|
| Aug. 1. |
270. Roger Bodenham to Lord Burghley. |
|
His lordship's letter to Boissot might have done him good
if Rogers had dealt as a messenger and not as an Ambassador.
Complains that his losses and those of his friends are like to
be 1,500li or 1,600li sterling. This man [Rogers] is not [fit]
for small or great matters. In order to discharge his duty
towards him, because Rogers and Mr. Chester both advertise
his lordship of certain things, he sends the following news.
First, by report of some wise men these men were never
minded to bring in the French, in whatsoever need they had
been, but now as the matter is opened to them that the
Queen doubts such matter, it is good cause for them to take
hold of the same as he thinks they will do. As to the
people of the country their conditions are very gross, and
without all honour, maliciously mistrusting all men, having
their whole mind bent to their liberties without any further
respect. Their towns be strong by reason of the waters, the
countries exceeding plentiful, yet in process of time the King
of Spain will have all if they have no better help than themselves. There are but three things to be considered in this
matter: whether it were best that the King of Spain had this
country as he had it; or else the Queen; or else some other
foreign prince; for to one of these it must come ere long, for
by themselves they cannot long continue being divided
amongst themselves.—Delft, 1 Aug. 1575. Signed. |
|
Add. Endd., with seal. Pp. 2. |
| August 2. |
271. Spanish Navy. |
|
Instructions for Martin de Larrentina, captain of the "Santa
Marina," one of Pedro Valdez' squadron, as to the rations of
bread, wine, and other victuals to be served out to his crew
on the different days of the week.—Santander, 2 Aug. 1575.
Signed: Don Pedro Valdez, by his secretary, Juan Cipres. |
|
Endd. Span. Pp. 1½ |
| August 3. |
272. Henry III. of France to Elizabeth. |
|
Having occasion to recall M. de la Mothe Fenelon, he has
accredited to her M. de Mauvissiere, Chevalier of the Order,
gentleman in ordinary of his Chamber, and Councillor, to
whom he begs she will accord all the privileges of an Ambassador.—Paris, 3 August 1575. Signed: Henry. Countersigned: Pinart. |
|
Add. Endd. Fr. Royal letter. |
| August 4. |
273. Dr. Dale to Lord Burghley. |
|
Captain Haye, a Scottishman, comes to England with
Mauvissiere, and is very desirous to be specially recommended
to him. He has shown himself weary of his old faction and
done him good pleasure many times. Supposes he knows his
sufficiency for a man of his calling for any matter either of
Scotland or France.—Paris, 4 August 1575. Signed. |
|
Add. Endd. P ⅓ |
| August 4. |
274. The Earl of Huntingdon to Lord Burghley. |
|
Thought it best, before going to Berwick, to inform himself as well as he could of the beginning, proceeding, and
end of the late brabble betwixt the Lord Warden and Carmichael, so hearing that the Lord Warden was at Alnwick he
sent and required him to come over to Newcastle, wishing
him to bring some of the principal persons who had been
with him at the meeting, excepting Sir Francis Russell,
because of his hurt. The Warden having come to him, after
long talk had with him privately and publicly, it was concluded that he should set down in writing the whole state
of the matter, whereupon he took a whole night's advisement, and the next day brought a paper, whereof a copy is
enclosed. In private talk with some of those gentleman
who came with the Warden he found some things that he
had heard of before to be true, and also that in this paper
the Warden had omitted to set down some things more
special than it contained, which in the end must needs be
remembered, for though they would be forgetful, yet it is
like that the other side will show therein a better memory.
Has some cause to doubt that there is some matter which
the Warden is more willing to have buried in silence than
to be uttered. Hopes shortly to be able to write more
certainly.—Widdrington, 4 August 1575. Signed. |
|
Add. Endd. Pp. 2. |
|
275. The Raid of Reedswire. |
|
1. Sir John Forster and Sir John Carmichael met on 7th July
at the above-named place for the execution of justice only,
almost all the people on both sides coming unarmed, and going
abroad either into the other's company. After friendly salutations passed they chose a fit place on the English ground to
do justice, therein proceeding quietly, without any difference,
saving for the delivery of William Fenwick, charged with the
receipt of a Scottish fugitive; which bill passed over. After
they had courteously drunk to one another they began again
to execute justice, calling for a bill against Henry Robson, an
Englishman, who made not appearance, and was condemed by
the Warden by default, whereupon Carmichael demanded
delivery for the same, which the Warden offered to do at the
next meeting, and when they could not agree on this point
Carmichael said, "No more can I make further delivery to
you, and it appears you cloak justice, and are not willing
that it should proceed." The Warden of England affirms that
he further said that so long as his nowt and the keepers
go quietly on the Borders there is nothing but maintenance of
fugitives, rebels, and traitors, which words Carmichael denies
to have been spoken by him at that time, but that before
their drinking the like words were merrily spoken, whereat
the Warden took no offence. The Warden answered that he
charged him untruly, and that he was willing to do justice.
Carmichael then said that he was as able to answer his office
as Forster, and that he was of as good a lineage. The Warden
answered that he was not so able as he was, the Queen's Majesty's Warden, whereas Carmichael was but a keeper, whereupon certain lewd people of the Scots murmured and said, "Fye,
fye, comparison, comparison," and thereupon fell to cry, "a Jedworth, a Jedworth," and then began the affray; but the Scots
contrary affirm that sundry of the Tindale men standing near
the Warden suddenly cried "a Tindale, a Tindale," running
together, and shot arrows amongst the whole company, and
that they began the affray. Although the beginners of the
slaughter cannot certainly be found, yet it seems that many
evil-disposed persons, having deadly feuds in their hearts,
and thinking the opportunity to serve, did chiefly begin
this broil without the knowledge of the Warden or Carmichael, who, hearing this sudden accident, did mutually
agree to pacify the people. The Lord Warden did all he
could to stay those about him, who were well quieted, but
albeit Carmichael sought to appease his people, he could not
do it, but that they and he amongst them came with drum
and three pensils against the Warden and his company,
being few in number, and put them back and followed the
chase into England, and some of the Scots took a prey of
cattle. In this affray and chase Sir George Heron and five
other Englishmen were slain, Sir Francis Russell and sundry
others hurt, Sir John Forster, Sir Cuthbert Collingwood, and
many others taken and carried into Scotland; and of the
Scots, William Symondson, gentleman, and four others were
slain and divers hurt. |
|
2. The Scots, for excuse of Carmichael coming in this onset
and chase, affirm that he did not encourage his people, but
endeavoured to draw them back, and he is not charged by
any Englishman to have done any hurt with his own hand.
They likewise say that the craftsmen of Jedworth used commonly to come with drum and pensils to meetings, to call and
keep their people together, and not for any other purpose.
Thus it seems that if the said feuds had not been so many and
great amongst the people, and so many evil-disposed people
assembled on both sides, those stirs and slaughters had not
been done, notwithstanding any words spoken by the Lord
Warden or Carmichael. Signed: H. Huntingdon, Thomas
Gargrave, Henrie Gate, Rauffe Rokebie, Robert Bowes. |
|
Endd. Enclosure. Pp. 3. |
| August 8. |
276. The Earl of Huntingdon to Leicester. |
|
Before the receipt of the Queen's letter he had written to
Killegrew that the meeting with the Regent of Scotland
might be either at the Bound Rood or in some church; as he
perceives that the Queen would have the meeting to be at the
Bound Rood he prays that he will be a means that she will
take no offence at his doings in this. Finds that there is some
diversity of report both concerning the proceeding and end of
the brabble, but trusts shortly that the truth will be known.
Finds all the wisest men and people of best order upon both
Borders, and especially the lords and gentlemen of Scotland
wish that this matter may be compounded rather than by
force revenged.—Berwick, 8 August 1575. Signed. |
|
Endd. P. 2¼. |
| August 8. |
277. The Chancellor of Brabant to Lord Burghley. |
|
Has received his letter in behalf of Antony Ratcliffe, and
promises to further his cause to the best of his power.—
Brussels, 8 August 1575. Signed: Scheyfui. |
|
Add. Endd. Lat. P. 2/3. |
| August 8. |
278. Killegrew to the Earl of Leicester. |
|
Excuses himself of apparent slowness in advertising concerning this late unhappy accident. This odious fact was
committed the day after he came to this town, and all the
advertisements and letters which he received from the Lord
Warden and the Regent he sent up to the Court, and ever
since from time to time has advertised the Lord President
with as great care as he possibly could, according to her
Majesty's express commandment. Under correction, he thinks
if he should have written to any man except his Lordship
he would rather have offended, than by observing his commission. Has made no mention of his first instructions to
the Regent, but his usage to him has been as strange as if it
stood upon terms of war. It is laid to his charge that he
should have advertised what he learnt being here, but
seeing that authority is given to a nobleman to make trial
of the matter; for him to have written uncertain reports in
so weighty a cause would scarcely have been allowed. Begs
him to shield his faults with his credit and favour.—Berwick,
8 August 1575. Signed. |
|
Add. Endd. Pp. 2. |
| August 9. |
279. Sir John Forster to the Earl of Leicester. |
|
Carmichael, keeper of Liddlesdale and West Tividale, came
not as a keeper but as a Warden, which he thought very
strange, considering that he had met the Laird of Cessford
before as Warden, yet upon letters from the Lord Regent and
Sir George Heron, Deputy Warden, he was content to meet
with him, when indeed' he found the said Carmichael not so
willing to further justice according to the treaties of peace as
he thought he would have been. Whereas the Queen has
some misliking that he has not advertised her in the Privy
Council, but only by a bare signification written to John
Selby, he sent letters to Killegrew requesting him to advertise
thereof. And where the Queen marvels of the continuance
of peace between the two realms, her Warden with a great
number of gentlemen and others being taken prisoners and
detained in Scotland; Sir William Ker, Lord Warden of the
Middle Marches of Scotland, from whom the said Carmichael
took a great part of his office by the Regent's appointment,
havnig certain of his men on the field at the said meeting,
and two of them slain by the Scots, and the seeking of
his defacing in taking part of his office from him, was content to bind up assurance with Forster being then in Scotland,
which was the occasion of the continuance of the amity
betwixt the two realms till further order was taken. The
cause why he did not certify the whole matter is that it
depends on trial before the Lord Regent and the Lord
President. As still a prisoner under bond, has said his
opinion to the Lord President that it will be best for him to
require the Regent that he and the rest of the gentlemen
being unlawful prisoners shall first be set at liberty, which
if he refuse it will appear that he is not willing that peace
and amity should continue, and that he thinks to take an
advantage by detaining them prisoners under bond. If he
thought that the Lord President and others who are in commission for this matter would not take such order therein
as should be for the Queen's honour and his credit, he doubts
not but that he should get a sufficient revenge on Carmichael
and his accomplices for the death of Sir George Heron, his
brother-in-law, and others of his friends, or else drive him
forth of the Borders. Sends him a copy of the discourse of
the whole matter.—Berwick, 9 Aug. 1575. Signed. |
|
Add. Endd. Pp. 2½. |
| August 12. |
280. M. de Boischot to Walsingham. |
|
1. Has according to his wishes given Mr. Cobham letters to
some of the principal persons in the Court of Spain. Has
also done what he could to further the lawsuit of Mr. Antony
Ratcliffe. Has not been able to obtain lodgings in the town,
and desires that the Lord Mayor may be required to furnish
him with some.—London Fields, 12 Aug. 1575. |
|
2. P.S.—There is news from Flanders of some fresh
assembly to treat of peace. The second son of the King of
Spain is dead, but the Queen has been brought to bed of
another. Signed. |
|
Add. Endd. Fr. P. ½. |
| August 12. |
281. The Regent of Scotland to the Queen. |
|
After his advertisement to her of the late trouble happened upon the Middle Marches, he was minded to have sent
an express messenger to her to certify her more specially
of the matter, and to learn her pleasure therein, but learning
that the Earl of Huntingdon was appointed to repair to the
Borders to make trial of the matter, he has purposely forborne to trouble her with any more letters in that behalf,
always defering to their conclusion; until which time he begs
she will suspend her judgment.—Dalkeith, 12 Aug. 1575.
Signed. |
|
Add. Endd., with seal. P. ½ |
| August 13. |
282. The Commendator of Castile to the Queen. |
|
Having been informed that certain of her ministers have
endeavoured to set her against the employment of any of
her subjects in the service of the King Catholic, he sends a
copy of their commission by which it may be seen that he
has carefully guarded against anything which may touch her
service. Wishes to know for certain that she approves of the
employment of her subjects, as they are only used against
his master's rebels, and also that they may have leave to make
use of her ports. Desires that Henry Cobham on his return
from Spain may have licence to pass through this country.—
Antwerp, 13 Aug. 1575. Signed. |
|
Add. Endd. Fr. Broadside. |
| August 14. |
283. The Earl of Huntingdon to the Earl of Leicester. |
|
The Regent has sent word that he will meet him to-morrow
about 1 p.m. at the Bound Rood. There comes with him the
Justice-Clerk, the Commendators of Dunfermline and Newbottle, and one Mr. John Sharp, a lawyer. His train is 100
horse. He seems willing to perform anything which may
be to the Queen's contentation.—Berwick, 14 Aug. 1575.
Signed. |
|
Add. Endd. P. 2/3
|
| August 14. |
284. Killegrew to the Earl of Leicester. |
|
1. As the Regent agreed so readily to all the Lord President's
articles he forbore the utterance of her Majesty's so great
misliking, yet let him know as of himself by general speeches
what cause the Queen had justly to be offended with his
manner of dealing. |
|
2. Encloses a copy of the Regent's letter to the Queen.—
Berwick, 14 Aug. 1575. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. ¾. |
| August 12. |
285. The Regent of Scotland to the Queen. |
|
Copy of No. 283.
Enclosure. P. 2/3
|
| August 15. |
286. News from Vienna. |
|
War has broken out in Hungary on account of civil dissensions in Transylvania, in which the Turks have been called
on to interfere. An army of 80,000 Turks is looked for.
—Vienna, 15 August 1575.
Lat. P. ½. |
| August 15. |
287. Dr. Dale to Lord Burghley. |
|
The King has had an assembly of two principal citizens of
every great town through the whole realm and declared to
them that he has sought all means to have peace, and yet
the more large offers he has made the further off men have
been, and therefore he must prepare money, wherein he must
needs have their aid, because the revenues of the realm have
been wasted in the former troubles by his predecessors, and
therefore he desired them to lay their heads together to see
how he might be relieved. They answered that they had
no commission to deal in anything, namely in such a matter,
whereunto they suppose the towns from whom they came
would hardly be induced. And so the King is as far off
from any grant of money as he was before. He has given
charge to his Council to show the book of his charges and
revenues, and use all the persuasion they may, but in vain.
The Duke of Guise is appointed to repair to his government
in Champagne. Since the commotion in that country against
the reiters men withdraw daily to Germany to the Prince
of Condé. La Haye, the lieutenant of Poitou, was slain in
his house, and afterwards his process made and was condemned. Vaudemont has been with Montmorency at the
Bastille, and promised him very largely for his delivery for
his own part and of the part of the Duke of Lorraine. Some
say the Duke of Lorraine will not depart the Court till he
be delivered. Vomeny and Jamyn have had the rack very
sore, their greatest complaint is that they are tormented to
express that whereof they know nothing. The King has
news out of Poland that the election is precisely appointed
against the 25th October, and that the whole country do
incline to choose the Emperor. M. de Rohan, a man of very
great possessions in Brittany, is dead of late, and his lands
are descended to M. Fontenay and another, who both are of
the religion, and were in Lusignan during the siege. The
King has sent to seize the land, and the other side assemble
forces to keep them, whereby there is like to be some stir.
Fregoso is come in post from Genoa, and brings word that
Don John of Austria prepares to make war against that
town both by sea and land. He begins to draw his forces
towards Savona, and the Genoese say they have money
enough of their own and desire nothing but victuals and men.
The Pope, the Duke of Florence, and other states in Italy
fearing the greatness of the King of Spain are determined
to help them. It is devised that the King should keep them
with victuals and get men for them both out of his own
realm and of Switzerland at the expense of them of Genoa.
News is come that they of the religion have taken Peregueux
in Perigord, a town of great riches and importance. The
man of the Prince of Condé's that was taken upon the sea
coming from Rochelle, his name was Abraham; they that
were at his condemnation affirm there was neither matter nor
proof against him, and so he protested at his death. They
have had Montbrun to Grenoble in Dauphiny to do the
like to him. The deputies for the treaty of peace, earnestly
looked for these 12 days, are not heard of. Men much doubt
they will not come at all, because the time of their safe
conduct is expired, neither do they sue for any new. In the
meantime the noblemen in the Court spend the time feasting
and banquetting the King from one to another. The King
came not to the banquet of the Marshal de Retz, which he
made very sumptuously, but the Queen Mother failed him
not. The Court is full that there are 4,000 reiters coming
for the Prince of Condé. Looks for Sir Henry Cobham within
these three or four days.—Paris, 15 August 1575. Signed. |
|
Add., with seal. Endd. Pp. 3. |
| August 15. |
288. Dr. Dale to [Lord Burghley.] |
|
Has advertisement again from St. Malo that there are five
ships setting forth in that haven for James Fitz Morris, and
that he remains there with great countenance and favour.
The man he called the Steward of Marcartemore is commonly
called the Seneschal of "Inonghchilly," and is one of the
chiefest of them that make preparation towards Ireland.
Captain Thomas remains in Bois de Vincennes without harm;
the Queen Mother is angry that it is known where he is.—
Paris, 15 August. Signed. |
|
P2/3. |
| August 17. |
289. Killegrew to the Earl of Leicester. |
|
Was not present at the meeting between the Regent and
the Lord President. Makes suit for his revocation, as his
house is dispersed by visitation of the plague, which took
one of his servants, and his wife is sick and in danger of her
life, and the time is approaching for the exercising of his
office. Desires him to commend Mr. Davison as his successor,
who is partly of kin to his Lordship by marrying the Lady
Mason's daughter. If anything fall out against the Regent,
he is not himself a fit instrument to deal for her Majesty, as
none of the Regent's "back friends" dare trust him, on
account of the great trust conceived between his Grace and
him. If Mr. Davison be not thought fit to supply this place,
he recommends the Dean of Durham.—Berwick, 17 August
1575. Signed. |
|
Add. Endd. Pp. 22/3. |
| August 17. |
290. The Earl of Huntingdon to Sir Thomas Smith. |
|
By his letter of yesterday, he certified him of his proceedings that day with the Regent. Did not send Sir John
Forster's report to the whole Council, as he had cause to
doubt that all things therein would not be well justified in
sort as they were set down, besides the want of many special
matters which the Lord Warden could not then call to
remembrance, as now when they come to deal with the other
side he doubts not but he will. Even now the Warden is in
hand by the advice of certain gentlemen who were with him
at the meeting, to set down in articles such matter as he
will deliver. It appears that all that was done at Redswyre
was an accident, sudden and unlooked for; "for surely the
ground of it was choler, suddenly stirred, which might have
been better tempered with considerate discretion than it was,
and herein, if I be not deceived, both sides will be found to
be in some fault." Thinks that in the question of who gave
the first cause of offence, neither side will be found clear.
If those attending on the Warden and Carmichael had not
been such a people of disorder, and amongst them so many
feuds, no such brawl would have followed. This day the
Regent, before they entered on any conference by open proclamation, discharged all those who were under bond. The
Regent, of himself, declared that the cause which moved
him to take the Warden and the rest to Dalkeith was that
he doubted lest being at home before the slaughter of their
friends had been something digested, they might have sought
some revenge, which would have made the matter harder to
have been compounded. He said his intention was to do a
service to her Majesty, and not to commit a fact whereby
her honour might be touched. Thinks he fell into this declaration, because yesterday he was so vehemently charged
with this matter. Gathers from divers speeches that if they
cannot justify their fact in this to be lawful, yet they mean
to satisfy her Majesty in so good sort, as with reason they
may, for the Regent and those with him will in no wise,
if they may help it, have the amity betwixt the two realms
broken. Desires to know what kind of satisfaction he thinks
may best please her Highness. — Berwick, 17 Aug. 1575.
Signed. |
|
Add, Endd. Pp. 3. |
| August 19. |
291. Government of the Borders. |
|
"Notes of some orders to be remembered for the better
and more quiet rule of the Borders in time to come." Providing for the better restitution of goods stolen by the
thieves of either side, and for the observance of days of
truce by the Wardens. Marriages betwixt English and Scotch
subjects to be inhibited. Great care to be taken that the
deadly feuds contracted at the last accident may be reconciled. |
|
Endd.: 19 Aug. 1575. Pp. 2. |
| August 19. |
292. Killegrew to Walsingham. |
|
Thanks him for his letters, and craves pardon for his own
silence. Has made earnest suit to come home. The English
Warden is not so clean in this matter as he could wish.
Recommends Mr. Davison or the Dean of Durham as his
successor to go into Scotland. The apparent troubles in
Scotland can soon be pacified.—Berwick, 19 Aug. Signed. |
|
Add. Endd. Pp. 3. |
| August 19. |
293. Killegrew to [Lord Burghley]. |
|
1. Trusts that he will not misconstrue his silence, the
cause whereof he hopes shortly to declare to him. Any
blame in respect to the circumstances of the meeting between
the Regent and the Lord President proceeded from want of
experience. Earnestly begs that he may be revoked. If
cause shall require her Majesty's displeasure to the Regent
he is an unfit instrument in policy to be used therein. |
|
2. They met on the 16th inst. at the Bound Rood, and
have every day since been in conference four or five hours.
Was not there, and therefore dares not make any report,
especially knowing how the Queen is incensed. Lord Hunsdon
is looked for, whom he trusts will help the end forward to
her Majesty's honour and surety, howbeit he perceives the
Scots have not that opinion. The private factions in Scotland
with mean good handling might be appeased. |
|
3. Encloses a copy of occurrents. The Regent has put the
seven burgesses of Edinburgh out of ward, and there will be
a convention at Stirling upon this quarrel between Lochleven
and Arbroath.—Berwick, 19 August. Signed. |
|
Endd. by Burghley: "16 Aug. 1563." Pp. 4. |
| August. |
294. Occurrents in Scotland. |
|
1. Adam Gordon is still in ward. Adam Gordon has sent
word that when in France he was acquainted with one
Loggins, who lived there privately, that the Earl of West
morland wrote to him but that he did not answer him. That
one Captain Cotton told him that he had a letter of marque
against the Flushingers, and desired him to help him with
some Scottish soldiers and mariners. |
|
2. The Laird of Lochleven having by force prevented the
Lord of Arbroath from passing to the Regent, there is like to
be bred a new trouble in Scotland. It is thought that there
are many others of the party of Lochleven. He says that it
was not Arbroath whom he laid wait for, but the Provost of
Bothwell-Haugh, who slew the Regent Murray, whom he
was advertised should arrive by sea at Arbroath; but the
secret of the matter is that the Lord of Arbroath being in
doubt lest in time the said Regent's death will be laid upon
him, for that he lent his horse and gun to the man who slew
him, seeks to ally himself with the Regent and the Earl of
Angus by marrying the Lady of Buccleuch, sister to the Earl
of Angus, which is thought to be dangerous for the King's
person. |
|
3. The Regent has not yet resolved to proceed with this
marriage, but it is to be feared in the end he will yield to it.
The Earl of Arran is kept as a prisoner in the Castle of Draffine,
but it is said that he is oftentimes in perfect memory. The
Regent has not hitherto fallen from her Majesty's devotion,
but there have been offers made to him out of France promising to reconcile him with the Queen his mistress, if he
would join with other Princes to procure her liberty, his
answer is that as he was chosen to be the King's Regent
during his minority he would not know any other sovereign
as long as the King lived. The friendship between the
Regent and Sir James Balfour is of small weight. The
Regent has no guard about him, and goes almost alone, both
hunting and fishing. Since this late accident, the Scottish
Borders have been kept in very good order. |
|
4. Mr. George Douglas, who practised the Queen of Scots'
escape out of Lochleven, has made means to the writer to
procure the Queen's passport to pass through England into
France, with leave to speak to the Scottish Queen in the
presence of Lord Shrewsbury. This is for no other cause
than to have her favourable letters into France for the payment of money due to him, which done he proposes to come
home, and is already assured to a rich widow, the Lady
of Bawery in Fife. George was with his brother at this
late assembly in Fife, and is thought to be won to that side.
The Regent caused a lodging to be prepared for the writer
with fair hangings, and a very sumptuous bed, which he
would not accept to lie in until trial was made of the late
odious fact committed between the Lord Warden and Carmichael. |
|
5. There be two causes given for the detaining of the
burgesses, the one is that they said as they put the
Regent up so they would pull him down; the other, that
the displeasing of the burgesses wins the Regent the goodwill
of the artificers, which tends more to his strength by ten to
one than the friendship of the burgesses. The misliking
between the Regent and the ministers is for that he would
"induce" into the Church of Scotland the liberty used by
the magistrates and bishops of the Church of England which
they like not. |
|
6. The following articles have been in question at this late
general assembly, and some presented to the Regent: First,
that ministers might be established in every church, and not
four churches limited to one minister. To take order for the
entertainment of the free schools, and to appoint stipends for
scholars to supply the want of ministers. To confirm the
order taken in the last assembly for the provision of the
poor. |
|
7. The bishopric of St. Andrews is still void, because the
college will not agree to choose a man at the Regent's
nomination. |
|
8. The Bishop of Dunkeld is suspended for not pronouncing the decree of excommunication against the Earl of Athole
pronounced in the last assembly. |
|
Incomplete. Enclosure. Pp. 4. |
| August 20. |
295. Loys Guibert. |
|
1. Certificate of Rene de Beauxoncles, Seigneur de Sigougnes that the present bearer, Jehan Fizet, is on his way to
Calais, there to embark for Dover, to demand the release of
one Loys Guibert, a prisoner there. |
|
2. Request to the Mayor and other authorities of Dover
that they would use all means in their power to procure the
man's liberation, and to M. M. de la Mothe Fenelon and de
Mauvissiere to aid in the same.—Dieppe, 20 August 1575.
Signed and sealed. |
|
Endd. Fr. P. 1. |
| August 21. |
296. The Earl of Huntingdon to Sir Thomas Smith. |
|
He and his associates think that they have obtained so
much understanding how this late accident began, continued,
and took end, that he encloses a certificate thereof subscribed
with all their hands. As for the matters which be of most
weight, he means the taking of the Warden and the rest, the
detaining them, and lastly, their demission under bond; he
desires to know the Queen's pleasure what satisfaction he
should require, as the others say that if they knew what
would be a satisfaction to her, the end of this business would
be short and to her liking. Yesterday, when the Regent bade
him consider how the amity of Scotland might stand England in good stead, he told him that if the amity might with
honour be continued he saw no likelihood of any breach, and
because the offence came from hence, he wished him to think
of some means to satisfy the Queen for her honour. The
Regent then protested his good affection towards her Majesty,
and desired to know what she wanted for satisfaction, as if it
agreed with his duty to the King, he would do it.—Berwick,
21 Aug. 1575. Signed. |
|
Add. Endd. Pp. 2. |
| August 24. |
297. The Earl of Huntingdon to the Queen. |
|
According to her commandment has made his repair
towards these Borders to deal with the Lord Regent of
Scotland for examination into the late odious fact that happened at the Redswyre. Met the Regent on the 16th Aug.
at the Bound Rood, since which time he has used his best
endeavour to accomplish her direction, but has not yet
shown himself satisfied until he again understands her liking.
Sends by this bearer, Mr. Robert Bowes, such matter as the
Lord Regent has delivered to him for excuse of his doings
since the accident, and for satisfaction of her honour. Told
the Regent in private talk that whatever his intention was
in calling the Warden and the rest to Dalkeith he had so
offended her Majesty, that he had needs think of some better
offer for her satisfaction than in the writing was contained.
In fine, the Regent said that he would without writ offer him
that if the Queen would have the person of Carmichael he
would send him unto her, not doubting but that it would
please her to deal honourably with him, if she be truly
informed of the whole manner of his doings. He further
declared how loth he was in any way to offend the Queen,
and how much he desired that the happy amity betwixt both
realms might be preserved, and that whilst he lived she should
not want a servant in Scotland faithfully devoted to her, and
how much this unhappy accident grieved him when first
he heard of it, some honest men could witness.—Berwick,
24 Aug. 1575. Signed. |
|
Add. Endd. Pp. 3. |
| August 24. |
298. Duplicate of the above. |
|
Endd. Pp. 2. |
| August 24. |
299. The Earl of Huntingdon to Sir Thomas Smith. |
|
Having drawn the matter so far, he did not well know
what more he should demand, yet did he always seem to the
Regent not satisfied, for when he made the last offer mentioned
in his letter to her Majesty, he said he might himself do some
punishment upon Carmichael and some other offenders, which
then might without further trouble, perhaps make an end of
all. The Regent replied that if the Queen had understood
what offers he had made, he believed she would have been
more favourable and better satisfied than he was. The Regent
is the most able man of Scotland to govern, his enemies
confess it. Has found him a very wise man, and thinks that
he is to be kept devoted sooner than any other of his nation,
as besides the benefits that the Queen has bestowed on him,
if he should lose her favour his own estate would be in peril.
Commends the bearer, who is very "hable" gentleman, to serve
her Majesty.—Berwick, 24 Aug. 1575. Signed. |
|
Add. Endd. Pp. 1¾. |
| August 26. |
300. Dr. Dale to Lord Burghley. |
|
Thanks him for his good opinion of his letter to Dr. Gybbon
his schoolmate, both in the University and the Arches, and
sends a copy of another letter to him. Monsieur is very
much followed, notwithstanding the trouble of his men.
Captain Thomas remains as he did. There is one presently
arrived at the Court from James Fitz Morris, and is advertised
that he has already spoken with the King, also that one of the
chiefest of James Fitz Morris's company is dead, and some of
them are already departed towards Ireland. It is taken for
very truth that there are 2,000 or 3,000 reiters ready to march
hitherwards the beginning of next month.—Paris, 26 Aug
1575. |
| Jan. 10. |
301. Dr. Dale to Dr. Gybbon. |
|
Gives an account of the city of Lyons, mentioning the
massacres there, and the journey of the King up the Rhone
to Avignon for fear of the forces of the Huguenots. Sends a
rough plan of the city.—Lyons, 10 January. |
|
Lat. Enclosure. Pp. 6. |
| August 27. |
302. Dr. Dale to [Lord Burghley.] |
|
Sir Henry Cobham is arrived. Sues to have audience to
deal in those matters that the Queen has communicated to
him.—Paris, 27 Aug. 1575. Signed. |
|
P. 1. |
| August 27. |
303. Prince of Condé to the Queen. |
|
Thanks her for her Christian and truly charitable assistance
in their holy enterprise, and for which he is under a lifelong obligation. Understands from his cousin M. de Meru
the great favour with which she has received him.—Strasburg,
27 Aug. 1575. Signed. |
|
Add. Endd. Fr. P. 1. |
| August 27. |
304. Prince of Condé to Walsingham. |
|
Thanks him for his good offices in obtaining for them the
Queen's assistance.—Strasbourg, 27 Aug. 1575. Signed. |
|
Add. Endd. Fr. P. 2/3. |
| August 27. |
305. Count of Meru to the Queen. |
|
Marshal Danville has defeated the greatest part of the
reiters in Languedoc, and is to-day master of the country;
also he has cut in pieces two Provincal companies. M. de
Thore, his brother, goes in eight or ten days to him with 2,000
reiters, 500 French horse, and a good number of harque
bussiers. The Prince of Condé and himself will march a few
days afterwards. Assures her of his faithful service to the
best of his ability.—Strasbourg, 27th Aug. 1575. Signed. |
|
Add., with seal. Endd. Fr. P. 2/3. |
| August 27. |
306. Count of Meru to Walsingham. |
|
Sends him the same news as that contained in his letter
to the Queen of the same date; prays that he will inform him
of what is passing, and assures him of his lasting friendship.
—Strasbourg, 27 Aug. 1575. Signed. |
|
Add. Endd. Fr. P. 1. |
| August 27. |
307. Count of Meru to Burghley. |
|
The same news as in the two preceding letters. Hopes
that he will keep him always "en ses bonnes graces," and
assures him that he could not have servant or friend in all
the world more ready to do him service.—Strasbourg, 27 Aug.
1575. Signed. |
|
Add., with seal. Endd. Fr. ¾. |
| [August.] |
308. [Dr. Dale] to Chiverny. |
|
Prays him to give effect to the decree of the King in Council
for the delivery of certain books that have been seized, with
the exception of such as are offensive to the King. Awaits
his reply in the matters of the merchants' causes, and of their
privileges. Sends greeting to Dr. Bellieure, and prays him to
have regard to the complaints he made of Captain Landreau. |
|
Lat. Copy. P. 1. |
| August 28. |
309. Report on the Raid of Reedswire. |
|
This accident has happened between a Warden of the
Middle Marches of England, being a rich borderer, and a
keeper of Liddlesdale being a mean man and no borderer.
Because it is against the ancient custom that a Warden
should meet a keeper, it should be known what the cause
was of this meeting. Carmichael had before met with Sir
George Heron, the keeper of Tyndale and Rysdale, and some
fault was committed at that meeting by the keeper of Tyndale,
for which the Lord Warden put him out of his office for a
time. The report goes that it was for delivering a man to
Carmichael whom the Lord Warden would not have delivered
after the sort that he was. "Here is the pith of the matter.
It was one John of the Stonehouse, not a greater thief by
report in a country, but he served for purposes." This fellow
was a resetter of the rebels of Scotland and some of
Ferniehurst's followers. To recover this man and to put
some order with Carmichael in time coming, was the cause
of this last meeting. The most part of those who accompany
the Wardens to these days of truce are thieves, resetters, and
favourers of thieves, "I say for the most part of both sides,
and they commonly in deadly feud, as they term it, one against
another;" so that any shadow of occasion offered, they fall
to their kind, that is, they who have feud, to kill their enemies,
and the thieves to the spoil, as was verified at this last
meeting. On the English part the Phenickes (Fenwicks) and
their friends had a feud against the Crosiers of Liddlesdale
and their kind, which began 30 years ago by a Fenwick being
slain by the Crosiers, and some extraordinary cruelty used
therein. The Fenwicks about three years ago, by the guiding
of John of the Stonehouse, rode into Liddlesdale by night
and slew certain of the Crosiers in their beds. Now this
John is the man whom the Warden and Carmichael wrangled
about, and those two surnames were assistant. "Good peacemakers!" Divers other feuds there were, but this may suffice
to show the state. The Lord Warden as appears went to
this meeting with intention to daunt Carmichael, for besides
his own numbers, which by report were far above the Scottish,
he assured himself of the Aylewoods [Elliots] and many of
Liddlesdale, who long time together being banished out of
Scotland for theft and murder lived under his protection.
"Good guests!" Now at the meeting the manner is that
they should send their horses to graze not far off, and draw
near the Warden on foot. So sat the Warden and Carmichael
above two or three hours doing justice on both sides, until it
came to the point that Carmichael demanded one . . . . .
and the Warden made excuses for him, whereupon they fell
to comparisons of doing better justice one than the other.
The good assisters being so well affected hearing the same
took their time, and some say the Scots shot an arrow first,
others the contrary. True it is that Carmichael was in the
Lord Warden's hands, and the English had the better of it
and drove the Scots from the ground. The Tyndale men
who had no feud nor will of blows fell to spoil the pedlars,
and amongst others, one of Jedworth being spoiled cried out,
"a Jedworth, a Jedworth;" the English had likewise their
cries, "and the Liddlesdale men ran where our horses were
grazing and fell to them, our loose men did the like on t'other
side to their horses; and the Crosiers to the Phenicks, and
so the rest to their enemies." Carmichael got from the Lord
Warden, and at his return had the better, by reason that the
Lord Warden's companies had left him and were fled for the
most part and gone to the spoil. Carmichael came better
provided than was looked for because of hot words passed
between Sir George Heron and him at their last meeting.
The truth of this brabble must be tried by them who stood
by both English and Scotch. The Lord Warden hopes to be
tried by Scotchmen, for all those who hate the Regent will
be against Carmichael, especially the Wardens and their followers and the thieves, for some hate and some disdain him
because he has no lands or cattle on the Borders, and does
better justice than they can or will do, forbearing one with
another. The thieves he has daunted two ways, the one by
hanging those whom he has taken by footmen and horsemen
that were inland men, and the chiefest and richest he has
won with pensions, and by this means the Regent has grown
able to do such rare justice as has not been seen before.
Fears that both sides will turn to their old vomit again.
Add the feuds engendered at this unhappy meeting to those
that were before, and it may be guessed what hope of order
or redress there will be, especially within the Middle March
where the Forsters and Herons have received such a foil—
In Davison's writing. |
|
Endd.: "by Mr. Davison, 28 Aug. 1575." Pp. 2½. |
| August 29. |
310. Thomas Wilkes to Lord Burghley. |
|
Repaired twice to his house, but understanding him to
be so earnestly occupied in weighty affairs, he departed from
London, following his journey to Heidelburg, where, after he
had observed the negotiation of M. Meru, he departed in his
company towards Strasbourg. The Prince of Condé came
thither with M. de Thore and a reasonable troop of gentlemen, and after one day's conference departed towards Heidelberg to take a final resolution for the receipt of their
money, and the time and order of their marching, for the
Palatine made M. de Meru believe at his being there before,
that he would not only give them all the assistance he might,
but also send the Duke Casimir with them to conduct the
reiters. They all being at Heidelberg, and entering into
speech with the Palatine, found him so altered, that he proposed very unequal conditions as to constrain the Prince of
Condé to marry his daughter, and upon their pacification
with the King, or their victory, to deliver into the Palsgrave's
hands Metz, Toul, and Verdun, which the French refusing,
they have broken off with some discontentment, only receiving the 50,000 crowns. The French are of opinion that
this coldness has been wrought by the Prince of Orange,
as made an instrument from the King to that end, which
seems to be somewhat confirmed by the late coming of Dr.
Junius from the Court of France, who universally gave out
that the Prince and his party were unworthy of assistance,
as they refused the reasonable conditions the King offered
them. It is said the Prince of Orange nourishes the Palsgrave
in a vain hope to deliver into his hands the country of
Zealand, by which means he draws from him all the favour
he can spare. They have added to the 50,000 crowns, 10,000
which the Prince has borrowed on certain jewels, with which
they are about the levy of 8,000 horse, 2,000 of whom are to
be ready to depart under M. de Thore in 20 days, who, passing through Languedoc, shall have 4,000 shot of the troops
of M. de Montbrun. They make their levy of the 8,000 by
their colonels, Afstein, Hollock, and Bouck. M. de Meru tells
him that if the Queen will send the payment of the other
50,000 crowns to Frankfort they will be able to levy 8,000
Swiss. The Bohemians refuse to make election of the Em
peror's son unless he will grant the profession of Augsburg
amongst them.—Strasburg, 29 Aug. 1575. Signed. |
|
Add. Endd., with seal. Pp. 2¾. |
| August 29. |
311. The Queen to the Earl of Huntingdon. |
|
Has received at Mr. Bowes' hand information of his proceedings, and it seems very strange that after so long time
spent in the examination of the late disorder, one of his
quality should be despatched to her with so slender matter,
and of so small weight. Notwithstanding her natural inclination for peace, she would not have the world think her so
base minded as to put up with so great an injury as she
has lately received at Scotland's hands. He is, therefore, to
give the Regent plainly to understand, that whereas he says
that he has no doubt but that she would stand well satisfied
with his late proceedings, he gives her just cause to think
that he judges that either she can content herself with
anything, or that she knows not what appertains to her
honour, or that she lacks courage or means to revenge the
slain thereof, if she should rest satisfied with so slender a
salve for so grievous a wound. He is to appeal to his conscience whether after having had her subjects murdered and
detained prisoners she should content herself with a bare
declaration on paper of good intentions. Where the Regent
has desired to know what will satisfy her, he is to let him
know that only time and his good usage can restore him
to her good opinion; but, touching the reparation of her
honour towards the world, he is to say that she looked that
he, unrequired, would have done justice on such as were
found culpable of her subjects' deaths, and also delivered into
her hands, absolutely without condition, such as pursued and
took prisoners her Warden and the rest, and that she cannot
think her honour fully repaired until this is done; and for
that Carmichael and the townsmen of Jedworth appear to
be principal offenders herein, that they should be delivered
up. If he sees him make any difficulty in this behalf, he
is to plainly let him understand that she will take some other
way of redress, "and will him to remember that another
King in my seat would have revenged with deeds and left
with him his words."—Cornbury Park, 29 Aug. 1575. |
|
Copy. Endd. Pp. 2¼. |
| August 29. |
312. Robert Bowes to the Earl of Leicester. |
|
Has been sent up to know the Queen's pleasure in this late
disorder. Encloses a letter from the Earl of Huntingdon to
his Lordship.—Woodstock, 29 Aug. 1575. Signed. |
|
Endd. P. 1. |
| August 29. |
313. Daniel Rogers to Walsingham. |
|
Has complained to the Prince, Boischot, and St. Aldegonde
touching such malicious reports as were spread against
Walsingham, declaring how much he deserved the contrary,
and how speedily oftentimes he had despatched Calvart's
suits, but that he was not able to compass all things; to
which they have answered, assuring him of their esteem for
him. Thinks Calvart, or some of the French about the
Prince, are the authors of these reports, for he has talked with
divers of them who have been in England, who have strange
opinions of the Lords of the Council, as though they had
pensions, some from the French King, and some out of
Spain, which absurdities he has largely refuted. The French
have all the doings about the Prince, whereas the Estates and
divers of the country for the rendering of Schoonhoven
detest them. La Garde was almost slain coming to the
Prince at Dort, and the Estates would not speak with him.
The Prince is so ready to gratify the French King, that he
was minded to have excluded the Prince of Condé's followers
and their prizes from Zealand, if some of those about him
had not stayed him. The Prince, however, took in very good
worth Walsingham's admonition to take heed of France.
Has learnt from M. de Lumbres, that whereas the Prince's
followers have leave to come into the havens of France with
their ships and prizes, the Prince has not the said grant
under the King's hand and seal, but only promised. M. Revers
has not gone into France. Is certified by his friends of
strange bruits spread in the Court of his proceedings here,
but trusts he will hear his defence, ere he be condemned.—
Middleburg, 29 Aug. 1575. Signed. |
|
Add. Endd. Pp. 12/3
|
| August 29. |
314. Daniel Rogers to Lord Burghley. |
|
Charges the delays objected to him in his negotiations to
the behaviour of the Flushingers, and also to news having
come to the Prince that he had been pronounced a rebel by
the Queen of England. Calvart advertised the Prince that
he was not condemned rebel in name, but that only Burghley
had written to the captains of the sea castles to count such
for rebels as he made mention of in his letters. The Prince
has delivered to him a copy of the note of the names,
which he encloses. The Prince stomached not a little at
the matter. Rogers pointed out that Calvart had written
that it was not the Queen's doing, but Burghley's, and even
if it were so he ought not therefore to cease to restore the
goods taken from her subjects, nor prescribe a law to them
against the ancient intercourses. The Queen, by keeping
but two or three of her ships at sea, might easily conduct into
Flanders her subjects' goods. The Prince said that the
staplers were those who chiefly nourished his enemies, and
desired him to write to the Council certain reasons why he
could not accord unto that traffic, which he thinks his Lordship has read in his letter to Mr. Secretary of the 1st
August. Is at present in Zealand attending for restitutions
to be made to certain of her Majesty's subjects, for by the
privileges of the Flushingers and Zealanders matters depending in law in Zealand cannot be transported into Holland
to be judged there. There is great negligence used in the
affairs of this country. They of Zealand live in great security, saving that they are compelled to keep many ships of
war about the place. English soldiers have now again their
reputation, having handled themselves as men at Schoonhoven,
where the Frenchmen have lost all their credit. The Prince
has erected a new ensign of English under Captain Gaisford,
who remains at Delft.—Middleburg, 29 Aug. 1575. Signed. |
|
Add. Endd., with seal. Pp. 2. |
|
315. Revolt of the Netherlands. |
|
A note of such subjects of the King of Spain as the Queen
of England has proclaimed rebels. A list of names, commencing with that of the Prince of Orange. |
|
Endd., Enclosure. P. 1. |
| August 31. |
316. Mr. William Stewart to Lord Burghley. |
|
1. On the 7th August the enemy came to the number of
14,000 or 15,000 men before Oudewater, with 22 pieces of
battery, wherewith in 24 hours they made such a breach that
they found the town assaultable. The first assault was
valiantly repulsed by them of the town, so they were constrained to retreat, and having discharged anew three volleys
of their artillery, they came with a fresh supply of men to give
the second assault, and being entered into the fosse of the
town they all fell down flat, whereupon the townspeople,
thinking courageously to descend as before, presented themselves on the breach, and the enemy having their whole volley
of artillery bent against the top thereof, discharged the same
all at one instant, wherewith they carried away a great
number of men, and immediately gave the second assault, and
won the town with the loss of 600 men slain and 400 badly
hurt. Amongst the number was a Spaniard named Baldens,
which was one part of the cause of their great cruelty, not
only mining the town with fire, but putting the four companies of soldiers, with the inhabitants, men, women, and
children, to the sword. Afterwards they came before Schoonhaven, where was Governor M. de la Garde, colonel of the
Frenchmen, with four companies of French, one of English,
one of Scots, and two of Walloons. The battery continued
from Monday morning till Tuesday, 12 p.m., furiously beating
day and night, wherewith they made a great breach, but
difficult to approach, being on the side of the river, but the
Governor, seeing the terror of their great battery, desired a
parley, and rendered up the place on Wednesday morning.
The conditions were that the captains and soldiers should
depart with arms, bag and baggage, with such burgesses as
were willing to leave, and the rest to remain in the town,
with liberty to enjoy their goods, rendering due obedience to
the King and his ordinances. The whole reproach of this
surrender is justly imputed to M. de la Garde and his nation,
because the conditions were concluded before any other nation
knew of the same. There is an army of 12,000 horsemen and
10,000 footmen levied for the Prince of Condé near Cologne,
of which Duke Casimir leads the cavalry. Which way it is
bent is uncertain, but the Commendator has ordered all
villagers to retire themselves, with their corn and bestials,
within the fortified towns, and that all windmills should be
taken down, or their irons taken away.—Dortrecht, 31 August
1575. Signed. |
|
2. P.S.—As the enemy daily win towns and forts, and
thereby there is great murmuring and fear among the common
people, it is high time support were had. |
|
Add. Endd., with seal. Pp. 3. |
