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Lord North to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1595, Sept. 16. |
I lately understood my lord, your father, was retired to London and sick; and have sent up of purpose to know [how] he doth, whose life and health I heartily beseech the Lord God, even for his Christ's sake, if it be his good will and pleasure, to make long and happy. I look to hear from him before this can come unto you; the bruit is quick of his danger. |
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It is now above fifteen days since I wrote to my lords of Council about many things, which letter was delivered by my servant to your own hands in your house at Strond. One other I sent to Honsditch, Mr. Smith, the clerk of Council, delivered it to my good lord, your
father, as I heard, being sick. There was contained in them some matters which I would gladly have the resolution of the Board; especially of one thing I desire your speedy answer and heartily pray, good Sir Robert Cecil, to procure it. You did command me I should apprehend and imprison those runagate soldiers which unlawfully ran from their captains. I have kept in prison three of them almost this month, where they lie half famished, so dear is victual and so cold is charity. My lords wrote they would direct me what punishment they should receive for their fault and for ensample. I very heartily pray you let your pleasures be signified unto me therein.—Kirtling, 16 September, 1595. |
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Holograph. 1 p. 35. 13.) |
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The Earl of Rutland to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1595, Sept. 16. |
Before your letter of the 12th of this instant came to my hands I had presented to the parsonage of Beckingham Mr. Doctor Jegon, my late tutor in Cambridge, a man well known for his sufficiency to be meet for a better place; and in respect of his former care and love to me, worthy to receive of me a greater preferment if I had greater to give. |
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I never made doubt of my title, nor feared any claim that Mr. Rigges could make thereto, and because I know it to be mine I did frankly bestow it on a meet man. I hope her Majesty will be pleased with that I have done, seeing my grant is past, and I pray you earnestly satisfy her Majesty herein on my behalf.—Uffington, 16 September, 1595. |
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Signed. 1 p. (35. 14.) |
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Lord Burghley to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1595, Sept. 17. |
The bringer hereof cometh from the sheriff and three commissioners for Northamptonshire, and brought me letters directed to the whole Council, being so appointed to do. Whereupon I have opened the letter and have perused it, remitting the answer to be made by my lords of the Council. The parts whereof are, in my judgement, four. The first showing an error committed in dating the letters before the Commission, whereof I have warning beforehand that though the letters were written yet they should not be dated before the Commission, for that the letters did refer themselves to the Commission. |
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The second is a request to have letters of deputation under our hands and seals, as was done by the late Lord Chancellor to his deputies. But this deputation differed from that, and yet, nevertheless, I think it not amiss that their new letters might be signed and sealed, although it will breed an innovation for other counties, and therefore I leave mine opinion to the judgement of the Council. |
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A third point is a request to defer the training of the soldiers, which in no wise I think fit to be granted, hoping that before the winter come on there will be an usual Michaelmas summer to serve the purpose. |
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There is a later part, to have increase of commissioners, wherein my lords may content them according to their own request, if it so please them; and yet, notwithstanding anything of my writing, I refer all these things to the Council.—From my house at Theobalds, this 17 of Sept. 1595. |
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[P.S.]—I can find no amendment as yet in my head and neck, using nothing thereto but warm cloths. |
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Postcript and signature in Lord Burghley's handwriting. 1 p. (35. 16.) |
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Sir John Puckering, Lord Keeper, to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1595, Sept. 17. |
Mr. Lake desired to have me to send to the clerk of the Crown for a copy of the warrant made to the lord Chancellor, for deputy lieutenants in Wales to be renewed, for that you had commanded him to draw anew thereby. I sent twice for the clerk who could find none such, but at last hath found that in the commission of the lieutenants there is a clause to give the Chancellor, with five other of the Council, authority to renew that commission with new deputies, the copy whereof I send you, to give order for the putting in of the new deputies by your clerks there, or by sending the names to the clerk of the Crown to be done here, as best shall like you for the furtherance of that service.—Sept. 17. |
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Endorsed :—“1595.” |
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Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (35. 17.) |
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Sir George Savile to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1595, Sept. 18. |
His especial desire hath been long ere this to have satisfied Cecil's expectation for the sending of a “setting dogge,” but he was stolen from his keeper and is but newly found out. Trusts Cecil will accept of him, being sent by this bearer, his first teacher. Has thought good to present also another setter, that he may choose whether shall better like him, and of both if it be his pleasure, being most sorry they could not be sent sooner. With all reverence to his good lady, from Thornhill, this 18th of Sept., 1595. |
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Holograph. 1 p. (35. 18.) |
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Sir Edward Norreys to the Earl of Essex. |
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1595, Sept. 18. |
Was very glad of his lordship's letter by Captain Deckam. If opportunity permit he may perhaps prove himself as worthy of favour “as others of greater account.” Essex will have more certain news of Cambray out of France. The state of this country shows that if the Spaniard fail of Cambray he will find a great change in those parts, some will say, a general revolt; which would be the assurance of our state, and bring her Majesty to set what law it should please her betwixt these great monarchs.”—Ostend, 18 Sept. 1595. |
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Holograph. 2 pp. (172. 69.) |
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Sir Robert Sydney to the Earl of Essex. |
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1595, Sept. 19. |
There is a captain of the enemy's, a Walloon I take it, come to Berghes to yield himself, and is sent to the Hague. He comes from the camp before Cambray. He saith that Fuentes is almost 20,000 strong, and that if the town be not succoured within fifteen days it is in danger to be lost. He saith that Fuentes hath sent three into Holland to kill his Excellency, and two into England to do the like mischief upon the Queen. I have not spoken with him himself, and therefore can send your lordship no other particulars, but from the Hague I doubt not but you will understand all. He saith nothing of the hurting of Fuentes,
and therefore I think the bruit of that that came here is false. The ships of war that were at Passage went some six weeks ago towards Lisbon. They were to put in at Ferroll to take in men and victuals. There were some twenty-six small and great. Count Morris the other day failed of his enterprise upon Meurs, of which I doubt not but your lordship hath heard already. Here is a report that the King of Spain hath given the order to the Prince of Orange, and a fresh speech of his and the Cardinal's coming down. I humbly thank your lordship for your letter.—At Flushing, the 19 of Sept. '95. |
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Endorsed by Essex :—“A design to kill his Excellency at the Hague and Q. Eliz :” |
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Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (35. 19.) |
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Richard Carmarden to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1595, Sept. 19. |
Were it not in respect of the indignity offered by William Leweson to her Majesty and her service, I would have endured much rather than to have complained whereby to work his woe. But if your honour saw, as I do, his obstinacy, you would utterly condemn him, yet I rather think him set a work by others than altogether of himself, wherefore fitter to be made an example in some measure to others, rather than her Majesty's service, my lord, your father's, provident care for the same, and my dutiful regard to the execution thereof, should be by so undutiful and violent means frustrated. Your honour saw enough into the mind of the man being before you. Yet do I see much pity, his estate being a merchant, whose estate standeth, I know, upon his credit, as all merchants do, that this his imprisonment may come to his ruin (which, God is my record, I desire not, though he mine), that if it will please you, by such means as you may best devise, to work, upon his humble submission to be bound to obey her Majesty's orders and officers in the due execution of them hereafter, his speedy deliverance, so as all actions against my deputies be presently released and their charges about the same by him repaired. Otherwise I may not in duty, upon so good an authority as by her Majesty's letters patents I have, and so great an offence by him committed, pass over the same, which I will follow to effect.—London, 19 September, 1595. |
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Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (35. 20.) |
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George Gilpin to the Earl of Essex. |
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1595, Sept. 20. |
The opportunity of Capt. Hitchcock's departure gave me occasion with a few lines to certify that Mr. Bodley is at this present very extremely handled and sick of the stone, so as he desired me to excuse his not writing, and withal to remember his humble duty to your lordship. |
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The deputies that were sent to his Excellency and council of State being returned from the camp, and having made report of their negociation, and the States thereupon assembled sundry times, he is in good hope there will be ere long somewhat resolved about his business, whereof you shall shortly more particularly hear from himself. Here is of late sent hither from Barques opt Zoom, by Sir Paul Baxe, an old captain that served the enemy, who (as he saith) is come of purpose to open certain attempts Fuentes hath practised upon his Excellency's person, and hath said also somewhat that he had understood by the Colonel Standly, whereof I have written further unto my Lord Treasurer.—Haeghe, this 20th September, 1595. |
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Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (35. 21.) |
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Thomas, Lord Burgh to the Earl of Essex. |
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[1595,] Sept. 20. |
Noblest dear Earl, I am born to trouble you but bear with it, for, I protest, the impatience of a mind striving to serve you is the cause that so many letters draw you from other better business. Either find out what to command me, or I must continue my remembrance with you in such offices. |
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The resolution so sudden of sending into France I doubt not will disquiet her Majesty, but as I guess they could not ignorantly minister this question of her offence, so I assure me the wisdom of our State will weigh all the circumstances, whether it be fit to take hold of it or to escape it as not seen. Methinks they in their courses declare England is not their pillar, and that they will always have in the defection of one a new support. This with the King of France they embrace; more, they suffer to be spoken of overtures with Spain; though the former be not new, for before time they have sent assistance to France, yet in the manner it is not the same, for now the enemy intends them here as well as follows that there, who was wholly then diverted that part. Besides, they spared men after the profit of journeys, and now they lend them upon dislodging from poorest enterprises, neither was then on their shoulders this demand of remboursement. The rumour of Spain, it is now common which wont to be forbidden. The States seem unwilling of this murmur, but their power is not dissolved, and an interdiction from the same integrity would not be disobeyed. I know many considerations whereby a security might grow that they will not neglect us : as the very policy of their being, which as it is maintained by the sea, so we are in place of hindering or suffering their wealth to come in; the suspicion of a people to be overlooked by a French King, not divided by impediment nor stayed for want of a bridge, and the innovation of a state now popularly governed (or by mixture not far from this form) to an establishment of nobility, which, by peace with Spain, must be consequent; I say these be arguments to assure us they will bend no other way, but when I call to mind many commonweals ruined in following the worst counsel, being either fatally blinded (yet with fair hopes) or desperately moved when a malicious passion hath to the despite of another transported them from the sense of their own good (which thing your lordship in ancient and modern stories finds rife), I wish our providence consisted in our sound projects rather than in presumption of other men's deliberations. With no less zeal than may proceed from the soul which faithfully loves you, I end.—September 20. |
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Endorsed :—“Ye l. Burgh, 20 Sept. 1595, at ye Brill.” |
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Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (35. 22.) |
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William Levison to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1595, Sept. 20. |
Is imprisoned for a contempt alleged to be done by him against Mr. Caermarthen, the Queen's officer. Is sorry for the offence and begs release. |
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Endorsed :—“20 Sept. 1595.” |
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½ p. (601.) |
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M. de La Fontaine to the Earl of Essex. |
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[1595,] Sept. 21/Oct. 1. |
“Monsieur, vous avez ici inclus ce que jay receu ce jourdhui, et par consequent qui est venu au petit pas, de la part de Monsieur le Due de Bouillon. Vous avez aussi, et principalement, la copie
de celle que jay receue de la part du Roy et telle que je lay envoyée a la Majesté de la Reine.” From them you may judge of my difficulties in this Commission. I beg you to find means that this letter may not be kept back (supprimée) so that I may have an answer to give the King to justify my stay.—London, 1 Oct. |
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P.S.—Has not imparted to anyone what he received from the Duke of Bouillon. Essex may use it as he thinks fit. |
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French. Holograph. 1 p. (172. 73.) |
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— to Abraham Ryg. |
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1595, Sept. 22. |
Cousing, I wrote of late unto you to put my lord in remembrance of me, which I hope his lordship will not see me utterly wrecked. I hope by your interest and remembrance at his hands my matters will take the better ground. I have written to my lord here that he may write home to his lady that I may be relieved, or else I am utterly shamed and my credit lost. |
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You shall write that my wife and mother has taken great displeasure, and forbids me to come home in any manner of wise. I think the Earl should have consideration on me as on any man that ever he dealt with. He is above that knows my port. I pray you to be earnest with this lordship for comfort to be sent my wife. Would to God gif I had been in the galleys seven years before this trouble appeared, but the Lord is my God that will not suffer me to perish. I am glad that your father and mother is well. The Lord keep you.—From London, this 22 of September, 1595. Your cousing is the bearer. |
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To his Uncle. |
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Addressed :—“To his loving cousing, Mr. Abraham Ryg, gif this in Paris.” |
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Unsigned. Seal broken. 1 p. (38. 23.) |
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Roger Houghton to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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[1595, Sept. 22.] |
According to Cecil's command, has delivered to David Tannat his wages, and signified that he might provide for himself. Whereupon he hath requested Houghton, for that he cannot write himself, to say he is heartily sorry for his fault, rashly committed, craving pardon and promising never to commit the like again. Will pawn his credit for this and acknowledge himself bound if Cecil will at his suit accept of Tannat again and let him have his former charge. Makes bold to stay him here till he receives answer. |
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Has received by Mr. Whaley from Lady Shrewsbury four red deer, whereof one hath had a mischance; would know his pleasure for them. Has sent three times to Lord Cobham's house but cannot learn there how his Lady doth since her going to Cobham.—From Cecil's house in Strand. |
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Endorsed :—“22 Sept. 1596. Your honour's servant, Roger Houghton.” |
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Holograph. 1 p. (35. 24.) |
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Ed. Wylton to the Earl of Essex. |
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1595, Sept. 22. |
“I signified to your Lordship in my last, that Penilla, suspecting the Council's intention, fled. Since that he is apprehended, and the presumptions so great as he is imprisoned and (I think) tortured. The Council promise great things to Sr Perez at the
King's coming, thinking thereby to content him; but that is impossible, his fear being far greater than his hopes. The cause why Monsieur de Force courteth him more then the rest is that hee hopeth the King may be drawn by his counsels to invade Spayne, by the way of Navarre, by which course hee promiseth great honor and advauncment to himself, as his followers stick not to affirme, by reason of his goverment in those frontiers. The Pope hath received the King into the Church. Our Lady Day next is the day of his benediction at Rome. Du Mayne hath certainly made his peace. The dukes Epernon and Joyeuse (the late Capuchin) have also rendered themselves to the King (as is thought). They of Cambray have, by a sally, defeated many of the enemy, and, with a mine, blown up divers of their cannon. That, together with the entrance of Mons. de Vieq with his forces, hath sufficiently assured the town (as is supposed) and therefore it is not unlikely that the King's coming may be somewhat deferred, although Sir Roger Williams hopeth to meet him in his journey hitherwards. Sr Perez hath changed his lodging and is placed now conveniently in a house of the Queen Dowager's not far from the Loure. I have met with Harry Constable in Paris : hee protesteth love and loyalty to his country hate to Spayn and al service to your lordship salva conscientia he hath athousand crounes pention of the Keng (sic) his intelligence good with the Papistes both in England and on this side the seas and I thinck the advertisements he is willing to give your Lordship in that behalf wilbe nothing offensive.”—Paris 22 Sept. '95. |
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P.S.—The Cardinal Toledo is coming to absolve the King. He is a Spaniard and has been a Jesuit. He is the most learned of the college and the fittest to deal in this matter and that peace between the two kings. |
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Holograph. The parts in Italics in cipher. 2 pp. (172. 70.) |
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Richard Carmarthen to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1595, Sept. 23. |
Has received a letter from Mr Leveson, wherein he sheweth himself very sorry for his rash and undutiful demeanour, doth acknowledge his fault, and humbly submits to the due execution of his Majesty's service; hath released Carmarthen's deputy out of prison and withdrawn his actions against him, promising to obey all orders set down by the Lord Treasurer and Mr Chancellor for the transportation by land carriages, and to persuade all others so to do; wherefore he prays release from prison. Beseeches her Majesty to extend pity to him therein, his punishment having not only reformed him, but sufficiently warned others against the like contempts. Craves that Cecil will be a means herein.—London, 23 September, 1595. |
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Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (35. 25.) |
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[W. Stallenge] to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1595, Sept. 23. |
On Thursday night last I received your Honour's letter of the 17 hereof, with one for Mr. Champernon, which I sent to Modburie, and was delivered to Captn. Arthur Champernon, who promised the same should be sent unto his brother, being then at the lord Chief Justice's, and from thence goeth to the Bathes. |
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The 21 hereof Capt. Wareburton came to this town in the company of John Goet, who arrived with H.M.S. Crane at the Lands End on Friday last. They landed in a fisher boat, leaving the ship to go for Scilly. As I understand by the said Goet, the West Indies Fleet to the number
of forty-two sail, with their whafters, being twelve great galleons and eight fly boats, passed near the southernmost cape towards St. Lucas the 22 August last. This ship came from the hight of the Rocke about ten days past, having lost the company of Capt. Crosse some fourteen days before. I cannot learn of any purchase they have taken, neither can I by them or any other as yet hear any further news of Her Majesty's Fleet than in my former I have certified. |
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There is arrived in these parts within these fourteen days past, to the number of fifty sail, this country shipping, all laden with Neweland fish which, as it is thought, will be laden away again by Flemings and Frenchmen that have their ships here ready for the same. If hereafter there should be cause to use any for her Majesty's service, no doubt there would be money saved in taking the same as the price now goeth. |
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At the request of Sir Thomas Gorge there was given by sundry gentlemen of these parts towards the charges of the fort the sum of 47l. 10s., and I have received since, for impost of pilchards due the last year, 13l. 12s., which is in all 61l. 2s., whereof there is disbursed until the 21 hereof, 46l. 5s. 10d.
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The quantity of pilchards this year (as yet) are very small, and the most part of them taken at Fowey and thereabouts, where the merchants are not resolved to pay the impost, so that if there be not some other course taken, the work is like very shortly to cease for want of money. It is here reported there are divers suitors for the government of this fort. What should move them thereunto I know not, unless it please her Majesty to grant some good allowance besides the impost for tending and keeping thereof, which I doubt her Highness will hardly be brought unto. I suppose, if these townsmen may be assured to have the government themselves, with the impost for the maintenance of the said fort, they would in some reasonable time end the same and keep it without any further charge to her Majesty, and the common opinion is that a multitude, where every man hath something to lose, are much harder to be subverted than any particular commander. |
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This morning Sir Henry Palmer, with the rest of her Majesty's ships of his company, departed out of this harbour towards the west. God send them good success.—From Plymouth, the 23 of September, 1595. |
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Noted on the outside :—“At Plymouth the 23 of Sept. Geo. Baron, maior. |
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At IX of the clock and half an hour rec. this letter at Plemoth. At Ashburton rd. the same day at one of the clock. |
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From Exon', half an hour after iiij of the clock in the afternoon. R at Honiton ¾ of an hour after vi. in the afternoon. Received at Crewkerne after x of the clock in the night. Hunynton. Received at Sherborne after 12 of the clock in the night from Crewkerne. |
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Received at From . . . . . . after ii of the clock. Received from the postmaster of Sherborne into Salisbury the 24 day of September, 95, half an hour after 6 of the clock in the morning. Received at Andever the 24 of Sept. at 9 in the morning. At Basinge at xii of the clock the same day, being the 24 of September. |
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Stannes, 24 day, at v of the clock at night.” |
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Endorsed :—“Capt. Warburton arrived there the 21 of this month.” |
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Writer's signature torn off. |
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Part of seal. 1 p. (35. 26.) |
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Sir Roger Williams to the Earl of Essex. |
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[1595, 24 Sept.] |
This messenger newly arrived from Lyons tells me Mr. Edmunds will be here this night, and the King to-morrow. Fearing
they may take some other resolution I will stay their coming.—From Mo . . . . ngs, this 24 September, after three o'clock. |
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Endorsed : “1595.” |
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½ p. (20. 27.) |
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Lord Burghley to Thomas Bodley. |
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1595, Sept. 24. |
In my coming hitherward to the Court upon Monday last, I received letters, dated at the Hague the 11 of this month, which after I had read and perused, my lord of Essex sent to me your later letters, with a Spanish mystical conceit in French tending to persuade a peace, or at least a surcease or a truce, which I perceive you required my lord to communicate to me, as he did. Whereupon yesterday I acquainted her Majesty both your letters and the French project, which her Majesty read herself, and upon some debating of the principal matter committed to your charge, to which as yet you had received no answer from the States, by reason of the absence of the Council of Estate being at the camp, her Majesty herewith seemed to be still discontented in that you had not pressed to receive an answer according to the charge given you. But therein it was apparent the fault not to be in you, and yet her Majesty continuing still her earnest purpose to have an answer, without being satisfied of the cause of the delay, hath commanded me to write expressly to you in her name to press the States to give her a resolute answer to her demands, and in no wise to send any persons hither, as you conceive they mind to do, to give her Majesty answer, with pretence to renew the treaty, which her Majesty mindeth no way to do. And in this sort her mind is, you shall proceed without receiving any dilatory answer from them, and the same to send without returning yourself until her further direction. |
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The French writing cannot be intended to be notified either to the States there, or to us, or to France, for that the very scope of it is, as I do mark it, in sundry places to abuse us all three with a matter of truce or surcease, imagining first to separate us asunder, and then to chasten some and bridle others. |
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At the time of the writing hereof I was advertised from Calais of two companies of Hollanders, containing only 200, that came upon Saturday last thither, and for other good news it is bruited the garrison of Arde and the country thereabouts made a raid into Flanders as far as Betune, and brought from thence a great booty of sheep and other cattle and 25 prisoners, whereof the worst was worth 500 crowns. The governor, also, of Cambray, with M. Duviks, governor of St. Denis, issued out of the town and slew 3,000 men, and brought four pieces of cannon from the enemy into the town. These be the latest news I have, and so having no other matter at this present, I wish you to get some such answer as might satisfy her Majesty. And so I bid you heartily farewell.—From the Court at Nonsuch, the 24 of Sept., 1595. |
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Endorsed :—“Copy of my 1. Treasurers letter unto me, 24 Sept. 95.” |
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1¼ pp. (35. 27.) |
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Thomas Bodley to Lord Burghley. |
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[1595,] Sept. 25. |
It is now ten days and more that the deputies of the States, which were sent to take advice of Count Maurice and the Council, returned to the Hague, and since I have observed that both they and the rest have been divers times together to consult upon the matter, insomuch that I supposed that either they before this would.
have sent for me unto their college, or deputed some to tell me to what effect they had resolved. But being secretly informed that they had varied in opinions and surceased for the time to deliberate upon it, I requested to have audience in their public meeting; where I put them in remembrance of all the course of my proceedings in this negociation, how long it had been since the matter was proposed, how many letters her Highness had written unto them, and how great occasions were presented that she might worthily disdain this long delaying of their answer, with such other allegations as fitted that argument. |
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Whereto their speeches returned were so vehement and earnest and full of solemn protestations, as I cannot call to mind that I have heard them at any time do the like heretofore. For of all the troublesome accidents that happened among them since the union of their Provinces, they affirm very constantly that these had not at any time either busied them longer or grieved them more or carried so much danger, if it were not well conducted, as this proposal of her Majesty. For which they urged me exceedingly to move her Highness to consider the composition of their government, the humour of the people, and the state of their affairs, which in a cause of this nature would by no means admit a speedy despatch. They had sent, they said, of purpose to the Council of Estate to require their advice upon her demand, which had already been reported by their deputies unto them, but it proved so defective as they were aided nothing by it; for which they had resolved to send their letters out of hand to request their presence at the Hague, so that they hoped very shortly to come in conference together, and then to grow to some conclusion; which was the effect of all their answer, though I did my best endeavour to draw them by persuasion to some present resolution. |
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For my private opinion of the sequel of this matter, it is no other in no respect than I have formerly declared to your lordship. Here is nothing to be heard but complaints of all hands, that I may say of this matter, as I could never yet in any that touched her Majesty, that of all that heretofore I have found in this country well affected unto her I do not know so much as one that will afford the least aid or any token of allowance or favour in this matter. |
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The enemy's camp and ours are still together as they were, but that twenty troops of ours are going for Picardy; to wit, ten of this country under M. de Nassau, and the regiment of Scots, which are likewise ten companies, under Colonel Murray; and yet we think that Count Maurice is somewhat stronger than Mondragon, who hath sent away no part of his forces to de Fuentes, nor doth not intend, by common conjecture, unless the King come the stronger. Of de Fuentes' proceedings I think your lordship's intelligence is surer than ours, and sooner brought unto you. Here is very little hope that the King will be able to rescue the place, as well in regard of his want of men and means and for the slackness of his coming. And the enemy, we say, is already in the ramparts, using all expedition both by battery and by mining to frustrate his arrival. |
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Endorsed :—“The copy of my letter to my Lord Treasurer. 25 Sept.” |
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2¼ pp. (35. 29.) |
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The King of France to the Earl of Essex. |
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[1595,] Sept. 25/Oct. 5. |
He would be ungrateful did he not employ himself on behalf of Davers and his brother, who have proved their affection for
his service, to obtain Her Majesty's pardon for them. Therefore, despatching Lomenye on other business, he has expressly charged him to solicit this, and he prays Essex to employ himself to the same purpose.—Paris, 5 October. |
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Endorsed :—“'95.” |
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Holograph. French. ½ p. (147. 113.) |
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The King of France to the Earl of Essex. |
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[1595,] Sept. 25/Oct. 5. |
Beyond what Sir Roger Williams will tell him, Lomenye will give him to understand of certain matters with which he is charged. It is of the last importance for the good of his affairs, in the condition they are, that, pending the conference between his and the Queer's deputies, he should be promptly succoured with men. Prays him therein to shew his love, and to bring it about that he has them soon, and commanded by one of their friends, and when Essex follows they will do something, with the help of God.—Paris, 5 Oct. |
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Endorsed :—“1595.” |
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Holograph. French. 1 p. (147. 114.) |
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The King of France to the Earl of Essex. |
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[1595,] Sept. 25/Oct. 5. |
Les deus dernyeres lettres quyl a pleu a la Royne, ma bonne seur, manvoyer, et la creance qu'elle a donnée au sieur Wylems, me font congnoytre quelque alterasyon en la byenveyllance que je me suis tousjours promyse de son amytye favorable, sans que je connoysse luy an avoir donné ocasyon. Tels ombrages ne peuvent proceder que des conseyls de ceus quy n'ont aucune afectyon au byen et avancement des aferes de mon royaume, et qui ne craygnent de nuyre aus aferes de la Royne, leur metresse, pourveu qu'yls traversent les myennes. L'Espaygnol est notre annemy commun, ses desayns sont contre l'estat de la Royne, ma bonne seur, et le myen, et ne doute qu'yl ne face plusyeurs efes au prejudyce de nos sujes, sy par un commun avys et correspondance nous ne nous opposons a ses dys desayns, ce quy se pourra fere par une assamblee de nos depputes, a laquelle l'on traytera de ce quy est necessayre pour nous fortyfyer contre notre annemy comun, et de la confirmasyon et assurance de notre alyance et mutuelle yntellygance par un lyen sy estroyt que le fruyt an redondera sur nos royaumes, au desavantage de notre dyt annemy par mesme moyan. Les umbrages et opynyons qu'a prins la Royne, ma bonne seur, ce leveront par lassurance que je luy donneray de mon afectyon an son androit de laquelle santyra les efes an tout ce quy sofryra pour son contantemant. Je ne fays ce dyscours, mon cousin, pour vous y disposer, sachant combyen vous m'aymes et afectyonnes le byen de mes aferes; e'est pour vous fere congnoytre mon intansyon et la syngulyere afectyon que j'ay au contantement de la Royne, ma bonne seur, dont je vous prye l'assurer et la disposer a trouver bon ce quy pent ayder au byen et avancement de nos aferes communes.—5 Octobre, a Paris. |
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Holograph. French. 1½ pp. (147. 115.) |
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Hu. Beeston to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1595, Sept. 26. |
According to directions by learned counsel has seen performance of all circumstances for the assurance; and, that done, with like advice of Mr. Hesketh (who came to the Hough and kept a
court baron and leet for two days) has quieted such troubles as have been raised by the tenants themselves, and left them not only in peace among themselves, but greatly comforted with the continuance of so honorable a lord and master as Cecil, who they pray will not depart. The bargain is as hath been esteemed, therefore there should be no further speeches, with any practising to make purchase thereof, than himself or such as are put in trust shall be first made acquainted with. Knows Alderman Mosley's mouth runneth over with a greedy desire thereof. |
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Has delivered Cecil's letters to Mr. Holland and others concerned touching Denton Moor. They have promised to return answer by Mr. Hesketh, and in this cause, as in others, doubts not of good success. Has left with one Holden, who dwelleth in the demesne house and has been officer heretofore, as knowing the conditions of the people and the collections of the rent, to take care thereof, and that by advice of Mr. Hesketh. |
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The comfortable news of Sir Walter Raleigh's safe and rich return joys him much. It may please Cecil among his merriments with Raleigh to excuse him, for he faithfully promised to meet the latter on his return at Weymouth the latter end of September, but was hindered by his employment in Cecil's service. Protests he sits on thorns until he shall see Raleigh's face.—26 September, 1595. |
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Seal. 1 p. (35. 31.) |
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Hance Dyryckson to Peter Van Lore. |
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1595, Sep. 26/Oct. 6. |
Since my last I have acquainted myself with a factor who presently is come from the great jeweller to inform by what means and how he may best overthrow you. I have joined with him in that order, that I being with you, nothing shall be done by his master without my knowledge, insomuch that their money for laquies and to corrupt the judges shall pass my hands. Trust you me, I have finely gotten the length of his foot, in such order as I doubt not I shall be made privy to much, things being wisely handled. By this means your case is sure and can no way be overthrown. You being made acquainted what is meant you can prevent all evil. Believe me these things be of more importance than you are aware of, as hereafter you shall well find. This man returneth by the way of Dunkirk about the middle of winter, as himself thinketh. I told him it would be the next summer before I should be with you. He would wonderful fain had me come before; the while he is here I will still entertain him. There will be jewels gotton better than all you have. I dare not write all particulars for fear my letter should miscarry and other men enter in our trade. Assure yourself you shall see wonderful matters fall out of this and so satisfy yourself. For my part it hath cost me twenty nobles in good charge. I think it the best money bestowed that ever I spent in my life. Besides, I have jewels of him worth that in one, but the time is not yet come when some of them are in estimation. |
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The baron Lynsy, who was sent by your rebels into Spain, is upon his way back : he bringeth so many apples as appears there is no great liking nor haste that way. You know partly why; another meaning they have which hereafter you shall (God willing) know. Nevertheless I am not ignorant there is or shall be within few days 3,000 crowns sent to the Earl of Angus to entertain him. He is yet lurking in that country amongst his friends. Of themselves they may do what they can, other aid they are like to get little. I could write much, but dare
not for fear my letter come not safe; though I pay a great deal more for the safe conveyance than my ability is, yet there is great danger except a man were able to send a special messenger. Your next neighbours are returned to this town and here they remain a while, so far as I can learn; time will try. |
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The Cardinal is upon the way. What alteration his arrival will bring you shall as they (God willing) know. My opinion is he will not be here so very soon. I would to God I had means to do things as my mind gives me. You should see what jewels I would get. But I must do according to my ability. I am sorry I cannot make you understand these things aright for your profit and my credit : therefore do as you shall find convenient. I send you herewith the news I have of the King of France.—From Liege, the 6 of October, '95. |
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Holograph. 1¼ p. (35. 48.) |
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Sir Thomas Knevett. |
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1595, Sept 26. |
Extent of the lands of the late Sir Thomas Knevett, of Buckenham Castle, now descended to Philip Knevett, his son. |
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3 pp. (142. 153.) |
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Sir Robert Sydney to the Earl of Essex. |
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1595, Sept. 27. |
I am sure you know by the way of France whether Cambrai be lost or not; we have had the news of it here these three or four days, and yet the certainty not known, much less the circumstances of it. The Castle, they say, holds still French. It must be then that Balagny despaired to be able to keep the town and retired himself into the Castle. Here was a bruit that he should have compounded for 100,000 crowns, but, methinks, there is small likelihood of that. The Cardinal, they write from Brussels, hath his commission and is upon his way hitherward with four millions. The Prince of Orange is said to be with him. It is also written from Brussels that the Duke of Wurtemburg is at Namur, sent from the Empire to treat about a peace, and that after he hath been with them of that side, he intends to come into Holland. By a letter intercepted of the Count of Aremberg to his wife, it seems that a Landgrave of Leuchtenburg is also come to Liege about the like business. If this winter give respite from arms, it will give occasion to wise men to busy their minds about practices to be entertained and avoided. Your Lordship is one of them, and of authority besides; look therefore about you.—At Flushing, the 27 Sept. '95. |
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Endorsed :—“27 Sept. 1595.” |
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1 p. (30. 20.) |
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The Earl of Rutland to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1595, Sept. 27. |
Has received her Majesty's licence to travel beyond the seas, and gives many thanks for procuring the same, but must again trouble him and his father. |
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This gentleman, Mr. Tristram Tyrwhit, desires to make a journey to Germany, and so to Prague, as well to see those countries as to make benefit of some money delivered out upon return. He is a younger brother and born to no patrimony, yet unwilling to depart from hence without some especial passport. Earnestly desires that for his sake letters, under which Tyrwhit may pass without stay, may be vouchsafed.—At my house near Ivybridge, the 27 of September, 1595. |
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Signed. ½ p. (35. 34.) |
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Ellice ap Roberts and others to the Queen. |
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1595, Sept. 27. |
On behalf of the tenants of the farm or town of Llanaber, Merioneth; and of John Somer, tenant of the farm of the manor of Thorney in the Isle of Wight. Beg for leases in reversion, in view of their charges in reparation and otherwise. |
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Endorsed :—“March, 1594.” |
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Note by J. Herbert that the Queen grants the petition.—Court at Nonsuch, 27 Sept. 1595. |
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1 p. (2000.) |
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Rogier de Bellegarde to the Earl of Essex. |
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1595, Sept. 27/Oct. 7. |
Complimentary, offering services. Pontoyse, 7 Oct. |
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Endorsed :—“Monsr. le Grand, 7 Oct. '95.” |
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French. 1 p. (204. 22.) |
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Customs in 1595. |
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1595, [Sept. 29.] |
Sandwich. |
Thomas Mylles. |
3,125l. 18s. 2½d.
|
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Chichester. |
Robert Snelling. |
1,234l. 14s. 6¼d.
|
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Southampton. |
Thomas Caton. |
1,478l. 19s. 3½d.
|
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— Maxe. |
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Poole. |
Thomas Billett. |
3,121l. 11s.
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Exmouth. |
Thomas Ridgwaye. |
3,515l. 19s. 8¾d.
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Plymouth. |
William Marwood. |
1,605l. 10s. 5¾d.
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Bridgewater. |
Nicholas Spencer. |
8l. 16s. 11d.
|
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Gloucester. |
Edward Barscoum. |
15l. 17s. 6d.
|
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Bristol. |
John Andrewes. |
1,533l. 11s. 9d.
|
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John Dowlle. |
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Milford. |
John Vaughan. |
75l. 0s. 4½d.
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Cardiff. |
Henry Vaughan. |
38l. 1s. 1d.
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Ipswich. |
William Jennye. |
1,692l. 16s. 2d.
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Yarmouth. |
Nicholas Smith. |
781l. 9s. ½d.
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Lynne. |
John Owine. |
282l. 19s. ½d.
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Boston. |
John Dowghtie. |
111l. 12s. 6½d.
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Hull. |
Thomas Aldred. |
2,130l. 17s. 8½d.
|
|
William Raud. |
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Newcastle. |
— Dudley. |
1,249l. 6s. 8½d.
|
|
— Fellton. |
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Chester. |
— Hudsonne. |
509l. 2s. 10¾d.
|
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Total 22,512l. 4s. 11½d.
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Headed :—“Mony collected to her Majesty's use by the customers of the ports following in one year ending at Michaelmas 1595.” |
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Underwritten :—“Thomas Middelton, Lisle, Cave, Weamle, J. Dawse.” |
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Endorsed :—“The accompte of mony collected . . . . . . . . . . . in all the . . . . . . . . . England (London excepted) in the year ending at Michas. 1595.” |
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(35. 28.) |
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Sir Thomas Sherley to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1595, Sept. 29. |
I beseech your Honour to pardon me that I do not wait upon you at this present. The cause is, I have drawn my being in the country even as long as I could. To-morrow, by the grace of God, I will be at London, and will not fail to wait upon you within very few days. In the meantime I am desirous to know that your Honour doth well.—At Wyston, 29 September, 1595. |
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Holograph. ½ p. (35. 32.) |
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Richard [Fletcher,] Bishop of London, to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1595, Sept. 29. |
Your honourable kindness and the love wherewith I both do and ever shall follow it, causeth me make you acquainted with my poor labours in visiting my charge, from whence I returned upon Saturday last. I have gone through that part of Hertfordshire which belongeth to me, and all the county of Essex, making my sessions at the principal towns, where I preached myself at eight several places, the confluence of the people and particular occasions requiring it, endeavouring therein principally to move them to all due obedience to God and godliness and to her Majesty. In the two towns of Colchester and Maldon I found great quarrels and contentions, both in their civil bodies and among their ministers, the people divided and the priests taking part on both sides, and at war with themselves, as well in matter of popular quarrels as points of doctrine. All which I so travailed in that I put moderation to their perturbations and peace to their places, giving satisfaction to them all in their several discontentments, as they all promised and protested to me at my departure. These endeavours and services I so attended for three weeks space that therein I took small rest, day or night, as the country can testify. Many differences in sundry parishes, as well between party and party as among the ministry, I also accorded, receiving from all promise to continue in all Christian accord and duty, both private and public, and ever to regard my monitions and authority. The country I find very well furnished with learned ministry, and dutifully endeavouring in their places, save some somewhat more turbulent than beseemed their function, and more indiscreet than became their profession, whom first I have both persuaded with gentleness to reform such unadvisedness, and admonished hereafter to become more considerate, upon the forfeiture of their favour with me and the continuance of their places. The people I find generally well disposed and dutifully affected, the country having not many recusants. And now that I have acquainted myself and informed my knowledge of my charge, generally and particularly, with disposition of places and persons, I doubt not but I shall be able to do that service that appertaineth to so great a government; which I shall be the better both enabled with strength to undergo and with alacrity to sustain, if it may please her Majesty, in her wonted grace toward me, to vouchsafe me her favorable aspect. There shall be nothing unto me more dear than that I may with my 'sory' satisfy, and with my faithfulness and care deserve again, her Highness' good pleasure from which I am fallen. I am now preparing myself to lie at London which, because of the great ruins of the place and the closeness of the house, joined with as much uneasiness as such a place may afford, doth much trouble me; my other houses, also, in Hertfordshire and Essex being extremely ruined and falling down, without hope, for so much as yet I can perceive, of recovering for their dilapidations, the bishop's executor having all left in
funds and, as he saith, in goods but little value. My desire to your honour is that it would please you to impart my endeavour to your father, and if so I might be beholden to your Honour, at your best opportunity to let fall a word to her Majesty.—From Fulham, 29 of Sept. |
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Endorsed :—“1595.” |
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Holograph. Signed. 2 pp. (35. 33.) |
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The Council of the North. |
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1595, Sept. 29. |
“Copy of Her Majesty's warrant for the Counsel's fees at York,” addressed to the Receiver General of York. The former warrant, of 12th Jan. 1568, ordered the payment of the fees appointed to the Earl of Sussex, then President of the Council in the North, and to other officers of the Council. As the Earl of Huntingdon has been appointed in his place, the present warrant orders to be paid to him the sum of 1,000l. by the year, beginning at the feast of St. Michael last past, and to every counsellor and officer there such fees as are appointed by the former warrant; except that the 50l. which William Tankard has hitherto had shall be paid from last Michaelmas to Raffe Rookeby, for his fee.—Dated Windsor, 27 Oct. 1572. |
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Then follows :—“The names of such persons as are now of Her Majesty's Counsell at Yorke, and have fees paid by her Highness, Receiver there at Michaelmas last, 1595.” |
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£
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s.
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d.
|
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“The Lord President there, for his fee and diet |
1,000 |
0 |
0 |
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Humfrid Purfey esquier |
50 |
0 |
0 |
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Edward Stanhoppe esquier |
50 |
0 |
0 |
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William Cardinall esquier |
50 |
0 |
0 |
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George Hayles esquier |
50 |
0 |
0 |
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John Gibson Doctor of the Civil lawe |
13 |
6 |
8 |
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Robert Beale esquier Secretar |
33 |
6 |
8 |
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Raffe Westroppe Serjaunt at Armes |
18 |
5 |
0 |
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Richard Outlawe the pursevaunte attending there |
6 |
13 |
4 |
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Total |
£1,271 |
11 |
8” |
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1 p. (141. 102.) |
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Edward Leghe to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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[1595, Sept.] |
Your honorable report of my son-in law, Sir Francis Darcye, and the kindness to him, doth cause me to account myself greatly bound to you, and stirreth up a desire in me to shew the same upon any occasion. But my great charges in the course of my life, and the bringing up and bestowing my daughters (which are seven), doth cause me to do as I may, and not as I would, in the satisfying of your desire. Yet your honour shall perceive (before it be long) what impression your letter hath wrought in me for my son's good, though to my own hindrance; yet if it be not (in every part) according to your expectation, yet my humble suit is, and shall be, that you will rest contented, and accept of it as a thing coming from one that is willing to pleasure you. |
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Endorsed :—“Sept. 1595.” |
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Signed. ½ p. (35. 35.) |
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Old Beer Licences. |
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1595, September. |
About two years past, your honour stinted to pass forth 2000 tuns of beer of the number then resting upon ten old licences of her Majesty's, whereof three are despatched and cleared away. But by reason of another restraint shortly after, the said 2000 tuns was not all shipped forth, so that there is to be transported upon seven licences yet resting as followeth :— |
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Of Sir John Hawkins' licence resteth |
753 tuns. |
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Of Henry Lumner and H. Hussey for the Lady Leighton |
301 tuns. |
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Of William Hunter, Scotishman's, licence |
650 tuns. |
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Of Dover licence in Mr. Smyth's executor's hands |
186 tuns. |
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Of the said Dover licence in Mr. Robinson's hands |
217 tuns. |
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Of John Strachen, Scotishman's, licence |
237 tuns. |
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Of John Spitman's licence |
125 tuns. |
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Sums remaining to be transported is |
2,469 tuns. |
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which will be shipped forth in one year, if your lordship please to set them at liberty; and if her Majesty please to forbear giving of licences, the receipt for beer will yield a good revenue, though her Highness did give some small rewards to be paid by the customers out of that receipt. |
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The season now being for shipping out beer, the same will pass for foreign beer, and otherwise to no benefit for her Majesty. I think it were better to spend out these old licences, that then all duties for beer might come to her Majesty's receipt, and beer corn, viz., the worst wheat, oats and barley will little hinder the price of good wheat and rye, whereof God hath sent plenty, if it be not shipped forth but brought to the markets. |
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Contemporary copy of a letter, apparently to Sir Robert Cecil, without the writer's name. |
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1 p. (35. 36.) |
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Lady Ralegh to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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[1595, Sept.] |
“Sur hit tes trew I thonke the leveng God Sur Walter is safly londed at Plumworthe with as gret honnor as ever man'can, but with littell riches. I have not yet hard from him selfe. Kepe thies I besech you to your selfe yet; only to me lord ammerall. In haste this Sunday. |
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“Your poure frind E. Raleg. |
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“Mani of his mene slane; him selfe will now. Pardon my rewed wryteng with the goodnes of the newes.” |
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Holograph. Endorsed :—“Sept. 1595.” (172. 71.) |
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Writs, Etc. |
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1595, Sept. |
Declaration of writs of covenant, writs of entry, pardons, mean rates, &c. for the term ending as above. |
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The same for the next year. |
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2 pp. (142. 155.) |
