|
| June. |
393. Memorandum by Lord Burghley. |
|
That Home Castle be delivered to the Regent upon the
King's bond under his Great Seal, affirmed and subscribed by
the Regent and the Privy Council, and is not to be delivered
to Lord Home until the Queen shall perceive that he be reconciled to the grace of the King, and the like of Fast Castle to
the "party" whom the Queen shall be duly informed to have
right, and to be a good subject of the King.
Holograph. Endd. P. ¾. |
| June 1. |
394. Negociations with Count Mansfeld. |
|
Summary of negociations between Sir Thomas Gresham
and his agents and Count Mansfeld for the purpose of levying a loan of 300,000 gold florins and 400,000 dollars in
Germany for the Queen of England, which Gresham declared
took no effect on account of the Count's demand for additional
security, and also through his telling Gresham's agents that he
expected that the money should be laid out in Germany
for the levy of troops. — 30 May 1572. Copy. Signed
Thomas Gresham. |
|
Answer to Gresham's allegations denying his statements,
and declaring that the Count having been put to great trouble
and charges in the matter, ought to be reimbursed both the
sums that he has paid and the interest thereon accruing
during so many years.—London, 1 June 1572. Signed by
Count Mansfeld's agents.
Endd. Fr. Pp. 3. |
| June 1. |
395. Charles IX. to M. De la Mothe Fenelon, |
|
Thanks him for forwarding his despatches to De Croc, and
for the order which he has caused to be taken for the two
coffers containing the dresses for the Queen of Scots. Begs
his protection for Marie Waher, the widow of a bourgeois of
Paris, and her young children.—London, 1 June 1572. Signed.
Add. Endd. French. P. 2/3. |
| March 4. |
396. Charles IX. to M. De la Mothe Fenelon. |
|
Directs him to favour and protect a certain Frenchwoman,
[Marie Waher] a widow, whose affairs are threatened with ruin
by reason of the importunities of a certain person in the
English Court who is seeking her in marriage on account
of her goods.—Blois, 4 March 1572. Signed.
Add. Endd. Fr. P. ½. Enclosure. |
| June 3. |
397. Memorial for Flanders. |
|
To consider what is done upon the answer delivered to
Swegenhem. To send to discover the intention and strength
of the people of Flushing, Brielle, and other places in the Low
Countries. Also to decipher Count Ludovick's intentions,
and to obtain intelligence from Cologne. If from these and
other intelligence it appears that the Duke of Alva is able
to resist all attempts of the French, then it is like to be best
for England to let both sides alone for a time. If, however,
the French begin to possess any part of his master's countries,
and especially the maritime parts, then it is like that they
may be too potent neighbours for England, and therefore it
will be good to use all convenient means to stay that course.
If the French proceed to seek the maritime coasts, it were
good that the Duke of Alva were informed secretly of the
Queen's disposition to assist the King his master by all
honourable means in the defence of his inheritance, so as it
may appear to her that he will discharge his subjects of their
intolerable oppressions, restore their ancient liberties, reconcile
his nobility to him, deliver them from the fear of the Inquisition, and continue the ancient league of amity and traffic
with Her Majesty. To bring these matters to a good and
honourable end, the best way would be for the Duke, upon any
entry made by the French into his master's dominions, to
demand aid from the Queen, according to former leagues.
3 June 1572.
Endd. Pp. 1½. |
| June 4. |
398. M. De Croc to Lord Burghley. |
|
Asking him to deliver home despatches, forwarded for
him by Sir W. Drury to M. De la Mothe Fénelon.—Leith,
4 June 1572. Signed.
Add. Endd. Fr. P. ½. |
| June 5. |
399. M. De Croc to Lord Hunsdon. |
|
Requests that some letters be forwarded to the King of
France, the Marshal Montmorency, and M. De la Mothe
Fenelon, sent by the Lords of Scotland in answer to some
letters addressed to them.—Leith, 5 June 1572. Signed.
Add. Endd. Fr. P. 2/3. |
| June 7. |
400. Lord Hunsdon to Lord Burghley. |
|
Has received a packet from De Croc containing answers
from both sides to letters from his master. Looks hourly
for a discharge of the Earl, as he has slept few quiet sleeps
since he had him, for as there is no strong or safe house to
keep him in, he is fain to keep watch and ward round about
the house day and night. He trusts that he (the Duke of
Norfolk) shall not go alone, but that some of his associates
shall follow.—Berwick, 7 June 1572. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. ¾. |
| June 7. |
401. Sir Thomas Smith to Lord Burghley. |
|
1. Has received his letter touching a deputy in his office of
the Chancellorship of the Garter, and is willing to appoint
any person whom Burghley thinks meet, and therefore sends
herewith a deputation such as he could devise, being without
books or precedents. If his son and his company be not yet
gone, he prays that he will drive them away, as they do no
good tarrying in England. |
|
2. P.S.—On the 8th inst. the Lord Admiral (the Earl of
Lincoln) was met by De Cosse and conducted to St. Denis,
where there was a good dinner prepared. After dinner news
was brought that the Queen of Navarre, of a hot ague, lay
without any hope of life in Paris, whom the Queen Mother,
the King, and all his brethren and sisters had visited and
departed from without any hope to see her again. —
Lusarche, 7 June 1572. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. 1. |
| June 8. |
402. Lord Hunsdon to Lord Burghley. |
|
1. M. De Croc is much misliked of the Castilians because he
does not return. They have received 2,000 crowns from Lord
Fleming through Leith, wherewith they make a pay at once,
and they have informed the Regent that they shall very
shortly receive some more the same way, "belike they have
good means for all their lying about the town." Nicholas
Elphinstone is appointed to go to the Court instead of Cunningham. One of the causes for which he is sent is already
answered, namely their King's interest for the money. Truly
he finds not in any of their dealings towards the Queen's
Majesty, that they either deserve more, or what they have
already is well bestowed. If their need be great, let them
borrow the 2,000l. of the Laird of Lochleven, who had no
cause to have more than a quarter of it, for the Earl of
Northumberland avows that he never stood him in 200l. no
kind of way, for he seldom or ever had a morsel of good
meat. The King shall have no benefit in the delivery of
Lord Home's houses, but only the Earl of Morton and his,
who are already puffed up with such pride as their gains,
that once in their hands the houses will never be gotten
out again. Morton was the only cause of the putting away
of Swinburne and the rebels; he was utterly against the
delivery of the Earl, and he is the only hinderer of the
delivery of the Irish bishop. If they will not deliver the
man (the bishop), they might send his papers, which would
utter as much as he. |
|
2. The Castilians desire Her Majesty's reply to their last
answer, being resolved to yield to no other, unless it be to
join the Earl of Athole in equal government with the Regent,
but they will never deliver the Castle. Has sent the Regent
2,000 lbs. each of corn and serpentine powder. Doubts
whether De Croc will send Verac. Prays for some order for
Mr. Marshall's diet. As this is the eighth day since Her
Majesty has been advertised of the Earl being at Berwick, he
marvels that he has had no orders for sending him up.—
Berwick, 8 June 1572. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp.2. |
| June 7. |
403. Sir W. Drury to Lord Hunsdon. |
|
1. The following are the proposals of De Croc to Dunfermline, to be communicated to the Regent with the Regent's
answers: 1st. Whether he might spend seven days at
Edinburgh, and afterwards as many at Leith ? If he would
as an enemy go and remain at Edinburgh, he should be
licensed, otherwise not. 2nd. That a guard might be placed
at the entry of his house, that it might appear to the world
he was stayed? He needs no such guard, using no conference with the King's enemies to the hindrance of the cause,
but should if he would pass his time at Stirling or at the
Regent's house (using the name of the King) according to the
accustomed league and friendship of both the realms. 3rd. As
to his departure ? As he came a passenger by safe conduct,
so might he remain, or go at his pleasure. |
|
2. Some merchants of Leith lately requested Verac to
protect their houses in Edinburgh, and were allowed by the
Regent, though loth to give relief to his enemies, to send two
puncheons of wine to him as a reward. There lately arrived
in the Forth a French man-of-war under the flag of the Prince
of Orange, having taken a hulk bound for London, and he has
moved Lord Morton for stay thereof. Some Frenchmen have
come from the same ship, and are lodged in Leith, at the
which they of the Castle have complained to De Croc. The
Lady of Lethington had an interview with the Earl of
Montrose, the principal cause of which was to procure some
good composition for Lord Fleming her brother, and that she
might for 20 days visit her children and friends, which the
Regent would not yield unto, as the first was but to delay
time, and the other to practice for friends and helps abroad.
On Wednesday night four ships arrived at Leith from Bordeaux and Rochelle; those from the latter place reported that
there were divers ships armed and in readiness for sea, which
affirms the journey of Strozzi. The horsemen of Leith having
intelligence that some of the forces of Edinburgh were abroad
last Tuesday night to seek for victual, went after them, but
they had retired to the town, five only shot, except who, by
reason of the great mist, were appointed to remain without
the walls, upon whom, unawares, came the horsemen and slew
two, mortally hurt one, and took the other two, in revenge
for which they of Edinburgh hurt, without hope of life, two
of the inhabitants of Leith, not soldiers, and all the next day
made some offers to provoke Leith to "issue and deal" but
the same did not answer. Both parties lately have been
very quiet, on account of the great heat and rain. Two more
men and another woman were executed on Tuesday night last
for carrying provisions to Edinburgh. De Croc's restraints and
usage are with choler digested. They still continue in great
league, nevertheless he will obey the Queen's wish to look into
his doing. He thinks it strange that both in outward show and
secret conference he should have met with such fair weather
from all states in Leith. De Croc thinks the state of Scotland
somewhat altered that a French Ambassador should be restrained, and an English one have free liberty. He (Drury) has
full liberty to go and send where and to whom he pleases,
finding his old rule still to serve him, "qui vadit plane, vadit
sane." Receipt of 2,000 crowns by the Castilians through Lord
Fleming. Nicholas Elphinstone will be presently despatched
to the court chiefly to require that nothing be done this
Parliament hurtful to the King's estate, to require more
money, and to deal for the livings belonging to Home and
Fast Castles. The news of the execution of the Duke [of
Norfolk] has greatly contented the Regent and the rest, as
also of the proceeding with the Scottish Queen; but better
would they have been contented if they had heard she had
drunk of the same cup. The greatest part of the nobles of
Leith are desirous of peace. Lord Claud Hamilton has lodged
some soldiers at Hamilton, and, by keeping away victual,
causes a dearth at Glasgow; he has surprised the house of Kawdorne [Calder], made a raid about Paisley, and obtained a good
booty from Lord Semple. Has declared privately to the Lord
Morton that if he will deliver the Irish bishop it shall not be
known openly to be his work, but he shall be secretly thanked
for it. If there is no likelihood of his delivery in any other
way, Her Majesty may allow some money to be disbursed.
Morton said if the bishop were not delivered he would be
dealt with as the Castilians did with other of Her Majesty's
rebels, not to suffer them to remain in Scotland. The
Castilians could be content if the government were in Athole
and Marr.—Restalrig, 7 June 1572. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. 5. Enclosure. |
| May 28. |
404. Lethington to M. De Croc and Sir W. Drury. |
|
A duplicate of No. 382.—Edinburgh, 28 May 1572.
Fr. Copy. Signed. Enclosure. P. 1. |
| June 6. |
405. The Castilians to Sir W. Drury. |
|
It is not reasonable that they should be bound by promise,
and the Commissioners always unbound. Whatsoever they
have spoken was upon trust that they (the Commissioners)
both had the means to make a good end, and the will to bring
it quickly to pass; yet although their meaning be upright,
have the Castilians cause to dread if they be able to bring
their meaning to effect, for it may be that the adverse party
will not yield to reason, and they be not able to rule them,
in which case it is meet that they look to their own weal.
If their will be good to make an end, then will the Castilians
stand to what has been proposed touching the Crown, the
Regency, and the Castle; but if there be delays then will they
be at liberty to provide for their own safety the best way
they can. They are not so simple but that they see what
might be prejudicial to them, and if the Commissioners would
that they remain bound, they must put them in certainty what
they may look for at their hands.
Endd. P. 1. Enclosure. |
| June 10. |
406. Count Louis De Nassau to M. De Torcy. |
|
Their affairs are prospering, and they only want a few good
soldiers to keep the places in the neighbourhood which are
willing to receive them. Malines still keeps well disposed,
and has besides the soldiers some companies of the inhabitants.
They have here 1,000 soldiers besides the inhabitants, of
whom some who are not well affected have left the town, and
the rest are disarmed. Wants a good minister, also a surgeon,
and some cannon founders, and desires that certain drugs may
be forwarded. Cannot send him at present any more blank
commissions.—Mons, 10 June 1572.
Copy. Endd. Fr. P. 1. |
| June 10. |
407. Sir W. Drury to Lord Burghley. |
|
Calder House, within four miles of Glasgow, has been taken
by Captain Crawford, otherwise "by a bye name Gauntletts,"
holden both for manhood and skill as able as any of his coat
in Scotland; victuals and powder have been taken by him
therefrom. He has also taken from the Laird of Dunwharsell, and the Laird of Maynes, the greatest number of cattle
they both had. The Regent has appointed the greater part
of the troops that can be spared from Leith to join with others
from Stirlingshire to proceed against Lord Claud Hamilton,
who has been causing great dearth at Glasgow, the command
of which he requested Lord Morton to take, who said he
would not do so unless the Regent would go with him, which
he refused, saying that he was needed to command at Leith,
and to receive the Ambassadors. Morton still stands upon
the refusal to go, saying it is too great a burden for him to
bear the feud and unkindness of such as are to be offended
by the journey. The Castilians have also sent out troops to
the number of 300 under Lord Seton, who are supposed to
be for an escort to Lord Fleming in bringing victual into
Edinburgh, or as a help to the Hamiltons. Patrick Ballantyne
who being dispossessed of somewhat he enjoyed in Orkney
by Lord Robert Stuart, the Commendator of Holyrood House,
now for revenge prepares to assay the same, being supported
by the Earl of Caithness, Lord Robert, expecting the attack,
has made preparation accordingly and gathered 300 men.
The captains of the Regent's army being requested to assault.
Edinburgh, refused to do so until they were satisfied of their
arrears of pay. The execution of the Duke (of Norfolk), with
the proceedings of Parliament against the Scottish Queen, the
Regent and party do greatly embrace, but the news was sour
to the Castilians. The good accord between him and De Croc
is not well liked of either party. He prays for further
instructions touching his dealings with the States there,
whether by himself or with his colleague. "There is practice
to breed some pique between the Regent and Morton; many
of the nobility doth impatiently suffer Morton's greatness."—
Restalrig, 10 June 1572. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 2¾. |
| June 11. |
408. Lord Scrope to Lord Burghley. |
|
Has refused to allow "Robbie of the Faulde" to repair up to
Court to sue for himself in respect of a certain lease of lands,
but begs that he may receive no prejudice in the passing of
the said lease by reason of his committing for this cause.—
Carlisle, 11 June 1572. Signed.
Add. End. P. 2/3. |
| June 11. |
409. Sir W. Drury to Lord Burghley. |
|
The Earl of Morton departed from Leith on the 10th, at
8 a.m., with horsemen and footmen towards Niddry. About
four ensigns of footmen issued from the Castle towards Merchistoun House; having with them a culverin, they laid
battery thereto, and shot from 12 to 16 shot. The Regent
marched from Leith to the Borough Moor, nearer Edinburgh;
each party stayed an hour without exchanging a shot, in
which time the Castilians retired with their culverin to the
Castle, at which the Regent's party retired also, seeing which
the Castle party marched quickly after them, and certain
great ordnance was shot at them from the Castle. The
Regent stopped his party at Craggingate, and after a short
skirmish compelled the others to retire towards Edinburgh
with the loss of 16 slain. It was thought requisite that none
should give chase, nevertheless certain followed, but the rest
kept themselves together, doubting some new charge from
the back of the hill.—Restalrig, 11 June 1572. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 1½. |
| June 12. |
410. Sir W. Drury to Lord Burghley. |
|
Requests his lordship's favorable consideration for the
bearer, Mr. Nicholas Elphinstone, who has been despatched to
the court by the Regent. The Earl of Morton desires some
further consideration from the Queen's Majesty "touching his
own particular." The Earl of Huntley was the chief of the
Castle party at their overthrow on the 10th, and had his
horse shot under him. The Castilians exceeded the number of
the forces of the Regent, who, besides, was slenderly furnished
with leaders. The merchants of Leith have been suitors to
the Regent that such townsmen of Edinburgh who were
taken in the skirmish might be executed.—Restalrig, 12 June
1572. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. 1. |
| June 12. |
411. Walsingham to the Earl of Leicester. |
|
Has been requested by the Ambassador of Florence to
recommend these two gentlemen, Sr. Piers Capponi and Sr.
Gioan Figliazzi, being of the two chief houses of Florence for
honour and wealth, who desire to see the Queen and her
court. The said Ambassador is one who is well affected to Her
Majesty, and has done divers good offices to the furtherance
of the league and tending to Her Majesty's safety.—Paris,
12 June 1572. Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. P. ½. |
| June 13. |
412. Dr. Mundt to Lord Burghley. |
|
Preparations for war among the Princes of Germany; spirit
and willingness is not wanting, but money, which animates,
keeps, and strengthens the soldiery, is sorely needed. The
Elector of Saxony has sent an envoy to the King of France,
most likely to make a treaty with him.—Strasbourg, 13 June
1572. Signed.
Add. Endd. Lat. Pp. 1½. |
| June 13. |
413. The Earl of Morton to Lord Burghley. |
|
Thanks him for his goodwill towards him. Doubts not
but that he will be a special instrument for the entertaining
of the amity between both the realms, and will be a good
mean to "further this troubled state." In any way that he
may pleasure him he may command him as his friend. He
refers him to his cousin Mr. Nicholas Elphinstone, to whom
he has committed the declaration of his mind, as well touching
matters of state as in his own particular.—Leith, 13 June
1572. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. ¾. |
| June 13. |
414. James VI. of Scotland to Queen Elizabeth. |
|
Requests that, in accordance with treaty, that John Leslie,
late Bishop of Ross, having "practised dangerous treasons
within and without our realm, against our person and estate,"
and fled into England, be surrendered upon the frontier to
the Earl of Marr or whomsoever the King shall appoint.—
Leith, 13 June 1572. Signed: John, Regent.
Royal Letter. Add. Endd. Broadside. |
| June 13. |
415. The Regent of Scotland to Queen Elizabeth. |
|
Letter of credit for Mr. Nicholas Elphinstone, who is sent
to her, amply instructed to report unto him Her Majesty's
good mind and pleasure.—Leith, 13 June 1572. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. ½. |
| June 13. |
416. The Same to Lord Burghley. |
|
Letter of credit for Mr. Nicholas Elphinstone.—Leith,
13 June 1572. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. ½. |
| June 15. |
417. Treaty of Blois. |
|
"The form of the oath as the Queen's Majesty delivered it
to the Duke of Montmorency and others, to ratify the treaty
of the league concluded at Blois, 19 April 1572." June 1572.
Endd. Lat. Pp. 22/3. |
|
418. Three other forms of the Queen's oath, with slight verbal
alterations from the above.
Endd. Lat Pp. 2/3. |
| June 16. |
419. Captain Thomas Morgan to Lord Burghley. |
|
On the 6th June arrived with his company at Flushing,
where he was very courteously entertained by the Governor,
who reposes most trust of any nation in Englishmen. The
Duke of Medina Celi having arrived on the coast with 57
sail on 11th June, the fly-boats of Flushing met him that
night, and in the fight were three great ships of the Spaniards
burnt, and two taken with 120 prisoners; the Duke put to
flight with 12 men, and his treasure went to Bruges, and not
being received there took Sluys Castle. The prisoners being
examined, confessed that the Duke and 14 noblemen had on
board 1,500 "Bezonians," whereof but 400 to be accounted
soldiers. The Duke sent for 22 ships with 800 soldiers to
Sluys, leaving the rest to abide their adventure. "A prisoner
in his confession declared that they had two friars aboard
which conjured for weather." Whether it were so or no on
the 14th such wind arose that they were not able to thrust
out from shore to fight them. On the coming of the Lisbon
fleet, in number 22 hulks, they manned the ramparts, and
having shot through both sides of the Admiral and compelled
them to yield immediately in the tail of this fleet taken, there
whirled down 11 huge Spanish vessels, who made a kind of
safeguard for their ships to pass by with the prizes that had
yielded, unto whom their gunners being not good marksmen
did small damage. They have left four of their ships aground.
What they left behind will help the town to pay their soldiers
which is accounted 200,000l. Hears that they have at
Middleburg and Armuyden 1,500 men; here there are 500 English, 400 French, and 500 Walloons, Flemings, and Dutchmen. The plague and flux is very sore amongst the Spaniards.
The Duke of Alva was determined to lay seige to them, but
in the meantime the Prince of Orange came down between
Cologne and Maestricht with 10,000 reiters; Count Ludovic
is near Brussels with 4,000 footmen, and Strozzi of France
has come to him with 15 ancients of footmen, in number 6,000
well appointed. Duke Alva by his words accounts not of
the loss of 20,000 men to recover Flushing, but for all this
bravery if there were assistance but of 4,000 men it were
sufficient passport for all the Spaniards in Zealand to depart.
—Flushing, 16 June. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 2⅓. |
| June 16. |
420. Lord Hunsdon to Lord Burghley. |
|
Recapitulates particulars of the attack upon Merchistoun House, as given in Drury's letter of the 12th June.
M. De Croc is treated like a prisoner and not allowed to come
out of his house, unless it be to go to Mr. Marshal; he stays
the sending of Verac until he hear from La Mothe. The books
that Drury writes of are such as he has had long since, of
the Queen of Scots murdering her husband, and of her letters
to Bothwell, and therefore he sends them not.—Berwick, 16
June 1572. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. 1. |
| June 14. |
421. Sir W. Drury to Lord Hunsdon. |
|
The Castilians have this morning received 40 horseload of
oatmeal, of which they had great need, as it was lately sold
in Edinburgh at 26s. sterling the boll, and expect this supply
to last till the middle of July. Of flesh they already have
plenty. The men in Niddry, Blackness, and Lyveston
[Livingston] serve to great purpose as convoy for men and
victual, as also to offend about and beyond them. Of those
that were taken on Tuesday last, 24 have been condemned and
six executed, one of them said that the Queen had once given
him his life, so that he made just recompense by his death,
and another a schoolmaster 60 years old, affirmed that the
provost caused him to go out to join the troops, as otherwise
he would have hanged him. The Castilians are very much
grieved at these executions, and have vowed with one consent
never to turn their face at any time hereafter, and to be
revenged. They have already five of the soldiers of Leith, but
stay execution for one other to accompany them and make six.
At the skirmish Lord Huntley's brother was shot in the foot,
and Hugh Lawder their sergeant-major in the thigh. The
Castilians have plainly resolved not to deliver up the Castle,
and as there is small likelihood of it being won by the troops
of Leith, the forces of the Queen and the King of France, or
one of them, are the only means to cause them to yield. They
have great intelligence with them of Leith and others of their
faction abroad. Lord Fleming has promised 300 men to
join with the Hamiltons for one month, which has put great
life into them. His Lordship may judge what little good he
does there, spending the Queen's money. He sends some
books for him and for Lord Burghley.—Restalrig, 14 June
1572. Signed.
Add. Endd. Enclosure. P. 2. |
| June. |
422. Nicholas Elphinstone's Requests to Lord Burghley. |
|
As the quiet of the whole kingdom of Scotland depends
upon the subjugation of the Castle of Edinburgh, the Regent
requests the Queen to furnish him with money to pay 70
horsemen and 700 footmen, whose expenses are 1,050l.
sterling a month, and who are owed three months back pay,
as also to enlist 200 men more for six months. As the Lord
Home does not return to his allegiance to his King, the
Regent would have Home and Fast Castles delivered into his
hand, that he may be the more able to appoint a warden on
the East marches, whereby also the whole nation would be
pleased, when they saw Her Majesty did not intend to keep
any portion of the country in her hands; also that the Queen
would grant the Earl of Northumberland his life. The Bishop
of Ross to be delivered up to the Regent. Lord Scrope to
give satisfaction for the attack on Peebles, also that he may
have particulars in writing of such things as are pretended
against the Queen of Scots; and that a warrant be given to
Lord Hunsdon for delivery of one last of cannon powder,
and 2,000 lbs. of corn powder, which the Regent had of him
upon his bond. That the Queen's wardens be ordered not to
seek redress of injuries except according to the ancient custom
of the Borders by keeping days of truce.
In the autograph of Elphinstone, with marginal notes by
Burghley.
Endd. P. 1¾. |
| June 20. |
423. Lord Hunsdon to Lord Burghley. |
|
Received yesternight a letter from the Lords of the Council,
which seemed to him no less strange for the matter than the
manner of it. It is unsealed, and enclosed a letter of Mr.
Randolph's, which was neither sealed with packthread, or his
name upon the back side of it. He also appoints him to send
the same to Lord Scrope, Sir John Forster, and Sir Thomas
Gargrave, whereof he thinks it great scorn to be appointed his
[Randolph's] messenger, and desires that the Lords of the
Council may understand thereof. Has written to the lords to
declare that the information contained in their letters is false.
Randolph is very busy with the wardens, as though he were a
controller over them, which he does not take in good part,
and wishes that he would occupy his busy head with other
matters. On the 24th inst. the Regent and the rest make a
great assembly at Glasgow. Since they so uncourteously detain
the Irish bishop he has laid out some hooks to get him against
their will. If he bestows 100l. or 200l. for the compassing
thereof he trusts that the Queen will not think it ill. Desires
that he may be discharged of his guest, that he may take the
commodity of some good air. Sends a copy of Randolph's
letter.—Berwick, 20 June 1572. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 1½. |
| June 16. |
424. Thomas Randolph to Lord Hunsdon. |
|
1. Encloses a letter from the Lords of the Council, and
desires that he will forward the same to Lord Scrope and Sir
John Forster. It is certainly known that divers of late have
ridden without commission, and that above 400 horses have
been furnished out of one town. |
|
2. P.S.—As it has pleased the Lords of the Council to order
the posts to ride at least six miles an hour, he desires to know
sometimes what speed they make towards him.—London,
16 June 1572.
Copy. Endd. Enclosure. P. ½. |
| June 21. |
425. Lord Scrope to the Earl of Morton. |
|
Has had before him nine of the principal complained upon
in the bill of Morton's tenants of Preston, and taken bonds for
their appearance on the 1st July next, and therefore desires
that he will send some gentlemen sufficiently instructed to
charge them. Finds that as many of the attempts complained
of by Lord Maxwell were committed before his recognition
of the King's authority as have been since.—Carlisle, 21 June
1572. Signed.
Copy. Endd. Pp. ½. |
| June 21. |
426. Charles IX. to Queen Elizabeth. |
|
Expresses his pleasure at her choice of the Earl of Lincoln
as her commissioner to be present at the ratification of the
treaty, and also at the honourable reception accorded to the
Duke of Montmorency, who has been sent by him into
England for the same purpose.—Chateau de Boulogne, 21 June
1572. Signed.
Add. Endd. Fr. Royal letter. |
| June 21. |
427. Catherine de Medicis to Queen Elizabeth. |
|
Assures her of her goodwill and pleasure at the conclusion
of the treaty of amity with her son.—Chateau de Boulogne,
21 June 1572. Signed.
Add. Endd. Fr. Royal letter. |
| June 21. |
428. The Queen of France to Elizabeth. |
|
Has received her letter by the Earl of Lincoln, and assures
her of her desire to encourage the amity between her and
her husband.—Chateau de Boulogne, 21 June 1572. Signed:
Ysabel.
Add. Endd. Fr. Royal letter. |
| June 21. |
429. Sir William Drury to Lord Burghley. |
|
Owing to a proclamation from Leith the Castilians assembled
the people of Edinburgh, and offered sufficient meat and money
to such as would tarry, and to the others free leave to depart.
The greatest want in the town is malt. The preparation for
the intended journey into Clydesdale still goes on, but some
think it may serve nearer hand, at Niddry or "Lyvistone pyle."
Should they go to Clydesdale they mind to leave there
garrisons. The Regent has this day been twice in the field,
but though there were some small skirmishes no harm was
done. The Regent looks to hinder Lord Claude Hamilton,
whose coming is nightly expected. M. De Croc has now full
liberty to send of his own to the Castle unaccompanied. The
Laird of Grange intends to keep the Castle, and if it shall not
please Her Majesty to have some consideration touching the
government, he minds, rather than that the Regent and his
party should have it, to yield it to some foreign nation. James
Kirkcaldy is shortly expected from France. It is reported by
one that left the French court in company with M. de Montmorency that the French King said there should be peace
made, neither authorising the government as it is, nor to the
deprivation of the Queen. Adam-à-Gordon made an incursion into the Mearnes, and has taken the goods and chattels of
the Laird Glenbarvye, a Douglas.—Restalrig, 21 June 1572.
Signed.
Add. Endd. P. 1. |
| June 22. |
430. Sir William Drury to Lord Burghley. |
|
1. M. De Croc has complained to him of certain powder
being supplied to the Regent, contrary to the league between
the King of France and the Queen of England, to which he
replied that he had not been employed therein, nor did he
think that the Queen would do anything that should prejudice
the league. |
|
2. He has also complained that he understands that he
(Drury) has secret dealings with them of Edinburgh, as also
that the Queen still keeps Home and Fast Castles, contrary
to the league; he answered that he was not acquainted with
the articles of the treaty, but if such was the case 40 days had
not yet elapsed. |
|
3. M. De Croc has been informed that this month he will
not be allowed to receive letters from the French Ambassador,
nor out of France. |
|
4. This day the Leith party make a pay to their
soldiers, for which they have borrowed 1,000l. from the
Laird of Lochleven, out of that he received for the Earl of
Northumberland, and in exchange for which he will receive
such lands as the Earl of Murray, the late Regent, had in
mortgage of the Earl of Buchan, for 12,000l. Scotch, and
which being forfeited should have gone to Murray's children,
but which the Regent by law has returned to the Earl of
Buchan, and from him to the Laird of Lochleven. The Lord
Seton at Niddry is in great extremity by sickness, whereof,
if he die, the Queen's Majesty and England has no great loss.
Divers women and children have, by reason of the proclamation, been sent out of Edinburgh, but very few men have
left. There is a great cumber and question risen between
Lord Ruthven, on behalf of Lord Methuen's son, his nephew,
to whose father the bishopric of Ross had been given, and
Mr. Andrew Monro, to whom the keeping of the chancelry
had been given by the Regent Murray. The Chancery House
is strong and well manned and victualled, and Monro intends
to keep possession till he receive such sums of money as he
has disbursed for keeping the same. Lord Ruthven has
brought 850 men to gain possession. |
|
5. Is working the best he can to obtain the Irish bishop.
Restalrig, 22 June 1572. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 2. |
| June 22. |
431. Walsingham to Lord Burghley. |
|
The Lord Admiral has taken his leave, and departs this day
homewards. The gilt plate given to him by the King, the
greatest part very curiously wrought, amounts to 2,800 ozs.,
which may be valued at 10s. the ounce, considering the
workmanship, and that the silver is finer than in England.
Is credibly informed that the said present stood the King in
6,000 crowns, though the same falls out not to be so valuable
by well nigh 2,000 crowns, such is the corruption of the
officers here. They have given Sir Thomas Smith 472 ozs.,
and he shall have the like himself. This day resolution is
taken touching Flanders matters, which the Admiral's sickness has caused to hang so long in suspense.—Paris, 22 June
1572. Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. P. 1. |
| June 23. |
432. The Earl of Morton to Sir John Forster. |
|
Desires that he will excuse the Laird of Cessford, younger,
for not meeting him, as he has written to him to join him
for an expedition into Clydesdale, to put order to the
King's disobedient subjects there.—Leith, 23 June 1572.
Signed.
Add. Endd. P. ½. |
| June 23. |
433. Lord Hunsdon to Lord Burghley. |
|
Has received answer from Mr. Treasurer that he cannot
make the full pay this half year, by reason of such want of
money from the receivers, as he shall see by the enclosed
schedule.—Berwick, 23 June 1572. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. ⅓. |
| June. |
434. Charges at Berwick. |
|
Schedule by Sir Valentine Browne of the money wanting
for the first half year's pay of Berwick for Midsummer 1572,
viz., from the receiver of Lincolnshire, who has paid 900l.,
the further sum of 600, and from the receiver of Yorkshire,
who has paid 1,800l., the further sum of 2,200l.; total deficiency, 2,800l.
Endd. by Burghley: Enclosed on a slip of paper in
Hunsdon's letter. |
| June 23. |
435. Lord Hunsdon to Lord Burghley. |
|
As the Castilians will not submit to the Regent's government, nor deliver the Castle, he desires to know Her Majesty's
resolution therein, and sees not to what end Mr. Marshal
should tarry there. He would fain be rid of his guest.—
Berwick, 23 June 1572. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. ½. |
| June 25. |
436. M. De Croc to Lord Burghley. |
|
Had sent dispatches to M. De la Mothe Fenelon on the
4th and 11th of the month, to which he has received no
reply, and has reason to fear that they are delayed in
England, at which he is astonished, considering the amity
existing between the kingdoms of England and France.—
Leith, 25 June 1572. Signed.
Add. Endd. Fr. P. 1. |
| June 26. |
437. M. De Croc to Sir Wm. Drury. |
|
Writes to the same effect as he did to Lord Burghley on
the day before, and requests some despatches to be forwarded,
to which if he does not receive answer in 15 days he shall
suspect that their passage is stopped in England.—Leith,
26 June 1572. Signed.
Add. Endd. Fr. P. ¾. |
| June 27 |
438 Frederic, Count Palatine, to Dr. Junius. |
|
The Duke of Alva has not one reiter or lansquenet
equipped. The death of the Queen of Navarre has shown
them the road they must one day follow. Mademoiselle De
Bourbon is very grieved at her death. The Count
D'Aguemont has departed for the court of the Emperor.
Desires to be remembered to Walsingham. — Heidelberg,
27 June 1572.
Copy. Endd. Fr. Pp. 1½. |
| June 27. |
439. Sir Wm. Drury to Lord Burghley. |
|
He wrote to them of the Castle, persuading them to conform to the King and present government, but sees little
hope of prevailing. Thinks this arises either from the coming
of M. De Croc, in whom possibly they have good hope of
comfort, or because Lord Fleming has furnished them with
more money, or of a certain French ship that has arrived at
St. Andrews. They have waited long for the Queen's answer,
for the want of which they grow past hope to be brought to
conformity; rather than submit to her composition they will
submit to some strangers. They find themselves aggrieved
that their enemies should receive money and powder out of
England, which is contrary to the league, and affirm that
though they be distressed, it is rather through the countenance of the Queen of England than of their enemies' force.
Through Verac's agency, M. De Croc has informed the Duc de
Montmorency of the powder the Regent has received, that
in time to come it may be better prevented and avoided.
Plainly to speak his "phantasy," he doubts lest both parties
seek against all adventures two strings to their bows; the one
thinking that because they have the King they shall be
welcome to anyone that will receive them, the other, for
that they have the Castle they shall not be refused. To
deal with them, it is not enough to have goodwill and
faithfulness, but some farther counsel and device, whereof
he perceives the want in himself, but if it be thought fit that
he remain in Scotland, then he prays that he may receive
more often and particular directions from time to time.
They will not deliver up the Irish bishop, as he claims to
be a subject of the King of Spain. Only women and children have taken advantage of the Regent's proclamation.
M. De Croc's house is very well furnished with rich and
costly hangings and bedding of the Queen's. Lord Fleming
has arrived at the Castle, and said on entering in, "Be of
good cheer, all shall be well." He has brought sufficient
to breed them all mirth. Sends some of the coin of Edinburgh, which the Leith party have prohibited to be current.
—Restalrig, 27 June 1572. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 2½. |
| June 25. |
440. Sir Wm. Drury to the Lairds of Lethington and Grange. |
|
They cannot fail to see the imminent danger hanging over
their country by civil dissensions, and they have great
cause to give God thanks that he has placed near them so
princely a neighbour, who ever thinks how she may do them
good, and whose good counsel and device in their behalf
he would that they had especial regard unto, lest they lose,
nor can they easily regain, so good a friend. When at the
breaking out of the quarrel other Princes either rejoiced, or
were not touched at their misfortunes, she, of her own free
motion and natural delight, did alone deal with them for the
speedy staying of their mischiefs, and has since sent her
ministers, he himself having come no less than seven times,
to continue her dealing with them. If they think that they
have already gone too far, he would have them be removed
from that opinion, for means will be found for the safety of
their lives, honours, and other things appertaining thereunto.
If they be carried away and blinded with vain expectations
of foreign power and assistance, he would be loath to have
them deceived, for undoubtedly the danger abroad is so great,
and the fire of dissension so mightily kindled, that they
from whom they may expect succour have more need of
it themselves. If they set up their rest upon their late
Queen, they may be assured that their hope is in vain, whose
demeanour and dealing towards his Sovereign and her realm
has been so notorious, that she has been judged by the Parliament incapable of the succession of England, and is likely,
unless the Queen's mercy be displayed, to suffer even a
greater loss. He therefore beseeches them not to offend so
gracious a prince, for "God knoweth" what she may determine
if she see her courtesy thrown away. His own credit is
touched therein, but till he hear to the direct contrary, he
will still hope for the best, requiring yet once again a final
answer, "being the last time of asking."—Restalrig, 25 June
1572.
Copy. Endd. Enclosure. Pp. 3. |
| June 20. |
441. Lethington to Sir Wm. Drury. |
|
They have offered as much to please the Queen as they
could do with honour and safety, and looked assuredly that
the same would not only content her, but that she would act
favourably. His own credit with them made them go farther
than they would have done had another minister been employed. They see no danger at present, nor for any time to
come, to make them offer any farther than they have already
done, which is as far as they intend to go.—Edinburgh Castle,
20 June 1572. Signed: W. Maitland.
Add. Endd. Enclosure. P. ½. |
| June 26. |
442. Errington's Negotiations. |
|
Having been sent by Sir Wm. Drury to the Castle of
Edinburgh to obtain an answer from Lethington and Grange
to certain proposals for peace, he was informed that the
Queen seemed to desire nothing but their devotion to their
enemies to their utter destruction, that notwithstanding the
league between her and the King of France, she has provided
their enemies with money and munitions; that they will
never yield the Castle to any but to the King of France,
or without his consent; that the Laird of Grange had the
French King's own handwriting to support and maintain
him in the said Castle; they doubt not to cast a bone to
break the league which is made, ere they yield the Castle;
they have given over all hope of Her Majesty's goodness,
considering they get no better comfort; that they could
get better terms than the Queen's from their enemies, seeing
that Grange could have his whole living and heritage, and
10,000 crowns to deliver the Castle into the hands of
Scotchmen; that had it not been for their promise to
Mr. Marshal last February, expecting better things of
Her Majesty, not to seek their friends,' they might have
had 20,000 crowns more than they have.—26 June 1572.
Signed.
Endd. Enclosure. P. 1. |
| June 27. |
443. Lord Hunsdon to Lord Burghley. |
|
The Scottish lords of the King's side take nothing in good
part that the Queen has done for them, using very lewd
speech, that she does not as much as they would have her.
The Castle side say plainly, that if they had not been fully
persuaded that she would have accepted their offers, they
would have been in better case ere this, and now avow
plainly that they will have no peace but by the French
King. Fears that De Croc plays on both hands. It appears
by Mr. Sutton that the Earl of Leicester told him of the
Earl of Northumberland's liberty; whoever was the beginner
of it will be found a lying varlet. Desires that it may be
known who was the author of it, for otherwise he will
request it at the Queen's hands. Is the more desirous to
know because it cannot but come from here. Marvels that
the Earl is suffered to tarry so long here, there being neither
prison or other sure place to keep him in.—Berwick, 27 June
1572. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. 1. |
| June 27. |
444. Walsingham to Lord Burghley. |
|
The Earl of Lincoln having promised to confer with him
for increase of his diets (as otherwise he will not be able
to hold out, his monthly charges drawing 200l., notwithstanding his diet is thin, his family reduced, and the number
of his horses only twelve), he has besought him to be guided
by such directions as he may give.—Paris, 27 June, 1572.
Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. P. 2/3. |
| June 28. |
445. The Queen to the Admiral of France. |
|
Has received his letter, and heard by his secretary at good
length such advices as he has been moved to give her in
sundry things, for which she thanks and commends him,
and assures him of the continuance of her favour, and that
she will be glad to have from time to time advertisement of
his estate.
Copy. Fr. P. 1. |
|
446. Draft of the above in Burghley's writing.—28 June.
Endd. Pp.1⅓. |
| June 28. |
447. Sir Thomas Smith to Lord Burghley. |
|
On the 19th, at supper, the Lord Admiral and he were
received very magnificently of the Duke of Nevers, "abroad
among trees as in an arbour." On the 20th they took their
leave of the King, the Queen, and the Queen Mother, with
great good words on either side. On the following day they
received presents of plate (see June 22). Found great lack
of carriage, but when they arrived at Breteuil certain coaches
and horses were sent by the French King, and they were
most honourably conducted to Boulogne by easy journeys, the
details of which are given by Smith. At Montreuil the town
presented the Earl of Lincoln with "certain pots of Ypocras."
—Montreuil, 28 June 1572. Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. Pp. 2⅓. |
| June 28. |
448. The Queen's Answer to the Duke of Montmorency
and M. De Foix. |
|
Thinks it good that it should be written into Scotland how
she has agreed that the Marshal of Berwick and M. De Croc
shall signify to the parties in arms the desire of both their
Majesties that there should be a surcease for two months.
After the surcease is made, they are to be earnestly exhorted
to fall to some good agreement of peace, and if no accord may
be had by their own means amongst themselves, they shall be
required to send persons to treat with such as shall be
authorized by the Queen and the French King.
Draft. Endd. P. 1. |
|
449. Copy to the same effect as the above, with the following
articles relating to the Queen of Scots: |
|
That it shall be lawful for her friends to send her such
things as be meet for her person, or for her servants, and also
reasonable sums of money, so as the same may first be known
either to some of the Council or to the Earl of Shrewsbury.
Liberty to walk and ride abroad for her health's sake, in
company with the Earl of Shrewsbury, shall be continued to
the Queen, who shall also have a convenient number of
servants to attend upon her. The Duke of Montmorency
may also send one of his with letters to the said Queen. The
letter demanded to be sent to the French King for explanation of Her Majesty's intentions upon the second article of the
treaty is already signed and shall be sent. The 36th article
of the treaty is to be reconsidered. The matters of commerce shall be treated with M. De la Mothe after advice taken
with the English merchants.
Endd. Pp. 2. |
| June 28. |
450. The Queen to the Duke of Anjou. |
|
Thanks him for his offers of service and goodwill expressed
to her by the Duke of Montmorency, and also for his good
offices in furthering the conclusion of the treaty.—Westminster, 28 June 1572.
Copy. Endd. Fr. P. ½. |
