Elizabeth: September 1582

151. Thomas Randolph to Walsingham. [Sept. 2.]

What lately has been written out of Scotland your honour knows much better than I; but if it be that the King be now in the Protestants' hands, the Duke [of Lennox] pursued, Arran imprisoned, and his brother slain, we may then see what it is to be true followers of Christ in earnest preaching and constant persevering in setting forth and maintaining of His Word without respects or worldly policies.

I beseech your honour let me crave this favour, but to know whether this be true or not, or how much thereof, to the comfort of those who are well given and pray daily to God for continuance of His holy Word both here and there. If it be true, what cause her majesty has in due time to embrace such an occasion to do service to God and good to her country, as never greater—what earnest desire will this put in all men who are honest to adventure life and all now to serve in this action, tending so much to God's glory, her majesty's honour, and weal of this country.

What should move me to think upon any other life at these years but that which should be most for my own commodity and ease, saving my duty to God and her majesty's service? and yet most humbly I crave, if aught be to be done or intended by her majesty that way, let me not be cast out and others reap the glory of that for which I have adventured my body and spent my own, almost to extreme beggary. I would I were now with your honour, but yet mind not to come except you will me. Maidstone. Signed: Tho. Randolphe.

1⅓ pp. Holograph, also address. Indorsed.

152. Mr. [John] Colvile to Thomas Randolph. [Sept. 3.] Cott. Calig. C. VII., fol. 39.

Since my last letter his majesty and Council have "concludit" that the Duke shall remove within fifteen days, and that he shall presently render Dumbarton into the hands of the Earl of Mar. If he refuses, his majesty will consent that he be pursued with all hostility. Few assist him, save only some Papists, and he remains at Edinburgh so desolate and sorrowful that all good men here "prasis God, and reioysis gretly therof."

His majesty's mind is "mekill alienat" from him, and "I hoip God or it be lang" her majesty will receive his grace's own declaration how he has been abused in times past. The Duke is "merweluslie afrayid" of her majesty's ships, and has desired that "moyen" may be made with her that he may have passage through the seas in surety, which is refused. Whether he embarks at the west or east seas, I am yet uncertain, but as I know further you shall be advertised. "Alway," if two ships were "preparit to ly" in the mouth of our firth beside the "Skairheidis," and another two between Ireland and the coast of England in the west seas, I think he could not escape.

For relief of the Earl of Angus all noblemen here hope that her majesty will send someone well "affectionat" to the amity of the two nations to entreat for him, and to make motion of the "greiffis" wherewith her majesty has been offended in the government of the "Dobany and Arren," whereto such answers shall be given as shall content her majesty and all honest and godly men of her nation. This direction would come most properly the 20th instant, which is appointed for the convention of the estates. Stirling. Signed: "Nemo."

Postscript.— His majesty remains at Stirling till the Duke be away and all "matteris pacefeit and sett down."

1 p. Holograph. No flyleaf or address.

153. Mr. Archibald Douglas to Walsingham. [Sept. 5.]

Having the commodity of this bearer, who repairs to you for his particular business, remaining very desirous to know what good success this action begun in Scotland "ressavis," I have taken the boldness to pray your honour, if you have received any further certainty of matters there, that I may know the effect thereof. Since my departing from you I have received no letters from the north, whereat I greatly marvel. Thereby I might be moved to doubt that some more matter may fall out in that realm than I can "gudlie" imagine of, if the goodness of the cause made me not to believe the contrary and hope for the best. I pray God it may so fall out.

I most humbly pray your honour, when any good occasion shall be offered, that her majesty may be moved to consider that my remaining absent from Scotland may be hurtful to her majesty's service, and in like manner understand that my removing here at this time is for no other cause but waiting upon her majesty's gracious consideration, whereby I may be made able to do her majesty such service in that realm as I have at all times desired, to the surety and weal of my sovereign and her majesty's contentment, "quhilk hes at all tymes beyne most agreable to ressone, speciall veile of the King and assurance of the staite thaire," which I will travail "at powar" to make the noblemen understand, whereby they may be moved to remain careful to preserve the amity so profitable to them as her majesty's has been, and may at all times hereafter continue. As my actions past may give some testimony what good mind I have borne to bring good matter to perfection there, so shall my proceedings and care of this matter make assured proof of the goodwill I bear to her majesty's service.

There is here with me a gentleman of Scotland, called John Buchanan, servant, as he says, to the Earl of Mar, who is passing to France for curing him of the stone. He is not "cummit" into this realm by Berwick, as by his passport your honour may perceive; which he alleges was for avoiding of all suspicion that he might have fallen into if he had spoken with the Earl of Angus, being at the said town. He desires a passport for himself, one servant, and two horses. Which matter, together with the particular suit of this bearer to be declared by himself, I commend to your honour's favourable discretion. London. Signed: A. Douglas.

1 p. Holograph, also address. Indorsed.

154. Lords, etc., who stand with the Duke of Lennox. [Sept. 5.]

"The names of the noble menne and lardes that as yet standethe with the Duke."

The Earls of Huntly, Morton, and Crawford; Lords Herries, Seton, and Hume; Sir Thomas Carre of Farnyhurst; the Laird of Hidermore, Sir James Balfour; the Abbot of Newbottle.

"The laste of Auguste the Kinge beinge at St. Johnsons the daie before his removall from thence to Sterlinge, these noble men were with him, as followethe":

The Earls of Argyll, Mar, Atholl, Montrose, Erroll, Rothes, Gowrie; Lords Oliphant, Lindsay, and Boyd; the Laird of Lochleven; the Master of Glammis; the Lairds of Wemys, Savie, and Tullibardine.

"The names of suche as are indifferent not leaninge to either side";

The Earls of Caithness, March, and Marishal.

¾ p. Indorsed.

155. Sir George Carey to Burghley. [Sept. 5.] Cott. Calig C. VII., fol. 37.

With as convenient speed as I could I came to this town last night, and Mr. Bowes arrived here this morning.

After we had agreed on the best course to be taken with surety to enter Scotland, considering the "ticle" state the country presently stands in, we despatched Captain Case and two garrison men with him with a letter to the Lords of the Council to procure our safeconduct from his majesty. We appointed also—the better to be acquainted with the knowledge and state of causes there now in action—Captain Case there to remain until our coming, and by the garrison men to return us the success of his journey and the answer to our demand. On receipt of our passport no time shall be "foresloed" in the accomplishment of our charge.

The state of Scotch affairs, as I yet know, stand thus:—The lords that disliked the dangerous and violent government of the Duke and Arran, who have taken the King for his better safety into their custody and "sequestred" those wicked counsellors from him, have long stood at "a great stoppe without full procedinge to the perfectinge of so goode a begunne attempt." And whether the King's great "misliking" of their action, which is evident as well by open profession in his speeches as by secret messages which he has sent, or whether their strength cannot bear the burden of this cause, and standing in expectation of "comfort" from her majesty, [they] have suffered so long a stay in proceeding, I cannot yet judge. But I find from my Lord Angus that the Duke is not so restrained in his liberty in Edinburgh, but that his friends daily come and consult with him, and he himself may at his pleasure escape, if he find a better place for his strength, the lords not finding means for his apprehension, nor having assembled their forces to withstand his friends, who upon an hour's warning stand in readiness. I pray God the last sudden surprise of Stirling may sufficiently warn them to beware.

We will hasten in as conveniently as we may for the further discharge of our instructions, and the encouragement of the well affected. But I fear my "cariadge" of a few bare words often promised before are likely to carry small credit with them. Yet if her majesty be not their sure pillar to lean unto, and assist them as well in deed as in word, this act may quail, and yet hanging as in balance be cast down, to the overthrow of religion and the confusion of her majesty's present friends there, which God forbid.

There is a convention called against the 15th instant, at Stirling, at which all the lords have notice to appear; the end whereof will determine the cause, if the Duke enter not to disturb it.

A proclamation in the King's name hath also been made, that whereas it is bruited that the King should be by force detained and debarred of his liberty, to make such speeches [is] treason, with an inhibition for any whatsoever to assemble forces under the like pain.

It is also advertised that the King should send secret message to the governor of Edinburgh, that they should keep the town for him, and not suffer the entrance of any forces of his enemies—naming the Hamiltons and Douglases so to be.

The Lord Bothwell, a great friend to the Duke and enemy at first to this action (who lay in the King's chamber and greatly persuaded his mislike thereof), is thought to have subscribed, as they term it, to a bond, which is a kind of profession in writing, which depends on these chief points:—to maintain the true religion, the safety of the King, the preservation of the nobility, state and realm, and—" some vnknowen what"—against the Duke and Arran.

Arran was brought with the King to Stirling on Saturday last. It is published "he seekethe" greatly to live, promising to deserve his life, and offering, more perforce than of goodwill, to take part with the lords in their action. Said it is (how truly I know not) that he will accuse the Duke of sundry points of treason against the King's person.

The Lord Herries (Harris) and the Abbot of Newbottle "by meanes" requested the King that they might come and "entreat of" friendship betwixt the lords and the Duke; whereunto he agreed. The lords, understanding this, willed them, if they would forsake the Duke and be partakers with them in this action to come, or else their coming should be at their peril, and they would not admit of any speeches of reconcilement. Notwithstanding, they are gone forward, as it is thought, with this intention—that if the lords will not yield them speech with the King, they will allow themselves to be taken, and soon after be of that side.

The Laird of Cesford and Sir James Hume were with the Duke, and on Thursday last rode to Stirling to the King, from whence returned, they warned their forces to be ready upon an hour's warning when they should be called.

Word was brought hither to-day by one that will sometimes tell an untruth, that the Laird of Farnyhurst rode yesterday late from his house and appointed this day for 400 of his best friends to meet him at Ancroft. Sir John Foster also presently wrote to me that word was brought to him that very likely there would be an alteration in Scotland, for the Duke is gone into Edinburgh Castle, and that all his friends are preparing to ride thither with such forces as they can.

These are the occurrences that in these parts are yet known. As "nue" causes shall breed further matter I shall not fail to advertise you. Berwick. Signed: George Carey.

3 pp. Addressed by Carey. Indorsed (by Burghley's clerk).

156. Lords in favour of the Duke of Lennox and against him. [Sept.]

"The names of the erles and lordes gevin in to be the Duke's favorers."

Earls: Huntly, Crawford, Morton, Sutherland. "Theis are only for the Duke."

Eglinton, Orkney. "Theis are newtralls."

Glencairn, Marishal, Erroll, Atholl, March. "Theis have subscribed the band against the Duke."

Argyll, Montrose, Rothes. "Theis have approvid the action against the Duke."

Murray, Menteith, Cassillis. "Theis are very young."

Lords: Livingston, Seton, Ogilvy, Uchiltrie, Down. "Theis are for the Duke."

Drummond has subscribed the band against the Duke.

Herries has approved the action against the Duke.

Somervell, Gray, Innermeath, Yester, Sinclair: neutrals.

Sempill, Flemming, Rosse, Borthwick: children.

²/3 p. Indorsed.

Cott. Calig. C. VII., fol. 40.

Copy of the same.

157. [Colonel] William Stewart to Walsingham. [Sept. 7.]

The present bearer, my nephew, being required on the service of the King of France to pass from hence through England, has made me take this opportunity to trouble you now that I am in our country and on the road, to pray you very affectionately to let him have a passport for the transport of his horses and other things, wherein you will do a pleasure to one who acknowledges to be one of your most affectionate servants. On my arrival in this country, which was the 24th ult., I found everything in certain alteration, which is not yet altogether extinguished. Whereof I do not doubt you have the whole particular advertisement, so that one hopes for a reform shortly. The Duke of Lennox set out on the 5th instant from this town towards the castle of Dumbarton in order to have the first commodity to pass into France. This is the little that has presented itself until now whereof I can speak, for since my arrival I have not been one single day in health, which has also hindered me from doing anything for my particular, nor likewise have I had the means to go and find her majesty. Edinburgh. Signed: William Stewart.

1 p. French. Addressed. Indorsed.

158. Leicester to Angus. [Sept. 7.]

The Queen's majesty receiving a letter this day written from your lordship to Mr. Secretary Walsingham understood that there is little done in the causes of Scotland since ["first"] your first advertisement thereof, saving that her highness finds the lords who have taken in hand this late manner of reformation seem to deal somewhat slackly, or rather, dangerously in so weighty a matter; for it appears by your lordship's letter that the Duke is suffered quietly to remain at Edinburgh without aught said to him.

The Earl of Arran is a prisoner under guard, but in the King's house; a matter her majesty cannot but think will turn to some great harm to the present State, both to the King and such as be his faithful servants, [it] being especially apparent that the principal parties who be notified for offenders be not restrained in other sort than yet is heeded of. For, as the one is at liberty, being of greatest authority to practise what he lists, so is the other restrained only in the King's house under guard, and with conference, as appears by his large offers to enter into the band and action with the rest who have restrained him. "Which how slender a manner of proceeding it should seem to be in such a case as doth require both speedy and severe execution, she doth more than marvel at to be omitted among so wise, noble and able men," and wishes them to consider, by former examples, what it is to be too remiss in these cases, and doubts not but your lordship will wisely and carefully advise your friends to deal substantially both for the weal of the King himself and the whole estate, lest the opportunity once lost will never or hardly be gotten again. Your adversaries be not few nor of weak spirits, and therefore not to be suffered to have too much time to recover that they have suddenly lost; and how you may trust your chiefest enemies to be made reconciled friends and helpers, what promises soever they now make, she refers you to former trials and experiences in the like cases.

This much her majesty has commanded me to write in the absence of Mr. Secretary Walsingham, who was absent two or three days, and from whom, at his coming to Court, your lordship shall hear further of her majesty's pleasure. In the meantime also she likes that your lordship make no haste from those parts, for that you may with better commodity oftener hear from your friends, whom she wishes all good and honourable success to.

For myself, I am to depart to-morrow morning to my house in Warwickshire for ten or twelve days.

1¼ pp. Another copy. Indorsed.

Cott. Calig. C. VII., fol. 41.

Copy of the same.

159. Delivery of Dumbarton Castle. [Sept. 8.]

There were presented to my Lord Duke's grace of Lennox by the Lord Herries certain articles delivered to him by the King's majesty, with the advice of his Council; to the which the Lord Duke has given his answer in manner after specified:

First, he has presently given over the castle of Dumbarton into the hands of William Stewart of Taberstoun.

Secondly, he will not raise any bands of men of war nor in warlike manner assemble his friends or servants during his present abiding in this realm, but will "leve" himself, according to the direction given him, within the number of forty persons at his departing, which, God willing, shall be—wind and weather serving—before the 20th of September. Dumbarton.

½ p. Copy. Indorsed: "1582. Thaunswer of the Duke to tharticles proponed to him for delivery of Dumbartone and his departure forth of the realme." And by Burghley: "14 Sept. Sent from Sterlyng; to Wyndsor 20 Sept."

Cott. Calig. C. VII., fol. 50.

Copy of the same.

160. Robert Bowes to [Burghley]. [Sept. 8.] Cott. Calig. C. VII., fol. 43.

The Duke having sent his letters to the King at Stirling by the Lord Herries and the Abbot of Newbottle, both to witness his loyalty to the King, and also upon the sight of the state and condition of matters presently standing at Court, to require the King's leave to depart the realm and to remain abroad and enjoy his honour and possessions until the King recall him. The King and lords with him returned Lord Herries and Newbottle, accompanied with the Lairds of Cesford and Coldenknowes, with answer and direction that he should immediately retire from Edinburgh to Dalkeith or Aberdore, and thereon to deliver the castle of Dumbarton to the Earl of Mar for the King's use, and afterwards to depart the realm of Scotland before the 20th of this present month. In all which his resolute answer was commanded to be given and sent to the King in writing before the 6th hereof. And it was signified to the Duke that if he would not obey he should be pursued with all hostility, but upon his obedience he should have assurance to be in safety during the time limited for his departure, and be suffered safely to depart. For it was the King's pleasure he should not be touched or hurt in person. And yet the goodwill of the King towards him is not clean quenched. The Duke seemed willingly to obey, and thereon sent back to the King at Stirling the Lord Herries to signify his consent, and soon after departed from Edinburgh, pretending to ride to Dalkeith, but coming abroad to the fields, he turned and passed speedily to Dumbarton, where now he remains. Some think that he will there embark for France, after he has received the King's passport and letters to witness his faithful obedience to the King and to retain his honours and possessions during his absence. But some think that he will hold Dumbarton and there remain to see what the King coming abroad again, or France, or his friends, will do for him. The lords with the King are determined to pursue him as a traitor with all their forces in case he do not depart before the 20th hereof. And in this behalf they will by some mean seek the aid of her majesty, as shortly your lordship will better understand. It seems to many that the King's affection for the Duke is not much abated; which matter both causes many to stand the more fast to the Duke, and also threateneth the longer continuance and more peril in these troubles begun.

The Earl of Arran continues in ward at Stirling and seeks liberty with the favour of the King and lords, offering to discover sundry treasons in the Duke upon favour to be granted to him. What the treasons are and what proof he has will be diligently sought. But what favour shall be shown to him I know not. The lords continue with the King at Stirling purposing shortly to bring him to Edinburgh. Having written to their friends by their own letters without the King's hand to convene at Edinburgh the 15th hereof to consult and resolve for their further proceedings in these causes, they intend at that time to come together and after (upon sight of apt occasion and good disposition of the King) move him in behalf of the Earl of Angus, which matter they have hitherto deferred upon good consideration, and because they found no time for the same.

It is both given out, and also some offer to prove by view of letters and like instruments that the Duke had intended, in the execution of his "chamberlayne court." to have suddenly executed and taken the lives of divers noblemen, ministers and burgesses, and the names of sundry to have been put to the slaughter are delivered abroad; which I omit to certify until I have better surety of the truth thereof. Sir Thomas Carre of Farnyhirst "practisynge" to break the Borders (as I am well informed) had devised to have procured the Liddisdale men to have ridden into England upon the head of the water of Brommysh or thereabouts, and that after some English borderers should likewise have entered Teviotdale and "ronne and forrey" in day light, that a war might arise between the realms. And albeit that the practice is sufficiently discovered, yet the purpose is not utterly given over. But the inconvenience (I trust) will be timely prevented, for all the wardens are already warned.

John Dury, minister at Edinburgh, and lately banished the town for words against the Duke in his sermon, was commanded by the King's letters to return to his function and charge, and coming home he was conveyed by a great number of the inhabitants singing psalms by the way, and before the lodging of the Duke, to his great offence. Berwick. Signed: Robert Bowes.

2 pp. Address torn off. Indorsed: "8 Sept., 1582, M^r Robert Bowes to my L."

161. Robert Bowes to Burghley. [Sept. 8.]

Received his letters of the 5th at 10 o'clock this forenoon, finding therein his gentle warning given to Sir John Selby and him for better diligence in frequent advertisements to be given by them during the time of the late broil begun in Scotland. At the time of his former intelligence signified to Sir Francis Walsingham on the 26th of August last, and coming to the Court, as his lordship notes, on the 29th, was in the country following his causes standing upon the best part of his living. Upon despatch whereof and sight of the rising of these new troubles in Scotland, he hasted to Berwick, where Sir George Carey came for her majesty's service before he could receive any information worthy to be certified. Since whose coming he has acqainted him, Sir George, with all intelligence coming to his knowledge, and thereupon left the advertisement of the same to his report. Trusts this shall be well allowed, and also that he may be excused for omission to write further in these causes during Sir George Carey's abode in these parts. If it shall be looked for that he should also give advertisements, will accomplish with all diligence the duty belonging to him in that part. Incloses some occurrents. Berwick. Signed: Robert Bowes.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed (by Burghley's clerk).

162. Sir George Carey to Burghley. [Sept. 10.] Cott. Calig. C. VII., fol. 47.

This morning I received your lordship's letters of the 6th instant, by which I perceive the just mislike, by the slow advertising of our Scotch affairs from hence, conceived by her majesty, and find your advice to perform amendment of their fault, in which I will not fail to follow your directions.

At 3 o'clock this morning I received from Captain Case the answer to the letter which I sent by him to the King's Council, and the King's safe-conduct and letter to Lord Hume for my convoy, which now [I] shall not need, so to-day I intend to set forward to Stirling.

The cause why we appointed Captain Case to remain there until our coming, was to advertise us from time to time what change or alteration should happen in their proceedings, and the better to acquaint us with what course the well affected noblemen found fittest for us to hold, whose last advertisements are these.

The King willingly granted his safe-conduct for our coming, and the lords were most glad to find the continuance of her majesty's care of the King's well doing and the quieting of his estate.

It is held assured at Court that the Duke is content to avoid the realm within eight days.

The Lord Herries is gone to him from the King to command him to deliver the castle of Dumbarton to the King's use, and he to receive it, and presently redeliver it to him that is captain of it, and he to keep it for the King, because he is well thought of by the lords, and so to be discharged of his duty and promise to the Duke.

It is thought that the King begins to withdraw his favour from the Duke, and to look into the danger that might have ensued by the continuance of him there. The Duke presently is at Dumbarton, and has there a ship ready and well appointed, which was John Cockburn's. He desires a favourable letter from the King to the Duke of Guise in his behalf, but it is thought he will not obtain it, as he desires.

Arran will be put in safe keeping until the nobility convene, but it is thought they will put off their convening and call a parliament as soon as they conveniently may. George Douglas of Locheleven will also be put in safe keeping, because he is thought to have been a principal instrument of much mischief.

There was word brought to the King that the Duke would make no long stay, but depart from Dumbarton. He opened the matter to Dunfermline, none being by but the Lord Bothwell and James Murray [Moreie]. Dunfermline answered that he thought the Duke would do nothing that should disturb his realm. Whereupon the King answered, "that if he would not depart the realm, he would send him a message should be worse than the cannon." Berwick. Signed: George Carey.

2¼ pp. Addressed: "To the right honourable my singular good lord, Lord Burghley, the tresorer of England." Indorsed: "10 Sept. 1582. Sir G. Carye to my L. Aduiser."

163. Mary to the Archbishop of Glasgow. [Sept. 10.] C.P., vol. XII.

Violences used by the Earl of Mar and Lord Ruthven against her son. His detention at Stirling. Hope that her son will escape, and that the Duke of Lennox will be able to hold the field until the arrival of help or bring the Scots to reason. Is to request the King of France to send the Duke of Lennox 500 or 600 harquebusiers to place in Dumbarton, Blackness, and Edinburgh Castle. 15,000 or 20,000 crowns to be sent to the Duke of Lennox. Is to beg the King of France to cause all her Scottish rebels in France to be arrested.

1²/3 pp. French. Indorsed. (Printed. Labanoff. vol. v., p. 308.)

Cott. Calig. C. VII., fol. 402.

Copy of the same.

164. Mr. Archibald Douglas to Thomas Randolph. [Sept. 12.]

I am advertised by letters from Scotland that the Duke, being in Edinburgh with some few lords, made choice of Herries and Newbottle to send the King and lords with his majesty some offers, which were all rejected. The said lords returned to Edinburgh accompanied with Cesford and Coldenknowis, who gave the Duke a charge to render the castle of Dumbarton to the Earl of Mar in the name of the King, to avoid the town of Edinburgh, and to retire himself to Dalkeith or Aberdore in private manner, there to await the King's further pleasure. The Duke seeming to obey the charge "maid hym" as he would ride to Dalkeith; but in the midway he turned and is fled to Dumbarton, where I think he should not make great cheer if he render not that castle shortly. The King will hold his councils at Edinburgh on the 15th day hereof, at which the Duke is charged to compear; but I think he will not obey. "Quhen law hes gevin the stroke aganis him I beleif ze sall heir newis of his escaping."

Your special good friend the Earl of Arran, for the singular and constant affection he bears to the Duke, offers to accuse him of high treason, if they will spare his life to serve and assist the party that is with the King. Pity it were that he should not be well used in respect of his rare qualities "naturele beautifeit vyth his wertewous education in morale philosophie, quhairin he hes so veile profitit that his behaviour is marvellows, speciallie in treating of ambassadouris," which makes me believe that your worship, as one honoured with that dignity, will interpone some special request in his favour. If you be disposed so to do I will take the pains to be your messenger for the safe conveying thereof to her majesty's ministers in Scotland Your physic "ministrat" at your late being in that realm begins now to be of so mighty operation "that bannisshit men ar lik to haif pluck to seik triall of thayr innocencie or ellis I think verray schortlye it salbe harde to decerne the subject frome the traitour." From such a market you may think that I will not be long absent.

I am to take my journey towards that country shortly "gif zour sorel horse price be so low as ane powre bannisshit man his money may amonte onto it." I pray you send him hither, and I will pay what price you will set upon him, "so it be ressonable." London. Signed: A. Douglas.

1½ pp. Holograph, also address. Indorsed.

Cott. Calig. C. VII., fol. 50, b.

Copy of the same.

165. Complaint to James VI. by divers of his Subjects. [Sept. 14.]

Presented to his majesty.—Have suffered now about two years such false accusations, calumnies, cruel oppressions, and persecutions by the mean of the Duke of Lennox and him who is called Earl of Arran, that the like of their insolences and enormities was never heretofore borne in Scotland. Which wrongs, albeit they were manifestly intolerable, for that they only touched them in particular, they "comported" patiently, ever attending when the King should put remedy thereunto. But now, seeing the persons aforesaid have "entred" plainly to trouble the whole commonweal, as well the ministers of the blessed Evangel as the true professors thereof, but especially the noblemen, barons, burgesses, and commons who did most worthily in the King's service during his youth, whom "principally and only" they molest, and against whom only they use the rigour and extremity of laws, acts, and practices, ofttimes perverting the same for their greater vindication. so that one part of his best subjects are exiled, and if any escape their barbarous fury, yet have they no access to him, but are falsely calumniated, menaced, debarred his presence, and holden out of his favour. Papists and the most notable murderers of his father and Regents are daily called home, restored to their former honours and heritages, and ofttimes highly rewarded with the offices. rooms, and possessions of his most faithful servants. His estate royal is not governed by the Council of his nobility, as his progenitors used to do, but at the pleasure of the persons aforesaid, who enterprise nothing but as they receive direction from the bishops of Glasgow and Ross, his denounced rebels, having with them in their ordinary counsels the pope's nuncios, the ambassador of Spain, and such others of the catholic Papists in France as ever labour to subvert the true religion and to spoil him of his crown. With these aforesaid persons and his mother, by the advice of his estates, they travailed to cause him negotiate and traffic, persuading him to "reconciliate" with her, and to associate her conjointly with him in his authority. Whereby, meaning nothing but to convict those of usurpation, conspiracy, and treason who served him in his youth, and so, have these his best subjects out of the way, who, with the defence of his innocent cause, maintained also the purity of religion, as two actions united and inseparable. What else could have ensued but the wreck both of the one and the other? By their practices his whole country is so perturbed, altered, and put out of frame, that the true religion, the common weal, his crown, estate, and person is now in no less danger than when he was delivered out of the hands of the murderer of his father. Beholding these dangers to be imminent and at hand, and seeing his person in such hazard—the preservation whereof is more precious to them than their own lives—finding also no appearance that he was forewarned hereof, but likely to perish before he could perceive peril, they thought that they could not be answerable to their eternal God nor be faithful subjects to him if they did not prevent these pitiful disasters. For this effect they are here convened, and desire him in the name of the eternal God and for the love he bears to His true religion, to his country and subjects, and as he would the tranquillity of his own estate, to retire to some part of his country where his person may be most surely preserved and his nobility have best access, and where, under peril of their lands, lives, and heritages, he shall see the disloyalty, falsities, and treasons of the persons aforesaid.

2¾ pp. Copy. Indorsed: "1582. Forme of the supplication to the King by the Lordes." Note on the back in Burghley's hand: "14 Sept. from Sterlyng, 20 Sept. at Wyndsor."

Another copy of the same.

Cott. Calig. C. VII., fol. 54.

Another copy of the same.

166. Sir Walter Mildmay to Walsingham. [Sept. 14.]

I most heartily thank you for sparing so much time that I may hear from you, which I am desirous always of, and especially now upon this occasion of Scotland, and I would be sorry in my heart that anything should be omitted that were fit to be done from hence.

To let slip such an opportunity to make sure that realm, the assurance whereof is more for us than both the others, might be accounted a marvellous oversight, and sparing of charge that way is a small point of husbandry. I pray God it may be considered of in time as the weight thereof deserves. I would have been glad to have found in your letters that the Earl of Angus had been gone, as the party would be the stronger.

If the Duke get into Dumbarton the matter will be more dangerous, the rather if the King no better allows of the lords' proceedings. They would be comforted and advised effectually, whereof I am sure you take care. I would to God that others would take it as much to heart, and then I would not doubt of the success. Apthorp. Signed: Wa. Mildmay.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed. Notes on the back.

167. Depositions of George Douglas. [Sept. 14.]

Being demanded by whom he was directed to France, to whom, and what was the tenour of his commission, he answers that he had a general commission from the King of Scots, given in his cabinet in presence of a good number of the Council, and letters to the King of France, Queen mother, and Duke of Guise, with credit—if they would acknowledge his majesty to be King of Scotland—to entreat with them upon renewing of the ancient amity betwixt France and Scotland, and to know their good affection towards his majesty, and what he might expect of them "in case he hadd to doo." But in respect that none of them, except the Duke of Guise, would acknowledge his authority without his mother's consent, he does not travail with them.

He confesses that privately he received one letter from his majesty [the King of Scots], all written by the Duke of Lennox, and subscribed by his grace, to the bishop of Glasgow, the tenour whereof was to assist him in such things as he had to do in the Court of France.

He confesses that he received one other letter from his majesty to his mother, subscribed also by his grace, and written by the Duke [of Lennor], which was conveyed to her by the bishop of Glasgow's means, the tenour whereof, as he alleged, was to desire her write to the King of France and her parents there that she had willingly demitted the crown in his majesty's person and was content with his authority. To this letter he granted that the Queen sent answer in cipher; which answer he received in Paris, and sent the same to the King of Scots deciphered. The tenour whereof was that she would agree to whatsoever thing pleased his majesty, provided she might be associated with him in authority. As to the form of the association, he has not yet declared it.

Confesses that he has travailed in this matter of association with his majesty, whereunto he could never induce his highness.

Confesses that the Duke [of Lennox] both sent [letters to,] and received letters from the Queen [of Scots], and that he delivered into the Duke's hands one packet from her to sundry noblemen at his majesty's command. The mean how their letters were conveyed to her and from her was by the bishop of Glasgow.

Confesses that he heard that Mauvissiere made sundry advertisements to the Duke [of Lennox] by the bishop of Glasgow's mean also; but he was not certain thereof.

Confesses that in special Mauvissiere forewarned the Duke of a conspiracy devised in England and Scotland against him, which he said he heard of the Duke's own mouth.

1 p. Copy. Indorsed by Burghley: "Sent the 14 of Sept. from Sterlyng; receaved 20 Sept. at Wyndsor."

Cott. Calig. C. VII., fol. 64.

Copy of the same.

168. Sir George Carey to Burghley. [Sept. 14.] Cott. Calig. C. VII., fol. 51.

With such speed as I could possibly make we came to Stirling on the 12th instant, and this day we had audience of the King, by which we find that he was "farre carried" in affection to the Duke of Lennox, and greatly inclined to run that course which was directed by the Duke of Guise and counselled by Lennox and Arran. He now seems somewhat to find the apparent mischief that was like to have followed their dangerous intent in seeking the alteration of religion, and daily likes better the noblemen that first attempted his separation from them. Good hope is to be had that he will, through the advice of these noblemen that now possess him, only depend on the amity of her majesty, and continue most firm in religion. I find the same likewise by his own speeches affirmed, which carries me the better to believe it.

The Duke continues as yet in Dumbarton, accompanied by the Master of Seaton, the Master of Levingston and sundry others besides his own company. He pretends to want sundry necessaries for his departure and transport, and thereon has sent to the King to pray longer time, which is denied, and order is given to-day to him to obey the appointment prescribed. Sundry of this nation have both offered him their aid and forces, and also persuaded him to abide and take the help of his friends. Most of his friends have their forces ready upon warning.

"The peece of Dunbarton" is well victualled and furnished, and albeit it was delivered to the custody of William Stewart for the King, yet it is in the Duke's power to command and dispose of as he pleases. He has both his own barque at Dumbarton ready for him and has hired a vessel of Leith to accompany him, having "entertained" sundry soldiers to sail with him for his safeguard against his enemies and chiefly against the English, whom he most distrusts, fearing that his writings of secrets and treasure should be taken from him.

The lords with the King are of opinion that he will obey and depart this realm before the 20th hereof, according to the direction given, and if they find the contrary they purpose to pursue him speedily with all their forces. The lords aforesaid hold themselves able enough to daunt and pull out of their houses all such as offered their forces to the Duke, but to avoid untimely troubles they forbear to execute the same. The Duke sought for leave to the Earl of Huntly to pass into France, and it is granted. Notwithstanding Huntly is not minded to pass thither, and the Lords Maxwell, Ogilvy and others sued also for like leave, but they are denied.

For sundry respects the King and the lords have deferred the convention until the 10th of October next, minding to have the same at Edinburgh, and thereby to establish both a good order for the King's person, his house, and revenues, and also for the policy of government.

The Earl of Arran is sent from Stirling to Ruthven, to be there safe kept until further order shall be taken for him. He hath confessed very few matters of weight in any of his examinations, but still offers to disclose sundry secrets, on condition that he may be received into fellowship with these lords, and be assured to hold his honours and possessions; whereunto no ear is given for the dangers hanging thereon. The Lairds of Caperton and Buchan, his near kinsmen, have been suitors for him and his two brothers in prison at Stirling. But their suit has prevailed little as yet.

The Earls of Glencairn and Gowrie have some goodwill to save his life, but many others persuade that he may have his trial according to the ordinary course of the law and thereon to receive his reward due for his deserts, which matter is like to be resolved at the next convention.

George Douglas continues still in ward in this town; he hath confessed sundry matters; he is to be further examined, and upon some articles touching matters for England, wherein as he shall answer and confess you shall be further advertised.

David Macgill shall be called to examination, for it is thought he can discover many secrets of the Duke, who was very sorry to understand that George Douglas was taken and examined.

Because the lords here have not seen any forward disposition in the King to grant the Earl of Angus his favour and grace, or to restore him to his honours and possessions, they have hitherto deferred their motion and suit in that behalf, purposing not to attempt the same before they have wrought, and shall see, better mind in the King towards the earl. Upon view thereof, and on opportunity, they purpose to do their endeavours. And to-day the Earls of Bothwell and Mar adventured to move the King for him, persuading the King to prevent the mediation and requests to be made by her majesty's ambassadors, which could not be denied, and by his bounty to be granted at their suit, to bind to him both these suitors, and also Angus and all their services. But the King answered they wanted beards and gravity to draw him suddenly to alter that which had been determined by the whole State, and therefore the revocation of the forfeiture of Angns enacted by parliament was of such weight, as for the grant of the same it should be needful, that besides their suit the ambassadors should deal therein. Whereupon the earls left off their suit, and the matter now depends on further motion to be made, which will be still deferred until direction shall come from her majesty, and better disposition be found in the King.

The King is well pleased to give the possession of his ear and person to these lords about him, declaring the daily increase of his good liking towards them, and consent to the progress of this action. Nevertheless, the late affection towards the Duke is not clear quenched, but as yet retains such power in him that he still labours to excuse the errors charged on the Duke by the resolution of counsels, and it is feared this mind towards the Duke is nourished in the King by some near about him, who upon better settling of these courses may perhaps be further removed. Stirling. Signed: George Carey.

3 pp. Addressed in Carey's hand: "To the ryght honorable lord Burghley, lord tresorer of England yeue thez. [I hu]mbly beseche your lordships to further my dispache from thens." Indorsed by Burghley: "17 Sept. 1582. Sir Georg Carye from Stirlyng. Received Wyndsor, 20 Sept."

169. Sir George Carey to Elizabeth. [Sept. 14.]

Arrived here on the 12th instant, and this day Mr. Bowes and he delivered her letters and the effect of her message to the King. Declared her most gracious care for his safety and well doing by sending them to visit him and to make offer to him of the continuance of her goodwill and loving care for the preservation of his honour and safety. He took it most thankfully, and in kind words seemed to acknowledge no less, and to confess how greatly he stood bound to her.

To the second part he answered that he hoped she should hereafter be fully satisfied that the fault did not proceed from him, and that of all vices he thought ingratitude to be the greatest, which if he should show to her he should think himself unworthy of life. So that they find his former affection and love to her revived, which before was half buried through the persuasions of the evil affected about him, and himself now well inclined to embrace her favour and follow her directions.

To the third part, wherein they discovered to him sundry good reasons and manifest presumptions of the Duke's dangerous intent, and proved that the course of his proceeding only tended to the alteration of religion and the overthrow of his estate and person, he greatly changed colour and entered into passion as discontented to hear his faults, excusing that nothing was done by him alone, but with the rest of the Council, and to himself oft muttering his "not beleif" that those faults should be found by proof in the Duke [of Lennox]. So that yet his great affection to him seems not to be quenched, but he rests content with his absence and wishes well to his person. Only time must work him to know the danger he was ready to fall into, and to hold by her hand to stay upright, and they will do their endeavour with every opportunity to bring him to the clear understanding of the same.

To the fourth part, wherein they advised him to assemble his noblemen and States, etc., he thought that advice most honourably and graciously to proceed from her, and most fit for himself to follow, meaning as soon as conveniently he may so to do.

Lastly, desiring to know in what estate he stood, he answered that in a day or two he would talk with him [Carey], and let him know how all matters stood.

Has written to Mr. Secretary the particulars of their proceedings and the present state of the causes here. Stirling.

2 pp. Copy. Indorsed.

170. Mr. John Colvile to Thomas Randolph. [Sept. 15.]

That I "spair" to write so oft to your worship as I would, the cause is that I think the ambassadors "makkis" her majesty daily advertised of the state of matters here, to whom I impart such things continually as I can learn.

At the writing of this "instant" we heard that D'Aubigny was to suit new prorogation of the day, and liberty to remain here till he were better provided for his journey. If this be desired your worship shall know.

His majesty has received the ambassadors the 13th of this instant, and has given them good countenance. I "trest" in God before they depart they shall so prevail at his grace's hands that he shall not be ashamed to confess how far he has been abused and carried away from his duty to her majesty.

I have delivered to Sir Robert Bowes the copy of the supplication given in to his majesty at the beginning of this week, the remonstrance and declaration of the noblemen "mening quha hes interprysit ye caus," together with the petitions of D'Aubigny and answers made to them, and depositions of George Douglas, with which ere now I trust her majesty is acquainted.

So praying your worship "mak" her highness informed of my diligence and good affection to her majesty's service, I pray God bless her majesty with long and prosperous reign in His fear.

Please your worship also present my humble commendation of service to my lord Secretary. Stirling. Signed: Jo. Colvile.

1 p. Holograph, also address. Indorsed.

171. Henry Killigrew to Walsingham. [Sept. 17.]

Has received Mr. Archibald Douglas into his house according to her majesty's commandment, though for many causes unfit for such a charge. In searching of him he found nothing but this inclosed, to his honour. In his chamber [was] this bag which he has sent sealed. The packet inclosed therein he found in the pocket of his hose that were in his chest. Takes him to be too old a fox to be seised with any writings that might hurt him. He seems nothing amazed at his stay. London. Signed: H. Kyllygrew.

1 p. Holograph, also address. Indorsed.

172. Mr. John Colvile to Thomas Randolph. [Sept. 17.] Cott. Calig. C. VII., fol. 58, b.

At the writing of this instant [sic] we heard that D'Aubigny was to "sewte" new prorogation of the day and liberty to remain here till he were better provided to his journey. If this be desired, your worship shall know.

His majesty hath received the ambassadors the 14th of this instant and has given them good countenance. I trust in God before they depart they shall so prevail at his grace's hands that he shall not be ashamed to confess how far he hath been abused and carried away from his duty to her majesty.

½ p. Copy.

173. Statement of Offences committed by Lennox. [Sept. 17.]

Whereas the King of Scots' good nature and virtuous education are now plainly understood to have been abused, and his royal qualities given to him from his Almighty God and creator—who before this time caused his fame far above the capacity of his tender years to be magnified and worthily praised, to the great comfort of all his good subjects—are now obscured by the craft, subtilty, and treason of Esme d'Aubigny and his complices, who never these twenty years past, when his majesty's crown and life were in greatest danger, made any offer of his service or signification of his goodwill to his excellency, till now of late being informed of the gentle, heroical, and courteous nature of the King, he has purposely entered into Scotland under colour of friendship and blood for no other cause [but] to promote himself and to pervert the divine inclination wherewith Almighty God had indued his grace, to the praise of His holy name, to the great comfort of all professors of the true religion, and terror of the "Romish idol" and his "supposties," and for performing of his malicious and devilish practice he had brought home with him to be his counsellors and colleagues [Note in the margin,—Keir, Lecroy, Moweburinawe] such as are Papists, in life and conversation licencious libertines trained up from their cradles in contempt of true religion, in persecution of the true professors thereof, and in execution of the bloody Council of Trent. With these he had also joined to him all persons who have remained obstinate Papists among themselves and could never be induced benevolently to leave their superstition, together with a great number of those who were his majesty's ancient and most notable enemies [Note in the margin,—Prior Maitland, (fn. 1) Robert Melvyll, the whole Gordons, the house of Seaton, Ogleby, and sundry others], who never would obey nor acknowledge his authority royal but by compulsion of his Regents, who in doing thereof expended their lives and the blood of their friends.

Besides this, those who were most capital enemies to his life and crown, and who were for the murders of his father and Regents condignly forfeited, he had caused to be restored to their honours and heritages and to be highly rewarded [Note in the margin,—Huntly, Sir James Balfour, Maclane, Farnyhurst, and Mr. Dandgalm], yea, even with the rooms, possessions, and offices of his most faithful servants, by their advice governing his highness's affairs and people to the great hazard of religion, wreck of all who have done most worthily in his service, and dissolving of the amity between the two nations. By this marvellous craft he so far prevailed that he became master of his grace's chamber and "person" of his care, counsel, and whole estate, brought his grace to enter into suspicion, and to cast off all such of his own subjects as preserved his life with hazard of their own in greatest necessity, of whom one part he committed to strait captivity, others he persecuted, exiled, and tormented with questions, and some of the worthiest with partiality he condemned and put to death; the rest who escaped his barbarous fury he suffered not to have any good countenance to his highness, but caused debar them from his presence, menaced them, and held them out of his majesty's favour.

As to the ministers of the blessed Evangel, some of them most tyrannously he banished from their flocks [In the margin, John "Aury"] withouttrial of any offence either in their doctrine or manners. Some of them [In the margin, John Heuison (sic)] he "bosted," caused to be stricken, and pitifully wounded within their colloquies and presbyteries, respecting neither place, time nor person, so was the flame of his malice incensed against them. He also made his majesty to put silence to some of them [In the margin, Mr. Patrick Gallowaye] and to think them factious and railers; and not contented herewith, he has taken open banner against the true religion and the professors thereof by maintaining most contemptuously one excommunicated minister [In the margin, Robert Montgomerye] contrary to promise, oath, and subscription made when he subscribed the articles of the Christian religion.

He has made his majesty, without the advice of his Council, to grant letters of caption to the most godless and cruel men in the country [In the margin, Captain Stewarde and his brother William], who have committed sundry odious murders with their own hands, to apprehend whomsoever they pleased, without cognition taken of any fact or deed, expressly against all good orders used in his progenitors' days.

He caused his majesty to banish sundry of his most faithful subjects without trial. He has moved his grace to displace sundry of his house [In the margin, the burgesses of Edinburgh] from their own domestics [In the margin, Cathcart [Catrart] banished and Chissolme in his place; Dunnipace banished and John Livingston in his place; Colvill banished and Mr. Ker in his place], no crime being verified against them, and in their services has planted none but such as are suspected of papistry, or at least opposed themselves obstinately to his authority.

He has debarred from his majesty's presence sundry noblemen who have deserved best since his coronation, only because they would not consent to his abominable and treasonable desires. [In the margin, "He woolde have banished Preston and placed Sir John Seaton for him."]

He has abused his majesty's ear with innumerable leasings and filthy speeches. [In the margin, "Such like of Carnock."]

He has made his majesty cast himself into the hands and counsel of such as ever were enemies to his crown, and employed these to spoil him of the same. [In the margin, Such as Marr, Cambuskenneth, Dryburgh, Cathcart, Dunnypas, Lochleven, Cleshe, Sir James Balfour, Prior Maitland, and Robert Melvill.]

He laboured to alienate his grace's mind from the amity of England and to think nothing pleasant but that which proceeded from the Papists in France, from whom he never received "good turne" nor so much as to be called King; whereby he and his subjects are not only brought into contempt amongst all other nations and people professing the true religion, who expected of him so great comfort to redound to the afflicted churches, but also by the abusing aforesaid his majesty is accused of great ingratitude by the Queen of England.

D'Aubigny, Captain Steward, and their complices have so perturbed the quiet of Scotland, that no consultation is taken in Council but how to maintain their ambition, pride, and frauds with excessive prodigality, consuming his highness' rent and patrimony.

As to the matters of estate, they are not governed by the advice of the nobility, as his highness's progenitors used to do, but as D'Aubigny receives deliberation from the bishops of Glasgow and Ross, and such others of the Papists in France as ever travailed to spoil him of his crown and to subvert the true religion. With these forfeited persons and with his mother [In the margin, His grace received daily advertisements from his mother by George Dowglas, who also carried his letters to the bishops aforesaid], without the consent of his Estates, they have persuaded his highness to traffic and negotiate, moving him to demit his crown into her hands, and to think all that was done for him in his youth by his faithful servants plain usurpatiou and conspiracies, and that they who served him most honestly ought to be condignly punished as conspirators and traitors, and the enemies of his crown to be highly rewarded as loyal and good subjects; whereby it is evident nothing could be meant but utterly to subvert the religion, the King's estate, person, and crown, in so far that once his majesty's so faithful servants being put out of the way—by whom the light of the Evangel and his authority have been maintained as two things united reciprocally, and of one nature—without all controversy, the universal fall of the one and of the other must have ensued. Yet to cloak this their diabolical and malicious craft, they have moved his majesty to direct his proclamations for their purgation and excuse, abusing thereby as well his highness as the people, and further, they caused his grace by his own mouth to colour their dissimulated hypocrisy and wicked attempts.

They have within two years brought such marvellous confusion within the country that justice is not truly ministered, but thrown and perverted at their pleasure, chiefly against those who have done most worthily in his grace's service. Theft and oppression are plainly remitted for bribes; bloodshed and adulteries are daily used by themselves in such sort that the ministers threaten continually the fearful curse of God against the whole nation for bearing with their intolerable concupiscence and ambition. So that by their arguments the subversion of the blessed Word of God and of the King's estate, and in place thereof the erection of the detestable and erroneous sect of papistry evidently appear, whereby his person may be known not only to have been abused in manner aforesaid, but also "incarcered" from all liberty to choose "tymeous" remedy for his deliverance out of their hands, who neither would suffer his grace to use himself according to his former education and good "naturall"— which they are assured yet remains unaltered and undefiled—nor could they who gave best proof of their fidelity in his youth have acts or audience to desire the former abuses and "mysorders" to be amended. Therefore, for preventing of these inconveniences and damages ready to fall out against the true religion, his estate, and person, and seeing his crown in no less peril than when they delivered him from the hands of the Earl of Bothwell and his adherents after the most cruel and barbarous murder of his father— they of his nobility and Secret Council present, not being stirred thereto for any worldly commodity, particular revenge or partiality, but as faithful Christians and true subjects preferring the service of their eternal God, health of their sovereign, and surety of his estate to all earthly respects, have joined and amassed themselves together to the glory of their Omnipotent Creator and advancement of his true religion, for the preservation and deliverance of his majesty and restitution of his excellency to his former honour and estate. In execution whereof they vow solemnly to spare neither their lands, blood, nor lives, but to expend the same liberally to the uttermost of their power.

Therefore they command and charge in their sovereign Lord's name that none take upon hand to oppone himself hereunto, nor to do or attempt anything in the contrary; and that all judges, as well Lords of Session as commissaries, sheriffs, and other inferior judges sit and minister justice to the furtherance hereof, according to the laws of the country. Who does the contrary shall be holden guilty of the odious, detestable, and treasonable crimes aforesaid, and esteemed partaker with the persons aforesaid.

6 pp. Indorsed, partly in Burghley's hand: "1582. The remonstr. of the offences of the Duk of Lennox. etc. From Sterlyng, 17 Septemb. R. at Wynds. 20."

Cott. Calig. C. VII., fol. 56.

Copy of the same. Indorsed by Burgley.

174. Mr. John Colvile to [Thomas Randolph]. [Sept. 18.] Cott. Calig. C. VII., fol. 53.

His majesty has opened his mind to "my lordis embassadaris," and has acknowledged that he is relieved from a great extremity by the late enterprise. He desires that her majesty should conceive no evil opinion of him, and to esteem him as one who will be ever thankful and "y grait" for her benefits.

The day of D'Aubigny's departing is prolonged for four days, with condition that if he remains after that he shall be pursued with fire and sword as a traitor, "lyk as the act maid therapon proportis, quhilk I haif giffin to my lordis embassadaris."

The "weill" of the cause consists most in her majesty, and if it shall please her to agree to the petitions last sent for the levying of men of war, the matter will incontinently "sattill" to the welfare of both the nations; "quharfor pleis zour worship sa trawell with hir hienes that the nobill men quha hes begun this cause with gret hasard for the luif thai bair to the religion hir and his majestis estatis and persone be nocht lefit destitut and o'chargit with greter burthing than thai can indure."

What I leave "vnremembrit" of the state of matters here, you will hear from the ambassadors, otherwise I would write more "prolixtlie."

Let my most humble and obedient service be presented to her majesty and my lord secretary. As her highness thinks good to "esteem of" my faithful meaning please let me be advertised. Stirling. Signed: Jo. Coluile.

1 p. Holograph. No flyleaf or address.

175. Charges against Mr. Archibald Douglas. [Sept.]

"Sum notes that maye be laid to the charge of Mr. Archiball Douglas collectid upon the sight of his lettres discipherid and otherwise."

At Lethington's desire he travailed to stir up the barons to utter their discontentment for taking of the provost of St. Andrews; he made advertisement to Lethington of the time and place of the laying of our ordnance at the assiege of Edinburgh in October, 1571; he travailed to have "out putt" and betrayed Mr. James' Magill, Clerk of Register, and Mr. Robert Richardson, sometime treasurer; he received packets of letters directed from Grange, Lethington, and others in the castle and town of Edinburgh and conveyed the same to their friends and favourers, and also conveyed their letters to them again, not making the Regent nor the Earl of Morton privy thereto; he was in the counsel of, and a special dealer with Alexander Stewart, captain of Blackness, to draw him to make defection from the King's obedience, and to use that house to the behoof of the adversaries; he made Grange to be furnished with wines out of Leith; he advertised Grange of the diet and departure of the Regent forth of Leith to Stirling; he "cought certene roches of Calmeris" and sent to the castle to Grange; he was a continual travailer for the furnishing of Grange and others the enemies within and without the realm; under colour of doing good offices for the King's cause and service for the Earl of Morton, he sent William Kincaid with the letters and directions of the adversaries into France; he advertised Grange that Lord Seton and some others of the adversaries were travailing to become obedient to the King, and stopped the same at his power; at Grange's desire he caused travail with the ministers to counsel them to seek the liberty of the Church and ntter their discontentment against the Regent and lords of the King's Council; by his means a quantity of wines was carried to the castle, being set out as it had been of purpose to be sent to Newbottle; by his means, at Grange's desire, Lord Hunsdon wrote, and John Case spoke by mouth desiring to stay the intromission with the escheats and livings of the persons forfeited; he was privy to Lethington's mind touching that which might make them sure, and revealed not the same, nor what was Grange's course, he being privy thereto; he was privy to the "convoy" of the 5000 crowns which Lord. Seton brought from Flanders, and helped the same to be transported from Leith to Edinburgh; he sent money by his man Thomas Douglas to Grange; he was privy and assisted to a device of Grange's for satisfaction of the men of war on either side when they wanted money; which was that they of Leith should deliver the Earl of Morton and Lord Lindsay into the hands of the men of war of Edinburgh, and they of Edinburgh to deliver the Duke [Chatelherault] and the Earl of Huntly into the hands of the men of war of Leith; he was privy to an enterprise which they of Edinburgh lately pretended against Leith, and were in the way to have executed the same; he advertised Grange how Leith mills were kept; at Grange's desire he sent timber, "geistis," and "dailles" to Blackness after the captain's defection; he made continual advertisements to the enemies of the estate of Leith, how our men of war were paid, and other secrets; he took upon him the place of a messenger and dealer from the adversaries with the English commissioners, finding fault with Mr. Randolph's earnest pressing of them to the King's obedience and otherwise; he was privy to an enterprise for taking the Countess of Murray forth of her lodging on the north side of the brig of Leith. and disappointing her marriage with the Earl of Argyll's brother, and did not reveal the same; he advertised Grange of the intention and diet of the borderers who came to the King's service; he was privy to a purpose for taking James Cunningham as he returned forth of England, and did not reveal the same; he dealt with the Marshal of Berwick, at Grange's desire, to stop the coming of Mr. Randolph, as thought by them of the castle not meet for them, and wrote a letter of his own in that behalf, out of cipher, that it might be shown to Lord Burghley; he directed for the safe convoy of such things as William Kincaid "returned" with him to the behoof of the adversaries; he has taken upon him to receive such money of the Pope's or the Duke of Alva's as may be procured to the behoof of Grange, and to convey it to them; he received letters from the Queen of Scots and credit by the bishop of Galloway to the prejudice of the King's estate, and did not reveal the same; by his means sundry directed from the adversaries with their letters had passage to the said Queen, the bishop of Ross, and others, enemies to the King's estate; he did that lay in him to entertain displeasure and unkindness betwixt the Regent, the Earl of Morton, and Lord Hunsdon, taking occasion upon the refusal of a passport to Lady Hume; by his means he stopped the pursuit of the Laird of Farnyhurst by the officers of England.

3 pp. Indorsed: "Fol. 10. Notes taken owte of the ciphers that were founde in Mr. Archibalde Duglas chamber when he was apprehended."

Cott. Calig. C. VII., fol. 176.

Copy of the same.

176. Angus to Walsingham. [Sept. 20.]

By your last, of the 14th hereof, I understand how careful her majesty has been of me in giving charge to Sir George Carey by mouth, at the time of his departure, to do all the good offices he could to restore me to the King's favour, and now of late has also willed the same to be renewed to him by writing, for which I render to her majesty most humble thanks, being bound not only in that, but otherwise greatly to do her majesty all humble service, not doubting but by her majesty's mediation my cause will take the better effect. Such news as falls out in Scotland the ambassador can best make advertisement of, and so I trust her majesty will hold me excused in that I did not write since his going into Scotland. Berwick. Signed: Angus.

½ p. Addressed. Indorsed.

177. Huntly, Argyll, Atholl, Crawford, Montrose, Arran, Lennox, Sutherland, etc., to the Provost and Bailiffs of Edinburgh. [Sept. 20.]

"Traist freindis, efter our hairtie commendationis," forasmuch as it appears truly to us and to all others the King's grace's faithful subjects within this realm that the earls and lords, viz., Glencairn, Mar, Gowrie, Lindsay, with their partakers and counsellors "hes sen yer begynnyng and zit continewing be thair tressonable interprys" in causing the King's grace to remain with them "contraire" his grace's mind, and will not suffer his grace to pass into any part within the realm where his grace pleases, lest his grace may have "fere actes" among his nobility and true subjects, and as the bruit and common word is that they are of mind to deliver his person into the hands of our old enemies of England, and to perform their treasonable enterprise they have caused his grace lately to consent to the making of an act to "uplift" four hundred men of war, to be paid monthly by the Queen of England's silver, and she to bear the charges of the said men of war, meaning by their support by force to compel the King's faithful subjects to consent to their treasonable enterprise if remedy be not found shortly. Therefore, because his grace is now present in Holyrood House, which is within such bounds as you may be masters of, and that you need not suffer any unfaithful subjects to be masters of his grace, "nowther yat may convoy his grace in ye handis of our auld enemeis of Ingland nee to be convoyit be thame in na vyes part bot where ze pleis bot yat ze may and ze pleis, but his grace to fere libertie," that his grace may pass into any part of Scotland where his grace best pleases. "Heirfoir" we require you first in the name of God and as you owe your "detfull" obedience as faithful subjects to your natural Prince, that you will incontinent after the sight hereof put yourselves in armour and receive his grace's body into your keeping to such time and as shortly as may be, that we and the rest of his grace's faithful subjects may come to you to Edinburgh to see his grace put to free liberty, that his grace may pass where he pleases. Which being done, thereafter the three Estates of this realm to convene in parliament for the establishing of the glory of God, preservation of his grace's body forth of the hands of our old enemies of England, the common weal of his realm to be taken order with, all abuse, if any has been, "contrare" God's religion and His Word, etc., to be reformed. And if you do not willingly perform the premises, if either his grace be delivered into the hands of our old enemies of England or pass into any part forth of our said abbey of Holyrood House, you shall be called and accused hereafter for treason of lese majeste. Dunkeld.

1¼ pp. Copy. Indorsed: "Copy of the libell caste into the seate in the church of the Provost and baylyffes. Edenbr. xxviij^o Ja. 1582."

178. Defence of the King of Scots. [Sept. 20.]

"The names of the noblemen and others that have alredy subscribed to the band."

Earls:—Glencairn, Mar, and Gowrie.

Lords:—Lindsay and Boyd.

Abbots:—Dunfermline, Dryburgh, Paisley, Cambuskenneth, Inchaffray, and Culross.

The Clerk Register. Justice Clerk. The whole superintendents, bishops, and ministers to whom the band was presented.

The boroughs of Edinburgh, Stirling, St. Johnstone, Dundee, Ayr, and Aberdeen.

The Earls of March, Argyll, Atholl, Erroll, and Marishal have promised to subscribe.

Besides, sundry lords, barons, boroughs, and gentlemen will both subscribe the band and also be at the next Convention to join in the action, as hereafter shall be more particularly expressed upon their subscription and appearance performed.

²/3 p. Addressed to Burghley. Indorsed by him.

Cott. Calig. C. VII., fol. 59.

Copy of the same.

179. Sir George Carey to [Burghley]. [Sept. 20.] Cott. Calig. C. VII., fol. 60.

I received your letters of the 12th on the 19th of this month, by which your acceptance of my writing and satisfaction in my diligence declares your favour to me, and increases "the bonde of my dewty" vowed in goodwill to you and yours, and due by sundry benefits received, etc.

According to your lordship's good advice, I will write as often as with my credit I conveniently may, the "tickelnes of this estate breedinge suche owrly variety of occurrences as to have the certenty without reproofe of hasty belife of necessity will spend sum time of delay."

We find here, to confirm your advertisements, both by the King and the lords, that Mauvissiere hath been a great director of the Duke's actions, and a giver of intelligence from time to time even of most secret matters sent from hence to our Court, whereby he [the Duke] prevented the like attempt to this last executed, before intended by a forewarniug he received from Mauvissière. Lime twigs are laid to catch both their hasty messengers and other messengers of sedition sent from the seminary schools into this realm.

I also received your letters of the 14th this 20th hereof, by which you judge rightly the true reason of the mild proceedings of the lords to win the King's consent to them, and all the three reasons alleged by you have concurred to continue his affection to the Duke, which is not left unstirred by some bad, yet unknown, instruments about him, though somewhat quenched in outward appearance. It is firmly held that his young years "hath lerned graviter dissimulare"; then must the end only judge the sequel of these causes; but his continuance in religion, the force of the associates in this attempt, and the fear he hath to endanger his person and estate, I firmly believe will keep him in this course the lords hold and give good success to this action.

The ministers most notably decipher the dealings of the Duke in their public and private sermons before the King, and this day Mr. John Dury particularly in every point opened in his sermon all the plot of the Duke's pretence, and with most bitter words reproved his treacherous dealing against the Church, the King, the realm and the nobility, and inveighed against the Duke of Guise and Antragues as bloody instruments of the massacre, pretending the execution of the like here.

Our posts made slow haste that suffered Mr. Douglas to outride the packet of the 10th, being sent three hours before his departure from Berwick.

This day the lords have imparted their estate to us, and sundry causes why it shall be needful and profitable for the maintenance of this action to levy 300 foot and 200 horse, for maintenance whereof they flee to her majesty for assistance, in general words by us promised. Their reasons and demands I omit, Mr. Secretary intending to write.

This day the lords gave us to understand they were informed that the Duke and sundry of the nobility, viz., Huntly, Crawford, Mountrose, and Morton, the Lords of Seton, Livingston, Ogilvy, Gray, and Downe, intend to convene shortly at Dumbarton, and therefore they supposed the Duke would not depart at the day limited.

It is said also that Montrose and Sir James Balfour have been in the north, and are this day passed with sixteen persons to Dumbarton. It is thought that they have travailed to draw the Earl of Huntly and others into band for the Duke, as his other friends in other places do the same.

The Earl of Crawford is said to be gone this day to the Duke; he has written to Dunfermline to be mean to the King for leave to pass into France, but it is not yet moved, and labour will be made to keep him at home.

It is thought that if the Duke departs according to his promise, that then he will take with him so many of his noblemen and persons of credit as he can get, both to give him the greater countenance in France and also to give bond there for performance of such conditions as shall be propounded, and as are contained in the band subscribed amongst them, the effect of which is not yet known.

The lords here minding to win the assistance of most of the nobility, boroughs, barons, and gentlemen to be joined with them in this action have employed sundry of the ministers and other persons of credit to travail in their several limits to procure the consent and hands of noblemen, boroughs, barons, and gentlemen to subscribe the band.

The King understanding that the lords had conference with the ministers, willed them to forbear to deal with them without his consent and privity. The lords let him know they intended to frame a new remonstrance, declaring their enterprise of this action, for the device and penning whereof they sought the advice of the ministers.

The Earl of Argyll being made privy to this action is willing to join in it, but the countess, his wife, dissuades and stays him. The King has written for him, but his sickness is such that it is thought he cannot come.

It is now certified by a minister newly come from Dumbarton that the Duke hath no company with him, and prepares to depart with all the speed that he can; which news I believed to be more true than those certified to the lords.

My causes are such that I cannot but again remind you that my abode here any long time may be greatly prejudicial to me; therefore I beseech your good furtherance for my return. Mr. Bowes may now much better perform what is to be done. Stirling. Signed: George Carey.

4 pp. Holograph. No flyleaf or address.

180. Monsieur De Mauvissiere to the Archbishop of Glasgow. [Sept. 28.] C.P., vol. XII.

Sir, I have this morning received a little word from the Queen of Scotland, your mistress, that she charged me to send you as soon as possible. I am quite willing to charge the bearer, who knows nothing of the news from Scotland since the ambassadors of the Queen of England have passed up to Edinburgh (Lisleburg), where they will find your Prince, who has been taken there to receive them, and whom they wished to persuade that he is at liberty; but he does not believe it as long as Monsieur de Lennox is at Dumbarton, and his enemies have lost the occasion of entrapping him. They seek to send him back to France, and to cover their mistake by some colour. The Queen, your mistress, informs me that she gives you charge to beg their majesties to send into Scotland some lord of quality to intercede for some good agreement which might be made, sooner than going to the extremity of civil war, which would only be perilous at this time, and wherein the Queen of England would take the better part to aid those who are more affectionate to her than to France. The said Queen is very enraged against me, because I have too actively embraced the affairs of the Duke of Lennox, and that I have advertised him in time of all that which he has since found true. The Queen, your mistress, tells me that she is ill in bed, very tired and . . . more than she has been for a long time. I have won and procured Archibald Douglas for her to be to her and your Prince a faithful servitor, as he swears and promises. But the Queen of England having been advertised of it, and having surprised some letters that the said Archibald Douglas wrote to the Earl of Angus and to my lord of Reney to advise them not to enter on the extremities which were projected, and that he would assure them of the good faith of the Queen of Scotland, to whom also he promised and swore all fidelity, and which having been discovered, the said Archibald one day, after having remained three hours with me, was in the night taken prisoner in his lodgings and brought in custody to the house of Henry Killigrew, whom you have known, where he was kept so strictly that he could not see, speak or write to anyone. I can tell you that it has been well managed, whereby the affairs of Scotland do not go so ill as people thought. The said Duke of Lennox is in all surety at Dumbarton, and with many friends the 20th of this month he had been commanded by his enemies to withdraw to France, and which he offered to do if your Prince commanded him. There is talk at this hour of calling an assembly to arrange matters and afterwards to hold a parliament, and the ambassadors of the Queen of England ought to go and search for the said Sieur of Lennox. This is the last news of the 17th of this month. Keep me, I beg you, in the good grace of my lord of Guise, and as his very humble servitor. I have written him all that has passed here. You will impart to him again this which I shall finish in praying God my lord that he may give you perfect health and happy and long life. London. Signed: M. de Castelnau.

3 pp. French. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed (by Burghley's clerk).

Cott. Calig. C. VII., fol. 62.

Copy of the same.

181. Mr. John Colvile to Thomas Randolph. [Sept. 28.]

How matters go here, I think her majesty shall be sufficiently informed by the ambassador. His majesty has written a letter to her highness which will testify his good meaning. If such good correspondence be as is surely "luikit" for her majesty will have occasion to think that his benefits bestowed upon him are not unthankfully received, but the "grownd" of all is to assist the noblemen here who have joined in this cause, for without her majesty's aid hardly may they bear further the same by themselves. Therefore as her majesty will wish the good success of the action enterprised, which "tendis na less to the tranquillite of hir estait nor to the preservation of our soweragne," please your worship "sa trawell" with her highness that her accustomed liberality be not "abstractit" at this time. I am of opinion that the convention which was appointed to be the 10th of October will be prorogued for sundry causes, whereof I shall write more specially in my next letter. The relaxation granted to Angus is little to his honour or commodity, except her majesty insist further for him that he may be restored to his "leving" and in the meantime haste acts "to expone his estait" to his majesty, which as yet is refused. This good work for Angus I believe her highness will perform like as she has begun the same, and in so doing by him, his majesty will have in all "leswm" affairs no small number of honest men to do her acceptable service. Were it not that the ambassador is acquainted with all affairs here, I should write more amply. Therefore at the present I cease, presenting my humble commendation of service, etc., etc. From Stirling, 28 September, 1582. Signed: Jo. Coluill.

1 p. Holograph, also address: "To the ry^t worschipfull M^r Thomas Rendolphe, maister of his ma^tis postis." Indorsed.

182. Pardon for the Earl of Angus by James VI. [Sept. 28.]

James, etc. To our messengers, sheriffs, etc. Forasmuch as at the earnest request of the Queen of England "and onlie for hir desire" and with the advice of the Privy Council, we grant to Archibald, sometime Earl of Angus, Lord Dowglas and Abernethy and the servants who accompanied him in his absence from the realm, not being "forfaltit" for other cause than that charged against himself, viz., James Dowglas, "sumtyme appeirand of Spott," Archibald Dowglas, sometime of Pittindreich, George Douglas, sometime of Parkheid, and his sons James and Archibald, James Carmichaell, "sumtime zounger of that Ilk," Hugh Carmichaell, his son, Malcolme Dowglas, sometime of Mains, Archibald Dowglas, sometime constable of Edinburgh Castle, Hector Dowglas, sometime called "Red Hector," James Heres in Dalkeith, George Dowglas, "zounger of Borg," safely "to repair within our realme and to abyde thairin for making his purgatioun anent the crymes for quhilk he standis forfaltit and doing of his vther lefull erandis and besinesse" during our will, the licence to expire at six days' notice for his "safe return"; and meantime we grant that neither the said earl nor his friends nor any of our lieges receiving, supplying or intercommuning with them shall incur any "skaith" in person, lands or goods, nor be criminally accused, discharging them thereof for ever: our will is that "incontinent" on receipt of these letters, by proclamation from the market cross of Edinburgh and other places needful, ye make publication hereof. Commanding all our lieges that none of them take on hand to do any thing to the "brek or violation" of this licence under highest pain. And that ye relax Archibald, Earl of Angus, and his said servants from "the proces of our horne" if any be led against them for any cause bygone during the time above specified. Given under our signet. Stirling, 28 September, 1582.

1 p. Indorsed: "Copy of the Erll of Angus relaxatioun."

Cott. Calig. C. VII., fol. 66.

Copy of the same.

183. Gear pertaining to the Earl of Angus. [Sept.]

"The inventer of sic geir as me lord Hunsdone hes resauit pertenyng to the Erle of Anguss, 1582."

Item, in the first threttiefoir pece of hangingis.

Item, ane quilt of grene taffatye.

Item, ane tester of grene veluet w^th dowbill valuis frenzeit with golde and grene silk.

Item, valins for the bed below.

Item, foire courtenis of grene damask frenzeit with golde and grene silk.

Item, ane tester of a bed of cramsene veluot fair imbroderit with imageis and beistis of golde.

Item, thre valencis to the same freinzeit with golde and reid silk.

Item, ane tester of cramsene velvot frenzeit with golde and ried silk.

Item, valins for the bed stede.

Item, an auld guilt reid sarsnet.

Item, thre curteinis of reid damasse.

Item, ane tester of clothe of gold and clothe of siluer with dowbill valins of the same frenzeit with silver and zallaw silk.

Item, valins of the same for benethe.

Item, four pecis of clothe of gold.

Item, thre curteinis of zallow and quhyt satin frenzeit.

Item, ane quilt of zallow sarsnet.

Item, ane basing and ewer of siluer with tua cupis, ane gilt with ane cover, the vther without ane cover.

Item, ane fyne burde payntit blak and gold.

Item, ane tester and courteins of tanyie damasse with ane quilt of tanyie sarsnet.

[Note at foot]:—"Yt hath byne demanded but coldely answered his L. intendethe shortlye to send a man of his owne to desyer tc haue" [sic].

1 p. Indorsed: "An Inuentorie of suche goods as my Lord of Hunsedon hathe in custodie of my L. of Anguisse receaued oute of Tantalon in the tyme of his banissement."

184. James VI. to Elizabeth. [Sept. 29.]

By your letters of the 30th of August and through Sir George Carey, knight, marshal of your house, now returning unto you, and Mr. Robert Bowes, esquire, treasurer of Berwick, still resident with us, your ambassadors, we have understood your friendly and most loving offer of good will to continue your care for the preservation of our person and quieting of our estate more largely declared by their particular report, wherein they have very sufficiently done their duty to our comfort and great contentment, finding such proof of your good affection and friendship by your visitation of us in a time so convenient, for all which we render you most hearty thanks, assuring you whatever reports ye have otherwise received, yet "hes never the grounds of our thanckfull mynde" and sincere meaning been alienated. But very glad could we have been at all times to have found a messenger of such place and credit with you as Sir George is, to whom we might have communicated our mind as freely as we have done at this time in such particular matters he has imparted on your behalf. We have delivered him our answer, which we doubt not he shall faithfully report unto you, "resting of mynde" in that and all other matters wherein you shall have occasion to require us so to satisfy you as you in reason and honour shall think we ought to do and will advise and counsel us as we have done and intend to do hereafter, firmly looking for no less favour and good will at your hands as well for the regard of our proximity in blood as for the common benefit and surety of us both and our estates. And thus, etc. Stirling Castle.

1½ pp. Indorsed: "29 September 1582. From the K. of Scottes to her ma^te."

185. Orders to be observed by the Post. [Sept. 30.] Cott. Calig. C. VII., fol. 66, b.

Orders set down by commandment of the Queen's majesty and Lords of her most honourable Privy Council to be observed and kept by all the postmasters betwixt London and Berwick in manner and form following, that is to say:—

First, that every postmaster between London and Berwick, and likewise between Berwick and London, that shall receive any packets of letters from Sir Francis Walsingham or any of her highness's Privy Council for her majesty's affairs shall unto a label annexed to the packet subscribe their name, the day and hour, testifying their receipt of every packet or letters that shall come to their hands.

Item, that every the said postmasters do make and keep a paper book wherein they shall enter the day and hour of the receipt of the said packets or letters. And that the said book shall concur and agree with the packets conveyed by them from time to time.

Item, that every the said postmaster shall keep and retain in his stable two or three good sufficient horses for the better despatch and speedy conveyance of any such packets or letters come to their hands.

Also that every one who shall receive any packets shall ride every hour six miles.

Which articles if any of you do break after the date hereof, be it to your uttermost peril.

Marginal note:—"Few or none hath ane horse in their stable but all at grasse, and to help the matter, very many ill horse."

2½ pp.

186. Money sent to Scotland by the Queen of England. [Sept.]

1 p. Indorsed: 1. "Robert Bowes." 2. "Accompt of sondry sommes of money sent into Scotland."