Cecil Papers: September 1605, 16-30

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: September 1605, 16-30', in Calendar of the Cecil Papers in Hatfield House: Volume 17, 1605, (London, 1938) pp. 423-444. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-cecil-papers/vol17/pp423-444 [accessed 24 March 2024]

September 1605, 16-30

The Earl of Southampton to the Earl of Salisbury.
[1605], Sept. 16. I thank you for your letter, which I wish I could answer with any change worth your reading, but the barrenness of this place affords nothing to discourse of but heat in summer and storms in winter, which is now with us begun. My Lord of Devon was I imagine with you before I received your letter, being no longer able to stay from his pleasures at Wanstead in the desolate parts of the New Forest. I wish myself also often at the Court to enjoy the presence of your lordship and the rest of my friends, though otherwise I am enough pleased with the quiet life I lead here; yet do I intend 'ere long to be with you.—Carsbroke Castell, 16 Sept.
Holograph. Endorsed: "1605." ½ p. (112. 66.)
The Earl of Salisbury to Sir Edward Coke, Attorney General.
[1605, Sept. 17]. Although I shall not need to use many arguments to persuade you that I am no persuader of those things which are of that nature which lotteries are, because I know them to be deceits coloured with fair shows of lawful adventure; yet because you are no such stranger in Israel as not to know that when somewhat is resolved to be done wherein there is inconvenience, he does best that takes the least by comparison; I have thought good to inform you that whereas divers private men, encouraged by example of one or two erected since the King's coming to their use, have been suitors for authority (towards repair of their estates) to set up lotteries in divers parts, and so were like to have proceeded; I have thought better to take hold of an offer of this nature which follows, than by little and little to make them ordinary, wherein the true scope is to suffer this with this condition, that where many poor men shall be deceived, there may arise thereof some benefit to some charitable uses. What those uses shall be, I shall be as glad to hear your advice as anybody's. But the sum shall be 2,000l. yearly, paid by 500l. quarterly. That it may not be brought in fiscum I could wish some other place public in the City appointed where it should be payable; and think it likewise convenient that these circumstances be expressed in the grant. For which purpose I now have sent you the party that best understands it, and caused him to make some rough draft according to his own sense for the performance of the condition; only forasmuch as belonged to the narrative, in what sort the King likes of it, it was by my direction, which he partly observed but not so perfectly as may be upon better perusal. Therefore I pray you confer with him, who can answer you to all purposes, and so help the matter with your direction for the narrative, as by some words it may appear that this 2,000l. is not intended, nor shall be converted, to any private use, which will give good satisfaction to the world.—Undated.
Draft, corrected by Salisbury. Endorsed: "1605 Sept. 17, Minute to Mr. Attorney from my Lord." 2 pp. (191. 45.)
Sir Thomas Edmondes to the Earl of Salisbury.
[1605, before Sept. 19]. Since his last le Terrail has proceeded in the renewing of his enterprise against Bergen op Zoone, saying that nothing would hinder his taking the town but the four elements. The Jesuits, the handmaids of all glorious enterprises, failed not to attend both the first and second time with their ornaments to have the honour to sing triumphant mass there, but are returned full laden with repentance. Du Terrail was seconded by two other colonels of Walloons, Chalon and La Biche, their number being in all 5,000 men. Those of the town not only bordered their walls full of men but further made a strong barricado within the town before the gate where du Terrail's company were entered. It is said the loss received in the enterprise was not less than 300 or 400 men. Four chosen English companies were also employed therein, who have likewise partaken of the knocks, namely Capt. Dyer, Capt. John Blount and Capt. Throgmorton, who are all hurt. Du Terrail at his return met with the news out of France of the death of his wife, which serves to cover the shame and grief of his other misfortune.
It is said La Biche who is governor of Hulst went forthwith to execute another enterprise upon Breda.
The two armies in Freezland continue near neighbours. one fortifying Linghen, the other Coverden and other places. Count Maurice has sought to stop the coming of victuals out of Westphalia to Spinola's army by threatening to spoil the country but it has nothing prevailed with them. The passages are so stopped between the Rhine and Linghen by his forces that the Archduke has very hard means to send or hear from thence and divers of his packets have been intercepted. It is said Spinola has prohibited the writing of any letters out of the camp unless they were first visited by persons authorised by him.
The Duke of Cleves, finding the fort built by the Marquis in his territory upon the Rhine near Keiserwert a great annoyance to his subjects, has by himself and other princes, especially the Duke of Lorraine, laboured towards the Archduke for its removal. The Duke of Lorraine made it known that if right were not done to his son-in-law he would order that no more of the forces of Spain should pass through his country. The Archduke has resolved to make a new fort lower down upon the Rhine and to demolish the other. As the Duke of Cleves is not willing to suffer the Marquis's army to winter in his country, it is thought he can hardly continue to lodge it in Freezland.
President Ricardott has been careful to excuse to the French Ambassador in Brussels that his masters have had no part in the practices said to have been lately entertained by Spain and France, but the Ambassador answered plainly that his master made no distinction between the affections or interests of Spain and the Netherlands.
The Count of Villa Mediana and Lord Arundell arrived here two days since. Yesterday his lordship was presented by the Count to the Archdukes who used him with kindness and promised to give him honourable satisfaction touching his conditions. The Duke of Aumale and Monsr. de Barbanson accompanied him to the Court and brought him back to his lodging and the Pope's Nuncio without giving foreknowledge came to visit him.
Before his coming there was a general mutiny among the soldiers in the English regiment and great discontentment by all the captains against the sergeant-major, Sir Thomas Studder. The general complaint is that his charge has put great arrogance into him and that he passionately depends upon the Jesuits. Many who are affected as he is think there is no such ready way to value themselves as by practising insinuations. Edmondes hopes that the presence and temper of Lord Arundell will stay the proceedings of such busy persons.
Has been to compliment the Archdukes since their return from their pilgrimage where they performed nine days of painful devotion for the obtaining of issue. Next week they intend to make a journey to spend some days at Bains near Mons.
Sends a note of the last advertisements out of Germany.— Undated.
Copy. 5½ pp. (227. p. 98.)
[Original in P.R.O. State Papers, Foreign, Flanders, where it is dated "Bruxelles,—Sept. 1605," and endorsed "rec. 19 Sept."]
Sir Thomas Egerton, Lord Chancellor, to the Earl of Salisbury.
1605, Sept. 19. I have sent you a writ of the Lord Montjoye, to be used as you shall think fittest for the present. I have not yet spoken with any of the clerks of the Chancery that can inform me what was done in the Earl of Sussex's time, and I doubt there is little to be learned from them, for they are either too young or too careless and forgetful. Wherefore I cannot see a better course than that which you moved when we conferred of it. If at my coming to London I can understand any more, I will advertise you of it.—At Harfeilde, 19 Sept. 1608.
Holograph. Seal. ½ p. (112. 67.)
Richard Percival to the Same.
1605, Sept. 20. I have sent to seek Mr. Bingley, and as touching your building I have delivered to every man in writing what they have to do within the house, with charge that it be first done. These fellows shall be agreed with forthwith, for I have spoken with Dobbinson to hasten it. But you must of necessity have Vincent's house, which is next the Cutlers', else the way will not range directly with Durham wall, but will come upon the wall which now cants out, where the outhouses and houses of office are. This house you may have, Sir John Spilman offering to place Vincent in a house of his near him; and I am well assured, if you saw how it lies, you would not refuse it and if now you do I know you will have it hereafter, when perhaps it will be more chargeable unto you.—From your lordship's house, 20 Sept. 1605.
Holograph. Seal. ½ p. (112. 68.)
John Atkinson to the Same.
[1605], Sept. 21. Coming this night weary and lame to London, between Kengenton [? Kensington] and Charing Cross I met Sir Walter Cope, who in general terms told me he heard that my actions in Sp[ain] were not agreeable to the expectation that honest men had of me before, and that he was very sorry to hear thereof. My assured confidence is that you will not condemn me unheard. As for those reports whereby I receive prejudice I hold them of no value, neither I hope will your lordship when you hear me answer for myself.—London, 21 Sept.
Holograph. Seal. Endorsed: "1605." ½ p. (112. 69.)
Sir Richard Hawkins to the Earl of Salisbury.
1605, Sept. 21. According to your command I have procured the best satisfaction for the Lord Ambassador which my power would reach unto, and assure myself will be to his liking. I have ever done my best to accomplish duty and excuse complaints, for that I see ambassadors apt thereunto, and more in our country than in any the kingdoms of Christendom, yet have my hard hap and sinister information drawn me into suspicion causeless, to my great cost and charges. In this of the French I only undertook with others to be sureties for payment of 600l. at a day agreed upon, for which 12 tons of wood was delivered and sold by the Flemings, which wood the Ambassador has sought to gain into his possession and to leave us liable for the debt, and obtained a sentence in the Admiral Court to that effect; but a replevin was brought out of Chancery, whereby the goods being delivered to the Ambassador were by the sheriff taken and re-delivered to me, to the uses described in the replevin. You can best judge if I deserve blame in refusing to deliver the wood to the Ambassador.— Exon, 21 Sept. 1605.
Signed. Seal. 1 p. (112. 70.)
Sir William Selby to the Same.
1605, Sept. 21. A commission came lately out of the Exchequer to Mr. Edward Talbot, myself, and divers others for seizing the lands and goods of recusants according to the statute in this county, which we have well-nigh fully executed. In that part where my service fell 15 recusants, some gentlemen and gentlewomen, the rest of meaner sort, were content to submit and conform themselves, who by the appointment of the Commissioners came on Sunday last the 15th inst. to my parish church, heard prayers and sermon with due reverence, and made submission according to law. The meetings for the execution of this commission are many, and much travail and time is spent in the seizures being rightly made, which do so distract me from the other service for which I was sent into these parts that I am forced to slack it more than I should. Wherefore I beseech you to spare me hereafter from other commissions, so many matters daily occurring in this broken country that are more than sufficient to use my whole travails. Myself and other justices of the peace in this division have had a six weeks' meeting according to certain orders set down by your lordships, the first meeting of that kind that ever was held in this county, where we have appointed high constables, petty constables, and other inferior officers, names and officers not heretofore known among us. We have reduced in this division 105 alehouses to 15, given strait charges for punishing rogues and idlers. Our service would be much advanced if the gentlemen on the Scottish side had the like orders by his Highness's direction, for now when lewd persons have lost their places of harbour here, they need but pass over the March and find plenty there for lack of the like law.
And whereas the statute appoints night-watches to be kept in all towns and villages throughout England between Ascension Day and Michaelmas, we of this division, knowing by experience that stealing in this county is much more frequent between Lammas and New Year's Day, for that cattle and sheep are then fat, the only purchase besides horses that thieves get here, we have with consent of the people ordained the watches to be kept betwixt Lammas and Christmas; to which course we intend to move the rest of the justices in their divisions. If besides the orders aforesaid we had a competent number of sleuthhounds ("slowdhowndes") to be laid in fit parts of the country (dogs that will follow most assuredly the foot of any man, horse or beast), these would shortly be banished, the charge of keeping which dogs by our calculation will be levied in this division for the imposition of 12d. upon every plough, in the whole year. I am here alone in a remote corner of Northumberland 30 miles from the nearest of the English Commissioners, which makes me bold sometimes as the service gives cause alone to write to your lordship.—Baremore, 21 Sept. 1605.
Signed. Seal. 2 pp. (112. 71.)
Presents to the Grand Signior.
1605, Sept. 21. A note of the present sent to the Grand Signior in the year 1594. Copied out of the Company's books per Benishe.
The particulars of the present sent by the merchants trading the Levant and Turkey to the Grand Signior at Constantinople in April 1598.
Charges disbursed at Constantinople at the delivery of the present in the month of June 1599.—"The 21 of September, anno 1605 per Benishe."
pp. (139. 101.)
Sir Robert Wingfield to the Earl of Salisbury.
1605, Sept. 22. You may think me very careless of you in that you have not heard of me concerning your fisher and fowler, which you desire should serve you, though your letters came to my house upon Sunday was a seven-night: yet by reason of my absence from home until Saturday, they came not to my view. My care shall be to provide you of such a man as you desire, both for his person and qualities, for about the fen countries there is good choice.—22 Sept. 1605.
Signed. Seal. ½ p. (112. 72.)
Enno, Count of East Friesland, to the Earl of Salisbury.
1605, Sept. 22. Was touched with incredible gladness when he heard that his Excellency's zeal and industry had resulted in the King of Great Britain directing Ralph (Rudolphum) Winwood, his councillor and orator with the United Provinces (ordines Belgicos confederatos) to compose the dissensions aroused by the machinations of certain of his seditious subjects. Winwood's fidelity, industry and prudence are such that of himself he would soon have removed the causes of dissension and restored peace and tranquillity had not the pertinacity of the rebellion prevailed and the King's sound proposals upset, so that the legate had to leave without effecting his object. He trusts that his own innocence and the wickedness and malice of his adversaries will be proved both by the legate's testimony and the evidence of the public acts. Earnestly prays his Excellency that by setting forth his defence before his Majesty and most fully reporting to him all that his legate has written about it prompt assistance may be forthcoming and the King willing to promote his most just cause. Is the more hopeful of Salisbury's doing this because of the former sincere intimacy and friendship between his parent and the Earl's own father of happy memory.—"Scripta Auricæ x kal. Octobr. anni quincti seculi sexcentesimi supra millesimum."
Latin. Signed. Seal. 1½ pp. (147. 160.)
Bevis Bulmer to the Same.
1605, Sept. 23. Since my letter to your lordship of 17 July I have received order by my Lord President of the Council here, that I should work in Wonlock Water, where Mr. Bowes had wrought. I entered to work there 5 Aug. with 26 men, and so continue following such trains of gold as I have found, until I come to the place whence the scattered gold doth proceed. I wrote in my last letters so largely of the manner of my working, that I cannot as yet write any other news thereof, but do still refer the reports thereof to the Earl of Marre and my Lord President, who have both been here and seen the works of old times and now. But although these men be of great wisdom, yet because they have not been practised in minerals, my humble suit is that some tinners of skill, as namely Sir Francis Godolphin, Sir William Godolphin, his son, or Sir Hannibal Vivean, or some such skilful workmen tinners such as are searchers for veins of tin called "shodders" may in the next spring (for that winter is now approaching here) be sent to survey and see whether there be not as likely trains and "shoders" of gold as they have of their tin, and as possible in time to be found, that his Majesty may be either encouraged to go forward in the search as a matter of great importance, or utterly to lease his charge. It is hoped his Majesty will be here the next spring, and then I trust you will come with him. It was his Majesty's pleasure I should proceed in search this year as I did the last, as by warrant to the Lord Treasurer for my supply, and I should have received 200l. the first of August for two months, and had given my bills of exchange to Sir Ralph Gray of Gillingham, who after receipt thereof should have paid it me here; but my Lord would give no order for the payment until the 20th of this Sept., and whether it be paid or not I know not. I beseech you to move my Lord Treasurer, so long as his Majesty commands me to employ his people to work, that I may be supplied with money. If this 200l. be paid, then I have received since 10 Dec. last 800l. and I have sent my acquittance for 200l. more to furnish the works this winter. Since you admitted me to your favour I have had your assistance concerning my lead works at Myndepe, and now the lewd fellow has confessed my right. I beseech your assistance to Sir Patrick Murray for my possession. I have sent to his Majesty 14 several pieces of gold the most of them having the rock-spar growing in them, which I beseech you crave the keeping of them, or else they will be lost. I have other small gold, but I detain it because the last I sent was wasted. I have one suit, that seeing this action is so much suspected to be but my deceit, and that the great learned men can hardly be brought to believe it is possible for gold to be found here, the gold I left be made into a cup and have engraved upon it that it was bred in Scotland. I beseech that the two greatest pieces may be fastened to the cup, the flat piece between the bottom and the foot thereof, and the round piece on the top, to prevent all cavils of time, for although the cup be gold, yet it may be said that it was fined forth of copper or other base metals, but the natural gold will agree with the fineness of the body.—His Majesty's gold mines, 23 Sept. 1605.
Holograph. Seal. Endorsed: "From Crawford Moor." 3 pp. (112. 73.)
The Master of Gray to the Earl of Salisbury.
1605, Sept. 23. At my Lord of Dumbar's return I wrote what both in my little suit and in all things else should touch me he had promised. So now my Lord of Skone repairing to Court, I thought meet to show you that he has hitherto only made excuse for a warrant, which the Earl of Dumbar has promised to procure immediately after his arrival. This much in respect they be both now at Court, and where they may perform, I having necessarily to do at this term, known to my Lord of Skone.
My meaning was to have sent my son with his uncle the Master of Orkney, but neither was his errand ripe, nor I as yet in readiness for it.—Dundie, 23 Sept. 1605.
PS. I doubt not my Lord of Dumbar has conferred with you anent this voyage of my Lord Home's, for I was plain with him how far the voice of people touched him in that matter.
Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (112. 75.)
Dr. John Rainolds to the Earl of Salisbury.
1605, Sept. 23. Expresses his thanks for Salisbury's reported favour to him. As much is done as he in reason could desire, and the lack of more is occasioned by his own want. Hopes Salisbury will excuse his not coming to Court, because since he received commandment from the King to take pains about their translation of the Bible, all other business set apart, he thought it his duty that no public causes should stay him from it, much less private. Their company, meeting thereupon at conference three days weekly, is through divers hindrances brought to such paucity that, if he were absent, there would not be a major part to prosecute it, without which they proceed not.
Touching the imputation whereof I understand first by my Lord Treasurer's letter to our Vice-Chancellor, that I had promised the King at Hampton Court to subscribe, and thence offended, now refusing it; I assure myself that, since I had no private speech there with his Highness, but am said to have promised it in the conference publicly, his wise discerning of the difference between subscription and conformity, this latter only then urged, as sundry of that audience too can testify, (to omit that the note which, upon his royal commandment, I exhibited of errors in the Apocrypha, did mention them as just cause why to forbear subscription, yea, the same approved by some correction of the book therein afterward) will suffice to acquit me from it. Else, unless the matter were apparently known, perhaps even to you, whose favour in justifying there my speech of the promiscuous and offensive sale of Popish traitorous books I am much beholding for, and conceive accordingly of your attent observing all the rest that passed; I would call the searcher of the reins and hearts to witness of the wrong I suffer by that report, with David's protestation, "O Lord, my God if I have done this thing; if this iniquity be in my hands; let the enemy pursue my soul and overtake it, yea, let him tread down my life upon the earth, and lay mine honour in the dust." With thanks for your speaking also to my Lord of Canterbury, whom I endeavoured before by letter to satisfy, and would have done further by my presence, had not the aforesaid cause detained me at home.— Oxford, 23 Sept. 1605.
Holograph. 1 p. (191. 46.)
The Earl of Salisbury to Sir John Ogle.
[? 1605], Sept. 24. Although I know that wolves do often walk under sheep's clothing and how usual it is for buffoons to be used as spies, yet because I hold it a weakness in wise men to believe that all sheep are wolves, or to be so transported with jealousies as not to distinguish between necessary caution and other endless apprehensions; and because the nature of my place ties me to hold all terms of civil courtesy with the subjects of foreign princes, I am now forced to be a dealer in a matter to which I have small inclination, as fearing to be misjudged by those that are not well-informed of all particular circumstances. When the Lord Admiral returned out of Spain, there came in the company of the Spanish Ambassador a Spanish jester, in whom the King and Queen of Spain take great delight, the rather because he is of such a humour of ranging abroad as he becomes delightful at his return to those that hear his foolish discourses of his adventures; wherein he hath one great quality that is predominant, which is, to be one of the fearfullest creatures of the earth. Now this fool hath a great desire to see those Provinces by the favour of his Majesty's protection, and in this divers great subjects of Spain have sent unto me to take some care under his Majesty that he may be so recommended as not to miscarry by any violent injury. In which, although I know that all men of judgment and discretion will hold it contemptible to dream of any his practice in his journey, yet upon his Majesty's desire to Mons. Caron that such a request might not be refused, I thought it convenient to advise his Majesty to prepare the way by Mons. Caron to his Excellency, that he (knowing the nature of the man) might use it as seemed best to his wisdom. Of whom this is all I will say, although there be wit enough in his forehead to observe the places where he comes, yet for any humour he hath of railing or scoffing, I do assure you that in all his carriage here these 2 or 3 months never man had cause to complain of him, but rather he hath not forborne to flatter us, with censuring his own Court and country with the greatest freedom in the world, and plainly told the King's own Ambassador to his teeth that he had rather see Count Maurice than all the princes in the world. When the Constable of Castile commanded in France, he got passport to come to the French King, who then took great pleasure in him. Of all these circumstances I pray you take some opportunity to inform his Excellency, and if upon your suit from me he would give the more careful order that in his passage there may be no violence, I shall take it for a great favour. For the rest I entreat you, while this poor fool is there, to cause some of yours that have discretion, to have some eye over him for his lodging and diet, for he is sickly, and so to further him to see the Prince Maurice and his camp, as it may serve him hereafter to talk of his usage, and yet not to bring him within shot or danger. That done (for which 3 or 4 days' stay may serve), the sooner you shall send him away the better, seeing he is presently to return from hence into Spain. I hope you will so carry this matter as I may not be thought a fool for undertaking for another.—From the Court at Hampton Court, 24 Sept.
PS. I have received many letters from you, which give me very much satisfaction, for I find a great difference between the advertisements from the Hage and those from the Place. Your last was of the 3 Sept., whereof I shall be glad to hear some good issue.
Copy. Endorsed (in a late hand): "1605." 2½ pp. (112. 76.)
Sir Thomas Smythe to the Earl of Salisbury.
1605, Sept. 24. Being returned out of Russia, I could not omit the first opportunity to present my service as the best acknowledgment I can make for your favours; and to entreat your directions concerning my coming to the Court to attend the King, with an account of my service, for a conclusion of this employment.—24 Sept. 1605.
Signed. ½ p. (191. 47.)
Lord Lumley to the Same.
1605, Sept. 24. I account myself much beholden to your lordship for your late favour towards me and my wife in this matter of the King's assent for our recompense touching the great park at Nonsuch. Mr. Attorney has drawn a docket for the King to assign for the receiving of my annuity out of the Exchequer, and an acknowledgment for me to sign before a Master of the Chancery the surrender which I have of my interest in that park, which is to be done by me after the docket be had from the king.—From my house at Tower Hill, 24 Sept. 1605.
Signed. Seal. 1 p. (112. 85.)
The Lord Treasurer to the Same.
1605, Sept. 25. Enclosing a bill engrossed of a grant of an annuity to Lord and Lady Lumley, in consideration of his surrender of his interest in the great park of Nonsuch and a rent reserved upon the said estate heretofore granted at his suit unto Richard Mathew.—Dorset House, 25 Sept. 1605.
Signed. ½ p. (112. 87.)
William Farrar to his uncle, Edward Nostin.
1605, Sept. 25. I have given you twice or thrice to understand by writing how all things have gone with me since my coming over, but as yet I have not received any answer, neither do I know whether my letters have been delivered. Therefore to be more certain of the matter, I think it not amiss to repeat in brief part of that which they contained. After Mr. Browne could not get me placed at St. Omers, he went about his own business another way, and so left me with a merchant, one of his acquaintance, to be placed at Doway, who when I came hither so handled the matter for me that the president of the college said flatly that he would not receive me under 15l. a a year, because the president and he bear no great will the one to the other. But presently he took order for me to be tabled in the town at an Englishman's house, where also 3 or 4 other scholars lie at their own charges, with whom I should diet, and so he said I should fare better than if I were in the college, both for the wholesomeness of my meat and also my lodging; which I know to be most certain by the report of many which are of college. If I table myself here I cannot be under 16l. at the least for my diet, books, apparel, and other necessary things. I have only 20l. here, for Mr. Browne kept the other 3l. and odd money for the bearing of my charges hither. If you like not that I should be here after this manner, and can procure the archpriest's letter to the president of this college, that I may be there for 10l. or 12l. a year, I doubt not but that I shall be admitted. Entreat my father to send over some cloth to make a gown, and some clothes against this winter, for those which I now have be almost worn forth. You shall hear of one Henry Keene at London, if you enquire of any pr[iest] thereabout for him, who uses to bring over youths to this and other colleges, who comes to and fro most commonly every month, by whom you may send unto me. I pray you write by the name subscribed, for I go by that name here, to the end I may avoid all danger, which otherwise might happen to you and my father.—Doway, 25 Sept. 1605.
Holograph. 1 p. (112. 86.)
The Earl of Devonshire to the Earl of Salisbury.
[1605], Sept. 25. Do me the favour to let me know when the King goes from Hampton Court, and how long you think he will stay at Rouston [Royston]. I would be at the Court from 2 or 3 days before.—Wansteed, 25 Sept.
Holograph. Seal. Endorsed: "1605." ½ p. (112. 88.)
The Archbishop of Canterbury to the Same.
1605, Sept. 25. Mr. Montforte, a layman, is come again yesternight to me. I would have sent him this morning to you but I knew not your business. If I hear from you that so is your pleasure, I will send him to-morrow. I perceive he is very well allied, and he seems to be a moderate and discreet gentleman, so as there is no doubt he will be always ready to attend, were it not for his charges.—Lambeth, 25 Sept. 1605.
Holograph. ½ p. (191. 48.)
Richard Percival to the Same.
1605, Sept. 26. These parties are now agreed with after much ado with Spencer, who stood very peremptorily with Ralph Dobbinson to have 200l. for his interest. This day, Mr. Houghton being there, we have concluded in the end with Langton the cutler, that has the rooms toward the street, for 110l. which he receives this day, with Spencer for 170l. which he must receive on Wednesday next, so as this bargain is 20l. dearer than it should have been if you had gone through with it before; and if we had not taken them now and pressed them very hard, it would have been dearer.
Langton has 3 weeks' liberty to remove and Spencer a month. Houghton, not being able to write himself, by reason of a pain in his hand, requested me to signify to you that he has provided such money as you willed him by your last letter. Your building goes forward with the best haste it can, yet not without some interruption, sometimes by want of timber, sometimes of stone, sometimes of workmen. We press to have the work within finished, and the carpenter protests he does all he can.— From your lordship's house, 26 Sept. 1605.
Holograph. 1 p. (112. 89.)
George Belgrave to [Richard] Percival.
1605, Sept. 26. I wrote and entreated you that no lease might pass concerning my brother Randell's lands, which my Lord your master vouchsafed at the President of Wales's request, unless you might see a letter of attorney under my hand, and my letter therewith to yourself. So it is there is an offer forward by Mr. George Curzon of Croxall, to whom I have granted my right therein. I entreat you to further him in obtaining the lease with what expedition you can.—26 Sept. 1605.
Holograph. ½ p. (112. 90.)
The Archbishop of Canterbury to the Earl of Salisbury.
1605, Sept. [27]. Yesternight one Monford, a Norfolk man, came unto me and said he was the party that first informed Barnby the priest of Watson's traitorous designments; that now he was to acquaint me with a matter tending to the same purpose. The people of Norfolk and such as adjoined to the seas, which now are ordered to be drained, are all of them desperately bent, and cast out very broad speeches against the intendment, and all whom they hear to be undertaken in that affair. Some of them went into the most parts of England exclaiming amongst the baser sort against the work, as tending to the utter undoing of them, their wives and children, and affirming that this course of taking away of their commons without their consent was but a beginning to deprive all the poor of the realm of theirs; that these beginnings must be withstood [lest] the inhabitants in the parts near the se[a] lose their lives, men, women and childr[en if] they suffer them to be drained; that if [the Chief] Justice come into those parts any more abou[t that] business, he shall be met with; that su[ndry] of them meant to make a supplication to his Ma[jesty showing] him reasons against that purpose. He [was] earnestly moved to deliver the said supplications and reasons, but refused so to do, because he thought it to be dangerous to himself. Notwithstanding he yielded unto them to deliver their supplication to some eminent man in the State, who would acquaint his Majesty with them; thereupon following Mr. Barnabie's example in the former treason, he was come to acquaint me with the premises. After this relation he delivered to me the supplication. I demanded certain questions of him as who they are that go abroad in that sort in the upland countries, whom he heard threaten the Lord Chief Justice, who primed the supplication and urged him to deliver it. To all which he answered that he hoped I would not seek to bring him into any trouble, and deal as friendly with him as I had with Mr. Barneby, the priest who first informed me of Watson's treasons. Perceiving that he expected some favour I asked him what he meant thereby, whereunto quoth he, I am a recusant and if I might obtain from his Majesty a protection that hereafter I might not be troubled for my conscience, I should hold myself sufficiently rewarded. By this time it drew towards night, and then he said he would leave me for that time and come to me in the morning again. I thought with myself, this fellow coming to me of his own accord, I shall not need to stay him now, but departed with him very kindly. But as yet he is not come to me, it being almost 9 o'clock. If he come to-day or to-morrow I will send him to you: if he do not I will send one into Norfolk with an attachment to bring him unto me. I am much troubled that I suffered him to depart out of safe custody, but it shall be a warning unto me.— At Lambeth, this — of September 1605.
Holograph. Endorsed: "27 Sept." 2 pp. (112. 94.)
Viscount Lisle to the Earl of Salisbury.
1605. Sept. 27. You and my Lord Treasurer signed a warrant like this enclosed. By reason that Mr. Gawber, to whom it was directed, died suddenly before the business could be performed, I pray a new warrant, whereunto the Lord Treasurer has already put his hand. I beseech you put yours as you did to the other.—27 Sept. 1605.
Holograph. 1 p. (191. 49.)
The Lord Treasurer to the Same.
1605, Sept. 28. Sir Vincent Skinner and I are setting down these estimates, among which I must know your mind, what the yearly profit of the Wards shall be set at besides the inward allowances. I mean the clear towards answering the Household, the Wardrobe, or any other payment that the King shall have cause to assign out of that revenue. I estimated it last by your counsel at 20,000l. Now let me know what sum I shall set down.—28 Sept. 1605.
Holograph. ½ p. (112. 93.)
Captain William Bowyer to the Earl of Salisbury.
1605, Sept. 28. I have directed this bearer, my son and lieutenant, to attend you about the matter of the ordnance disposedly lying in divers forts of Northumberland, that if it please you to have them stored at Berwick or elsewhere (for as now they lie buried in the earth, to the great hurt thereof), he may be ready to receive your instructions.—From Barwick, 28 Sept. 1605.
Signed. Seal. ½ p. (112. 95.)
Capt. Windebank to [the Same].
1605, Sept. 29. Here arrived this evening the ordinary post of Andwarpe with express business from Callis, and reports for certain that the Marquis Spinola is come near Sluce, and has taken 2 or 3 forts or sconces and besieged Edenborowe; and that yesterday there was drawn out of every company at Dunkerk a certain number to send to the siege. This is all I can yet understand.—Dover, 29 Sept. 1605.
Holograph. ½ p. (101. 148.)
Alexander Hay to the Same.
[1605], Sept. 30. The necessity of my hasty departure upon the small time of absence granted, and sudden return, enforced me to depart before the kissing of your lordship's hand, whereof I entreat your pardon.—Westminster, last Sept.
Holograph. Endorsed: "1605." ½ p. (112. 96.)
The Deputy Lieutenants of Hertfordshire to the Same.
1605, Sept. 30. They have entered into the execution of his Majesty's commission of lieutenancy for Hertfordshire and found many defects therein both of the trained soldiers and the armour. They have fully supplied very able and personable men, but find the armour so hard a matter to supply, as they entreat Salisbury's favour in procuring an abatement of the too heavy burden of 1,500 trained footmen, 20 lances, and 60 light horses, which always with very great grudging and mislike they could hardly get performed. The shire, being very small and barren, was at the first too heavily taxed, wherefore their suit is that they may be rated at 1,200 foot, 20 lances, and 50 light horses. Two of the 5 foot-bands are at present without captains, one by the departure of Mr. John Colt out of the shire, the other in respect that Sir Rowland Lytton is one of Salisbury's deputy-lieutenants, and for the supply thereof some of them will shortly wait upon his Honour. Whereas the whole number of 1,500 soldiers had new coats bought in 1599, which stood the shire in 750l. the most part of them by negligent keeping are so moth-eaten, as they are very unserviceable, which may well be spared as long as it shall please God to continue this most happy peace.—From Hartford, 30 Sept. 1605.
Signed: He. Cocke, Phi. Boteler, R. Lytton, Arthure Capell. 1½ pp. (112. 97.)
Rowland Stanley to William Stanley.
[? 1605], Sept. 30. Asks him to send Tom with his (the writer's) father's hawks as soon as they be well flying. As to a tarsell Tom Paulton promised his (the writer's) father. Desires to be excused to his sister Stanley.—From our camp near Rour, last of September.
Holograph. 1 p. (99. 18.)
The Same to Sir Peter Leigh.
[1605], Sept. 30. Good Knight, my cousin Norris leaving our camp and being desirous to travel into France, I could not let him pass without the adventure of a letter desiring thereby to manifest my love, being destitute of better means. Sir, you may imagine me partial in relating unto you some part of our summer's travail, but I protest I have ever hated a liar in my heart. The first enterprise the enemy attempted was to cut the dyke close adjoining to Antwerp, and by that means thought to have drowned a great part of the country and gained the town. I doubt not but you heard how they prospered. After which he went to a chastel of ours called Woue [? Wouda] which they lay before 3 days in which time he compounded with the Walloons to betray it after they thought to have set foot in Flanders, thinking to gain two forts of ours, the one called Patience and the other called Sase, which if he had done he had brought the country into contribution to the very gates of Gunnte [Ghent], all which places we rel[iev]ed and forced him out of Flanders. We left behind us in Flanders 6,000 men to force him keep his trenches, and marched with the rest of our army in Frise, where in all our journey the enemy never encountered us. We besieged two towns. The one was a town of great importance and the very key of the country called Linge [Linghen] and brought a great part of the country into contribution. In all which time the enemy lay within 3 or 4 leagues and never interrupted us, lying no way entrenched more than the commodity of the ground did afford us. We remained there 20 days to fortify the town and victual it and to leave it furnished with all provision for the war: in all which time he durst not approach so near as to adventure the cutting off of any of our convoys. In these two towns we left behind us four thousand men to man them, and marched before we came to any succour of ours a hundred and twenty English miles, in all which time he never attempted us neither on the "wanne" [van] nor rear. If I may not justly condemn this for a cowardly enemy, I refer me to your judgment. True it is he is politic but he wanteth Sir Francis Vere's valour. Thus with my most humble duty to my lady and yourself I commit you [to] God.—From our camp at Rour near the river of Rhine I cease this last of September.
Holograph. 1½ pp. (99. 19.)
[The Earl of Salisbury] to [Ulric], Duke of Holstein.
[1605, Sept.] [A page cut out here]. Your Highness has showed so much love to the King and the Isle of Britain in all your carriage at home and abroad, and knows me to be so true an Englishman (notwithstanding all our last year's Spanish and French presents), as I am bold still when I write to you to choose my mother-tongue, the better to express my mind. Where your Highness lately honoured me with your letters by Sir Andrew Keyth, as well expressing the continuance of your favour towards me, as the recommendation of the cause concerning Mr. Gunterott, for the latter I refer myself to the relation of the gentleman himself, who shall not lack the best of my small power to deliver him out of his extremities. Seeing he has offered confidently to abide the trial of those crimes which are most aggravated against him, and were indeed worthy of such severity, I cannot forbear to say that the denial to pardon him for the slaughter only (which is an ordinary fortune amongst valiant men) confirms to all men of indifferent judgment that there are some powerful enemies which hinder the Emperor's mercy; for remedy whereof some course is now taking to possess the Emperor's own ears with truth, whereof I wish the success. It remains now only for me to give you some account of his Majesty, how all things stand. After a pleasant and healthful progress his Majesty, with the Queen, is come to Hampton Court, and now preparing to hold the Parliament in November. As for the realm of Scotland, whereof we have heard that bruits have flown abroad as if some tumults were towards, you may confidently know that all is as quiet as in the city of London. Only upon a course begun by his Majesty to adorn the church there with episcopal authority, as here it is and must be in all monarchies, howsoever another form of equality may fit a petty state or private city, some dozen or twenty of the rash puritan ministry sought to oppose the same, hoping to become famous by this singularity; which is a thing, as your Highness knows, that draws after it all those that have beggarly fortunes. In which course they continued some few days, assembling many of the ignorant people together at conventicles holden by them, whereof so soon as the Council were informed, they committed all the principals without the contradiction of any man of note or quality. In France there have been some private gentlemen, most of them soldats de fortune, who have committed outrages in the parts of Languedoc, some of them being allied to Marshal Byron, who had been dealt withal by some frontier Spanish governors about Bearne to betray some of their towns. Hereupon the French King began to suspect every comer, Spain on this side, the Protestant party in France on the other side, because some of the followers of the Marshal Buillon in those parts had likewise joined with them. But all is suppressed, divers of the actors punished, and for the Marshal Buillon's part herein, no man has showed greater innocency than himself, having sent order to all that depended upon him to join with other his Majesty's servants in the prosecution of these rebels; a matter whereof I am very glad, because I have long known him as a lover of true religion and a constant opposite against all Romish and Spanish practices. Nevertheless the French King, to confirm obedience in those remote places by his presence, as also to make the world perceive he is yet in his own person an active prince, has begun a journey into those quarters. . . . [A page cut out here]. . . . Concerning this summer's wars between the Archdukes and the United Provinces, this is all that I can say, that notwithstanding the first brave attempt of Count Maurice's army upon Antwerp in the spring, and the great glory with which Spinola since began in Friesland, this summer's wars will breed no great alterations saving the town of Lyngen in Friesland, which is scarce worth the charge of the Archdukes' army; little more is like to follow, considering the near approach of the winter. Lastly, seeing I have played the nouvellard in some of these matters, I think it my part to acquaint you that Monsr. Ramelius has been here from the King your brother to be installed for his Majesty at Wynsore, where (the Prince being lieutenant) it was performed with all due ceremonies. The rest of his business consisted of two parts; the one, that the merchants adventurers of England would change their residence from Stoade to Hamborrough; the other to understand how his Majesty was satisfied with those answers which the King his master had sent back some 6 months afore upon the complaints exhibited by his Majesty's subjects for divers grievous impositions daily innovated upon them, as well in the passage through the Sound, as in their trade of fishing; adding notwithstanding that he had only authority in this particular to receive replies, but no commission to conclude. By which, to deal freely with your H[ighness], it well appears that the King your brother can be contented to spend as much time as we will in writing and sending to and fro, as long as he may receive the great commodities rising by our trade. Wherein it may be said that it is not usual to take so great tolls pro solo transitu, except our merchants did buy and sell in his countries, yet I am not so simple to expect that his Majesty should part with these reasonable profits, which he has used to receive, but only am sorry that the world should see any unreasonable burdens continued and increased, which in respect of the strait alliance were fit to be reasonably qualified, as I doubt not but it shall be when this gentleman has related truly and indifferently those grievances, because it is very probable that his Majesty is not well-informed, but rather otherwise persuaded by some about him that have some private benefit in the managing of those things which are incident to his tolls and customs. As for that point concerning Hamborough, his Majesty has commanded his subjects to confer and advise of the proposition made by that town; whereupon if they find it profitable for them, his Majesty has required them to accept the same as a matter which he much affects in respect of his great desire to satisfy the King. But if they shall upon examination find it dangerous unto their trade which is their living, his Majesty is so just a King as he will not constrain his subjects to take those courses whereupon the undoing of them and theirs depends. This day he has been feasted and fairly presented at Hampton Court, where your health has not been forgotten. He was by the King lodged and defrayed in Somerset House, and so respected in all things, as he seems to go away with very great satisfaction.—Undated.
Draft corrected by Salisbury. 6 pp. (112. 78.)
The Earl of Salisbury to Sir Lewis Lewkenor.
[1605, ? Sept.] I received your letter of August, with which I acquainted his Majesty because he might see your care and diligence, for which he has willed me to return you his gracious acceptation. For the passage of the Lord Arundell in this fashion and at this time, he has fully answered the Ambassador that he cannot be driven from his former grounds mentioned in your letter; in which respect we are commanded to require you to let my Lord Arundel know that his Majesty is pleased, by virtue hereof, to forbid him to present himself at this time, either to embark in his Majesty's ships or any other vessels of his subjects that are to receive any protection at this time of his convoy over. For better notice whereof you may show him this letter subscribed by us.—Undated.
Draft. Endorsed: "1605." 1 p. (114. 126.)
Sir Edward Coke, Attorney General, to the Earl of Salisbury.
[1605, ? Sept.] I received letters from the Council concerning a proclamation to be drawn for the better furtherance of the execution of letters patents lately granted to the Duke of Lennox of the office of the Alnager, etc.; the rather for that you were informed of a precedent example in that kind. This matter I have had as great consideration of as I could, and find it to be both inconvenient and against law to publish any proclamation in this case; first, for proclamations ought to accompany matters for the public, and not for any man's private. 2. For that the patent so to be proclaimed is in part directly against law and so resolved by all the judges. Con cerning the precedent mentioned in your letters, there is none such, but the patentee, because he would not be at the charge of duplicates for the deputies, got his letters patents to be printed, so as there was never any proclamation in any such case that ever the eye of the law saw, as now is desired. But I find a proclamation against monopolies and unlawful grants, wherein these letters patents now sought to be graced are condemned. Besides, the former patentee sued in the Exchequer Chamber since I was Attorney, and there was rejected, and now has abused this nobleman to revive a senseless and dead patent. I think it a great offence both to the King, and an injury to the Lord Chancellor, for any printer to print letters patents without warrant, for thereof great wrong may ensue to the Great Seal, and no small prejudice to the commonwealth. Though I know this manner of plain dealing to be obnoxious to danger, yet I dare not but inform you of the truth, and so will ever do.—Undated.
Holograph. Endorsed: "1605." 1 p. (113. 152.)
[See Calendar of S.P. Dom. 1603–1610, p. 233.]
Captain Bredgate to the Earl of Salisbury.
[1605, Sept.] I crave pardon in that I was so bold to write and speak to your Honour in excuse of my poor self. I was willed so to do by the Lord Arundell in regard of his letter to you and my Lord of Northampton, but chiefly for my own security; for surely it will cost me my life at one time or another, if the men-of-war of Holland and Zeland should know that I did willingly or wittingly carry the Lord Ardell [Arundel] over. Therefore I wish they may never know that he went over with me otherwise than I have excused the said passage of his.
But if the King will give me leave and the State employ me in one of their men-of-war, I will venture my best blood to be revenged of these disgraces that I have received by the Lord Arundell's means. He assured me upon his honour that to carry him over secretly and safely would get me credit and thanks of many honourable friends of his. Further, said he, you well know that my horses, my bag and baggage with my followers is all shipped to be conveyed by the Admiral and you in this passage. Also Sir E. Parham with divers others, captains and gentlemen, goes over in the Admiral, and I protest I knew not to the contrary, but that he might go over, so that he could get over in safety from the fury of the Holland and Zeland men-of-war, who had notice of his coming and had vowed his death, if they could take him. I was the more willing to do his service, because he said he would cause his friends to give me thanks, naming your lordship, my Lord Treasurer, the Earls of North[ampton] and Southampton, which put such joy into me as I assured myself that I should either be continued in service, or, if [not ?] after 27 years I did hope to have some pension to live by in my old days, for if my employment be taken from me, it will be my utter overthrow. Be now good unto me and give me my liberty, for surely to be thus kept close prisoner will shortly be my death. I have some things to reveal to your lordship, which I will not do to anyone else.— Undated.
Holograph. Seal. Endorsed: "Sept. 1605." 1 p. (112. 98.)
[The Council] to [the Lieutenant of the Tower (? Sir William Waad)].
[? 1605, Sept.] Forasmuch as we perceive that you are desirous to receive some warrant and direction particularly, as well as your predecessor had, for ordering the matter of access to the prisoners committed to your charge, towards whom his Majesty has been contented to exceed any former precedents in that degree, as well as in great things concerning them more than in point of liberty; we have thought good to let you know that seeing the catalogue which was made of all such per[sons] as were thought fit to have access to the late Lord Cobham, Lord Grey and Sir Walter Ralegh, remained with the late Lieutenant, warranted with a general letter of my Lords of the Council, both which are come to your hands, we think good to refer you to that for the present, containing the names of so many as we could then think of, or the prisoners themselves could name unto us, either for physic, or any business incident to their private state, or for the particular comfort of visitation by their wives or nearest friends, amounting in the whole, as appears by the list, to above 30 persons. And yet because it may be that they will desire to change some of their attendants and put others in their places, or desire that some of their friends might come to speak with them upon some extraordinary occasion, we have thought good, considering the experience you have given of honesty and discretion, at any such time as they shall give you any probable reason what their business is with them, to give you sufficient warrant hereby to use your discretion herein, as long as you perceive it to extend no further than to some private gentleman or such like person, without encroaching so much upon his Majesty's favour as to convert that place of imprisonment to a place of ordinary compliment and visitation. By which authority given you, as you may better judge what is fit for you to do when it is left to yourself, so doth his Majesty give you the liberty, the rather because your prisoners may both know that you are their keeper, and understand withal that his Majesty will chiefly make judgment of their disposition as you shall report of their carriage and behaviour from time to time.— Undated.
Draft, largely corrected by Salisbury. 2½ pp. (187. 147.)
The Enclosure (?): Persons permitted to have access.
To Lord Cobham: The Countess his wife and her woman. Sir John Leveson. Dr. Langhton, Dr. Poe, or any of the physicians with the privity of the Lieutenant. Laneham and Morgan, these 2 are to remain in the Tower with him. Wood, Penn, Jackson, Morris, his cook and apothecary: to repair to him at times convenient.
To Lord Grey: his mother or sisters when they are in town. Mr. Hewes and his 2 men in ordinary, to remain in the Tower with him. Parker, Benson and his barber, to repair to him at times convenient.
To Sir Walter Ralegh: his Lady and his son and her waiting maid. John Talbot, Peter Deane and John Talbot a boy: these to remain in the Tower with him. Gilbert Hawthorne a preacher, Dr. Turner, Dr. John a surgeon, John Shelbury, Thomas Herryot and his steward of Sherborne: to repair to him at convenient times.—Undated.
1 p. (115. 21.)
Ground Plans.
1605, Sept. (1) Ground plan of a house.—Sept. 1605.
1 sheet. (Maps 2. 17.)
(2) Ground plan of a quadrangular house.—Sept. 1605.
1 sheet. (236. 26.)
(3) Plan of a quadrangular house.—Undated.
1 sheet. (236. 10.)
[Apparently by the same hand as the foregoing plan.]
Ampthill.
[? 1605, c. Sept.] House plan, containing King's gallery, King's presence [chamber], Queen's gallery, Queen's presence [chamber] and Queen's closet.—Undated.
Endorsed: "For Amptell." 2 sheets. (211. 1.)
[See Calendar of S.P. Dom. 1603–1610, p. 234.]
The Earl of Tyrconnell to the Earl of Salisbury.
[1605, after Sept.] I have written you touching Lyffer [Lifford], which was taken up, as it was pretended, for his Majesty's use, on the information of such persons as sucked all the wealth of that land which his Highness bestowed on me this three years passed to themselves. As the Lyffer was the only jewel I had for my maintenance, they worked the best means with the Lord Deputy and Council to take it from me, alleging such reasons as they thought to be most acceptable to the State. If this be a good consideration for all his Majesty has been pleased to exempt out of my letters patents of that living my ancestors have had, I refer to you, as also all other my affairs.—Undated.
Holograph. Endorsed: "1605." 1 p. (115. 2.)
[See Calendar of S.P. Ireland, 1603–6, p. 324.]