|
| May 16. |
963. — to Giacomo Spinola. |
|
Insurrection in Switzerland. Death of Stephen Battori,
the son of the King of Transylvania. News from the Court
of Spain and from France. The naval preparations of the
Turk proceed slowly on account of the plague and other
hindrances. Liberation of galley slaves taken in Cyprus, and
negociations for the restoration of that island to the Venetians.
—Venice, 16 May 1573.
Add. Endd., with seal. Ital. Pp. 1¼. |
| May 16. |
964. Valentine Dale to Lord Burghley. |
|
Has stayed the moving of Badonaire's cause at his own
request. Pinart is now returned; he went with great hopes
of pacification, by reason that Montgomery had withdrawn
himself from Rochelle, and great offers were made to them of
the town that they should enjoy all their privileges and full
liberty of religion, so that they would acknowledge the King's
authority and admit a garrison. Upon this Brantome and
Douartes were sent into the town for hostages, and two
citizens came into the camp, but in conclusion they of
Rochelle, understanding that Montgomery had taken BelleIsle, made absolute answer that they would neither admit a
garrison or make peace for themselves, unless the edict of
January might take effect throughout all France, and so the
treaty broke off. Further, they say that Montgomery has
left BelleIsle, but not unfurnished, and is come near Rochelle,
whereof they are all in "a damp" at the court; and whereas
the King had determined to remove to Compiegne, he now
breaks off his hunting and pastimes, and has his council
closely attending upon him with such silence that men
mistrust some greater thing than is yet known. The Count
De Retz, to whom the King had departed with BelleIsle, is
in great displeasure because it was not better furnished, to
the great grief of the Queen Mother. The victuals which
were wont to come in great store to the camp from Britanny
are now cut off. Monsieur affirms that he will not away from
Rochelle before it be won, and his hope is for lack of victuals,
by intelligence; and by making a mine. There are 500
Swiss arrived at the coast for the guard of the King, and it is
said the rest, about 5,000, are towards the camp. The
Cardinal of Lorraine is come to Paris with great countenance
to help forward the sale of the church lands for the maintenance of the King's wars. The Scots ambassador has been
at the court to make his moan, for they have news of the
matters of Edinburgh, and sent twice before he had audience.
Monsieur daily vaunts that he will give the assault shortly
with all his force, and will not endure this dishonour.—
Moret, 16 May 1573. Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. Pp. 1¼. |
| May 16. |
965. Occurrents of 16 May. |
|
News of the capture of BelleIsle by the Count Montgomery.
Taking of several strong places in Dauphigny by the Protestants, who number 2,000 harquebussiers. On the 24th ult.
there passed by Chambery of Spaniards and Italians 3,000
harquebussiers and 1,200 horsemen sent to the succour of the
Duke of Alva. News from Vienne about the Emperor, the
election to the crown of Poland, and the Sophy. Successful
sortie from Rochelle. The Marquis of Maine is coming to
Paris to seek the perfect cure of his leg. List of towns and
strong places held by the Protestants in Guienne, Bearn,
Languedoc, and Dauphigny.
Pp. 2. Enclosure. |
| May 17. |
966. Sir Valentine Browne to Lord Burghley. |
|
Thanks him for the acceptation of his suit for William
Scopham. Wilton has served well, but now being grown into
years is not so apt as he has been; could well be contented to
take one of the pensions that falls here. The General does all
that he may to have things perfect before the battery begins by
mine and platform. Cannot extend his money to more than
the 22nd of the month. The General presses to have some
portion of money beside ordinary wages or charges to remain
to answer all events, whereof he desires direction. For four or
five days more he can by credit enlarge if the same come not
in time. Yesterday night some friends of the Castilians
out of the trenches shot to them an advertisement tied to an
arrow which, by shooting clean over the Castle, lighted in
the trenches on the other side among the soldiers, the effect
whereof being in plain speech was of the covenants between
England and Scotland, and the bringing in of English forces;
the rest was in cipher not yet deciphered.—Berwick, 17 May
1573. Signed.
Add. Endd. by Burghley. Pp. 12/3. |
| May 17. |
967. H. Killegrew to Lord Burghley. |
|
Wishes himself able to relieve him of his burden, but sees
the impossibility thereof otherwise than by doing his duty,
and does not mistrust that after hard news he shall hear
better. This day at one in the afternoon some of the pieces
began to speak such language that it made them in the Castle
think more of God than they did before, and all men to think
the enterprise not so hard as before they took it to be. The
General does not doubt the matter, and yet captains and
soldiers desire that places may be thought unexpugnable that
their honor and desert may be the greater. Sees no cause to
complain of the Scottish forces, or fear of betrayal, unless he
would say it is a thing may be done, and so it may be
answered with great reason, "if the sky fall we shall take
larks." For anything the men can want above the Regent's
promise, he will see it performed, likewise if any soldier
have cause to complain of ill usage, either in lodging or
victualling, let them come to him, and he has offered openly
to see it remedied. The causes why he thinks the time
long are want of skill and want of hands not to fight but
to labour, at the first coming the soldiers should have put
to their hands, but they have kept themselves for the
battle, no exploit or enterprise has been done more than
was before by the Scots, nor well could without hazard
of men before this day and yesterday. The Englishmen
begin to play their parts to the comfort of the Scots
without and the terror of those within, and "upon my
word in all doings the Scottish soldiers arm in arm with
the English in like case, the gunners with ours, &c." Trusts
this friendliness will with the emulation of honor make both
strive who shall climb foremost if it come to the assault.
All the pieces for battery be planted saving six cannons, which
could not be done until now because the approach was dangerous and the place required great work in preparing, which
has made the General and all others say what proved not
that the battery should begin such a day, according to which
speeches he has written. If there be anything to be feared in
the achieving of the enterprise with speed it will be want of
powder, whereof the allowance is short of the proportion
sent up by Captain Errington by 15 or 17 last. When
the battery shall be once laid, which they say will be the
21st of the month, the matter will be at a point before the
end of the same. It has been hitherto with less blood
than if the ordnance had sooner been planted, and this
conjecture they have to lead them that they want store
of powder within, for they suffered all the ordnance to be
planted and shot yesterday all the afternoon without harm
from them. At the first there was a great and lamentable
cry within heard plainly of divers. Wishes all the rest were
as sufficient to discharge their offices as the gunners. The
artillery has been so long in planting that they within have
had plenty of time to build at every place where they may
be annoyed. Wishes for more powder, but before this comes
to his hands is sure it will be too late to send it from London.
Robert Hamilton who came last out of France is sent to the
Duke, between whom and the Regent there is great kindness.
This peace has renewed certain old private debates between
sundry noblemen, to wit the Earl of Athol and Mackintosh,
about a great slaughter committed in the Highlands. There
is some trouble between Lord Drummond and Lord Ruthven
upon the dispossession of the old Lady Drummond, aunt to
Lord Ruthven. Sir James Irwin confessing nothing in effect
is to be sent prisoner to Blackness. A messenger that came
with letters in cipher from the French Ambassador is taken,
and shall be hanged because he is a Scottish man and would
have gone into the Castle, whither some good fellow shot an
arrow three days past, which had about the head thereof
two bills, the one in cipher the other not. The enclosed is
the effect of that in cipher. The other was a copy of the
articles passed between the Regent and the General touching
the Castle. Upon this proclamation was made that all
soldiers or others who served in the last troubles against
the King, and now out of the hands, should depart and not
come within four miles of Edinburgh during the siege on
pain of death. The like was made of the wives of the
soldiers of the Castle remaining in the town. The Regent
has a guess at him that wrote the cipher and shot the arrow,
it should be young Barnboghe, Grange's nephew. Mr. Cecil
says he came to learn to be a soldier and not an ambassador,
and therefore continues with the General; the Regent has
bidden him be no stranger with him or his friends. There
is none small or great but does like well of him, and for one
thing above the rest, which is for serving of God at the times
convenient.—Edinburgh, 17 May, at night. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 6. |
| May 14. |
968. The Cipher shot into the Castle. |
|
The number of the Englishmen are not past six hundred.
The Castle was thought in the beginning a light matter, but
now it is thought a stronghold. They are undermining the fore
block-house and think to blow it up. The Marshal is lodged
in Robert Gurlaw's house. If they would bestow a shot on
that house when the Marshal and his company are in it
they shall be advertised by the shot of two harquebusses
out of a house, the windows whereof shall be stopped with
straw. The Englishmen and Scottish men are "mellit"
through with the others in the trenches, and keep stark in
the night. But if they would assay them, it would be done
in the daylight with thirty men or thereabouts at the fore
point of the block house, for there is no good watch kept there
in the day. If they be scant of men let him have a sign, and
he will hazard to come in and bring men with him. If they
suffer the powder to lie where it was, they have taken in
hand to shoot at it and set it on fire. Rochelle is not won.
In cipher, deciphered.
Endd. P. ½. Enclosure. |
| May 18. |
969. Sir W. Drury to Lord Burghley. |
|
Had good success yesterday by discharging and sending
into David's tower and other parts thirty-four demi-cannons,
a show of the good will they bear and owe them for their
obstinacy, which by the cannoniers were so well bestowed
that no man could better have wished them spent. After
the first "tier" of ordnance was discharged, great cries and
shouts were made by the women of the Castle, terming the
day and hour black. Notwithstanding the soldiers within
showed themselves in no small companies here and there, but
especially they showed many on the top of David's tower,
with great pride displaying two ensigns, and shooting at every
advantage they saw very near. But in fine the cannoniers plied
them so cunningly and well, and drove them so clean from
the tower top, that they once durst not look out or show
themselves. Prays that more powder may be sent to Berwick.
Caused three demi-cannons to be levelled at the place where
he judged in the night they would gather them unto, which
fell in the place where they wished.—Edinburgh, 18 May 1573.
Signed.
Add. Endd. P. 1. |
| May 14. |
970. The Cipher shot into the Castle. |
|
Copy of the enclosure to Killegrew's letter of the 17th May.
Endd. P. ¼. Enclosure. |
| May 18. |
971. Sir Valentine Browne to [Lord Burghley]. |
|
The battery is already begun with those pieces that be
already placed; it is looked that to night or to-morrow the
whole does set on. Has this morning sent to the camp the
fifty pioneers out of the Bishopric, and has received letters
from Drury for more money, wherewith he furnishes him
with one hundred pounds. It seems they mean to employ
much more provision than was looked for about the engines.
Beseeches him for a new supply of money, the days will be
run out on Friday next.—Berwick, 18 May 1573. Signed.
P. ½. |
| May 20. |
972. Valentine Dale to Lord Burghley. |
|
Understands from Rouen of the rigging of the ships at
Dieppe and along the rest of the coast, and though they do
and will pretend that it is done to withstand Montgomery's
attempts, yet he desires to know whether he shall make to
the King any motion thereof. The King has again sent to
Rochelle further articles of pacification. The Cardinal of
Lorraine has come very triumphantly to the Court. They
have already made loans in Paris, until their sales may be
made of the church lands. They be in the more jollity here,
because they do not hear that Montgomery attempts so much
to succour Rochelle, but makes himself strong about BelleIsle, where they do not fear him much. It is not yet well
known what is the cause of the imprisonment of the young
Rhinegrave, some say for evil words used of the King and
Queen Mother, touching the massacre of Paris or the overthrow at Mons, and some for secret and indirect practise with
the Prince of Orange. They are nothing sorry here for the
loss of the Duke of Alva upon the seas. It is reported that
Marshal Tavannes is dead.—Moret, 20 May 1573. Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. Pp. 1⅓. |
| May 20. |
973. Pietro Bizarri to Lord Burghley. |
|
Movements of the German and other troops intended for
service in Flanders. Orders have been given through all the
ports of the King Catholic that the Venetians are not to be
molested. Don John of Austria has commanded that all the
coast fortifications in Apulia should be inspected and put in
a good condition of defence. Munitions of war are also to be
sent to La Goletta. The ambassador of Venice has informed
the Cardinals appointed to receive him, that if he cannot
have audience with the Pope according to the tenor of his
commission, that he will return home again as he has been
directed to do. Levy of troops in Savoy and Milan for the
service of the King of Spain. Signor Gio: Egolpho à Knorringen, a canon of Wurtzburg, has been made Bishop of Augsburg.—Augsburg, 20 May 1573. Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. Ital. Pp. 1¼. |
| May 21. |
974. Queen Elizabeth to Catherine de Medicis. |
|
Has learnt by her letters and those of the Duke of Alençon,
and also through M. de la Mothe Fenelon, the great desire that
the Duke has to come over to England in the matter of the marriage, and has been required to declare her good will, and grant
the necessary safe conduct for the said journey. Cannot
promise to accept him as her husband before she has seen him.
If they will assure her that no offence will be taken, whatever
the event may be, she will grant the safe conduct required
for his journey.—Greenwich, 21 May 1573.
Copy. Fr. P. 1. |
| May 21. |
975. Queen Elizabeth to the Duke of Alençon. |
|
Is obliged to delay granting his request for a safe conduct
for certain reasons which she has communicated to the Queen
Mother, as she can never consent to accept any person as her
husband before having seen him.—21 May 1573.
Copy. Endd. Fr. P. ¾. |
| May 22. |
976. H. Killegrew to Lord Burghley and the Earl of
Leicester. |
|
Since his last writing the pieces beat their defences, and
then they began the battery in two places, which the
Castle, having been cold all this while, began to impeach
with hot shooting, but in vain, for none was hurt with their
great shot, but a common soldier was slain with a small shot.
This stayed a little the General's ordnance from battering, and
made him direct them for the dismounting of those pieces
which might hinder his battery. By this means Sir Henry
Lee's breach was in more forwardness, which lies at the northwest side of the town at their postern gate, so that he was
fain to breathe him, lest he be too forward. If the General
want not powder, the matter in two days will be ready for
the assault, which he sees men willing to give. Some faults
have been committed through negligence or want of skill,
that have made him become a pioneer these two nights, for
making two mounts to flank the breaches. The mine is not
come to the place but as near as may be, but the General has
so many things to do that he cannot answer all that is to be
done. The gunners to his judgment have done their part
best of any of their quality. Although he has no office
pertaining to the wars, yet must he be doing somewhat,
because the General has not the help he looked for, yet Sir
Henry Lee, Sir George Cary, Sir Francis Russell, Mr. Cecil,
and Mr. Knowles be both painful and vigilant. The powder
is not yet come from Berwick, which is some discouragement.
—Edinburgh, 22 May. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 2. |
| May 23. |
977. Sir Henry Lee to Lord Burghley. |
|
Of his former suspected doubts there is no sign; they remain
doubtful yet hope the best, each man's force is ready to with
stand the worst. Craves his favor for the better furthering
of that licence which it pleased him to get for him from the
Queen.—Edinburgh, 23 May. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 1⅓. |
| May 23. |
978. Sir W. Drury to Lord Burghley. |
|
On the 21st the cannoniers began to batter David's tower
and a curtain where the night before the Castilians had
placed certain cannons to annoy a mount called by his own
name, from which they suffered them to shoot many shots
against their wills. When they began they ceased not from
shooting till they had sent twenty-five cannon shot, whereby
the cannoniers, labourers, and some others were often buried
with earth, during which service although so hot he lost not
a man, neither any hurt but one whose head took a knock
with a stone. All this while the cannoniers ceased not, by
whose perfect shooting into their "lowpes" their ordnance was
so well displaced that they could no more send that day,
forgetting to send as they had promised cannon for cannon.
Their small shot they plied the English with all this time, as
they do them day and night, whereby one was slain and two
or three others hurt. How they speed within he cannot
judge by reason of the height they dwell on. After finishing
hereof a great part of David's tower fell. The understanding
of the powder to be sent does not a little glad him. Mr.
Cecil does very orderly behave himself.—Edinburgh, 23 May
1573. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. 1. |
| May 24. |
979. H. Killegrew to Sir Valentine Browne. |
|
Trusts he is better of his sickness, whereby he may better
take substantial order for Verac and such like at their coming,
whom the Regent will not have come hither. If Lord Livingstone come, let him stay till the Regent's mind be known, and
James Livingstone is not to be suffered to come till the Castle
be at some other point. The powder came surely and in good
time. The King has had the small pox and begins to be well
again; at Stirling all the youth almost were infected with the
same disease. The Regent acquits himself well, and the
Scottishmen will not leave the company of the English, if
the matter come to assault; all this while they have lived
brotherly together without dissension. Trusts he will return
Verac with speed to London, and send some one that may see
his doings by the way; there is a Scottish boy that brought
a letter from him, who is hanged for his labour. The cipher
is supposed to have been intended for Lethington, although
the messenger delivered the same to Archibald Ruthven.—
Edinburgh 24 May. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 2. |
| May 24. |
980. Sir Valentine Browne to [Lord Burghley]. |
|
The ship with the ten lasts of powder is arrived at the
haven in safety. Has dispatched advertisement to the general
to know his pleasure what should be done with the same.—
Berwick, 24 May 1573. Signed. |
|
P. ⅓. |
| May 26. |
981. Valentine Dale to Lord Burghley. |
|
1. The President of Tours is now at the court to have his
dispatch unto the Queen of Scots, touching the account of
her dowry upon the passport of the Queen's Majesty. He
seems a man of a very inventive head, and is taken to be a
man of practice, and chosen expressly by the Cardinal of
Lorraine. |
|
2. Jacomo, Mr. Walsingham's man, sent word from Paris,
that the Scotsman who came over with silks to the Scottish
Queen, vaunts that, notwithstanding all the diligence which
was used, he conveyed letters to her and brought letters from
her which he carried under the "toas of his feete." As for
Monsieur's mine at Rochelle, they of the town have made a
very deep ditch along inside the walls, and pits in their
bulwarks to "event" any mine that should be made under
the same. From the camp it is advertised that Montgomery
sent in a ship privily to Rochelle with 25 barrels of powder,
and has promised the town aid within 15 days. They make
great rejoicing here at the election of Monsieur as King of
Poland; but are much grieved with the matters of Scotland.
The Cardinal of Lorraine is much made of at the Court, and
is busy gathering the clergy to make money. |
|
3. Tavannes is not yet dead, but so sick that Madame de
Retz came to the court upon hope that her husband should
have his office.—Moret, 26 May 1573. Signed. |
|
4. P.S.—Commends the diligence and fidelity of the bearer
Thomas Vale. On the 18th instant there was a skirmish
before Rochelle, where the townsmen lost 30 good soldiers,
and the others about 60, amongst whom there is great moan
made for Puygalliard, governor of Angers. Notwithstanding
their humble submission and great presents, the Pope cannot be
induced to be reconciled to the Venetians. The King's
ambassador has written out of Spain, that the King of Spain
made the Venetian ambassador a mild answer, that if the
Venetians thought good to make their peace with the Turk
he was not offended. The Venetians have sent Messer
Andrea Badovero to be their ambassador resident with the
Turk. The Turk minds not to make any great preparation
this year. Such forces as he has by land he is determined to
employ against the Sophy.
Add. Endd., with seal. Pp. 3¼. |
| May 26. |
982. The Count of Montgomery to Lord Burghley. |
|
Has just arrived, and sends the bearer, his son, to inform
him of what has passed during his late voyage. Intends to
start with the first fair wind for the Isle of Wight, and desires
that he will send instructions by the bearer as to what he
shall do next.—Plymouth, 26 May. Signed.
Add. Endd. Fr. P. ¼. |
| May 27. |
983. H. Killegrew to Lord Burghley. |
|
Sees no cause to doubt of Hamilton or Huntley, or of the
good success of the enterprise by force or treaty. Verac's
man is to be dispatched to his master with answer that he
cannot come hither. Means to carry Mr. Cecil before his
return to see the King, the Blackness, and Dumbarton. The
Castilians desire to speak with him and the general whereupon there is an abstinence; the Regent cannot with the
King's honor and the concurrence between the Queen and
King in this action suffer them to treat without he be a
party; will do the best he may that he be not offended, for
by the "sorte" of Rochelle there is need to keep him and this
country in good devotion. The Scottish will not be behind
at an attempt against the Castle.—Edinburgh, 27 May.
Signed.
Add. Endd. P. 1. |
| May 27. |
984. H. Killegrew to Lord Burghley and the Earl of
Leicester. |
|
About 5 o'clock at afternoon the Captain of the Castle and
Robert Melvil, for whom Sir Henry Lee and George Fleck
the Regent's servant went in, came to him and the general
and to the Lord Boyd for the Regent. The effect of their
demands was to have surety for the lives and livings of all
that were within, that Lethington and Lord Home because
of particular quarrels might go into England, and Grange to
remain in Scotland, with a licence to depart the realm if he
found himself ill-used, that they might have their goods
within the Castle, and to deliver the rest with their obedience
to the King and Regent; farther that the Countess of Argyle
might not be delivered into her husband's hands. To all
this it was answered that he should put his submission and
petitions in writing and deliver the same in the morning at
6 o'clock, and he should receive answer. The ship with
powder is come to Leith. The Regent confesses that he
was suitor to stay Verac in England, willing him not
to come here but on his peril; his man is commanded to
depart in the morning under pain of imprisonment. The
Regent would have Verac returned to London, and heed taken
he take not shipping to land in any other place.—Edinburgh,
27 May, at night. Signed.
Add. Endd. by Burghley. Pp. 2. |
| May 28. |
985. Sir W. Drury to Lord Burghley. |
|
Desired Killegrew to inform him of the winning of the
Spur, which if it had been well manned, or had had but the
accustomed number, which were under twenty, would hardly
have been gotten. Mr. Cecil does well, and only stays to see
an end, which by fair means or force will be seen within five
days, and then he will return to the house at Burghley. Will
not hearken to the requests of the Castilians farther than
the Regent and the Ambassador shall allow of. The ten lasts of
powder came yesterday.—Edinburgh, 28 May. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. 1. |
| May 28. |
986. Sir W. Drury to the Privy Council. |
|
Stood at first in good hope to get the Spur from the Castilians by undermining, and so to have blown up part of the
wall, but perceiving it to require a longer time than might be
spared, as well in that the service grows towards ripeness for
the assault, as to keep them occupied from working themselves
into new strengths, did on the 26th in the morning scale the
same by force of men, and not long after enjoyed it. That
time of day was best liked being the time those within the
Castle were accustomed to take rest, and that the danger of
the ordnance might be eschewed, and every man's part therein
better perceived. Before the enterprise was put in execution
some soldiers were appointed to attempt the breach at the
back of the Castle, to draw them to defend the same, in which
attempt eight soldiers were hurt and slain, and at the winning
of the Spur twenty soldiers, or thereabouts. Not long after
the Castilians sent word they had good desire to speak with
him, and after speech together for more than two hours it
was promised that this day they would give in writing their
minds. The powder come hither yesterday.—Edinburgh,
28 May 1573. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. 1. |
| May 28. |
987. Conditions of the Surrender of Edinburgh Castle. |
|
The Castle of Edinburgh being recovered by the forces of
England shall be rendered with the munitions, jewels, &c.,
to the King's behoof and the Regent in his name, within such
convenient space as shall be appointed. The whole prisoners
being within the Castle shall come forth single without
armour and submit themselves to the mercy of the King and
Regent, and shall all be pardoned and suffered to pass where
they please except Lord Home, Grange, Lethington, John Maitland of Coldinghame, the Bishop of Dunkeld, Robert Logan of
Restalig, Robert Melvil, Alexander Creighton, and Pitarrow,
who shall be reserved and kept until the knowledge of the
Queen's advice. James Mossman and James Cockey shall
likewise be reserved prisoners. The soldiers shall be suffered
to bring forth their own bag and baggage. They of the Castle
must give declaration of their acceptation or refusal betwixt
this and nine hours of the night.—Holyrood House, 28 May
1573.
Endd. by Killegrew. P. 2/3. |
|
988. Another copy.
Endd. P. 2/3. |
|
989. Another copy.
Endd. P. 1. |
|
990. Another copy.
Endd. P. 2/3. |
| May 29. |
991. Surrender of Edinburgh Castle. |
|
The Regent with the advice of the secret council ordains
a herald or any other officer of arms to pass to the market
cross of Edinburgh and other places needful, and there by
open proclamation charge all the King's subjects that they
suffer the soldiers and others within the Castle who have been
pardoned to pass where they please, and in no wise to attempt
to do them violence or injury in body or baggage, or use any
manner of reproach in word or action against them, under
pain of death.
Endd. P. ½. |
| May 30. |
992. Advertisements from France. |
|
1. M. de L'Autray upon suspicion that he was an espial
being put on the rack at two several times, confessed that
there were certain gentlemen of good account in the camps at
Sancerre and Rochelle who advertised the townsmen from
time to time of all their enterprises. From the 13th inst.
until this day there have been done three sundry exploits
upon the Bastillion de l'Evangile; in the first M, de Guatz
entered by surprise, but in the end was driven out with loss;
in the second he and M. de St. Colomb were sore hurt; in
the third it is reported that one Besme (who in the late
massacre at Paris slew the Admiral) had his thigh stricken
quite off with a cannon, and a great number besides slain or
hurt. On the 21st the Rochellois sallied out and "cloyed"
four great pieces of artillery, and brought away with them
six ensigns. Monsieur was determined to give the general
assault on the 28th inst. MM. de Retz and Fiasque departed
on the 22nd with 20 ships and six galleys to drive Montgomery out of Belle Isle, and he perceiving them too strong
for him has forsaken the isle. |
|
2. News from Flanders of succours of Spaniards and
Germans who have lately come to the Duke of Alva. |
|
3. Those of Navarin daily increase in numbers. Six ships
have entered Rochelle. The clergy are to meet very shortly
at Paris for the granting of their money. There is a rate
made that they should pay 60,000,000,000 franks (sic) for
the payment of the King's debts. They impute the election
of Monsieur to the worthiness of his person and to the
oration of Monsieur de Valence, others judge that it was
through fear lest the Emperor's son being so mighty would
make the kingdom hereditary. It is agreed that the clergy
shall contribute 300,000 crowns to the charges of Monsieur.
The King has dismissed his men of arms to refresh themselves till June 20. The Marshal of Poland is looked for
very shortly as ambassador from thence.
Endd. Pp. 2½. |
|
993. Copy of the above.
Endd. Pp. 2. |
| May 30. |
994. Sir W. Drury to Lord Burghley. |
|
Thought good to address Sir Henry Lee to the court to
report on the good conformity grown to with the Castilians;
his diligent travail and service in this exploit deserve great
commendation. Has willed the bearer to declare to him
touching his own particular, which he beseeches him have
consideration of.—Edinburgh, 30 May 1573. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. 1. |
| May 31. |
995. Ralph Lane to Lord Burghley. |
|
North has already spoken with Spillman, and received
from him a letter from the Duke of Alva, which he sends
herewith. Sends also a note of the articles subscribed by the
Duke which Spillman keeps. To-morrow or the next day
there comes a Spanish captain like a merchant, who is to
take their musters, and who brings order for the disbursement
of so much money as is expressed besides the 12 lasts of
powder. Lewis Larder's offer touching the surprising of
Flushing is not liked by the Duke. By this new order they
must be ready in Lowestoft Roads the 25th of June to be
bestowed where the Duke's commissioner shall appoint.—
London, 31 May 1573. Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. P. 1. |
|
996. Agreement for the Hire of certain Ships by the Duke of
Alva. |
|
Twelve ships of charge to be ready in Lowestoft Roads
by the 25th June, whereof the Admiral to be 140 tons, with
six cast brass and six iron pieces, and six quarter slings, 40
small shot, and 20 bows and 40 sheaves of arrows, with 120
men; the other vessels to be furnished in proportion to their
size. The captains to be bound as Catholic professors to
serve the Duke against all princes except the Queen of
England, and to receive as many soldiers as it shall please
the Duke to put in them, and to land them in what country
soever the Duke shall direct. The time of service to be four
months, and the ships to have one French crown a ton.
Pay and allowance for victual given. 500l. to be presently
disbursed in prest.
Pp. 1½. Enclosure. |
| May 31. |
997. Valentine Dale to the Queen. |
|
1. Had procured audience against the very time that he
received her letters, which was the 27th instant, of special
purpose to "feel" some such matter of the King and Queen
Mother as might be meet for Her Majesty to know. And
because the King was then presently ready to take his horse
towards his hunting, besides his usual shortness, he had the
less particular speech with him, and when he began to declare
Her Majesty's great good will to understand of the quietness
of his realm, he answered shortly that she should be assured
of the like amity of his part, which he hoped would now
increase, both by the new good fortune of his brother, and by
the further alliance which he trusted should grow by the
matters begun between her and his brother. On Dale's
reminding him what great regard Her Majesty thought there
should be to foresee that it might not be any diminution of
amity between them, if things should not take such effect as
was wished, he said that he thought all should be well, and
so shortly ended. The Queen Mother was very desirous to
know what was Her Majesty's inclination towards M. le Duc.
Dale said that there could be no doubt of her good liking to
the amity between the two realms, but he was expressly
commanded to remind her to have great care that the matter
might be so dealt that there might be no occasion of diminishing of that amity if the matter should not take place.
She answered that her son would abide that danger, but that
she hoped that all things would be to his expectation. Talking of the election of Monsieur to the crown of Poland, she
made account that he would pass by way of Calais and
Dantzic, as it is to be doubted what will fall out between
Germany and them. Could get nothing out of her touching
the affairs of France, but that Montgomery either was or
shortly should be driven from BelleIsle. |
|
2. At a later audience the Queen Mother assured him of
the sincerity of M. d'Alençon's desire to visit the Queen
after the taking of Rochelle, which she doubted not would be
shortly won by force, and that he would think his travail
well bestowed however it happened, and also for the King's
part they would not mislike anything howsoever it fell out.—
Moret, 31 May 1573. Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. Pp. 3¾. |
|
998. Copy of the above.
Pp. 7. |
| May 31. |
999. Valentine Dale to Lord Burghley. |
|
Has written unto Her Majesty at large, and particularly his
whole doings, whereby he may perceive that the desire of
M. le Duc to come into England is not feigned. The matter
of Rochelle cumbers them all. Thanks him for Thomas
Wilks, his secretary, who is sufficient for that college and a
better place. Knows that the statutes will bear him out, as
he was of that college [All Souls] himself. Complains of the
dearness of everything in France, and thinks it is requisite
that the Queen should appoint some one living or other
on him who shall serve her there.—Moret, 31 May 1573.
Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. Pp. 1⅓. |
| May 31. |
1000. Valentine Dale to Lord Burghley. |
|
1. Sends him a copy of his letter to the Queen. Their
own commodity here moves them to be desirous of Her
Majesty's amity, and therefore they will condescend unto
anything, but as touching the performance it lies in God's
hands. The Scottish matters are canvassed here with the
Cardinals of Lorraine and Guise by the Scottish Queen's
Ambassador, but he cannot perceive any hope that they have,
and therefore the Scots of that faction were never more
submissive. The Ambassador came to Dale himself to move
him for Vergys, that is coming over for the Scottish Queen's
accounts, wherein he gave him courteous answer; but when
he began to enter into further talk that England dealt sore
with them at that time, he passed over into other matter.
They are at their wits' end for Rochelle and wish it had been
never begun, fain would the two Dukes be about their own
business and let the matters of the realm alone; they will
not tarry for composition, and wise men think the assault will
be over dangerous and doubtful. Sends him his collection of
the French estate as he gathered it in England. Gondi has
been sent to him and the other ambassadors with news of
the publication of the King of Poland's election, and in the
end opened to him that they heard, that the Queen of England
armed her ships. Told him that it was to waft the wool
ships for doubt of them of Flushing.—Moret, 31 May 1573.
Signed. |
|
2. P.S.—Brulart is sent to Rochelle of late with most large
articles of pacification. The young Queen is much made of,
to the end she may pacify her friends in Germany. The
Queen of Navarre has been sick of late, and is not with child
at this present. Sends him a plot of Rochelle; although
Monsieur lies in the dike under the curtain, yet the rampart
is theirs of the town, and what trenches or fosses are within
are not known, but there are divers gabions and platforms
which command the rampart at the place of the breach.
There happened a fray yesternight between the servants of
the Pope's Nuncio and those of the Spanish Ambassador,
wherein two of the Nuncio's servants are hurt. There is like
to be some business about it.
Pp. 3½. |
| May 31. |
1001. Sir Valentine Browne to Lord Burghley. |
|
Without speedy supply of money the Queen's charge will
be the longer continued for want of pay, which now upon
the cassing of the bands must needs be had. The whole of
the bands, except some to attend the ordnance that may stay
for want of wind, will be retired within eight days. Has
extended the pays only to the 2nd June, so that the days that
shall be more spent in that realm must be borne with such
money as may be gotten among the merchants, to be repaid
in English money, which being beneficial to them, they must
be forced unto. Trusts the service being brought to this
prosperous end will be comfortable to the Queen and Council.
—Berwick, last of May 1573. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. 2/3. |
|
1002. Siege of Edinburgh Castle. |
|
Prests and other payments made for the army in Scotland
since the last reckoning, viz., for the space of 16 days,
beginning on Monday the 18th May, and ending on Tuesday
the 2nd June 1573, amounting to 1,255l. 7s. 8d. There is
laid out more than is received in the 16 days 7l. 5s. 6d. The
charges to continue in tarrying about the dismounting of
the ordnance and retiring to Berwick are esteemed at 10 days,
to be fully finished the 12th June, and so the whole money
to be supplied for the cashing of the charges 1,137l. 15s. 6d.
Endd. Pp. 3. Enclosure. |
| May. |
1003. News from Italy. |
|
From Naples there is news that the Turk has put to sea
with 300 galleys as is thought for La Goletta or Malta.
Preparations made for the defence of Malta, and movements
of the King of Spain's navy. The Venetians are disarming,
and are desirous of a peace with the Turk.
Endd. Ital. Pp. 1½. |
| May. |
1004. Names of English Catholic Gentlemen of the
Faction. |
|
Sir Thomas Cornwallis, Sir Henry Jernyngham, Sir Edward
Bennyfield, Sir Thomas Lovel, Mr. Hayer, and Mr. Rows, of
whom the meanest gentleman may dispend a thousand marks
yearly. They have the mass and other Catholic service in
their own house, and come not to their parish church, neither
will they come to this heretical and schismatical service now
used in this realm of England, supported by the Duke (of
Norfolk). Sir Nicholas Strange, chamberlain to the Duke,
a cold Protestant. Sir Richard Fulmerstone, his treasurer, a
Catholic; his comptroller is also a Catholic. Mr. Barker, his
secretary, a Catholic. Mr. James Guilford and Mr. Nicholas
Myne, his collector at the court and London, both Catholics.
Mr. Haselte, his collector for his matters concerning the law,
a Catholic.
Endd.: "Found in Edinburgh Castle." P. 1. |
| May. |
1005. Advices from the Duke of Alva. |
|
Middleburg and Armuden have been revictualled, and
Haarlem is so closely blockaded that the Duke hopes soon
to be able to punish the rebels inside that town. On the
9th May, 1,300 of the enemy endeavouring to seize on the
dikes between Amsterdam and Utrecht were defeated by
certain garrisons in the neighbourhood. The Duke desires
that the Queen will prevent her subjects from coming over
to trouble the dominions of his master. On the 8th May
those of Flushing sustained a great defeat from the Spaniards.
In addition to the Spanish infantry which came from Italy,
there have been levies of troops in Germany to uphold the
authority of the King.
Endd. by Burghley. Span. Pp. 1¼. |
| May. |
1006. Advices from Italy. |
|
1. Vienna, 12 May 1573.—Election in Poland. Threats
and promises of the Muscovites and Turks. |
|
2. Venice, 23 May.—Reported intended interference of the
King of Spain in the affairs of Pitagliano in behalf of the
Farnese family. Disarmament of the Venetian fleet, with
the exception of 12 galleys for the purpose of guarding the
gulf from corsairs. |
|
3. Rome, 26 May 1573.—News of the Papal Court.
Skirmish near Pitagliano. Unsuccessful attempt of Montgomery to relieve Rochelle. Capture of a corsair. It is
reported at Turin that the Duke of Medina Celi will marry
a daughter of the Prince of Orange, who will then lay down
his arms and be restored. |
|
4. Padua, 18 May.—At Padua there have fallen drops of a
red colour like blood, and the writer encloses some leaves
stained by them. The common people regard this as a
portent.
Endd. Ital. Pp. 5½. |
| May. |
1007. Advices from Italy. |
|
1. Venice, 30 May 1573.—The Duke of Anjou has been
elected King of Poland, to the great displeasure of the Czar
of Muscovy. Depredations by corsairs. |
|
2. Genoa, 15 May.—Account of preparations for an expedition to go to Goletta. |
|
3. Naples, 15 May.—Departure of the son of Ali Bassa. |
|
4. Rome, 23.—Expected attempt of the Turks upon Goletta.
News of the Papal Court. Siege of Rochelle. |
|
5. Vienna, 20.—Discontent at the election of the Duke of
Anjou.
Endd. by Burghley. Ital. Pp. 4¾. |
| [May.] |
1008. Election of the King of Poland. |
|
"A pleasant discourse upon the French King, Charles IX.;
offers to make his brother King of Polonia; and upon the
prophecy that Queen Mother shall see all her sons kings."
States that the prediction that Catherine de Medicis should
see all her sons kings was the cause of the suit of the Duke
of Alençon for the hand of Queen Elizabeth, and also of the
candidature of the Duke of Anjou for the crown of Poland.
Recapitulates the different promises that Charles the Ninth
has made to the Poles; with comments on each of them,
principally inveighing against his tyranny, perfidy, and
inability to perform his engagements. Prophesies an evil
ending to Charles, his brothers, and the Queen Mother.
Endd. Lat. Pp. 4. |
| [May.] |
1009. Rough Notes concerning the Siege of Edinburgh
Castle. |
|
The names of such as were in the Castle when it rendered,
in number 200 men, women, and children. There were at
the siege 1,500 Englishmen and 500 Scots. There were, one
with another, 30 pieces of artillery. Part of the spoil of the
Castle was given to the soldiers, the cannons, munitions, &c.,
were left to the King; if the Englishmen by force had taken
it, it was decreed they should have had the whole spoil except
the artillery, and so should have enjoyed it for the space of
three days. The Castle was besieged in five places, where
were erected mounts. Names of the captains, thirteen in
number. The siege was begun 29th April, and the Castle
was taken 28th May 1573. Causes of surrender. 1. Lack of
water, the well within the Castle was stopped and defiled
with ruins; the other, which was without, could not serve
them for there was a mount made to hinder them; another
water there was which was unknown to them without, and
taken when the Spur was taken, out of which they were wont
to have a pint a day for each soldier. 2. Divers sick. 3.
Divers hurt. 4. Not many to maintain the Castle, which
had no space to take any rest, they were so plied and outwearied. 5. Divers divided in opinion from the rest. 6. Some
were no soldiers, and came from friendship only. 7. No aid
was to be looked for; James Kyrkcaldy being taken coming
out of France with powder and other things necessary. Verac
had the last leave to go thither, but as he came to Berwick
the Castle was rendered, and afterwards he sending for a
passport from the Regent he was answered he should tell his
master that he sent another man, for he was but a knave,
they knew his dealings so well. Ten do stand upon the
Queen's mercy. Executed of them that were taken the Laird
of Grange, Constable of the Castle, James Kyrkcaldy, his
brother, and two more. The battery began on Trinity
Sunday, 17th May.
Partly in Latin. Pp. 4. |
