Cecil Papers: July 1605, 16-31

Calendar of the Cecil Papers in Hatfield House: Volume 17, 1605. Originally published by His Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1938.

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'Cecil Papers: July 1605, 16-31', in Calendar of the Cecil Papers in Hatfield House: Volume 17, 1605, (London, 1938) pp. 322-344. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-cecil-papers/vol17/pp322-344 [accessed 20 April 2024]

July 1605, 16-31

Sir Thomas Southwell to the Earl of Salisbury.
1605, July 16. Is assured that Salisbury, although informed against him by young Sir William Cornewallis, will find on hearing the wrongs he sustains how the informations have abused his lordship. Is emboldened to pray the hearing of the true proceeding of his just cause.
Sir Charles Cornewallis bought of him lands amounting to 1,000l. a year and paid a great deal less than their value. The money was to satisfy debts of his father's and the residue for his own maintenance. Sir Charles made a great benefit of the debts that are paid by agreeing with the creditors. Yet there are divers left unsatisfied for which the suppliant is called in question and the moneys he should have for his maintenance detained.
As for the matter of practice with young Sir William Cornewallis to have the statutes forfeited before the money was due and before Sir Charles Cornewallis went away, old Sir William Cornewallis came to his (Southwell's) house to understand when the days of payment were, and made great show to be careful of performing the payment. At that time he showed Sir William the defeasance and gave him a note of the days. Again, before Sir Charles went over he assured him of payment and that his brother should engage himself for 500l. towards the payment of his debts. He likewise gave strict order to his son to see Southwell performed with. The son after his father's departure, when put in mind of the money, said he should not need to fear, he had order to see him satisfied. But when the day of payment was past he said he had no order left.
Prays that by confining and enforcing him to a composition the means of his undoing be not wrought, but that he may proceed according to law and equity.—16 July 1605.
Signed. Seal damaged. 1 p. (111. 121.)
Lord Zouche to the Earl of Salisbury.
1605, July 16. Confesses he had rather depend upon Salisbury as a private man than as a public. Not long since received letters from the Lords of the Council for particular musters to be made within the counties of his lieutenancy, and that before Michaelmas next. Some of the counties are drawn to contemn him by the hope of the division from the government; some of them in respect that particular men may cross his general courses in the King's service for loans. Thinks that charity should work much with the greatest politician to free him from that he desires not. Has upon this sudden required the deputy lieutenants of every county to show their skill upon their old experience. Salisbury knows he has leave to live here [in Bath] and that he is not fit to deal in the other so speedily, especially not having first had a general muster, which besides his commission her late Majesty did like well that he should take. By that he would have known the state of the people and have been better able to have given account of his service. Since his Majesty's time, what with his coming in, his coronation, entrance through the city, parliament, commission concerning Union and the unfortunate controversy betwixt the King's Bench and that Government, wherein he unworthy was commanded to preside, neither time has been convenient nor his heart free to move the King for any such general muster. Doubts not but others will fall upon him unless Salisbury privately as a friend as well as publicly as a councillor considers of these things, and not only helps him there as justly he ought but privately as a friend by his advice. Does not think himself worthy of these happinesses but sees no cause why he should be continued without them, since he presses not for the place but to enjoy it with that countenance others have had. If he presses, let his wants excuse him, since for his wants' sake he is contented to live privately.—From the Bathe, 16 July 1605.
Holograph. 2 pp. (111. 122.)
Dr. Lancelot Browne to the Earl of Salisbury at Court.
1605, July 17. Dr. Marbecke is very sick and in great danger. I fear he will not last long though he should escape this brunt. If he depart, I understand that Dr. Elvine is to enjoy his place in Court, which I shall be very glad of, if the other man die, because he is a very kind and honest man. If he have this place he must be bound to follow the Court and so cannot perform the service required by his charge in the Tower. I therefore humbly desire that my son-in-law, Dr. [William] Harvey may succeed Dr. Elvine in that place. He is every way fit for performance of so great a charge. I did never in my life know any man anything near his years that was any way match with him in all points of good learning, but especially in his profession of physician. Being examined in the College three several times, he answered so readily and fully, as the whole company took very singular liking unto him. If any doubtful matter of moment in physic should occur in his practice there, he should have me always ready to resolve him therein fully. He is both himself of that discreet carriage and his parents and friends are so honest people, as I dare venture life and limb for him. He is now in Kent with his father at Folkstone, but if need shall be here of his presence I can and will send for him presently.—London, 17 July 1605.
Holograph. 1 p. (111. 123.)
Sir Bevys Bullmer to the Same at Court.
1605, July 17. The cause why I have forborne to write to his Majesty or your lordship hath been that my Lord President of his Highness's Council here told me in April that he would come and see his Majesty's works here. So he did the last of May, at which time Mr. Bowes had been here fifteen days; and when my Lord had seen both our works, Mr. Bowes departed and left the works, seeming to me to have an utter disliking of them. What my Lord's opinion was of the works I know not but he said he would write, wherein I besought him to write that the places which Mr. Bowes hath left might be wrought, for there are divers who dwell near about who are fit to work there and are too far from other places. Besides that place, as I have ever alleged, is one of the richest like and fittest to be followed of any other. I have spoken and written of my assured hopes of this action no farther than I have yet daily more and more assurance and probation that time will discover it, and I have some gold such as no man can deny but must come from a vein. Which vein I carry still with me and do not suffer it to steal from me of any side but drive it still forward; but the mountains are so large and the earth so deep and I must carry it so clean with me that if it do lie high in the hills, it will be the longer in working; but how near it is no man can say farther than he worketh but must have patience until it be tried. My good Lord, for the greatness of the works with my diligence in prosecuting thereof, I refer to the relation of my Lord President, who hath seen them, and to such others as shall take view there of for his Majesty: upon whose opinions his Majesty, I trust, will be pleased either to proceed to a full trial or to withdraw his charges, of either of which I humbly submit myself to his most gracious wisdom and consideration.—His Majesty's gold mines, 17 July 1605.
Holograph. 2 pp. (111. 124.)
Sir John Rooper to the Earl of Salisbury at Court.
[1605], July 17. I am now in hand with your hawk, for I suppose you would her for the field which she was never yet acquainted with. But all hawks of her spirit and mettle will soon be framed for field or brook. So soon as I can work her to her wonted manner of flying, I will bring her or send her to your lordship.—From my poor cottage in Kent, 17 July.
PS.—I do beseech your lordship that in this time of many fortunes, myself, your true and most affectionate poor friend and follower, may not for ever be forgotten.
Holograph. Seal. Endorsed: "1605." ½ p. (111. 125.)
The Earl of Salisbury to Sir Edward Conway.
[1605, July 18]. I have lately received a letter of yours, wherein I observe a great respect towards me, for which I may do little if I shall not thank you and were it never so much, I can do no more at this time. Mr. Wynwood, his Majesty's agent, advertised me of this poor mountebank's vanities, with which I was acquainted in the Queen's time and then held him, as I do now, to be frantic, so as I contemn any of his follies, having never had question with him, by which I should out of any private humour offend him more than with all the rest of the ordinary sons of Adam. Nevertheless, because all that hear him are not peradventure so well informed of his condition and because the greatest innocency may receive a temporary blemish, I cannot but account it a good office in you to make it known to those before whom he shall take freedom to speak, that it stands not with the honour of a regular estate to permit the poisoned tongues of turbulent spirits to scandalise a public minister of so great a King. their friend of how mean an account soever he be in his other private quality. Thus desiring you to assure yourself of my readiness to requite this gentlemanly office of yours, I commit you to God.—Undated.
Draft with corrections. Endorsed: "1605, July 18. Minute to Sir Ed. Conway." 2 pp. (111. 126.)
The Earl of Suffolk and Lord William Howard.
1605, July 18. Certificate to Thomas, Lord Ellesmere, Lord Chancellor of England, that whereas his Majesty has bestowed on Thomas, Earl of Suffolk, and Lord William Howard the particulars afterwards expressed and the book is now ready for the Great Seal, his Majesty's pleasure is the book shall pass the Great Seal, being no parcel of those lands for which Lord Ellesmere received a restraint from the King but were all parcel of the possessions of Thomas, late Duke of Norfolk, and Philip, Earl of Arundell, or of one of them.—18 July 1608.
Unsigned. 2 pp. (111. 127.)
[Note.—The manors, etc., set out in the schedule which follows are identical with those contained in the grant of July 19, 1605, to the Earl of Suffolk and Lord William Howard enrolled on Patent Roll, 3 James I, part 14. This patent was afterwards, on 22 Nov. 1608, cancelled at the request of the Earl of Suffolk and Lord William Howard because of great differences between it and the bill signed by the King.]
The Vice-Chancellor and University of Cambridge to the King.
[1605], July 19. Our natural modesty (pudor) had not yet permitted us to ask for the many things which your known beneficence would have perhaps bidden us to expect had not the just petition of Oxford in the same cause, lately so abundantly granted, directed our minds to the present progress and shown us as it were the way. For since these, your twin universities, share you in common, not as a patron but as a father of divine beneficence, so are they as sisters germane alike and equal in virtue, modesty and charity and neither puts itself before the other. Indeed we cannot doubt but that your most serene Highness will embrace each with equal grace and deem each to be equally endowed and honoured.
It is unnecessary to magnify to a King, so lauded for letters, religion and wisdom, his professorship of theology in the University of Cambridge, how salutary and fruitful it has been not only to this realm but to the universal church in many past centuries and especially how it may be so in these times. But it is for your divine bounty that we should not plead in vain in what difficulty those who are wont to be our most sainted orators in the most sacred of all sciences work and with what meagre reward they have been for long sustained. Therefore, most august James, let your professorship of theology at Cambridge be truly yours, royal (regius) in fact and condition as it is in origin and name.—"È senatu, 14 Calendas Augusti."
Latin. 1 p. (136. 132.)
Joannes Weiber, Polish Ambassador, to James I.
1605, July 19. Requesting licence to Torkelius Laurencii, the King of Poland's ship-master, and Valentine de Horn to purchase for the King's use and export free of duty 100 culverins or demi-culverins.—19 July 1605.
Latin. Signed. 1 p. (190. 136.)
Lord Erskine (Areskyne) of Dirleton to the Earl of Salisbury.
1605, July 19. It has pleased his Majesty at the suit of my nephew Sir James Creighton to bestow some few recusants on him, observing always the order, they being found out by himself. I entreat your reasonable favour to him.—From the Court at Avering this 19 of July 1605.
Signed. Seal. ½ p. (111. 128.)
Lord Chief Justice Popham to the Council.
1605, July 19. Have received two letters at this place from you, the one concerning the straining of cloths, the other touching prohibitions. The first was a matter that required great examination and will still require great deliberation in passing the patent, lest it should breed that inconvenience to the general clothing as were not fit to be suffered. Therefore after the last hearing by your direction Mr. Attorney for drawing the body of the book and myself for the provisions have taken some pains, but the merchants of Eastland especially, with some others, seeing the commodity of their trade rested chiefly upon the stretched cloths and finding that the clothiers, particularly of Suffolk, could have no vent of their dressed cloths except they were stretched, seek to make this use out of the clothiers' necessities, as to turn the labour of this suit from themselves to the clothiers; and therefore ever since the last hearing in the Star Chamber, and that they understood that anything should be laid upon the licence, they have utterly surceased to follow the same either to Mr. Attorney or to myself, although sundry of the same merchants became petitioners unto his Majesty, by the means of Sir Arthur Aston and some others, to have obtained a like particular licence and offered for the same a greater rate upon every particular cloth than is now sought for, as the suitors on their behalf to his Majesty can well witness. Wherefore I do not see how this can be effected until there may be some time to call the merchants and clothiers together, which I leave to your better considerations.
Touching the matter of the prohibitions so much complained of, I dare assure your lordships, whensoever it shall come in examination, it will not be found to be such as is informed and if there were no usurpation upon the general justice of the realm, which we are bound by our oath to maintain, they should find very few or none at all to be granted. But touching this Frenchman that brought me the letter I do assure your lordships he was so peremptory with me, as if he had power to command the justice of the realm. Whereupon I made him such an answer as his presumption did deserve. There were two French causes that stood upon prohibitions, whereof your lordships towards the end of the last term delivered me the information, the one of which (although the party had disadvantaged himself by an oversight) yet we finding the surmise made in Court upon examination to be false, forthwith remitted that cause to the place where it was sentenced. But the other being the cause now again complained of, appearing unto us upon examination rather to appertain to the King's Court than to the Admiral's jurisdiction, we thought good (this falling out at the very end of the term) to deliberate further upon it before we resolved to return it back again, which we hope in justice may be admitted unto us. But for the respect which we have had to French causes, I hope the Ambassador himself may remember how often he hath sent particularly unto me in matters touching his Master's subjects, and what expedition and justice they have received where the matters have so deserved it. And for this and the like causes we shall be no sooner satisfied in our knowledges that it ought to be remitted, but it shall be done without any manner of unnecessary delay.—At Alesbury, 19 July 1605.
Signed. Seal. 1½ pp. (111. 129.)
Sir Clement Fisher to the Council.
1605, July 19. We received your letters dated the 10th instant, delivered unto us by one Harrys a messenger and also one Henry Tailor, who has informed your lordships that he will give us advertisement of the resort of many seminary priests that are harboured near us. It was informed me that your directions were that Tailor should use his old haunts and when he had renewed his familiar acquaintance and certainly knew where any such persons were, then to give us secret intelligence, that we might come to apprehend them. As soon as your letters were delivered us we understood notice was given to one of the printers apprehended by us and in Warwick gaol that the said Tailor was come down from your Honours, set at liberty, rewarded by his Majesty with 10l. and restored to his press and prints. By which we fear Tailor can do no such service as has been promised or is expected, and we also doubt that out late searches for the presses have made the priests as yet refuse their former accustomed abodes. Of both these matters we thought good to advertise you and to pray your further directions, whether we should presently proceed in this service or give some time, till they may think these storms be somewhat overblown. After we hope, though Tailor's purposes be discovered, yet by sudden and many searches at one instant, to take some of these evil affected persons and in time, by times, many of them. After your lordships' pleasures signified we will do our duties in hope of good success, for we doubt here be many such priests in these parts and both they and their entertainers grow very bold, perceiving the law is not severely executed on them or their harbourers, by means whereof his Majesty's better subjects receive some discouragement. We have sent to the Earl of Salisbury a book of every sort of the books taken at Randalls, the written book safely sealed up, according to your letters dated 17 July. The presses, prints, and the residue of the books we will send up to the Lord Bishop of London, according to your former directions. What your pleasures shall be done with the prisoned printers in Warwick gaol we know not but thought it our duties to remember you of them.— 19 July 1605.
Signed. 1¼ pp. (111. 130.)
Sir William Browne to the Earl of Salisbury at the Court or at Salisbury House in London.
1605, July 19. The want of worthy matter hath been the occasion of my long silence, nothing memorable on either side having been attempted since the States' unfortunate success in their Antwerp design; and now I write rather to show my ready service in conveying the enclosed, which came but yesterday to my hands, than that I have any subject which I can say is of substance to inform you. The letters if they be of no fresher date than such as I received with them are eight days old, yet since that time we have nothing else from those parts, unless this be not written that the enemy, howsoever he means to bring his bridge to a more convenient place lower, yet in the meantime hath made forts on both sides and other forts in Keysarsweerdt to secure the passage he hath already. His Excellency had news that Spinola was sick at Maestrecht. Some say it was only a little distemperature of his brain having to go through so weighty undertakings as he hath promised and finding himself frustrate hitherto of what he most aimed at; for his Excellency perceiveth that his separating of his army was rather to draw our army out of these parts than that he meant to fasten any enterprise in the upper parts, and therefore out of his own judgment hath hitherto dispensed with the States' resolution for his rising, as not desirous to leave any hole open for the enemy to creep into any of the last year's ground gained; and hath already brought all his new fortifications to so good a stay, that within a day or two they will be defensible; yet till they be perfected will leave for the guard of them 4,000 men. And truly by that which I learn of those who should know much, his Excellency hath yet no mind to depart till he can find the enemy is fast above; and then whether he will endeavour to do somewhat hereabouts with his troops or whether he will follow the troops gone before is uncertain. But letters which I had yesterday from his Excellency's camp do complain that the plague and other sicknesses begin to be rife in our camp, and the Princess of Orange yesternight told me that one of his Excellency's own pages had got the plague. This may hasten his dislodging, and as they write by conjecture he will not stay longer than Monday or Tuesday. On Wednesday last his Excellency sent away six companies more of horse to the troops above and it is presumed that Spinola is with the army already in the upper parts, his expectation failing him here, we will presume, enforceth him to a new resolution to do somewhat in those parts lest the summer drawing to an end, he should lose time and to no end, and so I hope he shall do this year howsoever.
Mr. Winwood from the King's Majesty hath delivered his proposition in French for the Spaniards passing over into Flanders. The exact and persuasive style is such as by some of their sayings who have read it they have not read anything better set down, and it makes them at a stay with themselves, not knowing well how they can in judgment deny our King's request and yet not knowing how they can conform themselves to the granting it without prejudice to their fickle government. The General States must be assembled before answer can be given. A great point, if I may speak my own conjecture, will be, though they understand it wisely and respectively, to make their common people to digest it, for both they will be more jealous of our King's favour and so consequently of us, who live among them, and will happily enter into discontent with their own Governors, complaining that they are taxed above their power for withstanding of their enemies, and yet that their masters do willingly give passage to their enemies. This I am bold to write of, having for so long time been acquainted with the humours of this nation. Thus much I will add without flattery because it is true; these men build their preservation in the King's favour upon none as principal but upon your honourable self.—Vlushinge, 19 July 1605.
Holograph. Seal broken. 2 pp. (111. 131.)
The Earl of Shrewsbury to the Earl of Salisbury.
1605, July 20. I have been of late often sick and since silent, having had no special matter. I take this first occasion to trouble you, upon the receipt of my Lords' directions to me by their letters to view the trained bands in Derbyshire, to let you understand that as yet I have not received his Majesty's commission of Lieutenancy of that county. I do hope it is already perfected and will be presently sent down hither unto me, having long since given order for the same. But in case by the negligence of such as I put in trust or by any other accident there remain anything to be perfected therein by the King or you, I entreat your good favour for performing what may be necessary. With my wife's best commendations to your lordship.—At Sheffeild Lodge, 20 July 1605.
PS.—I pray you pardon me to entreat you to send these enclosed to my servant's lodging.
Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (111. 132.)
Lord Say and Sele to the Earl of Salisbury.
1605, July 20. You procured me hope of relief out of 8 recusants, made known by myself. I have spoken with some of them, who desire forbearance, and to contract privately without convicting them and extending their estates. Without this being first obtained, their resolution is to conform. No contract must be made by me but in the form prescribed in your letter. So I have given the judges of our circuit an indictment to proceed against those in this circuit. I grieve to think how the recusants in these parts increase daily. Within 4 or 5 miles of my house, in a parish where 3 years since there were not above 6, now there are at the last presentment in Worcestershire diocese, within the parish of Brailes, county of Warwick, 45, besides 2 lately revolted. I wrote thereof to the Dean of the Chapel and County of Worcester, and to the Bishop, whose letter I enclose. Within this county of Oxon there is one place where his Majesty repairs often, and takes great delight therein. I know that one word out of his mouth may do me more good therein than proceedings by judges or others; therefore may it please you to move him, at his coming to the Forest of Whichewod, to inform himself privately from the ordinary Dr. Clincoe, of such as are presented for recusancy within that Forest. If his Majesty then advise his chief officer either to reduce the delinquents to conformity, or to remove them, his pleasures will no whit be lessened, nor his safety.
In a letter from Sir Thomas Edmundes I received a letter enclosed from the puissant Duke of Ascot [Aerschot] who at my being there, in respect that I gave him the pictures of the King, the Queen and the Prince, requited me with great favours; but none as great as a solemn vow to remain a devoted servant to his Majesties my masters: unto whom by my Lord of Hartford's letters he made offer of his duty, as also by word of mouth by me: which herein he protests the continuance of: he and his house of Croy, whereof are the Marquis of Havery and Count Fownteney, being greatliest affected to the English, and of far more power than any others. It pleasing them and others to hold me, by the Fiennes of Fines Castle in Artois, to be allied to them, I promised them my best service here; and receiving this letter, thought it my duty to send it.
If such as now are, or would be, recusants, might absolutely compound (which I wish not) the sum would exceed either subsidy or fifteenth. If I have anything, it shall be without the least abuse of his Majesty.—Broughton, 20 July 1605.
Holograph. 1 p. (190. 137.)
Sir William Fitzwilliam to the Earl of Salisbury.
1605. July 21. To all your favours add this, that I may escape the sheriffwick of Northamptonshire this year, for which my troubles past and these present prosecuted by my unkind brother have made me so unfit. If it stood with your liking I would gladly pass over one year more before I underwent it. Sir Edward Griffin is in the bill as I am. For state, quiet and other respects he is now more fit for the office but if you shall anyway dislike my petition, I do surcease this suit and will become a suitor for it, though I sell a piece of land.—Milton, 21 July 1605.
Holograph. ½ p. (111. 133.)
Sir Edward Coke, Attorney General, to the Earl of Dorset.
1605, July 21. I received your letters this night about 10, and thinking this time of all others to be free from service, have for my health taken the privilege of my house for 3 or 4 days; for I dare not dissemble in this case, I have just cause to seek help, and the last labours I took in my last edition have furthered it. Besides I have (fearing such an occasion) left all my knowledge with Mr. Wood, and as I take it Mr. Solicitor is in town and you know his sufficiency and willingness. Besides whensoever the matter is heard, it will receive a blow if my Lord Chief Justice be not there, who has been the principal agent in the case.—21 July 1605, Stoke.
Holograph. 1 p. (190. 138.)
The Same to [the Earl of Salisbury].
1605, July 21. Two things have caused me to give my Lord Danvers all the furtherance I could in this suit; first, for that I ever perceived you to be propense and ready to give it life and essence; 2, for that I am his poor ally and he my loving friend. You have had more experience of me than my Lord Danvers has had, I assure you that this release to the King but secures his Majesty, and all other persons warranted by the late Queen or his Majesty, or claiming by or under them, according to your own opinion, signified to me by your letters. But that there should be saving in the King's grant to enable my Lord Danvers against any other, it were first idle, for the release to the King does not discharge any man, but (as you rightly speak) such as dealt by the Queen's warrant, or claimed by or under the Crown. 2, for the King in his letters patents to direct Lord Danvers to sue him that once paid it to the King before were full of incongruity and not without inconsideration, when it needs not. There be in every science misteria quedam, which are not fit to be committed to paper; but it is sufficient that the book is already in judgment of law as you direct it.—Stoke, 21 July 1605.
Holograph. Endorsed by Salisbury's secretary: "Mr. Attorney to my Mr." 1 p. (190. 139.)
The Master of Gray to the Earl of Salisbury.
1605, July 21. Finding my cousin of Panmeure, this young gentleman, repairing towards his Majesty, I by him send you a number of "remerciements," but chiefly for your last letter to the Earl of Dunbar. I wrote last, and now I do, that the best point I have obtained [is] the knowledge of an honourable friend's favour, who shall command my life. I showed my Lord of Berwick, now of Dunbar, that I would never trouble you in such a trifle farther. He required I should write of his diligence, I being satisfied, which I shall do, and truly. My cousin Sir Raphe Gray has been here, and to give my Lord of Dunbar his due, he has for your respect stood his very great friend. But I must in all be plain. Although some in this Council have discretion, yet English causes necessarily should be judged by English judges; although Sir Raphe Gray be not of the common sort, for his friend's cause finds friends here.—Edinb[urgh], 21 July 1605.
Holograph. 1 p. (190. 140.)
The Earl of Southampton to the Same.
[1605], July 22. I must put you in remembrance of a favour you promised me when I saw you, whereof if your leisure will suffer you, I shall expect the performance; which was to see this Island sometime this summer. If your lordship be still of that mind (as I hope you are not thus soon changed) I beseech you let me hear of it three or four days before you come, not to make provision to feast you, for I will leave that to those who love you less and endeavour to make known my affection to you in somewhat else rather than in meat and drink: but only that I may meet you at Tichfield, whither I would entreat you to direct your course, from whence I will convey you (God willing) safely over the water (there being your best passage) and see you well on shore again at your return.—Carisbroke Castell, the 22 of July.
Holograph. Seal. Endorsed: "1605, July 20 (sic)." 1 p. (111. 134.)
The Earl of Salisbury to Sir Thomas Edmondes.
1605, July 22. The bearer hereof, Andrew Bachelor, together with Antoine de Launay having been inhabitants within this kingdom for the space of 30 years and upwards, and demeaned themselves peaceably in their trade and vocation, have now represented that they have just claim to the goods of Francis Gemar of Armentiers within the chastellainie of Lisle; which goods during these latter troubles have been annotated, as they call it, by the King of Spain's and Archduke's officers, but not proceeded with to an absolute confiscation. And therefore they have requested my recommendation to you, that by your good interposition they may receive what favour you can, according to the true intent of the late treaty, in which the goods already confiscated are only excepted from restitution. I pray you do what you can for them if their matter be grounded upon reasonable terms, which you shall better understand there upon the particulars.—22 July 1605.
Copy. 2/3 p. (227. p. 81.)
The Earl of Dorset, Lord Treasurer, to the Council.
1605, July 23. On receipt of their letters he wrote to Mr. Attorney and Mr. Recorder, and warned the dyers and millers and patentees, to be before him this afternoon. He encloses Mr. Attorney's excuse. In his absence he sent for Mr. Solicitor, who with the Recorder and himself examined the cause.
He perceives by their letters that (1) on Sunday last the King was importuned by certain of the Company of Dyers, with which his Majesty was much offended: (2) that they desire examination to be made whether these complainants have used contempt, or the patentees pervert the true meaning of their grant: (3) that if the patentees are faulty, some order of reformation is to be settled; but if the complainants be found causeless, or their contempt wilful, then the offenders to be committed, unless they would enter upon bond to perform what they are bound to do.
(1) The dyers deny the importuning of the King or the Lords, saying they only informed the Earl of Northampton in private of their griefs. They confess their purpose had been to exhibit a complaint to the Lords; copy of which, being very slanderous and scandalous, he encloses. Gives details with regard to another petition exhibited by them to the Earl of Salisbury. (2) The accusation of the dyers against the patentees is in taking upon them to do that which they say cannot possibly be done; so that they accuse not the patentees, but the patent itself, presuming to condemn the patent before trial made. Their fault is much more increased because this question was before debated by the Council, and referred to the Lord Chief Justice and others, and decided upon. (3) Touching punishment of offenders, they could not but clear the patentees, for the complainants took no exception against any abuse committed.
Concerning the millers, it was proved that 2 of the 4 who were before the Lords had contemptuously broken the order set down by the Lords; whereupon Dorset committed one of them, and the other was dismissed upon bond and submission. He has issued warrant for the apprehension of the other two.
Concerning the dyers, if Salisbury's answer to their petition was such as is set down here enclosed, they are justly to be committed; if not, their offence was only in their intention, and intention is only punished in case of treason, and not of any other offence. He has moved them to enter into bond to observe the patent according to the Lords' orders; if they refuse, he desires directions whether they are to be committed, the patent being as yet held for good, both by the Lords and the Commissioners. He has charged all, patentees, dyers and millers, not to trouble his Majesty nor the Lords with any more petitions until Michaelmas Term.—23 July 1605.
Holograph. 3 pp. (190. 141.)
Sir Edward Hoby to the Earl of Salisbury.
[1605], July 23. Upon the death of Sir Edward Stafford, Sir John Broke made means to me for my good will, as he had done unto the town. I promised him all the kindness I could show, which has bred no small dislike towards me in answering of Sir John Stafford, Sir W. Udall and sundry Kentish gentlemen, among whom Sir Moyle Finch was most importunate, no whit doubting to have it without me, for so he replied unto myself. I the rather yielded my good will for that he was a gentleman of the King's Chamber and therefore could not but prefer his affairs, no stranger to your lordship's "aiance" and my kinsman and old acquaintance. But I have no desire to place any, but upon these respects, one more than other, for you have principal power over me of any creature living. So far am I from my desire to have any particular man in that place, as I vow to my God, I wish myself free. But the best is as it is. I need not much trouble it except I list and what I shall do I know and refer all the spirits I have to your lordship's disposition. One thing in your letter most joyed me, which was that thereby I first saw the name of Salisbury.— "From my howse in the Blacke Friers, 23 July."
Holograph. Seal. Endorsed: "1605." ¾ p. (111. 135.)
Sir Thomas Edmondes to the Same.
1605, July 23. Has acquainted the Archduke with the order taken by his Majesty for mediating with the States to permit the passing of the Spaniards out of England to Flanders. He had understood from his Ambassador the favour his Majesty had done him, for which he acknowledged great thanks. He hoped the States would not deny the King's request, seeing that the numbers remaining there were but small, not being as he said above 400. Sundry of the best sort in Brussels had at the first condemned the counsel taken in Spain for sending away the said men in so dangerous sort and found it now strange that the Spaniard would make so dishonourable a request as to beg leave of those whom they term their rebels for the transportation of their men of war. There might have been means to have stolen them over by small numbers, which, though it could not have been done but with length of time, would have been recompensed in the meantime in the forcing the Hollanders to a great charge in maintaining their shipping to watch the passage of the Spaniards. They hold these overtures worthy of the Count of Villamediana to whose sufficiency they little ascribe.
Has had speech again with President Richardott upon the informations you sent me concerning the propositions for procuring means for his Majesty's subjects to trade with these Provinces. He persists still to dispute his old grounds but will confer more particularly with Edmondes upon the coming of the answer he expects from the Baron of Hoboque of his conference with Salisbury in that business.
Divers of the principal merchants of Antwerp have lately presented in Brussels their complaints to the Archduke for the great molestation which they receive in their trade in Spain in respect of the disproportionable proceedings there by the continual new orders which they make. For when first upon the revocation of the "placcard" of 30 in the hundred, they utterly restrained the trade of the Hollanders, they since granted liberty of trade to such of them as should bring corn thither. Now they have not only suddenly revoked the said order but have also imposed such new restrictions against bringing in the merchandize of Holland as to make them incur the danger of confiscation for trading with the lawful merchandize of these Provinces. They have protested there would be no means to continue their trade if a more favourable order were not taken. The Archduke promised to write in their behalf into Spain.
There is news that Spinola has now joined his army with Buquoy on the other side of the Rhine and makes a fort royal in an island beneath Keiserwerdt and there will settle his bridge over the river, but his design was rather to have besieged Berk if he had not found too great difficulty in that enterprise, for by taking that place he should have had the means of passing a nearer way into Freezland without passing so high as now he is forced to do into the neutral countries. But he has been prevented in that purpose by finding Count Ernest encamped with strong forces near the town. Learns the Marquis now intends after finishing the fortifications upon the Rhine to besiege the town of Linghen, thereby not only to make his entrance into Freezland but further, as he supposes, to cut off the States' commerce by land into Germany. He holds the straitest hand of discipline to the end to procure favourable usage in the neutral countries and in the hope to draw the inhabitants of Freezland sooner to him, being persuaded of the affection of that people for they hold the greatest part of them to be Catholics.
The States' horsemen lately defeated a convoy of this side going to Cullen. Great alarm was taken of late upon the discovery of 150 sail of the States' ships, which were advanced as high as Lillo, as if Count Maurice intended to have returned to execute his former enterprise against Antwerp, but it is thought to have been only a stratagem to draw Count Frederick Vandenbergen to send away a principal part of his army to prevent that enterprise. In the meantime Count Maurice would have assailed the forces which remained behind and possessed himself of their fortifications, in doubt whereof Count Frederick would not send away any forces from his camp, though thereunto required by the Archduke upon the first alarm.
A strong regiment of Germans of the Count Byes continually attends the guard of those dykes on Flanders side over against Antwerp. For the further strength of Brabant the Archduke has lately given order for the assembling of certain of the bands of ordnance to the number of 1,000 horse but it will be a month before the same will be got together. He has appointed Monsieur de Barbanson, brother to the Count of Aremberg, to be colonel of that regiment for this summer service. There be commissaries likewise sent down to the quarter where the English remain in Flanders to take order for the arming and mustering of them and to withdraw them from thence. Those companies have been of late much re-inforced by the fugitive soldiers from the States' army, for they durst not adventure to pass into England for fear to be met with, as others have been, by the States' ships. They forbear here to settle any order for the said regiment till they see whether there be any likelihood of the coming of a colonel or not. It is great pity to see how easily young English gentlemen, who come to serve in the Low Countries, suffer themselves to be corrupted in religion. The English priests be the busy and daily assailers of them.
It is said Count Maurice is preparing to dislodge out of Flanders and only attends the finishing of the forts he is making. Here has been newly a contract of marriage between the Duke of Arscott and his cousin germain the Marquis of Havré's daughter. Sends an abstract of the last occurrences out of Germany and those parts which are of important consideration. —From Bruxells, 23 July 1605.
Copy. 5¾ pp. (227. p. 65.)
[Original in Public Record Office, S.P. Foreign. Flanders, 7.]
Queen Anne to the Earl of Salisbury.
1605, July 24. Letter under the sign manual signifying the King's favourable disposition towards Paulo Lardo touching a debt due to him from Sir Edward Stafford, deceased, in accordance with the recommendation of the Signory of Venice, and the request of his present Ambassador to grant to Paulo permission to make one or more lotteries for the space of eighteen months, which request has been referred to Salisbury; and setting forth the Queen's desire for Salisbury's furtherance in the matter, so that Paulo may receive the said petition.— Hatfield, 24 July 1605.
Signed. Seals on pink silk. ½ p. (134. 69.)
The Earl of Dorset, Lord Treasurer, to the Earl of Salisbury.
1605, July 24. I was going to Horsley when your letters came. I have now so ordered this cause as I hope you shall have no more trouble; but I must have your speedy answer, for till that come I cannot go out of town. I have moved the smalt (sic) patentees to give 200l. yearly during their years, so as their grant may be without a proviso, so as Sir James Simple may now have that 200l. as long as shall be thought fit. I hope I shall have some days of respite. I mean it not if any great occasion be, for always if you send to me I am ready: but no light cause to call me away.—24 July 1605.
Holograph. 1 p. (190. 143.)
The Master of Orkney to the Same.
1605, July 25. At my arriving here I encountered a number of disputes before the Council between my brother, the Earl of Orkney, and certain his own men, who having complained of wrongs done as they alleged by him against them, the Council could not condemn him till he was heard and therefore gave him a day of "comperance" for some two months to answer for himself. The parties not finding themselves satisfied with the Council's determination are of intention as they give out to fly the Council's judgment and to importune his Majesty, a matter for the precedent to be eschewed. For if every man shall have recourse to his Majesty, not being contented with the censure of Council, seldom shall his Majesty have ease. Therefore I request your lordship if this occur, seeing there his Majesty seeth only by the eyes of his Council, you hold hand that neither the Council nor my brother receive wrong.— 25 July 1605.
Signed and with corrections in the Master of Orkney's handwriting. Seal. ½ p. (111. 137.)
The Earl of Nottingham, Lord Admiral, to the Same.
[1605], July 26. Upon the receipt of your letter of his Majesty's pleasure I have directed two several letters, one to the Trinity House of London, another to the Trinity House of Neucastell, to take order that his Majesty's pleasure be obeyed by all such as shall trade into those seas. I send your lordship the copy of my letters to them.—"This 26 of Jully at wych day I receved your lo. letter."
Holograph. Seal. Endorsed: "26 July 1605. L. Admirall to my Lord." ½ p. (111. 139.)
Thomas Alabister to the Earl of Salisbury.
1605, July 27. Herewith goes a packet come even now to hand under my cover from the Court of Spain. It came somewhat naked but if your pleasure be that I be used for like conveyances, I will upon knowledge thereof put better order.
The port hereof cost 5s., the half of 10s. upon two packets, the other being from my Lord Ambassador to his lady.— 27 July 1605.
Holograph. Endorsed: "Mr. Alablaster." ½ p. (111. 140.)
Sy. Basyll to the Same.
1605, July 27. We had no sooner made ready a shed for the lioness in the new court but she brought forth her young this night. The keeper, Mr. Gill, humbly desires to know your pleasure whether it shall continue with the dam or what other directions he shall receive.—27 July 1605.
Holograph. 1 p. (111. 141.)
Sir George Carew to the Same.
1605, July 27. The burgessship I held in Parliament is of the borough of St. Germaines in Cornwall. I had it disposed to me by means of Mr. George Keckwich, my brother-in-law. The course to be taken for disposing it where you shall appoint will be by directing the party to Sir George Coppin, who as I take it has the making of writs that go for new elections in such cases. Upon his coming thither, Sir George Coppin and I will confer, and if there be need we will attend my Lord Chancellor for his direction. I will signify to the town that they may appoint another, and recommend to Mr. Keckwich the party; upon which I doubt not but it will be done, because the town cannot appoint another except I first resign. I yield my thanks for your postscriptum, wherein you promise to be mindful of me to my Lord Treasurer.—The Strand, 27 July 1605.
Holograph. 1 p. (190. 144.)
Ulrich, Duke of Holstein, to the Same.
[1605], July 28. In behalf of Seigneur de Guntrol, and of the bearer. Thanks him for the favour shown to the Sieurs Danstruder which he begs him to continue.—Bellzic, 28 July.
Holograph. French. Endorsed: "1605." 1 p. (147. 159.)
Ro. Barker to the Earl of Salisbury.
[1605, July 29]. Details the state of the cause between him and Serjeant Ducke, with respect to a bargain for land; and prays for his lordship's favour in the matter.—July . . . . 5.
Holograph. Endorsed: "July 29, 1605." 1 p. (87. 33.)
Sir G. Hervy to the Same.
[1605, July 29]. On Saturday the lioness was delivered of two whelps, in the hovel erected by Mr. Gill, the keeper, in the new large place built for the lions. She had digged down above two feet in depth in the hovel, whereby it is very probable that their places of breeding in their own climate are very deep in the earth. He describes at length her behaviour and that of the lion.—Undated.
Holograph. Endorsed: "1605. Mr. Lieutenant of the Tower," and "29 July at 4 of the clocke in the afternoone att the Tower. G. Hervy, Locut." 1 p. (114. 42.)
Postal endorsements:—"Turr. hast, hast, post, hast, hast, hast. Holborne at 5 in the afternoone. Barnet past 6 in the eveninge. Saintalbones, past 9."
Lord Balmerino to the Same.
1605, July 29. I have directed your letter to Mr. Bowes. I have given notice to Mr. Balmore of his Majesty's pleasure, whose hope daily grows in the success of that service. I have written to his Majesty in my particular.—Halyruidhous, 29 July 1605.
Holograph. Endorsed: L. Secretary of Scotland." 1 p. (190. 145.)
Lord Chancellor Ellesmere to the Same.
1605, July 30. This day Sir Michaell Hickes imparted unto me as from your lordship certain reasons for the further prorogation of the Parliament, which I conceive to be so important, as I therein concur with you fully in opinion. And if one predominant Exchequer argument may be answered, that is, empty coffers, I think there is little doubt but this prorogation is very requisite. And I see not that deferring for a month or five weeks, viz. until the fifth or seventh day of November, can be any hindrance in that behalf. And for anything else, I do not yet find that there is any great cause to hasten it, but as you have well noted, there are (as it seems to me) many weighty reasons for the proroguing.—"At Yorke House, 30 Julii 1605."
Holograph. Seal. ¾ p. (111. 142.)
Sir G. Hervy to the Earl of Salisbury.
1605, July 31. It pleased you to have commiseration of my weakness and indisposition, whereby I am not able to discharge my duty, and to pardon this my clerk to give you satisfaction, which according to your pleasure shall be done once in four and twenty hours, if his letters may have passage.
I find that your letters take knowledge but of one whelp whereas my letter gave information of two, which are both yet living and to which the dam gives daily suck in this form. About eight or nine of the clock in the morning every day the two lions draw from the spacious place to go into their dens, at which time the keeper attends to draw up the shutter and to let them in, where, after two or three hours reposing themselves, the she-lion to the intent to give her young ones suck shows her willingness to go forth, so as the keeper who attends every occasion lets her out and so immediately she passes to her young, which lie within the hovel. Where so soon as the lioness enters into her whelps, the male lion lies overthwart the door of the hovel, so long as the lioness continues within. Thereby, as it should seem, to guard the place so long as she is with her young.
The two points viz.: for feeding the lioness with quick things and the keeping of them private have been and shall be with great care observed. Only this I am at the entreaty of the keeper to inform your lordship, that his fee and allowances are no more now than they were in the time of Richard II, viz., 12d. per diem the fee and 6d. per diem for the feeding. How this proportion of feeding now required will answer to this charge your lordship best knows, who I doubt not will have an honourable consideration thereof.
What particularly worth the writing shall from time to time happen, I will not forget to advertise it either by myself or my clerk.—The Tower, 31° Julii 1605.
Signed: G. Hervy, the letter being in the handwriting of Anthony Bodely. 1 p. (111. 143.)
Postal endorsements:—"Hast hast, post hast for lyfe. G. Hervy, locumt. Turr. The Tower att 6 of the clock in the afternone. Barnit paste 4. Saint Albones at 8 in ye morninge. Brickhill past 11."
Sir Thomas Edmondes to the Same.
1605, July 31. President Ricardott yesterday acquainted him that the Archduke had caused his Council to consider the settling a course of trade for his Majesty's subjects into these countries. Though the project was not approved by them all yet he was content to agree to the second proposition for admittance of a trade to Antwerp, so as there might be the like provision for trading into the ports of Flanders, as was offered at the last conference, but could not like too great an impost to be set upon the trade. The other proposition for forbearing hostilities on the sea the Archduke could not in any sort like of for reasons before declared. Some other principal councillors told Edmondes they could not conceive why the States should grant liberty of trade to English merchants and not themselves partake thereof. Howsoever they profess it will be of use to them to engage his Majesty's subjects into a custom of trade with them.
Certain deputies of the maritime towns of Germany are arrived in Brussels to desire the Archduke's favourable mediation for them into Spain, for they are not permitted to trade thither without payment of the impost of 30 in the hundred, unless they will agree to the same conditions for their trade as England and France have done in their late treaties.
Count Maurice is now dislodged out of Flanders, having left as is said 3,000 men in his new forts for the defence of Isendoncke and Ardembourg and to impeach access into the island of Cassant. Those of Flanders, thinking that means is offered now by his absence to attempt the recovery of some of those places, have sent deputies to Brussels to desire that the army under Count Frederick may be employed for that purpose. But it is thought that Count Maurice has too well provided for the defence of those places. Since the Archduke has understood of the remove of Count Maurice he is content that the bands of ordnance, for assembling which order was given, shall be superseded.
Spinola is now in hand to finish the fort which he makes the other side of the Rhine. Some blame is imputed to Buquoy for not more advancing the work against the Marquis's arrival. Great numbers of their new Italian troops are dead since their arrival in Flanders. The Marquis is forced to make new levies in the countries where he passes to the number of 6,000 men. Edmondes is informed that the charge for the levy and conduct of every man they draw from Naples and out of Spain amounts to more than a hundred crowns.
Great quarrels have fallen out of late between the chief gentlemen of the county of Burgundy, wherein the Marquis of Warrambon has slain another principal gentleman and himself remains dangerously hurt.
The Duke of Arscott and his uncle, the Marquis of Havré, have been with Edmondes to acquaint him with the late accord for the Duke's marriage, holding themselves bound as they said to give his Majesty an account for the honour they have to be allied to him and prayed the conveyance of their letters to him. The Duke said it would be a great comfort to them to receive his Majesty's allowance of the match and he would be very much bound to him if he would send according to the use in such cases some token of his affection to remain to his house. He attends the like compliment from the French King, the Duke of Lorraine and other princes, to whom he has written, intending to solemnise his marriage with great ceremony at Mons in Haynault the 18th December.
Sends a note of the last advertisements out of Germany and Italy. From Bruxelles, the last day of July 1605.
PS.—It is advertised that those of the town of Wesell, doubting in respect of the ill usage they have received from the Admiral of Arragon to be no better treated now by the army, have for their security received good numbers of the States' men into their town.
Copy. 5 pp. (227. p. 70.)
[Original in P.R.O. State Papers Foreign, Flanders, 7.]
Honorary Degrees.
1605, July 31. Copies of the following documents:—
(1) Grace for the admission by the University of Cambridge of Robert, Earl of Salisbury, to the degree of M.A., by proxy, without performance of exercises. Read, 19, July 1605.
(2) Proxy for William, Viscount Cranborne, to represent his father, Robert, Earl of Salisbury, Chancellor of the University. 29 July 1605.
(3) Memorandum of the admission by proxy of Robert, Earl of Salisbury, to the degree of M.A. 31 July 1605.
(4) Grace for the admission of William, Viscount Cranborne, to the degree of M.A. without performance of exercises. Read, 31 July 1605.
(5) Form of oath to observe and defend the privileges of the University.
Latin. 1½ pp. (190. 146.)
Ripon Church and College.
[1605, July]. Memorial of petitioners on behalf of the above to the Queen, alleging wrong information given to the King of supposed ancient crown lands and possessions to be given to the said college, and consequent stay of his grant for the proceeding of the work.
They have, therefore, framed and presented to their Highnesses a book for the proceeding of the said Ripon college, wherein neither much nor little of the King's lands is required as is set down in the docket or sum of the book.—Undated.
1 p. Parchment. (197. 48(2).)
Similar petition to the King, dated 25 July 1605.
1 p. (197. 49.)
The Grahams.
[1605, July ?]. Five papers:—
(1) Petition of the 50 Grames now employed in the King's service to Brill, to the King.
They crave pardon for having offended his Majesty, and joyfully accept employment in his service. They beg him to have mercy on their poor distressed wives and infants, resting now in the state of poor widows and orphans, to the number of 1,000. Upon their submission to the Earl of Cumberland, then the King's Lieutenant, they had his promise that if they were transplanted they should have as much living provided in another place, or else to continue their livings on Esk. They believe he will be a mean to the King for the performance of the same.—Undated.
Endorsed: "Will Grahame, Mott; Richard Grame, Brakand Hill; Arthure Grayme, Mot; Robert Grame, Howend; Francis Grame of Loggan; George Grame, Mill Hill; William Grame, Langtowne; William Grame, Mickle Willie; with others now employed in his Majesty's service. 1605." 1 p. (114. 24.)
(2) Names of 50 of the Grames sent to Brill.—Undated. Endorsed: "1605." 1½ pp. (114. 29.)
(3) Names of the Grames who, being in the schedule, would not appear (19). Names of those which are twice written in the schedule (6). Names of those who are maimed or sick, and not fit for service (20).
Signed: Ro. de Lavale, Joseph Pennington, Wilfr. Lawson, Edward Gray.
Endorsed: "1605." 2 pp. (114. 28.)
(4) List of complaints made of the outrages, incursions, forays, burnings, murders, mutilations and taking of prisoners within the late West Borders after the decease of the Queen, March 27 to April 7, 1603, committed by the Grames of Read Kirke and other Grames.—Undated.
Extracts, certified by Richard Bell, Past Warden Clerk. Endorsed: "1605." 2 pp. (114. 26.)
List of Grames.
(5) Richard Grame of the Reedkirke. George and John Grame his sons. Fargus, Walter and George Grame, brethren to the said Richard. Christy Grame alias Wittye. George Grame alias Boydes. Richard Grame alias Correis Richi. Andrew Grame. All bastard brethren to Richard of the Reedkirke; and thieves all.—Undated.
1 p. (114. 27.)