Elizabeth: April 1573, 1-15

Calendar of State Papers Foreign: Elizabeth, Volume 10, 1572-1574. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1876.

This free content was digitised by double rekeying. All rights reserved.

'Elizabeth: April 1573, 1-15', in Calendar of State Papers Foreign: Elizabeth, Volume 10, 1572-1574, (London, 1876) pp. 297-314. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/foreign/vol10/pp297-314 [accessed 24 March 2024]

Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image

April 1573, 1-15

April. 866. Agreement between Lord Scrope and Lord Herries.
The agreement between the Wardens of the West Marshes of England and Scotland. First. Their lordships shall meet on Tuesday the 28th April next at Gretna Kirk, and there make delivery of so many bills as in the mean season they may conveniently file. Secondly. Upon the Wednesday to repair to the several grounds, lately called the Debateable Lands, and there to keep their several courts in their sovereign's name, each in the territory of their prince, and to settle what inhabitants thereof may be answerable to the Wardens of either realm. Thirdly. Thence immediately, with such numbers of footmen and horsemen as at their indent at Burgh was agreed upon, they shall repair to the Harlowe Wood and pursue all fugitives and disobedients of either realm, and so daily to continue as long as they shall think convenient. Whosoever shall make receipt of any fugitive, or any of their goods and cattle, shall be delivered for the fugitives' offence. Fourthly. All attempts or slaughters hereafter committed and done against the peace shall be dealt with strictly, according to the last treaty of peace made at Carlisle. Signed.
Pp. 1¼.
April 1. 867. Walsingham to Lord Burghley.
On receipt of his letter of March 20, he communicated to the Queen Mother Her Majesty's answer touching the marriage matter, and told her that she could not speak more clearly than heretofore she had done, which was that she could not accord to take any for her husband whom she should not first see, nor could she consent to his using any manner of religion that is prohibited by the laws of the realm. To the first, she answered that the King and she could never consent to his coming over without surety that the marriage should proceed; and to the second, she said that it was neither honourable for him to abandon his religion upon the sudden, neither could the Queen in reason require to have a husband to live without exercise of religion. Upon these two points there passed between them long debating, and in the end Walsingham promised to make Her Majesty privy to the Queen Mother's request, though he said that as far as he could perceive she was resolved to accept neither of them. To her complaint of the support that the Count of Montgomery received, he showed her that divers of her subjects of great quality, courage, and livelihood, had laid before Her Majesty sundry reasons to induce her to think that the fire lately kindled in France to the ruin of those of the religion there, was also meant to extend to her, using vehement speech to her, that if she forbore to support them that she would be the cause of her own ruin and that of her realm. They have also laid before her that now is the time for her to recover such provinces in France as appertain to the crown of England, and for her better encouragement have offered to find her an army of 20,000 foot and 2,000 horse for the space of six months. Farther, it has been discovered by such as are in Scotland arrived out of France, that when their own troubled causes are settled they are disposed to attempt somewhat against Her Majesty. Lastly, he showed her how little account has been made of the recommendations of the Queen of England and the Princes of Germany for those of the religion here, seeing them persecuted contrary to the assurance given by their Majesties to their ministers. Notwithstanding all this, Walsingham declared that such was the affection of the Queen to the crown of France that she was resolved to persevere in her league, and to see the breach come from the French King. To this she answered, that she knew by advertisements from the French ambassador that there was great solicitation made by her subjects, as also great offers, and therefore they acknowledged themselves much beholden to Her Majesty for her intention to persevere in good amity. She protested that neither she or the King had any intention of disquieting the Queen, but merely to persuade those of Scotland to accord matters and acknowledge their Queen for their governor. Walsingham replied that this was a breach of the league, for that it had been agreed that neither one or the other should give law unto Scotland, but join in maintenance of the government which they themselves should agree upon. To her complaint about the staying of Verac, he answered that it should seem more strange to his mistress, that considering that it was agreed that matters of Scotland should be treated in common, that any should be sent secretly thither, and that she was persuaded that he had been sent over by some who envy the good accord between the two crowns rather than by the King. The Queen Mother "seemed to be much entangled with this matter, and had not therefore much to say for the staying of him."—Moret, 1 April 1573. Signed.
Pp. 3¼.
April 1. 868. Submission of Ferniehurst.
Sir John Forster to the Regent of Scotland.
Understands his Grace takes in evil part his procuring a letter from the Queen in favour of Ferniehurst, who both sought his life at Stirling, and burnt his corn at Dalkeith. The letter was procured not in any respect against him, but to serve his turn. His goodwill cannot be unknown to him, and to them that were in his authority before times, wherein he was as willing to do as much as any subject in all England, and not in words but in deeds, when he came to the field with all the power he was able to make for maintaining the King's authority and suppressing the evil people of Liddlesdale. The Earl of Huntley wrote to Ferniehurst that if it pleased him he could bring him in the same bond he and his friends were in, perceiving which he thought it more surety for the realm and the quiet of the Borders, that he should be brought in by the Queen's means. Trusts he will not take his doings therein otherwise than his true meaning was towards him, and must be a humble suitor that his submission be taken as others are.—Alnwick, 28 March 1573.
Sir John Forster to H. Killegrew.
Sends a copy of his letter to the Regent that he may be privy thereto, beseeches him to deliver the same, otherwise to return it. Beseeches him if he do deliver it to qualify the Regent all he may for the better help of Ferniehurst.— Alnwick, 28 March. Signed.
The Regent to Sir John Forster.
It was no wonder he found it strange that letters in favour of Ferniehurst came by his procurement, not so much for his evil deserts towards him, as for the friendship standing of so long continuance between themselves, of which no cause for breach has been ministered on his part. Was loth to have dealt at the hands of the Prince without knowledge of his own disposition and meaning. Is not forgetful of his goodwill toward those who have preceded him in the Regency, nor unmindful of the friendship he himself has received, which he has always been of intention to acquit. The Earl of Huntley only dealt for himself, and his own friends and servants properly depending on him, in which number he cannot understand Ferniehurst to be in anywise comprehended, neither to have entered in public defection through any the Earl of Huntley's occasion. How far the favouring of Ferniehurst may tend to his (the Regent's) advancement is not so substantial to be thought of, as how pernicious his bypast trade of doings has been, not only against the quietness of his own country, but also how by his means chiefly the peace between the realms has been endangered, and the Queen's realm and people invaded and troubled by fire and sword. After which bypast doings no better fruit has any appearance in him to follow, whereof if the Queen were truly certified she would not think him worthy to be travailed for, nor allow of his present entertainment in her realm, nor that he should be assisted by her subjects in such things as he has been about to attempt against the liege subjects of the King. Whereof he has had sufficient cause of complaint to make to the Queen, but has not entered that way to work, but rather thought meet to crave amendment of it, which if he obtain he has the better cause to think of friendship friendly continued, otherwise the matter so urges him for his King and country that he cannot keep it in silence from the Queen. Never heard of any submission of Ferniehurst that in honour or reason could be thought worthy of answer.—Holyrood House, 1 April 1573.
Copy. Endd. About pp. 3.
April 3. 869. M. De la Mothe Fenelon to Lord Burghley.
Begs that M. Verac may be permitted to proceed with his mission to Scotland, or at least that he may be allowed to forward the little gilt suit of armour and the swords which the King of France has sent as a present for his nephew.— London, 3 April 1573. Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. Fr. P. 1.
April 4. 870. Earl of Huntingdon to Lord Burghley.
Has sent 500 soldiers and 200 pioneers to Berwick. The weather was such and the waters so out that he could not make the speed he desired, but hopes they shall come in good time for the Castilians. Sir W. Drury thinks they shall need the other 200 put in readiness by the Queen's command. This poor man has need of his favour, yet he will not desire more than the justice of his cause deserves; he is hardly matched, and it is the harder for that he is a stranger in the country, which amongst them is res magni momenti.—York, 4 April 1573. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. 1.
April 4. 871. H. Killegrew to Lord Burghley.
Certain officers whom the Marshal sent, accompanied by the master gunner, carpenter, and the miner, have taken a new view of the Castle; they all agree that it cannot long hold out, therefore marvels at the obstinacy of those within, and cannot imagine what moves them, unless it be the hope of succour out of France, whereof there is no appearance, or that they trust to do something with the riches they have within for making their peace, or that they think there is no assurance for them but only to put themselves in the Marshal's hands when he comes. Is at his wits end to consider their case, and fears their hearts be hardened to an ill destiny. Yesterday the Regent said that Lord Lindsay told him before the other Regent's death that he should die, and himself be Regent, and further that if England came in the Castle should be won, and the Captain hanged over the walls, though he makes no account of these trifles, yet would not spare to write them. Has brought the Regent to consent that the Earl of Rothes, who is of most credit with Grange of any man in Scotland, should write to him of the preparation coming against him, and exhort him to think upon the matter, and that if he meant well, and to come to such end as might stand with the King's surety, he would deal and labour for him. The woman sent by the Regent to the Castle is stayed within, for she came no more. If Lord Rothes' purpose fail he will himself make a voyage to the Castle before the hostages depart, which be not yet all come, and until they come he knows not certainly which shall go, but the best and most number he can get; the Regent thinks some difficulty to him that more hostages should be demanded of him than was in his predecessor's days, both for the coming to Leith and Hamilton. The Regent says his life shall go rather than any inconvenience happen to the people or ordnance. The Duke has sent in his surety bonds, and the Earl of Huntley has sent his bond to his servant subscribed with four; that he might procure to have the rest subscribed here, he is content to receive 200l. pension, as his man has assured him. Now that they have performed their promises they look to have promise kept to them, therefore beseeches him to procure letters to the Regent which appertains to the Queen to do for their surety. The Earl of Athole offers himself to the obedience of the King, but for religion will look not to be pressed against his conscience; the Regent's purpose is to have him subscribe the bond for service of the King, and for the matter of religion to refer him to the law, not minding to grant any liberty to any man. This day the Lord Seton is to bring his answer to the Council whether he will subscribe to the King's obedience; if he do, he shall put in caution to continue so, and further shall be bound not to practise with any at home or abroad to the contrary, nor against the religion; if he refuse he shall to ward. Lady Livingstone is still kept at Dalkeith, where James Kyrkcaldy is also, but she will yet confess nothing; the Regent says women learn a lesson of their mother that they should never confess whatsoever they did evil. This week she is to be confronted with witnesses and writing; the Regent would not have her husband or any suspected come out of France till the end of the next parliament, being advertised that some would come with divers letters from the Bishop of Glasgow; he has taken order to apprehend them, and has desired him to give warning if they land in England. The letters sent to Stirling to be unciphered are not come back. Archibald Douglas is removed from Stirling to Dumbarton Castle. The agreement between the Earl of Rothes and Lord Lindsay will stand on the sentence of the Laird of Lochleven. The Regent lies in wait for the two brethren who slew the Regent at Linlithgow; they are to come home shortly. Lord Livingstone's coffers are opened, but nothing found in them of any importance. Sends letters touching the suit of the Warden of the Middle Marches for Ferniehurst. Gives the names of the noblemen who will assist the Regent at the coming in of the army, none are disobedient but the Castle.—Edinburgh, 4th April 1573. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 6½.
April 4. 872. Sir W. Drury to Lord Burghley.
The good success the Rochellois and they of Haarlem have had by their bold issuing is very welcome. For their parts that go against the Castle of Edinburgh there shall appear both will and courage, though the clime and the rest be so "defysyle" and evil. On Wednesday sent various officers as well for the further countenancing of the matter as to see what was to be more done to the trenches, which are both too low and too narrow. Having with them some carpenters and sawyers they will make platforms and defences before the army come, which will save the Queen's charge 500 marks at the least. They were divers times shot at and very narrowly missed, the dust being stricken about and upon them; they confirm Mr. Errington's saying that they within have been, to their skill and strength, fortifying, which will much hinder the works; one of their new works is on that side where he intended to have taken some advantage, but is now prevented. Lord Huntingdon has signified that the Yorkshire men shall be here on Wednesday or Thursday next, when after a day's rest he minds to set forwards, not tarrying for the ordnance, which is already shipped, and ready to take the first wind, which yet is contrary, and for the last week has been stormy. They mind to be jealous and careful of the ordnance, and he wishes to go there to attend the same, rather than it should tarry them; besides, being there, they will be doing something, trying by words if they can win, and draw them to have better regard of themselves. Prays to be directed whether he may yield if the Regent require any of his company to be sent from him to defend any causes that may arise; willingly he would not sunder with any of his force. Is sorry if his servant Williams has any way omitted his duty, but it may be that he (Drury) did not signify the time of his coming hither. Has dealt with the Treasurer how he is to deal with Verac or any of his messengers if they come after he has gone; if they come ere he go they shall tarry longer than they would, "or if they be suffered to pass, the same shall little please them."—Berwick, 4 April 1573. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 2.
April 5. 873. H. Killegrew to Lord Burghley.
Trusts Lord Rothes' going to the Castle will do good, for he returns again this day with good answer from the Regent. If they have any grace within it will appear between this and Wednesday, when the hostages shall be ready to go to Berwick and the Marshal ready to march. If the accord follow it will be some ways chargeable, wherewith he trusts they will be better contented than that the army should come in. Must burden the Queen to pay somewhat of Grange's debts, and Lethington must be sustained for a time in England. The Regent by the accord will have many more enemies than before, by so many as shall lose thereby, and therefore must have for some time, till he be assured, a guard of soldiers to preserve him, and that the Queen's purse must feel six months at the least. It stands him in hand to have a good guard, for he is sure his life will be sought, and that he yields to this accord for pleasing the Queen's mind. Has made some show that he would be a suitor for the Regent to be chosen a knight of the Order, whereof he liked well. Beseeches him to remember the pensions whereof he has already written. If the Queen do not entertain these men France will assuredly do so, and make the Regent a knight of their order, and so, if the Queen has a mind to bind these lords and so the country, to depend upon her, it should be done while the occasion serves. The preparations notwithstanding go forwards, and the master gunner and master carpenter, beside the commodity to make their platforms, have had good opportunity to view the Castle in all places, much to their contentment and satisfaction. If there be any accord the time is so short between this and Wednesday next, the 8th, when the men will be ready to enter, that he cannot have his answer, and therefore must ground himself upon the general desire the Queen has to have accord without sending in men, though it be to her charges without which it can neither way be compassed, but he will observe the best he may. Lord Seton has agreed to obey the King and subscribe the bond. There is no doubt Athole will do the like if the accord follows.—[Edinburgh], 5 April 1573. Signed.
Add. Endd. Injured by damp. Pp. 2.
April 5. 874. Letter from Venice.
On the 2nd of April the son of the Venetian ambassador at Constantinople came secretly with the conditions of peace, and yesterday the Papal and Spanish ambassadors were informed of them by the senate. It is said that they made use of a Jewish physician, who was very friendly with the first Bassa, in this negociation. The causes of this peace are reported to be because the King of Spain would not fulfil his promises of sending assistance, or pay his debts to the Venetians. It is reported that the conditions of the peace are that the Venetians shall restore all places taken from the Turks in Dalmatia, pay 300,000 crowns, and leave Cyprus to the Turk. The Venetians are preparing to defend themselves in case of any attempt against them on the part of the Spaniards, who are raising a force of 12,000 men in the Milanese. Great indignation of the Queen Mother of France with the Duke of Alva on account of his communicating her letters to the Queen of England, for the revenging of which insult she wished that she could restore to life those Huguenots who were lately massacred, chiefly through her instigation. News from Rochelle. Negociations for peace in France. News of Germany and Poland.—5 April 1573.
Endd. Lat. Pp. 7.
April 6. 875. Sir Valentine Browne to Lord Burghley.
The money in his hands goes fast away by charge of the pioneers, artificers, and other ministers already sent into Scotland, and by divers provisions made there and here, and for freight and the necessary furniture of the General. Thinks meet to put him in remembrance thereof, as there are 300 soldiers already entertained, staying for the arrival of those coming out of Yorkshire. He will perceive by Mr. Killegrew's letters that there is no time let slip.—Berwick, 6 April 1573. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. 1.
April 5. 876. H. Killegrew to Sir Valentine Browne.
They abide more help, for no stay is made of any provision for the siege as the next way to accord. A weapon in a man's hand is called a peacemaker. Such deal and other planks as are there must be laid to his account, for the Scotch have no money. Their three culverins want nothing to be supplied, and so that part of his letter is answered. Looks within an hour for the Regent, Lord Rothes, and Lord Boyd to come and confer with him. Wishes for his dame, but hopes, by hook or by crook, to see her at home in a month. —Edinburgh, 5 April. Signed.
Add. Endd.: Mr. Killegrew to my Lord. Enclosure. P. 1.
April 6. 877. H. Killegrew to Lord Burghley and the Earl of Leicester.
Yesterday morning the Regent, the Earl of Rothes, and Lord Boyd came to confer with him about the Earl's doing in the Castle, when it was resolved that he should go up again, and that if Grange would put the Castle into his hands for the King's use, the Regent would grant him sufficient conditions of peace and security, until which were performed, he, together with Lethington and Lord Home, should remain, if they would, therein. Rothes has gone again to the Castle this morning, and the Regent is ridden to Dalkeith to examine Lady Livingstone and Kyrk caldy. He may see what virtue the smell of the Queen's forces has in making rebels know their duty to their King. If his service in this accord be acceptable, because he has wife and children, and nothing to leave them whensoever God shall call him, would humbly beseech him, in respect of this service and many others since the journey to Newhaven, where he served at his own charges, with five horsemen, and never had wages for them nor himself more than 200l. in money and a licence to bring in certain wine, to be a mean for him to the Queen to grant him the fee farm of the lordship for which he was suitor at his coming. It lies in his own country, and is yet in lease for 17 or 18 years to come. If his extreme need did not force him, he had rather his service did deserve it than he thus without desert should crave the same. The Regent's meaning is to leave no preparation for the worst, though he hopes there will be no need of their coming. Before the footmen be at Berwick the end of this treaty shall be known. Lord Seton has leave till the 8th to bring in his sureties for obedience, so that none is left to profess the Queen of Scots' authority.—Edinburgh, 6 April, in the morning. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 2.
April 7. 878. H. Killegrew to Lord Burghley and the Earl of Leicester.
Yesterday, after he had written, the Regent sent for him to go with him, the Earl of Montrose, the Justice Clerk, and Alexander Hay to Dalkeith, to examine Lady Livingstone and Grange's brother. Lady Livingstone, although things were so evident that she could not deny them, would confess nothing but by tears and silence. James Kyrkcaldy said he received the first 10,000 francs from the King of Spain's treasurer, and the last 15,000 of the treasurer of the Queen of Scots in the Bishop of Glasgow's house. Farther, that the Pope, the Emperor, the French King, the Venetians, and the Dukes of Savoy and Florence, were of the League, and had determined to reform the religion both in England and Scotland, to restore the Queen of Scots, and depose the Queen of England. The French King said that it should cost him his crown but that he would see his sister restored to hers again. Sends a letter written in cipher by Lethington to the Bishop of Glasgow. If Mr. Somers can do anything with it he shall have the others. It is written in Chisholm's cipher, who is now in France, and bound homeward. If Verac have a cipher, they here would gladly have a copy of it, touching whose stay the Regent earnestly desires that neither he nor Livingstone, nor any such, be suffered to come into Scotland before the parliament, lest they mar a great part of that which is so well begun. Seeing the Regent, the Earls of Argyle and Huntley, and Lord Boyd are content to receive so small sums as pension, the sooner they were assured thereof the better. The Regent truly well deserves to be honoured with the Garter. By the next will send his pedigree and alliances, although no man doubts of his nobility and the antiquity thereof. The Earl of Athole arrived yesternight, so that all are come to the Regent, whose authority increases daily. Yesterday and to-day the abstinence continues. Is as yet ignorant of that which has been done by the Earl of Rothes, but the Regent feared the Castilians meant but drift of time, and to see what they could win by the abstinence, and therefore desired the Marshal to diminish no part of his proportion, and that such as be at Edinburgh may lose no time. Thinks the abstinence has made for the best, for Fleming has discovered much more advantage than he had done before, and the master carpenter also, who that morning assured him that if the Castilians abide the battery the Queen shall have the honour to win it, and that it cannot stand 10 days. He knows how to approach with little danger, and has found a piece of ground of such advantage that there shall not a man within be able to stir for the shot. This night there will be 100 pioneers from Berwick, who to-morrow shall be employed unless the Earl of Rothes do some good. Has not complained, yet truly his expenses have been more great than he can bear. Cannot perceive that Grange or Lethington will in any sort come into England, and the Regent tells him that by his goodwill France they shall not see, for fear of new practices.—Edinburgh, 7th April 1573. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 3.
April 7. 879. The Regent of Scotland to Lord Burghley.
The travails of the Ambassador have greatly availed, and appear still to do further good, to the satisfaction of the Queen's godly and honourable intention to have the country quieted to the obedience of the King, and continuance of the amity. Seeing the settling of these matters cannot well be till after the parliament now approaching, for that the noblemen lately returned to the King's obedience are then to receive their surety, and restitution to lands and livings, it would do harm if any evil affected had access to practise anything to the prejudice thereof, and therefore prays that till then Verac may be stayed. His direction is for no good, but rather for putting in doubt things entered in accord, and to hinder the amity between the two realms. His meaning is not that he shall stay here at his liberty, but rather to return him, which is meeter to be done after the Estates be departed from the parliament, for some may mislike his usage in that sort. The like stay is needed for Lord Livingstone and others repairing from France, of whose affection heretofore no good proof has appeared.—Holyrood House, 7 April 1873. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. 1.
April 9. 880. Earl of Huntingdon to Lord Burghley.
Has heard from Sir W. Drury that the Castle is beginning to parley, and so has not been so hasty in sending the other two hundred men. Doubts they of the Castle do of policy dally, either to win time or for some other respect. Is beginning this day to confer about the commission sent down for the musters, and most of them to whom the Queen has committed the special charge do here assemble. Wrote of late to the Earl of Leicester for licence to be absent at St. George's feast, but fears he has forgotten him; would be bound to him (Burghley) if he might know the Queen's pleasure. York, 9 April 1573. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. 1.
April 9. 881. M. Maisonfleur to the Queen.
Is obliged to write to her concerning his private affairs on account of this last calumny, which he perceives comes from the same workshop as the first. Reminds her that when he first arrived in London the Vidame began to endeavour to render him suspected by her, Burghley, and Leicester, giving out that he was come over to attempt something against her person, and afterwards that he was merely deceiving her. When he showed by his actions that he was neither a murderer nor impostor, the Vidame fearing lest he should be considered a false accuser, has brought the most horrible charges against him, and has craftily induced three or four persons of authority in the French Church in London to spread the report that he had come over to assassinate the Count of Montgomery, and so managed that the Count had advertisements to this effect from three or four quarters, and even from France. These are the sort of schemes that come from "La Cabale des Alchimistes" to injure the innocent, like the letter which was lately dropped in her chamber to the prejudice of the Count of Montgomery. In the letters which they have written against him to the Count, they have only used conjectures which they wish to be taken as certain facts. First, that he served under the late Duke of Guise in Italy; that he was much esteemed by the Queen Mother; that although he had professed the religion, yet he did not live at Court like one of the reformers, "d'autant que je faisoys l'amour partout;" and lastly, that since he had never taken arms for the gospel even when the Prince and Admiral were alive and commanded flourishing armies, it is not likely that now, when matters are at such a desperate point, that he would hazard himself in Rochelle except with some evil intention. These are the arguments that they have made use of to convict him of wickedness. Admits that he had a command under the Duke of Guise during the first troubles, and fought on the King's side, but then he had no more knowledge of the gospel than St. Paul had before his conversion. Since, however, he has been called to a knowledge of religion, though the King and his mother have employed both prayers and menaces, he has not borne arms for them. On this account the Cardinal of Lorraine and the House of Guise have so hated him, that during the last troubles they sent a provost marshal and thirty arquebussiers who took him prisoner, though he was sick of a fever, and for eight days he was in danger of losing his head for a charge that was brought against him of having had preaching in his house, contrary to the edicts of the King. Everyone knows also that during the last massacre his house was pillaged. Confesses that until two or three months after the late massacre he did not think it lawful to take arms against the King, when having heard the arguments of certain ministers, he resolved to set out for Rochelle, from which he was only detained by the express commandment of Don Lucidor. As for the lack of reformation that was observed in him whilst he was living in the Court he admits that he did not always live as chastely as he might, but there is no place so dangerous for a man disposed to gallantry as the Court, or where he will have more difficulty in walking in the right path; nevertheless, his life had never been so loose that he might be thought so base as to be ready to do anything unworthy of a gentleman. Was in such favour generally in the French court that he does think that his accusers if they had been in his position would have left it as he has done. Is ready to be cut in quarters if it can be proved that he has undertaken anything against the Count of Montgomery, and would be ready to fight Julius Cæsar himself if he accused him of it. Hopes amongst other things that if he is guilty of this crime, every word that he has spoken since his childhood may be transformed into as many devils to drag him down to the lowest depths of hell. Begs that she will take his part and serve as the shield of Ajax against the false accusations of his enemies, who neither love her or her service. All that has been brought against him will be found to proceed from the Vidame, who thinks by these means to revenge himself for the shame put upon him by Maisonfleur in the quarrel which they had when they were in London, and who used these words to his secretary, "They shall see whether in good time I will not be revenged on Maisonfleur." Begs that she will cause these calumnies to be sifted out, and he will on the first victory she gains compose for her the finest triumphal hymn that has ever been written. Plymouth, 9 April 1573. Signed.
Fr. Pp. 10.
April 10. 882. Prince Louis of Nassau to the Queen.
Understanding that the French King desires to confirm the league with her by an alliance between his brother and her, he humbly begs her to consider whether by this means peace may not be bestowed on the church, which is everywhere afflicted and oppressed. Many who fear God and are well disposed towards her think that not only is there some hope of this, as the King has said he would treat them more leniently if this came to pass, but also that it would increase the security of her own estate by preventing any league between the Kings of France and Spain to her prejudice. Begs that she will omit nothing to bring about such a good end, and declares his readiness to do her service whensoever she shall command him. Dillemburg, 10 April 1573. Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. Fr. Pp. 1½.
April 11. 883. Sir Valentine Browne to Lord Burghley.
Is sorry the Lords [of the Council] conceive him to bear a very liberal hand upon the Queen's charges in the intended service, the last estimate being taken much to surmount that formerly sent. The first estimate per mensem for 800 footmen, 200 horsemen, and 140 gunners, pioneers, and ministers of ordnance amounted to 2,717l. 0s. 10d.; the last set out for 1,000 footmen, 40 horsemen, and 340 gunners and pioneers, with coat and conduct money added thereto, comes to no more than 2,972l. 4s. per mensem, so that the numbers being greater for the honour and security of the service the amount is little augmented, they being both estimates and uncertain. Although some things seem diminishable in the estimate, yet in other things greater charges arise, as by the hire of more hoys, and more carriage by land must also be used. Knowing his great care to have the Queen's service advanced in such cases to the uttermost, he dares not take upon himself to account beforehand of any charge than that is the least agreeable with so princely and royal furniture of ordnance. Must put him in remembrance for a further supply of money, which cannot be less than twenty days' charges according to the estimate, for by the charges of engineers and pioneers sent into Scotland the money which he had with him went fast away; there are 360 soldiers at Berwick, and to-morrow the soldiers from Yorkshire and the Bishopric enter into charge, and their coat and conduct money must be paid and discharged. Will from time to time advertise him of the expenditure, and the money that can be saved will be ready to be returned. Whatsoever help the Regent gives is laid as costly and chargeable to the Queen's accounts, than if it should come out of England; some proof he has already thereof being sent to make payment of a carriage between Leith and Edinburgh for a sum under ten shillings. They account all things done as more for the behoof of England than their own security. A great number of the lords and commons of Scotland be not all of one opinion to see their ancient hold so overthrown, which he wishes were beside Hercules' pillars. For conveyance of money, his man Beverley who has served him for twelve years may be trusted, and it were more safe if Williams, Sir W. Drury's man, might accompany him, by whom he desires the 300l. paid for the jewels may be sent. Has received the money for the bridge work with the warrant for 100 trees.—Berwick, 11 April 1573. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 2.
11 April. 884. Queen Elizabeth to the Earl of Huntley and Lord John Hamilton.
Perceives their good conformity to the peace and tranquillity of the realm, and their honourable agreement to the pacification. Cannot counsel or advise otherwise than in conformity to her first design and purpose, that all quarrels, doubts, and fears which might breed grief, dissension, or jealousy among the nobility might be clean put away, or suspended for a long time. So for the murders of the late Regents is of advice that all actions or accusations should surcease and be suspended, and in nowise be presented until the King come to that age as by the laws and customs of Scotland he shall take the government to himself. Does nothing more wish that that realm, her so near neighbour, should be at peace, and therefore promises to be cautioner for them and for the Regent, for the observation and performance of the pacification, trusting they will relieve her of her promise by keeping that they have agreed unto, or else she must declare herself an enemy unto them. If any man do anything contrary to the agreement, he shall see it with speed repaired and redressed. And these her letters, subscribed with her hand and signed with her signet shall be a sufficient caution for them at all times.—Greenwich, 11 April 1573.
Copy. Endd. Pp. 2.
April 11. 885. Queen Elizabeth to the Regent of Scotland.
Extract from letter contained in No. respecting the murders of the Regents.
Endd. P. 1.
April 11. 886. Sir W. Drury to Lord Burghley.
If he finds he does not his best to save charges will willingly refuse ever hereafter his favour. He (Burghley) writes to him as all his former doings have been, honourably, fatherly, and friendly, and it daily increases his bond. Will advertise the Lord President at York of the names, estates, and qualities of the hostages as soon as he can, but cannot yet get the names of six, though he has demanded ten or twelve, and has yielded argument sufficient to prove the more that comes the more surety to the Regent and the cause in hand. Perceives he still wishes that if the Castilians should, upon his seeking of them, offer to deliver the Castle to the Queen, that he should receive it, and afterwards deliver it to the Regent, but he will to the best of his skill play his part that the same may be rendered without force. Has not of late, nor without offence or suspicion, being at Berwick, been a dealer to bring the same to pass, but when he shall be there, ere force be used, or a piece of ordnance landed, will try what he can do. The Earl of Rothes, who of late without his knowledge or consent has dealt with them, with show of persuading them to yield, has done great harm; he, and such as followed him, have given them more courage and comfort than they had before; he of all others was worst chosen, the man that Grange loves and credits most. The Yorkshiremen will be here to-morrow, they have been looked for these eight days; the foul weather, whereby the waters be risen, has stayed them. The wind has been for ten days contrary to them; on Wednesday sent a hoy towards Leith in the morning, but she was driven back again in the afternoon. Minds on Wednesday to go in with the forces, although the wind serve not for the vessels wherein is the ordnance. Beseeches his opinion touching the draft sent by the Regent, and has noted on the margin what he mislikes. Begs that he may be excused if neither now or lately he answered in writing the instructions of the Privy Council, but will do his best to answer in execution of what they have commanded.—Berwick, 11 April 1573. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 3.
April 12. 887. Dr. Valentine Dale to Lord Burghley.
M. de Carrouges, Governor of Rouen, being absent, M. de Boucquemare, Premier President of the Court of Parliament, received the letters which Dale had from the French ambassador, and sent to him the lieutenant of the Castle and three of the governors of the merchants of the town, who offered themselves in anything that should be the Queen's pleasure in favour of any of her subjects. Learnt by the English merchants that M. de Carrouges about 15 days before had expressly declared to them that he had received commandment from the King to see them preserved in all their rights. Dale told the governors of the merchants that he would learn the estates of the English merchants, and that after he had been with the King, M. de Carrouges should have advertisement of such things as should be most convenient for the entertainment of the traffic. The French merchants show themselves very desirous for the contentment of the English and the Queen's good favour, and the English are satisfied touching their security; but are much grieved with a new exaction upon their cloths, which is let to farm for 10,000 francs by the year, and as they suppose the farmer gains double as much over his rent. Furthermore, the French put the English cloths in water, and if they do not abide the trial they seize them as forfeited by a new ordinance, and so draw the English into processes worse than the loss of the cloths, the fault not being in the merchants but in the clothiers. They think the time now to be convenient to make redress hereof, because the term of the old farmer of this new imposition is now almost expired.—Rouen, 12 April 1573. Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. Pp. 2¼.
April 12. 888. Dr. Valentine Dale to Sir Thomas Smith.
Took his way by Rouen while his carriage went the next way to Paris, whereby the English merchants are well com forted for the present. The French find such gain by them that they could be denied nothing at their hands. The bruits amongst the merchants arose by occasion that the passages were stopped for preparation upon the sea coast, which M. de Carrouges excused to the merchants, and declared that he had received a fresh commandment from the King to preserve them in all their rights.—Rouen, 12 April 1573. Signed.
Add. Endd., seal. P. 2/3.
April 13. 889. Incoming of the English Forces to Scotland.
The King's Majesty's proclamation bearing the very occasion of the incoming of the English forces, with his Highness' commandment for their good entreatment and friendly usage.
It is not unknown what great goodwill and friendship the Queen of England has borne towards him and the preservation of his innocent person since his birth, but also what care and travail she has sustained for the safety and preservation of the realm in the ancient liberty. It is not forgotten that at the beginning of her reign a peace was made which has happily continued, as also how shortly after the realm being in danger of French conquest, by her forces and aid sent to the siege of Leith the strangers were expelled. The like care appeared in the month of May 1570 when the conspirators which pretended the King's deposition were profligate and disappointed, and the Castle of Glasgow succoured and relieved, she never occupying any strength or hold which she was not always willing to render to the owners upon their returning to obedience. Since then by her ambassador's letters and messages good peace is restored over all the country, the Castle of Edinburgh excepted, which was put by the late Regent the Earl of Murray into the hands of William Kyrkcaldy of Grange, who unmindful of his truth and promised allegiance has for the space of two years raised and continued civil war against the King and his authority, rejecting the godly pacification which the chief noblemen and others returning to obedience have received. Seeing his principal ordnance, powder, and bullets are detained within the Castle and used against him, the Queen of England has been required by the Regent and nobility of the realm for succour for the expugnation and recovery thereof, which has been granted, after all good means to bring those within to obedience by treaty, whereby peace may be restored to the borough of Edinburgh and the whole realm. Therefore he straitly charges and commands that proclamation be made thereof at the market cross at Edinburgh and other places needful, that none be ignorant of, or sinisterly deprave or misreport his dearest sister's kindly intention, that all thankfully receive the general of her forces and persons under his charge, and show and give them good favour and intreatment in lodging, meat, and drink, upon their reasonable charges, "unraising" the present price in anything, and that none take upon them to do them harm, grief, or uncourtesy in body or goods, under pain of death, being repute as seditious and wicked instruments, partakers with the rebels in the Castle. Holyrood House, 13th day of April 1573. Per Actum secreti Consilii. Imprentit at Edinburgh be Thomas Bassandyne. Cum Priveligio Regis.
Endd. by Burghley. Broadside.
April 14. 890. H. Killegrew to Lord Burghley.
Sends particularities of Lethington's demands, no man being more sorry that honest and friendly persuasion cannot induce him to acknowledge his duty. Where it may be alleged that the conference of the noblemen which they desired to have been in the Castle might have taken effect in some more indifferent place, it was not forgotten, but they will in nowise come forth, neither Lethington, Grange, or Lord Home, who only be the men that must treat. It was resolved in the Council that no more offer of parley should be made till the Queen's forces come, but if they would demand it they shall not be refused. To-morrow therefore the Regent is determined to send away ten hostages by Lord Ruthven, who shall receive the Queen's general at Coldinghame, and there, upon the interchange of indentures for observing the covenants, deliver his hostages. Intends to go with them to Berwick and see them safe before the artillery "sorte" the haven, for the safe conduct of which there are two ships which have lain in Leith Roads for lack of wind these seven days. Yesterday being market day the enclosed proclamation was made. The Regent has sent private warning to Coldinghame, Dunbar, Haddington, Preston, and Leith, for providing against the army coming. The Earl of Angus and Lord Lindsay meet with the gentlemen of Lothian and receive the general at Douglas, and accompany the army to Leith. The Regent has to assist the forces seven hundred soldiers in pay, and all those that look for any commodity by their livings in the Castle. They will not abide the cannon, but there is no way to bring them to reason without it. Is in good hope that a month's pay or less will make a sound end to the civil war. The Earl of Argyle told him that he would serve the Queen next to his own King; the nobility are more and more inclined daily to the Queen's devotion. The Regent always gives him the place of honour and right hand, both abroad and at home. Hopes he will move the Queen for pensions for the Regent, Argyle, Huntley, and Boyd, and a licence for four geldings for Argyle. If there be no remedy but Verac must needs come before the parliament, the Regent has desired to be advertised in time that he may prepare for his safe keeping, until the Castle be reduced and the parliament ended. This night one of the soldiers of the Castle that came forth for water is taken and like to be hanged. The pioneers go on apace with their trenches, and hitherto have lost no blood.— Edinburgh 14 April 1573. Signed.
Endd. Pp. 4.
April 13. 891. The Incoming of the English Forces to Scotland.
Manuscript copy of the King's proclamation (No. 889).
Endd. by Burghley. P. 1. Enclosure.
April 14. 892. Verac to Sir W. Drury.
The Queen of England having made difficulty in granting him a passport before until she knows if the Earl of Morton is agreeable thereto, he sends thither the bearer, for whom he begs a passport. Hopes after the return of the messenger to see him himself. London, 14 April 1573. Signed.
Add. Endd. Fr. P. ½.
April 14. 893. Pietro Bizarri to Lord Burghley.
Sends a note of the conditions of the peace between the Venetians and the Turks. Mehemet Bassa is to have a present of 30,000 zecchins for having negociated the peace. The Cardinal of Augsburg died at Rome on the 2nd instant. —Augsburg, 14 April 1573. Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. Ital. P. ¾.
April 15. 894. The Regent of Scotland to [H. Killegrew].
The Castle required that the colonel would speak the Laird of Pittarrow, which being condescended unto, they met at the little postern. In a long harangue Pittarrow required that seeing the noblemen whom they craved to come to the Castle refuse so to do, that certain persons of meaner condition might be permitted to confer with them, whom they hoped to satisfy with reason. Has willed answer to be given; that if conference shall be the grounds shall be known whereupon; in case the same were the things already moved no time would be spent in conference thereupon; if, however, there were likelihood of greater conformity reasonable answer should be given.— Holyrood House, 15 April 1573. Signed.
P. 2/3.