Elizabeth: November 1583

687. Robert Bowes to Walsingham. [Nov. 1.]

Whereas Mr. Andrew Hay, Mr. David Lindsay, and others were directed to the King, at Stirling, to sue for his further and more certain answer and resolution to their petitions, they found at first the countenance of the Court heavy towards them, which arose by some preconceived conceits against them. Soon after the King appointed Arran, Clerk Register, and Sir Robert Melville to confer with them. Which conference continuing two days ended without other fruit than that those causes were referred to a new meeting at Edinburgh on the 5th instant; but there is little hope that it shall hold. In the meantime some of these commissioners getting privy access to the King travailed diligently to clear themselves and all their fellows in the ministry against the untrue tales and suspicions conceived of them, and they entreated the King to take care timely to pacify the troubled estate of the country, and to prevent in season the inconveniences approaching, noting that those dangers grew partly upon seeking private revenges and strife to be nearest about him, but principally for the lands and possessions of such as are lately cast out of Court and the King's favour by their adversaries, wherein they advised indilate order and redress, and chiefly that escheats and forfeitures of such persons might be stayed, or at least kept in the King's hands, to avoid contention in Court and despair in the distressed, and also that it might please the King to grant his general and free pardon without ambiguity or condition for faults past. Wherein they dealt so far to the King's good contentment, that thereby he first declared himself well satisfied, and would remain in good opinion towards them and the rest of the ministry. And next he allowed very well their motions and the manner of the remedies, promising that he would effectually travail with his Council —as he did indeed—for the approbation thereof, and that the same should be shortly published by proclamation. Accordingly he assembled his Council and propounded these matters to them. Whereupon, after long debate and difficulties, it was concluded that, for the King's own honour and surety in these and all other like matters, all his subjects should yield due obedience to him and his commandments in all things. And therewith it was ordained that all such as were commanded to any ward should enter into the same obediently before the 1st of December next, whereupon they should find the King's clemency favourably to be showed to them, and also that all such as should be directed to depart out of the realm should likewise obey, and remain abroad at the King's pleasure. It is promised that they shall have and enjoy their lands and possessions during their abode out of the realm. For the performance of the King's promises— falling short of what was looked for—the King caused a proclamation to be published in Edinburgh on Monday last, (fn. 1) a copy of which he incloses.

Because it is verily thought that this course for the warding of men and putting out of the realm so many of the nobility—chiefly such as have given best testimony of their love to religion, the King, and the amity betwixt these two crowns—proceeded by the advice of such as do not favour these causes or parties, and that it has been seen that the ministers of such counsellors have sought the execution of this plot for hidden respects ever since the beginning of this last alteration at St. Andrews, therefore such as are commanded to ward and be at liberty dare not adventure to trust to this general promise, and such as are or shall be directed to depart out of the realm find little surety for their persons or livings, seeing that new matters may be daily objected against them, and hereby they think this act tends little to their benefit, neither is this thought to be such a free remission as was looked for.

Mar is licensed to abide benorth the water of Spay till the 1st of January next, and then to depart out of the realm, and to remain at the King's pleasure, with provision that he shall not go to England. Angus shall be directed either to a free ward within certain limits, or else to depart out of the realm.

The Parliament is prorogued to such time as shall please the King to appoint. It is pretended that the King will be at Edinburgh shortly, and thereon hold a Parliament, chiefly for the restitution of Angus, to the intent he may with better mind and contentment live in foreign parts at the King's pleasure. But little hope is taken hereon. Is advised that Morton's sons shall not be restored. Is informed that Lord Seton, addressed to the French King, is ready to pass in Andrew Lambe's ship at Leith, and that he takes with him Mr. Seton and the Prior [of Pluscardine], his sons, Captain Bruce, and William Shawe. He is driven to go at his own expenses, for no ready money can be prepared for him at the King's charges. The King will send hackneys by Seton to the French King and the Duke of Guise, and Colonel Stewart—the chief ruler in Court at this day—will send a gentleman with him to Guise to entreat Guise to be mean to the King of Spain that the colonel and the countess [of Cassillis], his wife, may have and peaceably enjoy her lands in the Low Countries. It is now looked that the bishop of St. Andrews and James Melville—or else the Laird of Seggie—shall be shortly sent to her majesty. Drumwhassel is released upon caution, with condition that he shall not go above six miles from his own house. The King finding fault that the bands of horsemen appointed for his guard were scattered and small, gave order for the better furnishing thereof. Whereupon Montrose, having none other than his ordinary servants, said that the earls made the other year—meaning Arran and Morton, who alone kept heir bands furnished—ought chiefly to levy and keep such forces. Berwick. Signed: Robert Bowes.

2²/3 pp. Addressed. Indorsed.

688. Mr. David Lyndesey to Robert Bowes. [Nov. 2.]

"The Lord Jesus Chryst comfort zour lordship."

"I wes in Striweling this last oulk concernyng sum matterris pertenynge to the Kirk, namlie certaine artikcles, amongis the quhilkis the principall wes for taking ordour yat yis cuntrey mycht be quyettit and maid peaceable, and to yis effect sum sould be appointtit to trawell withe sik as wer knawin to be at variance, and also yat na man his guidis, landis, nor howsses sould be intromettit with. Quhilk purpois being weill lykit of be his majestie, was proponit be him self in warye guid termes and proper to his Consall, and fortefeit withe mony guid reasownis. And albeit sum ves nocht content yairwithe, zit in end it wes condiscendit, and sen yat tym ane proclametion maid to the sam effect. His majestie is werry bent to quyetnes and cane be weill content to haif all thingis composit. God giwe conselleris willing of the sam, quha may set thair awin particularis asyd. His majestie wes content yat I sould lat zour lordship knaw his guidwill to performe that quhilk he promeissit on to zour lordship, namlie tuichinge the staying of ony intromissioune withe escheittis and geir. Quhairin his grace is myndfull to contenewe with all sik as ar willing to gif ony declaratioune of thair obedience. His grace lykis weill of Maister Welsinghame and zour lordship, and I houp sall tak sum guid cours quhair with ze sall haif occasioune to be satisfeit. His grace daylie considderis better and better the dangerous estait of this cuntray and takkis head to sik as giwis him consall how this sam may be remeidit. Zour lordship sall do weill to wryt unto his majestie zour best consall, for I trust it sall be ressawit in guid pairt. And caus Mr. Secrettarrie do the lyk, for his grace estemis him, as he hes declarit onto me in previe conferrence, the wysest man yat evir he spak withe, and the mair he rememberis his consell findis it better and profitable onto him. I am assurit his lordship's letter and youris will do guid. I persaif his majestie beginis to tak better tent to his awin estait and weill nor he hes doine heirtofoir, and espyis the nattur of sik as rather ragardis thair awin particullar nor the quyetnes of this cuntray and his majesteis weill, quhilk compellis him to sie sum better ordour taine, and yat be the adwyse of the maist uprighte and discreit men that he can find in this cuntray. For he schew me him self that he gat conselleris anew to consell him to vond and hurt his commowne weill, but findis warie few guid cerrurganis to help to haill the sam, and thairfor mon play that part him self. And heirfoir I think guid and gentill handilling with the guid adwyse and consall of hir majestie may do mair guid at this tym nor at ony tym heirtofoir. And I am assurit gif your lordship had beine heir mony thingis micht haif beine weill done. His majestie will be Edinburgh about this nyxt Thursday or Fryday." Leith. Signed: David Lyndesey.

Postscript.—"I wald be glaid to understand quhat zour servand Johne Allane hes doun in Lundoun, as also that ze sould informe his majesty be zour letter of the estait of zour awin cuntray quhilk I knaw will be taine in guid part."

1 p. Holograph, also address. Indorsed by Bowes.

689. James Melville to Henry Killigrew. [Nov. 7.]

"Brother, with Sir Frances Welsingame when he returnit I wret unto yow, and now havyng the opportunite of the bischope of St. Androwse passing ther, have sent unto yow thir few lynis to remember me in your gud favour, and to certifie yow that the King my maister is myndit to do what lyeth in him to satisfie the quen your soveraine, not only in schawing favour to such of hir subjectis as hir hyenes has requested for, bot also intendis to behave hymself heirafter so nair as he can to hir plesour, hoping that hir majestie will accept his gud meanyng in the best part. Because my lord bischop is of your auld acquantancene nether nede I to wret in his favour, nor yit till trouble yow with langer letter, for he will schaw yow how matters framis heir. I understand that my brother Willyam wha is with the Prence of Orange sone is not so wéall traited as he was sen his last maistres discessed, therefore I prey yow wret in his favour to Mons^r de Villiers consellier to the Prence, that he may be better used, or els we will send for hym to com hame. This I am hamely with yow on the auld maner, and has wrete to Sir Francis Walsingame to the same effect. I can not thank yow anough for your frendschip schawen unto Joseph. With my hartly commendations to your self and your lady, I prey the eternell to grant zow boith the comfort and assistance of His Holy Spirit." Halhill. Signed: James Melville.

Postscript.—"Your sister my wyf has hir hartly recommendit unto zow."

1 p. Holograph, also address. Indorsed.

690. James Melville to Walsingham. [Nov. 7.]

"My lord, sen your passing out of thir partes, the Kingis majeste my maister has done sa far as he culd remember upon to satisfie your desyre, and to fulfill his speach unto zow, being still myndit more and more to schew clemency unto all his subjectis according to your gud advyse, and to do all uther amyable offices for continuation and augmentation of kyndnes betwen the quenis majeste your soverane and him, intending for that effect schortly to be in Edenbrough, wher his hyenes will convene the most ancien of his nobilite and barrons of best reputation, be whois consaill in the establissing of his estait he may also see how to content the quen your soveraine, not only in her hyenes lait desyres, bot be his frendly behavour in tymes commyng, as the bearar my Lord Archebischop of St. Androwes can presently declaire unto hir majeste, who is passing that way to other contrees for recovery of his health, caries a commission to the quen, as your lordship may knaw be hym self, who is wys, lernit and willing to do gud offices, not douting bot your lordship of your accustomed courtesie will schaw him sic favour as ye use to do unto men of the lyk qualites, and that not the les of this my recommendation. The Lord Seton is sent to France rather for dewtys saik and to kepe generall frendschip then for any other gret purpos, as your wysdome may juge. For gif his majeste wer about to deall that waye in secret and wechty affaires, he wald have maid choisse of another negotiatour, because I dout not bot dyvers will go about to speak or wret ther plesour anent this his commissioun, which I beleive your lordship will interpret to the best, in respect that the King assures him self that the quenis majeste will not find falt that raisonable frendship be enterteined with sic other Prencis nybours as he and his subjectis have daily to do withall, asweill be traffic as other commown societe of contrees, being alwayes myndit to preferre her majeste to all others. Thus far I have wreten hoping that your lordship sall hald hand to his majestes raisonable proceadingis, seing the gret confydence he has in your frendschip, and the lyk oppinion of your vertu. Also to entertein my self in your wonted favour, havyng sa gud occasion, I will homely request your lordship to wret unto Monsieur de Villiers consellier de Monseigneur le Prince dorange en faveur de mon frere qui est avec le conte Maurice." Halhill. Signed: James Melville.

1 p. Holograph, also address. Indorsed.

691. Robert Bowes to Walsingham. [Nov. 9.]

The King continues at Stirling, purposing to be this day at Kinneil, Arran's house, and at Edinburgh on Monday next. Arran and Colonel Stewart persuade earnestly against his coming to Edinburgh, yet he determines to go thither for the contentment of that town, which longs for his presence, and for the satisfaction of his other subjects, who hope for some reformation to follow his return to that place, as well by the reconciliation to be there made amongst his nobility, as also by the removing of the griefs presently troubling the estate, agreeable to his late promise made at Stirling to the commissioners for the Church. It is, nevertheless, verily thought that his Council will alter his diet. If this takes effect it may, perhaps, stir up further offence with more hasty troubles to ensue thereby.

[Lord] Seton obtained the King's letter addressed to the Provost and bailiffs of Edinburgh to be furnished with 800 crowns and a convenient ship for the transportation of him and his company to France, and to attend for his return. Edinburgh communicated the matter to other boroughs for their advice, and the boroughs neither like the journey nor agree to be at these expenses, whereby his departure will not be so hasty as was looked for. He shall signify that his sovereign cannot but give thanks to the French King for sending his ambassadors to Scotland at the time of his restraint. He is to travail for the release of the new toll imposed in France on the merchants of Scotland, and to entreat the French King to advance his guard of the Scottish Archers—being most part gentlemen—to 100 men-at-arms, in like sort as before, and to appoint for their captains some noble personage of Scotland. Is informed that he shall have other privy instructions, and that Maineville has been the principal cause of this negotiation, and also of the choice of Seton. The Master of Livingston is in readiness to accompany Seton and bring the Duchess of Lennox and her son to Scotland. It is thought that young Fentrey, the Papist, to prevent the sentence of excommunication coming forth against him, shall pass in this company. Seton has got little for his expenses, other than that the thirds of the priory of Pluscardine are released to his son the prior thereof. The King still continues his purpose to send some to the Queen of England. The immediate coming of James Melville is hindered by want of health. Is informed that the Archbishop of St. Andrews is in readiness to go to England, and that it is thought good to give him credit to bring the King's letters to her majesty, and to signify the King of Scots' resolution to perform all his promises made to her, to offer reasonable conditions for a more straight league and amity, and to desire that a familiar and friendly intelligence may be holden betwixt her majesty and the King himself. It is thought that the bishop shall hasten his departure out of the realm, because he is said to be already suspended, and that the process may, perhaps, proceed further to excommunication against him in case he shall tarry still, and not satisfy the Church in the articles objected against him, as well for some errors noted in his sermons preached before the King in St. Andrews since the beginning of this alteration, as also for the extraordinary favour suspected to have been showed by him towards a witch, lately delivered, as it is supposed, by his mean from the due punishment intended to have been executed on her.

By the advice of Arran, Montrose, and Colonel Stewart the King gave direction to a gentleman of his chamber to repair to Angus to move him to send to the King such portion of the "peyse" and treasure of Morton as came to his hands as might suffice for the expenses of the ambassadors to be sent to England and France. This messenger has excused himself, and obtained discharge. Another is to be addressed to Angus, who cannot so readily deliver such portion.

The Abbot of Paisley [Mr. William Erskine] has entered into ward in Blackness, hoping thereby to have the benefit of the Act of Council of the 26th of October last. (fn. 2) Argyll and Montrose, in respect of their favour towards Mar, are earnest suitors for the abbot. Whereas Arran, Huntly, and Colonel Stewart appear to be grieved therewith, others say that they may as well travail for the relief of the abbot as Arran, Crawford, and Colonel Stewart sought the liberty of Dunfermline against the known liking of Argyll and Montrose. Huntly was so highly displeased that he had made himself ready to depart immediately from the Court with open discontentment. But the King, as he hears, pleased him with the gift of the abbacy and thereby stayed him at the Court. Whereas the daily jars and strifes amongst the Council and courtiers are so great and cumbersome that it is well seen that the King begins to espy the same, and also to tire therewith, yet his affection is so strong towards them and their course that there is little hope of the reformation promised.

The Laird of Ester Wemyss arrived here the other day with the King of Scots' license to pass to the King of Navarre. During his [Wemyss's] abode here he received a hackney sent by the King to him, with other especial signs of the King's favour and good grace towards him. He purposes to be with him [Walsingham] shortly.

The King has written to Bothwell accusing that he does not follow the advice and course of the Stewarts, and persuading him therewith to hearken to the Hepburns, his mother's friends. Seton was with him [Bothwell] at Kelso, letting him know such part of his errand as was directed to be showed him, together with the King's mind and favour towards him in case he would be advised by the King. He had purposed to have wintered at Kelso; but now he is gone to Creichton with his whole family, looking to have the King at his house to baptize his son.

Advertisement is come that Tyrie, Hamilton, and other Jesuits are in readiness to come to Scotland under the protection and promise of Huntly, Lord Ogilvy, and the Master of Gray. These Papists are put in comfort that they shall obtain open disputation in the principal parts of religion. But it is very likely that they shall be defeated of their expectation herein, neither dare they show themselves openly in that realm. Is informed that they have sent a book to the King; but it is thought that the bringer "shall make danger" to present the same to him. Berwick. Signed: Robert Bowes.

1¼ pp. Addressed. Indorsed.

692. Robert Bowes to Walsingham. [Nov. 14.]

Commends the bearer, James Colvile, Laird of Ester Wemyss, to his favour, who is on his journey to the King of Navarre. Has always found him well devoted to the Queen of England, and very ready to do for her all good offices in his power. Berwick. Signed: Robert Bowes.

²/3 p. Addressed. Indorsed.

693. Monsieur de Mauvissière to Mary. [Nov. 15.] C. P., vol. XII.

Madam, I write this letter to your majesty in order to send it more promptly to the Sieur de la Tour, who has told me to have a man ready to leave this evening, and that he could not, moreover, keep him. Seeing which I hasten to write this to inform you of the receipt of yours of the 25th that Mr. Walsingham sent me with those for this Queen and the Lords of her Council, whereupon I sent to them to demand audience. They begged me to wait for two days, as they had promised to a Swedish ambassador who is here. I will not fail in the first place to perform as faithfully and exactly as possible the whole of your commandment, to have a definite reply to the treaty of your liberty, and add what I think to be for your intention and service. I will tell you also, madam, that two days ago having sent Corcelles to Mr. Walsingham for some general affairs, and to visit him because he was ill, he told him, and placed it very much to the fore, how he had lost credit in everything with your majesty; but it seemed that he had no remission or power ever to obtain your good grace, nor to write anything that you would not suspect. Whereupon the said De Courcelles, who came fresh from France, desired to learn more. Then Mr. Walsingham told him all that I have told you, and further what your majesty had written in Scotland that he was a wicked man, the mortal enemy of you and your son, and of all good things that he might do, that he sought for the ruin of your son and you, and had wished to cause the Duke of Lennox to be poisoned; and so many other iniquities that you would never believe. Saying to the said De Courcelles that he would be ashamed to live for one day if he had the least of those vices, and that not only you had thus told in Scotland, but the bishop of Glasgow and your other servants in France had been made to publish the same thing a long time ago, but that he had no remedy, and that if he did not find your good grace at all, or could not do anything that was agreeable to you, he had employed his time very badly up till now, and that being a man of means for the remainder he would take [blank]. I sent to seek Archibald Douglas, and related this to him. He told me that the said Mr. Walsingham had told him the same thing, with great regret at seeing himself thus injured and treated in this way, for he had greater desire to do you service than any man in England, the said Archibald having told me that he had told him several times that your majesty considered him as wicked as the said Walsingham, but that on the assurance that he had, your affairs would have a good end, and this Queen would treat conjointly with your majesty and the King your son, as he had advised her. Whereon he had spoken very freely to the said Archibald, as to your subject, thinking that you had some trust in him; but that he saw well that the said Archibald was mistaken, and that your majesty distrusted them both, and considered the one as wicked as the other, and that you despised the means that he had of arranging your liberty; the affairs of the King your son, the whole of Scotland and England, by your good beginning, in which he protested to have wished to proceed sincerely, and for this cause a jealousy and suspicion was got rid of. Then he said to the said Archibald that this Queen and those of her Council considered him in very bad predicament, and as a maker of plots and practices against the said Queen and this realm, having so little communication with me, and that the Queen remembered the intercepted letter that he wrote to your majesty, in which he told you that she was a deceiver, and nothing else would ever come from her or her realm, and that he had the means to make you Queen—as much against her as to declare to you all her intentions in Scotland, the said Queen only being able to be very displeased with him, as she was. On that the said Archibald told me again that he would feel very unhappy if your majesty had any distrust in him, having done all that he could to remove this opinion. And I have sent again to Mr. Walsingham to sound him if he would be reconcilable, and to tell him that I had your commandment to remit the affairs of your liberty. And knowing the last intention of the Queen and her Council, he prayed him freely on your part and mine to continue to treat of your affairs, and not to imagine anything else of your majesty except that you were, and always will be, a very good friend to him and all his, if he wished to do good. And after several reasonings between them, the said Walsingham told him that if your majesty privately would have made known to him your intention, and the Queen would command him to interfere in your affairs, if he was capable in anything, he would do his duty. The said Walsingham also told him that since his departure from Scotland things had much changed, and that the King your son had sent to offer carte blanche to the Queen to do as she pleased, either in marriage or anything else, and that if she wished he would send her the letters that they had written him from France and Spain to see all the offers that they had presented to him, as much of friendship as of marriages. These are the practices of the new Earl of Arran, who is, by what I understand, a man never to content himself with one party, and in whom there is not much trust. And also said that they have so much intimidated the King your son and those who are at present near him, that they do not know where they are, and if they do not take care he will lose hope of the crown of England, and will not be able to live safely in Scotland among his discontented subjects. Wherefore the said Archibald thinks that if things are to come to some agreement between the Queen and the King your son, there was never a better occasion to do it to your advantage than at present, and in consequence to make a good end for your liberty, and that the King my master and the Queen your mother-in-law may take part. And he said also that this was the first intention of the said Walsingham, to the end that there might be more surety on both sides. And with regard to the said Archibald, he said he never had to do with the said Walsingham, of whom he complained very much for the hardships of his prison—so much so that I prayed him to be as friendly with him as he could, as without that he would have been outside this realm a long time ago. And if he had not been able to have had leave, he would have had to go without saying farewell. He has also discovered to me many practices of this league that all the Protestants and Huguenots of France wish to do, who have very bad intentions; on which this Queen seeks in that to accommodate herself to several parties to have that which will be the most sure to her. However, there is great appearance that the King of Spain and she will accommodate together. The ambassador of Spain and [cipher] have dined together, and are very good friends. Your son may be soon sending here James Melvin and a bishop, and during this voyage hold a "Parlament." We shall hear what will be treated of. I shall see the Queen and her Counsellors to-day or to-morrow, and shall know from them what they will wish me to say in answer to your letters. I have heard that Walsingham hates the Earl of Arran so much that he seeks rather to do something for your majesty than ever to trust himself to him. For he has said since that it depends on the said Walsingham, and that he was an upstart with whom he did not wish to have anything to do. They have told me also that the said Earl of Arran has some quarrel with my Lord Hunsdon in the marriage of the King your son with a daughter of my Lord Howard, who is at Court. I am of opinion, madam, as I have told you before, that there is no certainty of Messieurs de Guise your cousins employing their means, if the King will permit them, to send forces into Scotland, and that the King your son and the Scotch would take this resolution very badly, but will maintain relations always with the English by some fashion of agreement; of which the most sure for all would be that your majesty was comprised, and they excuse themselves here that the fault comes from your majesty for not offering at the same time that Walsingham was despatched to Scotland to employ you in a reconciliation. Your majesty will command me what I shall have to do on my part, and I pray God that he will give you, madam, very perfect happy and long life. London.

Postscript.—Monsieur Nau will have at once my very affectionate recommendations with prayer to keep me in his good grace, and to employ me if I can serve him in anything.

What follows is—De Courcelles to Monsieur Nau, who kisses his hands very humbly. I have delivered to Mr. Bauldwin a box that Mademoiselle de Seton had sent her majesty, and a Service book that the man of Monsieur de Glasgow sent to the said Sieur Nau for her said majesty. I have spoken to the bishop of Glasgow of what Monsieur de Pinard had told me for sending an ambassador for the King to Scotland, and I assure myself that as soon as the Queen Mother shall have returned from his highness, her majesty will send a gentleman. He told me that the Queen had named his son to go there, but being but little experienced he had not decided to send him. They say that his highness has made a truce with the Catholic King for eight years and remains during this time. The Sieur de Cambresis has charged that he will not interfere in the affairs of Flanders, which makes the English seek for the Catholic King, seeing his affairs go so forward.

2¾ pp. French. Copy. Indorsed: "Fr. Embassador to the Scottish Q. 15 November, 1583." In Phelippes' hand.

694. Robert Bowes to Walsingham. [Nov. 16.]

The King arrived at Kinneil on Monday last, (fn. 3) and appointed to be at Edinburgh on Thursday. Holyroodhouse is prepared for him, and he is very desirous to go thither; but Arran and others about him dissuade his repair thither. The young Duke of Lennox arrived at Leith on Thursday last accompanied with the Master of Gray, Captain Geddis [Gaddesse], Mr. Thomas Livingston, Walter Keir, and sundry French servants. Berwick. Signed: Robert Bowes.

½ p. Addressed. Indorsed.

695. James Robertson to [ ]. [Nov. 20.]

"Brother Robert, our scheip is neir by frawehtit. Althocht it be ane vinter vayeg ve neid nocht gretumlie to feir ye stormis, for ve have skilfull marinellis anew. With in awcht or nyn dayies at ye fardest, except it blaw ane contrarius vind ve mynd to mak saill. I dout nocht bot God sell prospar our vayeg. We are are all burdinit with ye furnising off my Lord Setwn in this his jurnay to France. Bot ve tak all evill with it. As ve heir his commission is veill ampill. He is to renew the awld leig betwix France and vs, to mak declaration off ye Kingis majesteis part in thingis down in tymis past induring his les aig, quhilk is nocht ellis bot to condem all yat sarvis down in his nem. To thank his hienes for his leit visitation be his twa imbassiteris. To trait upon ane new impost rasit upon vs yat is merchantis. He is to intrait upon vther sindrie hedis quhilk is gretumlie ferit be ye ministere, for he hes prive vretingis to ye King off France, ye Queine Mother, ye Duik off Gweis, and to Antrag, all vreting with our Kingis Majestes awing hand. Madie sayis yat he is to inwait upon marieng with ye Duik off Loranis dochtir, and for ye sam effect ye holie bishop off Sanctandrois is to tak jurnay throwcht Ingland to precuir the estatis off Lorance guid vill into this sam purpois. The Kingis majeste is precentlie in Kinneill and no certantie quhair he gois nixt to. Our yowng Duik arryvit at Leithe this last Furisdayie ye fowrten off yis instant, and from hence upon Frydayie hereftir vos convoyit be ye erll off Huntlie and Arren and sindrie with yem to Kinneill to ye King, quhair zit he remanis. Althocht thir materis aperten lytill to our vocation, zit having lytill to do I culd not bot mak yow forsene off yem. Giff ye mynd to go with vs in this schip yowr selff hest yow hither, utherwayis I sell handill zowr effaris as I do myn awing. Giff I had not beine bissie occupeit amanjes ye marinellis I suld have visit yow my selff. God be with yow." Signed: "Zowr brother, James Robertson."

Postscript.—" The Kingis majeste com to Edinburgh this last Satirdayie at eftir nown."

1 p. Holograph, also address: "To my brother Robert Constant Burges." Indorsed by Robert Bowes: "Thomas [sic] Robertson. Rec[eived] Bar[wick] xx° November 1583."

696. Robert Bowes to Walsingham. [Nov. 20.]

On learning of the arrival of the Duke of Lennox, the King with great joy sent Arran, Huntly, and Colonel Stewart to him at Kinneil, and they brought him to the King on Friday last. The governors in Court—finding opportunity upon the coming of the child—sought to persuade the King to haye stayed a while at Linlithgow or Kinneil for the child's ease and other causes; but the King would not be advised or entreated therein, and so came to Holyrood House on Saturday last, accompanied with Huntly, Bothwell, Crawford, and ordinary courtiers.

Arran accompanying the King two miles from Kinneil returned back thither, and on Monday (fn. 5) last came to the Court at Holyrood House, and finding there Colonel Stewart possessing the lodging near to the King, he is in no little offence. On Arran's arrival the town of Edinburgh set a guard and keep the ports of their town much more straitly. The watch and ward is strait, yet the most part of the horsemen lately levied have withdrawn from want of pay. Huntly's companies have returned home; Arran has few, and Morton has not many above twenty-four.

The King pretends to proceed with expedition to see reformation according to his late promise to the ministers at Stirling; and for the more surety and better execution thereof he has by his letters sent for Argyll, Montrose, Rothes, Gowry, and some others to convene next week at Edinburgh, pretending then to take order for the appointment of the time of the Parliament. But little credit is given to these promises, so that the murmur and fear amongst the people and in the boroughs increases daily, looking for indilate troubles amongst themselves.

Bothwell continues in Court with the King's good countenance. He offered the other day to have struck David Hume, son of Manderston, at Linlithgow, but the King stayed the matter, and sent Hume out of the Court. There are means made to knit Bothwell and Arran in friendship in band, to the intent he may the more willingly abandon the Douglases; in which behalf the King and others, as he is informed, travail earnestly, so that it is feared that their fair words and offers shall prevail much in his young years, yet others have good affiance in his constancy.

Arran, Huntly, Crawford, Morton, and others have subscribed a band to take part in all affairs and causes, except against the King. Nevertheless, these and the rest in Court, seeing the general discontentment in the boroughs and country, are willing to be reconciled with the lords out of Court. But they would that the lords out of Court should seek it at their hands, and with conditions to their contentment—a matter that will not hastily fall out as they desire. Mar has sought to have further leave to remain some longer time in the realm, but he cannot obtain it, and therefore he prepares to depart in the beginning of next month. It is verily looked that Angus shall follow him, or else receive more hard measure; yet the King being much laboured to set Angus away with the rest, will not hitherto agree to it. But it is likely that he shall be charged to do such things as shall grieve him as much as his departure out of the realm.

The Archbishop of St. Andrews arrived at this town this forenoon. He is suspended from preaching, and the process had proceeded further if he had tarried longer in Scotland. Nevertheless, he has the King's letters to her majesty, and power to make offers and deal in sundry causes committed to his negotiation with her. In case he finds success in these to the King's desire, then James Melvile is to be addressed afterwards for the following forth thereof, and Robert Melville of St. Andrews, presently in company with the bishop, shall be returned to the King with report of his doings and how he finds all things in the Court of England.

Lord Seton has taken his leave of the King, staying now only upon his furniture to be given him by the town of Edinburgh. It is appointed that Sir John Seton, his son, shall return out of Spain and meet his father at Paris. It is commonly bruited that he has power to intreat for the King's marriage and to seek money for the maintenance of the King's guard. Has heard that an English Papist who has changed his name, and calls himself Drakes, is well entertained by him.

It is verily looked that the Captain of Edinburgh Castle shall be charged to deliver that piece to the King, to the intent that Arran may possess the same; but the Captain has made means to the King in that behalf, finding him well disposed towards him; and the Captain having received that charge by Parliament is purposed to retain the same for the King's use, and with the King's favour— which is promised to him—until he shall be discharged by Parliament. Berwick. Signed: Robert Bowes.

2⅓ pp. Addressed. Indorsed.

697. Colonel William Stewart to Sir John Foster, Lord Warden of the Middle Marches of England. [Nov. 21.]

"Being last at court I obtenit within my pasport ane plaket of her majeste for aucht horsses, quhilk at that tyme be raisoun of my greatest expeditioun hamewart, I could not have the oportunitie to use. Now finding occasioun convenient, I have directit this bearer with it in thay pairtis, praying zow rycht hartelie that upoun sicht thairof ze will do me that favour as to let him pas throcht and seik upon that Border, quhair he may finde twa or thrie to his contentement, to be transportit without any zour let or hinder, be vertew of the warrand, as ze sall have me ready to requyte it with any courtesie or lefull favour I may returne zow." Holyrood House. Signed: William Stewart.

½ p. Addressed. Indorsed.

698. Robert Bowes to Walsingham. [Nov. 23.]

Since the King's arrival at Edinburgh he, and chiefly the governors in Court, as they are now termed there, are entered into great jealousies, suspecting that some noblemen intend to attempt some enterprise against them. Wherefore the King and his Council caused a proclamation to be made in Edinburgh on Tuesday last (fn. 6) to such effect as by the inclosed will appear. Finds the substance of it such, and the date so old, that he partly marvels thereat. Since this another proclamation was drawn, and, he thinks, was published yesterday in Edinburgh, commanding that, because the King has conceived some jealousies towards some of his subjects, no noblemen or gentlemen shall repair to that town, or near the Court, unless they shall be especially called by the King's letters; and order is taken that the Lords of the Sessions shall forbear to award process or call on matters before them that concern the appearance of any noblemen or gentlemen until the 10th of January next. Besides, provision is taken that the King's Council shall be indilately advertised of the coming to that town of any person dwelling in the country and bringing any servants or company with him, or of any stranger whatsoever; and narrow search and watch is laid to intercept messengers and letters. So that for the present all travellers by the way are greatly afraid to carry any letters that are not open, or of such as may bring any danger of trouble to the bearers.

The King pretending to proceed in the reformation promised, and to express his clemency towards his subjects, as is given forth, has appointed the Lairds of Downe, Colluthy, Pittadro, and Brade, men especially well qualified, and favouring the religion and quietness, to confer with the lords in the action at Ruthven to submit and to accept the King's offered grace. And that full order may be taken in these weighty affairs, the King has sent for the Earls of Argyll, Rothes, Glencairn, Montrose, Gowry, and sundry lairds of credit to be with him at Holyrood House on the 2nd of next month; at which time it is looked that some reformation shall be seen in that State, or otherwise that the same shall run into further troubles.

Mar having sent Mr. Robert Porterfield, his servant, to sue for some longer time to remain in the country, otherwise to provide English money for his immediate passage to Ireland, is stayed, and is to be examined upon suspicion of sundry matters which Patrick Gordon, uncle to Huntly, has informed to be in hand. But this gentleman being known to be sufficiently affected to the King and that course, and to be little acquainted with any such practises, is like to be speedily delivered. On this sundry bruits have arisen that Glamis has arrived at Berwick, and many other like vain rumours, needless to be here reported, yet they have won no little credit in Court.

Since the coming of Lennox the King's offence against Mar and others esteemed adversaries to the Duke his father is greatly increased. "Wherein yonge Lenox haith geven them up to have bene the cause of his father's deathe, as before his end he did expressely declare, and the King is in suche exedynge good lykynge of the child, as he spareth not to kisse hym openly and very often."

Gowry has sent to the King to excuse his long absence, and to feel the King's disposition towards him, whereupon the King has returned messenger with all fair words and promises that can be given, saying that he will never break his promise made to Gowry or to any other, and persuading that Gowry should come to this convention of the 2nd of next month.

Arran has lodged Lennox in the chamber at Holyrood House wherein Bothwell used to lie, and hastily broke open the door and cast forth Bothwell's furniture, which is taken offensively by Bothwell, who has not so great grace in Court as other Stewarts.

Montrose claiming the custody of the castle of Glasgow in the vacation of that bishopric by virtue of his office of bailiwick of Glasgow, sought to have had the possession thereof at the hands of the Laird of Minto, who, having received a secret warrant from the King for the retention thereof, still holds that piece. Whereupon Montrose has gathered his forces and now besieges it, being much discontented that the King should give a privy warrant against his former gift made to him. Seton remains in readiness to pass to France, depending upon the receipt of the "furniture" to be made by Edinburgh for his voyage—who are not hasty in the same. Berwick. Signed: Robert Bowes.

2¼ pp. Addressed. Indorsed.

699 [Lady Farnyhurst] to Mary. [Nov. 25.] C. P., vol. XII.

The want of the "stampe" has been a great occasion that she could not write to her such things as have occurred of late, neither could she send any letters of Lord Seton's to her, which have been in her hands these fourteen days. And although she is not yet sure of his returning to his own house, nor has he sent the "stampe," nevertheless, she sends this letter and Lord Seton's to her to let her know that the young Duke of Lennox arrived at Leith on the 14th instant, accompanied only with the young Master of Gray, Charles Geddis, "Watty" Kethe, Mr. Thomas Livingston, and some other Frenchmen, among whom is Cavaillon, who was secretary to the other Duke of Lennox. Immediately after his arrival he rode to Kenneill, where the King of Scots was, where they received him very well. The next day the King went to Edinburgh accompanied with the said Duke and other lords, such as Huntly, Arran, and Crawford, and the Colonel [Stewart]. The Earl of Bothwell waits in Court, but hears he is not very well liked, because he is over affectionate to his "alley" and to the Queen of England. The Kirk of Scotland are as evil affected to this young Duke as ever they were to his father, and cry out as fast against him as ever they did against the other, and also against all those who are come in company with him. Lord Seton "gangis" not away these eight or ten days. Desires to know why her friends and servants here are so long frustrated of any news from her. Looked for her husband's return with the Duke of Lennox, but he has written to her that ere he received the King's letter to come home the Duke was ready to embark. In his absence she may be assured of her diligence and secret service at all times when she pleases to command, for her commandments she will prefer to all the honour and commodities in this world. The thing that causes her most to fear is that she has not sent her the "stampe." Desires to know whether her service is acceptable to her or not. All is quiet in this country. The bruit is that there is to be a Convention of the nobles at Edinburgh on the 2nd of December. Requests her to write again to the King of Spain and others in her husband's favour for the continuance of his pensions. The Cardinal of "Grunvels" may do much in such matters. Requests that her husband shall not come to Scotland before the spring. Requests her to write to her husband. Requests an answer concerning that which she wrote to her in her former letters touching her own particulars, and some others meet for good considerations to be recommended to her favour. Fernieherst.

1¾ pp. Copy. Indorsed by Walsingham: "25 Novem. 1583. The La. of Farnihurst letter decyphred." At the head: "The La. of Fernihurst to the Sc. Q."

Cott. Calig. C. VII., fol. 341.

Copy of the same.

700. Robert Bowes to Walsingham. [Nov. 28.]

For the mediation of the causes with such as are esteemed the King's rebels or remain in offence or displeasure with him, the King has licensed the Lairds of Brayd and Colluthy, Mr. David Lindsay, and Mr. Andrew Hay, ministers, to confer with them to such effect as by the copies as well of his licence granted to them as also of the declaration of his own mind signified by writing subscribed by him will appear to him.

These commissioners—he doubts not, with the privity and direction of the King—have acquainted the Abbot of Cambuskenneth, the Laird of Cleish, and Mr. John Colvile, now in England, with the King's doings and pleasure in this manner of mediation, and also offered that if before the 1st of next month they will either enter into ward or withdraw themselves out of England, Scotland, and Ireland for such time as shall be prescribed to them, that they, their wives, and assigns shall enjoy their livings and possessions, notwithstanding any forfeiture or escheat whatsoever. Wherefore, touching the forfeitures and escheats already made and disposed by the King, they promise further than the King or they can well perform, seeing that the parties to whom such forfeitures were granted by the King have entered into the same and sold and put them over in such sort that they cannot be recovered. The Abbot of Cambuskenneth, Cleish, and Mr. Colvile have returned answer that the time limited to them to accomplish the order prescribed is so short that they cannot perform the same. Therefore they pray longer day and conference with the commissioners, offering thereon to do all that shall appertain to obedient subjects. Has been informed that these commissioners have travailed diligently with others standing in the King's displeasure, and have so earnestly persuaded them to obey his will, that some of them are purposed to depart the realm, according to the order taken in that part. But they cannot be suffered to continue in England or Ireland.

Mar immediately wrote to the King, and earnestly sued by Alexander Erskine and the Laird of Doun for longer day for his departure, but the Council have flatly denied it. It is meant that he shall be directed not to remain in England or Ireland.

The Convention shall hold on the 2nd of next month. It is supposed that the reformation intended shall find small success. Arran intends to be Chancellor, having obtained some part of the King's grant thereof; and it is intended that Argyll, now Chancellor, shall be so satisfied therein that it may be done with his contentment. Howbeit Argyll is nothing privy to this intention, nor will he be well pleased to leave that office. The execution of the change of this office is to be forborne until the Convention shall be ended. Argyll and Montrose have appointed to be at Edinburgh on the 27th instant. On his arrival there he shall be informed of this purpose.

Seton, the other day, moved the Lords of the Sessions that his commission for the French King might be registered in that court—a matter neither ordinary nor accustomed to be done. His meaning was, that whereas the French King was in that commission styled the most Christian King, the same might have been approved by the Lords and Council of the Sessions. But his supplication was returned and indorsed with a nolumus.

Some quarrel arose betwixt Bothwell and Crawford upon some strife falling among their servants in the street in their own presence, but the King has appeased the matter.

On Friday (fn. 7) last the Laird of Ormiston was suddenly visited with the palsy in the high street in Edinburgh, and soon after ended his life.

It is verily looked that sundry Lords of the Sessions shall be removed, and others favouring this course planted in their places, and that either Arran or Crawford shall get the keeping of Edinburgh Castle; for which they travail severally, making all the privy means they can for the same. Is also informed that Huntly shooteth at that mark. So that the Captain thereof stands in fear and danger of losing that office, having no other hold than the King's goodness towards him, which it is doubted shall be easily altered by the governors in Court, as in like cases is daily seen done. Berwick. Signed: Robert Bowes.

2½ pp. Addressed. Indorsed.

First inclosure with the same:—

(Commission by James VI.)

Apud Halyrudhous xxiij° die Novembris, 1583.

The King's majesty continuing in his clemency, for safety of his subjects and quieting of his realm, moved by the humble and earnest supplication of certain of the ministers of God's Word and other persons zealous for his highness's honour and good estate, by advice of his Privy Council, licenses and permits his well beloved Robert Fairly of Braid, Mr. David Carnegy of Colluthy, Mr. David Lindsay, and Andrew Hay, ministers, conjointly or severally, to intercommune personally or by their letters or "mediat" persons with all his subfects now being his rebels or standing in his offence and displeasure, remaining in Scotland or without, for informing them of his disposition and clemency if he shall find submission and true obedience, and thereafter to receive their supplications and offers to present to his highness, and make intercession for them. To whom his highness will extend his mercy and favour, as he shall find cause, and as may best stand with his honour and the surety and quietness of his estate. For which cause the said Lairds of Braid and Colluthy, Mr. David Lindsay, and Andrew Hay shall incur no crime, pain or danger in their persons, lands or goods, nor shall they or the persons employed by them as mediators be accused for the same criminally or civily in time coming; but their travail shall always be reputed and judged for good and faithful service to his highness. This license is to indure till the 1st day of December next, and power is given to them in the meantime to assure all persons with whom they shall think meet to intercommune to repair to such place or places as they shall appoint, being thirty miles distant from the King's present residence, and to pass and repass safely and freely.

1 p. Copy. Indorsed.

Cott. Calig C. VII., fol. 340.

Another copy of the first inclosure.

Second inclosure:—

(Speech by the King.)

"The King's majesty's mynd declarit to the Laird of Culluthie and to Mr. David Lyndsay and Andro Haye 25 Novembris 1583."

Touching the persons presently our rebels and remaining out of our realm, if they shall offer yet to enter into their wards whereunto they were charged before the 1st day of December, or as soon as possibly they may travel, or depart forth of Scotland, England, and Ireland, and find caution in such form as his majesty and his Council shall find to stand with his highness's honour, obedience, and surety, it may be permitted to them that they shall have remissions, relaxations from the horn, and license to depart. Whereby their wives, bairns, and friends may enjoy their lands, livings and goods in their absence, as well fallen by virtue of escheat through the hornings executed against them as otherwise. And if there be difficulty of ready shipping they shall have license to pass through England and to remain some reasonable space at Berwick or Newcastle, where their furnishing may come to them.

½ p. Copy. Indorsed by Walsingham.

Cott. Calig. C. VII., fol. 340, b.

Copy of the second inclosure.