Elizabeth: November 1582, 1-10

Calendar of State Papers Foreign: Elizabeth, Volume 16, May-December 1582. Originally published by His Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1909.

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'Elizabeth: November 1582, 1-10', in Calendar of State Papers Foreign: Elizabeth, Volume 16, May-December 1582, (London, 1909) pp. 426-441. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/foreign/vol16/pp426-441 [accessed 25 April 2024]

November 1582, 1–10

Nov 1 437.Cobham to Walsingham
Whereas at the time of my last access to their Majesties I found in the king's great chamber 'Maghoganan' with his cousin Nugent, who I wrote is deputed towards Rome, Mac Geoghagan is since come to me with contrition and submission, assuring me and others that he is not only parted from his cousin and all his practices, but from the unloyal disposition of all others his countrymen, though his estate yet compels him to haunt their company: which he has been contented the rather to do upon the consideration of those persuasions I have at sundry times used to him for the remembering of his allegiance to his Majesty, advertising him of the little respect other strange princes have of rebels. Wherewith he is now fully resolved to stay in these parts, with intent to continue his suit to her Majesty for the obtaining of his pardon, with great desire, in recompense of his offences, to serve her faithfully hereafter. He has set down in writing the circumstances of his offences towards her and her government, together with his submission and humble suit for pardon, and has yielded and promised to discover what he knows to have been done or 'pretended' hereafter to be executed by his cousin or countrymen; nothing doubting but that he will be able to perform such exploits and services against the Irishmen that he will make certain proof of his sincere endeavours. This he has promised me in all faithful manner. Notwithstanding, he somewhat mistrusts his pardon will the hardlier be granted, in respect he heard tell his 'living' had been given to others; nevertheless if it be so, he will hope there is sufficient forfeited by sundry rebels to satisfy that party in recompense of his lands. Besides he has some opinion Sir — 'Dillann' will work some continuance of his 'woo,' in respect his bastard brother depended upon the said Sir — 'Dillann.' If you find that this may be for her Majesty's service, I beseech you to favour his suit and to give me leave to 'betake' him into your protection, if you please; which I desire the rather because be seems to me to be of a tall personage, of manly behaviour, modest, very penitent, and exceedingly unwilling to remain in her Highness's indignation, and this faithful manner of dealing may hereafter recompense his former evil deeds. Vouchsafe to let me understand, as soon as you conveniently may, what her Majesty resolves in his behalf, for his bare estate cannot well abide long delay.—Paris, 1 November 1582.
P.S. (autograph).—Because you wished I should observe Nugent and those Irish rebels' actions, I judged it the best means to discover the pack and to weaken the party, 'for' to draw a shaste (?) out of the sheaf; upon consideration whereof I have plucked 'Maghogagan' from thence, so that he rests at her Majesty's devotion, ready to discover what has passed, and their intents. It is reported among the Irish here that 'Maccartamore' has joined the Earl of Desmond.
Add. Endd. 1½ pp. [France VIII. 98.]
Nov 4 438. (1.) “Here follow the names of such councillors of the Duke of Cleve as I do know.”
P. Herr van Willik, Lord of Diffort, Steward by succession of the Duke of Cleves, and Councillor to the Duke. He was sent with Queen Anne, the Duke's sister, to England.
Marshal 'Waktendong,' Councillor indifferent. (?)
P. The Seneschal 'Waktendong,' Councillor.
P. Dietrik van Eikel, Councillor, at present ambassador with the Duke of Prussia.
R. Doctor Weez, Chancellor of Cleveland and Councillor.
R. Doctor Loureman, Councillor.
P. Herr van Ked, Councillor and Governor of the city of Ravensburg.
P. Herr van Paland, Kammermeister and Councillor of Juliers.
P. Her Ketler, Kammermeister and Councillor of Juliers.
P. Her Romburg, Councillor and principal Master of the Duke's horse.
R. Her van 'Osembroug,' Steward of the house and Councillor of Juliers.
P. Qu'adt (?) Herr Wickrat, Councillor; sometime ambassador to the Duke of Alençon.
The Duke of Cleves has one son called Jehan, 'and is' administrator of Minister; about the age of 20 years, and is to succeed his father.
He has four daughters, the eldest married to the Duke of Prussia, Marquis of Brandenburg. The other sisters are married to the two Dukes of 'Zweibrouk,' alias Deuxponts, brothers.
The fourth sister remains with the duke her father, and to her the Earl of Arenberg is suitor, but misliked of the country; who for the most part are Protestants, and the earl a Papist, and at this last Diet ambassador from the King of Spain.
The duke has a sister yet alive, 'and was' sister to Queen Anne. She was never married, but continues with the duke her brother, living but a solitary life, and very zealous in the Religion, which is the chief cause of her solitariness.
The Duke of Cleves is to succeed to the Earldom of Moers if the Earl of 'Newnar' die without issue. The duke and earl are at some controversy, because the earl will not acknowledge the duke for his prince in a lordship called Bedbar, but the archbishop of 'Colein,' who is a secret friend of his.
(2.) 4 November, 1582.—“A note of such towns as hold at this present for the King of Spain, others for the Duke of Alençon, 'situate and about' the Rivers of Maas. Waal, Rhine, and Yssel.”
Upon the Maas the king has: Upon the Waal the duke has: Upon the River Rhine the king has: Upon the River Yssel the king has:
'Beleluc' [sic] Gorickum 'Brevoirde' Bronkhorst besieged at my coming away
Mcgen Anholt
Battenburg Bommcl Werode
'Medler' Hoerden Groll
Blyenbeck Tiel Ghoes
Stralen Nymegon Oldezeel [sic]
Ruremond Kcrpen
Maestricht
The Duke of Alençon has: The duke has: The duke has:
Grave Schoonhoven Doesborg
Gelder Vianen Keppel
Venlo Wyk Zutphen
Wachtendonk Culenborg Deventer
Rhenen 'Suol' [sic]
Wageningen Lochem
Arnheim
'Tsherenberge'
Dotikum
Nota.—The duke keeping these towns on the River Yssel, the king's forces cannot pass the river; and by that means the whole country of Utrecht is quiet and safe to travel to and fro, especially since the raising of the siege before Lochem and the taking of Keppel, a nobleman's castle which has done great harm in that country.
In hand of Audley Danett. Probably enclosed in the next. Endd. 2 pp. [Germany II. 48.]
Nov 4 439. Audley Danett to Walsingham
The late enterprise for Louvain of which I wrote in my last of Oct. 28, did not take that success which was expected, and which ought easily have ensued if the matter had been performed in such order as was convenient. They carried with them only three ladders, and those, being set to the wall, were much too short. The assailants, who should have approached the place in great silence, went to the service with an 'alarm,' as though they had gone to an assault at a breach. M. de 'Saint Cevall,' not acquainted with the service in these countries nor with the site of the town, failed in his directions; otherwise it is thought the place might have been surprised. The French gentlemen showed good forwardness, but the common soldiers, having marched all the way in the vanguard, were content when they approached the town to make way for our English/who kept the 'battle,' to pass through, and gave them leave to give the attempt alone. There were slain of the English only four, and Captain Wilson shot through the neck, but not in any danger of death.
About the same time was an attempt by M. de Saint-Luc, la Barre, and others of his Highness's Court, to surprise Lire; but finding the watch good, by the advice of M. de Villiers, marshal of the camp, who had the 'conduction,' they attempted nothing. This, as it is thought, was not done without good judgement of the marshal, though the French, in a scorn, 'impute it to his wisdom.'
By my last, I durst not write of the loss of l'Escluse, not far from Cambray; both since it might not be believed here at first, the garrison being all French, and that M. de 'Balenge,' governor of Cambray, had lately written to his Highness that it would hold coutre die mille coups de canon, and thereof prayed him to be assured. The loss of Cambrésis and of l'Esluse is some disgrace to the French, and gives ordinary men some liberty of speech especially their army being so near at hand and supposed to be of that strength which was reported. It is now thought the enemy finds their small ability to enter, having lately retired most of his forces from thence into Brabant, and placed them besides Nynhoven; which being unfurnished with victuals, and of no great force to make any resistance, is accounted here as already yielded.
All this last week, notwithstanding the ceremony of All Souls' Day, which has not been omitted, his Highness has daily sat in council in his own chamber from between 9 and 10 in the morning till 5 at night, only his hour for dinner excepted. The Prince, using to break his fast in the morning, has likewise tarried all day. It is thought they are about the ordering of the army. Mr Norris has continually been called to this council, and so have others of the French gentlemen, and have not come forth till evening. His Highness continues his great affection and countenance toward Mr Norris, both in his sports and serious matters; and that in so large a degree that some of the nearest about him already 'in countenance' somewhat repine thereat. What may be the end of it I know not, and therefore forbear to write any conjection in this behalf.
On Friday the 2nd inst. our English forces were on foot to have gone to Brussels, to remain there in garrison; but the States of Brabant made suit that before their going thither they might attempt the winning of a castle not far from this, town. Hereupon they were suddenly stayed; and news is since come that the enemy has taken Nynhoven, and is come before Brussels. But the truth is not known, nor the bruit greatly believed; yet it is feared it may so fall out ere long, and then have our Englishmen lost their garrison for this year.
I understand from Mr Norris that the French army is resolved to come forward, being about 5,000 foot, besides 3,500 Swiss, and between 800 and 900 horse; and that they stay only for his Highness's direction to know which way they shall make their entry, which it is supposed will not be by Cambray but rather by way of Flanders.
Certain companies of Scots in garrison at Meenen are sent for to come hither, and Colonel Preston, who was determined to send into Scotland for new men to till up his regiment, is commanded to the contrary. To the like effect letters are said to be sent from hence to Colonel Stewart into Scotland, upon a bruit of some force to be levied by him there for the making up of his companies; all which grows upon some presumption that the Scots of late are become Spanish. Yet some say, herein lies another mystery, for it is not to be thought that these services generally will be so lightly regarded.—Antwerp, 4 Noveniber 1582.
Add. Endd. 2 pp. [Holl. and Fl. XVII. 52.]
Nov 4 440. Stokes to Walsingham
In my last, of the 28th ult. I wrote you of all the occurrences that were here at that present. Since that time these speeches have passed here.
The enemy has gathered a small camp between Lille and Cortrick to the number of 3,000 foot and 800 horse, so that it seems they have some enterprise to be done on the sudden. But where they will be is not yet known, saving it is feared they will come and spoil all the country round about this town, for they have divers times threatened to do it, and now they may do it very well, for here is no man able to withstand them.
The speech here is, the enemy has taken l'Escluse, which stands upon a river beside Douay; a place of some importance. They brought to it 13 cannons, 'who' played at it certain days, and when those within saw that no aid came according to promise, they gave it over by agreement. The loss of it greatly discourages these parts, for they say if the French army had been so strong and so many in number as is here given out, the enemy durst never have brought the cannon abroad to besiege any town so 'nyre' the frontiers as that town is; so I see they greatly faint of that good hope which they lately had.
The speech is come from Cortrick and also from Lille that the Prince of Parma is retiring his camp from Artois and those parts, and will either bring them into Flanders or Brabant; which greatly shows that he does not fear the coming of the French army, so that they make here great doubts of many things. God send them better news.
There is also news here that the Malcontents had almost taken St. Quintin's by some intelligence that they had in the town. But it was perceived before it was ripe, and as they write, that was one cause why the Prince of Parma marched so hastily towards those parts. He has caused the town and castle of Cambrésis to be razed flat down to the ground, for it was a place of small strength and not to be kept.
In the enemy's camp is great want of victuals, for which cause the Prince of Parma has written to all the towns about Douay and those parts to send to the camp as much victuals as they can spare. The towns have answered that they can spare none; at which answer the prince is malcontent.
This week those of Meenen took certain prisoners from the enemy, who have declared that the Viscount of Ghent is very sick and not likely to escape it; and that M. de Montigny is also sick. The like speech comes from Ghent.—Bruges, 4 November 1582.
Add. Endd. 2 pp. [Holl. and Fl. XVII. 53.]
Nov 4 441.Cobham to Walsingham
I 'lost' not to importune their Majesties to have their letters to M. de Germigny on behalf of the English merchants trading into the Levant, since I could not 'recover' them on behalf of an agent to be sent by her Majesty for the merchants. So lately I obtained the king's and Queen Mother's letters, which I send herewith enclosed together with their copies, hoping that they may in some sort serve her purpose, although not to that particular respect as if the name of agent had been therein expressed; and await further commands herein.
Within four or five days after the death of Salcedo, there happened another broil in Court, which came to pass as I have been informed in this sort. M. de Réaux, agent to the Duke of Brabant in this Court, had assigned to him by his duke's order three soldiers, to be employed on the interception of letters or for such-like necessary occasions. It chanced of late that those soldiers entered into acquaintance with other soldiers who belonged to the Duke of Guise, and in conversation the Duke of Brabant's soldiers wished they might put themselves in company with those of the Guises to go to the wars in Flanders. Whereupon those belonging to the Guises answered, they hoped to be employed in Paris, in such sort that they likewise might have their part therein if they would join them, with great profit; with which words at the time they parted company. After this, incontinently the Duke of Brabant's soldiers resorted to M. de Réaux, whom they informed of what had passed; which moved him to exhort his soldiers to enter into further acquaintance and practice with the soldiers of the Guises, which was done, so that at their next meeting they renewed again their fellowship. At which time the soldiers of the Guises delivered impertinent words against the king and Monsieur, pronouncing that within a few nights some of the best in the Louvre would be made to leap out of the windows, and M. Lavalette, as proud as he held himself against the Duke of Guise, might have his neck broken. All which speeches being reported to M. de Réaux by the soldiers, with some like circumstances tending to evil purpose, he esteemed convenient these secret practices should be discovered; the rather because he feared the same malicious pretence was intended towards the king's person. Upon the consideration whereof he resolved to declare 'thus much as before' to the Abate Delbene, because he is in good credit with the Queen Mother, belonging also to the Duke of Brabant, his master; requesting the Abate to signify what he had heard from those soldiers to the Queen Mother, which the Abate performed incontinently. The queen, not staying, showed the king what had been specified to her, So the king commanded M. de Réaux to be called into the cabinet, in the presence of two or three of his Council and Secretary Brulart; and enquired of him of the things that had been delivered by the Abate to the Queen Mother. To which de Réaux answered that those three soldiers, who were lodged in such a certain place, could more particularly and assuredly certify him of all that had been said. Whereon the king caused M. de 'Rousselieu,' the provost, to apprehend those soldiers and bring them to the Court; finding some fault with de Réaux that he had not at first addressed himself to him, but to his mother, which de Réaux excused, showing he found better opportunity to cause it to be declared to his mother, understanding his Majesty was otherwise 'impeached' and deeming it to be all one for his service. The king said therefore, since the matter had been dealt in by his mother, he would refer it to her and his Council. M. de 'Rousselieu' the same afternoon brought two of the soldiers belonging to the Duke of Brabant to the Court, not finding the third 'at that present.' The two were produced before certain of the Council and examined, confessing as much as had been reported by de Réaux.
Next day the third soldier was apprehended by the provost, by whom the like was verified as had been signified by his fellows. He added further, he had seen la Seure, secretary to the Duke of Guise, have secret conferences with the aforenamed soldiers of the duke, and affirmed moreover that he understood there were certain of the duke's companies privily lodged in and about the Temple 'nigh hand' to the duke's house.
Besides all this aforesaid, the king has been otherwise informed that Captain le Jannis, a follower to the Duke of Guise, by whom 'Semagrin' [Saint-Mégrin] was slain, had caused certain bedding with cases of dags to be conveyed into the Louvre, within the duke's lodgings, about the 27th ult. And it is certainly understood that these were let out, the same night, at 'St. Anthony's gate' beside the Bastille, those horsemen of the Duke of Guise's companies who had been 'harbenged' in and about the Temple, being in number about 50.
As soon as the Queen Mother had informed the king of the 'premisses,' she forthwith discovered the same to the Cardinal of Bourbon, to be delivered to the Guises, which was presently done; so that all these matters were shifted and handled quickly to the Guises' advantage, 'in that manner as' they were shuffled up and excused in this sort, that the Guises have given their Majesties to understand that the King of Navarre's agent, with two or three others of the Religion, had stirred de Réaux to devise this practice against them. Whereon de Réaux has sent an express messenger to advertise the Duke of Brabant of what has passed herein.
It is understood the king has now accorded that the Guises may publish in print their justification on those accusations Salcedo 'had charged them.' It is said they were at the time of his executions cleared by him of all the imputations he had in his examination delivered to their dishonour.
I have been informed that the day after Salcedo's death, the king and Queen Mother being at the Tuileries, having with them two of the Chief Presidents who brought Salcedo's examinations, their Majesties commanded the Dukes of Guise and Mayenne to be called to them in a private chamber where they were. At which time they willed those examinations to be read before them, whereby at the end it appeared Salcedo had cleared the Guises of all those imputations he had at first alleged to their prejudice; with which they seemed before the king to hold themselves greatly satisfied and honoured. Notwithstanding, there escaped from his Majesty these words, which was marked, when it was said among the examinations that Salcedo acquitted Villeroy of what he had assured him of, the king thereon showing some very extraordinary affection, 'delivered' that whatsoever others meant he was sure that Villeroy would not betray him, for in seeking his harm he would betray himself.
The Spanish agent has complained to the king that in the sentence given against Salcedo, it is ordered his head should be sent to be set on one of the gates of Antwerp, whereby it might be inferred his Majesty pretended some superiority or protection over that city; beseeching him to command that point of the judgement to be revoked. Whereon he answered they had so set it down in that sort for the satisfying of his brother, because it was understood that for the present he remained in Antwerp.
The king has willed that all things which Salcedo delivered concerning any personages or affairs in France should be abolished, burnt, and esteemed as things of no moment. So nothing is to remain on record, saving the points touching Monsieur and the matters of Flanders.
The Guises have framed letters to be sent to the princes, their particular friends, for the clearing of their innocency on the accusations of Salcedo.
It is understood the king was in the place, behind a piece of tapestry, where Salcedo had the tortures, hearing all that he delivered.
They say that President de Thou 'took such apprehension' of these matters of Salcedo, that falling thereon presently sick, he is departed out of this 'wordle.' President 'Harle,' his son-in-law, is placed by the king in his room.
The king has sent Monsieur 60,000 crowns, 50,000 of which is to pay the army of Marshal Biron, which sum will be continued monthly; and 10,000 to pay the garrisons of Cambray. It is signified that Marshal Biron has 16,000 foot and 4,000 horse, but no certainty had that he will pass into Flanders; which seems strange to many, considering that M. de Puygaillard has joined him. Howbeit there are now some advertisements that they have skirmished with the enemy, whereon there are sundry bruits of the winning and losing. But I hear the marshal is not of opinion to fight with the enemy, hearing tell they want victuals and are in necessity. Notwithstanding they write from Spain the Prince of Parma has express orders to give battle, and the Spanish agent says there is abundance of all necessaries in his camp, save only money, which will be presently supplied. And in Spain they cry out to 'break wars' with the French, which, if they defer, it will be upon the consideration of some further advantage.
The king departed hence yesterday morning towards Saint-Germain-en-Laye, whence the opinion is that he will pass to Notre Dame de Liesse beside la Fere in Picardy, on pilgrimage. He dispatched, before his departure, M. Rambouillet to Flanders; and has appointed that the Pope's new corrected calendar shall be printed and be in force in January next.
They say the French have stayed a Spanish brigantine about 'Aquis Mortis,' wherein they have taken a gentleman: some esteem him to be of quality.
The king has resolved to make new edicts for the obtaining of money at the next session of the Parlement, which will be shortly. He has required the Duke of Retz to go into Britanny, to establish the Duke of Mercœur in his new government.
The king 'pretends' not to return from this pilgrimage till the Swiss ambassadors are come to Paris, which it is thought will be about the end of this month. He has appointed 4,000 crowns to be employed in charges, gifts, and entertainment of those ambassadors.
The king has now expressly commanded that Signori Calvi and Capello, Italian bankers, shall go their way out of the realm.
The Pope's nuncio in his last audience the other day showed the king how much it imported not only his own realm, but all princes of Christendom, if there fell out any breach of war between him and King Philip, telling the king the Pope had commanded him to do all good offices for the maintenance of both their amities. To which the king answered, he had no occasion to 'break wars' with the Spanish king, but would do what he could to preserve the amity; desiring him to signify so much of his mind to the Pope. Notwithstanding, if he were constrained, he would rather have wars without his realm, than within, with his brother. Whereto the nuncio replied, it seemed his Majesty had changed his mind toward King Philip, because it was understood he had sent great sums of money to his brother, which was a clear declaration of his inward disposition. This occasioned the king to say that he could not 'leave to do' for his brother as other men did, the rather because he was his only brother. The king understands how the accustomed entire secret intelligence is still continued between the Pope and the Spanish king.
The nuncio has again made offer to the Bishop of Glasgow of great sums of money, which is at Lyons in the hands of Bandini and Strozzi, Florentine merchants, for the releasing of the Scottish king out of the nobility's hands, and aiding d'Aubigny.
The Queen Mother busies herself very much in procuring and borrowing money.
The Count Montreal denies very earnestly that the marriage between the Duke of Savoy and the daughter of Florence is so likely as had been reported.
It is said the Queen Mother means to repair to her house at Monceaux to meet the king at his return from Notre Dame de Liesse.
I enclose the advertisements from sundry places; a brief printed discourse in Spanish of the Marquis of Santa Cruz's victory; the copies of two letters which the Duke of Brabant wrote to their Majesties; the summary of the order of the Pope's new corrected calendar; with a copy of the relation which the Spaniards give out that Count Vimioso spoke some hours before his death [See No. 383]. Also a copy of a new order set down by the king in his house.—Paris, 4 Nov. 1582.
Add. Endd. 6½ pp. [France VIII. 94.]
Nov. 4 442. [Cobham to Walsingham]
The King of Navarre has sent hither M. de Lusignan to 'remember' the French king of the offers he has made to annoy the King of Spain, requesting him to employ him while there is 'commodity'; offering to resort to the French king so that he may receive the debts due to him and his sister, and seeking to enjoy the credit which was promised him in all the places where he dwells and to be restored to all his dignities, as likewise that he may enter into all those places which appertain to his charge as it was promised him, which being done, he intends to repair hither, as aforesaid, to the king. To this no answer is yet made, but fair words given, and promises.
Le Chartier spoke with Villeroy as he passed towards Duke 'Memoransi,' which it is to be esteemed he would not have done without Monsieur's direction.
The 'minister of Catharina' (Pope's nuncio) is flattered by the king and by his order, to obtain of the Pope the consent to sell certain lands belonging to the Church, to which the Pope will not consent. In the meantime the Pope is very jealous of la Mothe-Fénelon's going to the Queen, hearing tell how he was in his last journey greatly agreeable to her; wherefore the nuncio has sought diligently to search into the occasions of his journey, which is not so much hastened as it was. I hear he is to renew the 'trade' he dealt in the other time he was in England, with especial commission from the king, but their minds vary so that it is not easy to write the certainty. The Pope's factor had brought him, sent from Milan, a packet of letters directed to Mendoza in England; therefore I could wish all packets were seen by you.
The Pope has resolved to create before Christmas four Spanish cardinals and four French, of whom the Prince of Condé's brother is one, and M. de Joyeuse's another.
The Bishop of Mande 'returns' to make 'shoute' [suit] to become the Duke of Brabant's chancellor, in the place of President de Thou; whereunto he employs the favours of the Duke of Épernon and his own fair niece [Mme de Sauve].
Monsieur has sent letters of thanks to 'de Pernon' for the good office he does for him towards the king, 'assuring' he will not be ungrateful. He has sent the like letters of 'gratuite' to Madame de Sauve.
The Duke of Ferrara has recommended Count Octavio Landi to the Duke of Guise, into whose service and friendship he is retained.
Cavaliero Giraldi has for a certainty taken the way towards Spain by post, having left his wife in this town. He pretended to go to Rome. I send back your letter directed to him.
The 'Lady of 8,000' [Queen of Navarre] is grown into unkindness with Monsieur. She is now sickly.
They say now in Court that the Marquis of Pescara was lately taken about 'Aquis Mortis.'
Josepho Riva, who some months past was sent from Naples to the King of Sweden about his pretence to the Duchy of 'Barry' [qy. Bari], claiming it by right of his wife, daughter of the queen 'Regina' Bona, has brought offer from that king to the Spanish king to deliver ship's biscuit, cordage, and all other necessaries which are to be 'recovered' in his 'minurales' (?), for the service of the Catholic king, upon condition to have the Duchy of 'Barry' and certain sums of money. This Josepho Riva has been at Naples and is gone on his way to Spain with these affairs. And there is another Italian, named Alexandro, who has of late bargained in Sweden for six ships.
The king is content now to suffer Calvi to stay. He was 'complained' by one Bruno, a Genoese, 'to be' the Spanish king's pensioner, and to pay his pensioners in France. Chanvallon is gone towards the Duke of Brabant.
Unsigned and undated, but endd. by Walsingham. 2¾ pp. [France VIII. 95.]
443. Decipher, in hand of R. Beale, of parts of the above.
Endd. 1 p. [Ibid. VIII. 95 a.]
Nov. 4 444. Masino del Bene to Walsingham
I happened lately to speak with the Queen Mother, when, an opportunity occurring, I returned to the subject of the advantage it would be to these two countries, seeing the state the world was in, to think of forming a good union; for thereby they would succeed in breaking for the King of Spain the course of his great fortune. Her Majesty took this in such part that I well see it is not at all alien to her. So M. de Bellièvre afterwards confirmed to me, who complained a little of your ambassador, saying that he had of late set before him some proposition to that effect, but when it came to close quarters, he drew back, saying he had no orders from his mistress to go further, whereupon it seems to them that they have been a little trifled with. Withal, so far as I can understand, things are in such a position that all good may be hoped for, especially seeing that since my talk with her Majesty and the gentleman mentioned, some change has come to pass which makes me hope still more that we shall be able to come to an understanding; for it was first decided to send into Scotland a gentleman of the Cardinal of Bourbon's, named 'Manneville,' who was to go by sea, and they have since resolved to send M. de la Mothe, bidding him go by your way. This makes me believe that he will have instructions to speak of this business, and that being so, I do not think that if a further passage be refused him, they would make much account of it; for I have heard that they have been forced to make this dispatch by the pressure that has been put upon them, you can think by whom. Among the rest the Scottish ambassador has sent to persuade their Majesties that their queen offered great things to the king provided he would renounce 'our' friendship; which has so little likelihood that I wonder it has been put forward by them. Of all which things it seemed to me good to advertise you, that you might not only see how I toil for the public weal, but also might see the disposition it seems to me we are in here on this matter, and advertise the Queen of it. And whereas she had at other times doubted lest our king wanted to give her trouble in that direction, time will show, and I hope in God that as I said just now she will see that neither in that direction nor any other, does his Majesty think of doing anything that could displease or incommode you.
Having nothing more to say at present, I beg you to commend me to her and keep me in her favour.—Paris, 4 November 1582.
Add. Endd. Ital. 2 pp. [Ibid. VIII. 96.]
Nov. 4 445. Pietro Bizarri to Walsingham
His Highness's people lately made an attempt on Louvain, which did not succeed, because the soldiers of the garrison got intelligence of it before they arrived. They say that some remained prisoners through having been over bold in their wish to get into the place. Many throw the blame on the French, who did not march in front as they should have done; which caused the failure, and the loss of those who were left, who belonged to the garrisons of Brussels and Mechlin.
It is said that his Highness's people who are in Friesland have taken Delfzyl, a place on the sea near Groningen, which would be of no small importance; but of this I cannot assure you as yet.
Of late days it has been said that the Marquis of Risbourg, alias Viscount of Ghent, had been poisoned at a banquet by the Prince of Parma, together with M. de Montigny and another gentleman of the country, and that the marquis was dead; which however I cannot affirm. But if it is not so, it may easily be so one day, such being the recompense for good deserts which now-a-days comes from the Crown of Spain.
My friend, by whom I was faithfully advertised of the occurrents of Italy and the Levant, when sailing from Venice to Sicily on some very important affairs of his, has been captured by Turkish pirates together with the others who were on board a ship belonging to the Duke of Florence. Thus I am deprived at one and the same time of my friend and of what it was pleasant to hear so often. Such however are the fruits of inconstant fortune, which must be borne with a patient and steadfast mind.
Nothing more at present, except to pray that you may be kept sound and happy with her Majesty and all who love her.—Antwerp, 4 November 1582.
P.S.—The English soldiers, by his Highness's orders, have been transferred to Brussels for the security of that city; or indeed for some other design, as it is said that the enemy's camp is at the siege of Ninove.
Endd. by L. Tomson. Ital. 1½ pp. [Holl. and Fl. XVII. 54.]
Nov. 6 446. Count de Silva to Walsingham
I would not lose the opportunity which I have of writing to you any more than I shall let pass any that I may have of serving you at any time and in any place, for the sake of the insistency and good will wherewith you have always desired Portuguese liberty and the recovery of the Crown of Portugal; a matter which brings you such reputation in these isles, and binds me to you, as I hope in our Lord to show in a place where the effort will not fail me, more than the will fails me here.
The bearer of this is Captain Henry [Richards], who has acquitted himself up to now with much fidelity and honourably in the service of his Majesty, and well shown that he belongs to his nation, as well as his desire of serving. And since he is able to inform you particularly of the state of the king my master's affairs, as well acquainted with them, I need not trouble you further.—Angra, 6 November 1582.
Add. Endd. Port. ½ p. [Portugal I. 90.]
Nov. 6 447. English translation of the above.
In hand of L. Tomson and endd. by him. ½ p. [Ibid. I. 90 a.]
Nov. 6 448. Madame de la Noue to Walsingham
I received your letter by M. de la Fontaine, with the hackney you were kind enough to send me, for which I shall remain infinitely obliged, as for all the benefits for which we have so long been indebted to you. I am only displeased that in recognition of so many kindnesses we have no means of doing you all the service we have vowed you. But I am sure you will excuse us our misfortune, which renders us useless to all our friends, and makes it impossible for us to do anything but importune them to assist us. And since I know that you participate therein, and forget nothing which can serve to give repose mid solace to M. de la Noue, I will not fail to let you know the news I had of him some days ago. He is pretty well, thank God, considering the rigour and ill-treatment which he receives in his prison; but the length of this solitary confinement wearies him extremely, with the little progress he sees towards his deliverance, the affairs of which continue in a state which makes me more and more resign myself to the hope which you give me in your letter, that God alone will put a hand to it, since human means have so little effect. Nevertheless I beg you to continue to him the affection you have up to now shown him this extremity, soliciting as you do your Queen's favour both towards Monsieur and others who you may judge will be of service in obtaining his liberty.—Le Plessis, 6 November 1582. (Signed) M. de Luré (might possibly be Juré).
P.S.—Your wife and daughter will, if you please, find here that I humbly kiss their hands with all affection.
Add. Endd. Fr. 1½ p. [France VIII. 97.]
Nov. 8 449. Walsingham to Cobham
Her Majesty was glad to be forewarned by you of their intention there to require that la Mothe might be suffered to repair into Scotland, for she has thereby prepared herself the better to answer the examiner on that behalf; being fully resolved not to yield to his going thither, notwithstanding the good opinion she has otherwise of him, for she remembers withal that he is a Frenchman.
The ambassador has opened his packet, and shown how far he is authorised to deal in the matter of marriage; wherein, howsoever it has been given out to you there, and otherwise, that the king would not satisfy her Majesty in the principal difficulty that arose thereon touching the bearing of the charge of the war, yet upon perusing the instrument sent to the ambassador, it appears that the contents of it are no other than have been answered these twelve months touching that point; which is that the king will be content, the marriage taking place, to join his forces and means with her Majesty's for the prosecution of the war. By which manner of proceeding it appears that the king is but coldly affected to the cause, wherein those that weigh the matter indifferently, considering her Majesty's years and their necessity in France to be provided with a successor either by the king or Monsieur, judge that they have good reason for themselves not to be too hasty in the matter. Yet notwithstanding all this it is meant that the negotiation shall still be entertained whereof we have hitherto taken more hurt than good.
How things pass in Scotland you will perceive by the enclosed. From the Low Countries we have heard nothing of late, save that their wants and miseries daily increase. Monsieur has of late 'been in hand' with her Majesty to lend him some more money, which has been denied him, with the answer that till she might perceive the king himself to embrace the cause more earnestly, she would spend no more treasure that way, seeing no purpose why she should in this sort weaken her own state, and advantage him little or nothing.
Her Majesty is very desirous to be truly informed touching Salcedo's confession, whether it any way 'stretches' to touch the House of Guise. It is thought that what will be published will not contain such principal matters as 'is informed' have been by him confessed both before he was sent out of the Low Countries and since his repair into 'those' parts. (This par. in Walsingham's own hand.)
Since it appears by your letters that in acquainting them with the course of her Majesty's proceedings in these causes of Scotland, you have only shown them the declarations sent you, her Majesty desires you also to show the copies of the instrument and of the king's letter to her which you have likewise received for that purpose, either to Pinart or Brulart, or some other of the king's Council that may acquaint him therewith, whereby they may understand how well satisfied the young king rests with her Majesty's manner of dealing towards him, and that he approves what the lords have done in the action, as tending to the furtherance of his service and the common quiet and benefit of that state.
Draft. Endd. with date. 2 pp. [France VIII. 98.]
Nov. 8 450. The Duke of Anjou to the Queen
Thomas Nes, an English merchant of the country of Norfolk and the town of 'Iermeuy' [qy. Yarmouth]. has informed me that having made several suits for the recovery of a fly-boat belonging to 'Witse Geerentss' which had been taken by certain pirates, and afterwards retaken by a Captain Grave, then in the service of the Admiral of England, the Earl of Lincoln, he has been compelled to incur many heavy costs and expenses, for which he cannot get reimbursed. For this reason desiring in any way possible to oblige the said Nes. I am writing to you, in the assurance that you will not feel importuned thereby, to beg you to do so much for him that by your authority he may recover his costs and remain content, according to the promise which he assures me he had from you three months ago.—Antwerp, 8 November 1582. (Signed), François.
Add. Endd. Fr. 2/3 p. [Holl. and Fl. XVII. 55.]
Nov. 9 451. Bernardino de Mendoza to Burghley
By my letter written to Secretary Walsingham to be laid before the Council I have informed him how a ship, or two, which were armed by Mr Ughtred of Southampton, had robbed at Newfoundland more than (passés de) 20 ships belonging to subjects of the king my master, which were engaged in their fishery, ill-treated their people, and taken their victuals, and having filled his own vessel, took one with him to the 'coast of' Bristol laden with fish and grease; where he was stayed by the lieutenant of a gentleman named Henry 'Bicher,' and in conformity with the request made in my letter, orders were given by Secretary Walsingham to the Judge of the Admiralty to try the cause. The judge ordered that the goods should be placed in custody until the attorneys (procures) of the owners came. Now the judge says that by your order and that of the Admiral the goods and ship have been handed over to Ughtred; in regard to which (chose de quoi) I am quite sure that you were not informed of the robbery. Therefore I beg you to command that justice be done, and that the goods be not put into the hands of the pirates, but into those of the person who shall be thereto appointed, giving security.—London, 9 November 1582.
Add. Endd. Fr. 1 p. [Spain I. 106.]
Oct. 7 or Nov. 10? 452. Bond of the Portuguese to Captain Kenne
Know all men by these presents that we, Ruy Dias de Sào Payo, John Lopez Faquades, Ferdinand Garcia Jaques, Anthony Pacheco, Ferdinand Vaz de Velham, Jerome Pacheco, Galas Viegas, Peter Anes do Canto, Francis de Betancort, Henry de Betancort, Vital de Betancort, George de Lemos, Sebastian Dantes, Pantaleon Peres, James Triguo, Stephen Cerveira, Simon d'Andrada, Alvaro Peres Ramires, Jacob Vieira Pacheco, Jacob de Lemos, Christopher de Lemos, Melchiro son of Sebastian Alvares, Simon Gonçalves Murrano, Custodio Vieira, Melchiro Rodrigues, Gaspar Gonzalez, Francis Vaz, Francis das Neves, Jerome Ferdinand de Cea, Peter Alvares, Stephen Dias, S.J., are bound to Thomas Kenn, gentleman, of the city of Bristol, in the sum of 28,000 cruzados, good money, to be paid to the said Kenn, his heirs etc., to the faithful payment of which we bind ourselves, our heirs etc., by these presents sealed with our seals on the seventh day of October 1582, I mean the tenth day of November [sic].
The condition of the above bond is that if the aforesaid shall pay to Thomas Chene [sic] the 14,000 cruzados which they owe me for a ship called the Christopher, which they bought of him with the guns and other things in her (?), in the manner to be presently explained, the above bond shall have no force. The manner of payment is as follows: Twenty days after Thomas Chene or anyone in his name shall come to London, they shall pay 3,000 cruzados, and the remaining 11,000 on Lady Day next; on condition that so long as the ship is in England, he shall maintain her at his cost, and if by any chance she is lost or suffer damage, the loss or damage shall be his. (Signed by Ant° Sanchez.)
Endd. by L. Cave. Latin. Broad sheet. [Portugal I. 91.]
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