Elizabeth: July 1559

480. Kirkcaldy to Percy. [July 1.]

I received your letter this last of June, and assure you ye need not doubt the Congregation, who mean nothing but reformation of religion, which they will shortly bring to pass: for the Queen, Monsieur Doisel, and all the French, have taken refuge in Dunbar. The Congregation reached Edinburgh by 3 a.m. this last of June, and will take order for defence of the true religion against the King of France. The Duke and most of the nobility have told the Queen they are of the same religion, and will take part with the congregation. The professors of God's word bear unfeigned love to your mistress, which they will prove or long; if otherwise, esteem me no honest man. Repose yourself on my word, wherein you have never found deceit; and assure yourself there shall be no hurt done to England, while it maintains the gospel of Christ. So as I have written twice, I wish no time "pretermitted" to bind these two countries in perpetual friendship.

The manner of reformation is this—they pull down all manner of "freires," and some abbeys which will not receive it—cleanse parish churches of images and monuments of idolatry—and prohibit all masses. In place whereof, the book set forth by godly King Edward is read in them. They have not as yet "mellit" with a pennyworth of kirk property, but presently will take order that the fruits of abbeys, &c., shall be bestowed on faithful ministers till further order. Some think the Queen will yield, seeing no other remedy, and have a general reformation conform to the pure word of God, and send the French away. If so, they will annex the abbey revenues to the crown: but if she refuses, they will hear of no agreement. See that the fort (fn. 1) be rased or the French will keep it, having few other strengths. Command the man ye send me to be very secret. Signed: "In haist redy to tak the fivre. Youris as ye knaw to the deathe."

(A postscript in cipher thus):—The letter that Knox writeth to you is by means of the whole Congregation whose names I inclose. Signed: Henry Percy (who deciphers it).

2 pp. Holograph Indorsed (by Cecill).

Inclosed in the same:—

(Names of the Congregation.)

Earl of Argyll; Prior of S^t Andrews; Earls of Rothes and Montetht; Lords Reven, Ogilvy and Drummond; the Master of Lindsay; Lairds of Lochleven, Dun, Pittarrow, Tillibarne, Glennourchwart. These were the principal that set S^t Johnston at liberty again.

Earls of Glencairn and Morton, the lords Erskin, Boyd and Owchquhiltre, with the sheriff of Ayr and Laird of Calder, met them at Edinburgh. Their number, if the Queen had remained, had been 12,000; but seeing the French are gone, only 6000 are come. The number of lairds and gentlemen I cannot reckon; there are in band with them, but not yet declared, the Earls Marischal, Athol, lord Forbes, and the lairds of Drumlanrick, Lochinvar and Garlyce. Many of the rest will subscribe to keep out the French.

1 p Holograph of Kirkcaldy. Indorsed (by Cecill).

481. Knox to Percy. [July 1.]

"The myghty confort of the Holie Ghost for salutation."—This bearer being unsuspected, I require of you such friendship as from time to time conference may be had betwixt us. "I mean not myself and you," but the faithful of both realms, that "inconvenientes" against both may by God's grace and mighty power be avoided. Your faithful friend M^r Kyrkcaldye has reported to me your gentle behaviour and fidelity in all things "lawchtfull honest and godlie. Continew Schir, and God by you shall wyrk mor then now appearetht." You hear our troubles, but few know the cause. Persuade yourself and assure others, we mean neither sedition nor rebellion against lawful authority, but only to advance Christ's religion and the liberty of this poor realm. If we have the one with the other, it will be better for England, which if we lack "althought we murn and smart first," ye will not escape worse trouble in the end. But this I would rather communicate face to face than with pen and ink. If you deliver this other letter to M^r Secretary Cecill, "I suppose ye shall not offend him?" Other things I cannot write now "for continuall truble hinging upon my wicked carcass by reason of this tumult rased against Christ Jesus in his infancye." I pray to know the minds of the Queen and Council touching our support if we be pursued by a French army. "I most hartle desyr you to apardon my bold interprise—interprised not altogether withoutt deliberation, as the trubles of these tymes doo suffer." Edinburgh. Signed: John Knox.

1½ pp. Holograph. Addressed: "To the right worshipfull Schir Hary Percye knycht, warden deputye," &c. Indorsed.

482. Croft to [Cecill]. [July 3.]

A herald from the Queen of Scotland to the Queen of England departed hence this day. The Protestants are at Edinburgh in great number—whence they intend for Kelso and the abbeys westward. The Queen is at Dunbar in great fear.

¼ p. Holograph, in cipher, apparently deciphered by Cecil. No signature or address. Indorsed (by Cecill).

483. Parry and Cecill to Percy. [July 4.]

We received yours of 28^th and other two letters inclosed, one to yourself the other to me the secretary. The matter is worth entertaining, for the sequel may tend to this realm, if not well foreseen. We wish you had also written the credit by Ledyngton's man to you. Forbear not to write all your intelligence, though you may think it already known to us. The matter in Kyrkcaldy's letter "is imparted where it ought to be, "and I the Secretary presently write to you, which is meant to be shown to him, but not delivered out of your hands, and returned hither immediately after he has seen it. You must speak with him, or we see not how he can plainly understand our meaning; you best know how to compass this. Percase ye might look for larger offer of succour, than in my the Secretary's letter, but considering Kyrkcaldy is but a private man, hitherto in good grace with the Dowager, and not seeing from his letter that the matter moved comes from those of whom you inform us, we could not descend to further particulars. When further matter shall appear bringing credit with it, then further understanding of our meaning may follow. In any wise use all expedition herein.

We hear not of your servant Raff Lawrence, whom we desire to see touching your incommodity of coming to intelligence.

1 p. Holograph draft by Cecill. Indorsed (by him).

484. Secretary Cecill to Percy. [July 4.]

I have received your letter of 28^th June and two others from "your frende and myne, the one to you, the other to me," with matter of no small moment, noting therein "greate wisdom in the writer." All must be circumspectly considered and prudently foreseen. Ye must speak with Kyrkcaldy, and say I privately thank him for so friendly a participation with me of such a matter, and I have secretly imparted it to those who have had very good liking thereof, as it behoved; and find it is much desired, to understand the purposes of the earls and protestants therein named, the end they aim at, how they propose to accomplish it, what adverse power they doubt of, and what support they look for hence, in case a French army is brought against them? Also if such support were sent, what sort of amity might ensue, if to be perpetual, and not so slender as heretofore, depending on the pleasure of France? Yet not altogether to waste time (hoping for early answer to our motion) ye may assure him, that rather than see an ancient nation oppressed by foreign power, when her nobles seek to maintain the Christian religion, England would adventure aid against such invasion, and I dare affirm, would be as sorry as if against ourselves. Meantime require him to consider that since this matter is written by him alone, a private gentleman, yet one I well esteem for his wisdom and religion, he will not mislike my not this first time writing to him a direct letter, considering my place and office, but rather committing the trust to be delivered by you. Yet assure him what I write to you is as good as if confirmed by my hand and seal. And though I would credit him in any private matter, yet in these great causes, for respect of such personages as I confer with, what he shall impart must be as clear, probable, and perfect, as when discoursed on, it may not be found lacking or doubtful. Greenwich. Signed: Your assured frend W. Cecill.

1 p. Addressed (by Cecill). Indorsed (by him): "My lettre to Sir H. Percy retorned ageyn to me the 23 of July."

(1) Draft of same letter in Cecill's hand.

2 pp. Indorsed (by him): "W. C. to Sir H. Percy."

485. Croft to Cecill. [July 8.]

The Protestants still remain at Edinburgh and the Queen at Dunbar. The Duke departed from her the last of June to go to his house. On the 6^th the Protestants sent requiring her to maintain religion and confirm what they have begun, and to put all Frenchmen out, except of her houshold, and bring in no more. The messengers refusing her demand to put this in writing, as they had no commission, she refused to answer them. Berwiek. Signed: Jamys Croft.

1 p. Cipher, deciphered by Cecill. Addressed. Indorsed. Armorial wafer signet.

486. Cecill to Croft. [July 8.]

I have received this 6^th your letter of 1^st and cedule contained, of the Scottish Queen coming to Dunbar, the particulars whereof I would have liked. As to the discharge of the 2d. a day to soldiers wearing corselets, it is already answered, and other matters, wherein much is referred to your wisdom. I would to God your neighbours looked to ends, and that they might be advertised that the Earl of Arran has left France, and that King is sending speedily hither 200 men at arms, and 30 ensigns of footmen. The Protestants there (fn. 2) shall be assayed with fair promises, then with money, and last with arms. Wisdom looks for and provides against the worst. Assure them this realm will not see them ruined, if requested by friendship. Any wise kindle the fire, for if quenched, the opportunity will not come in our lives. What the Protestams intend, let them do with speed before the French come. "To a wise man few wordes serve." Commend me and impart this to Sir Henry Percy.

1¼ pp. Draft by Cecill. Indorsed (by him): "W. C. to M^r Croftes."

487. Croft to Cecill. [July 11.]

I send you inclosed news from Scotland. On Sunday last I sent Masters Somerset, Vaughan, Drury, and the surveyor of works, to Aymouth: who report that the houses, flankers, vamures and outer brinks of the ditches, were pulled down, and nothing left standing but the "very rampier." I would be glad to know the Queen's pleasure, if this agrees with the words of the treaty, to make it plain with the ground, or if I shall require full performance? Berwick. Signed: Jamys Croft.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed.

Inclosed in the same:—

(News from Scotland.)

The Queen Dowager is now contented that the Duke, &c. shall meet at Haddington to-morrow with some of the Protestants to treat of the matters proposed to her. All believe the Duke will side with the Protestants if the Earl of Arran were come, who he thinks has left France, while the Queen and the French think not. If he were here, it would soon be seen which way the Dowager would "sway."

1¼ pp. Cipher, deciphered. Noted (by Cecill): "xj Julij."

488. Knox to Cecill. [July 12.]

"The spreit of wisdom reull your hart to the glorie of God, and "to the confort of his afflicted flock." I humbly require you to deliver the enclosed letter to the Queen "quhilk conteaneht in few and sempill wourdes my confession what I think of her authoritie, how far it is just, and what may mak it odius in Goddes presence. I hear thare is a confutation sett furht in prent against the 'First Blast.' God grant that the writar have no mor sought the favoures of the world, no les the glory of God, and the stable commoditie of his countrey, then did hie who interprised in that blast to uter his conscience. When I shall have tym (which now is dear and straitt unto me) to peruse that wark, I will communicat my judgement with you concernyng the sam. The tym is now, Schir, that all that eyther thrust (fn. 3) Christ Jesus to ring in this yle, the libertie of the sam to be keapt to the inhabitantis therof, and thare hartes to be joyned togetther in love unfeaned, ought rather to study how the sam may be brought to pas, then vainly to travael for the manteanaunce of that wherof allreaddy we have sein the daunger, and felt the smart. Yf the most part of wemen be such, as willingly we wold not they should reing over us, and yf the most godlie (and such as have rare giftes and graces) be yit mortall, we ought to tack head, least that we in establissing one (judged godlie and proffitable to hir countrey), mack enteress and titill to many, by whom not only shall the treuht be impugned, but also shall the countrey be brought to bondaige and slavery." God give you and others to see this, and avoid the danger.

I have yet no answer to my divers letters for leave to visit these north parts of England. The longer it is delayed, the less comfort the faithful there shall receive—yea the weaker the Queen's grace shall be; for if I were not to her so unfeigned and assured a friend, I would not so instantly beg such a liberty, "in seaking wherof I suppose ye be persuaded that I greatlie seak not my self." Ye know the common state of things here—some things as I have oft written, I would gladly communicate with you, but am not minded to write. "Fynd therfor the meanes that I may speak such a on as ye will creditt in all thinges. The grace of the Lord Jesus rest with you." I beseech you have my service most humbly commended to the Queen's grace, "and in my name say to hir grace, that whosoever mackeht me odius for any work yit written by me, seakeht somwhat besides the glory of God, and hir graces prosperitie, and therfor can not the sam man be to hir grace so unfeaned freind as I have bein and yit remain." Edinburgh, in great haist. Signed: John Knox.

"After the scribling of those formar lynes, cam M^r Whitlaw," from whom I hear the matters in which I have "laubored" ever since King Edward's death, are now to be opened to you. "God grant you and otheris wisdom with humilitie, &c." Then came Sir Hary Percy's servant to M^r Kirkcaldy, who leaving us here to "speak" Sir Hary, brought news joyful to the hearts of all when they shall be divulged. "It was thought expedient to communicat the mater onlie with those that ar stroungest, till farther knowledge of the Quens majesties good mynd towardes this action. (fn. 4) We dowbt not the good myndes of the holl congregation which is great, as I doubt [not] but by otheris ye will understaund—but it is not thought expedient that so weghty a mater be untymmouslie disclosed. Trew and faythfull preacheris in the norht partes of England can not but greatlie ad "vaunce this cause—yf a learned and godlie man mycht be appointed to Baruik, with licence also to preache within Scotland, I dowbt not to obtean unto him the favouris of the most part of the gentelmen of the East and Myddle (fn. 5) bordouris. Admeit on thing Schir, that yf the hartes of the bordoraris of both partes c[an be (fn. 6) ] united together in Goddes fear, our victorie... (fn. 6) shalbe easy. The fear of no man I truist... (fn. 6) this day till cause any of those that have professed them selves ennemies to superstition within Scotland, till lift thare hand against England, so long as it will abyd in the puritie of Christes doctryn. Continual lauboris oppressing me (most unable for the sam) I am compelled to end with imperfection. The spreit of all wisdom reull your hart to the end, Amen!"

I reverence your judgement so much, I will ye first see my letter or ye deliver it, and I send it open. "Read and present it yf ye think meatt."

3 pp. Holograph, closely written. Addressed. Indorsed (by Cecill).

489. Croft to Cecill. [July 12.]

This day only, by fault of the posts, I received your letter dated Greenwich the 6^th, and instructed Whytlowe, who came last night, in good time to be at Haddington to-night where the Protestants meet the Queen's commissioners. I hope the French will be dismissed—it is most necessary. Though I lately told the Council, that the men they ordered to be "cassed" were gone, I find some of Captain Read's band dismissed from Wark are still drawing pay, but no bruit of it has gone forth. If things pass quietly this summer, abating the armour may be considered: for if the French are put out, those that come will find no friends at landing, if the Protestants keep together. Berwick. Signed: Jamys Croft.

1½ pp. Partly in cipher, deciphered. Addressed. Indorsed.

490. The Queen to the Queen Dowager of Scotland. [July 13.]

Having in the evening of the 11^th received by Ross herald her letter of penult June, as to ransom of prisoners on both sides, signifies her intention of naming as commissioners her cousin of Northumberland, and his brother Sir Henry Percy, or Sir James Croft, or any two, to meet those of Scotland. Wishing good tidings of the recovery of "our most deare good brother the French King to helth, wherof we be very sorry to heare so great difficultee." Greenwich.

1 p. Broad sheet. Draft in Cecil's hand. Indorsed (by him): "12 Julij 1559."

491. Croft to Cecill. [July 14.]

Yesterday I received yours dated 9^th, of the despatch of the French ambassador to the Protestants, and of ships preparing there, whereof they shall be shortly advertised. This day Master Percy and I spoke with Kyrkcaldy, who has promised in a few days to tell us on what foundation the Protestants will work, and what amity they offer, confirmed under the hands of some of the nobility. We urged them to put out the French, for once out, they cannot return without friends to receive them: giving as examples, our first journey to Leith and Edinburgh, when in spite of our strong navy with victuals, we could tarry but few days; also when the battle of Musselburgh was won, and more to like effect. I look for little result till Arran be in Scotland, nor any preparation till we know where he is, which I trust you will soon learn and advertise hither. Berwick. Signed: Jamys Croft.

1½ pp Mostly in cipher, deciphered. Addressed. Indorsed.

492. Kyrkcaldy to Cecill. [July 17.]

Upon the sight of your letter to Sir Hary Percy and consideration of your questions, &c., I repaired with speed from Norham to Edinburgh, and declared the contents to my privy friends who took them in very good part, as their letters will show. If it be God's pleasure that ye join with this common cause of Christ and liberty, "all Europe shall knowe that an league made in the name of God hathe an other fundation and assuraunce then pactions made be man for warldly commoditie." They dare not make it known to many at first, for fear of disclosing the secret. The Queen Regent already suspects some intelligence with England; having said that Northumberland has sent a servant to Argyll and the Prior. Some of us are poor, and we fear corruption by money, yet if these were removed, we would not be much the weaker: for all hearts both barons and commonalty, are so bent and "inflambed" against France, that if any of the nobility would decline (though we see no appearance) neither their friends nor servants would withdraw from professing Christ and liberty. After the minds of some most principal and secret in council be known, the matter will be proponed to the rest, and I think your assistance shall be sought, which I would wish you answered friendly to make no doubt. This time offered must not be neglected by you nor us. This gentleman the bearer is directed to the Queen with the minds of such as I trust ye shall be contented with. Edinburgh. Signed: W^m. Kyrkcaldy.

1½ pp. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed (by Cecill).

493. Argyll, Glencairn, &c., to Cecill. [July 19.]

The contents of your letter to Sir Henry Percy were notified to us by M^r Kyrkcaldy of Grange, this Sunday 15^th July, who has travailed with faithful heart to learn your mind towards us. We have considered to our joy and comfort, your comfortable answer to his question, and also your motion and demands. "To which we brevely answer, that our hole and only purpos (as knoweht God) is to advaunce the glory of Christ Jesus, the trew preaching of his evangill within this realme, to remove superstition and all sortes of externall idolatrie, to bridill to our poweris the fury of those that heirtofor have cruellie sched the blood of our brethren, and to our utermost to mantean the libertie of this our countrey from the tyranny and "thraldome of straungearis as God shall assist us. How we be able to accomplish these premisses is to us unknowen, only our hope is good that hie that hath begun this good work by us, and hath by his power to this hour confounded the faces of our adversaries, will perform the sam to his glory, which cheafly we seak in this our interprise." Supposing that our danger and the preparation of France are not hid from you and the Council, we omit that. As for a perpetual amity, we desire nothing more than such a joyful conjunction, and crave of God we may be the instruments whereby the unnatural debate long continued betwixt us, may be for ever composed. If ye can devise the means how to compass this, persuade yourselves not only of our assistance, "but also of our constancye (as men may promes), till our lyves end; yea farther, we will diwlgat and set abrode a charge and commandement till our posteritie, that the amytie and league betuix you and us contracted and begun in Christ Jesus, may by thame be keapt inviolated for ever. As for the revolting to Fraunce (which ye seam to suspect and fear), we uterly abhorr that infidelitie, for now doht that voce of God continuallie sound in our eares 'Whosoever blasphemeht or tackeht in vane the name of the Eternall, shall not eschape vengeaunce.'" As our amity has another foundation than "pactions maid by worldlie men for worldlie proffett," so we doubt not it shall continue, "for now we seak rather the heavn, then the earht, but yit and yf we should look anything to temporall commoditie," we should never return to France, for we now begin to see their yoke shall become intolerable. And by God's grace we intend "to cutt avay such instrumentis the papisticall clergye (fn. 7) as by whom this realme hath bein befor abused." We have yet made no mention of change in authority, nor has it even entered our hearts, but seeing that France and the Queen Regent here, her priests, &c., intend nothing but suppressing Christ's evangel, maintaining prelacy and our ruin, we are fully purposed to seek the next remedy and withstand their tyranny, whereto we heartily require your counsel, and furtherance at the Queen and Council's hands, for our aid. Thus far we have hasarded to show our purpose, estate, and request, as you required of M^r Kyrkcaldy some further assurance than his own, seeing the place ye hold and the personages concerned: doubting not your prudent handling so closely that the adversary discover nothing before the "just ripnes of the action" require. We refer to the instructions and credit of the messenger, and beg answer with expedition. Edinburgh. Signed: Arcbald Ergyll, Alex^r. Glencarne, James Sanctanctandr., (fn. 8) Patrik Ruthwen, Robert Boyd, Andro Wcheoltre.

2½ pp. Written by Knox. Addressed (by him). Indorsed (by Cecill).

494. Argyll, Glencairn, &c., to the Queen of England. [July 19.]

Though no good success has yet ensued of divers attempts for perpetual amity between the realms, yet they as professors of Christ Jesus in Scotland, having entered in battle against the Devil, idolatry, and "that sort of men" who have abused them and their princes, and made them enemies to their friends, humbly beseech her grace, her council, subjects, and realm, to aid them in their present danger from the designs of France, and in the reformation of religion, as she has enterprised in her own realm. They have declared their purposes at more length to her Secretary Mr Cecill. Edinburgh. Signed: Arcbald Ergyll, Alex^r. Glencarne, James Sanctandr., Patrik Ruthwen, Robert Boyd, Andro Wcheoltrie.

2 pp. Broad sheet Written by Knox. Addressed (by him): "To the right myghty, ryght high, and right excellent princess the Quens majestie of England." Indorsed (by Cecill). Wafer signet. Shield with a lion rampant, indications of the tressure round it.

495. Henry Balnaves to Cecill. [July 19.]

Knowing your earnest love and constancy to the furthsetting and true maintaining of Christ's holy religion, and remembrance of your humanity shown to me at all times, moves me to this short letter. I will open nothing at length contained in the other letter of "my lordes of the Congregation and counsale of this realme, wharof I am prevye" —but these two heads—viz. (1) furthsetting God's glory according to His word, as in your realm begun, and (2) preserving ours from the tyranny of strangers Frenchmen. "Howbeit the first brag we must suffer." We must both join to resist our common enemy who by the Bishop of Rome's authority pretends no less title to your realm than to this. So labour with your sovereign, as I shall do here, that my lords' message to her grace may take good success. This matter here begun is of God and no private commodity of man, yea I dare affirm, beside all judgment and expectation of man. I refer our proceedings to the bearer Mr Whitlaw. Edinburgh. Signed: Henry Balnaves of Halhill.

1 p. First part holograph. Addressed. Indorsed (by Cecill).

496. Knox to the Queen of England. [July 20.]

"To the verteuus and godlie Elizabeht by the grace of God Quen of England, &c., John Knox desireht the perpetuall encrease of the holie spiritt."—

"As your gracis displeasure against me most injustlie conceaved, hath bene and is to my wreched hart a burthen grevous and almost intollerabill: so is the testimonye of a clean conscience to me a stay and uphold that in disperation I sink not." Maliciously or of purpose, I never offended your grace nor your realm. I cannot deny writing a book against the usurped authority and injust "regiment" of women, nor am minded to retract any principal point thereof, till truth and verity further appear. But why your grace, or these that favour the liberty of England, should be offended with the author, I can perceive no just occasion, for my book touches not your grace's person in especial, nor is it prejudicial to the liberty of the realm, if the time and my writing be "indifferentlie" considered. How could I be enemy to your grace's person? "For deliverance quhairof, I did mor study, and interpri[sed] farther, than any of those that now accus me. And as concerning your regiment, how could, or can, I envy "that whiche most I have thrusted (fn. 9) and for the which (as oblivion will suffer) I render thankis unfeanedlie unto God? [which] is that it hath pleased Him of His eternall goodnes, to exalt your head (which . . . tymes wes in daunger to the manifestation of His glorie and extirpation of [ido]latrie." For any other offence against England, I will let moderate and indifferent men judge between me and my accusers. "To witt, wither of the partiis do most hurt the libertie of England, I that afferme that no woman may be exalted above any realme to mak the liberties of the sam thrall to a straunge, proud and cruell nation? Or thai that approve whatsoevir pleaseth princes for the tyme? Yf I wer as weall disposed till accus, as som of tham (till thair owne schame) have declared thame self, I nothing dowbt but that in few wordis I should lett ressonabill men undirsta[nd] that som that this day lowlie crouche to your grace, and lauboure to mak me odious in your eyis, did in your adversitie neyther schew thame selvis faithfull freindis to your grace, neyther yit so loving and cairfull over thair native cuntrey, as now thai wold be esteamed." Nothing in my book is or can be prejudicial to your grace's just regiment, provided ye be not found "ungrate" to God. "Ungrate ye shalbe pro[ved] in presence of His throne (howsoevir that flatteraris justifye your fact), yf ye transfer the glory of that (howsoevir that flatteraris justifye your fact), other thing, then to the dispensation of His mercy, which only mackeht that lauchfull to your grace, which nature and law denyeth to a[ny] woman. Neyther wold I that your grace should fear that this your humiliation befoir God should in any case infirm or weaken your just and lauchfull authorite befoir men. Nay Madam, such unfeaned confession of Goddis benefittis receaved, shalbe the establisment of the sam not onelye to your self but also to your sead and posteritie. Whare contrariwies, a prowd conceat and elevation of your self shalbe the occasion that your reing shalbe unstabill, trublesom and schort. God is witnes that unfeanedlie I both love and reverence your grace, yea I pray that your reing may be long, prosperous, and quyet, and that for the quyetnes which Christis membris befoir persecuted have receaved under yow. But yit yf I should flatter your grace, I wer no freind, but a deceavabill trater. And therfor of conscience I am compelled to say, that neyther the consent of peopill, the proces of tyme, nor multitude of men, can establish a law which God shall approve, but whatsoever He approveht (by His eternall word) that shalbe approved; and whatsoever he dampneth shalbe condampneth, thoughe all men in earth wold hasard the justification of the sam. And therfoir Madam, the onelie way to retean and to keap those benefittis of God haboundandlie powred now of laitt dayis upon yow, and upon your realme, is, unfeanedlie to rendir unto God, to His mercy and undeserved grace, the holl glory of this your exaltatioun. Foryet your byrth and all tytill which therupon doth hing, and considder deaplie how for feir of your lyfe ye did decline from God and bow till idolatrie. Lett it not appear a small offence in your eyis, that ye have declyned from Christ Jesus in the day of his battale, neyther yit wold I that ye should esteam that mercy to be wlgar and commone which ye have receaved: to witt, that God hath covered your formar offence, hath preserved yow when ye wer most unthankfull, and in the end hath exalted and raised yow "up not onlie from the dust, but also from the portes of death, to reull above His people, for the confort of His kirk. It aperteaneth to yow thairfor to ground the justice of your aucthoritie, not upon that law which from year to year doth change, but upon the eternall providence of Hym, who contrar to nature, and without your deserving, hath thus exalted your head. Yf thus in Goddis presence ye humill your self, as in my hart I glorifie God for that rest granted to his afflicted flock within England undir yow a weak instrument, so will I with toung and pen justifie your aucthorite and regiment, as the Holie Ghost hath justified the sam in Debora that blessed mother in Israell; but yf these premissis (as God forbid) neglected, ye shall begyn to brag of your birth, and to build youre aucthorite upon your owne law, flatter yow who so list, youre felicitie shalbe schort. Interpret my rud wordis in the best part, as writtin by him who is no ennemye to your grace. By divers lettres I have required licence to vesitt your realme, not to seik my self neyther yit my owen ease or commodite, whiche yf yow now refuse and deny, I must remit my [cause unto (fn. 10) ] God, adding this for conclusioun, that commonlie it is sein that such [as refus] the counsall of the faithfull (appear it never so scharp) ar compelled to follow the deceat of flatteraris to thair owen perdition. The mighty spreit of the Lord Jesus move your hart to undirstand what is said, geve unto yow the discretion of spirittes, and so reull yow in all your actionis and interprises, that in yow God may be glorified, His church edified, and ye your self as a livelie member of the sam, may be an exempill and mirroure of vertew and of godlie lief till otheris. So be it." Edinburgh. Signed: John Knox.

2¼ pp. Closely written by another hand. Addressed. Indorsed (by Cecill): M^r Knox to the Q. majesty by Al. Wh[ytlaw]. Much worn at the edges.

497. Croft to Cecill. [July 20.]

Last night I received your letters of the 15^th, confirming mine of the 11^th and 12^th instant, and shall use them as you advise. The Protestants after communing with the Duke, &c., daily since Friday, have concluded nothing. Kyrkcaldy, looked for yesterday and to-day, is not come. They know of the French King's death, and shall know the rest as to Arran. Kyrkcaldy has not yet declared himself protestant, nor comes to the Dowager but "fayneth hym syck." (fn. 11) Pay is due him for the late wars, and in hope he drives time. He is poor, as are all the principal "dooers," and they cannot travail without charges, which must be relieved by the Queen if things go forward, or they will leave off. You know in all practices, money must be one part! I enclose answer of a letter I sent to the Regent of Scotland. Berwick. Signed: Jamys Croft.

I pray your warrant for the allowance of horsemen you mention in your letter, to begin 1^st instant. My last ended the last of June.

1½ pp. Mostly in cipher, deciphered. Addressed. Indorsed. Wafer signet (as before).

Inclosed in the same:—

(The Dowager to Croft.)

In reply to his letter of 15^th, supposes he understands by report of his messengers sent to Captain Galliart, how diligently the workmen demolish Aymouth fort. So soon as completed, she will warn him either to come or send to view it, and then advertise his Queen. Dunbar, 17 July. La bien votre, Marie R.

¾ p. Copy by his clerk. Indorsed.

498. Percy to Cecill. [July 22.]

Touching your letter of 4^th, 1 sent for Kyrkcaldy, when Sir James Croft and I spoke with him at large, understanding from Sir James and also the "lard of Whietlawe," this was your pleasure—showing him also your letter to me, which he perused asking a copy, which I gave him. Since then, Whitlaw is come from the congregation, with letters to the Queen and yourself, whom we send as secretly as we can. Your letter of 11^th reached me on the 17^th, whereon I wrote to Knox (fn. 12) and expect his answer this day. I return to you the letter "ye willed me to do." As Sir James Croft is by his wisdom and apt place, better able to work in these affairs than myself, from my other business in the wardenry, I have appointed Kyrkcaldy to deal with him as with myself, making also all such "moyaunce" as I had, known to him. Norham. Signed: Henry Percy.

¾ p. Addressed. Indorsed (by Cecill).

499. Croft to Cecill. [July 22.]

Reporting his conversation with Whytlaw, now gone towards court, and his surprise that the Protestants had not put out the French—that he told him the Queen would not deal with a confused multitude, even though they were noblemen who had written to her, for she must have some appearance of established authority to join with, and nothing more could be offered, but as already by some of her ministers, an inclination of willingness on good ground, to aid them in setting forward religion, and keeping out a foreign power. Cecill may now see Croft's view confirmed, that without Arran, they can lay no foundation; but these are too great matters to advise in. Unless the French King's death delay preparations, the Protestants are in great peril by tracting time, as he warned them before. Begs the greater care for Berwick. Berwick. Signed: Jamys Croft.

1½ pp. Mostly in cipher, deciphered. Addressed. Indorsed (by Cecill).

500. Articles Agreed with the Protestants. [July 23.]

"Articles accordez avec les Protestans descosse le xxiij^me Juillet 1559."

1. They shall (except the inhabitants of Lislebourg (fn. 13) ) depart as early to-morrow morning as the Queen Regent pleases.

2. They shall deliver all the "coings" for money to those in charge for the said lady; also the palace at Holyrood Abbey to the "concierge," or other having her authority, in the same state as received; and before leaving the town, entering as hostages for these 2 articles the lords of Rufven and Petalro.

3. They shall obey their King and Queen, and Queen Regent, and the laws, as before this trouble, &c., except as to religion as after specified.

4. They shall not molest churchmen in their persons, or benefices, which these shall enjoy and freely dispose of till 10 January next.

5. They shall use no force or violence to churches and monasteries, which shall remain as at present till said 10^th January.

6. Edinburgh shall choose and use its own form of religion; the inhabitants enjoying liberty of conscience till the said day.

7. The Queen Regent shall not molest the Protestant preachers in their bodies, lands, &c., nor suffer the clergy having spiritual or temporal jurisdiction, to trouble them, till said day. Each one may live in private according to his conscience.

1½ pp. French. Contemporary copy. Indorsed.

501. Percy to Cecill. [July 23.]

I have received answer from M^r Knox by word of mouth, and as it appears Whytlaw is instructed in all things that he purposed to come up for, I think this his journey is at an end. I conveyed a letter to the Lord Prior, &c., by your order (as Sir James Croft told us) and inclose their answer. As my letter in my own hand was unsigned, so is the answer written by the Lord Prior. There should have been a day of meeting at Lady Kirk last Monday for border redress, but Lord Hume writes to defer it, and my neighbours tell me all Merse and Tevedale go to the Dowager [Dyogre] to-morrow, and the Congregation towards Haddington, with speed. I have not yet received Tynemouth Castle as the Queen's letters ordered, by reason of these affairs, the treasurer's and your letters, which kept me here. But make my excuse if needed, and to-morrow I shall set forward and obey her majesty. Norham Castle. Signed: Henry Percy.

1 p. A few words in cipher, deciphered by Cecill. Addressed. Indorsed.

502. Croft to Cecill. [July 24.]

Of the sentence which you wrote in Master Lee's letter, I find no suspicion: but all my letters from Court on great matters, remain in my own hand, and my secretary writes mine in cipher, as I name the letters, without knowing what he writes. I doubt the Bishop of Durham will resign his office on coming to Court. It were good to advise on disposing Norham for service of these Borders. I have used the contents of your letter received yesterday as ordered. Berwick. Signed: Jamys Croft.

½ p. Mostly in cipher, deciphered by Cecill. Addressed. Indorsed.

503. Proclamation by the Protestant lords. Elizabeth. [July 25. 1559.]

At Edinburgh 25^th July 1559.

The lords of Congregation and Secret Council, being about to leave the town "upon conpromitt" betwixt them and the lords sent from the Queen under these heads, viz., (1) That no idolatry be erected where already suppressed, (2) that no members of congregation shall be troubled for religion or other cause depending therein, in body, lands, or goods, (3) that their ministers shall preach, minister sacraments publicly and privately, without hindrance, and (4) that no bands of soldiers, French or Scots, shall remain in Edinburgh—hereby notify to their brethren there, that if any of the said points are broken, they will aid and assist the sufferers on their honours as they shall answer to the Eternal God.

Proclaimed by voice of trumpet at the Market Cross.

¾ p. Contemporary copy in Scottish hand. Indorsed (by Cecill).

504. Croft to Cecill. [July 26. 1559.]

The Regent hearing that the Congregation lying at Edinburgh had begun to "scale," sent with great diligence the Duke and Monsieur Dosel, with as I think about 1200 Frenchmen, the Duke and his friends being "toward" 500 men. A very few of the lords and gentlemen of the Merse and Tevedale were with them. On coming near Edinburgh on Monday, the Protestants put themselves "in battaylle" without the town above Holyroodhouse, and so did the French. But both sides on communicating, took a respite for 3 days—each side meantime strengthening itself. The Congregation stand firmly that "religion goo forwarde" and the French be expulsed. The latter are in Leith, and on the 28^th the Regent marches from Dunbar, guarded by one "ensigne" of Frenchmen lying there, and another ensign which lay at Aymouth, and is marching this day to Dunbar. They have asked me to send and view Aymouth before they leave. I knew of the French going to Edinburgh, but delayed advertising till I understood their object. Till the 3 days are past, there is little to say. Berwick. Signed: Jamys Croft.

1½ pp. Addressed. Indorsed.

505. Croft to Cecill. [July 26. 1559.]

I have presently received the inclosed from Kyrkcaldy, who has now declared himself plainly, and is with the Protestants. The Regent suspected him for speaking with Master Percy and me. You may consider his letter, with the opinion in mine of the 22^d instant. Berwick. Signed: Jamys Croft.

½ p. Partly cipher, deciphered. Addressed. Indorsed (by Cecill): "With the newes of the Composition."

Inclosed in the same:—

(Kyrkcaldy to Croft.)

On Monday 23^d of July the Queen and lords of Congregation are agreed thus. The armies being in sight between Edinburgh and Leith, our adversaries sent mediators, desiring us to agree and cease blood shedding, if we would fulfil what we professed. "Me lordes" moved by these offers, were content to commune, and after long talk, it is appointed thus. [Here follow the conditions of the articles No. 500] We have delivered the printing "yrnnes" of the coin, which we took, as the money was corrupted against law. We believe never a word of these promises will be kept on her side, and have taken the Duke, Huntly and the rest of her nobility, bound to performance, with condition if she breaks any point, they shall renounce her "obeysance" and join with us. Meantime we keep our forces together in Fife, Angus, Strathern and the "Westland," and doubt not to become stronger, for the hearts of the whole "communalties" are with us. To conclude, if it had not been for some noble men who had promised to join us, "we hade not appoontted with the Quene at this tym." Henceforward send to the laird of Ormyston who will see all safely conveyed to me. Edinburgh, 24^th July. Signed: "Youris at power." ["W. Kyrkcaldy" has been written, but obliterated by the receiver in darker ink.]

2 pp. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed (by Cecill).

506. Cecill to Argyll, Glencairn, &c. [July 28.]

Acknowledging their letters of 19^th to the Queen and to himself "a parte," brought by the bearer on the 26^th. While sympathising with their objects (1) against idolatry (2) for liberty—doubts whether all sorts of men may so do, or some only? in the latter case who may? Will not determine this, but moves it for their consideration. Doubts if they are taking the right way against the papist kirkmen, who are wise in their generation, bold and rich, but if touched with fear, are the greatest cowards. He likes no spoil, but to see good things put to good uses, as enriching the Crown, help of the young nobility, maintenance of ministry, learning in schools, &c.; knows no better example hereof than Denmark. Thinks them negligent against their enemy—not expelling the French—who burn their own daily, and will not spare Scotland. What may the Duke expect, whose eldest son was forced to flee for his life to Geneva? and his second, lord David, cruelly imprisoned by Monsieur Chevigny one chosen to oppress the Scots; also his duchy of Chastelherault seized by the Crown? While the young Queen swears to destroy all the house of Hamilton, yet the "old Regent" can enchant the Duke's ears to hear nothing. God open his heart and prevent his being the "slawghter man" of his own family! England is not so void of wit and zeal to God as not to favour the lords' purposes, but war is a matter of weight, not to be entered on unforeseen or unprovided for. Has committed much credit to the bearer, whose fidelity he likes well.

4½ pp. Holograph draft by Cecill, carefully corrected. Indorsed (by him): "28 Julij" 1559. "Cop. of my lettre to the Erles of Argile, Glencarne, Lord Prior St. Andr., lordes Boyde, Ucheltrey."

507. The Privy Council to the lords of the Congregation. [July 28.]

Having seen their letters "by this bringer," and heard from Sir William Cecill his further advertisement, express good will and devotion towards their maintenance of God's glory, and liberty from captivity of strangers, and will them not to think such godly and honorable enterprises shall be neglected, but their hope that "this famous He" may be conjoined in hearts as it is in continent with one sea, uniformity of language, manners and conditions. Refer them to letters written by Cecill, and wish them all such comfort as they themselves would have in like case. Otford. Signed: Penbroke, F. Bedford, Wm. Northt' (Northampton), W. Howard.

½ p. Indorsed (by Cecill): "28 Julij 1559 lettre of the Counsell to the lordes of Scotland. Not sent."

(1) Draft of the same.

1 p. Holograph of Cecill. Indorsed: "27 Julij 1559. The lordis lettres to the lordes of Scotland."

508. Cecill to Croft. [July 29.]

Yesterday I dispatched Whytlaw lacking the best of our answer, by reason of their cold proceedings against the French, and also I looked daily for Knox's coming hither—which I now hear is delayed till Whytlaw's return. Ye shall give good ear to the Queen's dealing with Lord Hume, and likewise keep the Protestants, neither by her persuasion, or lack of comfort here, from any accord with the French, which would be to their own ruin and our peril. As ye see cause, assure them of our help before the time of their danger, and they shall shortly hear of some money for a beginning, but in this is meant such proceeding as the Queen shall not be therewith in honour committed.

This day I hear of 22 sail provided at Newhaven in France, 4 only men of war, for 2000 men. Their captains are gone post to Court, to return the last of this month, but their men will scarce be ready. Two ships are ready to sail in advance to warn the Regent of the rest. I look hourly to hear from France, since the King of Navarre's coming, how the house of Guise and he will part the government. I think it necessary my lord of Northumberland have his wardenry in some readiness to aid that piece. (fn. 14) Though he is not uncareful, I must also show my care. Let the treasurer certify the state of his office and debts there, very uncertain to me for the extraordinary expense of these works.

2 pp. Fair copy, underlined in parts as if indicating cipher. Indorsed (by Cecill): "29 Julij" 1559. Cop. of my lettre to Sir James Croftes."

509. Arms of Mary Queen of Scots, &c. [July 1559.] Cott. Calig. B. x. fol. 17.

A shield in colours, 4 grand quarters: I. 1^st and 4^th France, 2 and 3 a dolphin; II. Scotland impaling France and England quarterly; III. Scotland; IV. France and England quarterly impaling Scotland. In pretence, France in chief, England in base dimidiated (?) An imperial crown over shield.

In compartment at foot.— "The armes of Marie Quene Dolphines of France, the nobillest ladie in earth, for till advance off Scotland quene, and of Ingland, also off Ireland, als God haith providit so."

Broad sheet. Initialed: "Armes of Scotland and England, July 1559, sent out of Franc." Indorsed (by Cecill): "the fals armes of Scotland, France, England, Julij 1559."