Cecil Papers: January 1599, 16-31

Calendar of the Cecil Papers in Hatfield House: Volume 9, 1599. Originally published by His Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1902.

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'Cecil Papers: January 1599, 16-31', in Calendar of the Cecil Papers in Hatfield House: Volume 9, 1599, (London, 1902) pp. 29-55. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-cecil-papers/vol9/pp29-55 [accessed 30 April 2024]

January 1599, 16–31

Ed. Stanhope to the Earl of Essex.
1598/9, Jan. 16. Yesternight, after I had written to your servant, Mr. R. Mansfield brought me these letters enclosed, whereby it may well appear the intention is yet followed freely, and the impediments that hitherto have hindered it set down; that he is encouraged by having their opinions that they [the Scotch pledges] can escape. It is like enough he may hear from them, for being in great need and not kept close prisoners, they may speak with some that may carry their messages, under colour to supply the same. And the gaoler told me a week since that there was a Scottish gentleman of a good house, who had been with his Gr[ace] and from thence sent to speak with them, who said he passed southwards to travel. But I think this hope he is put in by them will rather further his intent, which I will attend with what diligence I may, having already laid the plot to intercept both his messenger and letters when himself hath taken his course, and thereby to attend his landing. For all which I will omit all other necessary occasions I have this term time to go southwards.
In the meantime I am humbly to remember you that whilst Mr. Mansfield is held here in this necessary service, you will have him in mind for such charge of horse as he is desirous to follow you with against her Majesty's enemies; his opinion is that a band of borderers, both for their hardness to endure service and skill to observe the straits and passages, would be very serviceable, which number might be supplied at home by the Bishopric and other confining countries.—York, 16 January, 1598.
[P.S.]—If you please to employ Mr. Wardman to follow you with any men from hence or otherwise attend you, if this service be not presently effected, I doubt not but we shall perform it though you call him hence.
Holograph. 1 p. (176. 59.)
Lawrence Thomson to Sir Robert Cecil.
1598/9, Jan. 16. Were it not for sickness I would have in presence attended you to answer your letter. All books and writings touching her Majesty's services that passed through mine hands in the lifetime of my master, upon commandment of your deceased father, I delivered to him, not withholding any one writing, as matters indeed which I desired rather to be discharged of than to keep them, for they could not be of any use to me, and being as records of her Majesty, though the labour had been mine own, more fitter to be delivered up. I received no one writing back again, and for the use of such as I left with his lordship, I gave that direction to him that I could. If any be now missing, I know not what to say to it, for as I then sequestered myself from my books, so did I enforce my memory to forget the matter contained in them, as not fit for a private subject to enter into that sanctuary of her Majesty's secrets, no, not so much as in thought.—From my poor house at Laleham, 16 January, 1598.
Holograph. ½ p. (176. 60.)
Sir Gerard Harvy to the Earl of Essex.
[1598/9,] Jan. 16. The exceeding desire I have to wait upon your lordship in this journey hath made me entreat your letter unto the Governor for my leave to come for England; who, although I know his unwillingness in regard he is left here alone, having an intent to leave me to command this place, yet upon the least from you he will not deny it.—Ostend, 16 January.
Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (176. 61.)
Lewis, Lord Mordaunt to the Earl of Essex.
1598/9, Jan. 16. Has a nephew that has served in the Low Countries two years and is desirous to follow his lordship into Ireland. Desires him to bestow a lieutenant's place upon him.—Drayton, 16th of January, 1598.
Signed. Seal. ½ p. (176. 62.)
Sir Edward Hastings to the Earl of Essex.
1598/9, Jan. 16. I do thank you for your coach horses and men which I had down into the country; and seeing that it will not be my good fortune to see you before your going into Ireland, I most humbly present my services unto you.—Meryvale, this 16th of January, '98.
Signed. Seal broken. ½ p. (176. 63.)
Thomas Gurlyn to the Earl of Essex.
1598/9, Jan. 17. Four months past you permitted me into your honourable presence, and required me that Mr. Smith might join with me in my suit which her Majesty most graciously intended towards me, not only in lieu of more than 3,000l. lost in her service, but also for many my dutiful deserts. Yet by so much as I honour you above the rest of the nobility, by so much I was the readier to grant your request, having your promise that by your means unto her Majesty the same should be effected unto us both. But as her Majesty sent me word of late by Mr. Carmarden that I should have my suit, and also for that I cannot understand that you have moved her Majesty therein, and especially for that my ability cannot longer endure, I entreat you to give your honourable performance, or else permit me to take some other course for my better contentment.—17 January, 1598.
Holograph. Seal. ½ p. (176. 64.)
R. Lord North and other Justices of Suffolk to the Earl of Essex.
1598/9, Jan. 17. Upon receipt of her Majesty's most princely commandment for the furnishing of 25 horses for the service of Ireland, we have endeavoured with all expedition to perform it. But seeing our horses and furniture cannot be in readiness at Bury before Wednesday the 25th of this present to be delivered to Sir Anthony Cook or his lieutenant, if by just occasion our horses cannot be at the port of Bristol without their prejudice by the last day of this present month, as prescribed to us, we beseech you and the rest of the Lords to “conster” our doings to the best, seeing our longer stay is in our desires for the better advancement of her Majesty's service.—From Bury, this 17th of January, 1598.
Signed. ½ p. (176. 64.)
The Archbishop and the Council of York to Sir Robert Cecil.
1598/9, Jan. 18. The gaol of York being much pestered with many poor prisoners, we have this week kept a gaol delivery, and therein tried 56 prisoners, whereof were found guilty 41, many having the favour of the clergy, and some of petty larceny. But none, we thank God, were accused of any notorious crime against her Majesty or the State, save one Selie, minister, who confesseth the counterfeiting of her Majesty's Great Seal to a presentation, whose trial we have spared till the assizes because the principal actor in it, being a pedlar, is yet untaken. The country otherwise is in very good peace. We are in duty to remember you that there is great miss of a fourth councillor in Mr. Cardinal's place, for her Majesty's better service here; and whosoever her Highness shall appoint we shall be glad of, but her Highness shall be much the better served if he be such a one as may well attend. Many being gone back in religion, we caused a great number of them in this country to be indicted at this gaol delivery for not coming to the church.—At York, 18 January, 1598.
Signed. Seal. 1 p. (176. 66.)
Lucy, Marchioness of Winchester to Sir Robert Cecil.
1598/9, Jan. 19. My good uncle, the troubled estate that my Lord and I am left in requireth the care and kindness of all my friends, of which number in nature I reckon you the second, and in that place the first, beseeching you, Sir, that I may receive the comfort and aid that your wisdom and credit may afford me there, for which as you shall bind me so you shall find me very thankful unto you whilst I live. I forbear to trouble you, Sir, with any particularity in writing, praying you to allow at your good leisure the access of this bearer, to whom I have given confidence to inform you according to occasion. Your ever loving niece, Lucy Winchester.—January 19, '98.
Holograph. Seal. ½ p. (58. 119.)
M. Noel de Caron to the Earl of Essex.
1598/9, Jan. 19. Your Excellency will see by the enclosed how long this poor mariner has been in distress. To my knowledge he has been 7 or 8 months on his affair. Permit him to return home.—At Clappam, 19 Jan., 1598.
Holograph. French. Seal. 1 p. (59. 1.)
Humphrey Flynt to Sir Robert Cecil.
1598/9, Jan. 19. Of your hawks, “Dormor” and “Sadler” fly best. They are both good kill-ducks. “Cromwell” hath “bursed” herself upon a fold, for the duck and she led both by it. I thought she would have died in the field, and for two days she cast all her meat, but I am now in hopes to recover her.—Theobalds, the 19 of January, 1598.
Holograph. ½ p. (59. 2.)
Nicholas Davey to Sir Robert Cecil.
1598/9, Jan. 19. It is now in your honourable report to her Majesty to bind me and mine for ever. Favour my poor distressed estate and think it a deed of charity to harbour the harbourless.—Ivy bridge, this 19 of Jan., 98.
Holograph. Seal. ½ p. (59. 3.)
Ralph Fox to Edward Reynolds, Secretary to the Earl of Essex.
1598/9, Jan. 20. I have before complained to you against Mr. Udall for the lewd part he played with me in accusing me to the L. Chancellor of writing to my Lord against him. Now lately he hath told one Weston, an alderman of this City, whom he met at Chester coming from the Court, that I had striven to cross his, Weston's, suit to be merchant for providing apparel for the army, by writing to my Lord and you and saying that Weston was a Frenchman and not fit to be trusted. I doubt not but you will roundly tell him of his dishonest dealing in accusing me with that false and devised matter. If I had not carried myself well, I could not have continued upwards of 20 years in favour in this office.—From Dublin the 20th of Jan., 1598.
[P.S.]—This gentleman, Capt. Devoroux, from anything I could learn, hath carried himself very well in his charge. How I have used him for my Lo. sake, I leave to his own honest report. The Lord Justices, as may appear, do conceive well of him, on whose behalf they wrote to my Lord.
Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (59. 4.)
The Earl of Northumberland to the Earl of Essex.
[1598/9,] Jan. 20. These great stirs at Court of yours came hither unto this country. The alarm was hot, but when I understood the enemy, I feared small danger. If I might know when you are ready to go forwards this journey, I would come and bid you farewell. Your brother to be disposed of as you may have occasion to use me.—Petworth, this 20 Jan.
Holograph. Seal. ½ p. (59. 5.)
Sir Richard Molyneux to Sir Robert Cecil.
1598/9, Jan. 20. A little before Xmas last a certain nobleman of Scotland, the Lord Johnson, came to stay at Dalton in Furnees, with but four in his company. Hearing that a man of such quality was staying so privately in so paltry a town, I would have stayed him, being in your government of the Duchy, for your directions. Before I could do so, my house being near threescore miles from the place, he had removed to Cockermouth in the Lord Scroop's Wardenry, where he now remains. At the end of last Michaelmas term, I received by one Peter Hale directions from you to give Hale warrant to search for Popish and Seminary priests. I have not seen Hale since the delivery of the letter, some seven or eight weeks ago.—This 20th of January, 1598.
Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (59. 6.)
[John Colville] to [the Earl of Essex.]
1598/9, Jan. 20/30. At my being there the original party came to (65) the Mayor of Boulogne, marvelling much of his long delay, and informing him in manner following; that the piece of merchandise shall be had without loss of a hair, but he will in no cause deal with (68) the States nor with any that served them, his mind carrying him either to (69) England or to (70) France, but rather to (69) England because the other may not attempt. And whereas before my power was limitate only to deal with (60) your lordship, now I may at his direction deal with any (58) Protestant, the former excepted, and the matter be prosecuted as merchandise, avowed or not avowed by (41) the Queen, as they think safest. The dispense will be small and the danger less, as the merchant, if I can find one, may see with his eyes.
Secondly, Bothwell shall have entertainment of 1,000 men to be lifted and used in manner following. Three ships with three hundred of Stanley's regiment to go with him to Caithness, the Earl whereof is his brother. Arriving there, he shall lift his men and sail to Orkney, where he intends to force the castle of Kirkbay, and is to possess all the small Orcad isles easily, because the inhabitants dislike their natural Lord, and are well inclined to Bothwell. His purpose then is to lift the men he can that speak the Irish tongue and by the west seas, where he will be out of danger of your ships, to go to Ireland, leaving a garrison in the said castle and islands to collect stores and munitions there from the East countries, and to be a receptacle for their hurt and deceased persons, the passage suiting well for Danish and Hamburgh [men] to go to Spain and Ireland.
Item : he was the month of November last in Paris, where he has debauched sundry Scotchmen to go with him; one of them, a friend of mine, has revealed all to me, and is willing (if you will) to go and attend on Bothwell and keep me advertised of him.
To frustrate this design, I suggest that letters be written to the King warning him that Bothwell intends to enter Caithness to seize the Orkneys, that the King may take good order with the Earl of Caithness and his brothers Ja. and Jo. Sinklers; also that two hundred men be sent to Caithness from the Lewis, half to lie at Ferso and the other half at Taxigo, which are the only good harbours. I have also written to the Earl of Orkney and to a son-in-law of mine, which can do no harm.
Thirdly, the party affirms that they mean to try to get one or two to work some treason against your person, and says that if such assassins be despatched he will get their names and marks.—The penult of Janver, stilo novo, 1599.
Unsigned. Endorsed :—“Advertisement from Colvel.” 2½ pp. (68. 4.)
The Mayor and Corporation of Newcastle-on-Tyne to the Earl of Essex.
1598/9, Jan. 21. We thank you for the care you have taken with Lord Buckhurst, as Lord Lumley informs us, to prevent our Corporation being injured by the imposition intended to be laid upon coals shipped hence, after the departure of Mr. Chapman, one of our aldermen, from Court.—Newcastle, this 21st of January, 1598.
Signed :—George Farnskie, mayor, H. Anderson, William Riddell, H. Chapman, Thomas Lyddell, W. Jenison, A. Anderson, William Warmouthe. ½ p. (59. 9.)
Lord Willoughby to the Earl of Essex.
1598/9, Jan. 21. As one day in heaven is better than a thousand, so one letter like this of yours may stand for a million. Your Lordship hath mounted me high with so particular favour, which satisfieth my covetings more than a horse company or band of ordnance of my late Lord Treasurer's angels. Not to have asked, had been to be ignorant of what I had been and what I am; to be denied is not strange to me, who in his life had but one grant, not without long grief to amplify the same. This denial prejudiceth the service, not me, and so I leave it. I pass my leave to come up in like manner, for when it shall not be that I may attend you there, I have no extraordinary comfort there. I shall seldom see the Queen go to Chapel, and for other saints, I am already too crooked to creep to them, yet, as I am, I would willingly follow your baggage in the camp in a horse-litter and be your carriage master. Would God I had so exchanged my government! I fear I shall carry hoary bad reputation hence, such is the ancient ill-condition, and irreparable amendment since we are deprived of hope of means by your absence. You should take all your followers to die happily with you in Egypt, rather than unhappily leave them to live in the dearth of Canaan behind you. For the changing of the garrison, the charge of levying new supplies is quitted in the arms and furnitures of those other companies set forth. The charge to transport from hence into Ireland will be a small matter, and, if it please her Majesty that I appoint captains, and levies for those men shall come hither, I will see the charge cleared rather than live “puseld,” as I do, and the town in danger, as it is like to be. The dilemma is thus resolved. Soldiers marred with ease in towns, having good bodies, arms and clothes, will prove excellent in the field though very bad for the town, with whose frontier neighbours they have had too much practice, wherein they have had so much head and liberty. These have forgot what they have learned, are mutinous, obstinate where there is no danger, and humbly mindful of their duties presented before a fearful enemy. In a town, again, new soldiers are like new scholars, willing to become proficients, and so, in time, masters. Sooner will a simple clown in a quiet garrison prove a soldier indeed, than a conceited ill-trained bravo that hath forgot his bad lesson. Thus these good men the town may well be disfurnished of, because they are not good for it, but for the field. New soldiers, tender and unacquainted with the field, will have humbler spirits and less acquainted with disorders, than such fellows of all waters, and so fitter for the town. But where your repeated reasons prevail not, I think it reason to leave the argument to the final construction, when I hope in God I shall so behave myself for the bearing of my part, as I shall not stand stammering it memoriter as some unlucky did for Calleis in Westminster. I have said the best I could for this service, and I will do my best, so upon my “Quietus est,” I care not what Auditor Hunt or hunting auditors cavil. I have obtained much in that my reasons have been accepted and defended by you, and I rest myself more supplied on your true report than if I had horse-companies, foot, munition, engineers and whatsoever else. These are but trifles, oaten pipes. When I turn myself to your great work, I am enchanted with your sweet harmony of discords, admire your forecasts, and bemoan, myself to be divided from such a fortress of fortitude, whereunto I am in mind so morticed as I desire of God to stand and fall withal. Who flowed so much as could supply to this your project, might well be held another ocean, whereof our world hath but one. You have made already the conquest your own, you have encountered evil itself, subdued it to your virtuous self, the other conflicts are but light skirmishes, your trophy is already advanced, and death itself is fallen at your feet. Hanno is subdued alive, Hannibal from the senate throws his trifling enemy to the stairs' foot, Cato his poison ends himself, you victorious shall see these new acted. But glory and safety! Though Ireland calls you, Satyrs can hear that England cries out for you. Is peril present there in eye, it is here imminent in heart. But must you needs go, yet, noble lord, bestride us down, firm one foot there but rest the other here, that, when you step to us again, it may be without slipping. For fear of it you are sure to have the hands and hearts of honest men. I though I be minimus apostolorum will pray my part, with the widow ever ready to pay my mite.—Scribbled lamely from Berwick, the 21st of January.
Signed. 2¾ pp. (59. 10.)
Sir Thomas Knollys to the Earl of Essex.
[1598/9, c. Jan. 22.] Being arrived here at Flushing with the whole fleet committed to my charge, I find all things so unready that without further direction I cannot perform my instructions. Here is neither Sir Henry Dockerey to receive the ships and victuals from, nor any order from the States whereby to dispose of the troops which I have brought hither. Of 1,400 there is but 400 of the old troops arrived here in Zeland, without a captain or any other officer to conduct them to Ireland. I understand from Sir William Brown, the States mean to send no entire companies, but some out of every company. What will become of the captains and officers that are come with me I know not. For my part, I will presently go into Holland to the States, to solicit my despatch of these men, whom I doubt not to find very tractable and agreeable to the orders set down by your lordship. Only I do think the ordering of these matters is altogether done by Sir Francis Vere, who, I do imagine, is jealous of my coming into these parts. I will also demand victuals from the States of Zeland for these men, for the time that I may go into Holland and return. I may so ease her Majesty of the charge which by this contrariety may happen. The bearer Captain Barker can more particularly declare the business. I have given 40s. unto a ship of war to set the bearer ashore in England, together with other his expenses. I hope it will be considered of.
Holograph. Seal. Endorsed :—“Recd. 26 Jan.,'98.” (59. 23.)
Sir Thomas Knollys to the Earl of Essex.
1598/9, [c. Jan. 22]. Here have been such strange proceedings and contrary courses taken by Sir Francis Vere, that you shall easily find how hardly you have been dealt withal both in the men and arms which have been sent hither from above to go into Ireland. Of 1,300 which should be drawn out of the States' garrisons, they want here 400 at the least, and the broken companies which are sent down are of the worst men and worst armed; so that to supply their faults and wants they demand both men and arms at my hands. I know you look to have old soldiers all and of the best, and I, therefore, utterly deny the doing thereof, being contrary to your own will and expectation and withal to mine own disadvantage. Of the 20 companies which were sent under my conduct, I have placed 4 companies in Flushing, 2 companies I have sent to the Brill, and 1 company unto Sir Edward Norreys to Ostend, so that there remain but 13 companies with me, which I have order by the States' Commissaries to carry into Holland. Nevertheless Sir Horace Vere came also with instructions from his brother and potence from the Count Maurice to receive also those 13 companies from me, and, as I am informed, to appoint them to other captains, so that thereby not only myself but all the rest of those captains should be presently cashiered. What a disgrace it would be to us, I refer to your consideration! I made him answer that I meant to go with them myself into Holland, there to demand further order from the States General, and that I was expecting further orders from the Council. Be a means for present order to be sent to Sir Francis Vere that we do not cashier without special occasion any captains appointed by your Lordship and the Council. I refer more particulars unto this bearer. Sir Francis Vere hath not sent one man out of his own regiment.
Holograph. Endorsed :—“Recd. the 28 Jan. '98, out of the Low Countries.” Seal, 1 p. (59. 28.)
“38” to [? J. Colville].
1598/9, Jan.22/Feb. 1. Cognoissant la marchandise comme vous la cognoissez et sachant qu'en este elle se poura gaster le marchant ausy estant mortel, je m'estonne que vous tardez si longuement, et que unne telle marchandise est de si peu de coute a 2 pour la quel je seray fidelle sentinelle pourveu que ma marchandise soit agreable a luy ou quelque une des siens. Kespondez en de vostre vie, pranant la mienne an gaige et 1' asurant que rien ne se traffik a icy contre luy de quoy il ne soit en saison adverty. Pauca sapienti sed periculum est in mora. Devant le vingtiesme de ce mois je atans au plus tard vostre response. Ce premier Febrier, 1599.
Holograph. At the foot is a note in Colville's writing : “For understanding this letter, 2 is his Honour, 38, the original party, 42, my director.” Addressed, “A 42.” 1 p. (68. 12.)
Thomas Warburton to Edward Reynolds.
1598/9, Jan. 22. There hath lately been some private conference betwixt Mr. Dean of Winchester and my good neighbour Mr. Barlow concerning a matter now in question for you upon my lord's letters. Both of them, as it seems, rest very willing to further your good, but especially Mr. Barlow, who, as I understand, hath on your behalf urged from the tenant now in possession a greater sum than otherwise I think would have been; insomuch that of himself he hath willed me to signify you that if you please to accept of 100l. and so much in secret to answer me, the tenant shall become a suitor unto you for your goodwill and bring you the money, or if you can by any other course make as you think a greater profit, his earnest desire is you will use him if therein you think he can do you any good. I pray you will send me some news of our Irish wars.
Holograph. Seal. ½ p. (176. 68.)
Lord Willoughby to the Earl of Essex.
1598/9, Jan. 22. I perceive Captain Yaxley hath a great zeal to show his service to your lordship. I cannot hinder devotion to you, and though this place, where good captains be “geafen,” might for her Majesty's service hardly spare him if any occasion should be, yet to your lordship there is not anything better than other which I wish not, and had rather suffer myself than you should be unserved—envying a little, I confess, those which have the means whilst I am tied and cannot. If therefore your pleasure be to have him, I will not hold him, or else I assure you no man should now with my consent draw him hence. I understand you have graced his brother that followed me sometimes, and that he attends you this journey. I would all your army were such, and then you in your followers no less matchless than in yourself.—Berwick, 22 January, 1598.
Signed. Seal. ? p. (176. 69.)
The Mayor and Others of Exeter to Sir Robert Cecil.
1598/9, Jan. 23. We desire you to accept from us that small annuity which we paid to our lord your father.—Exeter, the 23 of January, 1598.
Signed :—John Perham, mayor, Richard Prouze, John Davye, Nicholas Martin, William Martin, George Smythe, Nicholas Spicer, Johne Budemore. ¾ p. (59. 14.)
Sir Henry Docwra to the Earl of Essex.
1598/9, Jan. 23. Finding at my coming into this town a boat ready to depart for England, I thought it good to take the convenience of the passage to advertise you thereby of my arrival here, and of the landing as well of the troops brought by Sir Th. Knowles as of the other sent from the States; in the disposing of both which many difficulties appear, but such as I doubt not but within three or four days will be clearly removed. The only impediment which is like to befall me is the want of the numbers expected and ordained to have met me there, wherein I do manifestly already discover the defects, but cannot enter into the particularities of them till I have waded a little further in the business, which done you shall be with all speed advertised of all things. Your instructions, together with the warrant from the Council for victuals, I have received, and shall so carefully provide in everything accordingly as I doubt not but you will be satisfied with my service.—From Flushing in haste, this 23rd of January, 1598.
[P.S.]—The troops are dispersed into companies of 150 and the captains appointed by Sir Francis Vere, saving the 400 which come from Flushing, the captains whereof Sir Wm. Browne meaneth to nominate, which I fear will breed some disproportion to the rest. But how we shall determine that matter amongst ourselves you shall be advertised with all speed possible, and therewithal receive the list as they shall be set down.
Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (176. 70.)
Sir Robert Jermyn to Sir Robert Cecil.
1598/9, Jan. 24. The vicarage of Clare, Suffolk, is void by the death of Mr. Beasolde. The chief inhabitants are desirous to have Mr. Colte, the bearer, for their pastor, having had good experience of his gift of teaching and honesty of conversation. I have been asked to intreat your presentation of him to that charge, being parcel of the Duchy. The town is a populous market town and requires an able, painful and discreet teacher, as he is. Your Honour shall therefore in my opinion do herein an acceptable service to God and a favour grateful to the whole town, comfortable to poor Mr. Colte, and such as I shall ever acknowledge among the rest of your kindnesses.—From the Crutched Friars, this 24 Jan., 1598.
Signed. 1 p. (59. 15.)
Richard. [Bancroft], Bishop of London, to Sir Robert Cecil.
1598/9, Jan. 24. I am bold to recommend for the parsonage of Crofton in Yorkshire Mr. Lawrence Barker, for whom, I understand, the L. Thomas Howard has already been a suitor. The people of the parish will be much bound unto you for placing so good a man amongst them.—From my house in London, this 24th of January, 1598.
Holograph. Seal. ½ p. (59. 16.)
John Conley to Sir Robert Cecil.
1598/9, Jan. 24. I have, for the past two years, been a suitor to you and the Council for £333 18s. 5d. sterling, due to me, of which £100 was for beeves for the army, and the rest for the entertainment of Capt. Tutcher Parkins, as may appear under the hands of the Council in Ireland. Unless some order be taken for my payment I shall be undone. I beg you also to remember the Lords of my letter concerning her Majesty's profit, and have it called upon their next sitting. I will put in security in the City of London for the performance of the contents.—24 Jan.
Holograph. Endorsed :—“1598.” ½ p. (59. 17.)
Sir William Reed to the Earl of Essex.
1598/9, Jan. 24. Understanding of your noble voyage intended for Ireland, my purpose was to have sent my son to have attended on you therein. But so it falleth out that the Almighty hath so visited his wife with extremity of sickness as I am forced to stay him here contrary to both our wills, as this gentleman Captain Jackson can very well witness. My only wish is that I could recall some few of my years again, and be but so well able to wait on you as lately I was when I attended my lord of Leicester in the Low Countries.—January 24, 1598.
Signed. ½ p. (176. 73.)
Walter Plonkett to the Earl of Essex.
1598/9, Jan. 24. I went into Ireland this last spring with letters from the Lords, procured by your lordship, to the Earl of Ormond, accompanied with your letters for the granting of Captain Edward Gorges' company, then sent out of Picardy thither, unto me, which were cast before my going into Ireland; where I lived with the Earl of Ormonde in all places of service about seven months upon my own charge, as his lordship signified by his letters, sent by me in November last, to the Council, and to you in particular. My suit is that my long service and loss of blood sundry times, and my fruitless chargeable journey into Ireland may move you to employ me in this your honourable journey, being as willing to venture my life under your colours as he that carrieth most gold lace upon his back.—London, 24 January, 1598.
Holograph. ½ p. (176. 74.)
Sir William Brown to the Earl of Essex, Earl Marshal of England.
1598/9, Jan. 25. I received your letter of the 17th of January, mentioning instructions sent to me with the troops out of England. I received a letter from the Lords of the Council with your hand to it. All the contents shall be performed to my uttermost power. Occasions of delay I reserve to the relation of Sir Henry Docwray. I received both from his Excellency and Sir Francis Vere letters for supplying the numbers with 400 from Flushing. Although I was not, but upon further extremity than I see, to send forth any, I answered that my 400 should be ready, and so they are, four captains with their officers and entire companies which shall be made up to 400 with as good men as we can choose from hence. It seems that there will yet want very near 300, which Sir Henry Docwray hath written to Sir Francis Yere for. If there be no other means in time, I will send out 100 more, which endeavour of mine you will, I hope, honourably interpret. As those of the Brill are not yet come down, being 200, Sir Francis may with one supply the rest from above, to be here almost as soon one as the other. I am afraid this sending out of broken companies by the States will not afford so serviceable men, nor so well furnished, as if captains had gone with their whole companies, because there goes no officers of their own with them that might justify their sufficiency. It seems his Excellency presumes you will accept this in good part, seeing he hath need of men, having so mighty an enemy to deal withal.—Flushing, the 25th Jan., 1598.
Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (59. 18.)
Captain R. Moryson to the Earl of Essex.
1598/9, Jan. 25. According to your directions, on the 22nd of this month our troops arrived at Flushing, but by the defect of some officers and the disbanding of many men here, wanted 320 of the full number, which with all expedition possible will be supplied. The company which you gave me here for my “leift” is presently to be cashiered, for the States resolve to keep no companies under 200, and, therefore, took all these men to supply the other companies that sent broken men, and the rest to Sir Francis Yere's regiment which sent not any to this service. However I will depend altogether in your Lordship's disposing as one devoted to you without conditions.—This 25 of Jan.
Holograph. Seal. Endorsed :—“1598.” 1 p. (59. 19.)
Richard Bermyngham to the Earl of Essex.
1598/9, Jan. 25. Perceiving you are minded to take some pains in suppressing the rebellion now afoot in Ireland, seeing the world do know how plentifully God hath bestowed His manifold rare gifts of nature upon you, whereby her Majesty is no doubt the rather moved to think you a most meet person to undertake the enterprise, which choice the general applause do no less allow; and for that I hold it the duty of every well-affected subject to minister his uttermost aid to further so laudable an enterprise, myself conceiving in my mind these few remembrances which (if not already thought upon) may seem allowable, presume to exhibit them to you as a testimony of mine unfeigned affection. For accomplishing whereof my daily prayers, being all the help my aged years can yield, shall not cease.—25 January, 1598.
Holograph. 1 p. (176. 75.)
Sir Henry Docwra to the Earl of Essex.
1598/9, Jan. 25. By my last I advertised you only of my arrival at this town, which was not before the 23rd of this month. The reason that I came no sooner was for that not only I but the rest of the captains of Sir Francis Vere's regiment stood in daily hopes to have received such money as was due unto us for our last two years' accounts of ordinary pay, amounting to a sum well worthy the attending for two or three days. But the matter being debated in doubtful terms even till the time we were of necessity to depart, and the fault put off by the States to the colonel and from him rejected again to them, forced we were by hope to attend the issue and yet in the end to leave it off without any satisfaction, and to betake us to the service we were engaged in. For mine own part, I had this offer made by the States, that of special favour, notwithstanding, as they said, the colonel had been paid for the whole regiment and they not bound to enter into particular account with any private captain, yet as a testimony of their acceptation of my service they would bestow on me 70l. sterling, in the name of my great count and reckoning both for myself and my whole company to that day (those excepted which I left in their service), and with condition that in those terms I should give them an acquittance under my hand. The conditions I held most unreasonable, the sum I pretended to amounting to more than six times so much, and therefore absolutely refused it, and could have been content both to bear the loss and to hold my peace, but that I saw things grown to those terms between the colonel and them that it could not but behove me to make my own case known, being assured that to prevent the complaints and exclamations of others, they had resolved to acquaint her Majesty with every particular and to make their defence. Neither to any further end but that, and the excuse of myself for my little delay of the service, have I made this discourse. And now touching my proceedings in the business, you shall receive a list of the numbers of men, with their proportion of arms, which I should have found ready here, as also another of the defects I find both of their arms and number appointed, having this morning despatched my letters to Sir Fras. Vere touching the want of the men and the defects of the arms, having, according to your instructions, demanded of Sir Th. Knowles to repair out of the men he brought. But because the words do import doubtfully that I would either have them of the storehouse in Ireland, or of him, he hath referred me thither; yet in the meantime I prepare all things with as much diligence as is possible, that I may be in a readiness to set sail with the first wind, which I doubt not but to perform if I have but five or six days' respite more. If the time may serve conveniently by the necessity of my longer stay, I must humbly entreat you that some order may be sent that I may be furnished with a reasonable proportion of powder and shot requisite for the fleet, which I will take by indenture and be accountable to return into the storehouse in Ireland, saving what shall be spent in case of necessity. If I put off before I have answer from your Lordship, I intend to demand it of such ships of her Majesty's as I shall first meet with at sea, for in this place can I get none. In my first letter to you touching this business I uttered my opinion of these troops, which then I thought, and still do, to be far inferior in their experience and readiness to your lordship's expectation. My reasons were because I foresaw they were to be drawn out of the companies lately turned out of her Majesty's pay, which have very little been trained to the discipline the others of the old regiment have been brought up in. But the reasons wherefore none of them were touched I doubt not but Sir Francis Vere hath satisfied you; whereof I leave to speak further as a matter not belonging to me to meddle in, but only to excuse myself from the fault, if any be conceived.—Flushing, this 25th of January, 1598.
Holograph. Seal. 3 pp. (176. 76.)
James Anton to the Earl of Essex.
1598/9, Jan. 25. Touching my suit, the rather because at instant I am constrained to ride down into Norfolk and will be Monday next before I return, in the meantime I beseech you not to be unmindful of me; my hope is the assureder in respect of your honourable promise to me and my cousin Pamplyn, and that the same is in your own gift. And as my grief and discredit was great by missing of it the first time I was a suitor, so would it now be a thousand times more in the eye of the world, in that it is universally known that both the last and this time I rely only upon your favour.—From St. Martins, 25 January, 1598.
[P.S.]—According to your pleasure, for any offer that may be made unto her Majesty, I am resolved to give as much as any, and besides will shew myself in all love and thankfulness to you in a higher measure than any other whomsoever.
Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (176. 79.)
— to Sir Robert Cecil.
1598/9, Jan. 26. On the report of my Lord of Essex's journey into Ireland, some gentlemen of good quality in this shire who have charge with us as being captains of our trained and Scottish bands, make means to him that they and their bands may serve under him in these Irish wars. This they do under colour to show their great affection for his service, but, in truth, rather to fill their own pockets. This county stands ever in readiness for defence. We have 600 trained soldiers divided into bands with captains over them, and 500 more, likewise divided into bands with their captains, which we term Scottish bands, to be in readiness for defence of that nation. The captains are gentlemen of very good haviour, and the soldiers are of the richest farmers' and best freeholders' sons of the whole shire. We have been at great charges of training and furnishing them, and they were promised when chosen that they should never be pressed to any foreign service. I assure you there is not one man of them but, before he will go to Ireland, will give his captain £20, £30 or £40 to put another in his room. What a charge and discontentment that would breed here you can well conceive. I hope you will make a stay if any such matter be attempted; or, that if companies must go from this shire to Ireland, such men as are fittest may be pressed, but our trained bands may be kept for the purpose for which they were first chosen.—This 26 January.
The signature and seal have been torn away, and an endorsement cut out leaving only the date, 1598. 1 p. (59. 20.)
Ralph Bowes to Sir Robert Cecil.
1598/9, Jan. 26. Understanding by this bearer, Christopher Sheperson, your great favours to me and my house, I humbly thank you, entreating your favourable remembrance of my suit to the Queen which was referred to the consideration of your Honour and the Earl Marshal.—Barnes, 26 January, 1598.
Signed. Seal. ½ p. (59. 21.)
Sir Arthur Savage to the Earl of Essex.
1598/9, Jan. 26. The wind and weather being both fair, we have again put ourselves on shipboard, and do not doubt to be in short time in Dublin. The bearer, Captain Ghest, desires leave to attend to the recovery of certain rights suddenly befallen him by the death of his mother-in-law. He will not fail to attend you at your coming over, and is a very honest and sufficient gentleman, on whom a favour will be worthily bestowed.—Bristol, this 26 January, '98.
Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (59. 22.)
Sir Francis Hastings to the Earl of Essex.
Immanuel!
1598/9, Jan. 26. I see great likelihood of your going into Ireland and I am sorry to stay behind. I hold it my unhappiness that I never yet had means to express my love to you, but you shall find me forward without fear and faithful without feigning to do you all honour and service. My late weakness has letted me from presenting my personal duty to you since I came up. I would have waited on you to-day, but my wife's son has my coach to carry him to a bone-setter, his arm being out of joint, and I am thus stalled of means to come. May I put you in mind of my brother Edward's suit for Captain Savile, whom we both hold to be valiant and honest.—Stepney, this 26 January, 1598.
Holograph. Endorsed :—27 Jan. 1 p. (59. 26.)
The Justices of Suffolk to the Earl of Essex.
1598/9, Jan. 26. Although to our grief we may report the general defect of serviceable horses amongst the better sort of men in this county, and we may also justly affirm that in the meaner sort who by law are charged with horses, that they are without any (which defaults we humbly desire may by commandment from your lordship and the rest of the Council be speedily supplied), yet do we hope that with our travail and foresight we have furnished the number of 25 horses sound and strong and of good stature, with saddles, bits and other furniture fit for service, with able and sufficient men armed with “curates,” open headpieces, long pistols, and swords, apparelled with long horsemen's coats of strong cloth of orange tawny colour, with white lace and white lining throughout, to the performance of her Highness's commandment and, as we trust, to your good contentment, which we have been desirous to do, as we doubt not but this bearer Sir Anthony Cook will report to your lordship; to whom we have delivered so much conduct money as may serve them for their journey to the port of Bristol. We have also given to every of the soldiers 28s. 8d. apiece to bestow about necessaries for themselves as they think convenient.—From Bury, 26 January, 1598.
Signed. Seal. ½ p. (176. 80.)
Sir Edward Norreys to the Earl of Essex.
1598/9, Jan. 26. Sir Gerald Hervy has now his desire, though I could have wished otherwise : for the States have sent that his whole company go for Ireland, and 100 of mine, which how I can perform, he can well inform your lordship. Such soldiers as were fit in my company I have sent, and have commanded the gentlemen of my company to make themselves ready in England and attend on your lordship, which they have promised me to do, as Sir Gerard Hervy knows, who can also let your lordship understand how much alone I shall live now that he is gone and nobody of my own nation left with me, but since it so pleaseth my masters whom now I serve, I am content.
I pray God send you a most honourable and happy journey.—Ostend, 26 Ja. 1598.
2 pp. (204. 108.)
Gabriel Goodman, Dean of Westminster, to Sir Robert Cecil.
1598/9, Jan. 27. Since the death of Mr. Justice Owen, I and the Chapter have chosen? Mr. Serjeant Williams to be of our counsel. Now I am given to understand that, although he be puny and youngest of all the Serjeants, and, in respect of his charge of children, not able to maintain the state of justice, he is like to be preferred into the Court of Common Pleas to succeed Mr. Justice Owen. I am therefore to pray you that he may be spared for the present, not being able duly to maintain the place, and there being many others, his ancients as Serjeant, of greater countenance than he. I am the more bold for that he was preferred to his present degree by your honourable father, who much respected him for his honesty, learning and modesty.—From the College at Westminster, this 27th of January, 1598.
Signed ½ p. (59. 24.)
William Beecher to Sir Robert Cecil.
1598/9, Jan. 27. It seems that the Earl of Essex will do nothing in private for my relief in the suit which I preferred unto him by your desire, and I am, therefore, forced to address myself again to you and to the Honourable Table with a petition which I beseech you to get read and answered. My going abroad with a keeper can be no hindrance to Captain Brett's right, and as I offer him security to anything he can demand in any court of law or equity, so, if he have neither law nor equity to demand by, I hope the Table will not compel me to acknowledge myself a debtor upon his untrue surmise that it hath been so adjudged by the Table heretofore. No such order or judgment has been made. If you did know by what great deceit towards her Majesty Captain Brett doth come to demand this in his own right, I think, in place of judging me to make him payment, you would rather sentence him unmeet to have any further charge of a company.—The 27th Jan., 1598.
Holograph. Seal. ¾ p. (59. 27.)
[The Mayor of Boulogne] to the Earl of Essex.
1598/9, Jan 27./Feb 6. J'ay resceu celles dont votre grandeur m'a honnoré par le Sr de Collevil. Je croy depuis icelles vous aurez receu deux des miennes par lesquelles je vous advertissois du dessein du Conte Bothouel de son voyage de Paris, ce qu'il y avoit fait et negocié des promesses qu'il avoit de l'Espaignol, de l'equipage que Ton lui bailloit pour le voiage de Caitnes, et aultress particularités pour le nombre des vaisseaux qu'il menoit avec luy. J'attendais response, affin que, suivant vostre voulonté, j'eusse profondé l'affaire pour descouvrir ce qu'il fera. J'ay depuisaprins que l'Espaignol est aux aquetspour faire faire quelque mauvais tour par trahison a celluy qui doibt conduire armée angloise. Ie ne sçay rien de plus particulier pour ce fait sinon quilz croient qu'ayant oste par leur meschanseté celui qui est designé pour la çonduitte, que l' Angletarre n'est point si fertille qu'elle en puisse recouvrer qui merite este chargé (Dieu vous conserve). Ledit Bothouel a tiré de Paris avecq luy deux Italiens, l'un nommé le Sr Cesare grand magicien, de l'autre je n'en scay le nom. Si je puis estre informé dautre chose je le vous feray sçavoir quant je sçaurai que l'aurez pour aggréable. J'ai fait retourner le Sr de Collevil affin qu'il puisse traitter plus librement et ouvertement que du passé, toutefois soubz vostre nom et authorité a qui seulle je dedis etconsacre mes conceptions. De ce qu'il vous communiquera vous le croirez, s'il vous plaist, ayant tout remist en ses mains pour en disposer selon son bon jugement. Je l'ay cognu si zelé á l' accroissement de vostre estat et vous avoir voué un si particulieré affection, que je n'eusse sceu choisir homme pour s'en mieux acquiter. Cependant, monseigneur, s'il s'offre occasion où je vous puisse servir, je m'y emploieray avecq aultant d'affection et voulonté que le sçauriez demander de personne du monde.—A 77 le 6e jour de Febvruer, 1599.
Signed, “C.C.C.” Endorsed :—“Mayor of Bullon.” 1 p. (59. 56.)
Walter Bagot to the Earl of Essex.
1598/9, Jan. 28. It hath pleased God to lay upon me a dangerous cross of sickness that I daily rather expect a deliverance out of this troublesome life than any longer continuance therein. My father's late decease left me, with his land, so heavy a burden of payments, most whereof are yet undischarged, that all the goods I have will do little more than clear my executors. My land is so entailed, besides my mother's jointure and my wife's, that I cannot set or let to make annuities to my younger sons or portions to my daughters, being six in all. This my careful estate doth force me in this extremity of sickness to crave the wonted favour of your worthy ancestors to this poor family of Blithfield, and, if the gift rest in you, to bestow the wardship of my son upon my poor children to their preferment, or upon my brother Trew, your servant, to their use; or if it rest not in you to procure it from the Queen, to take it into your own hands, for nothing but what is honourable can come from so true honour. Her Majesty heretofore promised her goodness to my father for his service in the assistance of Sir Amyas Pawlet, then keeper of the Queen of Scots at Chartley : if it please you to remember her Majesty thereof, never might her bounty be better bestowed than upon his poor orphans.—Blithfield, this 28 January, 1598.
Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (176. 81.)
The Archbishop and Council of York to the Privy Council.
1598/9, Jan. 28. We received this day her Majesty's letters of commission, dated the 29 of November last, for the levying of 400 men within the county of York for Ireland; they to be furnished with arms and apparel in such sort and against such time as your lordship shall give us direction, with a special charge that we should observe your directions in all things concerning this service. Not having received as yet any such instructions from you, we have thought convenient to put you in mind thereof; which so soon as we shall receive we shall with all speed carefully see the service performed.
We have likewise received, the 6th of this present, letters from you of the 12th of last month, wherein, amongst other things, your pleasure is that we should take one Christopher Ash bound to appear before your lordships for abusing you by setting his hand to a certificate of the disability of one Anthony Metcalf, a recusant in this county, for his discharge to contribute towards the furnishing of light horses into Ireland; and to cause the said Metcalf to pay the money assessed upon him. We have caused Metcalf to pay 15l. assessed upon him, and have convented Mr. Ash before us, who though he was not of perfect health came dutifully unto us and offereth his humble submission, confessing his fault in giving credit unadvisedly to Metcalf's affirmations; and humbly prayeth that his said submission might be accepted by you, shewing himself penitent for that his overight. Now for that Ash is something sickly and not well able to travel this winter season, we have made bold to stay his appearance at this time and thought good to advertise you thereof; and if it be your pleasures to proceed further against him, we shall upon notice thereof take him bound to appear before you in Easter term next.—At York, 28 January, 1598.
Signed. Seal. 1 p. (176. 82.)
Thomas Dyve to the Earl of Essex.
1598/9, Jan. 28. Of late the mayor, bailiffs, burgesses and commoners, upon a general meeting, did consent to send their letters, signed with the hands of those whose names be subscribed, in which number I had set to my hand, being one of the ancientest that hath borne office of mayoralty within the said town [of Bedford], to confirm the advowson of St. John's unto Lucas your chaplain, as in all right and conscience we are tied to do; the which the mayor did promise to deliver unto you, and to that end he and one of his brethren, Mr. Neegoose, did travel towards London to effect the same. But upon what indirect dealing I know not, the said Mr. Mayor and Mr. Neegoose returned without delivery of the letters unto you, and doth still suppress and detain the same from you, to the great abuse of your Honour and injury of Lucas.—Bromham, 28 January, 1598.
Underwritten. The names of those which subscribed unto the said letter.
John Stanton, Mayor.
Thomas Dyve This have borne office of mayoralty within the said town.
Simon Becket
John Mighton
Thomas Abbis
William Wilson
Lowland Mylnes bailiffs.
John Goodwyn
Richard Bowne chamberlains.
Thomas Angell
Robert Linford, now master of St. John's.
Martin Linford, parson of St. Peter's.
Mr. Foxcrofte, vicar of St. Cuthbert's.
William Mathew.
Thomas Gibbes.
John Cockman.
Robert Collens.
John Stotten : with divers others, as the said letter will testify.
Holograph. Endorsed :—“Bedford, 28 Jan., '98. Concerning Mr. Lucas'suit.” Seal. 1 p. (176. 83.)
Ralph Dobbinson to Sir Robert Cecil.
1598/9, Jan. 29. Whereas the innkeeper his servant was committed to the Marshalsea by Sir Thomas Jerrard, it appears by testimony of Sir Thomas his servants, that the ostler had warning to stay the thief and yet negligently neglected the same, his master his fault only was in neglecting his duty in coming to Sir Thomas and in not delivering the commandment unto his man, which was only done by forgetfulness. Last night Sir Thomas meant to have called the innkeeper and his servant before my Lord Chief Justice as accessories to felony, but he has now promised to forbear such prosecution against them. I have thought it my duty to inform you of this.—The 29 Jan., 1598.
Signed. Endorsed with a list of names. ½ p. (59. 29.)
Thomas Smith to the Earl of Essex.
1598/9, Jan. 29. Neither can true bounty appear in any ingenuous mind without poverty, the transparent glass to show bounty, neither can the honour of it be estimable among men without the dishonour of poverty, which in very deed is the true honour of bounty. Wherefore, noble lord, as well in consideration of advancing your honour as of relieving my poverty, I am bold to ask, and do not doubt to receive, since the sequel of my request is honourable, and the wellspring of your bounty not dried up but rather yielding moisture unto the dried and withered plants. I know such is your compassion, that with Alexander you are more ready to give than I am to ask.—January 29, 1598.
Holograph. Seal broken. ½ p. (176. 84.)
Erasmus Dryden and other Justices of Northamptonshire to the Earl of Essex.
1598/9, Jan. 29. Having received her Majesty's commission for the levying, mustering and arming of one hundred able men within the county of Northampton, in such sort as you and the rest of the Council shall direct, the bearer, Mr. Robert Cradock, hath earnest desire to be employed with a company under you in this Irish service. He is very well known in this county both for honest parentage, good report, and great sufficiency in martial affairs, and will give security by his friends for the well using his company. We therefore, supposing our countrymen will more gladly yield themselves to the command of him than of a stranger, do commend the gentleman's suit to your consideration.—29 January, 1598.
Signed. Seal. 1 p. (176. 85.)
Filippo Corsini to Sir Robert Cecil.
1598/9, Jan. 30. Desiring a passport for Benedetto Machiavelli, a gentleman of Florence, to return to Calais with his two servants.—London, 30 January, 1598.
Signed. Seal. ¼ p. (59. 30.)
Sir Thomas Norreys, Lord President of Munster, to Captain Rocke.
1598/9, Jan. 30. I understand that, upon your landing at Youghall, purposing to repair from thence to Kinsale, you were intercepted by the fair persuasions or foul measures of traitors, and seduced to follow them. I hear also that you have prepared a ship to pass towards Spain, for the relief of the traitors, as they expect, wherein you may by your .service deserve not only free pardon for all past, but purchase a far greater benefit than with them you can expect. If you will repair with the ship and her lading hither to Cork, or to Kinsale, you shall not only have the full benefit and use of the ship and goods to yourself, but I will make known to her Majesty your worthy service therein, and will be ready to employ you in my own ship. If you fear to come for any cause here or in England against your person, I will save you harmless. I do rest toward you as herein you may deserve.—30 Jan., 1598.
Signed. Seal. 1 p. (59. 33.)
J. Colville to the Earl of Essex.
1598/9, Jan. 30. Even at the time when I was last with your Honour, the original party (I mean the cordelier) came to 65 [the Mayor of Boulogne], giving him more clearness how the piece of merchandise shall be, God willing, had without loss of a hair of a man's head, and therewithal informing of other two matters, the one concerning that estate, the other 60 [Earl of Essex] self in special, as by the enclosed your Honour will perceive, of all which 65 fearing that his letters be not come to your hands, I am bold more largely by this bearer in writ to delate the same meaning, hoping your Honour will take my weak endeavours in good part as from your most humble and obedient servitor 66.—The penult of Jan., at this Compl's.
Addressed :—“To 60.” Endorsed by Reynolds :—“30 Jan. 98.” ¾ p. (59. 34.)
George Throckmorton to the Earl of Essex.
1598/9, Jan. 30. I am given to understand by my honourable friend Sir Henry Lee, how much you have bound both my adversary and myself, by bethinking you, in the extremity of your important businesses, &c., of two so honourable personages to determine the differences between us. If it be not ended by them, let it await your most happy return.—This 30th of January, 1598.
Holograph. 1 p. (59. 43.)
Sir Edward Wotton to Sir Robert Cecil.
1598/9, Jan. 30. One Antonio Catanei Romano, a surgeon dwelling in Antwerp, hath undertaken to cure my son-in-law, Mr. Edmund Bacon, of an infirmity that hath long troubled him. The party maketh difficulty to come unless he may have your hand and my Lord Admiral's to his passport. I crave your favour herein, for that it importeth divers of us very much to have this cure effected.
Holograph. Endorsed :—“1598, 30 January.” 1 p. (176. 86.)
John Colville to [the Earl of Essex].
1598/9, Jan. 31. My speedy return doth proceed upon the motion following.
The original party, both by his own coming and letter, herein enclosed, urging my director to deal it again with your Honour in the merchandise proponit, or with any of your friends within this realm whom your pleasure shall be to use and answer for, I was content to return with the remonstrances and for the causes following, which be :—
That the merchandise shall, God willing, be delivered to yourself or your factors within a month, three weeks or fifteen days after you agree thereupon, and that, God willing, without loss of a hair of a man's head. The facility and feasibleness whereof, the person to be sent with me (if so be your pleasure) shall both hear and see.
The original party will no way deal with 68 [the States], being much grieved that some things thereof was proponit to one of their instruments, promising to give good reasons to your servant wherefore he is of opinion, as also that he shall hide nothing from him which he knoweth to be machinate against your honourable person, by giving names, marks and circumstances of persons and practices intendit, for which my director will engage his promise how soon he shall know his service to be agreeable by advertisement that your Honour will embrace this overture. But, whether the said original party fail or not in this last point concerning yourself, I shall be your traitor and betrayer, if any assassinate or assassinor come from that place of the enemy whereof I shall not give reasonable advertisement. Alway I have promised my director negative or affirmative answer before the 10 of February, wishing therefore in humility to know your pleasure with speed.
Concerning Bothwell, since I have sent one to attend his proceedings mentionate in my former, knowing your pleasure therein, I shall proceed or cease; wishing such limits in that and all other matters to be prescrivit unto me by her Majesty's prudent discretion as may most content her mind, for I am only to be rulit after her gracious pleasure as my most dread sovereign and saviour of my life.—This last of Januar, 1599.
Holograph. Seal. Addressed :—“To the Eight Honorable 60.” Endorsed :—“1 Feb., '98.” 2 pp. (59. 45.)
M. de Chastes, Governor of Dieppe, to the Earl of Essex.
1598/9, Jan 81/Feb 10. Has received his letter by the Sieur Dale. Will always receive great content when occasion offers to do Essex service.—Dieppe, 10 February.
French. Holograph. ½ p. (176. 67.)
Sm Francis and Sir Edward Hastings to the Earl of Essex.
Immanuel.
[1598/9, Jan.] Give us licence to renew our former suit on behalf of the bearer, Mr. Savile, who desires to serve under you in Ireland. He has long followed the wars, and was employed by you to view and train the forces in Rutlandshire.
In Sir Francis' handwriting. ¾ p. (59. 25.)
William, Earl of Derby to Sir Robert Cecil, his uncle.
[1598/9, Jan.] Was wished by his wife to write for a letter to reprieve a poor young man for whom Cecil has already written once at her request. To-morrow the man dies unless reprieved. By his petition, his offence was stealing a little silver “skellett” out of her chamber; being the first fault she was loth to have him die, yet he was condemned before he could make any means. Is to wait on the Countess of Oxford home to her house, who lodged here at his house.—At Thisleworth.
Holograph. Endorsed :—“1598, January—without date.” ½ p. (38. 13.)
William Button to Sir Robert Cecil.
1598/9, Jan. These three years I have been a suitor to her Majesty in. respect of my services and my imprisonment for seven months beyond the seas, whereof it pleased your Honour's deceased father to take notice. The Lord Admiral my master favours my suit; and I ask you to be, with him, a means unto her Majesty for me to have the wardship of the son of Mr. Hakon of Norfolk, a matter which will not yield me above £200.
Holograph. Endorsed with date. 1 p. (59. 36.)
Sir George Devereux to the Earl of Essex.
1598/9, Jan. A note of all the debts I owe. To Mr. Chavige for meat and drink and lodging for me and my men, £24; To Mrs. Rennoldes, £20; To Mr. Bolde, £22; To Mrs. Williams, £20; To William Cley, a tailor in Birchin Lane, £6; To Mr. Crampton, £5; To Mrs. Lyene in the “Stroen,” £4; To Mr. Edmund, £10; To Mrs. Roefe, £10; To Mr. Poell of St Mary Axe, £20; To one of the Counter, £10. This is all I owe. Friend me this once. You did never pay a penny for me nor I will never charge you hereafter. Let me be rid out of this town. If I be left behind you unprovided, I might go beg, for I know no friend that will give me a mile's meal. I am loth to come to your presence considering how bare I am, but if Sir Gelly Meyrick forget me, I shall be driven to come be it never so basely. Let me go to Chartele to wait your coming, and give Sir Gelly Meyrick some order concerning me, for I have neither apparel nor meat nor drink for me nor my men, and my host, where I lie, hath pawned all that he hath to relieve me.
Holograph. Endorsed :—“Jan. 98.” 1 p. (59. 37.)
[Sir Robert Cecil to the Earl of Essex.]
1598/9, Jan. Since the appointing of my servant Captain Beedon to the charge of one of the companies now sent over for the service of the Low Countries, he is by sickness disabled to come with them himself; and, therefore, is a suitor that, for this consideration, his lieutenant may supply his place until he be in better state of health, and able to repair thither. I do wish the good of this captain, and conceive well of him : I pray you therefore to do him herein all the favour you can. As soon as he shall be able, he promiseth not to fail to attend his charge carefully. What you shall do for him, the rather for my sake, I shall take in very thankful part.—From the Court, the of January, 1598.
Draft. (59. 38.)
Sir Edward Hastyngs to the Earl of Essex.
1598/9, Jan. I would not be burdensome to your Honour, but I have already been forced to pawn those few jewels of my wife's, which will not supply our present wants. Wherefore I beseech you be a means that her Majesty may understand my poor estate and bestow something upon me in this my latter age.
Holograph. Endorsed by Reynolds :—“Janu. 98.” Seal. ½ p. (59. 40.)
Thomas Ireland to Sir Robert Cecil.
1598/9, Jan. My Lord is gone to Ashby, my Lord Compton's house in Northamptonshire, or at my Lord Mordaunt's, eight miles from Ashby, and there will abide some two days. If it might stand with your liking, I would think meet the messenger went to-morrow with your letter, and if you wrote the least desire from my Lady of his Lordship's return, I think he will come back again.
Holoqraph. Undated. Endorsed :—“January, '98.” ½ p. (59. 41.)
Sir Robert Cecil to the Earl of Essex.
1598/9, Jan. This gentleman, Mr. Done, hath made earnest unto me to recommend his suit unto you to have command of one of the companies that go now into Ireland. He saith he hath heretofore followed you in some of your actions, and that his name has been by Sir Richard Bingham and others set down among those who are fit to take charge into Ireland.
Holograph. Undated. Endorsed :—“January, '98.” 1 p. (59. 42.)
Sir Francis Vere to the Earl of Essex.
1598/9, Jan. This honest man, Captain Wilford, is resolved to attend your Lordship in this voyage, as he hath done in all your former. Having also had experience of him as my officer, I can testify that he is for the ordering of men, for his skill in fortification and for other ingenuities appertaining to the war, as towardly a gentleman as most that I have met withal in my days. And such I doubt not your Lordship shall find him in the trial.
Holograph. Undated. Endorsed :—“January, '98.” Seal. 1 p. (59. 44.)
R. Wingfield to [the Earl of Essex.]
[1598/9, Jan.] Asking to be allowed to accompany him on his journey.
Undated. Signed. ½ p. (58. 66.)
James Perrott to the Earl of Essex.
1598/9, Jan. It is now six years since first I depended on your lordship, and now being desirous to attend you into Ireland, I understand there are certain gentlemen in the counties of Cardigan, Pembroke and Carmarthen which do determine to send horses with you for this service of Ireland, about the number of 30 and odd; whereof I crave I may have the charge. And although you may well suspect my sufficiency (especially to discharge this service, having not served before), yet I hope you shall find that in very short time I will enable myself to discharge this and to do you other acceptable service. If you think fit to do me this favour, I pray you give directions unto Sir Gelly Meyrick for my despatch, whereby I may repair into the country in convenient time to receive those horses, to see them well furnished, and to make as many more as I may of mine own and my friends.
Holograph. Endorsed :—“Janu. '98.” 1 p. (176. 87.)
Elizabeth, Dowager Lady Russell to Sir Robert Cecil.
1598/9, Jan. I hear of words passed between you and Mr. Comptroller and between the other two Earls. If you will have me to come to Court to do you any good offices, who have had ever a natural instinct to be honest and natural in time of trial, howsoever it hath been deserved, let me know your mind, and then, so you procure her Majesty to command my Lord Chamberlain that I may have a convenient lodging within the house, I will come when you desire. Otherwise, upon the least wet of my feet or legs by long clothes or cold, my pate is so subject to rheum that my hearing will be so bad as that I am fit for no company or other place than my own cell.—“Your aunt that ever deserved the best, E.E. Dowager.”
Holograph. Endorsed :—“January, '98.” 2 seals over green silk. 1 p. (176. 88.)
Remembrances for M. H[arris] .
[1598/9, about Jan.] (1.) Upon what motives and at whose chief persuasion the King returned back that which her Majesty had sent by Mr. W. Foules touching Val. Thomas.
(2.) What the King conceiveth of her Majesty's proceedings in treaty with Spain by the means of the Cardinal of Austria, and whether Sir Walter Lindsaye and the Lord Bonneton have not disposed and drawn the King to treat with Spain. What was their creance, and the King's acceptance and countenance towards them, and upon what noblemen and councillors they do chiefly rely.
(3.) What is like to become of Father Gourdon, and whether the Scots Queen be not of late again wrought to dispose the King to Popery, and to have privy correspondence with the Pope by the “entermize” of some confident “Jesuistes”?
(4.) Whether there be no “entremetteurs” and intelligence betwixt the King and Tyrone, and, if any, who?
(5.) How the King affecteth my Lord of Essex's employment into Ireland, and whether his jealousy towards him continue or be diminished.
(6.) What is the cause of the Earl of Mar's discontent, and whether it be near to grow to a head.
(7.) Whether the Spanish faction here have no secret plots in hand against the person and state of her sacred Majesty, and what instruments?
(8.) How it stands with the Lord Hamilton, and whether he increase or decay in wealth and creance.
(9.) What interest the new Chancellor, the Earl of Montrose, hath in the King's favour, and who combine with him.
(10.) Whether there hath been any overture made for the young Prince his marriage or any of his sisters.
(11.) Whether the King rely anything upon his new alliance with France by the house of Lorraine, and what help he expecteth from thence.
Lastly, to inform yourself thoroughly and particularly of all that you shall in your judgment and discretion think to make for the advancement of her Majesty's service and to be meet for her knowledge.
Corrected draft. Endorsed :—“Remembrances for Dr. Harris going into Scotland.” 2 pp. (67. 52.)
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