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| March 1. |
62. Examination of Chris. Bowman, goldsmith, before Richard
Young. Was not at Newgate when Roger Rippin died. The whole
congregation consented to the making of his coffin, for which they
paid 4s. 8d. Was told of a further purpose, but disliked it. Cannot
disclose who the congregation are, nor their secrets, nor place of
meeting. Never consented to the writing fixed upon the coffin, and
does not allow of it, if any such was done. Does not think that
their secret conventicles are contrary to God's law or the laws of the
realm. Cannot take an oath to answer to such slight causes. Does
not remember having seen Mr. Penryn within four days, but has
seen him within these five days. Was lately out of town, but declines to say where he went; is not obliged to set down where he
has been, unless he were a man of bad life. Is not persuaded to
go to his parish church, nor to Paul's Cross, to hear a sermon, seeing
that any man, however wicked he may be, is admitted to receive
the Communion; will not join in prayer with that minister who
gives holy things to dogs; refuses to sign this examination. |
| March 2. |
63. Abstract of fines, issues, &c., charged upon the sheriffs of 34
counties and 13 cities and towns named, for the year ending Michaelmas 1592; total, 6,100l. 8s. 3d.; with note that there are several
other fines, issues, &c., arising out of these shires, set out to farmers
and bailiffs, which are not mentioned. |
March 3.
White Lion, Southwark. |
64. Jo. Udall, prisoner, to Lord Burghley. Thanks God for restoring
his Lordship to health; prays it may be to His glory, the good of the
kingdom, and the comfort of his own soul. Having been three years
in durance, beseeches release. Has given his consent to the Turkey
merchants to go to Syria, and remain there two years, with their
factors, if his liberty may be obtained; they have obtained the Archbishop's consent, and the Lord Keeper has promised his furtherance.
The Earl of Essex has the draft of a pardon ready, when Her Majesty
will sign it. Asks him to solicit her to do so, as the ships he would
go by will soon depart, so that he must have liberty out of hand or
he cannot go. Endorsed, " Mr. Udall, the minister, that it would
please your Lordship to procure his pardon, offering to go into
Turkey." |
March 7.
Cannon Row. |
65. [Edw. Seymour, Lord Beauchamp ?] to Sir Rich. Shuttleworth,
Chief Justice of the County Palatine of Chester. The Sheriff of
Cheshire, notwithstanding his warrant to the contrary, has made
execution on the money and goods of John Daniell. Begs a further
letter, Daniell having submitted to the order of the writer's lord and
father. |
| March 7. |
66. Patent of John, Archbishop of York, granting to Edwin
Sands, of the Middle Temple, London, and Milo Sands of York,
the custody of York House in the Strand, London; fee, 3l. 0s. 10d.
a year; granting them also the gate-house, on rent of 3s. 4d., and
porter's lodge and garden house. [Draft. Latin]. |
| March 8. |
67. Account of the yearly charge for the wages of officers and men
serving in the Low Countries, including apparel; total, 67,156l. 9s. 8d.;
in Normandy, 25,088l. 14s.; and in Brittany, 51,600l. 0s. 8d. Total,
143,845l. 4s. 4d. [3 pages.] |
| March 8. |
68. Statement of inconveniences ensuing upon the passing of concealed lands belonging to churches, viz., 1. Undoing the present
incumbents by suits, or else driving them, through covetousness,
to betray by collusion their churches. |
|
2. Oftentimes undoing the very grants by long and tedious suits,
because juries go against them for the odiousness against such suits. |
|
3. Breach of founders' and donors' wills. |
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4. Discouraging many well affected from doing the like good deeds. |
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5. The obloquy and reproach of the time and state by the enemy,
who say we take away sacrilegiously, and spend prodigally, what our
forefathers bestowed religiously. |
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6. The curse of God, Malachi, c. iii., against those that take away
what was given to His service. |
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7. Nourishing the hope and faction of such as seek the overthrow
of churches, for their possessions' sake. |
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8. The small success it brings to the dealers therein, who, but for
God's secret judgment, might have been greatly enriched by such
grants. |
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9. The decay of the service of God thereby. |
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10. The discouragement of good learning and preachers, by
abridging the number and quantity of their livings. |
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11. The small rate at which such possessions are taken away, to
the great loss of the crown, being many times purchased after the
rate of the 40th part. |
|
12. The loss the crown sustains by extinguishing the first fruits,
tenths, and subsidies of them. |
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13. The decay of hospitality and relief to the poor, and the ruin
of those old and stately buildings erected by our forefathers for the
service of God. |
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14. The general discontent that it brings amongst all well affected
subjects. |
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15. Hope was given not long ago, by proclamation, that concealment of lands should not be granted as before. |
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16. It will be the undoing of the farmers to such churches, whose
leases are either sought to be made void, or else they are driven to
so hard a composition that they are greatly impoverished. |
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Also a statement of the inconveniences arising upon dissolution
and giving away of hospital lands and revenues, viz.: 1. Taking
relief from the aged and impotent poor. |
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2. Disfurnishing the realm of places to send maimed soldiers to. |
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3. Enfeebling their hearts, when they know not how to be provided
for if they are maimed. |
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4. Dishonouring the realm in comparison to other countries. |
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5. If they are abused, they should be reformed, not destroyed.
[2½pages.] |
| March 9. |
69. Statement of the false libels against Sir Thos. Sherley, Treasurer
at war; viz: that the Queen allows sufficient for maintenance of the
troops; that lately, on pretext of private soldiers being injured by
their commanders, the disposal of the pay has been taken from the
captains and given to the treasurer at war, commissaries, and covetous
merchants, who rob captains and soldiers by detaining their money;
that where half the soldiers' pay is in apparel, the clothiers gain 30
per cent. in making the cloth; and if anything remain due to the
captain, he has to pay 25 per cent. for it; that the merchants' gain
and the treasurer's one hundredth penny amount to 200l. yearly in
each company; that of the 120,000l. allowed by the Queen yearly for
the Low Countries, the treasurer detains 30,000l.; that the Lord
Treasurer, Lord Buckhurst, and Sir J. Fortescue did not approve
this course, but Mr. Maynard has been infinitely bribed by Sir Thos.
Sherley, and by the merchants, who excuse their great interest by
the exceeding gain the treasurer makes of them. With request that
if this new mode do not enrich the Queen, ease the subject, nor benefit
the soldier, Parliament would reform the miseries. |
|
Answer of Sir Thos. Sherley thereto. The weekly pay of 20l. a
company is delivered to each captain by order of Council, without
Commissary or merchant touching it. Challenges proof of his detention
of money. Only a third of the soldiers' pay is allowed in apparel.
The merchants may make good profit by it, as they endure many
dangers; but at the settling the rates, it was not found that they
had more than ordinary profits. Would willingly remit his one
hundredth penny, not to have to convey the money from Middleburg;
it amounts to 10l. 8s. a company; knows not how the rest is supposed
to be gained. There is saved 200l. to the Queen out of every
company of 150. Does not receive the money supposed, but only the
weekly imprest every 56 days, according to lists of the companies.
Thinks the articles seem to threaten mutiny and discontent with
established orders. Never bribed Maynard, nor paid him more than
10l. in a year for all his pains; does not think the merchants give
him anything. Hopes these libels will be punished, and renews his
request for discharge from a place that brings these slanders, and
many other dangers and discommodities. [2½ pages.] |
| March 10. |
70. Copy of the above. [2 pages.] |
| March 11. |
71. Statement of the reasons that first moved the Council to enter on
the new manner of payment of the troops. That at first the captains
received uncertain instalments, and the balance at the end of six
months, and thus got pay for soldiers who had died or been dismissed
during the time. In the new mode, the captain cannot take any
part due to his soldiers, which is saved to the Queen. The captains
used to deal with the soldiers at pleasure for victuals, but now have
to pay them 2s. 6d. a week. The captains seldom gave their soldiers
apparel, or gave it bad, and at treble the merchants' price; now the
soldier is sure of two suits of apparel a year. The merchants contract
to pay the Queen's money in exchange without loss, which will be
a great benefit, and keep the treasure in the realm. [1½ pages.] |
| March 11. |
72. Account showing the yearly charge for the army in the Low
Countries under the first establishment to be 134,271l. 6s. 8d. ; under
the second, signed Feb. 1588, 124,617l. 1s. 8d., with 365l. for
Mr. Gilpin; under that of Dec. 1588, 106,162l. 6s. 4d., being a
saving of 28,109l. 0s. 4d. on the first, and 18,454l. 15s. 4d. on the
second establishment. With note that, by this last rate of payment,
only 110 suits of apparel were appointed to every company of 150;
in 1591 the captains petitioned for apparel for 17 men more in
each company, which was granted. The apparel of one man, for
winter and summer, amounts to 4l. 2s. 6d., so for 17 men to 70l. 2s. 6d.,
thus the charge for 7,450 foot was yearly increased by 2,782l. 17s. 6d.,
which added to 106,162l. 6s. 4d., makes the whole yearly charge
108,945l. 3s. 10d. Also, account of the number of men and horse,
viz., in Normandy, 900 men; in Brittany, 100 lancers and 2,250
foot; Low Countries, 300 lancers and 4,300 foot. The weekly pay
for 56 days in Dec. 1588 was 12,525l. 18s. 8d., and now 7,378l. 5s. 4d.
With marginal notes [by Burghley. 2 pages.] |
1593?
March 11. |
73. Chris. Fresby, Ant. Watts, and Erasmus Walker, to Rich.
Tamworth, London. John Botbe and his wife, after losing several
of their cattle, have both died and left nine succourless children;
beg continuance of the farm for the two eldest sons; also a reply
to former letters. Endorsed with a note that the answer was sent
next day. [Much damaged.] |
| March 14. |
74. List of 7 captains, 22 lieutenants, 8 ensigns, and 3 serjeants
requiring employment. |
| March 14. |
75. [Thos. Barnes to C. Paget.] Has received no reply to
his letters, but ventures to write again. Wants his opinion
about ——'s servant; thinks him a man fit for employment.
The Parliament yet holds, though, the subsidies being agreed on,
it was not expected to continue longer. There are two severe bills
preferred, one in the Upper and the other in the Lower House,
concerning recusants. One that the Queen shall have two parts of
their lands during their lives, and not be restrained to the 20l. a
month; that they are to incure the like penalty for their wives' recusancy,
and 10l. a month for every recusant guest or servant in their
houses; are to be debarred from any practice of law, or exercise of
office in the commonwealth; and their children above six years old
to be taken from them, and educated by persons appointed by the
bishop of the diocese. The other to tie them to certain places of
abode. Neither bill is much liked, yet it is thought something will
pass about their residence in certain places. It is suspected that the
drift is to include [Puritans?] in the law, their affinity being great. |
|
There is a triple subsidy granted, and six fifteenths, payable in
four years, which, with the goods of the carrack, will come to a
large mass of money. The Queen has all the pepper, which amounts
to 80,000l., for her share; the Earl of Cumberland 36,000l., Sir
W. Raleigh 24,000l., the City of London 12,000l., and some petty
shares besides. It was a marvellous loss to the poor Portuguese,
if, as is partly found out, there was a great treasure of pearl, gold,
and precious stones conveyed away by the captains that visited her
before she came to land. Wants information about his estate, and
directions for the continuance of traffic. Parma being dead, has
less to fear from Owen and Holt. Asks what has become of Morgan.
It is said that Raleigh (?) and Howard (?) are both going to sea;
the fear of troubles in* * * * has been the only stay. |
|
The last tidings from Scotland are that the Earls who are against
the King have fled into Caithness and the out isles, and will go by
the West Seas into Spain.* * * * * |
|
The King of France is assembling his forces to make head against
an army expected from the Low Countries. More Spaniards have
arrived in Brittany, and some attempt on Guernsey and Jersey is
feared. [Draft by Phelippes, and endorsed by him, " Written by J.
to A." The italics are in cipher, undeciphered; the passages
marked by asterisks have proved undecipherable.] |
March 14.
Doctors' Commons. |
76. Dr. Wm. Aubrey to Lord Burghley. Has considered the
letters sent to Her Majesty and to his Lordship from Hamburg,
last August, and finds that Geo. Leake, by virtue of his letters of
sequestration, on 16 Feb. 1592, arrested certain goods belonging to
inhabitants of Hamburg. Lucas Beckman, and six others named,
the owners of those goods, sued for their release, which was granted,
but with a caution that the Senate should take care to satisfy Leake,
whose letters of sequestration should remain in force, unless they
showed some cause. Since then there has been no new cause shown
by the Senate, and their letters of 26 August refer to the former
goods already released, and not, as pretended, to the wines remaining
now under arrest. In one, they say that Leake's refusal to appear
in Hamburg, 19 May 1592, when cited, is one cause why they
could not proceed in justice; and the other is that Symonds, Soden,
and Drew were bankrupts, and had nothing wherewith to satisfy
Leake. As to the first, the denial or delay of justice had been for
10 years before the grant of the letters of sequestration, in which
time the cause was followed by Leake, and sundry letters written to
the Senate by Her Majesty, to do justice, but nothing respected;
therefore his absence last May was to no purpose. The poverty of
the creditors is not to be considered, for Leake has goods bound and
liable for his debt, which are now possessed by some of the Senate. |
|
Considering however the ancient intelligence between this Crown
and Hamburg, being one of the principal of the Hanse Towns, and
the danger of troubling Her Majesty's subjects and goods in so
resolute a place, thinks the wines, amounting to 2,500l. might be
released, save 200l. worth which should be allowed to Leake in part
of his debt, and endorsed upon his letters of sequestration, and declared
to be meant to be equally borne by all the laders, although
what shall be allotted may belong to one man or more; but with
this release, intimation is to be made to the Senate to satisfy the
poor man the rest of his debt, or to look for the like stay of their
subjects' goods until it is done, or they show better cause than
they have done. [1¼ pages.] |
March 15.
Alderman Ratcliff's house. |
77. Dr. Ch. Parkins to Lord Burghley. Was required to confer
with Dr. Aubrey about a controversy between Geo. Leake and
certain strangers, for a ship of Hamburg laden with wine, and
arrested at Falmouth by Leake. The copies of two letters from
Hamburg were produced by the secretary of the Stillyard, dated
26 August, concerning certain goods of Hamburg already released,
so that they cannot apply to the present ship under an arrest made
last February. His Lordship wrote a letter to Hamburg in August,
by Her Majesty's order, signifying that the goods should be released,
but requiring them to avoid further troubles by administering
justice to the plaintiff without dalliance, or give some reason to the
contrary. This they have wholly neglected, so that the new arrest
is chiefly to be imputed to themselves. Is informed by those of the
Stillyard that the arrested wines are spoiled by a hogshead daily,
with leakage, &c., so that if the controversy cannot be speedily
ended, the wines should be appraised, and the money reserved to
whom it shall appertnin, which will be better for the parties, especially
as it is the custom in divers of the Hanse Towns that whatever
comes to their port must be landed, which custom for victuals is
also in use in England. |
| March 17. |
78. Earl of Essex to Sir Thos. Wilkes. Thanks for letters sent
him. The Lord Treasurer wrote him he had some, but did not
tell him what; shall be as private with his news as they are with
theirs. Found the letters of old date; has seen the duplicate of one
of them before from Edmondes. Is sorry to hear of his sickness. |
| March 17. |
79. Anth. Cooke to Lord Burghley. Entreats him to further the
suppression of a conveyance, passed but in trust, without judgment
on his own part or reason in itself, or the intention of any party
named therein. His Lordship consented to redress it. The Parliament,
having an inclination to relieve the writer, have made committees
thereon, who, perceiving his Lordship to be a party, question
his consent, and deliberate on a nice point,—moved by the writer's
cousin, Bacon, and proceeding from Sir Robt. Cecil, and then, as is
supposed, from his Lordship,— that the deed be not wholly suppressed,
either upon distrust of the writer's bond or care of better conveyance,
but only a portion of the land fened to certain purposes, and the
rest left doubtful by the former defective deed. This contradicts all
his suit, begets doubts and delays, and hazards inconveniences as
great as before. Requests his Lordship to allow the frustrating of the
former conveyance, without exception thereto, and to give notice of
his mind therein, and have sufficient confidence in him or in his bond,
or in any provision in the words of the Act, for a more advised assurance
to be made to his Lordship, and others nominated, and for a
deliberate choice of such of his land as may be most fitly set forth
to the payment of his debts and other purposes. This great difficulty
may thus be decided, and the writer relieved out of his
own, as in reason he should be, without causeless scruples. Unless
his lordship consent to the final suppression of the deed, fears
by the needless delays and devices of those not concerned, that
he and his wife and poor children will endure great misfortunes.
Annexing, |
|
79. i. Bill presented by Anthony Cooke to Parliament. Upon
divers good considerations, was persuaded to make a
conveyance for setting the inheritance of his lands, and
to raise the uses thereof to himself and his wife and
children; being then young and of slender experience,
the framing thereof was left to others, who devised the
same by an indenture, wherein three provisoes stated,
made for the benefit of himself and his children, are
void in law, and three more, which were intended and
were very necessary, relative to raising money for his
debts, for a second wife, or for his younger children, were
omitted. These defects are very prejudicial to him and
his children, as he can neither make leases, jointures, nor
sell nor let his lands, but upon such covenunts and bonds
as must needs be forfeited after his decease, and which
will be unprofitable to him during his life. Seeks the
suppression of this indenture, upon giving a bond to
Lord Burghley, Sir Wm. Waldegrave, and Sir Thos.
Mildmay, for performance of a better conveyance of his
lands to the uses mentioned. |
|
With a private motion to Lord Burghley, that the chief
intent of the deed being for the enlargement of his present
wife's jointure, that may be the occasion of the backwardness
of her father, Sir Wm. Waldegrave, in redressing
its great imperfections; requests his Lordship to persuade
him to consent, as he formerly seemed willing;
fully intends to assure the same again, and perform all
requisite and good purposes for himself and children. |
March 18.
St. James's |
80. Warrant for a lease to Jane Godolphin, widow, and Francis
her son, on fine of 5l. rent of 22l. and 6l. heriot on decease of
either party, of the first fruits and tenths and other crown profits
of the rectories and parish churches of St. Weneron and Stedian,
Cornwall, late belonging to the dissolved monastery of Rewley,
except the advowson of Weneron church, and such as have already
been devised by indenture. [Latin.] |
| March 18. |
81. Account of sums paid to persons named, out of the treasurer
of the chamber's office, for the carriage of letters to and from Sir
John Norris in Brittany, from 21 June 1591 to 13 Feb. 1593; total,
255l. 6s. 8d. |
| March 19. |
82. [The Captains of the forces of the Low Countries] to the
Council. Have perused the complaints of abuses in payment of the
companies, but it has not been devised by them. Send a true
statement of their griefs, Which if not redressed, will greatly hinder
the course of martial discipline. Enclose, |
|
82. i. Statement of the grievances of the men of war concerning
abuses in the execution of Her Majesty's orders.
1. The merchants who pay the half yearly increase confess
to taking 25 per cent., because they sometimes pay six
months beforehand, but they claim the 25 per cent. when
the money is not paid beforehand. Want weekly or
monthly payments, and satisfaction for the excessive
interest that has been charged. 2. The apparel is not
equal to the patterns, and is of bad stuff, which soon wears,
the cloth shrinks, the stockings are short, and the shoes bad.
Wish cloth to be sent over, and made there to the soldiers's
measures. Request that the dead pays may be left
to the captain's disposal, as before, and not paid to
persons nominated, who are often unworthy; their
companies are much weakened, and they have to supply
them from England, at their own charge, which costs
them 60l. each, though all their profits are taken away;
that apparel may be given to the men when they are
levied, and they not be forced to wait till it is due. |
|
Want some device for ransom of prisoners; they cannot
ransom themselves, as a month's pay, 2s. 6d. a day for diet,
and fines, &c. are required, and the captain' means cannot
bear it. This refers not to adventurers who might redeem
themselves, but to poor soldiers. Also beg provision for
the sick and wounded, whose charge has laid heavily on
them. Do not request profit for themselves, but only to
keep what they earn. Signed, by Sir Thos. Morgan, Sir
Math. Morgan, Sir Thos. Baskerville, Wm. Browne, Sir
Coniers Clifford, Sir Ferd. Gorges, George Wish, Sir
F. Vere, and Sir Oliver Lambert. [4 pages.] |
| March 19. |
83. Answer of Sir Thos. Sherley to the petitions of the captains.
1. Thinks the merchants will want commissioners to examine the
case. States the proportions of payment that can be allowed on
20l. a week. 2. The captains wish to get into their own hands
all the money that is due to the soldiers for clothes, but it is great
holdness in them to meddle with it. The apparel sent has always
been answerable to the patterns. 3. Hopes they will not alter the
orders about the dead pays, and leave the captains the appointment
of all the persons to whom the dead pays are to be distributed,
they already bestowing the half. 4. Reinforcements are
sent to the companies, but fears that the plan of allowing them a
certain rate would not serve Her Majesty. 5. The men that have
been levied have always been apparelled. 6. The maker is answered
in an apostile to the like complaint. 7. Every captain is allowed
a surgeon; men of light hurts are easily cured, and sick men are
never refused in the hospitals of the country. When dangerous
hurts happen, they shall be reported, that consideration may be had
thereof. [1½ pages.] |
| [March 20.] |
84. List of 11 noblemen, three bishops, and two law officers appointed
a commission for repeal of an " Act for increase of mariners
and for the encouragement of navigation," passed 23 Eliz., as
regards the bringing in of salted fish and herrings. |
March 20.
Cannon Row. |
85. [Edward Earl of Hertford] to Lord Burghley. Asks his
interest in procuring the passing of a bill in the Upper House,
relating to some lands in Northamptonshire, sold by the writer's
brother-in-law, Sir Richard Knightley, to divers persons, but in
which the writer's sister, Elizabeth, Lady Knightley, and her children
have some interest, under an award made in a suit between Sir
Richard Knightley and Valentine his son, before Lord Chief Justice
Anderson, and the Lord Chief Baron of the Exchequer. [Damaged.] |
| March 21. |
86. Abstract of the points established, 27 July 1589, for payment
of the Low Country forces, and of the ordinances set down by the
Earl of Leicester, concerning the dead pays. With marginal note
that this mode of payment is continued at Ostend, but by request of
the captains of garrisons in the cautionary towns, new orders were
given for the victualling, 20 Dec. 1590. |
| March 21. |
87. Order by Lord Treas. Burghley, the Lord Admiral, and Lord
Buckhurst, in the cause between Philip Corsini, on behalf of Italian
merchants, and Erasmus Harvy, Thos. Myddleton, and their consorts,
concerning the goods taken in the Uggera Salvagnia. Myddleton and
Harvy for themselves and consorts, and Sir W. Raleigh for himself
and Capt. Davies, are to enter into bonds for the goods they have
received, and Corsini in 20,000l. for those he is to receive. The
award is to be delivered before the last of June; the goods
still sequestered or at Plymouth or Dartmouth, and 25 bags of
pepper that had the marks altered, to be delivered to Corsini. As
the bonds are to be double the value of the goods, they are to be
valued by Thos. Cordell and Wm. Garraway, according to the rates
set down; their Lordships are to determine the matter upon proofs
already made, and the parties shall examine any person who is to be
produced. After the bonds are given, Corsini is to stay all suits at
law until the award, if made before the end of June; otherwise the
parties are to prefer their rights by law, unless their Lordships prolong
the arbitrament for a month or two. [Draft. 6 pages.] |
| March 21. |
88. Abstract of the above by Lord Burghley. [1½ pages.] |
March 22.
Blackfriars. |
89. Lord Warden Cobham to Mark Packenham and Warham Jemmett.
It appears by their letter that they, with Chas. Liebaert and
Leven de Haus, have been, as directed, along the sea coast, and compounded
with such of the savers of the goods belonging to the last
two ships cast away upon the Goodwin as were willing to deliver
them upon reasonable satisfaction; and that they have committed the
goods to the custody of the Mayors' deputies of Dover and Sandwich
until further order. Wishes them, for the benefit of the merchants to
whom the goods belong, to resort to the said deputies, with the
bearers, and inform them that he is content that the said goods
should be redelivered to Leven de Haus on behalf of the proprietors,
on his receipt, so that when the rest of the goods which the savers of
Lydd, Romney, and other places have yet in their keeping are delivered,
bonds may be taken of Mr. Leeman and Chas. Liebaert, to save
the writer harmless, against those who may hereafter pretend to be
interested in such goods. |
| [March 24.] |
90. Act for continuation of a certain patent granted to the
mayor, sheriffs, citizens, &c. of Lincoln, by Hen. VIII., 11 Dec.,
A° 38, to the intent that they might be better enabled to pay the
great fee farm yielded to the Crown by the city, conferring on them
the advowsons and right of patronage of the rectories of Hanslop,
co. Bucks, and Surfleet, Hemswell, and Belton, co. Lincoln; with
licence to erect and establish perpetual vicarages in the said rectories,
and to appoint houses, gardens, pensions, annuities, &c. to the perpetual
vicars; with the advowson and right of patronage of all the
vicarages aforesaid. [Damaged.] |
| [March 24.] |
91. Speech of Sir Wm. Unton in the House of Commons. Praises
the last speaker, who has delivered what he was charged with by
the Lords; is glad their Lordships care for the preservation of
liberties; urges to a speedy resolution, the enemy being still ready
to proceed to extremities, and the danger imminent, unless timely
prevented. The Pope and King of Spain are incorporated in a malice
against us that nothing can quench but rivers of blood; their quarrel
is more of state than religion, and they threaten to swallow up our
goods, lives, and liberties; they are preparing a mighty force, but
trust more still to treason to bring us into bondage. Cautions
against false security. The noble and gracious Queen, prudent in
word and deed, has hitherto resisted their attempts. Highly eulogizes
her government; they must repay her prudence in calling
them together; she sets up and maintain Kings, and still upholds
two, by mighty expense; she has been and will be at great charge
for France, preserving a brave and worthy King of our religion.
The Spaniard now seeks to set foot in Scotland, where we have had
dangerous wars, which will be much more dangerous if it receive
such guests. The public treasure is worn, but private wealth must
come in, and be sacriticed for public safety. Approves the triple
subsidy, but not the speedy payment required; though but a weak
remedy, it is as much as the country will bear, but it could not be
levied in three years as required; people would rather pay three subsidies
in six years, than two in two years; the poor, who are most
pinched by the subsidy, should be specially regarded. The payment
should be as usual, and no increase of taxation, or raising of
men in the subsidies, for the Queen may at all times employ her
subjects' wealth with willing minds. This resolution will terrify the
enemy, and discourage the intended invasion. [Copy. 3 pages.] |
| March 27. |
92. Earl of Essex to Sir Thos. Wilkes. Thanks for his letter. Was
of the same mind, and has taken the course he wished. Is glad to
find his friends love one another so well. Endorsed, "E. of Essex,
in answer of mine for Sir H. Unton." |
March 28.
The Court. |
93. Lord Burghley to Sir Thos. Wilkes, clerk of the Council.
If his health will not allow him to bring the last despatch made into
Brittany, he is to send it; has occasion to inform himself of it. |
| March 28. |
94. Note of the pay of the officers of the field, and imprests to
27 bands of 4,000 heads serving in Brittany, from 1 Feb. to 28
March 1593; total, 7,337l. [1½ pages.] |
| March 29. |
95. Abstract of the petition of Reade Stafford, for leave to dispose
of a small portion of the land entailed on him by his father, Thos.
Stafford, to pay his own debts and his father's, all the persons who
have interest in the remainders of the entail having signified their
consent; with a brief pedigree of the family prefixed. |
March 29.
Doctors' Commons. |
96. Dr. Wm. Aubrey to Lord Burghley. Sends a testimonial, to
be forwarded to the Vice-Admiral of Devon, for delivery by him to
John Caen, the Hamburger, touching the wine arrested by Geo.
Leake at Falmouth, for so much as is adjudged to Leake in part
satisfaction. |
| March 29. |
97. Humfrey Bradley to Lord Burghley. Sends a project for
draining the fens in cos. Norfolk, Suffolk, Lincoln, Cambridge,
Northampton, and Huntingdon. It is feasible and easy, as the
fens lie above the full sea mark; with 700 or 800 men, and at 5,000l.
charge, the greater part might be finished by next September, and
Her Majesty enriched 40,000l. yearly, besides infinite other benefits
to the commonwealth. Considering the diversity of the tenures and
leases of the fens, and the opinions of men, the most expedient way
will be by Act of Parliament, allowing only so reasonable a portion
for the draining as that the remainder, being drained, will double
or treble the former benefits to the owners and commoners. His
Lordship, by favouring of it during the present Parliament, may
eternize his renown, and increase his revenue 2,000l. or 3,000l. a
year. If neither he nor Her Majesty will entertain it, will bring
the names of certain gentlemen of wealth who are willing to perform
it, upon reasonable conditions. [1½ pages.] |
March 30./April 9.
Dieppe. |
98. —— to Robinson. Thanks him for his diligent and
faithful and speedy correspondence; will make his ability known,
that he may be general factor with persons in those parts, or
at least with some of the principals, as the Cardinal and Father
Parsons. |
|
Although the King of France assembles all the forces he can, it is
thought he will not be able to match the army of the Union, except
he leave his towns naked, which is so dangerous, that he will not
hold the field long without a revolt in many of them. The English,
since their arrival, have spoiled all the country about St. Valery,
the town itself being neuter, and hanged Langden, an English
priest; and have passed through the country near Rouen, towards
the Isle of France to St. Denis, to join Biron, who marches that
way with 4,000 or 5,000 soldiers. The English were 1,100 to 1,200,
to whom 400 French were joined, from Dieppe and other places.
It appears, by certain intercepted letters of the King, that they
should have been 2,000, viz., 1,500 pikes and the rest shot, and that
he had given order to the Governor of Dieppe to receive as many,
and send them to the Isle of France. |
|
On Friday, 2 April, the Duke of Feria was very honourably received
into the States at Paris, where he made an oration in Latin,
declaring the King's desire to concur with them to the uttermost, to
the establishment of their Estate, which could not be wrought but by
election of a King; to that end he offers, if they will choose such a
King as he likes for his integrity in religion, &c., to bestow his daughter
upon him in marriage, give them present and sufficient succour, and
employ all his forces to settle that Estate. This gives great courage
and hope to those of the Union at Paris and other places; no
judgment can be given as to the conclusion; if the writer is deceived,
the King of Spain and all his are the same. Count Soissons and
the Cardinal of Bourbon will surely be excluded; it has been so
agreed in Italy, Spain, and Paris, and much more, the King of
Navarre. |
|
The States [of France] have yet concluded nothing but the
reformation of the Church, to which purpose they have agreed to
receive the Council of Trent. They expect the return of the Due
de Mayenne, who is yet with the army, which they take to consist
of 15,000 or 16,000 men, consisting of the Pope's forces and
Flanders and French soldiers. The preparations in Spain against
England are but a rumour, given out to draw the subsidy. Has
seen letters concerning the broils in Scotland, but not the fleeing of
the Lords. Has an account of the reception of the King of Spain
by the English college at Valladolid, but will not send it, as he
thinks they have it out of Flanders. Asks him to write all he learns
of the society and the Catholics, for the satisfaction of Parsons.
Endorsed, " Intercepted, to one Robinson, from Dieppe." [Abstract,
in the handwriting of Thos. Phelippes. 2 pages.] |
March 31.
The Court. |
99. Lord Burghley to Sir Thos. Wilkes. Sends a declaration
received from Scotland. Entreated M. la Fontaine, minister of the
French church, to put it into French, which he has done; but not
knowing how his translation agrees with the Scotch copy, for want
of perfect understanding of the language, asks him to compare and
return them, with his opinion; and if he find any errors, to note
how it may be more aptly put into French. |
March 31.
London. |
100. Sheriff P. Houghton and Justice Rich. Young to Cecil. Went
to Don Christofero's house in Collam Street, as directed, and found
the mass just finished, and only the gentlemen there that attend
him, and who are mostly all known to them. Don Christofero
peaceably suffered them to search the rooms, but seemed grieved
that his quiet should be disturbed, and that any doubt should be
had of his house; took the act, as desired, upon themselves, and
told him they had order to inquire after a dangerous person who
intended evil to Her Majesty, and had received information that he
was seen about his house, and distrusted lest he should be harboured
there by some of his inferior servants without his privity, but that
they held him and his house in all reverence and due regard, which he
seemed to take well, as careful of his honourable reputation. Nevertheless
he may complain; if he does, they hope consideration. |
| March. |
101. Account of monies paid for the wages, coat and conduct
money, transportation, and other expenses of certain bands sent to
Normandy, the Low Countries, and Ireland, between Sept. 1592 and
March 1593; total, 36,794l. 19s. 9½d. With note that this is besides
the bands of foot maintained in pay by appointment of Sir John
Norris, beyond those contained in the schedules. |
| March. |
102. Note by Sir Geo. Carew, Jno. Powell, and H. Bedwell, that
345 pieces of cast-iron ordnance, of descriptions mentioned, have been
made by Thomas Johnson, Her Majesty's gun founder, from 1584 to
March 1593, for the better furnishing of the stores, ships, towns,
ports, &c. |
| March ? |
103. W. Sterrell to Thos. Phelippes. Thanks for the hopes he has
put him in, as his expenses are great and his money little. Entreats
him to send away the letter he has for Fitzher[bert], for the discontinuing
of writing would mar all, and breed suspicion; also to send
the first two Acts of Parliament; will address them himself, and
write a word or two on the cover to excuse delay. It will be
best to get Robin Painter one of the posts, because it will not be
good to utter it to more than needs be. My Lord dines at home today,
as some strangers come, but if Phelippes will come, he will be
welcome. His Lordship is desirous to be acquainted with Francis
Bacon by Phelippes's means. The Earl [of Essex] has not countenanced
the writer by his good word to his Lordship, and therein
shown him but small favour. Has provided a chamber in New
Inn; the fine for 21 years, for it, and for such things as are in it,
comes to 14l. and four marks by the year. |
| March ? |
104. [Proposed] " Act for maintenance of clothing and other
trades occupying wool or yarn, and for the payment of Her Majesty's
subsidy, and alnage;" prohibiting the export of wool or woollen
yarn, except as manufactured into cloth, there not being sufficient
wool in England to employ the manufacturers. Also for enforcing
payments of the usual subsidies thereon to the alnager, and of a
farthing on every pound's weight of wool wrought into baize, say,
&c. and exported. [2 sheets.] |
| March ? |
105. Objections against the patent for exportation of cloths unwrought,
viz., that it will decay the art of cloth working, injure
that of dyeing, which is now growing to perfection, will monopolize
all former sales, as strangers will not buy cloths dressed if they can
get them undressed; will be a tribute on the merchant adventurers,
who must buy their licences at the sellers' discretion, or give up
their trades; will infringe on the liberties of the merchant companies,
give freedom to export all sorts of cloth, and soon cause the
export of wool; the merchant adventurers and Lord Admiral will
lose the benefit of their former patents, and Kent and Sussex, which
are by Parliament forbidden to transport unshorn cloths, will be
unable to sell their cloths. With the several answers to each
objection. [4½ pages.] |
| March ? |
106. Act to explain former statutes relative to the sealing of
woollen cloths, and the alnage and subsidy thereon; enacting that
whenever the alnager's seal is mentioned, without naming the
county, it is to be understood to be the subsidy seal of the alnager
of the county where the cloth is made, and the fee due thereon
is to be paid to the alnager of that county. [Draft, much corrected.
2 sheets.] |
| March ? |
107. Effect of the bill exhibited by Garrett de Malines before
Parliament, against Johan Honger, merchant stranger in Holland,
for infringing proceedings at common law. Malines alleges that
a commission is appointed to decide the controversy, and that he
has been three years in prison, and is still there for a debt of
4,583l. 4s. 5d. due to Honger, whereas Honger owes him a larger
sum, but has removed his goods out of England to avoid payment.
Thereon the case was removed from common law to equity;
Honger was summoned before the Lord Keeper, and in case of nonappearance,
it was decreed that the money he owed to Malines
should go in part of the said debt of 4,583l. 4s. 5d., and if it
was proved to amount to that sum, Malines should be released. On
the other side, it was agreed that the commission was given to
Malines' friends and creditors, obtained after several decisions
against him in the common law courts; that Honger never lived in
England, so could not be said to have withdrawn; and that the
pleas on which the Act is requested have been repeatedly examined and answered before the Lord Treasurer, and Privy Council,
and others, and lastly before Lord Chief Justice Popham, Lord
Anderson, and the Barons of Exchequer, so that it is contrary to
statute to re-examine the case. |
| [March]. |
108. Second bill proposed against recusants; that within 40 days
after the end of the present session of Parliament, every person
above 16 years of age, born within the Queen's dominions, shall go
to church, unless restrained by imprisonment, sickness, or distance,
&c., in which case, within 20 days after they are enlarged or able
to travel, they shall repair to their usual dwelling; if they have
none, to the place where they were born, and not remove above five
miles from such place, without notice, under pain of forfeiting all
their lands and tenements, or being deemed guilty of felony. |
|
All persons who forbear coming to church, and refuse to answer
where and by whom they were married, or their children baptized,
but conceal the same for two years from the Bishop of the diocese or
the Justices of Assize, shall incur the penalty of proemunire. All persons suspected to be Jesuits, seminaries, or massing priests, and when
examined by any of the Privy Council, Judges, or Commissioners,
refusing to answer directly and truly whether they be such or not,
by whom they were made such, and where and by whom they have
been supported, maintained, or relieved the last two years, shall be
guilty of felony. |
|
In order that the realm be not pestered with a multitude of such
dangerous people, the Queen or any six of the Council may commit
any person convicted for not going to church, and not conforming to
this Act, if he have not lands or freehold estate of the yearly value
of 5l., or goods value 50l., to the galleys, to serve there for the
defence of the realm, or banish them beyond sea; and if they return
without special licence, the offence shall be felony. |
|
With proviso, that any person so confined within five miles may
travel out of the compass, on licence of two justices of the peace, or
without it, if urged by process to appear in any of Her Majesty's
courts, or sent for by any of the Privy Council or Commissioners.
Any offender who shall repair to church before his conviction, hear
divine service, and make public submision and declaration of conformity shall be discharged of all pains and forfeitures. Proviso,
that if after such submission he relapse, he shall lose all benefit, and
stand in the same plight as though such submission had never been
made. Proviso, that if any peer of the realm commit any offence
made felony or prcemunire by this Act, he shall be tried by his peers.
[2 pages.] |
| March ? |
109. Request of the Earl of Huntingdon to the Queen and Parliament, for continuance of his grant of the alum works purchased
by him from James late Lord Mountjoy, to prevent a great loss
to himself, and the benefit that would accure to the country,
should he, as he hopes, discover the mode of making alum to
profit. With objections, —1. That the grant will be prejudicial
to the present Lord Mountjoy. 2. That monopolies are against the
profit of a commonwealth. 3. That there are two others who already
make copperas. 4. That it is a wrong for any man to be restrained
the benefit of his own ground. Also replies, showing,—1. That the
Earl has paid Lord Mountjoy 6,000l. more than he would gain by the
mines in 20 years, and will pay more if required, on reasonable arbitration. 2. That those who discover the hidden riches of the ground
ought to reap the advantage thereof. 3. That the copperas made is
bad; and one of the makers was a late tenant of the Earl, and has
defrauded him of much profit. 4. That few people have such
ground, and that the Earl's expense in gaining the knowledge
of these manufactures has cost him 20 times the price of the
ground. |
| March ? |
110. Preamble of a [proposed] Act, confirming that of 35 Eliz.
touching the breadth of white woollen cloths in cos. Wilts,
Gloucester, Somerset, and Oxford. [Imperfect draft.] |
| March ? |
111. [Proposed] Bill for registering all leases or alienations of
land, to avoid the practices of Popish Recusants, who seek, by
transferring their estates, to escape the penalties of the laws against
Recusants. [Draft, 2 sheets.] |
| March ? |
112. Statement addressed by the inhabitants of Sheringham and
Beeson, co. Norfolk, chief traders for the Iceland fishing of ling
and cod, to Sec. Wolley. The pier building on that coast is preventing the further washing away of houses there by the rage of
the sea, and if finished, would be a great safeguard for ships; to
forward it, the Queen, on 16 February 1583, granted the forfeitures
for seven years on the Act for sowing flax and hemp, which Act
gives occupation to many poor, and encourages the making of
English cordage. Remonstrate against the proposed repeal of the
Act. [It was repealed 35 Eliz.] |
