|
| Aug. 1. |
Lease by the Commissioners to Ant. Aucher, for 21 years, of Kennarton
or Kennardington, Westbury, and Kelch manors, the messuage
of Westbawk manor, and other lands and tenements in Kingsnoth
and elsewhere in Kent; rent, 126l. 10s.; no fine. [Docquet.] |
| Aug. 1. |
Presentation of George Downam, M.A., to Sandbach parsonage,
diocese of Chester. [Docquet.] |
| Aug. 1. |
Presentation of Thos. Joly, M.A., to the vicarage of Great
Wakering, diocese of London. [Docquet.] |
| Aug. 1. |
Warrant to strike a tally on the customer of the port of London
for 620 crowns, for Wm. Hare, Rob. Salmon, and John Skinner, of
Lee, co. Essex, as the Queen's reward for building three new ships
to be paid from the customs on goods in the said ships. [Docquet.] |
| Aug. 1. |
51. Memoranda [by Lord Burghley] of the expenses of troops
in Brittany, since Jan. 1591, and of the present monthly expense. |
| Aug. 2. |
52. Memorial for the estimated charge by land and sea, of 4,000
men in Brittany, and the charge of eight ships, with 1,250 men to
serve in them ; total at present, 6,666l. ; and if the army continue
a month, 13,193l., besides the charge of the return [partly in
Burghley's hand]. |
| Aug. 2. |
53. Grant to N.N., of the first, second, or third prebend in Winchester
cathedral that shall fall void, during the time that the
presentation is in the Queen's hands, owing to the vacancy of the
see. [Latin.] |
| Aug. 4. |
54. The Queen to the Lord Treasurer. Has decided to reduce
the allowances assigned 27 Feb. 1587, to Sir Thos. Sherley, as
treasurer at war in the Low Countries, and his officers, as the number
of troops there have been and may be further diminished ; also the
charge of 10l. in the 1,000l. for portage is to cease, as certain of the
merchant adventurers of London are willing to deliver the money
for the soldiers at the rate of 34s. 9d. Flemish, the pound sterling.
Specifies the allowances to be paid him henceforward, the same as
in her letter to Sir T. Sherley of July—No. 49 supra. [Draft,
corrected by Burghley. 2¼pages.] |
| Aug. 4. |
Pardon to Thos. Morgan, yeoman of London, for coining Elizabeth
shillings of counterfeit metal ; with proviso to depart the realm
within 40 days, and not return without licence. [Docquet.] |
| Aug. 4. |
Pardon to Wm. Barlow, of Foston, co. Derby, yeoman, for burglary,
with restoration of lands and goods. [Docquet.] |
| Aug. 4. |
Pardon to Rob. Palmer, of Blockley, co. Worcester, gentleman, for
highway robbery. [Docquet.] |
| Aug. 4. |
Grant in reversion to Adrian de Saravia, D.D., of a prebend in
the collegiate church of St. Peter's, Westminster. [Docquet.] |
| Aug. 4. |
Lease by the Commissioners to Walter Windsor, gentleman pensioner,
for 21 years, of herbage in the East, Middle, and West
parks of Raby, with parts of closes, and Highwood grange, bishopric
of Durham ; rent, 22l. 10s. 6½d. ; no fine. [Docquet.] |
Aug. 5.
London. |
55. W. Blande and J. Dowse to Lord Burghley. At Mr. Carmarequest, recommend William Lewes, who has been in the
trade of merchandise, for the office of searcher of Plymouth. |
| Aug. 6. |
56. Examination of Robert Williams before Thos. Fane. Was
born at Dublin. Six weeks after coming from Ireland, when the
Earl of Essex went into France, went also with Thos. Hull ; served
four months under Sir Wm. Stanley ; departed secretly, and was
six months ill at Douay ; thence went to Knocke, Gravelines, and
Calais, and wishing to come over with some English gentlemen, was
engaged by Mr. Yorke ; did not know him, but had seen Mr. Williams
in Stanley's regiment. |
| Aug.8 |
57. The Queen to the Earl of Bath. Has already contributed,
as his Lordship has done, towards the fortifications at Plymouth,
but the works are not advanced for want of further contributions
from persons of the county. Directs him to confer with the deputy
lieutenants to procure some reasonable contribution from persons of
ability, and to tell them of the danger of the town being unfortified.
Wishing to know the contributors, orders a book of the names and
sums to be kept, and sent to Council for her, that it may appear
who have a natural care of their country, and who the contrary.
He is also to have 500 able men chosen in the parts near, and
distribute them into bands to be trained, and conducted to the port
when needful, till the fortifications are ended, which will be it is
hoped this summer; they are to be placed under fitting captains,
and paid from the contributions for the fortifications. Refers him
to Sir Fras. Drake, to whom she has declared her further pleasure
therein. [Corrected by Burghley. 1¾ pages.] |
| Aug. 8. |
58. Copy of the preceding. [1¼ pages.] |
| Aug. 8. |
59. Examination of Henry Sise before Rich. Young. Serves Lucas
Felix, a merchant of Lisbon, and, when returning, a Spaniard or
Portuguese living near Chancery Lane sent letters by him to Felix's
wife near Lisbon ; thought it was Dr. Lopez, because he was a
physician, and Felix had wanted him to come over, but he would
not leave England. Mr. Copley, the Earl of Cumberland's servant,
sent a letter to Donna Madalena Copley at Lisbon, but she was
gone to Madrid. Gaspar, a Dutchman, at St. Catherine's London,
who has served the Cardinal of Portugal, and Capt. Legatt are to
go over with Felix. Father Parsons, Harrison, and other English
priests came to Felix's house at Lisbon, about redeeming prisoners. |
Aug. 8.
9. P.M.
Thursday. |
60. Lord Burghley to Sir R. Cecil. Sends Mr. Bowes' letter,
to be communicated to Her Majesty before the arrival of the Scottish
ambassador. It contains miscellaneous advices ; is glad he
writes so liberally, but he ought to know which of them deserve
credit. Is sure, by the hungry courts (sic) that seek money from
England, that the action against the Earls will be made desperate.
If the King attempts the matter, he will have time enough, before
the scarecrow of so numerous an embassy will be found ready. Is
weak with this little journey, but comforted by resting in his house
to-night. |
| Aug. 10. |
Lease, on surrender by the Commissioners, to Thos. Knyvett, for
21 years, of Usterlow grange, the herbage of Cardiff forest, with
bushels of oats, cheese, and lambs, payable by the tenants, co. Carmarthen;
rent, 23l. 11s. 10d. ; fine, 47l. 3s. 4d. [Docquet.] |
| Aug. 10. |
Pardon to Alice Berick, spinster, for burning the house of Wm.
Dusty, both of Staplehurst, Kent ; also to Thos. Griffith, of Harrisam,
Kent, for robbing Wm. Barnes in the highway, of a knife, price 4d.,
and 2d. in money. [Docquet.] |
| Aug. 10. |
Pardon to John Rise and George Gregory, sailors of Chalk, Kent,
for taking a horse worth 3l., and other things worth 5l., from Rich.
Burston in the highway. [Docquet.] |
| Aug. 10. |
Pardon to Zachary Lodar of Southwark, Surrey, tailor, for receiving
and concealing John Randall, who stole plate from the Queen's house
at Hampton Court. [Docquet.] |
| Aug. 10. |
Grant to Sir Thos. Leighton, and Elizabeth his wife, and their
heirs, of timber in the woods of Hanbury manor, for building and
repairing the houses of the manor, with firebote, ploughbote, cartbote,
and hedgebote for the tenants, and pasture for their cattle in Feckenham
forest; the grant of the said manor, 32 Eliz., to Sir Rob. Cecil,
Sir Fras. Knollys, jun., and Sir Hen. Killigrew, being defective in
that point. [Docquet.] |
| Aug. 11. |
Warrant to pay to Rob. Bowes, resident ambassador with the King
of Scots, 200l., without imprest or account. [Docquet.] |
Aug. 11.
Greenwich. |
61. Order in Council for the weekly payment, at rates specified,
for 2,000 men and 50 miners, to be sent to reinforce the troops in
Brittany under Sir John Norris, which are now to be reduced to
100 lances and 4,000 footmen; also for their coat, conduct, and transmoney, at specified rates; part to be paid in weekly imprests,
part in apparel, or armour, as required. Total of one month's charges,
4,985l. 8s. [3 pages.] |
| Aug. 11. |
62. Copy of the above. |
Aug. 12.
Tower. |
63. Examination of Edmund Yorke, taken before the Earl of Essex
and Lord Cobham. The service he meant in his letter to Essex,
begging favour, was anything the Queen should command. Father
Holt meant to send him to Scotland, but knows not on what business.
The priests whom he knew in Abbeville were Ingram,
Father Harry, and Beck; went with Ingram into the Low Countries,
and was there reconciled by Father Holt, as was Young also.
Told Williams of his mission to Scotland, and Williams told Willis,
Sir Wm. Stanley's secretary, that one day he would be known as an
honest man. Father Holt gave him 12 crowns at parting, and bade
him remain a Catholic. Young said he had offered to Father Holt
in writing, to kill Her Majesty, on condition of a sum in hand, and
more afterwards. Williams said he would do it for great store of
money, and advancement of his house, as he should be sure to die. |
|
Was to go to Scotland in a man-of-war. Sir Wm. Stanley said if
the Queen were dead, he would go to Scotland with his regiment,
make it strong, and go to the Earl of Derby, as would all the
English. Williams said if he came to England, he would make a
rebellion, for he would commit a robbery on some great house, and
when forces were raised, make one Pew, of the Isle of Anglesey, a
man of good living, take his part, sell his land worth 500l. a year,
and help him with the money. Williams has, until lately, always
received his brother's pension in England. Williams sent to Owen
before leaving Brussels, offering service, and Young wrote the letter.
[3 pages.] Also, |
| Aug. 12. |
Second examination of Edm. Yorke. Young swore he would
kill both Queen and Lord Treasurer, and he and Williams wished
they had money to try whether they would do it. Hearing at
Calais of a stir in Ireland, Williams wished he were there, with
2,000 men. Jaques thought much of Williams, and had him for
his bed-fellow. Williams said he should have come into England
about some service, but did not say what. |
| Aug. 12. |
64. Declaration of Hen. Young. Heard Rich. Williams tell
Yorke of plate which he had got melted and coined, in his cousin,
Sir Griffin Markham's chamber, Gray's Inn, and he named many
gentlemen that had shares therein. Williams confessed that he,
Capt. Dyer, now lieutenant to Sir Wm. Stanley, Capt. Duffield,
and others, had stolen 1,800l. worth of plate from Winchester church
to turn into coin. Williams saw at Lonvaine one Williams
of Oxford, who said that he got out of England by device of his
old master Ralph Sheldon, on pretence of fetching hawks from
Ireland, but really with letters to Card. Allen, whom he has served,
and who appointed him to lie at Louvaine for letters, but not return
to England, lest his Catholic master might be mistrusted. |
|
Wrote several letters for Rich. Williams, to Sir Wm. Stanley,
Paget, Sir Thos. Throgmorton, and Owen, about his poverty and
inability to stay longer there. Did this by consent of Stanley,
Holt, and Gifford, in presence of Wright, an Irishman, that they
might be thought poor and discontented; as the Queen has many
spies in Brussels, that might seem a likely reason for their going
over, and then, being received to mercy, with a few oaths and
promises, they might perform what they had taken in hand. Was
therefore caused by Yorke to walk about Brussels without a cloak,
having sold it through Wright, a man of many words. Yorke and
Williams intended to raise a rebellion in the north of Wales. Williams
and his company, among whom was Edw. Bushell, servant to
Lady Strange, with the same engine they used at Winchester, tried
to break into Whitehall, to steal the Queen's jewels and plate, but
one of their party was timorous and cried out; they wounded and
would have slain him, if he had not consented to keep their counsel.
Bushell said that when his father was dead, he would make money
of all he had, and go over the sea. [2 pages.] |
| Aug. 12. |
65. Copy of the above, endorsed with notes [by Att. Gen. Coke.
2½ pages.] |
| Aug. 12. |
66. Declaration of Hen. Young. Wrote for Williams to Dr.
Gifford for employment, asking 200 crowns beforehand, and advancement
of his house, if he perished in the action; the Doctor said
he should he employed with Capt. Yorke, bound for England. Talking
of Her Majesty, Williams said nothing but resolution was wanting.
Yorke said they were fools that think of killing her, who
is continually mewed up in a chamber, and it were better service
to kill the Lord Treasurer's horse, for he would take it so grievously,
if the old jade were dead, that he would die too. Williams said he
should like to tread under foot the base nobility of England, that
live in servitude. |
| Aug. 12. |
67. Copy of the above. |
| Aug. 12. |
68. Examination of Rich. Williams before the Earl of Essex,
Lord Cobham, and Att. Gen. Coke. Sent to Owen and Gifford to
offer service in England, but they made slender answer. Never had
an offer of service but once by Dyer, who said there was a service to
be done, if they would give crowns enough; heard no further of it.
There was speech at Brussels about killing the Queen; offered to do
it if they would give money enough, and advance his house, as he
was sure to die. Young said he would do it; on which. Yorke said
"Tush! you will kill my Lord Treasurer's nag." Complained that
Sir Wm. Stanley used him hardly, but said he would show himself
an honest man. Spoke of making Pew, a Catholic in North Wales,
sell his land, and of raising a rebellion by robbery. Often heard
Stanley wish himself in England with 500 men. One Jones came
over to Anglesey, to fetch over the nephew of D. Lewis, Bishop of
Cassano. One Bishop, a Warwickshire man, whose father is worth
400l. a year, often comes over. [2 pages.] |
| Aug. 12. |
69. Copy of the above. [2 pages.] |
| Aug. 12. |
70. Second examination of Rich. Williams, before Essex and Cobham.
Having committed a robbery, went with the Earl of Essex into
France, and served under Sir Thos. Baskerville, but went over to the
enemy. His letter to Dr. Gifford was a general offer of service; does
not remember if it was answered. Harrison showed him instruments
to open locks, and break holes in brick walls. Knows one
Williams, who was with Ralph Sheldon, and has been two years
beyond seas and takes delight in hawks. Yorke was often with
Father Holt. Knows not what passed between them. Heard that
Harrison intended robbery at Whitehall. He and Dyer were always
together; they and Hen. Duffield were at the robbery at Winchester.
Offered Gifford any service they would appoint for money, but
Gifford did not like such offers from strangers. Was persuaded by
Father Holt to join Dyer in some service for the King [of Spain].
Was very great with Jaques, and his bed-fellow. [2 pages.] |
| Aug. 12. |
71. Copy of the above. [2 pages.] |
Aug. 13.
Tower. |
72. Examination of Rich. Williams, before Essex and Cobham.
In Bishop's house, Wolvered, Warwickshire, are kept priests, who
say mass there and at Ralph Sheldon's. Has been present; Mr. Thimbleby,
who was to marry Sheldon's daughter, was there, and Sheldon's
eldest daughter, also the brother of Bishop, one of the priests,
who is son to Bishop of Brayles. Thatcher, a young man, heir to a
great living, is coming to England from Cardinal Allen, and with him
one Somerset, kinsman to the Earl of Worcester; they will come by
Calais; also Moody and three young priests are come to England or
Scotland; Cornet Cheney, lieutenant to Patten, the Scottish Colonel,
is gone to Scotland from Count Mansfeldt. Knows of another priest
kept in a lodge by a brother of Sir John Hibbotts. Jaques once
said he wondered the examinate did not offer to go to England and
do service; replied it was because he was not employed. [2 pages.] |
| Aug. 13. |
73. Copy of the above. [1½ pages.] |
| Aug. 13. |
74. Henry Young to Lord Cobham at the Court, Greenwich.
Cannot repeat his former articles from memory, but will abide by
them and maintain them, if confronted with Yorke and Williams,
should they make exceptions. Wishes what he has written to be
read in their hearing. Will manifest his allegiance to his Prince, and
trusts not to be interrupted in the truth appertaining to her preservation. |
| Aug. 13. |
75. Indenture of the delivery by Sir Thos. Scott and Sir John
Leveson, deputy lieutenants of Kent, of 250 soldiers levied in Kent,
and armed, to Captain George Morton, with their names. |
| Aug. 13. |
76. Note of armour and apparel delivered by Sir Thos. Scott and
Sir John Leveson to Captain Morton, with the 250 soldiers levied
in Kent, and committed to him to be transported into Brittany. |
| Aug. 14. |
77. Lord [Burghley] to Sir Thos. Sherley. Signifies the Queen's
pleasure in reference to the reduction of his allowances, as specified
in her letter of 4 Aug. He is also to take order with the merchants
of London, appointed to receive money from him for payment of
the soldiers in the Low Countries, to pay 34s. 9d. Flemish money
per pound sterling. [Draft, corrected by Burghley. 2¼ pages.] |
| Aug. 14. |
78. Interrogatories to be ministered to Edm. Yorke: As to his
conferences with Holt. What he has received or was promised of
his uncle's goods, and his disposal thereof? What he has heard of
practices against the Queen, Council, ships, or realm ? His pension
from Spain ? The employment and friends in England of Williams
and Young ? Why he said he did not care what became of Lopez,
since six other gentlemen escaped ? His acquaintance with Franklin
of Yorkshire, and Capt. Rice. How he knows Young to be cunning in
poisoning, and who else are coming over also cunning therein ? Why
he said he would not go against the Spaniards and Omaile, without
Otwell Smith, and would carry Smith to the Spaniards ? Why he
said he hoped to come to the burning of London, and pluck Justice
Young and others out of their houses? Why he called the Lord
Treasurer blood-sucker ? Who it was that spoke ill of the Lord
Chamberlain ? He is also to be charged with villainous speeches
against. Her Majesty. |
|
Also, Interrogatories for Rich. Williams. On his pension from
Spain. His practices against the Queen. The cause of his coming.
His connexion with the robbery of Winchester church. What he
knows of the Williams who served Sheldon ? What persons here
have intelligence with the enemy ? |
|
Also, note that Young is chiefly to be examined on his words
about killing Her Majesty, and on skill in poisoning. [2 pages.] |
Aug. 15.
Tower. |
79. Examination of Edm. Yorke before the Earl of Essex and
Lord Cobham. Holt promised him, or any confederate, 100,000 or
200,000 crowns, if he would raise a rebellion or do some notable
act. Williams and Young, on their arrival, were to go to North
Wales, raise forces, and if they could not keep the field, retire
and fortify Conway. Williams was to have come with Dyer to
attempt Portsmouth, and had they taken it, Sir Wm. Stanley would
have come over with forces. Williams relied on help from Pew
and Ralph Sheldon, Catholics, Captain Duffield, and other gentlemen.
Knows another Williams, Sheldon's servant, who was at
Rome, is now with Mrs. Allen, and does all the Cardinal's business.
Confesses saying he would carry Otwel Smith, a merchant, to the
enemy. Young gave him a book, written by his own hand, about
poisoning. [2 pages.] |
| Aug. 15. |
80. Copy of the above. [1¾ pages.] |
Aug. 15.
Tower. |
81. Like examination of Rich. Williams. Meant on his arrival
to go down into Denbighshire, where Young was to follow him, and
cause Pew to sell his land and take Conway castle; the rest of
Yorke's articles are true. Had a pension of 20 crowns a month from
the King of Spain. |
| Aug. 15. |
82. Copy of the above. |
Aug. 15.
Greenwich. |
83. Earl of Essex to the Dean and Chapter of Christ Church,
Oxford. Finds that on his letters they have granted to Thos. Brooke
certain tithes, part of Runcorn parsonage, and a further part thereof
to his servant John Daniell, who says he was the first discoverer,
and the means of their receiving a fine and provision of corn. He
says he has spent above 500l. and therefore expected the whole
parsonage, whereas he has only certain tithes; thus he has got no
benefit by their lease, though he pays them yearly a great rent.
Requests a renewal of the lease, and some further favour to him. |
| Aug. 15. |
84. Estimate of the monthly and yearly charge of Her Majesty's
forces in the Low Countries; for 52 weeks, 73,577l. 6s. 8d.; with a
list of the bands, five containing 1,400 men in Flushing; one of 150
in Ramekins; four of 650 in Brill; seven of 1,050 in Ostend, and
ten of 1,550 in the camp, which is said to be dissolved, and the troops
dispersed in garrisons. [3 pages.] |
Aug. 16.
Antwerp. |
85. R. Sherwood to William Higham, London. Hopes to hear
of his perseverance in virtue. Presses him to come over to
Antwerp with his sister and her husband, where they shall all find
contentment, and in coming over, to use the help of the bearer.
[Noted, "I would know this gentleman."] Wishes him to bring
Mich. Huggenson, who served Lady Throckmorton, and then Mr.
Atkinson, the lawyer, and has been in prison since. Also not to
stay, because his sureties will have to pay his nobles a year. Doubts
not but his coming will be a means to discharge them of the whole.
[Copy. 1½ pages.] |
| Aug. 16. |
86. Note of eight ships, with 1,185 men, to be equipped for the
seas; of four, with 315, remaining in the Narrow Seas, and one at
Gravesend, with 40 men; total men in pay, 1,540. |
| Aug. 16. |
87. "Names of sundry persons that are diversely charged;" with
later notes as to what has been done relative to them. |
|
Hen. Petit, near Sittingbourne, already committed, and to be
examined by Bacon and Waad. |
|
A house next the Hart's Horn, Pycorum, where mass is said, to be
searched by Rich. Young. |
|
David Ingleby. The Earl of Essex has written to the Earl of
Huntingdon to use all measures to apprehend him. |
|
Williams' brother; the keeper of the Gatehouse took bonds of him,
and two pursuivants are sent for him. |
|
Pew, of Anglesey, a kinsman of Williams. A letter written to Sir
Rich. Bulkeley to search his house, and apprehend and send him up. |
|
Bishop of Wolvered, co. Warwick, who has mass and seminaries
in his house, and whose son has been to Rome, and is a priest. A
letter to be written to Mr. Devordan [the high sheriff] to search his
house and send him up. |
|
Ralph Sheldon, who has mass, keeps a priest, and maintains
Williams' wife and children in his absence; Dr. Gifford was sent to
England to resolve him. Sheldon revealed that the Cardinal keeps
that Williams and his sister at Louvaine, lest they should be
taken coming to England. A letter to be written to Sir Thos. Lucy
and Sir John Harrington, to search his house, and send him up to
William Waad's in Wood Street. |
|
Mr. Thimbleby, who should have married Sheldon's daughter, to
be sent for [by a letter to the high sheriff of Warwickshire]. |
|
Sir John Hibbott's brother [a letter to be written to the sheriff
where he dwells]; to have his house searched and restrain him to
some convenient [distance]. |
|
Capt. Middleton, a captain at sea, who has a brother with the
enemy, from whom he receives letters, and is charged in Young's
reports, to be stayed. [The Lord Admiral to be moved to have
inquiries made for him.] |
|
Hen. Duffield, Harrison, and Bushell, who were at the Winchester
robbery, and at the attempt on Whitehall, to be apprehended [unless
Harrison is the man that is already hanged]. |
|
Tunsted, who used the most slanderous words of Her Majesty of
any man beyond seas, to be enquired of. [2½ pages. The passages
in brackets are supplied from the following paper.] |
| Aug. 16. |
88. Draft of the above, with slight differences. [2½ pages.] |
| Aug. [16]. |
89. First draft of the above, endorsed, "Names of such as are to
be sent for, being charged in the examinations taken." |
| [Aug. 16]. |
90. Draft of a portion of the above paper relating to Ralph
Sheldon, &c. |
| [Aug. 16.] |
91. List of the persons named in the above paper. |
| Aug. 16. |
92. Declaration of Hen. Young. Was told by Edm. Yorke of a
recruit for ships to be brought under Stanley, from Spain to
Dunkirk. Stanley said their long exile would be longer unless some
resolute gentleman raised a rebellion. Yorke offered to raise one in
the North, where are many Catholics, and where he had his nephew
Yorke and the Hiltons as friends ; he told Stanley he might land
1,000 or 2,000 men at Old Winchelsea, as there is a vault close by
the sea, where many might be conveyed, and rise in the midst of
Winchelsea. Rich. Williams thought it better to raise a rebellion in
North Wales, where his father and friends, all Catholics, live ; his
uncle, Mr. Sheldon, would help with many, also Mr. Pew, who
keeps a pinnace, dwells on a fortified rock, and so draws the people
to him, that in two parishes near him, scarce three or four go to
church. |
|
Met at Louvaine Edw. Williams, sent to Cardinal Allen by Ralph
Sheldon, who, at the time of the camp, sent 20 horsemen and
500l. to Lord Chancellor Hatton, more to aid the Spaniards than
the Queen. He was condemned to fine for not coming to church,
but wrote to the Lord Chancellor, who ordered him not to be proceeded against, pretending he had been at church in London. It
was decided that Dr. Gifford should be sent over to move Sheldon
and others. Williams said 20 men could take Conway castle in an
evening. Williams was to build two sconces on a bridge that
passes over a river into Anglesey. Capt. Middleton, who commanded one of the Queen's ships on the coast of Ireland, and was
not suspected, would carry news. |
|
They were to pretend discontent, and a wish to return, through
lack of maintenance. By order of Holt and Gifford, they were
examined at Brussels, imprisoned a day or two, and then let go ;
the other passengers, one or two being English, were not stayed.
Holt promised Capt. Yorke he should want for nothing, and that
there should be safe conveyance of his packets. Received a jewel
worth 30l., and 250l. in money for Yorke's use. Yorke said he
believed the Lord Treasurer had poisoned the young Earl of Derby
to marry the young Lady Vere to the Earl's brother, England
being governed by the Machiavellian policy of those who would be
Kings, and whom it is time to cut off. Yorke's money is in the
Jesuits' hands for his use. Capt. Middleton was to keep the Irish
seas, and prevent any ship annoying Pew's pinnace when carrying
letters. Yorke was at first to follow Lord Essex, and show himself
dutiful at Court. The rising was to be when Dr. Gifford came,
after the Christmas holidays. [5¾ pages.] |
| Aug. 16. |
Grant to Hugh Beeston of the receivership of cos. Anglesea,
Carnarvon, Merioneth, Denbigh, Flint, and Montgomery ; fee, 30l. a
year, and porterage 20s. per 100l. Also of that, of the county
palatine of Chester ; fee, 10l. a year, and like porterage. [Docquet.] |
| Aug. 16. |
Lease by the Commissioners to Thos. Matthew, yeoman of the
chamber, for 21 years, of the manor tolls, a mill and furnace, and
lands lying under the castle of Bowes, co. York, on surrender by
him and Wm. Jones of a similar grant for their lives ; rent, 12d. the
first five years, 53s. 4d. the next seven, and 20l. 0s. 4d. the remainder
of the term ; no fine. [Docquet.] |
| Aug. [17.] |
93. Certificate by John Phillipps and Thos. Johnson, gun founders,
that 50 culverins, 10 feet long, will weigh 50 cwt. apiece, or converted to demi-culverins, 125 tons; the reason of so great a
difference being that the culverin shot weighs 18 lbs., and the demiculverin but 9 lbs. |
| Aug. 17. |
94. Account by John Wolstenholme of the weight of the demiculverins sold to M. Caron, 21 tons 3 cwt. 0¼ lb. |
| Aug. 17. |
95. Examination of Ant. Johnson, aged 15, born in Gelderland.
Served an Englishman in Sir Wm. Stanley's regiment ; also Rich.
Williams in Capt. Bostock's company, who promised to bring him
to England. Williams kept company chiefly with Father Sherwood,
and their interviews were private ; Yorke with Father Holt. Yorke
and Williams lived together in the Market-place, Brussels. Had no
money of Williams, who was very poor, but some mean apparel.
Williams had a fray with his host, to whom he owed money. Yorke
promised to procure Williams's pardon if he would go to England
with him. [1½ pages.] |
| Aug. 20. |
96. Examination of Rich. Williams before Sir Mich. Blount, Fras.
Bacon, and Wm. Waad. [Edw.] Williams went to Ireland under
colour of buying hawks, and thence to Rome to Cardinal Allen, but
being ill there, the Cardinal sent him and his sister to Louvaine.
Heard him say there that his old master, Mr. Sheldon, was as good
a Catholic as any in England. Has been privy to no practices.
Refused Holt and Owen's request to undertake something, because
they would not give him the money he demanded. [1½ pages.] |
| Aug. 20. |
97. Copy of the above. |
| Aug. 20. |
98. Like examination of Edm. Yorke. Was persuaded by Father
Holt to come over on the Queen's pardon, and to live in the
Court, as one fled away, having the money due to his uncle sent
for his maintenance, and an assurance on oath of 40,000 crowns,
with present payment guaranteed by the secretary, Stephen de
Ibarra, if he performed the required service of killing the Queen, by
his own agents, or by Tipping, or Garret, ensign to Jaques, who
were to be sent over. At the conference thereon, Sir W. Stanley,
Throgmorton, Chas. Paget, Drs. Worthington and Gifford, and
Williams were present. Some spoke of a poisoned arrow or rapier,
or a dagger, as she walked in the garden. Had 40 crowns from
Gifford, but they kept him in want, to make him take the matter in
hand. Was to have served the Earl of Essex, Williams the Lord
Admiral, and Young the Lord Chamberlain ; they swore on the
sacrament to do it, and were absolved by Father Holt. |
|
Moody is come, or will soon come over [to kill the Queen, and
will have money from Throgmorton and Paget]. They will offer
the crown to the Earl of Derby, with the King of Spain's assistance.
They assemble two or three times a week to devise means of destroying
Her Majesty. Had they succeeded, they would have gone
to Mr. Sheldon, on whom they greatly rely, for help. If they failed,
they were to move some rebellion in the Earl of Derby's name, though
he were not privy to it. [3 pages. The passage in a bracket is
from the marginal abstract in the subsequent paper.] |
| Aug. 20. |
99. Copy of the above, with marginal abstracts. Appended is a
note that Yorke acknowledged this confession, 21 August, before the
Earl of Essex and Lord Cobham. [2¾ pages.] |
| Aug. 20. |
Lease to Wm. Killigrew, groom of the privy chamber, of Hanworth
manor and park, and Kempton park, Middlesex, for 80 years,
on surrender of a former patent thereof for life. [Docquet.] |
Aug. 20.
Alderman Ratcliff's house, London. |
100. Dr. Ch. Parkins to Lord Burghley. Sends the Queen's letters
to the Marquis of Anspach and his wife, and those to the Emperor,
against the sentence obtained by the Hanse towns, in the diet of
Ratisbon. Objects to the title of "His Majesty," as only used to
him by those who acknowledge his sovereignty. Also thinks the
Turk would be offended at Her Majesty's openly expressing her joy
at the Emperor's successes, and it would prevent her being an
impartial mean of peace. Has therefore drawn a letter in another
form. The execution of sentences in the diet at Ratisbon depends
much on the protestors, in this case the Archbishops of Bremen and
Stade. Wishes the Queen would countenance her subjects, by
writing or sending to him a fit man. Hamburg may deal with
them [the Hanse towns], and the King of Denmark claims a right
in them. Their stillyard, their goods in this realm, and their
shipping may make them careful. |
|
Begs his Lordship's influence for his own further preferment ;
might have had service in other parts of the world, but has left
all for Her Majesty's service. Has spent his time in books and
politics, and been now five years, a tenth of his life, in patient attendance,
sustaining undeserved imprisonment and suspicion. Wants
the deanery of York or Eton, or some other sinecure, or a Latin
secretaryship, the present secretary seeming willing to be eased.
There used to be two, one for countenance and one for labour.
Will re-write the Emperor's letters if required. [1¾ pages.] |
Aug. 20.
London. |
101. Robert Dow to Lord Burghley. Certifies the weight of
16 demi-culverins, ordered for Count Maurice. Has taken good
bonds for their delivery at Amsterdam; total weight, 21 tons 3 cwt. |
| Aug. 21. |
102. Interrogatories to be administered to Edm. Yorke relative to
the design of killing the Queen. [1½ pages. Chiefly replied to in
the following paper.]
|
| Aug. 21. |
103. Confession of Edm. Yorke before the Earl of Essex and
Lord Cobham. Was first moved to destroy the Queen by Father
Holt, in the Jesuits' college, Brussels, last May, in Sir Wm. Stanley's
presence; they spoke of the difficulty of his receiving his uncle's
money unless he performed some service, and told him that
the Duke of Parma had praised his uncle, Rowland Yorke, as the
truest English subject the King of Spain had. The next time, Drs.
Gifford and Worthington, Throckmorton, and Chas. Paget, were
present, and they promised him 40,000 crowns, and told him many
at Court would be glad, and were looking for it. Throckmorton
said if his brother had been a man of any resolution, it would have
been done. Promised, if they would give him a resolute man to
execute the part, to further and rescue him if he could, and they
promised him Rich. Williams, Throckmorton's cousin. Asked time
to consider; they said they made him the offer as an honour, and
bade him not undertake it unless he were resolved. Had money
from Holt to pay his debts at Brussels, being threatened for nonpayment of rent for his lodgings. They solemnly swore him to
perform the service, and Holt confessed him and gave him the
sacrament. Williams swore to kill the Queen, Yorke to aid him, and
to do it if he failed, by poisoned arrow, pistol, or rapier; they hoped
for help from Capt. Duffield and Bushell, who served Lord Strange.
Moody, Tipping, and Garret are coming over to kill her, and if the
English fail, a Walloon and a Burgundian from Stanley's regiment
are to be employed. [8¼ pages.] |
| Aug. 21. |
104. Copy of the above. [5½ pages.] |
| Aug. 21. |
105. Another copy of the above. [6 pages.] |
| Aug. 21 ? |
106. Acknowledgment by Edmond Yorke, before Att. Gen. Coke,
that Young wrote to Father Holt, offering to kill the Lord Treasurer;
addressed to Mr. Waad, clerk of the Council. |
| Aug. 21. |
107. Interrogatories to be ministered to Rich. Williams. [Chiefly
replied to in the following.] |
| Aug. 21. |
108. Examination of Rich. Williams, before the Earl of Essex and
Lord Cobham. Suspects that Moody has already come to England.
Particulars of his intercourse with Yorke. [1½ pages.] |
| Aug. 21. |
109. Copy of the above. |
| [Aug. 21.] |
110. Notes [by Wm. Waad] for the Earl of Essex to write to the
deputy governor of Flushing to stay Moody, and send him hither
safe; for Yorke and Williams to describe Ensign Garret, the Walloon,
and the Burgundian. To forbear to deal with Williams for a few
days, and then Bacon and the writer to deal with him. To be sure
it is the same Bushell. |
| Aug. 21 ? |
111. Depositions [of Edm. Yorke] that Williams, when in Burgundy, wished his sword in the Queen's belly, the deed done, and
themselves back again. |
| Aug. 23. |
Warrant to pay to Edw. Wingate, clerk of the cheque of the
guard, 219l. 10s. for red cloth for summer liveries of the yeomen of
the guard and others for this year. [Docquet.] |
| Aug. 23. |
Warrant to pay to Edw. Wingate 8l. 2s., for embroidering with
E. R. set in Venice gold, the red coats given to the grooms and
pages of the chamber this year. [Docquet.] |
| Aug. 23. |
Warrant to pay to John Parr, the Queen's embroiderer, 88l. 9s. 4½d.
for embroidering red coats for the yeomen of the guard with roses
and crowns imperial, and for satin and canvas for the coats for this
year. [Docquet.] |
| Aug. 23. |
Warrant to pay to Rob. Sharpe, the Queen's goldsmith,
401l. 16s. 2d. for fine gold and silver for making spangles for the
coats of the guard, footmen, and messengers of the chamber for this
year. [Docquet.] |
| Aug. 23. |
Lease on surrender by the Commissioners to John and Agnes
Cleves, and Edward Pitt, for their lives, of the tithing barn and
tithes in Bere Regis, co. Dorset; rent, 14l.; fine, 14l.; heriot, 6l.
[Docquet.] |
| Aug. 23. |
Licence to Bridget Brayford, widow, to transport 60 tuns of
double beer out of the port of London, beyond seas, within two
years, paying the customs due. [Docquet.] |
| Aug. 23. |
Pardon to Chris. Crotch, clerk, of Hitcham, for killing John Kidd,
of Eastwinch, both co. Norfolk. [Docquet.] |
| Aug. 24. |
Presentation of Hugh Thornley, M.A. and preacher, to the parsonage of Graystock, Cumberland. [Docquet, Aug. 23.] |
| Aug. 24. |
Lease in reversion, without proviso for tenants, to Thos. Revell,
for 31 years, of Westhaywood, Hitcham manor, Suffolk; rent,
11l. 12s. 8d., without fine, in consideration of the surrender by
Capt. Edm. Power, of Boltonsborough parsonage, co. Somerset, and
a tenement in Thirsk, co. York, rent, 9l. 4s. 10d., granted him last
year for 31 years. [Docquet, Aug. 23.] |
| Aug. 24. |
112. Examination of Edm. Yorke before Sir Mich. Blount,
Fr. Bacon, and W. Waad. Does not remember who told him that
Tipping and Ensign Garret were to be employed to kill the
Queen, but Father Holt told him of the Burgoman and Walloon,
many English having failed to execute it. Was told by Williams
that Moody, a very resolute man, was come, and had money from
Paget and Throckmorton. Williams and he often wished the deed
were done and they on their horses again, for they were to buy the
best they could get; they resolved when one drew sword the other
would do the same, to do the act if the other were hindered. It
was plotted that Sir Wm. Stanley should deny them a passport;
that the Governor of Burborow should stay them, that Williams
should seem to be in want, and that the examinate should write to
Lord Essex for Williams' pardon; came over poor, but was to have
100 crowns in London; had 20 crowns from Father Holt, but to
colour the matter, gave him a bill for it. Williams received 40
crowns of Dr. Gifford. Williams prevented his coming over without
passport, lest he might damn himself, having taken the sacrament
to kill Her Majesty, by being taken and drawn to confess it. With
several passages repeated from former examinations. [4 pages.] |
| Aug. 24. |
113. Copy of the above. [2¾ pages.] |
| Aug. 24. |
114. Declaration of Hen. Young. Yorke said at Calais that he
wondered at any man's wronging his friends for a little torture, and
that he was armed for any torture, and boasted of the Duke of
Parma's praising his uncle for his constancy under torture. He said
if they were secret, they might soon ride in London streets with
foot-cloths of cloth of silver. Williams said he would die rather
than betray his friends, and if he said anything when on the rack,
would deny all again when free from it. He took exception to the
Earl of Essex's passport for Yorke, including him as "one Williams,"
and said if they were so foolish as to go, they might be hanged,
racked, or tormented. The Council for the State of England, consisting of Stanley, Paget, Thos. Throgmorton, Owen, Capt. Tresham,
Drs. Gifford and Worthington, and Holt, confers every morning after
mass, at the Jesuits' college. |
| Aug. 25. |
115. Certificate by Lord Admiral Howard, Sir John Hawkins,
and three other officers of the Navy, of the loss to Her Majesty by
the burning of the long storehouse at Chatham; 2,341l., besides
the sails of 10 ships named; and request that payment thereof may
be made, on the warrant of 16 Jan. 1589. |
Aug. 26.
Monday, London. |
116. William Hunter to Sir R. Cecil. Mr. Stapers and two others
refuse to give him the 50l. they promised, if he would procure them
a licence for exportation of 500 quarters of wheat, on the plea that
it was to have been Cornish measure. Begs a command to them to
keep to their bargain, or a transfer of the licence to himself. |
Aug. 27.
Tower. |
117. Examination of Richard Williams before Sir Mich. Blount,
Att. Gen. Coke, Edw. Drew, Fr. Bacon, and Wm. Waad. Was
sent by Father Holt and Sir W. Stanley to kill the Queen, with the
promise of great reward, and received the sacrament with Yorke
thereon. With notes by the Earl of Essex, that this confession was
acknowledged before him by Williams, and that he will avow it
to his death, and before Yorke's face. |
| Aug. 27. |
118, 119. Two copies of the preceding. |
| Aug. 27. |
120. Another copy, without the notes. |
| Aug. 27. |
121. Further examination of Richard Williams before Drew,
Bacon, and Waad. Thomas Greenfield, who had the keeping of the
Earl of Arundel in the Tower, said he would have conveyed him
away, but he escaped, went to a park for some time, and thence to
Scotland. Owen wrote a pass for Greenfield to go to Italy. Heard
Young affirm with great oaths that he would kill Her Majesty. |
| Aug. 27. |
122, 123. Two copies of the preceding. |
| Aug. 27. |
124. Extracts from the confessions of Yorke of 21 August, and
of Williams of 27 August. [3 pages.] |
Aug. 28.
Tower. |
125. Certificate by Blount, Drew, Bacon, and Waad, that when
Yorke and Williams were confronted together, Yorke swore that they
took the sacrament to kill the Queen, and that Williams had wished
his sword in her belly. Williams denying this, Yorke told him he
denied it on account of his oath, but it was unlawfully taken, and
therefore might be broken. |
| Aug. 28. |
126, 127. Two copies of the preceding. |
| Aug. 28. |
Warrant to pay to Sir Hen. Wallop, treasurer at wars in Ireland,
8,000l. for payment of sums borrowed for present service, and of
the garrisons, soldiers, and officers there, with the customary
allowance of 13l. 6s. 8d. on the portage of every 1,000l. ; also to
pay to him sums thought necessary by the Lord Treasurer for
pensions to persons who have served in Ireland, and to others
attending in that realm, to whom monies are due, and they waiting
to be paid before returning to service. [Docquet.] |
| Aug. 28. |
Grant to And. Broughton of a pension of 12d. a day, on surrender
of a like grant to John Fox. [Docquet.] |
| Aug. 28. |
Grant to Sir George Trenchard and Wm. Bampfield, on surrender
by Sir George Trenchard, of the captainship and keeping of Sandscastle, co. Dorset; fee, 12d. a day for themselves, and 18d. for
three soldiers, for more safe keeping of the castle. [Docquet.] |
| Aug. 28. |
Warrant to discharge John Carne, John Aubrey, and George
Kemys of a recognizance in 300l. for the due accounts of John
Carne, late sheriff of Glamorganshire, who in 30 Eliz., yielded his
accounts to the auditor of the county, paid part of his debt, and
soon after paid the rest. [Docquet.] |
| Aug. 28. |
Pardon to Wm. Standley, Fras. Brewerton, and John Weeks, for
counterfeiting themselves Egyptians, contrary to the statute.
[Docquet.] |
| Aug. 28. |
Lease in reversion to John Pitt and Edw. Blofield the tenants, for
21 years of Datchet manor, co. Bucks, and other lands and tenements,
cos. Dorset, Bedford, and York, rent, 21l. 15s. 6½d., no fine,
in consideration of the service of Thos. Lewen, yeoman of the
scalding-house. [Docquet.] |
Aug. 29.
Portsmouth. |
128. Sir John Norris to Sir Rob. Cecil. Takes leave, being ready
to embark, after having been deceived by many false alarms of the
wind. Promised to send the Queen a particular note of the defects
of his men run away, but as they continue it at the instant of his
embarking, will send it over from the far side; desires that those
counties that have had so little care for the furtherance of Her
Majesty may, as a punishment, be commanded to send as many
others in the place of those missing, especially Norfolk and Suffolk,
whose example may hereafter breed much inconvenience. Doubts
that our seamen will not well intend the service for the fort by
Brest; desires that any pinnaces sent after them may have special
charge to have greater regard to that than to any thing else;
fears otherwise they will seek the liberty of the sea. Has no
authority but by bare advice to let them know what is fit for them
to do, which it is left to their discretion to follow. [2 pages.] |
Aug. 30.
Paris. |
129. W. Emro, alias Walter Orme, to Lord Burghley. Hears that
his Lordship has received the book of Pope Joan, with the written
pamphlet, which the writer sent. On coming to Paris, sent him
certain books of the proceedings against the Jesuit priests, but they
have miscarried, or else Peter Browne has bestowed them upon
some of his friends. Sends therefore another book of the last
proceedings against the said priests, which contains all the substance
of the other; also a book called the Catholicon of Spain, both
worthy reading. Wishes that both were published in English, that
the world might see for what end the said priests have been sent,
as it were to destroy the world. |
|
If his Lordship has not taken some good order touching the
matter he formerly intimated, Her Majesty will be still defrauded
of her duties. Mr. Edmondes has not yet arrived. A priest and two
others were lately hanged for assisting those who murdered Brisson,
the president. Though the English priests resident in France differ
in name or order from the Jesuits, some are one with them in
opinion and actions towards the King, not acknowledging His
Majesty as he is, but calling him Henry of Bourbon, or the Bearnois,
and therefore, if they were sent to Rome or Spain, it were good
both for England and France. |
| Aug. 30. |
130. Henry Young to Mr. Waad, clerk of the Council. Encloses
the speeches he has heard by Andrea and Baker, who desire to be
examined thereon. Wants Williams's boy to be sent to him, to
utter what he might fear to tell any other. Begs influence with
Lords Essex and Cobham for his enlargement, after his sickness.
Sends a letter which Wickham wrote and delivered to Bagnall's
kinsman. |
| Aug. 31. |
131. Henry Young to Lord Cobham, at the Court, Greenwich.
Was importuned by Bagnall, keeper of the prison, to write certain
conversations which Bagnall had with Pettit in his sickness, from
which he seems to have learned much. Declines to repeat them,
and refers him to Bagnall. |
| Aug. 31. |
132. Examination of Rich. Williams before Blount, Bacon, and
Waad. Heard Edw. Williams say at Louvaine that Ralph Sheldon
sent him with letters to Cardinal Allen, under colour of buying
hawks in Ireland. |
| Aug. 31. |
Warrant to pay the debts for repairs last year in divers of the
Queen's houses, the decays of which were so great that the former
warrant was insufficient; also for full repairs of the said houses, not
to exceed 4,000l. ; also to pay sums due for repairs since Lady-day
last. [Docquet.] |
| Aug. 31. |
Grant to Rob. Adams of the office of surveyor of works in the
Tower, and the castles and manors reserved for the Queen's abode;
fee, 2s. a day for himself, and 6d. for his clerk ; also 4s. a day
for diet, boat hire, and riding when requisite, from the decease of
Thos. Blagrave. With marginal note [by Burghley] that the total
is 118l. 12s. 6d. from 12 June 1591. [Docquet.] |
| Aug. 31. |
Grant to the inhabitants of Marghasiewe [Marazion], Cornwall,
of incorporation as mayor, burgesses, and inhabitants ; with a
weekly market, two yearly fairs, and confirmation of their ancient
liberties, paying for the farm of the borough yearly 53s. 4d., which
is 6s. 8d. more than the ancient rent. [Docquet.] |
Aug.
London. |
133. Sir W. Keith to Sir R. Cecil. Recommends the suit of
W. Hunter, who deserves it as a reward for the hazard of his life,
and his long imprisonment in Spain in Her Majesty's service. Requests expedition, because being one of the King [of Scotland's]
domestic servants, his service is requisite at this time of the baptism. |
| [Aug.] |
134. Notes [by Att. Gen. Coke] from the examinations of Yorke
and Williams ; with memoranda, seemingly for their indictment, on
the aggravated nature of their treason, and the numerous and
treacherous designs of the King of Spain against Her Majesty.
[3 pages.] |
| Aug. ? |
135. Notes [by Coke] from the examinations of Patrick Cullen,
Polwhele, Annias, Yorke, Williams, and Dr. Lopez, about Holt,
Sherwood, Jaques Francesco, Sir Wm. Stanley, and Walpole.
With memoranda, seemingly for the indictment of Walpole, as to
the nature and atrocity of his treason. [1½ pages.] |
| Aug. |
136. Estimate, by Sir T. Sherley, of winter apparel for 4,800 footmen serving in the Low Countries ; total, 10,822l. 10s. [1½ pages.] |
| Aug. |
137. Estimate, by Sir Thos. Sherley, of winter apparel required
for 1,645 soldiers in Brittany; total, 3,308l. |
| [Aug.] |
138. Account of the numbers of men levied in 16 counties named,
and shipped for service in Brittany, with the names of their captains ; total, 2,000 soldiers and 50 miners. |
| Aug. ? |
139. Account, by Sir T. Sherley, of the charge of 100 lancers and
3,350 men for two months, from 15 Aug. to 9 Oct. 1594 ; total,
6,170l. 7s. 4d. |
| Aug. ? |
140. Account, by Sir Thos. Sherley, of the charge of 100 lancers
and 4,000 foot serving in Brittany, for eight weeks, from 10 Oct. to
4 Dec. 1594; total, 7,705l. 9s. 4d.; with a note that this sum must
be advanced 56 days beforehand, in respect of getting it to Caen,
and thence to the camp. [1¾ pages.] |
| Aug. ? |
141. Note of the charges for the troops in Brittany, according to
the schedules of 30 March and 16 June 1591,— Jan. 1593, and
11 Aug. 1594, and to a letter of the Queen's of 27 March 1593;
total, 202, 195l. 10s. [2 pages.] |
| [Aug.] |
142. Inventory of goods and money delivered, since 16 July
1594, to Charles Liebert for the owners of the ships wrecked on
the Goodwin Sands, Dec. 1592, by the savers, being men of Romney,
Walmer, Deal, Ramsgate, Dover, Lydd, Hythe, and Dimchurch; and
note of money still due. [2 sheets.] |
