Elizabeth I: volume 206, December 1599

December 1599

Dec. 1. Drogheda.

57. Sir Geffrey Fenton to Sir Robert Cecil. "Yesterday the Earl of Ormonde and I had a meeting with Tyrone upon the borders of Ferney, near a river, which being somewhat broad was the less convenient for us to speak freely one to another. Tyrone being on horseback on the other side the river, I told him I was to deliver to him some part of Her Majesty's pleasure tending to his good, if he had grace to measure it as he ought. He answered he was willing to hear anything that came from Her Majesty. Then I told him how Her Majesty had been informed by the Earl of Essex that he found in him an internal desire to become a subject, and had possessed her Highness with other protestations in favour of him; that Her Majesty grounded thereupon a gracious inclination not to reject Tyrone, but to reserve her favour for him, so as she might find that his desire to be a subject proceeded from a sound heart, and that the world might know that he were truly penitent for his faults past. To this he answered rather formally and coldly, than showing any heart of zeal, or desire to be a subject, that Her Majesty's favour was the thing he desired, and did never refuse it.

"I told him also that the Earl of Essex had acquainted Her Majesty with part of his demands and offers, to the which Her Majesty found reason to take a further time to set down her answer. But, ere it were long, her final pleasure should be signified therein, so as, if the fault were not in himself, he was in a good way to find grace, and to be restored to favour. And here, by way of advice, I wished him to consider how far the Earl of Essex had engaged himself for him, and how much it concerned Tyrone to make good his Lordship's protestations made for him.

"His answer was, he would do his best to perform any thing the Earl of Essex had promised on his behalf. But touching offers and demands that were treated upon by the Earl and him, he remembered none, other than that afterwards his Lordship sent a knight to him, willing him to set down his demands, to whom Tyrone answered, that they were long since booked and sent to Her Majesty before.

"This was the substance of the speeches passed between him and me at that time, being all uttered in the presence and hearing of the Earl of Ormonde, Sir George Bourchier, and Sir William Warren, they standing all the while upon dry ground. Then I coming out of the water, the Earl of Ormonde said he had some things to say to Tyrone in private, and that he was desirous to speak to his Lordship apart. Whereupon we withdrew ourselves more towards the top of the hill, leaving them to their private conference, the report whereof I humbly leave to his Lordship's own letter, only I put him in mind to impart it to your Honour in his Lordship's particular letter.

"After this, I sent Sir William Warren over to Tyrone, to acquaint him with some points of Her Majesty's letter written to me, thereby to draw him to a more feeling of Her Majesty's mercy, if he would implore it, as he ought; or otherwise, to let him know that she was a prince of power, and would pull him down st last, if he would still continue to dishonour her. Tyrone liked well of the contents of the letter, and thereupon came down to the water-side, and called to me that I would leave the letter with him that night, or give him a copy of it in the morning; for, Faith he, upon the ground of this letter I will labour O'Donnell, and others my confederates, to seek Her Majesty's mercy, and become dutiful. I answered him it was not meet that princes' letters should be made common, neither would I leave the letter with him, or give him a copy. But, inasmuch as he said his meaning was to make so good an use of it, as to labour O'Donnell and others to obedience, I would abstract it, and bring him the next morning the most principal heads, such as should serve best to fit his purpose to persuade O'Donnell and the rest; wherewith he was contented. And the next morning, when I sent it over to him, I required him that within fourteen days I might be advertised from him what he had done with O'Donnell and the rest, and what course they would take together for answering Her Majesty, both touching the message which I delivered by speech, and the points of the letter. He told me he would write to me within fourteen days of his proceedings, whereupon I might take occasion to advertise Her Majesty. But whether he will accomplish with me or not, or what they will conclude amongst themselves, it is not meet I should prejudicate, though I have reason to hope for little good from them.

"This second day we concluded a cessation for a month, to begin this first of December, which Tyrone pronounced himself in the hearing of the noblemen and chief officers of the field, to the end they should be witnesses in it, and in their hearing did give his faith and honour for the inviolable observation of it, as well by himself as all his confederates; the Earl of Ormonde likewise giving his word and honour therein for Her Majesty. The copy of the instrument of this cessation I send to your Honour herewith, subscribed by the noblemen and other assistants then present, for Tyrone desired that he might not sign it, for that O'Donnell was absent: nevertheless it should be as inviolably kept, as if his hand were put to it.

"These are all our material proceedings in this parley. Some other things passed, which being impertinent, I spare to write them, fearing I have too much troubled your Honour with this.

"The principal fruit of this cessation on our side will be, that the State and Lord Lieutenant of the army have time in this interim to thrust up victuals, munitions, and all other provisions, to the forts, towns of the frontiers, and other garrisons which cannot be provided for, but under the cover of a cessation, unless it be by the countenance of an army. And, in this meanwhile, the poor subjects upon the borders may thresh their corn, and carry it into castles and other places of safety. But the best commodity by this cessation is, that we have sent him and all his rakehells back again into Ulster, which is no small ease and comfort to the poor country, that bore a double burden so long as he lay upon the borders; one, by feeding the army that came to defend them; and another, by the excessive outrages of Tyrone, that came to spoil them. Lastly, all the time of his being upon the borders, he made but one cowardly road (sic) into the Pale, where he burned a few petty thatched villages, and took about eighty cows good and bad, with the which he returned with more shame than glory of such a poor booty; an action very base and cowardly in respect of the terrors he thundered before his coming, that he would pierce into the heart of the Pale, and, passing over the hill of Tara, would not stay till he had looked upon Dublin.

"I have carried this letter somewhat like a journal, to the end your Honour, by comparison of one part with another, may see the whole proceedings, and ground your judgment accordingly."—Drogheda, 1599, December 1. Signed. Seal. Endorsed, Received at Richmond the 12th. pp. 3. Encloses,

57. I. "Copy of the instrument signed by the Lord Lieutenant and the noblemen, touching the conclusion of the truce taken with Tyrone, primo Decembris, 1599." The parley took place on the said date "at Blackstone ford, near the mill of Louth, upon the borders of Ferney." Signed by the Earl of Ormonde, the Lords Howth, Dunsany, Trimletston, Dunboyne, Sir George Bourchier, Sir Walter Butler, Sir Geffrey Fenton, and Sir Arthur Chichester. p. 1.

Dec. 1. Drogheda.

58. Sir Geffrey Fenton to Sir Robert Cecil. "This bearer, Captain Humfrey Willis, being discharged, is desirous to repair thither, being at liberty without employment; and I have the more furthered his choice to this journey, for that your Honour may make use of him, both to tell you by what errors the late former services have so evilly succeeded, and to give good advice for a better course hereafter. He is of good experience in the services of Ireland, and particularly for the north, where he hath been employed many years in several countries, sometimes as Sheriff, and always as Captain of 100 men, which hath made him perfect in the estate of the countries, and ripe in their prinoipal septs and factions. Besides, if his credit and charge be restored to him, he hath many friends amongst the Irish, of whom he can make good use to serve Her Majesty's turn. And, for the service of Leinster, I know few Captains in the realm more sufficient than he, nor of whom the traitors there do stand more in awe. If they see him restored to his company, wherein if your Honour do help him, you may do good to the service, and an honourable favour to the poor gentleman, who is desirous to depend wholly upon your countenance. Tour Honour may also do a good deed to afford him some consideration for bringing this packet, for the which he hath received nothing here."—Drogheda, 1599, December 1. Signed. Endorsed, Received at Richmond the 12th. p. 1.

Dec. 1. [London.]

58a. Note by H. Sherwood, secretary to the Earl of Ormonde, of such requests as he was to move to Sir Robert Cecil, by direction of his Lordship.

"First, in regard his Lordship's lands are near altogether wasted and burnt by the rebels, and that, since this his last employment, he is at an extraordinary charge, far beyond the means allowed him from Her Majesty, or his own ability, it would therefore please his Honour to be a mean unto Her Majesty, that he may have the same allowance he had in the time of his former charge and government, which was two parts of the Lord Deputy's allowance, and the third to the Lords Justices, which he prays may begin the day that the charge was committed unto him.

" Next, that it would please his Honour to be a mean likewise unto Her Majesty, that (until a superior Governor come thither) his Lordship may absolutely have the command of all martial affairs there, and to dispose of such means as victual, money, munition, and apparel, as shall from time to time be sent from hence for the relief of Her Majesty's army, as his Lordship shall think fit for the furtherance of Her Majesty's service."—[London], 1599, December 1. Signed. Erroneously endorsed by Cecil's secretary, "11 December." p. 1.

Dec. [1. Cork.]

59. William Saxey, Chief Justice of Minister, to Sir Robert Cecil. Considering the common calamity of Munster, and that Her Majesty's charge and the subjects' danger increase daily, without hope of speedy recovery or relief, he laboured to find out the causes that have given this country this mortal wound, and the ways to cure the same. All these he now submits, adding that thereby the government of Munster may easily be bettered, and 1,000l. of Her Majesty's charge be yearly defalked.

Tyrone, with a purpose to procure breathing time for himself and his country, stirred up the rebels of Munster to raise war against Her Majesty, promising to James FitzThomas the Earldom of Desmond; to Donnell, base son to McCarthy More, the Earldom of Clancarty; to Dermond McOwen, the lordship of Dualla; to Dermond McCarthy, the lordship of Carberry; and so to others. To make them more forward, Tyrone sent his forces into Munster, whereby those rebels were so animated, that they presently entered into this rebellion, which afterward daily increased.

The reputed subjects are more hurtful than the open rebels, for albeit Lord Barry, Cormack McDermody, Donnell McCarthy Reogh, and divers others of the best sort, make shew of subjection, yet their tenants and followers are more dangerous than the rebels, for, under pretence of subjection, they furnish the rebels with all intelligences, victual, and munition.

The inhabitants of Barry's country maintain in rebellion John Barry, brother to Lord Barry; the inhabitants of Muskerry, Dermond McOwen; the inhabitants of Carberry, Dermond McCarthy, who has a yearly pension of 13s. 4d. sterling out of every ploughland in Carberry, Ibawne, and Courcy's country. Thus the reputed subjects maintain the open rebels; and it is plain that the whole province is infected with this rebellion, for the rebels have free access and passage to and through all the country, and they are everywhere relieved and maintained. The whole province is grown into such a hatred of the English government, that no service can be done by any of Her Majesty's forces, unless they be able to fight as well against the reputed subjects as the open rebels, for against the English they all join; so that without a great army no part of the country is passable, by reason of the hidden treachery of the reputed subject.

The ground of this hatred in the hearts of the country is that they could not enjoy the benefit of law and due administration of justice, which they do greatly affect, the jurisdiction whereof has been greedily sought for by martial men, and too easily granted unto them, whose insolency and ignorance have exercised oppression in place of justice.

Many and great are the hurts that grow to this State by the merchants of the port-towns, who with their monies repair into England, and bestow all their wealth on swords, guns, head-pieces, powder, and lead; and, notwithstanding restraint by law both in England and Ireland, yet the gain is so excessive, that the merchant, stopping the searcher's mouth, makes treble gain by selling to subjects; if to rebels, as much more. And by secret confederacy among themselves, the inhabitants of Muskerry, Barry's country, and the rest of the province, being pretended subjects, buy of the merchants and sell to the rebels after these rates, viz., six cows for a sword, six cows for a culiver or musket, six cows for a headpiece, and a cow for a pound of powder, whereby the rebels are furnished from time to time, and thus by the pretended subject the kingdom is set to sale.

As means to suppress the rebellion, the following garrisons should be placed:—Bay of Bantry, 200 foot and 25 horse; Kilcrea, 300 foot and 25 horse; Mallow, 300 foot and 25 horse; Fermoy, or Glanower, 400 foot and 25 horse. These four garrisons will master all the county of Cork. Further, 800 foot and 50 horse to be sent to Kerry and Desmond, with a good commander, knowing the country and the people there. Also, for the county of Limerick, 400 foot and 40 horse at Kilmallock; 300 foot and 25 horse at Askeaton; and 300 foot and 25 horse at Limerick. But "a respective care" must be had that the companies be well paid, victualled, and apparelled. Now they are so wronged, that their corrupt diet is their poison, and, through want of apparel and lodging (not so much as straw), they daily starve and die with cold. Her Majesty's treasure is consumed in rotten victual, and excessive rates and prices of the same and of apparel. The poor soldier, though 6l. a year is allowed out of his entertainment, wants clothes, while he could be better furnished with Irish cloth and shoes for 40s. a year. If the composition might be forgotten, and the cess renewed, the greatest part of this charge (if not all) would be maintained upon the charge of the country, and save Her Majesty a great deal more than the value of the composition.

No merchant or other should bring into Ireland any munition of war, to sell or utter the same again, but for Her Majesty's service. Officers of port-towns to suffer no rebels to be relieved out of the cities or towns with any victual or munition.

Law and justice must be ministered by competent Justices, who are able to perform the duty of their place, and by none other; wherein it were to be wished that the Lord Chancellor of Ireland would allow none to be Justices of assize, nisi prius, or gaol delivery, but only the professors of the law, according to the laudable usage of England.—[Cork,] 1599, December [1]. Endorsed, Received at Richmond the 12th of December. [This letter is nearly identical with Saxey's letter of October 9. See above under date.] Holograph. pp. 3.

Dec. [1].

59a. Copy of the preceding, also holograph, addressed to the Privy Council. pp. 3.

Dec. 2. [Richmond.]

60. The Privy Council to the Lords Justices Loftus and Carey and the Council, " or to the Lord Deputy or other Governor for the time being." Are to let them understand Her Majesty's pleasure concerning some matters, wherein Milerus Magrath, Archbishop of Cashel, at his being in England, obtained Her Majesty's gracious favour.

First, whereas the said Archbishop suffered great loss and spoil by the rebels, to the extreme impoverishing of himself, his wife, children, and tenants, of which loss he supposes he may recover some part, if he may have leave to deal in that behalf by parleying with certain rebels, Her Majesty is pleased that they grant him a warrant or commission (to continue for six months), either to go, or to send any meet person for him, to have conference with those that are in rebellion, Tyrone only excepted, as also to admit any of them to come and confer with the Archbishop. If he obtain from them any safe-conduct for the protection of himself and his tenants, "who lie naked to oppression in respect of the situation of his living," neither he nor they are to be subject to the danger of the law.

Again, whereas the said Archbishop, by occasion of some employment in Her Majesty's service, has been heretofore unjustly vexed and prosecuted, her pleasure is, that if it shall happen that, either for matters past or upon pretence of anything wherewith he may be charged hereafter, during the liberty of the commission aforesaid, any accusation be preferred against him, or against any his deputy under the said commission, no proceedings be taken therein, until the same be certified into England, and Her Majesty's pleasure known.

Thirdly, with respect to certain arrears due by the said Archbishop to Her Majesty, amounting to 200 marks sterling or thereabouts, because these appear to have fallen within the time of this rebellion, whereby he has been despoiled in a manner of all the means of his living, Her Majesty's pleasure is that he be acquitted of the said arrears, and that no process be hereafter sent against him, so long as he reaps no commodity by his living through these rebellious troubles. Their Lordships are to see these matters performed with convenient speed.—[Richmond], 1599, December 2. [Postscript.] "Although Her Majesty will not in any wise that the Archbishop do that traitor so much honour as to have any conference with him, whereby it may be conceived to be for some matter of State, though it be only for restitution of his goods taken from him by Con O'Neill, yet, in respect that the Archbishop conceiveth that Con O'Neill brake his word without Tyrone's privity, and is in hope that Tyrone will cause restitution to be made, Her Majesty is pleased that the said Archbishop shall have leave to write unto him concerning any his private business." Entry Book, No. 204, fos. 208, 208 b. Copy. pp. 2.

Dec. 2. Dublin.

61. Sir Arthur Savage to the Privy Council. Being advertised by some of his friends that the Lords Justices had taxed him to their Lordships for leaving Connaught, he thought fit to give his reasons for the same, and to let them understand "how immeasurably" from time to time he has been dealt withal, so that their Lordships might, till better opportunity of his own coming, suspend him.

Upon the unfortunate loss of the late Governor of Connaught [Sir Conyers Clifford], Sir Arthur joined with Lord Dunkellin in letters of advertisement to the Lord Lieutenant [Essex]. These they intreated Sir Theobald Dillon to carry, and to deliver to his Lordship the state of the province, as he could well do. His Lordship very speedily returned Sir Theobald, with a commission, directed to Lord Dunkellin and Sir Arthur, to direct the forces; and charged them, by private letter as well as by instructions, to have great care of the victualling of the wards in Roscommon, Tulsk, and the Boyle. Further, that they should see such of the Irishry as depended upon Sir Conyers Clifford satisfied, more particularly, O'Connor Don, Captain Oliverus Burke, Captain Thomas Burke, and McSwyne. Although altogether unwilling to take the charge upon him, yet was he contented so to do, till he had seen those wards victualled, and those gentlemen and companies satisfied. This could not be done without charge, foreseeing which, the Lord Lieutenant sent them 120l., to be issued by Sir Arthur's direction only. If more were wanted, Sir Arthur was to use his credit, and upon his accounts it should be presently satisfied. The amount much exceeded the proportion sent; and, having engaged all the credit he had, he besought the Lord Lieutenant to give order to Mr. Treasurer that the paymaster of Connaught, who had issued every penny of the money, might pass his accounts, and that the creditors might be satisfied. The order was given accordingly to Mr. Treasurer, who promised he would write to his man to pass the accounts and discharge Sir Arthur of the like encumbrances; but the Lord Lieutenant being gone, he sent word that they must be passed before the State in Dublin. Upon any occasion of want, which he advertised, he was still intreated to use his credit, and the amount should be discharged. He therefore asked leave to go to Dublin; and, because he stayed three weeks after leave [given], to see those wards revictualled, as they now are, till the last of January, and because he declared the state of the castle and town of Athlone unto them, they impose a fault on him for leaving it, as if some evil success had happened, which by his care could have been prevented. The state of the province is yet as he left it, if O'Donnell has not altered, who, since Sir Arthur's coming, is said to have invaded Clanrickarde. The only fear is, that by O'Connor Sligo being joined with him, the rest of the Burkes of Mayo, being his brothers-in-law and kinsmen, will revolt, as Tibbott Ne Longe, Oliverus Burke, Thomas Burke, Davy McUlick, who are chiefly laid for the defence against him.

"Your Lordships may please farther to understand that, by express commandment of the Lords Justices here, I am returned, and yet not satisfied of anything I have disbursed, but my accounts agreed on only. The Lord Justice Carey, in recompense of what I have abidden all this time, and for my willingness to return to perform my duty, hath rewarded me with such words as I never endured either from nobleman or gentleman since I was born, as 'saucy fellow,' and many such like scornful speech[es], only for telling him that I would shew his letter to your Lordships, which should justify me, if anything happened to the Castle of Athlone for want of victual. My honourable Lords, although I have unfortunately spent my time, as I have now reason to think, yet hath there never by my demerit anything miscarried whereof I have taken upon me the particular charge, howsoever I may by private information to your Lordships be particularly taxed. I most humbly therefore beseech your Lordsnips not to suffer me to be [in] this manner wronged, and to take notice hereof unto him, that the like be not offered me without cause given, which he hath now no colour to pretend."—Dublin, 1599, December 2. Holograph. pp. 3½.

Dec. 2. Mallow.

62. Captain Francis Wilmot to the Earl of Essex. Has presumed, not in the way of advice, but as his Lordship's meanest servant and best wellwiller, to offer his poor opinion concerning the managing of the war in Ireland. If Essex allows anything thereof, will be most happy; if not, prays that his zeal to do him service be not rejected, since he stops there at Essex's commandment, to put his life in hazard for part of the performance. Cannot tell the meaning of any occurrences where he is, for he is restrained from knowing them. Castlemaine is lost; the enemy has blinded them with the colour of the cessation, and with their whole armies dwells upon them, close to Cork, eating and spoiling upon their nearest neighbours. Some 800 foot and 100 horse are drawn to a head, seeking to impeach them, but it doth little hinder them. He lies himself at Mallow, appointed there with a weak garrison, unable to do service. Notwithstanding he offered to go with the garrisons of Mallow, Kilmallock, and Limerick, into the enemy's country, and give them the like measure that they were offering, which he thought would have been a means of dealing with them upon even terms, or would have recalled them from those parts, where they yet remain, doing much spoil. But he is not worthy to be called to the councils of his commanders, therefore prays he may not be in the reckoning, when account shall be demanded.—Mallow, 1599, December 2. Signed. pp. 2.

Dec. 3. Dublin.

63. The Lords Justices Loftus and Carey, the Earl of Ormonde, and the rest of the Council to the Privy Council. "I, the Earl of Ormonde, having appointed a parley with Tyrone upon Thursday, the 29th of the last, Sir George Bourchier being then with me, did the Tuesday before send for me, the Secretary, who came to me to Ardee upon the said Thursday very early in the morning; and, attending me to the parley, did there deliver to Tyrone such part of Her Majesty's message, as he was commanded by Her Majesty. And I, the Earl, being returned hither yesterday from that meeting, I have in a summary manner acquainted us, the Justices and Council, with my proceedings, tending principally to discover that traitor, and to do my best to remove him and his forces from the borders of the Pale.

"And touching the success and issue of the parley, I, the Earl, and [the] Secretary have, by our particular letters now sent, set down our whole doings to your Lordships, to the which we, the Justices and Council, do refer you, as a course most fit to inform your Lordships at full of all material circumstances and observations occurring in that business. But touching the disloyal and corrupt heart of that traitor, though we all, by sundry his late precedent actions, foul and monstrous, and from time to time advertised to your Lordships, were fully satisfied that he was sufficiently discovered before, yet the venom of his stomach breaking out at this parley, as well in open speeches as in other his behaviours, affirming publicly that his conscience and the Catholic religion were the causes that carried him into this rebellion, in which quarrel he would die and live (sic), we now hold him desperate, without hope of recovery, and do think there is no cause for Her Majesty to depend of further discovering him; and therefore we do altogether humbly join in this request to your Lordships, that it would please you to be earnest suitors to Her Majesty to resolve presently of means to preserve this kingdom; and, as a chief step thereunto, to haste away a Governor to take charge thereof, wherein albeit we have often written to your Lordships, by our late despatches, and that we hope the desolate estate of the realm is thoroughly apprehended there, as we have freely and truly urged it from hence, yet, things running daily to greater extremities, and the Archtraitor growing more and more hardened in the pride of his heart, we are driven on still by fresh necessities to press your Lordships to have speedy care of the safety of the kingdom, which, in the uttermost discharge of our duties, we assure your Lordships cannot long consist without present succours of men and money to be sent from thence, with a superior person to command the whole. For it is not now to depend further upon temporising, seeing the sore is grown to another nature than to be cured by such kind of medicines; and we inwardly fear that, if God and Her Majesty put not a present hand against it, the main blow to be stroken for the kingdom is not far off. For the traitor knoweth the weakness of Her Majesty's army, and we know what dangerous impressions he maketh daily in the minds of the subjects by his cawtelous insinuations and pretext of religion; all which he carrieth to his great advantage, and maketh use of them to our prejudice and further ruin. And all these we have often urged to your Lordships, with many others, to draw your Lordships to a thorough sense and feeling of the languishing condition of this despairful State, the succour and relief whereof we humbly pray for at God's hands, and do most humbly lay ourselves down at the sacred feet of Her Majesty for preservation of it (being so royal a member of her imperial Crown) against the rage of a barbarous rebel, raised out of the dust by the honour and bounty only of Her Majesty.

"I, the Lieutenant of the army, have now sent your Lordships a list of all the companies of horse and foot appointed (as we have written before) to lie upon the north borders against the Archtraitor. By the division of which list (wanting), your Lordships may see how many companies were assigned for the army at the Navan, containing in list 2,800 foot; and, by the same division, it may please your Lordships also to see how, upon a view and muster I took of them in mine own person, they rise in men extant but to 1,132 foot, and yet of that number 2[00] or 300 might have been ' coolled out' for unserviceable. So as if it had come to a day of fight, your Lordships see with what numbers I must have been driven to have put it to a trial. Touching the horse companies, they are in like sort divided by the list, and the numbers also assigned to the frontier towns and other places of guard. The particular explanation of all which I do humbly refer to the list, which I protest is truly collected, as near as I can gather. And touching the great deficiencies, though the Commissary of the Musters doth lay the principal cause to the numbers of men that be sick, yet the odds and difference being so great, and Her Majesty standing charged with so many numbers in pay, and hav[ing] so few to fight for her, we will not rest satisfied with that answer; but, to search out the frauds to the bottom, we will presently, God willing, give order to the Mayor, port-reeve, and bailiffs of every town, where soldiers are garrisoned (wherein I, the Lieutenant, had written to the towns before) to make an exact search of all the sick soldiers within their particular jurisdictions, and to certify the same unto us under their hands, whereby we shall be able to judge whether this unreasonable defect in numbers grow by the sick men, or out of some other deceit; which, being discovered, we will not fail to see the offence punished, in whom it shall be found. We doubt not but great numbers are sick, partly by their own disorder and hardness of the climate, but more by the unseasonableness of a great portion of their victuals sent out of England, which being made ill-conditioned by evil carriage at sea, and by long and close keeping here in the several magazines for want of issuing, and partly by removing it (sic) from one place to another, where it could not but endure many casualties, much of it hath been perished and lost; and a great part of that that was preserved hath proved so unsavoury and unwholesome, as we think it was one main ground of this great sickness of the soldiers. And therefore, under your Lordships' reformation, we humbly wish that from henceforth some competent proportion of money might be provided to furnish the soldiers with corn here, as it may be gotten, and that hereafter better choice be had of other provisions to come out of England hither, where they cannot be so speedily issued, and by many other casualties do grow to perish, greatly to the endangering of the soldiers in their health, besides the loss to Her Majesty and the undertakers; the remedy whereof we humbly leave to your Lordships' grave consideration.

"Touching the forces of the country formerly assented unto by the nobility and chief gentlemen of the Pale (the proportions whereof we have sent to your Lordships before, being 1,600 foot, and about 400 horse and carbines), albeit at the breaking up of that assembly commissions were issued from the State to the several noblemen, sheriffs, and principal gentlemen in every county, for the levying and mustering of those numbers, to be ready to answer me, the Lieutenant of the army, when I should call for them, and albeit I did write severally to the noblemen and countries to bring those forces to the Navan to join with Her Majesty's army, which I had drawn to a head to resist the Archtraitor, yet none of them appeared, except the Lord of Howth, who brought out of the county of Dublin, some 200 foot and horse so badly appointed, as he said he would never venture his life with them. And leading them in his own person, I dismissed them back again to lie for the defence of their own borders, his Lordship remaining with me still, and accompanying me to the parley. Your Lordships may see, by this example, what is the disposition of the Pale, and what we are to look for of them, when the Archtraitor with all his forces lay so strongly upon the borders, prepared to break in to spoil them, and yet none of them rose out to make defence. Only the Lord of Howth is to be regarded, to whom it may please your Lordships to procure some letter of thanks in Her Majesty's name, which will be a comfort and an encouragement to him hereafter. We have sent to your Lordships herewith a copy of a letter written to us from the Lord of Delvin (wanting), together with some instructions he gave lately to some of his men to deal with Tyrone, and Tyrone's answers to them, the consideration whereof we humbly leave to your Lordships.

"Lastly, we are now in hand, during the time of this cessation, to send up more victuals to the two forts in Leix and Offally, and to put up to all frontier towns of the borders and places of garrison such provisions of victuals and munitions as we can make, to the end they may be there ready to answer the use of the army, if, either during or after the cessation, we shall be driven to draw the companies to a head upon a sudden."—Dublin, 1599, December 3. [Postscript.] "After the writing of this letter, the Lord of Delvin came hither, to whom I, the Lieutenant of the army, had written before his coming. But as yet we have had no conference with him."Signed. Endorsed, Received at Richmond the 12th. Endorsed by Sir Robert Cecil, "This is to be read by your Lordship" [? Mountjoy]. pp 3½. Enclose,

63. I. "Instructions for my Lieutenant, Thomas Leicester, and my servant, Matthew Archbold, to treat and parley with Tyrone, by virtue of the Right Honourable the Lord Lieutenant of Her Majesty's Army's (sic) authority, dated the 25th of November, 1599."

"First, you are to acquaint him that I, understanding he was come with his forces of purpose to destroy the English Pale, and specially myself and my country, that I sent you to know what moved him to so wrongful an act, he nor any of his competitors having no claim or title to any of our lands or possessions, which we held from Her Majesty and her progenitors these 400 and odd years.

"Item, you are to tell him (if he pretend he doth the same for the advancement of the Catholic religion, as commonly he giveth out) that all the inhabitants of the English Pale, for the more part, and specially myself, are Catholics, and were so when he was not thought to be one; and many of us, having heard and read more than he did, could never find in Scripture, General Council, by the Fathers, or any other authentical authority, that subjects ought to carry arms against their anointed Christian Prince, for religion or any other cause, and specially against so gracious a Prince as we have, whose bounty and special favour we have ever found, and he himself most of any. Therefore this gross and inexcusable ignorance is not sufficient for him to seek our destruction, who must regard our duty unto our native and gracious Prince (enjoined thereunto by God's commandment) more than what life or living he can deprive us of. Therefore tell him, if the advancement of religion be the ground of his wars, that he may do well to set the same down under his hand, to the end it may be made known unto Her Majesty, who no doubt will take such a course therein, as must be to the contentation of every honest and reasonable subject, and that he may withdraw his forces from annoying myself or any other of Her Majesty's subjects, until Her Highness['s] pleasure unto his demands be signified, or at least until the Lords Justices, [the] Lord Lieutenant of Her Majesty's army, and the Council's acceptance thereof be known within a certain time ; which course if he shall deny, let him understand that the world in general must judge that he useth pretence of religion but as a cloak for tyranny, for which he may expect no other reward in this world, or in the world to come, than every other persevering in like purpose have had.

"My scope and purpose is, that you endeavour to gain some time in hope of relief, and that we may thresh and keep up part of our corn, foreseeing you do not exceed your instructions in any point that may touch Her Majesty in honour, or my own credit; and, if he deny to grant some tolerance, you may assure him I stand here at Kyllowe, less than three miles off from him, with certain foot companies and 200 horse, with which Her Majesty's army at hand will be able, not only to defend the country, but also to offend him, and then post one unto me secretly, and come after yourselves with his safe conduct. This 26th of November, 1599." Signed. Copy. p. 1.

63. II. "The proceedinys of us, the said Thomas and Matthew, with Tyrone, the 26th of November, 1599, by warrant from the Lord of Delvin, granted by the authority of the Right Honourable the Lord Lieutenant of Her Majesty's army, with Tyrone his answers."

"We coming where Tyrone was, he bade us welcome, and turned back, being on horseback, and alighted on the side of a hill beyond Crose Kyle in Plunket's country, and there sitting down apart from his company, called us present, and demanded what was the cause of our coming; to which we answered verbatim according our instructions.

"To the first, he replied with a protestation that he sought not to possess or enjoy, for himself or any of his, any livings or land in the English Pale, but sought rather a reformation of abuses, and to establish the Catholic Religion.

"To the second, he answered that the English Palemen were a kind of Catholics, and said, howbeit the Lord of Delvin taketh upon him to be one, and that he endured trouble for the same, when himself was a schismatic, yet he knew that the Lord of Delvin would not hazard the loss of a foot of land, or forego his good meat, drink, and lodging, to advance the Catholic Religion; therefore said he would not spare those that would serve, and did maintain others to serve, against him, but said that, upon certain motions delivered him by Sir William Warren, from the Lord Lieutenant of Her Majesty's army, that he granted a cessation till Friday next, whereof Westmeath might take the benefit as well as others.

"We demanded he should grant us some days after Friday, lest if there were no further cessation, his forces might suddenly spoil the subjects, and that he might send direction to the Leinster rebels to keep the cessation. To which he answered that he would talk with his brother Cormac and the rest. After which conference he granted a direction, which was sent to the Connors, &c., to keep the cessation, but denied to grant any further days, saying his forces would be such as could not steal upon us.

"We desired him as we were wished by Sir William Warren, at his return from him, that he would appoint the Connors to come to the parley a Friday, and bring John Moore with them, which he dented, saying they durst not venture coming until himself went where they were, lest they might be cut off by the way. And so he called for his horse, and drew towards his camp ; and we departing returned back, 26th November, 1599." Signed, Tho. Leicester, Matthew Archbold. There is an endorsement by Sir Robert Cecil, but the words are illegible. Copy. p. 1.

Dec. 3. Dublin.

64. The Lord Justice Loftus to Sir Robert Cecil. By the enclosed, signed by Her Majesty, it will appear how long it is since he was first established Archbishop of Armagh. Since that time, has been employed in Ireland as a Privy Councillor, and has always used his uttermost endeavours to perform some acceptable service for Her Highness.

"There hath not been in my time, nor is at this instant, in this kingdom, any Judge or Privy Councillor besides myself, but hath in good measure tasted extraordinarily of Her Majesty's bounty by way of suit, as did Sir Lucas Dillon and Sir Nicholas White, who had goodly livings bestowed upon them, and as hath done likewise the now Chief Baron and Master of the Bolls here, who, by a lease lately given them by Her Majesty, have benefited themselves. And Sir William Gerard, my predecessor in office, had gifts better worth than 3,000l. bestowed upon him."

Writes not from envy at the welfare of any, but that Sir Robert may see how some have been more fortunate than others. Though it is not meet that he be the trumpet of his own desert, yet beseeches Sir Robert to understand that, as well in the governments of Sir William Pelham and Lord Grey, wherein he had the care of the Pale committed to him, as also in the late government of Sir Robert Gardener and himself, he preserved the Castle of Dublin from three several treasons plotted in those times for betraying and taking thereof. Will not trouble Sir Robert with any further particulars on his own behalf, yet in all those years he has not been troublesome to Her Majesty or the Privy Council for any suit, but has contented himself with the promotions from time to time bestowed upon him.

"And now, through the iniquity of the time, in which I have lost even almost all the poor living I had, I assure your Honour I am brought so backward in mine estate, as I have now no means to live, but by the bare entertainment which I receive from Her most excellent Majesty; yet my charge never so great nor heavy unto me, as at this instant it is. For, besides the losses which I have sustained myself by these wars, my poor children, who have lived in good reputation in their country, are now forced with their families to return and live with me, who was never so ill able to relieve their miserable estate."

Prays, therefore, for Sir Robert's help upon a special occasion now offered him to be a suitor. Thomas Bremingham, of Dunfert, co. Kildare, is lately deceased. His eldest son has been before, and is now, in open action against Her Majesty. He is the man that, at the bridge of Johnstown, defeated Esmond's company, and there slew a number of English soldiers. Since his father's decease, he has razed his castle, and has so wasted his small living, that there is not a halfpenny worth of profit to be had thereby. Prays that he may have a fee farm upon a reasonable survey of the land Thomas Bremingham died seised of, or at least a lease for a good number of years, by which (though it be now of no value) his decayed estate may hereafter be in some measure repaired, when, please God, the country is recovered. Encloses a letter (wanting) written by Lord Burghley to him, shewing his affection. Will seek to continue his dependency upon the same root, and endeavour by his best services to deserve Sir Robert's affection. Purposely sends over his servant, the bearer, to attend Sir Robert's answer, and prays for his speedy return.—Dublin, 1599, December 3. Signed. Endorsed, Received at Richmond the 12th. pp. 2.

Dec. 3. Dublin.

65. The Lord Justice Carey to Sir Robert Cecil. That a fee farm or lease of Thomas Bremingham's lands may be granted to the Lord Justice Loftus, Richard, the eldest son of the said Thomas, having been, and still being, in open action against Her Majesty. Richard Bremingham was the principal actor in the killing of some of Captain Esmond's company. The Lord Justice Loftus has served Her Majesty long; he is now old, and has many children. This favour from Her Majesty would comfort and encourage him much, as he has never had, as he says, any lease or grant of land during his time of service. Will acknowledge the favour as a special one done to himself, who has often tasted good from Sir Robert.

"This short cessation that now is taken, is but to increase the Traitor's strength, and to make his combination the greater in the Pale; and that O'Donnell's forces may join with his. For, within these five or six days, I am sure he most have gone back, for his provision of victuals was near spent, and their time of Christmas draweth on. There is no hope to make this Archtraitor a good subject, and therefore Her Majesty must resolve to prosecute' him. And, if his helpers out of Scotland were cut off, his traitorous and insolent pride would soon abate. The late letters from the Baron of Delvin doth more me somewhat to think the best of him; yet I have a jealous conceit of him. For I understand by my intelligence that Rory McCooly, brother to Ever McCooly, having preyed in the country of the Baron of Delvin the Saturday, and had [sic: ? having] taken from thence divers cows and a horse worth 30l., the Monday following the prey was restored, and Rory McCooly laid by the heels, until the horse was delivered. Tyrone's secretary told my intelligencer that the Lord of Delvin was not openly joined with them, but said that they were sure of him, as soon as they should bring a sufficient power that were able to back him. He told me also that the secretary shewed him divers articles of demands, that they intended hereafter, if occasion served, to prefer to Her Majesty; but because they were not yet perfected, until O'Donnell's next meeting, he could not get a copy of them. But, imperfect as they were, he was suffered to read them. The articles were 18 in number; those that he could remember, your Honour may perceive by the enclosed [wanting; but see Nos. 55 and 56 above]. I am promised to have a copy of the articles shortly after their next meeting.

"Yesterday, by my Lord Chancellor's good means, it was our hap to take one Fitssymons here in Dublin, a very seditious priest and Jesuit. The taking of him will cost me 20l. He is committed to the Castle of Dublin. When he is examined, he shall be sent into England.

"It were a good deed that some good portions were offered to take away some of these principal archtraitors' heads. That course would make them all afraid and mistrustful even of those that are nearest about them.

"Your Honour must send away some more money with all speed, or else we shall be undone; for, so God help me, I have borrowed so much, that my credit will stretch no further.

"There hath been divers companies cassed of late. The arms of them are slenderly looked unto; and, though it do not properly appertain unto me, yet I am sorry that it is no better looked unto by those to whom it doth appertain. I pray write some sharp letter unto us, to look better unto it. I am loath to write so much as I see. Here is much armour sold at half prices, which were better to be bought for the Queen; which would be profitable for Her Majesty, and keep the rebels from buying of it But I see none willing to lay out five pounds for Her Majesty's service.

—Dublin, 1599, December 3. Endorsed, Received at Richmond the 12th. Holograph. pp. 3.

Dec. 3. Dublin.

66. Sir Geffrey Fenton to Sir Robert Cecil. "At my return from the parley, I understand sundry letters have been written from the Court to some particulars here, that the Earl of Essex shall be sent again to govern; and, for proof thereof, his Lordships officers, that were selling his things before, have upon the sudden altered their course, and do make no further sale, but reserve ail for his Lordship's coming. If this be so, I humbly beseech your Honour, even for all the service and dependency I have professed to you, to procure my revocation from hence during his Lordship's government, that 1 may not be continued here to mine own disgrace, and not to be in case to do Her Majesty the service I ought. His Lordship, you know, was hardly conceited of me before; but now, since he hath discovered that I am an open professed party on your side, I know my portion will be far more sour and full of peril. In which respect, I have no other way to provide for my safety, and prevent disgraces, than to leave this place for the time. In which point, I humbly pray you to favour me, that I may leave it with Her Majesty's privity and license, which I will account as a great suit granted unto me; otherwise, rather than I will live under the greatness of one that hath in his hand authority and will to hurt me, I will venture to lie in the Tower or Fleet, if it shall please Her Majesty so to set her displeasure against me. During all the hazards this kingdom hath run since Tyrone's rebellion, your Honour knoweth I have not sought so much as to remove any (sic) foot from hence, where all others of my sort have avoided the place, or sought to do so; and by my tarrying I may assume that I have profited the service, though I have hurt myself. And now in the end, to be delivered over to the humour and will of so great a man, and my estate utterly left without recompense for my 21 years' service in this malignant country, I humbly submit to your Honour how I should carry my resolution; whether to adventure upon Her Majesty's displeasure in coming away, or, by tarrying here, to pass under so many dejections as I am sure to find. This suit is just, and it is as reasonable and easy, if my poor service be justly weighed, and my safety respected; all which do lie now in your hands, to whom I owe my heart, and I can owe no more."—Dublin, 1599, December 3. Signed. Endorsed, Received at Richmond the 12th. p. 1.

Dec. 4. Westminster.

67. Queen Elizabeth to the Earl of Ormonde. In favour of the bearer, the Archbishop of Cashel, who has received great detriments and losses by the continuance of the wicked rebellion in Ireland. Ormonde to yield his best assistance and favour to the Archbishop, and to take order that one Darby Odere, who is withholding the Archbishop's lands and goods from him, may give some satisfaction, or restitution of the same.—Westminster, 1599, December 4. Copy. p. 1.

Dec. 4. Dublin.

68. The Earl of Ormonde to the Privy Council. "Upon my repair to the Navan, the 22nd of November, from Dublin, I caused in my own presence to be mustered the companies both of horse and foot appointed to attend me there, saving such as I returned to other garrisons for the better strengthening of them. Upon which muster I found that, of 1,900 foot in list, there were not present above 1,132 strong, and of 430 horse but 291, as, by a certificate under the Commissary's hand herewith sent your Lordships (wanting, but see 44 VI. above) may appear. How many were absent by sickness I could not learn, but directed my warrants for the better enquiry thereof, which are not yet returned. The noblemen and gentlemen of the Pale were likewise, by their own consents, appointed to draw thither of their own forces 1,600 foot and 420 horse to attend the present service, as formerly hath been advertised; all which failed, saving some of the noblemen themselves, being not attended on with above one or two men a piece, except my Lord of Howth, who brought so far as Skyrne a few horse and foot, which were so badly furnished, as himself told me he would in his own person attend me, but not adventure his life among such a company. The Lord of Trimletston in like sort delivered unto me that he was in one part of the shire, and the Sheriff in the other, to raise the forces of the country, who answered them plainly that they had rather be hanged at their doors at home, than be killed in the field. And my Lord Slane, my Lord of Louth, and my Lord of Killeen, affirmed that the countries under their command denied either the aid of horse or foot; and the Lord of Gormanston excused his absence by reason of sickness; in whom (and generally through the Pale) I find nothing but slackness and coldness, to further either Her Majesty's service, or their own good and safeties ; besides that many young gentlemen among them are daily starting forth, and running into rebellion, which till now was never seen.

"Tyrone, with all his forces, being then come within fifteen miles of the Navan, whose forces were, as I was credibly informed, 5,000 foot and 900 horse strong, and the day that I came to the Navan burnt some houses towards Athboy, in my Lord of Killeen's country, but took not from thence, nor in all the preys they made upon the borders of the Pale at that time, above 80 head of cattle, young and old, and some 400 sheep; which happened through the negligence of some of the country people, who quitted a bridge, called the bridge of the grange, between Kenles and the Navan, and suffered only three horsemen and two shot to break through the same, and carry their prey from them. All which I had prevented, for that I was then in a readiness to make my repair downwards, but that munition and victuals were not sent to the Navan beforehand, as I was promised, neither were the troops then come together, as I directed they should, which impediments forced me to stay one whole day at Drogheda.

"At my coming to the Navan, when I saw the country failing of their forces, and the army there no stronger than your Lordships by the list may see (who seemed to be much weakened by reason of sickness, want of stockings, brogues, and other necessaries), upon whose good or ill success the state of the kingdom rested, I called unto me Sir George Bourchier, the Marshal, Sergeant-Major, and other Captains of best judgment, to hear their opinions, whether it were better to attempt the dislodging of the traitor, or remain where we were till the troops at the Naas might be drawn unto us, and so make one strong bulk. Who were of opinion that it could not be but most dangerous for us (the traitors being strong, and we so weak) to attempt them for that present. Whereupon, I resolved to draw unto me part of the forces from the Naas, for which purpose I hastened Mr. Marshal thither. In the meanwhile, Sir William Warren received a letter from Tyrone, wherein he was desirous to speak with, me, if I would appoint a time and place for our meeting, as by this enclosed copy of his letter (wanting, but see No. 40 above) may appear unto your Lordships. The next morning I sent Sir W. Warren unto him to conclude of the place, which accordingly he did. Upon whose return unto me, 1 dispatched a letter unto the Lords Justices, to send Mr. Secretary Fenton unto me to Drogheda, to accompany me to the parley, to signify Her Majesty's pleasure and gracious message to Tyrone, which, at our coming thither, in my hearing he delivered, as by his own letters I know your Lordships at large will be made acquainted.

"Your Lordships may please also to be advertised that at this treaty i have taken a truce with Tyrone and his confederates for one whole month, beginning the first of this instant of (sic) December, as by a copy of an instrument signed by myself and the Lords then present (wanting, but see No. 57 I. above) may appear. In this parley I noted these things principally; that divers of the Pale before my coming had relieved him both with gifts and victuals for his money, [and] that they had secretly parleyed with him, when Sir W. Warren was with him. At our assembly he did openly publish that religion was the original cause why he took arms, and did so continue, and [I] found him more insolent than at any other parley. He openly protested that he would send 2,000 men, either Scots or Irish, under the conduct of his son-inlaw, Richard Butler, into the counties of Kilkenny and Tipperary, whereunto I answered that he might do well to take a strict muster of them at their departure, for before their return I hoped he should find good checks upon them.

"The commodities that we gain by this cessation is (sic), that we shall victual the forts, castles, and garrison places, viz., Athlone, and the rest of the castles in Connaught, and also Philipstown, Maryborough, Cahir, Ballyraggett, and all the garrison places, where I have placed the army, as by the list herein sent may appear; in which garrisons there is victual but for very few days, as by the Victualler's note may appear; the supply of which I leave to the Lords Justices and Council, whom I have acquainted therewith.

Besides, we have gained this month, being the fittest for them to make incursions, and the worst for us. The subjects may thresh their corn, and put it [in] safety; the bridges may be ensconced, the fords and other passages stopped, the weak soldiers and horses in the meantime relieved, and the Pale, if they have any will (of whom, for the causes before remembered, I have little hope), may in the meantime arm and muster their men. And, for that I have no hope of any further cessation, I must still be an humble suitor unto your Lordships to put Her Highness in remembrance, that it may stand with her gracious pleasure to send a Governor, as shall be best to her liking, during whose absence I have not, nor will slack (to the uttermost of my power) all the faithful service I can.

"I may not forget to put your Lordships in mind to send a force of horse and foot by sea to Lough Foyle, which will be the fittest place to annoy the traitors in those parts, and stop their incursions into the Pale.

"I have thought fit to make your Lordships acquainted with such letters as passed between my Lord of Delvin and me, having herewith sent your Lordships the copies of them, who is himself now come hither unto me, and as yet have no cause to condemn him."—Dublin, 1599, December 4. Signed. pp. 3½. Encloses,

68. I. Sir William Warren to the Lords Justices Loftus and Carey. " I have received a letter from Tyrone, which I have sent hereinclosed; whereupon I sent Thomas Barnewall to him into his camp, who brought me answer from him that he would not speak with him as yet. His reason I will forbear to express at this time, fearing lest it might turn me to some harm, if it should be known. Things have been handled contrary to my expectation, which I fear hath prevented me; yet I have written to him again, and expect his answer in the morning, which I will acquaint your Lordships withal. I am informed that Tyrone doth expect the coming of the Lord of Delvin to join with him, which I would be sorry should be so; yet, hearing of it, I thought it my duty to acquaint your Lordships withal. Tyrone is (sic) a very great force together, and hath done great harm. He hath both his wife and his daughters in the camp with him, and the most part of all their wives with them, which maketh me think that they regard our army but a little. God strengthen us, or weaken them."—Navan, 1599, November 23. Signed. Copy. p. 1.

68. II. Hugh, Earl of Tyrone, to —. "You may tell Sir William Warren that he shall find me here upon the borders, betwixt this and Clancarroll. Let him draw near, and send one of his men before, and I will send for him. And so fare you well. From my Camp, this first day [of] December [November 21December 1], 1599. The Secretary commends him to you." Signed, "O'Neill." Copy. p. ½.

68. III. List of the army of the Navan, as garrisoned on 1 December, 1599. Foot, 4,000; horse, 530. pp. 1½.

68. IV. Victuals in the store at the Navan, on 2 December, 1599. Signed by John Eaton. p. ½.

68. V. C[hristopher Nugent, Baron] Delvin to the Earl of Ormonde. ''I have written often to your Lordship touching the extremity wherein I still rest, and yet can hear nothing from you. To-morrow, being Monday, is my uttermost day of tolerance, either for parleying with Tyrone, or to abide the brunt and extremity of all his forces, bent upon the destruction of me and this whole county. Therefore, seeing I have no present means to prevent the same with force, I beseech your Lordship send me authority to treat and parley with him myself, or whom else I shall appoint, thereby to win time, until your Lordship (to whose relief myself and the whole country is referred) do draw down with the army. If this course be not held, Her Majesty shall, within these two days, have as little good of this county (which often before was preserved by my stratagems) as now she hath within Off ally or Leix. Therefore I eftsoons beseech your Lordship to post me your authority and advice touching the premises by the bearer, as you regard the preservation of this distressed country, myself, my wife, and children, which, having no sustenance but our corn and cattle, cannot live by warding a castle, where the same may not be contained, nor the castle long kept without it."—Clonin, 1599, November 25. Signed. Copy. p. 1.

68. VI. The Earl of Ormonde to Baron Delvin. " I received your letter this 25th of November after midnight, wherein you desire to have commission for yourself, or whom else you shall appoint to parley with Tyrone, hoping by that mean to put him from burning and spoiling that country. I have thought good hereby to advise your Lordship to forbear to parley with him yourself, and do wish you should stand upon your guard to withstand his malice, preferring the remembrance of your most bounden duty to the Queen's Majesty before the regard of loss of corn or cattle, which is the course myself and all good subjects must hold. Nevertheless, for your better enabling to divert him from seeking the spoil of you and the country, I do hereby authorise you to send any one or two of your men or friends unto him for causes of good treaty, foreseeing always that such as you send have special regard to the honour of Her Majesty and your own credit."—Navan, 1599, November 25. [Postscript.] "This authority for parleying to continue for the space of five days next after the date hereof, and your proceedings to be certified unto me with all speed." Signed. Copy. p. ½.

68. vii. C[hristopher Nugent], Baron Delvin, to the Earl of Ormonde. "Presently upon receipt of your Lordship's authority, I sent my Lieutenant Thomas Leicester and my servant Matthew Archbold to treat with Tyrone, according the instructions agreed upon by myself, Sir John Tyrrell, and the chief gentlemen, the copy whereof (containing, I hope, nothing prejudicial to Her Majesty's honour or my own credit) I send your Lordship, as also Tyrone's answer to the same. The scope and meaning of our side was only to gain some time, wherein we might be relieved, or at the least lay up part of our corn safe from his cruelty, without which (had he gone forward, not being resisted, as he began) he might, without any more stroke striking, force us, in very short time, for want of sustenance, to forsake both country and castles.

"It may please your Lordship to be advertised, during these eight or nine days, that Tyrone and his forces of the one side, and the Leinster rebels on the other side, are burning and preying of myself and my neighbours at their pleasures, that I had no more forces to be commanded upon all occasions but my own foot company; for having written to Mr. Shane (whose company only of the garrisons your Lordship assigned to answer me) that he should send me 50 of his men for three or four days, leaving the rest for the defence of his house, he answered me that they could not be spared from thence, but wished rather to have the assistance of another company thither. And as for the country, every of them thinketh himself and all the people he hath, too few to keep his house. Therefore, I beseech your Lordship, if the wars do hold, that some better course be taken for defence of this poor country, which had been quite destroyed ere this, as is well known to the whole shire, had not myself extraordinarily strained my best endeavours and ability to preserve the same for Her Majesty; or, if such course may not be taken, that it would please your Lordship of all favour with speed to signify as much, that I may during this short cessation convey my wife and children to Dublin."—Clonin, 1599. November 28. [Postscript.] "It may please your good Lordship to understand that my company are destitute of clothes and lendings for this present time, and I beseech your Lordship that they may be provided for as others." Signed. Copy. p. 1.

68. VIII. Lord Delvin's instructions to Lieutenant Thomas Leicester and Matthew Archbold, to parley with Tyrone. [Original of No. 63 I. above.]—1599, November 26. Signed. p. 1.

68. IX. The proceedings of Lieutenant Thomas Leicester and Matthew Archbold with Tyrone, and the latter's answers. [Original of No. 63 II. above.]—1599, November 26. Signed. p. 1.

Dec 4. Dublin.

69. The Earl of Ormonde to Sir Robert Cecil. Refers him to his letter to the Privy Council. Finds little hope of the traitor's conformity, and therefore wishes Her Majesty would choose some superior Governor of Ireland. Will do all he can in her service.

"Upon my return (after the conclusion of the cessation), I hastened hither to the Lords Justices and Council, as well to acquaint them with my proceedings in this parley, as to bestow the army into garrison places, and to deal with their Lordships for the victualling of them, the forts of Offally and Leix, the castles of Cahir, Ballyraggett, and Ferinlare; which, being committed by me to their Lordships' care, I am now returning towards the county of Kilkenny, to use all the means I may for prevention of Tyrone's practices. I have thought fit hereinclosed to send you a note of such motions as I left in writing with the Lords Justices and Council, to be by them effected before the end of this cessation; assuring you, upon my credit, had I not made head against the Archtraitor Tyrone at this time, he had overrun all the Pale. In taking view of the forces I had with me, I found such exceeding deceit, as it appeared unto me that Her Majesty is greatly abused in them, and the commanders so unwilling to serve, as I am daily troubled with their suits to go for England, and yet hitherto, for my part, I have not given leave to any." Prays for the bearer's speedy dispatch back.—Signed. Endorsed, Received at Richmond the 12th. pp. 1½. Encloses,

69. I. "Things motioned by the Lord Lieutenant of the Army to the Lords Justices and the Council, 4 December, 1599, after return from the parley with Tyrone."

That during this cessation they would cause all Her Majesty's forts and castles to be victualled, if possible, to the last of March. That they would give present order that the garrisons now placed by him upon the borders may be supplied with victuals and other means, and that a proportion of victuals be sent to Navan before the fine of the cessation. That in this cessation the bridges and passages upon the Boyne be fortified and guarded, and the fords stopped. That those of the Pale may be driven to be better in readiness against the fine of the cessation. That the companies of horse and foot in pay may be reinforced before that time. That it would please their Lordships to cause some special place in every of those garrison towns to be fortified, where the companies may safely draw together, with their victuals and munition, foreseeing that they have water within the place to be fortified, where a few men may defend the same. Copy. p. 1.

Dec. 4. Dublin.

70. The Earl of Ormonde to Sir Robert Cecil. Desiring him to give all furtherance to Sir Robert Napper, Chief Baron of the Exchequer, to whom he has given license to repair to England. Napper's long and painful service in Ireland.—Dublin, 1599, December 4. Signed. p. 1.

Dec. 4. Dublin.

71. The Lord Justice Carey to Sir Robert Cecil. "This traitorous and villainous libel, whereof I send your Honour a copy (wanting, but see No. 25 and No. 25 III. above, and the endorsement of the latter), is divulged and spread abroad by these Popish priests and Jesuits (whereof this country doth swarm), and [they] do mightily infest and seduce this bad nation, being apt to embrace anything that may have any colour (how false soever it be) to maintain their rebellious actions. The Bishop of Meath, thinking it fit that this traitorous and villainous libel should be answered, hath framed something in answer thereof, which I wished might first be considered by your Honour and others in England, before it were made known here, and therefore I persuaded his Lordship first to send the same unto your Honour, which I know he doeth, desiring your Honour to accept of his Lordship's dutiful and wellwilling mind."—Dublin, 1599. December 4. Endorsed, Received at Richmond the 12th. Holograph. p. 1.

Dec. 5. Dublin.

72. Thomas [Jones], Bishop of Meath, to Sir Robert Cecil. " Being lately at the Council table, when Tyrone's seditious libel was presented to the Lords Justices, I earnestly desired to have a copy thereof; which being granted unto me, as often as I did sithence peruse it, so often did I conceive it to be a thing very needful to be answered, to prevent, if it might be, some of the dangerous effects which the deviser and publishers of that seditious matter and subject intended to work amongst Her Majesty's good and loyal subjects of the Pale, to whom especially it is directed. For which respect, I thought it agreeable with my bounden duty to my most gracious Sovereign, to sequester myself for a few days from other business, and to devise an answer to that pernicious writing. And having now made an end of this labour, considering it concerns Her Majesty and her government so nearly as it doth, I thought it meetest to stay the publication of my answer, until I had first sent it to your Honour, and may understand your pleasure, whether it shall be thought meet to publish this answer, and in what sort. For the matters of fact therein rehearsed, I know I have not erred, and for the points of learning, in regard of the shortness of time, and my forced absence from my study and books at Ardbraccan, I have borrowed some matter and reasons from the Bishop of Winchester, out of his learned book against the Jesuits." Prays that his performance may be accepted, and that both it and this letter may be shewn to any that is learned.—Dublin, 1599, December 5. Holograph. p. 1.

Dec. 5. Whitehall.

73. Sir Robert Cecil to the Lord Justice Carey and Sir Geffrey Fenton. "Because Her Majesty hath resolved to make answer to many letters of yours very shortly, you may not expect by this packet of mine any matter of importance; and yet, in respect of some mistaking of my former letter in a matter concerning the sending over of the two gentlemen, Sir Thomas Wingfield and Mr. Stafford, I have found it necessary to touch a little the effect thereof. This night, and not before, the one of them arrived ; the other is yet upon the way, in respect of his disability to travel with any expedition. They are both come, as I perceive, upon the occasion of my letter to your Lordship, but altogether without any instructions from the State. The reason why I wrote for them was this. There was a bruit that the State there intended to send over some one of the long robe of the Council to make relation of the state of Ireland; and the Earl of Essex, the late Lieutenant, did also deliver that he heard that divers of the Council would come away. Whereupon there grew that restraint which followed; and, when Her Majesty desired it might rather be by some martial men that the information should come than by any other, and that it was reported that Sir Thomas Ma[ria] Wingfield meant to come over of himself, the purpose of my letter was, that either he or the other should be directed hither with such relations; of which you have performed part, but by the obscureness of my letter in that point, I find that they are sent over unfurnished with instructions from the State there; whereof this inconvenience is happened, which I wish might forthwith be repaired, that it is suspected and commonly bruited that, seeing they had nothing committed to them from the State, but came away privately, without taking their leave, or making it known, that of necessity this must be with some purpose to give underhand informations against the Council there; which is a touch to the reputation of the poor gentlemen, who, having been already more unfortunate than others of less merit, are afraid to be scandalized by this accident, which hath grown surely by some mistaking in you, and some darkness in my letter. I pray your Lordship, therefore, and you, Mr. Secretary, make it known there how this matter happened; for I protest before God there was no other purpose in sending for them but this, that they were men that might be best spared, and that their experience, added to their instructions you would have given them, would have been more satisfactory than any letters by messengers of vulgar knowledge. But in the main point there is no prejudice; for, since they were dispatched, the large joint letter from the Council, touching all particulars both sensibly and discreetly, hath very well informed Her Majesty of many things that were doubtful, and their personal relations also will serve to very good use at such conferences as Her Majesty useth to hold in consultations for the service of Ireland, in which Her Majesty's Council heareth such men's opinions, as are fit for a council of war. So as if you do but make it known there speedily, how it fortuned that the Council were not acquainted with their coming, and that it grew by my error, there is no harm done. Wherein I pray you be careful, because it hath some reference even both to myself as well as them, of both whom this time is apt to take jealousy without cause, as God knoweth.

" I pray you recommend me humbly to my Lord of Ormonde, and let his Lordship know that I am ashamed of my last forgetfulness in not signing my letter to him, but I will make amends of it by my next, till which time I pray you desire his Lordship to hold me excused; for I will write particularly of all things contained in his letter, which now I cannot so conveniently do, neither do I think my letter should find him at Dublin."—Whitehall, 1599, December 5. Entry Book, No. 204, fos. 199 b-200 b. Copy. pp. 2.

Dec. 5. [Dublin.]

74. Sir William Warren to Sir Robert Cecil. "For my long silence your Honour hath pleased to excuse me. I did find the Earl of Essex very honourable to me during his Lordship's being here, which I was very willing to deserve any way so far as I might, especially in anything that might conserve Her Majesty's service. Yet will I never forget your honourable favours shewed to me in England, when others, as your Honour writeth, would not, for which my service shall ever rest ready to the uttermost of my power, and would think myself happy, if I might be employed by your Honour in any sort, wherein I might shew my thankfulness.

" Whereas it hath pleased Sir Geffrey Fenton to write his opinion of my sufficiency in my employment to Tyrone, it is a thing I never desired at his hands, therefore I am the more thankful for his good conceit of me, although it be a service I would willingly have forborne, and did use all the means I could to avoid it, because I knew there was but little gain and less credit gotten by being employed to so base a traitor. Yet when I saw that I could do more than others, and had those means that others had not, to further Her Majesty's service, I was contented to be employed to him, which hath been both painful and chargeable to me, and as yet altogether unrecompensed. And, to prove that I did Her Majesty good service oftentimes in my employment, when Tyrone's forces hath been together, and ready to invade the Pale, and our forces no way able to make any resistance, I did handle the matter so with him, that I did both stay his fury, and got him to yield to cessations from time to time; by which means we gained a great deal of time of him, and saved the subjects from spoiling. And now, last of all, when he came into the Pale with a great force, and did refuse either to yield to any cessation or to parley with the Earl of Ormonde and Sir Geffrey Fenton, yet I did carry my business in such sort, being employed to him, that I did not only cause him to draw all his forces out of the Pale into Ferney, but I brought him to speak to the Earl of Ormonde and Sir Geffrey Fenton; and when they all could not get him to yield to any cessation, I got him to yield to a month, in which time he hath promised to know O'Donnell's demands with all the rest, which he undertaketh shall be reasonable, and withal told me that if Her Majesty would be pleased to grant a free liberty of conscience through the whole kingdom, that then he would undertake that all his confederates should yield and pay to Her Majesty all such rents and duties, as heretofore she hath been paid by them; and for performance thereof they should put in such pledges as she should demand; and that he himself, for his own part, would put in both his sons as pledges for himself.

" But, to be plain with your Honour, I will presume to deliver my opinion of him and the rest. I do assure your Honour that there is little trust in any of them. They are both proud and strong, and will never yield to any reason till they be beaten; for, upon the least occasion that may be proffered them, they will be all in arms again. What kind of peace that may be, I leave to your Honour's consideration. They have all the goods of the kingdom, and do encroach upon us daily. And, to gain time of them this winter, by making of cessation from one month to another, I hold it very necessary, by reason of the weakness of our army, and therefore have been the more willing [to be] employed to him. I dare assure your Honour they are not such devils as they are thought to be. They are men easy to be dealt withal, if we can happen upon the rignt course. There are many factions amongst themselves, and many of the best of them would fall from Tyrone, if there were a Governor here that they thought they might trust. O'Connor Sligo, that is now joined with them, did assure me, and so did others of as good account as he, that he would not only join with us himself, but that McMahon, Tirlogh McHenry, Tyrone's brother, one of O'Donnell's brothers, James McSorley, with all the men of Clandeboy, divers in Connaught and the Brenny, would fall from him, if there were a Governor settled here, that would undertake the matter thoroughly.

" I found some of the Lord of Delvin's household men with him, and as I came by the way did meet with his steward going into his camp, which was very strange to me, considering there was no cessation at all at that time. It was reported that he is determined to join with Tyrone. What credit may be given to these reports, I leave to your Honour's consideration.

" Whereas your Honour writeth you would be glad by my good success to have occasion to continue me in Her Majesty's good opinion, and to procure Her Majesty's confirmation for me in the charge of Carrickfergus, which your Honour thinketh a fit garrison for me, if Tyrone prove a good subject, howsoever he prove I care not, I will ever hold myself as honest on Her Majesty's service, as he that she committeth most trust to in her privy chamber. And for Tyrone, I dare assure your Honour he will ever continue a proud, ungrateful, and malicious traitor, unless he perform now what he hath promised me, of which I am in some doubt.

" For the government of Carrickfergus, I do humbly, entreat your Honour's favour to be a mean for my continuance there, otherwise that Her Majesty will be pleased, in consideration of my long service, to give me some means to live upon, and I shall ever hold myself, as already I have been, much bound to your Honour, if now by your honourable means I may either enjoy that government, or have means to live quietly at home.

"Concerning some reports delivered your Honour of Tyrone, wherein it seemeth he hath accused your Honour of some practices against him by Lapley, for my own part I protest before God I never heard him speak of any such matter, but that day the Earl of Essex did parley with him; and then he said openly that you went about to poison him, and that he hoped with plain dealing to cut off your Honour's head with his sword. And for Sir Henry Brouncker, he vowed upon a book that he never had any ill thought of him in all his life. I fear he that hath informed your Honour of these reports hath abused you greatly. He hath promised upon his return from O'Donnell to impart to me his knowledge of all these matters more at large. If your Honour shall think fit to send me instructions in secret how I shall proceed with him, I doubt not but I shall find means to prevail better than others can or hath done as yet.

" My often employments to Tyrone hath always yielded Her Majesty good furtherance in her service, for I can and will boldly assure your Honour that the State here have had no intelligence of any importance, since my coming into Ireland, but what they have had from me, or by my means; which I fear the Lords Justiees and Council will forbear to acquaint your Honour withal, but rather attribute all things to themselves, and make my service fruitless to me.

" Upon Tyrone's motion for liberty of religion, one Richard Owen, standing by who[m] sometime was the traitor Sir William Stanley's. man, wished him to stand upon the Church living, whereunto he answered that he had no reason to deal with that; he would not presume to proffer Her Majesty that wrong. Sir Geffrey Fenton received a letter from Her Majesty, wherein she was pleased to take notice of some speeches supposed to be delivered the Earl of Essex by Tyrone, which was, that he would never draw his sword against his father's son, not remembering his duty at all to Her Majesty, unto whom he oweth all duty; which letter Sir Geffrey thought it very necessary for some respects to shew Tyrone, and sent the letter by me to him. Tyrone, perceiving that there was notice taken of his speeches, answered presently, 'they are wise men that made that report to Her Majesty, as though I should make more account of any of her subjects than of herself,' and withal used this protestation, 'I protest to God I do respect her little finger more than all the subjects she hath.'"—[Dublin,] 1599, December 5. Signed. Not addressed, but endorsed by Sir Robert Cecil, "W. Warren to me." pp. 3½.

Dec. 7. Dublin.

75. Sir Geffrey Fenton to Sir Robert Cecil. "Since my return from the parley, I understand the Lord Bishop of Meath hath disgested an answer to Tyrone's libel, by way of refutation of the most material and monstrous parts of it, which the Bishop and some of the Council thought meet should be published out of hand. But for my part I wished it might not proceed for a time, for that to encounter a libel so scandalous in the highest degree against our Sovereign, and that before it was known what operations it had or could work in the hearts of the people, might be to raise conceits and apprehensions in the minds of the unsettled multitude, when they should see an answer proclaimed to a matter that was not as yet published; only I wished that the answer might be first sent to your Honour to consider of it, and thereupon to receive Her Majesty's direction, whether to divulge it or suppress it; to the which the Council did assent, and I think the Bishop hath now sent his labours in that answer to your Honour.

" There are fresh alarums of the speedy returning of the Earl of Essex to his government, and some have written from thence, that there is a necessity to lay it upon his Lordship, for that none other will take that charge, though (as is written) Her Majesty hath made offers to many. For my part, to your Honour I say, if his Lordship come with a purpose to stay Tyrone with ceremonies, or to temporise him on by treaties, I look for no good by that course, for that he is dangerously altered since his Lordship's departure, inasmuch as he hath openly disavowed Her Majesty to be his prince, and laboureth to introduce a foreign government. This is the highest language a traitor can speak, and to one poisoned with this cup there is no course to smooth with him, but to take him down with the sword. His quarrel hitherto hath been for popular grievances, and to remove some some country burdens over-heavily charged upon him, as he thought, by some Her Majesty's ministers. But now he aspireth to cantonize the kingdom, or at least to prescribe limits and bounds to Her Majesty, wherein I never read that a rebel went so far, unless he were utterly reprobate. And therefore having banded himself apparently both against God and his prince, I hope God, who never forsaketh the protection of kings and kingdoms against the rebellion of their subjects, will now take the quarrel in hand, inasmuch as this traitor hath raised arms against his anointed prince, which is directly to make war against God. I pray your Honour secrete me in this from all others, unless it be to Her Majesty."—Dublin, 1599, December 7. Signed. Seal. p. 1.

Dec 10. Richmond.

76. The Privy Council to the Lords Justices Loftus and Carey and the rest of the Council. " We have received many letters from you of late, which do rather contain advertisements than require present answer; with which carefulness of yours Her Majesty is very well pleased, yet, in respect there are many particulars in matters of charge, wherein we are not satisfied in such exact form as in former times we have been (when the expense was far under this proportion), where now Her Majesty's treasure melteth like wax before the sun, you must not hold it strange if, by this letter of ours, we do descend into such a course, as may make things clearer, when both you on that side and we on this side hold a course so to understand each other, as Her Majesty's service may not run into any confusion; for, if there be not foresight used, and order observed, great expenses and disorderly accounts will impoverish the richest monarchs in Christendom. We will therefore begin with some of the general heads, which we often touched, but never received other than dilatory satisfaction.

" As first concerning the treasure. The whole Council have often written unto you that there must needs be great sums of money in your hands, by defalcations of victuals and arms, by checks, and by such payments as were made here of great numbers of horse and foot, when they lay at the seaside in England. To all which, besides some additions by your receipts of revenue and other casualties, although you have made some answer by representation hither of many extraordinaries which you have been put to, yet, because it may appear we reckon not all things by guess, but conclude most upon your own certificates, we think it not amiss to remember you that, although you had money to pay the army full from the first of March, yet Her Majesty hath freed you of the sum of above 5,000l., which she hath paid here in England to that portion of the army that arrived not in Ireland till mid April, so as that sum hath not been issued by you for that service. You have also certified that you have defalked 15,000l. for victual long since. For the checks also, we think you will not yourselves deny but the sum of 6,000l. at the least must be defalked before September last. Of the revenue yourselves confessed then 1,400l. Now if in these heads here be at the least the sum of 26,000l., wherein we omit many other particulars, then compare with them your extraordinaries represented, and you shall see that all your own demands cannot be multiplied to 12,000l. And yet we do omit both account for checks, since the late Lord Lieutenant arrived in England (which cannot but be great by all men's reports and your complaints of want of men), nor [sic, ? and] for defalcation of any victual, since there was an order given that the soldier should take half victual and half money.

"Of all which things when we had considered, and reckoned how many months' treasure hath been sent, which was sufficient to make full pay till the 10th of October, Her Majesty resolved forthwith to send you other money with all speed. For although we must needs deal thus particularly with you in these reckonings, because you have heretofore pretended that you have lacked a thousand pounds to bestow upon a sudden for necessary uses, yet we know well that the army is behindhand, and therefore have ordered to have you furnished with a round portion of money, for which purpose there is delivered into the hands of your men 20,000l. to be presently sent to Dublin, and 5,000l., which shall be sent to Munster, where it is incredible to hear the lacks they complain of, whereof we do not marvel, when it is but a few days since you sent money thither, after so long time that they have wanted. In which point we do wonder you would trust so young a man with money, that is so bad a deliverer of the same, if it be true, which you the Treasurer have certified, that he should be come into England with 300l.

"As concerning the victuals, whereto we perceive you impute the overthrow of so many men, it hath not a little moved us; and therefore we are resolved to have the matter fully examined, thinking it strange, if the Commissary found it so bad, that it hath been all this while unadvertised; but because it cannot be but fraud is used in some body, we pray your Lordships do your parts to discover it; for we forbear to send any more over, until you send Newcomen or some other over, for the further consideration of those things that are necessary, and specially because yourselves desired lately that money might be rather sent over than victual.

" For the apparel, it is pretended by them that it hath been shipped ever since the first of October, but that, by reason of contrary winds, it hath been hindered; and now we see both certificates from you of 7,000 suits arrived, whereunto the merchants have added that mere were 16,000 complete suits before, besides a great portion of hose and shoes. We did also take order with them to provide both Irish stockings and brogues, as things that will better serve the soldiers' necessities, whereof we desire to be advertised. And for the request that was made by the Lord Justice Treasurer, that at the next time, if the army increase not, there should be sent over but 9,000 suits, you know first that there is no more apparel now to be sent till the summer, at which time, if the army keep the proportion as it is, we do not see, but some of the common soldiers must go unapparelled. But we will leave any further speech thereof till better leisure. Only we must say this, that where you affirm now, that you will make 70 suits suffice to furnish every band, it may thereupon as confidently be gathered that in every 100 you find a notorious deficiency, and so that you have in your hands, by checks, very great sums of money.

" Where you have written to us to know when the entertainment of the late Lord Lieutenant should cease, you must assure yourselves that Her Majesty will not allow you in account any further sum for his entertainment, after you once received Her Majesty's letter for the establishing you her Lords Justices, wherein he had only left you by way of provision; and you must understand that Her Majesty's meaning is, that the entertainment formerly allotted to the Deputies must be that which must be allowed to you two, and the Earl of Ormonde is apportioned as the Earl of Essex found it when he came over; whereof we think fit to advertise you now, before the treasure's coming over, to avoid uncertainty in your reckonings.

"What will be the issue of the parley (if there be any) we shall hear by your next letters; whereof when Her Majesty heard, she was sorry that the despatch was not arrived, which was written by the Lords from hence concerning that point of any further treaty, in answer of your letter of the 24th, wherein you of yourselves did think it fit to try no further. But Her Majesty well remembers that that was impossible to be with you so soon, and knows that those that do deal in it, upon this sudden exigent, will do nothing in it indiscreetly, to Her Majesty's danger or dishonour.

" Concerning your demands for warrant to pay the 2,000 men, we presume you have it already; and for the warrant for you to employ such sums as are defalked for victual upon other uses, whereby you exceed not the charges of the list or establishment, we think, if yon had any of Sir Henry Wallop's men there, they would tell you that the hour is to come that ever their master had any such particular warrant; but if, when you are better informed, you can shew us good reason why you must have a warrant, Her Majesty shall be moved to sign it.

"It is very strange to see how many come over hither, suitors for money, with fair shows of just debts, subscribed by those in your office, both now and formerly, amongst the which we find that the provincial Governors, that have made great demands for beeves, which we do know well enough are to be defalked upon all that spent that victual, do make it an ordinary thing to be suitors for those sums, when the parties that owe the goods themselves (after these great payments made) come hither often to sue again to the Queen, a thing which much distracteth us upon petitioners' requests. For though it is true that often the Governor or Captain gives his ticket to the country, he will receive his full pay after, never acquainting the Treasurer what bills he hath formerly given out to the country; no, nor the Treasurer and his men (which is a very great fault), when they sign the tickets, do ever give them any certain date; which whosoever considers it narrowly, shall see that it is the cause of infinite prejudice to Her Majesty. The computation that we make now hath been to supply an army of 14,000 foot and 1,200 horse, with payment of all fees and wages due to the officers and pensioners of the kingdom; wherein, as you know, the pay of the General of the Horse is extinguished; so we doubt not but the pay of the Quarter Master now ceaseth. And for the Lieutenant of the Horse, who is here in England, we doubt not but you have likewise stopped that allowance, as also the Lieutenant of the Ordnance, Surveyor of the Ordnance, and Clerk of the Munition, which have been newly erected, where it is not unknown to you, that Her Majesty payeth a Master of the Ordnance, and all inferiors in that office, by former establishments. If there have been any Colonels and Captains, that are come over into England without license of the late Lord Lieutenant, or the Lords Justices, or the Earl of Ormonde, you may not forget to check them from the day of their departure to the day of their return. And for any other that have had license, and were not returned thither within ten days after the 17th of October, at which time they were all commanded to repair to their charge, you may not forbear to check them from the tenth day after that warning day, for them and their retinue, until their arrival.

"Concerning your demands for extraordinaries, Her Majesty considers well that it is fit to supply those things, they having been ever heretofore provided for. But when the titles are examined of the concordatums lately passed, it seemeth strange that you of the Council could imagine that, when she provided so powerful an army, and allotted 5,000l. only for extraordinaries, she must find that to be consumed in paying new Captains and companies, and 1,100l. at one time in reward to those who were pretended to be cessed for their offences; where it is well known that concordatums have been expended in and about necessary transportations of victual, either by land or sea, for espial, for payments of packets, messengers, and other petty charges, which could not be comprised within the general titles. And therefore Her Majesty hath willed us to write unto you to send us an abstract, what particular sums have passed by concordatums since the 5,000l. was issued, to the intent that she may consider of a portion of treasure to maintain those accidental charges. Because the treasure will go slowly, and that we would be glad to acquaint you with our desires in time, that thereupon a better correspondency may follow, we have sent you this with more speed, and have caused some remembrances to be set down in a paper hereinclosed, which may serve to some purpose, for the keeping of a better method in Her Majesty's service."—The Court at Richmond, 1599, December 10. Enclose,

76. I. "Certain remembrances concerning the provisions for Ireland, sent in the said despatch."

The Commissaries of Leinster and Ulster to certify to [George] Beverley, and he to the Council of Ireland, the state of the victuals in the magazines at Dublin, Carrickfergus, and Newry. Infrequency of Beverley's certificates. The Commissaries for the Musters to certify to the Mustermaster at Dublin how many soldiers are allotted to those magazines, and whether the soldiers may for money victual themselves in those parts, when the magazines are spent. The Commissaries for Cork in Munster and Galway in Connaught to do the same, and also to send duplicates of their certificates to the Privy Council, the passage from Cork and Galway directly to England being much more speedy. Directions as to the issue and storage of victuals, so as to prevent their corruption. Davies, the factor of Darrell and Jolls, sent to Dublin to assist the Comptroller of the Victuals in making a perfect and speedy account of all victual sent for February next and the six following months. Robert Newcomen, Victualler for Ireland, to repair to England with the said Davies, or rather before him, and to bring all his books and reckonings, "whereby Her Majesty may have a perfect knowledge and account of the matter of victual in Ireland, which now lies wrapped in the folds of much confusion." Mr. Treasurer to certify all imprests delivered by him for victuals, as also the defalcations made for victuals from 30 September to 30 November, 1599, those from 1 March to 30 September, 1599, having been already certified by Beverley the Comptroller. Victual for two months, for 3,250 men ordered to be presently sent to Cork and Limerick, upon certain intelligence of great want in Munster. Wonder therefore that the Lord Justice Carey dehorts sending over victuals till he send word. Divers monies for salt and bags. A brewhouse in Cork to be secured. Short cast of one hundred thousand pounds of biscuit in Beverley's account. The Lord Justice Carey to send over as soon as possible a particular and perfect account of all receipts, defalcations, and checks, of all issues, and of all remains, to 31 December, 1599. Henceforth, victual and treasure for Munster not to be sent by way of Dublin, but directly to Cork. Five thousand pounds now sent to the latter place by Watson, Mr. Treasurer's man. Monies for the victualling, &c., of the Popinjay. The Master of the Ordnance to send a certificate, both to the Treasurer in Ireland and to the Privy Council in England, of all issues of arms and munition, from 3 March to 30 November [1599], and of what remains in the four provinces, considering how largely munition was provided for.—Entry Book, No. 204, fos, 200 b-205 b. Copies. pp. 10.

Dec. 10. Cork.

77. Sir Warham Sentleger and Sir Henry Power to Sir Robert Cecil. They presumed to write to him on behalf of Florence McCarthy, lately arrived out of England with Her Majesty's letters to the Lord Lieutenant, both for his father-in-law's lands, and for some convenient charge to serve Her Highness. By reason of the Lord Lieutenant's absence, these letters took not effect, and McCarthy craved their aid and advice. Could not give weapons and munition to his people and followers, as the store was small. The recovery of his country will be very available to Her Majesty., and so much the more prejudicial to the traitors, they having placed their chiefest abode in that country, as their greatest strength and fastness. Think that McCarthy should be assisted by all good means, considering he is at present driven to entertain some five or six hundred Connaught men, whom he does not altogether trust. Think also that he should be graced with the title of McCarthy (now usurped by the bastard Donnell McCarthy), the better to enable him to obtain and defend his country.—Cork, 1599, December 10. Signed. p. 1.

Dec. 10. Dublin.

78. Sir Henry Harrington to Sir Robert Cecil. "I have here stayed, ever sithence the coming over of my Lord Lieutenant, with small encouragement, having neither horse or foot in pay, or entertainment any way. I have lost my blood and limbs, my eldest son slain at the Blackwater, my land that I have here moiled for this thirty years all burnt and waste, and in the possession of the rebels. I hope your Honour, and the rest of the Lords, will be pleased to employ me, or give me leave to return. Here I have not any means or help, but what I have out of England. It is a place of no great pleasure here to live; but, to do Her Majesty's service, I shall think my life and what my estate will bear well spent in discharge of my duty. Here are many employed, that are not acquainted with this service, which is a great discouragement to those that have spent their whole time here, and [are] no way thought of. Here be divers companies, that are in the list two hundred, that are little better than a hundred. If it please your Honours to direct your pleasures to the Lords Justices, that I may have two hundred foot, I will see them well furnished and strongly kept. There is no border in Ireland that hath more need to have men than the Byrnes' country, which annoys all these parts to the gates of Dublin. I have had the charge of that country this twenty-three years. If I had any company to stir, they should not daily spoil as they do. I am able to rise out thirty horse well appointed, without charge to Her Majesty, to answer me in these parts, with good guides and spial, which must be the mean, if any service be done here. My Lord Burgh discharged my horsemen, I being in England; they are in my debt for horses four hundred pounds, serving now in broken companies, which will do little service. The Lords Justices have been in hand with me to erect fifty horse, which will be very chargeable. If your Honours please to write to the Lords Justices that I shall not be discharged of them without warrant from your Lordships, I will make them up, which will cost me five hundred pounds, with all the help I can make. There is not any hasty to desire horsemen, though furnished to them, upon this pay. I will see them well manned, horsed, and appointed, if I may have 15d. a day, which is as little as may be, to be tied to lie in garrison. If I may have these two hundred foot, I will not desire the horse, unless your pleasures he to have me erect them. My attending this service hath been out of my way ten thousand pound[s], by the death of my uncle, John Harrington, which my younger brother enjoys since my last coming over. God put in Her Majesty's heart speedily to look upon this distressed country.—Dublin, 1599, December 10. Signed. Seal. p. 1.

Dec. 11. Richmond.

79. Sir Robert Cecil to the Lord Justice Carey. " Although, for the present, I find Her Majesty resolved to expect the success of that hopeless parley with the Traitor, before she send any greater forces into that kingdom, for which the season serveth so ill, yet cannot I suffer a packet to pass without my private recommendation. I will take care for those particular things recommended to me by Watson, which are not to be done (some of them) until the arrival of [the] Deputy, who shall be the Lord Mountjoy, whom you will find very compatible in all Her Majesty's service. The Earl of Essex is at this present, as he was, without any return to Her Majesty's favour, and, for his state of body at this time, very dangerously sick of the flux. What army Her Majesty will send is not yet set down, but she is fully resolved to plant at Lough Foyle; which matter being well used, I doubt not but the Traitor will speak in another style, especially if our peace be concluded with Spain, for which purpose Her Majesty sendeth over presently her Commissioners.

"I pray your Lordship to call upon the Master of the Ordnance, as well as he can to give us some taste, what is the remain of all the powder. For there was a 100 last sent with the Earl, whereof we never heard how much hath been issued, and therefore are now to seek in what proportion to supply this doubt. I pray your Lordship therefore to give order, that we may receive more exact and frequent certificates, for we receive great prejudice by lack of them. Furthermore I pray your Lordship to take order, that we may have certifcate what is become of all those materials that were provided for Lough Foyle, whereof you shall receive a note hereinclosed (wanting). When Sir Samuel Bagenall had them, he was commanded to leave them at Dublin, because his troops, after the overthrow of the Marshal, were diverted from the service of Lough Foyle. If these things be forthcoming, they may be fit to supply that service; which if they be not, it were good to be understood so, and by whose default it happeneth."—The Court at Richmond, 1599, December 11. Entry Book, No. 204, fo. 207. Copy. p. 1.

Dec. 11. Savoy.

80. Sir Henry Lee to Sir Robert Cecil. "At my late being at the Court, at what time I had there with me my cousin Thomas Lee, he received, as I since understand, most indecent and contumelious words of the Archbishop of Cashel; with which, if he had then acquainted me, I had also presently informed yourself, and the rest of the Lords of the Council, thereof. But, having understood of it but since my last speech with you, I could not but with the first impart it to you, which I have done by his own letters hereinclosed." Prays that the matter may be heard as soon as convenient, that the Archbishop return not " before he have either convicted my kinsman of that he hath charged him, or else be disproved by him of slander."—Savoy, December 11. Endorsed, 1599. Signed. p. 1. Encloses,

80. I. Captain Thomas Lee to Sir Robert Cecil. Being restrained from liberty, is bold to send "these rude lines petitioners" to pray that, since Her Majesty and her Council desire to be satisfied of his behaviour in her service in Ireland, the Archbishop of Cashel, who is now in England, may be called before Sir Robert, and commandment laid upon him not to depart for Ireland, until he has made proof of his most slanderous and unjust speeches against Lee. The Archbishop has called him traitor before divers witnesses. If he can prove it, is ready to undergo the law; if not, trusts he shall have justice against him. The matter being so heinous and capital as it is, beseeches that this Irish bishop and he may be "convented face to face." If Lee is convicted by him, he craves no favour; if Lee has wherein to accuse the Archbishop, he trusts he will be heard. Protests his loyalty.—Endorsed, 1599, December [11]. Signed. p. ½.

Dec. 12. Dublin.

81. Sir Geffrey Fenton to Sir Robert Cecil. " These two writings enclosed came to me yesternight at one instant, the one containing matters of Spain, brought by a ship of Tredagh, arrived in that harbour two days past; and the other some discoveries from my Irish priest remaining with Tyrone. I send both to your Honour as they came to me, having no matter to discourse upon them, other than that I see Tyrone runneth his course, as I have formerly foreshewed to your Honour; and I fear this great assembly of the confederates will beget some dangerous attempt against the Pale, where there is a daily falling away of some one or other; and many more will follow, when they see the Archtraitor prepared to break in with his main strength. For the Lord of Delvin, touched in the advertisements, I cannot think he will start in his own person, for that he will not lose the stake he hath at home. But it may be he will suffer his country and tenants to make their way with the rebels, wherein his own safety, houses, and goods, will be included. The place of this great meeting, named in the advertisement Maggheriquerk, is in the Dillons' country in Westmeath, upon the borders of Longford; a corner aptly chosen, for that as well they of Ulster as Desmond, and the confederates of that side, may make their passage free without danger. I fear greatly that this meeting, being upon the borders of Westmeath, the sequel will be, that all that country will be griped by the rebels, part by compulsion, and the rest of free will; and then there is a main gap set open for them to run into the heart of Meath and Kildare, against which I pray God Her Majesty's forces be of sufficient strength to make resistance; otherwise the small life of the kingdom which remaineth (being the English Pale) will be in great danger. Tyrone giveth it out cunningly, that this great assembly of the confederates is to consider of the grievances of their several countries, and to see what demands and offers they are to make to Her Majesty. But assuredly their inward meaning is, to draw the Pale to them, either by force or device, and so drive Her Majesty to stand to the port-towns; and yet I fear some of them will run with the stream. I hear as yet nothing from Tyrone, who (as I wrote in my last) took fourteen days' respite to send me his answer to Her Majesty's message, which I delivered him at the parley, and I see not how it may stand with Her Majesty's honour that I should send to him for that answer, he having published so many impudent protestations against Her Majesty, unless by that course there may be time won upon him, which nevertheless I greatly doubt of. He keepeth as yet the cessation for Ulster, but his adherents in Leinster and the Pale do make booty both of men and goods, as they can snatch them; so as, by keeping the fire burning in the heart, he seeth it will languish all the parts, and in the end consume the whole; and yet will he sit quiet at home, and keep his country safe, and his men from hazard.

"I am sorry to see the sending over of a Deputy so long foreslowed, who if he had been here, or might be here, before this next meeting, it would be enough to break the neck of all their conclusions; but I have so often pressed this, as I fear I do but offend, seeing nothing hath ensued thereof of so long time. Yet the ruined estate of this kingdom, declining daily from ill to worse, will not suffer an honest man to use silence, humbly leaving to your consideration what reckoning is to be looked for of this realm, that hath no head to stir abroad to guide it, and the army which is, or ought to be, the assurance of the whole, destitute of experienced men to command. And lastly, the soldiers for the most part undisciplined, and out of use how to obey, or to be held in order. I humbly pray your Honour that I may be secreted in this."—Dublin, 1599, December 12.

[Postscript.] "At the signing of this letter, this third advertisement out of Connaught was brought to me, out of which some are too forward to ground a suspicion against the Earl of Clanriokarde, But I hope that nobleman will stand fast, and I wish there were a better temperance used than to provoke him and others of his rank by over-hasty and ill-grounded suspicions, a course which doth no good to be used towards men of stomach in this unsettled time." Signed. Seals. Endorsed, Received at Richmond the 20th. pp. 2. Encloses,

81. I. "A declaration made unto Sir Geffrey Fenton, knight, by John Weston, factor unto Mr. Nicholas Weston, Alderman of Dublin, who was lately in Spain."

John Weston came out of Lisbon thirty days past in a ship called the Fox, of Tredagh, and landed at Rush, There came with him in the same ship one Captain Mealings and one Captain Hawkins, who landed at Rush also, and from thence rode to Tredagh to get passage for England. These Captains (as I heard themselves say) had letters from the Governor of Lisbon to some of the Council of England.

The Adelantado, with about the number of a hundred sail, manned with twenty thousand men or thereabouts, set forth of the Groyne in Galicia, of purpose, as it was reported at their going forth, to meet the Indian fleet, and to safeguard it home. But after they had been a while at sea, there rose very foul weather, so as about half their fleet was lost near the "Tersoreys" [Terceira, Azores]; those that scaped were all scattered, and were driven, some into Lisbon, and some into sundry other harbours, being most of them crushed, and having lost their masts.

There was one Richard Brady, that was called the pilot for the Earl of Tyrone. He was in a ship of some two hundred tons. It was said that being with his ship in Brest, he with the rest of his company were committed to prison, being accused that they had a meaning to carry the ship into England, or else into Ireland. All this happened about Michaelmas last; but a little before Weston's coming from Lisbon he heard that there was an ambassador of Spain dispatched into England. There was great hope of a peace to be concluded between Spain and England, at which there was great joy made, especially by the Portuguese, who rejoiced very much to hear the news.—Dublin, 1599, December 10. Endorsed by Fenton. p. 1.

81. ii. —to Sir Geffrey Fenton. "At the last meeting I would have seen your worship, but, fearing mistrust, I thought good to advertise you that the Earl of Desmond did write a letter that Thursday you were talking with Tyrone. The effect was that Tyrone should not be angry, for that he came not to him this last time, and that the cause was, his people were not ready; but that he would have met with Tyrone the first day of the next month in Maygherequirke, in a place, but the name of the place I have forgotten. But in that country they meet with all their forces, with all their confederates, O'Donnell with all the rest. And I fear there will come many to them at that time, that were not with them yet; and at that meeting they mean to conclude what to do; which conclusion I fear will be to no good for this poor country. They mean to do great hurt to my Lord General, I mean my Lord of Ormonde his country, and make account that many of that country will join with them; and (to tell you) I think my Lord of Delvin will join with them; at least all his country will. Do not trust Donnell Spainagh, for he did write to Tyrone that he would promise you something, but he will deceive you all, if he can. I have no more to write, but they mean to do great hurt upon this next meeting, except there be some extraordinary order taken with them, if they can. This is all I can write at this present, but I am bound this week to Tyrone; if I hear any more, you shall know it."—Tredagh, 1599, December 6. Endorsed by Fenton, "Intelligence from Tyrone's camp, 6 Dec., 99." p. 1.

81. III. "Intelligences out of Connaught." "On Monday was fortnight, O'Donnell, accompanied with O'Connor Sligo, McWilliam, and others, camped within two miles of Galway. He took about twenty cows and eighty garrans, that were flying to Galway. The next day he passed by Athenry towards Clanrickarde, and camped within four miles of the Earl of Clanrickarde, his chief house, called Baleloughreough, at a ford. Thither came to him that night by night (sic) McHubbert, a chief follower of the Earl of Clanrickarde's, between whom and O'Donnell there was very long and secret talk, unknown to the intelligencer. Soon after there were sent to O'Donnell from the Countess of Clanrickarde two "boardes" of wine, which O'Donnell received, and there did drink of one of them with his company, and carried the other away with him. The intelligencer had some speeches with O'Donnell, both in his travel to that ford, and after he had encamped there. O'Donnell told the intelligencer his purpose to go into Thomond, from which purpose the intelligencer saith he did advise O'Donnell [? to desist], telling him of many dangerous passes, and that he was sure to be fought with. O'Donnell told him that he knew the Earl of Thomond had but 800 men, and that the Earl of Clanrickarde had but the like number, and that he esteemed not those forces. The intelligencer saith O'Donnell had there three thousand foot and three hundred and fifty horse, but nevertheless returned back early on the next morning, as the intelligencer thinketh by the procurement of McHubbert.

"He also telleth that when the two sons of the Baron of Leitrim, Redmond and John Burke, perceived O'Donnell's purpose to retire, they dealt earnestly with O'Donnell to leave some sufficient strength with them to tarry and go forwards; and they demanded of O'Donnell one thousand, which O'Donnell denied, telling Redmond he had then another purpose; and then they in displeasure, as it seemed, departed from O'Donnell with their own strength of four hundred foot, which before were part of the 3,000, and did draw themselves towards the pass of Athlone. But within a mile of Ballinasloe, Sir Thomas Burke met with some of their company, and killed some of the best of them, about six as it is reported, John Burke, the Baron's son, and a son of Redmond Stoopes. For cause of knowledge, he saith he was in company with O'Donnell two days and two nights, and saw and heard as he hath testified." Endorsed, 1599, December 12. p. 1.

Dec. 12. Kinsale.

82. Florence McCarthy to Sir Robert Cecil. "Although my fortune doth still continue in one hard mood, for want of means to recover and defend me [and] my country, and to serve Her Majesty against a sight of weak and senseless traitors, whereby I was not since my coming able to do anything worth the writing unto your Honour, yet notwithstanding, because your Honour shall not think me unthankful for your great favour towards me, nor unmindful to do your Honour any service that lies in me, as also lest any matter had been inferred over against me, as is done here already, I thought fit to acquaint your Honour with the state of this province, which is now commanded for Her Majesty by Sir Warham Sentleger and Sir Henry Power, whom I met at Cork at my landing there, at which time, James McThomas, which they call Earl of Desmond, stood about Castlemaine with all his forces, to suffer nobody to go in nor out. But while his Connaught buonies [bonnaughts] were there, and his Munster men, my wife, that defends such another castle thereby, called Castle Logh, against her base brother, and my brother-inlaw, O'Sullivan, that dwells thereby, could with friendship send in a messenger; but after the buonies were changed, and that Desmond himself, with his chiefest and faithfullest followers, and with Captain Tyrrell and his company of four or five hundred, came about it, those poor English and Irish men, that were in the castle almost famished, were constrained to deliver it, a little after my landing, which all Munster could not have taken from Her Majesty, if I were possessed of my country, which comes to that castle gate on the south side. Sir Warham and Sir Henry Power were very careful to relieve it, but their forces were so weak, and the weather so foul and so rainy, that no English forces could go over Slieve Luochra; besides that I perceive all the Lords and gentlemen of these parts unwilling to serve and hazard themselves and their men, the Queen's pay being given to those young fellows and Captains of small skill and ability that are preferred there, although most of those Lords and gentlemen do bear the rebels no affection. Whereby I could wish that Her Majesty had entertained those that are able to bring good means to the war, and that manifested their evil will to the traitors by killing or spoiling them, or by being killed or spoiled by them; whereof there are a great number, for the rebels doth nothing but kill and spoil everywhere daily, as I know of late by experience. For after Castlemaine was had, Desmond came with his forces to Drishane in Muskerry. His forces consisted of twelve hundred foot without any horsemen to be spoken of. I had Sir Warham and Sir Henry Power's warrant to parley or send to any rebels, and was then in Dowall within four miles of them, and sent to them for assurance to parley with them. They all swore to do me no hurt, and sent Captain Tyrrell and Piers Lacy for me. Where when I came, it passes how joyful they were all of my coming, only they misliked that night mine English attire, but much more my piercing speeches in Her Majesty's behalf, and against their foolish, senseless, damned action, to the undoing of themselves, and all men else near them. That night I said nothing, but the next morning I entreated them that they would not favour mine adversary, my base brother-in-law, nor help him with any of their men, nor defend my country for him against me. Wnereupon they sent me aside, and they and the Bishop McCragh consulted concerning me, and sent me word by Piers Lacy that, if I would promise to take their part and to friend them, they would within four days settle me in my country. I told them that my kindred to them, and also my friendship in times past was well known to themselves, and craved their bishop's aid in regard of my religion. But, as God judge me, all would not avail; for, by God's life, they promised me no favour, their answer being that my country was the back and strength of all Munster, and that, if I possessed it, I should destroy them all in a moment for Her Majesty, which they would with all their endeavour hinder me of, except I were sworn at the least to do them no hurt, which, God is my Judge, I refused to do. Whereupon I departed with as little favour as they could afford me; but, as I was with them that night, after their supper of beef and water, which is all the meals they make in a day, they had not for their twelve hundred men but two beds; the one for the Bishop and another divine of great account among them, his name is Dermod, and the other for Desmond, where he would needs have me to lie also, whereby one of Her Majesty's and another of Tir-owen's lay together that night; whereof and of my being there, my Lard Barry made up great matters everywhere here. But Sir Warham and Sir Henry Power told him that I went by their advice and warrant, but he never thought to tell them, how himself promised his daughter in marriage to Desmond, which Sir Warham and Sir Henry doth well know. At my departing from the rebels, I took one of their best Captains with the hundred men from them, and so went to Cork, to acquaint the Council there with their intentions. Whereupon Sir Henry Power caused all the forces hereabouts to be gathered, they being gone through Muskerry into my father's country of Carberry, where they spoiled the three best and wealthiest followers that I had, having lodged all their forces in their villages, and consumed all their corn and cattle. I went to them again, upon assurance at their coming out of Carberry, thinking to bring them and the Queen's forces to meet; but all the wit in the world could not persuade them to be one hour out of their bogs and woods, whereby they could not be fought withal. After their departure, I took Sir Warham and Sir Henry's advice for my journey into my country, to recover it. I told them what forces of Connaught men I entertained, which are about five or six hundred, and how I could not make up any number to be spoken of of mine own men, for want of weapon[s]. Whereupon (because Her Majesty's store house here is not well stored of munition now, as myself hath seen), they thought fit to write unto your Honour in my behalf, and to signify how beneficial the recovering of my country would be unto Her Majesty, and what service I am able to do her, if I might have means. Wherefore I humbly beseech your Honour, as I have always found you a most honourable and careful friend, to be a mean by acquainting Her Highness and the Council with what is certified in my behalf, and (by furthering it) that I may obtain some honourable charge, and that I may have weapon[s] and munition for three hundred, all in pikes and culivers, which I will answer out of mine entertainment; or, otherwise, that Her Majesty's pleasure may be signified to the Council of Ireland, both herein and concerning the title of McCarthy, which the bastard hath taken upon him, and which is a great motive to the foolish country people to follow him. For they will hardly follow such a man as I am, that will not suffer himself to be called McCarthy, where they may find one that is publicly so called. Which matter is one of the chiefest causes that detains me out of the country; for, if I overcome the said bastard and buonies that be with him, the people of the country, which are almost altogether for me, will against my will call me McCarthy, which will, for fear of imprisonment if I came in, and for fear of being reputed or accounted a rebel if I stayed out, make me leave Her Majesty's service, and run back into England, or into France, or to some other place of Her Majesty's friends, being long since weary of imprisonment, in which calamity I spent a dozen years already."—Kinsale, 1599, December 12. Holograph, pp. 1½.

Dec. 15.

83. The Privy Council to the Lords Justices Loftus and Carey and the rest of the Council. " Whereas at the coming over hither of the Earl of Essex, Her Majesty's late Lieutenant of Ireland, and since that time, divers gentlemen and others of their retinue, having charge and entertainment there in Her Majesty's service, did likewise come into England, whose absence and discontinuance from their charge and service being much disliked by Her Majesty, order was thereupon given you for the stay and checking of their entertainment, by letters from us, signifying Her Majesty's pleasure in that behalf, we are hereby to let you understand that, albeit Sir Christopher St. Lawrence be of that number, yet Her Majesty is graciously pleased that (notwithstanding the said former direction for the checks) nevertheless, in regard he is the son of a nobleman, and for his own part hath heretofore well deserved in Her Majesty's service, and withal had the leave of the said Lord Lieutenant to come over, you shall forbear to make any stay or check of any entertainment, either for himself or any of his retinue that came over with like leave, during this time of his and their absence, but shall make payment thereof unto him and them in such manner as if he had been present. And forasmuch as he, now departing from hence with Her Majesty's good favour, returneth to follow her service there, her pleasure is, that you shall yield him good grace and countenance upon any meet occasions, and also appoint unto him such charges and entertainments there, as were assigned unto him heretofore by the said late Lord Lieutenant, and he, the said Sir Christopher, did execute before his coming over, which we pray and require you to see performed."—1599, December 15. Entry Book, No. 204, fo. 209. Copy. p. 1.

Dec. 15. Dublin.

84. The Lords Justices Loftus and Carey and the rest of the Council to the Privy Council. "We have received your Lordships' letters of the last of November, in answer of ours of the 17 of the same, wherein your Lordships do rightly apprehend the horrible treasons of this detestable Archtraitor. And we are in good hope that your Lordships have received our late several despatches to your Lordships touching the state of this distressed kingdom, as also those concerning the late parley and cessation until the end of this month, betwixt the Earl of Ormonde and Tyrone, which cessation is very evil observed on the rebels' part For Sir Arthur Savage having received from hence some money and munition for the victualling and furnishing of Athlone, as he passed towards Mullingar before his convoy by us assigned to him and very sufficient to guard him, was robbed of his money, and enforced to return back to his carriages; and after passing betwixt Mullingar and Ballymore, having with him the convoy of the garrison of Mullingar, in the mid way sent back the said garrison (as Sir Arthur Savage hath written to us) upon the assurance that Francis Shane made unto him that the rebels were all gone, and that the said Francis Shane's company, being an hundred foot, would within half a mile meet them; but the rebels, having espial on them, returned before Francis Shane's company came up unto them, by means whereof the carriages of the munition, being ten barrels of powder, with a proportion of match and bullets, was all lost, saving three or four barrels of the powder, which by good hap was thrust into a castle thereby. Sir Arthur Savage and the Provost Marshal of Connaught retired back to Mullingar, and Francis Shane staying longer than the rest, his horse was shot, and himself taken. We Have received like advertisements from Sir Samuel Bagenal of some breaches upon the northern frontiers, and from others of like breaches committed by the Connors, who do daily break the cessation, and have lately taken Mr. Wakeley, an English gentleman of the Pale, and a loyal subject, prisoner. Though these mishaps do grieve us much, yet have we given order for the relieving of Athlone both with victuals and munition.

" It is a very great comfort unto us that Her Majesty is pleased to send over a nobleman to take this great charge in hand, as also that Her Highness is pleased to send hither some more treasure, whereof, we do assure your Lordships, the army at this instant standeth in great want; and yet have we borrowed very near 3,000l. to supply them. And whereas your Lordships are resolved to send unto Cork in Munster by Bristol the sum of 4,000l., parcel of this month's pay, I, the Treasurer, do answer that, since your Lordships think it fit for Her Majesty's service, I am contented to obey your Lordships' command, and will give order to my paymasters there accordingly, humbly beseeching your Lordships that the like order may be taken for the delivery of the apparel for the soldiers in that province, the sending whereof from hence thither is both chargeable and troublesome. And where your Lordships do find fault that I, the Treasurer, do not keep so many men to attend the service as my predecessor did, I do allow four in London, and nine other paymasters in the several garrisons and provinces here; and it may well be that Watson nor any of my agents there can advertise your Lordships what defalcations are made of victuals, arms, or checks, for that the books from the several provinces are but lately brought unto me, and some of those not yet thoroughly perfected by the ministers thereof, nor the book of the checks made up, because the Comptroller of the Musters is not yet come hither. And further, where your Lordships do think that I, the Treasurer, have great sums of money remaining in my hands, I assure your Lordships, with your honourable favours, it is nothing so, for then would I not borrow so much money for Her Majesty's service as I have done; and I humbly beseech your Lordships to consider that there be many causes, which daily require the issuing of great sums of money besides the weekly lendings.

"We have signified your Lordships' commandment to Newcomen, and have willed him to prepare himself with his books and reckonings to repair to your Lordships, but we doubt what satisfaction he can make to your Lordships, because there are divers others that have dealing in those matters besides himself. And this day, being called before us, and acquainted with your pleasures, he signified unto us his readiness to obey the same; but, inasmuch as he is but a particular Victualler for Leinster only, and we conceive it to be your Lordships' pleasures to be satisfied for the whole, we thought it meetest to stay him for a time, in regard of the necessity we have of his service, until we may hear your Lordships' further pleasure, whether the Comptroller of the Victuals shall rather attend you with all the certificates touching that matter. Lastly, your Lordships do think it a matter most improbable that Her Majesty should pay such full numbers, where every one saith that there are few Captains of hundreds able to shew threescore, we must confess to your Lordships that it is most true, and yet your Lordships know that, if the rest be sick, they must receive pay; and the Captains murmur and are discontented that they should be so straitly and narrowly looked unto by us, as they are.

" We have also received another letter from your Lordships of the 18 of November touching Sir Henry Brouncker's account for the impost; for that it is alleged that divers payments have been formerly made by his agents to Sir Conyers Clifford, Sir Thomas Norreys, Sir John Dowdall, and to the Treasurer, order shall be presently given for the due examining of the said account. But, touching the payment of this last year's rent, being 2,000l., and payable, the one half at Bartholomewtide, and the other half at Michaelmas last, or within two months of either of the said feasts, I, the Treasurer, do assure your Lordships that I have received not a penny thereof. Sir Conyers Clifford was slain before Bartholomewtide, and then nothing due to Her Majesty, neither had he any warrant or authority from me to receive any part thereof. The like I say for Sir Thomas Norreys, who died the 22 of August, and therefore not knowing that any of them had received any of it, I have not defalked any part of the same upon the several entertainments of Sir Thomas Norreys or Sir Conyers Clifford.

" And further, it may please your Lordships to understand that we have lately by good hap, and upon promise of reward of 20l., procured the apprehension of one Henry Fitzsimmons, a priest and a Jesuit, who, about a year since, came from beyond the seas, and ever since his arrival hath been a busy traveller and practiser in the Pale. He was born in Dublin, and by birth is allied to many gentlemen of the Pale. The special cause that moved us to seek his apprehension was because we received very credible intelligence, that Tyrone did direct such as brought his seditious libels into the Pale by name to the said Fitzsimmons. We have already examined him only upon some general points, whereby we find him to be a very dangerous person. And there hath been an information delivered to us of some disloyal speeches lately uttered by the said Fitzsimmons concerning Her Majesty's right and title to this kingdom, concerning the which, and all other matters that shall be thought requisite, we intend with all convenient expedition daily to examine him, and to acquaint your Lordships with our proceedings.

"We have often written to your Lordships to send over the Captains that are now there, but none of them is yet arrived save Sir Theobald Dillon, who hath received great loss both by burning of his towns and preying of his cattle, even in the time of this last cesssation."—Dublin, 1599, December 15. Endorsed, Received at Richmond the 24th. Signed, pp. 7.

Dec. 15. Westchester.

85. [Meyler Magrath], Archbishop of Cashel, to Sir Robert Cecil. "Omitting other circumstances, I do marvel that your Honour sent me no answer upon any of the several letters I wrote since I left you; for which cause I must now make a repetition of their contents. First, I sought your Honour to write to me the very necessary article, which you left unwritten, concerning a promise to such as would deliver, according to the former articles, Dr. Cragh or Father Archer, or any such principal, being a thing very necessary for the furtherance of the matter pretended; assuring your Honour, although you do make more account of the getting of James FitzThomas and John his brother, than of them, yet that it were many times better for the quietness of Ireland to have them than the others. Also, I wrote to you to send to me unto Ireland the nurse of James Fitsgerald; and now I pray that I may speedily know whether she be sent or not, for, in her absence, I must use other unfittest and more dangerous instruments, being persuaded that Lady of Desmond was never beloved by such, with whom I must deal now; yet I must do as I may, if not as. I would. By reason of so many strange reports, I do presume with boldness to exhort Her Majesty to have present and speedily (sic) care of Ireland, and not to use accustomed delays in sending him, which is to be sent at the last as Lord Deputy, but use the time while time is, being but short; in mora periculum. The cessation of arms is admitted by Tyrone of purpose to spend the holy days merry, according to his own manner, which he could not do for lack of commodity but by that means, as shortly you shall know by the sequel of his actions. Ergo dum tempus habemus operemur bonum. I pray that you would desire Mr. George Carew, when he cometh to Ireland, to appoint the Archbishop of Cashel amongst his chaplains, whom (with God's grace), he shall find more serviceable for matters necessary for his intent and place there, than the one half of the rest of them. Non recuso laborem ad solvendum debitum, yet I fear that proverb to be verified in myself now, as it was divers times before, Service offereth stinks; yet there is a comfort, Bona voluntas reputatur pro facto, et nullum bonum irremuneratum, &c. I hope your Honour will interpret my words and writings in the best sense, yourself knowing that I do lack both fit words and true orthography, whereby it is easier to understand my mind than to read my writings. Yet I dare not, nor may, use any other help from a dictator or secretary in those matters. Therefore I pray your Honour to judge and accept my good meaning, although words or wri[ti]ngs might err.

" I spake in the way with a servant to the Lord of Upper Ossory going thither. His request is not great in his master's behalf, whom I know to have received some hard measures, where he should be relieved, as [a] good and loyal subject. Therefore in my simple opinion it were not amiss, after granting his reasonable requests, to shew good countenance with fair speeches to such chief men of that land as do hold good courses in this dangerous time; and that Her Majesty might in policy be pleased to write some comfortable words to the Lord of Upper Ossory, to Sir Charles O'Carroll, and to Sir John McCoghlan, they being hitherto very good subjects, and settled in such places, where every of them might do good service, if they were enabled thereunto. And if any of them were at Tyrone's command, he will not make doubt to overrun all Munster and Leinster, &c. I am fully persuaded, if your Honour had rightly understood my meaning, you would not be against Her Majesty to grant pardon to so many as will receive the same, as I sought it; that is, to such only as would give security for their loyalty henceforth. Upon which condition (as I think) none except the chief principal beginners should be denied of pardon, which I leave to your Honour to consider of in due time. The Lord Deputy is also to be admonished to receive upon the like condition as many Irishmen as he may to the service; whom I fear to have but very few, so itself (sic); yet I am in hope to bring to him some of good account upon the same condition. And the Lord Deputy shall know by experience, that it were better for him to have five hundred such Irishmen there than twice so much of such as hath not any experience in the country factions, &c. I am sure your Honour shall be weary of my letters, by reason of my tedious discourses, and intermeddling with many matters impertinent, as some would say, to my profession. Yet they are not so altogether impertinent to me, as the words spoken by Mr. Bared were to him, whom I would were sent to Ireland for this year, to be a partaker of my pains, trouble, and profit, and at his return to preach as of a thing well to him known."—Westchester, 1599, December 15.

[Postscript.] "Here I send (wanting) certain additions to the former ciphers; some of them are used in this present letter. I hope you will give a copy of them to Sir George Carew, by reason that it is one manner of writing by ciphers that serveth betwixt me and you both; therefore let the same be kept with the first.

" I would I had known from the Lord Admiral and your Honour, with Her Majesty's consent, what I might offer or promise to Maguire, to O'Rourke, to O'Dogherty, and to O'Boyle and others, chief ones, if they will forsake Tyrone and join to England. All the said persons are very near in kindred to the Archbishop of Cashel, and so is Sir Arthur O'Neill, and Tirlogh McHenry, and the most of the other chieftains that way; therefore let me understand from you, &c. (sic). The proffer being good, I hope to have occasion to write to your Honour. I am sure that it [is] easier to draw them from Tyrone now than ever before; and the reason is, every of them hath been persuaded that it was easier for Tyrone to win Her Majesty's favour than for themselves, and now he going so far in treason that he is not like to be received again, and therefore if they be well handled, no doubt they may be drawn. Their enmity and hatred is such of old, and their burden is so great." Signed," 1070." Endorsed by Sir Robert Cecil's secretary:—"Archbishop of Cashel to my master, from Chester." Several of the proper names are in cipher, but these have been deciphered by the Secretary. The spelling of the letter is peculiar. Holograph. pp. 2½.

Dec. 15.

85a. "An accusation taken before me Sir Robert Gardener, knight, Chief Justice of Her Majesty's Bench, in presence of William Usher, Clerk of the Council, by direction from the Lords Justices and Council, the 15th of December, 1599."

"Henry Duckworth, a tailor and an Englishman, being of the age of 38 years, or thereabouts, saith that upon Thursday was a month, as he remembereth, he was at George Blackney's house in the parish of Swords, where that day there dined the owner of the house, the said George Blackney, and his wife, Mr. George Taylor of Swords, Henry Fitzsimmons, Edward Orpey, Giles Reed, all three priests, and Tipper, sometime Clerk of Swords.

" Which persons, some sitting, some standing, at after dinner at the fire, Henry Fitzsimmons began to speak of the success of the Irishry, saying, ' You see what fortune O'Neill and his kern and followers have against the Queen's forces; but where God blesseth, all things prosper; a land that is won by the sword, and kept by the sword, without authority from the Pope, is not lawful by the word of God.'

" To which Mr. George Taylor answered, that King Henry (but which King Henry the said Taylor named not) had a full authority from the Pope, and was of him admitted full Prince of this realm of Ireland; and said further, that O'Neill, O'Donnell, and Maguire, surrendered their lands to the King, and took them again, and swore themselves to be true to the Crown of England, as I can prove by record; and the same authority that the King had, the same authority our Queen now hath.

"To which Fitzsimmons replied, 'Yea, when the King was a Catholic; but, the Queen being none, the case is altered; and as for record, they may put in records what they list.'

"To which Mr. Taylor said, ' I am sworn to the Queen, and will be true to her, while breath is in my body.' And thereupon Taylor rose up, saying he could not abide to hear any more of those speeches, and so departed.

"The said Duckworth being asked who[m] he had acquainted with this matter, said that about a fortnight after he heard the said speeches, he happened to work in the Vicar of Swords' house, called Mr. Huettson, who asked where he had wrought before, to which Duckworth answered, 'at Mr. George Blackney's house.' Huettson demanded who was there, and what speeches they used, whereupon Duckworth told him, and to none else till now, as much in substance as before he hath declared, all which he affirmeth upon his oath." Attested copy. pp. 1½.

Dec. 15. Dungannon.

86. Hugh, Earl of Tyrone, to Sir William Warren. "Seeing the conclusion of cessations is so prejudicial unto that which I pretend, henceforward I will conclude none, if present redress be not done. In this last concluded between the Earl of Ormonde and me, there were sundry breaches by your side committed. For Sir Samuel took a prey of O'Hanlon, of which I [was] made acquainted. One of my men apprehended was (sic) by Sir Samuel, and one of my horsemen's sons killed, and a horse of mine taken away by the said Sir Samuel's men. Many other things were done contrary to the due course which in any truce should be observed. And chiefly the cessation is greatly violated by the apprehending of Father Henry Fitzsimmons, a man to whom (as before God I protest) I am no more beholden than to an Irish Catholic that is restrained in Turkey for his religion, but undertake generally to plant the Catholic faith throughout all Ireland according my often protestations. I must undertake, be it accepted or not, for all Irish Catholics, and do feel myself more grieved that any should be for his religion restrained in time of cessation, than if there were a thousand preys taken from me. Wherefore, as ever you think that I shall enter to conclude either peace or cessation with the State, let him be presently enlarged."—Dungannon, 1599, December 25 [15-25]. Signed, "O'Neill." [The endorsement stating that this letter is a copy is erroneous.] p. 1.

Dec. 19.

87. " A collection of such meet places upon the north, [as are] to be planted with garrisons for the most speedy suppressing of Tyrone and the rest, and breaking of the northern combinations, in the united strength of which hath hitherto consisted the life and edge of this dangerous rebellion against her sacred Majesty in Ireland." This advice, according to the endorsement, was by Captain Humfrey Willis.

" At the Deny, upon Lough Foyle, in O'Donnell's country, being eleven miles from the Liffer, and so from Strabane, 3,000 foot, 2 [00] horse. [In the margin:—"Here some fit men of experience and travel in the country to be waged as assistants to the Commanders."]

" Of these foot, shall lie at Liffer, and at Castle Finn, four miles above the Liffer, on the river, 300 foot. At each of these is a ford, both for our main garrison and the rebels to pass from Tyrconnell to Tyrone, and must be kept open to us; besides these small keeps lying further up into the country, equally between Tyrone and Tyrconnell, may serve as apt means readily to entertain all meet spial and intelligence out of both the traitors' countries, and with speed minister them to the main garrison, and with good diligence they may be able to intercept any advices running between the two Archtraitors. All the rest to lie at the Derry, so shall you presently gripe all O'Dogherty's country, and master it within you, which is a plain champaign country, rich of cattle and corn, and shall put O'Donnell beyond the mountains, and keep him from Tyrone; which done, a faction will easily be wrought against O'Donnell, both amongst the McSwynes (of whom the chief man is now with Her Majesty) and divers other principal followers of that country, over whom he doth extremely tyrannize; who will join with the forces, and be a speedy means of his overthrow. Without this separation there is little hope to distress either of the Archtraitors in any short time.

" At Ballyshannon specially [here the same marginal note as above], to keep the rebels of Tyrconnell from Gonnaught and Maguires country, 2,000 foot, 100 horse; of which must be left a ward of 150 foot at Belleek, being a passage three miles above Ballyshannon. These two garrisons shall meet in twelve hours, and so put O'Donnell into a nook of his country, where they may have him and his goods at their will.

" For the garrison at the Derry, must be remembered two large ferry-boats at the least, to pass between the garrison and O'Cahan's country, both to fetch firewood, of which otherwise they can hardly be provided, and also to transport men upon any occasion of service. If two good boats were prepared to lie at Belleek, they have free passage by the Lough Erne as far as Enniskillen, and may [be] of great stead to that garrison, and will do much spoil upon the cattle of the islands at starts, and take all the cots [small boats] between that and Enniskillen.

"At the Cavan, 1,000 foot and 100 horse. [In the margin, "Here Captain Hugh O'Reilly."] The country is champaign. These shall serve as well on O'Rourke, McMahon, and Maguire, as within O'Reilly's country, and shall keep all their forces from Tyrone. This garrison shall be victualled always from Kells, with horse only, without troubling the army. Of these must be laid at Bealtirbirt, near the mouth of the Lough Erne, 150 foot, which, with the help of two good boats, will take all the cots between that and Enniskillen, and spoil the islands at their will.

" At Mucknow, being twelve miles from Monaghan, twelve miles from Dundalk, and so'from the Newry, 1,000 foot, 100 horse. [In the margin, "Here Captain Fleming."]

" At Armagh, 1,000 foot, 100 horse. These garrisons shall take in Ferney, Clancarroll, the Fews, O'Hanlon's country, make McMahon quit his country, and keep Tyrone below Dungannon, and free all the borders of the Pale. These two may be victualled from the Newry, with horse only.

" At Coleraine, 1,000 foot, 100 horse, with a couple of good boats, which must serve for passage into O'Cahan's country, so as this garrison and that at the Derry may meet in ten hours, and march in bulk as far as Clanconkein, where Tyrone purposeth his chief fastness for his cattle and wealth.

"At Knockfergus [in the margin, "Here Neill McHugh and Captain Norton"], 1,000 foot, 100 horse, whereof to lie at Castle Tuam, 100, at Belfast and Edendoghcarrick, 100. This garrison, with the help of the former, will be a sufficient strength to overrun the Clandeboys and the Route.

" Castle Tuam is the passage between Tyrone and Clandeboy over the Ban, which, being kept, curbeth Tyrone, and barreth the flying of his cattle between the two countries upon extremities.

" So as all these several forces of Tyrone's bordering assistants are cut from him, and he left only to the trust of his own followers to defend him, which then will not be many, there shall need no garrisons in the English Pale. It shall be all freed by these forementioned; only the Newry and Dundalk must be guarded, as staples for victualling.

" The cause of my experience in these parts is that I have served in the north twelve years. I have lain in garrison at Armagh, Monaghan, the Cavan; I was at the taking of Enniskillen, at Castle Skea, the Omay, Strabane, Donegal, and divers other places in Tyrone and Tyrconnell.

"I am humbly bold to remember your Honour that some allowance be made to the several garrisons for entertaining of guides and spial, which must be carefully cherished, and specially at the Derry and Ballyshannon and Coleraine.

"Great secrecy is to be used in the resolution and sending of these three garrisons, and that they may be ready to settle at one instant as near as may be, lest the rebels should mainly prepare against either of them. Moreover, the Lord Deputy, with 2,000 foot and the horse of the Pale, will with ease be able to reduce all Leinster.

" I have prescribed the garrisons in these several places so great for that if they have not a competent strength of horse and foot to stir and sally into the several countries upon drafts, the people will not fear them, nor come under them; so as they shall (as they have hitherto) live cooped in walls, rather to encourage the rebels than do service, and protract the war to an exceeding length, with great disadvantage." Unsigned. Endorsed, 1599, December 19. pp. 4.

Dec. 19.

88. Captain — Carlile to —. The garrisons for Ulster should be placed in the beginning of March next, for two causes; one, to hinder the rebels from sowing their corn in the plains, which they usually do from March till mid-May; the other, that their cattle, being weakest from March to May, must of necessity starve, if they be pinned up in the woods and bogs, not having the pasturage of the plains, from which, by the garrisons, they shall be barred.

The two chief garrisons would be at Lough Foyle and Armagh. Each would consist of 3,000 foot and 300 horse, that one might invade without resistance, if the other should be beleaguered, and pen up Tyrone between Blackwater and Mullagh Nagorye, which is but a small country to pasture his cows in. The garrison at Armagh will waste the gallowglass country, the county of Monaghan, and O'Hanlon's country, and draw from Tyrone McDonnell, the chief of the gallowglass, and his followers, some 300 men at least of the McMahons, Rossebane, Patrick McArt Moyle, Brian Asawe, and McKennan, which gentlemen will bring with them 80 horse and some 400 foot at least; also Henry Oge McHenry McShane, Tyrone's Lieutenant of horse, who will bring with him 100 horse, 200 foot; O'Hanlon, with 30 horse, 200 foot; Sir Tirlogh McHenry, with 40 horse, 200 foot; the Captain of Farny and his sept, with 40 horse, 200 foot; Tirlogh Brassell's sons, with 120 men; besides others.

The garrison to be placed at the head of Lough Foyle, between Tyrone and Tyrconnell, will take from Tyrone O'Cahan's country and Sir Arthur O'Neill's country, and from O'Donnell Innisowen and the country to Barnesmore, some sixteen miles, which is the heart of Tyrconnell; and draw from Tyrone Sir Arthur O'Neill and his faction, who is able to make 600 foot, 60 horse, and draw in O'Cahan, who is able to make 160 horse at least, and 300 foot From O'Donnell, by the placing of this garrison, will fall Sir John O'Dogherty, with 400 foot and 60 horse, McHugh Duff and Neill gar O'Donnell with 80 horse, 400 foot at least, the two best of the McSwynes with 400 foot, besides other gentlemen of Tyrconnell.

After the placing of the aforesaid two garrisons, reasonable garrisons should be placed at Ballyshannon, Coleraine, Belfast, Dundrum, and Cavan. Thereby Tyrone and his followers will be so penned up that they will not know where to look for the pasturage of their cows and other cattle, which are their life, and without which they are not able to keep wars. From March to May it will be requisite that these garrisons be well reinforced and kept strong; and afterwards, these last places being strengthened with some forts, Her Majesty's charge may be lessened, the pride of the rebels being once pulled down when their cows and cattle are at the weakest. The garrisons of Coleraine, Belfast, and Dundrum will take from Tyrone's contribution 70,000 cows, and weaken him by 1,200 shot at least, and 200 horsemen, besides kern. The garrisons at Coleraine and Dundrum may be victualled with fish, if there be but some few fishers pressed thither.

If the horsemen for Lough Foyle might be had out of Scotland. that service might be the better performed, and a great part of Her Majesty's charges saved. Besides, their horses and arms are fittest for the Irish service, and themselves nothing behind, for they are as good night walkers as the Irish thieves.

Also, if some of the foot companies, and the rest of the horse companies, were raised in Ireland itself, Her Majesty's charges would not be so great as to have them sent out of England, and yet the service would be better followed.

The number for the whole of the garrisons aforenamed would be 9,000 foot, 860 horse, to be kept strong from the first of March to May. Of the preys of cows taken, the one half should be to Her Majesty's use, and the other half to the takers thereof, for their encouragement. If the redshanks be entertained, they must have a month's warning to provide themselves, and be imprested with a month's pay, because of their poverty, and [have a] half share of the preys they take. If there be occasion to use their service longer than a month, they should be cessed on the countries between Coleraine and the Newry, without Her Majesty's further charge. Unsigned. Endorsed, "Captain Carlile, 19 December, '99." pp. 3.

Dec. 20. Richmond.

89. Queen Elizabeth to the Lords Justices Loftus and Carey and the rest of the Council. In favour of Richard Plunket, esquire, of Rathmore, co. Meath. His constant loyalty and good service. His great losses. Her special royal protection to be granted by letters patent to the said Richard, and to Alexander, his son and heir apparent, and to be of that force, that all suits, judgments, &c., against them may be stayed, as well from the 18th of May last, as for one whole year after the date of the said letters patent. The said son Alexander, who is in prison, because jointly bound with his father for his debts, to be released upon receipt hereof. The said Richard to have bestowed upon him the charge of one of the first companies that shall fall void.—Richmond, 1599, December 20. Entry Book, No. 204, fos. 206-207. Copy. pp. 2.

Dec. 20. Richmond.

90. Another copy of the preceding.

Dec. 20. Kilkenny.

91. The Earl of Ormonde to Sir Robert Cecil. That Gerald Comerford, the Attorney-General of Connaught, may have paid the several sums due to him by divers concordatums and warrants. Connaught being waste, there is no revenue therefrom. Recommends Comerford's suit to the Privy Council for payment, as he has served faithfully in Connaught these seventeen years past, and was greatly hindered by the rebels.—Kilkenny, 1599 December 20. Signed. Endorsed, Received at London the 12th of February. p. 1.

Dec. 20.

92. "A declaration of my employments by Sir Conyers Clifford into the county of Sligo, into the Brenny, O'Rourke's country, and into O'Donnell's country, with the estate of those parts, and my opinion of the same." The endorsement runs, "The declaration of John Baxter touching matters in Ireland, delivered to me, 20 December, '99."

In March 1597-8, when O'Rourke came in to Sir Conyers Clifford, Baxter was sent to the county of Sligo, to confer with certain of the gentlemen there, who were in action. After four days, he brought certain of the Connors and McSwynes to Sir Conyers, where they made an agreement in behalf of all the county, and never after joined with O'Donnell (notwithstanding the loss of Ballymote), until Sir Conyers was killed, and O'Connor Sligo yielded as a prisoner. For they had a great hope that Sligo should be made up, and O'Donnell kept from them. They endured many losses by O'Donnell's ranging through the country; and, when O'Donnell saw "our" [the English] shipping arrived at Sligo, he made all their corn to be cut down with swords, and they were forced to yield to him, by reason of the overthrow in the Curlews.

The day after Sir Conyers was killed, O'Donnell came to the island where the English shipping lay, and entreated Tibbott Ne Longe, son to Grany O'Malley, to bestow some wine on him, and to come out and drink with him. But Tibbott would not by any means go; yet in the end, upon pledges, Captain Coatch, Baxter, and Murrogh Nemner (brother to Tibbott) went out to O'Donnell, and carried a barrel of wine. "In which time of our drinking, O'Donnell did shew unto the said Murrogh the head of Sir Conyers Clifford; and dealt secretly with him, to have himself, Tibbott, and the rest of their crew, to betray us, and take all our shipping; which they might have done, had not Tibbott been very faithful to Her Majesty," and revealed all to them.

Two days after, O'Connor yielded himself to O'Donnell, and they came together again to the island, where they encamped a night. As Baxter was acquainted with all matters thereabouts, and with O'Connor's whole mind for his proceedings in those parts, he was desired by O'Connor to come and speak with him. After Baxter had assurance for his safe going and coming, he went, and lay in their camp all night. "In which time he declared unto me his whole grief, and with weeping eyes desired me to make known unto the State of Ireland, that what course soever he held, either in journeying with O'Donnell or otherwise, when he could get any good opportunity, he would shew himself a truehearted subject to Her Majesty; and in the meantime desireth all his friends to conceive no hard opinion of him."

In the summer of 1598, by reason that O'Connor Sligo was in England, and all his country in doubt that he would not come again, Baxter was sent to remain in the county of Sligo, to encourage them there in their duty, and to get news from the borders. At that time, O'Rourke sent to him to come and speak with him. O'Rourke was newly broken from Sir Conyers, and joined with O'Donnell, his reason being that Sir Conyers was not able to defend him from his bad neighbours. O'Rourke told Baxter in private, that if Her Majesty would put Sligo up, and leave O'Connor there, and a garrison, he would presently come from O'Donnell, and undertake, with the help of the Connaught men, to banish O'Donnell and the northern men clean out of Connaught. For, if Sligo were once up, many in O'Donnell's country would come away, as he is a very tyrant among them; so that most of Connaught and his own mends at home bear a secret hate to him for his cruel dealing. But now they must needs do as he doth, until his passage be stopped, either at "Bellachannye" [Ballyshannon] or at Sligo. Now they care not for any forces by land, but they much fear shipping; and if Her Majesty determine to send any forces to those parts, none can go by land, except there goes an army another way to the north, which must busy them on all sides. Thus there will be time to clear all the passes and passages. But to go by land, as the case stands now, will be very hard, for no carriage can be got to furnish an army through Connaught, the country is so waste and all in action. The only way is by sea, and to weary them out with strong garrisons "upon their noses." For that purpose Lough Foyle is a very good place, in the heart of the north, between O'Neill and O'Donnell. Donegal, in O'Donnell's country, is a fine place, and a great abbey very well seated, where the ships may land at the doors. There is all O'Donnell's munition, and 120 or 140 friars dwell there.

The abbey of Assaroe, by Ballyshannon, is also a good place, and the country thereabouts is all champaign ground, full of corn and cattle, which they cannot keep from our garrisons." When the country sees that Her Majesty will take it in hand thoroughly, and settle thereabouts, they will cut one another's throats, and some will come in and help to guide upon the rest. Yet there is no fire or shelter for an army, except at the abbeys.

"Now for Sligo, there is an island in the mouth of the river, more than half a mile long, full of big bushes, where 5,000 men may encamp; and at every tide they may gather great store of oysters, cockles, and mussels, and great store of coneys, all which will be a great help with Her Majesty's store. The ships may ride round about the island, and [it] is not above ten score (sic) over to the main[land]. If Her Majesty send but 500 men by sea, with victuals and munition, they may settle there till Sligo be put up; and in the mean time O' Donnell will not be able to keep a cow in that county, and then all his cattle will be driven to hunger, he having so many, and his country so bare of grass. O'Rourke, in like sort, will not be able to keep any within a dozen miles, and by our lying there we may make provision for the building of Sligo within that island, having lime brought thither, and masons, and prepare all things ready, and make mortar as much ready as will put up a great strength upon a sudden, where 300 men may lie, and build within, and defend themselves against a whole country; for barks and boats may bring anything under the wall, and I dare undertake to do this at any time, if there be any stirring in other places. And for the keeping of our provision in the island, Her Majesty [to] have great store of deal boards and fir poles, which will make houses for the present time. This island is but three miles from Sligo, and we may go either on fair sands, or by water, in despite of any. And, let every man say what they will, until that strait be stopped up, Connaught will never be well; which done, 200 men at the Boyle and Tulsk (if they be not lost) will soon banish all the McDermond and O'Connor Roe, except they come in. And, if they see a garrison at Sligo, not a Connaught man will stop with O'Donnell, except McWilliam, which perchance will be glad to take a reasonable agreement to live in his own country. And for the Reillys, which are in the county of Roscommon and the county of Galway, or any else, they will be glad to live at quiet, when they see this about, and they have lately brought great store of cattle out of Munster thither."

As for the placing of a Governor in Connaught, it were a good policy for a time to make either the Earl of Clanrickarde, or his son the Baron [Dunkellin], Governor; for, as the case stands now, "no English Governor can do much good, the country heing all gone. And a stranger will be new to seek to learn the course of such a place; and they, being headstrong, will never seek to any by fair means. But for one of them, the country all know them, and they the country; and the most part allied unto them, which went out for very poverty and want, which would seek to them to come in, in that they are their natural Lords, and that they do love them. And again, they would fear them in this respect, that whatsoever they would do or say, it would be told the Governor by one or other of themselves; so one would persuade another to be at quiet, when they see their own country lord Governor amongst them.

"There have (sic) been by many of us Englishmen a hard opinion held of all Irishmen since this action; and some will say, 'if he be an Irishman, he will have an Irish trick.'" This ill conceit of all for the bad demeanour of the wicked ones, has much grieved a great many, and has made "the good subjects at this hour very weak and out of heart, and scarce able (if the Queen would employ them) to do any service, or defend themselves. But Her Majesty must countenance the good subjects, and employ them, and give them entertainment; for one of that country birth, that have continued firm hitherto, will do more service than the English, except he be a long standard there, of good acquaintance and many friends in the country." If those had pay, a number that are now in action, would come and serve for entertainment, when they saw their friends had means to keep them, and do more service than "the poor English, which are half dead before they come there, for the very name of Ireland do break their hearts, it is now so grown to misery."

If Her Majesty mean to continue the wars, there must be another course held for the sick men than there is. "For now, if he be sick, he shall be sent into England, so that many under that colour come away, being very well able to serve. And the sick men also would recover, if they had good means or relief; for let never so many go thither out of England, but in short time they will have the Irish ague, either for want of their good lodging, their warm fare, or change of air; and then if all that be sick be not relieved there, but sent away, England will be oppressed, and Her Majesty greatly charged. But there must be a guest-house, as is in the Low Countries, to relieve them that be sick, and those that be hurt. With what heart can any man serve Her Majesty, when they see a number die in the streets for want of relief, many a one hurt and maimed, and little account made of him?"

If Her Majesty condescend to give them a peace, all the realm will be undone, except they will yield to give Her Majesty 10,000 men out of the land, to be employed some other way, for there are so many idle men (if there were a peace), who would continually be spoiling those who would live quiet, by reason they have nothing to live upon but by the sword.

Last Lent, Baxter was sent into O'Donnell's country, and while there conferred with two or three Spaniards, who had been there ever since the Spanish fleet was cast away. They told him for certain that the King of Spain would never help them to any force, only he would now and then supply them with some money and munition, with good store of which there came a ship while Baxter was there. It also brought from Spain O'Donnell's messenger, by name Hugh Duff O'Deavan. Baxter learnt that the Spaniards were all unwilling to come for Ireland; only the bruit went thereof. Also, while Baxter was there, two Scottish barks came in with provisions. All these much supply their wants, or else they would never be able to endure. If there were some galleys now and then to watch and search those parts, they might sometimes light on some good booty. There are three very good galleys with Tibbott Ne Longe, son to Grany O'Malley, his brother, and O'Malley, that will carry 300 men a piece. These, if employed by Her Majesty, would do much good in the north, and the Malleys are much feared everywhere by sea. There are no galleys in Ireland but those; for one was built by an Englishman of Sir Richard Bingham's, who was there killed, and his galley taken; and since two others made by him.

Whilst there, Baxter had much private conference with divers of the best in O'Donnell's country, and had drawn them to that pass that, if Sir Conyers Clifford had once got to Sligo, and begun to build there, many of that country would have come to O'Connor Sligo; for example, Teig O'Rourke, brother to O'Rourke, who had married O'Donnell's sister, came away, and many with him, and stayed for the Governor's coming. So did all the county of Sligo, as aforesaid; for a number that are in action had rather be under the English Government than as they are; "but our successe[s] have been so ill, which make them to do and continue as all the rest doth."

Baxter has been employed in Her Majesty's service these many years; in Sir Richard Bingham's time, in all services in Connaught, both by sea and land; and also by Sir Conyers Clifford. He was for a time a dweller in the county of Sligo, upon some land held from Her Majesty. "I did use myself so well among them in those days, that ever since they did bear a love unto me, by which means I have been suffered to travel among them, where never an Englishman but myself would be; yet I have been taken by some stragglers that are not subject to any, and have lost much by them." Thought it his duty to deliver the foregoing. Unsigned. Apparently holograph, pp. 3½.

[Dec. 20.]

93. "A declaration touching the building of Sligo, without any let to the other services, the charges thereof, the time, and the benefit which may ensue after the doing thereof." The endorsement runs, "John Baxter his advice touching Sligo."

For the charges of lime (which must be transported from Galway), of five barks to carry the same, and other things necessary to be bought, with mariners and masons, and their wages during the same time, Her Majesty shall deliver 300l., which will be all the money required to settle a garrison there, "either of 500 to 100, or, if need require, it shall be strong enough to be guarded by 30."

For men to guard till the place be made fortifiable, there will be required but 200 Englishmen, whom the Earl of Clanrickarde will be content to spare out of Connaught; Tibbott Ne Longe and his 100, who lie in his own country, and are never used out of that, and he will be most willing to further that service, to recover O'Connor Sligo, whose sister Tibbott married; also Tibbott's brother, his mother, and O'Malley, who will spare 100 men, but they have no pay from Her Majesty, so Baxter will desire nothing but one tun of sack, of the impost in Galway, which will please them more than 100l. A letter of thanks to be written to all these, commending them, and assuring them of Her Majesty's favour. This will greatly encourage them, and thereby all their galleys may be had during that service, without any further charge.

If it be thought good by the Earl of Clanrickarde, or any occasion fall out, when at Galway, either to want any of the above said men, or to increase the number, 100 of the young men of Galway may be required for one month. These will be willingly granted, for they all say continually that, until Sligo be up, Connaught will never be quiet. And so say all in Connaught. Victuals must be sent along with them, and a ship, or two barks, for the same, to serve their turn during the fortification. Victuals must be left for the Englishmen, until a greater garrison be sent, for when the work is done, all the Irish shall be sent away.

"For the time of doing this, all things must be made ready in Galway, and set forward, so that we may be there about the time that our forces shall land at Lough Foyle, or rather a week after, for at that time the forces of O'Donnell will be together there, so that very few shall annoy us. And if any do, I will undertake to build a strength, before any shall come, to defend ourselves, and afterwards work within, in despite of them all, with this number of men, and no further charge to Her Majesty. And when this is done, if any occasion shall serve hereafter, mat more men shall go and continue there (which I am sure there shall), men the Abbey will receive a thousand men, which is not a musket shot from the castle, and in twenty-four hours will be made strong enough to defend themselves against all Ireland."

After a garrison is settled in Sligo, Baxter undertakes that the most part of that county shall come in to him, and draw home to their towns, with the little cattle left them, and help to resist O'Donnell, if he shall offer to come that way. If O'Connor be not kept in hold, he will be one of the first, for they all know that O'Donnell cannot hurt them, when the garrison is once planted. Baxter had drawn them in before from O'Donnell by commission (which he has to shew), and because no staength could be made to defend them, they were forced to yield again to O'Donnell, after the Curlew journey. There arc but few in all that country, who will not gladly be ruled by Baxter, "for that I am of long acquaintance, and nave dealt much in their behalf both before the wars and since."

Then O'Rourke (if O'Connor can get away) will leave O'Donnell, and is the best rebel in Ireland of his word, and would gladly live quietly in his own country.

So, if Ballyshannon be won, then the possession of Sligo, which is but twenty miles off, will do much good. And if Ballyshannon cannot be taken (of which there is doubt), then Sligo will be the only means to get it hereafter, and in the meantime will help to settle Connaught, and stop a passage from O'Donnell of three or four score miles; which in every man's opinion will do great good towards Her Majesty's service.

When all this is done, there will not be many in all Connaught, but will come in to the Earl of Clanrickarde, and the rather that O'Donnell shall be kept from them; and this work will be one of the best in the judgment of all those that know Connaught, and no hindrance to other services. If this work is to go forward, then it should be bruited abroad that the lime and other provision is going to Lough Foyle, to build a castle there, and no speech be made that they are going to Sligo.—[1599, December 20.] Unsigned. Apparently holograph, pp. 2.

Dec. 21. Dublin.

94. The Lord Justice Loftus to his servant, Robert Leycester, in London. "We have written a joint letter to the Lords concerning John Moore, whose case is now very extreme, the Connors refusing to accept any thing else for him, but only Tirlogh McHenry's son, and his house, or that otherwise they will presently hang him, wherewith we have acquainted their Lordships. I pray you solicit Mr. Secretary, with that earnestness you modestly may, for a speedy answer of that letter, lest otherwise it may come too late."—Dublin, 1599, December 21. Signed. p. ½.

Dec. 21. Dungannon.

95. Hugh, Earl of Tyrone, to Philip III., King of Spain. "Since nothing can be more beneficial to a Christian commonwealth than to have men, eminent in learning and virtue, to sow the word of God, instruct the people, [and] eradicate vice from the minds of men; of which men, alas, this realm is destitute, owing to a lengthened war and the activity of heresy; wherefore, most powerful King, nothing could be more desirable for our commonwealth than to have such men, whom we cannot possess, unless your Majesty, in your wonted kindness for the welfare of the whole commonwealth, the exaltation of the Catholic faith, and the extirpation of heresy, assign some allowance to our college at Douay, containing nearly one hundred students, living solely on the liberality and alms of others. Almighty God long preserve your Majesty to the universal Christian commonwealth and to us Irishmen. Given at Dungannon, on the last day of December [December 21-December 31], 1599, Your Majesty's most faithful subject, O'Neill." Latin. Copy. p. 1.

Dec. 21. Dungannon.

96. Hugh, Earl of Tyrone, to the Archduke. Praying for an annual allowance to the college at Douay. Has very often written to his Highness about the war in Ireland, and how the English are weakened daily. Has concluded a truce with them, but has cancelled it, as the English were endeavouring to send to the Low Countries the soldiers they had in Ireland. Prays for the long life of his Highness.—Dungannon, 1599, December 31 [December 21-December 31]. Signed, "O'Neill." Latin. Copy. p. 1.

Dec. 23. Dublin.

97. James Ware to the Privy Council. The difference between him and Mr. [Christopher] Peyton, Auditor General for Ireland, who has petitioned against the appointment of Ware as an Auditor for the Wars, an office granted him on the coming over of the Lord Lieutenant [the Earl of Essex].—Dublin, 1599, December 23. Signed, p. 1.

Dec. 24. Richmond.

98. Sir Robert Cecil to [Meyler Magrath] Archbishop of Cashel. "My Lord, you must not think that you are forgotten in all things whereunto you receive no answer; as, for example, the matter for the Irish nurse is dispatched, for she is sent away. But for the other two, considering their profession, I would be sorry that of all this great matter, the only issue should be the taking of Archer and Creagh. And therefore you must not think that we, that are Councillors of State, will leave it under our hands, as a matter to be shewed to traitors, with whom you must deal, of whose acceptation, if it were offered them, you are not assured. For the other parties of the north, with whom you pretend to have a desire to deal, you may be assured, if you can do any good with them, that they shall be well used, and so shall any of those principal men, that would forsake that Archtraitor Tyrone. For the other matter, that you have not liberty to promise pardon to the meaner sort, it is not because Her Majesty intendeth not grace, but you must have so much discretion as to imagine that, when the Deputy comes, something must be left to him, and not all things, both north and south, to my Lord of Cashel. For Sir George Carew, when he comes into Munster, he will use you with all the favour he can; and, for the Deputy, he will be in Ireland, or at the seaside, by twelfth day. And thus, wishing you good success in all your honest actions, I commit you to God."—The Court at Richmond, 1599, December 24. Entry Book, No. 204, fo. 207 b. Copy. p. 1.

Dec. 24. Dublin Castle.

99. The Lord Justice Loftus and others of the Council to the Privy Council. The difference between James Ware and Christopher Peyton, as to the office of Auditor for the Wars. Delay caused in declaring accounts that have been sent in. Ware is "a sufficient man in that faculty, and of honest carriage." Desire their Lordships' decision in the matter.—Dublin Castle, 1599, December 24. Signed. Seal. Endorsed, Received at Richmond the 28th. p. 1.

Dec. 24. Drumconragh.

100. Sir William Warren to Sir Robert Cecil. Not being so well dealt with by the Lords Justices, for his dispatch to Carrickfergus, as he thought after his long service he deserved, he has presumed to make his grief known to Cecil. After he had received direction for his going to Carrickfergus, and was upon his dispatch, their Lordships refused to let his company of horse go with him. These he raised himself, altogether at his own charge, and they being English for the most part, he could the worse have forborne them, considering the service there lieth altogether upon horse. Begs Cecil to be a mean that the Lords Justices may suffer his horse to go with him, and that he may have the government confirmed to him by Her Majesty, together with the ward of the Abbey, which was always joined with the government, until of late it was sold by Sir John Chichester to a base fellow called John Dalwe, sometime a tailor, and afterwards ensign in Sir Henry Wallop's company. Has therefore stayed his journey to Carrickfergus till he hears from Cecil, for which cause he has sent over the bearer.

Encloses "an unreasonable rabble of Tyrone's demands, not as sent from himself, but a copy of them gotten underhand by a gentleman," whom he often employed thither by direction from the State. If it were possible for Her Majesty to yield to these foolish demands, assures himself that within a fortnight after Tyrone would have as many more as unreasonable. These articles were written and devised by Ascote, who both wrote and devised the libels or proclamations, that were signed above by Tyrone, as if he were Prince of Piedmont.

Received also a proud letter from Tyrone, concerning the committing of a Jesuit [Fitzsimmons], who now remains in the Castle of Dublin. This letter, which was delivered to him upon a sudden, he sent to the Lords Justices, and never kept any copy of it. His travel to Tyrone has been always very chargeable. Is forced to impart this, because he hopes to be employed no more that way. How he was employed by Sir John Norreys is not unknown to Cecil, and how he was recompensed. Was commanded by Essex to repair to Tyrone upon some proffers made by the latter. Afterwards Essex himself spake with Tyrone, but what they said he knows not. Last of all, was entreated and commanded by the Lords Justices to go to Tyrone, and was told that Her Majesty had commanded them to send him.

"I assure your Honour that I never went to Tyrone, but I was forced to bribe his friars, and Jesuits, and his traitors, to further my business, which for my life I never durst make the State acquainted withal; for, if it had been once known, they would have laid a plot to cut me off; either going [to] or coming from Tyrone. For I protest to God I never went to him, but I was in danger to lose my life before my return; and, in proof that almost nothing ca,n be kept from him, Sir Robert Gardener and Sir Geffrey Fenton, having secret conference together in their closet of matters concerning Her Majesty's service, of good weight, Tyrone had knowledge of all the circumstances that passed betwixt them, within five days after. He is now gone to meet O'Donnell at Strabane, and, as I am informed, they mean to come up together into the Pale, and do what hurt they can. I fear, as the State is now governed here, they may do what they please. In proof whereof, there lieth in camp within a mile of Maynooth, which is but ten miles from Dublin, three hundred of the base Geraldines and Delahide[s], now in this time of cessation, and take up beeves from the subjects daily, saying that they will give Tyrone's bill for payment, which is a great scorn to any honest mind to hear the like; yet is it contrary to the last articles agreed upon by Tyrone. I, understanding of it, went to the Lords Justices, and told them of it, and withal told them how easy it was to cut them all off in a night, which I did proffer to attempt myself. Yet there was no answer made me, which upon my credit is very true. I protest before God, I had rather die than live to see such base traitors reign in, such sort. Also there was certain soldiers, that did run away from divers Captains to the traitors, and served them, whereof there was some English, and born in England; and, upon this last cessation, they came into the Pale, and took meat and drink at their pleasure, all which I informed the Lords Justices, but especially the Lord Chancellor, and told him, if they would give me leave to kill them, I would undertake it should be no breach of cessation; yet was I refused. I fear the like opportunity will not be proffered again."

Has sent by the bearer his warrants for some money due to him by Her Majesty. Hopes through Cecil to get payment, and the rather because he never troubled Her Majesty for any payment. The debt is but small, not above 400l.

Refers to the bearer for some secrets to be delivered by him. Dares not commit them to paper. If Cecil has occasion to commit anything to the bearer's trust, he will discharge it honestly. Prays Cecil to be favourable to himself in his suits.—Drumconragh, 1599, December 24. Signed, pp. 2½. Encloses,

100. I. Demands made by Tyrone. [Duplicate, with slight variations, of No. 55 above.] No date. pp. 2.

Dec. 24.

101. "The declaration of William Tipper, delivered to Sir Robert Gardener, knight, Chief Justice of Her Majesty's Bench in Ireland, the 24 of December, 1599."

"Being sworn and examined, he saith that about a month since, he was at the house of George Blackney, where there were present Mr. George Taylor, Henry Fitzsimmons, Charles Reed, a priest, Edward Orpey, a priest, a tailor, this examinate, and Blackney and his wife. And they sitting at the fire, he heard Henry Fitzsimmons ask Mr. Taylor and say, 'how came we by this kingdom ?' Taylor answered, 'we conquered it, and won it by the sword, and after it was confirmed by the Pope to the king;' but to what king he knoweth not, but heard him speak of King John, and he thinketh he meant him; and that the people of the kingdom yielded up their lands to the king, and took it of him again. And so we hope we shall hold it for ever, which is all at this time he doth remember." Attested copy. p. 1.

Dec. [24.]

102. "The declaration of George Taylor (written with his own hand, and delivered to the Lords Justices and Council) touching such speeches as happened about a month past at Mr. Blackney's house, betwixt Henry Fitzsimmons and the said George and others, which, as he remembereth, were as follow. The said Henry, having talked of the state of the country, uttered that the rebels had won a great part of the country. ' No,' said the said George, 'I thank God they have not won any part of the English Pale, though they have wasted a part of it; and I hope in God, the Queen's Majesty with her force will soon pull them down.' Said Mr. Fitzsimmons, 'How came the English to the possession of this land?' The said George answered, 'By conquest.' Fitzsimmons answered, 'Every conquest is not lawful.' The said George said, that soon upon the conquest it was allowed by the clergy, and, as I heard say, confirmed by the Pope, and withal the Lords and chief men of the land did give up their titles and government unto King Henry the Second, and to sundry other kings since. Mr. Fitzsimmons said, 'Well, you see how the Irishry prosper 'notwithstanding.' Whereunto the said George answered, 'Those questions are not good, nor to be reasoned upon. Give them over, for I love not these discourses.' So taking my leave departed home."

"There was present Sir Charles Reed (a priest); Edward Orpey; a tailor that wrought, I know not his name; and sometimes George Blackney." 1599, December. Attested copy. p. 1.

Dec. 24. Dublin.

103. James Ware to Sir Robert Cecil. Apologizes for his long silence. The manifold accounts to be passed in Ireland. Post of Auditor for the wars, to which he was appointed. The chief abuse of all payments rests in the Captains' reckonings. "As formerly it hath been, so it is still, if not worse." Mr. Treasurer's clerks take upon them absolutely the making of those reckonings, without Ware's privity. His difference with Mr. Treasurer and with Mr. Auditor Peyton. Is unable to perform his service according to instructions. Petitioned for license to go over to England, but could not obtain it; but they have written to the Privy Council to signify its pleasure in the matter.

"And because it cannot be but that Mr. Treasurer hath defalked great sums of money upon the lendings for checks, victuals, and munition, it were therefore most necessary (under your Honour's reformation) that presently, upon the determination of the year, the Commissioners for the Accounts here be appointed to take a view, at the least way, of all the payments that he hath made. For herein Her Highness hath formerly sustained great prejudice, when as the Treasurer knew that not so much as a view of his payments was to be taken in this Realm, nor any abuse of his payments examined in the place where they were committed, but absolutely in England, and that after a year, two, or three, in which time all abuses might be buried, and benefit made in buying of bills, with the money stayed for defalcations."

As touching the Captains' reckonings, desires that Birkinshawe, who is not yet arrived in Dublin, may be joined with him in the making and subscribing thereof. So they will be able, every half year, to certify how the money is issued for the lendings, what is stayed for defalcations, and how the apparel is answered; which will be a more direct course to satisfy the Privy Council than ever has been taken hitherto. The accounts of Appsley and Smythe, the Victuallers for Minister and Connaught Expects those of Treves and Newcomen for Ulster and Leinster. Tidings brought yesterday from Galway, that there is a ship, called the Rosemary, of Dover, arrived there with victuals, and that three more are near the Irish coast, also with victuals.—Dublin, 1599, December 24. Signed, pp. 2½.

Dec. 24. Richmond.

104. "Remembrances for the service of Ireland."

Four thousand foot to be levied. What number of horse may be fit, not yet agreed. Three thousand to be sent to Lough Foyle, to be compounded partly of the new levies, and partly of old soldiers to be taken out of the Low Countries. Of the 4,000 to be sent into Ireland, 1,500 are to be sent directly to Carrickfergus, there to make the rendezvous; the other 2,500 directly to Dublin, and thence 1,500 to be chosen and taken, and to be carried in the same shipping to Carrickfergus, and so the whole 3,000 to be conveyed together from Carrickfergus to Lough Foyle. The garrison of Lough Foyle to be at the seaside, at the port of embarking, by the 15th of March. The garrison at Ballyshannon to be planted by the strength of an army.

Munster will need no provision. Connaught shall need a proportion of victual, corn, butter, and cheese, for 2,000 for three months, to be in magazine at Galway, and victual for 100 horse. In this provision is contained Ballyshannon. Leinster will need victual for 1,000 men for three months, to be laid in magazine at Dublin. The sorts of victual to be considered of by Lord Mountjoy. Maryborough to be victualled out of this proportion. Lough Foyle will need four months' victual for 3,000 foot and 200 horse. The sorts of victual to be considered of by Lord Mountjoy. The magazine of victual for Lough Foyle to be considered of, whether it shall be at Carrickfergus or at Lough Foyle.

As for shipping, at Lough Foyle to be two crompsters and two barges; at Belleek, one barge; for the service of Munster, two crompsters.

For the sorts of arms, it is thought most fit that three parts be shot, and the rest pikes; and of shot but few muskets, viz., 12 in a company of 100, or thereabouts. This to be considered of by Lord Mountjoy and the rest.

The chief engineer at 6s. 8d. Two Frenchmen for the use of petards. Preachers. Stafford. Sentleger. Governor of Lough Foyle. Governor of Carrickfergus. Governor of Dundalk Command of the forces in Offally. Captain Kingsmill. Remember in the instructions to call a reckoning of issues and remains of munitions.—The Court at Richmond, 1599, December 24. The items in italics are in the handwriting of Sir Robert Cecil, pp. 1½.

Dec. 25. Cork.

105. Sir Warham Sentleger to the Privy Council. Their letters of November 30 came to his hands on the 15th instant, when he was extremely sick and not like to live. "Touching the disagreement here with the Council, your Lordships do fitly conclude that it doth much disadvantage Her Highness's service, but I beseech your Lordships, let the fault lie where it is. We are assigned here a Timon that endureth no man, I mean our Chief Justice, by whose only means all those disagreements have had their being. And notwithstanding both the Lords and Council from Dublin have written to him, and now your Honours, yet he holdeth his monastical course, refusing to come amongst us.

"It pleaseth your Lordships further to lay somewhat to my charge for the loss of Castlemaine. Since the first breaking out of this rebellion, which was Michaelmas last was twelvemonths, there hath not been one bit of victuals put into that house, but what the poor warders have made shift for. Yet before my coming into this province, there hath above a hundred pounds been spent and lost in seeking to victual it by water, as one Patrick Crosby can at large declare. By whom we wrote over to the Lord Lieutenant what course we had taken for the victualling thereof. Sithence my coming hither, Sir Edward Denny, who was Constable of the house, received from us the worth of 40l. sterling in munition, assuring us that he would victual it for some time. In the meanwhile we had victuals shipped in this town, in Kinsale, in Youghal, and at Limerick, and sent to Galway to have put with the first wind, which was all we could do. And to have gone thither by land, I protest the weather was such as no army nor carriage could march; yet I am by my commission tied to Cork, and another to command the forces. For the loss of the house, I humbly confess that it is somewhat dishonourable, but whensoever it pleaseth Her Majesty to recover Kerry and these countries, that house will soon be had.

"For the strength of the army in this province, we have charged the Commissary from time to time with the care of it, who doth all this time assure me that he sendeth a perfect list both of the strength and ability of the troops. To which I humbly refer myself, protesting that we have not here now any means, either for lendings or victuals, within the whole province (except at Limerick), which serveth only for that place and Askeaton; so as, the perverseness of the towns considered, being as they now stand, I fear that the army will ruin (sic). Of the carriage of our principal towns, we wrote to my Lord Lieutenant, which I doubt not have since been sent to your Honours.

"Lastly, touching the men that were informed to have landed in Cornwall, if any have passed over that were serviceable, it hath been a fault in the Commissary, or a mighty negligence in the Captains, whom we continually cried out on not to send or to discharge any able man, except such as was above their numbers. I am heartily sorry that I am not able to write of any service done here, with these great expenses Her Highness is at; but this kind of government of this province doth but rob Her Majesty of her treasure, the reformation whereof will I hope come thither very shortly. If these towns were well guarded, it were no matter for any more forces, for I find not one subject in Munster that liveth by Her Majesty's defence, but maketh his means by the traitors; so as they that make best show of subjection, are contributory to the hired men of the traitor, James O'Desmond, except my Lord Barry; and yet in late experience we had, we may think there is no deadly feud betwixt them.

"I do leave the estate of this province to them that have and can make it known to your Honours, and only lay down my service at Her Highness's feet, to be disposed as it shall please her and your Honours to command me."—Cork, 1599, December 25. Endorsed, Received at Richmond 18 of January, 1599" [-1600]. Signed, pp. 2.

Dec. 27.

106. The Privy Council to the Lord Justice Carey. To stay 100l. out of the entertainment of Sir Christopher St. Lawrence, a bill of his of that amount to the city of Waterford having been given in to the account of the late Treasurer, Sir Henry Wallop.—1599, December 27. Entry Book, No. 204, fo. 209. Copy. p. ½.

Dec. 27. Dublin.

107. The Lords Justices Loftus and Carey to the Privy Council. In favour of Sir Robert Napper, Chief Baron of the Exchequer, who is returning to England on his private business. His wife and family are there. His good service. Neither term nor circuit can be holden, as the time is martial. The beeves per annum granted to Sir Robert and to Sir Anthony Sentleger, Master of the Rolls. These, payable out of Magennis's country, are all behind for the last five years, by reason of the wars. Have given allowance at the rate of 10s. a piece. Pray that the amount may be paid them in England.—Dublin, 1599, December 27. Signed, p. 1.

Dec. 28. Kilkenny.

108. The Earl of Ormonde to the Privy Council. "By my letters of the 4th of this month, I advertised your Honours of the extremities the few good subjects Her Majesty hath in every part of this realm stand in, and of the weakness of the English forces, and want of means to keep them together, as occasion might be offered, for Her Highness's service. Sithence which time, I was given to understand, from sundry parts of this realm, of a general purpose in the rebels to meet within short space at Magheriquirke in Westmeath, from thence to set forward together to murder, burn, and destroy Her Highness's subjects in these parts, specially in the counties of Kilkenny and Tipperary. Which news also were of late confirmed by letters from Sir Geffrey Fenton and others unto me. Whereupon I thought fit to remain here (for a short time), and, by drawing of such forces as conveniently I might, to give impediment of the western and northern traitors joining together. But now, having received the Lords Justices and Council's letters for my speedy repair to Dublin (as they write) for very urgent causes concerning the universal danger of the realm (whereof I received no particular taste), I nevertheless resolve[d] to make my undelayed repair unto them, as they so earnestly desired, forced to leave these parts subject to all extremities, if the former purpose of the traitors shall hold.

"I may not omit alway to put your good Lordships in mind of strong forces to be sent with speed to Lough Foyle, without doing which the Archtraitor Tyrone may draw his forces to annoy the subjects in all parts of the realm, and, by joining with all the rest of the traitors, may endanger the whole kingdom.

"I am likewise humbly to beseech your honourable good Lordships to hold Her Majesty in mind of sending speedily a Governor into this realm, being most necessary for the furtherance of Her Highness's service."—Kilkenny, 1599, December 28. Endorsed, Received at London, 9 February [1600]. Signed. p. 1.

Dec. 28. Kilkenny.

109. The Earl of Ormonde to Sir Robert Cecil. [To the same effect as the foregoing.] Is very sorry to see the great pride of the traitors, and the weakness of the army. Has no means to draw it in bulk to the field, to withstand the imminent danger at hand. Hopes for speedy supplies.—Kilkenny, 1599, December 28.

[Postscript.] "I fear I shall not be able to do so much good by this my journey to the Lords Justices, as the subjects in these parts shall receive harm by my absence, considering that Tyrone and all the traitors of the west mean with all their forces to meet, to spoil and destroy all they can here. I stand in great fear that some of the poor garrison towns hereabouts will not be able to hold out [against] the great forces of these traitors, when they shall assemble together." Endorsed, Received at London, 9 February [1600]. Signed. p. 1.

Dec. 30. London.

110. Richard Hadsor, ["Solicitor for Irish Causes,"] to Sir Robert Cecil. The good acceptance of his letter in August last, touching the necessity of disposing of some part of the lands of Tyrone's country amongst certain freeholders, for the better execution of the laws there, when time should serve, has encouraged him to deliver his knowledge in some other matters touching the furtherance of the service and the execution of the laws in Ireland.

"Her Majesty sent letters to Sir John Perrot, during his government in that realm, signifying that it was Her Highness'a gracious pleasure, that all such gentlemen, and other her loyal subjects, as should die in her service, their heirs being within age, should, in consideration of their father's death, be out of ward for that time." Her Majesty's meaning was frustrated by other Governors since, who converted all the wards of knights and gentlemen of that kingdom into a perquisite belonging to their office, to the use of themselves and their followers, whether the fathers died in the service or not. By reason hereof, many of the gentlemen of the better sort of English race in the English Pale, and elsewhere in that realm, were discouraged from prosecuting Her Majesty's service, or from exposing themselves to any danger. If this were remedied by a proclamation of her former purpose therein, he doubts not but that all the dutiful gentlemen of ability and sufficiency in that country will serve voluntarily, upon their own charges, to the uttermost of their power, against these miscreants, to the great furtherance of the service.

Further, it is necessary that instructions be given to the Governors of Ireland for the time being to foresee that no man be authorised, in consideration of money or other private respect, as in former times hath been done, to be High Sheriff of any county, but such discreet, honest men as shall have lands within the same county, according to the laws of England and Ireland, to the end that the laws may be the better executed, and that the subjects may right themselves by due course of law against such Sheriffs as shall abuse their authority, having lands in the county whereof they are Sheriffs. Such as buy their Sheriffwicks commonly sell and abuse their power in executing justice, and, being fugitives without lands in the same shire, carry away their misdemeanours, without yielding recompense to the people for their oppression and wrongs. This abuse the people, being for the more part rude and uncivil, ascribe to the law, alleging that law to be unjust, which suffereth such enormities. So they grow to mutinies and rebellion, whereby Her Majesty's government is without just cause called in question by the people, and dishonoured by such officers.

"And, although I doubt not but that so honourable a person as the Lord Mountjoy is, will do his endeavour to reform those matters, yet I thought it my duty to deliver the same unto your Honour, upon whom a great part of the well-governing of both kingdoms resteth, unto whom only I will offer my poor endeavours."—London, 1599, December 30. Holograph. p. 1.

Dec. 30.

111. "A list of 2,000 foot, to be complete by the poll, and to serve for the supply of bands in Ireland," giving the counties, the numbers to be levied in each, the ports of embarkation, &c. Also, a similar list for other 3,000 foot. Also, a further note concerning these 5,000 foot, and 200 horse, which latter were to be in readiness at the port of embarkation by March 15, [1600]. The 2,000 foot, first mentioned, were to be ready for embarking by January 31, and the 3,000 foot, following them, by the 1st of March. Lord Mountjoy is reminded to send to the ports such persons as shall see to the transportation being effected.—1599, December 30. pp. 3.

[Dec. 30.]

112. A copy of the portion of the preceding, relating to the levy of the 2,000 foot. Entry Booh, No. 204, fos. 211-211 b. p. 1.

Dec.

113. A schedule of agreement made by Lord Buckhurst, Lord High Treasurer of England, Sir Robert Cecil, Principal Secretary, and Sir John Fortescue, Chancellor of the Exchequer, of the one part, and Marmaduke Darell, esquire, Surveyor of the Victuals for the Navy, and John Jolls, of London, merchant, of the other part; for providing victuals at the port of Cork for 3,250 men, serving in Munster, for two months. The provisions consist of biscuit, butter, cheese, and beef. The total sum payable for the same is 3,222l. 18s. 4d.—1599, December. Entry Book, No. 204, fos. 209 b-211. Copy. pp. 3.

Dec.

114. "A note of all the grand proportion of munition sent into Ireland at the Lord Lieutenant's [the Earl of Essex's] coming thither, anno Domini, 1599, over and above 2,000 swords sent out of England since his Lordship's coming, which said swords were delivered to Sir George Bourchier, Master of the Ordnance, for the store of Dublin." In the case of Newry, an estimate is given of the remainder of munition there to 31 December, 1599. Signed by Anthony Ersfield, Surveyor of the Ordnance in Ireland. pp. 5½.

Dec.

115. "A note of the charge, issue, and remain, of Her Majesty's store of Galway, including the waste and expense in the service for Sligo, &c;, under John Pavey, Clerk of the Ordnance there." This list of the munition at Galway is almost identical with the portion of the preceding paper relating to that city.—[1599, December.] Signed by Anthony Ersfield. Copy. p. 1.

Dec.

116. "The opinion and advice of Captain John Baynard, your Majesty's faithful subject, a poor commander and an actor in your Highness's wars, as well in other countries, as also at the beginning of the rebellion in Ireland, coming out of Brittany, and continued two years in that country, and of late went upon his own charge into that distressed kingdom, as well to shew to your Highness the general defects used in the country, whereby a reformation may be had, as also what force of foot and horse is sufficient to be there resident, and in what sort they shall be bestowed to suppress the rebellion in general, that thereby your Majesty may be rid of a mighty charge, and the kingdom to be likewise better ordered and governed."

"Humbly sheweth, whereas all actions must first tend to the setting forth of God's glory, and the suppressing of sin and wickedness and common utility of men, therefore was there good orders and laws established in Ireland, but nothing well effected either in instructing or compelling them to the obedience of God's sacred word and your Majesty's good laws, but that the devilish Popish priests and seminaries have had, and now have, the means almost without controlment to persuade and draw them to all mischievous and traitorous practices of rebellions both towards God, Prince, and country. For this is infallible, where God is not truly served, the Prince is never well obeyed, neither any love or good neighbourhood between man and man. And one amongst many of the chiefest hindrances have been and is, in regard that the most part of spiritual livings, with pulling down and decaying of churches, are altogether put and converted to temporal uses, and besides I may justly complain upon the most part of the grand spiritualities, in respect they are so careful of their posterity, that there is little ministry of that inestimable jewel of God's word throughout the kingdom.

"Secondly, that protections, which have been the cause from time to time to bring in rebels, do increase, and cause to be continued these many years rebellion in the land. For they come in but to serve their own turns, for the better furnishing and abling of themselves in all courses and plots of mischievous rebellion; and of many I will but only set down one instance, that one Feamaque [Feagh McHugh] and Walter Rougher [Reogh], betaking them to the glynns by Dublin, having been divers times brought to that exigent as they could no longer continue, that then they would make such friends as they got protections for themselves and followers; so that by this means they continued almost twenty years. For I am of this opinion that protections are altogether unnecessary.

"Thirdly, that no rebel, of what degree soever, should be taken in, unless he doth bring in with himself his sons and followers, which he can and may very well perform. For commonly, if the father come in, yet his sons and followers keep out. Also, that he put in good pledges to the State for all their loyalties; for, being in rebellion, he will be a thousand strong, and after he is come in, if it happen that the State command him to do the part of a good subject, as to go with his forces into the field, that then he will not bring twenty persons in all, neither will he be at any charge in furnishing them to the wars. For amongst many great rebels that have been taken in, I will recite these few, namely, the Lord Mountgarrett, the Lord of Cahir, "Don Hyspan" [Donnell Spainagh] Thomas McEdmond, and many others. So that although the grand rebels come in for the safeguard of their countries, yet the troops of the rebels are not much the weaker, but are commonly supplied by him from time to time to work more mischief.

"Fourthly, it is most necessary that if Irishmen have companies in your Highness's pay, which have been thought the best course to do service in that country, that they are very strictly looked unto, whether they are good subjects or no. For I could never learn that they did any service, but rather did bring up soldiers which proved to be rebels, and went away with your Majesty's furnitures, being delivered unto them. Besides there can never be a true muster taken of them by means of this; for, if they have but two hours' warning, they will be soon furnished of their nation to satisfy the Commissary. So treasure is spent upon them, furnitures lost, rebels increased, and no manner of service done by them.

"Fifthly, that no Captain of the English, being in your Majesty's pay, should entertain and muster above six Irishmen in a 100, for that they make a continual practice of running away, and especially they carry with them their furnitures, and so become rebels, which hath made the rebellion from time to time much stronger. And withal they have learned our discipline and orderly carriage in fight, which knowledge hath brought them to this pride and strong rebellion. And of many I will bring but one instance. I had in my company in Ireland but eight Irishmen; they all ran away with their furnitures; besides [they] did entice two Englishmen with them, and so became rebels. For I did see some of them afterwards amongst the troops of rebels, and [they] were become their chief leaders.

"Sixthly, that the cities and towns in Ireland should be forced to set forth and maintain so many young men out of their several towns to do service with our troops, as they have English to guard and defend them. For they are grown mighty rich, and therefore well able to bear it. Besides, they may do great service, in respect they are best able to endure the hardness of those wars. For an instance, I saw in the time of Sir William Russell that there were some 200 taken out of Dublin and other town[s] in the north, which, when they came into the field, did more good service than 500 of English, for they stripped themselves as the rebels, and so became fit to do service upon them.

"Seventhly, there is no regard had and looked unto, throughout all the cities and towns in Ireland, of the inhabitants, but that the rebels may and do as well furnish themselves as the good subject. And besides the merchants do both bring out of England and other countries all things necessary for them, which hath been one of the chiefest means of all their continuance this long time. For they regard in the cities and towns nothing so much as their own private profit; besides it, [there] appeareth their general good will for the maintenance of rebellion, which hath been manifestly proved.

"Eighthly, that no searchers or other officers belonging to any of the haven towns should permit or suffer any soldier to pass, unless he hath the General's pass, or by such as the General doth appoint. Especially [that] there be better looking unto, at the going away of the shipping and barks; for this hath been one of the means that our forces have been left so weak. So that the common speech goeth, that any man may be transported, giving a month's pay, or by bringing their furnitures, either to the officers of the water, or to the master or mariners of the ships and barks. For I have noted that numbers have been transported into England without passport. Besides it is an occasion generally that they have no mind to stay in that land to do any service, for still their hope is, by some means or other, to get for England.

"Ninthly, that the most part of the magazines of victuals is so corrupted and naught, that it doth rather tend to the weakening and sickening of the poor soldiers than relieving of them, which hath been the chief means to put them clean out of strength and heart. For the soldier would rather content himself with two shillings in money than five shillings' worth of those victuals, considering that the Victualler out of England and the Victualler there taketh such care for the enriching of themselves, as that they make provision of the worst; and so quickly it cometh in short time to be stark naught. For myself have seen that, when the soldier hath been sick, and not able to eat those victuals, and thereby constrained to sell them he could not for his better relief then get the third penny they stood him in; for, being never so sick, he must lack his allowance in victuals. And therefore I hold it most necessary he should have his lendings in money, until he were recovered of his sickness. I came by chance where it was disputed whether more men perished by the Victualler, or by the sword and hardness of the country. For this one thing I should hardly be persuaded to the contrary, that it is impossible for a man of nothing to become in short time huge and rich with honest and good conscionable dealing.

"Tenthly, that those that are provant masters and do furnish the soldiers with clothes, and such lacks of necessary (sic), they likewise are so careful of their exceeding gain, that they both make provision of the worst, as also so scant in stuff, that the soldier wears it out long before his other suit comes due unto him. For I have accounted it, that the suit that stands the soldier in 40s., I will make the like in Ireland under 30s. And yet all such commodities are dearer there than in England, for the soldier would best content himself of such clothes as will keep him most warm, which will be provided in the country.

"Eleventhly, there is no provision extraordinary for sick and hurt soldiers, but that either he dieth, or seeketh in his misery to get away, or else continueth in the country long sick; and so, generally, they are kept so weak and out of heart, that they are not able to stand against the rebels, which, to perform that country service, do consist only upon strength of body. For I myself have seen such lamentable spectacles both of sick and hurt soldiers, that have died in the open streets, merely for want of some succour. And therefore, in remorse of conscience, I have made sundry motions to the State there, that there might be some houses erected in every province, either made of some abbey or church. I have laid down to them that the charge would not be great, for the soldiers' entertainment, with good and honest ordering, would make him well, and so thereby being recovered, his body would be seasoned to agree with the nature of the country. For that soldier which is once recovered would be better than three others to perform those wars. For commonly, when as they come out of England, they are in short time extreme sick, so such houses would be the means to save many thousands. For the wars in that country will be soonest ended with few troops being well kept, clothed, and victualled. For I have noted that they have no succour or relief generally of the inhabitants, although they hold amongst themselves that charity is a grand merit. Besides, we may perceive, by the small comforting or succouring of our soldiers, their natural hatred to our nation.

"Twelfthly, it is most necessary that there should be no commander employed to have command of men in the wars, but such as are of experience and honest conversation; as that either he hath risen by degrees of a soldier, or at least hath been of long continuance; for there have been many that have and do thrust themselves forward to have command, that neither know what belongs to preserve a soldier, much less to instruct and marshal him. For the wars are carried by judgment, experience, and well ordering, when it cometh to the substance of battling and fighting; for by the defects of Commanders, as well Colonels, Captains, and other officers, their want of judgment hath been the cause of routs, and so consequently we have thereby received overthrows of such base people in that kingdom."

These abuses are very true, for he made his observations when in Ireland. Her Majesty must deal with Ireland, as a good physician, who takes away the cause of the disease before he enters upon the cure. Compares the state of Ireland to those kingdoms of which the prophets did mightily complain, " that there was no true service of the Most High God, no upright justice, and too much corruption used in the land. And therefore God grant a reformation."

Recommends that some privy seals be sent to " those huge, rich men, that are in their several cities and towns," who would partly lend enough money to end the war. They have got such great wealth by traffic, " as also by the great treasure that hath been consumed in that country, which is hoarded up among some of them." Is clear against prosecuting armies. The surest way is to plant garrisons in every province. Ulster is the root of all the rebellion in Ireland, and hath grown very strong. When prosecuting armies have been employed, the rebels have assembled their forces in their great fastness, viz., their woods, bogs, and islands, and have also placed their cattle there, and have fought with all advantages. They are both strong and expert, and will give a proud onset on front, flank, and rear of an army, so that without well-ordering, it may be routed.

Recommends a force of 8,000 for Ulster, viz., 2,000 at Lough Foyle, 2,000 at Ballyshannon, 1,500 at Armagh, 200 at the Blackwater fort, built by Lord Burgh, 500 at Monaghan, 300 at a church eight miles from Newry (for so Sir John Norreys once determined), and the other 1,500 at Carrickfergus and in Clandeboy. There must be choice of expert Captains for the garrisons, and good espial upon the rebels. These will disperse to their several countries, and their huge herds of cattle will be ended. The garrisons will also raise factions amongst the rebels. To the objection that the latter will gather their forces together, and assault one garrison after another, he answers that soldiers will soon entrench themselves strongly enough against their forces. When the Blackwater fort was at the weakest, Tyrone gathered all his forces together, and assaulted it The garrison then had the killing of numbers of them, with the loss of very few, " For they are very cowards, if they see they have not some retreat to run away; for the Earl could not get them any more to give the onset upon [the] fort" Desires to be an actor in the garrison that shall be thought most dangerous to be held. For "the small rebellions" of Leinster, Munster, and Connaught, thinks 3,000 men should be bestowed in each of those provinces, and that they will be sufficient, "in regard the one half of the Irish in those provinces are not entered into rebellion." So the whole force in Ireland will be 17,000.

By the planting of these garrisons the rebels will be soon suppressed, or else brought into that weakness and subjection, that they may easily be reformed. When the country is brought to some orderly government, then the statesmen and governors must take care that throughout all Ireland there shall never any precedent be shewn of such strength as the Munster rebellion had through its secret suddenness, but that there be good espial among the rebels. For the people are very apt and prone to run out in rebellion, and will soon grow, and come to a great head and strength. " And besides, I hold it very good that the policy were used in some sort to the Irish, as the Spaniards do use to the Portuguese, in respect of the natural hatred they bear to our nation, dreading expellation."

The aforesaid measures being taken, Her Majesty will soon be rid of a mighty charge, and in time a great revenue may be drawn out of Ireland. Prays Her Majesty to pardon his presumption and his rude and simple inditing, proceeding from " an unlearned clerk, being truly bred a soldier, and risen by all degrees from the lowest of the field to a Captainship." Desires to continue his course of life, and begs that Her Majesty may have some consideration of his poor estate, and that he may be employed in Ireland. Is altogether voided of other means of preferment.

The note on the dorse addressed to the Queen by Baynard speaks of "the entrance of the new year," but this document is endorsed, "1599, December." Unsigned, pp. 6½.

[Dec.]

117. An abridged copy of the preceding, addressed to Sir Robert Cecil.—[1599, December.] pp. 4½.

Dec.

118. A certificate of the companies of horse and foot in the province of Munster, mustered in December, 1599," shewing in each company the numbers of English and Irish, and the numbers of sick men. The total of able men in the foot companies amounted to 2,097, whereof 1,823 were English, and 274 Irish. The companies were disposed in the following garrisons:—Dungarvan, Youghal, Cork, Kinsale, Mallow, Eilmallock, Limerick, and Askeaton. Signed by W. Jones. One large sheet.

Dec

119. Barnaby Ryche to Sir Robert Cecil. "In November last past, eight years," he delivered to Her Majesty a caveat of this rebellion now broken out in Ireland, which, although it were then but in hatching, was yet very easy to be discerned; and he informed Her Majesty how she might then have preventedit, without a penny charge to her purse. She seemed graciously to accept his endeavours, but they were crossed, although he was soliciting for three years. That he did not this without judgment, the sequel has now made manifest. He asks no better testimony in this matter than Her Majesty's own report. Sends herewith a true copy of what he delivered to her in November, 1591, as it may be of service at present. How beneficial his representations might have proved, had they been considered, he leaves to Sir Robert's consideration. Is well assured that 500,000l. will not again repair the neglect. His former endeavours to do Her Majesty service have banished him out of Ireland, for fear of his life, which has been several times assaulted. If, by Sir Robert's favour, he might be returned thither again in any able sort, and does not yet perform those several services for Her Majesty's great advantage and profit, he will submit to any punishment whatsoever.—[1599, December.] Signed. p. 1. Encloses,

119. I. Caveat delivered to Her Majesty in November, 1591.

Having spent the greatest part of twenty years in her service in Ireland, and having observed meantime the state of the country, he has noted a wonderful alteration. " I do see the realm mightily increased in substance and wealth, rich in plate, rich in all manner of furnitures and wares, their houses high-rented, their lands in many places let out for 30l. and 40l. a year, that at my first coming into Ireland would not have yielded 10l" These blessings God has endued the country withal, by a most gracious government, and with no little charge to Her Majesty's purse. " I do likewise see many that are there in authority, under your Highness, purchase store of lands, build fair houses, give great sums of money with the marriage of their children; to conclude (most excellent Princess), I do see them thrive of all hands throughout the whole country, your Majesty only excepted; but I cannot see that your Majesty's revenues are augmented, or your continual charge out of England any whit at all abated."

But these miseries may be thought matters of too high importance for a man of his sort to look into, " knowing that authority is able to suppress verity." Dares not therefore signify particulars of some abuses, but ventures to deliver such "a general ill," as it is very requisite for Her Majesty to know, and most expedient for her to reform.

The whole realm of Ireland, by a most princely government, and to Her Majesty's great charge, is mightily increased in wealth. With this the people are likewise increased, and daily do more and more increase, in all manner of obstinacy, contempt, and perverse demeanour. To avoid further tediousness, it is to be proved that, amongst the whole Irish, for every one subject that shall be found faithful to Her Majesty, the Pope hath twenty assured to him, "not in private manner, as men that stood in awe, or were afraid to be known what they are, but openly protested, making no doubt at all manifestly to impugn your Majesty's laws and proceedings."

There is "nothing more nourishing to these inconveniences" than the Irish clergy, nine tenths of whom seek to suppress Her Majesty, and to advance the Pope. "Moreover, our Bishops throughout the country are so negligent of their charge, that friars, Jesuits, seminaries, massing priests, and such others, have free and common recourse throughout the diocese[s], and every city, town, and province is so plentifully replenished with them, that there is almost neither nobleman nor gentleman, but he hath some of them in his house, and keepeth them openly without controlment; and these vowed Catholics, your Majesty's vowed enemies, have drawn all obedience from your Majesty to the Pope." Cannot conceive why 'Her Majesty should still enrich a people so obstinate, so forward and so alienated from their duty. Princes should by all means endeavour to advance their subjects in prosperity; but they must be subjects that receive this benefit; " but these be the Pope's subjects, and therefore your Majesty's protested enemies, and greater policy for your Majesty to reform them than to enrich them." A great number are against a reformation, but it is necessary. Notwithstanding it cannot be suddenly settled, but must be wrought by degrees. Yet the country abiding in its present desperate and dangerous estate, it is most requisite that speedy redress be sought to assure Her Highness a better security, and more certainty of the country than now. To defer this, is but to win time for those who are gaping after opportunity, either of some foreign aid, or of some other attempts to be made on England or Ireland. They are prepared to break out then. Craves leave to give briefly, as a soldier, his opinion concerning the premisses.

First, the state of the country is to be considered. " If it be not in far worse ease than I have yet delivered, let me suffer death." If there be no other policy than reformation, there is no readier nor better mean to perform it than by force. " For if gentleness, mercy, and clemency, might have prevailed, they have had thirty and odd years' experience of a most gracious government, and your Majesty sufficient trial of an ungracious and thankless people. And, to speak truly of those that are by nature given to murder, theft, robbery, rape, ravin, and spoil, for a man to think to win them by courtesy, is like as we should set a mild and humble spirit to encounter a tyrant that is void of all remorse." Secondly, to prevent their expectation of any foreign help, or of any other intestine rebellion, Her Majesty should have strong garrisons settled in Ireland.

First, the state of the country is to be considered. " If it be not in far worse ease than I have yet delivered, let me suffer death." If there be no other policy than reformation, there is no readier nor better mean to perform it than by force. " For if gentleness, mercy, and clemency, might have prevailed, they have had thirty and odd years' experience of a most gracious government, and your Majesty sufficient trial of an ungracious and thankless people. And, to speak truly of those that are by nature given to murder, theft, robbery, rape, ravin, and spoil, for a man to think to win them by courtesy, is like as we should set a mild and humble spirit to encounter a tyrant that is void of all remorse." Secondly, to prevent their expectation of any foreign help, or of any other intestine rebellion, Her Majesty should have strong garrisons settled in Ireland.

A very easy means to bring the country, not only to contribute the charges of a new supply, but also to dear off some part of the ordinary expenses, would be to send 2,000 men out of England (to raise any force of the Irish is very dangerous, as after they are trained, they are ready for any rebel that will start out), and settle them in such several parts of the realm as men of discretion shall think requisite. Then Her Majesty should send over for some of the Irish nobility, who are suspected, and " let them remain" in England, and " let their revenues from time to time be conveyed over to them." They are the ringleaders of the multitude, and someover to them." They are the ringleaders of the multitude, and some of them are very dangerous, and will give no example of obedience. Then, besides the noblemen, there are in Ireland knights, esquires, gentlemen, lawyers, "and such other like," perhaps some 3,000 persons, and not less than 2,000. Nineteen hundred of them live in disobedience to Her Majesty. They have received many gracious favours, have been freed from the cess, whereat they did so much repine, and have to pay no subsidies, fifteenths, and many other impositions often levied in England. When they draw Her Majesty to a charge, they themselves should bear the burden, and feel the smart of their own contempt. As in England 20l. a month is imposed on recusants, why should not 20s. a month be imposed 0,00,00,32 3159 3159 0 0 of them are very dangerous, and will give no example of obedience. Then, besides the noblemen, there are in Ireland knights, esquires, gentlemen, lawyers, "and such other like," perhaps some 3,000 persons, and not less than 2,000. Nineteen hundred of them live in disobedience to Her Majesty. They have received many gracious favours, have been freed from the cess, whereat they did so much repine, and have to pay no subsidies, fifteenths, and many other impositions often levied in England. When they draw Her Majesty to a charge, they themselves should bear the burden, and feel the smart of their own contempt. As in England 20l. a month is imposed on recusants, why should not 20s. a month be imposed on those thus perverse towards Her Highness? They are very well able to bear the sum, and would never much grudge to give. A great number would be brought to a far greater contribution.. He speaks it of his own knowledge, and their willingness is not to be wondered at, if all were known, and the matter accordingly considered. By these means sufficient sums could be levied to pay the garrisons, and might be gathered monthly, if not in ready money, certainly in corn and cattle. There would likewise be raised good round reckonings amongst merchants, citizens, and townsmen, of Dublin, Waterford, Cork, Limerick, Galway, Drogheda, and divers other cities and towns, which are replenished with men of great wealth, who will not stick to keep seminaries openly in their houses, And these people that will do so much for their Pope, why should they not do somewhat for their Prince?

If the above course were holden, Her Majesty would have forces to prevent many perils, and the charge would be borne out, without exacting on her purse, and without any oppression of the poor. It would be levied only on the rich, who are able to bear it, and whom Her Majesty ought in policy to bridle; or, otherwise, they will not fail to turn her to a further inconvenience.

Concludes with a few brief notes, which he believes will prove to be profitable. The greater number of the Judges, Clerks, and other officers of the Four Courts are recusants, and so addicted to their Holy Father, that they are no little hindrance to Her Majesty. "Especially if the matter doth concern any one of their Catholics, your Majesty might have as good right in Spain, as amongst some of them which belong to those Courts." Leaves the reformation thereof to her wisdom. Will not omit to speak of a great number of lawyers, who make a gain of Her Majesty's laws, and will neither be obedient to law, nor come in a place where they may hear Her Majesty prayed for. Like order might be taken amongst the pensioners. Daily pay is given to some, who would rather give up their pensions, than prefer Her Majesty before the Pope. There are many of the Irish, who yearly come over as suitors to Her Majesty, and are returned back again with great gifts from her, who, after they have passed their grants during their lives, will not so much as open their lips to say Amen, when they hear Her Majesty prayed for. It is to be considered that, whereas there are many bishops, and others of the Irish clergy, who hold in theirare many bishops, and others of the Irish clergy, who hold in their hands more spiritual livings than is agreeable to godly policy, there are other benefices " holden in such men's names as are not known what they are, nor whether the parties be living or nay, some other in like case are holden by laymen, and some by children and such other persons, as, neither by God's law nor by the laws of the realm, are capable of them." These might be converted to bear out some of Her Majesty's expenses, rather than be holden by those unworthy of them, and Her Majesty in the mean time be in want. If the book of the Clerk of the First Fruits were perused, it would appear that the Irish clergy have deceived Her Majesty of more than 4,000l. within these very few years. Has heard the Receiver of Her Majesty's revenue in Ireland protest that he never received a penny for any manner of ecclesiastical fine. If all escheats, as traitors' goods, felons' goods, wards, setting of leases, forfeitures, greenwax books, recognizances, and divers other casualties, whereof there happeneth every year good store, were converted to Her Majesty's use, they would stop a good gap. At present they are purloined, and stand her in no stead.

Beseeches Her Majesty to esteem this his enterprise as he has meant it, which is, to do her faithful service, as well in the things he has set down, as in many others at this time omitted. Signed. pp. 7.

[Dec]

120. Notes of a plan to recover Connaught. A force of 5,000 foot and 300 horse should be sent there. A smaller one will not suffice, by reason of the strength of the inhabitants themselves, already heartened in blood, and having had divers victories against our people, and also because of the aid which they are sure to have from O'Donnell and Maguire. The above force will be sufficient to "take in" Connaught and Ballyshannon, and from thence to proceed against O'Donnell and Tyrone. Proportionable victuals and munition should be sent, all to be laid in at Galway. Four barks, of 50 or 60 tons a piece, appointed in warlike manner, are to be provided, as well as four small pinnaces. These, together with the boats of Galway, will serve to beat the shore, and to take the rebels' boats passing from the shore to the Islands, and likewise to take in Ennisboffin, the principal island of those parts, and to lie upon the coast of O'Donnell's country, that no Scots come to his aid. The said barks are to be taken out of the west of England, of such as are acquainted with the fishing at Ennisboffin, of which fishing may come great profit toward the relief of the garrison.

The province of Connaught being quieted, and Ballyshannon taken in, O'Donnell and Maguire should be prosecuted. At which time the Lord Deputy should draw to Armagh or the Blackwater, where he should stay, till assured that the forces of Ballyshannon were come over Barnismore. At the same time the garrison of Lough Foyle should be ready to enter Tyrone's country, and that of Knockfergus to advance as far as Coleraine and Mount Sendal, to beat the pastures betwixt that, Castletown, and Edenduffcarrick, lest the rebels swim over their cattle into Clandeboy. Likewise Lord Delvin, Lord Dunsany, Sir Theobald Dillon, and Sir Francis Shane, with all their forces and risings out, and with six companies of English, should make head toward Cavan to take any preys, that shall slip through Maguire's country, and, as occasion shall serve, they may draw toward the abbey of Clones. And, if the Lord Deputy could throw out a force to beat down toward the head of Lough Sydney, the traitor will not be able to stand up one month, for his cattle cannot escape, and he must be forced to fight, or else be driven from bush to bush.

Three principal objections are made to the foregoing project, viz., the charge to Her Majesty in maintaining so great a power in Connaught above that which she now hath there; that the rebellion may be settled without forces, as by protections, or else by raising factions and divisions amongst the rebels themselves; and that albeit force be used, yet the planting of garrisons in convenient places will suffice to weary and eat out the rebels.

To the first, it is answered that this extraordinary number of soldiers is not to continue longer than till Connaught be taken in, and Tyrone suppressed, both which may be effected in short time, if the course before set down be held. It is less charge to maintain a greater proportion of soldiers for a speedy dispatch of the service, than by mincing Her Majesty's expenses with a less proportion to prolong the war. It is well spent that is spent to purpose; and yet it cannot well be said to be spent, that is saved in the foot of the account. Her Majesty is at this present at a great yearly charge already, which, if it continue, will rise to an exceeding mass. The forces spoken of will in one year end the wars, because the rebels must needs yield to a greater strength than their own; so that Her Majesty's treasure, being now well employed, may hereafter be spared. On the contrary, if the course hitherto held run on, the rebels will still continue stronger, and the charge will be perpetual, because the rebellion is like to be perpetual. Further, if the managing of the action were put into the hands of a Commander skilled and experienced in the service of Ireland, Her Majesty's charge would be lessened well nigh by the half. It is easier to victual 5,000 men than 2,000.

To the second, it is answered that protections have been the cause of most of the troubles of Ireland, whilst the rebels, under shadow of them, have in time of prosecution sheltered themselves from the fury of Her Majesty's army, and, in time of their advantages, have wrought all the villanies they could imagine against subjects, and then plotted their treasons when they were least to be suspected. Yet there is a good use of protections, if they be granted with judgment and discretion. The hopes of faction and division amongst the rebels are to be relied on, when Her Majesty has sent over sufficient forces to undertake the prosecution, and the prosecution is followed with heat. Experience teaches that the subjects themselves, standing in fear of the rebels, will be content to favour them in some sort, as long as they are in their danger. But if sufficient forces fall upon them in the course that shall annoy them most, there is no doubt but that0,00,00,56 142 142 0 0 Tyrone himself will soon be forsaken of many that bear him the fairest countenance, if not for hatred of his tyranny, yet for fear of their own ruin and destruction, which they will perceive to be near, when he is no longer able to stand out.

To the third, it is answered that, if the war is to be lengthened, it will be better to make it by garrison alone. For so the charge will be the less for the time; and yet it may be a question what service garrisons blocked up on all sides by the rebels (as Ballyshannon and Lough Foyle will in that case be) can perform, unless they be very strong, and so strong indeed that Her Majesty shall not need to bring many more men into the field for a true prosecution. What the effect of garrisons planted in the midst of an enemy's country is, the fort of Leix and Lough Foyle itself will testify, both which, but especially that of Leix, have cost much, and yet dare not look into the traitors' countries. The reason of war is, first, to break the rebels in the field, and then, when they are broken, to keep them in with small garrisons. With the one you make a quick dispatch, with the other you assure the country that a rebel cannot stir, but he is met withal. This hath been the continual experience of Ireland; otherwise the rebels will both weary and eat out the English.—[1599, December.] Unsigned, pp. 2½.

[Dec.]

121. A certificate signed by Sir Ralph Lane, Mustermaster General, giving 5,230 as the number of men among the forces in Ireland, who are " strong to fight."—[1599, December.] p. 1.

[Dec.]

122. "A brief note concerning the government of Carrickfergus."

If employed there, with as ample authority from Her Majesty as others have had, who have held the place heretofore, he will undertake to draw away from Tyrone the forces of both Clandeboys, which are thought to be the fourth part of Ulster, and are nearly 1,000 in number; and he will settle them in their country, to yield Her Majesty obedience and their ancient rents. If they fail, he will be content to lose so much of his entertainment.

If Her Majesty will be pleased to employ any barks or pinnaces upon those coasts, he will also undertake to advertise the Captains of the same ships from time to time, when Tyrone shall send into Scotland for any munition, so that they shall not miss taking it, except their negligence be very great.

As concerns the Route, where dwells James McSorley Boy, who refuses to answer Her Majesty's ancient rents and duties, he will likewise undertake that James McSorley shall pay the same, or else shall not dwell in that country so quietly as hitherto; and all this shall be done without further charge to Her Majesty.—[1599, December.] Unsigned, p. ½.

[Dec.]

123. "Estimate of Her Majesty's charge in Ireland since the erecting of the late army for suppressing the rebellion in Ireland." Total, 270,048l. [1599, December.] p. 1.

Irish Captains in pay be employed in places remote from their country. Remember that it is fit to carry the men from Galway

[Dec]

124. " Munition and arms delivered out of the store at Dublin, by warrant from the Lord Lieutenant, to divers Commanders, whereof the Master of the Ordnance can make no perfect [certificate] of the expense, by reason the charge thereof is committed to such persons as are not within the command of the Office."—[1599, [December.] Signed by Sir George Bourchier. pp. 2½.

[Dec]

125. "A memorial of divers questions concerning the prosecution of the wars in Ireland."

"First, whether the wars shall be made defensive or offensive?

"The offensive in all places would require so great an army, and the defensive only would be so dishonourable, and yet so chargeable, as it is held by all men more fit to make a mixed war than either of the other.

"If it be resolved to make a mixed war, where is that to be made, in what sort, and with what numbers?

"There can never be any way taken to abate the rebellion, unless the two capital rebels, Tyrone and O'Donnell, be infested in their own countries. For as all the rest of the traitors, whensoever they are assailed, do receive supplies from them, so, if their countries were spoiled, or well attempted, the rest of the provinces would be easily reduced. For these traitors (from neither of which as yet there was ever a cow taken) must be forced, either to draw in the force of the other provinces, or else at the least be driven to keep all their own people at home, and together to defend their own countries. And therefore it is resolved to plant garrisons at Lough Foyle, Ballyshannon, Knockfergus, and Castle Toome, which being done with such numbers as they may be able to sally forth, and infest them, they cannot produce other effects than a notable diversion of his support to the rest, and a consumption of his own force.

"The number of all shall be twelve thousand foot and 1,200 horse; in Ulster, 5,100 foot, 200 horse; in Connaught, 1,350 foot and 100 horse; in Munster, 3,000 foot, 250 horse; in Leinster, 1,868 foot, 200 horse; remaining with the Deputy besides, 680 foot, 200 horse.

"Seeing that these numbers are to be maintained, and that Her Majesty pays already greater, which do no service, but peril her kingdom, and seeing by all certificates there are not 5,000 English, these points following are to be considered:—

"What numbers of horse and foot shall be levied, and from what counties?

"Whether the garrison of Lough Foyle shall directly pass from England, or no?

"How Ballyshannon shall be planted, and when ? Whether after Lough Foyle, before, or both together?

"For what numbers it is meant that victual shall be provided, and for how long?

"Against what time these garrisons must be planted?

"Remember my Lord of Dunkellin's letter. Remember that all0,00,02,06 431 431 0 0 Irish Captains in pay be employed in places remote from their country. Remember that it is fit to carry the men from Galway by sea to Assero. Enquire where the horses and the arms are."—[1599, December.] The words, " and infest them," in the last answer given above, and the words from "against what time" to the end, are in the handwriting of Sir Robert Cecil, pp. 2½.

[Dec.]

126. "A List of the preachers of the army in Ireland."

"1. Robert Grave, per week, 40s. He is chanter of Limerick, chanter of Christchurch, Dublin, Dean of Cork, keepeth neither horse nor man for service, neither attendeth upon any garrison, but lieth at Dublin.

2. Mr. Wheler, Dean of Christchurch in Dublin, per week, 30s. Of great living, meet for a scholar; he attendeth upon no service of Her Majesty's, but lieth still at Dublin.

"3. Mr. Bain, per week, 36s. 8d. He attendeth upon no garrison, but lieth at Dublin.

"4. Mr. Daniell, per week, 30s. He lieth at Galway, and hath 20l. per annum of the State allowed out of the fines, and 20l. of the town, and only attendeth his lecture in the town.

"5. Mr. Palmer, per week, 30s. He lieth at Athlone, and is preacher there both to the town and garrison.

"6. Mr. Webbe, per week, 30s. He is a prebendary of St. Patrick, Dublin, his living wasted; he is preacher to the garrison at Newry, but is now at Dublin.

"7. Mr. Powell, per week, 30s. He is in England, and there beneficed; he is parson of St. John's in Dublin.

"8. Mr. Heberstie, per week, 30s. He is, as I take it, in England.

"9. The Bishop of Cork, per week, 40s. He hath three bishoprics, Cork, Cloyne, and Rosscarberry, which are now wasted.

"10. The Dean of Limerick, per week, 30s. A Scot ; he attendeth in garrison, but lieth at Dublin.

"11. Mr. Pilesworth, per week, 30s. He is a prebendary of St Patrick's, Vicar of Carberry, Vicar of the Naas, where he lieth.

"12. Mr. Humstone, per week, 30s. He is newly come over, and lieth at Dublin.

"13. Mr. Lynaker, per week, 30s. He is in England, and in his place one Cornewall is appointed, who is preacher to the garrison [at] Drogheda.

"14. Dr. Hanmer, per week, 33s. 4d. He is chaplain to the Earl of Ormonde, and attendeth his Lordship in all journeys."—[1599, December.] p. 1.

127. A few rough notes by Sir Robert Cecil, giving names of rebels, &c.—[1599.] p. ½.

128. Bough notes in Sir Robert Cecil's hand.

"Ulster only rents paid by Irish. Tyrone never paid anything. O'Donnell, in Sir H. Sydney's time, made composition for 700 beeves. Maguire's country paid 120l. by patent: Monaghan 600l. yearly by patent James McSorley paid forty beeves. Clandeboy Besides, "this underclarkinge course" is a cause why much, of Leix is waste and uninhabited.

Touching the borderers, as the Earl of Ormonde, Viscount Mountgarrett, the Baron of Upper Ossory, Sir Terence O'Dempsy, Teig O'Doyne, and Henry Bowye, they have taken into their protection many, or almost all, the rebels of this country birth, and of the parts adjoining. These will prove like dogs ready to paid a rent also. They mean commonly such duties as they paid to Sir H.

"Leix and Offally is (sic) inhabited by English Patentees, first begun in Queen Mary's time, whether before they were supplanted or since, and whether all other kind of service besides beeves.

"O'Reilly's country, Brenny or County of Cavan, Longford, and had law most quietly; these paid rents to the Queen thirty years since.

"Munster composition by this is gone. If it be meant that these rebels shall pay but as their ancestors, and the rest which comes to 2,000l.more from the undertakers and tenants of attainted land, what shall become of James FitzThomas, Derby McOwen, which is McCarthy More, Onie McRory, and such as had no land, nor right to land ?

"Whether he will give his son and his brother Cormack, that is as dangerous as himself?

"Con O'Neil, Shane O'Neill's father, he was made Earl, and surrendered O'Neillship, and took Tyrone by letters patents to himself for life, and the remainder to Matthew, omitting Shane; Matthew, that was born in Dundalk, where the solicitor dwelt. Upon Shane O'Neill's rebellion, the lands came to the Queen, by Act of Parliament, in [anno] 11 mo., saving certain church lands and such like.

"In [anno] 27, Hugh Tyrone pretended an injury, being in nonage, and then took it by letters patents. Shane O'Neill's sons should have had Glencomkene, and Art O'Neill was provided for. Tirlogh had that part of Tyrone where Strabane stands, and a rent paid by Tyrone of 1,000 marks yearly. Tyrone hath all now, but Art O'Neill should have had a portion.

"Whether the Lords of the English Pale will like this kind of peace, or not? What shall become of the English?"—[1599.] pp. 1½.

129. Copy of the preceding.—[1599.] pp. 1½.

130. Warrant by Queen Elizabeth for a grant for eleven years to Sir Henry Brouncker, of the customs and subsidies on all wines brought from foreign parts into Ireland, paying for the same a yearly rent of 1,500l. sterling. Certain covenants to be inserted.—[1599.] Copy. p. 1.

131. [Sir Henry Brouncker to Sir Robert Cecil.] Her Majesty granted him a lease of the impost of all wines in Ireland for a yearly rent of 2,000l. This he has truly answered these four years last past, though in eight years before of far greater plenty, it yielded not above 4,000l. Thus, by his great expense and industry, Her Majesty received 4,000l. more in his four years than in the eight years before his lease. But as the trade into Spain is very dangerous and much decayed, and as all the towns in Ireland refuse to farm it at any price, prays that Her Majesty will accept of 1,200l. for the yearly rent. Trusts Sir Robert will undertake this great favour for him.—[1599.] Draft, p. 1.

132. Statement by Hugh Glaseour, of the Lea, in the county of Chester, esquire.

About July last past, the Earl of Kildare and his wife arrived at Chester, where he remained three or four days, and then departed the city to one Mr. Trevor's house, and entreated Glaseour to accompany him, which he did. The Earl then and there declared to Glaseour that there was an Irishman then attending upon him in livery, who was never before in England. The Earl was desirous to have him learn the civil manners of England, and the orderly service there used, and entreated Glaseour to accept the said Irishman into his service for a time. Glaseour refused, because he was then no housekeeper. Thereupon the Earl entreated Mr. Trevor either to receive the man into his service, or else to prefer him to one Mr. Puleston, a gentleman of that country there present. But Mr. Trevor denied, and, having spoken with Mr. Puleston, returned this answer to the Earl, that Mr. Puleston purposed to dissolve his household, and to sojourn with Lady Bromley in Shropshire. Thereupon the Earl importuned Glaseour to prefer the Irishman to some gentleman of that country [county], and Glaseour wrote a letter to one Mr. Leigh, of Bagley, his brother-in-law, to entertain the said Irishman. This Mr. Leigh denied, and Glaseour heard no more what became of the man, nor saw him afterwards, until the Earl, on his next return from the Court, came to Chester, where Glaseour saw the Irishman attending on his Lordship, in an old livery cloak, amongst the rest of his Lordship's servants, who were in new liveries. He also saw the same Irishman take horse at Chester, at the very instant the Earl took horse to go thence to the seaside; and, as Glaseour heard, the said Irishman went into Ireland in the same bark as the Earl.—[1599.] Signed. Endorsed, "Reaugh." p. 1.

133. "A list of the Captains and others recommended by the Lord Deputy."—[1599.] Unsigned, p. 1.

134. " Minute of the most gross error, long since committed and still continued, in the wars of Ireland, and the way to redress the same, briefly declared."

"There hath been idly spent near about a million of Her Majesty's treasure from time to time by the Deputies here, only in making roads and journeys into the north part of Ireland, not judicially to advance the service, but ambitiously to get themselves a name, forsooth, for having penetrated the rebels' country. And if one of them chanced to go further therein than his predecessors, he thought it a great matter, and triumphed not a little. Let those journeys of all those Deputies be looked to with the eye of good judgment, and it will manifestly appear that they have produced no other effect than a ship doth in the wide sea, who (sic) leaves no longer print or impression in the water than for the very instant, the waves immediately filling the way she makes, so as the same cannot be found. Wheresoever forces are conducted against these rebels, they forthwith retire, and hold themselves close in bushes and bogs, without engaging any fight, but upon advantages; and no sooner shall our camp remove or dislodge, but they forthwith possess and overspread the ground we held. The garrisons left heretofore at Armagh and at Blackwater have put Her Highness to most endless and exorbitant charges for the victualling and relieving of them, by a general rising and assembly of all the forces in the land; those holds and garrisons being ever weak and wretched, and serving just to as much purpose, as he that should endeavour to catch the wind in a net. It is strange that Deputies are not restrained from running still this wild goose chase, attempting vainly to perform, with a sudden puff of courage, that which requireth a clean contrary manage and manner of proceeding. He that strives to gripe more than he is able to hold is in danger to lose all. While the remote parts of this land have been thus improvidently sought for and hunted after, the rebels have made war and waste in the heart of the English Pale, being the centre of this regiment.

" In few words, the only way to regain and recover the entire dominion of this cursed land, is to proceed as King Edward the First did, after long wars (and extreme losses) with the Welshmen, for the subduing of Wales; by edifying strong castles and forts upon the nearest retreats and fastnesses of the rebels, thereby to curb and check their vagrant incursions and depredations, and thus by degrees to enlarge the lost bounds and limits. By this means only, with much more safety and far less charges to Her Highness, Ireland may be won and held in subjection. For we see by manifold experience, what madness it is for a Deputy or General to lead royal forces against naked rogues in woods and bogs, whom hounds can scarce follow, and much less men. Their ordinary food is a kind of grass. Neither clothes nor houses, generally, do they care for. With this their savage life are they able to wear out any army that seeketh to conquer them. It is no more possible to defeat them at once, than to destroy so many wolves and foxes; the which may be effected by tract of time and means convenient, but not to be attempted by plain force in the open field, they having dens, coverts, and labyrinths inextricable, for their succours."—[1599.] Unsigned. pp. 2.

135. Copy of the preceding.—[1599.] pp. 2.

136. Queen Elizabeth to ——. "Where we are credibly informed by our subject P.C. that James Archer, called the Pope's legate, and one McCragh, usurped Bishop of Cork, and sundry other vseditious priests, Jesuits, and seminaries, now resorting to all parts of that our kingdom, especially to that our province of Munster, being (according to the wonted manner) suborned by the Pope and the King of Spain to raise our subjects to rebellion, and to shake off the yoke of obedience which they owe unto us, have so effectually prevailed in their ungodly and malicious purposes, as, under the pretext and colour of religion, they have drawn most of those rebels, and some that pretend to be our subjects in that realm, confidently to believe that we intend, not only to conquer, but also utterly to extirp and root out all that nation, and that our offer of grace and mercy to the rebel, and our favour and bounty extended to the subject there, is to no other end than to procure them to cut off one another, and, when the turn is served, not to regard the subject and servitor more than the rebel; we let you wit that, as we find ourself much wronged by these most false and wicked practices, so, in the discharge of our conscience, and for the satisfying of the world, we do in (sic) the word and honour of a Prince, and in the presence of Almighty God, make protestation that we never had any such intent or meaning, but that all such of the rebels as would take hold of our proclamation, and all our subjects that would continue loyal servitors unto us, should be reputed and taken for our good and loving subjects, with equal love and favour as our subjects of England. And therefore we hereby will and require you to give notice thereof accordingly, lest our good people, through the blind guiding of those devilish hypocrites, should be carried any further into those errors, to the destruction of them and their posterities, which as their natural Sovereign, that never wanted a princely care of her subjects, we would be very sorry for; and for that cause only, and not for their deserts, we do give them so many gentle warnings.

"And, forasmuch as we have now taken so royal a course for the prosecution of those Minister rebels, as we doubt not (Tyrone being well plied on all sides, as he shall be), but they will either be vanquished in short time, or else presently forced to scatter themselves into small companies, whereby they may the easier be cut off; our pleasure is, that you shall give straight charge and commandment to the Viscount Barry, and John FitzEdmund, our good old servitor, that, laying aside all private malice and controversies, they join together in our service, and not suffer John O'Desmond, or John McRedmond of Ballygrenan, called the Seneschal of Imokilly, to continue either in Imokilly or Cosbride but to serve upon them with all their forces; Cormack McDermot and Cormack Oge to do the like against Dermot McOwen, Dermot Moyle McCarthy, and O'Donovan, in Muskerry, Dowalla, and the borders thereof; McCarthy Reogh, Sir Finnin O'Driscoll, and Barry Oge, to do the like, in Carberry and the borders thereof, against the said Dermot, Moyle, and O'Donovan; O'Sullivan Bere, O'Sullivan More, and Florence McCarthy, to do the like in Desmond against Donnell McCarthy and his confederates; and that these noblemen, chieftains, and gentlemen, shall be always in a readiness with their forces either to withstand the rebels, prosecute them being divided, or attend upon you, whensoever you shall command them for our service. To whom, our pleasure also is, you should give public notice that, like as we are not ignorant of their obedience and subjection unto us in this doubtful time, which we will remember and regard as becometh, so are we truly informed, and we do now take knowledge, of their several factions and alliances with the rebels, which hath been cause of great slackness in our service, and as we mean in honour to reward the one, so will we in justice punish the other, unless those former defects and remissness be supplied and requited with a more willing forwardness and furtherance of our service henceforth, than heretofore they have been; which we require you to give us advertisement of from time to time, as occasion shall be offered."—[1599.] Endorsed by Sir Robert Cecil, "For Munster." Copy. pp. 3.

137. " An estimate of the charge of ten ships and barks sent lately into Ireland with victuals to supply Her Majesty's forces, and there stayed and employed for some intended service in Sligo, by direction of the Right Honourable Earl of Essex, rated according to such particular certificates as, together with his Lordship's letters were sent unto us, from the Right Honourable the Lord High Treasurer of England."—[1599.] Signed by the Earl of Nottingham, Sir Fulke Greville, and Sir Thomas Trevor. pp. 2.

138. Sir Warham Sentleger's various entertainments from Her Majesty; viz., Captain of 25 horse, Captain of 150 foot, Lieutenant of Queen's County, or Leix, Constable of Laughlin, Constable of Castlemaine, Constable of Monaster Evan, and Chief Commissioner in Munster.—[1599.] Copy. p 1.

139. "Resolutions for the service in Ireland," in Munster and Leinster.

Munster.—Victual for 3,000 foot and 250 horse, to be delivered at Cork and Limerick, one half before the 20th of July, and one half before the 15th of August. With this and the former provision, the forces will be victualled to October 31. Money for the pay of three months to be sent. The castle of Limerick to be perfected at such estimate as the President and Council shall think necessary.

Leinster.—Victual for 1,500 foot and 588 horse for two months, for Newry, Carlingford, Dundalk, Ardee, and other places in the English Pale, to be delivered at Dublin before July 31.—[1599.] Draft. pp. 1½.

140. Garrisons for Connaught and Munster. Total, 1,989 foot, and 666 horse.—[1599.] Copy. pp. 1½.

141. A list similar to the preceding.—[1599.] Copy. p. 1.

142. "A brief declaration of the state wherein Ireland now standeth, with some reasons for the reducing thereof to civility and quietness in the speediest manner, and the easiest for Her Majesty's charge that may be (as I take it)."

"The rebels do swarm in all parts of the realm, commanding all except the towns, or a few castles, or the territories of some Irish Lords by their sufferance remaining unspoiled; the English inhabitants all banished, and our forces unable (lying divided as they do) to do any great exploit, but only to keep their garrisons; Her Majesty's infinite charge is still continued; the rebels nothing weakened, but rather do increase in strength; and the soldiers decay daily for want of means. To set down the particular occasions hereof were tedious and needless, because most of them are already known here.

"If our army were strong enough (as it is not), whereby it might be divided into several strong regiments, to make head against the rebels, yet I think running journeys do more annoy ourselves than hurt the rebel. For therein our men do most miscarry; some are slain, but most (by reason of their unwonted travel, and want of bedding, and change of linen) are taken with diseases, and so die; and little to the disadvantage of the rebel, who hath all the advantages that may be, viz., the wind and the ground. They may give and take when they list, and if they may have opportunity to assault, and can prevail, our loss is infinite, because we cannot shift ourselves from them; and, if we give the repulse, and be able to make the place good, they will wheel about, and be gone with little or no loss; and we are not able to overtake them, no, though they were at push of the pike presently with us.

"To lie in many convenient garrisons upon the confines of their countries were better, as I take it, and more hurtful to them, and less loss to us. For if the English soldier might be so used, as at seldom times he might make a start abroad, and yet no further than that he might return to his bed the next night, he would do well, and be able to serve very sufficiently. But this course is slow, and chargeable to Her Majesty, especially for the victualling of those garrisons.

"Many and sundry reasons might be alleged pro et contra, concerning these causes, but because these few may suffice, I will go as briefly to the matter as I can.

"The Irishman in that country is the fittest man to effect that service, both in regard of his education, and also of his hardiness to endure continual toil and travel and hunger and cold, and all other extremities; besides he is as ready to take the former advantages as the rebels.

"The best course is to begin with Munster, as well for that they are not the hardiest men, as also in respect of the great plains, and the many towns therein. To raise, or employ, any of Munster for this purpose were bootless, because they are so linked together by affinity and consanguinity, as they will not for any reward whatsoever do any service one upon another. For all the Lords and chieftains of Munster are knit together in this sort, viz., the Lord Power hath made a double match with the Lord Barry; Gerrot FitzJames of the Decies matched with the Lord Barry's daughter; Patrick Condon with the Lord Barry's sister; the Lord Barry with the Lord Roche's sister; Cormack McDermott, nephew by marriage to the Lord Roche, and cousin germain to his children; the Lord Barry's daughter matched to Cormack's son and heir, Cormack, cousin germain to Dermott McOwen's wife, Florence McCarthy and David Roche; McCarthy Reogh, cousin germain to Florence Dermott McOwen, the Lord Barry, and to the five daughters of Sir Owen McCarthy, who are married thus, viz., one to O'Donovan, who is in rebellion; another to the Knight of the Valley, who is also in rebellion; the third to Sir Finnin O'Driscoll; the fourth to Cormack Oge; and the fifth to Dermott O'Sullivan, second brother to O'Sullivan More. O'Sullivan Bere married O'Sullivan More's sister; O'Sullivan More married to Florence McCarthy's sister; O'Sullivan More's sister mother to the Knight of Kerry; O'Sullivan More's son and heir married to the Lord FitzMorris's daughter; the Lord FitzMorris married to the Lord Roche['s] and the Lady Barry's sister, and his son and heir married to the Earl of Thomond's sister; O'Connor Kerry married O'Sullivan More's daughter, and cousin germain to O'Sullivan Bere: the White Knight's daughter married to McDonogh, and his other daughter to McCarthy Reogh's son and heir; Dermott McOwen married the Lord Roche's daughter, and the niece of the Lady Barry and the Lady FitzMorris.

"The principal cause of all the rebellion of Munster, being James O'Desmond, and his brother John, are brothers in law to McCarthy Reogh, cousins germain to the Lord Roche, the Ladies Barry and FitzMorris and to the Lord FitzMorris, to Florence McCarthy's mother, and to the mothers of Cormack McDermott and David Roche. So as there is no hope that ever any of them will do any service one upon another, besides that it hath been already well tried by the late Lord President (myself being the instrument that laboured it), and it took no effect.

"The Leinster men are meetest to be dealt withal herein, both for that they have no alliance with Munster, and also that they are the most valiant ever accounted of that nation.

"The likeliest men in Leinster (as the case now standeth) are Onie McRory, Donnell Spainagh, and Captain Tyrrell. These be the men that raised all the rebellion in Munster, and these be the men that may suppress it. They can command most of all the rebels in Leinster, by reason of their great alliance and faction, and, they being satisfied, the efficient cause of the rebellion of Leinster is removed; and, if they conquer Munster, they make Connaught clear, because all the rebels of Connaught are now the strength of Munster, and the hired men, called bonnaughts; so as this matter being well and discreetly handled, three provinces may be quieted by that means.

"Then Her Majesty hath no employment for her great army, but in the north, the chief whereof, being Tyrone, will be so wonderfully in despair of himself, seeing his best instruments (whereof he maketh greatest reckoning) not only pulled from him, but also such a course taken, as he cannot have any help either out of Leinster, Munster, or Connaught, as his pride will be much abated, and no doubt will stand upon better terms. At least when the army hath nothing to attend but Tyrone, and Tyrone now more maimed and dismembered than he was wont to be, they may so ply him while these fellows are ransacking of Munster, as in all likelihood they will eat further into his country than ever they did.

"If it be God's pleasure that this plot may take wished effect, it will be greatly to Her Majesty's benefit; for these men undertaking the matter will dispatch more in a month than so many of our army can do in a year. For they will lose no time day nor night, such is the ability of their bodies, as they care not to be ever travelling; and Munstermen (except their bonnaughts) cannot endure half so much. So as when their powder is once spent, which will be at the most in two days, these men without doubt will either give them a great overthrow, or else scatter them, and make them divide themselves into small companies, whereby, in less than one year, they may utterly waste and spoil all the country, and recover from them their castles and cattle, so as the next degree is famine, which is the most special and principal thing to be required for the ending of these wars in Ireland.

"Now put [the] case, these three before-named might be vanquished in this service? What loss is it to Her Majesty? She is rid of the notablest three rebels of Ireland, except Tyrone; and setting themselves together by the ears, it cannot chose but be greatly to Her Majesty's advantage. For in the bickering between them, whatsoever else will be done, it is most sure the country will be wasted, whereby famine will follow as aforesaid. And if it chance the said three prevail, they are worthy of great advancement, and then will they, with such other of the common sort of Munster as will join with them, be a very good help against Tyrone.

"My opinion (under correction) is that the best course and greatest policy to weaken the rebel, and to end the war, is, to work all the means that may be to make themselves to cut off one another, and I do assuredly believe that a thousand pounds spent that way (being with discretion disbursed) will stand Her Majesty in better stead than the sending over of a thousand men.

"The best means to satisfy these three aforesaid will be in this sort; to give to Onie McRory the country of Leix, that was his ancestors'; to Donnell Spainagh, the Doffren and Enniscorthy; and to Captain Tyrrell, James O'Desmond's lands in Cosbride, and Piers Lacy's lands. And for that some question may be made how Her Majesty may dispose of those lands, the Doffren belonging to Henry Daniell, Enniscorthy to Sir Henry Wallop's heir, and Leix already passed to several patentees, I answer this, that Enniscorthy may be easily had from Mr. Wallop, both in regard the same yieldeth no profit, nor is like to do, but is a charge to him, and also for that he never expected to have it, for it was given to Oliver Wallop, the second brother, who is dead without issue. And so may the Doffren be had from Henry Daniell, for exchange or otherwise; and the freeholders of Leix (whereof I am one) are many in number, but not one of us make[s] any profit of those lands, neither have we any part of them in possession save only the two bare castles of Dysert and Ballyadams, which Pigott and Bowen [ ? held] by the sufferance of the rebels hitherto; and now they say they shall hold them no longer. I am persuaded they are or will be lost very shortly; so as I see no cause why we should be very curious to surrender our titles, and take exchange of lands in Munster of such attainted lands as shall be now won by the three aforesaid; neither do I think that any of us will be so hard-hearted (if our lands were profitable, as they are not) as to stand with our gracious Prince that gave us all, especially on a matter of this urgent necessity, that concerns the whole state of her kingdom.

"There must be another thing done, as well for the satisfaction of these three, as for all the rest of the Irishry of Ireland, which is this. All the Lords and chieftains of that kingdom, except the well-affected, are made confidently to believe by the priests, especially by Father Archer, the Pope's Legate, that Her Majesty will never again favour nor trust any that is born in Ireland, and that such as do join with us are but made instruments to cut off the rest, and to serve the present necessity; and, when the turn is served, no more regard will be had of those that do service than the rebel. Her Majesty in this case is to clear her own conscience, and to make the contrary manifest, by explaining her intent and meaning from her own mouth and heart. This will draw the hearts of many of that nation to do service, and will remove many doubts and suspicions from the heads of such as pretend to be subjects, whom I know of mine own knowledge to be disanimated by reason of this false and cunning practice. Therefore Her Majesty under her own hand is to signify and make protestation, in the word of a Prince, that she doth, and will, love and cherish all such of that kingdom, as are, or shall be, good subjects and servitors with equal regard as she doth her subjects of England.

"In which letters it must be very effectually mentioned that, inasmuch as Her Majesty hath taken a course for the royal prosecution of those rebels, and that she is well assured they must be presently vanquished, or scattered and divided into small companies, therefore the Lord Barry and John Fitz Edmund, setting aside all malice and private quarrels, and joining together lovingly in one yoke, with the help of Patrick Condon, may keep out of Imokilly and Cosbride John McRedmond of Ballygrenan, and John O'Desmond; Cormack McDermott and his cousin, Cormack Oge, may keep out of Muskerry Dermott McOwen O'Donovan, and Dermott Moyle McCarthy; McCarthy Reogh and Sir Finnin O'Driscoll may keep them out of Carberry; O'Sullivan Bere, O'Sullivan More, and Florence McCarthy may keep Donnell McCarthy out of Desmond. There must be straight charge given them (intermixed with some threats) that so long as this army shall be in prosecution of the rebel, they be continually in arms upon the borders of their countries for the purpose aforesaid. And like as Her Majesty must make shew of thankfulness to such as have continued good subjects, so must she take knowledge of the factions and alliances of them, and of their powers to do service upon the rebels, when they are scattered as aforesaid, and to forewarn them of the danger that will follow (if they halt), for these will never out."—[1599.] [The last two paragraphs of this declaration are dearly the basis of No. 136 above] Unsigned. Endorsed, "For Sir George Garew, concerning the state of Ireland." pp. 4.

143. "The substance of the Traitor's propositions, and of my Lord's opinion what were fit for the Queen to do."

"First, that Her Majesty in Ulster have as much profit and obedience as ever she was answered.

"Herein his Lordship conceiveth it to be intended by the word 'ever,' that those reservations, which without coercion they have yielded unto of rents and services, shall not be denied in the north, but his Lordship doth not take it that the imposition upon McMahon of 600l. yearly, when the Lord of that country was beheaded, nor the 700 beeves set upon O'Donnell, shall be taken to be within that compass, nor we later improvements of the Clandeboys should be included, or such like rents as have been purchased with the sword.

"The like demand be made for all Lords of countries and gentlemen in other provinces, that they might yield such rents and duties as have been usually paid to the Crown.

"In this article, where the word 'usual' is set down, although his Lordship conceiveth that they may be like enough to stand upon former titles, or pretend wrongful dispossessings, yet did his Lordship not mean but those things should be insisted on by Commissioners, and with time, when once the capital rebel could be so satisfied from Her Majesty by my words and protestation that, besides her pardon, he had her heart's forgiveness, as not to resolve for any of their petty quarrels to put himself again into open action; but by little and little, with convenient force, they may be reduced, if they shall stand long upon dangerous conditions; only at this instant, seeing he will not be severed from them, fearing by separation to lose the advantage of their adherency, my Lord, considering the necessity and extremity of that estate, could have advised that some of these conditions, though they were stood upon, might he granted rather than to dissolve this beginning."—[1599.] Draft, p. 1.

144. Brief note concerning victuals for Carrickfargus.—[1599.] Copy. p. ½.

145. "A short particular of the estate of the Queen's County of Leix at this present"

The divers septs in the county. The best of these families, except the Moores, are gone with their goods and cattle into Kilkenny and Ossory, protected there by the Earl of Ormonde and the Lord of Upper Ossory. By this means, these protected colour their dislike or rather disobedience to Her Majesty's appointed government in Leix, wherein they might live as securely and freely as where they do. Those Lords grow stronger and richer, whose countries have been had enough all this war. Besides, "this underclarkinge course" is a cause why much, of Leix is waste and uninhabited.

Touching the borderers, as the Earl of Ormonde, Viscount Mountgarrett, the Baron of Upper Ossory, Sir Terence O'Dempsy, Teig O'Doyne, and Henry Bowye, they have taken into their protection many, or almost all, the rebels of this country birth, and of the parts adjoining. These will prove like dogs ready to be let slip, if time give little occasion; neither can a good subject live or come amongst them without doubt or danger.

The strength of the rebels of this country birth is not full fifty men carrying arms. The chief of them is one Onie McShane, of the Moores, who and his confederates are secretly helped and supplied with wine, aqua vitæ, victual, powder, and other necessaries, out of Kilkenny, and have assistance from the late protected both of Ossory and the borders.

Cannot much commend the valour of the gentlemen of Leix of English blood. It were a good course they should better be looked to, both as regards the tenure of their lands, and as to answering Her Majesty's service, wherein they have been slack and faulty. This has greatly increased the pride of the rebels.—[1599.] Copy. pp. 1½.

146. "An estimate of such dead pays as the new-erected companies of footmen in Ireland (being 60 bands) do allow unto Sir Ralph Lane, knight, Mustermaster there," amounting to 40s. per diem.—[1599.] Copy. p. ½.

147. " A note of things which are to be reckoned as lost in the preparations for Lough Foyle;" also of things remaining in store; also of such things as Her Majesty is to be paid for from the entertainments of those having the same. Prices of nails.—[1599.] Copy. pp. 1½.

148. " The strength of the rebels in Ireland." Leinster, 4,000 foot and 200 horse; Ulster, 9,000 foot and 800 horse; Munster, 6,000 foot and 300 horse; and Connaught, 4,000 foot and 250 horse. Total, 23,000 foot and 1,550 horse.—[1599.] Copy. p. 1.

149. Translation of a letter from " O'Neill's son " to Sir Samuel Bagenall. At the head is written, "I do keep the originals of these letters in Irish, and send these as they are translated by Fleming, because I will make no more acquainted with the matter. The words in italics in the following are in the same hand as this note.

"Commendations from O'Neill's son unto you, Sir Samuel Bagenall. The letter you sent me, there could be read of it but a little. I do give you hearty thanks for your counsel that I should be upon my keeping until aid did come unto me." [This letter was sent by my directions, because I would not write to him myself, only that he should stand on his guard, till he heard further from me.] "I do marvel that I did hear nothing from you touching the instructions [he means his demands] I" sent by John Fleming, for I am sure he told you of them. And if my Lord Deputy do ask me to be of his side, as I am, if he be not the let of it himself, let him send John Fleming down here with what demand you and himself will bind for me, and, when I see John, I will be without doubt at the direction of the Queen. As many of Tyrone as I drive of my own side, John Fleming shall tall you [sent by word of mouth for fear of intercepting], and what other news else I had. I would have done service myself upon O'Neill, if I were sure of aid. Let not labanaghs [new men] nor bad men be sent hither, but good men; and, God willing, I will help to do good with them. And as my trust is in you, do me what good you can. This bearer would be (sic) with you sooner, but that I kept him to send all news with him. And when the Queen's force[s] come to Lough Foyle, let John Fleming bring this bearer with him; and, as soon as they land, let John send this bearer, Patrick Magilsenan, to me, and I will meet him where I will appoint him. Let men be sent down without any let, for now is the time; and let not Neill Garve [a competitor to O'Donnell for Tyrconnell] be forgotten, for that he can do the Queen great good. Have me commended to my Lord Deputy, and tell him that I will meet him where he will appoint me. And [by] whatsoever wood pass he come, with the help of the army they will send down, I will make clear the one half of the pass, and let himself make clear the other half. And so fare you well. From the Rasse."—[ 1599.] p. 1.