Calendar of the Cecil Papers in Hatfield House: Volume 16, 1604. Originally published by His Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1933.
This free content was digitised by double rekeying. All rights reserved.
'Cecil Papers: Miscellaneous 1604', in Calendar of the Cecil Papers in Hatfield House: Volume 16, 1604, (London, 1933) pp. 393-468. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-cecil-papers/vol16/pp393-468 [accessed 25 April 2024]
Miscellaneous 1604
| Sonnet by King James. | |
| [1604]. | |
|
Full many ane tyme the archier slakkis his bow That afterhend it may the stronger be: Full many ane time in Vulkane's burning stow [stove] The Smith does water cast with careful ee. Full oft contentions great arise we see Betwixt the husband and his loving wife That sine they may the fermlyer agree When ended is that sudden choler strife. Yea, brethren loving uther as their lyfe Will have debates at certain tymes and hours. The wingéd boy dissensions hot and rife 'Twixt his lets fall like sudden summer showers. Even so this couldnes did betwixt us fall To kindle our love as sure I hope it shall. Finis J.R. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604. Sonnet of his Majesty." (133. 49.) |
|
| King James to [Viscount Cranborne]. | |
| [?1604]. | My little beagle, you cannot think how great pleasure you did me in your discreet dealing with Cumberland, whereby you relieved me out of a strait that could not but have fashed me, and I protest to God I know none living I could have employed on such an errand but you. As for his suit anent the Debatable Lands you know how that matter was left and what was last offered for them, being a far greater rent than ever he would speak of, and therefore since it is to be an improved rent I look that he will pay for me as much as others would if he will have it, since he never craved it upon any other condition but for the uttermost value. I am heartily glad that he hath at this time so worthily behaved himself in all respects, and I shall be much more glad if God will yet restore him again unto us after so good an estimation as he hath now conquered unto himself. For his place of council in case it should be void ye need never doubt of my resolution not only to make them swear according to the act but also never to make a councillor for the request or suit of any living, but only out of my own judgment and conscience to make choice of him whom I think fittest for that place, as I do with the bishops; and therefore the only intercession that I will admit for a councillor must be his own piety, good fame, wisdom, sincerity, discretion, experience and diligence; and if those seven good fellows concur in soliciting me for a councillor's place they shall be sure to have more credit with me than any fourteen persons living. Now as for that point in your own letter wherein ye desire to be satisfied, I cannot but confess that it is an horror to me to think upon the height of my place, the greatness of my debts and smallness of my means. It is true my "hairte" is greater than my rent, and my care to preserve my honour and credit by payment of my debts far greater than my possibility. This cannot but trouble me at home and torture me abroad, for I confess though I have more exercise of body here I have less contentment of spirit than at home, for there by conference I get some relief and here I do only dream upon it with myself; and therefore as ye have perfectly used the first part of a physician's office in rightly describing the nature of the humour that troubles me, so lies it only in your hands and your fellows' by using also the other part of that office perfectly to cure me, which is by your pains and labours to take away the cause of my care in letting me see how my state may be made able to subsist with honour and credit, which if I might be persuaded were possible I would be relieved of a greater burden than ye can imagine. And you that are councillors must I only use and trust in this. Your resolution will comfort me absent and your honest account at my return will make me happy at home. I know great in weight and infinite in number are my affairs that your fellows and ye are now in hand with, and yet urgent is the necessity that they be done before the sitting down of the Parliament; but your zeal and diligence is so great as I will cheer myself in your faithfulness and assure myself that God hath ordained to make me happy in sending me so good servants, for whose sake I protest to God I shall have greater desire to live than for my own, and as for the beagle in special I have had from Dunbar a long discourse of your pains the last day, I can say no more but what you promise for me I shall be loth to break to him whom before God I count the best servant that ever I had, albeit he be but a beagle: for I know that what ye do in this errand of my profit ye do it not out of the duty of your office but only for your love to my person. But I suspect Dunbar's report of you lest ye as two knaves do recommend one another for cozening of me, and so recommending the master falconer unto you that every one of your society may bestow a pipe of tobacco upon him I bid you and them all heartily farewell. James R. |
| PS. |
In the matter of the house because ye seem to write
slightly that ye have been thinking upon some projects in it
I have only to recommend unto you such an honourable and
reasonable order is fit to be taken with it now that it may never
be altered again but stand like a Persian law during my life. Addressed: "To the little beagle that lies at home by the fire when all the good hounds are daily running on the fields." Holograph. Seal on pink silk. Endorsed: "The King's Majesty to me." 2½ pp. (134. 49.) |
| King James to [Viscount Cranborne]. | |
| [?1604]. |
My little beagle, now that the master falconer is
bearer hereof, I must inform you how welcome your grapes
were unto me; but although I must confess I did eat more of
them in shorter space than ever I did of any since I came in
England, yet in truth ye was a prophet against Harbert, for
that monkey hath eaten five of them wherever I did eat one.
And I have also stranger news to tell you, that the number of
letters that I have written since I came from home is equal to
the number of hares that all this time I have killed. Therefore
ye are in greater peril of me nor my old father for your office,
since I am so prettily exercised in it already; and in proof
thereof if I had been secretary to Worcester's letter anent the
puritans, I would never have talked a word of deambulatory
council, of their victory upon their petition, nor any such
satirick phrases, but only that upon a sight we had of the dean's
letter and being uncertain whether his Majesty's direction did
proceed upon wrong information or that we had mistaken his
Majesty's meaning therein, we thought good to represent the
true state of that matter before his Majesty's eyes that he might
thereupon clear his meaning unto us; which we well knew to
be ever one and alike in all his royal resolutions. Look now
how bravely I play the part of a secretary; and as for the
Union matter make the best of it ye can as I have already
written, either satisfy me in the form of the preface or conclude
the articles and suspend the preface, or let it go as it is, but then
I will directly speak against it at the presenting of it to the
Parliament; or if the only impediment be that the commissioners will not bide together an hour longer, then spare me
not; upon the least word I shall post thither; they cannot
refuse to stay one day upon me, but upon condition that I
may go back when that is at a point for some few days further
recreation, for I swear I have been little less busy in affairs
this time past than ye have been; and thus I bid you farewell
almost as bleared as the beagle. Holograph. 2 seals. Endorsed by Cranborne: "His Majesty's second by Sir Roger Aston." 1 p. (134. 55.) |
| The Same to [the Same]. | |
| [?1604]. | My little beagle, the bearer hath craved my determinate answer anent his suit, whereupon I first opened unto him the care which you his auditors had to see him both quickly and reasonably satisfied, in so far as notwithstanding my last journey to London was like a flash of lightning, both in going, stay there and returning, yet did ye not pretermit that posted minute of time without the full and true informing me of the whole success of that business, and what was the determination of the judges therein. Whereupon I told him that because I had not will to make him linger any longer here to his greater charges having so willingly attended all the time of the commissioners' sitting, as also that the weal of my service did require his present attendance in the place of his [Lord Sheffield's] employment, (fn. 1) I would therefore deal frankly and plainly with him. First, I doubted not but he did discern of my good will to help him, by employing none in his errand but those and only those whom himself did name unto me; next, I did refer it to his discretion to consider how fit a thing it was for me now in the beginning of my reign here, not to oppose myself to the opinion of the judges, especially in a popular matter wherein in case the judges were partial for their own private ends, yet might they easily enflame the people to apprehend it as a common cause, though it were not truly so in nature; and yet that he might have a taste of my favour for his further enabling in my service I was contented to give him a pension for his life time of as great value as ever either the late queen or I ever gave to any subject, to wit 1,000l. To this he answered that this would do him no good, he was already 10,000l. in debt and that he spent as much as that by the occasion of his presidentship, beside all the gain that he could make of his office. I told him that as he considered his own part, so must he give me leave to consider mine; that a king could not help a subject by the measure of the suitor's [need] but by the consideration what himself might well spare, that my liberality ought not to be measured by his want, for I was bound to be no man's banker; what it would be in his account that received it I know not, but sure I was that it was a fair gift for me to give. Then began he to enter in comparisons with others that had received benefits from me, that he would exchange his gift with any man's although his merit had been equal with theirs, that if he had been as early importune as others he had sped better, with some little imputation both upon the judges and upon the "counsall" that draw him piece and piece upon this extremity, with an earnest affirmation that his suit would make me a great certain commodity, whereof the judges would have cozened me if he had not opened the mystery thereof. Whereupon I wished him not to judge of my liberality now according to the form thereof the first quarter of the year after my coming here; that the more I had already given the less I might spare in times to come, and that I was sure that as he was an Englishman he would wish me to live in that form that the kings of England had lived in before; that I had given to every one as I might best spare and was fittest for them to receive and yet with a due regard of their merits to some honours, to some offices, to some lands, and to some pensions, and to himself I had given an honourable preferment for maintenance, whereof because I knew his weak estate I was moved now to allow him this help, not for filling up all his wants but for the better enabling him to serve in that place; as to his merit he could claim none of me, for I protested that before the Queen's death I never knew that there was a Lord Sheffield living in England. At this he chafed, and said that those that I knew before this time knew well enough his mind to my service. I answered him that if at that time he had required any man to have acquainted me with his mind, then surely he was evil dealt with by them; but if not, then can he blame none but himself, for as to his good mind there is never a man in England that claims not to the like. O then he reckoned that I had repaired the ruins of every nobleman's estate in England except his, at least that had done any service to the preterite state. I told him he was far deceived in that count and that I was daily troubled with the poor Lord Cromwell's begging leave to sell the last pieces of his land, who had valiantly served the State in the wars as well as he; and as for the great profit that he said would come to me by the means of his overture, I said I was not too envious of his weal so it were not against mine, but I was contented if the judges would under their hands promise to make this matter worth 10,000l. a year unto me he should with good will have 2,000l. of it, if 15,000l. he should have 3,000l., but the thing that I spoke of was a sure thing to him all the days of his life, and I to bear the hazard of the other as it fell forth, and that as I had already told him never greater gift of that nature was given in England. Great Oxford when his state was whole ruined got no more of the late Queen; I myself bestow no more upon Arbella my near cousin, nay a foreign prince of Germany that was here the last year got not so much, but most of all myself being heir to this crown got but thrice as much, and I was sure, I said, he would not deny that I had been thrice more steadful to the State than ever he had been; and since he took example by other men's gifts I asked him what example would other men take of his gift being bestowed upon no greater person than a baron? To this there was no answer but that if this was my resolution he behoved to quit his office and in retired life pray for me; and so we parted. But immediately he followed me and said that he would accept my offer for a certainty, but he would only crave that if my profit of his overture did yearly amount to such a reasonable value as I would agree upon, that then I would give him another 1,000l. yearly out of that augmentation. I told him I knew not in what form that could be done, yet he humbly insisted with me that heard his matter to advise upon it; but how this can be I know not except it were by a private promise, that if I get by this suit yearly 10,000l., 1,000l. thereof shall be added to his pension. Thus have ye laid before you the whole discourse of this flight and how many stoopings I made upon him, which I ordain you the beagle to impart only to those of your fellowship that heard his cause; and so fare well. |
| PS. |
My little beagle, my Lord of Berwick hath something
to speak to you alone which must be done with all secrecy. Holograph. Endorsed by Cranborne: "The King's Majesty concerning the Lord Sheffield." 4½ pp. (134. 56.) |
| King James to [Viscount Cranborne]. | |
| [?1604]. |
My little beagle, although I be now in the midst
of my paradise of pleasure, yet will I not be forgetful of you and
your fellows that are frying in the pains of purgatory for my
service. I do so greedily expect good news from you anent
your proceeding there as I protest I am but half a man until
I hear of the good end of that wearisome work, only your care
must be to preserve things from extremities in case crosses do
fall out, and to keep things from such conclusions as may be
justly displeasing unto me, sed melius ominor and I do strengthen
myself by the trust I have in so good servants whom to [sic]
I hope no virtuous things how difficult as ever being undertaken
meis auspiciis shall be impossible. Although I have many other
turns to remember you of, yet will I not trouble you with
any of them, till ye have first well put off that great errand
ye have now in hand; and so I make an end with my hearty
commendations to all your honest society and hoping that
3 [Northampton] and 10 [Cranborne] will pardon me for my
overwatching them the last night and morning that I was
amongst you. James R. Holograph. Endorsed by Cecil: "His Majesty to me." 1 p. (134. 59.) |
| Memoranda by King James. | |
| [?1604]. | 1. Anent my brother's discourse with me and what honours are fittest to be bestowed upon him before his departure. |
| 2. Order to be taken with Cumberland and the border matters before Christmas. | |
| 3. My son Charles his style to be put to a point. | |
| 4. For a resident ambassador in Spain to go with the admiral and what to resolve anent sending of the garter there or not. | |
| 5. Anent the matters of France and the Low Countries that matters may be made as ripe as may be against my return. | |
| 6. Whether the parliament shall hold at the prefixed time or not and all the considerations on both sides to be well weighed. | |
| 7. That a solid course be taken for the conformity of Cambridge to the church's canons and for deposing all recusant puritans and to make it sure that the like course be kept with Oxford. | |
|
8. That my great entail be put to an end. In the King's hand. Endorsed: "Memoriall." 1 p. (134. 51.) |
|
| King James to [the Council.] | |
| [1604]. | First I never changed the smallest jot of my conclusion in this point and therefore there needs no fear be had of my deambulatory council; and if I had been upon any new resolution I would have directed some better warrant than the dean's letter in that errand. |
| Secondly I never before conceived the difference between real obedience and promise by subscription to obey, and if I erred anything herein it was upon this respect, that I thought if there was any degree of difference between real obedience (I mean in absolute obedience to all the church government) and promise by subscription to obey, I then thought that to wear the surplice indeed, to use cross after baptism and do all the like in effect was a greater obedience than to subscribe that they shall do it and when the storm is past never perform a word and protest that their subscription was only ex justo metu; and therefore I thought that if they presently conformed themselves and after that would refuse to subscribe to that which in deed they had already performed it would be a means to make their vanity appear, and every man to pity them the less. But on the other part I never meant that this should have been done as by a grace from me, and therefore my hand was never yet seen to such a motion but only that the bishops, if so they had thought good, might have tried this trick upon them as of their own heads for their further confusion. | |
| Thirdly I am so far from yielding anything for fear of their popularity, as I am heartily glad of your stoutness in this case that are councillors, for if I be grown so easy now to be threatened I am sure it is in my last days, and therefore since I am interpreted to have inclined this way for fear of their mutiny, my resolution is that the bishops go on now with their own course according to the proclamation and if my eye either spare or pity any of the disobedient, then let me incur both the shame and the harm in God's name. | |
|
Lastly if my continual presence in London be so necessary,
as my absence for my health makes the councillors to be without
authority or respect, one word shall bring me home and make
me work till my breath work out, if that be the greatest well
for the kingdom; but I cannot think that course so needful if ye
make not mountains of mole-hills, as in this case interpreting a
conjectural motion to a royal decree, wherein if ye had not
mistaken me ye needed not to have troubled so far your own
minds and my hand. James R. Holograph. 2 pp. (134. 52.) |
|
| Thomas Allyson to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [1604]. |
For these six years past have I been vigilant to give
advertisement of such occurrents against the State as I could
learn of from those professed enemies of this commonwealth,
the Jesuits, priests and their adherents. During 5 of those
years I applied myself wholly to my Lord Chief Justice. By
accident I became known to Sir Thomas Challoner, and with his
consent together with Sir William Wade's, was I furnished for
a journey into France, where by the subtilty of him with whom
I had to do, one Anthony Greneway, I was mystically put in
belief I should learn of an employment might raise my fortunes,
and one Archer a Jesuit with some others' names were darkly
cast out to me as men that should manage such a business.
This being all discovered to them, (though Sir William Wade was
somewhat distrustful of any such event from thence), when we
came over my comrade would make no stay in France, but told
me it was policy to give it out we went thither, as he did to
some before our departure hence, and to direct our journey
another way, because, quoth he, a man cannot pass so secretly
but he shall have spies set over him. Then to Brussels we went,
and both there and elsewhere what success we had in all business
I have particularly set down in a book which I hope you are
now no stranger unto. Since my return I have incessantly
laboured to know your pleasure, and whether I might be suffered
to hold correspondence with Owen, and be directed accordingly;
or what I should bend myself unto, which as yet I could never
compass, but the delay I have found has hindered much the
good of my business, and prejudiced some men in me. Yet
now if I lose not the opportunity I doubt not but to do his
Majesty good service. And this one thing above the rest I
beseech you conceive of; being a matter I meant to have
sounded the depth of before I had purpose to discover it. One
Sherewood, chaplain to the Pope's Nuntio at Brussels, assured
me he knew there was a plot drawn against the King of England
by Owen and the fathers, whereof he had delivered a copy to
the Nuntio, insinuating with him to possess the Duke withal;
and, quoth he, the N[untio] far expostulated with Owen
that he promised to take a fit time to speak with the Duke
about it. The chaplain, out of the protested interest we have
in each other, told me this and further said at my request he
would adventure to get me a copy of it, the same time telling
me that one Fowler (who is now in London and of my inward
acquaintance) was an agent for Owen here. And if you allow
me, I will not fear to get copies, both of it and the reasons
framed to the A[rch]duke and the Constable, upon the conclusion
of the peace, to persuade them to distrust his Majesty, and to
have wrought both Pope and King of Spain to the like. Thus
far I will engage, even with the hazard of my life or utter overthrow, to do his Majesty as good service as any man, if I may
receive now and then some directions from you, as the necessity
of the cause shall require. If you think me unfit to deal any
further in these affairs, I beseech you those small debts I am run
into through these occasions may be paid, and I discharged
without discovery, and left to follow the course I have so long
neglected, being the law, wherein I am professed; or else some
present means be allowed me to go on.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (108. 31.) |
| Francisco Fernandes de Angulo to the King. | |
| [1604]. |
He is eschevin of Cadiz, and proveedor of the armies
of the Indies there. He is of the house of Angulo de Oteo,
founded by a Scottish cavalier of the house of the Earls of
"Argaill," who went into Spain in the time of the first Kings
of Castile. He has always been a protector of the Scottish
merchants there, and desires to be appointed consul of the
English, Scottish and Irish there.—Undated. Unsigned. French. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (108. 107.) |
| M. de Soulby Anjouant, Agent of Geneva, to the Same. | |
| [1604]. | Begs in the name of his lords that Geneva may be included in express terms in the treaty which his Majesty is now making with the King of Spain. |
| The Duke of Savoy made a treaty of peace with the States of which Geneva was one at St. Julien. This was concluded and signed on 20 July 1603 and ratified by his Highness on 25 July following and has since been verified by the Senate and Chamber of Accounts of Savoy. To this Peace Don Sancho de Luna on the part of the Count of Fointes summoned the lords of Geneva by Captain Sebastian Tulebro, envoy express to their lordships, with instructions of 20 May, 1603, signed Don Sancho de Luna y de Roiag. | |
|
As the said lords of Geneva extend the said treaty with
his Highness as a free city and republic and of ancient times have
often made alliances with princes and republics and are even
in a perpetual treaty with the crown of France, like the gentlemen
(messieurs) of the Leagues, by the treaty made at Soleurre in
1579, the agent prays that in the article in which his Majesty's
friends will be comprised Geneva may be added as "the Republic of Geneva or the Town of Geneva and its subjects."—
Undated. Holograph. French. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (109. 54.) |
|
| The Armour makers, Gunmakers, and like artificers of London and the Suburbs, to the Upper House of Parliament. | |
| [? 1604]. |
King Henry 8th sent for artificers from Germany
to teach his subjects to make munitions of war: who were so
careful to learn that this realm has ever since been better
furnished therewith than any other. In the late Queen's time
there were 35 armour makers in London and the suburbs. They
are so greatly decayed for want of sale for their armour, that
only 5 now remain; and they are likely to be extinguished
because the statute of 4 & 5 Philip & Mary, authorising magis
trates to enjoin a provision of armour and weapons, is repealed
by a Statute of 1 [Jac.]. They beg the House to take some course
whereby the said trades may be continued.—Undated. 1 p. (196. 94.) |
| Assarts. | |
| [1604]. |
A summary and definition of assarts, with an account
of a petition from the owners of assarted lands, that their titles
may be debated, and a clear decision arrived at in the House of
Lords; as hitherto all their proceedings in the matter have
proved fruitless.—Undated. Unsigned. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (109. 77.) |
| Captain John Atkinson to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [1604]. |
You have been informed that I have sought to raise
a monopoly or licence upon playing cards made in the land;
or that the cardmakers might have power to dispense with the
bringing in thereof. Their endeavours are merely to the contrary, seeking only to settle this manufacture within the realm
for the maintenance of them and their families; which being
lawful and reasonable, and having some friends about his
Majesty, I became a suitor in their behalf. This is the sum of
that I have done, and that in a time when every man sought to
benefit himself by suits. Neither does my Lord Chancellor,
or my Lord Chief Justice, to whom this has been referred, seem
to dislike thereof.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (108. 34.) |
| Peter Bales to the Same. | |
| [1604]. |
He was commanded by his Majesty to teach the
Prince to write, and was promised a crown a day pension. He
begs for the payment thereof; also for reward for writing and
presenting to his Majesty "his Basilicon Doron for the Prince,
in a small volume to be worn as a tablet book." He is ready
to deliver to his Majesty a most secret cypher, impossible to be
decyphered but where the observations are shown; also to
disclose a manner of close conveyance of letters of greatest
importance, without finding them about the messenger by any
search whatsoever.—Undated. Holograph, signed, "Peter Bales, the Small Writer, Writing Schhoole Mr. to the Prince." Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (108. 36.) |
| William Ball, executor to the late Lord North, to Lord [Cranborne ?]. | |
| [1604]. |
Lord [Cranborne] has commanded the payment of
80l. supposed to have been in Lord North's hands, but to belong
to the county of Cambridge. The estate is now distributed,
save one legacy to Sir Henry North, and could not now be re
called. Even if Lord North had the above sum, yet he bestowed
almost 300l. in building a great Shire House and Nisi Prius
House for that county; and Ball prays that this may be allowed
to recompense the other. Refers to the report of the Lord
Chief Justice, who is overseer of the will.—Undated. Petition. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (189. 63.) |
| The Earl of Bath to the King. | |
| [1604]. |
Has had great contention with one Bushton, a
carpenter about the passage of wood and timber through his
and his nephew's, the Earl of Bedford's, lands. Moved by the
complaints of his neighbours and tenants, he forbade Bushton
to come that way; but he has by untrue suggestions
obtained a licence under the King's hand to do so. Thereby
the country has been greatly wronged, and himself very much
disgraced, and he craves for redress. Has sent informations on
the matter.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (108. 45.) |
| Henry Bedingfield. | |
| [1604]. |
Case stated with regard to Henry Bedingfield, a ward,
son of Thomas Bedingfield; and the demand of William
Jernegan and Frances his wife, formerly the wife of Thomas
Bedingfield, for dower. Lands in Norfolk & Suffolk.—Undated. Endorsed: "1604." 1½ pp. (108. 127.) |
| The Translation of the Bible. | |
| [1604]. | "An order set down for translating of the Bible." |
| The names of the translators are set down under the six companies, two companies at each of the three places, Westminster, Cambridge and Oxford, at which they were to meet and confer, and the books of the Old and New Testaments and the Apocrypha assigned to each company are given. These are followed by the rules to be observed in the translation. | |
|
The list and the rules do not differ materially from those
printed in Fuller's Church History, Book X, p. 45, save that
the particulars in the latter of the academical and ecclesiastical
qualifications of the translators are not given in this paper. Endorsed by Cecil: "Concerning the translation of the Bible." 3 pp. (102. 126.) |
|
| John Birde to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [?1604]. | Is fallen as a bird weary in her flight into Ludgate as the best of London hells. 10l. would bring him to Cranborne for discovery of such important matters as may be for his honour in high measures and the profit of the King in his wronged hereditary right many thousands. |
|
Upon the Earl of Essex's death he chanced to meet one that
had vowed to cut off Cranborne's head and upon warrant from
the Lord Chief Justice to the Sheriff of Surrey and to his own
servants and officers for his resorting places, his apprehension
to answer capital matters could not be wrought. When he
was told that he lay in wait for Cranborne's life, feared not with
his sword bent to his throat to make him yield to be committed
by a justice, and forestood no time or charges to take sundry
attestations of witnesses, ratified before Sir John Paiton then
Lieutenant of the Tower, and brought them in so unseasonable
time to Cranborne at the Savoy, then going to his coach, as
his leisure serving not to determine thereof, he bought a
gelding of 4l. price and furniture to follow him to Reading,
there to attend her Majesty. But before he could take his back,
a man of Cranborne's, Mr. Tho. Metcalf, by a commission to
take post horses for Yorkshire, bereft him of his horse, and he
was driven to hire another at 2s. a day for 16 days to attend
Cranborne's resolution. Returned at length to Mr. Lieutenant
after the expense of 5l. or 6l. without allowance yielded. Prays
Cranborne's letters for satisfaction for his horse and furniture
and horse-hire, besides his wayfaring charges 20 nobles.—Ludgate, 6 July 1604. (fn. 2) Holograph. 3 pp. (105. 149.) |
|
| The Bishops' Jurisdiction. | |
| [1604]. | If the bishops proceed against any they must do it either (1) because they are bishops, or (2) by virtue of the Commission. To send out process to cite men and sit in judgment is a principal part of the judgment ecclesiastical. This being by statute 1 Eliz. annexed to the Crown is an especial prerogative royal. The statute 25 Hen. 8, c. 20, leaves the bishops such privileges only as are not prejudicial to the prerogative royal, and upon this ground Parliament 1 Edw. 6 enacted that all process ecclesiastical should be in the King's name. The High Commission is established by 1 Eliz. c.1, and they must proceed either upon the statute 1 Eliz. c. 2, or upon the canons. |
| The Statute firstly ratifies neither the Book of Common Prayer lately corrected, nor the former that was used in all the Queen's time, but only the book of Edw. 6 with two alterations specified; whereas that which has been hitherto used has many more alterations. Therefore they cannot proceed against any for the neglect of either of these books by virtue of the statute. Secondly that statute inflicts no penalty for omission or refusal of the vestments or ornaments of the ministers, and therefore none can be touched in his living for the surplice by the statute; only he may be imprisoned for contempt and not otherwise. | |
| As for the canons, if they shall be confirmed and the high commission execute penalty of them, it will be a very doubtful point whether they can stretch so far as to put a subject from his freehold, and if put to the trial of the common law, it will seem a very hard case. For if the Convocation House may for breach of church orders dispossess a minister of his freehold, why not any other subject? And by consequence the whole body of the realm may if they transgress the church orders be put out of their lands and livings, and be enthralled to the clergy as in times past. Reasons not to subscribe, besides the things that are simply against the word of God in the book. Bishops, canons, and articles are not law. To subscribe were to discourage and reproach Parliament, who upon good ground have laboured to remove it. | |
|
It would animate the bishops to inform the King that it was
but a fancy of his Lower House to stand so much upon subscription, for the ministers themselves have yielded, saving a
very few. It may stand out it will pity the King's heart to displace so many godly ministers, which else in a few will seem singularity. It will give a grievous offence to the godly, that after so long time men should go backwards to popery and idle ceremonies. |
|
|
It will be a great prejudice to the obtaining of the King's
promise that he would remove not only cross and surplice, but
also subscription, if this would content men. This was excepted
and will be sued for. Unsigned. Endorsed: "1604. B. of Exeter." 1½ pp. (109. 76.) |
|
| Memorial touching the Borders. | |
| [1604]. |
"The worke we have presentlie in hande is utterlie
to extinguishe as well the name, as substance of the bordouris,
I meane the difference betwene thaime and other pairts of the
kingdome. For doing quhairof it is necessarie that all querrellis
amoungst thaim be reconcyled and all straingenes betwene
the nations quyte removed; that all theeves, murderers,
opressouris and vagabondis be quyte rooted out, I meane so
many of thaime as will not give goode suretie for thaire amendment in tymes cumming; that severe and indifferent justice
be ministered upon all offenders and that no factions be fostered
among thaime by the partialitie of thaire judges; and fynally
that that pairt of the kingdome maye be maid as peaceable
and ansourable as any other pairt thairof. The readdiest and
surest meanes for bringing this to pass are now to be thocht
upon and embraced without any regairde to the honoure, commoditie or contentement of any subject quhatsomeever." In the hand of James I. Endorsed: "1604. King's Memoriale." 1 p. (147. 158.) |
| Captain Jonas Bradbury to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [1604]. |
Was 18 years in her Majesty's service, as captain by
sea and land. In 1588 was the first who changed shot with the
enemy in presence of both fleets. He brought Cranborne news
out of France how the Spaniards meant to choke Rochester
river; for the preventing of which the Lord Admiral, Lord
Suffolk, Cranborne and Sir Francis Vere came to Quinborowe,
and gave order for ships to guard the river. Was the first to
bring Cranborne news from Kingsall (Kinsale). Begs consideration for his present distressed estate, and either a pension
or a ward.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 2 pp. (189. 68.) |
| Captain Thomas Browne to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [1604]. |
He details Florence McCarty's proceedings in the
late reign, his endeavours to extinguish the English and erect
an Irish government, and his apprehension: his restraint
having been since continued, to the great quietness of that
realm. Florence now reports that he stands upon his enlargement, which breeds a general terror of rebellion in those parts
where he is powerful. Browne, therefore, in behalf of himself
and the rest of the English gentlemen undertakers of the province
of Munster, who fear to be troubled by Florence's liberty,
beseeches the Council to remember that when the Earldom of
Clan Carty and his own living could not satisfy his ambitious
humour, now, having not a foot of land left, his course of life
must be desperate; and to have a care for the quiet and safety
of that province.—Undated. Petition. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (189. 71.) |
| Lord Bruce, Master of the Rolls, to the Same. | |
| [1604]. |
He desires the grant of a small tenement called
Doctorston, parcel of the manor of Eastcotton, granted to him,
under circumstances he details.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (108. 49.) |
| Lionel Bulocke to the Same. | |
| [1604]. |
His industry has found out this artificial metal,
which is truly as it is set down to be, and the commodities
growing thereby so great that they cannot but yield infinite
gains to Cranborne. Begs furtherance of his suit.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604. With his demonstration of an artificial metal." 1 p. (108. 53.) |
|
The Enclosure:—"The demonstration of an artificial metal."
The utility will greatly increase in having ready silver for all
that passes into every man's hand, so that it may be licensed
to be stamped for farthings and 3 farthings, and to pass through
his Majesty's dominions, to be used of vintners, chandlers, and
such like. Its utility to the commonwealth, licensed for current;
especially to the poor, in that charitable people will relieve
them with a farthing, that will not or cannot with a halfpenny
or penny. Its utility to all, in that anything then may as well
be bought for a farthing as now for a halfpenny; as bread,
cheese, &c.; whereas none now that fetch things of chandlers,
vintners, &c., can tell where to bestow or fetch anything but
where they had their former tokens.—Undated. ½ p. (108. 52.) |
|
| Lord Burghley to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [1604]. |
I have followed your direction in writing to my Lord
of Barwick. I thought good that you should see the copy,
that if there were anything you wish me to alter, it might be
done by returning me the letter before it were delivered. I
receive as much comfort by your interposing yourself for me in
this my suit, as in obtaining it. I am your brother by nature
but in half blood, but this your kindness shall supply that which
wanted by nature.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." ½ p. (189. 74.) |
| The Same to the Same. | |
| [1604]. |
Describes his violent illness. Hopes he is now
growing out of danger, but is very weak. Thanks Cranborne
for his brotherly care of him.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." ½ p. (189. 75.) |
| The Same to the Same. | |
| [1604]. |
Of his suit with regard to a lease of certain woods near
Burghley House. Complains of the Lord Treasurer's dealings
with him in the matter, explains the object of his suit, and begs
Cranborne to inform the Lord Treasurer thereof.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 2 pp. (189. 76.) |
| The Archbishopric of Canterbury. | |
| [1604]. | Four papers:—(i) "Inducements to move his Majesty to restore me to the temporalities of the Archbishopric, a die mortis ultimi Archiepiscopi." |
|
Among the reasons adduced are that the Queen forgave his
predecessor his first fruits, when she made him Bishop of
Worcester; and upon his advancement to Canterbury, restored
him to his temporalities from the death of the former Archbishop. That the now Bishops of Norwich and Hereford were
restored by the King to all the mesne profits arising in the
vacancies of their Bishoprics. That without such a restitution
he cannot maintain the dignity of his place, and keep such
hospitality as his predecessors did. That the Archbishopric
is of less value than it was 50 years since, by as much as now it is
worth; yet the fees and charges upon entrance are as great,
if not greater. That he is now past 60 years of age, and like to
live but few years more; therefore without such a restitution
he will continue all his time in dishonourable want.—Undated. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (108. 39.) |
|
|
(ii) Further statement by the Archbishop on the same
subject.—Undated. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (108. 42.) |
|
| (iii) "Motives to induce his Majesty to restore the B[ishop] of L[ondon] to the profits of the Archbishopric [of Canterbury] since the death of the late Archbishop." | |
|
The charge of his entrance was above 300l. Since he was Bishop
of L[ondon] he has been a daily housekeeper, and maintained
above 50 persons in his family. He has paid to the Crown in
that time for his first fruits 1,000l.; for his tenths 600l.; for
subsidies 972l.; for entertainments and annual fees 860l.; for
his journey to Emden, besides his allowance, 900l.; for repairing his houses 1,800l.; and for fees of officers 865l.; total 7,297l.;
"so that Bishoprics being brought to resemble Banbury cheeses,
the Bishopric of London is more beholding unto him than he to
the Bishopric." His entrance will cost at least 1,000l.; and
the Michaelmas rents of London, amounting but to 400l., will
be far short of sufficient to maintain him till Lady Day.—
Undated. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (108. 40.) |
|
|
(iv) Rents and perquisites, besides pensions, officers' fees
and decayed rents 2300l., whereof the executors of the late
Archbishop have received about 510l., and there is paid to
the King's use 500l.; so there remains unpaid about 1,300l.
The first fruits, according to the valuation of the King's books
amount to 2682l. 12s. 2d., which by the statute must be paid
at 4 payments, in two years.—Undated. Signed: John Scott. Endorsed: "1604." ½ p. (108. 41.) |
|
| Sir George Carew to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [1604]. |
Begs Cranborne's help to obtain for him the payment
of 200l., which he lent to the paymaster at Cork for the King's
service.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (189. 83.) |
| Sir Francis Castillion to the Same. | |
| [1604]. |
Acknowledges his favour in appointing him his
deputy officer of her Majesty's manor of Nuberry. The piccage
and stallage of the manor have ever belonged to the steward,
upon a rent reserved of 40s. per annum: so that Cranborne will
be so much wronged if it should be otherwise disposed of. Sir
Henry Neville, Nevill's father, and all the stewards there, have
enjoyed it, having no other means to discharge the place and
courts there; as the manor consists only of quit rents, and no
fines, as is well known to Mr. Powell his Majesty's receiver
there. Begs him to make stay of any lease thereof.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604" and with a list of names. 1 p. (108. 54.) |
| Dr. J. Chippingdale to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [1604]. |
Begs his furtherance of his suit to the Mayor and
Company of Leicester, respecting which he encloses a petition.—
Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." ½ p. (108. 56.) |
| The Earl of Clanricard to Lord [Cranborne?]. | |
| [1604]. |
Acknowledges his letter by Cormock, and begs to be
recommended to the King. All places are yet quiet, and there
is no alteration since his coming. He will defer the points
necessary to be presented till his own coming to England, which
he meant should have been sooner than now it can be, having
the weight of a woman, which is no small burden, and a little
"barne" in present expectation. He hears that this Deputy
is coming over. For the King's sake and the good of the State,
he wished they may never have such another. All men are
distasted. He himself has felt as many disfavours as the Deputy
could offer him; and should have had worse if the Deputy
had not been sure he had friends who would not see him wronged.
The Deputy's spleen was in particular, and upon strange causes.
Lord Northampton can tell [Cranborne] what he will not now
trouble him with.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed. "1604." 4 pp. (108. 57.) |
| Lord Cobham to Viscount Cranborne, his brother-in-law. | |
| [1604]. |
I thank you for your favours. I understand by
Sir John Leveson that some course will be taken for my relief:
it is needful, for God knows I have not a groat at this instant.
Whatsoever the extremity of the proceeding have been against
me I cannot say wrong for it being the King's it is at his will
to do what he please with his own; yet I take great comfort
that I know you are sorrowful for my fall and would do
me good if you can. A man should bode himself ill fortune to
despair as long as there is hope. Be a means to stay the small
remnant of my poor fortune; you shall have the honour of it
in this world and reward in heaven. I am extremely at this
instant troubled with pain in my legs.—Undated. Holograph. Seal, broken. Endorsed: "1604." 2/3 p. (102. 99.) |
| The Same to the Same. | |
| [1604]. |
No man is better pleased than myself when I
hear that honour which is hereditary is given you. God so
prosper me as I desire the advancement of my nephew, and
take it as my comfort that as I have been the ruin of my house,
so your son coming out of my father's loins shall remain as a
memory of honour. I wish from my heart that he and you,
and the issue from you both, may enjoy the honour so long as
my house till I was the ruin of it. I hear you go to the Bath.
I wish you health, and pray God you may find so much good
as I did when there. My infirmity was cold, and my body
moist. Experience has taught that cold and moist bodies receive
most good. Yours is hot and "airiall." I wrote you the other
day touching Mellarsh's account. I should take it for a great
favour if his account might not be taken, for his suggestion is
false. I owe him nothing. He takes the advantage of my
misfortune. He is a false knave, and to no man so much as
to you: and that I shall satisfy you under his own hand. If
my desire may not be wholly yielded unto, I pray that the taking
of his account may be put off till the term; then I shall be better
able to charge him, and to have those here that shall attend
the auditor: otherwise he must both charge and discharge
himself. Am I such a worm as Mellarsh, a base knave, must
tread upon me? I pray you let this bearer carry your letter
to the auditor to forbear taking his account till further
direction. Recommend my service to my Lady of Suffolk.
This Mellarsh reports that the procuring the taking of his
accounts has cost him many an "angle": no letter that I send
you but he sees, or can see if he list: that you have vowed
my keeping in prison as long as you live: and that you repent
I lost not my head. If you ask these things of him now he will
with oath deny, but spare but a time, you shall then see him
rightly in his colours. Let me speak with Sir George Caroe:
by his coming I shall know your allowance. Your father and
my mother wrote continually to the Duke of Norfolk after he
was condemned.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (189. 86.) |
| Lord Cobham to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [? 1604]. |
As to Mellarsh's accounts, the Cobham property,
and the payment of Cobham's debts.—Undated. Holograph. 1 p. (189. 88.) |
| The Same to the Same. | |
| [1604]. |
If I have committed a fault in writing my name of
Cobham, in this it is excusable, I did it not out of any disposition
of "arrogantie," but rather held the course that others have
done in such an undone fortune as mine. Former times have
not held that strict course. Yet to me it is nothing. My fault
I will amend, for willingly I will give no cause of offence. Make
me bound to you that my Lords may receive satisfaction that
I confess my fault, and will no more offend them. I know not
whether you have received my letter concerning Heall. Never
hold me for honest and Christian man if his calumniation be
true.—Undated. Holograph, signed: H. Brooke. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (189. 87.) |
| Lord Cobham's Lands. | |
| [?1604 and later]. | A number of papers, etc. of various dates all relating apparently to the lands of Lord Cobham:— |
| (i) Schedule of certain lands, apparently of the College of Cobham and Lord Cobham, headed "In [Compoto] Willelmi Cromer Armigeri nuper vicecomitis Comitatus predicti." Latin. 1¼ pp. (145. 101.) | |
| (ii) Terrier of land in Cliffe, Kent, belonging to the College of Cobham. 3½ pp. (145. 109.) | |
| (iii) Cobham College rental of small farms and farm barley. 4½ pp. (145. 111.) | |
| (iv) "The effect of the case of Maidstone College in Kent." A legal opinion upon the question whether the lands of the College now in possession of the patentee of King Edward 6, ought to be discharged of tithes by any matter contained in certain other statutes. 2½ pp. (145. 104.) | |
| (v) Particular of lands and tenements granted by Edward 6 to George, Lord Cobham [1529–1558], with marginal notes as to lands sold by the said Lord Cobham, &c. Latin. 9½ pp. (145. 26.) | |
| (vi) "The copy of Lowe's writings." Particular of lands in the parishes of Halystowe, Hoo in Henfield, Fyndesbery, and St. Mary's. Certain lands of Lord Cobham's are mentioned therein. Latin. 3 sheets. (145. 16.) | |
| (vii) Proceedings at the court held at Great Hoo, Hundred of Hoo [? temp. William, Lord Cobham]. 3 pp. (145. 102.) | |
| (viii) Copies of evidences, terrier and rental of the Manor of Shorne, Kent. Made 16th cent. (291. 5.) | |
| (ix) "Parcel of the jointure of the Lady Kildare of the entailed lands of George, Lord Cobham, and in the lady's possession." Endorsed: "Lands conveyed to my Lord." 1 p. (145. 118.) | |
| (x) Woods granted to the Lady Kildare in jointure. 8 pp. (145. 119.) | |
| (xi) Note by the woodward as to the woods belonging to Lady Kildare's jointure. 1 p. (145. 123.) | |
| (xii) Woods in Kent granted to the Earl of Nottingham and others for Lady Kildare's life. 1 p. (145. 124.) | |
| (xiii) Abstract of Mr. Brooke's revenues in Kent. 1 p. (145. 128.) | |
| (xiv) "Note of lands in Kent entailed by Mr. Brooke on my Lord." 1 p. (145. 117.) | |
| (xv) Remembrances for my Lord [?Cobham's] household business. 2½ pp. (145. 197.) | |
| (xvi) Lands and woods of the Earl of Salisbury's in Higham and Shorn, Kent. 1 p. (145. 131.) | |
| (xvii) Particular of woods in possession of the Earl of Salisbury in Higham, Shorn, &c., Kent. 3 pp. (145. 138.) | |
| (xviii) Lands granted to the Lo. Duke [of Lennox] being the manor of Conham [Cobham?] Hall, &c. ½ p. (145. 125.) | |
| (xix) "Expenses for my Lord's house at Cobham during the time of Lady Sondes remaining there." 1 p. (145. 199.) | |
| (xx) Particulars of Mrs. Brooke's dower: "terr. domini Brooke." 1 p. (145. 116.) | |
| (xxi) Lands remaining yet unsold in Kent. 4 pp. (145. 165.) | |
| (xxii) Houses, &c. in Stroud, belonging to the Temple. 1½ pp. (145. 167.) | |
| (xxiii) Note of lands in Kent, adjacent to Lord Cobham's lands. 4 pp. (145. 168.) | |
| (xxiv) Value of lands in Maidstone College, Cobham College, &c., Kent, in possession and in reversion. 1 p. (145. 170.) | |
| (xxv) Lands to be sold of Maidstone College, Cobham College, &c., Kent, and moneys to be made. 1½ pp. (145. 171.) | |
| (xxvi) Lands owned by the College of Cobham in the parish of Clyve. Latin. A roll. (145. 1.) | |
| (xxvii) Valuation of timber, Maidstone. 1 p. (145. 156.) | |
| (xxviii) Notes with respect to lands of Cobham College and Maidstone College, Kent. 6 pp. (145. 160.) | |
| (xxix) Particular of woodland taken out of the lands of Cobham College. 3 pp. (145. 134.) | |
| (xxx) Particular of woods belonging to Cobham College. 3½ pp. (145. 41.) | |
| (xxxi) Terrier of Maidstone College and other Cobham lands (temp. 2nd Earl of Salisbury). 5 pp. (145. 146.) | |
| Sir Edward Coke, Attorney General, to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [? 1604]. | I said before your lordship at the last hearing of the case concerning the Lord President and Council in Wales that, when we should privately confer, we should agree, and ut impleatur dictus prophete so have we done in the essential point. For now they have yielded to us (for I was on a sure ground) that the writ of habeas corpus granted out of the King's Bench ought to be returned with the cause. That if it appeared by the return that the party pursuing was committed for matter, equity denied by the President and Council, rising within the limits of their jurisdiction and within their instructions, the party is to be remanded and the King's Bench is not to examine the point of equity. |
| The matters wherein they have made a feigned defence are these: | |
| 1. That the four ancient English shires should be within the Marches of Wales, whereof we have manifest proof to the contrary and thereof delivered notes. | |
| 2. They doubt (for that is now the best of their case) that prohibitions should not lie in these cases, whereof we have made clear and manifest proof by book cases and precedents. | |
|
3. They seem to doubt also whether they may not examine
the equity of cases after judgments at the common law; than
which nothing is more repugnant to law, as we have made
manifest demonstration. And this is the end of this day's
labour, whereof though I am weary I thought it my part to
yield to your lordship this summary account.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1602" (sic). 1 p. (97. 24.) |
|
| Sir Edward Coke, Attorney General, to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [1604]. |
It is truly said, and is this day verified, that secunde
cogitationes meliores et saniores sunt. The judges have met, the
case has been debated, our books turned and considered of,
and I am converted; for where I thought the motion this
morning pernicious and full of danger, I am now of another
opinion. For whereas a secret error might have been infused
into discontented minds, of some unjust proceeding against these
sectaries, and that they in justice ought to have had a prohibition, now it is resolved by all the judges, being 14 in number,
una voce nullo contradicente, that no prohibition doth lie, but
that the ecclesiastical judges ought to proceed according to
the ecclesiastical laws and the censures of the Church. But
albeit this resolution is sufficient for satisfaction of the conscience,
yet do I think it fit for the honour of the King and advancement
of justice, and the taking away of vain hopes from these perverse
people, that I desire tomorrow in open Court the resolution
and judgment of the judges, that the standers by (being shortly
to be dispersed into all countries), might publish the same;
and the like to be done on Wednesday next by my Lord Chancellor. How necessary it is to have a discreet and learned
leader, this day I found.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (108. 64.) |
| The Same to the Same. | |
| [1604]. |
There is to my knowledge none of the Lord Cobham's
or Lord Grey's lands within the annexation. If any be, sure
I am neither of their names or attainders are mentioned, and
therefore impossible for me to know whether any of them were
parcels of their possessions. I pray you I may have a note of
the names of the Privy Council that shall be parties to the great
indenture of annexation, and then it shall be finished with all
expedition.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." ½ p. (189. 90.) |
| [The House of Commons?] to the King. | |
| [1604]. | Pray that in all his styles and public letters he will acknowledge himself King of the whole and united Isle of Britain; also that commissioners may be chosen of all states for England and Scotland to decide all questions which may breed any hindrance to the Union and to present such a frame and model to both the next parliaments of England and Scotland as thereby all kind of possible means may be used for reducing his subjects in both realms to perpetual conformity and agreement in all indifferent matters for all times to come.—Undated. |
| Draft with corrections by Cranborne. Endorsed: "1604. Union" and in Cranborne's hand: "Difference of time and not desire of change forces our present consultation. The time was when we wished Scotland ill, and now we wish it well. The time [was we] hated the K[ing]: now we are in love. The time when we were opposite in arms, and now in equal obedience. Action of unkindness. Security. God's providence. Caution where laws are to be changed." 1¼ pp. (107. 147.) | |
| [Printed in extenso from Talbot Papers, Vol. K. fol. 188, in Lodge, Illustrations of British History, III, pp. 231–232.] | |
| William, Lord Compton, to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [1604]. |
Your tassell is excellent well. I would be glad to
know whether your leisure be to see him fly this evening.—The
Savoy, Monday. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." ½ p. (108. 69.) |
| Ann, Lady Cooke, to the Same. | |
| [? 1604]. |
There is a neighbour of ours in Essex very sick
and not like to escape, Sir Anthony Browne. If it happen that
he die, I beseech you to bestow it (sic) of me and my son
Hamlett. Your promise to me when I was last with you
makes me to presume now humbly to beseech you, if this do
fall, to bestow it of me and my children.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1603" [sic]. ⅓ p. (188. 2.) |
| Sir Anthony Cooke to the Same. | |
| [1604]. |
In reply to his wife's request to Cranborne to take
his younger son, Hercules Francis Cooke, into his service,
Cranborne said he was too near him in blood to be entertained
in that nature. He again urges the request. His health will
not permit him to attend Cranborne. He is now going to
Cambridge to Mr. Butteler, in hope of some recovery.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (108. 63.) |
| Hercules Francis Cooke to the Same. | |
| [1604]. |
His father in his lifetime, and his mother, were
suitors to Cranborne to take the writer into his service. His
father now being dead, he beseeches Cranborne to accept him,
and let not his nearness in blood hinder. His estate is such that
he must serve, there being now no employments in the wars.—
Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (108. 65.) |
| Avis, Lady Cooke, to the Same. | |
| [1604]. |
In her husband's time she was a suitor to Cranborne
to accept her son Hercules Francis into his service. She renews
her request, and beseeches him to consider the petition of a poor
widow, with the charge of children, altogether unprovided for
during her life, and but a poor portion at her death.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (108. 67.) |
| Avis, Lady Cooke, to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [1604]. |
Begs Cranborne to bestow on her a certain ward,
whom she may match with one of her daughters. There shall
be no other benefit made of him. As to Sir John Foskue's
letter which Cranborne sent her, if Cranborne gives the wardship
to him, he will bestow it on Mr. Henry Foskue, a captain, and
one who has just spent all his means left him by his father;
and the friends of the children will be loth it should fall into his
hands. Begs him to receive her son into his service.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (108. 68.) |
| The Same to the Same. | |
| [1604]. |
It may be you think, because of my husband's
estate, that the ward should be wronged, and so you dishonoured therein; but if that be the cause, if you bestow him
on me, I will pass him in one of my sons' names, and put you
in sufficient security, both for the well using of the ward, and to
be very willing to yield anything to the children as you shall
think fit.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." ½ p. (108. 66.) |
| Sir Walter Cope to the Same. | |
| [1604]. |
Finding you mean to add a label that may make the
book gracious, whether you will add what you have undertaken
for the Scots customs, I thought fit to remember you of. For
Meredyth's office, if you reserve a power therein but two days,
I think I have a friend will give more for it than any man, one
that has laid with me for a place this long time, and is full of
moneys.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." ½ p. (108. 70.) |
| The Same to the Same. | |
| [1604]. |
I have sent and been all this morning hunting for
players, jugglers, and such kind of creatures, but find them hard
to find. Wherefore leaving notes for them to seek me, Burbage
is come, and says there is no new play that the Queen has not
seen; but they have revived an old one called Love's Labour
Lost, which for wit and mirth he says will please her exceedingly.
And this is appointed to be played to-morrow night at my Lord
of Southampton's unless you send a writ to remove the corpus
cum causa to your house in Strand. Burbage is my messenger
ready attending your pleasure.—From your library.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (189. 95.) |
| John Corbett to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [1604]. |
Thanks Cranborne for his remembrance of him by
Mr. Levynus [Munck]. He will discharge his duty like an
honest man, whenever occasion is offered to make trial of his
services.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (108. 71.) |
| Lady Katherine Cornwallis. | |
| [1604]. |
The King is certified that the late Queen, in respect
of the faithful duty of the Lady Katherine Cornwallis unto her,
was pleased that she should not be molested for not coming to
her parish church. The King, understanding she continues
the like loyal duty to him, commands that proceedings against
her for her recusancy be no way followed.—Undated. Draft order to magistrates and others. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (108. 72.) |
| [The Council?] to the Archbishop of Canterbury. | |
| [? 1604]. |
His Majesty has given public notice and more
private advertisement to the bishops of his most religious
desire and resolution that all such ministers as heretofore have
showed themselves disobedient to the orders, discipline and
ceremonies of the Church should either be brought to good
conformity or be orderly removed; that so at the last the
adversaries of the Gospel, seeing the professors thereof knit
together in uniformity and concord, might have no longer
occasion, for their more easy seducing of the simpler sort, to
lay before them the dissensions, bitterness and disobedience
which hitherto have been too apparent in many of the ministry
and in such as have combined in that contradiction. And as
we are advertised that sundry bishops, the premisses notwithstanding, and that we by his Majesty's directions have written
once or twice to you to the same effect, not doubting but that
you have acquainted them with the contents of our letters, yet
hitherto they have stood as men at a gaze, and done nothing
either that the duties of their places do require, or for his
Majesty's better satisfaction, but still permit the froward and
undutiful ministers of their dioceses to continue in their
obstinate courses, as though they themselves were so obnoxious
unto some exceptions that they durst not proceed against
them. We therefore once again require you to advertise them
all generally that such as are culpable may apply that which
we write to themselves, being as yet loth to name them particularly, and that they who hitherto have been careful may be
the better encouraged in their former courses, that except such
as find themselves to be within the compass of this our reprehension, do speedily look more diligently to this charge imposed
upon them by so many weighty reasons we mind to send for
them hither and to take such order with them, with your
assistance, as shall be held for these times to be most convenient.
Furthermore we desire you to acquaint them all with another
point of his Majesty's pleasure, which is that when any are
deprived from their benefices, their lordships presently take
such order with the neighbour preachers that their places may
conveniently by their charitable pains be supplied; and
that they signify to the patron of every such benefice as shall
become so void, that his Majesty very earnestly requires him
forthwith to present an able and fit man to be admitted unto it,
that so the parishioners (of whom his Majesty has a most tender
respect) may not long be destitute of a pastor of their own
amongst them to instruct them. Of this his Majesty's most
princely care, although he doubts not but that every patron
being informed of it will conform himself accordingly, yet
because it may fall out that some for one sinister end or other
may be more slack than his Majesty expects, we would have the
bishops to acquaint you with the name of every such patron,
that his Majesty being thereof advertised, such an extraordinary
inconvenience may be redressed by some extraordinary remedy.
—Undated. Draft. Endorsed: "Archbishop of Canterbury, to reform those of the ministry who will not become conformable." 1½ pp. (108. 43.) |
| [The Council?] to the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster. | |
| [1604]. |
The King wrote to the Chancellor in behalf of Sir
Roger Aston for a lease in reversion of the profits, fines, &c.
of the Dukedom of Lancaster, for the yearly rent of 80l.;
according to the grant made by the late Queen to Nicholas
Hare and Edward Carrell. As the Chancellor has not given
satisfaction to his letter [the Council] is commanded to move
him to proceed therein, except he can show just cause to the
contrary. Details at length the reasons which have moved
his Majesty to assent to the lease, giving the history of former
grants.—Hampton Court, "Your very loving friends."—
Undated. Endorsed: "1604." 1½ pp. (189. 99.) |
| The Council to the [City of London]. | |
| [1604]. |
We understand that Captain [Edmund] Colthurst
has attempted to bring a large draft of water to the City of
London, whereof there may be great use for cleansing the
ditches and other unwholesome places, the enormity whereof
is known to be very great; and also that there is good
probability of effecting the same, as already the work is brought
forward 3 miles. Understanding by him that it is already
contained in his commission that when it is done the City shall
have upon reasonable conditions two-thirds part of all the water
which shall be brought, we esteem it very reasonable that the
man might come to certain agreement with you what portion
of charge you will bear, and wish you to choose committees
among yourselves to whom he may resort for some resolution;
which being done we require you to send us report of your proceedings.—Undated. Draft, almost entirely in the hand of Cecil (or Cranborne). Endorsed: "Minute to the City of London for Captain Colthurst." 2 pp. (199. 104.) [See Cal. S.P. Dom. 1603–1610, p. 93.] |
| Sir John Couper to Lord [Cranborne?] | |
| [1604]. |
He has set up a battery work in Somerset, able to
furnish yearly plates for 4000 armours. In this time of peace
the stock will grow so great that he must discontinue the works,
except the King will receive some competent number of armours
into the Tower of London, where always has been the store to
supply all parts of the land upon any sudden, and which is
not now furnished with many that are of any use. He offers
to furnish yearly 2,000 corslets and "curatts" at lower prices
than any other shall be able to afford them. Being set up
black, they will be kept without charge, and continue good.—
Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (108. 73.) |
| Viscount Cranborne to Lord Sydney, the Queen's Chamberlain. | |
| [? 1604]. |
I am sorry that you have missed me, but I conceive,
you will think it grows by inevitable accidents, or else such
persons as you are find me better mannered than not to receive
them as becomes me, who willingly deny none that have but
their own occasions (of how private calling soever they be).
I shall any evening after 4 (for then I can best rule my times)
be ready for you, and either in public or private cases correspond with you as is fit for an honest man. For the meeting
about the Q[ueen's] causes I never thought of it, but was moved
by the Clerk of the Council from you, to whom I answered that
I would be ready this day; but I am very glad you defer
it, for neither is Mr. Vice Ch. with us, nor myself at so good
leisure, and yet for the Q[ueen] all private shall give place,
when there is need of my service.—Undated. Holograph. 1 p. (213. 91.) |
| The Same to Ralph Winwood. | |
| [1604 (fn. 3) ]. |
I see by your letters that you have the alarm with
you of this foul accident happened at Harwich, whereof his
Majesty is so sensible as he hath made it known to the Archduke's minister that the circumstances thereof make it so
injurious as he intendeth satisfaction, to which hitherto they
have given many reasons to satisfy him that it is a matter not
rightly understood. Notwithstanding all which their allegations his Majesty hath required not only restitution to be made
of the other pink with all her lading, but also severe punishment
upon the takers, for so barbarous an act against the person of
this gentleman, who by the laws of nations (being a neutral)
ought rather to have received favour at their hands. And as
the barque that was left behind with the horses returned
presently to Rotterdam, from whence it was, and this bearer,
being the gentleman's man that is drowned, is now sent to fetch
the horses and bring them into England, his Majesty requireth
you to assist him with your furtherance, having caused some
money to be delivered unto him towards his charge. And
so forbearing for the present to make any answer to the letter
brought by Captain Hampton I commit you to God. This is
also a passport to be made for him. His name is John Polonois,
with two servants and a trunk of apparel.—Undated. Draft corrected by Cranborne. Endorsed: "Minute to Mr. Winwood." (104. 28.) |
| [Viscount Cranborne] to Sir Henry Bruncker. | |
| [1604]. | When I remember how little cause there is for me to write at this time (except it be to answer your letters con[cerning] the insolent carriage of the Irish at Cork), and then consider how long it is since that accident happened, I could have wished, seeing that matter is so old, to have had more pleasing subject either here or from thence to fill my letter withal. For what is the answer more that I can make you than the Lord Lieutenant has already written, considering that we . . . always resolved to disavow none of your proceedings as a minister of State, and ye[t] could have wished that you had in that particular rather forborne so suddenly to impose upon those officers so absolute an obedience, and to have been wary who had been admitted after. Not that any mislike, but rather commend your proceeding, when by your putting them to it they discovered such presumption, but because you know how apt men are upon any sudden changes, especially in that kingdom, overgrown with superstition, to raise bruits of future rigour and thereby to serve their turns by malicious impressions, where contrariwise when all is done the timely plantations of teachers of God's word is that which must root out the radical blindness so imbibed in that people. I write not as wishing any impunity against God's enemies, but only to let you know that although the bruits and apprehensions of that accident came so like a tempest upon us from all parts in that kingdom, yet no man held you worthy of blame, neither is or was there any purpose to mitigate any of these fines which you have imposed, without your advice first had. |
|
And now let me first begin to assure my [Lord] President,
that my long silence proceeded not f[rom] any neglect of him
in his charge, whom the public ties me to . . . . yet there were
not so many just causes as . . . . are for me to show my constant
g[ood] will as my old and truly beloved friend; but that you
will consider my multiplicity of business and absence sometime
by sick[ness], the difference of times, variety . . . . of opinions in
all councils compounded of so many wise and great men, and
the insettling of all things about our commission for the Union,
which have continually possessed us; and thereby to conclude
that things are oftener debated than fully resolved in the
beginnings of all govern[ment]. In which respect I say to Sir
Henry Bruncker bona fide that his friend Secretary Cecil [were
he] a less coward than the new Viscount [Cranborne struck out];
many men hold it safer sometimes in this envious age to do
but indifferently well in good company than to do somewhat
better alone. Although I must confess, forasmuch as concerns
my Sovereign's favour towards me, no subject can say that ever
he lost so worthy and dear a Mistress, and found so benign a
Master. I have heard that you were informed of some purpose
in me to further particular governments in your province;
be assured that it never came in my thoughts, but ever had
strong opposition by me; yet am I not able to bear the envy
to cross every man in this time, when there are so many ways
to the wood, especially when his Majesty in his gracious disposition is desirous to deny few. And therefore, many things
may be obtained both by English and Scottish noblemen and
Councillors, with which I shall never be acquainted till they
come to seal, and then have but an ill occupation to be a stopper
of the King's hand, by which howsoever his Majesty is pleased
with my L. Chancellor and me that keep the privy seal, yet
makes myself a party against those that are as good and better
than myself, when they are engaged for the suitors. Nevertheless I was so careful in this matter as I dealt with my L.
Lieutenant, on whom the King wholly relies for Ireland, as
there [is] good cause he should. And his lordship told me that in
some cases governments were fit in places . . . . but yet affirmed
that he would not advise the King that any such persons should
be exempted from the superior commandment of the President.
Now what is done since, I know not by any private directions
to the Deputy, but for myself I am resolved. And now for
your servant whom I have stayed, let me make one request for
him, and another for myself. First that you should bear with
him for attending, because he did it only by my importunity.
Next that I stayed him out of desire to give you satisfaction;
and both in your public and private, to hold me no changeling
for my care of you.—Undated. Draft with corrections by Cranborne. Endorsed: "1604." Mutilated. 5 pp. (108. 50.) |
|
| [Lord Cecil (or Cranborne)] to Mr. Stanley. | |
| [1604]. |
Although it is far from me to be an encourager of
any that withstand the ordinances of the Church, or show any
spirit tending towards faction in this so happy government of
his Majesty's, yet where I find unconformity accompanied
with earnest profession to receive satisfaction in scruple to
the intent to obey, my desire is such to recover as the last
work I wish should be to punish: And yet to that shall I as
willingly consent as this, when I am satisfied that there is no
other remedy. To be short, therefore, I understand that you
are patron of a living, whereof one Mr. Cathelin was incumbent,
by whose deprivation the right of presentation is in you. I have
by conference with him found some appearances of future
conformity, for which purpose he will omit no means to work in
himself a conscionable resolution, the lack whereof he protesteth
to be the sole cause of his aversion from the orders imposed.
I have thought good to intreat you (the rather to keep an entry
open into the place of his former residence, if he shall hereafter
conform) to forbear, at my request, to present any new until
there may [be] some further proof, and yet no longer than to
prevent any injury to yourself by any default, for that supply
which the law prescribes. Herein I desire your answer, that
I may be certain what to promise him; and yet my request
shall be ever with this limitation, to receive satisfaction upon
your refusal, if you shall show me any reasonable cause to the
contrary.—Undated. Draft corrected by Cecil (or Cranborne). Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (109. 48.) |
| [Lord Cecil (or Cranborne)] to Mr. Serjant. | |
| [1604]. |
Having been informed by my keeper of the little
park at Brigstock of your hunting on my ground over and over,
not contenting yourself with coming once, until you had as
in a bravery broken down my gates, which the meanest subject
in England would not patiently endure, I find myself aggrieved,
and mean to take my remedy by such due course as no man is
denied. Because I have nothing as yet but by relation, and
mean not to give credit until I hear your answer, I have written
this letter first to let you know that, whatsoever you have done
by commandment from the king or from any person of quality,
I take no exceptions unto, but will rather blame my keeper
for neglecting his attendance, whereby you might have colour to
use that violence; for so long as I breathe whensoever there is any
occasion of his Majesty's service, there is nothing which I enjoy,
which shall not readily be at his commandment. Next, that
you shall certify me under your hand what moves you to offer me
that injury, and by whose direction the same was done.—Undated. Holograph draft by Cecil (or Cranborne). Endorsed: "1604." 1½ pp. (109. 74.) |
| [The Same] to the Bishop of Winchester. | |
| [1604]. |
There is lately come to his Majesty's hands a pamphlet
against the ecclesiastical government by one Jacob. And
because you have had some dealings with him lately, and have
formerly (to your great commendation) handled that argument
in your book of the perpetual government of the church, his
Majesty is desirous that you should frame some short answer
unto the said pamphlet. I have sent it unto you herewith from
his Majesty.—Undated. Draft, to which the following note is appended—"A letter to this effect to be written to the Lo. B. of Winchester." Endorsed: "1604." ½ p. (109. 82.) |
| [Lord Cecil (or Cranborne)] to Sir Norton Knachbull. | |
| 1604. |
The King has given him some interest in Canterbury
Park, where the game is nothing answerable to the proportion
which it may bear; especially considering his Majesty's purpose
to have all grounds of pleasure maintained in another fashion
than heretofore. His care is very extraordinary to replenish
that ground, the better to give his Majesty contentment, and
he resorts to such of his friends in those parts as have any parks
to help towards the replenishing. He therefore asks Knachbull
to afford him some few deer out of his park. Has entreated Sir
John Luson to undertake the transporting of them.—Court
at Greenwich, 1604. Endorsed: "Minute [to] the gentlemen in Kent from my Lord for the restoring of Canterbury Park." 1 p. (114. 124.) Draft of the above, with corrections by Cecil (or Cranborne). (114. 122.) |
| [The Same] to the King. | |
| [1604]. | From your Majesty's letter by Mr. Achmoughtie I find to my great grief that you conceive upon your second reading some things in the Preface to be pernicious, which you held before to be but slender, of which it is sufficient, seeing your Majesty esteems it so, for me to acknowledge it to be so; and that I should hold myself cursed in my cradle, if I could have the vanity to dissent from such a judgment, so is it also motive sufficient to all my fellow commissioners, especially all the noblest part of our commission, not only to convert to that opinion but to join with me in grief that anything of pernicious nature should either pass their censure or my pen in this unfortunate preface. Therefore both they and I are now resolved in respect of your censure to lay our heads together before to-morrow meeting for reforming it, so as to put it into your own words as near as we can collect it by your Majesty's several writings; in which work I have many friends that would be content to confess it to be a matter which upon their own second cogitations they would not let pass without using your name, but that no such liberty will be left for privy men after such resolution but by the shadow of your own mislike and recommendation to have such these alterations. And that what prejudice so ever any particular man's stay may do him, you may repose your mind so much upon the duty of us to accommodate ourselves to whatsoever you impose, as without any present delay to expect an answer to your satisfaction; but not till after to-morrow at six o'clock; till before which time no man can give you any certainty of our conclusion. In the mean time this day divers of us will meet with four of yours, to whom all your Majesty's dispatches shall be imparted. That done such poor means as I can work with others shall be used to procure more to join with me in labour to persuade others, which being no greater a matter than a preface I hope upon patient examination of all circumstances men of discretion may help to persuade others, especially seeing your Majesty professes your protestation against it when it should come to your assent, to which for aught I can conceive your Majesty need never be put: for your royal assent must be had to those things when they are made into acts, which will have many a variable transmutation, though if not in substance I hope yet in form, before they are to receive your royal assent. This I presently advertise, because your packet came in time and no vigilance shall be spared, amongst which I beseech your Majesty to believe, howsoever your favours and censure of me exceed infinitely my valuation, excepting still my integrity and affection, that you have not a creature, whose thoughts and actions are more humble, honest and open hearted in all things to my sovereign; which, if it be a good quality in a subject, assure yourself that no man living can more admire it in the prince he loveth, because it showeth true wisdom and graciousness, and is the only happiness which can befall a servant to be made see his faults. |
|
The putting off this day is given out to be in respect of the
Chancellor of England, who is indeed sick, and so is both the
Chancellor and Constable of Scotland 'frased' (?), as they
themselves sent word to-day; which falls out the better.—
Undated. Draft corrected by Cecil (or Cranborne). 4 pp. (134. 60.) |
|
| [Lord Cecil (or Cranborne)] to the King. | |
| [1604]. |
According to your Majesty's direction those of
my Lords who were commissioners with us in the treaty of
Spain have had long conference with the Spanish Ambassador,
to his good satisfaction. First we dealt with him by order
from you upon the letter which he had received from the Archduke and left in your hands, the purpose whereof we perceived
was as well to show you by accident how great an affection the
Archdukes bare you, and what opinion they had of your
sincerity, in which point indeed the letter was very just and
kind; then to show you the grief he sustained for lack of enjoying that trade, which his estate did need of, in which it is remark
able that as your Ministers are suspected to be Spanish on the
one side, so does the letter discover that the Archduke fears
they are Hollanders, for the letter doth say that by the practice
of some personages in England the benefit they expected by
trade is indirectly made frustrate. Whereby your Majesty
may observe what your ministers are subject unto, and your
servants may also perceive what a happiness it is unto us not
only to live under a king for whose favour so great monarchs
stand in competition are in emulation (sic), but to serve so just a
master as useth not the help of foreign counsel to choose or
censure his secretary. Upon that letter therefore without taking
anything as intended to any of yours with all the courtesy that
might be (which indeed his fashion merits) we desired the Spanish
Ambassador to explain wherein it was that the treaty was not
observed, that he might receive that satisfaction which appertained to such cases; assuring him your mind was so equally
balanced with the sincerity of the King of Spain and the Archdukes' profession as if there were any error it was without
your knowledge, and should be presently reformed upon the
least information, whomsoever it concerned. With which
answer he confessed himself to be sufficiently satisfied for his
part, saying he meant not any further to trouble your Majesty
or the Lords, until the Archdukes' own ambassador came, to
whom it rather belonged (if there were cause) to negotiate the
same. Next we fell into the other point concerning the new
title of Embassage, declaring unto him, what your Majesty's
part had been therein, and how sincerely you dealt with him,
when he spake to you of the same in professing to be ignorant
of the States' intent, though now that you had heard of such
a resolution in them (which yet your eye had never seen under
their hands) your Majesty thought good to impart unto him
as followeth. First to let him know that in your making
your peace, you never meant to serve your turn by interpretation
of words or any indirect courses, but, as he knew, had absolutely
covenanted for all manner of neutrality towards them, as one
that had neither been at any time author of their separation,
nor meant so to dissolve the confederation wherein you found
your estate, as to censure their errors or meddle with their
defence. So we thought fit to let him know that your Majesty
was in no way bound by treaty to refuse any of their ministers,
whose residence by treaty is just, howsoever they either would
or should qualify him, according to that which seemed best to
themselves. Nevertheless as an argument of your Majesty's
extraordinary kindness, we told him ex abundanti you were not
resolved either to give him other greatness in his audience than
he had before, or to approve that which they had done by any
answer of yours, being determined howsoever they may hereafter
call him no other. . . . .—Undated. Draft corrected by Cecil (or Cranborne). Unfinished. 4 pp. (134. 62.) |
| [Lord Cecil (or Cranborne)] to [the Council.] | |
| [? 1604]. |
Having fallen into consideration what causes are
like to come in question this Parliament on the King's behalf,
and with what mind it is like the house will come prepared, I
have moved his Majesty, wherein divers of my Lords have joined
with me, to give the same some prorogation; whereof, as to his
Majesty's greatest officers and councillors, I have thought it
good to give an advertisement, first, as a duty in me to acquaint
you with all changes of those things wherein you are to be
principal ministers; next because you may fall upon some such
considerations as might move you to mislike the course, if you
had been acquainted with the counsel. For which purpose,
although his Majesty has herewith sent you his warrant, yet
it is with this condition, to go on or to stay as you shall conceive
it reasonable, and advertise me back again. Concerning the
occasion of this alteration your lordships may understand
these have been the principal motives. The propositions on his
Majesty's part are like to come under three principal heads:
the confirmation of those articles handled in our commission
for the Union; the orderly establishment of competent provisions
for maintenance of his Majesty's Household; and a contribution
by way of subsidy. In all which things, because it is not unlike
that many which have desires of their own will at least protract
the consent until they see some hope of retribution, and others
which have absolute indisposition to all, or part of them, will
come prepared with as many arguments as wit or will can furnish,
I could not but think it of great necessity that such consultation
might have preceded the general assembly as might have prepared some good way to the mutual satisfaction both of King
and subjects, without which whatsoever shall be resolved may
be accounted a lame work: wherein because his Majesty's
Privy Council, judges, his learned counsel, and officers of several
qualities, are like to bear the principal burden, when I consider
what it will be for most of us that have Courts of Justice, offices
in Court, and many other distractions to be able to hold ordinary
sessions, and to meet for these things which we already know;
besides those other matters which will arise ex re nata, I must
confess that I foresee that no man shall have little to do in
those businesses if he have any more than common and vulgar
employment, but he shall run the hazard to displease both King
and people, especially if the Parliament have his beginning in
the instant of the term, before which time the persons aforesaid
cannot possibly assemble together, to do that which ought
to arm them against prepared and studied arguments, and to
preoccupate those jealousies which most men are like to apprehend if they be not cleared by some better demonstration than
fair tales and promises. For first for the Union, howsoever I
conceive upon this time to be able to give reason for mine own
counsel, yet I assure your lordships many things are so far out
of my exact remembrance, as a weak man, that hap had
nothing else to do but study the same, may quickly put me such
a book case in a public meeting as I shall be loth to reply
without a further respite; which, if it fall out to be others' state
as well as mine, time will be spent in argument which would
be saved if some of those who cannot pass the talking cap might
lay their heads together, and second one another constantly
without distraction. Concerning the house, my good Lords,
give me leave without any argument that anything has been
done to satisfy the countries, yea those that are best affected
in this point, to tell you truly that all is but shadows and colours
without substance; for who does not know that "pourveyance" is used in as many offices and by as mean instruments
as ever it was! Nay, what country gentlemen can you speak
withal that is not able to show you continual abuses? If you
will say that our commissions for leases give hope that they
shall be eased by the reservation of provisions, you can easily
answer yourselves, that we are not ignorant that those provisions
can no more properly be said to ease that burden under which
they groan, than any other course that is taken to bring more
money into his Majesty's coffers. Wherein I hope your lordships conceive that I seek not to blast the fruits which are
gathered by that commission, but rather to wish that the
prorogation may give us opportunity of three or four weeks'
term, to make more visible the scope of that commission; and
so likewise by doing something in the Commission of Assarts
and such like, to give them a taste within what limits his Majesty
intends to make use of those rights which are due to him in
right of his crown, and cannot be impugned by any (how popular
soever his arguments shall be), if we may be able to demonstrate
de facto how far his Majesty's proceedings are contrary to their
unjust apprehensions of severity and rigour in execution;
which course will better satisfy preoccupied opinions than the
best figure promise of future intentions. Many other reasons
could I give you, if I were present with you in person, as I am
in spirit, according to the wonted freedom in which we have
lived in the precedent time, when we concurred in no other
cogitations but such as were compatible with our duties to that
time past which then was present, and to the present which then
was future. For which, although I am not so presumptuous
as to challenge any merit at God's hand, to Whom all we can do
is nothing, yet I confess I live the more comfortably in this
time, to think that . . . . .—Undated. Unfinished. 8 pp. (189. 100.) |
| Lord [Cecil (or Cranborne)] to [the Council]. | |
| [? 1604]. |
The King has directed them to consider a suit
presented by the Earl of Rutland. He intends in no way to
move them to do that which may be inconvenient to the places
they hold, and the trust reposed in them by the King in this
reference; nevertheless he cannot forbear to deliver this much
of his own knowledge concerning the King's gracious disposition
to the Earl, that if the [suit] be found reasonable, it will be so
acceptable to the King as he will prefer no man herein before
him. For the particular love and friendship between the Earl
and him (the writer), he would be very glad that his desire may
have good success.—Undated. Draft. Endorsed: "my Lo. his letter in the behalf of my Lo. of Rutland." 1¼ pp. (189. 104.) |
| [Lord Cecil (or Cranborne)] to the [Stationers' Company?] | |
| [1604]. |
His Majesty, considering the abuses more and more
arising by the indiscreet publishing of books containing matters
of much offence, tending to the corruption of manners, the
spreading of false rumours, the seducing of people by propositions
of new invention, to personal defamation, and to intermeddling
in affairs of government, has directed his letters to the writer,
which he encloses; according to the tenor whereof he has chosen
E.F., T.W., and — P. to whom he has referred the perusal and
allowance of all books not handling divinity, law or physic.
He charges them to take a course for the due executing of this
order by "your whole company." The King has by other
letters given charge to my Lord of Canterbury to provide
against like disorders in setting forth treatises of divinity.—
Undated. Draft. Endorsed: "1604. Against printing of irregular pamphlets." 1½ pp. (190. 1.) |
| Inhabitants of Cromer, Norfolk, to Sir Robert Clark, Baron of the Exchequer. | |
| [1604]. |
On behalf of John Wyndebanck, late of Cromer,
now prisoner in Norwich Castle, by order of reprieve from the
Lord Chief Justice and the Baron, after conviction of burglary
and taking a ferret and nets out of the house of Emanuel
Callard, gent. The offence was but an unadvised part of a
young man for his foolish pleasure to take coneys, and they hope
the sequel of his life will answer their expectation of his amendment. Pray Clark to further the obtaining of his pardon.—
Undated. Signed: Thomas Baxter; John Cooper; Walter Whitny; William Smith; John Worth; John Spilman. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (189. 107.) |
| The Earl of Cumberland to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [Between 20 Aug. 1604 and 5 May 1605]. |
We have
dispatched the account of our proceedings touching the Graymes
to his Majesty, wherein I conceive my care to effect his pleasure
is not so fully set down as it might have been, and some of the
Lords that dealt nobly with me themselves wished. The
particulars this bearer Thomas Taylor shall tell you.—Undated. Holograph. ½ p. (108. 78.) |
| Patrick Cunninghame to the King. | |
| [? 1604]. |
Is son to Walter Cunningham, who was an archer
of the King's guard in Scotland. In consideration of his father's
long service he begs for the place of a footman to the Lady
Elizabeth.—Undated. Petition. 1 p. (196. 120.) |
| Dacres Lands. | |
| [1604]. |
Schedule of lands in Yorkshire, Northumberland
and Derbyshire, parcel of the possessions which came to the
Crown by the attainder of Leonard Dacres: doubted to be yet
in his Majesty's intended entail to the Crown. Note at foot:
"Pray directions to Sir Edward Cooke his Majesty's attorney
to leave these and the rest of the Dacres lands forth of his
Majesty's entail."—Undated. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (189. 110.) |
| Capt. Ed. Dalington to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [1604]. |
Understands by Sir Thomas Gorges of Cranborne's
favour to him (Dalington) in his suit, and purposes to follow
Cranborne's advice. Has an entertainment of 5s. a day in
Ireland, which is but 3s. 9d.; but it is not sufficient for his
expenses, and he begs a pension of a noble a day here in
England. Is quite disabled on the use of his body, and hopeless
of all other fortunes.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (108. 81.) |
| Lord Danvers. | |
| [1604]. | Two papers:— |
| (i) "Reasons against Sir John Gilbert's desire to have some of the parcels contained in the suit of my Lord Davers to be granted to him." | |
|
The paper details the inconveniences and double charges
which will arise if the office of Surveyor be divided between
Gilbert and Davers, and states that a great part of the profit
would be lost, both to the King and "the Patentees."—Undated. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (108. 82.) |
|
|
(ii) A paper concerning the office of Surveyor. The reasons
against the clause of ratification have been sent. Reasons for
the receipt of rent are now given. At present the sheriffs defer
their payments into the Exchequer 2, 3 or 4 years, and the
Surveyor cannot receive a penny till the sheriffs have paid in
their money; so that the Surveyor would be in danger of paying
large stipends to the deputies for those years out of his own
purse. Sir Henry Bronker has not received these 3 years a
penny out of the Exchequer upon his patent of issues, through
the same cause, and his men being weary of serving for nothing,
he has been compelled to change his deputies often, so that the
service has been impaired and the office somewhat discredited.
For the satisfaction of his Majesty's part, sureties shall be
given.—Undated. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (108. 83.) |
|
| Lord Denny to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [1604]. |
Begs for his cousin William Cecil's company into
the country. He hopes 3 or 4 days' recreation will do good to
the rest of his exercises.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (108. 84.) |
| Sir Edward Denny to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [1604]. |
Of an offence committed by Mr. Trott's man. The
statute law might have been executed, but Denny troubles
Cranborne in the matter, because he required to be informed of
disorders committed under his charge, and he would fain wipe
out the original cause of offence. Though it is no excuse for a
servant to do ill when he is bidden, yet in extenuation he
must say that he thinks the man knew not the law, and the
master's commanding him may in some sort sue for his pardon.
The censure of the master's unlawful command and the servant's
obeying, he must leave to Cranborne's consideration. As long
as the master may cast the peril upon others, and incur no
displeasure himself, he will hardly cease so old a custom as by
one of these examinations Cranborne may see it to be.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (108. 85.) |
| Lady Denny's Lands in Ireland. | |
| [1604]. |
Statement as to the rating of Lady Denny's lands in
Ireland, headed "Reasons why the undertakers should not expect the like favour, and the difference between us." The
undertakers' lands are rated, some at 3d., some 2d., and some
¾d. an acre; whereas her land is all rated at 4d., yielding neither
timber nor any other commodity, and far from any great town
or traffic; the mountain Slieve Lohar lying between. The other
undertakers, lying near Limbrick, Cork, Youghall and Waterford, have vent for their commodities. Most of the seniories
in the time of the rebellion were inhabited and yielded profit;
but her land was only waste, and yielded not a penny since the
beginning of the rebellion. Most of their houses are as yet
standing, but hers all raised to the ground. Her losses are
greater than any other undertaker, except Sir Thomas Norris,
being 2,450l. besides the loss of her husband by that unhappy
service. Their credit and ability may draw over and protect
tenants from injuries, which the Irish are much subject to;
but she, living here, will never get any to leave England unless
they may have it at easier rate, seeing she is unable to defend
them.—Undated. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (108. 86.) |
| The Earl of Devonshire to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [? 1604]. |
My Lord Petre has appointed to be with me this
day at dinner about some business that very much concerns
me. The omission thereof would do me more harm than my
presence in my Lord of Cumberland's cause can do the King
any service. Therefore I desire, if it may be, to be spared.
Because you shall therein stand my good Lord, I have sent you
a cock and a hen of my own hawk's killing. I will see you sometime to-morrow, and in the meantime will thoroughly think
of the business we did last confer of.—Friday morning. Holograph. Seal. Endorsed: "1603" (sic). ½ p. (103. 3.) |
| The Same to the Same. | |
| [1604]. |
Ever since I went from the Court I have been
possessed with my old fury of the headache, and yet my head
has been full of proclamations which I received out of Ireland,
and which I send you with the Deputy's letters, because they
are some effects of the King's directions. About Easter such
as were appointed to come from the commissioners there resolve
to be here. From the Chief Justice I understand that in
Munster, Catherlow, Leyse, Wexford and Connaugh will be
found waste lands for greater numbers of the Greames than are
intended, but with caution how they shall subsist there, where
they will find nothing but heaven above them and the naked
earth to inhabit. For the design of the Islands, there is order
from hence for victual and munitions to be sent, and I think
already gone to Knockfergus. The Deputy stays the King's
pinnace for that purpose. I have found out one galley that will
serve the turn in Ireland; if but one more be sent from hence
it will be better; and upon ten days' warning there shall be
800 as good men as the world yields at Knockfergus. What can
be farther resolved until we hear out of Scotland I know not.
I hear of great satisfaction that kingdom receives in his Majesty's
choice of the Deputy and Chief Justice, and now much desire
the like care as the consummation of their happiness in sending
a good Chancellor; for the old is dying if not dead. To-morrow
I will be at the Court. In the meantime because Mr. Bywater
teaches me that the saints of the Court must not only have
adoration but intercession, though I cannot do it by angels
who are perfect, yet I have sent you six sucking rabbits of
Wansteed, which I am sure are innocent.—Wansteed, Friday
morning. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (189. 112.) |
| Lady Digby to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [1604]. |
Recommends her son, whom she is sending to live
at Court, to his protection. She has bred him long beyond
the seas, hoping thereby to enable him to serve his prince and
country. The only requital she can make is a sick widow's
earnest prayers.—Undated. Signed: Abygall Dygby. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (108. 89.) |
| The Earl of Dorset, Lord Treasurer, to the Same. | |
| [1604.] |
The officers of the Admiralty require a present
imprest of money upon the accompanying estimate, for the
victualling of four of the King's ships to attend "him" to
Spain, which comes to 5348l. 6s. 8d. The officers desire it
should go out of the ordinary. That is impossible, for the
ordinary, wanting this sum, must be unpaid; and their clamour
for money comes upon him, and he is not able to satisfy their
due. If so great a sum must be had, the King must be moved
for a privy seal, to pay it when they have it. He thinks that
if Cranborne would move the Lord Admiral, he would be content
to take with him ships of lesser burden; for the ships by this
estimate require 1400 men, which is a wonderful charge. He
cannot get a copy of the bond for Scottish custom, because Sir
Thomas Smith answered him that he was sworn not to deliver
it to any.—Undated. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (98. 23.) |
| The Same to the Same. | |
| [1604]. |
I am right glad of your coming, and will be ready
for you to-morrow. But touching Wednesday I have warned
D. Dun, D. Parkins and all the merchants, and given order to
D. Parkins to desire also the Hanses to meet all at my house
betwixt 2 & 3 on Wednesday. So if you will have their meeting
before 9, then were it fit you sent again to new warn them for
the hour. D. Dun and D. Parkins are in the country, the one
in Essex and the other at my Lord of London's; and I have left
word at Mr. Warder's, where Lesieur lies, when he comes to
town.—Undated. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (189. 115.) |
| The Same to the Same. | |
| [1604]. |
You may not forget that when the Mayor, by the
mouth of certain aldermen and the town clerk, did desire this
alteration of loan to be left to themselves, that we specially
remembered to them that it might not be levied of the poorer
sort, but of the richer sort: which they faithfully promised.
I have sent to Mr. Recorder to be here at 2 with two aldermen.
I will be ready for you Wednesday.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." ½ p. (189. 116.) |
| The Earl of Dorset, Lord Treasurer, to Sir Philip Herbert. | |
| [1604]. |
Details reasons why he cannot pass certain lands to
Harbert without the King's warrant, as suggested by Harbert
and his friends; the principal one being a message from the
King brought him by Sir Edward Hoby that the lands leased to
Hoby should be leased to no man; and the King's special
instructions that lands in Shepey were excepted out of the
commission of sales. As it seems Harbert does not believe
him but thinks he may do it of himself without warrant, he
sends the letter of the clerk of the writs, who has both the
commission and the instructions in his custody, to prove the
exception of Shepey. Protests his readiness to serve Harbert,
and his grief at being mistrusted, or as he rather wishes it
misconceived; and prays him to hasten sending the necessary
warrant. He will confer with Lord Cranborne, as Harbert
desires; but the latter will be of opinion that having the King's
hand to restrain him, he must have it to discharge him.—
Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 3 pp. (189. 118.) |
| Edward Dutton, Mayor of Chester, to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [1604]. |
Cranborne is informed that the Mayor and citizens
of Chester go about to exempt themselves from the jurisdiction
of the Court of Exchequer there: which Dutton denies. They
have only petitioned the King to confirm for the benefit of the
city such privy seals and grants as they had from the late
Queen.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." ½ p. (108. 55.) |
| Merchants trading to the East Indies to the Lords Commissioners for the Treaty with Spain. | |
| [1604]. |
At their great charge they have entered into this
trade, and begun to settle a residence of factors, and intend to
set out another voyage very shortly to discover other parts of
those countries which may be found fit to vent commodities.
Pray that nothing may be concluded in the treaty to the
hindrance of their trading.—Undated. Petition. 1 p. (190. 12.) |
| Princess Elizabeth to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [1604]. |
"Celuy qui vous donne la presente est Monsr.
Cardel, lequel ma apris a danser si bien que leurs Majestes en
sont contentes. Je vous prie estre occasion que il soit
recongneu de ses peines et ayt moyen de s'entretenir pres
de moy, car je serois marrie que ceux qui m'enseignent perdissent leur temps; vous me ferez plaisir et je vous en prie.
Je demeureray, V're bien bonne amie, Elizabeth."—Undated. Holograph. Seal. Endorsed: "1604." (147. 165.) |
| The Earl of Erroll to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [1604]. |
Begs Cranborne to credit the bearer, his cousin, in
his behalf.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." ½ p. (108. 92.) |
| Geo. Fane to —. | |
| [1604]. |
Having no messenger, and considering what speedy
advertisement his lordship requires touching Senor Perez, I
hire this express messenger to you; the rather for that Sir Tho.
Waller, at his last going from the Castle [of Dover] left no order
with me to use his name for sending packets by the running
post, nor to deal in any other business in his absence, as upon
like occasions before he had done. Senor Perez, since his coming
to Dover, has received letters from the Court by Constance
the post who came over with him, and it is reported the letters
were sent from the Earl of Devon.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (189. 122.) |
| John Ferrour to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [1604]. |
The Earl of Southampton commended a suit of
mine for the privilege to imprint chronicles to your favour. His
Majesty referred my petition to the Archbishop of Canterbury
to certify his opinion, whose favour Lord Southampton did
likewise importune and I produced instances of Mr. Morton's
grammars and Mr. Wright's law books as precedents of like
nature in being. But all proves so unsuccessful with my Lord's
grace, who intends as he saith to certify against me, as I must
still remain a stepchild to regard unless you shall approve of
the new erection of an officer to be named his Majesty's
Chronicler, and in your love to Lord Southampton further my
desire for the obtaining of that office. The precedents of the
like office in other Princes' courts, and the new erected office
by his Majesty for entertainment of ambassadors, have emboldened me to present this to your consideration.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (206. 15.) |
| The Same to the King. | |
| [? 1604]. |
He hoped for the King's favour "ever since God
made me a prime messenger of the glad tidings to your Majesty
about the decease of Queen Elizabeth." The King made him
one of his servants of better rank, but without fee, and he has
received no reward. He is an "utter" barrister, and begs the
King to recommend him to the Lord Chancellor and judges
for employment.—Undated. 18th cent. copy. 1½ pp. (249. 205.) |
| William Floyer to the Same. | |
| [1604]. |
The late Queen granted by patent to Sir Walter
Ralegh, lately attainted, the Abbey of Molannae with its
possessions in the county of Waterford for the rent of 10l. Irish.
Ralegh passed it over to Thomas Harryott, who seven years
ago sold it to petitioner for 200l. He desires to be the King's
immediate tenant, and not to hold the premises by a general
patent entangled with the rents and conditions attaching to
other lands. Begs new patent for the same in regard of his
long service.—Undated. Petition. 1 p. (196. 131.) |
| W. Fouler, the Queen's Secretary, to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [1604]. |
A gentleman of the Earl of Oxford's has been very
earnest with him to know of the certainty of a patent lately
passed for Havering le Bower. Asks instructions whether he
shall resolve him thereof.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." ½ p. (108. 94.) |
| The Same to the Same. | |
| [1604]. |
Sir Henry Gildford has satisfied him in paying Mr.
Norton, a stationer of London, who lent him 500l. He has spent
in her Majesty's service since coming here, 700l. Gildford has
also discharged him of the debt into which necessity forced him.
Having Cranborne's warning that what her Majesty gave him
should not so loosely go from him, he has proceeded therein
with moderation. Begs consideration for his maintenance.
His fees are but equal with pages, less than the grooms, and
inferior by 80l. to the "Duch" minister, who does nothing.
Details the reasons why his seal is of no benefit to him.
These beginnings seem very strange to him, that he should
not be thought worthy to be acquainted with the Queen's
proceedings in such matters; and what the future will be he
knows not; but he hopes for Cranborne's continued favour.—
Undated. Signed. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (108. 95.) |
| Henry Frowyke and Ralph Wilbraham to the Council. | |
| [1604]. |
John Crosby of St. Michael's near St. Albans has
received a privy seal for the loan of 10l. They certify, as
commissioners of the peace in Herts, that he is deeply indebted,
and has no lands but such as he pays great rents for.—Undated. Signed. Endorsed: "1604." ½ p. (108. 108.) |
| The Same to the Same. | |
| [1604]. |
Similar certificate in respect of Gyles Marston of
St. Michael's near St. Albans.—Undated. Signed. Endorsed: "1604." ½ p. (108. 109.) |
| Lord Fyvie's Manors. | |
| [1604]. |
Somerset—Manor of Tyntenhull, alias Tincknell, 35l. Dorset—Manor of Sturmister, 82l. Wiltshire—Manor of Hanington, Duchy of Lanc., 45l. Unsigned. Endorsed: "1604." ½ p. (109. 80.) |
| Some German Titles. | |
| [1604]. | "Illustrissimo Principi ac Domino Domino Joachimo Ernesto Marchioni Brandenburgensi, Prussiae, Stetini, Pomeraniae, Casubiorum & Vandalorum, nec non Silesiae & in Jagerendorff Duci, Burggravio Norinbergensi, & Principi in Rügen &c. |
|
Illustrissimo Principi ac Domino, Domino Philipo Ludovico
Comiti Palatino Rheni, Duci Bavariae & Comiti in Sponheimb
& Veldentz &c. Illustrissimo principi ac Domino Domino
Wolffgango Wilhe . . . . Comiti Palatino Rheni, Duci Bavariae
et Comiti in Sponheimb & Veldentz &c."—Undated. Endorsed: "Titles, 1604." ½ p. (190. 17.) |
|
| Goldbeating and Gold Wire Drawing. | |
| [1604]. |
Extract from the proceedings of the French Council,
dated 15 Feb. 1603: Warrant of Henry 4th dated 4 May 1603:
and an agreement, dated 23 Feb. 1604: all concerning the
introduction of gold beating and gold wire drawing into France,
and certain grants in respect thereto made to Jehan Andre
Turato. Certified copies. 16 pp. (144. 189.) |
| Sir Arthur Gorges to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [1604]. |
Begs that his grant may be reserved out of the
parcels now setting down to be entailed, to enable him to give
himself bread. He served the late Queen many years, and yet
was left to a bare, overthrown fortune, by undeserved crosses.
In this new age he is cast behind all men in preferment, because
the jealousy of the time cast upon him suspicion and restraint
from the Court whilst the bounty of the King was a-dealing.
He begs Cranborne to commiserate his hard fortune. If he
is so happy as to enjoy his patronage, he must say by Cranborne
as the now French King said by the Pope when he established
his broken estate; "Par la Pape nous vivons et pour la Pape
nous mourerouns."—Undated. Signed. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (108. 98.) |
| The Same to the Same. | |
| [1604]. |
Expresses gratitude to Cranborne for his favour.
He has used good means to Sir Philip Herbert to solicit a
gracious answer from his Majesty, or a reference to the Lords,
for his reasonable suit, and is promised a speedy resolution.—
Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (108. 99.) |
| Thomas, Lord Grey, to Ralph Winwood. | |
| [1604]. |
Honourable Ridolfo, the God of Heaven contrary
to all hope hath yet drawn out my thread, I hope to his own,
my country and Prince's service. Our restraint continues
still very strait, but time I doubt not will wear it. In the
mean[time], no one accident hath so much grieved me as this
of Vere, that he should forsake the Low Country employment,
when my misfortune hath made me so incapable. Yet though
this untimely frost hath nipped my hopes even in the bud, such
a serenity may ensue as may recover and increase them, for we
see often backward springs prove fruitful years; yet have
through my whole life so deeply tasted the vanity of hope,
that I can no more be beguiled but rest prepared to lay hold on
occasion, whereof though I fail, mine own temper shall make
my satisfaction. I understand by my cousin Briges how favourable his Excellency and Barnavile were to me, which I assure
myself was not hindered by my good friends, who I doubt not
will still, as they may with their own duty, continue me their
good favours. Might you in a letter to Captain Brett give me
but some light how the Low Countries stand and whether
there be any hope of their subsisting without England and how
France works on these occasions, the work were meritorious.
This bearer, my page, I have recommended unto Ned Cesill;
I beseech you honour him with your favour.—Undated. Addressed: "To my very loving friend Mr. Winwood, Agent for his Majesty in the Low Countries." Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (105. 19.) |
| Thomas, Lord Grey, to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [1604]. |
I crave pardon if with a curious eye I survey mine
own dangers, and rather endure censure of my frequent solicitations than cast off my languishing hopes to the violence of
surges, which cannot but overwhelm me. I have had the
honour, my Lord, to know you long, and while I was in place
studied you more than man that lived, yet never found you
forward to blow your friends with unreasonable hopes, nor faint
in prosecution of your own encouragements. I should hold
myself happy if time might make a demonstration to the world
that those vain spirits are breathed out and spent that disaffected myself; nay, that I have utterly thrown from me all
desire to intermeddle in public or private here in England till
time have buried my offence and by long proof manifested
a regenerate man. Therefore my suit is to be confined to any
part of Christendom farthest off and least suspected to this
Crown, where if ever upon probable cause I grow suspected let
my posterity and name (a pledge more than sufficient) be stained
with eternal infamy: a suit not only free from all suspicion to
the state (in so unmoved a peace and firm correspondency with
all Christian princes) but just out of equality of punishment
with all those that received judgment for the same offence,
which yet compared with others deserves compassion; and most
agreeable to the remnant of my estate, which abroad will serve
in better sort than at home. This as I move only to you and
your friends (for from others I will starve rather than expect)
so do I from you and them only attend succour.—Undated. Holograph. Seal. Endorsed: "1604." 2¼ pp. (106. 119.) |
| Thomas, Lord Grey, to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [1604]. | A kind friend hath delivered me a letter unto the King, who I am assured will refer his resolution unto your counsel. The misery I have endured hath been very great and fully taught me the error and folly of my proud youth. If now reclaimed in mind and somewhat more able to discern I might be received into your favour I should esteem my past correction a blessing of God Who hath made me thereby both know myself and the virtue of worthy friends. |
|
PS.—Pity my sore imprisonment which hath utterly decayed
my body: and direct me how to wind me out of this labyrinth
of misery, for you only can do it.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." ½ p. (106. 121.) |
|
| The Same to the Same. | |
| [1604]. |
I understand by your favourable answer to this
bearer how much I am bound to you; beseeching you to believe
however I am the most unfortunate, yet will I never be second
to the most faithful of your friends. It is true that it is but a
poor and dead faith that vaunts of will but hath no power to
work: but even so it agrees with my estate, corrupted and
dead out of offence, from whence nothing can be reflected that
will please, but if revived by grace, yet are not my natural
faculties so corrupted that the perfection of my will might not
avow service worthy of your command.—Undated. Holograph. Seal. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (106. 122.) |
| The Same to the Earl of Devonshire. | |
| [1604]. |
Begs Devonshire's consideration of his past miseries,
and of this greater, which he must perpetually endure in this
desperate imprisonment (far worse than death to one of his
age) if the King, out of the same mercy whereby he gave him
his life, apply not some speedy remedy. Prays Devonshire to
join the rest of his friends in obtaining favour. Aims only at
any remove from this hopeless place, with such restraint as
may give the King best trial of his life and humour, whether
there remain in him any seed unnatural or disaffected to his
blessed government.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "Lord Grey from the Tower, 1604." 1 p. (107. 151.) |
| Sir John Harington. | |
| [? 1604]. |
Draft letters patent to the Lords of the Starchamber
as to the cause between Edward Rogers, sheriff of Somerset,
against Sir John Harington, heard on Friday last, but the
sentence respited and the cause referred to the arbitrament of
the Earl of Shrewsbury, Lord Knowls, Lord Wotton, Justice
Fennor and Justice Yelverton. As the parties are so near
allied, and at the suit of Lady Harington, sole sister of the
plaintiff, the King's will is that the arbitrament shall be speedily
proceeded in, with all regard to preserve brotherly love and
amity, and to no prejudice to Lady Harington or her eldest
son.—Undated. 1 p. (187. 140.) |
| Christophe de Harlay, French Ambassador, to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [1604]. | It was not my intention to withdraw my promise from your hands for they are too sure for me; but the doubt I have that the King my master will be irritated with what has passed on the part of the Spanish commissioners makes me fear that it may not be permitted to me to-day to oblige him with what I had proposed to myself to do with respect to the King of England and the fulfilment of a treaty which has been entered upon. I await his letters and I hope that the Spanish Ambassador will acquaint you with his, and upon that we will both order ourselves. For the rest, I owe so much to your friendship and favours that though I should labour all my life to prove it, I could never do it as I would wish. Therefore I pray you pardon me if my heart wants some slight proof of its good will to offer you. |
| PS. |
I am still retained to-day in this town. If you hear
of anything that I ought to know, please advise me by one of
yours.—Undated. Holograph. French. Endorsed: "1604." 2 pp. (108. 93.) |
| Stephen de Harristegni and John de Harranedar of St. John de Luze in France, to the King. | |
| [? 1604]. |
Upon divers petitions heretofore exhibited by the
ambassador of France in their behalf concerning their great
losses by a spoil committed upon a ship and goods by one
Captain Thomasin and his company, for whom Sir Robert
Basset, knight, became surety. Basset was by his Majesty's commissioners condemned in 1500l., to be paid by the Lady Basset.
Now this lady says that she is unable to satisfy the said debt,
alleging that all Sir Robert Basset's land is extended upon by
two general statutes, one of them by the High Treasurer of
England, and the other by Mr. John Drake, high sheriff of
Devonshire, and one Mr. Poole. Pray that his Majesty would
order that the said parties may certify whether the lands be
extended or not and for what cause, and if they be not, then to
grant a proclamation against Sir Robert Basset.—Undated. Unsigned. 1 p. (197. 1.) [See Cal. S.P. Dom. 1603–1610, p. 184.] |
| Sir Richard Hawkyns to Sir Julius Caesar. | |
| [1604]. |
This bearer Robert Luff is a petitioner to the King
for recompense of his suffering in his imprisonment in Spain,
which was miserable. He has entreated me to certify the same
to you, for I was an eye witness and a partner in his calamity,
which took end with him, having passed a grievous torment
with valour, by which he deserved well; and I would be glad
there might be regard had of him, the sooner by your favour.—
Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "Sir Richard Hawkyns testimony of Captain Luffe. 1604." ½ p. (108. 104.) |
| Sir Philip Herbert. | |
| [1604]. |
Schedule of lands and valuations for Sir Philip
Herbert. Comprises the lordship of Denbigh; manor of
Somersam, Cambs.; manor of Aston (sic) and Stoell, Wilts;
manors of Oteford, Tenham, Oer and Dean, Kent.—Undated. Endorsed: "1604." ½ p. (108. 106.) |
| Sir Philip Herbert to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [1604]. |
If you were as subject to evil weather and worse ways
as we are, you would not be so pleasant with your poor friends
that desire nothing more than to serve you: so much for your
Welch interpreter. For the rest, that I am your nephew and a
married man, there is nothing under heaven that I joy so much
in, and I hope ere long some good occasion will send me to wait
on you very shortly, when your niece shall thank you for us
both.—Finshingbrooke (sic), Wensday night. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604. Sr. Philip Herbert to my Lo. from Royston [struck through] Hinchingbrooke." 1 p. (189. 127.) |
| The Same to the Same. | |
| [1604]. |
Pardon me for not writing all this while, for since
the King's coming hither he has never been within the doors
till this day. I have according to your directions showed the
King the paper which you enclosed, and he is wonderful glad
to hear of it, and has willed Sir Roger Aston to go to the Tower
himself and give directions for them. The King is very well,
but only his cold is not quite gone from him, but he is very much
better than when he went from you. He is going to-morrow
morning to Newmarket.—Roiston, Sunday night. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (189. 128.) |
| Sir Philip Herbert. | |
| [1604]. |
The lands in Sheppy, estimated at 1,120l., are found
by inquisition at the yearly value of 923l. Towards this the
King's present rents there, per annum 554l. 8s. 2d.: Sir Edward
Hobie's improvements, per annum, 210l.: fee farm rents during
the leases in Sheppy, 158l. 12s. 10d. more: Sir Philip has
lands in Wiltshire per annum, 80l.; Total 1003l. 1s. 0d. So
remains to make up the value of 1200l. 197l.—Undated. Endorsed: "1604." ½ p. (189. 129.) [See the letter above (p. 432) of the Earl of Dorset to Herbert.] |
| The Earl of Hertford. | |
| [1604]. |
Persons considerable for delegates in the commission
of appeal of the Earl of Hartforde. (1) Richard, Archbishop of
Canterbury; (2) Thomas Egerton, knight, Lord Ellesmere,
Chancellor of England; (3) Thomas, Earl of Dorset, Treasurer
of England; (4) Thomas, Earl of Suffolk, Lord Chamberlain;
(5) Henry, Earl of Northampton, Lord Warden of the Cinque
Ports; (6) Robert, Lord Cecil, Viscount Cranborne, the king's
principal Secretary; (7) Richard, Bishop of London; (8) John
Popeham, knight, Chief Justice of pleas to be holden before the
King and one of the King's privy council; (9) John Fortescue,
knight, Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster; (10) Thomas
Flemminge, knight, Chief Baron of the Exchequer; (11) Thomas
Walmeslye, knight, one of the justices for Common Pleas;
(12) Julius Caesar, knight, master of the Requests and judge
or president of the High Court of Admiralty of England;
(13) Roger Wilbraham, knight, one of the masters of the
Requests; (14) John Bennett, knight, doctor of laws and
guardian surrogate of the prerogative court of Canterbury;
(15) Matthew Carew, knight, doctor of laws and one of the
masters of the Chancery; (16) — Nevill, S.T.P., dean of the
cathedral church of Canterbury; (17) — Andrewes, S.T.P. dean
of the church of Westminster; (17) — Ridley, doctor of laws
and principal official of the episcopal consistory of Winchester;
(18) — Amye, doctor of laws and one of the masters of the
Chancery. (19) — Legg, doctor of laws and one of the masters
of the Chancery; (20) — Weald, doctor of laws and principal
official of the episcopal consistory of Worcester. (Latin.) Reasons of exceptions against these civilians. |
|
Sir Daniel Dunne married Doctor Awbreye's daughter and
was with him jointly employed in council for the Earl of
Hertford. Sir Richard Swayle was privately used in the same case. |
|
|
Sir Edward Stanhope was committed being privy to the
close carriage of the appeal and is near in blood to the Earl of
Hertford. Endorsed (by Cranborne): "Lord Mowntegle." 1 p. (97. 80.) |
|
| Sir G. Hervy, Lieutenant of the Tower, to [Lord Cecil (or Cranborne)]. | |
| [1604]. |
It appeareth by my books of allowances remaining
of record in his Majesty's Exchequer, that for the diet of a
baron I have been allowed weekly 8l.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." Slip. (97. 125.) |
| Sir Edward Hoby to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [? 1604]. |
There is an old proverb, "A man's heart is upon his
halfpenny." Since I saw your lordship, it is told me that the
marriage is presently to be done. If need shall be of my attendance before, in respect that the King may pass his assurance
before, I will stay and not go down; if otherwise, I will gladly
be a countryman. I am bold to ask counsel of you, as one in
whom you have interest in all service and love, and so at midnight I take my leave.—Undated. Holograph. Seal. Endorsed in a later hand: "before Jan. 1604." ½ p. (103. 98.) |
| William Holliday to the Same. | |
| [1604]. |
In consideration of his employment into Spain and
Portugal for 18 months at his own costs, and also of his services
to the late Queen, touching the contractors for the apparelling
of the forces, begs for a place or office in these Customs causes.—
Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (108. 111.) |
| The Hudleston Family. | |
| [1604]. |
Brief of the cause between John Delabere, plaintiff,
and William Hudleston and others, defendants, who are charged
with forgery and publication of a deed of conveyance, pretended
to be executed by Sir John Hudleston upon the marriage of
his son and heir Anthony. Genealogical notes showing the
descent of the Hudleston family. Lands mentioned are Kirksanton, Saterton and Ulfay; Millam in Cumberland; manors
of Gotherston and Baynton, Yorks.—Undated. Endorsed: "1604." 2 pp. (108. 113.) |
| Import Licence. | |
| [? 1604]. |
Giving permission to a trader (unnamed) to import
from the Low Countries a golden shield set with diamonds and
precious stones of great value, to sell for his profit where he
shall choose, with leave to travel with a servant as he may
think fit.—Undated. Copy, signed: Agnolo d'Ambo. French. Endorsed in a late hand: "about 1604." 1 p. (109. 7.) |
| The King's Revenue in Ireland. | |
| [? 1604]. | Particulars to be considered of by the Lords, abstracted out of the collections sent out of Ireland for the increase of his Majesty's revenues. |
|
Imposition on goods imported or exported by such as claim
to be free of poundage. The licence for exportation of yarn
to be compounded for and resumed. Imposition on rawhides.
Licences for transporting corn to be converted to the King's
benefit. Imposition on pipestaves. Lease of the custom upon
foreign vessels coming to fish to be resumed; also the leases
of the great customs to the towns of Galway, Dundalk and
Carrickfergus; also Lord Haye's lease of the impost. Licences
to draw wines to be let to farm. Licences for making aquavite
to be resumed. Licences to sell tobacco to be granted. Imposition upon tobacco. Selling of ale to be farmed. Licences
of aulnage or measuring of cloth. Measuring of salt is already
set for 40l. a year. Aids for making the Prince Knight, and for
marrying the King's eldest daughter. Wardships, the profits
whereof have ever been taken by the Deputies. Some man to
be countenanced there, as Tipper in England, for discovery of
titles. The King's claim to sundry countries in Ireland. Profits
of the seals in the Courts of the Bench and Common Pleas have
been usurped from the King by the Chief Justices. Penal laws
to be put in execution.—Undated. 2¼ pp. (130. 147.) |
|
| Captain Thomas Jackson to the Council. | |
| [1604]. |
He is deprived of his former promises of relief; is
the only Berwick man unprovided for; and is left destitute.
Sends the enclosed, not to publish the same disgracefully, but
because he has no other means to save his reputation, and that
they may rightly understand "his" [Lord Hunsdon's] injurious
dealings with his country, his father, and his friend. If the
Council for some secret causes propose to punish him, will
dutifully yield himself.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (108. 125.) |
| The Enclosure:— | |
|
T. Jackson to Sir John Cary.—Denounces Cary at great
length, and in violent terms, for his having opposed his appointment to some particular garrison, contrary to the desire of
Cary's dead father. Speaks of Cary's tyranny, oppression and
calumny, which have deprived him of reputation and means of
maintenance. Challenges him to appoint time, place and
weapons, and the quality of the person he will bring with him;
and he will attend him, and make an end of former wrongs
and disgraces.—Undated. [? May 1603: see Part XV, p. 117.] Copy in Jackson's hand, endorsed by him: "My last letter to Sir Jo. Carye." 1 p. (108. 124.) |
|
| The Same to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [1604]. |
He patiently attends what the Council purpose to
determine of him, in recompense of his services in the field,
and in satisfaction of his great wrongs. Vindicates himself
from the imputations that he intended Lord Hunsdon's disgrace,
and sought to teach the Council in their designs for Berwick, and
to be a counsellor among them. His "Apologie for Berwicke"
will witness the same, which he begs Cranborne carefully to
peruse. Regrets that he has drawn on himself the Council's
displeasure by the indiscreet seeking satisfaction of his wrongs,
but hopes that as he has felt the power of their displeasure, he
may taste the sweetness of their mercy.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (108. 126.) |
| Jehan Jacobs, merchant of Bruges, to the King. | |
| [? 1604]. |
On his last voyage he lodged with François Cabillau,
at the "Chapeau Rouge" in Bottolph Lane. After supper,
overtaken with wine, he talked with his host of religion, defending his own as a Catholic, and blaming others. He has but a
confused memory of it, and has no recollection of touching the
person of his Majesty. In consequence of this dispute he left
Cabillau's and went to another lodging in Fanchurch Street;
whereupon Cabillau, offended thereat, accused him before Sir
Thomas Bennett of scandalous talk on religious matters, and
of saying that those Kings only who are recognised by the
Pope are true ones. He was thereupon put in prison and examined by Bennett, who paid no attention to his explanation.
Now moved by repentance he begs for pardon and liberty.—
Undated. Petition. French. Endorsed: "Requeste de Jehan Jacobs, marchand de Bruges, prisonnier a Neewgate." 1½ pp. (130. 146.) |
| Interrogatories for Jesuits and Seminary Priests. | |
| [1604]. |
Minute to the Lord Warden and others, to take
measures for the apprehension and examination of suspected
persons, Jesuits, and seminary priests landing at the English
ports. It is to be demanded what their true names are, how
long they have been beyond the seas, in what seminary or
college, what exhibition they have had from hence, or otherwise,
from whom and by what means, at what port they took shipping,
where they went from hence, by whose means were they conveyed over, whether they have taken any degrees (if they be
scholars), or what pension; if they have followed the service of
the wars what moved them to repair hither in so great numbers,
and to what places they meant to resort, with other questions
concerning their duty and allegiance to his Majesty; and how
they would behave themselves for their temporal obedience,
if the land should be invaded by the authority of the Pope. Unsigned. Endorsed: "1604. Minute from the King to the Lo. Warden for the examining of all such suspected persons as shall land in any of the ports." 7½ pp. (109. 92.) |
| Edw. Jones to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [1604]. |
Presses his suit for Sir Thomas Smith's place. He
leaves it to Cranborne whether Smith shall resign to him, or
he be admitted extraordinary.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (108. 128.) |
| Edw. Jones to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [1604]. |
Of his suit for Sir Thomas Smith's place. Understands by Lord Davers and Lord Monteagle that he should
satisfy Cranborne that he is free from dependence on any man
that might keep him from being wholly Cranborne's. As for
the Earl of Northumberland, he is unknown to him. Had only
to do with Lord Sidney through a lease in Kent, wherein Sidney
dealt so hardly with him that he made him leave the country.
Details the bad usage he has received from a third party alluded
to. He desires to depend on Cranborne only. The place is
of small profit, yet the price will be very dear to him.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (108. 129.) |
| Elizabeth, Lady Kennedy, to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [1604]. |
Commits her unfortunate estate to him. Craves
his letter to Mr. Vanlor, who has promised, if he receives it,
to set her free; also that Cranborne will give his word to Vanlor
that she will truly pay her agreement to the latter, which is
600l. in 3½ years. Offers to give a sufficient safeguard.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (108. 130.) |
| The Same to the Same. | |
| [1604]. |
I am here to represent back to your hands, and the
rest of those Lords, these engagements whereby you have
honoured me with your good opinion, by which I have received
much commodity in my injurious troubles so maliciously
imposed upon me; which and all other favours I acknowledge
with a grateful heart.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (108. 131.) |
| [Viscount Cranborne and the Lord Chancellor] to [Lady Kennedy]. | |
| [1604]. |
They have endeavoured to compound the differences
between her and Lord Chandos, to prevent the prejudice to a
noble house by their divisions. It troubles them, after so many
meetings, and orders given, that any cross should grow. Being
informed that after long delay, and money received from Lord
Chandos, she stands upon things contrary to the agreement,
they advertise her thereof, to the end they may receive such
information as will give them ground to judge what is fit for
them to do. As they receive little satisfaction by hearing her
apart, they propose a meeting between her and Lord Chandos
at the Lord Chancellor's, to take a course that may consummate
the former agreement, or else put the cause to judicial trial.—
Undated. Draft, in hand of Cranborne's secretary. Endorsed: "to the Lady Kenneday concerning the business between the Lord Chandois. 1604." 1½ pp. (108. 132.) |
| Kent. | |
| [? 1604]. |
List of borough holders, of certain boroughs of
Cobham and other places, Kent.—Undated. 12 papers. (213. 93.) |
| Inhabitants of Kingston-upon-Hull to Viscount Cranborne, High Steward of that Town. | |
| [1604]. |
In May 1599 their ships and goods were taken from
them by the King of Denmark and his brother the Duke of
Holst, here present, to the value of 9,000l., for which they have
been suitors five years. They beg Cranborne's furtherance of
their suit.—Undated. Petition. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (189. 131.) |
| Knighthood. | |
| [1604]. |
Blank form for document conferring knighthood
on some person and his son, both unnamed. Endorsed: "1604, For Mr. Bar." 2 pp. (189. 59.) |
| Lord Knollys to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [1604]. |
Having received a letter from my brother Leighton,
signifying that the Procurer of the Isle of Guernsey is now come,
and ready to inform my Lords of the seditious courses of some
evil disposed persons to incite the people to all disobedience
of the Governor and Jurats there, and consequently of the
King, I entreat you to give hearing in a Council day to this
cause, the same being a matter of state, and may be of great
consequence if it be not speedily looked unto. My brother
Leighton exhibited a petition to this end, which was not read
whilst I was there. The cause would require some speedy
redress, and the Procurer, with the greatest delinquent in that
kind, being ready to attend, the matter may be heard and
determined. I hold it worthy the hearing of the whole Council,
lest the disorder grow there greater than will easily be remedied.
I the rather write you because those offenders which were
reprehended at the Council table and carried the Lords' letters
into Guernsey, have publicly reported there that you appointed
Eleazer Merchant, the chiefest striver of this sedition, to be
one of the procurers for the people, which I know to be most
false, and were most unfit; so as that untruth much aggravates
their fault. The particulars I leave to the Procurer. If a
poor country may be beholding to you for some news of Court,
it cannot but be very welcome.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (108. 133.) |
| The Same to the Same. | |
| [1604]. |
The barrenness of this place can afford nothing
worthy your ears, being filled with oracles from the best wisdom
from the wise, and sometime recreative speech from the fair
enchanters of the world. Touching the Union, we here are
only passive, and you Commissioners active; I pray you may
so unite outwardly as you do not disunite hearts. Your news
of the King being well is to me most pleasing, and if ever I shall
in anything dissent from his Majesty's opinion, it will proceed
from my great love to him, being most devoted to his service.
Touching your wish of a young wife, I must confess that to be
worn with years is more unfit for that action than with papers,
so as my old wife being of the proof, I must conclude a young
to be fitter for you, whose pen is ever readier than your paper.
—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (108. 134.) |
| "Names of Lawyers." | |
| [? 1604]. |
"Grays Inn: Mr. John Brograve Mr. Roger
Wilbraham. Middle Temple: Mr. John Boyes, Mr. Richard
Daston. Inner Temple: Mr. Richard Tredwaye, Mr. George
Wylde. Lincoln's Inn: Mr. John Tyndall. Added in
Cranborne's hand: Grays Inn: Ed. Pooley, Ed. Pelham, Mr.
Recorder, Mr. Coventree." 1 p. (2188.) |
| The River Lea. | |
| [1604]. |
"For the preservation of the game of hawking upon
the river Lee." Proposal to "your Honour" [Cranborne] to
depute Sir Edward Denny, Sir Robert Wroth, Thomas Dacres,
Israel Amias, Sir Thomas Sadler, Sir H. Fanshaw and Sir Rol.
Litton, to preserve certain districts of the river. "Your
Honour hath swans upon the whole river to Luton."—Undated. Endorsed:—"1604." 1 p. (206. 14.) |
| Instructions for the Duke of Lennox. | |
| [Undated (fn. 4) ].—"A copy of the instructions given by his Majesty to the Duke of Lennox his ambassador for France, written in French, thus put in Scottish." | |
| 1. First after that you come to our brother of France with our ordinary ambassador, show him our great commission under our seal and hand, then deliver to him our other letters privy; make our brother acquainted from us with the lets and stays which hath stayed us these many times from sending one of our subjects to France as ambassador; first the great troubles and wars that the country was in at his first coming to the crown; show him also after that he had settled France the disaster of Gawris (Gowry's) conspiracy troubled us mightily at home, that we would not hazard our nobles abroad from about our person. Tell him also that our meaning was this last harvest to have performed that which we now go about if the wars of Savoy and his "lat marit quein" had not moved us to leave it off till now. | |
| 2. You shall also congratulate the new alliance twixt the honourable house of France and Medicis. | |
| 3. You shall labour to renew the old league 'twixt Scotland and France and to have the liberties of both the countrymen preserved (as was in the beginning) in both the countries. | |
| 4. That you pretermit not to have the garde de corps (which is of my subjects) reformed and purged from all things which may either breed discontent to our brother or discredit to our self; and if there be anything omitted on our brother's part labour to have it amended. | |
| 5. That you in our name seek to have the companies of gens d'armes due to the Prince of Scotland, now restored to him, and that we authorise you our ambassador to have the command thereof under him. | |
|
6. To deal with our brother for the restoration of the Duchy
of Chateau le Roy [Chateauherault] to the Marquis of Hamilton
as due to him, left and "win" to him by his ancestors, our
dutiful subjects, for service done to the crown of France. Underwritten: "Sic subscribitur, Jaques R." Endorsed: "Copye of the Duke of Lenox Instructions." 1 p. (29. 83.) |
|
| Captains Christofer Levens and Barnabe Ryche to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [1604]. |
As you have called in question the matter informed
by us against Gosnall: besides Gosnall himself there were
seven persons present when he vented his treasons. The one
Bowyer Worsely his companion, at whose house he lodges.
Worsely will rather say to help than hurt him. The other six
are all to testify against him. Mr. Denys has freely confessed,
as well what Gosnall avouched, as what himself replied. How
he may be wrought since we know not, for Gosnall is a great
commander in the Isle of Wight, in the King's pay. Hollys
is so silly that he is not able to deliver the very words as he heard
them, yet his simplicity is a good subject to bolt out the truth.
For ourselves, you have already heard what we have avowed,
and what we are ready further to approve. For the two women,
the one who especially opposed herself to defend the honour
of the King is fitter to deliver a truth than she to whom the
circumstances of the whole were by Gosnall so maliciously
objected. There are exceptions taken upon a quarrel about a
kiss. She never saw Gosnall before that day nor since; yet
at divers times when she came out of her chamber to sit down,
she entertained both Gosnall and Worsely with each of them a
kiss. Here was then no show of quarrel yet. Now afterwards
if, in finding herself discontented with Gosnall for his traitorous
demeanour towards the King, she denied him another kiss for
a farewell, is her testimony thereof the worse because she has
shown her dutiful affection to her Prince? For the other
gentlewoman, if the whole course of her life be examined, she
shall be found honest, and of as worshipful parentage as any
other in the Isle of Wight. If all this will not serve to convince
a traitor, God save the King, and send him long to reign over
us; for men shall show more wit to pray for him in secret than
openly to detect any treason conspired against him.—Undated. Signed. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (189. 138.) [See above, pp. 319–322.] |
| [Sir James Ley (fn. 5) ] to [Viscount Cranborne ?]. | |
| [1604]. |
Begs for allowance of such money for transportation
as was lately allowed to Sir Edmond Pelham, Chief Baron of the
Exchequer, with some increase on account of his being forced
to transport all manner of household stuff, which but for the
sickness he might have provided there. Also that 20l. yearly
be allowed him for his house, and portcorn, beef and other
provision, as the other Chief Justice, Chief Baron and Master of
the Rolls are allowed. Also for warrant for carriages, post
horses, and pressing of a barque, to transport himself and his
stuff.—Undated. Memorandum. Endorsed: "1604. Sir James Ley." ½ p. (108. 138.) |
| Henry Lok to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [1604]. |
He has petitioned the King, laying open his many
years service to the late Queen, and his travels for the common
good, to the decay of his estate; and craving relief and employment. His petition is referred to Cranborne. "Take notice
of my loyal service to her Majesty and of more than suspect
of my courses tending to his Highness respect; which from my
first entrance into Scotland was noted in my proceedings there
observed in my regard of foreign affairs concerning his Majesty
practised, and by letters out of Scotland (written as you know
by George Nicolson of my reconcilement and grace with his
Majesty) discovered: to my great peril if you had not favourably
interpreted the same."—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (189. 139.) |
| Sir Griffin Markham. | |
| [? 1604]. |
Draft of a pardon to be granted to Sir Griffith
Markham "of all such treasons and offences by him committed
for which he standeth convicted and attainted." Subscribed by Sir Edw. Coke as done upon signification by the Privy Council of his Majesty's pleasure. Unsigned bill. Latin. Parchment. (222. 12.) |
| Joseph Maye to the King. | |
| [1604]. |
Of his 14 years' services as captain by sea and land,
in recompense whereof he prays for grant of the forfeited bonds
lying in the Court of Wards of John Kelligreye of Cornwall
of a debt of 300l., unlikely ever to be recovered by reason of
Kelligrey's decayed estate and present imprisonment. Kelligrey
is willing he should petition for the bonds.—Undated. Petition. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (189. 141.) |
| Sir Thomas Monson. | |
| [1604]. |
Application on behalf of Sir Thomas Monson, for
the establishment of an office of Surveyorship of the goods and
chattels of all felons, and all that fly, or against whom any
exigent shall be awarded for felony; also of all heriots due to
the King; stating the terms on which Monson desires the patent
of the Office.—Undated. Note at foot that it is the King's pleasure Monson shall have a patent of the premisses, if it be found convenient. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (108. 145.) |
| The state of Mrs. Moore's cause. | |
| [1604]. |
Widow of John Moore, customer of the port of
London, who died April 1603 indebted to the King 24,000l. for
which debt all his property was seized. She is now molested
by William Beswick under colour of a sale of part of the lands. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (2481.) |
| Richard Mu[rray] to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [1604]. |
To refuse Cranborne's offer may be taken in evil
part: in accepting, he fears it will prejudice himself. If
Cranborne will promise his furtherance to any preferment that
may equal or surpass his former interest, he will gladly accept
Cranborne's benevolence. The Lord of Berwick will esteem
it a singular pleasure, seeing Berwick moved him to surrender
all to Cranborne's good will. Sinister information is conceived
of him that he should aim at too high preferment; but having
spent time and means in following learning, he hopes it is no
presumption to aim at either a parsonage or deanery. He has
been 8 years Master of Art, most of which was employed in the
College of Edinburgh in the exercises of divinity, and these 4
years past he has preached publicly before royal, noble and
learned auditors. He did not turn his back on his kindred and
country for any common preferment, or doubt some hope of
advancement, but upon certain assurance of his Majesty's
favour.—Westminster.—Undated. Holograph. Damaged. Endorsed: "Mr. Murrey." 2 pp. (108. 146.) |
| The Netherlands. | |
| Prisoners taken between Damme and Sluys. | |
| [1604]. |
"Luys de Galange, del tercio de Don Inigo de Borja.
Martin Casabianca, del tercio del Marques de Spinola. Augustin
Spinola idem. Carolo Stango, del tercio del cavaillero Mels.
Francisco Martin d'Aquila, de Don Inigo de Borja. Juan Ruys
Cortasse, idem. Hans Mosch, van Grave Frederijks regiment.
Juan Gonçales, del tercio de Don Albare. Gaspar de Sofa, del
tercio de Don Juan de Menoze. Antonio Chouel de Victoria,
Capn. Reformado.—Undated. Endorsed: "1604. The names of the principal prisoners taken at the defeat upon the passage twixt Damme and Sluce." ½ p. (189. 108.) |
| The Netherlands. | |
| Treaty of Peace and Commerce between the United Provinces and the Spanish King and Archdukes. | |
| [1604 or later]. | First article: Les manans et habitans des Provinces Unies useront et jouiront par tout des francises, privileges et immunitez dont les manans et habitans des Pays Bas ont jouis devant la presente guerre aux respectives Royaulmes, pays, villes, havres, rades, et isles dudit Roy et tous placeats de contrebands, faitz durant ceste guerre esdits Royaulmes et pays, contre les manans et habitans des Provinces Unies, et de ceulx qui ont traicte avecq eulx ensemble toutes accusations, actions, cautions et poursuites par justice entammees pour ceste cause (qui sont encor indictz ou non executez) se aneantisent par ce present traicte; et les subjects dudit Roi jouiront de mesme de tout par toutes les Provinces Unies. |
|
Article 3 assures to the inhabitants of the United Provinces
certain like liberties "qui sont conditionnes pour les subjects
du Roy de la Grande Bretaigne tant par le traicte de paix de
l'an 1604 que les articles qui ont aussy este signez par le Connestable de Castille." Article 10 refers to the towns of Bergen-op-Zoom, Willemstadt et l'Escluse. |
|
|
By article 12 the Seigneurs Archiducs undertake to procure
the adhesion of the Etats Generaux des Provinces des Pays
Bas to this treaty. 13 articles in all.—Undated. Contemporary copy. Much damaged. 8 pp. (206. 17.) |
|
| Edmond Nevill to the King. | |
| [1604]. |
Is cousin and next heir of Raphe Nevill, late Earl
of Westmorland. Prays that the title may be conferred on
him: there being no pretended impediment but by colour of
the attainder of the late Earl Charles of Westmorland, the
corruption of whose blood can be no impediment, he being but
half blood to Charles. Otherwise prays that his claim may be
heard by the peers, and that he may be restored to the entailed
possessions: or that the matter may be referred to some of
the Council.—Undated. Petition. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (189. 142.) [See Calendar of S.P. Dom. 1603–1610, p. 275.] |
| Nonconformity. | |
| [c. 1604]. |
Pamphlet in form of question and answer in
justification of nonconformity to the English Church. Notes by Cranborne. Endorsed: "A book sent up by the Lord Spencer." 13 pp. (144. 229.) |
| J. Norden to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [1604]. |
He defends himself from having given just cause of
offence. His service endeavoured at Brigstock (Northampton)
may be some blemish to his skill, but not to his desire to serve
Cranborne. The time of the travail was enemy to the view,
being hindered with the snow; and he had obstacles from those
who feared the sequel should fall out unprofitable to themselves.
Desires to countervail the same by some better service. Speaks
of Lord Burghley's good liking of his travails. As for his present
suit, he had long been recompensed had not Lord Cobham shot
at another, and hit him, at the instant when the late Queen
was ready to sign a warrant for 30l. a year in reversion. His
hope of relief is now at an end by Cranborne's refusal; but he
will yet be happy if Cranborne will retain an honourable conceit
of him, and not depose him altogether. Prays that he may
proceed in the business begun.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (108. 148.) |
| Norham Castle. | |
| [1604]. | Reasons that the bill for Norham Castle should pass. The Castle has long been in the possession of the crown, and neither this present Bishop nor any of his predecessors had one penny profit of it. Queen Elizabeth granted it to Sir Robert Carye. |
| The Lord Treasurer of Scotland bought Sir Robert Carye's estate and paid him 6,000l. for it, and took letters patent also from the King, but was advised because it was sometime parcel of possessions of the Bishop of Durham, to take a grant or confirmation of the Bishop, albeit the castle was ever excepted out of the restitutions made to the Bishop's predecessors. | |
|
His Majesty upon suit by Sir George Howme and informing
him that bishops had liberty by the statute made 1 Eliz. to
convey these possessions to the king, condescended thereunto,
and wrote to the Bishop of Durham, upon which the Bishop
confirmed it. The bill had great applause in the Upper House,
and so it is hoped to have in the Common House. Unsigned. Endorsed: "1604." Imperfect. 1 p. (109. 78.) [See p. 78 supra.] |
|
| The Earl of Nottingham to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [1604]. |
With an enclosure. Acknowledges Cranborne's
exceeding great favours. If it pleases God to make him return,
if his person be not in all sorts as it has been, yet his heart and
prayers will wish Cranborne as well as any man that lives.—
Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604. L. Admiral." ½ p. (108. 154.) |
| The Earl of Nottingham to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [1604]. |
I have moved my Lord Treasurer to be at the hearing
of the cause between my Lady Rawly and myself, for it concerns
his Majesty, in whose right I hold it by my grant. His lordship
will be at the hearing, but desires it may be in the forenoon, for
in the morning he is to hear Sir Thomas Knevet and the Goldsmiths at his house. I will give you thanks to-morrow for your
favour to my wife.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604. Lord Admiral." 1 p. (108. 156.) |
| The Same to the Same. | |
| [1604]. |
The bearer, his servant, holds 10 acres of land
belonging to the Stewardship of Greenwich, and as the same is
assigned over to Cranborne, he must surrender the land to him
at Michaelmas. Requests that he may be continued tenant of
the land at the rate he now holds it at.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604. Lord Admiral." ½ p. (108. 157.) |
| The Same to [the Same]. | |
| [1604]. |
He sends the bearer to receive the 500l., according
to appointment, and also the quittance.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed by Cranborne's secretary: "1604. Lord Admiral to my Lord." ½ p. (108. 158.) |
| The Same to the Same. | |
| [1604]. |
I did think to have asked you of a thing that I hear
but do not believe it. I am informed that it is given out that
Lord Cobham shall come out of the Tower, and that he has
taken a house in the Black Friars, hard by that which was his
own house. Of his coming out I pray you let me know if there
be any such matter. But the taking of a house I am credibly
informed to be true.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604. Lord Admiral." ½ p. (189. 144.) |
| The Same to the Same. | |
| [1604]. |
I have spoken this morning with Sir R. Lee, who is
the greater seller for Gasquen wines of any man in the city.
He tells me that there was paid at Bloy and elsewhere in the
river of Bourdeous, 7 crowns and a half for every tun: but six
years since there was all taken away, saving almost 2 crowns
which still remains. So it is not so much as I thought it was.
And now we are in wines, I pray you take occasion as soon as
you may to remember me, for after the King's grant is passed
it will be a long time ere I shall do good to serve my turn.—
Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604. Lord Admiral." 1 p. (189. 145.) |
| Lady Osborne. | |
| [1604]. |
The dean and chapter of Westminster at the desire
of the late Queen made a lease to her Highness of the rectory of
Godmanchester, Huntingdon, for 21 years, to begin after the
expiration of a former lease, whereupon was reserved 20l. by
year or 40 quarters of malt at their election to be chosen above
the old accustomed rent. This lease her Majesty afterwards
assigned to Mrs. Hide, now wife of Sir Robert Osborne, having
served her Majesty 26 years; for which lease also she gave 200l.
to the dean and chapter for a fine. Some questions are now
made touching the goodness of the lease and it is desired that
it may be confirmed and the assignees enjoy it according to the
wish of the late Queen.—Undated. Unsigned. Endorsed: "1604. A memorial for the La. Osborne." 4 pp. (109. 84.) |
| Siege of Ostend. | |
| 1604. |
Engraving of the Siege of Ostend, with description,
by "Florentius Balthazarius Delphensis." 1604. 1 sheet. (237. 52.) |
| John [Bridges], Bishop of Oxford to the King. | |
| [1604 or later]. |
Henry VIII founded a bishopric within the
University of Oxford, giving the Bishop and his successors a
convenient place in the suburbs of Oxford, to be called for ever
the mansion house and palace of the Bishop of the See of Oxon.
The palace has been detained for divers years from the Bishop,
who has no house to dwell in. Begs that what he has begun
in the ordinary course of law may receive the King's assistance,
and that the King will charge the judges to proceed to speedy
trial, so that he may not be delayed by the dilatory courses
of his opponents.—Undated. Petition. 1 p. (196. 103.) |
| Sir James Perrot and Thomas Perrot. | |
| [1604]. | "The petition of Sir James Perrott, the reputed son of Sir John Perrott, and of Thomas Perrott, pretenders against his Majesty's right to Sir John Perrott's lands." |
|
Sets out the claim of the petitioners under 17 heads, referring
in particular to an alleged conveyance by Sir John Perrott,
before he was Lord Deputy of Ireland, of all his lands to the
now petitioners (amongst others), and to their heirs male,
which was once judged good for Sir Thomas Perrot against the
late Queen; and to a grant by his Majesty of a pension of 500l.
to the Countess of Northumberland [Dorothy, widow of Sir
Thomas Perrot]. The rejoinder to each clause appears on
the same page. Copy, unsigned. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (109. 6.) |
|
| Memorial of the Plasterers. | |
| [1604]. |
Protest against the Act proposed on behalf of the
painters to prevent plasterers, bricklayers, masons and glaziers
from using colour in oil or in size. Points out the inconveniences which would attend its passing.—Undated. 1 p. (197. 44.) [See Statutes of the Realm, 1 James I, c. 20.] |
| Sir Walter Ralegh to Levinus [Munck]. | |
| [1604]. |
Sold of late two pieces of ordnance to Mr. Aloblaster,
a merchant. Thomas Scott, a broker, made the bargain, who,
having got the money sent by Aloblaster into his hands and
five pound weight of tobacco promised, has sold the tobacco
and retained the money, finding Ralegh now fit for all men to
tread on. He means to go away for Spain in Aloblaster's ship,
The Prudence of London. Ralegh's suit is for a pursuivant
and Cranborne's letter to take him, or his command to the
master of the ship not to take him abroad till he has paid Ralegh
the money.—Undated. Addressed: "To my loving friend, Mr. Levinus, or in his absence to Mr. Bruerton, secretary to my Lord of Cranborne." Holograph. Seal. ½ p. (102. 21.) [Printed in extenso in Edwards, Life of Ralegh, Vol. II, pp. 305, 306.] |
| The Same to the Privy Council. | |
| [? 1604]. |
It pleased them to write for the stay of the sale of
such poor stuff as remains in his house at Sherborne. Understands that the commissioners go on for the finding of all lands.
As his conveyance is here in London in the custody of his servant
John Wood, victualler for the province of Munster, who is
now at the Baths, prays their letters to Mr. Serjeant Phillips
and the rest to put off the execution of their commission for
some eight or ten days. He had rather be bound to the King
for those lands than hold them by any other strength of law,
yet that it may appear that the conveyance was drawn in the
late Queen's time, as Mr. Dodrige can witness who drew it
and that Ralegh had never any ill intent therein, prays that
the same may be perused by the commissioners before they
proceed to find the lands by jury one way or other. The whole
receipt of those lands with the park and a stock of 400l. in sheep
in the park is but one thousand marks, out of which he pays
the Bishops of Salisbury for ever 260l. a year, and in fees and
pensions wherewith the land is charged, and towards the
provision of the King's house, to maimed soldiers and to the
poor, above 50l. a year more; so as the clear value is not 400l.
with a stock. His charges in this place for diet only are 208l.
a year, and if his Majesty allow the rest of this sum to make
it 300l. for all other necessaries, there remains not above one
hundred marks a year for his poor wife and child and their
servants. His debts are above 3,000l., all his goods left in the
world are not worth one thousand marks. All his rich hangings
he sold to the Lord Admiral for 500l. He had but one rich
bed, which he sold Lord Cobham for 300l., all his plate which
was very fair is now lost or eaten out with interest at one Chenes
in Lombard Street. What he has already lost by Jersey, the
Wine Office, the Stannaries, Gillingham and Portland is at least
3,000l. a year. Trusts the King will be merciful to him for the
rest, which after the payment of his debts will be but a miserable
estate.—Undated. Holograph. 1 p. (102. 23.) [Printed in extenso in Edwards, Life of Raleigh, Vol. II, p. 298.] |
| Sir Walter Ralegh to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [? 1604]. |
Beseeches Cranborne to receive the opinions of
the Lord Chief Justice and Mr. Attorney for the conveyance.
Mr. Dodrige knows it had been sealed almost two years ere
the Queen died if the feoffees had not been so far asunder.
At that time when it was done Sir A. Brett was the sole cause
in respect of Ralegh's quarrels with Gorge and Preston. If
they judge fraud, God judge them with more grace. It seems
to Ralegh that his Majesty promised to leave him what was left.
Had this much cause to hope for, the rather because his lordship
told him at Winchester he was sorry he had resigned Jersey.—
Undated. Holograph. Seal broken. 1 p. (102. 24.) [Printed in extenso in Edwards, Life of Ralegh, Vol. II, pp. 311–313.] |
| The Same to the Same. | |
| [1604]. | Those seasons which honour and good fortune accompany steal from us unawares. Their times whose days run out in misery draw slowly to their end. Sorrow rides the ass, prosperity the eagle. |
|
That which makes him adventure to beseech Cranborne is
the nearness of the term when the King's Counsel in law will
be more busied and much dearer; the business intricate and
therefore dangerous in a careless hand, for being unpardoned
he must wholly trust other men's consciences. Besides he has
kept his steward here ever since Cranborne's first comfort given
him, a man whom he can better entreat than know how to
reward, his own estate requiring his presence more than it
does Ralegh's love.—Undated. Holograph. Seal. Endorsed: "1604." ½ p. (105. 50.) [Printed in extenso in Edwards, Life of Ralegh, Vol. II, p. 316.] |
|
| Sir Walter Ralegh and the manor of Sherborne. | |
| [? 1604]. |
Sir Walter by deed indented between himself of the
one part and Sir Arthur Throckmorton and others of the other
part, for the advancement of his son and of others of his name
and blood, covenants in these words, viz.:—It is now therefore
covenanted, granted and fully agreed by and between all the
parties unto these present indentures, and the said Sir Walter
Ralegh, doth covenant, promise, grant and agree for himself,
his heirs [etc.] that he and his heirs and all and every other
person and persons and their heirs which now stand or be seised
of an estate of inheritance in fee simple of and in the manor
of Sherborne, etc. [In margin: (shall and will from henceforth
stand and be thereof seised) which words are omitted in the
deed.] To the uses, intents, purposes and behoofs in these
presents specified, mentioned and declared and to no other use,
intent, purpose or behoof. That is to say of and in the said
manor and premisses to the use and behoof of the said Sir
Walter Ralegh for term of his natural life without impeachment
of waste, with divers remainders over. Copy. Endorsed: "1604," and in Cecil's handwriting: "Sr. W. Ralegh's case. L. Grey. Marble. Spaine." ½ p. (109. 8.) [Cp. Edwards, Life of Ralegh, Vol. I, p. 469.] |
| Lady Ralegh to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [1604]. |
As it has pleased Cranborne to be their only comfort
in their misfortunes, beseeches him to speak one word to the
Lord Admiral not to take from them what his Majesty has given
for their relief. Might have hoped that he would rather have
given them something back again of this great portion. His
lordship has 6,000l. and 3,000l. a year by her husband's fall;
and since it pleased God that he should build upon their
ruins, the portion is great, and she trusts sufficient out of one
poor gentleman's fortune to take all that remains and not to
look back before his Majesty's grant, and take from them the
debts past, which were stayed from them by a proclamation
before Ralegh was suspected of any offence. If the Lord
Admiral have no one word in his grant for them, then what
neither the King nor conscience has given from them, she
trusts he will spare them willingly. Their debts are above
3,000l., and the bread and food taken from her and her children
will never augment his table. If Cranborne can persuade him
to relinquish either all, or but the half, of that which belongs
unto him, they will be more and more bound to him.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604," and with the names of Lady Ralegh and a number of other ladies. 1 p. (190. 6.) [Printed in extenso in Edwards, Life of Ralegh, Vol. II, pp. 408, 409.] |
| Recusants. | |
| [1604]. |
"The benefit that doth or may accrue to us by these
four persons, in regard of their recusancy, we have bestowed
upon John Izod, Gentleman Usher of the Privy Chamber to
our Queen: Thomas Wells, William Corham, Richard Brewning,
and Thomas Henslow the elder; all in Hampshire." Endorsed: "1604." ½ p. (2303.) |
| Penelope, Lady Riche, to Mr. Renalls. | |
| [1604]. |
My old woman Harvy hath a suit to my brother,
that is only his letter to my Lord Mayor for a mean place that
is fallen in his gift, which she desires for her son White. Let
me entreat you to draw a letter and that someone may go if
you have no leisure yourself that will be earnest with the Mayor,
since it is like he will excuse it, if he can, for some creature of
his own.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed (in a late hand): "1604." 1 p. (109. 24.) |
| Roman Catholics. | |
| 1604. |
Proceedings of the English Catholics abroad. Frequent mention of Hugh Owen, of Brussels. Endorsed by Cecil (Cranborne?): A discourse of Alyzon brought by Sir Thomas Chaloner." 9½ pp. (140. 180.) |
| Anthony [Rudd], Bishop of St. Davids, to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [1604]. |
As it is supposed that you have conceived displeasure
against me (the cause whereof is unknown to me), I beseech you
to appoint a time and place when and where I may attend to
hear the reasons of your dislike; and if I do not clear myself
in convenient manner I will make my submission in dutiful
sort.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." ½ p. (190. 9.) |
| Old Salisbury. | |
| [? 1604]. | 1. 7 Edw. VI. William Farley, bailiff, and the burgesses of the borough of Old Sarum elected James Brend and William Wekeyes, esquires, burgesses for the borough. |
| 3. 2 & 3 Phil. & Mary. John Hooper and other burgesses elected John Marshe, esq., and William Chambers, gentleman. | |
| 4. 4 & 5 Ph. & M. John Hooper and William Muggeridge, gentleman, elected Henry Jones, esquire, and Thomas Bateman, gentleman. | |
| 2. 1 Mary. By indenture between Edward Barnard, esq., sheriff of Wilts, on the one part and Nicholas Throckmorton, knight, and John Throckmorton, esq., burgesses of the castle of Old Sarum, of the other, we the burgesses elected the said Nicholas and John as our burgesses to appear for us. | |
| 5. 1 Eliz. John Ogdene, bailiff, and the burgesses of the borough unanimously elected John Harrington and Henry Harte, esquires, burgesses. | |
| 6. 26 Eliz. The burgesses assembled according to the form of divers statutes for the election of two burgesses for the parliament with one voice elected Richard Topcliffe, esq., and Roger Gifford, doctor of medicine. | |
| 7. 28 Eliz. By indenture between the burgesses and John Danvers, kt., sheriff of the said county, the burgesses assembled for the election of two burgesses of the parliament to be held at Westminster in October, with one voice elected Edward Barkley and Richard Topcliffe, esquires, burgesses of parliament, and for the borough William Moggeridge and John Hampton. | |
| 8. 30 Eliz. Roger Gefford, doctor of physic, and Henry Baynton, esq., elected burgesses of Old Castle or Old Sarum by Anthonie Parry and John Moggricke the younger, gentlemen, free tenants within the said borough. | |
| 9. 39 Eliz. William Blacker of New Sarum, gent., and Nicholas Hyde of the Middle Temple, London, gent., elected burgesses for Old Sarum by Anthonie Parry, John Moggeridge and Edward Hooper, gentlemen, to whom the nomination and election of the burgesses for the borough doth appertain. | |
| 10. 43 Eliz. Robert Turner and Henry Hide, esquires, elected by Anthonie Parry, John Muggeridge, Edward Hooper and Thomas Eliott, gentlemen, electors. | |
|
11. 1 James. By indenture between the burgesses and
electors William Ravenscrofte and Edward Leache, esquires,
were chosen by William Webb, Edward Hooper, John Myggryge
[sic] and Thomas Eliott. Partly in Latin. Endorsed in a later hand: "1603," corrected to "1604." 1½ pp. (109. 83.) [Cp. the document printed in Vol. XV, p. 386.] |
|
| Henry Saunders to [? Lord Cecil or Cranborne]. | |
| [1604]. |
Since his being last with his lordship he has given
him the names of three manors wherein were hope to find some
concealment. These manors lie all in one county, and within
the survey of the Duchy. Hopes out of them there may be
something got towards his relief. When Sir Thomas Heanege
was Chancellor of the Duchy there was a grant out for some of
these lands. Afterwards his lordship, being Chancellor, gave his
grant for some parcels of them to [? Cranborne's] messengers,
who, not knowing what to do therein, left it uneffected. Mr.
Tipper's grant is no hindrance thereto, forasmuch as no man
can have more than he can find.—Undated. Unsigned. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (109. 29.) |
| Inhabitants of Shrewsbury to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| 1604. |
Beg to be discharged of divers privy seals for loan
money, because the town has been for a long time, and yet is,
grievously visited with the plague through which their estates
are greatly impaired, as Sir Francis Newport, collector of the
loan money, has certified to the Council.—1604. 18th cent. copy. 1 p. (249. 204.) |
| Sluys. | |
| [? 1604]. |
Engraving of the siege of Sluys, in Holland, with
notes in French and Dutch.—Undated. 1 sheet. (237. 47.) |
| Minute to Sir Thomas Smith. | |
| [1604]. |
His Majesty finding it convenient to observe the
respect towards the Emperor of Muscovy, with which her late
Majesty entertained him, considering that confirmation which
hath already passed from him in the matter of trade, hath
resolved to send an ambassador to that State. Wherein having
been informed that your Company are desirous to have some
such person chosen as may be likeliest to respect both his
Majesty's honour and the good of your trade, without any other
private end of his own, of which sort they have especially described you, he hath commanded me to let you know how well
it pleased him that they have such a desire, and to declare his
opinion so gracious of you as he will take it as an argument of
your honest disposition not to refuse that charge; wherein
you may be of so great use to the Company, and by consequence
a proof of that duty which you owe to his Majesty's service.—
Undated. Draft. 1 p. (109. 39.) |
| Deposition of George [Lloyd], Bishop of Sodor And Man. | |
| [1604 or earlier]. |
About 15 days since Captain John Salusbury came to me, willing me to dine with him that day at the
Myter, where he took occasion to find great fault with me for
making a temporising sermon (as he termed it), saying that
Doctor Barloe and myself were damned for being men pleasers;
adding further that it were fit to give all men their due. These
words were spoken in the presence of Mr. John Owen and one
Salusbury, a man unknown to me. This I am ready to depose.—
Undated. Holograph. ½ p. (189. 140.) |
| The Treaty with Spain. | |
| Two papers:— | |
|
[1604]. (i) "Faults committed in the writing of the ratification of the Treaty." Note of various small errors in the
Latinity, the commissions of the Commissioners, etc.—Undated. 3 pp. (190. 10.) |
|
| (ii) "Numbers to come in fine: old, 6s. 8d.; new, 5l. | |
|
All that were in at first and all that are now trading merchants
shall be admitted. All that will hereafter come in shall be
admitted upon reasonable conditions. Orders to be set down. Such as may trade by the laws of the realm excepting the restraint by the old charter shall be admitted."—Undated. In hand of Cecil (or Cranbourne). Endorsed: "1604. Merchants of Spain." ½ p. (190. 13.) |
|
| Sir Anthony Standen to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| 1604. |
Expresses his acknowledgments to Cranborne for
humanely asking his sister Standen what had become of him,
which was a comfort to him in his many distresses, and gave him
hope that Cranborne's just distaste with him began to overpass.
His offence was great to his King, and his penance not inferior
to his fault; and he now appeals for the mercy due to his large
services. He has been a long waiter at the Lord Treasurer's
doors for 445l. due to him about his unlucky Italian voyage;
and if his creditors had not been considerate, it would be a
miracle that he is free from the Compter. Begs his favour
with the Lord Treasurer and also for the allowance of his transportation money. The Earl of Rutland and Estienne le Sieur
have had theirs, through Cranborne's ratification.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 1½ pp. (109. 14.) |
| The States General. | |
| [1604]. |
Memorandum concerning what the States General
have written to Heer van Schoneval their agent in England,
in favour of Vrouw Glaude van Liedekercke; sent by Heer
van Zorbehe. Endorsed: "Pour Monsieur l'Agent Caron Sr. de Schoneval. Sir Noel Caron." Dutch, corrupt. 1½ pp. (189. 137.) |
| Sir Robert Steward to the King. | |
| [1604]. |
Whereas all the marriages, christenings and burials
within the kingdom of England and province of Wales are for
the most part entered into loose papers or suchlike scrolls,
which by negligence are lost or by extraordinary means detained
many times to the overthrow of the King's subjects, and to his
Highness's great inconvenience for ward and marriage, which
by their negligent care is omitted; he prays a lease for 21 years
to receive of each parish yearly 12d. to keep a register book in
parchment, within the several dioceses of Canterbury and York,
for the yearly entering of all marriages, christenings and burials
at his own proper cost and charges.—Undated. Petition. Endorsed: "1604." ½ p. (109. 49.) |
| Patrick Strange to [the King]. | |
| [? 1604]. |
Alleging a debt of 300l. due to him from the King
of Spain, as appears by his several firms dated at Madrile in
1598; and praying his Majesty to grant him a letter to the
King of Spain, and also to commend his suit to the commissioners for English causes.—Undated. Petition. 1 p. (197. 98.) |
| The Subsidies. | |
| 1604. | Taxation of Hertford and Essex for the subsidies. 33 pp. (144. 168.) |
| Robert, Lord Sydney, to the King. | |
| [1604]. |
The late Countess of Warwick conveyed to him
Alton Woods in Worcester, formerly in the possession of the Earls
of Warwick and Leicester, his uncles. In respect thereof and
of other lands he is charged with the payment of 2700l. to the
King, as for the debt of the said Earls. Details proceedings
taken by the late Queen, who claimed the woods, and the
judgments obtained. In consideration of his services, he sues
that the King will pardon the debt, and grant him the King's
remaining right in the woods; or that the King will pardon the
debt and bestow upon him 5,000l. in recompense for the woods.
—Undated. Petition. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (190. 15.) |
| Taverns. | |
|
Two papers:— 1604. (i) Act for the reform of taverns and tippling houses. Draft. 5 pp. (142. 189.) |
|
| [1604]. |
(ii) Proposals for the reform of the system of licensing
tavern keepers &c.; for the farm whereof 6,000l. rent may be
given.—Undated. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (189. 60.) |
| [Juan Taxis], Count of Villa Medina, [Spanish Ambassador], to the King. | |
| [1604]. |
Recommending as English consuls in Spain the
following, viz.—Nicholas Imperial in Alicante, John Peraz
Florian in Malaga, Nicholas Orlandiz in Majorca (Mallorque)
and the neighbouring islands of Minorca and Iviça.—Undated. Holograph. French. 1¼ pp. (109. 59.) |
| Captain Tomkins to the Council. | |
| [1604]. |
He is already condemned in the opinion of his
Prince, the Council, and the State; but begs leave to reply to
the accusation of his enemies. After 5 voyages, whereof one
of 2 years and 5 months was to the East Indies, he had an
Admiralty commission to go for the coast of Spain as captain
of a man of war. Lying off the South Cape, he met with 3 of
the King's armados, supposed to be part of the West Indies
fleet, and kept them company in hope of capture; but they
were driven by a violent "povente" into Carthagena, and he
was carried by it "high up." He there met divers Venetian
ships, which he suffered to pass, showing he had no intent to
injure friends of the State. Gives details of a subsequent
encounter there with a Venetian ship, which he did not know
for such, in which the master of the Venetian was slain, on which
the rest of that ship's company rode ashore, leaving no man
aboard but "those Jews and Armenians from whom we had
the money, and some 8 grummetos and poor sailors"; and
his company fell to pillaging before he got to know whence the
ship was. The little loss the Venetians received may show how
unwilling he was to prejudice them, being said by themselves
not to exceed 2,000 crowns: the loss fell heavy only on the
Jews and Armenians. To show them respect he delivered the
ship and certain goods again to them; reserving only the Jews'
and Armenians' goods, which he intended to prove "lawful
purchase" in England. His intentions were frustrated through
a secret commission given by the owner of his ship to the master
and the gunner, to dispossess him of the ship and all prizes,
although he was a third part "witler." When he obtained the
above goods, this commission was set abroach by the master
and gunner not so much to do right to Davis, as to enrich
themselves. Details their intrigues against him, and his
subsequent return to the Isle of Wight with the ship, where
the Commissioners left him so little that he is ashamed to tell
it.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 2 pp. (190. 18.) |
| Thomas Warburton to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [1604]. |
Asking for some relief of his poverty caused by a
loss of 2,000l. in a lawsuit with his kinsman.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." ½ p. (109. 62.) |
| The Same to the Same. | |
| [1604]. |
To the same effect as above.—Undated. Holograph. ½ p. (109. 63.) |
| Thomas Watson. | |
| [? 1604]. | The answer of Thomas Watson, agent to Sir George Carey, the King's Treasurer at War in Ireland, and late Master of the Exchange, to the slanderous and untrue petition of Paul Gwin. |
| Gwin being an ordinary servant to Sir Edward Stafford, having offended his master, very undutifully offered to strike him with his dagger; and then not knowing how to live went to Ireland to Sir Henry Dockwra at Lough Foyle of his own free will, and not by any deceitful enticement from Sir Henry, as is alleged. | |
| After keeping him for three months Sir Henry finding him of a mutinous disposition gave him a horse and 45l. for reward and sent him into England, clearly discharging himself of him. And Sir Henry, being governor of the Forts and confined to reside there, delivered into your Majesty's exchange 84l. of base money of his own proper entertainments and 21l. sterling to receive for the same in England 95l. sterling, according to the proclamation, and sent a bill of exchange in the name of Gwin to Watson for the said money, desiring Gwin in his absence to sign an acquittance for the receipt, under colour whereof Gwin contrary to the trust reposed in him would have deceived Sir Henry of his money; which Watson prevented by acquainting the Lord High Treasurer therewith, who tendering the good service of Sir Henry gave order that the money should be paid to him, and Sir Henry has given a lawful acquittance to the bill as by Mr. Auditor Gofton's certificate appears; with an attestation written by Sir Henry that Gwin would have cozened him of his money being but put in trust in his absence to give an acquittance. The bill was passed in due form in the Exchange according to the tenor of the late Queen's proclamation, and no abuse committed in exhausting her Majesty's Treasury to the sum of 579l. as suggested. Sir Henry was warranted to have exchanged in the time of base money nearly 3,000l. but out of his own regard and by the providence of Sir George he was abridged of two parts of that sum, so that great part of his entertainment in base money yet remains with him at Lough Foyle. Gwin hath now six times complained hereof to your Highness and the Council, to which complaints Sir Henry and Watson have made sufficient answer, as both of your Highness's Masters of Requests can testify, who have heard this cause, who out of charity (Gwin having served Sir Henry and being a poor man) have moved him to bestow some small thing upon him to buy apparel. | |
|
Gwin in a spiteful manner speaks of an office that your
Highness hath given Watson in the Exchequer for his bad
service. Watson has been a faithful servant in the affairs of
Ireland under the Treasurer of Wars, accounting for the value
of two millions without any complaint, except this, and he
was under the Treasurer a means to save 200,000l. by the
project of the base money and the exchange, besides discharging
the late Queen and your Majesty of 30,000l. due to the army
without charging your Majesty's coffers and yet to the content
of the Captain.—Undated. 1 p. (91. 11.) |
|
| Sir Charles Wilmott to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [1604]. |
By the preciseness of Mr. Watson I am enforced
again to speak of my suit as if I had not at all begun it. He
denies the payment of my pension, notwithstanding the strong
warrant he has by the express words of the patent, that I should
be paid quarterly out of such moneys here in England, as was
allotted for the payments of the garrisons in Ireland, pretending
to have received commandment from your lordship and the
rest not to diminish any part of the treasure now going thither.
If by your commandment I am not remedied, for the patent
is no warrant to pay me in Ireland, and if by prohibition I
should not receive it here in England, my labour in the obtaining
of it is all lost and the benefit of your bountiful mind taken
away.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (105. 44.) |
| The Enclosure:—Copy of the letters patent dated May. 14, 1604, granting the yearly pension of 250l. sterling amounting to 333l. 6s. 8d. of money current in Ireland to Sir Charles Willmott, knight. 1¼ pp. (105. 44.) | |
| The Same to the Same. | |
| [1604]. |
Is fearful to press into his lordship's presence with
light particular occasions for himself but chooses to trouble
him less by writing. Now that he addresses himself for Ireland,
prays his lordship's letter to the Deputy there, signifying to
him that those commissions Wilmott is to receive from him
and the State concerning his government might be given him
with favour and during his life; likewise that his lordship will
write to the Treasurer that in Wilmott's government of Kerrye
he may collect the King's revenues and composition money,
to be accountable for it out of his entertainments, and that his
company may reside in Kerrye, unless by special commandment
upon special service. If any of these favours be accepted, prays
they may be referred to the dispatch of Mr. Levinus, his lordship's servant, and before the writer's going.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (105. 45.) |
| Sir Robert Wingfeilde to the Same. | |
| [1604]. |
The high price of corn is almost as ill to the poorer
sort as the plague, if not worse. He thinks the trouble comes
more by the covetousness of the richer sort than by any other
cause. Begs Cranborne to renew the printed orders sent down
into all countries upon the like occasions in Elizabeth's time,
with letters commendatory from the Council. Hears that this
last week, at Wisbeach in the Isle of Ely, the people went together by the ears in a tumultuous sort. The peace of Spain,
together with some enlargement of transporting, has caused
much grain to go out of the countries upon the sea coasts, which
now to supply their wants come inland to Leicester, Rutland,
Warwick, the west part of Lincolnshire, and Northampton.—
Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (190. 23.) |
| Edward, Lord Wotton, to Viscount Cranborne. | |
| [1604]. |
I could not let this bearer, my kinsman, pass without
these lines to you, being not a little sorry to hear that your
journey to the Bath is stayed, where I hoped you should have
found a remedy for your infirmity; which yet is not such but
will easily receive care without it.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (190. 24.) |
| Lord Zouche's Memorial. | |
| [1604]. |
Statute 34 Hen. 8, Cap. 28 as to the appointment of
law officers in Wales. Minor posts in the gift of the Lord
President since the Lieutenancy was bestowed upon him. All
other places have usually been given by the sovereign, but
because the presidents were men of special respect in his favour,
they were usually asked of such things as passed within that
government.—Undated. Unsigned. Endorsed: "1604. L. Zowch." 1 p. (109. 71.) |
| — to [Viscount Cranborne]. | |
| [1604]. |
Reasons against granting the suit of Lepton &
Primroose for brass and latten halfpence. The mischiefs
detailed are those attaching to a debasement of the coinage.—
Undated. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (189. 61.) |
| — to [? Viscount Cranborne]. | |
| [1604]. |
As to his patent, apparently relating to the Duchy
of Lancaster. Has considered the clause of revocation which
the Lord Chief Justice advises to be inserted, and finds it so
prejudicial to him and so different from late precedents, that
he prays his lordship to omit the clause. Details at length his
reasons against it. Refers to Sir Henry Bronker's patent.—
Undated. Unsigned. Endorsed: "1604. L.D." 1 p. (189. 109.) |
| — to [the Duke of Lennox]. | |
| [1604]. |
Barker and others petitioned the Council concerning
their patent of the alnage and subsidy of cloth, granted by the
late Queen: pretending that "your Grace" [? Lennox] should
wrong them by seeking to overthrow it. The matter was
referred to the Lord Chief Justice and the Lord Chief Baron
of the Exchequer. The petitioners importuned to have a
judicial hearing, which the judges could not deny: but "we"
find the same very prejudicial to your Grace, as it must then be
heard in the Exchequer, where the Lord Treasurer is chiefest
judge and bears all the sway, and the rest of the judges are
directed by him, and there is no question but his lordship will
rather maintain than overthrow the patent. Your Grace's
best course therefore will be that the King may give order that
that Court may not take hearing of the matter; but that all
the judges may be joined together to hear it.—Undated. Unsigned. Endorsed: "1604. Duke of Lenox." 1 p. (189. 136.) |
| — to Sir Stephen Procter. | |
| [1604]. |
Sir William Ingleby is now contented to let my Lord
of Derby have his interest of the lease made to him of his lordship's manors of Kirby, Mallahert and Thrisk, and will be
contented to take his money again with costs of suit as I shall
indifferently betwixt my Lord and him think fit; and where
there is demanded 1,000l. of my Lord for costs of suit for maintenance of my Lord's title against you, Sir Thomas Hesketh
and Sir Cuthbert Pepper are required for both parts to consider
those demands, and decide which is truly for maintenance of
the title, and which for misdemeanour chiefly concerning Sir
William himself. And because none can better discover that
point than you, I shall on my Lord's behalf entreat your assistance with them that are to consider thereof, and to produce such
objections and proofs for the lessening of those demands as
you do know or can inform them of for their better satisfaction.
—Undated. Draft. Endorsed: "Minute to Sir Stephen Procter. 1604." 1 p. (189. 105.) |
| — to Lord —. | |
| [1604]. |
He has found the patent which is of the offices with
the herbage and pannage to Sir John and his son for their lives.
Thinks it best for my Lord to surrender and take it for lives or
years in reversion, for it is of great command and much profit.—
Undated. Endorsed: "1604. Note of Attorney." 1 p. (2212.) |
| Particulars of Lands. | |
| [1604]. |
Particulars of lands: Manor of Churchland,
Somerset; Manor of Lewisham, Kent; Rectory of Manton,
Rutland. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (2219.) |
| Commissioners. | |
| [? c. 1604]. |
Memorandum by Cecil of the names of proposed
commissioners: viz. Sir Henry Montacute, Sir W. Rumney,
Sir Samuel Saltonstall, Bartholomew Elmar, Sir W. Ryder,
Mr. Wosnam, Mr. Jones, Alderman Waltsall, or any two of
them. ¼ p. (97. 137.) |
| Notes. | |
| [? 1604]. |
Note as to certain lists of persons. The following
names appear: Lady Sands, Mr. George, the Armourer, Mr.
George's two men, Besse Scudder's two daughters. ½ p. (145. 183.) |
| Memoranda. | |
| [1604]. |
"Lord Burghley. Commission for letting
Recusants' lands; Wednesday after dinner from 2 to 3 at the
Star Chamber during term. Friday after dinner from 2 to 3
at the Lord Treasurer's house. Commission for compounding
for Assarts; Saturday after dinner from 3 to 5 at the Lord
Chancellor's house."—Undated. In hand of Cecil's secretary. Endorsed: "1604." ½ p. (189. 77.) |
| Memoranda. | |
| 1604. | "Lady Rich. Mr. John Pake of Bromfield in Essex, charged by privy seal at 60l. 1604." (206. 16.) |
| Minute. | |
| [? 1604]. |
Forasmuch as therefore his sacred Majesty, whom
God hath led by a strong hand into this kingdom and the peaceable possession thereof after a miraculous preservation from
infinite dangers, being a King from his cradle, knowing well that
the Church and the Commonwealth much like Isocrates twins
must weep and laugh together, hath lately sought with Solomon
to make it his just labour to survey the walls of Jerusalem and
for that purpose hath lately travailed in a most learned and
religious Conference concerning Church affairs (the whole action
being personal [and] his own), wherein he meant not to mistake
things formerly esteemed [?] but to make it of what nature,
conveniency and clear antiquity those things are, against the
use whereof so many have carped rather turbulently than
judiciously; and where his Majesty in that Conference hath so
showed himself to be filius sapientiae et musarum as he hath
made it appear even to those who had in some kind passed the
censure of over curiosity he will neither endure novelty nor
superstition knowing well that all extremes are vices and virtue
only in the mean; I cannot forbear without forgetting my duty
to require you that that liberty which hath been permitted
formerly to over many to dissent with you from the prescribed
orders of our Church either in action or divulging of opinion
may be restrained. Seeing the proposition malum bene dispositum non tenent movendum is not to be neglected, so when
any spirit maketh his own distraction by taking so vehement
exception against matters of good use and consequence agreeing
with the continued practice of the primitive church and not
dissenting from the rule of the Word may be justly [breaks off].
—Undated. Rough draft with many corrections partly in Cecil's handwriting. Endorsed: "Minute." 32/3 pp. (197. 66.) |