
not commit unto writing nor disclose unto any but you, for that
it doth concern your person only and seriously. There is
another matter I promised to certify you of which now I can
also do; if it please you to send me by the next post some
twenty pounds to discharge my necessary occasions here,
I will come presently unto you; where disclosing that which I
will do, shall be for your great safety, and nothing doubt ever
hereafter to have your high favour.—From Dieppe, 21 May, 1603.
Holograph. 1 p. (100. 29.) |
|
Suitors to the King. |
|
1603, May 21. |
Institutions and orders for the dispatch of
suitors to the King.—Westminster, 21 May, 1603.
Official contemporary copy, parchment, damaged. 1 p. (218. 14) |
|
The King to the Privy Council. |
|
1603, May 22. |
As we have by an instrument directed to
you under our great seal of England committed to you a special
trust for the examining of all suits for matters of our bounty
which shall be hereafter exhibited unto us, all which we do
intend to send and refer to your consideration; so have we
thought good to explain our meaning to you in some things of
moment which are like to fall into consideration amongst you
being matters tending to the gratifying of sundry who have
and will seek such graces at our hands, wherein we cannot now
at the first entrance into our government give you other than
a general notice of our design because we are not yet so well
acquainted with many circumstances and formalities of the
proceedings of this kingdom as we were in our other realm,
where we had so long governed as we had no great use of Officers'
advices. But here, those things being not yet so familiar to
us, we are pleased in them to give ear to the counsel of you
whom we have specially chosen to put our trust in. |
|
First, for matters of suits in general, although it is very true
that we have bestowed upon divers great and large gifts of
such lands and possessions as came to the Crown in the time of
our late sister the Queen by attainders and escheats, in which
kind we have been moved and may be in such cases to bestow
some such favours upon those whose houses are of antiquity
and may be fit to be enabled to do us service, yet we require
you to use this caution, that when any suits shall come unto you
for any matters of our lands, especially those which have been
of long continuance in the crown, you be not easy in giving
assent and recommendation to matters of moment, or to every
man's suit, lest that perhaps when they are reported to us we
finding cause to be of other opinion than you are, it shall by
consequence follow that the grace and thanks of allowance rest
with you and the offence of denial redound wholly upon us:
which how scandalous it would be to us among our people, you
in your wisdoms can easily conceive. |
|
Next is, that if any suits happen to come before you for
reversions of great places in Courts of Justice, you shall consider
how unfit it were for us to have such things recommended by
you, which in politic consideration are not fit for princes to do, as
well for that there groweth thereby an offence to the possessioners
and may perhaps follow danger, as also for that you cannot
be ignorant that it hath been always held wisdom with
those that have charge of supreme government to entertain
the devotions of their servants with hopes, which with most
men work better effects of diligence and service than the remembrance of rewards past. And though we have of late been
pleased to grant the reversion of a place, the Chancellorship
of the Duchy, to a person of good merit to our late sister, yet
have done it upon such consideration as may have a just
exemption out of that general rule, because the person was one
[upon] whom the Queen deceased had resolved to bestow that
place which we could not perform for the present because it
would have given impediment to our purpose in the placing of
some of our old servants whom we were desirous to have about
us, and in that consideration the gentleman submitted himself
to our will; for which cause, though he deserved an extraordinary favour of us, yet we do hereby testify unto you that
we mean not to make it a precedent to others. |
|
We are likewise importuned for our favour, as we doubt not
but many of you shall be for your furtherance of many men's
desires to be advanced to the dignity of Barons, which being
a degree of such honour as it is in this kingdom, giving to them
that have it place in the great Council of the Realm, the Parliament, and conferring as much dignity at the first instant of
the creation as the ancientest descent of blood deriveth unto
any, we cannot but think it convenient for us to be very wary
in the bestowing of a grace of so great moment; and withal
give you this taste of our disposition that way, that where we
have been made acquainted with the suits of many claiming a
right to the same in divers kinds, we will remit all of that kind
to our next Parliament where we think it meetest their claims
should be examined and allowed if there be cause. For others
for whom we have been moved only by way of grace, although
we do both know many gentlemen of worth in this kingdom
whom we think worthy of honour, and hold it also reasonable
for us to imitate the custom of Princes our progenitors to honour
their coronation with calling persons of worth to such dignities:
yet intend we therein to be very moderate and not to exceed
the number of [blank], which we thought good to make known to
you because you may thereby each of you consider how far
forth it will be fit for you to solicit us for our favour in that
kind for any. |
|
And the like moderation do we purpose to hold in the places
of our honourable order of the Garter, which we find hath been
maintained in such reputation as it is by the Sovereigns thereof,
not only by the respective choice of the persons, but in not
exceeding the number of the first institution; which course
will be meet for us to observe, or if we do enlarge the same to
forbear until hereafter that the union of our two realms shall be
settled. |
|
Last of all we have thought good to say something to you
touching your own rank of Privy Councillors which being a
place of so great dignity and trust as it is, although it have
been by us of late augmented in number above the ordinary
rate which of late years it hath had, which was necessary for
us to do for many respects; yet finding the same now composed
of a sufficient number of persons both for their birth, for their
experience and for the offices and places they hold in this
kingdom meet to be called to it, we shall not hereafter be drawn
to exceed that number of four and twenty nor to admit any
others except it be by vacation of any place needful to be
supplied.
Endorsed: "22 May, 1613. M[emorandum] to the Council
for the Examining of suits for matters of Bounty."
Draft, corrected by Cecil. 5½ pp. (100. 30–32.) |
|
Noel de Caron to Lord Cecil. |
|
1603, May 22. |
In favour of the bearer, the King having
referred his petition to Cecil.—Londres, 22 May, 1603.
Holograph. French.
Endorsed: "Sir Noel Caron. With a petition of Thomas
Huet." 1 p. (187. 49.) |
|
Lord Cobham to the Same. |
|
1603, May 23. |
The bearer, son to Martin de la Falie, brought
him this letter of recommendation from the Count of Arenberg.
He has both kindred here and divers honest merchants of his
acquaintance, but has an intention to return. Arenberg
imagines Cobham's credit to be as formerly or would recommend
his friends to others.—" From my house in the Black Friars,"
23 May, 1603.
PS.—Would willingly wait upon Cecil at his next coming
to his house.
Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (100. 33.)
[Printed in extenso in Edwards, Life of Ralegh, ii, 446.] |
|
Henry Carew to the Same. |
|
1603, May 23. |
Expresses his gratitude to Cecil for making
a favourable relation to his Majesty of his offence, for which
he has been lately censured. He acknowledges the offence,
and desires it may be imputed to indiscretion, and not to malice.
Protests he had no harmful intention either against his Majesty
or the State. Prays Cecil to be a means for his pardon.—The
sorrowful prison of the Fleet, 23 May, 1603.
Holograph. 1 p. (187. 50.) |
|
Sir Thomas Fane to Lord Cobham. |
|
1603, May 24. |
Sends the enclosed examination of one
Thomas Bramston, a priest, lately banished with many others
out of this realm and now returned without any warrant,
received from the commissioners for restraint of passage here,
and prays directions.—Dover Castle, 24 May, 1603.
PS.—Bramston remaineth here under safe custody until
you send further direction.
Signed. Seal. ¾ p. (100. 34.) |
|
The Earl of Argyle to "the Secretary of England" [Cecil.] |
|
1603, May 24. |
Finding the affairs of this country altered
from the estate I hoped to have found them in, I have taken
the boldness to request your lordship to remember his Majesty
to honour me with his commandments, to the end I may the
more perfectly direct my whole actions to his Highness's service;
for his Majesty's will not being known to me makes all my
actions irresolute, ever fearing to commit some errors ignorantly.
—Stirveling, 24 May.
Holograph. Seal over green silk. ½ p. (100. 35.) |
|
Lord Cobham to Lord Cecil. |
|
1603, May 24. |
I came away from you yesterday as well
satisfied, and your undertaking for me to his Majesty that I
may travel presently more kindly than I can express. Conceits
of unkindness on my part are clean wiped away. You may
remember that I have a licence of cloths. I may receive favour
and even profit by your favourable letter to Stone the mercer,
who is master of the company of the Clothworkers. He may
deal with them to compound with me for my patent, so in two
or three words to him, this will be effected and you a means to
bring some 400 p[ounds] to my purse. If this you will do, your
letter may be sent me by this bearer, and if written with your
own hand it would be to my most advantage.—From my house
in Black Friars, 24 May, 1603.
Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (100. 36.)
[Printed in extenso in Edwards, Life of Ralegh, ii. 447.] |
|
Prince Henry. |
|
1603, May 24. |
Act by the Lords of the Scottish Council
recording the taking over of Prince Henry from the charge of
the Earl of Mar to that of the Duke of Lennox and others.—
Stirling Castle, 24 May, 36 Jac. 6.
Signed by Lennox and others. 1 p. (141. 277.) |
|
Lord Cobham to Lord Cecil. |
|
1603, May 25. |
As you directed me I have written for the
priest's safe coming from Dover, who shall be delivered to the
bishop of London, and that with as little noise as may be. The
parties that bring them order, I pray may be taken for their
charges, and desire to know your pleasure to whom I shall
appoint them to attend or whether I shall send them to you as
your former order hath been. For myself, give me leave to
put you in mind that as with favour you have begun in obtaining
his Majesty's leave for me to travel, so I beseech you to continue
the effecting of it. Permit me to wait upon you at your next
coming to London, if your greater affairs will permit it.—From
my house in the Black Friars, the 25 of May, 1603.
Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (100. 37.) |
|
Sir William Cooke to Lord Cecil. |
|
1603, May 25. |
Receiving some general notice of some
businesses of your lordship's in Northamptonshire, wherein I
understand abroad you are not well used, I make bold to proffer
my best service therein if you please to use me.—May 25, 1603.
Holograph. Seal. ½ p. (100. 38.) |
|
Lord Chief Justice Popham to the Same. |
|
1603, May 25. |
Forrester was sent unto me this morning
by Sir William Browne and brought over by this bearer Thomas
Cossam, Sir William Browne's man. Presently upon his coming
Mr. Attorney, Mr. Solicitor and myself have partly examined
him, and do determine to-morrow to confront him, Ashby and
one Standish together. But thus much appeareth already that
all those three are very naught.—At my chamber at Sergeants
Inn, this 25th of May, 1603.
Signed. Seal. ½ p. (100. 39.) |
|
Mrs. Ann White to the Same. |
|
1603, May 25. |
Is a suitor on behalf of the bearer, her son
White, for Cecil's letters in his behalf to Mr. Dr. Nevile, Master
of Trinity College, Cambridge, for appeasing some suits between
Trinity College and her son, that he may not be defeated by
them of what is his right, left by his father, and always hitherto
enjoyed by him, his father, and the previous owners of the land.
The matter is but small, yet not to be lost if it can be otherwise
recovered.—From Hull, 25 May, 1603.
Holograph. ½ p. (100. 40.) |
|
Gilbert, Earl of Shrewsbury, to the Same. |
|
1603, May 25. |
I understand that my bad brother, upon
some message that he hath procured from the King to Sir John
Fortescue, hath gotten out a particular of Pomfret Park, and
laboureth to obtain some bill to be signed by the King for a
new lease thereof. You know that the matter was in question
in your time being Chancellor of the Duchy, and that you
referred the consideration thereof in law to the two judges of
that circuit, and so it hath remained ever since. I pray if you
hear of any such suit of my brother's, do me the favour to inform
his Majesty your knowledge of my claim of a long lease of that
park, which my father dearly bought of one to whom the Queen
had granted it, and that you will procure his Majesty to send
direction to Sir John Fortescue to hear and examine the matter
throughly before he make any grant thereof to my brother.
To this like effect I have written also to Sir G. Hume to move
his Majesty. I beseech you to speak with Sir Th. Lake hereof,
to stay any such bill if any such come to his hands or knowledge.
This day I will be in the Star Chamber and after dinner I will
call at your house. My Lady Arbella protests that she made
no means nor desired any creature living to move his Majesty
that she might speak with him since she saw him last, although
she mean shortly to make that suit to him. I did tell my wife
that I heard she had made suit to speak with him, but none
knoweth who told me thereof, I assure you.—This Wednesday
morning.
Holograph. 1 p. (100. 41.) |
|
John Davis to Lord Cecil of Essendon. |
|
[1603, May 26.] |
My reputation is called in question. A few
words to his Majesty may make me happy, which are not so
fit to come from any as yourself, seeing no man better knows
my carriage in that business than you. Vouchsafe to bestow
a little breath in a just and honourable defence.
Holograph. Undated.
Endorsed: "Sir Jhon Davyes, May 26, 1603."
1 p. (93. 80.) |
|
Hugh Glaseour, Mayor of Chester, to Lord Cecil. |
|
1603, May 26. |
I received this day your letters of the 23rd
of this month willing me to send up the little money I received
of Lawrence Bradshaw, curate, amounting to 7l. According
to your letters of the 16th of February, the Irish boy who was
the principal being discharged by means of the French
ambassador there, I put the curate at liberty, being fallen into
great misery by his troubles. And albeit I was continually
fed with hopes that I should before his enlargement receive
the sum of 7l. 10s. yet at the last I found that he was unable to
pay, and therefore was enforced to take his own bond in your
name for payment of 10l., which I send you enclosed: the man
himself being degraded for that fact since that time by the lord
bishop of his diocese from the ministry, is departed forth of
this country, having paid no money into my hands but forfeited
his bond. If there be any fault, the French ambassador or the
French gentleman that was robbed have given the occasion,
who, having set at liberty the principal, I could not in any
course of law and justice detain the accessory.—Chester the
26th of May, 1603.
Holograph. 1 p. (100. 42.)
Enclosed:—The Bond of Lawrence Bradshaw, of West Kirby,
co. Chester, clerk, 18 Feb., 44 Eliz. Seal. 1 p. (100. 43.) |
|
Lord Cobham to the Same. |
|
1603, May 26. |
2 letters:— |
|
1. I have this afternoon received advertisement from the
Mayor and Commissioners for passage at Sandwich that one
Thomas Marroe and one Francis Richardson, landing at Margate
on Monday last from the other side, for that they declared
themselves Catholics and refused to take the oath of supremacy
are by the Mayor and Commissioners stayed until they may
receive other direction.
Signed. ½ p. (100. 44.) |
|
2. Excuse my boldness that I desired your letter to Stone
the mercer; your speech or message either by Sir Walter
Cope or Sir Henry Burton will suffice. Concerning my motion
to you for my going beyond the seas to satisfy you that it is
my heart's desire, you see that upon no occasion that I have
to write unto you but I am bold to put you in mind of it. You
should find me industrious to requite your favour, for greater
you cannot do me; and if you doubt that my desires be otherwise than I seem to desire, then retain these my letters which
shall be witness against me. |
|
Remember to move the King touching the priests stayed at
Dover, and that I may have an answer touching my other letter
written unto you this morning for those that be stayed at
Sandwich.—From my house in the Black Friars, the [26] of
May, 1603.
Holograph. Endorsed: "27 May, 1603." Seal. 1 p. (100. 50.) |
|
Sir Edward Winfield to Lord Cecil. |
|
1603, May 26. |
Your Honour, I am sure, hath heard of my
late misfortune begotten by Rydge Udalle, who hath arrested
me notwithstanding the order in my absence set down by
your lordship and some others of my lords, my being of the
King's ordinary pensioners, my lord lieutenant's commission
and licence to stay here three months. How cruel dealing this
is I do refer to you to judge of. I am content to yield to as
much as I am able, keeping my wife and children from starving.
I beseech you at this time do what you can for me to the King;
I know my Lord of Southampton will join with you, and my Lord
Admiral and Lord Chamberlain. If I do live here three days I
must die, which I do not much care for if it were not in the
place I am. Good my lord, make me happy, with a King as
you did with a Queen, for his sake that is now in Scotland, my
lord President of Munster.—"From hell," the 26 of May.
Holograph. 1 p. (100. 46.) |
|
Captain John Skynner to the Same. |
|
1603, May 27. |
I have got Mrs. Southwell forward towards
London 8 or 10 days since. I have sent up with her a 'stayed'
man, a gentleman of my company. He maketh a long journey
upon his own charge, whereof I hope you will be respectful
towards him. He hath written to me that upon her journey
she rails much upon you as author of that she calls her wrong. |
|
My lady Walsingham was earnest with me to send this
packet to you, which I have done. Other news I doubt not
are wrote you which are here amongst us, in which place or
any other if I might be commanded in anything by your
direction or for your private service I would take myself much
encouraged in courses of my content.—Berwick, this 27 of May.
Holograph. 1 p. (100. 45.) |
|
William Shute to Lord Cecil. |
|
1603, May 27. |
In January 1595 there was delivered unto
William King, then master of the ship the Truelove (newly built
for my Lord Admiral and your lordship) certain cables and other
ropes out of my shop for the use of the said ship to the sum of
93l. 5s. 9d. I solicited my Lord Admiral oftentimes for the said
debt before my imprisonment, where I have endured this four
years and more a miserable restraint (altogether contrary to
my former life, wherein I had been so many ways employed
beyond the seas by Mr. Secretary Walsingham, as you may
remember). My good lord, seeing I have not been paid by my
Lord Admiral (according to our custom) you being part owner
of the Truelove I do most humbly beseech you to procure me
payment. "Your poor petitioner in the prison of the Fleet, the
27 May, 1603."
Holograph. 2/3 p. (100. 48.) |
|
Lord Burghley to the Same. |
|
1603, May 27. |
I had taken my leave of you but that I
understood you were gone with his Majesty this journey. You
shall find me always the same brother in love though not in
power I have always of late professed unto you, and so I hope
I shall find of you the like; for I assure you, there shall no
emulation nor envy of your greatness, whatsoever some of the
world may think, dispossess my love from you. |
|
For the note you returned me of the names of the councillors,
my meaning is that his Majesty would please to allow of all for
those reasons, and though they may seem many for the time,
yet the largeness of the government doth require it. And the
rather I am bold to put the more for that there is none living
that liveth in that province but only Sir Thomas Fairfax, who
meaneth as I hear, since he is of his Majesty's privy chamber,
to live above. There is no man's name there but of the best
houses and fittest for their qualities to be allowed. The more
his Majesty maketh now the less he shall be troubled with
hereafter. I shall take it besides as a countenance unto me
leaving the place, that the world shall see I do it with my honour,
for that malicious humours are possessed I do it as forced against
my will to depart with it. I pray you excuse me if you think
me over lavish in nominating so many councillors at one time.
Endorsed:—"27 May, 1603. Lord Burghley to my Lord,
from Ware. With a note of names for councillors in the North."
Holograph. 1 p. (100. 49.) |
|
John Johnston, Regius Professor at St. Andrews, to Lord
Cecil. |
|
1603, May 27: |
In praise of the late Queen. Addresses Cecil
because the Queen loved his father and him for their many
virtues, and because her memory would be most sacred to his
family.—Ex Academia Regia Andreana, vj Kal. Jun., 1603.
Holograph. Latin. 1 p. (100. 83.) |
|
Lord Burghley to the Same. |
|
1603, May 28. |
Divers of my countrymen the inhabitants
of Peterborough meeting me by the high way as I came down
told me they had a supplication to put up against the inhabitants
of the town of Yaxley in Huntingdonshire, who go now about
to set up a market at such times as they never did heretofore,
to the great annoyance of the town of Peterborough, and contrary to a decree, as they say, passed against them in the high
court of Chancery. The suit is like to breed trouble between
the two said towns, to the impoverishing of them both if order
be not taken by the Council Board, before the which they mean
to complain of both sides. I am required by them to recommend
the justice of their cause to be countenanced by you, being now
become a Northamptonshire man; and I hope you shall find
such evident proof fall out upon Peterborough's side as you shall
need to show them no favour but justice, and if any favour
should be showed to any it were to Peterborough, being a town
beautified with a "portable" river to bring and carry all
merchantable commodities to five sundry shires adjoining
upon it, and the other but a husband town.—From Burghley
this 28th of May, 1603. |
|
PS.—I pray you that the book of instructions for the North
may be sent down with some convenient speed, for that all
things remain in that place as yet without authority; and I
pray you chide down some of the Council attendant that be
at London, so as I hear there is not one that I shall find at York
against my coming, so as his Majesty needs make the more store
for the continuance and [of?] his service in those parts.
Holograph. Seal. 2 pp. (100. 51.) |
|
Sir Thomas Fane to Lord Cobham. |
|
1603, May 28. |
Here is arrived this evening from Calais one
Andrew Baily, one of the Jesuits that the King lately banished,
who brought over with him divers letters which you shall
receive here enclosed together with his examination. He is
a proper man well accommodated in apparel, having a great
black feather in his hat.—Dover Castle, 28th May, 1603. |
|
PS.—On Tuesday last there arrived at Margate two Jesuits,
who being sent by the Commissioners there to Dover, were
intercepted by the Mayor of Sandwich, who before this, I hope,
hath advertised you.
Signed. ½ p. (100. 52.) |
|
Earl of Shrewsbury to Lord Cecil. |
|
1603, May 28. |
Lord Davey has earnestly entreated my
motion on his behalf unto you to the effect of these notes
enclosed; protesting deeply that no man shall be more at your
commandment than himself.
Holograph. Endorsed: "28 May, 1603." ½ p. (100. 55.) |
|
Sir Robert Mansell to the King. |
|
1603, May 29. |
Having desired Sign or Scorsa to make
known unto the Archduke's ambassadors the straight charge
given me by your Highness for their safe transportation into
England, I shortly after stood over with my whole Fleet for
Graveling, there to attend the time when they should be ready
to embark. |
|
In my way I stopped in Calais road, where I was no sooner
come to an anchor but Count St. Paul with many young noblemen of France came aboard me, who having viewed and admired
the force of your Highness's ships departed well pleased with
my sea entertainment, wherein I neither spared your shot nor
powder. Thence I departed to Graveling, and there understanding as well by letters from the Count himself as also from
Signor Scorza that they could not be ready to embark before
Friday next, I stood back for the English coast to renew my
provision for their entertainment aboard and left word with the
governor of Graveling that I would not fail to attend the
ambassadors there at the time by himself appointed. |
|
In mean time I held it my duty to advertise your Majesty
what hath passed betwixt the Dutch men of war and me, the
particulars whereof are contained in the enclosed, leaving the
construction unto your own most wise and princely judgment,
holding it my duty not to reach farther than to the executing
in all due sort of your Majesty's commandments: most humbly
craving your pardon for my boldness in delivering immediately
unto your royal self the advertisements from hence which have
been used to pass through other hands.—From aboard your
Majesty's ship the Vantguard in Dover road, May 29.
Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (100. 53.) |
|
The Enclosure:—A report of what passed before Graveling
the 28th of May between Sir Robert Mansell, knt., Admiral of
his Majesty's forces in the Narrow Seas, and the vice-admiral
of Holland, in the presence of both the vice-admirals and divers
of the captains of both fleets. |
|
About 10 of the clock in the morning there came 11 Holland
men of war into the Road, where first the Admiral and after
him the rest saluted me after the manner of the sea, with each
of them 3 pieces of ordnance, and were answered with each
of them one. About 1 of the clock in the afternoon the Admiral
of the Hollanders accompanied with 5 or 6 of his captains
came aboard of me, where after some friendly salutations of
each part the Admiral of the Hollanders desired two or three
words with me in private, who having most of the captains
under my charge aboard me, called them into the cabin to hear
what should be propounded. The vice-admiral Captain Turner
had request made unto him by the Hollanders to meet aboard
me, and came accordingly. They began in all civil manner
to demand whether I was then come to receive the Archduke's
ambassadors aboard me. Whereto I answered that that was
indeed the cause of my coming. |
|
Then they demanded whether I was to take them in at
Graveling or Calais? whereto I answered, that I had neither
reason nor warrant to satisfy them in that point, forasmuch as
having received commandment from his Majesty to transport
them I was to perform that duty either here or elsewhere.
They replied that the intent of this demand stretched only
thus far, that if I did expect the Archduke's ambassadors here
at Graveling, their earnest request was that I would forbear
to take him in here, and rather to do it at Calais. Whereto
I answered that their request was not to be assented unto by a
man of war, in regard their demand was accompanied with
such a force of shipping: but had they sent the least pinnace
with a letter to demand reason I would have satisfied them so
far as became me in duty towards my Sovereign. The Admiral
replied, that it was not fit for a man of his place to come in a
pinnace, but with the ships that he commanded; and for
writing he knew well that letters might be cast about, and
therefore thought it not fit to commit his mind to paper. But
when answer was made that he needed not to come but to send
his mind by some other, he replied that he was to come for
Dunkirk, and so to pass along the coast, and this was in his
way; adding further, that this was but a request, and if it
might not be granted they would not withstand any course
that should be taken to embark the ambassadors. I told them
that then it was fit they should avoid the Road, forasmuch as
though I believe they neither would nor could hinder their
embarking, yet lest they upon the shore should in any sort
doubt their safe coming aboard, I thought it fit the Road should
be clear. Their answer was, that if all the force of Flanders
were there to transport them, or what other Spanish force
soever, they would die or hinder their passage, and if they had
not now sufficient force, they could within 24 hours be sufficiently
furnished. But the least pinnace of the King of England might
safely transport them, without any resistance of their part.
But for quitting the place, they could not tell how to answer
it to their masters the States, without order from them, by
whom they were commanded to that guard. Besides, there
were certain ships within the haven of Graveling that were to
come forth, and some good number of Dunkirkers that being
now upon their journey homewards would hale in with that
shore and had treasure aboard them. |
|
To that I answered: That for the ships bound forth I knew
they were but 2 small barks, which the guard I found at my
first coming was sufficient to hem in, and for the return of the
Dunkirkers, expected by them, I held the straight of the Narrow
Sea as more apt than that place was to intercept them;
and withal added that if they did rightly understand themselves, they should find that they should give more reputation
to their present actions by showing duty and respect to the King
of England in giving way to his commandments and by letting
them upon the shore to see the correspondence between us,
than they could by any other way. Besides, they had honour
enough in that it was apparent to the world their enemies
wanted force and means to be transported without the pass
and convoy of the King of England. For the matter of their
guard, I said, I knew no other Sovereign of these seas than the
King of England, and in respect I took that refusal of theirs
to leave that guard as a bravo, I did now resolve them, that
either I would take in the ambassadors at Graveling or nowhere
except I had commandment to the contrary; adding further,
that were the sea full of shipping to withstand me, I would
either set them safe in England, or sink in the sea. |
|
Upon my answer they replied coolly that I mistook them,
and their conformity should appear by their readiness to perform what I wished, and thereupon in friendly manner departed
aboard their ships and set sail for Calais Road, where they rode
as I stood over this day.
Endorsed:—"Sir Robert Mansell's relation."
2 pp. (100. 54.) |
|
Sir Edward Winfield to Lord Cecil. |
|
1603, May 29. |
The King hath dealt graciously with all the
Queen's old servants, myself only excepted as yet, though it
hath pleased him both to use me graciously in words and to
take notice of my services past. I do not doubt but his princely
mind will in some measure reward a poor gentleman wasted
and consumed in the wars, if you and the rest of my friends will
move his Majesty. I have presented to his Highness a petition
which I must entreat some of my friends to deliver and if at
the delivery you and the rest of my friends will but entreat
his Majesty to be gracious unto me I do assure myself of a
great deal of comfort. I have sent it by bearer to you to read.—
From the Flyett [Fleet], the 29 of May.
Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (100. 56.) |
|
Lord Cobham to the Same. |
|
1603, May 29. |
This packet was now brought me from
Dover with these other letters. You shall perceive thereby
that one Andrew Bayly a Jesuit is there landed, being one of
the Jesuits the King did lately banish, whether from hence or
out of Scotland that cannot I tell. I suppose that those who
were lately banished hence were priests and no Jesuits. This
man came under the name of Hamilton and brave in his apparel.
In all the letters you shall perceive trust to be put in him,
therefore worthy of the greater consideration. I desire to receive
your direction herein. The others stayed at Sandwich I have
written for, whom likewise I perceive to be Jesuits. The priest
stayed at Dover I have also sent for. I would be glad to speak
with you touching this business, and would, if you please,
speak with you before you acquaint anybody with their arrival.
—From my house in the Black Friars, the 29 of May, 1603.
Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (100. 57.) |
|
Durham Place. |
|
1603, May 29. |
Certificate, signed by Tho. Egerton, C.S.,
Jo. Popham, Edw. Coke and Wm. Peryman.—According to
his Majesty's command they have heard the counsel learned of
Sir Walter Ralegh and Edward Darcy, touching such title as
they pretended to the house called Duresme Place, and also
what could be said to entitle his Majesty thereto. They find
that neither Ralegh nor Darcy has any right or interest in it,
and so themselves acknowledged. On consideration of the
title of the Bishop of Durham, they are of opinion that it belongs
to him and not to his Majesty.—29 May, 1603.
Endorsed: "B. of Duresme's case."
1 p. (187. 51.) |
|
Lord Cobham to Lord Cecil. |
|
1603, May 30. |
I humbly thank you for this favour. It were
to put me out of my purpose if now I should be appointed to
attend these ambassadors; therefore I pray you let some other
be thought on, for I do dispose of myself to my journey, and
hope of your favour that my licence shall speedily be procured.
If greater occasions do not hinder you hasten the dispatch of
my licence. It will be Friday or Saturday before Rosny come
to Calais.—From my house in the Black Friars [May] the 30,
1603.
Holograph. ¾ p. (100. 58.) |
|
Lord Mountjoy to the Same. |
|
1603, May 30. |
Since my return to Dublin I could write
to you no sooner, for I found the wind easterly and with much
difficulty I think I am the first that recovered this coast. I
have left all things in as great quiet as and likely to continue
as ever they were in Ireland. Two Spanish ships are come to
the coast of Connaught and from them there came letters to
the Earl of Tyrone, the which presently he brought to me
unopened and the messenger that carried them, who was a
Spaniard that had lived with him ever since 1588 and departed
hence with O'Donnell. The ships do bring treasure and
munition, directed especially to him and to Rury O'Donnell,
and divers letters to others that were in rebellion. Rury
O'Donnell in whom I have great confidence hath promised
to send the letters after me. and a messenger that comes of
purpose to him out of Spain. He was at Dublin with me and
designed to come over, but I stayed him the better to govern
those parts, and bid him be confident in my solicitation of his
business, who was otherwise somewhat fearful because I bring
Neale Garve[y] over with me, who without pardon or protection
hath cast himself into my hands. Yet I will never advise that
he shall be trusted nor advanced, since by his ill carriage he
hath forfeited the favour that was intended towards him.
I think all the rebels in Ireland would have come with me if
I had not stayed them but some I have brought that were
fittest to be away. I will now make all the speed I can to
London though I am an ill rider of post, and trouble you no
farther till I have the happiness to see you. I do not write
to my Lord President because I make account he is not returned.
I have brought as few captains over with me I think as ever
commander that came out of Ireland, and desire nothing more
than to come privately to London. But I do not know how
it will be, for I am told that some of my friends have been long
at Chester to expect me. I had forgot to let you know that these
Spanish ships have been long at sea, and I think dispatched
before the certainty of the Queen's death. The Earl of Tyrone
is here with me.—Beaumaris, 30 May, 1603.
Holograph. Seal broken. 1 p. (100. 59.) |
|
William, Lord Compton, to Lord Cecil. |
|
1603, May 30. |
Upon receipt of your letter, finding no resolution held of calling us back made me make no great haste
but still bear nearer, especially finding that the news that
came daily from the north was somewhat uncertain, and
humourously delivered by such Scots as I met. So with many
jogs and jolts I arrived at Newcastle where being willing to rest
(for boot could I not pull on) and frighted with want of lodging
at Berwick, there stayed, though the ladies were frighted from
thence with fear of the plague; whereof by certain report I found
the town clear, otherwise they would not have appointed the
Queen to make any stay here, who according unto the latest
advertisements is here expected the 8 or 9 of June. Upon
the 27th of this month the Queen came from Stirling, and how
accompanied I am sure you know ere this better than I can
advertise you. But my lady Kildare would needs quit her
companions at Berwick and went to Edinburgh, who will have
a pleasant journey of it considering how well the town was
taken up before, which I fear she will never be. I am sorry
I troubled you with my long letter, and think myself much
beholden for your last letter which I received this day at
Newcastle; being glad that my course and your advice did
so well concur.—Newcastle, the 30 of May.
Holograph. Seal. 1½ pp. (100. 60.) |
|
E. Countess of Southampton to the Earl, her husband. |
|
1603, May 30. |
This gentleman giving me knowledge of his
coming where you are must not come from me without some
lines to you that may be a mean to place me into your mind
where I would ever remain: yet his haste is such as I have
nothing to say more to you whom I love as my soul.—Chartly,
30 May, |
|
PS.—My lady Rich, that writ to you but very lately, desires
you now to excuse her not writing, being so ill of a cold as she
cannot now endure to write a word.
Holograph. Two seals over green silk. 1 p. (100. 61.) |
|
Lord Cobham to Lord Cecil. |
|
1603, May 30. |
The Jesuits I have sent for as you directed,
and [they] shall be brought unto the Bishop of London. The
men that bring them shall attend you for their charges as you
have appointed. My genius is still resolved for the flight as
you term it, and therefore do earnestly pray you to procure
the dispatch of my licence, and will now be bold to put you in
mind of our former professions praying you to remember what
it was and think you cannot show what then you professed unto
me in a more ample manner. Your dispatch hereof will free
you of my importunity, and when you come to London I would
be glad to wait upon you.—From my house in the Black Friars,
the 30 of May, 1603.
Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (100. 62.) |
|
The Earl of Shrewsbury to the Same. |
|
1603, May 30. |
Your lordship hath sent me summons to
attend at Council at Court at 2, and I am appointed by my Lord
Chamberlain to be deputy for the King at the christening of
Mr. Stapleton's child here in London about the same hour:
but if his lordship would appoint my Lord of Rutland or any
other in my room, then will this bearer return hither to me with
what speed may be, and I will be there so soon after as is possible.
Now it is 10 [o'clock.]
Holograph. Endorsed: "30 May, 1603." Seal. 1/8 p. (100. 63.) |
|
Sir Edward Coke and Thomas Flemyng to the Same. |
|
1603, May 30. |
We have, according to your direction, considered the Instructions and Commission for the President and
Council in the North parts, and have drawn the Instructions
anew, and made them ready for his Majesty's signature, leaving
a space for the names of the Commissioners. Because there
was great defect in the former Instructions, for want of privilege
for suitors attending their causes before that Council, we have
added a clause to privilege them from arrest of inferior courts
during attendance, as usual in his Majesty's courts at Westminster, and hold the same very necessary for the due administration of justice. The Commission agrees wholly with the
former. We send them herewith.—The Temple, 30 May, 1603.
Signed. Endorsed: "Mr. Attorney and Mr. Solicitor."
1 p. (187. 52.) |
|
M. Beaumont to "Baron de Cecill." |
|
1603, May 30. |
C'est avec beaucoup de regret que je suis
contraint de me plaindre a vous de ce qu'apres avoir usé envers
Monsieur de Courtenay de toutes sortes de patience et de
courtoisye, ayant attendu depuis six mois et accordé avecq
luy en presence de Monsieur Edmont à beaucoup moins que la
valeur des besongnes prises par son frere ne mointoit. Maintenant que j'estimois devoir sortir entièrement de cet afaire avec
luy, il ma fait dire qu'il en vouloit passer par la justice. Ce qui
me fait vous prier tres affectueusement afin que je n'aye point
à importuner le Roy, d'une telle chose, de vouloir interposer
vostre auctorité envers ledit Sr. de Courtenay, à ce que suivant
la volonté de la feue Reyne, et le decret de Messieurs du Conseil,
et ses propres promesses, il aye à me satisfaire.—Londres,
30 May, 1603.
Holograph. Endorsed: "French Ambassador." 1 p. (187. 53.) |
|
Lady Denny to Lord Cecil, Baron of Essingdon. |
|
1603, May 31. |
Your former favours do not embolden me to
press for new, but my unsettled poor estate enforces me to
seek for relief in time to his Majesty whose Christian care to
maintain every subject in his calling gives me hope he will
regard the fatherless and friendless widow, destitute of all means
but his mercy. That little stay her Majesty gave me out of the
Statute Office is like to be supplanted by a reversion begged
after Mr. Dobson, which if obtained my children and self shall
be enforced after so many years serving of a prince so 'nyre'
[near ?], to cast ourselves upon the benevolence of friends, if
we can find any; for this small pension of 100l. out of the office
is the chief pillar of our maintenance, though her Majesty were
otherwise informed by such as sought to fat themselves with the
fleece of the friendless and poor. Those times gave me little
hope to be truly heard, losing all my friends with my best friend,
and as I fear setting a bar on her Majesty's favour in regard
Mr. Denny left her presence and service to follow my lord of
Essex, then dejected; for I assure myself her Highness in her
own favour towards him and his predecessors, which in words
she hath often uttered, if he had not close enemies would not
have thought 200l. a year too much to bring up 9 children
(their grandfather being a councillor and well respected by her
father) when she had made the meanest of that place, one
excepted, able to dispend 2000l. a year by her service. I
beseech your furtherance on my petition to his Majesty for the
reversion of that office for my eldest son, which will be some
stay to our uncertain estate, and some help to underprop a
decaying house.—London, 31 May.
Holograph. Two seals. 1 p. (100. 64.) |
|
Henry Lock to Lord Cecil. |
|
1603, May 31. |
By your favour I crave either a gracious
return or employment where or how his Majesty pleaseth; to
whom I trust my service shall appear as faithful, as heretofore
(in her Majesty's employments) they seemed sometimes unsavoury and harsh to his Majesty, which yet (as not my own,
but imposed actions) it hath pleased his Majesty long since to
remit.—Paris, last [of] May, 1603.
Holograph. 1 p. (100. 65.) |
|
Lord Treasurer Buckhurst to the Same. |
|
1603, May. |
When the main consultation shall be touching
peace or war, then I desire to be one for discharge of my duty
both to his Majesty and my country; but now being formal,
I desire much to be spared, having many businesses in hand of
the King's service. I have warned all the King's officers
inwards to be at my house on Thursday between one and two
in the afternoon, touching your cause of complaint of the
merchants for your grant of customs. I mean to prepare them
in your favour if my credit will prevail so much with them,
as I think it will; but if you think it more available to have
them absent I will diswarn them. But for warning of any of
the merchants complainants, I know them not; therefore I
leave that to you, to send a messenger to as many of them as
you think fit, and to do it in my name, which I think were fitter
than in your name. For number, I think 6 or 8 were enough,
and I would also think it best that the messenger left the choice
of what 6 or 8 to them, and this to be done as from me. You
have left me with child and in a longing to hear only thus much
in general from you, whether the King allowed or disallowed
my dealing with him; wherein according to true friendship
I pray you let me only know whether he was well satisfied or
otherwise, but I will be as well content to know the one as the
other. The particulars I desire not till we meet, but only
whether he was in any sort well satisfied or otherwise not
satisfied. Two words by this bearer shall deliver me of my
burden of longing, being my first attendance of him.
Holograph. 1½ pp. (100. 66.) |
|
Sir Ralph Gray to Lord Cecil. |
|
1603, May. |
I received this packet from the Master of Gray
which I send herewith. I did omit in my last to you his
Majesty's gracious favour towards me. I am, and shall continue to his Highness such a one as my duty bindeth me;
requesting you when northern matters fall in question to have
me in remembrance, for none shall be employed that shall more
carefully regard their due. Here it is generally thought that
there will be alteration not only in these parts but in Scotland.
I do not mistrust but his Highness is so conceited of any his
employments in any of these parts that I am one that is honest
and will effect the same as becometh me. The lord Ross this
last night was in Berwick, the night before was with me. I
brought him to Berwick where he was well received, so all this
day I take he is at Edinburgh with her Majesty, and so to the
Prince, I think I shall hear of him within four days.
Holograph. Endorsed: "May, 1603." Seal. 1 p. (100. 67.) |
|
Sir James Sympyll or Symple to the Same. |
|
1603, May. |
I had my own dispatch of his Majesty, to whom
I motioned a suit, as you may see written under my own hand,
because I would bring you upon nothing for me in which the
King should not be first tried. His Majesty answered, that the
ordinary form being used, and the matter being found true as
I reported it, he would perform it. So I must entreat you to
hear the bearer to satisfy you in each doubt; for I hope he
hath given me a true information of it. The person himself
had it already, and seemeth to me to be a very honest man, an
alderman of Bristol. I look you shall either have a just
exception against it (which I always except) or else that by
your favour it shall be obtained, seeing I have already broken
the matter to his Majesty, and is my first suit that ever I moved.
Others that follow him have fared better by making of knights
and suits which I never gave ear to; and although I be an ill
suitor, I take hardly want. I use the bearer because I have
done so before, and hope you shall make more use of him hereafter. We part to-morrow at three o'clock. We lie at Dr.
Caesar's this night. |
|
PS.—The King told me that the Earl of Linlithgow should
be certified by me that he was too bold in that he attempted
to join himself as a surety with the rest of the noblemen for the
Prince's delivery to the Queen without his Majesty's warrant;
and that if he should deal in rigour with them all, they should
lose their heads. I pray you destroy this part of the paper
and you shall hear more.
Holograph. 3 Seals. 1 p. (100. 70.) |
|
The Earl of Southampton to the Same. |
|
1603, May. |
I am sorry you should have any occasion to
think unkindly of Mr. Croftes; but being assured that what
passed from him to discontent you proceeded rather from his
present grief than out of any want of respect, let me entreat you
to banish the memory of it, and for my sake to procure him
the order of knighthood.
Holograph. Endorsed: "May 1603. Earl of Southampton
to my lord in behalf of Sir Herbert Crofts." Three Seals.
½ p. (100. 71.) |
|
The Earl of Cumberland to Lord Cecil. |
|
1603 [May.] |
It is not possible for me to get the draught of
my commission ready till this evening, so that I forbear this
day's coming to the Court, and do dispatch some business I
have to do in London. But for that this night I purpose to
send Sir Ri. Musgrave into the north to bring to me at Newcastle
100 gentlemen and their followers, I pray you if there be any
more certain word come since I saw you what day the Queen
comes for Berwick send me word by this bearer, that accordingly
I may appoint to be met at Newcastle.
Holograph. 2/3 p. (102. 163.) |
|
T. Jackson to the Same. |
|
1603, May. |
Your lordship in some part doth know how
honest my proceedings have been with Sir John Carye, notwithstanding the manifest wrongs that he hath done me, and
that I have used great means to regain his favour, yet at his
being at your lordship's house at Tyballs [Theobalds], he gave
me speeches most scandalous to my reputation, which I could
not pocket. Therefore I was forced to dare him by letter, to
appoint place, time, weapons, and the quality of the person,
that he would bring with him, and he should find me in that
place accordingly appointed, to take satisfaction each of other,
which he refuseth, but referreth me to the King, to be righted
by him. By which answer I have great advantage on him,
if I were more moved by malice than honesty, but I can take
no pleasure, nor is it for my reputation to brand him to the
King with so ignominious disgraces, I having always been
devoted to that family. If it please your lordship to take
no knowledge of the premises, yet let me entreat your charitable
censure of me, howsoever it shall please you to direct me.
Holograph. Endorsed: "1603, May." 1 p. (103. 22.) |
|
The King to Lord Cobham. |
|
[1603, May.] |
Where we have understood from you that
Monsieur de Rhony is coming over, and some other ambassadors
also from other princes, all which are likest to arrive within
some of those ports which are within your jurisdiction: forasmuch as we are here absent from our Council, and know that
many particulars are considerable, both for the manner of their
bringing up and providing for them every one in his quality:
we like very well that you shall be ready to prepare to Dover,
or any other place within your jurisdiction, accompanied with
such principal gentlemen as is fit: which when you have done
we require you to observe such other directions as shall be
given you.—Undated.
Draft. Endorsed: "Minute from his Majesty to the Lord
Cobham." 1¼ p. (187. 141.) |
|
Gentlemen Pensioners. |
|
[1603], [May.] |
Copy of the oath of supremacy, and the oath
and articles of the gentlemen pensioners and their wages.
Undated. 8 pp. (197. 141–144.) |
