Elizabeth: May 1565

Calendar of State Papers, Scotland: Volume 2, 1563-69. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1900.

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'Elizabeth: May 1565', in Calendar of State Papers, Scotland: Volume 2, 1563-69, (London, 1900) pp. 150-171. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/scotland/vol2/pp150-171 [accessed 24 March 2024]

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In this section

172. Determination of the Privy Council. [May 1.]

The Queen's Majesty, finding by the Laird of Lethington, the intention of his mistress her good sister the Queen of Scots, to marry Lord Darnley, which she thinks very strange: has communicated the same to her Council, who having advised thereon, with one assent think it would be unmeet, unprofitable and perilous to the sincere amity between the Queens and their realms, and move her Majesty not to accord thereto, but offer her said sister "a free election of any other of the nobility ether in this wholl realme or ile, or in any other place, being sortable for hir estate, and agreable to both the realms." Primo Maij 1565 anno 7 Elizab. Regine. Winchester, Norffolk, Penbroke, Edward Derby, E. Clynton, W. Howard, E. Rogers, F. Knollys, W. Cecill, Amb. Cave, Willm Petre, John Masone, Ry. Sakevyle.

(fn. 1) "Nota.—This is the copy of the paper delyvered to Sir N. Throkmorton."

4 pp. Fair copy corrected by Cecil. Indorsed (by him): ". . . A determination of the Pryve Counsell uppon the mariadg for the Q. of Scottes, ag. the L. Darlys mariadg." Cecil has also copied the Council's names in facsimile.

(1) Another copy of the same.

2 pp. In another clerk's hand. Indorsed. Much mutilated.

173. Instructions to Throckmorton. [May 2.]

It is superfluous to repeat in writing Lethington's message to us: but you shall let "that Quene" understand that "to this matter moved for the Lord Darnly," we do simply mislike it, as a matter dangerous to the common amity, "and presently a vehement occasion to move us (nor without greif) to withdrawe and alter our inward satled affection from hir our good sistar." You shall say that this our judgment is not grounded on any sudden offence, but on good deliberation, and the advice of our nobility and council: and we would that she consulted her good councillors, and not hazard the fruit of our former amity by so "sodden and unadvised an acte as this appeareth to be, wherof we are sory to heare so much for the soddennes as we doo"!

And that she shall not think we mean to stay her from marriage ("wherunto we do allowe hir inclination how so ever we ourselves have hitherto forboren) we are content to permitt to hir a full liberty" to consider of all the rest of our nobility, "sortable for that purpose," except Lord Darnley, and shall be well content with any; and if her choice be of some speciall person "in our realme" agreeable to our mind, we will employ our whole power to procure "that the same shall prove as honorable as this cold be, if not rather more," and more profitable to her and her realm.

We have motioned this to Lethington not only generally but particularly—but find him so "tyed" to his message for Darnley, that he has no power to treat otherwise. Therefore you shall expressly declare to "that Quene" our wish that she send some persons hither with sufficient authority; and "we will not spend long tyme unproffitably, but will roundly, frendly, and as effectually as we can, devise and conclude for some more meter mariadg within our realme or other place, for hir, than this is."

And if she objects that this our offer is "very generall," you may say it cannot for many respects be "other," yet a short conference of "discret" ministers will soon make it "in effect spetiall," and some issue must needs follow. If she disallows "to have it here with us," we shall send some to our frontier, or to her Court, "rather than she shall find lack in us."

As from Lethington's speech it appears to be doubted if "our whole" Council disapprove this matter, you shall have with you their resolution thereon in writing, whereto they have set their hands: and may say truly that "others of our nobility, having not voyce" in our privy council, are of the same mind—"not one knowne to be of the contrary." You shall "shew" the same as you see cause, "and bring it back to be restored to our said counsellors without deliveryng any coppy thereof to any person, as a thing not used to be delivered in writing out of our realme." You shall use your discretion in diminishing or amplifying these our instructions, and in your whole negotiation make our servant Thomas Randolph privy, as one that has known all that has passed herein, and can well inform you of "the humors of all sortes there." If our cousin of Bedford be at Berwick on your arrival, you shall in our name require him to remain till your return, or our pleasure otherwise.

(fn. 2) If you see the Queen inclined to forbear this marriage and hearken to some other, you shall declare that "as ther is no publick determination made who in right shall succede us and our children, if God shall gyve us any, and she may be well assured without our consent no certenty will be declared therof with authorite, duryng our liff": it follows therefore unless we shall be drawn by some special motive of affection or profit, "we will never be brought to permitt any such declaration to take place; and this we theruppon conclude, that only with the Erle of Lecester we can be content to yeld herunto, and with none els. And why we will accord to none els, she cannot be ignorant what conceptes of mynd doo depend and contynually follow upon the stabilishyng of a second person for a kyngdom! And yet such is the affection we beare to the vertues of the Erle of Lecester, as we can thynk ourselves as well content with hym to match with a second person, as though he wer our naturall born sonne! and to bryng it to pass that both we may be herwith quiet, and she our sister made to us as assured as our doughter, this way yow may say we have only found fesible and none els: first hir mynd to be unfaynedly knowen whyther she can forbeare from this match with the Lord Darly? Next hir right to be well considered, and that perceaved by us to be injustice as she supposeth: than can we be content to bestow uppon hir with the Erle of Lecester our full contentation with all our power to have hir allowed as our next heyre, with such resonable and honorable conditions, as may be devised to preserve the estate of ourselves and our children in quiettnes and suerty, and such also as shall be agreable to the commen and mutuall commodity of both our contrees."

And if you see that neither she nor her council "shall tast of this our free offerr:" you shall say (1) with Darnley we cannot grant our good will, (2) with Leicester she may see how to have it, and (3) we can assent to her marriage with any other than Darnley "with more or less mesure" of good will. But only with Leicester, we mean to inquire judge or publish her title: and this is "the bottom of our mynd" herein at present.

13 pp. Fair copy corrected by Cecil, and the last two pages wholly drafted and very carefully corrected by him. Indorsed (by him):" 2 May 1565, the first instructions for Sir Nich. Throkmorton sent into Scotland."

174. Randolph to Cecil. [May 3.]

On Tuesday night (fn. 3) Murray and Argyll came to this town to keep this day of law against Bothwell, who appeared not, nor is it known for certain what is become of him, though common report is that he embarked at North Berwick. The company that came in favour of Murray are esteemed 5000 or 6000: more also had come, but were stayed by the Queen, "who hathe shewed her self nowe of late to myslyke of my lord of Murray, that so ernestlye pursuethe hym, and will not gyve his advise to tayke the lyke advantage upon some other whome she bearethe smale affection unto." Herein they have proceeded thus far. On Wednesday he (fn. 4) was called, and for lack of appearance "was condemend in the somme," but farther the Queen would not the Justice Clerk should proceed—which occasions such talk against her for bearing with such men in her own cause, as it passes all measure. Such discontent, large talk, and open speech I never heard in any nation, and for myself see not but it must burst out in great mischief—for she is suspected of many of her nobles, and her people discontented for her religion, this match a making without advice, and other as evil things they suspect, besides her unprincely behaviour in many of her doings, that they will shortly either have it reformed, or openly signify that what she has taken in hand tends to her own destruction and overthrow of tranquillity of her realm—and must be helped by sharper means. They are not one or two, nor are they meanest that speak it, nor the unlikeliest to execute it.

The speech of this marriage to any of them, is so contrary to their minds, that they think their nation dishonoured, the Queen shamed, and country undone. A greater plague to herself and them there can not be, "a greater benefite to the Quenes majestie coulde not have chanced," than to see this dishonour fall upon her, and her so matched where she shall be ever assured that she can never attain to what she so earnestly looked for, and without it would accord to nothing. She is now in utter contempt of her people, and so far in doubt of them herself, that without speedy redress, "worce is to be feared." Many grievous and sore words have of late escaped her against the Duke, she mortally hates Argyll, and so far suspects Murray that not many days since, she said, she saw "that he wolde sette the crowne upon his owne heade." How these men need look to themselves, your honour sees. It is come to this point, that Murray and Argyll will at no time be in Court together, that if need be, one may relieve or support the other. The Duke lives at home, and thinks himself happy if he may die in his bed. The preachers look daily to lose their lives, or to be commanded to silence, as already "she" hath done "one Mr Thomas Dromonde a godlye and lerned yonge man that preached at Dombleane."

With Argyll, came to town Lord David the Duke's son and most part of the Duke's friends. Bands and promises were made between the Duke and Murray, that nothing shall be attempted against each other, but defended to the uttermost. Glencairn, having been required by Lennox to do the like, has refused and joined the Duke. Morton was absent, and I have heard no man worse spoken of. He is now in hope "my Ladies grace" will give over her right of Angus, and so he will become friend to that side. In this Lethington labours not much to his own "prayse." Ruthven his chief friend, is wholly theirs and chief councillor among them. Suspicions arise on every side, partly against myself, for I was lately at the West Border—thought practising with the Master of Maxwell.

Murray was willed not to have to do with me, and when he said he must speak well of me: 'Well,' sayth she, 'yf you will, lett not Argile have to do with hym.' For all that, I have supped with Murray twice and Argyle remained an hour at my lodging with Lord David; he mislikes all. Maxwell leaves not my company, but wiser than many, laments the state of his country and is ashamed of it. The country is broken—daily slaughter between Scotts and Elliots—stealing on all hands—justice no where. Fowler came as I wrote on Saturday night late—communed long that night with the Queen and his "lordes." He brought her grace a letter of 5 or 6 sheets of paper in cipher from Lethington. Thus much is known that the Queen's majesty utterly mislikes the matter—what else is in it, few I believe shall know—part was shown to Murray, the rest was undeciphered when he left her grace. Fowler has said the Queen's majesty openly said she had no liking of it; if it took effect the Duke should be put down in a month, and all good Protestants driven out of the country, which she would not suffer. These words are in many men's mouths—glad to hear it, and believe it better because he reports it. Through this and somewhat else that I have spoken, many are now well satisfied that the Queen's majesty did not send him hither for any such purpose as shall now undoubtedly take effect. "Whatsoever maye be borne in hande, that yt shall no farther then the Quene majestie wyll is, and dothe assente, I knowe yt all reddie paste that poynte." It may be said that Murray was the doer and contriver hereof, which I know to be otherwise; for if so he would not have refused to be present at the assurance and contract making. I know much more than this, but I trust it may suffice you. What practices are in hand, or how long it has been "a bruinge" I know not, but the father has said he is sure of the greatest part in England, and the King of Spain will be his friend. If this be their "fetche" your honour knows it is time to look about you.

It is feared that her majesty will over soon allow it, and over hastily accord to this Queen's desire: at least some open show of her discontentment is wished. Lethington is suspected to favour Darnley more than he would seem, and yet I assure you he is scarcely trusted amongst them, and of late "dyspytus" words spoken against him, on certain words he wrote to Murray "that he sholde perswade the Quene to mayke no haste in the matter, but keape yt in the staye yt was when he lefte yt." The chief dealers in these matters are "David Riccio the Italian, Mingo vallet de chamber, Atholl and Ruthen, whome I sholde have named firste." Thus your honour sees how things are—such pride, excess in vanities, proud looks and despiteful words, and so poor a purse I never heard of. Lennox is now quite without money: he borrowed 500 crowns of Lethington and has scarcely what will pay for his horse meat! If he gets no more from thence, you shall see him shortly put to his shifts. His men are bolder and saucier with the Queen's self and many noble men, than I ever thought could have been borne; divers resort to the mass, and glory in their doings. So much pride both in the father and the son that there is almost no society or "compagnionrie" amongst them. My young lord being sick in bed, has already "bosted" the Duke "to knocke his pate when he is hole"! These things breed envy and at other times have not been borne at greater men's hands than his! What is like to come hereof I leave to your judgment. I write these things with more sorrow and grief of mind, than in any passion or further affection to any part, than that I am desirous that the work wherein I have been "a laborer all moste vj yeres, with care sorrow and greater burdayne than I have byne hable to beare," viz. to maintain amity between my native country and this, should not now be overthrown and destroyed; nor that the good will the Queen my mistress has through her just deserts gotten among this people, should here take an end when most desired and looked for! Counsel is now more worth than men or money; "a worde habler to feare us, then an hoste of men to conquer us." I need say no more, knowing with whom I have to do, and yet I assure you I have said much less than is looked I should write, according to the trust put in me. Wherefore having discharged my duty, and satisfied the request and most humble suit "of her majesties poore trobled and afflicted frendes here, I tayke my self blameles and leave all matters to be judged of accordinge to her hyghenes wysdom," with your honour's good advice.

This day Thursday, the chief of the Protestants here with the ministers assembled in the church: "consultation was had, what order myght be put unto that confusion that was, that everie man myght do and saye what he wolde withowte reproffe, agaynste Godes glorie and his worde"? Their deliberation contained 3 heads: (1) how to remove idolatry out of the realm, "contayninge in that as well the Quenes cappell, as other," (2) that her own laws might be put in execution without offence: (3) that liberty might be granted to such as are admitted to preach "the trewe worde of God." After long reasoning, it was determined to put these in writing, and certain appointed as messengers for the rest.

My chief desire in going to Carlisle was to return by the Master of Maxwell's, and see the works he has in hand. In Annan town he has builded a fair tower, able to receive above 100 persons "at ease," and 40 or 50 horses. From the sea into the land, he has cast a trench of good breadth a mile long or more, with only three ways to enter, that saves a great part of the country from thieves and sudden "roodes." Within two miles of it he "byldethe" two other forts—the one great—the other a watch tower of great height; in that he has a bell to warn the country at need, and beside the same a "becone." In this shall be continual watch; in the other 24 horsemen to follow and ride on all occasions. There is also another trench cast down to a moss side, of great length and breadth, that it is not possible for any horseman to come out of England to his bounds, but must enter at some of these straits, and not pass forth except he be seen and known. Thus in peace he can keep his own—in war no man can commit a sudden attempt on him, and he thinks his cost and travail well bestowed. He is well disposed to peace, and has promised to continue: and for justice I would the other wardens were like him. In war I "dowte" him more than any of the rest. I leave troubling you, only awaiting some advice. All men here repair homeward to-morrow, Murray to Court: in a day after I will follow, and see what countenance will now be made to me.

One from Lethington arrived to-day and passed strait to Court without speaking with Murray, but told a friend that Lethington will be home within eight days, and Sir Nicolas Throckmorton shall shortly be here.

I most humbly desire your remembrance of my former suit. My charges are far above my allowance. Edinburgh. "Late." Signed: Tho. Randolphe.

7 pp. Holograph, also address. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk).

175. Randolph to Cecil. [May 8.]

As I wrote in my last. Murray departed from this town towards Stirling on Friday last. On Saturday I purposed following him, but by his advice remained here till I heard from him again, to have more liberty to write or talk with any than I could have at Stirling—but specially to confer with Lethington or any other from England "before he came to the Courte." Now to let you understand things: Murray was never more made of "then he was for the fyrste nyghte by the Quene and bothe the lordes—so myche that he had no lykinge therof hymself." Next day, the Queen being in Darnley's chamber, shews him a writing to this effect:— "that he sholde promes to allowe, graunte and consente unto her mariage with the lord Darlye, and by all meanes that lyethe in hys power, fortifie and set forwarde the same as in anye wyse by her he sholde be commanded and required, as he wolde shewe hym self her moste obbediente subjecte, and awoide her hyghe dyspleasure." This bill suddenly offered to him, he desired to take time to advise. "That was denied hym, and he ernestlye pressed presently to setto hys hande, the sonner, for that maynie had graunted (as she saide) ther unto, which wolde the willinglyer do yt by hys example. He used for his defence the dyshonour that yt sholde be unto her that waye to seeke yt; what the worlde all reddie sayde, and what other princes wolde judge of her hastie doynges—in speciall the Quenes majestie, with whome presentlye her graces embassador was and from whome she dyd attende shortlye somme answer, perchance suche one as maye be to her contentemente. Moste of all, and above all other, he wolde be loothe to consente to the mariage of anye suche one of whome ther was so lyttle hope that he wolde be a favorer or setter forthe of Chrystes trewe religion, which was the thynge most to be desyred—and in hym so fewe tokens that anye good wolde be done, who hytherto had shewed hym self rather an ennemie than a preferrer of the same. Here upon ther rose betwene them greate altercation: she gave hym maynie sore wordes; he answerde with as greate humilitie and humblenes. Nothynge at hys hande coulde be optayned nor hytherto the byll subscribed." He remains in displeasure, and somewhat doubts what may be imagined or intended against him, and is now thought to be led altogether by England—so much that it was said—"yt was knowne from whens he had that lesson." Before Lethington returns he will assent to nothing to further their desires, and therefore I am requested to write to Lethington to hasten hither, for now all matters frame unhappily here, to the discontent of all honest men.

To have like consent of all or most part of the other noblemen, divers of the greatest are sent for to be at Stirling on Monday next (fn. 5); and this day the Justice Clerk has been with the Duke to persuade him to be there and accord to this marriage. I know not his answer—you shall look for it by next.

The Queen likes not that Lethington should shortly return; "but moste of all she wyll not that anye man sholde come from the Quenes majestie before yt be concluded and accorded unto by her nobilitie, that she maye have their handes to shewe that yt is done by their consente." Therefore Beton is sent to stay Lethington; "and whether thys be done by his consente or not, I wyll not judge, what so ever other thynke, nor yet wyll I beleve that he is a man of that kynde of dealinge." I see I shall "wante no matter frome daye to daye"; but how to govern myself I know not, nor have of long time heard from your honour. If within two days, Lethington come not, and with him Sir Nicolas as he wrote, "I wyll to the Courte whear nowe I knowe my whole credit is loste, as also all theirs that favour my cawse." These times grow so dangerous, that I see it is time, and have good warning, to look to myself. "The greateste wante I have your honour knowethe"; but for no adventure shall her Majesty's service be neglected. Edinburgh, ... "late in the nyghte." Signed: Tho. Randolphe.

I must be excused to my Lord of Leicester, my time serves not—and I am sure your honour will make him privy.

The Elliots, 300 in company, on Friday last burned and spoiled 10 miles about the Laird of "Baughclouches" land—slew many men, some women and children.

3 pp. Holograph, also address. Indorsed (by Cecil).

176. Randolph to Cecil. [May 11.]

I understand by your honour's letter received by my servant, that the Queen's pleasure is that Sir Nicolas Throckmorton shall shortly be here, with full commission to treat with this Queen of all matters touching marriage with Lord Darnley. "What hope so ever her majestie maye be put in, or what so ever is saide, that yt shall no farther procede then her majestie will allowe therof," I am assured that there is more secretly passed between "them" than willingly they will be known of: which I leave rather to you to think than that I would put it in writing. It pleases her grace to advance him to the highest degrees she can call him to; as on Monday (fn. 6) to create him Lord of Armenacke, upon Tuesday Earl of Rosse and Duke of Rosaye [Rothsay], which are the three chief honours of her patrimony, and never before given to any but the king's own sons. Rosse and Armenacke lie between Murray and Sutherland in the North, and "Rosaye" the chief town in the isle of Butte in the West seas, not far from Arrayne. To this solemnity are assembled the chief estates of this realm to have their full consents as well to the marriage as to these grants, which never yet were given from the Crown. There are divers judgments and opinions hereupon, but I believe all will go for a while as she would have it. To be against her marriage they can not, to let her give of her own, I know not who will go about to "let" it. If they can obtain some more assured order for the establishment of religion, they will think themselves to have sped well, and this I believe will be the end. The fear this Queen conceived that the calling the father and son to England should hinder her determination, caused the more haste to set these matters forward. Besides Argyll (though written for and his letter not yet delivered) I know not who of the noblemen will be absent. To withstand any thing she desires, I know not who has the heart or courage, "savinge he of whome ther is all reddie over greate suspicion that in hys mynde he is sore agaynste yt." It is spoken that some other shall be called to greater honour—as the Lord Robert, earl of Arcknaye [Orkney], Lord Ersken, earl of Marre which he claims by succession. Some others it is said shall be made lords and knights, whom I name not. Whether Sir Nicolas shall "strayte" to Court, or be desired to tarry here, I rather fear, than can write for certain. If she wills him to tarry, it will be that she wishes all matters determined before he come there.

It may please you to know for certain, that James MacConnel assisting his brother "Carlebo" (fn. 7) against O'Neil, is taken prisoner, and many of his men slain. Some say both his brothers are dead, and that he is a prisoner I know from "his owne wyf" with whom I spoke to-day. I will inquire further, but hereby Argyll shall want a good friend at need. How the Scotts and Elliots speed, I care little which has the better. Hitherto the Scotts have the worst, and the others daily burn and spoil. If her majesty care to be cumbered with such people, I can get her grace as many as she please, with a strong house or two. There was within these four days in this town so joyful tidings, that had they been true, Scotland would be happy for ever. The bruit was that the occasion of this Assembly was the Queen was determined to leave the mass and confirm all the orders for establishing Christ's religion. So many said the "aulter" in her chapel was pulled down, that few in the town did not believe it. Coals were got to make bonfires, whole hogsheads of wine should have been in the streets to drink who would for joy, but nothing in the end was found more false. Edinburgh. Signed: Tho. Randolphe.

pp. Holograph, also address. Indorsed (by Cecil).

177. Maitland to Leicester. [May 11.]

The next day after I left London, a gentleman of the Queen my mistress met me nigh Newark with a new commission and commandment for me to turn back to Court. "Nottheles" finding the instruction not agreeable to my own opinion, I kept my course hitherward, of purpose rather to speak my mind, than commit it to a letter which cannot reply. I doubt whether her majesty will take it amiss or no—but trust she will not think the worse of me when she shall know what good reason moved me. As matters fall out, your lordship is like enough to be advertised either by me or others.

I am sorry not so much for myself as for my lord of Murray, that the Queen's majesty's letter to Sir Henry Percy in the Master of Marischal's matter, at my request, has served to so small purpose, for I understand that no "Scottisman his band" will suffice to set him at liberty. I pray you let her majesty understand so much. I would have been glad he had found more favour for Murray's sake, whose uprightness every way deserves to be well thought of. I meant no hindrance to Sir Henry Percy, but only that Murray might have been gratified in a reasonable matter, "and off cours" upon the frontiers, yet without Sir Henry's prejudice. His motive I cannot judge, for he would not give the answer to my messenger, but said he would certify the Queen's majesty herself. If it be mistrust, I am sure such Scottishmen might have been "pykit out," that for a greater matter than the Master's ransom, would not put their honour in jeopardy. Well, the good gentleman must patiently abide the pleasure of his keeper. I trouble you no longer with this "fascheux discours," but pray I may always remain in your good grace. Berwick. Signed: W. Maitland.

pp. Holograph, also address. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk).

178. Throckmorton to Leicester and Cecil. [May 11.]

Lethington and I arrived here "thaleaventhe of this monethe, wher Mr Marescall receyved us with fyt enterteynment and shoes," (fn. 8) meet for friends and foes and for the governor of a town of war. Lethington was met by the laird of Langton and other friends to the number of 40 horse. I learn that on Monday the 14th, there shall be a great assembly of the nobility and gentlemen at Stirling, to feel and try their devotions touching this marriage. I understand that the matter is very earnestly minded and prosecuted by this Queen, and with such vehemency as she would be very loth to be dissuaded from it. The earnestness appearing therein doth rather move me "to thynke yt undissoluble than otherwyse": but when I consider not assure my selfe that suche qualetyes wyll brynge forthe and contynewe suche fructes and effectes, as the love and usage that is bestowed on the Lord Derlynge dothe shewe." I hear that she means to send an express man to her uncles and kinsfolk in France, with such declaration of the forwardness of this matter, as they may well think there is no place left for other advice, neither that she can or will be persuaded to take any other in marriage. John Beaton (who met Lethington betwixt Newark and "Grauntam") brought him commission from his mistress to return and declare to the Queen's majesty, that since she had been "so longe trayned with fayre speche and in thende begyled of her expectacion, she did mynd with thadvyce of thestates of her owne realme, to use her owne choyse in marryage, and to take suche a one as in her opynyon should be fyt for her, and that as thynges fell forthe, she would no longer be fed with Yea and Naye, and to depend apon so uncerteyne dealynge." It appears by this dispatch that she takes very grievously the former "handlynge" of her marriage. "I could wyshe that the Quenes majestie, you, and my lord of Leycestre had sene the pennynge of the mattre of her owne hande, wherof I gat a sight: you would have said ther had neyther wanted eloquence, dispyte, anger, love, nor passyon." Lethington had also commission after his charge done in England, to repair to France and there make the King and State allow her choice, and the rather to move him to these "legacions," she sent him a bill of credit to the receivers of her dowry there, to disburse what sums of money he would ask, and to spare for no cost. And the rather to incite him to make the voyage, "she did wryte hym the moost favorable and gentle lettre with her owne hande that ever Quene did wryte to her servaunte, not leavynge behynde large promysses enowe of hys benefyte and greatnes in tyme to come." Yet notwithstanding this strait charge and great "enchauntment," he would neither return to London nor yet to France, but came hastily after me, overtook me at Alnwick, whence we came hither, and mind to depart on 12th to Edinburgh. "Sir," while in mind to end, I received the enclosed letter from Randolph, whereby you may see the haste made of this "disordrelye" marriage! I made Lethington privy, for he knew nothing thereof. I never saw him in so great perplexity nor passion, and would have little believed "that for anye mattre he could have so ben moved; so as therbye I doe perceyve he is as lytle affected to this marryage as anye other." I am not like to have audience so soon as I wish. Among other commissions to Lethington, he was straitly enjoined by all means to stay me coming to Scotland—"and contrarye to that, he wyll not goe without me!"

The Queen's Majesty's Council in the North think for respects of great consequence, that the Earl of Northumberland be stayed "ther above," and not suffered to repair to the North—and that Sir Richard Cholmeley be "sent downe beyng examyned ther what intellygence he hath of theys matters"? The said Council will write as to the rest of that "factyon." Berwick. Signed: Yours to use and command, N. Throkmorton.

P.S.—The papists here begin to rouse themselves, and the unruly people of Liddesdale to live insolently and commit many disorders. I have procured Lethington to write with speed to Murray to stay "this hastye creacion towardes": and done the same to Randolph, and to employ the best means he has. Lethington wishes that "I had commissyon to threatten thys Quene with denuncyacion of warre in case she wyll thus proceede in marryage with the Quenes majesties rebelles, as the last refuge to staye her from this undvysed acte."

pp. Addressed (to Leicester as K. G., and to Cecil). Indorsed (by latter).

Inclosed in the same.

(Randolph to Throckmorton.)

By the inclosed you see what haste we make to that "which we wolde be at." Seeing you cannot be at this "creation," I trust we shall both be at the marriage, though I conjecture we may be both well spared. Send this on to Mr Secretary, or whom you please, with diligence. I do what I can to stay this haste, but we are both like to fail. I wrote to Lethington to speed him hither and trust my letter met him by the way. Edinburgh. This Thursday at night 10th May 1565. Signed: Tho. Randolphe.

1 p. Holograph, also address. Foot of leaf torn off.

179. Maitland to Cecil. [May 11.]

Two days before I left the Court, I sent by a special messenger the Queen's majesty's letter written to Sir Henry Percy in favour of the Master of Marischal—who would give no answer, but said he would answer himself to the Queen. Since he flatly refuses to let him go on any Scotsman's band, the letter has been to little purpose.

[The remainder similar to his letter to Leicester: adding, if men are not temperate in their demands, they should be "reducit ad arbitrium boni viri."] Berwick. Signed: W. Maitland.

1 p. Holograph, also address. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk).

180. Throckmorton to Leicester and Cecil. [May 12.]

"Sir," Lethington is much grieved at Sir Henry Percy's refusal to "dismysse" the Master of Marischal notwithstanding the Queen's pleasure to the contrary signified by you—except on Englishmen's bonds, which Lethington takes but for an evasion, and desires me to commend the matter to you both—not so much to pleasure the prisoner and his kin, as for his own "poore credyt," and chiefly to satisfy Murray, whom it is very meet to gratify at this time. For this matter I stayed my packet till the 12th when I left Berwick, and the same morning Lethington by James Menyes Scottishman, received a letter from the Queen his mistress, saying (fn. 9) that she with consent of 12 or 13 nobles, minds to create on Sunday next (fn. 10) the lord "Derleyn" earl of Rosse, "and wyll make a band to obey the Quene and hym in thys theyr mariadge. That symple sowle the Duke dothe yeld to all, with a promysyd wrytyn condycion to enjoy hys owne." Morton and Justice Clerk are the doers. Murray will in no wise be conformable: he will have the Queen leave the mass and quit all popery, or he will never agree. She and Darnley will no wise agree thereto. You may guess what that may mean? Argyll has refused to come to this convention, though sent for by the Queen. He passed by the Court and would not see her. She has given strait order to have "spiall" on me and my doings. I perceive "the poett faylyd not that sayd Non bene concenient nec in una sede morantur, majestas et amor." Lethington has prayed me to require favour for James Meynis in his suits. Berwick. Signed: N. Throkmorton.

pp. Partly holograph. Addressed. Indorsed (by Cecil).

181. Oaths &c. by Lord Darnley. [May 15.]

Oaths taken (1) as a knight (2) as an earl, to be "leil" and true to his Sovereign lady her realm &c.

Stirling 15th May 1565. Darnley after being created knight, baron, "barnect," lord of Armanoche, lord of Parliament and "beltit" earl of Ross, before the Queen's majesty, created these 14 knights:—

Sir Robert Stewarde of Straighdone: Sir Robert Stewarde of Largis: Sir Alexander Stewarde of Dalswynton: Sir James Stewarde of Doun: Sir William Murray of Tullibarde: Sir William Douglas of Hawick: Sir Patrick Houston of that Ilk: Sir John Maxwell of Nether "Powoke": Sir William Levingston of Kilsyth: Sir John Murre of Caldwell: Sir Robert Drummond of Carnock: Sir James Hume of Synlaws: Sir James Stirling of Keir: Sir William Ruthwen of Baldene.

pp. Contemporary hand.

(1) Another copy.

2 pp. Same hand.

182. Mary to Elizabeth. [May 18.]

Requesting her safe conduct for 3 months for James Makgill, eldest lawful son of her councillor Mr. James Makgill of Rankeillor Nether, clerk of Council and Register, to the parts of France "or utheris beyond sey, quhair he is bown to the skwlis." (fn. 11) Stirling, 23rd of our reign. Signed: Your richt gud sister and cusigner, Marie R.

Broadsheet. Addressed. Indorsed.

183. Throckmorton to Elizabeth. [May 21.]

Since I wrote on the 11th to my lord of Leicester and Mr. Secretary. accompanied with Lethington, I passed from Berwick to Dunbar castle on the 12th instant, and lodged there that night, where I found Lord Gordon, eldest son to the Earl of Huntly, "a condemned man for highe treason." There Lethington made me a very good supper, and the next day the 13th, we arrived together at Edinburgh, where I communicated to Mr. Randolph your majesty's instructions to me. There Lethington received new command to seek some means to stay me for 2 or 3 days, alleging the Queen's "infirmitie," and that no order was as then given for my lodging at Stirling. Nevertheless he departed in great diligence for Stirling, making me privy to his charge and remitting me to my own liking: when I learned by Randolph that this Queen intended to make Darnley knight and baron and create him Earl of Ross the 15th of May, and on the 16th Duke of Albanie, the "collacion" of all which honours her mind was should be passed before my arrival at her Court. Whereupon the 14th, I left Edinburgh for "Lythcroe," lodging there that night, and arrived at Stirling the 15th in the morning, "and descended from my horse at the castle gate, havinge sent before my cosen Myddlemore your majesties servaunte, to demaunde my audyence." Arriving at the castle, the gates were "shote" against me, and I could not be suffered to enter, whether from fear or some other passion I know not. Thus remaining before the gate some time, there came to me the Master of Erskine [Askyn] and Justice Clerk, one of her privy council, and desired me on her behalf to retire to my lodging appointed in the town, and after I had reposed myself the Queen meant to give me an audience. Though I pressed for it forthwith, well knowing the creations were to take effect that day, which I thought meet for your better service to prevent and defer by all good means I could: my request was not admitted, and I departed to my lodging. Thither about 2 p.m. Lords Erskine and Ruthven [Revin] two of her privy council, came and accompanied me to the Queen, whom I found in the castle accompanied by the Duke of "Chattelleroe," the earls of Argyll, Murray, Morton, Atholl, Glencairne and other earls and barons, so it appeared few nobles were absent.

I delivered your majesty's letter, and under your instructions set forth at good length your misliking and disallowance of her hasty proceeding with the lord Darnley, "as well for the matter as for the maner, wherin she erred by unadvysednes and rashenes: and the said Lord Derneleye and his parentes had failed of theire dueties by theire arrogante and presumptuous attemptes to enterpryse suche matter, . . . without makynge your majestie previe therunto, beinge your subjectes." The Queen answered that she had not failed on her behalf to communicate the matter to your majesty in time "(that was to saye)" as soon as she was resolved of the man and the matter—"for other promesse she never made anie, but to communycate unto your majestie the person whom she would lyke to chowse." And as to your misliking it, she marvelled not a little, "because she did but use her choyse accordinge to your majesties prescription, fortefyinge her sayinge and doinges by your majesties minde declared not longe agoe by Mr Randolphe to this effecte unto her, as she alledged: that is to saye, what tyme she did advertyze your majestie of the mocion made unto her of Charles duke of Austryche, (your majestie disswadinge her from that matche, and from anie of the Emperors howse, and lykewyse from the howse of Fraunce and Spaine,) you weere contented (that thosse howses onelye excepted) she might take her choyse of anie person within the realmes of Englaunde and Scotland or in anie other countreye; and because she thought nonne might be more agreable to your majestie and the realme of Englaunde, and likewise to her subjectes and the realme of Scotlande, than the Lord Dernleye (he beinge your majesties kynsman and hers and pertycypatynge of the Englishe and Scottishe bloude), she did with the lesse precysenes proceed so farre forwarde in this matter as she had donne." Thereupon I replied and impugned her sayings by the "verie wordes" of Randolph's commission—containing these 3 articles, 1st for her own contentation—2d the allowance of her people, and 3d that the choice be such as the strait amity "betwixt us not onelie for our owne persons, but also for our nation, maye be contynued, and not dissolved nor diminished." Proving to her by many and probable arguments, that Lord Darnley did in no part satisfy the contents of that "lyberall permission" whereon she chiefly grounded herself to have your allowance. About this we spent long time, and had sundry disputes, which I omit to declare till my access to your majesty; as also my other negotiations with this Queen and her council, severally and together four sundry times.

Meantime that your Majestie may consider of the matter "in good howre," and so direct your counsels and proceedings—it may please you to understand that this Queen is so far passed in this matter with Darnley, "as yt is irrevocable and no place leefte to dissolve the same by perswacion or reasonable meanes, otherwise than by vyolence, albehit the mattre is not yet consummate, neyther shalbe (as she hathe willed me to asserteyne your majestie) theis three monethes," in which time she will use all means to procure your acceptance, and leave nothing undone to win your favour. She means shortly to send one (not Lethington, who is not presently in best terms with her) to treat with your majesty therein. Darnley received the honours before specified after my audience the 15th instant "(the creacion of Duke of Albanie onelie excepte)"—the conferring of which honour, the Queen at my leavetaking on the 19th, promised to defer till she heard how you accepted her proceedings and answer to my legation. Yet I find her "so captyved eyther by love or connyng (or rather to saye truelie by bostinge or follie) that she is not hable to keape promesse with her self, and therfore not moost hable to keape promesse with your majestie in theis matters." The day before my departing (which was the 18th) she made me dine at her own table "onelie": Randolph, with the Duke and other nobility in an other chamber. And after I had taken leave, she sent Lethington to my lodging with my despatch, who brought me "in present" from her a chain of gold weighing 50 ounces.

I do well perceive it is in your majesty's power either to dissolve this matter betwixt her and Darnley (if you like to use your power) as I shall declare at my coming: or it rests at your pleasure to end it more "amyablie" with such conditions as may be to your honour, surety and felicity. To bring one or other of these to pass, it may please you to put in execution the "memorials" I now address to my lord of Leicester and Mr. Secretary.

I mean (God willing) to be at Berwick the 24th instant and there to spend a day or two viewing the fortifications and to confer with Sir John Foster warden of your East and Middle Marches in my lord Bedford's absence—whose speedy return is very necessary. As I learn there is a dangerous practice intended in Yorkshire, I mean to return by York and warn the Lord President.

Herewith your majesty shall receive a memorial of the honours bestowed on Darnley the 15th instant, containing the very form of oath to the Queen of Scots, "for somme respect not convenyent for anie your subjectes to make to anie forreyne prynce."

She intends to summon the Estates of her parliament the 20th July next—and likewise the ministers of her clergy about 10th or 12th June, to put in readiness for parliament some matters concerning religion and ecclesiastical policy. To obtain whereof to their contentations, it is looked for they shall show conformity to this marriage, and tolerate her retaining her private mass: about this I see there will be much ado. Since my leavetaking, she has travailed earnestly to compound difference betwixt Argyll and Lennox. She means to leave Stirling for St Johnstown, when Darnley is able to travel—which is thought will be in 4 or 5 days.

The Duke, Argyll, Murray, and Glencairn all go to their houses forthwith for a time.

I understand this Queen means to send in legation to your majesty, her Master of Requests, and one of her privy council, named Mr John Haies who is here reported a wise and honest man. I take him to be most affected to Murray, and to run his course, which may stay him from this charge. She sends forthwith an express messenger to the Bishop of Glascoe her ambassador in France, by all means to make the match agreeable there. I understand of all the matches motioned to her, her uncles most desired that with the Prince of Spain, which was in greater towardness than was looked for in England; and as I learn was chiefly overthrown by Murray and Lethington. For the Duke Charles, I cannot find that ever she was bent, nor earnestly any of her council. True it is that the Cardinal of Lorraine carried Spain in his right hand, and Austryche in his left, and of all in England and Scotland he preferred the choice of him that now she has. Edinburgh. Signed: N. Throkmorton.

pp. Addressed. Indorsed (partly by Cecil). Stained by damp. The inclosure is probably No. 181.

184. Throckmorton to Cecil. [May 21.]

[Refers him to his letter to the Queen, and her power to dissolve the Darnley marriage either violently, or to win a reasonable composition, such as Cecil's letter of the 14th indicates—provided they proceed as in his memorial inclosed.]

I would be very sorry if "de Movyser" (who means to come hither) is able to tell this Queen that her proceedings with Darnley are not so ill taken by her majesty and council, "as I have made shewe of in all my negocyacion": for that will much hinder "the purposse that I thynk her majestie would be at." What I say of Mauvisier, I mean also of Graham [Gryme], Lethington's servant, and another Scotsman named Menez, that departed to England at my being at Berwick, and generally of all others that may give intelligence here.

You shall receive also a letter from Murray sent me since I left the Court. I suppose it concerns the Master of Marshal's liberty, and for your good favour therein, as the only mean to "qualefye" Sir Henry Percy, and I am greatly pressed by the Earl and his friends to recommend it to you. It may like you to put her majesty in mind of Thomas Randolphe who serves her chargeably and diligently here. I find by "the man" that fair promises heretofore have drawn him to spend largely and execute his charge carefully. "Marye! nowe perceyvynge that his payment is nothynge but wordes (save his ordenarye dyot which dothe hardlye suffyce hym) and that he hathe nothynge to gratefye suche as geve hym intellygence, he shewethe to me a great desyre to be delyvered of his charge and could be contented to put his heade in a hoole, synce the fructes of his servyce worke hym so smalle advauntage"! Edinburgh. Signed: N. Throkmorton.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed (by Cecil).

Inclosed in the same:—

185. Memorial for Leicester and Cecil.

First: that her Majesty and all of her council make it "appeare evydentlye to all folkes" that the proceedings of the Queen of Scotland are so grievously taken and misliked, that her majesty must needs "chasten tharrogancye of her subjectes" and avenge this indignity: to publish sending down Bedford to his charge in force, and admonish all the wardens to stand on their guard, and be ready to serve, showing no more favour "to this nacion," than forbearing breach of peace will suffer.

(2) To stay Northumberland at London and send down Sir Richard Cholmeleye to the council at York to receive ordinary process for his disorders there "dependynge," which (as I hear say) will procure him imprisonment: and that the Lord President and Council there have good eye to the doings of Northumberland and the "Ladye Lenoux factyon"; by no means suffering the Papists through the realm, either in or out of Court, to think themselves in credit or estimation.

(3) To put greater restraint upon Lady Lennox, and harder "sequestracion" than now, that she may have no conference but with those appointed to her, nor any means left for intelligence with the French ambassador, but chiefly none with the Spanish—which imports most.

(4) That my ladye of Somerset find more gracious entertainment in Court than heretofore.

(5) That the Queen's majesty "lye in good wayet" that Lady Lennox directly or indirectly have no intelligence of her doings or speech "other than that severytye is entended."

(6) It shall be to very good purpose, that both from her Majesty and them "conynglye," Lady Lennox shall know they all marvel that Lethington—a man of judgment—can be so blinded as to further this marriage so earnestly, which they did so well "espye" by his last legation.

(7) To use all means to stand well with France and Spain, to bring matters better to pass in the end. as he trusts—and some other thing which he will communicate to them at his coming. These to be done without delay, and either a breach will follow, or a good composition.

1 p. Indorsed (by Cecil): "21 Maij 1565. A memoryall from Sir Nich. Throkm. to the Erl of Lece. and W. C."

186. Randolph to Leicester. [May 21.]

I know not how to utter what I conceive of the pitiful and lamentable estate of this "poor Queene, whome ever before I estemed so worthye, so wyse, so honorable in all her doynges: and at thys present do fynde so altered with affection towardes the lord Darlye, that she hathe broughte her honour in question, her estate in hazarde, her countrie to be torne in peeces"! I see also the amity between the countries like to be dissolved and great mischiefs like to insue. "To whome thys maye cheiflye be imputede, what craftie subtyltie or dyvelyshe devise hathe broughte thys to passe, I knowe not, but woe worth the tyme! (and so shall bothe Englande and Scotlande saye) that ever the lord Darlye dyd sette his foote in thys countrye." This Queen in her love is so transported, and he grown so proud that to all honest men he is intolerable, and almost forgetful of his duty to her already, that has adventured so much for his sake. "What shalbe comme of her, or what lyf with hym she shall leade, that all reddie taketh so myche upon hym as to controwle and commande her, I leave yt to other to thynke!" What shall be judged of him that for bringing a message from the Queen, that was to his discontentment, would with his dagger have slain the messenger: so little he yielded to her desire, so bold he was at the first with one of her councillors; yea, with him that most favoured his cause, and was the chief worker of that which passed between them! "These thynges my lorde do move me myche to lament her case, thys is yt that maye move anye man to pyttie that ever sawe her, that ever loved her;" but most of all I am sorry to see so good opportunity to unite these realms lost, to the great hurt and hindrance of Christ's true religion, and undoing of a great number of honest and godly men here that know not what to do either for themselves or their country. "What to judge of his commynge home, maynie mene knowe not, but the moste parte are perswaded that in the sendinge of hym ther is other meaninge then ther was in utter showe: yt is also beleved that ye maye be easlye intreated to fynde yt good, what shewe or face so ever you mayke to the contrarie; and thys amonge some of them hathe byne openlye saide, that you do rather boste us with wordes then myslyke yt in your heartes! Of thys also I maye assure your lordship, that yf this cource of theirs be not stayed that theie intend to tayke, I beleeve that within shorte tyme theie wyll have mo frendes to tayke their parte, then we cane imagen in these dowtefull tymes to withstonde them. Theie saye we boste them with wordes, but theie have in thys quarell to charge us with Spayne, not fyndinge them selves so destitute but that theie have frendes also in France, but maynie moe in Englande then ye thynke of, and ther upon so bolden them selves, that what ye saye or do, I see smale accompte that theie mayke therof. She gatherethe also so myche advantage of the Quene my mestres maner of dealinge with her, that playnelye she hathe sayde that nowe she fyndethe that ther was an other mynde then her wordes purportethe, for otherwyse she wolde have dealte in other sorte then she hathe done. I am also charged not to have sincierlye dealte in these matters—ether that I have not made faythefull reporte of her wordes and doynges, or intended not my self that ever anye suche matter as was in communication sholde tayke effecte! What shall I saye, but that she seekethe all the corners of her wytte to shyfte of the tyme untyll that be accomplyshed that she desyerethe, and for that purpose ther commethe shortlye one unto you, to use all the cunninge he cane to perswade good lykinge of her doynge, and that ye wyll approve therof: and yet as farre as I cane perceave, we care not myche howe ye tayke yt, for that we are at a full poynte, and resolved upon that which we intende to do." How I stand now with her your lordship may see, "in that I had nether worde nor countenance of her all the tyme of my lord embassaders beinge ther: and yet dyd she not spare to confesse unto his lordship that she never bore better good wyll to anye man then she dyd unto your lordship, before that she dyspayred throughe the slowenes of the Quenes majesties resolution, that anye good was intended."

Things stand thus—She is entered so far that she may sooner repent than call back what she has done. "In these two poyntes she restethe, ether to wyne so myche at the Quenes majesties handes that she wilbe contente to allowe her doynge, and do as with your lordship she intended, or wyll dryve tyme untyll she be hable to mayke her parte so good that yt wilbe harde for you to saye her naye. Thys is the plate forme, and fondation; what she shalbe hable to buylde herupon, and howe her forces shall serve her, yt behovethe you to tayke heede." All men here stand in suspense, unable to withstand her, though they see the mischief like to ensue. "To hope myche at your handes whome theie have good cawse to suspecte for sendinge of hym home whome nowe ye wolde seeme so myche to myslyke, theie dare not, and are sore afrayde. Excepte therfore that some playne demonstration farther then wordes be made by you, whear nowe ther are some, that for Godes cawse myslyke yt and wolde gladlye breake yt, theie shalbe fayne to their great dyspleasure [to] consent to yt, thoughe theie wolde never so wyllingelye breake yt." You have heard more of this in better sort by the ambassador, and I only wait commands, though her majesty's service here requires now a better wit than mine and more ability to do than I have had wherewith. But that I presume on the Queen's favour towards me, there is matter enough for my enemies to take advantage: "that that which was commytted unto my charge to travaile in, came to so evle a passe. Princes moste commonlye waye mens services by the evente: I confesse yt hathe not succided, but I cane never yelde to anye but the fawlte was in other more then myself, and yet I am assured that theie have not the leaste parte of that care that greavethe me. Let other be satysfied as theie cane, perswade what theie lyke, travale to ther contentemente, my opinion shalbe ever, that yt cane never be ether to the honour of God, weale of bothe reaulmes and my soverenges suertie, that the Lord Darlye sholde be approved howshonde to the Quene of Scotlande. Your lordship nowe seethe our harde case, her poore estate, blynded, transported, caried I knowe not whyther or which waye to her owne confusion and destruction of her contrye, for the love of hym that ever I judged the moste unworthye to be matched with suche one as I have knowne her and seen her to be." If ought can remedy this, ye procure safety to yourselves, honour to God, quiet to your country, and immortal fame to yourselves. So now must your lordship make it known to the world.

As the ambassador will shortly be with you, he can report all better than I can write, yet neither his wit nor his pen can set forth what case this Queen is in, her subjects' fear and despair of any relief. "Nothynge wolde have done more good then to have charged them (fn. 12) to retorne: that purpose, thoughe the lettres were in my handes, was sonne stayed: nowe ye looke what offers we wyll make to appeace thys quarell." I must say ye take an evil way, and will either drive her till she knows not where to turn, or so deal that for what she looks, she may be least assured of. More I have written to Mr Secretary, and your lordship shall daily hear from me. Edinburgh. Signed: Tho. Randolphe.

4 pp. Closely written. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed (partly by Cecil).

187. Randolph to Cecil. [May 21.]

Your honour will have heard in part by the ambassador's letters, and I doubt not more hereafter at his return, of all that has passed here—wherein no man could have done more to stay matters, and yet with great difficulty and much ado he has only "wronge owte some lyttle thynge," which it appears to me they have only yielded for a time, rather than she herself greatly cares whether it be thankfully received or not. She contends that all things have been done with good advice, foresight, and deliberation, and that she was induced thereto by the likelihood she found of the Queen's majesty's approbation thereof. The present state stands thus—" The Quene her self seased with love in ferventer passions then is comlye for anye meane personage, all care of common wealthe set aparte, usethe nether the counsell of suche as cane beste advise her, nor gevethe eare to anye then suche as followe her fantasie, or feedethe that humeur, all moste I maye saye to the utter contempte of her beste subjectes." Darnley keeps his chamber, and never since his sickness came forth of it, saving the night of his creation. In words I hear he is stout, by some deeds also he has shown what his will is if his power were equal to his "furieus" passions. With his dagger he would have struck the Justice Clerk that brought him word that the creation of his being Duke was deferred for a time. You shall soon learn more of him. His father's will is more to see his son thus advanced than he knows how to work it. He may well torment himself to see these things take so slow effect, and not have wherewithal to relieve his need. now most necessary, or speak of the favour of princes and friends I know not where—but assuredly his "smale conducte" in so great a matter well appears. The Duke has been present, whose good nature, plain and simple meaning, I must rather commend, than approve his manner of dealing, where his danger is so great. Argyll deserves more praise for his stoutness in defence of religion and safety of his house, than any man I have heard speak in this action: Glencairn, Boyd, Ochiltree, and all the west country, concur with Argyll. My lord of Murray, true, faithful, honourable, earnest and stout both for defence of God's glory, and safety of his Sovereign's honour that now lies in balance: fearful her doings may break the amity. Lethington is sufficiently known to you, yet I must say he shows more stoutness and good conduct at this time than many looked for. Maxwell weighs more his mistress's will than her danger; though he wishes her weal, he is loth to attempt against her mind. Ruthven stirs coals as hot as fire to have these matters take effect, to his utter shame and contempt of all godly or honest. Atholl says still, that whatsoever he hears spoken from the Queen's majesty, or has been pronounced by the ambassador, "is onlye but wordes and bostinge to no effecte." He makes account of a greater party, than any the Queen's majesty can make "to lette yt." Morton "saythe francklye to yt: I knowe not yet what he wyll do." I can write of no men's minds in particular, but generally I may say that "the moste parte are cleane agaynste yt," and yet so void of hope, comfort or support, that they know not where to turn themselves, and so for these wants, shall be forced to yield to that which is against God's glory, the weal of their country, and their Sovereign's honour.

When I understood the haste made to have all matters ended before the ambassador came to Court, and was advised by his letter to make all the stay I could, I wrote to her grace the letter whereof I enclose a copy, and sent it by my man to Murray for "deliverance" and request by his lordship's means for answer. But my man was delayed till the ambassador himself came— of whose negotiation, however well set forth in writing, I must testify that nothing was left undone that might hinder their intent, or advance the Queen's majesty's service. Here is now to be done whatever her majesty's self likes, though no small number amongst you bear themselves bold, and many abroad as are papists in Europe. Edinburgh. Signed: Tho. Randolphe.

pp. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed (by Cecil and his clerk).

Inclosed in the same:—

(Randolph to the Queen of Scots.)

Signifying that he has just learned that Sir Nicolas Throckmorton has reached Berwick and to-morrow intends to be in Edinburgh and will repair to her grace with all speed. By his Sovereign's command prays that she will stay her determination to confer honours and dignities on Lord Darnley and for marriage till the mind of his Sovereign be further known. [Edinburgh, May 12?]

1 p. Holograph copy. No date.

188. Randolph to Cecil. [May 24.]

I trouble your honour with but a word or two on my own estate, which I think worst of any man's that ever served so long in such a country and people. Besides my great grief that the matter committed to my charge succeeded "so evle, yet am I here bordayned to be thoccasion of the dyspleasure rysen betwene the Quenes majestie and thys Quene." I see now that till she may be brought to acknowledge her error, my peril cannot be small, yet how little soever I esteem my life, yet I mean to keep it to the Queen's majesty's better service, "then to leave yt here." How my charges increase, and how many ways money goes out of my hands, I would it could be as well seen to those that may remedy it, as it is grievous to me to be forced thus to crave! How needful it is that her majesty were charged somewhat towards support of some here that have well deserved, Sir Nicolas Throckmorton well knows. She has had trial of their good wills, and they are suspected for the same. I have told him that 1000l. might be bestowed, "not for a yerlye pencion," but to try their minds and see how it can be deserved. Since the army came from Leith, her majesty has been "smallye" charged, save what I have spent her. Her intelligence has come through my friends and "acquayntance" here. The time now grows more dangerous, and I will be as sorry to put them in hazard as they themselves. I have often recommended to you Argyll, and daily find more cause than ever. He may be used as her majesty will, and for little—"but yf ye mysse hym and ever stonde in neade of hym, yf he be not to be made your frende, you wyll fynde hym a shrewed ennemie." I meant only to have touched my own case, but am fallen into another of the same "nateur," whereby if duly considered, her majesty shall be better served than without it. In these 8 months' service, I make account of above 58l. sterling of my entertainment given in rewards, besides many other extraordinary charges—not the least of which was "when I sente my servant laste in poste, he spente me in resonable charges xiijli. and receaved as he saythe but xx nobles." I am forced to lay these things before your honour's "yees" to show my case—grieved in mind at the ill success of my commission—in debt more than all I have can pay—and in no great assurance of what malice may work. While sorry to trouble your honour, I am forced to think how much the Queen's service will be hindered if her friends are not retained, and her servants so enabled to serve, that nothing escape them worthy to be known. I wish but contentment, and not always to live in that extreme care I have long been in. My lord of Arran is fallen again into his "phrenesye," he grows now cumbersome to be kept, "and ledde so with fantasies, that he wolde have sawes to cutte of his ledges and handes, cordes and knives to ende hys owne lyf."

I convoyed my lord ambassador here, and return to-morrow to Court. Berwick. Signed: Tho. Randolphe.

pp. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed (by Cecil's clerk).

189. Mary to Elizabeth. [May 27.]

Requesting her passport for the bearer Master James Thorntoun secretary to the Archbishop of Glasgow her ambassador in France, directed thither on her affairs. Stirling Castle, 23rd of her reign. Signed: Your richt gud sister and cusignes Marie R.

Broadsheet. Addressed. Indorsed.

190. Mary to Elizabeth. [May 30.]

Requesting her passport for her servitor James Murray and two companions to pass through her realm to France or elsewhere, and return, to endure for a year. Stirling, 23rd of her reign. Signed: Your richt gud sister and cusignes Marie R.

Broadsheet. Addressed. Indorsed.

Footnotes

  • 1. Written by Cecil.
  • 2. From this point in Cecil's hand.
  • 3. 1st May.
  • 4. Bothwell.
  • 5. 14th May.
  • 6. 14th.
  • 7. Sorley Buy.
  • 8. Shows.
  • 9. From this point holograph.
  • 10. 13th May.
  • 11. Schools.
  • 12. Lennox and Darnley.