|
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Lord Zouche to the Earl of Salisbury. |
|
1605, Nov. 1. |
I have been with Mr. Bacon to let him
know my Lord's pleasure for his attendance upon Sunday;
whereupon he let me know that he had recommended 2 papers
to your lordship whereof he kept no copies concerning this
cause which might much help you. I presumed I might borrow
them and therefore am to entreat you for them. Ceremony
might have pressed my own attendance, but I know you have
many businesses, and I confess I was weary.—Philip Lane,
1 Nov. 1605.
Holograph. Seal. ½ p. (112. 155.) |
|
Sir Edward Coke, Attorney General, to the
Earl of Salisbury. |
|
1605, Nov. 2. |
This poor man, John Bodeman, who by
suspicion of coining was brought up by the means of Sir Henry
Bunberie, for that being fellow servant to Mr. Whitemore with
Thomas Dewsing, alias Taylor, alias Ward, who was to be
touched for coining, he conversed much with him, and therefore
was suspected. Mr. Ledsham an honest gentleman and his
neighbour in Cheshire, whom for that purpose being now in
town I sent for, reports very well of Bodeman's honest
conversation, and that his case is generally bewailed in that
part of the country where he dwells. He has a wife and
5 children whom he maintains, and has been in prison 34
weeks. Therefore, no man all that time coming to accuse him,
I think it just that he be delivered.—2 Nov. 1605.
Holograph. 1 p. (191. 65.) |
|
John Bird to the Same. |
|
1605, Nov. 3. |
One of two persons that were licensed on
Thursday last to speak with the Viscount Mountacute about
his liberty of St. Mary Overey's to be strengthened against
arrest, was and is a secular priest named John Loane, being his
domestical steward and receiver of his rents. Howsoever he
goes in gentlemanlike sort with variety of colours in silk, silver
and gold lace, gilt rapiers, and for all exercises in play horses
and dogs is companionable for any knight after 500l. by the
year, being a Kentishman born and a younger brother with
small or no living. And if by the Viscount or himself it shall
be denied, I will show proofs to have seen him under a cope in
one Cope's house, executing the office of a priest at many
masses, auricular confession and suchlike. It is said these
weekly masses are used in the old lady's house to the family
of Brownes and their adherents, and in one assembly or conventicle choice of Jesuits and seminaries there harboured and
of the laical sorts out of London, especially three uncles of the
Viscount's, (as fish or fowl in nets) may be there surprised.
Whereof that cursed fraternity may be broken, and by an
exemplary punishment many hundreds of pounds may be
drawn into his Majesty's purse. It is very probable to find one
that by corruption of money will discover his secret oratories
for massing, vaults and places for all their books, church
ornaments for closets and chambers for all festivals, saints'
days, Sundays and working days in costly workmanships of
gold upon velvet and silks, chalices, pipes, silver implements,
beads well stored with valuable stones and gold, private letters
of advertisements of foreign occurrencies and domestical from
Jesuits and seminaries, and other things out of which great
riches and secrets may be drawn. As the Viscount is of the
Romish church in England held for their grand captain and
firm pillar, so are his houses receptacles for all such dangerous
guests, at their arrivals from Rome and foreign countries. And
let the Viscount, Loane and Cope, his negotiators, be roundly
dealt withal, if it be his Majesty's pleasure to have Blackwell
brought forth of his lurkings, the Pope's arch-prelate, and one
Wallys, a principal Jesuit, they may be made to discover and
surprise them. And most like it is that they, and one Gerrard,
an arch-jesuit, have been the hatchers and plotters of this
damnable stratagem.
The Viscount told Loane that he has two strong enemies,
your lordship and the Lord Chancellor. |
|
How was no rebellion in Ireland these 30 years, but the
Pope's legates ordinarily harboured in the Viscount's aunt's
houses, called the old Countess of Kyldare, that has been as a
teat to give suck and nourishment to all Romish rebels, were
there hatched and contrived at the first. And so long as she
is there suffered to dwell uncalled into England, no sooner is
one rebellion quenched, but by those firebrands others are in
kindling. |
|
If I should use these motives for my own particular relief,
being for debts by overcharging myself in zeal to my country's
good ready to perish by general wants in Ludgate of 2 years'
continuance, I might gain the less credence for these public
detections, for it might be said that therein I do but captare
benevolentiam, whereas one hundredth of more due to me for
entertainment behind in Ireland would redeem me from all
usurer's dangers and enable me to bring thousands into his
Majesty's coffers. Nevertheless, whiles of the works of mercy,
to redeem the captive and clothe the naked are per magna
opera charitatis, especially to him that did not shrink in
hazarding his own life for saving yours threatened, with my
sword making him to yield, whom no powers nor policies of
great ones could surprise in his lurkings, and thereby lost
a horse, it shall be great honour to you to extend subsidium
charitativum in any measure.—3 Nov. 1605.
Holograph. 3 pp. (112. 156.) |
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Sir Francis Vere to the Earl of Salisbury. |
|
[1605], Nov. 4. |
If you be pleased to suffer these letters
to go in this form, I may say they are the most favourable that
ever I carried into these parts, and that I was never so happy
a man as I am made by the testimonies they yield of his
Majesty's gracious disposition to me.—4 Nov.
Holograph. Endorsed: "1605." ½ p. (112. 158.) |
|
George Mason to the Earl of Salisbury. |
|
1605, Nov. 4. |
Your Honour has granted me the keeping
of your house at Greenwich during my life, but because the
house is very old and still will want some reparations, which
I am loth to charge you with, I am now to plant an "orcharge"
[orchard] which will be chargeable unto me. My life is so
uncertain that having wife and children that would be glad to
reap some fruits of my labour when I am gone, I desire a lease
for 21 years of all that I have in possession, or rather of all
your lands there, and I will increase your rent and be bound
to all reparations, and free you from the clamours of such as will
never be satisfied so long as it is in your hands, except they may
have it for little or nothing.—From Grenewich, 4 Nov. 1605.
Signed. Seal. 1 p. (112. 159.) |
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The Earl of Northampton to the Earl of Salisbury. |
|
1605 [? Before Nov. 5]. |
We were not worthy of the
tender care you have of this worthy Lord, if we should not
account to you for his state, which I thank our Lord is on the
mending hand, only he complains of a little weariness and
sleepiness, which are inseparable accidents from a declining
distemper. This night he forbare his supper and went to bed
for the repose of weary limbs, but without any fit or other
accident to show relics of his ague. The Lord Warden thanks
you for your good opinion of his carriage this day, which was
qualified between desire to show charity with caution, and to
work compassion by good consideration.
This lady makes me dispatch that she may write, and therefore I will give place to beauty.—Undated.
Holograph. (114. 96.) |
|
[At foot, in another hand]: I am too sleepy to write much to
you that is great with the Q[ueen] and her sweet ladies. One
of them doth brag to take your love from me. I give her leave
to try her strength, and love him the better that is so much
desired. I am so weary of company that I go to "Wismoster"
upon Tuesday [? Nov. 5 ?].
Endorsed: 1605." 1 p. (114. 96.) |
|
Sir Edward Coke, Attorney-General, to the Same. |
|
1605, Nov. 5. |
Leonard Smalpece, with whom Thomas
Wynter conferred at Mr. Talbot's house, is presently to be sent
for, before he can have possibly any inkling of this overture.
They say he is exceedingly popish but very timorous and
therefore like to discover a truth. Mr. Talbot's porter is also
to be sent for, and this is all that I have to trouble you with
after your painful day's work.—5 Nov. 1605.
Holograph. Seal. ¼ p. (112. 161.) |
|
The Council to the Lord Mayor. |
|
1605, Nov. 5. |
It is the fashion of evil-disposed persons or
such as are apt to spread idle rumours (upon such an occasion
as now hath happened) to utter their own conceits, or any vain
speeches as they have heard. We understand that some evi
bruit hath been cast out, as though the Spanish Ambassador
might be touched with this horrible practice of treason which
was intended. Which is so far from him as he having desired
to be present this day to see the form of Parliament, and this
being granted unto him, was in the same condition and fortune
as all the rest to have been destroyed. Therefore his Majesty
being careful both of the honour and safety of the Ambassador
for the better assurance that no disorderly persons may offer
unto him or any of his any affront, is pleased that you shall
have care to suppress all such speech, as also have an eye to his
house for his safety, that no wrong may be done unto him or
attempted.—5 Nov. 1605.
Lo. Arch: Lo. Chan: L. Th'rer: L. Admiral: L. Chamberlaine: E: of Northumb'land: E: of Salisberye: L: Zouch:
L: Stanhop.
Copy. 1 p. (112. 162.) |
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Sir William FitzWilliam to the Earl of Salisbury. |
|
1605, Nov. 6. |
Understanding this very morning from
London that you took the part of my letter to be doubtful
touching the sheriffwick of the county of Northampton, I
beseech you to conceive that my suit to you is to free me from
it; for in truth I am not fit for it yet.—Milton, 6 Nov. 1605.
Holograph. Seal. ½ p. (89. 79.) |
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The Lord Treasurer to the Same. |
|
1605, [Nov.] 6. |
According to my promise I attended
here in court from our coming from the Star Chamber until
5 o'clock, to have joined with you touching some good course
for the French merchants, but considering how late it was,
and that at your return from the Tower it was likely that you
would straight to the King to report what was done there, and
I also having much business to dispatch at home, I went away
ready and willing to meet you at any time and place you shall
appoint.—Wednesday, 6 Oct. (sic) 1605.
PS.—I tarried till half hour after 5.
Holograph. Endorsed: "6 Novemb. 1605." ½ p. (112.
163.) |
|
Justice E. Grange to the Same. |
|
1605, Nov. [6 or 7]. |
In searching for Piercie, Thomas
Symson is apprehended, a man dwelling in Greyes In[n] Lane,
against whom I was informed not long since your warrant was
forth, partly about his undiscreet carriage towards yourself
and some others of the Privy Council concerning an ass whose
milk was to be used for the Earl of Cumberland, partly for
matter best known to yourself. He fled his house when the
constable came to search it this present. The cause of his
flying he saith to be a desire to avoid poursuivants lying in
wait for him. Though I find no guile in him upon the first
view, yet I thought it my duty to send him to you, not knowing
what your lordship hath to charge him withal. I have made
out warrants upon the receipt of your letters this morning.—
"[St.] Gyles in the fieldes. . . . . Novembris, 1605."
Holograph. Seal. ½ p. (112. 165.) |
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Sir William Waad to the Earl of Salisbury. |
|
1605, Nov. 7. |
This morning when Johnson [Guy Fawkes]
was ready (who hath taken such rest this night as a man
void of all trouble of mind), I repaired unto him, and told
him if he held his resolution of mind to be so silent, he must
think the resolution in the State was as constant to proceed with
that severity which was meet in a case of that consequence;
and for my own part I protested I would never give him over,
if I were not overruled by commandment, until I had gotten
the inward secret of his thoughts, and all his complices, and
therefore I willed him to prepare himself. |
|
But first I told him I had received a commandment from the
Lords to advise him in one thing to deal plainly, which was, if
he had made a vow and were tied by oath, or received the
sacrament to deal truly therein, and used some reasons to
intimate that in such a case of conscience I was at a stay how
to wrestle with him. Upon some further pressing of him,
finding him to waver, he confessed unto me he had both made
a solemn vow and oath and received the sacrament upon it, to
perform it and not to disclose it, nor to discover any of his
friends. I asked him whether this vow and oath was taken here
or beyond the seas. He answered here. I asked him when?
He said a year and a half since, and concluded that he knew
not what torture might do, but otherwise he was resolved to
keep his vow. Withal he added that the priest which gave
him the sacrament knew nothing of it. Further discourse he
used of canons and such arguments of learning wherewith he
is furnished, as in our judgments he appeareth to be of better
understanding and discourse than before either of us conceived
him to be. Mr. Corbet came into the prison when we had
proceeded thus far, before whom I caused him to repeat his
confession, which he will relate to your lordship with other
circumstances. I hope his Majesty will allow that respect I
used in my poor judgment upon this confession to forbear to
proceed with him at that instant, for then he would conceive
I took advantage upon his confession to deal more rigorously
with him.—From the Tower of London, 7 Nov. 1605.
PS.—I am confident, notwithstanding his resolute mind, in
the end he will be more open. |
|
Further PS.—He told us both that since he undertook this
action he did every day pray to God he might perform that
which might be for the advancement of the Catholic faith and
saving of his own soul.
Holograph. 1½ pp. (112. 164.) |
|
Sir Walter Ralegh to [the Council]. |
|
[1605, Nov. 9]. |
I have not had any other affair with
Captain Whitlock than familiar and ordinary discourse, neither
do I know any other cause of his coming unto me than to visit
me, having not much wherewith to busy himself. I have
sometime spoken to him to find the Earl of Northumberland's
disposition towards me, from whom I never received other than
a dry and friendless answer. From the Earl I neither received
letter, nor sent him any either by Whitlock or any man else
since my troubles. |
|
With the French Ambassador I have no affairs. His wife
came hither once with the Lady of Effingam and the pale being
then down she saluted me, and desired me to give her a little
balsam of Guiana; Whitlock being then in her company, I sent
it by him to her. |
|
I sent your lordships in the beginning of my troubles a letter
from Sir John Bodle's concerning Rensey and others, and the
same was my utter ruin. I did it to do the King service. If
I now knew anything, or could devise how this horrible and
fearful practice might be discovered, yea if it were with the
loss of mine own life, as God liveth, I would give the one to
perform the other. I beseech your lordships to call to mind my
many sorrows and the causes, and to remember my services
and love to my country, and I beseech you in charity and for
the love of God not to make me more odious than ever the
earth brought forth any, by suspecting me to be knowing this
unexampled and more than devilish invention. Your humble
servant.—Undated.
Holograph. Endorsed: "1605, 9 Nov." 1 p. (107. 108.) |
|
[Printed in extenso from a transcript in the British Museum
in Edwards, Life of Sir W. Ralegh, Vol. II, pp. 387, 388.] |
|
Gamaliel Cassell to the Earl of Salisbury. |
|
1605, Nov. 9. |
Asking him to accept a present of some
fruits of his country exercise, viz. a few partridges and
pheasants killed with a hawk and a "havor" with his bow.—
9 Nov. 1605.
Holograph. ½ p. (112. 166.) |
|
The Warden and Fellows of All Souls, Oxford, to
the Same. |
|
1605, Nov. 9. |
The King and your lordship recommended
unto us one Sr. Yeo, a bachelor of arts, to be chosen at our
last election probationer of our college. Insomuch as the
said Yeo was not chosen, we thought it our duty to acquaint
you with the true cause which hindered us to make choice of
him. By an injunction it is ordered that such scholars as
expect a room or place in the college should 3 days before
the feast of All Saints make their appearance in the chapel
of the college, there to be tried for their sufficiency in
learning. Contrary to which injunction the said Yeo did not
submit himself to any examination at all. Also we had upon
due examination passed our consents to other scholars (before
the said Yeo delivered his letters), not expecting any other
competitor. Further his Majesty very earnestly, and with a
clause of derogation to any future letters, recommended unto
our choice Sr. Cesar, second son of Sr. Julius Cesar, his Majesty's
Master of Requests, whom we elected accordingly.—From All
Soules College in Oxon, 9 Nov. 1605.
Unsigned. Seal. ½ p. (112. 167.) |
|
Lord Say and Sele to the Earl of Salisbury. |
|
1605, Nov. 9. |
He has not yet been able to obtain benefit
out of the 8 recusants which the King bestowed on him.
Begs Salisbury to be a means to the King to lend him 1,000l.
to the enfranchising of his poor estate, till he can bring in that
sum into the Exchequer from the recusants.—9 Nov. 1605.
Holograph. 1 p. (191. 67.) |
|
Sir John Haryngton to the Same. |
|
[1605], Nov. 9. |
When I told you at Windsor of my
purpose of dealing with Mr. Sutton, you allowed my endeavours
therein; upon which I have proceeded confidently, my
conscience being 1000 witnesses of my clear intention. The
wisest and oldest have sparks of ambition, though it be like
a young maid that blushes and will say nay, and is glad to seem
forced. I pray let such a writ be made as I moved, and such
a letter or message. If I bring not a deed sealed of Dominium
et Manerium de Castle Camps, to Duke Charles and his heirs
after the old man's life, that is above 70, I will bring back the
letter, cancel the writ, and hazard the censure of my wit for
attempting that I failed to perform. If I can once make this
entry, having well battered the place with long letters and many
discourses, Camps cannot come to this sweet Duke naked and
alone. Give me expedition in this, as I know you dearly love
the King and his children. I have set a rest upon it, and if all
I have dealt with play fair and above board, I will get rest by
it. If it miss, nobody's labour is lost but mine, and I have a
strong belief I shall not lose it.—9 Nov.
Holograph. Endorsed: "1605." 1 p. (191. 68.) |
|
The Earl of Salisbury to Sir Thomas Edmondes. |
|
1605, Nov. 9. |
Gives the account of the discovery of the
Gunpowder Plot.—9 Nov. 1605.
Copy. 7¼ pp. (227. p. 109.) |
|
[This with slight variations is in the same terms as the letter
addressed to Sir Charles Cornwallis and printed in extenso in
Winwood's Memorials, II. 170–173. It contains the first
postscript there printed with the change of "the Archdukes"
for "the King his brother" but omits the second. The
original letter to Edmondes is in Stowe MSS. 168, fol. 213.
See S. R. Gardiner, What Gunpowder Plot was, pp. 31, 131,
where it is noted that the date of the original has been
altered from Nov. 7 to 9.]
The Enclosure:—Anonymous letter sent to Lord Monteagle.
Copy. ¾ p. (227. p. 117.)
[Original in P.R.O. State Papers, Domestic, James I, 216 (2).] |
|
The Earl of Salisbury to Sir Thomas Edmondes. |
|
1605, Nov. 10. |
I have written to you yesterday at large
of the circumstances of that horrible conspiracy intended
here against the State, and of the manner of the discovery
thereof: by which as you may see on the one side the monstrous
wickedness of the undertakers, so on the other side we
have cause to give thanks unto Almighty God for His extraordinary goodness in preserving his Majesty and this state
from their violent hands. And forasmuch as by daily
examinations it doth appear that there is great cause to suspect
that Owen hath been made privy to this horrible conspiracy,
I think it very expedient now for his Majesty's service that
you do inform the Archduke of it, and put him to the trial of
the sincerity of his extraordinary professions towards his
Majesty, by showing the horribleness of the fact and requiring
at his hands whether he would not give order to make stay of
the said Owen in some place of safety, until it may further
appear what cause we shall have to charge him with in this
action, and then to leave it to the Archduke's own judgment
upon the proofs thereof, what course he shall think fit to hold
with him. This you may press somewhat earnestly with the
Archduke and put him to the wall, that when hereafter we
shall have cause to charge Owen (as we have very probable
suspicion already) the Archdukes shall not excuse themselves
by alleging that he is fled and not in their power. The managing
hereof I leave to your discretion.—From Whitehall, 10 Nov.
1605. |
|
PS.—You shall do well to keep Hoboque's packet in your
hands until you have spoken with the Archdukes of this matter
to make all things sure.
Copy. 1 p. (227. p. 116.) |
|
Justices of the Peace of Bedfordshire to the
Earl of Salisbury. |
|
1605, Nov. 10. |
A suit is now preferred by the bearer,
Mr. Peter White, and other her Majesty's tenants, the
inhabitants of St. Neots, co. Huntingdon, touching the repairing
and new building of a bridge leading out of the county of Bedford
to the said town. This bridge by ancient custom was main
tained by the priory and monastery of St. Neots, the same
land being now assured to her Majesty. The reparation thereof
belongs to her Majesty, and Mr. Peter White, having heretofore
wrought means whereby 40 arches of the bridge were new
built, we seeing his forwardness in such work have thought
fit to recommend him to your lordships. It is a very common
road and traded way by which the inhabitants thereabouts
have their only passage to and from the town and market, and
by the decay of the bridge the inhabitants are greatly
impoverished, in such sort that the market is likely in very
short time utterly to be unfrequented, and his Majesty's subjects
travelling that way in great danger, there being some lately
drowned in the waters; in which regard we are the rather
become suitor to you to vouchsafe your favour for the new
building of the bridge.—10 Nov. 1605. |
|
Signed: Olyver Seyntjohn: O. Cromwell: Edward Radclyffe:
Robert Newdegate: Richard Conquest: Jo. Rotherham:
Richard Dever. . . . . . . . . Seal. Endorsed: "Sir Roger
Wilbraham as Chancellour to her Maty. is to consider of the
contents of this letter, and to take such order in it as is
convenient." Countersigned: "Salisbury." 1 p. (112. 168.) |
|
Sir John Savage to the Earl of Salisbury. |
|
1605, Nov. 10. |
Whereas he has formerly endeavoured to
be dispensed from the bill of sheriffs for Cheshire for divers
reasons much importing his poor estate; yet considering the
danger of this time he is so far from seeking to be dispensed
as he will take great comfort in any employment, if it shall
seem good to the State.—10 Nov. 1605.
Holograph. Seal. ½ p. (112. 169.) |
|
Thomas Wicliffe to William Wicliffe. |
|
1605, Nov. 12. |
Brother, within one hour after my coming to
Tynemouthe this 12 Nov. came thither Sir Henry Wodrington
with commission for the avoiding of the captain out of the
castle, with the like power for Alnwicke and Cockermouthe,
so that my going to Tynemouthe is determined. God
preserve my Lord of Northumberland and grant all the
treacherous hearts in this conspiracy may be laid open that the
sackless may be freed from blame. As for your occasions at
home, I shall attend them as required. So wishing you a
prosperous journey with a short return I take leave.—From
the Castle, Tynemouthe, 12 Nov. 1605. |
|
PS.—The captain had done all that I should have done by
virtue of your warrant at Alnwick. Nevertheless he thought
meet that I should have gone thither, but that Sir Henry
Wodrington's command hath altered my second seizure.
Signed. Seal. ½ p. (112. 171.) |
|
Sir Francis Vere to the Earl of Salisbury. |
|
[1605], Nov. 12. |
When I saw after the first discovery of
this most devilish treason, by the confirmation of the rising
in the country and removing and transporting of arms that
further danger was apprehended, I could not but show myself
in Court with like readiness for any occasion of his Majesty's
service as others his loving subjects. Whereas otherwise I
should have forborne going thither for the dispatch of my
particular affairs till further order from you according to your
directions in that behalf, as I shall do, now the apparent brunt
of this treason is past.—12 Nov.
Holograph. Seal. Endorsed: "1605." ½ p. (112. 172.) |
|
Sir Richard Verney to the Same. |
|
[1605], Nov. 13. |
There is come to my hands even now this
enclosed letter; although it be without name, yet it is sent
from Mrs. Vaux, the Lord Vaux's mother. I hope I am not
so unfortunate that you will easily think me inclinable or
apt to be moved by such provocations as the acquaintance
only that I have had formerly with her as a gentlewoman, and
this entreaty of hers at this time in a business of that consequence. For the men which she endeavours to describe to me
in her letter, I conceive them to go under the names of Thomas
Anderton, John Clifton, William Thorneberry, or Matthew
Batty, all taken in the company of Mr. Hurleston, and what
opinion we conceived of them is expressed in the catalogue of
their names, that I sent by my last messenger. And of these
men I will give an honest and safe account. For the inducement which she makes of the letting pass on of my Lady Digby's
man, whom I conceive she intends to be a servant to Sir Evoratt
[Everard] Digby, either I am assured I was not present, or else
it was before we had knowledge that Sir Evoratt Digby was
one of the conspirators. I have even now received letters by
Sir Robert Digby, for the sending up all the persons in my
custody attached since this last rebellion. The number of
them is such as may appear by the same catalogue, as I suppose
upon your view of their names and qualities, I shall receive
a more particular direction, which I hope will be returned to
me as soon as I shall possibly be prepared of a company of fit
men to conduct them.—In great haste, Warwick, Nov. 13th
at 9 o'clock at night.
Holograph. Endorsed in Salisbury's hand: "L. Vaux at
Mrs. Grantz," "14 horses by Singleton [struck through].
Gerret Ogle." 1½ pp. (112. 173.) |
|
John Lytler, Mayor of Chester, to the Same. |
|
1605, Nov. 13. |
Having received your letter of the 10th
inst. and a packet directed to the Lo. Deputy of Ireland,
I forthwith impressed George Combes, an owner inhabiting
in this port, and to him have committed the charge of transporting these letters with all celerity. Immediately after the
receipt of letters for the apprehension of Thomas Piercie, I
made stay of all shipping in this port, so as no passengers nor
any person whatsoever have been permitted to put to sea for
transportation into Ireland or any part. I have also caused
search to be made in all places here adjoining for apprehension
of the said Piercie, but as yet have not been so happy as to meet
with him.—Chester, 13 Nov. 1605.
Holograph. 1 p. (112. 174.) |
|
Powell von Stetin to Jochim Wedeman, in Sivilien. |
|
1605, Nov. 13. |
He wrote him on the 24th of last month
by Hamburg. Hans Gruffel is ill at home, but his ship sails,
and Stetin begs Wedeman to provide it with a good freight for
the Elbe, and see to its dispatch. Acknowledges his letter of
Oct. 20, and certain goods for Harmen Rickman and Jurgen
Albers. As to sale of linen and corn. As to a shipment made
jointly by him and Jurgen [Schiritzer], per Master Hans
Berghman, to Wedeman, with instructions for the disposal of
it. State of the corn market.—Lubeck, 13 Nov. 1605.
Inscribed: "copia." German. 2 pp. (113. 1.) |
|
Alban Stepneth, Sheriff of Pembroke, to the Council. |
|
1605, Nov. 13. |
Upon intelligence had by this bearer,
William Dugdall, one of the messengers of his Majesty's
Chamber, of the most horrible and detestable treason lately
practised, I, with other gentlemen of this country, according
to Lord Zouch's letters, Lord President and Lieutenant of
Wales, have caused due watch to be set all along the sea coasts
in this county, that no strangers or suspected persons shall
take shipping or pass the seas before they be examined. Conferring with the Deputy Mayor and Aldermen of Haverfordwest,
in joy and thanksgiving for the preservation of the King, we
have caused bonfires to be made, and the bells to be rung, and
prayers to be celebrated accordingly. This poor and little
county of Pembrokeshire is free from treason and treacherous
practices, and filled with most faithful subjects.—Prendergast,
13 Nov. 1605.
Signed. Endorsed: "High Sheriff of Pembrokeshire. The
proclamations sent are published." 1 p. (191. 69.) |
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Sir Thomas Shirley to the Earl of Salisbury. |
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1605, Nov. 14. |
The bearer his servant, for whose honesty
he vouches, can inform Salisbury of some things which may
concern the King.—14 Nov. 1605.
Holograph. 1 p. (113. 2.) |
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Thomas Lawley to the Earl of Salisbury. |
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1605, Nov. 14. |
On the 8th of this present month I, with
all the small power I was able upon a sudden to make,
did attend Mr. Sheriff of Worcestershire unto a place called
Holbache, and there did my best endeavour for the suppressing
and apprehending of the traitors there assembled; one of my
servants being the first man that entered upon them, and took
Thomas Winter alive, and brought him unto me, whom I
delivered to the said Sheriff: and thereupon hasted to revive
Catesby, Percy, and the two Wrights, who lay deadly wounded
on the ground, thinking by the recovery of them to have done
unto his Majesty better service than by suffering them to die.
But such was the extreme disorder of the baser sort, that while
I with my men took up one of the languishing traitors, the rude
people stripped the rest naked, their wounds being many and
grievous, and no surgeon at hand, they became uncurable,
and so died. In the hurly-burly my man that took Thomas
Winter seized his horse, which I keep to the King's use. Now
the Sheriff of Staffordshire, who was not at that service, nor
any gentleman of Staffordshire but myself, demands of me
the horse, which I refuse to deliver unto him until I know your
further pleasure therein. And hereupon he threatens to
complain to you and the rest of the Council: in regard whereof
I have thought it my duty to inform you of the truth.—
Prestwood, 14 Nov. 1605.
Holograph. 1 p. (113. 4.) |
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The Council of Scotland to the King. |
|
1605, Nov. 14. |
Since the glad tidings come to us of your
Majesty's happy delivery from the abominable conspiracy
so inhumanly contrived by the devil and his "suppostis"
against your royal person, the Queen, your Majesty's children,
and strength of that State, we used the diligence become us to
make the same known to all your Majesty's good subjects of
this your native and ancient kingdom. In whom we have
found, from the highest to the lowest, and in all qualities of
persons, such an emulation who might show himself most
devotious in praising God for that inestimable blessing, and
most cheerful in his outward exultation to manifest every way
that exceeding joy that all good subjects ought to have for the
safety of their most dread Sovereign. And lest we, in whom
your Majesty is graciously pleased to repose the trust of your
service here, should either wrong the rest of your well affected
subjects in not testifying to your Majesty their exceeding
gladness, or neglect our duty to congratulate, with our most
earnest wishes for your Majesty's everlasting happiness, the
unspeakable mercy of God in that miraculous delivery, we
have presumed by these presents humbly to offer to your
princely consideration that which in the midst of our joy gave
us greatest matter to think upon. First the many blessings
we have enjoyed by your Majesty's most just and happy
government: next the desolation should have ensued if God's
infinite mercy had not prevented that evil day: last, the fear
that still possesses our hearts if the ground of so pernicious a
plot be not ripped once to the quick and surely extinguished.
In these difficulties we were comforted with the assurance that
that omnipotent God, who ever from your Majesty's conception
has ever wonderfully with His right hand protected your Majesty,
and has made your Highness in despite of the devil and all
your enemies the corner stone of His kingdom in this earth,
howsoever our neglect of duty either to God or your Majesty
has deserved the contrary, will still keep and defend your royal
person and posterity, to the glory of His Church and comfort
of all your subjects. We are likewise assured that your Majesty
lacks not about you wise, valiant and faithful ministers, and
subjects of all degrees, who resent with us their own misery
in your Majesty's overthrow, if your Majesty's too great
clemency, which we would if we durst term preposterous, were
not a hindrance to their proceedings, both in the trial and
punishment of so barbarous and inhumane a parricide would
leave nothing undone that might detect and avenge the same.
And therefore since there is nothing resting to us but our earnest
and hearty prayers for wisdom to your Majesty in proportion
answerable to this time, and to attend and execute to our power
your Majesty's royal commandments: only we are bold to
assure your Majesty that many thousands are here who sorrow,
that by the sacrifice of their lives may not attain to that felicity
to have a part in the trial and avenging of so cruel and detestable
a fact. And if it shall please your Majesty at any time to make
use of their service, as in your Majesty's greater wisdom you
shall find convenient, they will not weary to spend their lives
and whatsoever is most dear unto them in the performance of
your Majesty's gracious pleasure. Therefore we are bold, out
of our bounden care for the tender preservation of your most
sacred Majesty, in whose safety stands the life and weal of all
your subjects, humbly to request your Majesty curiously to
research and severely punish, but [without] respect of persons,
whomsoever can be detected to have in any sort been of this
more than barbarous conspiracy: that neither quality nor
profession, alliance nor kindred exempt them. And "sen"
[since] pity cannot assure your Majesty's innocency, let justice
prolong your days, that we having daily matter to praise God
and rejoice in your welfare, the devil and all his "suppositis"
may think their labours all in vain against him whose person
is guarded by the Most High, and estate maintained by the
entire and loyal affection of so many worthy subjects as the
Great Britayne contains.—From your Majesty's burgh of
Edinburgh, 14 Nov. 1605.
Signed: P. Dunkeld; Glasgow; Ross; J. Balmerinoch;
J. Saltoune; A. Spynie; Linlytqw [Linlithgow]; Orknay;
J. Abercorne; Jo. G. Montrois; Argyll; A. Elphinstoun;
Halyrudhous; Erroll; W. D. Anguss; Al. Cancellr.; Flemyng;
J. Lyndesay; M. Neubotle; A. Elphinstoun; J. Torphecin;
Cl[ericus] Reg[ist]rii; D. Uhittingham; D. Scone; Robert
Melvill; Cranstoun; T. Hamilton; Jo. Prestunn; Kilsayt;
J. Cokburne. 2 pp. (113. 5.) |
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The Earl of Salisbury to Sir Thos. Edmondes. |
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1605, Nov. 14. |
By my last letters you have received the
particulars of that horrible attempt which hath no example
in no ages; and the means how it hath been discovered. Since
which time the wretch hath been won to confess many things,
as by the copy of this declaration of his appeareth, standing
a great while very obstinately upon a vow he had made,
fortified by the receiving of the Sacrament, never to disclose
anybody. He hath now directly accused Owen to have been
made privy by himself not only to the general design to do
somewhat for relief of the Catholics' cause, but particularly
to the detestable act of blowing up the Parliament house by
gunpowder. In which respect his Majesty is now determined
this afternoon, when the Baron of Hoboque doth come unto him,
to require of the Archdukes the delivery of the person of the
said Owen into his Majesty's hands: a matter wherein the
Archdukes shall do themselves also great right to condescend,
thereby to make their detestation of so great an abomination
appear the more clearly. I hope upon my former letter you
have made sure work with the Archdukes before Owen could
have notice to withdraw himself. Concerning the Lord Arundel,
his Majesty is pleased at the Archduke's entreaty to dispense
with his return into England again, albeit that the example
of such an impunity might draw on others hereafter not to
carry such due regard of his Majesty's commandments as they
ought; but herein his Majesty doth labour to prevent all bruits
abroad of any jealousies between the Princes, which oftentimes
is as much apprehended by such circumstances as by matter
of greater consequence. |
|
For the rest of the traitors that declared themselves in open
action in the country they are all dispersed; most of them are
taken, Catesby, Percy, John Wright and Christopher Wright,
who were principal actors, standing peremptorily upon their
defence, were first sore hurt and then died. Some others are
fled, which maketh us to continue the restraint of passages at
sea but by extraordinary warrant, as this bearer doth, whom
the Archdukes' Ambassador hath dispatched.—From the Court
at Whitehall, 14 Nov. 1605.
Copy. 1½ pp. (227. p. 129.)
[An imperfect draft is in P.R.O. S.P. For., Flanders, 7.] |
|
George Whitheyck to Ralph Bowes. |
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1605, Nov. 15. |
I send the bearer my servant with a
letter to his lordship my master; advise him the best means
to get it delivered without offence. I think it the best, if his
lordship be at commandment still, that you will make my Lord
of Salisbury acquainted with it, for I would be loth to incur
any displeasure, for I live only to serve my Prince and country,
and next my master. I pray God bless him and grant he
may show himself a true nobleman to his Sovereign. I am
yet extreme evil, hardly able to write right English. God
confound all traitors, and especially Thomas Percy, the monster
of the world. As soon as I am able to sit on horseback I will
not fail to be at Court, wishing to God I might do any service
for the apprehension of these villains. This same day it is
said that Percy is in the country here. I pray God he hap on
my side. For troth I cannot write it, but I am sure. There
is notice given to Sir Henry Wooddrington thereof. He is like
to get cold entertainment here, for no man living is more hated
than he is in this country.—Tynemouth, 15 Nov. 1605.
Holograph. 1 p. (113. 7.) |
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Lord Harington to the Earl of Salisbury. |
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[1605], Nov. 15. |
This gentleman Mr. Milward, of Alchurch,
has informed me of divers persons vehemently to be
suspected to be acquainted with this late treason, or favourers
thereof; and that where among the Papists great store of
armour was in readiness, the same has been of late conveyed
away, no doubt to as evil a purpose as it was provided. I have
therefore procured his speedy repair to you, that he may
inform you hereof, and of the state of Worcestershire where he
dwells.—Coventry, 15 Nov.
Holograph. Endorsed: "1605." 1 p. (113. 8.) |
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Ralph Radclyff to the Same. |
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1605, Nov. 15. |
I commend to you an advertisement which
may import subsequent matter of the Earl of Northumberland.
In summer last one Mr. Harris, dwelling near Lyscarde in
Cornwall, whose "surname" I take to be Christopher,
brother to Harris now or lately Vice-Admiral of the Ports of
Plymouth and Cornwall, being in London (and having been
long time especially favoured by the Earl), went to do his duty
to him. The Earl no sooner heard of him, but "diseased"
all the noblemen and others at his table to make Mr. Harris
a room, and after dinner singled him out into a privater place,
where after long discourse the Earl said, "Mr. Harris, you
know I love you well. I dare tell you the King will speak to
me and say I am an honest man; but he loves me not, no more
doth the men of the sword; and, Mr. Harris, I may say to you
we have a discontented State. Many Lords and noblemen are
troubled in mind; and as the State now stands, it cannot hold,
and that will shortly appear." What further speech passed
betwixt them I do not know, but in the end the Earl persuaded
Mr. Harris to come up before the Parliament, and he would
speak with him further. About this time of conference Harris
was going into Cornwall; but afterwards, whether by a letter
from the Earl or according to the former appointment it is
uncertain, up came Mr. Harris, and upon discovery of the
treason and the Earl's commitment, went down into the
country again. All this was discovered to one John Davyes,
a brother-in-law or near kinsman to Mr. Harris, by himself.
This Davyes remains most in that country and has there to
do under Sir Richard Smythe about the tin mines. You may
be further satisfied by Harris and him at your pleasure. Please
return me your warrant how far forth I shall be authorised
to deal in these affairs, wherein my services shall approve my
honesty.—15 Nov. 1605.
Holograph. 1 p. (113. 9.) |
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Susan, Countess of Kent, to the Earl of Salisbury. |
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1605, Nov. 15. |
She has knowledge that Mr. William
Willughby should be one of this most hateful treason. His
living in Suffolk is but 200l. which by his most foul act is
rightly his Majesty's. She asks if Salisbury is willing that she
should beg it of his Majesty; or, if Willughby be free, some other
of the like estate of living, to help her extreme hard estate.—
London, 15 Nov. 1605.
Holograph. 1 p. (113. 11.) |
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Sir Richard Walshe, Sheriff of Worcestershire, to
the Same. |
|
1605, Nov 15. |
I understand by my kinsman, Mr. Homfrey
Salwey, of your good acceptance of my late service for the
suppressing and apprehending of these notorious traitors;
whereby you have bound me to your service.—Wigorn',
15 Nov. 1605.
Holograph. 1 p. (191. 70.) |
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William Tate to the Same. |
|
[1605], Nov. 15. |
Remaining unsatisfied with my unprofitable endeavours in the former search, on Thursday
towards the evening I renewed it with my servants; and
approaching near to the place where this hidden serpent should
seem to lurk, though there were no appearance to give the
least suspicion, I insisted long upon that part of the house,
upon intimation given that there was a secret receptacle in the
roof of the same. I examined every corner there, and was
resolved to have broken open some part of the wall; yet before
proceeding so far, I required Richard Richardson, a servant
of Mrs. Vaux, then present, to deal truly with me; who after
some debate opened the door, whereat I entered and searched
the same, and found it the most secret place that ever I saw,
and so contrived that it was without all possibility to be
discovered. There I found many Popish books and other things
incident to their superstitious religion; but no man in it. I am
assured none could evade out thence after I entered the house,
having guarded it day and night round about, and within myself
and servants keeping the keys of all the doors. For better
caution I commanded a strong watch to be kept day and night
throughout all the country adjacent and no man suffered to
pass, unless he were very well known to them, but that he should
be brought to me or some other justice. By this occasion
many being stayed, one John Laithwoode was brought to me,
whose examinations I enclose, praying for further direction
concerning him, whom I yet restrain. At his first examination
he was insufferably insolent, but on the morrow he became of
a better tempered spirit. These priests and Jesuits masking
under other habits make me jealous of any unknown to me
professing themselves Catholics.—Harrowden, Nov. 15. |
|
PS.—After these letters were written I received your
directions to repair up to you with Mrs. Vaux in my company,
which shall be performed, and on Saturday the 16th we will
take our journey towards London. I beseech you I may
understand how and where I shall dispose of her at my coming
up, she having no lodging provided of her own. The Lord Vaux
will likewise make his repair forthwith.
Holograph. Endorsed: "1605." 1 p. (191. 71.) |
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Sir William Lane to the Earl of Salisbury. |
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[1605, Nov. 15]. |
I have read this letter of the Earl's [of
Northumberland], herewith sent unto your lordships. It
continues a declaration of some circumstances to show the
improbability of his partaking in this mischievous and detested
attempt, humbly and submissively set down. He remains
confident, and protests highly of his innocency, yet acknowledges his Majesty's great wisdom and your honourable
proceeding with him, as the case stands. I beseech God to
make you the happy instrument of this needful and most
worthy discovery in these practices odious to God and men.—
Undated.
Holograph. Endorsed: "Nov. 15, 1605." 1 p. (191. 72.) |
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A Ship laden at Hamburgh. |
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1605, Nov. 15. |
Letters patent of the city of Hamburgh
testifying that Barthold Bekeman junior their fellow citizen
had sworn that he had laden in John Berchman's ship the
St. Peter 2 chests of table linen marked with the sign in the
margin hereof, made in Silesia, and three bales of flax marked
as in the margin, on account of Anthony Mölner living in Seville,
whither the said ship and goods were bound.—15 Nov. 1605.
Latin. Common Seal of Hamburg. Parchment, damaged.
(222. 3.) |
