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Thomas Arundel to Sir Robert Cecil, his cousin. |
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1596, April 16. |
I was yesterday with my Lord Treasurer, from whom I received my discharge and leave to go into the country or anywhere else, the Court excepted. He told me of the Queen's pleasure of forbidding my honour, and gave two reasens why I should satisfy myself that I had no wrong; the one, nemo potest duobis dominis inservire; the other, that stranger Earls have by courtesy a place above the Earls of this land, which to be granted to me, being but a squire, were a great inconvenience. I that came not to dispute, replied to this with curtesies and silence; but when it shall please either my lord's reverent wisdom or your judicial wit to sit in judgement of a right tried by laws, examples, and reasons, I doubt not but under my hand to satisfy these and whatsoever other objections. In the meantime I remit all to her Majesty's prerogatives in her dominions; hoping, though “agayne the heare,” that she will one day be at leisure to think how in other countries there be many who by marriage or former gift of princes do inherit not only honours but possessions and territories; as between the Low Countries and France, France and Germany, Germany and Poland, and in fine between all bordering countries. After this my lord did quodam modo pity my imprisonment, which was no more than reason bid me to expect from his justice loving mind. He spake of his true friendship to my father and of your honourable love and care of me, which, if my will be half so great as he did there in presence of Lord Cobham and others commend it to be, I will deserve and by desert hold. I am now going into the country, where the greatest thing I can speak of since my coming into England is the loving favour of yourself my high honoured kinsman. |
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Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (40. 9.) |
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Sir George Carew to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1596, April 16. |
This bearer, Mr. Busshy, needed no letters to spur me on to be careful of him, for God is my witness, I am ready to entertain a dog of yours that you esteem of with all the care I may. I am sorry there is no cause left that he might make report of what he should have found. The particulars of the loss of Calais, the Duke Bouillon's coming to the Court, fills your ears at large, as also of this day's alarm of a Spanish fleet which proved nothing. Our generals make haste away, wherein they have reason, for they burn daylight in Dover Road. My Lord Thomas [Howard] and Sir Walter Ralegh are not yet come unto us with the remainder of the fleet; we hourly expect them, but yet no cause of our stay, for they may follow in safety to Plymouth. I think they will agree to be gone in the evening tide to-morrow if watering do not cause them stay, but Monday (if not otherwise commanded) will be our longest abode here. This evening tide Sir Francis Vere with his
forces came to an anchor before Boulogne, where he attends farther direction. I do assure you in my life I never saw more brave gentlemen assembled together for any action than is now in Dover; had not Calais been sooner lost than was feared or was thought feasible in so short a time, there is no doubt but we should have done our country honour. Our ships are well and strongly manned, full of munitions, and, as far as I can learn, plentilly victualled for the time limited. If God be not against us we need not care what man may do unto us; and that which gives me good hope of good success is the well according of our generals, who yet, and I hope will ever, run one course in their counsels.—Dover, this 16 of April about midnight, 1596. |
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Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (40. 10.) |
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Dr. William Tooker to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1596, April 16. |
Sir W. Ralegh hath emboldened me for favourable access to you in prosecution of my suit. Sith it hath pleased you to undertake the effectual motion of my suit, I mind to derive all the course of my thankfulness upon you, whether you accept of the farm of Piddle Trenthide, otherwise called Colyar's farm, which the Warden [of Winchester college] hath stayed for any farther estate to be renewed; or in case you shall not make acceptance of it, I will lay down other terms of gratitude quivalent or better than that, praying you to be my preferrer to her Majesty, whom I have served here in Court as a chaplain in ordinary and never received either benefice or preferment thereby these nine years.—Greenwich, 16 April. |
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Holograph. Seal. ½ p. (40. 11.) |
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Lord Admiral Howard to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1596, April 16. |
I pray you think not much that I did not write sooner unto you. I was aboard my ship in the road two miles off when we heard of the loss of Calais, and referred all to the Earl whom I knew would certify her Majesty; and this morning, being come ashore to visit the Duke [of Bouillon], we had an alarm that the Spanish fleet was in sight, which [sent] every man with all diligence aboard so fast as I have not seen the like and ships so soon under sail. But the fleet proved but ships that came from Bourdeaux and Rochelle, some English, some Scots, and French and Flemings. There will be nothing for me to do here and therefore as soon as I have watered, which shall be done within a day or two, I will to the west. I pray you hasten away Sir W. Raleigh. I hope my Lord Thomas Howard will be here this night, and my son Southwell; if they be not come away hasten them. Let my humblest duty be remembered unto her sacred Majesty, and say that for all it pleased her to write so sharp a postscript to me, I vow afore the Lord I do detest the Bishop's heresy that he preached, and it was no small grief to me to find that her Majesty should have that conceit of me. By her commandment I did master myself with patience and with duty obeyd, but shall ever think myself more else worth than I have done. God send me to do her Majesty that service which my unspotted heart hath ever desired, and after this service with her gracious favour to live quietly.—[P.S.] Let me be excused to my lord your father that I write not to him. I had so little to do in this action as there was nothing for me to write. |
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Endorsed :—16 April, 1596. |
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Holograph. 1 p. (40. 12.) |
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Robert Boullam Couterie to Sir Thomas Leighton. |
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1596, April 17/27. |
Two days ago a ship came from St. Lucar and reports what he has already written concerning Sir Francis Drake's voyage. At Lisbon 20 ships are preparing, 12 at Biscay, which have their rendezvous at Lisbon. At St. Lucar are four great ships, the St. Philip being the least, three frigates, and two pinnaces, which are also going to Lisbon, so that the whole expedition will only consist of 40 ships. They will be at Lisbon by the 15th prox. Three days ago we had certain advice that the Spaniards in Brittany had taken an island called Primet at the mouth of the river of Morlaix, by the treason of three Irish soldiers who assisted them to escalade it, and it seems that in spite of the continuation of the truce for two months, May and June, they will keep the island, being a strong place by reason of its situation. To day we have advice that 12 ships have come to Blavet, bringing about 1,000 Spanish soldiers. The first intimation need not be believed, but if it continues I will write. For Calais, you will have heard enough of the taking of the town, and how the captain had retired into the citadel with a number of soldiers, in the hope that the King would be able to succour him by favour of the English army which was said to consist of 6,000 men, and also the succours from Flanders which consist of 3,000 men. The King has taken 2,000 cavalry and as many infantry.—St. Malo, Saturday, 27 April, 1596. |
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Holograph. French. 1 p. (40. 33.) |
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Loss of Calais. |
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1596, April 18. |
As the enemy yesterday about 10 of the clock left of battering, and that since no shooting hath been heard, being very still weather, it is no otherwise to be thought but that the town of Calais and the castle is won; and so much the more it is to be doubted because great fire and triumphs was yesterday made at Gravelines. I have had here by me about 1,000 good soldiers, the which this day are departed for Holland. His Excellency Grave Maurice hath this day met with them about Gravelines, and is with them turned back again to Holland.—18th of April, 1596. |
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Copy of portion of a letter. 2/3 p. (40. 13.) |
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Edmund Standen to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1596, April 18. |
These are to render lowly thanks, not only for your honourable usage when I waited on you at your house, but also for the good letters unto Mr. Dr. Fletcher in my behalf, concerning a matter then generally called upon in London, that gentlemen inhabiting within the city, notwithstanding they stood charged in the country for service to be done to her Majesty (whereof my poor self was and is one), should be contributory unto the charge of setting forth ships. Dr. Fletcher used that matter very friendly and well, whereby I found myself no more to be called upon in it, for which I stand unto you greatly bounden, humbly desiring I may, without being condemned of presumption, trouble you once more by way of informing you in somewhat a like case of my own (because it concerneth doing of service). I am poorly housed in Hampshire and Berkshire both. Those that have more dwelling than one are usually called upon to serve in each or every of their inhabiting places, but neither can nor do serve but in one. My Lord Marquess and Lord Mountjoy as her Highness' lieutenants of
Hampshire with my Lord Sandys, through their honourable using of me, have my free consent to serve under them in Hampshire, and accordingly they have written into Berkshire that I stand charged to serve in Hampshire; at which those of Berkshire are much aggrieved and, as my wife hath lately written unto me out of the country, some threatenings have been used that they of Berkshire will complain unto the Privy Council for my not serving there, which if they should I may answer it very well, and yet have thought good to signify so much beforehand unto you. |
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Holograph. Seal. ½ p. (40. 14.) |
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Humphrey Purefey and John Ferne to Lord Burghley. |
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1596, April 19. |
We think it our duties to give advertisement of our whole proceedings in Northumberland to you more amply than by our former letters, being now returned from that service. |
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First, at the earnest entreaty of the Lord Warden of the Middle Marches, for that the prisoners charged with march treason—as they term it—were many, we assisted him in holding his warden court; wherein, as before at the gaol delivery, there would be no evidence given against twenty at the least. Only six were arraigned at the warden court; of those three condemned and two executed by beheading. |
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Also, according to her Majesty's letters we appointed commissioners for taking the musters of the horsemen and footmen in that March. That of the horsemen was taken on the 13th inst : and upon his lordship's motion we accompanied him ten miles further northward, where he and some of the said commissioners took a view of all the horses of that March. Of those in our opinion there were not eight horses fit for border service, nor fifty sufficient light horses, if the same should have been shewed elsewhere in England. The muster of the footmen is to be taken presently and the commissioners will make certificate of both together, and so soon as that shall come to our hands we shall transmit it to you. |
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By virtue of her Majesty's said letters and the last commission for inquisition of the decays of the Borders, grounded upon the statute, we charged a jury to inquire of the decay of that March, with addition of some articles not inquired of before. And in like sort in our return home by the Bishop of Durham we charged the like jury to inquire within that county, being parcel and appertaining to the Middle March, upon the same articles, and to return a certificate of the proceeding therein to this Council at York before May 13. And if we may, as we think it our duties, deliver our opinion of the Lord Warden his state and strength in those marches, we doubt that he is not dealt with by those of the better sort that should in all services assist him, by reason of their alliances with Scottish clans and some factions amongst themselves. |
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On the service of gaol delivery we find that the gentlemen, to the great overthrow of justice, do too much favour their blood. The jurors refuse to do their duties for fear of feede [feud]. The talesman (as they term him that should give in evidence) either will not be seen or else composition made, and so no proof is made, whereby the inquest taketh occasion to acquit very notorious offenders; which might be amended—as we think and did advise them—by the strict examination taken by the justices of peace at their first apprehension, while the party grieved earnestly seeketh for justice, and thereupon good bonds to be taken for present prosecution. And likewise we think that holding
their gaol delivery more often would much avail to the redress of those abuses, for time taketh up and compoundeth many murders and felonies. |
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We send you enclosed the articles the late Lord President did give in charge for the state of the Middle Marches to be inquired upon by the principal gentlemen of that country, at his being at Newcastle in November last, with the answer of those gentlemen to the same, subscribed with their own hands, which we now received from Lord Eure. Concerning the certificates of the musters and the inquisitions of the state of the March we cannot make return thereof within the time prefixed, namely, the beginning of the term, because the jurors of the inquisition of the Borders, demand a longer time, the 13th of May, to have the same exactly certified.—At York, 19 April, 1596. |
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Signed. Seal. 1½ pp. (40. 15.) |
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Henry, Lord Norreys to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1596, April 20. |
Was this morning with the Lord Treasurer and shewed him Sir Thos. Parry's letter, which he left with Mr. Wade, for Sir Francis Knowles and Sir Humphry Forster. Asks that Mr. Neville be also inserted, praying that the other knights nominated may not be disgraced, for he has informed Sir Thos. Parry of the electing of the knights as deputy lieutenants since being with Cecil in the morning.—20 April 1596. |
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Holograph. ⅓ p. (40. 16.) |
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Sir Thomas Gerrard to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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[1596], April 20. |
Moves him once more for his favour towards his brother Molyneux, who lieth so much covered with disgrace, having once received her Majesty's public promise, as he hath continued long since without comfort. He is one he esteems more dear than all the brothers he has, and a gentleman in whose fortunes he is as greatly interested as in his own.—20 April. |
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Holograph. Seal. ½ p. (40. 17.) |
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Richard Shuttleworth to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1596, April 20. |
I am requested by a dear friend of mine to yield my opinion to your Honour by letters whether Sir Robert Salusbury, knight, be a man fit to be of the Council in the Marches of Wales. Being moved hereunto can do no less but give him his due. He is well affected in religion, loyal and dutiful to her Majesty, wise, discreet and temperate in all his actions. I would wish (if so it seem good to your Honour) to admonish him to hold an even and indifferent course in the causes of his country and not to incline more to the one side nor to the other.—Chester, 20th of April, 1596. |
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Endorsed :—“Mr. Justice Shuttleworth to my Mr.” |
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Holograph. ½ p. (173. 63.) |
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Robert Godfrey to Thomas Bel, his Brother. |
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1596, before April 21. |
Remembering your very courteous direction at my taking leave of you, to make you advertised of my needs and of what reasonable suit I had to make, [I] must desire you to consider that if my desires have not produced the fruit your favour looked for, there hath hitherto no fault thereof been in me, neither shall, if God give me
His grace : in which respect I am assured you will think me no less worthy than my charges reasonable, which if I be not thought worthy I shall continue to do my possible nevertheless, in the end hoping God will make me able to do somewhat wherein you shall esteem me both worthy of charges and guerdon. If that were furnished to me wherewith I were able reasonably to perform a little of my own conceit, presently I could bring that to pass which should give your friend David [Queen of England] as much content as one of greater power than a hundred such as I am. For proof hereof, if David [the Queen] will not credit me of money, let him send me a sufficient pass or licence for 300 piece of broadcloth from Banff, and if I do not that which shall bring one hundred for one of more profit before the last of May, let me, as such a promiser and no performer, be punished accordingly; for God is my witness if my moyen of purse had answered the other I have had and yet have to accomplish, what I speak of I could, and by God's grace should, do it. So hereof I crave an honest answer to an honest and affected mind. |
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Endorsed :—“1596. Ro. Godfrey, without date. Received at Greenwich the 21st of April.” |
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Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (40. 43.) |
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R. Douglas to his Uncle, Archibald Douglas. |
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1596, April 21. |
Since the return of my good brother Mr. Samuel, I know you marvel you have not heard from me. The time of his coming to this town it was my chance to be with my lord of Mortoun in the new house, sent for for this matter touching the first of August, and after all other hope for agreeing with the Duke for the lands thereof upon sic composition as we can with him, which is like to be had no cheaper than twenty thousand pounds, a sum which without availing of some lands cannot be furnished; which notwithstanding we have all thought meeter to give him nor to have that house lying any longer forfeited under the dangers that may fall out. Wherefore we have sent all with one consent to my lord to desire him to condescend to this, or else we have refused to take any dealings for him or his turns. This stayed me some space immediately after my last letters unto you sent by Captain Selbie his moyen. Since my coming from thence and meeting with my good brother I have ever been evil at ease, not well as yet convalescent, so that with great difficulty can I write this letter. I have not seen the King since his coming, who is at Stirling, and is to be at Falkland at his pastime until the first of May that the convention assembles at Edinburgh, appointed for ambassadors to be sent in France for the causes I wrote unto you, and to Denmark to the King's coronation and marriage and other matters also touching ours and that state, as ye shall understand more particularly hereafter. For your matters I was put in assured hope to have them brought to the point I desired, yet have been crossed therein by principal courtiers, whose reconciliation and ours goes slowly forward, delayed upon a little disorder fallen out between the lord Hume and my elder brother, which friends are travailing to take away, and to pacify my lord, who storms highly without any just cause; always against the first of May I trust assuredly by the help of our assured friend my lord of Menmur, whose not as yet receiving in the office of secretary is no small delay to my turns, to be at a final point in all these matters, for I mind to await and follow my purpose to the end and receive no longer delays nor excuses, albeit I know his Majesty puts off until he see what good effect Mr. Foulles
his negotiation will produce, whereof, except his Highness, no man of judgment expects any good. I know you blame and condemn me in your own opinion as if my negligence or sloth delayed your expectation; but God knows it has been not my principal but only travail since my coming in this country to bring your matter to our wished end and shall not cease until it be “effectuatit,” notwithstanding all oppositions and working in the contrary, which is not small but far greater than either you or I looked for. The news of our state here were not this long time past fewer, for all is quiet except some private grudge of some of the nobility against those eight who had the handling of the King's rents, and who quietly have invested themselves in all the principal offices, and be concerned in the handling of all the affairs, which except some sure order be taken in time, which they are also about to do by drawing a number of noblemen to their society, may burst out to an open commotion; but they are wise to prevent it in time. I wrote to you divers times of this matter betwixt Logie and Graham, and that I caused raise summons to summon young Logie for that obligation, at the least the backband according to his promise, and thereupon caused arrest that silver in Graham's hand. Whereupon Graham obtained suspension of Logie's decree until 15 May next to come. It was thought meetest that the summons should be raised in my name as assignee constituted by you to that backband; but I have heard nothing thereof from you nor what is your mind should be done therein. If fit be your pleasure I should insist, if ye send me an assignation I shall and do therein as you prescribe; if not I will meddle no farther. I sent to Captain Selbie to inquire if he was to send any to London with hawks and offered to send him some to be sent to you by that convoy; but he returned me his answer that he was to send none and that he had not a falconer, and in good faith for no search or inquiry can I find a man to whom I dare accredit your hawks, which I may have in readiness ever in eight days, for I have promises of half a dozen in friends' hands within 40 mile of Edinburgh. About this time of the year they be scant. If you will send me a man he shall not return empty, and in the meantime I have sent to the north to see if any can be had there; whom if I can have be sure they shall be sent unto you.—Whittingham, this 21 of April 1596. |
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Holograph. 2 pp. (40. 18.) |
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Examination of Thomas Arundel. |
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1596, April [21]. |
Q. What letters have you written to the Emperor since your coming into England? |
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A. He only hath written unto Mons. Tylliet by the knowledge of me, the secretary. Tylliet is a master of the camp to the Emperor. |
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Q. What Spanish prisoners have you had access unto since your coming over? |
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A. He had conference with one Lopez, a Sp., by the means of Sir Umfrey Drewell, to whom he read Spanish; and this Sir Umfrey is now with his wife at Bath, and when Sir Umfrey was in town he was with him continually at diet in his house. |
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Q. What discourse hath he had with him or any other about the condition of the Queen's Navy, comparing or shewing the advantages of one or th'other, and showing how convenient it were, if ever they should meet, to board the Queen's ships, and that it were the best way to come to London directly. |
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A. He denieth all constantly. |
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Headed :—“The examination of Tho. Arundell, Esq. before the Erle of Essex, the L. Ad. and me, the Secretary, taken the — of Apr. 1596.” |
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Endorsed :—“21 Apr. 1597.” |
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In Cecil's handwriting. (50. 34.) |
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Sir Ferdinando Gorges to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1596, April 21. |
Captain Clifford brought hither a certain fly boat of Stawvert of Friesland, in which is found many things belonging unto Portugal merchants, as their letters and bills of loading manifest. I have written of it unto your father, and thought it my duty to advertise you in that she and her loading are delivered into my hands by Captain Clifford; and in regard of my want of experience in such matters I have taken for my help Mr. Stalleng, and only attend your command. Concerning mine own occasions I do take myself partly to be disgraced in that I am here left neglected as either unworthy in myself or unfortunate in my friends; for my being here is to no purpose if I may neither have ample authority or sufficient means to discharge that for which I come. My last letters did sufficiently make manifest the necessity of things; only I do desire that those men that are appointed to come may be sent with speed, for it were better they come too soon than tarry too long.—Plymouth, 21 April 1596. |
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Signed. Seal. 2/3 p. (40. 19.) |
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Captain John Troughton to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1596, April 22. |
It was my desire to have been this messenger myself had I not in my encounter with the vice-admiral of the Spanish fleet received such a wound as at this day [I] am very evil able to take much pains. The manner of my service and deserving I leave to the report of my now greatest enemy Sir Thomas Baskervile, who the 14th of March I left, as well in regard of our miserableness in victualling, which he refused to relieve, as my own danger without comfort in such a case.—Aboard her Majesty's good ship the Elizabeth Bonaventure, this 22nd of April, 1596, in Milford Haven. |
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Holograph. Seal. ½ p. (40. 20.) |
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Lord Dudley to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1596, April 22. |
Had I not been supported by your favours in most large measure I had surely felt the weight of mine adversaries insupportable to my weak ability. There came lately unto me one Augustine Stukeley who heretofore had been my page. He was taken by the Spaniard in the voyage with Sir Richard Greenfield and, as he saith, came forth of Spain within this month or five weeks. He telleth me he hath been before some of the Privy Council, as the Lord Chamberlain, before whom he was accused to be a friar, and before yourself also. He seeketh to be entertained of me again, but I know not whether I may safely take him without better certificate, and therefore have made stay of him until I shall be instructed from you whether to take him into my service again or send him up unto you for farther trial.—Dudley Castle, this 22 of April, 1596. |
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Signed. 1 p. (40. 21.) |
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Jo. Battista Giustiniano to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1596, April 22. |
The petition which was to have been presented to the magistracy of this City before the holidays, as he wrote, was only presented this morning. The answer was that they would appoint some of their number to confer with the Council about the business. Signor Horatio wishes to know what is to be done with Calvo. He (Horatio) is again in bed with the gout, but will try and be here when the Commissioners arrive.—London, 22 April, 1596. |
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Italian. Holograph. 1 p. (40. 23.) |
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ii.—On the back is a list of 22 Italian names, beginning Justiniano Baptista, Frederigo Genebelli, Philippo Corcini. |
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[John Coldwell,] Bishop of Salisbury, to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1596, April 22. |
Although the time serveth ill to trouble you or my Lord Keeper with any business concerning affairs in Sarum, yet in regard of the necessity of a new commission for the peace in Sarum and the fear that my Lord Keeper will renew it without my knowledge, putting in the Earl of Pembroke custos rotulorum before he understand my right thereunto, I am bold to write to him in that behalf, and to exhibit certain reasons to prove mine interest, which I beseech you to further what you may. I have also sent a copy of the same reasons unto you. Mr. Messenger, the Earl's solicitor, followeth the matter hardly, which causeth me so unseasonably to write. At your leisure I will be glad to hear of the Chancellorship of the Garter.—From my house in Sarum this 22 of April. [P.S.] I beseech you to acquaint Sir Walter Ralegh that his man Meers keepeth my farm and “arregasies” from me, so as I cannot pay the Queen my duties. |
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Holograph. Seal. 2/3 p. (40. 24.) |
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Lord Cobham. |
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1596, April 23. |
Account of the blue cloth bought this year, and cut out for liveries for the Blackfriars and Cobham against St. George's day; and remaining. |
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1 p. (145. 220.) |
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Sir William Courtney, Sir Thomas Denys, and others, Deputy Lieutenants of Devon, to the Privy Council. |
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1596, April 23. |
We have received your letters of the 12th inst. directed unto us the deputy lieutenants of this county of Devon, that forasmuch as the commandment of the Stannaries and Duchy tenants within Devon and Cornwall is by her Highness granted to Sir Walter Ralegh, you do require us not to intermeddle with the mustering and training of the Stannary men or Duchy tenants. We do assure you, howsoever your lordships are informed against us, that we never desired the mustering or training of the Stannary men, or to intermeddle with the jurisdiction of the Stannary. Only thus much hath been humbly required from your lordship by my Lord Lieutenant and ourselves, that the forces of the Stannary being first mustered and trained by Sir Walter Ralegh or his officers, that the Lord Lieutenant and ourselves might receive the muster rolls how they are compounded in weapons, and under what captains or leaders, whereby his lordship (if occasion of her Majesty's service so required) might dispose of them for the better defence of the country. And we have also wished, in regard of the
furtherance of her Highness's services, that some abuses therein might be reformed, which, under correction, we think might be easily done without infringing the jurisdiction of the Stannary, to the great advancement of her Majesty's service and nothing offensive to Sir Walter Ralegh. And, for example, when there is any service required of the foreigners, then they will be tinners, and when the like is expected from the tinners, they will be foreigners; so that by this means able persons both of bodies and purse do free themselves from all services of either part, which breedeth great discontentment to the rest of the inhabitants, for, for the value of sixpence, any man may be a foreigner or tinner at his pleasure, which we do see doth daily more and more breed great inconveniences in her Highness's services. We must also leave to your considerations who shall be properly accounted a tinner, and who not; for divers gentlemen and others of the wealthiest sort, though they may dispend three or four hundred marks by the year, yet if they have but ten shillings by the year in tinworks, or have tinworks and reap no yearly commodity by them, will be tinners or foreigners at their pleasures. The services of her Majesty, as your lordships well know, are great and very chargeable, and by reason of this division and severance doth grow very burthensome, not without the great murmuring of many, considering her Highness's service doth require a more daily charge in all expeditions on the foreigner than on the tinner; and therefore we pray you to take some good cause therein.—From Exeter, this 23 of April, 1596. |
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Signed. Seal broken. 1½ pp. (40. 25.) |
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[William Day,] Bishop of Winchester, to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1596, April 24. |
I purposed before my departure from the Court to have waited on you myself, and entreated your memory of me touching my bill for the payment of my fruits, but could not by reason that all that time wherein I hoped to have had good opportunity you were with her Majesty. Unless it be now effected with some expedition it will not be profitable unto me, for I shall very shortly be compelled to compound according to the statute, or run into those dangers by deferring it, which by no means I am able to bear.—24 April, 1596. |
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Signed. Seal. ⅓ p. (40. 26.) |
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J. Guicciardini to the Earl of Essex. |
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1596, April 24/May 4. |
I received not till yesterday your letter dated the 7th of March, before which the last was of the 7th of November containing only Zimenes his matter. The other sent since Christmas, being not yet come to my hands, I fear is miscarried. Upon the receipt of this last I presently went to your lordship's friend, with whom I performed those offices and compliments from you as were convenient; and besides assuring myself I might do it safely, I imparted unto him some other particulars of your letter, as done by your commandment, which he shewed to take exceeding gratefully and to wish happy success both to these and all other your honourable actions. We had upon this subject a long discourse together, wherein he delivered freely and with some vehemency his opinion, which with great earnestness he willed me to signify unto your lordship; and to the end I should do it more effectually caused a secretary to set it down in writing; which I thought good to send you verbatim in the same tongue, that you may the better thereby perceive his passion and discover his intentions, rather than for the
substance of the matter. I wrote unto you about a month ago, and sent you a little note containing somewhat to this purpose, which I did likewise by his commission; by all which and many other his endeavours not unknown to you it may clearly appear unto you whereto all his counsels and actions do tend. |
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Here arrived three days since, and departed yesterday, Cardinal Gaietan, with a train of above 200 horse, sent Legate into Poland, and about the midst of this month we expect the Cardinal Medici sent with the same authority into France. Other occurrents we have not any.—From Florence, 1 May, 1596. |
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[P.S.] If you do determine to present the Duke with anything from thence, there will be nothing so acceptable unto him as some dogs of that country or Ireland that were fair and fierce for the wild boar. |
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Holograph. The words in italics are in cipher, deciphered in the same hand in which the enclosures are written. |
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1½ pp. (40. 59.) |
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Enclosing probably the following :— |
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I.—[1596, May 4].—It cannot be that the King of Spain intends an enterprise in England, for he has dismissed six of the twelve galleons which Piero de Veglia brought from Naples, and they have allowed the galleon of the marquis Spinold, Genoese, containing 60 pieces of bronze cannon, to leave Calais? The common opinion is that they intend to transport Spaniards to Ireland to aid that rebel earl. Also that if it were true that the Irish rebel only on account of religion, measures might be taken to get rid of this continual vexation, with good certainty that the Catholics should not conspire against the Queen on that plea. And, doubtless, the affairs of Rome are altered since the absolution of the King of France; the suggestions of the enemies of that king and the Queen being recognised to have been for matters of state and to ruin these kingdoms, and not for zeal for religion; let him promise that what our friends say (“assicuri che quel che dicono gli amici”) is only for the preservation of the peace of the said kingdoms, and, if encouraged from that side, measures will be taken to get rid of the said conspiracies. |
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Italian, 1 p. (40. 57.) |
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II.—The King of Spain has neither vessels nor means nor preparations sufficient to make an enterprise against England, but alleges such an enterprise in order to keep the Queen in suspicion and prevent her sending forces against Havana and the Indies. Her Majesty and her wise Council know how, with little expense, to make England secure. The King cannot attempt that enterprise without great and manifest preparation; and in Ireland I should think that affairs might, with clemency, be arranged. Meanwhile her Majesty has only to turn her forces elsewhere; because to take Havana and stop the King's fleet of the Indies would, as the cutting of Sampson's hair left him helpless, leave that great monarch without means or credit wherewith to save himself, much less to harm others. It is therefore necessary not to be alarmed by Spanish demonstrations; and first of all to succour Cales, which will be very easy both to England and France, and it is well that the Cardinal Archduke has set himself to consume forces and money and time in that place which England and France can so conveniently succour. In Bluet too the Spaniards might be left, so as to keep them engaged in several places, for it
does not appear that they can make any advance there. If Havana were England's everything would go to the Queen, who would not only be able to compete with Spain but to overthrow it; and princes even less than the Queen, if they had money from the Indies, would take confidence to give Spain trouble (“crederebbono di dar che fare a Spagna”). In making the enterprise of Havana it might be well to mingle French soldiers with the English, and such an enterprise must be made before the Spaniards fortify that “mantirello” and remedy the imperfections and dangers which they may have discovered by Drake's going thither. |
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Italian, in the same hand as the preceding. |
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Endorsed :—“Mr. Guicciardine, 4 May '96.” 2 pp. (40. 58.) |
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1596, April 24/May 4. |
Paper containing the deciphered portions of Guicciardini's letter above, and a copy of a part of enclosure II. |
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Partly Italian. 2 pp. (48. 13.) |
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Sir William Courtney to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1596, April 25. |
Having received by Hoker a letter of yours directed unto me, I thereby perceive that some information hath been brought unto you against me. As I know you will do justice to all, so let me pray you not to conceive amiss of me till you hear my answer. I cannot let reports, neither can I hinder any, willing to withdraw your good liking from me, to possess you with what best likes them. But if in this (as by supposition) I have erred, I shall willingly obey what you command; assuring you that no spleen but a desire to do her Majesty service hath led me thereunto.—Exeter, 25 April, 1596. |
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Signed. ½ p. (40. 27.) |
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Thomas Arundel to Sir Robert Cecil his cousin. |
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1596, April 26. |
Not doubting of your exceeding business in this troublesome time, I will only advertise how weary my little abode here hath made me, not finding a relief anyway answerable to my wants; and the reason is only that where nothing is nothing can be expected. Wherefore, though ever desirous to do my country service, yet now more desirous to be employed than ever, I recommend the care of me to the continuance of your love.—Wardour, this 26th of April. |
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Holograph. ½ p. (40. 28.) |
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J. Drue to Archibald Douglas. |
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1596, April 26. |
Thanks for his letter and acceptance of so simple a present in so good part. The bearer, Robert Wake, and he are grandmother's children; reposes great trust in him. Knows Douglas is acquainted with as great occurrents and intelligence as any under the degree of a councillor, and he a poor gentleman living in the country, very desirous to understand the state of the world, has entreated this gentleman, having occasion to be at London this term about law causes, to repair to him for intelligence, who will see his letters or speeches very safely delivered unto Drue.—Bromham, 26 April, 1596. |
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Signed. ½ p. (40. 29.) |
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The Earl of Essex to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1596, April 26. |
In favour of the bearer Edward Reynolds, his servant, who in the Earl's absence will attend to his business. His businesses are so many, is forced to use Reynolds' hand.—From the Court, 26 April, 1596. |
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Signed. Seal. ⅓ p. (40. 30.) |
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The Same to the Same. |
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1596, April 26. |
Commends to his protection the Dean of Armagh, her Majesty's chaplain, out of the love and respect he has always borne him. Cecil will find the Dean ready by all dutiful offices to deserve his care.—At London, 26 April, 1596. |
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Signed. Seal. ⅓ p. (40. 31.) |
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Harbottle Castle. |
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1596, April 26. |
Survey of Harbottle Castle and Hexham Gaol; what hath been repaired by Sir John Foster, late Warden of the Middle Marches, what of necessity is to be repaired, and the charges. |
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1 p. (141. 174.) |
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Sir John Gilbert to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1596, April 27. |
I perceive by your last letters that you conceive that I should think some unkindness in you, and if you knew the cause you would satisfy me. I most humbly thank you for not only your kind offer in this but for all your favours; before the living Lord I protest it, I never had any thought that you used me unkindly. I have sent this bearer, my servant, of purpose unto you with the parakito, and have given him a great charge for the carrying of him. He will eat all kinds of meat and nothing will hurt him except it be very salt. If you put him on the table at meal time he will make choice of his meat. He must be kept very warm, and after he hath filled himself he will set in a gentlewoman's ruff all the day. In the afternoon he will eat bread or oatmeal groats, drink water or claret wine; every night he is put in the cage and covered warm. My servant more at large will tell you of all his conditions and qualities. Surely, if he be well taught he will speak anything.—Greenway, 27 April, 1596. |
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Signed. Seal. 2/3 p. (40. 32.) |
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John Spilman to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1596, April 27. |
I understand by your letters you are offended with me; yet I doubt not when you see the work it will be to your liking. This is the day I promised you it, but I do protest, as I am a Christian, that my folks have worked night and day on it; and for that it is a piece of work which but three men can work on, when one hath gone to bed the other hath risen to work. I would desire you to rest contented until to-morrow towards evening, or at the furthest by the next morning very early you shall not miss of it. And further, if those be gone whom you meant should have it, I will myself at my own charge and with my own horses convey it to them.—27 April, 1596. |
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Signed. ½ p. (40. 34.) |
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Dr. Thomas Bilson to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1596, April 27. |
With regard to a suit to Her Majesty, not indicated. “If Her Majesty will have my pains and service there this summer, my hope is it will please her to allow me whereon to stay myself and sustain the charge that of force must grow.”—Winchester, 27th April, 1596. |
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Signed. Seal. 1 p. (136. 41.) |
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Sir Horatio Palavicino to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1596, April 27. |
Would not trouble him at this time but that Paolo Teobast writes that he has made relation of his journey to Cecil, and is grieved that Cecil did not show much satisfaction. Asks how to answer him, whether as a man who may be of service on similar occasions, or as one who will not be employed again. Continues to entertain Calvo, according to Cecil's orders.—Baburham, 27 April, 1596. |
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Italian. Holograph. 1 p. (173. 64.) |
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Fowlke Grevvle to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1596, April 27. |
On behalf of the bearer, sometime servant to Mr. Thomas Benningfeeld in Norfolk, who bestowed on him the lease of a small living. In consequence of Benningfeeld's late death, much of his lands, including this living, has fallen into the Queen's hand. The bearer's suit is to enjoy the living at the former rent.—Beachampcourt, 27 April, 1596. |
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Signed. 1 p. (204. 34.) |
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Lord Morley to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1596, April 28. |
Your letter of the 23rd inst., with an unjust complaint against me by a stranger and recommended by Count Maurice unto her Majesty, I have received; wherein he demandeth of certain sums of money which he laid forth for my lady my mother in the time of her restraint amongst them. Whereas it is her Majesty's pleasure I should either pay the said sums or lay down some reasons why I ought not so to do, I did never procure the stranger to disburse any penny for relief of my mother, neither do I know it to be true that he affirmeth. But let it be so he did lend money to my mother; I am not to be charged with repayment thereof by law because I am neither her executor nor administrator. If it stand with your good liking my learned counsel shall attend you, and so satisfy you as you shall think I am greatly injured by the Dutchman.—London, 28 April, 1596. |
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Signed. ½ p. (40. 35.) |
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Anthony Ashley to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1596, April 28. |
I do not slack the important matter committed to my charge and shall find opportunity to satisfy her Majesty's expectation therein; and albeit I might have gotten above 1000l. clear by this booty unseen, yet are you witness that I preferred my duty to her Majesty before all private. I do find that some parties interested have been earnestly dealt with from the Earls of Derby and Southampton to buy the thing with warrant to save harmless from all danger. I beseech you earnestly to move her Majesty for the present despatch of my bill with you, that I may in part be able to defray the great charges I am at in my preparation to the intended expedition.—From my house in London, 28 April, 1596. |
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Signed. ½ p. (40. 36.) |
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[John Whitgift,] Archbishop of Canterbury, to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1596, April 28. |
Whereas I am let to understand that the Earl of Essex before his going from Court, minding the preferment of Mr. Dr. Tooker for the wardenship of Winchester College, did recommend his suit to your friendly procurement; these are very heartily to pray you, because Dr. Tooker is, in mine opinion, very fit and well qualified for that place, and one of that foundation, which I could wish to be observed, and hitherto hath enjoyed neither benefit nor preferment for 9 years' service in Court, that you would the rather further this suit and work the speediest despatch thereof.—From Lambeth, the 28th of April, 1596. |
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Signed. ½ p. (40. 37.) |
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John Michell to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1596, April 28. |
Prays his consideration how lamentable a thing it is that, being a gentleman out of debt, having 120l. land and 700l. owing him, he should seven years endure imprisonment and grievous oppressions, as followeth. Was prosecuting suits in the Star-chamber against his adversaries, and perceiving he was very like to prevail, they devised to cause one William Long, Robert Webbe and others to offer him a purchase of certain lands, which seemed to him a gainful bargain, whereupon he entered into a statute of 2,000l. for payment of 975l. 16s. 8d. to Webbe to the use of Long for the said purchase, and received a statute of 3,000l. from Long to make him a lawful assurance of the lands; Webbe promising to be bound for performance of covenants, and that if the lands were not assured he would redeliver him his statute to be void; upon which promise by defeasance he passed his statute, distrusting no guile by reason he had before assured Webbe without any consideration of 40l. per annum land which his uncle sold to Webbe in his infancy. Attending as aforesaid to give evidence on behalf of her Majesty, they in contempt of the Court arrested and imprisoned him in the Marshalsea, for such writings as Webbe had before forcibly taken from him, upon an action of 1,000 marks. Albeit the Court did by writ of privilege discharge him thence, they again arrested him in contempt with a counterfeit warrant or by forged process and kept him grievously loaden in irons half a year in the common gaol at the White Lion, took his lands from him and removed him to the Fleet, whereby he has been kept seven years in prison and damnified 3,000l., notwithstanding they have confessed upon record that they could not assure him the land. Prays Cecil to grant his warrant for calling Webbe, Long and Cheltnam before him and to cause them to enlarge him presently, when he will endeavour to perform such worthy services to her Majesty as shall be 1,000l. benefit to Cecil and redound to the benefit of the whole state. |
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Endorsed :—28 April, 1596. |
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1 p. (40. 38.) |
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Hurst Castle. |
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1596, April 29. |
The effect of the patent made to Thomas Carewe and Thomas Gorges, gentlemen, for “the keeping of Hurst Castle,” 2 September, 12 Eliz. |
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The patent containeth grant of the office of keeper and captain of her Majesty's castle of Hurst to Thos. Carewe during his life with all
pre-eminences, profits, &c. belonging; which office the said Thomas enjoyeth by virtue of former letters patent dated 8 February, 2 Elizabeth, during pleasure. |
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Her Majesty grants him the fee of 20d. per diem for the exercise of the said office, and for his deputy or deputies 12d., per diem; also 8d. for a porter; eight soldiers, a soldier for the porter, the deputy's man, 11 gunners, each of them 6d. per diem, and one master gunner at 8d. per diem; these men to be placed by the captain, and displaced as he shall have cause of dislike. These allowances to be paid twice a year out of the Exchequer, or by the receiver of the county. |
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Her Majesty to find all timber for the needful reparation of the castle, and the captain to find the rest. |
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Her Majesty also farms to him the rectory of Milford with the tithe corn of the parish (reserving to her the advowson of the vicarage) for the rent of 15l. 3s. 4d. per annum. If the rent be unpaid 40 days the demise to be void. |
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The same grant verbatim is made to Mr. Gorges by the same patents to take place after the death, surrender, or forfeiture of Mr. Carewe. |
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Endorsed :—“29 April 1596. Th'effect of Sir Tho. Gorges' patent for the captainship of Hurst Castle.” |
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1 p. (40. 39.) |
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Sir Thomas Leighton to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1596, April 29. |
Two days since here arrived in this isle a master of a bark of Ollone near unto Blavet; who declareth unto me for certain that 8 days since there arrived at Blavet 24 or 25 sail, great and small, and 4 galleys. These no doubt have brought some new forces from Spain, of the which I thought good to advertise you; and withal, forasmuch as these forces being there cannot but be to the great danger of these isles, my humble request is that you will be a mean unto her Majesty that some companies of soldiers may be sent hither for the better defence of these isles this summer time. But if this will not be granted, that at the least her Highness may give allowance of 50 soldiers to reinforce the garrison of this her castle during the dangerous time. I beseech you let Calais serve for a caveat that no place, be it never so strong, can be kept against so strong an enemy without men and munitions. If her Highness refuse to grant this, then in time of invasion must I be forced to take 100 of the choice men of the isle into the castle for the defence thereof which cannot be done without the peril of loss and utter spoil of the island; for the 100 that I do take are worth 300 of the others, which will be occasion of great discouragement and murmuring to all the inhabitants. Wherefore I beseech you to deal effectually with her Highness herein.—At Guernsey, this 29th of April, 1596. |
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Holograph. 2/3 p. (40. 40.) |
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Sir Geo. Carey to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1596, April 29. |
Your first letter in signification of her Majesty's dislike and opinion to the contrary of a surmised determination conceived I should have had of going to the sea without her allowance, was a sufficient supersedeas for any if before determined purpose, to have made me cast anchor upon the highest hill of the Wight rather than to have proceeded, how honourable soever for her Majesty and beneficial
to the realm it had been intended. But whereas the meaning of my last letter to you was conceived to be obscure, I now beseech you in plain terms to believe that I will never shew myself so devoid of judgment to imbark into any sea voyage without her Majesty's allowance; whereof it may please you to satisfy her Majesty and their lordships, whose commandments I will obey and next week wait upon their farther good pleasures.—From the Castle of Carisbrook, 29 April, 1596. |
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Holograph. 1 p. (40. 41.) |
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C. Lord Howard to the Earl of Essex. |
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[1596, April.] |
“My ho. lord, I will send presently to get as many surgeons as I can out of the small ships, and I would be glad to know your lordship's pleasure when you will embark the army, that order may be taken for all boats to repair to carry them. We desery 2 or 3 ships coming this way. The one is thought to be a great ship. When your lordship hath read the letters I sent you, I pray you to return them to me.” |
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Endorsed :—“Lord Admiral.” |
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Holograph. 1 p. (39. 80.) |
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Penelope, Lady Rich to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1596, April. |
Thanks for his often kindnesses. Prays him to procure if possible that the bearer may be employed from the Queen to give a farewell to her brother and the Lord Admiral. She is so much beholden to him as she has committed some trust to him of late when she thought Lord Rich should have gone this voyage, and about that business would fain have him confer with her brother, but is loth to lay so ill a journey on him except he might do the Queen some service withal. |
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Endorsed :—“April, 1596.” |
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Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (40. 42.) |
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Sir Matthew Arundel to Sir Robert Cecil, his cousin. |
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1596, April. |
Your letter here enclosed, directed to your brother, which I received on Sunday last, I sent to the Bath the same day, from whence he was before departed : and your letter with some other of the lords for the raising 700l. in our poor shire of Dorset towards the help of the haven towns I with my associates have lately received, wherein for sundry respects I have refused any further to meddle, being, as I understand, already suspected to be a very backward man in this service,—and something else hath been reported by some great one which is not fit to be written; Budden shall deliver it by mouth unto you at his coming up. You may very well remember this is not the first nor the least wrong I have endured and am, by the malice of my ancient enemies C. Rawly and his wife, every day subject unto, even the loss of my life by travelling in her Majesty's service. How lately I have been braved and put in exceeding fear by Harry Thyn, her son, and in what manner, my lord your father can easily tell you, unto whom only I appealed for redress. And truly, until he and you or the law shall take order for my safety, for which my lord Chief Justice (by his lordship's direction) hath begun a course, I hope you will pardon me in travelling a broad, and give me leave to regard mine own safety in matter of life; and yet in the meantime and ever after will be as forward to her Majesty's service
as any that shall inveigh or inform against me. And seeing the malice of cankered stomachs hath no end, but always hunting for new occasions, I do arm myself with patience to endure all, carrying with me a conscience free from all their lying accusations, and applying my actions answerable to the same, having two such judges as your father and yourself, the only pillars of my old age and poor estate, who will not give credit to the accuser without hearing the accused, and in whom only my refuge is. And although I know their best friends are such as you love well, and to whom I never gave cause of hatred, yet do I earnestly require you as a councillor and desire you as a kinsman, that every one of their friends or followers may not have countenance in wronging me, who offer none to the least of them; and that due regard be had of her Majesty's service in the place of a deputy lieutenant, howsoever otherwise they would esteem of Sir Matt. Arundell. |
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Signed. Seal. 12/3 pp. (40. 44.) |
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[Expedition to Cadiz.] |
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[1596, April.] |
Notes by the Earl of Essex :— |
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Ships of War.
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These are but part of her great fleet and so of the same charge that they should [be] if they tarried in the Narrow Seas. |
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Of her Majesty's, 12. |
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Of the City, 12. |
These may be set out with such money as is taken up upon privy seals, or else set forth by private men if they [are] well dealt withal. |
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Of the Low Countries, 20. |
These cost her Majesty nor her subject nothing. |
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The land force 5,000 men. The charge of it consists in victual, shipping to transport them, and their wages at their return. |
Of the 5[000] I think 2,000 might be victualled out of the Low Countries so as her Majesty allowed the States their wages for it; and the other 3,000 victual, after 9d. a day, comes to 22s. 6d. a month for every man, which is for 3,000 men for 4 months 13,600l. The Low Countries also, I think, may be drawn to transport 2,000, and the other 3,000 will be transported in 15 good big ships or fly boats which need not be appointed in any sort or manner as men of war, and therefore will be of less charge. Mr. Boroughs must set down the rate of the tonnage and of the charge of the mariners that sail them. |
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The wages will cost little or nothing; such as are cassed must have something to carry them into their countries, but those of the Low Countries, or such as her Majesty shall continue in pay, may be returned to their garrisons. |
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Holograph. 1 p. (47. 97.) |
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Expedition to Cadiz. |
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1596, April. |
Commission of [Lord Admiral Howard and the Earl of Essex], the Lords Generals, to Sir Anthony Sherley to levy, muster, and arm all volunteers for her Majesty's service to the number of 1,500, and also to be captain and commander of all ships set forth at the charge of himself and Sir Thomas Sherley, Treasurer at War, in this expedition.—April, 38 Eliz. |
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Draft. 1 p. (47. 103.) |
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[The Earl of Essex and Lord Admiral Howard] to [the Sheriffs of Denbigh and Merioneth.] |
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[1596, April]. |
By authority of the Queen's commission have appointed 200 footmen to be levied in the counties of Denbigh and Merioneth by Sir Thos. Gerrard. But understanding by Sir Robert Salisbury that the counties are not well able to set forth so great a number, they are well contented that there be taken only 60 out of Denbigh and 60 out of Merioneth; earnestly praying that, as for the ease of the country they remit part of the number they had set down, so they will have the better regard as well in the choice of the men as the well setting of them forth. Will take their careful endeavours therein in very thankful part and rest ready to deserve the same upon all good occasions. |
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Draft. 2/3 p. (47. 110.) |
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Sir Charles Danvers to the Earl of Essex. |
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[1596, April]. |
Amid this general misfortune, craves pardon if he intermingle his particular cause. The urgent necessity of his estate hath forced him to re-iterate this often, and he is now more earnestly and effectually moved thereto by the present opportunity of the Duke of Bugliion's carrying whatsoever the K. can say for him, to be joined with what he is sure that Essex will say. If this intercession be rejected or rest only paid with words, Danvers will hereafter never hope more but rest comforted in this that never any had more worthy mediators. This short memorial will be sufficient for Essex, and he will but ask his Lordship to thank the Duke for his favour which, he is well assured, hath been wholly for Essex's sake. |
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Signed :—Ch : Davers. |
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Endorsed :—“Sir Ch : Davers. Apr. 96.” |
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Holograph. Undated. Seal. 1 p. (173. 65.) |
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Captain John Troughton to the Queen. |
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[1596, about April]. |
“Sir John Hawkins, upon his death bed, willed me to use the best means I could to acquaint your Highness with his loyal service and good meaning towards your Majesty even to his last breathing; and, forasmuch as, through the perverse and cross dealings of some in that journey, who, preferring their own fancy before his skill, would never yield but rather overrule him, whereby he was so discouraged, and as himself then said his heart even broken, that he saw no other but danger of ruin likely to ensue of the whole voyage, wherein in some sort he had been a persuader of your Majesty to hasard as well some of your good ships as also a good quantity of treasure, in regard of the good opinion he thought to be held of his sufficiency, judgement and experience in such actions, willing to make your Majesty the best amends his poor ability would then stretch unto, in a codicil as a piece of his last will and testament, did bequeath to your Highness two thousand pounds, if your Majesty will take it; for that, as he said, your Highness had in your possession a far greater sum of his, which he then did also release; which 2,000l., if your Majesty should accept thereof, his will is shall be deducted out of his Lady's portion and out of all such legacies and bequests as he left to any his servants and friends or kinsfolk whosoever, as by the said codicil appeareth. |
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“And touching myself I understand, to my great grief, by Mr. Killigrewe, that your Majesty is highly offended with me for my going away from Sir Thomas Baskervile, whereof I doubt not but to clear myself very sufficiently, whensoever it shall please your Highness to cause it to be examined. Neither did I leave him till we were past all danger of the enemy (myself being then as likely to die as to live by reason of my grievous wounds), nor then without his leave, and that upon very just cause, for that I was in great danger to have famished all my company, and so your Majesty's good ship must have perished with us in the seas. And what I did in leaving him, the like was done by his brother Captain Baskervile in your Majesty's good ship the Hope, and by others, yet none therein so charged as myself. In the end I doubt not but my innocency shall appear and that the accusation hath proceeded rather of malice than of matter. Otherwise I desire not to live.” |
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Addressed :—“To the Queen's most excellent Majesty.” |
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Holograph. 1 p. (48. 61.) |
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The Earl of Essex to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1596, [early in May]. |
“Sir, if I write to you shortly or confusedly you must hold me excused for a few days, for I have not an hour's breathing time. At my first coming I was to draw out some ships into the Sound, which I found all puzzled together in Cattwater, that they could not stir one by another. I sent over the Vanguard and 2 other ships and a pinnace towards the coast of Brittany. I lodged th' army and provided means to victual and pay it; for, when I came, neither my money sent from London in my ship, nor from Wales by the ships of Bristowe, was come, so as I took up all the coin hereabouts, which now I have honestly repaid. And will maintain th' army here a good time, if need be. For to be able to go through with this great action, I have made all the money I could omnibus viis et modis. I am now, with th' advice of my lord Admiral and the council of war, setting down every man's place and degree for avoiding of quarrels, and setting down what doth belong to every man's place and office; also to make order for the well governing of th' army, and lists wherein we do give every captain his number of men and every regiment his number of companies, in disposing of which I do mingle the old soldiers and the new, that one may help to discipline the other.” Asks to be excused to the Queen for not writing, and to be advertised “every day or two” how she doth. |
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P.S.—Pray command Mr. Willis to send the enclosed letters to Sir W. Rauleigh & Renoldes, my secretary. |
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Endorsed :—May, 1596. |
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Holograph. 2 pp. (41. 43.) |
