Elizabeth: July 1568

Calendar of State Papers Foreign: Elizabeth, Volume 8, 1566-1568. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1871.

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'Elizabeth: July 1568', in Calendar of State Papers Foreign: Elizabeth, Volume 8, 1566-1568, ed. Allan James Crosby( London, 1871), British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/foreign/vol8/pp492-511 [accessed 4 October 2024].

'Elizabeth: July 1568', in Calendar of State Papers Foreign: Elizabeth, Volume 8, 1566-1568. Edited by Allan James Crosby( London, 1871), British History Online, accessed October 4, 2024, https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/foreign/vol8/pp492-511.

"Elizabeth: July 1568". Calendar of State Papers Foreign: Elizabeth, Volume 8, 1566-1568. Ed. Allan James Crosby(London, 1871), , British History Online. Web. 4 October 2024. https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/foreign/vol8/pp492-511.

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July 1568

July. 2314. Spoils by Englishmen on Portuguese.
Inquisitions and depositions of certain spoils committed by Englishmen on Portuguese, chiefly by one Johannes De Canes [John Hawkins] on the Guinea coast and elsewhere. Taken at Lisbon between the 8th and 13th July 1568.
A large book in Latin. Pp. 97.
July 1. 2315. Sir Francis Englefield to Cecil.
Begs him to favour the King of Spain's request to the Queen for him. Professes fidelity to the Queen and affection to his country, albeit for necessity's sake he is forced not to refuse the liberality of this King.—Madrid, 1 July 1568. Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. P. ¾.
July 1. 2316. Humfrey Lock to Cecil.
The greedy seeking of the merchants to bring certain men who lived in Russland into bondage has gotten the same men liberty, and also a larger privilege than themselves have, offered them by the Prince weighing the cruelty of the mer chants, and also his own commodity by the general traffic of other Englishmen as well as the company. He has given them privileges to traffic in all parts of his country, and to Persia; and if the Company or any merchants of the Company at any time trouble or molest the said men in Russland, Persia, or England, it shall be lawful by virtue of their privilege to seek recompense by order from the Emperor upon such goods as the merchants shall have in Russland. Were spoiled at their first coming by Mr. Jenkinson and the rest who were in Muscovia. Are so much indebted to the merchants that almost they dare not come home.—City of the Moskowe, 1 July 1568. Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. Pp. 2.
July 2. 2317. Sir John Forster to Cecil.
Has had of long time intelligence from two friends out of Scotland and would gladly bestow on each of them a gelding. Beseeches him to be a means to the Queen therefor.—Alnwick, 2 July 1568. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. ½.
July 2. 2318. Captain Cockburn to Cecil.
Desires him to forward a packet of letters into Scotland. Has already taken his leave of the Court, being minded shortly to make a voyage throughout England towards Scotland, for which he asks to have the Queen's leave and license. —Paris, 2 July 1568. Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. P. ½.
July 3. 2319. N. Stopio to [Cecil].
News of the Turkish fleet. — Venice, July 3rd, 1568. Signed.
Orig. Endd. by Cecil: 16 June 1568, Intell. Roome. Ital. P. ½.
July 4. 2320. Sir William Drury to Cecil.
Fears that Murray's conforming himself to the Queen of Scots' demand will be much impeached by this accident. The Earl of Argyll is in strength with at least 6,000 men, and coming into Lennox, and by this encouragement flocks towards him many from sundry parts. Tividale has taken great comfort, and thereupon have made some attempts, which some of them have bitterly paid for.—Berwick, 4 July 1568. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. ½.
July 5. 2321. Nicholas Harrington to Cecil.
Mr. Bennet is to all men's judgments not long of this world. In order to avoid the spoils that will be made in his office by his wife and others, advises him to direct order secretly to the Mayor of Newcastle to receive the keys of the storehouses and seal up the doors and locks. If Bennet's office were bestowed upon him would use the same with the augmentation of 2s. per diem to that which he now has.— Berwick, 5 July 1568. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 1½.
July 5. 2322. Lord Scrope to Cecil.
The Regent has appointed the Laird of Drumlanrig Warden of the opposite Marches, and sent him 100 harquebussiers and money for the entertaining of 100 light horsemen. To answer the same the Lairds of Johnstone and Coghill with divers other Lairds of Nithsdale and Galloway have entered into a bond to stand firm and fast to the service of the Queen, and neither obey or serve the Regent or Drumlanrig, and to encounter with the harquebussiers they have levied and furnished 100 like shot, to be led to service by the Laird of Johnstone. Has deferred executing the two Greames on account of the brittle state of the Borders. Desires him to further his suit to the Queen for 100 marks yearly in fee farm.—Carlisle, 5 July 1568. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 2.
July 5. 2323. Sir Henry Norris to Cecil.
1. There is great diligence still used to recover the Queen of Scots to be sent into this country. On the 29th ult. the Duke of Châtelherault made great request to the King to have support to maintain her cause, with large promises to the King for recompense of his part and the rest of the nobility there who are with the Queen, whereunto the King answered that in no case could he do so, as she was in England with the Queen, to whom he had promised not to send any forces thither.
2. The same day the Parisians sent to the King desiring some noble person to supply his place in Paris, whereupon he tendered them Marshal Montmorency, whom they rudely refused, whereupon on the 29th was the King's youngest brother sent to be governor. The last of June the Prince of Condé sent to the King to desire that the Edict might be observed, answer whereof is not as yet returned. The King has about him at Madrid 10,000 soldiers, the house being strongly entrenched. Great outrages are daily done, but no execution of justice. They are in great fear here, thinking that the Prince and his party have some enterprise in hand.
3. On the 4th inst. Robert Stewart sent one expressly to advertise him that there is a lord in England who has promised to employ all his power to convey the Queen of Scots into France. Has also declared the manner how, that a packet should be sent to the Duke of Alva, who should convey the same to Spanish Ambassador in England, and he to practise with the Lords of England to cause her to have liberty to pass either to the borders of France or Flanders.—Paris, 5 July 1568. Signed.
The latter portion in cipher. Add. Endd., with seal. Pp. 1½.
July 6. 2324. Sir William Drury to Cecil.
Sends his servant to understand whether the personage who shall be appointed to take the charge here will bring down a marshal with him. If not desires that he may be provided and himself after so long steering relieved from the helm. It is much feared that this force raised against the Earl of Murray will put in hazard the government.—Berwick, 6 July 1568. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. ½.
July 6. 2325. Guillaume Acqueman to Cecil.
Encloses letters from Captain Cockburn. There is appearance of new troubles.—Dieppe, 6 July 1568. Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. Fr. P. ½.
July 8. 2326. John Willock to Cecil.
Has travelled through most part from Edinburgh west of this realm, as well in the towns as in sundry gentlemen's houses, specially of such as favour the religion, the state whereof is in great trouble and far out of order, by reason the Earls of Cassilis, Eglinton, and Lord Boyd take part with the Earl of Argyll, and come not into obedience to the King's authority. The Earl of Argyll had a convention of his Irishmen, but where he looked to have agreed all controversies and to have made himself stronger, the contrary has followed. The greater part of them who were in the last field keep back, and look for a new aid of French. Dumbarton Castle is still in the hands of the captain who had it before. Sundry of the Hamiltons and their adherents are there, but live very quiet. The whole country is in such state that no man comes to his parish church in all the West without his armour, company, and weapons, and every man is ready to avenge his old or new quarrels. The Earl of Huntly does what he can to trouble all the North. The assembly of the ministers is now begun, who in one voice complain of their estates and the sturdiness of the people. Has obtained license of the whole, as well Regent as church, to return to his old room in Loughborough.—Edinburgh, 8 July 1568. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 1½.
July 9. 2327. Sir William Drury to Cecil.
Mr. Bennet has departed this life at Newcastle, whose office is loosely enough left. Desires that he may have a grant to deal in the succession to his office. Is the bolder herein for that he desires some certain stay of living, which now he possesses not.—Berwick, 9 July 1568. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 1¼.
July 9. 2328. Advices.
News from Vienna of the 9th July 1568.
Endd. Ital. P. 1.
July 9. 2329. Sir William Drury to Cecil.
1. The Earl of Argyll and his force are scaled. The Ambassador of Denmark has obtained the levying of certain men and captains. His request was for 1,000, but he shall have but 500. He has promised certainly that Bothwell shall be delivered.
2. The Queen has bred some secret comfort unto her favourers that the Duke is shortly to return with men or money from France.—Berwick, 9 July 1568. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. 1.
July 9. 2330. Drury and Browne to the Privy Council.
On the 7th inst. John Bennet, master of the ordnance at Newcastle, died, and forasmuch as there is great store of things which may be embezzled, they have sent thither certain persons to make a perfect inventory of all the furniture there. It was best for the Queen's service that the office of this town and that were in some one man's charge.—Berwick, 9 July 1568. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. ½.
2331. Draft of the above.
Endd. P. ½.
July 9. 2332. Valentine Browne to Cecil.
Thanks him for his acceptation and furtherance of his suits. Wishes he were rather employed in advice to use the Queen's money than in the management thereof, being by some good means called therefrom without reproach, which has and by every change of government will be sought towards him except he continue as he has hitherto of Her Majesty's purse to be more bold than in the end he shall be able to answer. —Berwick, 9 July 1568. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. 1.
[July 9.] 2333. Master of the Ordnance in the North.
Allowances of John Bennett, Master of the Ordnance for the North, for himself and servants, 7s. per diem.
Endd. P. ¼.
July 9. 2334. Advertisements of Flanders.
An account of the numbers, places where they are stationed, and movements of the forces on both sides in the Low Countries.
Endd. by Cecil. Pp. 2¼.
July 10. 2335. Sir William Drury to Cecil.
Thanks him for giving him knowledge that Lord Hunsdon shall receive these charges. Till he be better acquainted he and his will be ready to give and breed him honour. If he be not furnished of a Deputy Warden he recommends John Selby. Wishes that the Queen knew in what state he found this charge, and how it is at this present. Sends certain ciphers from one there to one in Northumberland. The parties shall not be unknown to Cecil. The Regent's estate betters not, but rather decays, chiefly by the forfeiting of all such as have anything to lose that are his contraries, and the sufferance of James Balfour so near unto him in matters of State, against whom the people are marvellously now bent.— Berwick, 10 July 1568. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 2.
Four lines in cipher enclosed in Drury's letter. On a separate slip of paper.
July 10. 2336. Advices.
Rome, 10th July 1568. Proceedings of the Consistory. Capture of a Turkish galley. Arrival of the Indian fleet at St. Lucar, with 4,000,000 of gold, &c. Constantinople, 14th June. Preparations of the fleet, &c.
Ital. Pp. 4.
July 11. 2337. The Queen to Edzart Count of East Friesland.
Has received his letter from his envoys, and learnt what dangers threaten him from the anger of the King of Spain on account of his receiving the King's subjects who have been driven from their country on account of religion, and also through certain privileges and immunities granted to the English in Emden. He also asks for her help if he should be attacked. Thinks that these matters may be so explained that the King will not order his soldiers to invade his territory. His envoys do not deny that the Duke of Alva has strongly charged him with assisting with men and money the King's rebellious subjects. Sees by the replies that the charges are not just. Will write to the King of Spain and his Regent in the Low Countries what she thinks of this matter. If he incurs danger through any privileges granted to her subjects she will defend him as much as she is able.—London, 11 July 1568.
Draft. Endd. Lat. Pp. 2¼.
July 11. 2338. Valentine Browne to Cecil.
Desires his favour for Thomas Bank's suit for the mastership of the ordnance.—Berwick, 11 July 1568. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. ½.
July 11. 2339. Sir Henry Norris to Cecil.
Desires him to license the bearer, Mr. James Stewart, one the gentlemen of the guard to the King here, at his return, to pass over a couple of geldings with him. Has received his letter of the 8th inst., and has already begun to deal according to his instructions, and by his next will advertise him how he has proceeded in that behalf. Lately were divers of the religion gathered together in Poitou.—Paris, 11 July. Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. P. 1.
2340. Rough draft of the above.
Pp. 2.
July 11. 2341. Associations made in the Provinces.
The undersigned promise and swear to live and die in the Catholic religion, to give all obedience, succour, and aid to the King, and to help one another against all rebels, heretics, and sectaries of the new religion.—11 July 1568.
Draft. Endd. Fr. Pp. 2.
2342. Copy of the above.
Mans, 11 July 1568. Endd. by Cecil: Copy of a conspiration by vow in France by the Catholics against the contraries.
Fr. P. 1.
July 11. 2343. Captain Cockburn to Cecil.
1. Has come into great trouble, not only himself but all his friends, and the favourers of the Regent, by reason of the taking of all letters that Alexander Clerk brought from France and England. Has lost, amongst other things, 1,500 francs a year. Understands that all the passages are kept for him. Ramsay is at —, but no one at present understands where they are but the English Ambassador and his servant Jenye, to whom he is greatly indebted.—Paris, 10 July. Signed.
2. Hopes that William Acquenan is safe. Has written to Robert Ramsay and others to save themselves. This is not the first storm he has seen blow, and hopes it will not be the last. On the 11th George Douglas was presented to the Cardinal of Lorraine.
Add. Pp. 2¼.
July 12. 2344. Petrus Ramus to Cecil.
Having been invited by Sir Henry Norris to go into England, he intends to visit Basle, to publish a work on mathematics, and some other places which he mentions first.—Paris, 4 Id. Jul. 1568. Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. Lat. P. 1.
July 12. 2345. Captain Cockburn to Cecil.
Cecil's servant, Master [Jenye], shows him great friendship. Hopes before he goes to be able to plant him with such friends here, that he may be able to do the Queen service. Hopes by means of the English Ambassador to come to him shortly. Desires him to send to Anthony Hickman to show him that he is coming in the old manner, as a banished man.—Paris, 12 July.
Hol. Add. Endd., with seal. Pp. 2½.
July 12. 2346. Sir John Forster to Cecil.
Sends two letters which he has received from the Regent of Scotland. For the stay of the Borders he has "bound up" with the gentlemen of Scotland. Desires to understand whether the Queen means to keep peace towards Scotland, for at this time the Borders stand very "tickle."—Alnwick, 12 July 1568. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. 1.
July 8. 2347. The Regent Murray to Sir John Forster.
Although the wickedness of evil men and the difficulty of the time will not permit ordinary days of trew to be held, nor full redress of all bypast attemptats to be made, he doubts not that Forster, by his wise proceedings, better serves his Sovereign and the common weal of his country, than if he pressed to settle things by extremity and force of arms. Desires that Martin Elliott, who has retired within English ground, may have no "resset" within Forster's rule.—Edinburgh, 8 July 1568. Signed.
Orig. Add. P. 1.
July 12. 2348. J. Gordon to the Regent Murray.
This packet was sent to him by Monsieur Stewart, Murray's cousin and servant. Captain Cockburn is stayed, and in great danger, his letters being taken and brought to the Court. He is fugitive, and has "tint" all his credit and estates and is constrained to hide himself. Assures him that he shall not be cumbered with any help that the King of France shall send against him, for he has enough ado here. It is held assured that the Duke of Alva has poisoned himself, fearing to fall into his enemies' hands. Fears it is false. Reminds him of his promise to maintain the schools of Scotland. Perceives that letters are flitting out of the hot countries to refresh them with cold and wholesome air of Scotland.— Paris, 12 July 1568. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. 1.
July 13. 2349. The Regent Murray to Queen Elizabeth.
Thanks her for giving ear to the cause of the estates and people of Scotland professing the obedience of the King, and that she is contented that the ground and whole proceedings of their cause may be made manifest to her, which they all most earnestly desire. Is resolved to "expede" towards her either himself or some noblemen, or others of credit and experience, to prosecute this cause as far forth as shall be thought expedient by her for her information of the whole matter. Desires to be advertised how soon her leisure will permit her to hear, or to appoint some to treat upon the things tending to the final end of this trial.—Edinburgh, 13 July 1568. Signed: James Stewart.
Add. Endd., with seal. P. 1.
July 13. 2350. Henry Middlemore to Cecil.
The bearer, Gerarde Lowther, has uttered to him matter not unfit for Cecil to understand. He could not tell whether Lord Herries dissembled, but he seemed presently to show his great desire to have the Queen of England to rule before all others in Scotland, that the French might be utterly rejected; and that the Regent, with the noblemen, should still bear rule, but under the direction of the Queen of England. —London, 13 July 1568. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. 1.
July 14. 2351. Sir William Drury to Cecil.
There are letters come out of Denmark to Murray from Captain Clerke, who has charge of the Scots who serve the King there, to require that the ambassador from thence into Scotland should be stayed until they heard further from him. One part of it will procure a more certainty of the delivery of the Earl Bothwell. The Parliament is prolonged to August 16. The nobility are determined to come strong to the same, minding that all their contraries who come not in to underlie the law shall be forfeited. The Bishop of Orkney, who married the Queen and Bothwell, is reconciled to the Church. John Balfour and a Frenchman going to the Queen, have been taken by the Elliotts, with a good portion of money. Renews his suit for the grant of two or three geldings, to go into Scotland.—Berwick, 14 July 1568. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. 1.
July 14. 2352. Sir Henry Norris to the Queen.
1. Mons. Menillie receiving letters from the Cardinal of Chatillon with charge to make him privy of them, gave him an abstract, which he sends without adding or diminishing any part, as follows:—Mons. D'Anjou is still held up with the hope of the designs for England, charge being given to the Baron De la Garde to prepare privily a small navy of galleys and other vessels. The Cardinal of Lorraine often receives letters from divers particular persons of England, who mind to make some insurrection; sometimes their letters come by Rome, and otherwhiles by means of the Duke of Alva. There be certain Italians who privily practise these devices. None other is trusted in these affairs but the ambassador for Spain in England. It is assuredly believed here that there be certain personages in England who intend to deliver the Queen of Scots at free liberty. The King has sent charge to Picardy to Marshal Cosse to command all such of the Low Countries as be retired into those parts to avoid this realm within eight days; and because they will forthwith pass into England, the Cardinal's advice is, that seeing upon cowardice they depart their country, such of them as are meet to carry arms should not be permitted to remain in her dominions, whereby he supposes they will be constrained to return to the aid of the Prince of Orange, so by this means she will not only help the cause, but also deserve thanks of the King Catholic. This is the sum that Menillie delivered to him.
2. The Queen of Navarre on the 8th inst. demanded redress for seven gentlemen of hers of the religion whom Monluc caused to be hanged. On the 9th certain gentlemen of Languedoc and Provence declared to the King that all the towns in those parts were governed by Protestants, and made petition that they might have support to reform these disorders. Disorders committed on both sides. All officers of the Court of the religion are to be cassed. The Mercurial is begun in the Parliament house, being decreed that every man should give an account of his belief. The King's readers in the University of Paris are commanded to do the same. There was found written in Virall's study, who was one of the Queen Mother's secret advice in matters of importance, this counsel touching the treaty of peace, then not concluded: First, that the peace was requisite upon whatever conditions. That there was no means to undo the knot but the same. That the peace ought not to be observed longer than six months. That the religion should disarm, and the King remain armed. To put garrisons in all towns and bridges upon the rivers. That all estates should be given to Catholics, and that the Protestants of the King's household should be deprived of their offices. And these things being brought to pass that the principals of the religion should be executed. If it shall please her to consider what has passed heretofore, it will evidently appear that they have observed this order prescribed by Virall.
3. The Prince of Orange has sent to the French King for license to make sale of such possessions as be in his dominions, which is utterly denied him. In all their proceedings on both sides they greatly respect the success of the troubles in the Low Countries. De Cocqueville has conducted to the frontiers 2,000 footmen, and three guidons of horse to join the Prince of Orange.
4. George Douglas has been presented to the King, who gave him good entertainment. They request to have 1,000 harquebussiers at the Queen of Scots' charges, to be sent to the castle of Dumbarton, and to have her dowry paid one year beforehand. The Ambassador of Spain makes great promises towards these attempts, and seems to have some particular charge of these affairs.—Paris, 14 July 1568. Signed.
5. P.S.—The Prince of Conde having sent M. Teligny to the King for license to levy such money upon the religion for the payment of the reiters as was agreed upon, was answered that he would not permit him to raise the same of any others than those who were in arms in the field with him.
Add. Endd., with seal. Some passages in cipher. Pp. 4.
July 14. 2353. Sir Henry Norris to Cecil.
1. Since his last he has received from the Cardinal of Chatillon such confirmation of the conspiracies that he has thought good to advertise the Queen thereof, though not so amply as he has Cecil. Fears that the Queen of Scots with her conspirators will shortly cause some great unquietness in England. The Ambassador of Scotland the 13th inst. has been at the Court to require aid of harquebussiers for Dumbarton, and makes great boast of the Queen of Scots' friends in England, which Norris trusts is more to please himself than for any truth there is in his saying, yet Cecil knows neither be they of one religion nor yet in mind contented there. Great store of horses and mares are conveyed out of England daily hither.—Paris, 14 July. Signed.
2. P.S. — Understands by Menillie that the Cardinal of Chatillon will send a very sufficient gentleman to the Queen shortly.
Add. Endd., with seal. Part in cipher. P. 1.
July 15. 2354. Murder of M. De Cipiere.
Letter from Antoine D'Oraison, Viscount De Cadenet, to the Duke De Montmorency, enclosing an account of the murder of M. De Cipiere, with thirty-six or thirty-seven of his suite at the town of Frejus.—Cadenet, 15 July 1568.
Copy. Endd. Fr. Pp. 7.
July [15]. 2355. Advices from Flanders.
Account of military movements in Friesland.
Endd. by Norris as sent to him from the Spanish Ambassador. Span. Pp. 4.
July 16. 2356. Philip II. to the Queen.
Hopes that this dismissal of Man will not breed any suspicion of lack of friendship on his part. Man's misconduct was so open that he could no longer forbear to notice it.— Madrid, 16 July 1568. Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. Lat. Royal letter.
July 17. 2357. The Spanish Ambassador to Cecil.
Desires that a proclamation may be made against assisting the rebellious subjects of his master in Flanders.—London, 17 July 1568. Signed: Guzman De Silva.
Add. Endd., with seal. Lat. P. ½
July 17. 2358. Marquis De [Soria] to the Queen.
Sends her a present of two dozen pair of gloves.—Madrid, 17 July 1568. Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. Span. Pp. 1¼.
July 18. 2359. Thomas Windebank to Cecil.
1. Yesterday he delivered Cecil's letter and a copy of the proclamation to the Spanish Ambassador. He said that he looked that it should have been published yesterday in the city for that he moved Her Majesty therein on Monday last, and had since written and sent his secretary for the same; and for that also there were as good as 1,500 men (amongst whom were some Englishmen) ready to depart towards the Low Countries out of divers ports, and if the wind had not been against them they had been gone before this time. Told him that it would be printed by to day, and forthwith carried to the Court and thereupon published immediately. Howbeit he still persisted that the men would be gone; and (changing his tune) said that he did not so much account of their going over for any matter of aid that they would be to Count Lodovic, as he pitied them for he knew they would be all slain, for he had advertised that they should be watched for in all places where they might arrive. He also said that he must write to his master particularly what he had done herein; of the time; the day of the answer, and what was done. As for their coming over he could somewhat bear with it, but to be suffered to return with armour he thought very strange. Also he knew that there was money delivered out by Englishmen, and that they therewith bought armour and weapons and wore them openly in the streets; also that the Bishops had been dealt with to move the people to contribute money and named the Bishop of London.
2. As for the matter of the two merchants that should have appeared at Bruges in whose behalf the Queen had written to the Duke, he said that he had not heard thereof till this time.—18 July 1568. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 2.
July 19. 2360. Dr. Man to Cecil.
Advertised Secretary Sayas that he had received the Queen's letters, and desired to know the King's pleasure what time he would appoint for him to come and deliver them and take his leave. Sayas came late at night and told him that he had advertised the King, whereunto he brought answer that the King said that Man should go when he would with God's blessing, but that he could not speak with him for that he was sore diseased with the gout; and his passports should be made out with all favour and speed; and where he had requested to return to Madrid to make provisions and for other causes he said the King's pleasure was that he should in no case do so. Intends this night to begin his journey.— Barajas, 19 July 1568. Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. P. 1.
July 19. 2361. — to Cecil.
Letter from an Italian offering to serve the Queen of England.—Paris, 19 July 1568. Unsigned.
Add. Endd. Ital. P. 1.
July 20. 2362. Sir William Drury to Cecil.
1. Has received warrant to place [certain] of this garrison in the country for the defence of the same, for which he thanks him. There is no appearance of justice to be received. On the 8th inst. a great number ran a foray within England as far as Kilham, where they took above 700 sheep, and in their return the soldiers met with them, which cost them some blood although they carried away the goods. They have refused to restore the cattle, but the English have recovered as many of theirs. The Hamiltons and theirs desire the return of the Queen, though not for love or good meaning unto her. The Earl of Murray has understanding who has determined to kill him. He has now obtained thirty horsemen gentlemen to attend upon him, whom he allows 30l. Scottish by the month. Gives names of noblemen who have offered to be reconciled. The company levied for Denmark are not the choicest people that have passed to a country to receive the pay. There has chanced in this country in the wood of Newton a fire which these ten days has burnt.—Berwick, 20 July 1568.
2. P.S.—Complains of the waste of munitions and provisions at Newcastle. Sends herewith some piece of the work that the conjurors who used their devilish skill did devise above Edinburgh, the plat whereof he sent before painted. "Some money they found; Will Stewart King of heralds one of the part players, he that they judge should be the finder of the treasure, should be the Regent."
Add. Endd. Pp. 2.
July 20. 2363. Sir Henry Lee to Cecil.
The extreme rain that has fallen here in the beginning of the year has caused a dearth of all things. The Venetians after their great show of sending to the sea have discharged their whole provision. Yearly they threaten wars, hourly provide for the worst, yet determine peace. The French Ambassador to the Pope was despatched from Rome on the 12th. His demands were for money; and for license from the Pope for the King to alienate of the lands of the church 200,000 crowns by the year; which requests were not granted.—Venice, 20 July. Signed.
Orig. Add. Endd., with seal. Pp. 1½.
July 21. 2364. Sir Henry Norris to Cecil.
The bearer, Mr. Gordon, a nephew of the Earl of Huntly, being well learned both in Latin, Greek, and Hebrew, seeing the troubles likely to continue, has earnestly requested to be recommended to him. Has received from him certain advertisements touching the determinations for the Queen of Scots. Cocqueville is said to be defeated.—Paris, 21 July 1568. Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. P. ½.
July 21. 2365. Draft of a letter to the same effect to Cecil.
Endd. P. 1.
July 22. 2366. The Queen to the Regent Murray.
Has made Lord Herries privy of his intended coming for the trial of this great matter concerning the Queen of Scots, who has required that all expedition may be made either for Murray's coming with others; or else that those who may be chosen may be persons of the best degree, and void of all particular passion in such a cause as this; and further where it is reported that Murray has appointed a parliament next month, it may be prorogued during the time this matter is treated of. Finds this reasonable and requires that it may be done. They are to come to Newcastle or Durham, where they will understand her further pleasure. Intends to proceed in this great matter with all sincerity and looks for the like on their parts.—Enfield, 22 July 1568.
Draft. Endd. Pp. 2.
July 23. 2367. Sir Henry Norris to Cecil.
1. Is thankful that the Queen takes so discreetly what he advertised her. Still believes it rather invented to unquiet her and trouble the country, than for any truth contained in their sayings, for although he hears the like of sundry persons, yet can he get no particular advertisement of the parties. Could not get means how to know the Italian. This morning sending his secretary to the Cardinal Chatillon's house, De Menillie told him that the Admiral sending a gentleman lately hither gave him express charge to declare, that he wished most earnestly the Queen would have great regard to herself, for there are certain Italians sent into England by the Cardinal of Lorraine to practise against her. The like was confirmed by Boutteville, Monsr. D'Andelot's secretary, but of neither could he learn the names of the parties, nor no further particularities than Norris in his last advertised.
2. Coqueville is defeated at St. Valery, where at the first entry were 400 put to the sword, and the rest prisoners. Four hundred Flemings who were with him shall be delivered to the King Catholic's officers upon the frontiers. Coqueville himself is condemned to be hanged and quartered. Such is the fear that the Cardinal of Lorraine has of his estate, that he thinks himself not in safety with the King at Madrid, and works what he may his return to this town. There is a nobleman gone to the Duke of Alva with twenty-four horse and said from thence to be sent to the Queen in ambassade. Montmorin makes ill report of his entertainment in England and of the strait keeping of the Queen of Scots.—Paris, 23 July 1568. Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. Pp. 2¼.
July 24. 2368. The French Ambassador to Cecil.
Requests a passport for the bearer, who is despatched by the King of France to the Queen of Scots with letters and for matters concerning her dower.—London, 24 July. Signed: Bochetel.
Add. Endd. Foot note, signed by Cecil, directing a passport to be made out. With seal. Fr. P. 1.
July 24. 2369. The Senate of Lubeck to the Queen.
Enclose a petition from certain of their citizens whom they desire may be set free and their ships and goods restored to them.—Lubeck, 24 July 1568.
Add. Endd. Lat. on parchment.
July 24. Petition of certain Citizens of Lubeck to the Senate of that City.
Complain that on the return of certain ships belonging to them from France laden with salt, they were seized within the confines of England by a certain Swede and carried into Plymouth, where the crews with the ships and cargoes are detained. Beg that they will write to the Queen of England for their release.—Lubeck, 24 July 1568. Signed.
Add. Lat. Pp. 4. Enclosure.
July 24. 2370. Marsilio De la Croce to Shers.
Sends intelligence from Rome, Vienna, and other places of the 15th July.—Venice, 24 July 1568. Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. Ital. Pp. 3.
July 27. 2371. Arrest of Ships at Dantzick.
Certain Englishmen having complained of the unreasonable arrest of their ships and goods at Dantzick to the chief magistrate of the town; it is answered that it is done because of the stay of goods and ships belonging to merchants of Dantzick in England; which they protest that they had nothing to do with.
Copy of proceedings. Endd.: The first Act passed at Dantzick touching the arrest of ships, &c. Lat. Pp. 5½.
July 27. 2372. Arrest of English Ships at Dantzick.
Names of plaintiffs and defendants with their counsel, with short abstract of proceedings in the matter of the arrest of the English ships at Dantzick.
Lat. P. 1.
July 28. 2373. Advices.
News from London, 24th July 1568. Intended succour by the English for the rebels of the King of Spain in the Low Countries. Antwerp, 28th July. Movements of the two parties in the Low Countries.
Ital. P. 1.
July 28. 2374. Things to be done by the Lords of the Queen of Scots' party.
1. To make a bond to maintain one another and to invade their adversaries.
2. To take up money for the payment of men of war.
3. Every one to have all their folk in readiness with fifteen days' victual against the 10th August to make answer to the pretended summons of forfeiture intended against them on the 18th.
4. No officer of arms not directed by the Queen or her Lieutenant to use any manner of execution under pain of death.
5. A proclamation that none aid the Queen's enemies.
6. To advise whether they shall do all the annoyance they may to their enemies.
Endd. by Cecil. Pp. 1¼
July 28. 2375. Proclamation of the Earl of Argyll.
Commands as Lieutanant General for Queen Mary that proclamation be made at the market crosses of the head boroughs of the realm that all between sixty and sixteen years of age be in readiness against the 10th August to come and assist him within an hour after his next advertisement. —Largs, 28 July 1568.
Copy. Endd. by Cecil. Broadside.
July 28. 2376. Sir John Forster to Cecil.
Has sent this bearer to the Council with a brief note of the principal matters requirable in Warden Courts, and also how Cuthbert Horseley who read the commission in open Court as well in other Wardens' times as Forster's never till this time found any fault or made any question thereof.— Alnwick, 28 July 1568. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. 1.
July 29. 2377. Arrest of English Ships at Dantzick.
Continuation of the proceedings of the 27th inst., in which it was determined that the arrest should not be taken off the English ships until they were fully informed of the circumstances of the stay of the Dantzick ships in England.
Copy of proceedings. Endd: The second Act passed at Dantzick.
Lat. Pp. 6½.
July 29. 2378. Arrest of English Ships at Dantzick.
Short abstract of proceedings in this matter on the 29th July.
Endd. Lat. P. ½.
July 29. 2379. Sir Henry Norris to Cecil.
1. Notwithstanding the Admiral, the Cardinal of Chatillon, Montmorency, besides divers others of meaner sort affectionate to the religion all agree upon that which he has sent, he cannot come to perfect knowledge of anyone by name. The Cardinal of Lorraine being a most cruel enemy to the Queen and her country, will leave nothing unattempted that may be to her prejudice. Warns Cecil to provide for the safe keeping of the Queen of Scots, and also for such enterprises as the Papists in England intend; which here are affirmed to be to seek the deliverance of the Queen of Scots hither ere it be long; which when it shall be attempted Martigues, being now in readiness with his forces, shall repair to England. The Spanish Ambassador now on his way to England is thought to have great knowledge of this conspiracy, having had long conference with the Cardinal of Lorraine, and from thence went straight to the Duke of Alva.
2. Is grieved at the dangerous estate of the religion, for this late perilous peace being made partly upon necessity for want of money to support the charges of the war, and partly by persuasion of large promises, there is little observance of that which was agreed; and so cunningly has the Cardinal of Lorraine conveyed the matter that the King remains armed and the Prince of Conde's forces severed and utterly unarmed, saving of a good number of gentlemen who yet stand upon their guard. The King is also possessed of all the principal towns, ports, and passages, and they dispossessed of all their places of strength Rochelle excepted. The King also denies to permit the Prince to levy money to pay the reiters generally upon the religion, hoping thereby to let the intelligence they have together which they might marvellously use under this pretence. Besides these means they do not omit by their preachers and sowing false rumours to slander religion, which take such impression in this confused multitude as they be the causes of many outrages daily committed against them of the religion. Although they set a good countenance on the matter, Norris sees small likelihood of their being strong enough to come into the field; for the general contributions being stopped, and the gentlemen almost undone by their great charges, consuming as much in eight months as they had gathered in four years before; whereupon it is the opinion of the wise that the religion will not be in a state this year to attempt anything by open arms. Lastly they attend the success of the wars in Flanders. The Duke of Alva has already offered the King forces as assured of his victory over his adversaries there.
3. The Serjeant Major of the citadel of Lyons having secret intelligence with divers of the religion, but being suspected, was purposely invited to dine with another captain in the town, where the provost arrested him and his company, who making resistance he and another were slain, and other three taken and executed. The Prince's adversaries report that this practise was done by his consent. On Monday last was Coqueville and three of his company beheaded. Thanks him for his advertisements of the Queen of Scots. Wishes her by no means to have access to the Queen for such occasions as he can well consider.
4. The King is very sick at Madrid. There is the least account of him that has been seen of any.—Paris, 29 July 8156. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 3.
July 29. 2380. John Herbert to Cecil.
Whereas Cecil's pleasure is that he should impart to him such occurrents as the present state of France yields, he excuses himself for divers reasons, and requests him not to mislike his refusal.—29 July 1568. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. 1.
July 30. 2381. The Admiral Coligni to Cecil.
Letter of credence for the bearer, whosename is not given. —Noyers, 30 July 1568. Signed.
Add. Fr. P. 1.
July 30. 2382. The Lords of the Queen of Scots' party to the Duke of Alva.
Complain of the detention of the Queen of Scots in England, and desire that he will write to the Queen of England in the name of his master demanding liberty for her to return to her own country or to retire to France. Also request a few soldiers and some munitions to enable them to retake some of the Queen's strong places.—Largs, 30 July 1568. Signed by the Archbishop of St. Andrew's, the Earl of Argyll, and others of the nobility.
Orig. Add. Endd.: This writing was found in the Bishop of St. Andrews' lodgings at the burning of Kinneil. Lat. Broadside.
July 31. 2383. Instructions for the Envoys of the German Princes.
The Electors and Princes of Germany direct their counsellors and ambassadors all to be at Vienna on the Thursday next ensuing the 16th September and to obtain audience of the Emperor. They are to point out how the Empire is weakened by the troubles in the Low Countries and what dangers are likely to happen; and to desire the Emperor as the head of the Holy Empire of which the Low Countries are a fief to interfere to put a stop to the wars there.—Baccarach, 31 July 1568.
Endd. German. Pp. 13½.
2384. Translation of the above into English.
Endd. by Cecil. Pp. 6¼.
July 31. 2385. The Regent Murray to the Queen.
Finding her resolution continuing to hear the cause concerning the King's mother, he will with all convenient speed cause men of good estate and qualities to put themselves in readiness to repair to her realm for the prosecution of that matter. As for the suspension of the Parliament, being in Stirling without the fellowship of any noblemen, he durst not enterprise on the instant, but has convened all the noblemen to Stirling on the 3rd August, by whose advice she shall be resolved on that point.—Stirling, 31 July 1568. Signed.
Add. Endd. by Cecil., with seal. P. 1.
July 31. 2386. The Regent Murray to [Cecil].
Is most sorry to hear of his disease. Excuses himself for delay in the suspension of the Parliament; and trusts that the Queen of England will not be offended.—Stirling, 31 July 1568. Signed.
P. 1.
July 31. 2387. Sir William Drury to Cecil.
There is at work more mischief than ever against the Regent. First they conspired his death, and the Laird of Tullibardine should be the chief to enterprise it with the consent of all the Hamilton faction, with the assistance of Mungo Greame, Patrick Ballentyne, James Murray who should have fought with Bothwell, &c. It is accorded amongst the Queen's friends that the Scots Borderers shall attempt such notorious outrages as open wars might warrant them. It is accorded amongst them to convene a Parliament in the Queen's name at Ayr, but as yet they dare not enterprise the proclaiming thereof. Argyll and Huntley provide, and it is thought that this matter will break out immediately upon the readiness and coming down of these two Earls. They intend to destroy as many burgh towns as have assisted the Regent with men or money. The Regent would be glad to accept the Lord Herries coming in. Lord Seton's wife by the devil seduced to the unhonest love of the Laird of Evermark, entered into accord with him that she should poison her husband, and he do the like to his wife, and then to contract a marriage.—Berwick, last of July 1568. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 1½.
July 31. 2388. Affairs in France.
Complaints of the non-observance of the peace by the murder of the Protestants in different towns and the infraction of others of the articles. Also the attempted assassination of Conde, the Admiral, and D'Andelot.
Endd. by Cecil. Fr. Pp. 6½.
July. 2389. Catherine De Medicis to the Queen.
Montmorin has informed her of the concern expressed by the Queen about her health, for which she thanks her; and hopes that the amity between the two realms may long continue. Signed.
Hol. Add. Endd. Fr. P. 1.
[July.] 2390. Sir Henry Norris to the Duke of Norfolk.
The Protestants not being permitted in sundry places to enjoy the benefit of the late Edicts are forced to keep themselves in troops, which makes many suspect that the troubles will be sooner renewed. The town of Rochelle refuses to receive any garrison. The King intends to send into Flanders to help the King Catholic.
Rough draft. Endd. Pp. 2.
[July.] 2391. Sir Henry Norris to —.
Is bound to do him what service he can. Fears that this last war was not so violent but that there must be another. The Edict of Pacification is not straightly observed, and the Prince has sought redress hereof.
Rough draft. Incomplete. Pp. 2.