Cecil Papers: October 1604,

Calendar of the Cecil Papers in Hatfield House: Volume 16, 1604. Originally published by His Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1933.

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'Cecil Papers: October 1604,', in Calendar of the Cecil Papers in Hatfield House: Volume 16, 1604, ed. M S Giuseppi( London, 1933), British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-cecil-papers/vol16/pp323-343 [accessed 6 November 2024].

'Cecil Papers: October 1604,', in Calendar of the Cecil Papers in Hatfield House: Volume 16, 1604. Edited by M S Giuseppi( London, 1933), British History Online, accessed November 6, 2024, https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-cecil-papers/vol16/pp323-343.

"Cecil Papers: October 1604,". Calendar of the Cecil Papers in Hatfield House: Volume 16, 1604. Ed. M S Giuseppi(London, 1933), , British History Online. Web. 6 November 2024. https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-cecil-papers/vol16/pp323-343.

October 1604

Sir Henry Cocke to Viscount Cranborne.
1604, Oct. 1. Has received from Sir Henry Butler, high sheriff, a privy seal for the loan of 100l. His estate is far under some who are set at 30l.; besides his journey into the North, and receiving his Majesty at Broxbourne at his first coming up, deeply emptied his purse. Prays to be eased of some good part of the privy seal.—Broxborne, 1 Oct. 1604.
Holograph. 1 p. (107. 47.)
Lord Zouche to [the Same].
1604, Oct. 1. Encloses schedule of fit men to be collectors of the loans. "If I thought I might obtain a lodging in Court I would not fail to desire it, being lodged so far off as my house does bestow me.—Ludlow, 1 Oct. 1604.
Holograph. Endorsed by Cranborne's secretary: "L. Zouch to my Lord." ½ p. (107. 48.)
The Duke of Lennox to Viscount Cranborne.
1604, Oct. 3. His suit for the alnage of cloth. He purposed to have been with Cranborne and the rest of the Lords, who are witnesses of the Lord Treasurer's consent and his Majesty's grant, to desire dispatch of the suit, but is stayed by illness. Sends the bearer, to attend the business for him, and begs Cranborne's assistance.—Hampton Court, 3 Oct. 1604.
Signed. 1 p. (107. 49.)
Nicholas Geffe to the Same.
1604, Oct. 4. Acknowledges Cranborne's favourable letters to the Masters of Requests. If some had pleased, he might have been freed within four days of his restraint, his cause appearing most just and the attempts of his adversaries most wicked. May not complain of his judges, but his adversaries have been tenderly handled and himself neglected. Has sent Cranborne a petition concerning Sir Edward Dyer's detention of money from him.—4 Oct. 1604.
Holograph. 1 p. (107. 50.)
Frances, Lady Chandos, to the Same.
[1604], Oct. 5. Cranborne with others of the Council wrote touching her being at London at the beginning of term. Begs to be forborne for a month, on account of urgent occasions. She is most willing to perform what belongs to her touching the assurance, so that she may have it confirmed by Parliament as their lordships assured her: otherwise her counsel assures her that she and my Lord's daughters are in no safety. Begs him to defend the right of the widow and fatherless.—Sudlye, 5 Oct.
Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (107. 51.)
The Same to the Council.
[1604], Oct. 5. To the same effect as her letter to Cranborne, of the same date.—Shudlye, 5 Oct.
Signed. 1 p. (107. 52.)
The Earl of Kildare to Viscount Cranborne.
1604, Oct. 5. Understands by Mr. Hadsor that the latter has offered Cranborne certain lands of the writer's near Cranborne Chase, Dorset. He will afford Cranborne a very reasonable bargain. The land is of necessity sold from him, for respects that are not fit to be written. Begs for answer.—5 Oct. 1604.
Holograph. 1 p. (107. 53.)
Edward Phelipps, George Speke, Nich. Halswell and 14 others to Viscount Cranborne.
1604, Oct. 6. An endeavour has been made many years to lay an imposition upon Somersetshire concerning a muster master's pay, and the matter is likely to come before the Council. The common people are so distasted with some course lately offered against them that they are more willing to undergo any charge whatsoever for the King's service than to satisfy that which, for a particular respect, is sought to be laid upon them. They commend the matter to Cranborne's wisdom upon the hearing.—Ilmister, 6 Oct. 1604.
Signed. Endorsed: "Gentlemen of Somersetshire." 1 p. (107. 54.)
Mary, Lady Denny, to the Same.
[1604], Oct. 6. Her son is the King's ward and under Cranborne's protection. Begs for letter to Lord Deputy of Ireland for the stay of certain lands there purchased by Mr. Denny; wherein her son is like to be supplanted by Patrick Crosbie. Details the circumstances. Has entreated her brother to attend Cranborne's answer.—Starford, 6 Oct.
Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (107. 55.)
Sir Daniel Dunn to the Same.
1604, Oct. 6. Expresses his gratitude to Cranborne for obtaining for him his place of service to the King and his pension.—Doctors' Commons, 6 Oct. 1604.
Holograph. 1 p. (189. 32.)
King James to the Same.
[1604], 7 Oct. My little beagle, though it be superfluous to heap coals on a burning fire, to throw water in the sea, to spur a free running horse, or to furnish more matter to deliberate on now when ye have all so heavy a task of weighty affairs laid upon your shoulders, yet such is the shortness and necessity of the time before the parliament as I must add one point more to be at this time deliberated upon amongst you; and that is the matter anent the Marches of Wales, for it will be both a great dishonour and inconvenient unto me, that the parliament should bandy that matter amongst them, before I be first at my wits' end into it. This far only I recommend to your considerations that a king's old prerogative in continual possession may be in as great security as a private subject's old possession; that the common law be not made to fight against the king's authority, that the abuse of a king's predecessor be not a ground to deprive his successor of his lawful and rightly used privilege, and that the country of Wales be not too justly grieved by dismembering from them their ancient neighbours. All other matters I remit to your care and diligence, but above all, be earnest in trying and severe in punishing the thievish purveyors, and take all the pains ye can to inform and tune well the parliament men.
But now will I go to higher matters and tell you what I have observed anent the effects of this late eclipse, for as the troglodites of the Nile that dwell in caverns, the shepherds of Arcadia dwelling in little cabins, the Tartars harbouring in their tents like the old patriarchs, so I having now remained a while in this hunting cottage am abler to judge of astronomical motions than ye that lives in the delicious courts of princes. The effects then of this eclipse for this year are very many and wondrous. It shall make divers noblemen at the Court loathe their wives and wish they were better married, such as Lennox, Pembroke, and Roxburgh. It shall make some widowers loth to marry again, the beagle knows who this is; yea, it shall make some who never were married loth to begin now; this riddle 3 [Northampton] can solve; and all those anticonjugal qualities do proceed from the malign influence of Phoebus' wrath with his sister Cynthia, for defrauding his spouse Rhea of the comfort of his beams by her unmannerly interposition; and the disdain also that Apollo has taken to have been so violently obscured hath made him strain himself to shine so much the brighter; and thereby he being also the god of all prophecy, divers great mysteries and secrets are discovered and brought to light this year. First a great dreaming divine hath closed his prophetical mouth and taken up his clister-spout again, and now very lately a strangely possessed maid, whose breast was nothing but a pillow for pins, is by the strength of love and the virtue of physick dispossessed of all her pins, and spoiled of the rest of her tricks, but especially by the merit of a perfumed tablet hanged about her neck, which is as powerful to banish the devil by the strong scent it hath as ever the smoke of Tobias fish liver was. Now if my Lord Knollys be yet a St. Thomas, as the apostle would not believe till he touched, so let him taste if he please of the tablet, and he will easily guess at the chief ingredient called Album Graecum, and therefore if any man knows any lawful impediment why this dreaming prophet and possessed maid may not be joined together in the bonds of matrimony, let him declare in time. Sure I am that these revelations were better bestowed on Stow's chronicle than to tell how many dishes of wild meat were served at the mayor's feast. Many other prodigious events are flowed from this eclipse sed me plura affari vetat Apollo. If Dr. Brusse have lied no more in all his prophecies he deserves a prophetic crown, an secus on my conscience he merits to be hanged. Thus thanking the beagle for this fine peaches and grapes I pray him to make my commendations to Suffolk and all the rest of his honest society.
Signed: James R.
Addressed: "To the King's best beagle if he hunt well now in the hard ways."
Endorsed by Cranborne: "7th October his Majesty from Royston." 2 seals on red silk. 2½ pp. (134. 79.)
The Earl of Shrewsbury to Viscount Cranborne.
1604, Oct. 7. This being the first messenger we have sent to the Court or London since we saw you, and never having heard from thence since our coming hither, we are very desirous to understand if you have acquainted his Majesty with that matter which we entreated you to do at Theobalds. We will send shortly to you for the finishing of that purchase, wherein we are so deeply bound to you, as can never be forgotten. From hence we can advertise you of nothing, but of the falling of the leaves, being compassed round about here with bushes and trees. God grant you there the spring of all good success in all your weighty affairs, being the chief homage we poor countrymen can do to you statists. My wife's best commendations with my brother Sir Charles's service.—Sheffield Lodge, 7 Oct. 1604.
Holograph. 1 p. (107. 56.)
The Archbishop of York to the Same.
1604, Oct. 8. The 7th inst. I received letters from the Council concerning the collection for Geneva &c. According to his Highness's direction by letters, I sent to all the bishops of this province, copies both of his Majesty's letter and of other letters from the Lords. I do not understand that any is collected in Northumberland, Cumberland or Westmorland. My Lord of Chester sent up what was collected in that diocese; and what could be got in this diocese was paid by Sir John Benet, to whom I wrote at that time that I had no hope to get any more, and am still in the same opinion, for these causes (1) the country generally complains of want, by reason of subsidy, double subsidies, the tenths, fifteens, lending of money to his Majesty, and before to Queen Elizabeth, not yet repaid. (2) This diocese is sore visited with the sickness, so as places not infected are greatly charged for relief of the infected. (3) Travellers that come from beyond the seas report generally that Geneva has been a good time in quietness and safety. These in my opinion are the chief causes why men are both less able and more unwilling to give any more.—Bishopthorp, 8 Oct. 1604.
Signed. 1 p. (107. 57.)
William Too[ker] to the Same.
[1604], Oct. 9. His Majesty of late nominated me to the Bishopric of Gloucester, by the recommendation of my Lords of Suffolk and Northampton; and afterwards sent for me into his withdrawing chamber, giving me his assurance, about which time I used all the means I could devise, for your comfort at Whitehall and Theobalds, for a farther proceeding in that cause. All which I find to have been reversed, to my great discouragement; for if I had understood of any competition I would gladly have desisted, and declined the expectation of a tedious suit. Now since his Majesty has signified his pleasure by my Lord of London to bestow upon me the Deanery of Christ Church, (the Lord Bishop of London concurring) and thinking it a place fit for my preferment in respect of academical learning, in all humility I beseech you that if I have received some approbation from you for certain years past, and of late at Wylton at the Council board, and never received any favour from any in Court for 20 years' service but only from you, give favourable passage to my suit. 9 Oct.
Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (107. 58.)
Captain John Salesburye to Viscount Cranborne.
1604, Oct. 9. In reply to the petition of Robert ap Eliza, and Allice the late wife of Eliza ap Llewelyn, tenants of his nephew John Salesbury the King's ward. The lands are parcel of Clockaynoch Park, assured by his brother Robert Salesburie in his life for the jointure of Lady Salesbury, the writer's sisterin-law, and afterwards assured over to the writer. Gives details of his transactions with petitioners in regard to the lands.—9 Oct. 1604.
Holograph. 1½ p. (107. 59.)
The Earl of Dorset to Viscount Cranborne, or the Lord of Barwick, if the Viscount be not in town.
1604, Oct. 11. Even now Mr. Worsnam was with me, and assures me from himself and the others to whom these causes of the rates are committed, that they cannot possibly accomplish it until the beginning of next week. But I, considering how fit it is that we deliver some good account of our labours to his Majesty on Sunday next, have urged him so that he has promised to sit all night with the rest to effect this business. We have 2: the first is the rate for the baies; that they make no doubt but to effect by to-morrow; the second is to estimate the rates, which is difficult to be done so soon, but it is promised to-morrow by 5. To save your labour and the rest of the Lords, I know no cause but that they may bring it to me, and I bring it with me to the Court, which shall be on Saturday next, and then you shall have it. If you be of the same mind, advertise my Lord of Barwick so, otherwise he will be at my house tomorrow to meet you and the rest. But if you mean to come to me on Friday, send me word to-day.—Thursday 11 Oct. 1604.
Holograph. 1 p. (107. 61.)
Sir William Monson to Viscount Cranborne.
1604, Oct. 12. Being come to Dunkark by my Lord Admiral's order with Sig. John Babtista de Taxes I thought it my duty to advertise you of occurrences here. This 12 October there came news of the death of the Prince of Orrang, who is said to be poisoned by a Frenchman in Parres for love that the Frenchman bore to his brother Count Morris.
Upon Sunday last the Governor of Dunkark was at Arras with the Constable, and the same day in his presence all unkindnesses betwixt the French King and the King of Spain was ended, the 30 in the 100 is taken away, and the same conditions of traffic that is betwixt the King of England and Spain is concluded betwixt the King of France and Spain.
The Hollanders continue their evil languages against his Majesty.—12 Oct. 1604.
Holograph. 1 p. (107. 62.)
Postal Endorsements: "These in hast Post hast hast Post hast hast.—Will. Monson. At Sandwich the 15 of October past 1 of the Clocke after noone. At Canterbury the 15 of October past 3 in the aftar noone. Seattingborne the 15 of octobre past 5 in the afternone. Rochester past 7 aclock at night. Darford at past 2 in the night. London paste 9 in the day."
John Talbot of Grafton.
1604, Oct. 13. Warrant to the Lord Treasurer to give order for pardon of the forfeitures of the recusancy of John Talbott of Grafton, Worcester.—Hampton Court, 13 Oct. 1604.
Unsigned. 1½ pp. (107. 63.)
Sir Samuel Bagenall to Viscount Cranborne.
1604, Oct. 13. Thanks Cranborne for allowing his suit, which he hears of by my Lord of Devonshire. Begs for speedy dispatch of it, as though he has the name of his Majesty's "payes," yet since the King came into England he has never received a penny of wages, and his other means are very small.—13 Oct. 1604.
Holograph. 1 p. (107. 64.)
Sir Anthony Ashley to the Same.
1604, Oct. 14. His absence is caused by having to attend a suit in the Chancery. He requested Sir Thomas Smith to attend hac vice.—14 Oct. 1604.
Holograph. 1 p. (107. 65.)
Lord Say and Sele to the Same.
1604, Oct. 15. As he hears that the King is now offered by his merchants and fishermen a great increase of rent to resume possession of the yearly fishing on the coasts and islands, of late years usurped by the Flemings; he thought it the more opportune to crave Cranborne's favour in his suit enclosed, which is to have days prohibited in inns and victualling houses for the eating of flesh without licence. For this he offers the King 100l. rent, and to Cranborne, 1,000l.—500l. now, and 500l. in 6 months. This will relieve him, "the poorest Baron in England."—15 Oct. 1604.
Holograph. 1 p. (107. 66.)
Richard Hanley.
1604, Oct. 15–26. (i) Information of seditious words used by Richard Hanley on Oct. 13, 1604.
Note that the Council orders a letter to be directed to the Sheriff of Salop to bring Hanley before them.—Ludlow, 15 Oct. 1604.
1 p. (140. 169.)
(ii) Warrant to the Sheriff of the county of Salop, to bring Richard Hanley to the Council of the Marches of Wales.— 15 Oct. 1604.
Unsigned.
Note to the Council, by Roger Owen the Sheriff, that he has brought Richard Hanley according to the warrant. 1¼ pp. (140. 168.)
(iii) Depositions of witnesses in the case of Richard Hanley: viz., Richard Horton, Olyver Davies, George Saints alias Farmer, Francis Sambrooke, John Griffith, Henry Justice and John Harcott.—20–26 Oct.
8 pp. (140. 170–4 and 178–9.)
1604, Oct. 23. Case of Richard Hanley, charged with uttering lewd and malicious words against the King. Interrogatories administered to Hanley, and his answers.—Ludlow, 23 Oct. 1604.
2 pp. (140. 175–7.)
The Archbishop of York to Viscount Cranborne.
1604, Oct. 17. Since his last letter concerning the collection for Geneva, Dr. Colmore, Chancellor to my Lord of Durham, has received in the bishopric of Durham 70l. 11s. 5d., which Mr. John Theker, one of his "registers," will presently pay there. Prays him to take knowledge by my Lord of London, my Lord of Durham, and Sir John Benet, of the most injurious dealing of Francis Browne, a man most unfit to write in any office, who has surreptitiously procured the King's grant to be Register to all the bishops, deans, archdeacons, and others having ecclesiastical jurisdiction in that province: which would be the undoing of a great number of dutiful subjects.—Bishopthorp, 17 Oct. 1604.
Signed. 1 p. (107. 67.)
Francis Gofton to Viscount Cranborne.
1604, Oct. 18. He was by warrant of August 11 commanded to call Richard Mellersh, late steward to Lord Cobham, to make his account; and also to acquaint Lady Kildare that, upon her conference with Cobham, some one might be joined with him (Gofton) for charging Mellersh with his receipts, and better examining his payments. Details his proceedings therein. Has not as yet received the Countess's resolution, and desires to know whether he alone shall take the accounts, to which he is a stranger, or whether Cranborne would join with him Thomas Rogers, now servant to the Earl of Northumberland, who followed Lord Cobham and is best able to charge Mellersh.— 18 Oct. 1604.
Holograph. Endorsed: "Auditor Gofton." 1 p. (107. 68.)
Peter Proby to the Same.
1604, Oct. 19. I send you the creation of the Duke of York, and those things then given him, to add to the grants he had while he was Earl of Cambridge, which he was made 11 E.3. And the grants formerly he had, being but Edmund de Langley, you have, namely of 21 E.3 for Warrin's lands to him, and entailed to John and Lionel his brothers 32 E.3.; the same, which formerly they had in general words, is now confirmed in particulars after that John was Earl of Richmond, and Lionel Earl of Ulton [Ulster]. And anno 37 E.3. Edmund, Earl of Cambridge, had Stanford, Grantham, &c.; anno 48 E.3 the lands in the north parts; and anno 51 E.3 the Duke of York, by the name of Earl of Cambridge, had unto him and Isabel his wife, Fodringay cum membris. These notes for the times, and the papers you already have for the things, show what the Duke of York had.—At the Records in the Tower, 19 Oct. 1604.
Holograph. ½ p. (107. 70.)
The Enclosure:
Extract 9 R.2, as to the creation of the Duke of York. 1 p. (107. 69.)
Lord Danvers to the Same.
1604, Oct. 19. Urges the speedy dispatch of his suit. The book as drawn is according to the Lord Chief Justice's own direction; and is but a surveyorship appointed over under sheriffs, bailiffs and such inferior ministers, to see that the King's duties pass clearly through their hands. The last two clauses, detailed, answer all objections.—Friday, 19 Oct. 1604.
Holograph. 1 p. (107. 71.)
Sir William Monson to the Earl of Nottingham.
[1604, Oct. 19.] I carried over Sig. John Babtista de Taxes, and returned him with his wife and family according to your directions. I find by the Hollanders which ride before Graveling that they have received late order from the States to impeach all English ships that shall trade to any port of the Archduke, and moreover that they shall burn all such vessels as they shall take in that trade, which they say they have warrant for out of England. Thus much I am informed this morning by a bark which came from them but the tide before, and was rifled by them, although there was no merchandise aboard her.
I am likewise certainly informed that there are 15 small flyboats and pinks of the Hollanders laden with fish in Yarmouth road, which are bound for Newport the next spring. Upon Monday last there was 5 others laden with wine and salt, which went peaceably into Newport, their men of war riding before the harbour. Myself can witness of 2 Flushingers that put into Osten upon Saturday in sight of 4 of their men of war, who never offered them violence. Thus you may see they are willing to relieve their enemy themselves, and to bar his Majesty's subjects of trade, which I refer to your good consideration.— Undated.
Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (107. 72.)
Postal endorsements: "These hast post hast hast post hast hast. Dover 12 at noone the 19th of October, Will. Monson. Canterbery 3 in the afternone. Seattingborne at 5 a Clock in the Afternone 19 of October. Rochester at 7 at night. [Da]rtford at 9 at night."
The Earl of Shrewsbury to Viscount Cranborne.
1604, Oct. 20. I received your letters, the first I had of any notice of his Majesty's good liking of the intended match, which we give you many thanks for acquainting his Majesty with. From my Lord Treasurer I have heard nothing at all. Concerning the Union, it is greatly to our comfort to hear there is like to be so good a harmony amongst you commissioners, as common report brings hither, which if it fall out to his Majesty's good contentment, will be for the good of our country and our posterity, being the only mark his Majesty aims at. My wife gives you many thanks for your honourable remembrance of her in my letter. As for her "schismes" or errors, which you wish her out of, she says that so oft as she remembers yours of that subject, she cannot but lament for you; but I leave the argument till you two meet to be further disputed, when I will be content to be the moderator. Yesterday we heard that your niece the Lady Susan and Sir Philip Herbert are contracted; we are most heartily joyed therewith.— Sheffeld Lodge, 20 Oct. 1604.
Holograph.
At foot: The Countess of Shrewsbury to the same. Charity can never prove heresy, and if you will allow that charity first begins with one's self, you will conclude well for me, so oft as you do without partiality think of the speeches past. I am very glad of an alliance with you, and besides many good reasons that I have to joy in it, it has somewhat removed a melancholy conceit I had, that whatsoever I earnestly wished would prove the direct contrary. God make it happy to them both and all their friends.
Holograph, signed: Ma. Shrewsbury. 1 p. (107. 73.)
Serjeant John Hele to Viscount Cranborne.
1604, Oct. 20. Acknowledges his numerous favours. "The malice of him that made the first bargain with me is insatiable. It is said that he will spend his best endeavours to put me from his Majesty's service. To prevent it I have no means but God and you; pardon all my distemperatures, and censure that they proceeded out of a troubled spirit. I assure myself of your honourable report to the King of the truth of my contempts."—From the Fleet, 20 Oct. 1604.
Signed. 1 p. (107. 74.)
Francis Michell to the Same.
1604, Oct. 20. Having spent this last summer, part before Sluis, part in travelling the several Provinces; in my journey through Holland I met Sir Calisthenes Brooke at the Hague. He recounted sundry passages in our converse both in England and Ireland in the Lord Burgh's days and since, not forgetting the friends of his lady's fortune, and how she lost those that then were and still are able to do most for her. We remembered you to be the only procurer of the pension she now lives on, but her ladyship had made an evil requital, by being too busy about a libellous "lost-letter" concerning you and the Lady Shurlye. And hereupon (which is the cause of my now writing) it was by you imagined, or by some her friends, or self, in excuse of her wrong doing, fathered, that I, living then with her as a trencher companion, must be either the deviser, contriver, or publisher of that letter. Though the party be dead, and so this reviver needless, yet for that I conceive I have just cause to mistrust that the true reason (though, as you may well remember, I had ever constantly and to purpose endeavoured to do unto you for these 16 years past all good offices possible and for that respect had lost some preferments, and held in jealousy to my very great hindrance to these days) that those my services coming from me seemed to be either altogether rejected as idle, or so little esteemed, as howbeit I have sundry times made some slight requests, yet I found a very slender success in everything; this taxation lying so heavy on me. For clearing whereof, I protest I am not guilty of so much as consent, and so I will depose before any magistrate cross-article-wise; yet can I not deny but since the fact, I could particularise very strangely by means of an ignoble relator: informing becomes any man better than one employed so often in place of trust as I have been: yet were it hard for flesh and blood to feel itself plunged, and not strive to get out any way rather than sink. Pardon my boldness. Sound judgments hold it expedient not to fear, or procrastinate to make apologies in a just cause to the greatest, leaving the success to God.—From the Unicorn's Head in Fleet Street, where I am ready at your command, and gaping after some preferment that may get me or save me bread and meat in recompense of my 20 years' experience and employments. 20 Oct. 1604.
Holograph. 1 p. (107. 75.)
Sir Edward Coke, Attorney General, to Viscount Cranborne.
1604, Oct. 21. I waited up late to have received instruction of what place or in what manner my brother Denney would take his name of dignity: for want whereof it was not possible for me to make a warrant.—21 Oct. 1604.
Holograph. ½ p. (189. 33.)
Sir Arthur Capell to the Same.
1604, Oct. 23. Has received a privy seal for the loan of 100l. He has compounded with his mother-in-law for the third of his whole living: and pays her 420l. a year. He has 10 sons and 6 daughters living: also 3 brothers and an uncle who have no living but from him. Has allowed his eldest son, who is married, a convenient portion. All these have from him 800l. a year and upwards. Begs to be dealt with according to Cranborne's wonted favour.—Haddham, 23 Oct. 1604.
Holograph. 1 p. (107. 76.)
Duke of Lennox.
1604, Oct. 23. Warrant to the Earl of Dorset, granting to the Duke of Lenox the office of alnager and collector of the subsidy of woollen clothes and other new draperies, for 21 years: excepting unto Michael Heidon the benefit of a patent granted to him for the same for the city of London; to Jeromy Downes for Somerset and Dorset; and to Sir Thomas Lucy for Worcester and Hereford.—Palace of Westminster, 23 Oct. 2 Jac.
Signed. 1 p. (107. 77.)
Peter Proby to Viscount Cranborne.
1604, Oct. 24. Details proceedings in a cause between Lord Bruce and him, apparently with regard to the right to some office. Lord Bruce has appointed him to be at the Star Chamber on Friday with his counsel. Prays he may be forborne bringing counsel for maintaining that which is a part of the royal prerogative: but that he may produce such records as will satisfy the lords and judges "that no subject hath the disposing of this the King's Treasury: and such as distinguishes his lordship's place, and the King's Treasury, to be several officers made by the Kings their immediate officers, and under no other."—At the Tower, 24 Oct. 1604.
Signed. 1 p. (107. 78.)
Lord Sydney to Viscount Cranborne.
1604, Oct. 24. I much desire to speak with you about Flushing, and also to take knowledge unto you of what I have understood from my sister has passed between you two concerning me: which I had done long ere this if your occasions had given me access to you. I will expect your good leisure, beseeching you to know that it is not passed over by me with want of either care or respect. This afternoon I fear I shall not attend you about the Queen's business, and beseech you that Friday may be appointed.—Baynards Castle, 24 Oct. 1604.
Holograph. 1 p. (189. 34.)
Sir Edward Coke, Attorney General, to the Same.
1604, Oct. 24. Begs Cranborne's favour on behalf of his ally and good friend Sir Christopher Heydon, for the farm of the customs in Norfolk.—24 Oct. 1604.
Holograph. ½ p. (189. 35.)
Lord Say and Sele to the Same.
1604, Oct. 25. Acknowledges Cranborne's favours of a suit he has in hand: "My noblest neighbour the Lady Wentworth hath often seemed to me desirous that either Sir Thomas Edmondes, or some good friend that you like to use therein, might further treat. I beseech you pardon me if I put you in mind thereof, she having imparted to me that she has been diversely sought, and yet prefers your honourable dealing before all other respects." As the office of the Cinque Ports, which his ancestor first had to support his barony, is by resumption gone from his house: and as the King, by the unthriftiness of his ancestor, William, Lord Say, enjoys several manors resumed worth 1000l. or 1500l. a year, he begs that in some of his suits he may find favour. Has lately, upon sight of a patent of a registership of York, got by Robin Brown, bought an office that stood him in 500l. out of the patent, being graced with a letter also to Lord Sheffield from the King to set Francis Brown in possession; and is like to lose 1000l. by it, if the King be not good to him. It is impugned by the Archbishop. If the King would, as her Majesty of everlasting memory did, make a royal visitation, which would be worth to him 30,000l. or more, he should bring unspeakable comfort to the laity, and reform many gross abuses in the spiritual courts.—25 Oct. 1604.
Holograph. 1 p. (107. 80.)
The Earl of Nottingham to the Same.
1604, Oct. 26. The bearer, Thomas Trevor, an auditor in reversion, desiring present employment, is a suitor to be auditor for the rates of the assarted lands appointed to be sold by us that are commissioners: which business concerning me, in regard of my office of justice in eyre of the King's forests, out of which the greatest sales of those lands are to be made, I would be glad to have such a one used in it, of whose sufficiency I have already had proof.—Hampton Court Lodge, 26 Oct. 1604.
Holograph. Endorsed: "L. Admiral." 1 p. (107. 81.)
The Earl of Shrewsbury to Viscount Cranborne.
1604, Oct. 26. I give you many thanks for your letters, which brought the proclamation of our sovereign's due style of Great Bretany, which is, as the text says, a good first stone of the excellent work of a further perfect union which now you are in hand to bring to pass. We countrymen can but pray to God so to illuminate all your minds with true understanding as that you all Commissioners concurring in one, may set down all particulars most agreeable to the good of us all and our posterities for ever, which is the only mark that our most royal King wishes. On Tuesday next I shall wish myself at your elbow, to hear our most worthy King of Great Britany speak to you Commissioners; God grant you all the grace to observe such princely directions in that business as I am sure will flow from him. My wife yields you many hearty thanks for remembering her in your letter. We look for a certain Welch Lord [Sir Philip Herbert?] here shortly to perform his word to us now, which we had about 4 months since. When he comes, we will inquire how you like of all our alliances with you in the late match made in the garden at Hampton Court. We have committed all we have to move your favour in to this bearer, our servant Cooke.—Sheffield Lodge, 26 Oct. 1604.
Holograph. 1 p. (107. 82.)
Sir Robert Johnson to the Same.
1604, Oct. 27. Albeit the distaste of his designs have robbed him of that ordinary access to his lordship he so earnestly longed for, yet beseeches pardon if he presumes to press into his remembrance, desiring nothing but that he would account him of that number who are more bound to him than to any one under heaven.—Tower, 27 Oct. 1604.
Holograph. Seal, broken. ½ p. (89. 19.)
Francis Michell to the Same.
1604, Oct. 27. Begs for Cranborne's request to the now elected Archbishop [of Canterbury] to continue him in the place of secretary, or to grant him a reversion of Wooddall's office. If the Archbishop will not, he begs to be sworn "extraordinary" to the King, Queen or Prince, in some place fitting his bringing up. If none of these can be granted, he asks for sufficient pass for 3 years' absence from the realm, so that he may receive no damage in the offices he has in reversion: some under the broad seal, some from the City of London, and some from others: also for help towards his travel, he purposing, in the habit of a merchant man or poor scholar, to wear out the time till something he has in reversion falls into hand, and to perfect himself in language and foreign experience.—From my poor lodging at the Unicornes Head near Fleete Condit, 27 Oct. 1604.
Holograph. 1 p. (107. 83.)
The Council of the Marches of Wales to Lord Zouche.
1604, Oct. 27. Richard Hanley, attached out of the Star Chamber at the suit of Sir Thomas Cornwall, uttered lewd speeches against the King: whereof Sir Thomas (being the King's sworn servant, and one of the Prince's chamber) giving them notice, they gave warrant for Hanley's removing hither, and remaining under the charge of the Sheriff of Salop. They enclose Hanley's examination. They understand by a letter from Mrs. Littleton that the day of his appearance in the Star Chamber is Nov. 9: and as she has procured bond for his appearance, she fears his detaining should cause the forfeiture of the bond. Sir Thomas, no less desirous to clear that suspicion, entreats that upon his charge Hanley may be sent up with one of the messengers of this Court: whereunto they have willingly condescended.—Ludlow, 27 Oct. 1604.
Signed: Gerv. Wigorn; R. Lewkenor; H. Towneshend; Ri. Atkyns; R. Barker. 1 p. (107. 84.)
Sir Griffin Markham to Viscount Cranborne.
[1604], Oct. 27. I understand from Lord Davers your commiseration towards me, and disposition to maintain the majesty of justice. I thank you for your many favours, and press you only to be enabled to live without beggary. Before this unfortunate action my brother Skinner had ruined my father's estate, and by obligations of all sorts should have ended it. This summer he wrote to the Lord Chancellor to submit his cause to his censure. I joined, and desire your lordships will command him to stand to it with the greatest expedition that may be. This is an important cause of my desiring [no] delay, because it concerns many, and touches my conscience for them. The second cause is that we have sold lands to a very great value, and have articled that I should have my pardon to confirm their securities by the latter end of next month. The third reason is his Majesty bestowed me upon Sir John Harington, to whom I am enforced to pay above 300l. more than I was bound in conscience or obligation to perform. The most grievous reason is that my friends, taking advantage of my misfortune, have shared and reconveyed from me all that either was my wife's jointure, or by right should descend to me: for all which I have endeavoured to bargain, and, might I speak with my mother, doubt not but to recover it. If you persist not in your commiseration many are hazarded, and I without doubt beggared, and so deprived of any ability by service to expiate my fault or show myself thankful.—From the Gatehouse, 27 October.
Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 2 pp. (107. 85.)
Lord Cobham's Lands.
1604, Oct. 27. Warrant by Lord Cranborne and the Earl of Dorset to Mr. Solicitor, altering the terms of the grant to Duke Brooke, Esq., of the entailed lands of the late Lord Cobham: certain rents having been received and disbursed for the King's service since the former warrant.—The Court, 27 Oct. 1604.
Copy. 1 p. (2365.)
Sir Richard Martyn to Viscount Cranborne.
1604, Oct. 28. Begs Cranborne's favour in the cause now before the Council touching his office, to which he was called above 30 years ago by the late Queen, and of which he has a grant for his life and his son's. Describes his labours therein, and Lord Burghley's favours to him. His adversaries make an objection of his age, yet he does more service in one month in the Mint than the Warden does in a year. If for age he should be put by his office, it were very hard, for it is well known that Cranborne's father in his old age was able to serve her late Majesty and the State in such sort as his great wisdom and virtue is not only yet in fresh memory amongst the English, but in all foreign nations of the world is admired of all men. Touching the preemption of bullion, for which the Warden for his own gain seeks to have a clause in the indenture, he details reasons against it. If it be granted, it will be a great dislike to the ordinary bringers of bullion to the Mint, and the merchants who now take bullion for their wares beyond seas: which they will alter into some other merchandise when they perceive it likely by this preemption that all the bullion will be engrossed and forestalled: whereby the King's profit of coinage would be much impaired. Prays to enjoy his office in peace for the few years he has to live.—"From my house in Westcheape, London, 28 Oct. 1604."
Holograph. 1 p. (107. 86.)
The Earl of Bath to the Same.
1604, Oct. 29. Thanks for his kindness shown him against Bushen the woodmonger. The bearer can deliver the wrongs that Bushen has offered him, in contempt of the Council's order. As Bushen neither regards the order, nor in any way respects him, he must take some other course for the preservation of his right. He desired Lord Nottingham and Nottingham's son, under whom Bushen has covered himself, to give the latter no more countenance against him. He received Cranborne's letter by his servant, whom he sent to see how Cranborne did, for he was sorry to hear Cranborne was not well.—"From my house in Towstocke, 29 Oct. 1604."
Signed. 1 p. (107. 87.)
Sir John Popham, Lord Chief Justice, to Viscount Cranborne.
1604, Oct. 29. Submits for Cranborne's censure the enclosed draft of a letter authorising Sir Thomas Foster to be the Prince's Serjeant at Law.—Serjeants' Inn, 29 Oct. 1604.
Holograph. 1 p. (189. 36.)
Henry Heynes to the Same.
1604, Oct. 30. Upon a request of the Earl of Southampton to you, after a motion made by the King to him, you directed your commission to me, as one of your deputies, to oversee his Majesty's game within Walthamstowe, Hackney, Old Ford and Stratford Langton Marshes, near London; since when I have diligently attended those places, and have made the game there very plentiful, for his Highness's better sport. I beseech you for the allowance of fees, 12d. by the day, that my predecessor had, in regard of the great trouble watching by day and night and charge of a servant.—30 Oct. 1604.
Holograph. 1 p. (107. 88.)
Lord Say and Sele to the Same.
1604, Oct. 30. Details the proceedings he has taken with the Lord Chief Justice in regard to his suit to have days prohibited in inns and victualling houses for the eating of flesh without licence. Thereby the King's revenue would be increased, his navy and customs augmented, double the plenty of God's blessings from the sea brought in, and all kinds of provisions and flesh far better cheap: and that notable abuse of the law prevented which now all victuallers use, that is to give an informer 20s. to inform against him, and a "checkor" man as much more that shall be bound not only not to prosecute himself, but thereby to prevent all others: whereby the victualler will be at liberty to spend and dress nothing but flesh. Details also the proceedings of Mr. Abington, son to the cofferer, by means of Nathaniel Edwards in the same suit. Begs Cranborne's favour therein.
Worthily upon the unnecessary weed of tobacco is a noble in the pound imposed. All interludes and common playhouses are as unnecessary, and yield no penny to the King: although for every comer in, 3d., 6d. or 9d. before they come in to the best places: if the King may not have 1d. for every comer in, he thinks the players worse worthy of the rest. Offers to give Sir Philip Harbert, or whomever Cranborne chooses, 1000 marks, and the King 40l. rent, if he may, for 21 years, have a penny a poll of all that come into playhouses throughout England. Offers to give my Lady Susan [Herbert] 1000 marks, and pay the King 40l. rent, for forfeitures under the law against grubbing up of woods and putting cattle into woods. Sir Edward Harbert is likely to be his neighbour at Woodstock.
Begs favour in the above suits, which he desires but to enable himself, when his Majesty comes often to Woodstock, to be able at Browghton to entertain him. The King's being there three days this year cost him 500l.
"Howsoever Fra. Brown speaks for his registership in York, yet for the good of this kingdom if Dr. Bennett's actions upon due proof shall appear as bad as articles Brown said he will prove true by many witnesses, then I beseech you to be a mean he may be reformed, and the subjects by him less grieved."— 30 Oct. 1604.
Holograph. 2 pp. (107. 89.)
Ric. Carmerden, Surveyor of the Port of London, to [Lord Cranborne].
1604, Oct. 31. There was taken up at the Custom House quay the 23 of July last "6 clocks at sight," which were seen by me and other officers. Because the owner affirmed these clocks were for the King's use, he was permitted to take them away free of custom, on condition to pay custom as they should be valued if he sold them to any other: for performance whereof Peter Cole became bound.—31 Oct. 1604.
Holograph. Endorsed: "Certificate for the taking up of certain Germany clocks brought over by Ultrick Hentz, German." 1 p. (107. 90.)
William Stallenge to the Same.
1604, Oct. 31. It is reported Cranborne has taken the farming of the customs. His place is very barren of employment, and he begs Cranborne to admit him and Mr. Bagg of this town to be partakers of the farm. They are willing to enter in profit or loss upon the said customs for 10,000l. per annum. If there be no means for partnership, he prays for employment in some place of credit here or at London. At the request of the Spanish Ambassador's servants, he sends their letters to the Conde by this packet. His Majesty's ship the Quittance arrived here on Friday with the rest of her company, where they attend a fair wind to carry them farther.—Plymouth, last of October 1604.
Holograph. 1 p. (107. 91.)
Sir Thomas Bennett, Lord Mayor, to the Same.
1604, Oct. Of the unjust assessment made, in this late loan of 15,000l., on divers poor inhabitants, and especially among the inferior Companies: which hard proceedings were imputed to his fault. It was generally thought most fit by the commons of the city to be assessed upon Companies, because it was supposed the Masters and Wardens would best know the abilities of their members; and also because eight years since a loan of 20,000l. was assessed upon the Companies, with such good satisfaction to all parties that it was followed as a precedent. But as soon as he understood that divers of the poorer sort were rated among some of the inferior Companies, contrary to their meaning, he blamed the Masters and Wardens for their unjust proceedings, and gave them special order to assess no man but such as were rated at 5l. or 4l. at least in the subsidy, or was otherwise well known able to bear it; which was the rule observed in other Companies.—London, October 1604.
Signed. 1 p. (189. 37.)
Patentees for Saltpetre and Gunpowder.
[1604. Oct.] "Requests of the patentees for the making saltpetre and gunpowder for the covenants to be made between the King's Majesty and them." First they offer to covenant with his Majesty for the delivery of 60 lasts of good gunpowder yearly into his Majesty's store, after the rate of 5 lasts every month; one moiety whereof to be cannon corn powder, and the other moiety to be calyver corn powder, at the rate of . . . ., and all other gunpowder that they shall make by his Majesty's commission, so long as they may enjoy it, according to its true meaning.
And they desire of his Majesty a covenant and warrant to the Lord High Treasurer of England for payment of the 5 lasts monthly, and so many lasts more as shall be delivered, after the same rate, according to the certificate by the Officers of the Ordnance of the proof and receipt thereof.
Whereas the patentees covenant with his Majesty for delivery into store of all gunpowder made of any saltpetre made by his Majesty's commission, they desire liberty to sell all gunpowder found upon proof unserviceable for store, to any of his subjects within his realm of England; and also liberty to sell to any nobleman or other subject small quantities of gunpowder so it be not above — cwt. to one man at one time.
They further desire that if at any time it happen during the continuance of the commission that they make any greater quantity of gunpowder than shall be thought fit to be taken into store, or that powder be not made for gunpowder by them delivered for his Majesty's service within — days next after delivery, that then they may sell the residue of gunpowder and saltpetre in their hands to any his Majesty's subjects within the realm of England.
Memorandum, that a nomine pene be inflicted upon the patentees if they fail to perform the monthly proportion by them undertaken according to the former contract.
Draft. Endorsed: "1592" (sic) and by Cranborne, "Patentees for powder." 1 p. (169. 19.)
The Same.
[1604, Oct.] "Offer of John Evelyn, Richard Harding and Robert Evelyn, his Majesty's patentees for making saltpetre and gunpowder for his service and the realm."
They set out the conditions they are prepared to observe in digging for saltpetre; no place to be digged but once in six years except when extraordinary service is required for the safety and defence of the state. They will not dig in any pigeon houses, which are the chiefest nurses of saltpetre, but one hour in one day, where the owners themselves continue; as long time when they draw the young pigeons, and that between nine and three o'clock of the same day.
In consideration of which, of their extraordinary charges and of the saving of 20,000l. of the treasure of the kingdom within the realm which otherwise would be exhausted and the maintenance of 1000 people with their distressed families by this trade, they undertake to serve his Majesty with 120 or 100 lasts per annum, and at the end of the term to leave the grounds in much better estate than they now are.
They desire that if at any time it please the Lord Treasurer, or Master of the Ordnance or Lieutenant that no more powder shall be brought into the store, they may have one year's warning before the ceasing of service.
Endorsed: "1592" (sic), and by Cranborne, "Evelyn's offer concerning powder." 2 pp. (169. 20.)
[Another copy in S.P.Dom. James I, Vol. IX, No. 68.]
Richard Bell to the King.
[1604, Oct.] Was warden clerk of the West Marches. Presents a book of his collections of the laws of the Borders and treaties bypast. As through the Union the Border offices are not now necessary, and he loses 100 marks a year, he begs for a pension of 30l. a year or other allowance.—Undated.
Petition. 1 p. (196. 101.)
The Commissioners for Border Causes to the Same.
[1604, Oct.] Commending for recompense Richard Bell, late warden clerk upon the West Marches for 30 years.— Undated.
Signed: Hen. Carliolen; Johnestonne; Nicholas Curwen; Richard Lowther; Richard Musgrave; Willm. Selby; Ch. Hales; Henry Widdrington; John Dalston; Wm. Fenwicke. 1 p. (196. 100.)
[See Calendar of S.P.Dom., 1603–1610, p. 167.]
[Viscount Cranborne] to the [Earl of Ormonde].
[1604, Oct.] Although the dispatch of your business is sufficient answer concerning Mr. Rothe's employment, yet I must also do him this right to tell you that besides his affection to do you service, he carries himself with that discretion which is very serviceable to you in these times. I return you many thanks for your hawk, with this profession, that howsoever the conclusion of that business may come short of your expectations, who are now farther removed from the knowledge of many particulars, wherein those that are councillors must lay aside unreasonable private respects; yet I have given sufficient testimony to have done you such offices as were in my power, and so will I continue to do in anything else when I shall find any reasonable grounds to stand upon. Mr. Routh was no way provided to move us as it appeared by the unreasonable proposition which he made us in the last request, except we should have notoriously neglected his Majesty's service.—Undated.
Draft with corrections by Cranborne. 1 p. (130. 167.)
On reverse: Draft letter recommending Mr. Roath, a follower of the Earl of Ormonde, about whose occasions he has remained here and is now returned to Ireland.—Undated.
In hand of Cranborne's secretary. ½ p.
[See Calendar of S.P. Ireland, 1603–1606, p. 208.]