BHO

Cecil Papers: March 1608

Pages 96-121

Calendar of the Cecil Papers in Hatfield House: Volume 20, 1608. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1968.

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Citation:

March 1608

The Earl of Shrewsbury to the Earl of Salisbury
1607–8, March 1. As the next day after I wrote to you of the decease of the old Lady, I received yours by Coke my servant, so the next day after my last to you did I receive your last by post, for which I infinitely thank you; but I beseech you, speak no more of courting or complimenting, for I neither take pleasure myself to use it to my dearest friends, nor take any contentment to find it in any of them towards me. And now touching that show of rupture in that great treaty whereof you write, if it be not by this time pieced again I should wonder, remembering how far beyond expectation the first article was consented unto.— At Sheffield Lodge, 1 March, 1607.
PS. I trust you will assoil my question touching the Monsignior and thereby satisfy your penance.
Here is my Lady Arbella somewhat ill at ease. We are made strangers to all my Lord Cavendish's proceedings, and do neither know anything of the old Lady's will as yet, nor the time when her funerals are intended, but we hear that she was more publicly buried at Derby than I have heard of the like, where a solemn funeral was intended after.
Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (120 112.)
Lord Chancellor Ellesmere to the Earl of Salisbury
1607–8, March 2. There needs no excuse for breaking the letter which you sent me. I hope I shall never have such secrets as I would wish to be concealed from you, in whose love and favour I take more true comfort than I can express. The letter was from the Lord President of the Council in the Marches of Wales, and it seems he has written to you to the same effect, which is to have a letter to the Justices of Assize in Herefordshire for staying proceedings against one Edmond Edwards at the next assize, in respect of his discovery of many notorious thieves in divers shires of South Wales. I conceive the motion to be reasonable, tending to so good a purpose, and the judges strain their discretion many times to do the like upon less occasions. Wherefore if it please you to join with me in such a letter I will be ready; if otherwise, I refer myself to your wisdom, and so pray you to bear with my scribbling, having neither sound body nor head.—2 March. 1607.
Holograph. 1 p. (120 113.)
Edward FitzGerald to the Earl of Salisbury
1607–8, March 3. Whereas I showed you the letter that Captain Moris FitzGerald sent me out of the Low Countries by his brother Pierce FitzGerald. Pierce being desirous to return back to bring home his brother and to forego their employments there, for that they would not serve in any place that may be offensive to his Majesty, and would rather serve their own native prince, if there be cause of employment, than any other prince in the world, as I understand by the letter and Pierce's protestations; for that they are my kinsmen I wish their return out of those parts to their own country, and pray you to grant them a passport.—3 March, 1607.
Signed. Endorsed: "Capt. Garret to my Lord." ⅓ p. (120 115.)
Lord Morley to the Earl of Salisbury
1607–8, March 3. Whereas it has pleased his Majesty to give unto the Earl of Hertford or to his son 200l land a year, and to my son Monteagle and the rest of the co-heirs other 200l land a year, out of the lands sometimes the Duke of Suffolk's, late in controversy betwixt the said Earl and them (as I take it) either in respect of their rights or their great charges in law betwixt them; my suit is that you would think me worthy of some recompense herein, because I first began the suit in Queen Elizabeth my late sovereign's time, and so proceeded at his Majesty's first entrance into England and three years since, to my great charges and the purchasing of many enemies. And for my right into these lands I hold myself to be tenant by the curtesy of England; and so if their right be good I shall prove mine to be answerable to the same before his Majesty's counsel learned.—Holborn, 3 March, 1607.
Signed. Seal. ½ p. (120 116.)
[Sir Thomas Parry] to Mustapha Aga
1607–8, March 3. In reply to yours of 6th February (received the 26th) requesting me to apply to the King of France for a passport for you to travel from Marseilles to England; I am very sorry to be unable to accede to your most reasonable request without orders, but I am writing to England and will let you know the answer.—3 March, 1607. To Mustapha Aga. Chamberlain of the Turkish Emperor at Marseilles.
Copy. Latin. Endorsed: "1607." (193 80.)
Sir Christopher Perkins to the Earl of Salisbury
1607–8, March 4. I pray you to accept of these my letters written upon so necessary occasion very much concerning myself. A public rumour has been lately raised that it is intended to bring another man into the Requests, and to pretermit me, supposed as old and weak, to be unwilling to undergo such pains as are incident to one that shall be in ordinary for audience; whereas the place I now hold has been ever thought an infallible way to the fee and to the ordinary place of justice in the Court of Requests. And as I am informed there has never been any precedent to the contrary, though sometimes for the place of Audience there has been some alteration, yet very seldom upon consideration. But to remove the forementioned supposition, assuredly I desire no longer to live than I shall be willing to take pains in any his Majesty's service allotted to me. Wherefore, it being usual in all honourable governments to insist in courses ever formerly observed, the interrupting whereof in any particular cannot be without some public distemper and private disgrace, if not wrong; my suit to you is that you will be a hinderer of this my disgrace if need shall be; and that in consideration of my many good deserts of the State in former times, of my small rewards and now of my age not like to be long troublesome, I may at the least take my turn in this small place I hold. And if upon trial I shall hereafter prove unable by weak age, I may easily without offence give place to some other.—Lambeth, 4 March, 1607.
Holograph. Seal. ¾ p. (120 117.)
Sir Thomas Lake to the Earl of Salisbury
1607–8, March 4. It may please you to receive herewith the two warrants which came hither this morning, and also two other bills signed by his Majesty, which came a week since or more in a packet from you without any mention. They are both for one man and one thing, and therefore I knew not whether both were to be signed or one. The one contains only a livery for the keeper of the bridges, and the other a livery and an allowance of 20s in money. Which of them you will have to pass you may cause to be sealed, and the other to be suppressed. I have sent also a letter to my Lord Admiral written by his Majesty's warrant for the taking of certain deer to be sent to the French King. I beseech you to cause it to be sealed and sent unto him. Of the matters contained in your letter, his Majesty willed me to write nothing but that he was satisfied, only marvels that it should fall out so clear for Mr Fuller, considering the information had been given him; and yet speaks not passionately of him.—From the Court at Newmarket, 4 March, 1607.
Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (120 118.)
[Sir Charles Cornwallis] to the Earl of Salisbury
[1607–8], March 5. I have written much to my Lord of Northampton, whereof I doubt not your Lordship shall be participant. Such is the present extremity of sharpness of the weather here, and my greenness of recovery, as for this present I must entreat your pardon if in this I omit something.
Since the recovery of my rheum and ague I have been assaulted with a fear of an end by a more sudden and violent means, whereof more particularly you shall understand by my Lord of Northampton, to whom I have related it in my letter. I thank Almighty God I have resolved upon the worst, and having God for protector, fear not what the armies of His enemies can do unto me. If they shorten my days here, my hope is they shall lengthen them in a more happy place; and in a better quarrel than the cause of God, my King and country I cannot adventure them. My comfort is it has pleased God to bless my labours, all things here in all outward appearance standing in better terms than ever, neither have I lost time while the humour held them. It begins now within a few days to show a little change, but as I attribute most of the late show of warmth of good will to a desire not to be impedimented in the precious peace that they so much affect, so I imagine that some occupations about that, and late alarms of many sails of Hollanders being upon these coasts with intention to surprise St Lucar, have hindered very many of my proceedings in the causes of my countrymen. Within these seven days posts were sent suddenly, all in one night, to all the port towns of this kingdom, and yesterday went fresh couriers to Sevill and Lisborne.
In Galicia are building with all speed 12 galleons, and a view taken of all the foreigners' ships within these harbours, of what quantity, quality and port they be. Of the embarks (sic) along the coasts of Biscay I long since advertised; what the purpose is is held very silent, but some attempt there is in hand, and (as it seems) of great necessities, for the King's treasury gives no encouragement to works of charge, being both here and elsewhere, as far as I can understand, never more empty. His own officers are content to be "acknowne" of the penury. His preachers this Lent, in presence of the ambassadors of other princes and states, have been violent in telling him to his face of his extreme wants, unworthy of a King, and of his consumptions otherwise, in profuse giving where there has been no merit. The Ambassador of Venice, who sits where he may take full view of him, tells me he sits like an image, stricken but not moved. Divers of his guard in his way to his chapel have in like manner lately affronted him in troop of 6 or 7 at once, delivering petitions for their wages and accompanying them with exclamatory words, saying they have not been paid these 15 months, and are now come to such extremity as with difficulty they defend themselves from starving. The poor King takes their papers and follows his way; what he feels in his heart, God knows, but those that observe his countenance assure me that they find no change in it.
The Duke of Lerma is within these two days removing towards Lerma, and purposes no return till the end of this summer. He being gone the King will not long tarry after him. The Duke finds the surfeit and would gladly cure it by retentive diet, but cannot endure evacuation. They rail at him publicly for his engrossing the estate, and now lately are come to do it so confidently as, adjoining unto it the matter of this Low Country treaty, they in a sort call him traitor, saying that so dishonourable prohibitions (sic) of peace (whereof they hold him a principal contriver) cannot proceed out of other entrails than those of a traitor and a coward. What will be the end of that nobleman's fortunes, God knoweth; for my own particular I cannot but wish the best, so much am I beholden unto him for the respect he has always showed to myself in particular, and especially for the good affection he ever demonstrated to my sovereign and what concerns his services.
What and how much my longing is now to hear from you, and of the happy time of my delivery from hence, I doubt not but you will easily conjecture.
The Ambassador of Persia departed this week towards his own country, being to embark at Lisborne in one of the carracks that go for the East Indies, and at Ormuce to take his way overland. There was during his abode here exchange of visits between us. He has promised to "ingreate" my sovereign to the king his master, and that all subjects of his that for traffic or otherwise should repair unto his king's dominions shall be well received and used with good respect. The King gave him for an ayuda de costa 20,000 ducats in money.
Sir John Ferne having so long a time stayed here, expecting payment of money due to him from the King for which he has many months had all his papers and furniture in readiness, has not yet been paid one penny. Myself have now lately put in like preparation debts due unto some of his Majesty's subjects. Sir John has altogether used Creswell for his advocate, and the others only me; it is now come to the issue which shall most prevail, and upon this trial will appear whether a crown or a corner cap shall be of most force with this people.
Notwithstanding the late provisions made in Parliament to the contrary, the affected to the Roman religion in England send hither their sons to be indoctrined in the Jesuits' colleges; amongst others, the son of one Mr Bacon of Lyne in Norfolk that has been lately transported and at Lisborne received by that malignant generation.
Copy. Endorsed: "To my Lord of Salisbury of the 5th March. Sent by the conveyance of the Secretary of Estate here to the Spanish Ambassador there under cover to Sir William Cornwaleys. 7 March, 1608." 12/3 pp. (125 39.)
Advertisements from Germany
1607–8, March 5/15. From Prague, 15 March, 1608. The Protestant Ambassadors at Ratisbon continue firm in their demands, of which I have heretofore written you, so that the issue of the Diet is more than ever in doubt, and whether it will be so protracted that the affairs of the Emperor which require prompt decision will receive any benefit. He has asked in the Diet of Bohemia, which commenced on Monday, 300,000 thalers payable within a month for his necessities, and no more. The answer which will be made him will prejudge the question for still another diet, which he proposes to convoke after Easter in this town, where he desires the deputies of the dependent Provinces of this Kingdom to assemble. They write from Vienna that the Diet of Austria will be finished shortly, and that it will appoint an embassy of all the States to the Emperor, to render account to him of all that has taken place at Pressburg, and to assure him that it has only been for his service and to avoid total ruin. I have informed you that the Count Brune de Mansfeldt has been dispatched by the Archduke Matthias to his brother Albert. On his way through Ratisbon he was arrested by the Archduke Ferdinand, who, after seizing his letters and instructions, sent him back here, whence he has been forbidden to depart without leave. I do not know how this will be taken where you are.
The Diet of this Kingdom has been finished this morning. The resolution demanded by the Emperor has been put back to the diet to be held after Easter.
French. Endorsed: "1608. Advertisements out of Germany." and in a different handwriting: "22 March." 1 p. (194 128).
Levynus Munck to Roger Houghton
1607–8, March 5. His Lordship [Salisbury] appoints him to send to Houghton for 20l to be disbursed here about foreign employment. It is to be entered as delivered to the use of Sir Thomas Edmondes. who has delivered so much money at Brussels for his Lordship's service.— London, 5 March, 1607.
Holograph. ½ p. Receipt at foot by Jer. Whitaker for the above money. (214 59.)
The Earl of Nottingham to the Earl of Salisbury
[1607–8] March 6. I will attend at two oclock as appointed by your letter. I send you two letters which are for the service of the "Ilse" [Isles] of Scotland; the one to the Lord Deputy, the other to Sir William St. John, who is specially to be used in that service as he was the last year, who performed it to his Majesty's good liking. They are to go away with great speed, therefore send them away by post with all expedition.—Chelsea, the 6 of Ma[rch.]
Holograph. Seal. Endorsed: "6 March 1607." ½ p. (120 119.)
Viscount Lisle to the Earl of Salisbury
[1607–8, March 6] I did get much in the exchange the last day with you; for both that which I received from you (and return enclosed) more perfect than my copy was; and also Spinola's demands added, which I had not seen before. I thank you for it, and though I know in these things you are ever better furnished than I am, yet when I have anything I will not fail to acquaint you with it.— Undated.
Holograph. Endorsed: "6 March 1607." 1 p. (193 81.)
Memorandum
1607–8, March. 6/16. Letters from Spain. 16 March, 1608.—That the Hollanders have taken the city of Malacca and the Viceroy prisoner. Four galleons cast away at Barcelona wherein are drowned a great sort of gent that were embarked for Italy, amongst whom 'tis said the Venetian Ambassador that last resided in Spain.
The rest are matters advertised before concerning the fleets and preparations ready at this time.
Memorandum in the handwriting of a secretary. ½ p. (194 129.)
Sir Thomas Edmondes to the Earl of Salisbury
1607–8, March 9. Distrust of the success of the peace. Jealousies of the French Commissioners. The President Janin termed the Rabbi of the States from whom they do derive their chief counsels. A courier come with order from Spain for the furnishing of 750,000 crowns, the remainder of the 900,000 crowns, by new banquiers of Genoa. Direction that such as be entretenidos circa la persona shall monthly have a third part of their entertainment. The Count of Miranda, the most sufficient councillor of State in Spain, hath given over the managing of affairs there, of which judgment is made that they stand in ill terms. Centurion hath already paid 1000l st. upon bills of exchange from the Sp[anish] Ambassador in England. He hath likewise made over to him 50,000 crowns from Antwerp; much marvelled to what end these great sums are sent over, considering the small use the Ambassador hath of money besides ordinary expense.
Abstract. (227 p. 343.)
Viscount Fenton to the Earl of Salisbury
1607–8, March 10. I showed his Majesty your last letter, and he was well pleased with your resolution touching the party, and likewise allowed of your several advertisements to Delvin's friends, both by the Deputy and this other party. His Majesty was very careful that the warrant for the 300l should be according to the words of your own letter, which you shall receive here enclosed, and as Sir Thomas Lake says to me, of the same form you desired. I perceive by your letter the course of my business, which my Lord of Dunbar had made me understand, besides a letter I had from Sir James Creichton; and they both testify your care in that for my good to be more than I can deserve. Only pardon me to renew once more what I have often said, no man shall be more ready, nor think himself more happy than myself, if I can do you any acceptable service.—Newmarket, 10 March, 1607.
Holograph. 1 p. (120 121.)
Memorial of George Car to the King of Spain
1607–8, March 11/21. Memorial of George Car. a Scottish gentleman, presented to the King of Spain and the Council of State.
He was dispatched in A.D. 1592 by the Catholic nobility of Scotland to the late King with their letters and signatures, arrested on the point of embarkation, imprisoned and deprived of his estates. After regaining his liberty he was again sent by the same persons in 1600 on the King of Spain's business. He has since, much against his will, become involved in a dispute, and requests that Andres de Prada, the King's secretary, may be ordered to give him a certificate of his services which he can produce in his defence.
Annexed. Decree of the Council of State.
By order of the Council of State I, Andres de Prada, certify that George Car was sent by the Catholic nobility of Scotland to the late King, was captured, escaped, and was again sent to the present King, with whose answer he departed to Bordeaux, whence he forwarded it and returned to this Court. His Majesty assigned to him a pension of 70 crowns (escudos), which he subsequently raised to 100. The Council regards him as a good Catholic and zealous for the King's service.— Madrid, 21 March, 1608.
Copy made by Pedro de Baela, royal notary (scrivano) at Madrid, 21 March, 1608.
Copy. Spanish. 1 p. (16 58.)
Sir John Ogle to the Earl of Salisbury
1607–8, March 11/21. Since the sending over of the articles by Sir William Browne, which was ill taken by the Commissioners and so made known to the Estates, there has been that hand carried in matter of secrecy as that the trade of interloping intelligence is almost put down, there coming very little to the common ear to be discoursed of. A further truce is agreed upon till the end of May. They have not yet resolved who of the five Commissioners from the Archdukes shall go into Spain. Each one has presented his service in show of a well willing to the advancement of the common business, but it is thought that it will fall to the Friar's lot. The Estates persist in their resolution touching their not abandoning the East Indies. There are certain persuasive reasons set down in writing to confirm them in that opinion, as also by themselves why they remain so constant therein; of the latter I have not yet had sight; when they shall come to my hands, if they be not too tedious, or that I feared not they would come too late and so out of season, I would send them you.—Hague, March 21, 1608. novo.
Holograph. Seal. Endorsed: "1607." 1 p. (125 43.)
Lord St John to the Earls of Dorset, Worcester and Salisbury
1607–8, March 11. Refers to his letter of the 5th inst. with respect to the proposed purchase by him of his cousin the Earl of Bedford's manor of Melchbourne. In performance of his promise, he has sent up Oliver St John, his eldest son, and Thomas Anscell, authorised to conclude with such as have like warrant from Bedford, for the price and days of payment. In case of their dissenting, he will confirm whatever shall be accorded by an umpire chosen by Bedford of the two noblemen named in his letter. He does not covet the purchase for any lucre sake, but only for convenience, and to retain a memorial of the alliance between the noble house of Bedford and this of Bletsoe.— Bletsoe, 11 March, 1607.
Signed. Oliver Seynt John. 1 p. (193 84.)
Sir Edward Cecil to the Earl of Salisbury
[1607–8] March 12. At my coming to the Hague I did think it strange to find the odds to be on the war's side; but 7 days after it was turned like a cockpit mark, and continues so much the stronger as the article of the trade to the Indies is passed, which was all the hope we soldiers had on our side that it would not have been. For the greater business here I leave to those that should know them [sic] better, that are ordained to that end; only I can say that the people here that are Protestants are so indifferent that these 40 years' war have horned them, so that they think they should live better in war than in peace. As for the Papists they desire peace upon their knees, so that if it prove peace I shall wish myself a Papist to be the better contented. For our troops the business is not as yet handled, only they speak of keeping up of their army; but they will cashier many, and yet hold on their contribution for some 10 years. But if they make peace, I look for every year they will cashier so many that their army will not long stand. And as every man begins to seek for his best means, so I must confess I have none can help me but your Lordship, which I know is so honourable that if, for those 10 years I have followed the wars I have deserved anything, you will remember me. If not, I shall think myself born in an evil hour to have spent my time and all I have in the world, and to see so many at home without pains profit so much, I doubt not but your Lordship is sensible of a man of my rank that has lived like a "Coronell", and must come home and live like a younger brother that was come from the Inns of Court. If my misfortune be so bad, it will confirm many men's judgments that thought it safe to stay at home. I have gone farther than I did think to have done, therefore I will conclude; and as I have from the beginning only sought to you for my fortune, so will I till the end.—From the Hague, this 12 of March.
Holograph. Seal. Endorsed: "1607." 1½ pp. (120 122.)
John Finet to Thomas Wilson
1607–8, March 12/22. I made no better of your, or to say better, my Lord's [Salisbury's] message to his Lordship [Cranborne] than plainly to prefer it to his own reading; which somewhat moved him, but rather to repentance than anger, when he saw his faults noted by him that has such judgment to discern and authority to reform them. Only he is sorry his merit should prove the worse for his ill fortune, for even then his own letters of reasonable excuse for his silence could not be farther from my Lord than Dover. He begins his diligence with this opportunity of sending by Mr Finch, my Lord's servant, and will continue it upon every occasion. Your cousin I know not where to find; he was once with me and told me, but I have forgot his lodging. At my next sight of him, he shall have your message.
I have sent you herewith three small treatises; one of the claim and protestation of the Courteneys about their right to be received to be princes of the blood of France; another an abridgement of the King's life, avowed by Mr de Souilly (though without his name) to my Lord Ambassador; and a third to that purpose, said to be Pierre Matthieu's. One thing I wonder of, how a man of that strength of judgment and fulness of invention, as is M. de Souilly, should tread so just in another man's steps (for his is the latter and of the latter impression) without voluntary or strangely casual larceny. You shall receive also by bearer a box of something that perhaps may serve your turn better than nothing, two cleanly candlesticks with silver noses (yet not privileged from dropping) which may be for your neat use to transport from book to book in my Lord's library; an ivory box of counters of the same for your more sweet counting of expenses and receipts about his Lordship's building; a dog and a cat for your daughter to play with (if she be not past it), which have these rare properties, never to eat meat, to make noise, to harbour fleas. Some told me they would die in the sending; be it as it will, these are all presents of no great charge which I cannot find here to your purpose. The bearer looks for no better reward than a kiss of your jewel, and in my conscience you may honestly afford it as he will honestly take it. He is a gentleman of my old honest acquaintance, and one that beside his general duty to my young Lord has discovered particular devotion to his service. There passed between him and young Mr Litton (a worthy gentleman who is by this time in England) a certain quarrel lately, wherein I will say neither was in the fault because they were both made friends by my Lord's interposing. Idle words passed between them, a challenge was sent, they met; and I came happily to part them. I tell you this because of my Lord's discretion and upright proceeding in a matter wherein two were actors to whom he was indifferently interested; to one as his old acquaintance and, I think, kinsman; to the other as his father's servant and defender of him in his absence from an indignity offered him in words by an idle gentleman, who, after receiving from Mr Finch a box on the ear for his saucy speeches and thereupon challenging him the field, was met by him to be answered; but ashamed of the cause of his quarrel (which the best way he could excuse was with confession of drunkenness) he was content the matter should be there compounded without such sharp trial as they were ready to put it to. I briefly tell you this because my Lord or some of Mr Litton's best friends may be possessed with some hard report of Mr Finch's proceeding as being of a quarrelsome disposition, whereof the justice of the cause in the first, in the second Mr Litton himself (now again his good friend) will I doubt not clear him. I have been long about matters too light, out of I know not what natural inclination I have to defend everyman, as far as I may, from injury, and to make the best of everything.—Paris, 22 March, 1608, stilo novo.
PS. There is a gentleman, a friend of mine, here desirous to know if any shall be sent to condole the death of the Duke of Florence, who it is, and where he is likely to take his journey, whereof, by your next if you know, inform me. If one Mr Rookes bring you letters from me, I pray take notice of him; he is a man of good understanding, whom I have found faithful and, in his proceeding, most real and honest.
Holograph. 3 pp. (125 45.)
Advertisements from Prague
1607–8, March 12/22. There has been a rumour these last days in this Court that the Emperor's affairs are going better at the Diet of Ratisbon than they did before, and that it is hoped that some contributions will be obtained. Nevertheless, this hope is still very weak, and it is to be feared that whilst matters are so protracted on that side, those who are desirous to remove elsewhere will have plenty of leisure to carry out their plans. Some beginning of it is seen in Moravia, where several lords are openly declaring their discontent with him who exercises the office of Grand Captain, the first post in the province, by commission from the Emperor. We shall see if the Cardinal de Dietristain, who went there Sunday last, and the intimation of the Diet of this Kingdom to be held after this Easter, to which those of Moravia are also summoned, as I think I wrote you in my preceding letter of the 15th, will retard the course of this division, the effects of which can only be very prejudicial to his Imperial Majesty.—From Prague, 22 March, in answer to yours of the 8th, 1608.
French. ½ p. (194 131.)
Sir Frances Vere to the Earl of Salisbury
1607–8, March 13. I received lately from Sir Edward Conway the writing that goes herewith, being the copy of a letter sent out of Spain containing an advice of a practice by the Spaniard upon some of the important ports of Holland or Zeland, and namely, as the writer supposes, the Brill; as you may more particularly understand by the said writing, which I send untranslated, knowing you to be attended by such as have better skill therein than myself, being ready upon knowledge of your pleasure to dispose of my attendance accordingly.—Tilbury, 13 March, 1607.
Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (120 123.)
Dr William Bruce to the Earl of Salisbury
1607–8, March 14/24. I wrote lately to you from Dantsic, at my passing to this Court, that I understood an ambassador was to be sent from hence to our King; this King had chosen his Majesty and the French King to have been arbiters and mediators of all controversies betwixt him and his factious nobility, and to that effect was to have directed an ambassador. But the nobility refused such mediators, alleging them not to be acquainted with their laws and privileges, on which they ground their insurrection against this King. Therefore that ambassador did not proceed, as likewise for the death of the King's child, to whom he was minded to have prayed our King to have been godfather. Since, he is privately agreed with the heads and chiefest of his adversaries, resolved by their advice to pursue the common sort with arms if they make any difficulty to be at quietness after the peace published with the principal lords, which is to be concluded the 24th of this month of April next following. Then, how all things shall pass, his Majesty and your Honour shall be duly advertised. The Archduke of Austria Matthias has written to this King declaring himself to be elected King of Hungary, with the causes wherefore he has accepted that kingdom against his brother the Emperor's will. The whole country of Austria with Moravia and one part of Silesia adheres to him, so that the Emperor, if he be not assisted by the principal Electors of the Empire, will be in great danger of his whole estate. The report is here that these princes refuse his Majesty assistance, which I doubt not but you will know by your advices out of Germany.
There is arrived here sundry messengers out of Muscovy from Demetrius, who was reported two years ago to have been killed by the "usurpateur" Romanus Sustrye, demanding aid for the recovery of his estate, and others sent from hence assure that he is the self-same Demetrius. [I] suppose in this Court for some jealousy of estate he is holden by many for one "contrefaicte" and false Demetrius; time will show the verity. He is in the fields accompanied only with 15000 men evil equipped, and has had sundry victories of Sustry's captains, but as yet has not "rencontred" with himself, who contains himself with great forces in the midst of his kingdom near the town of Moscow, thinking to draw Demetrius so far within the country that he may easily with his great forces enclose him. The town of Danske with the Hanse towns uses great practices against the English Company at Elbing, to which the most part of the citizens of Elbing are consenting, as weary of their trade there. If you cause not those at London to foresee such practices, either they will be forced to remove from Elbing with some disgrace and inconvenience of their trade, or then to dissolve their company. Beside this King I can obtain any favour necessary for them, if they would demand it in time. I find him so affectionated to our King, that for his Majesty's cause he is extraordinarily gracious to his subjects our countrymen. From this Court at Cracow, this 24 of March, 1608.
Holograph. Endorsed: "24 March, 1607. Dr Bruce to my Lord out of Poland." 1½ pp. (120 136.)
George Smythe, William Martyn and John Prouse to the Earl of Salisbury
1607–8, March 15. We presume to inform your Lordship that of late we have been certified (by two of our company who solicit our suit at the Council table, for the repealing of the new imposition of three pence on every kersey towards the levying of certain charges by the Londoners expended at Roan and elsewhere, for the revocation of an edict published in France concerning English cloth) that it is his Majesty's intention to unite all the French merchants of this kingdom into one corporation. The merchants of this city are already incorporated for France by charter from the late Queen of happy memory; and this our charter is expounded in the last session of Parliament to have continuance, notwithstanding a former Act made in the same Parliament, whereby all merchants are set at liberty to trade and traffic at their pleasures into that kingdom, as in the same Act is contained. Our suit is that if such a corporation shall be made, yet by your assistance our said charter may be still exempted, for such reasons as our said solicitors will signify unto you.—Exon. 15 March, 1607.
Signed. Seal. 1 p. (120 124.)
Richard Stapers to the Earl of Salisbury
1607–8, March 16. The Doctors have met about the Florentine cause recommended to them by you and the rest [of the Council]; and for that they understand, by the report of the Duke's secretary, that he has delivered you a copy of the process at Florence of the proceeding and condemning of some of the English ships, they are very desirous to see the same. Wherefore I make bold to move you for it, and I will see it safely returned to you again.—London, 16 March, 1607.
Signed. ⅓ p. (120 125.)
The Countess of Oxford to the Earl of Salisbury
[1607–8] March 16. It pleased you to dispose the three ladies' willing consents for the sale of Henningham to their brother, which favour I acknowledge. Be not displeased with my present request, proceeding from my disabled estate, and a conceit that the most noble minds have the most sensible impression of a noble family's ruin. There have passed in our treaty, by your appointment, demands of your part and offers of ours. The price I tender, with the aid of a worthy kinsman to my son, is a great sum, wherein we show our affection, not thinking it worth to another above 10,000l. The place we purchase has the face of a fatal desolation, only affected by us as being my son's ancestors' ancient, native, first foundation. The parks and places of pleasure are so much defaced as they cannot be repaired; the house and the necessary provisions thereto so destroyed, as woods, meadows, waters, which can with no small charge be resupplied. In the translation thereof to the three ladies there was, by your father's regards, a remainder left in my son whose example, I hope, may move you to afford some extraordinary favour towards this second plantation. I have returned an answer to your particular, containing the usual rates performed by purchasers, wherein I refer to your consideration.—March 16.
Holograph. Endorsed: "1607." 1 p. (193 85.)
Tomb of the Lady Sophia, daughter of James I
1607–8, March 17. Privy Seal to the Treasurer and Under-Treasurer of the Exchequer, to pay to Maximilian Poutrain alias Coult, who has entered into a contract with the Earl of Salisbury for erecting in St Peter's, Westminster, a tomb for the Lady Sophia, the King's late daughter, such sums as the said Earl shall signify unto them, so that they exceed not the whole sum of 140l. "Given under our privy seal at our Palace of Westminster, the seventeenth day of March in the fourth year of our reign." etc.
Copy. ¾ p. (120 126.)
Another copy of the above, 18th century copy. 1 p. (249 249.)
Sir Henry Foulkes to the Earl of Salisbury
[1607–8] March 18. I am as loth to offend by importunity as grieved at the cause urging me thereunto—a languishing body and a distressed estate. Of late you told my Lord Zouch I should not need to give attendance for moving my suit any more at the Council table, for that you would find means otherwise to pass it sub silentio, by which I still see your honourable disposition to do me good. Howbeit, I thought it not seasonable nor agreeable with good manners to importune you further herein until his Majesty's return; and now give me leave to refresh the memory thereof, wherein as I wholly rely upon your accustomed goodness, so without your assistance I shall utterly despair of success.— London, the 18th of March.
Holograph. Seal. Endorsed: "1607." 1 p. (120 127.)
James Boyle and the Company of Merchant Adventurers at Middelburgh to the Earl of Salisbury
1607–8, March 19. Whereas one Thomas Armitage of London, merchant, sometimes free of our Company of Merchants Adventurers, but at the instant disfranchised for marrying with a foreign born woman, has of late obtained of us leave to sue for his Majesty's letters patents for his readmission into the freedom which he formerly enjoyed; these are to entreat you to take knowledge of our said consent and to inform his Majesty thereof as occasion shall be offered.—Middleburgh. 19 March, 1607.
Signed. ½ p. (120 128.)
The Bishop of London to the Earl of Salisbury
[1607–8, March 20] I had notice yesterday by letter from Sir William Wade that you were desirous to have this gentleman, Mr Ro. Spiller, brought before you. I have presumed to send him rather, because I find him very willing to attend your pleasure. I suppose he is no priest. He has taken the oath of allegiance, and protested very deeply his dislike of the Jesuits, as also his readiness to do the State any service. Only I have taken good bond for his appearance from time to time, if there shall be cause, upon reasonable warning.—Undated.
Holograph. Endorsed: "20 March, 1607." ½ p. (120 129.)
Sir Ferdinando Gorges to the Earl of Salisbury
1607–8, March 20. This enclosed I thought fit to send you, that by it you might perceive what effect your noble favour has wrought that so worthily endeavoured the liberty of those poor distressed souls that have this long endured affliction contrary to common reason, but by their [? the Spaniards'] proceedings it is manifest in how base esteem they hold our people, being careless what outrages they offer us. But I wish it might please his Majesty to give his servants leave to use their best means to right themselves of this their insupportable wrongs, provided that they violate no article of peace farther than they themselves have done in this. Neither do I see, in my poor understanding, why his Highness may not make it free by his proclamation for all his subjects to make the war in the Indies, where he has concluded no peace nor whither his subjects cannot go but to their loss and ruin. It is reported that the French King has taken this course, and that his people are now in preparation to go thither on all hands. But I cease farther to speak hereof, unless it may be thought I urge more than is fit. As concerning our plantation, we have found the means to encourage ourselves anew, and have sent two ships from Tapsome [Topsham] for the supplies of those that be there with victuals and other necessaries, having set down the means how we shall be able by May next to send one more of 200 tons. We frame unto ourselves many reasons of infinite good that is likely to befall our country if our means fail us not to accomplish it. But we hope before summer be past to give such satisfaction to the world hereof as none that are lovers of their nation but will, for one cause or other, be willing to wish it well at the least, what crosses soever we have received heretofore. Yet I am verily persuaded that the end will make amends for all; for it is sure it is a very excellent country, both in respect of the clime as also the multitude of goodly rivers and harbours it abounds withal, besides the several commodities that a fertile soil will yield when art and industry shall be used for the ease of Nature, the which seems to show herself exceeding bountiful in that place.—Plymouth, March 20, 1607.
Signed. Seal, broken. 1 p. (120 130.)
Sir Thomas Edmondes to the Earl of Salisbury
1607–8, March 20. In favour of Mr Devike, that my Lord would give him encouragement and countenance in regard of his long abode at Brussels.
Abstract. (227 p. 344.)
Alehouses
1607–8, March 21. Articles of direction touching Alehouses.—21 March, 1607.
Printed. 11 pp. (223 15.)
Sir John Ouseley to the Earl of Salisbury
[1607–8, March 21]. Is enforced to acquaint him with the cause of his writing "only growing from grievous words publicly uttered by you to my exceeding disgrace." As soon did he think the stars would fall from the firmament and the sun lose his light, as the hope of his heart's love should receive a wound of that nature, more felt than can be expressed. As it has been, or is misreported to have been, in Salisbury by an undeserved imputation to ground the sorrow of this grief, so may it rest in his favour to heal it so soundly as to make it ready to approve his love, which nothing but death shall remove. Prays him for his comfort to acquaint Lord Carew with the cause if any be, or the assurance of his contrary opinion.—Undated.
Holograph. Seal, broken. Endorsed: "12 March, 1607." 2/3 p. (120 131.)
The Privy Council to the Earl of Salisbury
1607–8, March 22. For the payment of 20l for the second subsidy.— The Court, 22 March, 1607.
Signed: T. Ellesmere, T. Dorset, E. Worcester, T. Suffolke. 1 p. (206 50.)
Stephen Le Sieur to the Earl of Salisbury
1607–8, March 23. Sir Richard Norton in the county of South[ampton] understanding of this employment of mine into Italy has (in respect of the alliance between us) entreated me to take his eldest son and heir in my company, a gentleman of about 24 years of age: who being this evening with me one Mr Hastings (a gentleman usher or of the horse to my Lord of Worcester) brought him a letter from one Mr Henry Clare (a gentleman of my Lord of Montgomery), which contains a challenge for supposed wrongs done by young Mr Norton to the sister of Mr Clare. I find my cousin Norton willing not to lose the reputation of a gentleman, so that if it be not prevented, danger may ensue to either party if not to both. Knowing this much, I thought good to acquaint you therewith.—This 23 March, 1607.
Holograph. 1 p. (120 132.)
Lord Denny to the Earl of Salisbury
[1607–8, March 23.] I am earnestly prest by your man and the rest of the lookers to the game here in the "leavill" [level], to move you in their behalf, which I am the willinger to do in regard the gates and bridges are now in some reasonable repair, and the longer they are continued upon the King's charge the worse will be the repair either for the King or them. I hear that in other places, where the King has his pleasures looked unto, that merely for that alone some one has half a crown a day. This place is both looked unto for that, and the gates, locks and bridges maintained besides in preservation, being so delivered unto their hands. The four walkers are worthy upon these conditions of sixpence a piece daily. For the surveyor of the highways I know not the extent of his office, wherefore I must leave him, as I do all the rest, with my recommendation to your pleasure; only if he come in it will make but half a crown the day, which is no more than, I have by information from others, is allowed in other places merely for looking to the game.—Undated.
Holograph. Seal. Endorsed: "23 March, 1607." 1 p. (120 133.)
Sir Thomas Edmondes to the Earl of Salisbury
1607–8, March 23. Touching the great toll of Graveling complained of by the merchants, whereof suspension made for 3 months till the right be tried. The peace proceeds slowly. The President Janin obtains of the Commissioners to write that he is a great furtherer of the treaty, to avoid jealousies which were conceived of him to the contrary. One of the house of Salvey arrived from Genoa for the furnishing of the 750,000 crowns which came in specie out of Sp[ain,] by which course the King of Spain gains 14 in the 100. The Irish colonel gone, some think after his father to Milan, others into Spain to prepare for his father's welcome. Shelton, an Irishman, in hand to make an apology for Tyrone, of which Sir Th. Ed[mondes] complained to the Archduke, who seemed to dislike it. A new archpriest for England called Kirby of Kilbeck. Baldwin the Jesuit at St Omers, there to erect a new college for English Jesuits; more convenient than Louvain for their designs and negotiations for England.
Abstract. (227 p. 344.)
Captain John Seintleger to the Earl of Salisbury
[1607–8, March 24]. I am much displeased with myself that I should present a petition for the helping of my poor estate, the hurt of any other; but much more grieved to be so much as suspected to have wronged you. For if I had been in place where I should have either heard or seen you abused, I should have maintained your honour with the hazard of my life, and spoiled the "plaeres" [players'] sports. Therefore think me free from contriving anything against you, whose actions my conscience approves the whole kingdom benefited by. Yet whatsoever you think of me, poor John Scintleger will never forget to do you all honourable services.—Undated.
Holograph. Seal. Endorsed: "24 March, 1607." 2/3 p. (120 137.)
Sir Charles Cornwallis to the Privy Council
1608, March 25. Neither the Court nor the Market Place prophesies for the present any pleasing event of the Low Country treaty. The Duke of Lerma has attended the King to the Escurial, where they remain all this holy week. Measures taken by the King to reduce the intolerable length of suits in his Court Royal. The Condé de Miranda, President of the Council, has on account of his age and infirmities or, as some say, desiring to have no part in a falling state, yielded up his office. The Inquisitor General is to succeed him in the Presidency of Castile. If the much desired peace succeed, Cornwaleys supposes that their cares for a season will be either wholly converted to fortify their western possessions or to turn their forces towards Italy, where they are in their hearts at pique with the Venetians, and of late become jealous of the Dukes of Savoy and Mantua. In the West Indies these many years' distractions, joined with the King of England's approaching to those parts with the colonies now in planting in Virginia, have of late moved them to be content upon any reasonable conditions to give over their claim to the Low Countries, so as to conserve what they have or pretend in their East or West Indies.
Notwithstanding all the earnestness he has used for obtaining liberty of the men imprisoned in Seville, Cornwaleys can yet fasten upon nothing but airy hopes. Of late they have imprisoned in Malaga the factor of Mr Kellett of his Majesty's Wardrobe, whither he came laden with negroes and hides from the river of Senega and Puerto Dalia not far fron Capo Verde, and embargoed his goods upon pretence that his commerce was not lawful being within their jurisdiction. Cornwaleys, upon complaint of the party, interposed himself in the business and sets out at great length the argument he held with some of the Council, who desired him to put it in writing.—Madrid, 25 March. 1608, stilo veteri,
Signed. Endorsed. "Received 22 April." 9¼ pp. (125 58.)
[Printed in extenso in Winwood's Memorials 11, pp. 379–384 from a copy in the Cottonian Library, where the letter is dated 28 March, 1608, O.S.]
Lord Audley to the Earl of Salisbury
1608, March 25. I know that your word in favour of me to his Majesty was the only motive which wrought his bounty. Wherefore I thought to crave your Lordship to be a mean for my employment to his Majesty, if there happen now or hereafter any occasion for service. —My lodging, Clarkenwell, this 25th of March, 1608.
Holograph. Seal. (194 132.)
A Religious Pamphlet
1608, March 25. "The fiery trial of God's Saints, and the detestable ends of Popish Traitors; with the names, numbers, times and places of both their sufferings." By Francis Burton, stationer. It contains a catalogue of martyrs in Queen Mary's reign and a beadroll of priests and Jesuits executed in Elizabeth's reign, and also in James's reign to April 11, 1608.
39 pp. (245 2.)
Captain Garret Flemyng to the Earl of Salisbury
1608, March 26. I offer to your consideration my services anciently performed in Ireland, my maims therein and the loss of my goods; the latter I feel in my body and estate, the former I have testimony enough of from that State, the Lord Lieutenant, Lord Carewe and others, who have attributed part of the honour of the Kinsale victory to my endeavours. This I mention not as vaunting of what I have done but as suing for consideration in the reasonable suit I have propounded, wherein if I be lingered, besides my own loss, haply his Majesty's service and subjects through my long stay here will be also hindered. For I have begun a fort in the Breny, called O'Reighley's country, of great importance for defence of the Pale, and annoyance of the evil disposed borderers. It has been very chargeable unto me, and in these doubtful times I fear to be long absent from it. Besides, if I were at home, I am as like to serve my Lord Deputy's turn in serving his Majesty as most of my sort, although I have neither pay nor pension, and that his Lordship knows. Command that my petition may be read and my suit granted, that I may return to discharge my duty to the State there.—London, 26 March, 1608.
Signed. ½ p. (125 63.)
Esdras de Landas to the Earl of Salisbury
[1608, March 26.] The Dukes of Saxe, having heard that your Excellency has been pleased to give order for their maintenance until they receive news of their father, have sent me to know by whom it is that you wish to have some money paid to their host. He is at present so destitute of means and credit that he cannot keep them any longer in his house unless he receive money. For this reason my Lords beg you again to oblige them by sending 100l to their host, for he swears, and I can bear him witness, that he is so much pestered by some of his creditors, that he can have nothing more for them unless he can get hold of a little money first. The Dukes beg you to excuse the importunity they are compelled to use.—Undated.
Holograph. French. Endorsed: "26 March, 1608. Esdras de Londas for money for the young Dukes of Saxon." 1 p. (194 133).
Advertisements from Germany
1608, March 26/April 5—April 9/19. From Prague, 5 April, in reply to yours of 22 March, 1608.
We have nothing new of the Diet of Ratisbon since my last of March 29. The Diet of Moravia has not been held, the majority of those who should attend being excused upon divers pretexts. Some say it is a bad omen for the Diet of this Kingdom of Bohemia, which is appointed for the 14th instant. I believe Cardinal de Diestristain should be now at Vienna upon the business that I have written to you. We shall see what he will do there. But whilst the time is being taken up in these parts in consultations, the Archduke Matthias seems to be carrying out his first plan. He has crossed the Danube with 1500 horse which he has raised, as is said, for his march by the province of Moravia to the frontiers of this Kingdom, whereat the most timorous in this town take alarm. But if the troops do not grow larger on their march, I have no fear. Monsieur Wischer, one of the Ambassadors of the Archduke Albert to the Diet of Ratisbon, has come here these last days and already had an audience, though as yet I know not upon what matter; any more than I know that of the conference between the Archdukes Maximilian and Ferdinand in a Carthusian monastery near the town of Ratisbon.
From Prague, 12 April, 1608. As those of the provinces annexed to this Kingdom have been excused from sending their deputies to the Diet to be held in this town on Monday next, it is thought that it will be postponed, and it is said that the Emperor, seeing these difficulties and those which engage the Imperial Diet, has resolved to declare his willingness to ratify and keep the treaties of agreement with the Hungarians and those of peace with the Turks, and that he has charged Cardinal Dietristain, who returned to Vienna Thursday last, to make this declaration on his behalf to the Archduke Matthias. But because it is doubtful whether it will be sufficient to content him and those in league with him, his Imperial Majesty has commanded the Bohemians to be ready, following the precedents of their preceding Diets, to defend their frontiers if attack is threatened, and continues to think of still further means of protecting himself as necessity shall arise. We are therefore as uncertain as before between hope of peace and fear of war, and are near to feeling soon the effects of one or the other.
From Prague, 19 April, 1608. Cardinal de Dietristain has returned from Vienna with an answer which gives us little hope of any arrangement between the Emperor and the Archduke Matthias, who has declared his inability and his unwillingness to treat without the Provinces which are confederated with him. We shall see whether the Pope's Nuntio and the Spanish Ambassador will interpose with better success the authority of their respective masters to stop the course of his plans. They are setting out tomorrow to find him in Moravia, where Cardinal de Dietristain reported that he must be on the road, Tuesday last, to be present at a meeting which his adherents in that Province were holding at a place called Eywanzitz. It is rumoured that he is accompanied by more than 1600 men, the greater number on horse, and that he has a long train of artillery which he took in the arsenal of Vienna. There is talk also of sending three chief lords and officers of this Kingdom to him, to remonstrate with him that there is no occasion for his coming hither with such a suite. If that does not stay him, I think he will be seen soon in this town, for up to the present I hear nothing of any forces about the country near enough to oppose him.
French. Endorsed: "April, 1608. Advertisements out of Germany." 2 pp. (194 146.)
Sir Fulke Grevyll to the Earl of Salisbury
[1608,] March 27. Some four years past I presumed to move you for this poor gentlewoman of my blood, as I did the rest of my Lords, and by your favour and theirs she had an annuity granted of 50l out of the Exchequer during life in lieu of lands his Majesty gave her, fallen to the Crown by her father's attainder, John Somervylle; with this clause further that if she could find out anything more profitable to her and not prejudicial to the King (resigning this 50l pension), she should be graciously heard. Since which time she has offered divers suits by my hands to my Lord Treasurer who has taken exception to the nature of the things, but still retained his promise in memory. Now she has found out one which his Lordship is pleased to like, because it is beneficial to the King and harmful to none but such as wrongfully withhold the right of the Crown. My suit for her is, not to undergo trouble in particular, but as it shall come to you by course that you would proceed according to the sweet liberal measure of your own heart. What apology I should make for myself in presuming to trouble you, being now out of Court and ability any way to do you service, I know not, but only this, that he who is most eminent in worth and place must be content to suffer most trouble.—From Tottenham, this Easter evening.l
Holograph. Seal, broken. Endorsed: "1608." 1½ pp. (125 64.)
Easter Sunday, i.e. 27 March.
Sir Francis Fortescu to the Earl of Salisbury
1608, March 27. Cannot excuse himself altogether for not in person showing himself as he ought, having received many favours heretofore, and lately by his uncle Parry more good speeches than he deserved. Has attended often, but his Lordship's occasions and his Majesty's service, prevented his offering his service. Prays his acceptance of a poor keeper's present, which bearer is to deliver.—Salden, 27 March, 1608.
Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (125 65.)
Sir Francis Hastings to the Earl of Salisbury
1608, March 28. As it was never my wont to forget duty so much as to present any lines to you in another's hand, so is it far from any willingness in me at this time to do the same. But my good God having denied me ability of sight to perform this duty myself, bear with me in this default. In these the remembrance of my duty to yourself is my chief errand; whom I hope you account to have been ever a faithful servant to my late Queen, and will ever remain a true hearted servant to my now dear sovereign King James.—28 March, 1608.
Signed. Seal. 1 p. (125 67.)
Sir Fulke Grevyll to the Earl of Salisbury
[1608] March 28. You do rightly conceive that the party for whom I presumed to write is wife to your servant Mr Warrock; the suit, the interest and all her own. When the King came in I moved the Lords in compassion of her blood and estate, and think myself bound to you for this possibility of giving it a happy conclusion.—From Tottenham, this Easter Monday.
Holograph. Endorsed: "28 March, 1608." 1 p. (125 66.)
Lady Sidley to the Earl of Salisbury
[1608, March 29]. Hearing that my letter and papers be delivered to Mr Norton without any mention of your pleasure concerning them, I once more entreat your good Lordship I may from him or some other body be advertised thereof.—Undated.
Holograph. Seal. Endorsed: "29 March, 1608." ½ p. (125 68).
Nevill Davis to the Earl of Salisbury
1608, March 29/April 8. In my last of 20 February I certified of the needful. Since which I have advice from my Lord Ambassador of the "consults" against Captain Challines and the elder and better sort of his company being sentenced to the galleys, and the younger to be freed. His Lordship labours to have the same revoked or, at least, to know the cause of their proceeding so severely against them, being taken upon the ocean seas and having neither traded in their Indias nor committed piracy, but being forced to some of the islands by extremity of weather. Their touching at the east part of Porto Rico was only to land a Spanish friar, whose life they saved by taking him from the savages of Dominico. For this charitable deed they have and are like to taste of a Spanish reward. The captain absents himself and I am in trouble about Thomas St Jn°, for whom I was bound, who unhonestly departed with two others without acquainting me therewith. I hope his Lordship will seek to relieve me, for here with these officers I am sure to find but small favour. These my troubles were cause I have not sooner certified you of the departure of the Terra Ferma fleet, which went from Cadez the 7th of March. Two days after, here happened such an extreme storm that lasted five days together, that by report the like has not been seen. In the Bay of Cadez, Giblatar and at Malaga were cast away many ships and barks. The Bevys of Hampton was one and all her men perished, saving three that were in the fore-top and two that were a-land. Four of the Hollanders, which the galleys took, were lost in Giblatar. Divers Hollanders, that came out of the Straits, put into Cadez to lade salt, were by order from the King there well used, which gives great hope to their desire the peace will be concluded between the Archduke and the States.
It was the providence of God the Terra Ferma fleet departed before the extremity of the Levanto, otherwise it is adjudged the most of them would have miscarried, for being so many and divers of them wanting good ground tackle, they would have spoiled one another. The ten galleons with four pinnaces to accompany them, prepared to seek the treasure, are all ready, some in Cadez, the rest in St Lucar. It is thought the four for Nova Spania shall go first, and the other six for Terra Ferma shall go fifteen days after them. The Nova Spania fleet is also preparing with all expedition. There will be many ships of them by reason there went no fleet the last year. Other preparations here is (sic) not as yet.— From Sivel, 8 April, 1608, stillo novo.
Holograph. 1 p. (194 138.)
Edward Hext to the Earl of Salisbury
1608, March 30. It pleased God in her Majesty's time to bless me as I discovered the most dangerous designs of that most wicked brood, the wandering soldiers, with the counterfeiters of their passports, who counterfeited the hands of all men of place both at home and abroad. At what time I often wrote unto your father, who accepted of mine advertisements, and when afterwards in the Parliament, 39 of her Majesty, I preferred a bill to make them felons, as you gave it furtherance in the Lower House, so your father gave it that countenance with her Majesty and the Lords, as it was made a law, to the utter extirpation of that viperous generation. I entreat your patronage in all my honest endeavours, and having now certified the Lords of his Majesty's Council the names of all the freeholders within this county, have therewith presumed by my letter to advertise them of the prices of all sorts of grain, which to the intolerable grief of the poor arise daily; that according to their wonted providence some provision may be made from foreign parts, and withal have certified to them the cause which I conceive to be the ground of this dearth, with some other enormities of our country; to the suppressing whereof, if you would give furtherance, our poor country should be most bounden unto you.—Netherham, 30 of March, 1608.
Holograph. ¾ p. (194 134.)
Simon Willis to the Earl of Salisbury
[1608, March 30]. I make no doubt but before this time Sir Thomas Lake has been called to testify that, by his means, his Majesty was moved and was content to dispense with my journey to Rome, and that Sir Robert Chamberlayne or Sir Edmond Hampden or both (seeing Mr Corbett demanded me where they were lodged) have been required to deliver their knowledge of my behaviour there. Having now some liberty to write, which ever since the relation sent your Lordship of my journey has been denied me, I make bold to affirm that the imputation laid upon me to have contracted correspondency with Parsons or any other of that centre of corruption, is most injurious, and I doubt not but it will appear in the end that the party that has given the intelligence, whether he be a voluntary or an entertained instrument, has forged this untruth against me only to salve his own misdemeanour, which has been such abroad as he knows deserves reprehension at home. I therefore crave that my Lords in general, and your Lordship in particular, will be pleased that these sixteen days' close imprisonment may be held punishment sufficient for my not presenting myself to you at my return to yield an account of my travels, and that I may receive, if not an absolute enlargement, yet an enlargement upon caution given by some of my poor friends to appear before my Lords whensoever I shall be called for; my conscience being clear that in matter of my allegiance I have no way swerved.—From the Prison of the Gatehouse this Wednesday.
PS. Upon Sunday next, if it stand with your Lordship's pleasure, I would present the like suit to my Lords in general, and in the mean time I shall acknowledge much obligation to you if by your permission I might impart my mind in some things to Mr Dean of Westminster.
Holograph. Endorsed. "Ultimo Martii 1608."l 1 p. (194 135.)
lMarch 31, 1608 was on a Thursday.
Sir Thomas Edmondes to the Earl of Salisbury
1608, March 30. The Cordelier come out of Holland from the States complains of the high terms they stand upon with Sp[ain] comme de pair en compagnon; he fears to go into Spain because he abused them there with his credulities. A letter from the Duke of Lorraine concerning the Earl of Tyrone's passage through his country.
Abstract. (227 p. 344.)
Sir Griffin Markham to the Earl of Salisbury
1608, March 31. I am extreme loth to be thus troublesome to you, but my likely ruin presses me beyond good manners to importune. I have no hope but in your mediation; if that fail me, I despair. I hoped my petition in my last to you would have received an honourable interpretation, for I vow I intended sincerely by that means to get opportunity to show my grateful disposition to my sovereign, or if occasion offered, to pay the tribute of my life due unto his Majesty and my country. For however my fault may breed too justly a jealous interpretation, yet my external actions do and ever shall witness my inward sorrow. Besides, howsoever my private discontent for the instant blinded me, yet (setting aside the forcible bonds of divinity strong in that kind) I am not so evil a moralist not so to know my duty to my country, but that I would readily sacrifice a thousand lives if I had them rather than see the Crown, under which I was born a subject, suffer any loss by any base or foreign power. Yea, I should hold my death in that kind a martyrdom, if I were so fortunate as to die in so just a cause. I did once think to have adventured thither because in my passport it is in no kind barred me; but fearing to incur a censure where it is fit for me to sue for and strive to merit grace, I thought fitter to beseech your assistance, which by all thankful service I will strive to deserve.— Brussels, this last of March, 1608.
Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (125 69.)
The Earl of Shrewsbury to the Earl of Salisbury
1608, March 31. Let me beseech you to present my suit to his Majesty to dispense with me for my absence from this next St George's feast. I have very many businesses in these parts at this time for the better settling of my estate, and the time of my late mother-in-law's funeral is appointed so near unto St George's Day (at which I must necessarily be), as I can hardly with my infirmed body perform so long a journey, forward and backward, in so short a time without some danger. You will be so many there, I shall not be missed, and I being to do his Majesty no other service by my coming than so short a march in a purple robe, I trust his Majesty will grant me this suit, and that you will procure me a licence under seal.—At Sheffield Lodge, this last day of March, 1608.
Holograph. 2/3 p. (125 70.)
Sir Charles Cornwallis to the Earl of Salisbury
1608, March 31. I find amongst these lords much appearance of contentment with mine abode for a longer time, but withal discover a persuasion in them little contenting to myself; which is that the King, my master, purposes to continue me here for three years more. If so it should be, I protest I should yield under my burthen, being more than I am able to bear, and should have so great a sense of the little regard taken of me, as that alone were sufficient to draw me to my grave with sorrow. My hope is that by your next letters I shall receive a more confirmation of his Majesty's being pleased at the end of this fourth year to discharge me, the comfort of the expectation thereof must enable me to endure it.
In my letter to you all of Council I have written so largely as in this I will crave pardon though I be short. The causes of my poor countrymen go on here fair and softly according to the pace of Spain. I have procured payment to Mr Ferrell, the Scotsman, and the most part of what was due to the merchants of London that have factors at Seville. For Captain Henderson, the Scotsman, I have drawn in the desperatest debt (which was some 150l due to him for an old freight of his ship) payable at Lisbon, and have procured for him beyond his expectation an ayuda de costa of 200l; but when the money for that and the loss of his ship, which is not yet returned from the Consulta, will be had in this necessitous time, I cannot determine, but will hasten it with all my power.
For the ransom money due to Mr Vanloor I travail with all diligence, but find many difficulties in the business. Many of the debtors are dead, and the only one of ability that lives I find well friended here and exceeding active with his tongue, wherewith he lays about him to make the demand of that money appear unreasonable. He says that after the general agreement of the sum total, there was a repartition of what should be paid by every particular; that himself truly paid what was by that accord laid upon him for his own person, which notwithstanding, very injuriously he was after enforced to give his bond for what rested due for the others of his countrymen that had not paid, otherwise he was threatened not only to be detained but hanged. Much exception they take besides to the form of the obligation, wherein the cause of the debt not being contained, they would avoid the force of the bond itself. To these we shape answer, that I hope will be satisfactory, and I so hasten the proceeding as after Easter I expect we shall come to an hearing. But if a sentence we obtain, if extraordinary favour I find not to procure an excommunication according to the form of executions in this country, the debt will be many years in paying. The Dutchmen, for whom you and the other Lords of Council wrote unto me this last November, depend wholly as it seems upon the hope of the success of the peace with their countrymen; for although they have been long solicited, they have never sent their papers nor any man nor means to prosecute their cause.
I understand that my brother taking advantage of my absence on his Majesty's service, not contented with the inheritance of two manors which (were they improved as some other men's lands) are well worth 1000l by year (being given by King Henry 8 and Queen Mary to my grandfather and father, for want of heirs males were to revert to the Crown), I not being there to use any prevention, he procured to be passed in my Lord Morley's book, now also practises with one Pagett, a cunning lawyer, and others to overthrow the conveyance made by my father of his principal house and the rest of his land, wherein he neither left nor intended other estate to my brother than for life. He has besides since my departure (as I am informed) sold to Sir Robert Wrothe a manor in Essex worth, if it had been improved, 240l by year, which was entailed by my father and so leased out for lives, as he thought there could be no sale made of it. Neither did my father so much as imagine (as I think) that having left him all and me nothing, he would become so irrespective of what he knew to be his will, or so disregardful of his house and his own reputation, as to have aliened those lands which have continued in our name these 240 years. If these his unkind purposes go forward, I have taken order that either my son or one Thomas Pytts (whom there I trust with matters of most importance concerning my estate) shall acquaint you with it, not doubting but you and my Lord of Northampton, to whom I have likewise imparted my grief herein, will be my mediators to his Majesty to stop so injurious proceedings against one occupied in his Majesty's service.— This 31st of March, 1608.
Signed. 1½ pp. (125 71.)
Captain Nicholas Pynnar to the Earl of Salisbury
[1608, March 31]. I understand of some troops to be levied for the Islands of Scotland, in which employment I would gladly be one rather than live idly at home. I beseech you I may be thought upon with some charge, for I have sought all parts of Christendom for service, and cannot get it through this general peace that now is and most like to be. And if there should be any use of an engineer, I would undertake to discharge the place, for I have been a practiser therein this 3 years
Holograph. Seal. Endorsed: "Ultimo Martii, 1608. Capt Pinner." ½ p. (125 72.)
Sir Roger Aston to the Earl of Salisbury
[? 1607–8, March]. His Majesty gave me charge to send these enclosed to you. He likes to hear from you what you have done with the city for the loan. Here is no news. His Majesty is very well. The Prince goes tomorrow to see his sister. Yesterday being at the hunting he was in some danger, but God be praised not the worse, running his horse among some spring of wood hurt his face a little, so little as yet his Majesty does not know of it. The danger was greater than the hurt. This night the Landgrave of Hes sups with his Majesty, and tomorrow takes his leave. His Majesty desires you to be careful of the young lion, that he may be taken from the mother to be made a pet.—Rostorne, Friday.
Holograph. Endorsed: "1607." 1 p. (123 152.)
Sir Roger Aston to the Earl of Salisbury
[?1607–8, March.] His Majesty has hereinclosed performed that which he promised yesterday. You will receive a long letter. His Majesty would have you not to trouble yourself suddenly to answer any part of his letter, but only desires that you will certify the safe receipt. All other matters he has committed to Sir Thomas Lake to acquaint you with. All is well here. Tomorrow sennight his Majesty goes to Thetford for 3 or 4 days, and the next week after will come towards Tibboles.—Newmarket, Sunday.
Holograph. Endorsed by Salisbury's secretary: "Sir Roger Aston to my Lord. 1607." 1 p. (123 153.)
Sir Roger Aston to the Earl of Salisbury
[1608, March]. His Majesty is very desirous to know how you have done this last night. I had sent sooner but that I heard you was gone abroad, which I told him, who is very glad, because he thinks you are better than you were and looks for you here this night. He told me he knew you were gone to examine the man that was poisoned. There is Askote's man here that reports he spake with a master of a ship in Harwich that came out of Norway, who reports that the King of Denmark* was there abiding for a fair wind; which now he has, so that his Majesty looks within two days to hear of him. Notwithstanding, he has appointed to go to Oatlands on Monday. This day there is one come out of Scotland. Their Parliament ends tomorrow. All things is concluded according to his Majesty's desire, both for matters of the Church and the grant of a subsidy, which is of their reckoning 400,000 marks Scots, which is of sterling money 20,000l or thereabout. His Majesty is glad of this north-east wind.—Undated.
Holograph. Endorsed: "1608." 1 p. (195 67.)
[* See Cal S.P. Dom. 1603–1610, p. 412.]
Thomas Leech to the Earl of Salisbury
[1608, c March.] Prays that the King's letter to the Master and Fellows of St John's College, directing them to accept his resignation of the vicarage of Northstoke, Oxfordshire, and to admit his son, Nathaniel, to the same, may pass the seals.—Undated.
1 p. (P. 340.)
[See Cal. S.P. Dom. 1603–1610, p. 418].
Sir Oliver Lambert to the King
[1608, ?c March.] For increase of his pension, and lease in reversion of such part of the Abbey of the Navan as is in lease to Wakeley, and the rectory or parsonage of Selcher, with such hospital or termon lands as petitioner holds by lease.—Undated.
(P. 1674) ¾ p.
[Cf. Cal of S.P. Ireland, 1606–1608, p. 443].