Cecil Papers: March 1605, 1-15

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: March 1605, 1-15', in Calendar of the Cecil Papers in Hatfield House: Volume 17, 1605, ed. M S Giuseppi( London, 1938), British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-cecil-papers/vol17/pp77-99 [accessed 8 November 2024].

'Cecil Papers: March 1605, 1-15', in Calendar of the Cecil Papers in Hatfield House: Volume 17, 1605. Edited by M S Giuseppi( London, 1938), British History Online, accessed November 8, 2024, https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-cecil-papers/vol17/pp77-99.

"Cecil Papers: March 1605, 1-15". Calendar of the Cecil Papers in Hatfield House: Volume 17, 1605. Ed. M S Giuseppi(London, 1938), , British History Online. Web. 8 November 2024. https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-cecil-papers/vol17/pp77-99.

March 1605, 1-15

Sir Philip Herbert to Viscount Cranborne.
[1604–5], March 1. I have received your letter this morning and am very glad to hear that you have sent hither Sir Thomas Lake; for truly I have been very much troubled with exercising of his office in his absence, which the King will tell you when he comes to Greenwich. I cannot send any certain word of his coming back, because I dare not ask him; but I hope he will be back the latter end of next week at furthest. He has been much troubled these two or three days with a new cold, but is now very well and merry. He likes this country very well.—Thetford, 1st of March.
Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." ½ p. (104. 57.)
The Earl of Worcester to the Lords of the Council.
1604–5, March 1. Your letters expressing the comfort you took from his Majesty's acceptation of your pains in his service I presented to him. He accounts a great part of his happiness to be in your loyalty, wisdom and service, and wishes you to take comfort in his acceptance of your travails. For myself I am grateful to you for your acceptance of my poor endeavours. —Thetford, 1 March 1604.
Signed. 1½ pp. (104. 58.)
[Printed in extenso in Lodge, Illustrations &c., III, 268, 269.]
Lord Sheffield to Viscount Cranborne.
[1604–5, March 1.] I perceive by your letter that the King should have written to my Lord Archbishop [of York] and me, being thereunto moved by some false rumours spread in London. No such letter is as yet come to my hand, therefore I can say nothing but that my duty shall not be wanting to perform the King's pleasure. I thank you for reporting to me your grave and wise answer to my Lord Archbishop's letter, and am sorry that any in those parts should divulge it, to your discontentment; assuring you if it might appear to me who has done it in my government with intent to injure you, I shall not fail to make him know his error.
The state of these north parts touching matters of religion stands as I last wrote to you, mightily fallen away; and the time since the Parliament having afforded but one assizes, has offered little means of reformation, the law allowing till the next assizes after their indictments no execution, expecting their alteration; but as much has been done as could be by the law, for all that could be known were indicted the last assizes, and shall be proceeded with according to the law at this new coming, if they reform not themselves, which I rather wish, for in my nature I had rather forgive than punish; and I make no question but to reduce things to as good a pass as ever they were beforetime; for the nature of this people here is to be soon elevated and as soon cast down, being as feared of authority as any people I ever saw. The King's speech and your lordships of the Council have done great good, for it has greatly confirmed the well affected, and greatly discouraged the ill, so that I make no doubt, by God's assistance, to give a good account in short time of these parts committed to my charge, for they begin already to quail since my last coming down, and to pull in their heads. But there is one Roger Witherington in Northumberland who does great harm, being a notorious recusant, and yet is baily of Herston [? Hirst, Morpeth] having thereby a great command of people: which in my opinion is not fit, for if any so disobedient possess places of authority it must needs be a great hindrance to religion. Therefore I wish it may be had in consideration and reformed.
PS. The contents of these, if it like you, you may acquaint the King with.—Undated.
Holograph. Endorsed: "1 March 1605." 3 pp. (190. 48.)
Sir Thomas Lake to Viscount Cranborne.
1604–5, March 1. Your lordship shall receive herewith all the pieces signed by his Majesty which you committed to me. In the Proclamation about the mariners there is in the first line a little erasure and a change by his Majesty's commandment to couple the word "brother" as well to the Archduke as to the King of Spain. In the matter of the tomb, his Majesty made difficulty saying he had not been made acquainted with it. But I showed him the smallness of the sum and that you had bargained with a workman already, which I thought you had not done without acquainting his Highness with it. So he passed it but with this addition, that he hoped when there was more store of money others should be remembered, which you may guess whom he meant. His Majesty made also some stay at that of Mrs. Drommond but passed it over easily. His Highness likes well this place for his hawking wherein he has been yesterday exceedingly pleased; of hunting has yet made no trial but does to-morrow. This day he has not come out of his bedchamber, partly for weariness taken yesterday and partly for a little defluxion upon one of his eyes, which yet is so slender as already it wears away and hinders him not from perusing your letters to my Lord of Worcester and giving answer to them, and afterwards signing these things and reading the proclamation about the mariners himself.— From the Court at Thetford, this first of March, 1604.
Holograph. Seal. 1½ pp. (188. 79.)
Thomas Wilford to the Same.
1604–5, March 2. Myself and others were before the Lord Treasurer and your lordship touching a charter for the merchants trading to Spain and Portugal, and the same was committed to Sir Daniel Dunne, the Attorney General and Sir T. Edmondes. Now of the Merchants Adventurers, the merchants of Muscovia and the merchants trading to the East countries many be admitted into the fellowship of merchants trading to S[pain] and P[ortugal] for a fine of 5l. or 10l. The foresaid merchants obtaining their freedom may forbear to bring their merchandise into this realm and ship them directly to S. and P. So shall his Majesty lose the custom, and foreign shipping and mariners be maintained. And if any of these merchants should bring any foreign goods into England, which the merchants trading to S. and P. had usually bought of them and the custom over paid, if by toleration or permission, if he that brought them in may ship them out again without paying any more custom, who will not for his own benefit, although the property be in another, give 5l. or 10l. to save in custom at one time 20l.? If the merchant may freely ship out of all other countries and pay no custom in England, he may afford his merchandise when they come to the market better cheap than others, and so in short time the merchant that had no other freedom must give over or else practise to do as the others do. It is too true that the merchants aforesaid have within these few years shipped their goods for S. and P. and coloured the same under the name of some free of the company, which if the former charter had stood sound, they would have made it known to you. I entreat that I may not argue this before your lordships, lest I make my good friends my enemies. I find not our people much affected to pray any new charter, in respect they must give way to all that will adventure, alleging that they shall be at great charges, and cannot tell how to raise the same and shall be brought in question every Parliament.—2 March 1604.
Holograph. 1 p. (104. 59.)
The Earl of Worcester to Viscount Cranborne.
[1604–5], March 3. I acquainted his Majesty with the Bishop of London's diligence and therewith he is very satisfied. He has been very ill and heavy with his cold but it is now almost gone. The reason it has so long continued has been the sharpness of the air and wind. Every day he hunts he takes a new cold but being hot with riding a long chase he sits in the open air and drinks. He is resolved to stay these five days in this town. He has been but once a hunting since his coming hither and that day he was driven out of the field with press of company which came to see him. He therefore came home and played at cards. Sir William Woodhowse has devised a proclamation that none shall come to him on hunting days.—Thetford, 3 March.
Holograph. 1 p. (105. 28.)
[Printed in extenso in Lodge, Illustrations, &c., III, 269, 270, and in Nichols, Progresses of King James I, 497.]
Sir Philip Herbert to the Same.
[1604–5], March 3. I understand you would send me a very great dispatch of many great affairs of his Majesty; but because I would not be troubled with any affairs that should hinder me from waiting on the King a hunting, I have got leave that they may be referred to Sir Thomas Lake. For the young lion it is his Majesty's pleasure that there should be a "beeth" [beast ?] put to it to give it suck; but in any ease he would have her very close muzzled lest she should bite. But if she will not give her suck he would have a thing made with a horn and a little piece of leather at the end of it like a teat that it may suck milk so. The King is very well and likes this country so well that I am afraid that it will be very near a fortnight before he will be back. I pray God your lordship can understand my strange description of a new engine to give a beast suck, but you must be contented to take it as it was delivered unto me.—From Thetford this 3 of March.
Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 1⅓ pp. (188. 81.)
Sir Thomas Lake to Viscount Cranborne.
1604–5, March 3. May it please you to receive herewith the letters for Geniva and the commission for the Mid shires. His Majesty recommends to your care the examination of the matter of Berkshire, being desirous to have the offender found out; for of what religion soever he professes himself his Highness holds him worthy of severe punishment. The letter to my Lord Chancellor is to require him to advise with Mr. Attorney what may be done in favour of certain of his Majesty's huntsmen bound to appear at the assizes at York upon information of attempting a robbery upon the highway, whereof his Majesty holds them innocent. And there is returned also to his lordship a commission ecclesiastical for the diocese of Chester, which he sent hither.—From Thetford this third of March 1604.
Holograph. Seal. ¾ p. (188. 82.)
R. Morrell to the Same.
1604–5, March 4. I am most thankful for your unexpected bounty. I understand by your letter and by speech with Mr. D. Neale your desire of Sir William's daily proceeding and profiting at his book, which if it be not answerable to your expectation I am very heartily sorry, though I know myself to be free from all blame. For thus much I will say boldly because truly in my own just defence and to his due commendation that for the first time of his abode here he has profited more than ever I could expect. He came hither to me at All Saints Day last (after a whole year and a half discontinuance from hence) and stayed with me seven weeks, one whole week whereof and more he was (with your good leave) with the King at Huntingdon. In that short time he learned a whole oration of Tullie, besides all his ordinary exercises, which I have showed to Mr. D. Neale and would for your satisfaction have sent up, if he had thought it convenient. I willingly confess in him all complements of nature, all good parts of wit, capacity and memory, so that if there be anything amiss or wanting in him it is this; that he takes not that delight (which is indeed the only whetstone of the desire to learn and the spur that pricks every man forward to take pains) in his book that he does in other things, the true cause whereof I impute to nothing else but his often calling home and his long keeping from hence. For howsoever your Honour may imagine that leaving the place he presently forgets the pleasures, I know by my particular experience and have often found it true by good proof, that they leave a deeper impression in his mind than will hastily wear out. As Themistocles could not sleep in the night for dreaming of Miltiades's triumphs, so neither can he go to his study all the day for revolving in his mind the sports and pastimes abroad in the world. The delights of the Court (if I may so say without offence) have greatly estranged, if not quite alienated, his mind from his books. And yet, notwithstanding all this, I make no doubt but that I shall (if he may continue here without too many interruptions and too long intermissions) lay such grounds of learning in him as that hereafter (when being come to perfect years of discretion he shall be able to value knowledge at its true worth and to receive it, as it justly deserves), he shall be able with a little help to go through anything that he has a mind to or a liking of. If either I were guilty unto myself or suspected by your Honour of any defect or fault on my part, I should hold it expedient to make my apology, but being clear in my own conscience, and acquitted by your testimony I will not use any needless defence, only I would entreat you to remember that I know that as it would be a comfort to you so it would be a credit to me to have done any good upon a gentleman of his quality.—St. John's College, Cambridge, 4 March 1604.
Holograph. 1½ pp. (104. 60.)
Deposition of Richard Boyle.
1604–5, March 4. At the Court at Whitehall this 4 of March 1604. Being demanded concerning Mr. Biwater, I have known him a year or thereabouts. I never had any dealings with him, saving that he has now and then bought a book of me. To my remembrance I never bound any books for him but only a little small paper book of white paper, and to my remembrance I ruled it also, and this I bound the last summer, since which time I never saw the book. There was no writing in the book, for he spake to me to make the book of paper and it was in 16.
Holograph. ½ p. (104. 61.)
Lord Cobham to Viscount Cranborne.
1604–5, March 4. It is not strange but ordinary with my wife to mistake, "uncaple" [incapable] of good advice, believe herself and trust her own conceits, which be the true properties of a fool; for if ever folly were truly in any, she may brag she hath the prize. If her dearest friends did but truly know how scornfully she hath used me, and within these few days, I know they would detest her; myself, that am prepared to take all events with patience, must not deny her carriage did almost make me break promise with myself; and yet I thank God I conquered myself and gained, for now I know nothing can move me. Your letter unto her was both grave and wise, and you wrote nothing but truth. Truth offends her and flattery pleases her. What my fortune is, to God, who I hope will direct the King's heart to mercy, which I pray for, I leave; but my Lord believe this confidently, if my fortune remain in her power I am a prisoner all days of my life. This is the good I expect from her. I had thought the bedding had remained at Canterbury; it shall presently be brought thither. For your kindness to me you shall find your reward in heaven.—Your lordship's loving brother-in-law to command.—From the Tower, 4 March 1604.
Holograph, signed: Henry Brooke. 1 p. (104. 62.)
Lord Hunsdon to Viscount Cranborne.
1604–5, March 4. I have received a letter from the Privy Council by Mr. John Corbett: thereby finding their favours towards me in sending him to make search in Mr. Bywater's chamber, who was my chaplain, I have performed the contents so far as my health would suffer me; and when I could stay no longer, appointed one of my men to stay with him, until he had satisfied himself of all Mr. Bywater's books and papers. For Mr. Bywater's fault what it is, God knoweth, for I do not know, but it seems he hath been busier than becomes his vocation. Had I known he had been so hot brained that he could not contain himself within the compass of that I hired him for, he should never have been my chaplain.—Hunsdon, 4 March 1604.
Signed. 1 p. (104. 63.)
Headlands of England.
1604–5, March 4. Printed map of the headlands of England, with notes of their bearings. Imprinted at London by Robert Barker.
2 sheets fastened together. (142. 194 (2).)
Bevys Bullmer to Viscount Cranborne.
1604–5, March 4. Since his leaving the Court on Saturday, January 19, was taken on his way to the mines with an extreme burning fever and could ride no further than Nottingham. But by the means of a learned and painful physician, one Mr. Atkinson, has in long time recovered and on March 2 was able to take his journey towards Scotland. Wrote in the extremity of his sickness certain letters to his Majesty and Cranborne for prosecuting his work but his physician did not permit him to direct them away as from a dead man. Prays therefore Cranborne's excuse for not signifying him of his stay.— Doncaster, 4 March 1604.
Postal endorsements.—"Tuxford the 5 at one after noone. Newark the 5 att 5 att nyghte. Grantham the v at 7 at night. Witham the . . . . at ix in the night. Stamford the 5th at 12 in the night. Huntingdon the 5 (sic) of Marche at past x in the forenoone."
Signed. Seal. 2/3 p. (188. 83.)
Sir Thomas Lake to Viscount Cranborne.
1604–5, March 6. I am commanded by the King to say that he has received a letter from the Queen in favour of a suit for the college of Ripon in which she alleges that she would not have written in it but with your allowance. His Majesty called to mind that the Chancellor of the Duchy had often moved him against that suit, and asked me what I knew of it. I answered that there was a book passed his Majesty's hand a year since at the suit of the Lord Burghley, as I take it, or at least by his recommendation, and the book subscribed by Mr. Attorney; Mr. Chancellor had spoken often to me to know who had got it signed by his Majesty, inveighing much against it as though it took a great quantity of lands from his Highness. And now his Majesty would hear from you upon what ground you have given way to the Queen to write in the matter, and whether you are privy to Mr. Chancellor's objections and how you are satisfied therein; whereupon his Majesty will reply to the Queen.
I have sent to you also the pension for Mr. Stafford, and have nothing else but that yesternight upon perusal of your dispatches to Sir P. Herbert, his Majesty commanded me to pray you to signify to Sir Roger Ashton and the Lieutenant of the Tower that they should be wary how they gave the lioness overmuch milk, but if it be in any strength accustom it to some other food.
I am importuned often by Mr. Fane to know your pleasure as to the suit begun by him and Mr. Myls and stayed until the entail were perfected, because he doubts else many will step before him. I would know whether I shall renew it for them or no before his Majesty's return.—Thetford. 6 March 1604.
Holograph. Seal. 2 pp. (104. 64.)
The Earl of Worcester to the Same.
1604–5, March 6. His Majesty was much pleased with your discourse of Bywater, how well you took hold of his knavish and mystical positions in his book. After he had read it the King gave it to the Dean who kept it two days, and when he gave it back the King gave it to me to send to you; after Bywater being under the Dean's arrest proffered a petition to the King to be dismissed, who had been so but that he willed to stay till he had received some answer, which I received the same morning. The King now is very glad of the course taken with him. He was not so well pleased with that as he was vexed with the copies of some letters which my Lord of Northampton sent; he earnestly desires that the authors of those malicious reports should be found. I told him I was sure that what was possible would be done, so that if the King's beagle can hunt by land as well as he hath done by water, we will leave capping of "Joler" and cap the beagle. And so being very weary with this day's hunting, I will rest.
PS.—I had no sooner put my hand to this letter but I received another packet from you. I have delivered your letter to me and the enclosed to the King; within these two days you shall receive a letter from himself of his opinion; I have sent herewith the Archbishop of York's letter.—Thetford, 6 March now the 7th.
Holograph. 1 p. (104. 65.)
[Printed in extenso in Lodge, Illustrations, &c., III, 272, 273.]
James Mountague, Dean of the Chapel, to Viscount Cranborne.
1604–5, March 6. I hear that Mr. Bywater has told your lordship I told him he might thank you for this that is befallen him, for the King had forgiven him. I make no great reckoning to be slandered by him, but should be grieved if you gave him credit: for I never spake it. It should seem it is his usual manner of farewell to his friends, for his last word to me was that he thanked me for this trouble. I told him several times of his wicked works and that in my life-time I never saw so much poison spit out by atheist, papist, or puritan against the sweetest prince that ever the sun of the Gospel did shine on. And the morning he went away it was told him by my Lord of Worcester and after by myself that he was to go up to satisfy you upon sundry points. But to say anything that might argue a mind to cast any aspersion upon you, I protest I never did. I appeal to his Majesty, whether I have not on every occasion expressed my affection to your lordship. I labour this matter as one ambitious of your good opinion.
Many in this diocese refuse conformity, but the Bishop carries the matter discreetly and there is no great complaining. —Thetford, 6 March 1604.
Holograph. 2 pp. (104. 67.)
Sir Edward Hoby to the Same.
1604–5, March 6. The Lord Treasurer in a letter received to-day lets me know of the lewd sauciness of a man of mine, used towards his lordship yesterday by importunities. I have since understood that the same man importuned you also, although I forbade him to speak to you, except you offered cause, concerning me. I am not so little worth as to press you further than I have done, being always assured of your love and best endeavours. And so since my last letter to you I have only proceeded in general letters to their lordships, delivered first to my Lord Treasurer. I had rather lose a far greater expectation than your good opinion. Before I knew aught, my man went down into Kent about some business of mine, who on his return shall attend you to justify my innocence in that behalf. I have been sent unto to know, whether your lordship sent me answer of these general letters, how far your lordships had resolved for me. I never importuned you thereupon, but sought rather by some special friend to inform you thereof.—6 March 1604.
Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (104. 68.)
Sir Thomas Lake to Viscount Cranborne.
1604–5, March 6. His Majesty fails not to be importuned here with suits. Sir William Constable has delivered him this enclosed, which his Majesty willed me to send to you for submission to the Council. If it may be without offence to the commonweal or to particular persons, he could like well to pleasure the gentleman.—Thetford, 6 March 1604.
Holograph. Seal. ½ p. (104. 66.)
The Master of Gray.
1605, March 6. Account of all that Patrick, Master of Gray, may demand of the King, according to the warrants produced by him before Alexander, Earl of Dunfermling, Lord High Chancellor of Scotland, James, Lord of Balmerinoth, Lord President of the Council and Session, and David, Lord of Scone, Lord Controller, 6 March 1605.
The account comprises 4316l. 11s. 7d. overexpended by Gray to June 7, 1586. An obligation dated 1586 of 10,000 marks for his voyage and embassage to England. 1000l. given to William Keyth, Master of the King's Wardrobe. An obligation dated 1590 for 12,000 marks for the renunciation of the Abbacy of Dunfermling.
Signed. 1 p. (190. 50.)
The Master of Gray to [Viscount Cranborne?].
1604–5, March 7. I received from my servant your letter, by which and by the relation of my Lord Chancellor, my Lord of Scone, and my cousin my Lord Home, and by letters from my Lord of Loundores [Lindores] and Master of Orkney I know how constantly you continue my friend: whereof I had no less contentment, nor shalt have at repayment of my old debts. For although I have deserved no ill of you by any occasion, yet my long distress and disgrace have made me so unable to do good and "inutile" for requital that only a pitiful motion in your own bountiful "natural" moveth your constant favour towards me. But the hazard of life and mean estate shall never be spared where question of your name shall occur, neither shall it lie in fortune to change my opinion. But to my private errand. My Lord of Scone first at my own house, before the return of my servant, showed me very plainly even according to your letter; and now with concurrence of my Lord Chancellor and Secretary have heard all my "comptes" and have sent the particular of them to be "suhtit" [sued] there, which was all you craved. As it hath pleased you bring it to this point, so am I to pray you return to my Lord of Scone his warrant (seeing your lordship is admitted advocate for me) with a letter from yourself of thanks, for that respect he did carry to your recommendation, and yet more for the very honourable report he maketh of you in all his conferences. And this I will not forget, that being very inquisitive of your estate, and what society you had, beside your own virtue for maintenance of it, he showed me and I think sincerely that my Lord of Berwick was fully resolved to hazard his "pach" in your society. Whereof I was very glad, knowing what possession he hath both of his Majesty's love and knowledge of all his humours; and more glad I was to know this of him than of any, seeing he is on most of the others secret thoughts. Likewise I beseech you write thanks to my Lord, now Chancellor, Earl of Dunfermline, both for his favour to me as for his honourable speeches of yourself; and the third [letter] to the Secretary, my Lord of Balmerino, to friend me in matters touching my house, wherein he should have some interest, his bairns being my cousins; for I am so loth to repay wrongs that I wish all men to do me right, to the end my name fall not in question. For I thank God that no subject in Scotland can do me wrong, save in the use of rigorous justice, which I will not look for. Yet it might be the better that your recommendation intercede.
PS.—Remember to write to my Lord of Scone to end with me before Whitsunday, for they refuse to pay me "annuell," although they see sensibly I both have paid and must pay. Send your packet to the Secretary, my Lord of Balmerino.— Edinburgh, 7 March 1605.
Holograph. 2 pp. (110. 28.)
Captain Robert Yaxlee to Viscount Cranborne.
1604–5, March 7. I was much bound to your father while he lived, and I cannot despair of the son. Yet I quit that little I had out of the doubt I had of your lordship and am now out of employment. I understand by Sir Wilfred Lawson that 150 of the Graemes borderers should be transported some way towards the wars, and for I know them and they me and have served among them, I thought it my duty to offer my service. —Durham House, 7 March 1604.
Holograph. Seal. ½ p. (104. 69.)
Thomas Phelippes to Viscount Cranborne.
1604–5, March 7. Understanding by my brother your honourable answer of my last I sent to my Lord of Kenlosse, who seemed to have ground to satisfy you of his proceeding with the King. But he being unable to write by reason of the gout promised within few days to repair to you and further as much favour as you should wish to afford me. But his lordship is holden longer within doors than is for my comfort; and although imprisonment is a dispensation for importunity, I cannot press him in expectation of a few days. But I find from my Lord of Kinloss that all that he can say is that he kept the King better disposed upon his second motion; so as if the King had been dealt with any further, he had been fit to give ear to what should have been said in my favour. And therefore he thinks I might well be confined to my own house. The truth is I mean not to become fugitive; but in attending the King's satisfaction I pray what your lordship may without prejudice do. And seeing there is no more danger of hurt to himself, Sir Thomas Lake may have your leave to work the King to conceive of me as my affection for him and the State deserves. And meanwhile if I must lie here at my own charge, might I accommodate myself to my own fancy and means? For the ordinary burden of this house will exceed my poor proportion greatly, besides the diseases of a prison. And considering the irreparable mischief this accident has brought upon my estate, I may say I am sufficiently punished for error without malice. My Lord of Northampton being taken off, by whom I was most wounded, the way is more open to show your gracious inclination towards me.—7 March 1604.
Holograph. Endorsed by Cranborne: "Mr. Tho. Phelippes prisoner. Mr. Jho. Phelippes. Sir Jho. Phelippes. Mr. William Phelippes." Seal. 1 p. (104. 72.)
Sir Philip Herbert to the Same.
[1604–5], March 7. I have made his Majesty acquainted how well the young lion prospers, which he is very glad to hear of, and I have told him of the young wolves, which he will scarce believe, because he says that he cannot imagine who should be the father of them. Therefore he has commanded me to write unto you to send him word what beast it was that got them. The King is quite well of his cold and thanks be to God is very merry, but I cannot have any certainty of his coming up as yet, but as soon as I do I will send your lordship word.—From Thetford this 7 of March.
Holograph. Seal. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (188. 84.)
The Earl of Worcester to the Same.
[1604–5], March 8. I enclose the sweet and comfortable fruit of his Majesty's own garden. He willed me to say that when he sat last among you he took on him the office of attorney with the gentlemen then convened, so now he has done the same in writing "postels" upon the copy of Bywater's sweet and charitable collections. His Majesty has sent you by the Duke of Lenox the letters from France, wherein he notes both the King and Queen with Rosny and all that are near the King give him the style of "King of Ingland, Scot. &c." but the Duke of Guise writes him "King of the Isle of Great Britain." He begins his journey homewards on Tuesday next. He will stay three days at Newmarket and four at Royston. And then I hope to the wished land of two months' rest.—Thetford, 8th of March.
Holograph. Seal. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (104. 73.)
[Printed in extenso in Lodge, Illustrations, &c., III, 273, 274.]
Sir Thomas Lake to Viscount Cranborne.
1604–5, March 8. Although I wrote to your lordship to-day by the post because of the letters to Lord Berwick, yet having now returned to my Lord of Devonshire the King's answer to the letters you sent from him, and the King having written to you at great length and given his letters to the Earl of Worcester to send to reach you by to-morrow at night, I have placed my Lord of Devonshire's letters in this packet, which is so great because all that came from him is returned again, and what the King has signified upon it he will acquaint you with it. The King has bestowed all his day upon affairs. On Tuesday he goes to Newmarket for three days and thence to Royston for as long and so towards your lordship.
I am importuned here for a licence to go to the Spaw for one Hugh Speake and his son in regard of the child's exceeding vexation with the stone. He had one in the Queen's time which was for a time stayed by you in regard the father is a known recusant. I have forborne to offer this to the King till I might know from you whether there be anything against it. He protests much of his unwillingness to go but for his child's extremity, whereof he has certificates from physicians. The child is now above ten years old.
This bearer having some errand of his own to-morrow and the King requiring haste for his letters, I thought it best he should go over night, being likely to make more haste than the ordinary posts do. He desires some small allowance for his charges.—Thetford, 8 March 1604.
Holograph. Seal. 2 pp. (104. 74.)
The Earl of Roxburgh to the Same.
[1604–5], March 8. I have observed as near as I could the opinions you gave me in the particular suit I had to propose to his Majesty, who has been pleased to make me as free a grant as I could wish, with promise to favour me in reason and to remember my services to him, so that my enemies should not harm me with him. This I owe rather to your pains than my own mean merits, and I can only promise to serve you in any way you may desire. In speaking to me the King said that he thought one of the greatest blessings that God had given to him with his coming to this country was to have so faithful a councillor as yourself.—Thetford, 8 March.
Signed. Endorsed: "1604." ½ p. (104. 75.)
Sir Thomas Lake to Viscount Cranborne.
1604–5, March 8. This morning the King has perused the letters out of Ireland sent by my Lord of Devonshire, whom I shall answer to-night. This afternoon he wrote to the Queen, as I guess, by the Duke of Lennox and I think to some of your lordships. He asked me if I had any answer about the matter of Ripon; I think because he would have written of it to the Queen. But what I am to write about is a message brought to his Majesty from you by the Earl of Roxburgh touching certain counterfeiters of money, namely of one Acton, which service his Majesty takes in good part, and prays you to continue your endeavour therein, his Majesty conceiving by reason of the great quantity there be more partners than one. For the escheats like to come thence, for which you have recommended the Lord Roxburgh, the King is pleased that it shall be reserved for him.
I perceived that his Majesty is much moved with this matter of Bywater, especially since he will not confess who they were that gave him directions, and looks he should be roundly dealt with, saying he would have it out of him one way or the other.
This warrant enclosed is by his Majesty's command to certain principal gentlemen to look to the game hereabout. Cause it to be sealed and returned. And yet I do not perceive that his Majesty is in love with this place or like to make many journeys hither. On Monday or Tuesday it will be for Royston.—Thetford, 8 March 1604.
Holograph. Seal. 2 pp. (104. 76.)
Lord Ellesmere, Lord Chancellor, to the Same.
1604–5, March 9. I am glad of your health and good return, and take it as a great favour that you have acquainted me with these enclosed. In the one I see infinite comfort to serve so gracious a sovereign. In the other I perceive that Judas non devomit: wherefore it behoves all that be loyally affected to be vigilant to prevent such plots and practices in time. I will attend at the Court to-morrow at the hour you appoint.— 9 March 1604.
Holograph. Seal. ½ p. (104. 77.)
The Earl of Errol to Viscount Cranborne.
1604–5, March 9. Since it has pleased God that in good health I am returned to Scotland, never unmindful with what undeserved kindness I was used by you when I was at Court, I am bold with these few lines to visit you as the first testimonies of my great desire to know of your welfare by the first commodity of your leisure. For in true affections I will give place to none of your nearest kinsmen. If you think my words effectual or myself worth as a stranger yet to you, you have assurance sufficient, if I be not a monster of ingratitude, of whom you have so well deserved. As in all my affairs there I do stedfastly repose in your favour, so if there be anything wherein I can serve you in Scotland, or wheresoever my ability may reach, I most "effecteouslie" pray you to make assured account thereof.—Perth, 9 March 1605.
Holograph. Two seals over red silk. 1 p. (110. 29.)
Sir Thomas Lake to the Same.
1604–5, March 10. This afternoon before this bearer was dispatched by his Majesty, your lordship's letters came; and speaking to the king about the matter of the Placart as from myself he would not be persuaded I had received some direction to say so, and when I pressed it I showed him what you had written. He bade me answer that he took in very good part that advice, for though his actions have none other but a true and honest meaning, and such as can justify themselves, yet is he willing to take away all colour of cavil, and has given order that this be done by a letter which shall be sent to you to be sealed.—Thetford, 10 March 1604.
Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (104. 78.)
Sir Richard Lee to the Same.
[1604–5], March 10. I had the rangership of Canterbury Park given me by my Lord Cobham during my life under his hand and seal at the entreaty of my Lord Wootton. Sir John Lawson having had the command there made me forbear to be his ranger; but understanding your lordship has the command, I am a suitor to be continued in that place.—Canterbury, 10 March.
Holograph. Seal. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (104. 79.)
A Diamond from M. de Beaumont.
1604–5, March 10. Acknowledgment of the receipt from Monsieur de Beaumont, Ambassador from the King of France to the King of England, of a diamond belonging to Monsieur de Saney of the weight of fifty-three carats, for which promise is made of the immediate payment of 20,000 crowns (escus) and on April 24 next security will be given by merchants dwelling in London for the sum of 40,000 crowns to be paid, to wit, 20,000 crowns to be paid on September 10 and the remaining 20,000 completing the sum of 60,000 crowns to be paid on March 10, 1605[–6].—"A Londres ce dixiesmc Mars 1604."
Endorsed:—"Copy of the receipt of the diamond of 60,000 crowns of Mons. Beamont."
Copy unsigned. 1 p. (188. 85.)
Sir John Stanhope to Viscount Cranborne.
[1604–5], March 11. I thank you for your letter and was sorry my want of health would not permit me to attend you and the honourable company with you. The book you sent I have perused; the matter thereof methinks savours rather to be the project of some sly reforming statesman than the labour of a scholarly or zealous minister's brains, who unpractised cannot of themselves frame their brains to so high a reach. The paper proceeds further as willing to insinuate into the multitude a disposition to enforce that by some violent course, the orderly reformation whereof they have no patience to endure. But the ordering hereof is in so good hands as will omit no good circumstances to "vente" the devices of these busybodies. Myself have been vexed of late with a hungry colic, a cough, and cramps, and though I observe what their art prescribes, yet I find the season of the year must join to help the cure.—This 11 of March.
Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (104. 80.)
Sir Thomas Lake to the Same.
1604–5, March 11. Sir Robert Killigrew has been suitor to his Majesty for a lease in reversion of the profits of the Seal Office in the King's Bench, wherein his father has an estate for twenty years. This was at his Majesty's first coming begged by Sir James Sandilands and by composition passed from him to Sir William Killigrew. If it be meet it be granted again, his Majesty had rather give it to Sir Robert Killigrew than another, because the profits of the office have been much increased by his father's diligence. His Majesty would know whether it may be without offence or ill example to grant the same to Sir Robert, his father having so long an estate in it.— Thetford, 11 March 1604.
Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (104. 81.)
The Earl of Argyll to the Same.
[1604–5], March 11. It pleased his Majesty at my being in England to grant me licence to "dispone" certain cloth, paying only according to the custom of such patents. But I hear, by reason of sundry other patents that are granted, mine has taken little effect, albeit it was the first. I therefore request you to further this bearer to exped[ite] the same, as you shall have me ever ready to obey your commandments in all things wherein I can do you pleasure.—Dunoon, the 11 of March.
Holograph. Seal over pink silk. Endorsed: "1605." ½ p. (110. 37.)
The Bishop of Chester to Viscount Cranborne.
1604–5, March 11. Touching the affirmation of one William Felles upon conference lately with Mr. Glasyer in the Bishop's house, that a seminary priest was kept and maintained in the house of one Mr. Whitmore. a gentleman of Cheshire. Requests his pleasure as to what is next to be done in the matter.— 11 March 1604.
Signed. ½ p. (188. 86.)
The Bishop of Hereford to the Same.
1604–5, March 11. My excuse for so long time not addressing my letters to you is my continual sickness and lameness, wherewith I have been grievously afflicted from Bartholomewtide last by reason of this cold and rheumatic place where I now live. I now beseech you to be a mean that amongst others of my brethren, I may have an ecclesiastical commission for enabling me to do the better service against this froward generation of popish recusants and priests, wherewith this country is too much pestered. I most humbly craved it of his Majesty in Parliament time, and made my like petition to you. I once again beseech your mediation for me. My Lord's grace of Canterbury is willing to further it; the Lord Chief Justice and Mr. Attorney promised me their effectual endeavour, and I assure you no part of this land has more need than this, their number is so great and their insolence so importune.— From Whitburne, 11 March 1604.
Signed. ⅓ p. (188. 87.)
Lord Sydney to the Same.
1604–5, March 11. In favour of the bearer, one of the Queen's footmen yet a gentleman, who has made suit to her Majesty for a lease in reversion; which matter has been referred to Viscount Cranborne.—Greenwich, 11 March 1604.
Holograph. 1 p. (188. 107.)
The Earl of Shrewsbury to the Same.
1604–5, March 12. This gentleman Sir Thomas Edmondes coming thus far on this side Northamptonshire only to visit me, and now hasting back to London, brings these few lines from us poor foresters. Now that he is so near his repair into Brabant I beseech you will add somewhat for my sake to the favours that you show him. He can tell you how privately we live here, and that God blesses us with the sunbeams as well as he does you in the south parts, although you think apples will scarce grow in this barren country. Your health is remembered at our dinners by some of us that drink not healths every day. The owner of this house, Sir Charles Cavendish, with my wife and myself, wish you all happiness.—Welbeck, 12 March 1604.
Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (104. 82.)
Laurence Marbury to Viscount Cranborne.
[1604–5], March 12. Sir Philip Harbart has entreated me to bring your son Sir William to the Court now at Newmarket. assuring me that you assented that whensoever he would send for him you would allow it. I have brought him hither and will carefully attend on him and bring him back to his tutor, where I hope he will carefully redeem these few lost days. His Majesty's remove hence is yet unspoken, but on Saturday I suppose he will remove to Royston. The Lord Chief Justice has attended his Majesty's coming this night till six of the clock, and after seeing him went to Bury.—Newmarket, 12 March.
Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." 1 p. (104. 83.)
Sir Arthur Gorges to the Same.
1604–5, March 12. In that I humbly offer these my poor papers (such as they are) to be disposed, altered or suppressed as your Honour pleases it is but the duty that I am tied unto before it be printed. For being, as your lordship is, the eye of the State, it would argue great neglect and presumption in me to publish matters of this nature without your knowledge and approbation. But I hope I shall never be so graceless to commit so public an error, especially where I am so particularly bound: which things I want power to merit, yet will I never want gratitude to acknowledge.—12 March 1604.
Signed. Seal. 1 p. (104. 85.)
Thomas Wildgosse to the Same.
1604–5, March 12. If you command me to your presence I will show your lordship some few the first fruits of my youth of long time closely nourished by much study, travel, and expense, such as shall not only bring infinite wealth into his Majesty's coffers yearly, but add renown to his realms.—From my house at Lewsham, this New Year's Day, 1604.
Written on the same sheet: A long and wordy exposition of the above ending as follows:—"Let me have but 500l. and a commission to take a hundred loads of choice timber, charts, and choice workmen, and I will yet ere Michaelmas term make five several kinds of works, which shall plainly show how to bring 100l. yearly into his Majesty's coffers for ever, without any more charge to his Majesty, and enrich his subjects 100l. more each year . . This 12th day of March, 1604."
Holograph. Seal. 2½ pp. (109. 65.)
The Earl of Shrewsbury to the Same.
1604–4, March 13. There is one of Mr. Tho. Markham's sons, George Markham, who is desirous to spend two or three years in service in the wars somewhere beyond the seas, perhaps against the Turk; his suit is to procure a licence to be abroad for three years. I beseech your lordship, if conveniently you may, to grant him one. My opinion of the gentleman I have imparted with Sir Tho. Edmondes, who can also tell you why he may not go over without a licence.—13 March 1604.
Holograph. ½ p. (104. 86.)
The Mayor and Burgesses of Dartmouth to Viscount Cranborne.
1604–5, March 13. Pray that a case against Thomas Gurnye, mayor, John Smith, one of the bailiffs, and Christopher Collaper, one of the serjeants at mace, before the Lord High Admiral concerning the liberties of the town, may be heard in one of the King's courts.—13 March 1604.
Signed, Tho. Gourney, maior, Nycholas Hayman, John Follet, Jno. Newbye, Gylbart Staplehyll, Walter Frauncis, Tho. Holland, Benette Fluette, Tho. Spurwaie, Wm. Cade, Cha. Newlande, Tho. Pazge, Zacharye Gould, John Smyth, W. Nuell. Seal. ½ p. (104. 87.)
Sir Philip Herbert to the Same.
[1604–5], March 13. I entreated Mr. Marbery to fetch my cousin Sir William Sissel [Cecil] against the King's coming to Numarket, who brought him hither yesterday and met the King betwixt this and Thetford. I find by Mr. Marbery that your lordship would not have him stay long here. But now I hope, because the King stays here so little a time, you will give him leave to stay until his Majesty's going away: for he told me this night that he would be at Greenwig upon Saturday next, or Monday at the furthest. In the meantime I hope you will pardon me for staying him here until I hear farther from you.—Newmarket, 13 March.
Holograph. Seals. Endorsed: "1604." ½ p. (104. 88.)
Francis Gofton, Auditor, to the Same.
1604–5, March 13. This day I have been with Mr. Attorney who has written the enclosed to your lordship. He has appointed me on Monday next to be with him again, in which mean time he will pen the discharge and warrant for the new remain, both which I have left with him. He desires the sight of my Lord Chamberlain's pardon, which if I may have I will deliver it to Mr. Attorney. Since the delivery up of the goods of the Lord Cobham I never heard more of him, though before the receipt thereof he sent divers of his late servants to inform against Mellersh. but upon the view and sight thereof they were satisfied; which goods in my opinion he very faithfully has delivered over, so as I now purpose to go with him before one of the Barons to take his oath, and so to perfect his accounts if it shall seem good to your lordship.—13 March 1604.
Holograph. Seal. ½ p. (104. 89.)
Lord Zouche to Viscount Cranbourne.
[1604–5], 13 March. Your lordship may well see that I have occasion to draw me abroad to wait upon you. By these letters enclosed you may also see, if it please you to have any feeling of your poor friend's grief, some cause that touches me nearer than I wish it should, sith neither his Majesty nor the State has more feeling of it. But alas, to use long lines does but heap too much thinking of that I desire to forget. You know, Sir, that if I durst have refused that place I never affected it. You promised, if I were weary of it, you would procure my release; and lately you said that so I would wait the end, if there were anything concluded which I took to be discomfortable to my service, though it was fit to conclude that which you found fittest for the State, yet you would, as for your friend you affected, do your best to ease me. I beseech you free me and this poor man by the King's pardon and commandment that he be no further dealt withal, and I shall be as much bound to you as most men on whom you are means to have offices bestowed.—Philippe Lane, 13 March.
Holograph. Seal. Endorsed: "1604". 1 p. (104. 90.)
Francis Gofton, Auditor, to the Same.
1604–5, March 13. The georges and garters of the late Lord Cobham I have by former warrant delivered to Sir Edward Carye, kt., Master of the Jewels and Plate, by bill indented between him and me.—13 March 1604.
Holograph. Seal. ½ p. (104. 91.)
Sir Thomas Lake to the Same.
1604–5, March 13. Yesternight, at his Majesty's coming to this town, which was late because of his sport by the way, I acquainted him with what you had written by Mr. Ellis and with the Pasquill. This morning he has given me commandment to signify to you that, although he doubt nothing of your diligence in finding out the truth, both of the project for reformation and of this Pasquill, yet would he have me report to you an example of the like case of Mr. John Colvile's: who, whilst he was a follower of the Earl Bothwel's being in his Majesty's jealousy and his doings awaited, it happened a packet of letters and other things of his to be intercepted; amongst which was a bitter Pasquill against his Highness's person written of his own hand: wherewith being charged he ever denied to be the author of it but imputed a Bachelor of Oxford from whom he had transcribed it, and although it were likewise found blotted and interlined as this is, all of his own hand, yet would he never confess. But being put to judgment of the Council in all probability he was held to be the author except he would confess another. You may thereby perceive with what confidence guilty persons led with a bold sprite will deny; and then by any asseveration of his you will not impute it to another except he make another appear. His Majesty doubts not but that his first imputations will fall out to be on some scholar either dead or out of this realm, whereby you shall have good advantage to gather that it is but shift.—Newmarket, 13 March 1604.
Holograph. Seal. 1¼ pp. (104. 92.)
Thomas Bellothe to Viscount Cranborne.
1604–5, March 13. I make bold to acquaint you how that I moved my Lord in his time for the building of an almshouse, and said that half the tenths that his lordship had spent in building would erect an almshouse and sufficient maintenance for the same. His answer was that I said true and so named a place that I did not like of, and so nothing was done. Thinking now to have moved you by the same argument, I understand your lordship of your own zealous and charitable mind has given order for the same. To further so godly a deed I will deliver to you at Midsummer 800l. part of my remainder that I have for pious uses, whereof 600l. to be towards a purchase of lands to the same, and 200l. for the building of the house and furnishing it with bedding. The only place for building the same will be where the spital is, for it is your tenement and pays a rent, and in my Lord's time by sufferance the tenant then, to make a commodity and gain to himself, took in poor diseased persons. He may be dealt with to provide another place and to be bound to the parish not to take more new persons, but such as he has now to be provided for till God call them away. The other house over against the spital which is in Enfild parish was a spital house and now is a tenement. If you like of this place and to have the spital man to be dealt with, I will give him 10l. to make him the more willing to depart. I have caused a plate to be made a twelvemonth since of the same, and have made an estimate of all the yearly charges for maintenance of the poor thereof, if it please you to see them.— From Strand, 13 March 1604.
Holograph. Endorsed by Cranborne: "Mr. Bellot to me." 1 p. (188. 88.)
Sir Edward Coke to the Same.
1604–5, March 13. Has perused the minutes of two privy seals drawn by Mr. Auditor Gofton and will perfect them in the best manner he can. Desires to see the discharge for the jewels which were in the custody of Mr. Ratcliffe, with instructions to make a full and complete discharge, if the same be not already sufficiently discharged.—13 March 1604.
Holograph. ⅓ p. (188. 89.)
Sir Thomas Lake to Viscount Cranborne.
1604–5, March 14. Yesternight after his Majesty's return from his sport, which was somewhat late, he received by my Lord of Worcester your lordship's letter and the general letters, and after he was retired into his chamber sent for me and commanded me to advertise you that now he begins to be of opinion that astrological opinions are not altogether vain, but that there is in constellations some general disposition of causes to their effects here on earth, especially when these effects are to be universal in many parts of the earth together. For having found at his sitting down to supper by your letter what was like to come of Bywater, and your opinion of his humour, at his rising from supper he received advertisement out of Scotland that Mr. Robert Bruce, the most turbulent minister of all Scotland, was, by such directions as his Majesty gave at the departure of the Bishops from hence, by them and by the General Assembly, deprived of his ministry, from which sentence he has appealed to the General Assembly. Whereupon his Majesty thinks he shall be driven to appeal to your lordships of his Council to know your opinions when he shall grant a licence for another General Assembly to be held, which for aught he sees he is not like to do without your great solicitation.
His Majesty seemed also to be well pleased that his conjecture that Bywater was author of the Pasquill according as I signified to your lordship by his commandment in my last letters (sic).— From Newmarkett, 14 March 1604.
Holograph. Seal. 1¼ pp. (188. 90.)
Erasmus Cooke to the Same.
1604–5, March 15. I entreat you that I may come to a speedy answer for the cause for which you examined me. I have but a short time allowed me by my ordinary to exercise my ministry in my charge. Therefore my desire is to preach to them the next Sabbath. If I shall not come to further answer before the Sabbath I humbly request that I may be bailed and bound to return the next week whensoever you shall command. For the matter itself. I have already confessed what I can say herein: if I have offended I crave your favourable interpretation of my meaning, protesting that I have not offended maliciously but only ignorantly, and I abhor and detest all courses and practices leading to schism and sedition.—"From my lodging," 15 March 1604.
Holograph, signed: "Erasmus Cooke, a poor minister of the Gospel." ½ p. (104. 94.)
The Justices of the Peace of Berkshire to the Same.
1604–5, March 15. We received letters from the Privy Council dated 28 February last for the examination of a very strange, irreligious and intolerable outrage lately committed by some ill-affected persons in breaking open the door of the church of Enborne, tearing in pieces the Communion Book and Ecclesiastical Canons lately published, and casting abroad a libel in contempt of religion established in his Majesty's dominions. We have met several times and examined divers persons but can find no particular person to whom the fact can be imputed. We think it fit that we had the libel itself, which (as we understand) was left with your Honour, that comparing hand with hand we may the better find out the libeller.—Newbury, 15 March 1604.
Signed: Alex. Chokke, Tho. Dolman, Tho. Chamberlyn, ½ p. (104. 95.)
Sir Francis Vere to Viscount Cranborne.
[1604–5], March 15. I advertised you what I had received from my Lord of Eyrskyn and of my purpose to repair to him, which I had done accordingly if he had stayed about London; but his lordship being abroad with his Majesty I do forbear till I receive further order, which I have signified to him by letter.— Tilburye, 15 March.
Holograph. Endorsed: "1604." ½ p. (188. 91.)