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George, Earl of Cumberland to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1595/6, Jan. 16. |
I did undoubtedly believe these stormy and contrary winds (against which there is no possibility for man to work) would not have left any expectation of my being farther than I am; but since it is thought otherwise, let this satisfy you. Upon my credit there are many poor men whose living is only trading in small barks along the shore, and may, being able to put into every creek, adventure when great ships dare not, hath lain laden this six weeks and cannot get 10 leagues to the westward, but still put back. As it doth not a little grieve [me] (that have at no small charge prepared these ships to do her Majesty service) to have it thought I would lose the least opportunity in effecting it, so the conceit of my spoiling Flemings heartily troubleth me, to think (never yet having run that course) I should now be no better thought of. This only comforteth me, my actions shall clear all these unjust informations and hereafter discredit what those reporters speak of me. I have received her Majesty's warrant for strengthening my last commission; it doth appoint to return by the end of March, which, if God permit, I will not fail of, except her Majesty allow further liberty, which I think may be for her service. |
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Since coming hither I met a man born in Hamburgh, who hath two brothers gone masters of the ships that went about Ireland with the King's provisions, and undoubtadly assures me they came out of Lisbon
the latter end of March rich laden; besides nigh the same time there comes thither another fleet from Hamburgh. This man, though it cost me dear, I have got to go with me, and he biddeth me strike off his head if I meet them not; so I will stay upon the coast for them, which without her Majesty's further leave I dare not do, though great pity it were to miss them. Wherefore I pray you let me receive her Highness' pleasure by your letter. In all humbleness I beseech you present my humble duty to her sacred Majesty, for whose service I desire only to live.—From aboard the Malis-Scourge, 16 January, 1595. |
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Holograph. 1 p. (29. 125.) |
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Ottwell Smyth to the Earl of Essex. |
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1595/6, Jan. 16. |
I being at Rouen told the Duke de Montpensier how I was going for England, so [he] desired me to carry this letter to you; and because I have some business here for fifteen days, I have sent you the letter enclosed. As yet the river is not stopped before La Fere; I fear that siege will wear out the King, for victuals for the King's army groweth very scarce, and no forage for the horses left. Yet the King doth determine to weary them out and to famish them. The Cardinal d'Autriche is arrived in Flanders with 8,000 men. Enclosed I send you a letter M. de Incarvylle hath written, wherein he writes me he hath paid Mr. Edmonds 400 crowns at my request, so that now he oweth me 1,000 crowns which will be 600 crowns more than her Majesty's allowance, which I would not have advanced but by your commandment. I desire that the 600 crowns may be paid to Humfray Basse, for I have great need of it. The governor of this town and all the gentlemen be very sorry for the death of Sir Roger Williams.—Dieppe, 16 January, 1595. |
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Holograph. Seal. ½ p. (171. 50.) |
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Thomas, Lord Burgh to the Earl of Essex. |
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1595/6, Before Jan. 17. |
I have presumed to accompany my wishes with a present such as these countries can afford, where there is nothing civil among them; and these arms which I send you are more to yield you a figure of my profession, wherein I will do you service before all the world, than that either they be worth to come into your armoury, or to be adventured of me, if I did not know you will make interpretation as I mean, which is to draw my sword and take up any weapon when you point with your finger. I will see you before Candlemas. Sir Robert Cecil has written unto me that her Majesty is pleased I shall come over at Candlemas. I have advanced to Captain Conway the 50 men of increase in Sir Thomas Morgan's company, which I intend (if I can be quit of Fowks) to Captain Tirwhit. Both these preferred were shot, following me at Grolle. Sir Fernando Gorges, since I last wrote to you, hath set me at liberty to bestow the lieutenancy, which I should have been glad he had enjoyed, if not to his hindrance, whose better employment is worthily conferred on him. In my last I wrote whom I purposed to substitute. Him I have now placed.—Undated. |
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Endorsed :—“L. Burgh, rec. 17 Jan. 1595.” |
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1 p. (204. 31.) |
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Honger v. Vermayden and de Mallines. |
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1595/6, Jan. 17 |
Petition to Sir Robert Cecil by H. Honger, merchant of Amsterdam, showing that having three years past appointed Guilliam Vermayden and Garrett de Mallines, merchant strangers, his
factors, and provided them with money for buying of goods out of the great Spanish carrick, first 2,000l., afterwards 3,000l. more, and then 5,000l., and finally, shooting the one arrow after another, by their sinister persuasions and allurements transported to this realm 18,620l. sterling, which was delivered into their hands. Which sum they did for the most part employ unto their own use, and Honger, coming into this realm for recovering his money, recommended by the States General of the United Provinces to the Council, was by them arrested by a writ ne exeas regnum for 28,000l. sterling, thinking to commit him to prison by want of surety, because he was a stranger; and in like manner they arrested his commis or deputy for 31,000l., to the end he might no more prosecute this matter, all which arrestments were by his Honour's order released. All this notwithstanding, he has continually pursued his just causes about three years; had them first examined by arbitrators, secondly heard by her Majesty's Masters of Requests above a year and a half past, thirdly by trial and course of law, fourthly before auditors appointed for hearing the accounts, and fifthly, Vermayden and Mallines have been condemned by verdicts and judgments of the Queen's Bench to him in above 5,200l. sterling. |
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Vermayden and Mallines have in most subtle and covert manner made secret conveyances and gifts of all their wealth unto their friends and several unknown persons, and do their traffic in strange countries with the suppliant's money upon other men's names, and of the profits thereof maintain themselves in prison, in riotous sort, meaning nothing less than to satisfy him of his true and just debts, and boast to reverse by new commissions and sinister practices all he has heretofore recovered and make him spend twenty times more money than hitherto it has cost him, and they brag they have dispended against him in these two years above 700l. sterling of his money; all which practices tend in contempt and to the defrauding of justice. And because they do, in his absence, trouble and importune his Honour and other the Lords of the Council to have a new commission and be relieved of the former solemn proceedings, notwithstanding they are both condemned in prison and upon execution, and allege their imprisonment for money lawfully paid for him unto the Earl of Cumberland, Sir Walter Ralegh, Sir Horatio Palavicino, Knights, and the Master Garbler of London, all which they have heretofore alleged, when they have been corporally present, assisted by their attorneys, solicitors, and four, five, or six serjeants and councillors, that it may please him to forbear to admit any more such their complaints, or else vouchsafe that the suppliant be made privy and cited ad contradicendum. |
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The names of the councillors, solicitors, and attorneys to the suppliant : Aug. de Colenar; J. E. his assign, lodged in Merchant Taylors', alias Mourasters' school; John Haryes of the Inner Temple, Councillor; John Williams, attorney in the Queen's Bench, in Coleman Street, his procurator ad lites; James Sutton in Lime Street, his solicitor. |
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Endorsed :—“17 Jan. 1595. Doctor Coleman to my master.” |
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Seal. 1½ pp. (30. 2.) |
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[Sir Henry Union] to the Queen. |
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1595/6, Jan. 17. |
Giving a detailed account of his private audience with the King of France in his cabinet.—Coussy, 17 January, 1595. |
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Endorsed :—“Doble of her Majesties letter.” |
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Unsigned. 5⅓ pp. (171. 55.) |
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[See Murdin's State Papers, pp. 707 to 711, where the letter is printed in extenso, but instead of “and changing of the matter of conference” as there given, read “and hanging off from the matter, &c.”; instead of “ominous teeth,” read “envious teeth”; and instead of “misreportes,” read “misreporters”; also add “succours” before “volentary,” and read “and so ended abruptly being weary of farther discourse,” instead of “without further discourse.”] |
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Sir Henry Unton to Lord Burghley. |
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1595/6, Jan. [17]. |
Giving a detailed account of his interviews with the King of France and members of his Council, &c., his views as to the state of affairs, and general information.—Coussy, [17] January, 1595. |
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Endorsed :—“Doble of my Lord Treasurer's letter.” |
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Unsigned. 6 pp. (171. 52.) |
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[See Murdin's State Papers, pp. 701 to 706, where the letter is printed in extenso, but read “I found myself very much choked with the said answer” instead of “provoked with the said answer.”] |
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Sir Henry Unton to the Earl of Essex. |
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1595/6, Jan. 17. |
Letter beginning, “If your lordship consider how weary I am with my tedious dispatch.”—Coussy, 17 January, 1595. |
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Holograph. 1 p. (171. 51.) |
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[See Murdin's State Papers, p. 706, where it is printed in extenso, and Birch's Memorials, i. 397.] |
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Jo. Battista Giustiniano to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1595/6, Jan. 17/27. |
Received last night, from Mr. Horatio, the accompanying packet in reply to Cecil's letter about Sugdon's complaint, with instructions to remit all to Cecil and pay the 58l. if necessary. He sent another letter by Mr. Fortescue a little before. Desires a letter to Sugdon to proceed no further, as the matter shall be settled. Letters are come from Flanders. At Antwerp everything is in suspense for the coming of the Cardinal who is already in Luxemburg.—London, 27 Jan., 1596. |
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Endd.:—“1595.” |
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Holograph. Italian. 1 p. (30. 27.) |
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The Privy Council to the Collectors of the Subsidy in the county of Leicester. |
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1595/6, Jan. 18. |
The sheriff and justices of peace of their county have warrant to demand such sums from them out of the collections of her Majesty's subsidy and tenths and fifteenths as may suffice to pay for the provisions taken up in that county for victualling the navy. Require them to comply.—From the Court at Richmond, 18 January, 1595. |
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Signed. 1 p. (29. 127.) |
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Philip Honyman to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1595/6, Jan. 18. |
Long expected answer of a letter from Lord Burghley which he has received by Cecil's, the contents of which he has
accomplished. The bearer goes in the good ship John Bonaventure, and is accompanied by a honest man. Has followed his order in all points. Has kept him seven months at his own cost; if his going be for good, requires but his charges. Has directed him to his brother, who will accompany him unto Burghley.—From Bayonne, 18 January, 1595. |
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Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (29. 128.) |
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Sir Walter Ralegh to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1595/6, Jan. 18. |
Since the writing of my last letter, wherein I acquainted your Honour of Mr. Stanton's mischance, I have since learned and do very well know by examination that Fitz James strake the said gentleman and offered him “indurable” wrong before the fray, and further it is very assured that Mr. Stanton had no weapon about him when he was assaulted by Fitz James, who also was known to be a very quarrelsome young man, and, on the contrary, Mr. Stanton ever known and reputed for very honest, civil and of modest carriage towards all men. I have been moved by divers of the better sort to make known unto your Honour the innocency of the gentleman and to be farther a suitor unto you in his behalf, that it might please you to favour him.—Weymouth, this 18 of January. |
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Endorsed :—“18 Jan., 1595.” |
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Holograph. 1 p. (30. 1.) |
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Petition of Gyles de Vishcher. |
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1595/6, Jan. 18. |
The Queen granted him a licence to transport iron ordnance. The losses of himself and partners thereby. By the licence, Robert Sackville, son of Lord Buckhurst, was to gain yearly 900l. and had in two years 1,300l. and more. He being in danger for money taken up, Sackville persuaded him to confess an action of 800l., and thereby spoiled him of his goods and letters patent and imprisoned him, and, having the letters patent, now ships ordnance. Prays for redress. |
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Endorsed :—Jan. 18, 1595. |
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½ p. (6.) |
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Sir Henry Lee to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1595/6, Jan. 19. |
Your father having a good while since bestowed on my kinsman, Mr. John Lee, the wardship of one Chomlee, at his earnest request, being very straightly urged by his creditors, I entered into bond for him in 550l., having for my security the moiety of the benefit of the wardship made over to me. Part of this sum was due to one Ballet, of London, lately deceased, whose widow is married to Dene Wood, and my bond put in suit, like to be recovered. Having called upon my kinsman for my discharge, he answered he cannot as yet compound with the ward, finding him obstinate, and that he had lately written to you craving your help for the composition. I beseech you further it what you may to a speedy end. In my knowledge my kinsman was offered 1400l. for his marriage in two sundry places, and yet offered to agree for his moiety for 600l. which the ward hath refused, and hath held him off two years since he came out of his wardship; an evil example which I thought not amiss to make known to you.—From my chamber, 19 January, 1595. |
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Holograph. 1 p. (29 103.) |
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The Queen to The King of France. |
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[1595/6, Jan. 19.] |
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Mon trescher frere, Si l'esprit d'un defunct pourra fascher une ame respirante, j'aurois peur que le feu Roi Antoine (a qui Dieu pardonne l'ame) ne me poursuivit en tous lieux si je ne m'acquittois de sa derniere requeste, qui me chargeoit, pour toute affection que lui portys, de vous ramentevoir après sa mort des honorables offres qui lui feistes en son vivant, et qu'il vous plairoit de les accomplir es personnes de ses orphans et fils, que je confesse être office qui est digne de tel prince qui n'oubliera, je m'asseure, les desirs de tel qui pour soi-même ne pourra rendre de graces, mais ne laisserez non obstant d'être couronné de vraie glorie qui sonnera la trombe de vôtre honneur. Je nesuis si oultrecuydante de vous proposer qui vous convient faire, mais me remets a vôtre mûre jugement ce que cognoistres mieux seier [sic] vôtre estat, en ayant plus de connoissance que quelque autre en pourra juger. Seulement me quittant de ma charge, je vous supplie traiter si bien ce desolé prince qu'il sache qui en a escript, et l'ayez en vos bonnes graces. |
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Endorsed :—“Copy of her Majesty's letter to the French king by the Prince of Portugal. 19o Januarii, 1595.” |
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Undated. ½ p. (133. 132.) |
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Mr. Wyat to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1595/6, Jan. 20. |
The news of the Due d'Epernon's death continueth, and the general expectation of a peace. The King hath sent for all his forces to be at La Fere by the last of this month; those of Brittany are already come into the villages about Paris; they look that the enemy will offer something for the relief of the town ere many days, for it cannot long hold out. The causeway to stop the river is finished, as the plot hereinclosed will shew you, and so soon as the King returneth to camp, who is now with his Mrs. [mistress] at Monceaux, thirteen leagues from hence, they will assay to drown the town, all the meadows about it being already in a sea. They have lately intrenched their camp very strongly. The forces of the low Countries are joined with the Cardinal of Austria, and draw towards the frontiers of France, which if they enter now they must presently fight and begone, or starve, all things being so wasted that the King's horse are constrained to fetch forage ten leagues from some quarter. There is an Ambassador from Ferrara come four days since to Paris and hath not yet spoken with the King; it is reported that he came from the Court of Spain to Ferrara, and so directly hither. I can by no means yet recover a copy of the bull you desired, for that they have not been printed. I wrote in my last letter, dated 15 January, of the Prince of Condé his going to the mass, which he continueth daily to the great content of all the people who come from all parts of France to see him.—Paris, 20 January, 1595. Stil. ant. Signed :—“Thomas Mascoll.” |
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Addressed :—“To his very loving friend Mr. William Lewson, merchant, at London, this—.” |
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Endorsed by Cecil's Secretary :—“Mr. Wyat from Paris; received at London the 7th February and answered the same day.” |
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Holograph. 1 p. (30. 3.) |
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[Sir Horatio Palavicino] to Sir John Fortescue. |
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1595/6, Jan. 20. |
My sickness hath kept me both from the Court and from doing those duties which I do owe to many, and to your
Honour in particular, and this languishing of my body makes me slack in the solicitation of my matter with her Majesty, seeing, besides the world troublesome, her Majesty charged with many charges and small likelihood to draw money from the States at this present; against which difficulties I hope God will send us one day more calm and full security. But, good Sir, in the mean time there is like to fall out an inconvenience if you do not stay it. A little before her Majesty gave order that my pension should be stayed in the Exchequer, I being at St. Alban's at the term, stood in some need of money, and went to Mr. William Sugdon, the Teller, craving to have 58l. in part of my next pension which was shortly to be paid to me. He did help me with the same and had my writing of allowance for it; but after the stay came he is grown discontented, and will be repaid at my hand. I thinking for me an indignity so to do without my Lord Treasurer's and your commandment, have refused, whereupon he hath sued me at the common law, and is ready to proceed in judgment this term if you do not stay him. Considering how great an inconvenience it will be that for so small a matter should be publicly heard his demand and the cause of my refusal, I have thought good to have my recourse to you, and to beseech you to send for the party and ask him whether all the premises be not true, and to give him such commandment as in your wisdom shall seem requisite.—From my house of Badburgham, 20 January, 1595. |
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Endorsed by Palavicino :—“Copia della lettera seritta al Signor Giovan Fortescue.” |
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1 p. (171. 58.) |
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Monsieur de Mouy to the Earl of Essex. |
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1595/6, Jan. 20/30. |
For six months has been daily intending to send a gentleman expressly to communicate an affair which Monsieur Honton has now promised to make Essex acquainted with : this and the constant rides on horseback which he makes daily have prevented his writing as he would wish to do. Thanks for the honour shewn to his nephew. They have stopped the river of La Fere and think to drown those there in a few days. The Cardinal of Austria is near Metz, and they do not think will arrive in time to save the place. Leaves to Monsieur Honton to bring the news of that Court.—Coussy, 30 January, 1596. |
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Signed, Mony. |
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Endorsed by Essex :—“Monsr. de Mony. 30 Jan., 1595. Stilo novo.” |
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Holograph. French. 3 pp. (173. 23.) |
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Capt. R. Moryson to the Earl of Essex. |
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1595/6, Jan. 21. |
I sent my lieutenant over to be a suitor to you that I might not be charged with any of the accounts of this company before my time, and to make known to you a debt of 120l. was owing me by Sir Roger Williams, of which I understand by my lieutenant you seem to make some doubt of. I have both his own hand for the manifesting of the delivery of it, and witness of some of his nearest friends that I used about the getting it not two months before his death. My love and respect I ever carried towards him made me urge no extraordinary assurance, especially to so honourable a man of our profession. The same shall make me cease troubling you further about it,
only my desire is that you will estimate me as one that valueth an honest man's reputation above any such commodity.—Flushing, this 21 of January. |
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Endorsed :—“1595.” |
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Holograph. 1 p. (30. 6.) |
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The Queen to Princess Catherine of Navarre. |
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[1595/6, Jan. 21.] |
Madame ma bonne sœur, Le miserable estat de ce pauvre prince, joinct à la confiance que son feu roi et père remit à l'asseurance qu'il prennoit de mon affection en son endroit, me convient a vous figurer le vrai pourtrait d'un dolent orphan qui a pour son grand refuge les royaulx mots et favorables offres que le Roi, vôtre bien aimé frére et mien, de sa grace lui donna, vous eslisant pour advocat de sa cause comme les grandes affaires et maintes considerations lui presteront l'oportunite. Non que je me oultrecuide tant a l'importuner de plus qu'il ne trouvera expedient et convenable, comme n'êtant par experience ignorante des innumerables modes qu'un roi tient de touts costes d'en avoir respect, et a les entreprises et aydes. Seulement que ce petit porteur entende la mention que je vous fais et de sa misére et ma requeste en son endroit. En qui me feras tour de vraie sœur, a qui je voue toute affection et envie de pouvoir par effects tesmoigner le grand zêle qui me tient pour vous complaire en quelque action signalée, regrettant que mes forces n'equivalent l'esprit de celle qui demeurera a jamais, vôtre tres affectionnee sœur Elizabeth. |
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Endorsed :—“Copy of Her Majesty's letter to Madame, 21 January, 1595.” |
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½ p. (133. 133.) |
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Lord Burghley to Archibald Douglas. |
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1595/6, Jan. 21. |
Sends such letters as came for him in a packet received today by himself. If he has any matter worthy Burghley's knowledge, shall thank him if he will send a brief thereof in writing.—From the Court this 21st of January, 1595. |
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Signed. ⅓ p. (171. 59.) |
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Richard Stapere and Edward Holmden to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1595/6, Jan. 22. |
Albeit we are persuaded you are very mindful of our suit for the despatch of Her Majesty's letters to the Grand Seignor, yet we are urged by the owners and masters of the ships and by the whole company of the voyage, who have taken in all their lading and are only detained by the stay of the said letters, that we are freed to presume upon your favour to admit this remembrance of our suit, having by sundry other remembrances noted to you how greatly it importeth us that our ships were upon the voyage, especially for that the more the fore year cometh on, the greater will be our peril by the galleys in the Straits.—22 January, 1595. |
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Signed. Seal. ½ p. (30. 7.) |
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[Tobias Matthew,] Bishop of Durham, to Lord Burghley. |
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1595/6, Jan. 23. |
Upon Thursday the 15th of this instant, the Lord Eure, Lord Warden of the Middle Marches foranenst Scotland, sent me two letters, the one signed by Her Majesty of the 8th, and the other from your lordship of the 9th of the same. According to the
several directions whereof I wrote to Sir John Forster, who on Monday last sent hither his son Nicholas, to whom I showed only so much of Her Majesty's letter as he might perceive I had sufficient authority to send for his father, whose weakness he protested and enlarged with many circumstances, needless here to be inserted, for that the effect of them is comprised in his own letter hereincluded of the 21st; until which time Nicholas desired me to forbear to return anything to Her Majesty or your lordship, for that then he would not fail to bring or send Sir John Forster's answer in writing to my former letter. Whereunto I the rather condescended, for that he promised me rather to further than to dissuade his journey, which to do I persuaded Mr. Nicholas as well as I could do possibly, yet rather by way of advice than by requisition, lest mine over-earnest motion should have bred a jealousy in either of them. |
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Yesternight, being Thursday the 22nd, I received Sir John Forster's answer (which is the same his letter I mentioned before), by a servant of his own. Whereof what is to be conceived I leave to your wisdom, Howbeit I left him not so, but replied to his excuse, the copy whereof is hereinclosed, as also the copy of my former to him, both of which I humbly submit to your grave judgment and censure. What effect my later letter will take with him 1 cannot easily conjecture, for I have secretly enquired and am advertised that the old gentleman is indeed utterly unfit and unable to travel so far at this time of the year, but in case it be so necessary to have him out of that country, it may be when the days grow longer, the ways fairer and the weather milder, he shall not have any such colour of excuse as now he may seem to pretend. So I leave this matter until further occasion shall occur.—Bishop Auckland, 23 Jan., 1595. |
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Signed :—Tobie Duresm. |
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Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (30. 9.) |
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Encloses :— |
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Sir John Forster to the Bishop of Durham. |
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1595/6, Jan. 21. |
I have received your letters signifying that it is Her Majesty's pleasure and earnestly requiring me to meet you at Durham, for that your lordship hath to speak with me in such matter as you can impart to none but myself. I am heartily sorry that my great weakness of body is such, as is evidently seen to all men, that without the present danger of my life I am no ways able to travel to you, nor have not been able to get out of my house this twelvemonth, were my occasions never so great, save that I rode up to Alnwick Castle at the summer sessions, intending to effect the proceeding which your lordship knows against the recusants, if things had then been duly fitted for that purpose. And you may remember that, travelling in summer last to meet my Lord Lieutenant at Newcastle, I hardly escaped my life for my travail; so that I must of necessity crave forbearance of this journey, and earnestly desire of you, by some confident messenger, to signify unto me what your lordship has to charge me withal, which shall be answered and performed as my duty bindeth, and in every sort as safely secreted as shall be requisite. I verily think it may be that some complaints are preferred against me by such as ever sought my disgrace, but purchased their own, when their accusations came to light. And if any such be I desire no more but that
my actions may come to due trial, wherein if ever it justly appear that I have either done or in anything certified that which with true credit I cannot maintain, I crave neither favour nor forbearance of my accuser, whoever he be, sith I assure myself of Her Majesty's most gracious countenance, in respect of my old services, till my causes be duly conceived.—From my house near Alnwick, this 21 January, 1595. |
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Signed. 1 p. (30. 5.) |
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Walter Cope to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1595/6, Jan. 23. |
Commending Robert Tresswell, very skilful in surveys, who desires the office of the Surveyorship in Hertfordshire, or if Cecil means to keep it, then that he would assign him his deputy, so long as it may be to his liking, and he make proof in experience to be more profitable in that place than any other. He is that countryman, and “if you deal with buying and selling, none more fit in England.” |
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Signed. |
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P.S.—Praying him to further the suit of a poor friend of his who is a suitor for 100l. due to Sir Henry Harrington. If any privy seal come out for Sir Henry Bagnall or any other, his suit is that it will please him to further the same and the party will be thankful. |
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Endorsed :—23 Jan., 1595. 1 p. (30. 11.) |
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Henry Huddleston. |
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1595/6, Jan 23. |
Order of Court in the case of Henry Huddleston, son of Sir Edmond Huddleston, of Essex, against William Carew, John Oldham, William Howe and others; relating to a bond of 600l. 23 Jan., 1595/6. |
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2½ pp. (2173.) |
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Sir Horatio Palavicino to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1595/6, Jan. 23. |
Explains the whole history of one Sugdon's accusation against him. A month before the suspension of his pension, being at St. Albans at the term, he had occasion to pay “il fein” of his lands out of the money he held of Sugdon's. Told Sugdon to go to Mr. Fortescue for it, but he refused, and has taken proceedings at law (detailed).—Badburham, 23 Jan., 1595. |
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Italian. Holograph. Seal. 2 pp. (171. 60.) |
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Sir John Forster to Lord Burghley. |
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1595/6, Jan. 24. |
I have received your letter of the 10th December last, wherein you write that you do understand by letters from the officers of Customs at Berwick, that one John Daventree, a merchant stranger, lately ran his ship on shore near Bamborough Castle, wherein were 8,560 fir deals and 40 tons of small wood and timber, the men being all alive and saved from wreck; and that I should answer the Customer of Berwick, upon demand of his custom thereof, that I know none due to Her Highness, and also gave liberty to the party to sell the same to his most commodity, detaining the ship as wreck to myself. For answer whereof, you shall understand that there came such a merchant stranger, laden with fir, deals and other small wood, but what quantity I certainly know not, the which he sold to any person or
persons that made repair unto him for the buying thereof. The which I think was lawful for him to do, not being prohibited to the contrary, and was brought by the Customer before the Governor of Berwick, and so set free, by what means I know not. Neither did all the company come alive on shore, and for such parties as I knew to be buyers of the said goods, I have taken bond for their appearance, according as by your lordship's letters is appointed. |
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And whereas it hath pleased Her Majesty to appoint the Lord Eure to be Warden of her Middle Marches, and that I received letters both from the late Lord Lieutenant in these North parts and others, for the continuing my care of the wardenry and quietness of the Borders until the coming of Lord Eure, which was about St. Andrew's day last past, so that I served the said office until that time, I must therefore be an humble suitor to have your warrant to the receiver for allowance of so much of the fee as is due from Michaelmas until Lord Eure's entry, for that I am to pay to the Deputy Warden and other officers for so long time as they did exercise the same.—Alnwick, 24 January, 1595. Signed. |
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Seal. 1 p. (30. 12.) |
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George Gilpin to the Earl of Essex. |
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1595/6, Jan. 24. |
The 21st of this present yours of the 15th was delivered me, and after that Mr. Bodley had communicated unto me the contents of yours unto him, we despatched the next morning betimes the packet towards Sir Francis, not doubting but he had it the next night, and is by this on his way hitherwards. I refer me to Mr. Bodley's letter for as much as may concern his negotiation, which is still aworking and laboured hard by M. Barnevelt, who seeks and uses all the means he can to effect somewhat that might yield Her Majesty contentment. The departure of Sir Francis is somewhat distasted, because the choice of men to command is but small, and doubt lest he should not return to serve them this summer, when, as the opinion is, they shall be hardly charged on all sides by the enemy, and the want of such chief men may dismay the people, if any rencontre turn out contrary to expectation. Besides his Excellency and he have been plotting of somewhat, which was even on the point of executing, and this calling of him away will hinder it. But Her Majesty's service must be preferred, so do I not think but they will be willing he depart in hope of short return, or that by his other employment, the country shall receive good and be participant of the service. We have not any special news, and because Sir Francis will be with you ere long, I may be the briefer.—The Hague, 24 January, 1595. |
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Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (30. 14.) |
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John Ferne to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1595/6, Jan. 25. |
Whereas it is given out that the Examiners before the Council here should now attempt the obtaining of their offices of the examining of witnesses to themselves under the great seal, I humbly beseech you to extend your favour and good means for the stay of any such proceedings, both in regard of the public justice of this Court, as likewise in respect of the private right of the Secretary's office. For by her Majesty's letters patent, the same is granted to Mr. Beale, and before him to all other Secretaries here, and the examiners have been accordingly nominated by the Secretary, exercising the place under him
upon their account, until Mr. Cheeke's time, about eleven years since, and then, upon the renewing of the instructions, an article was inserted that the Lord President and two of the Council should nominate the Examiner, no information being being made, as it seemeth, that the same was the Secretary's right, but Mr. Cheeke, thinking himself injured and intending to complain, my lord of Huntingdon, to pacify him, caused an order to be made for the increase of the Secretary's fees for copies, namely for 10 lines 2d., besides the then Examiner gave Mr. Cheeke money for accepting of him. But after Mr. Cheeke's death, my lord would not suffer the Secretary succeeding, namely Mr. Rookebie, to take that increased fee, and so both the Examiner's place is detained from the Secretary, and the increased fee withdrawn, though it was the only recompense that moved Mr. Cheeke to put up the matter in silence, and since the examinership was taken away from the nomination and rule of the Secretary, the fees thereof are greatly increased and suitors more delayed. |
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My humble suit is that you would regard the right of the cause, and the rather considering the great charges and pains incident to the attendance of this place here, beseeching you to extend your favour so far forth to Mr. Beale and me that the Examiners may hold their places upon their account to the Secretary, with competent allowance for their pains, or else that we may be allowed to take the new increased fee of 2d. for copying ten lines.—At York, 25 January, 1595. |
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Signed. 1½ pp. (30. 13.) |
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Thomas Bodley to Lord Burghley. |
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1595/6, Jan. 25. |
I have imported, as you willed, her Highness's pleasure to the States for the calling away of Sir Francis Vere, to be conferred with awhile in some attempts of great importance against the common enemy. And to the end that his departure might not seem over strange, nor fall prejudical to the actions of the country, I let them know that her Highness was desirous to proceed with their privity and good liking. Whereto they made no other scruple in their answer to me, but that they would consult with the Council of State, and likewise with Count Maurice who had all the conduction of the affairs of the wars, and do me thereupon to wit their answer to her Majesty, wherein, it may be, they will signify how much it doth pre-judice the estate of their affairs to have any chief commander revoked on the sudden, for so they do debate it in their private communications, and will thereupon request to have him presently returned. But I think they will not use any other opposition, and though they should, I know it will not prevail with Sir Francis Vere. My Lord of Essex's despatch, with her Majesty's letters, I sent presently for Duisburg by a post of this country that was trusty and speedy : that I reckon for his coming within two or three days, and that longer than he taketh his leave of the State, he will not stay in this place. |
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Two days past, to go forward where I ended in my last to your lordship, Mr. Barnevelt returned, having been, as I signified, employed into Zealand; and to tell a long tale as short as I can, he and other five of the province of Holland, with four out of Zealand, were all that were deputed to meet in that session. And though they came for other business, yet that being ended, they were contented all at last, being dealt withal before and privately prepared by Mr. Barnevelt's diligence, to deliberate there together about the matter of the overture, which they discussed at the least for ten or twelve meetings. Many dangers and doubts were alleged among them, as well in regard of inconvenience
to the country, which, as divers discussed, by a voluntary dissolution of their treaty with her Majesty might be mightily damnified, as of peril to themselves and their own proper welfare, when as they should be noted to be movers and advancers of such kind of projects. The effect of their objections I have formerly dilated, by sundry letters to your lordship. They urged, most of all, the composition of their State of such diversity of factions, humours, religions, where so many were desirous, if good matter were offered, to set all afire; the weighty burden of their imposts and other kinds of tallages; the people's weariness in general to continue still in war; the fair conditions of accord presented by the enemy, which their neighbours, the Germans, as the enemy's pledges, would undertake to see performed; and a number of other baits and fraudulent devices, which would be practised, they thought, by some that were corrupted, or ill disposed of themselves; to which when this shall be added, of her Majesty's intention to end her contract with the land, whereby they shall be forced to surcharge the common people to raise another regiment, some were wonderful afraid it would turn upside down all, and cause a great confusion. |
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Against those, in the end, other arguments prevailed, to which through orderly persuasion they thought the people would give ear. Her Highness' huge expenses for ten years together; her present urgent need in her domestical affairs; her earnest pursuit, so long continued, for some convenient reimbursement; her impression deeply fixed of their unthankful disposition; her assistance reduced to very few companies, and those not unlikely to be cashed and revoked; her undoubted inclination not to leave them unassisted, if so be that hereafter they be driven to extremity; and lastly, but in special, her suspected resolution, for they doubt it very highly, to watch a time of revenge, when they shall happily be forced to a large restitution. Upon this they concluded, by plurality of voices, for the first point, that it was expedient for them to entertain 4,000 soldiers of the English nation, not only in respect of their valour above others, but to countenance their wars, as well in the opinion of their own inhabitants as also of other countries, and of the enemy chiefly, as if her Majesty would protect and support their cause unto the last. For the second point, that it should be referred to her Highness's choice, to discharge or continue her auxiliary forces. For the third, that at the day of her Highness' birth, or coronation, or what other time she shall be pleased, they will present a certain payment, not yet agreed among them, but as it seemed not less than 20,000l. sterling, every year. Fourthly, that they will not enter into treaty with the King of Spain, as they will also require that her Majesty would not, without mutual consent. Fifthly, that they will always be ready, as they are at this present, to send unto her Majesty such numbers of ships, with convenient provision, as their ability will permit, and her occasions shall require. Lastly, that hereafter, when they shall be united with the rest of the Provinces, or be otherwise established in peace and tranquillity, they will present unto her Highness a far greater portion than the former, whereof, as before, there was neither any sum in special, nor years accorded of continuance, but yet left as a matter that would be easily resolved. |
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This communication was kept very close among themselves, which was had in the town of Zericksee, the place of their assembly. From thence it was concluded they should presently return to their several colleges, and should carry this conference with very great secrecy, every man endeavouring, underhand and by degrees, to procure the liking of the best and the meetest persons of their colleagues, by
imparting to them privately the whole plot, or a part only, and more or less, as the parties gave occasion. And that publicly they should forbear to propose abruptly any articles, to the effect aforementioned. Only this in open places was accounted sufficient, that as soon as they returned, they should deliver out of hand the tenor of my last proposition and of the rest of my speeches to the General States, and thereupon demonstrate how “behoofful” they had found it, in their foresaid consultation, to consider of some good cause how to gratify her Majesty, for which it would be very requisite that some should be deputed, with competent authority to move the general College at the Hague to resume that matter solemnly, and to advise upon some offer that might both be agreeable to her merits and dignity, and not unpleasing here to their towns and to the multitude. With this determination they departed to their principals, with mutual protestation that they would use such diligence, dexterity and care to prosecute the overture, as unless the country would oppose too eagerly against it, which they did not suspect, they would appear with full commission in the general College, within twenty days after, and then labour to persuade the rest of the deputies, and by them the lesser provinces, which do commonly concur, without any contradiction, with Holland and Zealand, as the principal contributors in all money matters. |
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I will not weary your lordship with a tedious recital of other petty plots between me and Mr. Barnevelt, by which I am to negociate with some persons in private, in another kind of form, for the better digesting and ripening of the matter, which I find more and more full of weighty considerations, and were the motives unto me of my last unfortunate return, for that I was desirous, where the project was so hard and so “quaisie” and so intricate here, and so new, in like sort, to her Majesty's ears, to gain and compass that in a very short space by the means of my presence, which could not, I was sure, be managed by letters or by messengers, for many special causes, but very lamely and “defectuously,” and with a dangerous loss of a great deal of time and of the present opportunities. Whereas your lordship would know what opinion is held of Count Hohenlohe's affection to the causes of this country, I do not find in conversation that the better sort here do judge him to be sparish or ill affected to the State, but rather on the other side, so sure and so sound is his love to the country, as they make no question of it. True it is, that two months ago there was secret notice given by letters out of Germany from some persons of quality that in likelihood had the means to understand it directly, that he had uttered some speeches in favour of a peace among the Princes of Germany, and that besides he had determined to salute the Prince of Orange in his passage towards Brussels. Again, it is observed that there is much inwardness between the Duke of Brunswick and him, who is undoubtedly supposed to be a minister of Spain. For the Duke hath of late resigned unto him divers lordships here in Holland, as the Barony of Liesuelt and the Seigneurie of Woorden, with divers other quillets, which cannot yield him so little as 1,000 marks by the year. But whether it be so that all that proceeds of benevolence in the Duke, or that the Court hath disbursed some money, or otherwise foregone of his own in exchange, I cannot come to learn. Once these are such occasions, for which of late he hath incurred the suspicion of wavering, and of a hollow heart unto the State, in the judgment of some few. But his continual profession of one religion, which was never yet stained with any report, together with his long and loyal services here, his marriage of late with the Countess of Buren, who is zealous in
religion and exceedingly addicted to all the causes of this country, and then the interest he hath in her estates and possessions, with his late new investiture in the Duke of Brunswick's lands, which lie here in Holland, are counted special arguments of his trust and affection. Howbeit it is certain that he and Count Maurice have become incompatible, howsoever in their meetings they pass it with a shew of a shallow, civil courtesy. For which many do wish that Count Maurice in his carriages towards him would use him better, or altogether worse, and determine with himself to be fully reconciled, whereof there is no hope, or devise some quiet means to cause him to depart. For every man doth fear that this lingering heart burning, with mixture of disgraces, will drive him in the end to some desperate course of dealing, which by reason of his alliance and acquaintance with the Germans, is nothing needful for this country. The States, I do find, could be willing enough to give him his passport, but they owe him at least, for the arrearages of his services, three score thousand pounds sterling, for recovering whereof he will be able with his friends to vex and molest every province in this country. It is not doubted very much but that he meant to go see and visit the Prince of Orange, if his voyage had been near him, for the singular love that he bare to his father, whereof he maketh often mention, and for his matching with his sister, which may move him perhaps to treat with the Prince, to forego his seigneuries in these Provinces, of which the Prince is proprietary by the right of his mother, the Countess of Buren, though his sister reap the revenue. There hath nothing yet passed by writing or by message, nor here is nothing given out of any humour in the Prince, as favouring or hating the people of this union. But one that hath been ever as his governor with him, doth now, as heretofore at his beiug in Spain, both send and write to the Countess of Hohenlohe about the receiving of his rents, whereof the Countess hath always and doth allow him a certain portion. |
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Of the numbers remaining of the English bands, that are here in the service and pay of the States, because they were not mustered since the month of November, I can come to no certainty, but what they were then, your lordship shall see by the list here inclosed, with the places of their garrisons. In other affairs of these Provinces and in the actions of the enemy, there is nothing here in talk, but is either uncertain or is of that nature as your lordship will not care to understand it. |
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The Cardinal cometh slowly, remaining yet in Lorraine, or, as some men say, at Luxemburgh, with 6,000 foot and 1,200 horse, and till his coming we imagine there will be nothing by them attempted against us; and for us, we are not ready to do any thing of moment.—From the Hague, Jan. 25, '95. |
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P.S. Here are some of opinion, by letters out of Guelderland, that Sir Francis Vere is either going or gone about some piece of service which I am very certain, if the post come to him before his departure, he will give over; if not, for that I guess it is only some exploit of surprise, or to beat some convoy of the enemy, it will be quickly performed. |
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Endorsed by Bodley; “Copy of my letter to my lord Treasurer.—Jan. 25, '95.” 7½ pp. (30. 15.) |
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Mr. Wyat to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1595/6, Jan. 25. |
Since my last letters of the 20th January, wherein I signified the finishing of the causeway, as appeared by the plot of La
Fere thereinclosed, I understand that the King hath given commandment to stop the same close, which if it fail to drown or constrain the besieged to yield, as is expected, the King with all the cavalry will go to Compèigne where the rendezvous is, and raise the siege, leaving the forts about it strongly manned, and hath already given order to the Marshal Ballagny, so soon as he findeth the effects to fail, to lead all the foot into the villages of Picardy to refresh them, which they have need of. It is here thought that the preparation of Spain is rather for England than France, which they make account is nothing so great as we suppose. The King is yet at Monceaux, but the Council is on the way to come to Paris, and some of them already come. If the peace go not forward this next month, the King shall be forced to make courses into the Low Countries to feed his army, for all France is not able to give them bread three months.—Paris, 25 January, 1595. Stil. ant.
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Signed :—Thomas Mascoll. |
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P.S. I had almost forgotten to write that the Marshal Balligny, who is come back from the borders of Cambray with some 1,000 horse and 3,000 foot, hath left his forces 15 leagues from La Fere and is come to Mousseau, where he hath married in presence of the King his “Mrs.” sister, whereby he hopeth . . . great prince, but the French have already made horned va . . . thereon. |
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Addressed :—“To his very good friend Mr. Will. Lewson, merchant, at London—this—” |
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Endorsed :—“Mr. Wyat to my master. Received 7 Feb. and answered the same day.” |
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Slightly damaged. 1 p. (30. 19.) |
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The Sheriff of Somerset to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1595/6, Jan. 25. |
According to Her Majesty's pleasure, I have carefully foreseen such goods and chattels as belonged to Mr. Thomas Stoughton, and have likewise taken a perfect inventory, and committed the same in safe custody to be kept and delivered to me to Her Majesty's use, or to such other persons as by law may be interested therein, immediately after Mr. Stoughton's conviction of the manslaughter or murder he standeth charged with, the copies whereof I have sent by this bearer, Mr. Pavey. As for the coroner's inquest, they have not as yet given up any verdict.—Tompson, this 25 January, 1595. |
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Signed :—Thomas Husey. |
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Endorsed :—“The Sheriff of Somerset to my master.” |
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1 p. (30. 20.) |
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Sir Antonio Perez to the Earl of Essex. |
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1595/6, Jan. 25/Feb. 4. |
Inter alia quæ Rex mecum transegit hiis diebus post adventum vestri oratoris, rogavit a me an novissem quid illi acciderit in Gallia cum Duce de Guisa annis præteritis, quâque de causâ illum orator provocaverit. Ego illi me novisse quam fortiter et prudenter se gessisset legisseque provocationem oratoris. Tum ille cœpit mirificé laudare ejus fortitudinem, fidemque et amorem erga suam reginam et illius auctoritatem dictitareque quam eum illâ ipsâ actione obligasset, nunquamque id obliturum : sed addidit, Hoc etiam, Antoni, tibi dico quia volo curam habeas sciendi quicquid novi circa id intellexeris. Nam etiam si nihil tentabit Dux de Guisa, me inscio, nollem aliquid accideret quid negocia publica turbare posset et de oratoris fortitudine timeo ne omnia postponat suo honori et sue regine auctoritati. Te rogo ut quicquid noveris statim mihi referas. |
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Ne dedigneris oratorem tuum, Antonium saltem, quia, si peritiores et dissertiores facilé invenies plures, fideliorem neminem, et quia tui oratoris nomine magis glorior quam cujusquam supremi principis. Non credis? Experire totum tuum Ant. Pz.—4 Feb., stili novi. |
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Endorsed :—“4 Feb., 1595. Novo stilo.” |
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Seal. 1 p. (173. 40.) |
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Thomas Horniman to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1595/6, Jan. 26. |
Shewing that Sir John Hawkins had taken for the use of his voyage resin ores and other provisions of the value of 100l. from a quantity of the value of 700l. bought of him by Sir John Hawkins for Her Majesty's store; and although he has charged for 100l. paid, whether through haste or forgetfulness, he departed without paying it. Her Majesty's officers, when he made demand for the parcel with the rest, answered that it must be paid by Sir John Hawkins, for that it is for a different account, and lady Hawkins and the officers under him have long put him off with delays. He has made offer that he will bear the adventure himself, but they excuse it, saying that none but the lord Treasurer can order the same, so he plainly sees they would defer their answer till they may learn the success of the voyage, so that if bad news come or Sir John Hawkins should die it were a question whether he ever had anything or no. He therefore craves Cecil to be a mean to the lord Treasurer for payment, or that it might run for his adventure.—London, 26 January, 1595. |
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Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (30. 23.) |
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Sir John Rooper to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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[1595/6], Jan. 26. |
Concerning the cherry trees you desire, myself have bargained this year with a merchant for as many as should cost me 100 marks, out of Flanders, which should by promise have been delivered me before Hallowtide last, and as yet I hear not of them. It is said you should have 100 of the same merchant, and my lord Admiral another 100. If these fail I am much displeased, my grounds being prepared for them, and truly I am but a beginner myself in planting those kind of trees, and therefore not able to funish you with any, and for my neighbours their sale of cherry trees is always betwixt Michaelmas and Hallowtide, and such is the scarcity of them by the means of the number of planters, that at this time of the year there are not any to be had for money, but what I may possibly do to make provision for you against another year, if I may know the number you desire, I will do my best to provide them for you.—26 January. |
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Endorsed :—“1595.” |
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Signed. 1 p. (30. 24.) |
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John Ferne to Lord Burghley. |
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1595/6, Jan. 26. |
Copy of his letter to Sir Robert Cecil of the 25th January.—York, 26 January, 1595. |
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Holograph. 1 p. (30. 25.) |
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Wardships. |
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1595/6, Jan. 26. |
Abstract of those bills for wardships which are now remaining with your Lordship.—1595, Jan. 26. |
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Endorsed :—“Mr. Bar. Dewhurst.” |
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2 pp. (2139.) |
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Dowager Lady Russell to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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[1595/6, Jan. 27.] |
Yield your best favour to a godly, honest and honourable nobleman, the Earl of Kent, to be in the Earl of Huntingdon's place. It is thought there cannot be a fitter supply for the good of God's church and that country, to Her Majesty's service. I think my sister of Warwick will thank you heartily for your favour toward him. I would not have it known to proceed from me, because he is a widower and I a widow, but being entreated thereto, I could not do but thus much in respect of my duty to my dead. I beseech you quod facis fac cito, or else I fear one of the tribe will be before him Hercules Furens. Thus not well able to write more, I end with I pray take my thanks for the five pendants to Bess at Newyearstide, with the remembrance of the five “wonds” in Ireland. And so, I beseech you, let me end with I pray forget not Mr. Dale, whom your mother and my lord your father preferred to be Master of the Requests, when Roockeby was preferred thereto by Mr. Walsingham. So wishing yourself Chancellor of the Duchy or Secretary, or both, with this beginning of the new year, I take my leave with praying you to tell my daughters that I am so busy with lawyers, that I shall have no leisure to talk with them as I would, therefore I would not have them hazard to take cold in coming to me. God bless them with the best husbands of this land, I beseech Christ! Your aunt, that thought on Wednesday that you should never have heard her speak more in faith, Elizabeth Russell, Dowager. |
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Endorsed :—27 Jan., 1595. |
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Holograph. 1 p. (30. 26.) |
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The Ship “Tiger.” |
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[1595/6, Jan. 27.] |
“A Dutchman's report touching the Tiger.” At Lesboa he saw the great Tiger, being now one of the King's fleet and filled with ordnance. The pieces sold in her he saw on shore, taking note of them by reason of their mark and fairness. Some of the ordnance was appointed for other ships of war, the rest remaineth still near to Santo Pablo at his coming from thence; this all those prisoners he brought will likewise affirm : besides, he offereth at his return within six weeks to bring certificate of this under the seal of the town and with all the manner of her sails. This ship was sold about the same time that the King of Spain had an army in France, which argueth no less wrong to the French King, were the ship of France, and sold without his licence, then to Her Majesty, as the case now standeth. |
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Endorsed—“27 Jan., 1595.” |
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1 p. (30. 28.) |
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[Sir Henry Unton to Lord Burghley.] |
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1595/6, Jan. 27. |
Letter beginning—“That immediately upon my last despatch of Symonds”—[see Murdin's State Papers, pp. 711 to 716].—Coucy, 27 January, 1595. |
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Unsigned. 8 pp. (171. 61.) |
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Thomas Lake to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1595/6, Jan. 28. |
After I had despatched the messenger to your Honour this morning, it pleased Her Majesty to send me word that she would have the letter to Madame opened again, if I had made it up, and folded in a small “plight,” like those of her own hand, and so sealed;
whereupon I beseech you to return it hither, if it be not already delivered. She willed me further to let your Honour understand that she is advertised that Don Cristophero, the younger son of Don Anthonio, is coming over, wherewith she seemeth to be displeased, and would have your Honour at the delivery of her letters to the Governor or when he shall be with you, to insinuate so much unto him, and that seeing Her Majesty hath already dismissed Don E. Manuel and his train, it would be impertinent that the other should press her anew, and might perhaps discourage her from extending her bounty to either. If there be anything he would have her to know, concerning himself or otherwise, it may come to her by other means than his own presence. In effect, her desire is that the Governor should divert him from any such purpose, although he met him upon the way. Both these messages were sent me by Mr. John Stanhope.—From the Court, this 28 January, 1595. |
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Holograph. 1 p. (30. 29.) |
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Henry Brooke to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1595/6, Jan. 28. |
My lord hath been told that Sir Francis Drake is come to Plymouth, what you hear thereby he prayeth you to send him word. I hear you go in the morning to the Court; or Saturday I will see you; in the meantime I recommend my service unto you.—From my lodging In the Black Friars, 28 January, 1595, your loving brother in law to command. |
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Holograph. Seal. ½ p. (30. 30.) |
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Thomas Lake to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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[1595/6, Jan. 28.] |
This morning Her Majesty hath signed the letters you left with me : those to the Turk I send by this bearer, ready folded up, whilst because they are to be directed with the same hand that wrote them, it may pleasure you to cause Sir John Wolley's man to do it, who knoweth the style, and that he give warning to the merchants to have some silk ready for the sealing of them, for the Clerks of the Privy Seal are loth to bear the charge, who will to-morrow attend you and my lord for the seal : these letters are accustomed to be sealed with the Privy Seal. |
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In the letter to the Scottish Queen, Her Majesty hath made out a postscript of a few words with her own hand, which I have written out in the copy herewith sent unto you, and also another copy of that to the King; although Her Highness asked not for it, yet have I made another if she should demand it. Her Majesty commanded one hundred crowns to be delivered me to be sent to you for the Portingal, which by this bearer, one of the pursuivants, I have sent. |
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Endorsed :—“28 Jan. 1595.” |
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Seal. Crest, an ostrich; motto, Virtus duriora. 1 p. (30. 32.) |
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Encloses :— |
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Minute of the Queen's letter to the Queen of Scots.
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1595/6, 28 Jan.
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By a servant of ours of such trust as is this gentleman, well known to you, whom now we do return to exercise his charge of ambassador towards the King, our brother, we would not omit to salute you, with assurance of the continuance of such kindness as we have always professed towards you, although
the good intelligence heretofore offered on your part have of late passed under greater silence. And yet, sweet is our inclination still to hold a firm correspondency with you upon all occasions, whereby we may demonstrate our care towards yourself and the King, our brother. We have given in charge to this our faithful servant, sincerely attached to the preservation of perfect amity between both kingdoms, both freely to impart with you and carefully to deliver over to us, such things as you shall at any time think meet for our understanding, who never will be found behind with any offices of true kindness and affection.—28 Jan. 1595. |
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Draft corrected by Cecil.—P.S. (in Lake's writing, headed, “Of Her Majesty's own hand”). Sister, I beseech you let a few of your own lines satisfy me in some one point that is boasted of against you, which this bearer will tell you.
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1 p. (30. 31.) |
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John Stanhope to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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[1595/6], Jan. 28. |
After your going, and a little time spent with Her Majesty, wherein I remembered Mr. Bowes, she disposed herself to quietness, and so I waited there till eight of the clock, and was supplied with Mrs. Carr, who stayed till ten, and then Her Majesty did eat a little, and being remembered of the Earl of Sussex, who attended for the opportunity, he was called in, and dealt in his own suit and other discourses of Germany till 11. This morning Her Majesty hath spent with Mr. Robert Bowes till she went to prayers, and after remembered the despatch of the Governor of Terceiras, which she gave me order Mr. Lake should send to you, with a remembrance that the Governor, meeting Don Christofero, might dissuade his coming hither, and will him expect his brother's answer from the French King, in whose behalf Her Majesty hath written to good purpose for the common cause of them both. She saith my Lord of Essex can tell you where the Governor lieth, and she would fain Don Christofero were diverted from hence, whose coming would only breed a new charge and trouble. |
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Whilst I was writing, Ferdinando came to me from Her Majesty. I found her exceedingly incensed against the widow Dente for refusing to see or let Sir Thomas Gorge come in at her gates this other day, and for a letter a brother-in-law of hers hath written to Mr. Warburton. Her Majesty's express commandment to me is that you should send for her to come to you, and that you should tell her how far she has forgotten herself to keep Sir Thomas Gorge, being of her chamber, known to come from Her Majesty, without doors, that you should further tell her she takes the contempt of it, and her brother-in-law's letter to Mr. Warburton, so in ill part as she shall not look for the least favour at her hands; and that you should tell my Lord, your father, and the widow too, that whosoever have the wards, she shall not have them, and that besides, she may be assured that what other advantage Her Majesty can take of her own law, she will take, as if any fine be due for her writ of dower, in refusing any such as Her Majesty hath offered her, being a gentleman of good quality, she will vest the fine on him if any be due to her by her refusal. Yesterday Her Majesty took order with me that Sir Thomas Gorge should go to her and expostulate her manner of using him, and her brother-in-law's letter. Now, with very hard speeches to me for doing that herself commanded me, I was enjoined to write this to your Honour, I protest unto you before God both against my will and my purposes. I write not half the bitterness Her Majesty expressed
against the widow and her friends, with great threats for her contemptuous usage of Sir Thomas Gorge. Being very sorry for some part I have written, and troubled that Her Majesty keeps so great ado, I humbly recommend you my service.—This 28 January. |
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P.S.—I humbly beseech you remember my Lord Treasurer for Garrett Lother, if conveniently you may, and my Lord of Essex touching my humble suit. |
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Endorsed :—“29 Jan. 1595.” |
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Holograph. 2¼ pp. (36. 37.) |
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William Bence. |
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1595/6, Jan. 28. |
Petition to the Queen for the loss of his ship, impressed by Sir John Hawkins for transport of soldiers : prays satisfaction in money, or lease in reversion of the parsonage of Sutton, Lincolnshire. |
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Note that the suit is recommended by the Lord Admiral.
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Note by J. Herbert that the Queen grants the lease asked for.—The Court at Richmond, 28 Jan. 1595. |
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1 p. (574.) |
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Captain John Warde. |
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1595/6, Jan. 28. |
Petition to the Queen for a lease in reversion of the parsonage of Yalding, Kent, of which is he tenant. Undated.
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Note by J. Herbert that the Queen grants the petition.—The Court at Richmond, 28 Jan. 1595. |
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Enclosure :—Note of his services, from the winning of Boulogne in the time of Henry, to being master of the camp in Kent when the fleet of Spaniards came.
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2 pp. (596.) |
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County of Devon. |
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Memorials from the Earl of Bath, answered by the Lords of the Council. |
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1595/6, Jan. 29. |
A schedule containing sundry particular things to be considered of for the county of Devon,, by my Lords of the Council. |
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1. According to your commandment, there are 4,000 men prepared to be conducted into the Counties of Dorset and Cornwall under the special charge of Sir William Courtney, Knight, General of the same, as followeth : for the south division, by reason that part of the county held in most danger against the enemy, there is taken only 500; for the north division, 1,750; for the east division, 1,750. |
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2. And to attend the General in this service, there are appointed these gentlemen, with their several bands. For the east division, Sir Thomas Denys, Knight, Mr. Arthur Blewett, Mr. William Walrond, Mr. Roger Gifford, Mr. John Drake, Mr. William Drake, Mr. Edmund Arginton, Mr. Andrew Fulford, Mr. Arthur Hart. For the south division, Mr. George Carey of Cockington, Mr. Thomas Reynell. For the north division, Mr. Hugh Pollard, Mr. Philip Courtney, Mr. John Stukley, Mr. John Speccott, Mr. G. Cary of Clovelly, Mr. Hugh Ackland, Mr. Arthur Arscott, Mr. Philip Pyne, Mr. John Fortescue. |
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3. Notwithstanding, it was thought meet at the conference with my deputy lieutenants to move your lordships for abatement of part of the 4,000 men, in respect of the danger that may ensue to ourselves, if the enemy should land here with any bye forces, when so many of our trained men and weapons are sent away. |
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4. That it would please you to command that the petronels, heretofore imposed upon gentlemen, late justices of the peace, and now out of the commission, to be mustered, trained and ready for service, as in times past they have been, which now they refuse to do, because they are no justices, and the want of those furnitures will prove great hindrance to the service. |
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5. It is also much doubted of some gentlemen and captains, whether we have authority to train men, or impose any increase of armour and weapon upon the subject, notwithstanding Her Majesty's patents of lieutenancy, because there wants the word “training” in the same. |
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6. Whether it be your pleasure that Her Majesty's store of powder, match and lead, or any part thereof, remaining with me and my deputy lieutenant since '88, shall be carried out of the country with the said 4,000 men, if they happen to go, because over and besides the same store there is appointed to be provided, for every musket three pound, for every caliver two pound of powder, with so much match and so much lead in bullet. |
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7. That commandment may be given to call forth and view young gentlemen, not yet enrolled or appointed to any service, and to compose them into bands among the rest of Her Majesty's subjects. |
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8. Whereas I have heard that it pleased you heretofore to command Mr. Barnard Grenvile, who is owner of the island of Lundy, to cause the same to be fortified, so as it might not be easily impeached of the enemy, I am now advertised by a man of mine, which lately came from thence, that hitherto there is nothing done therein. And yet were it requisite in my opinion that the same should be made somewhat defensible, for if the enemy once take it, it will be a very hard thing without famine to remove him again. |
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9. And to the intent there may be no want of powder, in time of present service, it hath also been thought good to move you that 4,000 weight more of powder and match, of Her Majesty's provision, for the county of Devon, and 2,000 weight for the city of Exeter might be had, at Her Highness' prices, if it might be spared, the which being known, there shall be speedy order taken for money to make satisfaction for the same. |
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10. And though all these motions, or the most of them, be such as for my own part I have been loth to trouble you withal, yet for the better satisfaction of some men of good account and my very good friends, I shall most humbly pray your resolution hereunto. One thing more I make bold to trouble you withal; I live here in a country, full of poor people that depend most upon clothing, but by reason of the present want of traffic, spinsters, weavers and all others belonging to the trades are grown to great poverty and like daily to decay. I hear much complaining of it, and it is feared that in short time it will turn into some inconvenience amongst us. I hope your lordships will take this advertisement to be altogether unnecessary, though I know not the remedy. |
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Answers to be made to the Earl of Bath upon his letters of the 29th January, and to a schedule of certain articles to the number of ten, for the which it is convenient the Earl have some answer from my lords of the Council, in this or in some other like sort following. |
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1. He may be justly thanked for the care he taketh of the charge committed to him of Lieutenant of that Shire, wherein it seemeth he hath made a very good distribution, in the three divisions of the County,
for preparing of 4,000 men to be conducted out of the County, under the charge of Sir William Courtney. |
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2. I know no cause but to allow of the gentlemen named in every of the three divisions. |
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3. Though the Lord Lieutenant and his deputies make a motion to abate some portion of the 4,000 men, in respect that the enemy may invade the country, this motion is not to be misliked, but according to the event to be referred to the Lieutenant and his deputies, that the relieving of the outward counties be not a danger to the county itself, but to moderate the aid as thereby not to endanger themselves, following the rule of proximus sum mihi.
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4. If such as were charged before with petronels, when they were justices of the peace, be still able for their substance to be at the charge, they would be charged to renew the same. |
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5. It is greatly to be misliked that any gentlemen and captains would move a doubt whether the Lieutenant had authority to train men or impose any increase of armour or weapon upon the subject, for thereby they are to be noted either very ignorant or unnatural members of their native country, that mislike to have the people trained or well armed and weaponed. And yet to comfort the Lieutenant to proceed therein, his lordship may communicate to such doubtful men the power that he hath by her Majesty's commission under the great seal, in these special words, “to levy, gather and call together from time to time, all manner of subjects within that county or privileged places, meet for the wars, and them to try, array and put in readiness, and to cause them to be sufficiently armed, and weaponed, and to take the musters of them, after his good discretion. And further he is authorised to fulfil and execute all and singular other things, which shall be requisite for the levying and government of Her Majesty's subjects.” By which words, rightly interpreted, no reasonable good subject can or ought to make such doubt as before is mentioned, and therefore the Lieutenant and his deputies, and all others that have any charge of soldiers, shall not omit the training or better arming of them, but if any shall be so ill disposed as to make objection thereunto, the Lieutenant shall enjoin them to appear before the Privy Council. |
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6. The Lieutenant seemeth to have made a convenient proportion of powder and match for them that shall go out of the county to aid their neighbours, and yet, if necessity shall so require, his Lordship may enlarge that proportion. |
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7. It appeareth a good motion to have the young gentlemen enrolled for service, and to compose them into bands, for the authority of his commission doth warrant him to put in array and arm all manner of subjects of any degree within his lieutenancy whom he shall find meet for the wars. |
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8. The lord Lieutenant shall do well to enjoin Barnard Grenvill to make his island of Lundy defensible, as heretofore he hath been commanded, or otherwise to enjoin him to appear before the Council to answer thereunto. |
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9. The request to have such quantity of powder and match to be had from hence, at Her Majesty's prices, is not unreasonable, so as money be sent up for the same. |
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10. The concluding article, as both honourable and reasonable, to be allowed of. |
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Endorsed by Cecil.—“Readde.” |
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3 pp. (30. 33.) |
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John Stanhope to Robert Cecil. |
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1595/6, Jan. 29. |
Yesternight, Sir Thomas Gorge returning to the Court reported unto Her Majesty the scornful entertainment he received at the widow's house, Mrs. Dente, first of the porter, and then of Mrs. Dente herself, lastly from her brother-in-law and other of her friends, he being directed to go thither only to assure her of some scruple was made about Her Majesty's first sending him thither. The which indignity Her Majesty being very sensible of, both in regard he is of her privy Chamber, and a gentleman of his quality, and she vouchsafing to send him to one of no better degree than Mrs. Dente, she hath expressly charged me to let your Honour know that her pleasure is you should acquaint my lord your father therewith, and that such persons as Sir Thomas Gorge shall inform of may be sent for afore you, and their rudeness and uncivil usage made known unto them, with infliction of such punishment as may be exemplary, for the satisfying of Sir Thomas Gorge his credit in the City, and a warning to others how any of Her Majesty's Chamber, especially sent from Her Majesty, ought to be respected. Other specialities I refer to Sir Thomas Gorge his own relation. I am sorry that the widow's folly and her friends' rude indiscretion hath troubled Her Majesty.—This 29 of January, from the Court at Richmond. |
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Endorsed :—“29 Jan. 1595.” |
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Holograph. 1 p. (30. 35.) |
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Petition of Foulke Greville to [Lord Burghley]. |
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1595/6, Jan. 29. |
Upon his suit to his Lordship and Sir Walter Mildmay about seven years past, for a lease of certain iron works and woods in Canck [Cannock] Forest, co. Stafford, in his care and “good husbandry” for her Majesty his lordship made stay until upon survey thereof by the Surveyor-General and others he was informed of the quantity and value, and divers conferences had with the auditor and surveyor of the county how the works and woods might be employed for her Majesty's best advantage; afterwards they passed him a lease under the Great Seal for 21 years at the yearly rent of 211l., being at the rate of 2s. the acre. Notwithstanding he hath duly paid the rent and employed the woods according to the purport of the grant for her Majesty's benefit and contentment of the country, by the malice of some persons there, envying both her Majesty's title and the small benefit he raiseth thereby, he has been often vexed by frivolous complaints before his lordship, supposing he had exceeded his grant, and to his excessive charge and trouble [they] have proceeded to examine the matters in fact by several commissions; wherein failing to prove what they pretended, they now fall from matters in fact to matters of cavil upon his grant, to continually vex him, and have procured one John Ferne to prove new suits against him. Prays his lordship to call him and Ferne before him, and upon examination of the matter to take such order as shall seem most convenient, whereunto he will submit. |
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Endorsed :—29 Jan. 1595. 1½ pp. (171. 65.) |
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John Kelsterne to Archibald Douglas. |
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1595/6, Jan. 30. |
Laus Deo, the 30 January 1595, from Westminster. |
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This day Mr. Boos came to Mr. Skener and for causes atwixt Mr. Boos and me, Mr. Skener himself told me that Mr. Boos is forthwith to
go for Scotland, and thereupon for his furnishing to have present out of the Exchequer good store of money. So being known by your host's father's time by the name of John Kelsterne and not Jeffray, yours according to promise. |
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P.S. The cause of this word 'Jeffray,' a mystery you know not, is the worst to Mr. Skener and me, both of us, but to your host, just no purpose to account of. |
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Addressed :—“To . . . Mr. Archebald Douglas at Mr. Harvis house in Lemstreet.” |
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Holograph. 1 p. (30. 38.) |
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[Tobias Matthew,] Bishop of Durham to Lord Burghley. |
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1595/6, Jan. 30. |
Beyond mine expectation, and Sir John Forster's former letter unto me directed of the 21st instant, there was brought me from him another letter of the 25th, signifying that he would meet me at Durham the 29th. Whereunto I did presently return him answer that, God willing, I would be there. He was accompanied with Mr. Robert Witherington, now named Sheriff of Northumberland, Mr. William Fenwick, who married the one of his daughters, and Mr. Nicholas Forster, his own son, and very well attended on with some twenty four proper serving men. He came in a litter, and, as I understand, was divers times on the way much troubled both in his head and stomach; but I found him indifferent well as after so long, so foul, and so cold a journey a man of so many years could be, the constitution of his body good enough save for the palsy somewhat enfeebling him, and some impediment in or about his legs, so as he walketh not but aided with one or two; his wit as ready, and memory as good and discourse as sound as ever I knew it these twelve years. |
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After that I had questioned him somewhat pleasantly why he made me certify, by his letter, how unable he was to travel, and then so soon and so suddenly grew so strong as to come before he was looked for, “Marry,” quoth he, “your letter quickened me, and I do heartily thank you for it, and I thank God with all my heart that I am here this day, and I pray you,” quoth he, “let me know why you sent for me, and what Her Majesty's pleasure is;” to whom he professed he was the most bounden of all the subjects of this realm, with many dutiful words and prayers for Her Majesty's preservation. Thereupon, I took occasion to break the matter of Her Majesty's commandment unto him, as concerning his abode at Durham, without departing thence until he shall by me, or otherwise, receive other order. It seemed by his countenance, when I read those words unto him, which he desired me to do over and over again, that he was something appalled thereat, partly also by his words, lest Her Majesty had received information and conceived displeasure, which he was assured, as he said, he had not wittingly deserved, and yet forthwith he gathered himself, with all submission yielding to obey that Her Majesty's pleasure. And indeed, the old gentleman, like a man of wisdom and experience, doth seem both well contented to do, and well prepared to endure, whatsoever shall be enjoined. Then I advised him, according to the direction to me given, by his letters to his friends and servants, to charge them now in his absence to further all such services as they shall be commanded by the Lord Warden of the Middle Marches, for defence of Her Majesty's subjects, and for maintenance of peace and quietness, as they will answer at their uttermost perils, and as they mind to give cause to deal favourably with Her Majesty. “I most humbly,” saith he, “desire the continuance of Her Highness' favour, whom I would not offend for all the world, but of mine adversaries or unfriends I crave no favour.” |
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So, in, sum, he promised me to remain at Durham, and to address his letters, as was assigned him. This done, I entered with him, as of myself, into discourse of divers matters, as of his certificate of so many horse, so few years since, which, by the late view taken, are found so few; of so few days of truce holden by him and the opposite Warden; of the decay of that part of the Border; of the State of Tyndale and Riddesdale; of the cause of the many old spoils in Northumberland, and specially in the Bishopric; of the sufferance and oversight of so notorious outlaws as live and rob without controlment; of the good amendment of these enormities of a sudden, etc. Whereunto in answering and replying we spent a long time, but, for that they are no part of my charge, I hold it needless to set it down; so promising I would certify his dutiful and discreet behaviour, and now and then to visit him upon occasion, I left him in his inn. And as I returned homeward your lordship's letter of the 23rd met me, concerning three, priests lately arrived at Stockton, whereof I am very sorry, and will make as diligent enquiry as I may, and take such admonition thereof, and of the like, as your lordship now giveth me, for a sufficient caveat.—At. Bishop Auckland, the 30th of January, 1595. Syned. |
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Addressed. “To the Lord William Burghley.” |
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Holograph. Seal. 2 pp. (30. 39.) |
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Thomas Bodley to Lord Burghley. |
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1595/6, Jan. 30. |
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Since I made my last despatch, the 15th of this month, I have prevailed so far by some private endeavours with certain of the States, as by means of their persuasion the rest of their colleagues of the General States deputed Mr. Barnevelt and Mr. Brinnen to repair unto me yesterday to know the meaning of those speeches that I uttered unto them at my last proposition, by way of advice, as I advertised your lordship the 4th of this present. They began with thanks from the States, and other compliments of words, for the special care that I had taken to devise some ready means to compose the present difference between Her Majesty and them, and to project in their behalf such a cause of proceeding as would either by conjecture be accepted of Her Highness, or give her cause to think better of their affections unto her. What might follow such a preface your lordship will conceive, together with that answer I might make unto it. Wherein, when I came to the parts of the overture, I found it very requisite, with pre-advice of Mr. Barnevelt, to make a change in some sort of the form of my proposal, and of the number of the articles, and of the annual sums of payment, with some other alterations, to 'dasell' them a little, but always so as it might serve for a very fit inducement to draw them to do that which the project did intend, and Mr. Barnevelt would prosecute. For if I had concurred with the very same plot that he had formerly proposed at his being in Zericksee, because it might have happened that some here of the States had been secretly told it by some friend of that conference, it would have wrought a great suspicion of intelligence between us, and thereby bred some other jealousies than were to be neglected. In which respect I thought it meet to vary somewhat from him, and because it was but done to serve the present time, I hold it as impertinent to be related to your lordship. But of the progress and the substance of that which I negociate, I will not omit any necessary circumstance, having brought it ahead to a very good pass, in that the assembly of the States is “leased” of the matter at their own requisition. For hardly would your lordship believe of their
humours, that they should be so nice and delicate to deal with, in so much as if at first I had poured out at once all the parts of my overture, howsoever I had qualified my speeches unto them with appearance of profit to the State of their country, it would undoubtedly have 'astonnied' and not persuaded them a whit, so as I doubt the very motion would have dashed itself at the very first entrance, and thereafter their good liking to listen unto it would have grown irrecoverable. For every novelty unto them, where the matter is of weight, is greatly suspected, and I do plainly perceive it, that they have ever some distrust of the English proceedings, how clearly soever we may deal in our causes, which puts me often to my shifts how to speak or to treat with any one of them all. But yet in this negotiation I have sped beyond my hope of a favourable issue, for as far as I have brought it, and for so short a pursuit. |
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I may imagine very safely upon this their deputation and by divers tokens otherwise, that it is not yet surmised that there passeth in secret any special correspondence between me and Mr. Barnevelt, which is a great help both to him and to me for the managing of our business, with more security in many things, and most of all in this, that he was thus appointed to come and confer, and after, to report my speeches to the States, which he may do to my advantage and for the furtherance of the project in the manner of his delivery, wherein I am assured he will be diligent and careful. How the project is accepted in the College of the States, and what is discoursed or objected upon it, I shall not know so very soon. For they will canvas it often, according to their custom. But for the better assurance of that conclusion we desire Mr. Barnevelt will train it on, till, according to the promise that was mutually made at the Session of Zericksee, there shall be deputies appointed out of Holland and Zealand to confer about it with the States; wherein he hath already effected so much with the residue of his fellows, that the Council of Holland hath written already their letters of citation to the towns of their province to appear at the Hague the 18th day of February after their style, with this clause in their letters, “pour avancer les affaires d'Angleterre,” which doth as good as imply that they should come hither sufficiently authorised, which will make it, I hope, a very short piece of work. |
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We have fresh intelligence here that the Cardinal of Austria doth determine for a while to keep his Court at Namur, but there is nothing here besides of special consideration. The most part of the horsemen of this country, with certain troops of foot, are gone thitherward of late to give his train an alarm, and to do some service if it may be, whereof and of the state of all things here, Sir Francis Vere, who is come hither, and will depart within these two days, will inform you very fully.—From the Hague, Jan. 30, '95. |
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Endorsed in Bodley's hand, “Copy of my letter to the Lord Treasurer. 30 Ja., '95.” |
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3 pp. (30. 40.) |
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Edward Dymoke to Sir Rorert Cecil. |
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1595/6, Jan. 30. |
According to that it pleased the lords of the Council to grant me, I have been in the country, and returned almost this fortnight. And whereas it pleased you to give me advertisement that it was their expectation that I should use such caution as my going thither might not be thought to be to the Earl's disgrace, I have accordingly demeaned myself; refusing to do that which my lord willingly required me in the assistance of him in the office of lieutenancy, because my lord
should not think I would brave him in any sort. But on the contrary part, the Earl hath greatly terrified some of my tenants, proceeding against my uncle, Edward Dymoke, who is your father's servant, by process in the Star Chamber, and hath in a great triumphing manner over me shewed my under bailiff of Cimisbye divers subpœnas for my uncle Charles, for my brother and for other, my servants, and hath put my youngest brother, who only hath relied upon him, and by his means was made complain of me a year ago to my Lords of the Council, out of a house which one of my men bought of one of the Earl's men, and placed him therein. And whereas he never could by any colour further his violent courses and challenges unto my liberties, now in my absence I understand he hath by his own presence in my town, in the face of my tenants, thinking thereby to disgrace me with them, begun an innovation of a pound, being no lord in the town, but tenant of that he hath to the Bishop of Carlisle, holding the rest by free rent and services to your father and me. So my humble suit to you is no more but that I may, upon his coming up, either be restored to the liberty of a subject to defend my right, or else finally heard before their lordships; for this his entertaining of a treaty of concord is but to advantage himself the more of me : and if the end cannot be, as I desire, to a perfect peace betwixt us, that I may follow for your lordship, what so unkind and merciless a kinsman doth deserve. |
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Endorsed :—“30 Jan., 1595.” |
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Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (30. 42.) |
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Anne Butland to the Lord Treasurer. |
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1595/6, Jan. 30. |
The possession of a wood, parcel of the manor of Geddings, Herts., the inheritance of which ought to descend to her from her grandfather, is denied to her. Prays him either to yield possession or to make her recompense. |
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Endorsed :—“30 Jan., 1595.” |
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½ p.
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Enclosure :—Copy of her title to the above. ½ p. (2352.) |
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George Gilpin to the Earl of Essex. |
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1595/6, Jan. 31. |
Sir Francis Vere, who presently cometh over, can so particularly enlarge unto you the present state of these parts, and of Mr. Bodley's proceedings, and his success, with what else may be worthy of your knowledge, that I shall not need to be troublesome.—Hague, 31 January, 1595. |
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Signed. Seal. 1 p. (30. 43.) |
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Sir Thomas Wilkes to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1595/6, Jan. 31. |
Praying his remembrance of his poor bill, the rather that the parties to whom he is to make the assignments are here attending to their charge, and will depart at the end of the term. If he cannot obtain Her Majesty's signature to the grant, he will be constrained to forbear the receipt of his money till the next term, which will turn to his very great hindrance.—London, the last of January, 1595. |
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Signed. Seal. ½ p. (30. 44.) |
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Mons. Sancy to Mons. Buzanval, French Ambassador to the Low Countries. |
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1595/6, Jan. 31./Feb. 10. |
J'ay aujourdhuy receu en ceste ville les deux lettres qu'il vous ha pleu m'escrire, lune du 27 de Decembre, l'autre du 27 de Janvier, suivans lesquelles je suis d'advis de differer le voyage que le Roy ha resolu me faire jusques a ce que nous ayons advis d'Angleterre que j'y puisse servir de quelque chose. Mais il est bien certain que si nous faillons a ceste conjonction a nous bien unir, nostre ennemy en prendra un grand advantage. Vray est que je n'y puis rien proposer davantage que ce que jay veu par la proposition que vous leur avez faicte. Mais je crains que pendant les longueurs d'Angleterre une mauvaise heure ne nous emporte en ce conseil ou vous scavez que l'on impute aux Huguenots tout le trouble et le mal du royaume. Je suis venu icy pour faire de largent; jay ja envoye le payement d'un mois de nostre armee et donne ordre qu'il en suivra cinc ou six; entre cy et que cela soit despendu nous en trouverons daultres, Dieu aydant. Car il ny ha que la povrete du Roy qui esleve ceulx qui conseillent une paix honteuse plustost que de patir les incommodites qui leur desplaisent et auxquelles ils ne sont pas nouris. Je desire que vous veniez pardeca pour entendre de vous plus amplement l'estat des affaires pardela et ce qui s'y peult projecter.—De Parys, ce 10 Fevrier, 1596. |
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[P.S.] Excusez la haste, les importuns ne me permettent pas vous faire plus long discours. |
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Holograph. Two Seals. 1 p. (38. 27.) |
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Mons. de Beauvoir to the Earl of Essex. |
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1595/6, Jan. |
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Je vous asseurois par la mienne du viije du passé que j'esperois estre pres de mon maistre à la fin du mesme mois. Infinis affaires domestiques, avec une maladie d'environ vingt jours, ont retarde jusques à ici mon partement. Je me porte mieux, graces à Dieu, et toujours vostre serviteur avec infiny debvoir. C'est pourquoy je vous advise qu'en mon absence on s'est resolu en nostre Court de despescher par de la Sancy. Je scay qu'il ne vous est pas serviteur ny amy. Pensez y, il est advantageux en parolles. Au reste, ne doubtes que le Roy n'ait eu advis de la que vous ne luy estiez plus affectionné comme par le passé, et que vous ne luy rendiez pas les bons offices que vous aviez accoustumes. Je ne le scay d'aultre que de luy mesme, car en ce peu que je le veois il me le conta sans m'en nommer l'advertisseur : bien me dict-il que le bon homme La Fontaine escrivoit que vous faisies sentir desirer Calais et par provision vous demandies Bologne. Je ne scaurois croire que ce bonne homme que j'ay éstime vous estre affectionné ayt escript quelque chose a vostre desadvantage. Toutesfois vous avez des yeulx et des oreilles, et tenez secret ce que je vous escris, non de crainte que j'ay si non qu'on se donne garde de moy. Mon filz, vostre serviteur obligé, part presentement; je croy que dans six jours il sera pres du Roy. Je me fortiffieray cependant et ne pense pas tarder douze ou quinze jours apres luy pour m'y rendre. La et ailleurs je vous scray fidele ad aras usque, car je le doibs et le veux. Je n'escris à personne qu'a vous, n'en ayant ny le loisir ny le subject; faignez done, s'il vous plaist, n'avoir rien de moy, car de ma part je donne bon ordre que ceste cy vous sera rendue secretement. Bon jour, Monsieur, aymez moy comme je suis et seray in œternum et in sœcula sœculorum vostre tres humble serviteur, de qui vous cognoisses le chiffre et la main du secretaire. |
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Endorsed : “Monsr. de Beauvoir, January, 1595.” |
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The portion in italics is in cipher, the translation being inserted from the paper mentioned below.
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Unsigned. 1¼ pp.
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Enclosed : “Decipher into French of the portion of the above letter that is in cipher.” |
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In the hand of Essex's secretary. 2/3 p. (171. 66.) |
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The Duke of Montpensier to the Earl of Essex. |
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[1595/6, Jan.] |
Acknowledging the receipt of his letter sent by M. Hompton [Unton], regretting his present inability to be useful to him, and hoping that some occasion may arise when he may be able to serve him. Signed, Henry de Bourbon. |
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Holograph. French. Small Seal. 1 p. (30. 21.) |
