Cecil Papers: May 1593

Calendar of the Cecil Papers in Hatfield House: Volume 4, 1590-1594. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1892.

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'Cecil Papers: May 1593', in Calendar of the Cecil Papers in Hatfield House: Volume 4, 1590-1594, (London, 1892) pp. 308-327. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-cecil-papers/vol4/pp308-327 [accessed 24 April 2024]

May 1593

Mr. Nevill to Sir Robert Cecil.
1593, May 1. I humbly thank you for your willingness to move Her Majesty in my behalf. My cross hath been great and my imprisonment long. During which time, I do assure myself, that hard report hath wrought a great impression in the heart of my sovereign lady against me, for whose further satisfaction I do most willingly yield up my liberty, and am contented to tie myself to imprisonment until it shall please her to think me worthy of more favour. But if all my good desires and endeavours to do Her Highness service might entreat so much for me, both in regard of my great charge of wife and children for whom I must seek to provide, as also in the length of my imprisonment, that I might, upon bonds for my good behaviour, and to lodge every night in the Tower, be permitted to go abroad about my business, for the better soliciting of my causes, then should I rest infinitely contented, and seek no further to trouble her Majesty with suits.— From the Tower, this 1st of May 1593.
Signed, Nevyl de Latimer.
Endorsed :—“Mr Nevill to my master.”
½ p.
Alexander Macmahon to John Delaresson.
[1593,] May 2/12. In the name of God, at Madrid the 12 of May.
My host, after my hearty commendations, please you to wit that I am in good health at this present, desiring the same of you and all good friends. You shall wit that I wrote sundry times before, as concerning the silver that an Irish priest should have delivered unto you, or to my brother William, which if you have received the same, you shall deliver the same to this bearer John, without fail. This, Sir, I thought good to advertise you in case that my brother is departed, and has left commission with you. As to the estate of my business this bearer will show to you at length, the Lord God in heaven to send me a good end thereof and deliver me from off their hands. By yours, Alex. Makmachon.
Addressed :—“To my traist frende Jhone Delaresson, Cowlerier in Bordeaux.”
Endorsed :—“Alex. Mackmachon, Scottishman from Madrid, to a tailor in Bordeaux—of no moment.”
1 p.
Alderman Billingsley, Richard Carmarden, and Thomas Middleton to Lord Burghley.
1593, May 3. We have tried to make sale of the pepper, and find the grocers and all others as yet very slow and loth to take any quantity, except they may have it by way of retail, by bag at 3s. the pound, and that at three and three months day of payment, without any ready money. We are therefore of opinion, that the offer of fourscore thousand pounds and four thousand marks, to be all paid in two years and a half, is the surest and best offer.—London, the 3 of May 1593.
Seal. ½ p.
Sir Richard Barkley to Sir Robert Cecil and Sir John Wolley.
[1593,] May 4. Has compounded, with the assent and liking of them both, the cause in controversy between a gentlewoman, Mrs Stanlake, and Mr Snygg, a lawyer, and one Yeman, which it was Her Majesty's pleasure he should hear.—Stoke, the 4 of May.
1 p.
The Warden and Fellows of Trinity Hall, Camrridge, to Sir Robert Cecil.
1593, May 4. Are not become bolder from the hope of his favour, nor more querulous or troublesome; have determined ' ætatem hic transigere nullis notam Quiritibus” unless the injuries of others from whom they have deserved better things provoke them. Certain doctors of the Court of Arches who prosecute the suit against them, seeing that neither common law nor equity can favour them, to add injustice to injury, drag them to that tribunal where with one exception their accusers become their judges. They cannot refuse such court of justice but by authority of Parliament (summi senatus), whose help they are about to seek, in which they request his favour.—From the College, 4 May, 1593.
Latin. ½ p.
Jersey and Guernsey.
1593, May 5. Warrant directing Lord Burghley to give order for the providing three score tons of timber and three fodder of lead, to be conveyed to the Islands of Jersey and Guernsey, for the Queen's service. —Croydon, 5th day of May 1593.
Sign Manual.
Mrs. Elizabeth Fourth to Sir Robert Cecil.
1593, May 6. I beseech you be pleased that a poor distressed gentlewoman, my lady your wife's kinswoman, may acquaint you with certain undeserved wrongs offered by one Mr. Fourth of Suffolk, father unto my husband, who, having received that small portion of marriage money which friends bestowed upon me, did, notwithstanding better entreaty promised before my good lord and uncle, the lord Cobham, and also my lord of Buckhurst, first unkindly use me in his own house, and after caused my husband to carry me from thence, and never since yielding me any maintenance, but suffered me to depend upon such friends as would for courtesy or compassion vouchsafe me relief. By the advice of learned counsel, I did exhibit a bill unto the Court of Requests, wherein I did intend to use my lord Cobham's name, because he was privy to the payment of the most of my portion, till since hearing he was not pleased I should so do, I have withdrawn that complaint, and exhibited the same only in my brother Jernegam's name and my own; most humbly desiring you, for the saving of further expenses in suit, to send for Mr. Fourth, who is presently in London, and persuade him either to pay my portion, and sustain the children I have by his son, or else yield me such convenient maintenance as shall be unto your Honour thought reasonable, protesting before God, otherwise than having married without his consent, I never deserved his offence or evil opinion. For want of acquaintance with your Honour, I entreated my good friend, Mr. William Howard, to say thus much, who telleth me that so he did, and that you were pleased to speak with Mr. Fourth in my favour, which is mine only suit, and so doing shall bind me for ever to wish you all honour and happiness.—This 6th of May'93.
Seal. ½ p.
Henry Baily's Examination.
1593, May 6. Henry Baily, examined before Justice Young, saith that one Doctor Crathe came out of Spain to one Williams his house, in Munster, and there lodged and reconciled the people, and was there apprehended and committed to Fedor Gaol, from whence he escaped and is thought to be come into England. The said Crathe is of the age of 56 years or thereabouts, and hath a young man attending on him, whose name of Thomas Jordan, of the age of 27 years, who is full of freckles in his face and hath a reddish beard, and the hair of his head is of the same colour, and he doth lisp in his speech, is a tall, slender man, and served lieutenant Jacques in Ireland. There is one Sir Owen Ossolivante, who hath of his followers and doth know the said Jordan.
Signed :—Ryc. Young. 1 p.
Earl of Essex to Sir Robert Cecil.
1593, May 8. I understand by Sir Christopher Blunt that he hath desired your favour in a cause, wherein I pray you have for my sake the more affection to satisfy him. The cause doth some way concern myself, and therefore I will very thankfully acknowledge any favour you shall do in it.
Endorsed :—“8 May, 1593.”
Sir Walter Raleigh to Sir Robert Cecil.
[1593,] May 10. I am very sorry for Mr. Wilkinson and the rest, that I hear are drowned in the river of Burdens, but for my part I was resolved of the success beforehand, and so much T told Wilkinson before his departure. Of this Irish combination, Her Majesty shall find it remembered to herself not long since, but the Trojan soothsayer cast his spear against the wooden horse, but not believed. I did also presume to speak somewhat how to prevent this purpose, and I think it not over hard to be yet done; and if I had by any chance been acquainted with the Lord Burgh's instructions, I would have put you in mind to have won the Earl of Argyll rather than all the rest of Scotland, for by him this fire must be only maintained in “Ulstell,” but for me to speak of the one or the other, I know that my labours are “prejudicate,” and I cannot hereafter deserve either thanks or acceptance. Less than that number of men appointed, I take it, will serve the turn, if the garrisons he placed are fit to impeach the assemblies, and some small pinnaces ordered to lie between Cautire and O'Donnel's country. But herein the order and the time hath most power. There be also others in Irer land that lie in wait, not suspected, which I most fear, and others most able and fit to mate them neglected and discouraged, which small matters would have hardened to great purpose, as the time will better witness. I had been able myself to have raised two or three bands of English, well armed, till I was driven to relinquish and recall my people; of which the loss shall not be alone to me, howsoever I am tumbled down the hill by every practice. We are so busied and dandled in these French wars, which are endless, as we forget the defence next the heart. Her Majesty hath good cause to remember that a million hath been spent in Ireland not many years since; a better kingdom might have been purchased at a less price, and that same defended with as many pence, if good order had been taken. But the question now may be, whether for so great expense the estate be not less assured than ever ? If Her Majesty consider it aright she shall find it no small dishonour to be vexed with so beggarly a nation, that have neither arms nor fortification, but that accursed kingdom hath always been but as a traffic for which Her Majesty hath paid both freight and custom, and others received the merchandize, and other than such shall it never be. The King of Spain seeketh not Ireland for Ireland, but having raised up troops of beggars in our backs, shall be able to enforce us to cast our eyes over our shoulders, while those before us strike us on the brains. We have also known the level of his subversion, but destiny is stronger than counsel, and good advice either neglected or weakly executed hath taught our enemies to arm those parts, which before lay bare to the sword. Prevention is the daughter of intelligence, which cannot be born without a mother, and the good woman hath so many patrons, as the one referreth her cherishing to another's trust, and in the mean time she liveth barren and fruitless.
Sir, these poor countries yield no news. I hear of a frigate that taketh up fishermen for pilots in the west. I am myself here at Sherburne, in my fortune's field; where ever I be, and while I am, you shall command me. I think I shall need your further favour for the little park, for law and conscience is not sufficient in these days to uphold me. Every fool knoweth that hatred are the cinders of affection, and therefore to make me a sacrifice shall be thanksworthy. Sir, I pray remember my duty to my lord admiral and to your father, if it please you.—From Sherburne this 10th of May.
P.S.—I am the worse for the bath and not the better.
Endorsed :—“1593.”
Holograph. 2 pp.
[Murdin, pp. 664–5, in extenso.]
Sir Robert Sydney to Sir Robert Cecil.
1593, May 11. I presume to make humble suit unto you, that whereas I am determined to try her Majesty's goodness towards me and to make proof if my services have wrought so much that she will think my wants worthy to be relieved, into which through them specially I am brought, you will recommend my cause unto your father, to favour me as he shall think me worthy. The matter of my suit is the manor of Panton and Trenos in Cornwall, of the yearly value of 100l. There is upon it a lease of 46 years yet to come, and I desire the manor but in fee farm, so as her Majesty reserves her rent for ever and gives nothing from herself till the 46 years be determined. The manor is no ancient crown land nor parcel of the possessions of the Duchy of Lancaster or Cornwall, neither hath it any especial house upon it, or any park or forest. But it belonged to the Bishop of Exeter and from him passed to my uncle, lord Guilford Dudley, by whose attainder it came unto the crown, so as her Majesty shall but restore me in fee farm unto a parcel of that which did appertain unto my house, which in far fuller manner she hath done to many other, and to myself yet neither restored anything nor bestowed any office or land of either of mine uncles, my father or my brother, which by their deaths fell unto her gift. I hope her Majesty will find this suit reasonable, and how much the more if it shall please my Lord Treasurer to think so of it. In respect of his not being well of late and that I understand that now he is full of matters which concern the good estate of all Christendom, I am bold to take this way of your favourable means unto him.— At Baynard's Castle, 11 May, 1593.
2 pp.
Sir Thomas Stanhope to Sir Robert Cecil.
1593, May 11. Upon receipt of the letters from your honour and other lords of the Privy Council for punishing the disorders committed for pulling down of my “wayre” (weir) on Easter Eve last, the justices who first received them subsigned the receipt thereof, appointing by their subscription to have sessions held at Nottingham on Thursday, May 10; and afterwards five of the said justices directed their warrant to the sheriff for the return of a jury at that day and place. This the sheriff crossing, wrote to the justices who had so. summoned this sessions, that upon conference with some justices of the other part of the shire the place of the sessions was altered to Newark, on the same day before appointed to Nottingham; which letter of the sheriff they received but three days before the sessions day, and for that some of them, careful of the due execution of your commandments, had before that time taken the examinations of sundry malefactors and many witnesses and bound them to appear at Nottingham on the day aforesaid, they thought it not reasonable to alter the place; and three of the five justices signified so unto the sheriff by their letter, requiring him to keep his place according to his first warrant, being afterward spoken to by two of them either to keep his sessions at Nottingham, or at least to return them a jury to Nottingham, where they must needs be to take the appearance of such as they had bound to appear there.' All this the sheriff refused and held his full sessions at Newark, where (so far as I can learn) he and all the justices there (neglecting altogether your letters) did not so much as prefer one examination touching the disorder aforesaid, albeit some justices found (both by examination of some of the malefactors and sundry witnesses) the disorder to be altogether as great as was formerly certified; but on the other side indicted my weir as a nuisance, as I understand, and me and my people for watching my weir being daily threatened. And albeit your letters command the justices to see the peace better kept hereafter, yet have there been daily since that time sundry of the Earl of Shrewsbury's servants threatening my workmen who repaired my weir with guns and other menacings; and there have been sundry days 40, 60, sometimes 100 persons, whereof I have sundry times written and sent to Mr. Henry Talbot and Mr. Perpont desiring them to remove them, which they have from time to time refused, so as upon Thursday last about 50 of the Earl's men and tenants digged there a new trench five or six yards wide; and albeit they were by three justices forbidden to proceed and proclamation afterwards made to the same effect, yet did they not discontinue till they had wrought their wells, by which passage my mills are now set dry. Some of these principals were shewed to the sheriff, and he willed by some of justices of peace to apprehend them, but would not. These courses seem strange and altogether without my experience in this country or I think of any other country of England. If this measure of justice be allowed me upon your honour's letters, what may I expect in my other causes that shall want the like authority ? I humbly crave such redress hereof as to your wisdom shall seem fit.—Shelford, 11 May, 1593.
2 pp.
M. Chasteaumartin to Lord Burghley.
1593, May 12/22. Recapitulates his letter of May 10 about the naval expedition. The said expedition is getting ready with all diligence, working even on Sundays, and will be ready towards the end of June. The Governor of Fontarabia is preparing the expedition and has taken up a quantity of boats for landing soldiers. The forces that were in Arragon are concentrating about the passage and St. Sebastian to embark in the expedition. They make great quantities of biscuit and take up other victuals necessary for an expedition. Their design is to come into this river [of Bordeaux] and fortify themselves in the places they consider most fit to harass the town. The Marquis de Villars and Sieur de Montpezat his brother assemble fresh forces to make a great army. Some forces have come to them from Languedoc and intend to concentrate on the river at the same time as the Spaniards will arrive there. The Spanish forces that will land will be about 2,500. The affairs of the province are in a poor condition, for the people are not all as well affectioned to the King's service as they ought to be. Mons. le Marechal is endeavouring to get 10,000 men together in a month to oppose this effort. Those of Bochelle have promised to help all they can. Has sent a man into Spain upon whose return he will write more fully.—Bordeaux, 22 May, 1593.
French. 1 p.
Edward Wynter to Sir Robert Cecil and Sir John Wolley.
1593, May 14. It grieves me not a little to understand by your letters the dislike her Majesty hath conceived against me touching my proceedings with Mr. Drake, especially not having first been any way satisfied by myself of the true causes of discontentments I have against him, but only from such who, being partial and perhaps parties in the cause, labour to disguise their drifts with cunning and shews of truth rather than with reason and apparent truth itself; whereby they have wrought her to condemn me, which I know out of her own princely sweetest disposition she would never have done (my offence being no greater than it is), except it were undermined by such indirect practices.
I cannot answer herein with more reason and humility than what I did before my coming from Court to the Lord Treasurer and Lord Admiral, which was, that seeing they were specially appointed from her Majesty to hear this matter, I would ever be contented they should rule and overrule me, after due examination if the wrongs done me, as they should every way think fittest. And therefore what needed Mr. Drake or his friends to have urged this any further or to procure letters of threats and admonitions, seeing they might well enough imagine that no servile fears can more prevail in my mind than the love of reason and virtue and the truest regard to my own reputation, which shall ever be most dearest unto me of anything in this world, next my eternal duty to her Majesty.
I speak most confidently, the wrongs offered me have been so great and of that nature (howsoever ye have been borne in hand with the contrary) as were not to be dissembled by any manly patience, neither could any other respect have made me “donne” it this long but the most dutiful fears I will ever have to displease her only, whom my very soul desires to please, and by whom I enjoy my life, liberty and whatever else I can take any manner of joy in.
Whereas ye write unto me ye will not hinder my other businesses nor prejudice my credit with revocation, I cannot but receive this favour with all thankfulness, although reason made me expect it at your hands. And judge, I beseech you, whether after almost four years of barbarous imprisonment, after the racking me with infinite devices to pay 4,500l. for my ransom and other charges, after the spending the sweetest time of my youth in all melancholy (in all which Mr. Drake hath been the principal meddler), if after all this out of my justest griefs I have perchance breathed some words only of choler, which otherwise might have burst out more violently, and yet ye have seen by my actions how temperately I have behaved myself hitherto; once again let me beseech you to judge but indifferently whether these extraordinary wrongs would not have moved a wiser man to have forgotten himself in a more extraordinary degree than I have done, and whether my offence be so great as might not justly move as great respect to be had of me as this was, especially seeking remedy, as I now do by this place, for the infirmities and lack of health my gentle prison have brought me unto.
So far from suspecting this that hath happened, I did confidently expect some public shew of her Majesty's most gracious honouring me (with some princely token of her goodness) whereby the world might have seen she did respect my twelve years serving her (both in her Court and in her wars) which had been the means not only to have eased my justest griefs, but must have encouraged me for the better enabling myself to do her service, beseeching ye not to hold me quarrelsome only because I grieve at my wrongs, but rather be ye helpers to redress them.
Touching the payments to be made Mr. Drake, it hath never been the least part of my meaning to withhold one farthing, neither would I have the world esteem me so base as to make more reckoning of saving myself some few hundreds of pounds than of my reputation and true credit. Mr. Drake hath wronged me, and that I would that he should be made to see; if he hath not, I can love him and reckon of him as I have heretofore ever done.
To conclude, seeing I find it her Majesty's pleasure that I conform myself in this business to her will, I do most dutifully humble myself to all her commandments. And for your honours, ye shall ever have that power to command me ye can have of the humblest servant or friend ye have in England.—Bath, 14 May.
Endorsed :—“1593.”
3 pp.
Sir George Carew to Mr. Beadwell.
1593, May 15. Warrant to deliver out of her Majesty's store of Ordnance (by virtue of a warrant dated 26 March, 1593,) to Anthony Pawlet, esq., captain of the Isle of Jersey, one demicannon of brass, 50 round shot of iron for demiculverins, 100 for sakers, 50 for minion, &c., as herein specified.—Minorites, 15 May.
½ p.
Sir George Carew to [Lord Burgiiley ?].
1593, May 16. Setting forth details and complaining of the conduct of the Surveyor and Keeper of the Store in sending back certain warrants cancelled, saying they were not sufficient; alleging for his reason (as I am informed) because they were not entered in his office, which is his own fault.
That which grieveth me is the contemptible dealing of the keeper of the store, who (if he be an officer) is but to keep and deliver, and not to comptroll or equal his authority with mine, who (until her Majesty make a Master) am the first in the office. . Heretofore in the like unrespective manner he hath often used me, which I have swallowed; but if this pass smoothly with him I shall receive the Queen's fee and deserve but little. By your lordship I was placed and by you my hope is to be protected in my office. If there were anything in my warrant defective, upon his request I would have amended it; but to return it in this indecent manner I hope you will conceive as I do, that he hath much forgotten himself.—From the Minories, 16 May, 1593.
Not addressed. 2 pp.
Robert Wilkinson to Lord Burghley.
1593, May 17. Petition. The towns of Sheringham and Beeston, Norfolk, received licence to transport barley, towards the charges of re-edifying and maintaining the decayed piers and harbours there, part of which licence he purchased, but he is restrained from transporting, by Burghley's order. Prays removal of the restraint.
Endorsed :—17 May 1593.
Note by Burghley :—“To be considered by the Chancellor of the Exchequer.”
1 p.
Boston.
[1593, May 20.] To the Eight Honourable the Lord Burghley, Lord High Treasurer of England.
In most humble wise, we the officers of Her Majesty's decayed port of Boston, beseech your Honour to vouchsafe the consideration of these disorders hereafter following, for the good and benefit of the said port, without reformation whereof, Her Majesty's revenues therein is likely more and more to be decreased, viz.: The answers of Anthony Irbie and Richard Stevenson, for the corporation of Boston.
Whereas we, the Customers, stand bound to Her Majesty in recognizance etc. to certify, into the Exchequer, such seizures as shall, by us or to our knowledge, be made within the port of Boston, and the Searcher the last Easter term compelled to enter into new bonds, as well to seize, certify, and inform, as to answer Her Majesty the moiety of such profits as shall thereby arise; the Corporation of Boston do challenge, by grant from Her Majesty, the benefit of such seizures, and have, after the said searcher hath for her Majesty made seizure upon cause given, not only refused, upon request, to aid him in the execution thereof, but also have offered to take the goods so seized forth of his possession, into their own custody, and after to determine thereof, as they should think good. Our desire therefore is, that we the said officers may be either discharged of our recognizances in that point, or else that letters may be sent unto the said Corporation, or some other course taken, whereby we may freely without any let, execute our duties in that behalf, as we be required, having withal, as need shall require, the assistance of the magistrates in our proceedings therein. The Corporation will not stand upon their grant to hinder traffic, but will abide always your honourable order therein. But it is best the young officers follow the precedents of their sage predecessors, Alexander Skinner and Robert Towneiy. The rest of this article we deny, and we promise aid in all seizures not doubtful in law.
Also, whereas the said Corporation have and do seek means for further confirmation of their grants and liberties, that it may be foreseen how far the same shall extend to the prejudice of the port, or the officers thereto belonging; for if they have any such the said port is likely to be clearly overthrown, for of the inhabitants, there are not above three that do venture and use any traffic in the said port, and so evil be strangers entreated by the townsmen, who be rather animated than reformed by the magistrates, that the said strangers be ready to give over their traffic, in regard of their hard using therein. Your honourable care for all ports might have sufficed them, as it doth us. We make no suit to enlarge our liberties. It standeth us more in hand to maintain the port than the young officers. The merchant hath not nor never will complain of us. The rest is untrue and slanderous.
The Vice Admiral, his deputies, and servants, have used, and do threaten to continue, to enter aboard the ships and make search, without any officer of the Custom house, after that the merchants have their discharge and are gone down into the roads, within the jurisdiction of the port, and not into the seas; whereby they have in very riotous manner by themselves or other disordered persons, by them required thereunto, very evil and badly entreated the merchants and pilots, to their great grievance, prejudice and discouragement to frequent the port in time after. The article concerning the Admiral containeth the injuries which we suffer, who are overborne by high and low.
And whereas the patentee his farmer for salt of the said port hath used to sell the same to such persons as would repair unto him therefor, it is now restrained that he neither shall henceforth carry or sell to any person that will so do, unto certain shires, as Cambridge, Northampton, Huntingdon and some other near bordering unto the County of Lincoln, to the which the rivers or waters doth yield ordinary conveyance from the said port, the which not relieved and permitted as heretofore accustomed, the said port will be more and more impoverished or rather overthrown, for the Scots, who usually bring in the said salt, be the chiefest merchants that have and do traffic with the said port these latter years. This is true as toucheth salt, and we instantly beseech that it may be redressed, and that Grene's promise made by Sir Thomas Wilkes, may be performed to Grene and Stevenson, associate to Greene, for the town's just right and to keep it indemnified.
Lastly, whereas we have certain deputies in certain creeks, belonging to the port of Boston, which by other county services cannot intend so duly such matters as they have in charge as they ought; our desire is that we may obtain warrant unto us to free those our said deputies from such manner and offices, as in such case is granted to the Surveyor and their deputies.
[The date is taken from a modern endorsement.] 1 p.
Thomas Fane to Lord Cobham, Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports.
1593, May 20. I have been this day about seven o'clock in the afternoon advertised by a Frenchman of Boulogne, that arrived here at Dover to fetch beer, that the Leaguers which were assembled in those parts have dissolved their companies on Friday last in the afternoon, whereof certain report was brought yesterday to Boulogne. He further affirmeth that the number of the Leaguers were never above 5,000, and that their main forces were never within ten miles of Boulogne, but that sundry stragglers came near unto the town, whereof divers were taken and brought prisoners into Boulogne. It is given out generally in Boulogne and the parts adjoining that her Majesty had sent great forces as well of men as of munition in aid of the French King, all which were landed on Thursday last, and this rumour hath principally, as it is thought, caused the Leaguers to break up their forces.
And the ground of this report proceeded chiefly for that two of her Majesty's ships and one of her pinnaces which commonly keep the narrow seashore, did shew themselves and anchored before Boulogne on Thursday last; the only sight of whom there hath wrought as it is thought this good effect, together with some news likewise spread of the French King's present repairing thither with certain forces of horse. And this is all that at this time I have been informed of by the said Frenchman, whose name is Neave, and which often hath used to fetch beer from hence.—Dover Castle, 20 May, 1593.
Endorsed :—“For her Majesty's affairs; hast, hast post hast, hast. Delivered at Dover the 20th of May at nine of the clock in the evening. At Canterbury at almost one of the clock. Syttyngbourne past four in the morning. Rochester past syxe half anower, the 21 day, in the forenoon. Darforde 10 o'clock in the mornynge.”
1 p.
Richard Shuttleworth to Sir Robert Cecil.
1593, May 20. I have received two letters from you on behalf of Lord Stafford, and have had care of him touching his restitution. At these assizes his adversary was ready to have proceeded to the trial of the cause, but my lord's counsel doubting that the last general pardon by her Majesty hath taken away the benefit of restitution from my lord, for that the forcible entry is pardoned, and also that the indictment is insufficient, was not willing to proceed but required further time of consideration in my lord's behalf; which was granted him.—From the Poole in the county of Montgomery, 20 May 1593.
1 p.
Lord Burghley to Sir Robert Cecil.
1593, May 21. I send to you two papers, the one to be signed by her Majesty for a warrant to my lord Cobham for the levy of 300 men for the succour of Boulogne; and as I was ready to send it, my lord Cobham, being with me at dinner, had the other letter brought to him, purporting the acquitting of Boulogne. I send therefore both, supposing if the latter shall prove true the other shall be needless.
And I am glad that the French king shall see how careful her Majesty was to preserve his town. Hereunto let me know her Majesty's answer.
And if this succour shall not need, I see no cause to increase her Majesty's charge on the sea as was intended. I pray you tell her Majesty, that upon the kind speeches of her Majesty towards me reported by your letters, though I am in pain in body, yet I am both in pain and comfort in mind; in pain that I cannot come in person to her service, in comfort that I cannot do ray duty, yet she accepteth my willing mind for a work.
God give you His grace and blessing, and so do I. Your lov[ing] father W. Burghley.—21 May 1593.
P.S.—I pray you require Mr. Wolley to send to me my lord Scroop's letters.
Holograph and addressed by Burghley.
Seal, 1 p.
Lord Hunsdon, Sir Robert Cecil, and Sir John Wolley to the Lord Keeper, Lord Treasurer, Lord Buckhurst and Sir John Fortescue.
1593, May 22. Her Majesty having understood what order was taken on Sunday last, after her charge delivered for sending up of the sheriff of Nottingham with certain other persons to answer their several misdemeanours about cutting of a trench near the river of Trent, and using other means to the overthrow of the weir in Shelford, upon information now, that what already is done by the offenders hath sufficiently effected what was desired, the course of the water being now so quite diverted, hath commanded us, who now are here present at Court, to signify to your lordships that it is her express pleasure that letters shall be directed by you to the sheriff and justices to take order presently that the new trench be stopped, and the weir left in the same state it was before the course was altered by the disorderly proceeding of Easter Even, and since, and that they have also diligent regard hereafter to prevent and remedy any like practice upon the same, until the matter may be orderly determined by law, as is intended, holding it no small abuse that while the matter was referred by Her Majesty to the consideration of some of your lordships, in the meanwhile there should be such base persons presume to satisfy their own wills. As Her Majesty's pleasure was that the sheriff should make his repair to her to answer his slow proceedings, so he is to be still enjoined to come up, but not before such time as he and the justices shall see the trench made up, the weir repaired, and the watercourse turned again as it was before. We leave it to your wisdom how to proceed for Her Majesty's satisfaction, who saith she is more displeased to see so great partiality and backwardness in the sheriff and justices to examine so extraordinary a gathering together of people out of divers places.—From the Court at Nonsuch, 22nd of May 1593.
Copy. 1 p.
William Cecil to Sir Robert Cecil, his uncle.
1593, May 22. Desires to shew his thankfulness by doing Cecil the best service he is able “as the lawful daughter of a benefit and good turn.” His kindness rather invites him to be beholden to Cecil than to any other for completing his liberty.—From Westminster.
Endorsed :—“22 May, 1593.”
1 p.
Lord Burghley to Sir Robert Cecil.
1593, May 22. I have entered into the consideration of the Earl Bothwell's cause, and I have uttered the state thereof into some writing with my own hand, which I dare not commit to be better written by any other here with me, Therefore if you may have leisure to come hither, I would more boldly impart the same to you to be shewed to her Majesty.
And yet I find the matter as in a labyrinth, easier to enter into it than to go out.—22 May, 1593.
P.S.—Now that you and your wife are at the Court, and my youngest children at Thebalds, I am here as an owl, though companied with excess of suitors.
Holograph. 2/3 p.
G. Fenner to the Privy Council.
1593. May 22. Upon receipt of your lordship's letters of the 20th of this present, I passed over to Boulogne with the Moon, and arrived there the 21st at 12 o'clock, where (for more assurance of such matters as your directions imported) I went ashore and made known to Madam Roularte the cause of my arrival, with her Majesty's gracious pleasure for the good of that place; which in all shew was a very welcome news to them. Whereupon the Lady Governess hath written particular letters to her Majesty, as also two other letters to the Lord Ambassador of France, which I have sent you enclosed.
Their chiefest wants for maintenance of that place (as far as I can perceive) is money and powder; but the greatest doubt absolutely, is no assurance of themselves or plain mistrust of treachery.
They say generally that the enemy is strong, 2000 horse and 8000 foot, and doth intend a resolute siege unto that place. But (pardon me if I say my opinion by all apparent conjecture) the enemy is not above 5500 strong, horse and foot, by computation of such regiments and bands as his army is there known to consist of; notwithstanding, if he were less, yet seem they strong enough to force that place, where is neither men, munition, fortification, or aught else of defence, but only a strong situation, which is countermanded with a jealous opinion of false hearts. If the enemy present the cannon before that place with any resolution to maintain the same, there is no expectation that they will hold out long without supply of men, for there are not 300 soldiers within the town beside their garrison of 60 horse and some 20 voluntary drawn thither of late for their own safety. Mr Vivasone came thither one Friday from Mr Grourdone to consider of their estate and advise them in their affairs, but brought no supply of anything.
Madame Roularte entreated me to shew your lordships their great want of good gunners, and doth earnestly desire to be furnished of two sufficient English gunners, which she hath forgotten to crave of her. Majesty in her letters.
The enemy doth expect some 5000 men and certain cannons to come to him out of the Low Countries under the conduct of Count del Fuentes, which force was levied for the relief of Grirtenberg, but failing of their expectation in any matter of moment there, they are to be employed in these services, as also certain others under the conduct of M. La Motte to come from about Sluys.
The enemy is strongly lodged within a league of the town, his nearest troops, and the rest at their own liking round about; where they have surprised and seized all places and pieces of strength that may advantage him or impeach the descending of any forces into that country for relief of that town. He hath at this instant assieged the castle of Hardelott where he began to batter on Monday morning, but there is no knowledge of the success as yet except an infallible conceit of the loss of it, having but 80 soldiers in defence of it, whereof 25 came from Mr. Gourdone, and the walls old and small strength, being wholly but a little round pile.
I rode forth with their garrison of 60 horse (which for their number are very strong) to view the enemy as far as their court of guard; which the enemy requited that evening, and bad the town play with a troop of 50 Italian horse within musket shot of the town, until the ordinance beat them from the place.—Aboard the Moon in Dover Road,. 22 May 1593.
2½ pp.
John Sedley, Executor of Richard Colepepper, to [Lord Burghley].
1593, May 22. Petition. Complains of the action of Sir William Bowes (son and heir of Sir George Bowes, some of whose lands are subject to a bond given to Colepepper), in obtaining the discharge of the lands out of the Exchequer. Prays that the cause may be heard.
Endorsed :—22 May 1593.
Note by Burghley :—“To be heard and reported by Mr. Baron Clarke.” 2 pp.
M. Chasteaumartin to Lord Burghley.
1593, May 24/June 3. No change in affairs since his last despatches. Nothing new in the affairs of Blaye except that those of the Court and the Jurats of Bordeaux have promised Mons. le Marechal (in place of the money he required from them) to furnish him with 1200 men for this siege, paid and entertained for two months, hoping he will have carried the place in that time, if it be not succoured by the Spaniards, because of the scarcity inside it. The gentlemen who had promised to bring Mons. le Marechal forces have not yet come, which is the reason he has not made a great effort : they do not seem too eager to come. The Spanish army is always getting ready for the Passage, a little more slowly than was hoped. The coming of twelve ships from Rochelle has somewhat cooled them, and also the King of Spain is waiting for the Marquis of Villars' answer to his message, and will not cause the expedition to advance till it be returned. Only 800 soldiers are ready to embark as yet, and not half the sailors they want, which makes people believe they will make no great effort, and that if they relieve Blaye it will be all they can do. Will write to him from Bayonne.— Bordeaux, 3 June 1593.
French. 1 p.
Guernsey.
[1593,] May 24. A note of remembrance to the lords of the Privy Council for Guernsey. To appoint that there be licence granted to transport victual for the 300 soldiers, presently to be sent to Guernsey : wheat, 200 quarters; beer, 300 tons; beeves, 40; butter, 40 barrels; cheese, 5 weighs.
That by her Majesty's order, the Governor appoint some fit person to be Provost Marshal, for the better keeping of the soldiers and others in good order and discipline.
That commission be granted unto Sir Thoma3 Leighton to take two sufficient carts and ten post horses to carry his armour and servants unto the seaside, and two ships for transporting victual and other necessaries.
That the 300 soldiers, appointed out of Wiltshire and Dorsetshire, may be appointed to be at Southampton by the last of this present month of May, and that before that time, shipping for transportation be appointed to be in readiness.
Endorsed :—“24 May 1593.”
1 p.
Lord Cobham to Sir Robert Cecil.
1593, May 25. Yesterday, dining with my lord your father, he received her Majesty's letters directed to me for the levying of 300 men in Kent, whereof I have given knowledge to my deputy lieutenants, and they, I hope, will see that service performed as further occasion shall be given.
This morning I received a letter from my lieutenant which I think my lord will acquaint you with.
I did once move you for South Mimms; now it is renewed unto me from my Lady Windsor. Your resolution therein is required. I pray let me be commended to my daughter your wife. The sickness drives me hence to Cobham.—25 May.
Endorsed :—1593.
Seal. ½ p.
Giovanni Battista Giustiniani to Sir Robert Cecil.
1593, May 26. Hoped that he would have been there that day, so that he might have told him by word of mouth what Signor Horatio [Pallavicino] had charged him with concerning the business of the pepper. As he did not come, he writes to inform him what Fortescue, on the offer made by Signor Horatio, had sent answer by Mr. Middleton, namely, that Her Majesty did not wish more than 10,000l. to be taken in discharge of her debt, and wished for 20,000l. in August, and the remainder of the 90,000l. at three intervals of six months, to which the Lord Treasurer is greatly inclined. To this Signor Horatio cannot agree, but the writer hopes, upon conference had with Fortescue and him, to be able to submit another proposition to Signor Horatio.
Holograph. Seal. 1 p.
Lord Burghley to [Sir Robert Cecil.]
1593, May 26. I do send, to be shewed to Her Majesty, letters from Mr. Edmonds with two other writings, the one for assurance to them of the religion reformed, which is plain, the other at great length, for hope of the King's conversion, which to my understanding is, of purpose, obscure. The allegation of the Popish ministers at Paris, noting that Her Majesty did promise favour and afterwards did shew extremities to the Catholics, is false; for Her Majesty, at her entry, prohibited all change of the form of religion as she found it by law. And when by law it was otherwise ordered by Parliament, she did command the observation of the law newly established, punishing only the offenders according to the law. And [when] afterwards the offenders, in matter of the rites of the Church, did become rebels and traitors, and conspired Her Majesty's death and procured invasion of the realm by strong forces, the realm, by Parliament, provided more sharp laws against such rebels and traitors. And so Her Majesty's actions are justifiable in all times, having never punished any evil subject, but by warrant of law.
I have taken order for two cannoniers to pass to Dover, but whether they shall pass directly to Boulogne, or expect answer from the lady, I would know Her Majesty's pleasure. The powder also shall be sent to Dover, to some of the Queen's pinnaces.
I send you a letter written to me by Standen from Calais, although his name must be “pressed.” He sent word to Anthony Bacon ten days' past from Bilbao of his intention to come secretly hither to inform Her Majesty of many matters, if Her Majesty should so allow it. If he may come secretly hither, I think it were good he were heard, and “betrowed,” as the Scottishman saith, as he shall give cause. Hereof I pray you send me word speedily. I send you also a letter of Mr. Fane's to my Lord Cobham, containing the news about Calais.
I marvel that by Mr. Edmund's letter, I find “ar” [no ?] touch of these actions of the enemy in Picardy, which either are unknown, and that is strange, being not two days' journey from the French King, or else very unprincely neglected, with a supposition that the Queen's Majesty will take the whole care hereof. Unhappy is the time when Her Majesty is forced to join with such as have no other regard of her state, but to ease themselves with throwing the burdens upon her. I marvel that Edmunds maketh no mention of the King's former intention to send a gentleman to Her Majesty, neither do I see that the Ambassadors here are acquainted from the King by his intentions, but herein I may be thought too busy, and therefore I end.—From Westminster Hall 26 May 1593, past ten of the clock.
P.S.—If I may not have some leisure to cure my head, I shall shortly ease it in my grave, and yet, if Her Majesty mislike of my absence, I will about Tuesday or Wednesday venture to come thither.
Endorsed :—“The Lord Treasurer to my master.”
Holograph. 2 pp.
[Murdin, pp. 666–7, in extenso.]
H. Maynard [Lord Burghley's private secretary], to Sir Robert Cecil.
1593, May 26. My lord [Burghley] hath this afternoon had the searcher of London, Mr. Robinson, before him touching the seizure of Mons. St. Aubin's goods, which de Humieres was to have sent out for him; but the searcher answereth that Humieres hath heretofore used the like trade of conveying goods under false names, and so allegeth this to be, as cunningly packed in certain armours, whereby his information being already preferred into the Exchequer my lord cannot release the same, only her Majesty's moiety, arising as I take it to some 30l. or thereabouts, may be discharged by her Majesty's warrant and not otherwise. Mr. Reinolds, my lord of Essex's secretary, was this day with me to move my lord in the matter, which maketh me to write thus much to you as supposing he will require the answer from you.
For Mr. Noel's suit for the stone jugs, &c., my lord looketh daily to be informed of something from the officers of the port of London, when he will further let you understand his opinion thereof.
I beseech you let my humble duty be remembered to your good lady, and for your son I understand he doth very well.—From the Strand, this 26th of May, late at night.
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Mr. Gilpin to the Earl of Essex.
1593, May 26. The comfort I received by your letter of the 11th of this present was such that nothing can be now more welcome unto me than some fit occasion to verify the earnest desire I have to deserve well. Mr. Bodly hath taken leave of the States and is a preparing to depart hence within these four or five days, as himself will certify your lordship; and when he shall be arrived there, will not only inlarge all the particularities of the present state of these countries, but also open his opinion sincerely what he thinketh concerning the discharge of this service here, and how necessary it is that the place be supplied, which maketh me the less to trouble you at this time. My self will be always most ready to take any pains, but if I should not be countenanced with that authority and means requisite for the due performance of that might be expected in this service, I would rather wish the charge unto another than have such a burden laid upon me, wherewith I should not be able with any credit to go through. Howbeit, I do rest altogether on her Majesty's most gracious goodness and princely pleasure, and that as your lordship hath begun (at the motion of Mr. Bodly, to whom I am greatly beholden,) to do me good, so you will vouchsafe to furder it unto the desired end.—From the Hague, 26 May, 1593.
Seal. 1 p.
H. Noell to Sir Robert Cecil.
1593, May 26. His soon sending is not because he is less assured or thankful for his favour, but the determination of his business not being in Cecil's power alone, what he is advanced by hope in him he has lost through fear in the rest. Prays him, if yet any impediment remain of his despatch, to offer the consideration of extreme poverty, sickness of body and mind,—a greater moment, he hopes, in a gracious prince's nature by their relation to herself and service, than the value of his demand by a reasonable means.—London, 26 May.
Endorsed :—“1593.”
1 p.
Dr. Christopher Parkins to Lord Burghley.
1593, May 27. After I had taken leave of your honour the 2nd inst. I sought all means possible for my good transportation to Stoad, but by reason of the mariners' affairs, as also the inconstancy of the winds, it was the 10th before I could set forth out of Lee, and the 18th out of Harwich towards Stoad; where I arrived the 22nd. Since which time I have with all speed possible settled myself for the well ordering of my voyage, as well for exchange of current money in this country as for other difficulties, insomuch as it was not possible for me soundly to dispatch with such expedition as I most earnestly desired; yet by God's good blessing I shall enter into my voyage to-morrow, not to rest till I come to the Emperor's Court. I beseech you to understand that as the course of this her Majesty's service may require, I have grounded the mean of my provision upon Mr. Alderman Radcliff's credit, leaving order with him to take up for me whatsoever may wax due unto me; wherein if he be not answered so far as in reason he may require, it will be to the impairing of my credit, my greatest riches. And thus, most desirous to do her Majesty good service and to satisfy your honour's expectation, I pray God heartily long to preserve you.—From Stoad, 27 May, 1593.
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Earl of Essex to Sir Robert Cecil.
[1593, May 29.] I send Captain St. John unto you for his direction and despatch; I pray favour him in it. My Lord Admiral and I this night speaking with him found him very willing to go anywhither that her Majesty should send him and upon any conditions whatsoever. But the charge he shall be at living in that place will be very great, and the entertainment of a captain of 100 foot is small, so as if he have not besides his company some good allowance he doth make an ill bargain, besides the dangers to which he shall expose himself. We did both resolve to join in a letter unto you to move my Lord your father to consider of the gentleman's poor state, unfit to bear such a out some help. My Lord Admiral is gone to bed and fast asleep, and therefore, though I write only, use my lord's name and mine to your father in it.
Endorsed :—“29 May 1593.”
Seal. 1 p.
Charles Lord Howard, Lord Admiral, to Sir Robert Cecil.
[1593, May.] I send your letter again and it concurreth just with a note that I sent my lord your father in my letter to him. If Bowlyne (Boulogne) be not looked unto in time it will be gone, and then we shall greatly repent it. I could wish it were rather relieved in time any way than to cost us so dear as it will if the enemy possess it.
If I be at the Court before you I will either stay at my chamber or say nothing, and yet I think my lord doth find by my note I sent him that I knew this much before; but I protest not from him, for I am sure he was not come over when this came. The gentleman doth write very wisely and I know him to be very sufficient. The preparations at Dunkirk doth argue something to be done not far off, and what intelligence soever some hath, I am sure of that to be true that I have. I pay well for it, and if it be not believed it shall cost me no more. Farewell, good Sir Ro.
Endorsed :—“I look that Bowlyne will be gone and after our Islands, and peradventure Calys too. We are very negligent; God amend it; we are ever too late.—Male, 1593.”
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Roger Walton to Sir Robert Cecil,
[1593, ? May.] I came yesterday out of France, and arrived at Dover. The news of Picardy is that the Count Charles and his forces are not yet returned into Flanders; but it is thought he must depart to help his father the Count Mansfield at the siege of Gittrambark in Brabant, for that the Grave Maurice and Sir Francis Vere hath hedged them almost round about, so that they cannot come to victual the town. Sir William Stanley departed Antwerp with his regiment of English and Scotch, the 15th of this May, to the camp in Brabant, being not above 800 strong. The Count Charles sent out of Picardy on the 18th of this May, 22 waggons laden with the spoil that he hath gotten in the three castles of Boulogne. They had besides to the number of 5,000 horses, mares, oxen and kine, to the great impoverishment of the country there. This convoy had 100 of foot and two cornet of horse. The Count Charles hath taken all the ordnance out of the Castles of Staples, Weare and Somers to the number of seventeen, and six he brought with him, so he marches now with twenty-three great pieces of ordnance to besiege either Gynes or Arder, and to surprise it in his way homewards. The Governor of Calais keepeth men, women and children both night and day at work to fortify the walls of Calais, and on Sunday morning last he caused four great cannons to be brought out of the Castle into the town and mounted them upon the walls in the weakest places, and the people of the town is in great fear of the leaguers coming thither. On Sunday last there came 1,000 horse of the enemy before the town of Calais. The Governor hath gotten divers horsemen, soldiers of Boulogne, to come to serve him at Calais. The Count Mansfield in Brabant is not above 6,000 strong, being 4,000 foot and 2,000 horse, and generally for the most part in all the King's towns in Flanders that be garrisons are drawn to make this force that they have in the field. It is certified for truth to the Governor of Calais that if the old Count Mansfield do not avail in Brabant, then he cometh from thence to meet his son in Flanders, and joins his forces with his son and to besiege Ostend.
And now in all humbleness it is not unknown to your honour there hath been divers books of late written against Her Majesty and divers lords of the Council. It was delivered unto me by a Dunkirker, an Englishman dwelling in the town, that one who was consenting to the making of those books so detestable and untrue against the state of England, is presently to go into Spain from the Court in the Low Countries, and for that he would go the safer, he taketh shipping at Calais in one of M. Gurdon's ships that is bound for Spain, and if it please your honour he may be there stayed, and sent over unto your honour.
Signed. Seal. 2 pp.
Le Chevalier Guicciardin to —.
[? 1593, Before June.] Monsieur :—Le Grand Due, Monseigneur, fait taut d'estime de votre prudence et valeur, de l'ancienne amitié qu'il a avec vous, et de votre singuliere bonté, qu'il lui a semblé a propos que soyez averti d'un traite que prepare en France une partie des principaux seigneurs du Royaume, au cas que le roi persiste da vantage en {'irresolution de sa conversion tant necessaire. Lequel traité tendra à un troisieme parti, qui déjà se serait ensuivi, si le Grand Duc ne l'avait retardé avec l'esperance de la dite conversion, laquelle avec beaucoup de raison son altesse pourrait esperer se devoir ensuivre premier qu'a cette heure. Car recherchant prudemment Sa Majesté toutes choses, elle pensait qu'il devait voir clairement, qu'il n'y avait aucun conseil de conscience, d'état, ou d'honneur, qui le dût persuader de faire autrement; puisque de cette action depend son salut, celui du royaume, et de tant de bons cavaliers qui l'ont suivi sous cette esperance, et les certaines assurances qu'il leur en avait données. Lesquels, au contraire, se trouvent aujourdhui si scandalisés de cette longueur, qu'ils veulent penser à leurs affaires, ne leur semblant pas raisonable d'obeir plus longuement à un roi non Catholique, avec perte de leurs maisons et de leurs vies, qui vont tous les jours diminuant à la grande ruine du royaume de France, que par ce moyen s'affaiblit de jour en jour. Ce qui est cause que les princes Italiens vont aussi perdant tout l'espoir qu'avec beaucoup de raison ils ont toujours eu en la force de celui, pour la conservation de leurs états. Ce troisième parti se va fabricant et s'ensuivra, comme vous verrez, bientôt, auquel se joindront la plus grande part des Français Catholiques qui n'ont ni veulent avoir adherence ni participation avec la Ligue, et par ainsi ils trouveront lieu ou se pouvait retirer en abandonnant le parti du Roi, comme ils desirent, grandement desesperés de son obstination. Les Princes Italiens, peu affectionnés à la Ligue, qui pour raison d'état et conscience ne peu vent entièrement s'unir avec le Roi, auront plus d'avantage d'entrer en ce troisieme parti que de vivre sous les perils auxquels l'ambiguité et irresolution du Roi les a mis. Car avec eux concourreront le Pape et les autres Princes Catholiques, lesquels, sans doute, ayant plus de moyen de continuer la depense de la guerre, seront beaucoup plus forts que n'est Sa Majesté. Par ou Ton peut clairement voir qu'il s'achemine par une voie fort difficile, comme aussi les elfects des choses passées l'ont montré. Car, ayant eu toute la noblesse de France unie a soi, on lui a neanmoins secouru Paris, avec une extreme gloire et felicité de ses ennemis, on lui a pris Corbeil au meme temps, sans qu'il Fait peu secourir, et finalement il a eu un si grand malheur qu'il a failli Rouen et perdu Caudebec, comme avec tant d'insolences publient ici ses ennemis et ceux qui veulent diminuer le vertu et prudence de sa Majesté, et ensemble detruire ce si fleurissant royaume. Au moyen de quoi, il est facile a connaitre que puisqu'avec toute la force de la noblesse Catholique qui l'a assisté jusques ici, il n'a pas peu faire d'autres progrès, qu'il ne fera pas desormais grande chose, quand il sera privé d'un si fort bras, comme il sera par le moyen d'un troisieme parti, lequel, avec cela lui étant ennemi, ce lui sera toujours double perte; chose qui ne donne plus de lieu aux amis de cette couronne de se taire, ou dissimuler la tres grande erreur qui se commet en cela, puisque, faute d'une seule action dont Sa Majesté est si fort obligée a son peuple, il laisse de vaincre toutes les forces et artifices des ennemis de lui et du royaume, et perd, de plus, toutes les assistances, secours et declarations qu'il pourrait attendre de ses vrais amis Catholiques, lesquels pour la meme cause sont con train ts de tenir leur bonne volonté couverte. Vous devez done le remonstrer vivement au Roi, et lui dire que des plus sages et de ceux qui discourent des choses sans passion il se juge qu'il est perdu et le royaume ruiné, si, en bref, il ne prend l'expedient de cette conversion; car avec elle tout l'effort cesse avec lequel on cherche si ardemment sa ruine. Et ne doit point le Roi douter que declarant sa volonté disposée a se faire Catholique, le Pape ne soit pas pour l'embrasser et recevoir, car encore qu'il seinble autrement, il le fera. Mais les duretés de sa Majesté sont causes qu'il fait et fera des choses par aventure du tout contraires å son inclination; d'autant que par raison d'état, il est encore luimeme obligé a ne se separer d'Espagne, n'ayant pas assurance de pouvoir avoir le Roi, ni le royaume de France Catholique.
Vous sçaurez aussi qu'au Royaume de Naples, il se leve quatre mil hommes de pied, sous la charge de Lofredo, destinés pour la Provence, avec cinq mil Allemands conduits par le comte de Loudron, et trois mil autres ltaliens qui se font au Duché de Milan; lesquels douze mil hommes, avec le plus d'autres forces que pourra le Due de Savoie, sont toutes pour la Provence, qui malaisement pourra cette fois resister a ce grand effort, qui se fait par mer et par terre, pour la subjuger. D'ou sa Majesté peut consulter le peril auquel tomberont toutes les autres provinces de Languedoc et Dauphiné, qui sans doute viendront a souffrir sous ce meme effort qui se fait pour la Provence, comme echelle plus importante pour monter aux autres degrés ou ils pretendent, vu memes que Ton voit, voire on touche avec le doigt les pauvres secours qui du coté du Roi pourront être subministrés a aucune de ces provinces; car du coté de deça il n'y a plus ami qui veuille aider le parti du Roi, tandis qu'il demeurera en la contumace ou il est avec l'eglise Catholique; car chacun en fait conscience et commence a connaitre que e'est volonté de Dieu qu'il ne puisse parvenir a subjuger les peuples Catholiques, étant d'autre religion, et ne semble pas aussi qu'il convienne a des princes qui ont toujours fait profession d'etre Catholique et de donner aide et faveur pour debeller des peuples Catholiques. Et si Sa Majesté considere bien toutes ces choses, eile s'efforcera de donner telle seureté à ceux qui ont eu desir et volonté de la servir, que sans plus de dilation, elle fera par effet ce que de parole elle a tant de fois dit, et donné espoir de devoir faire. Car de deça on ne voit aucun remedé a ses affaires, ni aussi peu si reconnait il d'ailleurs. De Florence ce . . . . .
Signed :—Le Chevalier Guichardin. 3 pp.
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