James VI, August 1594

James VI, August 1594

(fn. 1) 313. Mr. Henry Lock to Sir Robert Cecil. [c. Aug. 1.]

According to request made to me by a letter from Bothwell, I am bold to move to your honour the considerations of his late offers by letters of J[ohn] Colville, and presently by Forret, which I beseech you to acquaint her Majesty with, and to inform me of her pleasure. His demands are three. First, that whereas he is offered 25,000 crowns upon condition to remit the quarrel with Huntly and to join with the Papist lords in possessing the state (who afterwards will assure him his Majesty's favour), or else to restore the money to them, her Majesty will give him leave, without mistrust of his faith to her or religion, to take their offer to these ends:—first, to keep the money out of the hands of Hume or any other worse affected and more dangerous person; next, to make himself the better able to serve her Majesty and to put the state presently into her hands. Only he craves, after his full possession of the Court and state, as before, that her Highness will enable him to repay the said 25,000 crowns for satisfying of his honour and bond to them before he pursues them, which he promises faithfully and speedily to effect, and on receipt of that money to give sufficient pledges for the loyalty of the formerbound noblemen and gentlemen. To draw him to a settled safety by them, if he will rely on them, they offer the marriage (as he says) of Huntly's son with his daughter, and of six of the best Gordons with Stewarts, but he had rather enjoy a poor life with safety by her Majesty than kingdoms by Spain and against religion.

The second request is that, if her Majesty mislikes the former, she would deal by her ambassador directly at this baptism for his restitution, which he is made to believe will prevail, as appears by a letter sent to him from Jeremy Lindsay, whose letter under the name of Pudicus to Y (John Colville) I herewith send; and till by her Majesty's mediation he may have better fortune, that he might either have some oversight in England, which he would use with more modesty than before, or else have some relief by money to keep in Scotland at his own house of the Hermitage in Liddisdale, where he would be an assured protection of the English Border, and (if her Highness would vouchsafe) this "shold be colered either by having taken crowns of Spain or by selling his wifes dower to hir soon Baclugh." (fn. 2)

Lastly, if these also be rejected, that then he might not be held untrue to her Majesty or false to religion if he embraced the best and readiest means which shall be offered for his relief; in which case he craves the restitution of such bonds as I brought from him and others. And whereas he has appeared "unsecret," he confesses want has compelled him to pay his friends with words and hopes, as indeed he himself lived; whereas if he had had other actual relief he needed not. Yet did he never, as he vows, intend untruth to this estate, neither would but on the last extremities be drawn to offend her Highness.

To all these he craves a final answer and resolution before the 20th of this present, being that day to meet with Angus and Errol at Dundee to give his final answer to them.

These points I hold to be dangerous and uncertain. To suffer him to "imbras" the crowns is to suffer him to force the King and present Court and, I fear me, draw on as well for the Duke's sake,—who is in "hard consait" (and not altogether causeless) with the King—as to pull down the Chancellor in favour of the Prior of Pluscarden, his rival, a Seton, a Papist and friend of Huntly, though wholly of the Queen's counsel and course, now directly contrary to the King's: and howbeit her Majesty disburses nothing till action be performed to her benefit, yet the treacherous nature by which he practises to beat Huntly with his own rod is not unlikely by better baits to be set from her Highness when he has power and sword in hand, which yet I do not suspect for my part.

To reject him utterly will, no doubt, be a great "dislik" to many honest friends in Scotland, considering his long depending on her Majesty and many offers which they hold honest and profitable, and will be a fit "cooler" for his ambitious, enraged nature, to draw on many dangerous practices if at any time the King, also being discontented, should receive him, or the Papists prevail.

To deal for him, if it might prevail, were neither dishonourable to her Highness nor unprofitable to the King. To oversee him in England were to break directly with the King in an unfit time, and yet no help to the Earl for power to any good work. To relieve him secretly by crowns in Scotland, if the mediation does not prevail, seems the least harm, since small matters would suffice, and a short time would try the King and what need should be had to use the Earl. All this I refer to your honour to consider, craving pardon for this my boldness. The messenger, James Forret, is himself minded, since he is assured of his brother coming shortly into Scotland, to return also with this answer, and thence by sea, or from Newcastle to repair to him forthwith to inform your honour soundly of all things; for which purpose he craves passport, if he need, by seas. [Unsigned.]

Postscript.—I have further notice and am assured that this ambassador will signify to her Majesty the King's liking to have Bothwell in England and to deal in some favour towards him if he abstain from the Earls' society. If it might be, this would be best of all, and "which to tast were not unfit."

3¼ pp. Holograph. No address. Endorsed by Cecil's clerk: "Aug. 1594. Mr. Locke to my master"; and "August, 1594. The effect of the Earl Bodwelles demandes by Mr. Forrett."

314. Robert Bowes to Burghley. [Aug. 3.]

William Elphinstone, sent to Argyll with commission of lieutenancy and with the King's letter moving him to accept the office, has lately returned to the King with answer given by Argyll that he cannot accept that office as it is offered to him, nor attend at the baptism, on the ground that Donald MacConnell (Mackonnell) Gorme is presently in arms with great forces to invade his bounds, which he cannot leave without defence. Argyll is presently much disquieted by the discords amongst his friends, whereby sundry of them of good quality have revolted and left him. It is told me that Donald Gorme's forces are scattered or "in scateringe." Mr. Patrick Galloway, being with the Earl of Atholl, has not hitherto (so far as is commonly known) advertised the King of Atholl's resolution, which he has deferred until he might understand Argyll's proceedings, and it is looked that, seeing Argyll has refused the office, Atholl will not deal therein, and without them Forbes has always been resolute not to embark himself on that action, for which his forces do not suffice. It is advertised me that Argyll has been earnestly persuaded by letters of courtiers "to flye the daungers of feadis" and troubles following the acceptation of this office, and that they will not accept the commission, notwithstanding that they had purposed with their own forces and without commission to pursue Huntly to the uttermost. The prosecution of the forfeited Earls and their accomplices shall fall on the personal progress of the King, intending to enter into the same on the 26th instant, and the expedition thereof is thought to depend wholly on her Majesty's support, without which the courtiers affirm it impossible for him to effect the work. Argyll by heritable office ought to have been Great Master of the King's House at the baptism, which office shall now be supplied by Lord Seton, to whom the King has written in that behalf.

It has been confirmed to me by second [i.e. indirect] information that the agents or solicitors employed by Huntly (who are suffered to pass and repass without impediment) have offered, in the name of the King of Spain and other princes, 40,000 crowns to the King of Scots to grant liberty of conscience to Catholics, and remission to the forfeited Earls and their accomplices; that he should have 12,000 crowns yearly for three years, and until his realm shall be quieted and established with aid of men and money against her Majesty; that ambassadors shall be sent hither to the King by the Pope, the Emperor, King of Spain, the Dukes of Ferrara, Savoy, Lorraine, Guise and "Daumayne" (fn. 3) to give the King full assurance of the things offered and to stir him to accept the same. If the King refuse, the ambassadors then shall declare him to be enemy to all these princes and potentates, who thereon will use all hostility by sea and land against him and his realm and bar the trade of all Scottishmen in all their dominions. Further, with their forces they will aid and maintain the Catholics in Scotland to have the exercise of their religion. It is added that 4000 footmen shall "indelatelye" be sent to the north of Scotland from Dunkirk with sufficient treasure to levy 16,000 men in this realm. These reports have been given out by some councillors and courtiers (as I hear), and now they fly abroad and are so common that many think that these winds shall shake little corn. I trust that the Secretary, presently ambassador to her Majesty for the King, shall give clearer light and good satisfaction herein.

I am informed that the forfeited Earls shall offer to give satisfaction to the King and Kirk, with condition that they may have liberty of conscience; that this offer shall only be tendered to fish for and get them just occasion to take arms for the Catholic religion, wherein they trust to find great support as well in this Isle as also by foreign princes and forces; and that upon this hope of relief Auchindoun told the Countess of Sutherland that he assuredly trusted to wash his hands shortly in the heart-blood of some of the best of the ministers. Whereupon the Countess drank to him, wishing to see the effects executed with speed. For this the Countess is "lyke to be called." But it is not seen that any sharp punishment has been "afflicted" on persons of her quality and profession for so light offences. It is generally believed here that these Earls have already levied many soldiers; that Donald Gorme's forces are gathered to serve them; that the Earls of Caithness and Sutherland will join with them and bring to them the forces in Caithness, Sutherland and Strathnaver; that they shall have 2000 horsemen out of the south parts of Scotland; with many other great matters able to persuade the rising of dangerous storms threatened by these windy clouds. But by some whom I sent into the north, and who lay in Bog of Gight (Bogygeth) and resorted to Huntly daily for the space of four days, I am advised that presently the Earls are scattered and are quiet with very small companies and none other than their ordinary households; that, notwithstanding these bruits, there are no forces levied and amassed together, and that these Earls provide [i.e. plan] to give place to the King and his army. Wherein it is thought that they shall put into and keep the islands until relieved by foreign forces, or the King invade them by sea,—a matter not looked for, yet for the prevention of the dangers the Earls will have in readiness three or four barques of good sail for their convoy.

It has been told me that Cardinal Allen shall be shortly sent into the Low Countries in secret manner with deep practices against this isle, and that the action thereof shall not be set forth in the King of Spain's name or by his only means, in regard that he is noted to be cruel and so ambitious that he will take the whole prize, but that it shall be carried under the colour and pretence of the Catholic religion; wherein further information is promised to me.

The skipper mentioned in my former letters has now got sufficient credit, bought a barque for the purpose at the charges of the adventurers, and within few days will "carye" the barque to place appointed. Because I received yesterday some warrant by Sir Robert Cecil's letter to proceed in such service, therefore I have thought it meet to provide in Newcastle a fit vessel to be drawn to Holy Island, there to receive a sufficient number of men for the enterprise to be attempted in time and manner as shall be requisite, and to carry the matter with as much surety and as little expense as may be done, like as at my coming to your lordship I shall more largely "open."

The Provost of Aberdeen is charged to appear and answer before the King and Council for the delivery of the three prisoners and barque to the attainted Earls; but it is generally thought that the pain for his fault (manifest enough) shall not be rigorous. The barque was dismissed with all speed and has returned towards Calais with letters and a messenger, craving (as it is said) that the Spanish forces shall hasten thither. Because the Laird of Dunipace, a great courtier and privy to the courses in Court, has lately met with Cluny Gordon (as it is said) and written to the Laird of Balquhan (Buquhan), deeply devoted to these Earls, especially to Errol, it is therefore suspected that the Earls have not lost their means in Court, and shall find some means to ease themselves. This day the Baron of Broderode and the Treasurer of Valca [Jacques Valcke], ambassadors for the General Estates of the Low Countries, arrived at Leith: their companies are not yet perfectly known. Edinburgh. Signed: Robert Bowes.

3¼ pp. Addressed. Endorsed by Cecil's clerk.

315. Robert Bowes to Sir Robert Cecil. [Aug. 3.]

Yesterday I received yours of 27th July, and during my abode here I shall with all diligence execute the directions given me thereby. Lord Hamilton has already, in quiet manner, received commission for the West Borders of Scotland. Nevertheless, for prevention of his hurt and danger, he is advised to forbear any hasty proceeding in that office, chiefly in the pursuit against Johnstone. I shall use towards him the excuses and order enjoined to me by your letter, with all other means in my power to give him contentment. But I know his nature and diet so well that words without some taste of the "deyntye" desired will in no wise please him, and I leave it to wise consideration whether the alienation of his mind at this time shall be adventured for the sparing of such convenient portion as might retain and bind him with all readiness.

Upon view of the clause in your letter that services for apprehension of passengers on the seas, being "caried" with discretion and moderation, shall be over-well enterprised and warranted, I have gathered that by these general words my particular purpose is allowed, and therefore I have chosen to proceed therein as apt occasion shall be administered. For the Earl Bothwell I shall hold the course directed and use the second means advised in best sort I can. I am glad that Sir Thomas Parry has order to deal with the King in favour of Mr. James Murray and that you have had so favourable regard of J[ohn] C[olville]. Your courtesies to these honest and wise gentlemen are especial furtherance to her Majesty's service and will redound to your honour. Edinburgh. Signed: Robert Bowes.

1 p. Addressed. Endorsed by Cecil's clerk.

316. Mr. John Colville to Mr. Henry Lock. [Aug. 5.] Printed in Colville's Letters, p. 118.

The enclosed will inform you of the state of matters since James Forret's departing, whom I pray you assist, and communicate "with" him such matters as I send up. Signed: Jo. Colville.

¼ p. Holograph, also address. Red wax seal.

317. Mr. Thomas Wylkes to Sir Robert Cecil. [Aug. 5.]

I have, according to your direction, attended the Scottish ambassador and have delivered your compliments, which he answered with very humble thanks, and with all devotion attends the hour of his audience to-morrow. I find him of few words, a young man, and of good fashion. I cannot judge what is in him, because I could not hear him speak. London. Signed: Tho. Wylkes.

⅓ p. Addressed. Endorsed by Cecil's clerk.

318. Robert Bowes to Burghley. [Aug. 6.]

On the 4th I received your letter of 28th July, and accordingly shall shortly send or bring to your lordship a note of the estate, conditions and numbers of the Scottish Irish, together with all other things concerning them. Angus MacConnell (Mackonell) and MacLean, lately prisoners in Edinburgh Castle, were dismissed long time past upon great bonds with condition of obedience to the King and good behaviour. They have since been charged to appear, and for their default are put to the horn, as I am informed. Many barbarous and cruel murders have been committed by the one against the other, yet by the means of the Earl of Argyll they were in a sort reconciled, and both then followed Argyll. But now they have again given up kindness, and MacLean (as I hear) has turned to the party of Donald Gorme, of whom I wrote that his forces are either scattered or scattering. Of this I cannot perfectly give full certainty, notwithstanding that I have spoken with sundry come out of the Isles, and also entreated the Prior of Blantyre and the Clerk Register, (fn. 4) persons best acquainted with the affairs and proceedings in these parts, to make inquiry whether Donald with his forces has "tourned" to Ireland, or against Argyll, or homewards. They have heard that he has returned home. But, being on the seas, it is not known which way he will take. I shall attend his course and certify your lordship with speed, and stay his voyage to Ireland by the best means I can. After I have, with opportunity, sounded the King's mind and with diligence discovered the author of the wrongs done to you and Sir Robert Cecil, I shall both "dispose" and avow the matter (as your lordship wishes me to do), and also give you knowledge of all my doings therein.

The Baron of Broderode and Monsieur Valca, Treasurer of Zealand, have with great courtesies sent oftentimes to visit me and offering to her Majesty all services of goodwill. They think it requisite to defer our meeting together until they have had presence of the King, which will be given to them within few days. They are accompanied with twelve young gentlemen of good quality (as it is said) and about thirty other persons in their train. I have learned that they desire to return homewards through England, and will entreat me to commend their request for a safe conduct,—in which behalf may it please your lordship to be "meane" that her Majesty's pleasure may be signified. They purpose to present the Prince with a fair cupboard of plate and with a yearly portion or gratuity. They have (as I hear) commission to treat for a marriage betwixt Count Maurice and one of the King of Denmark's sisters, and this matter has been moved before the King of Scots and has so far proceeded that Denmark begins to embrace it, provided that the Count be advanced with such yearly revenues and honoured with such titles and authority as are offered; wherein it is looked that he shall have the government of the two provinces. The Count has (as I hear) written to the Queen of Scots, and albeit the "younge yeares" of the lady, being presently somewhat under fourteen years of age, "is layde and alleidged" for some delay of the expedition of this marriage, yet if the Count were seen invested and in possession of the revenues, honours and authorities tendered, it is thought that then the knot should soon be knit. But as these are sufficiently and with better certainty known to your lordship, I therefore thus briefly recommend this amongst other matters coming to my ears.

The towns of Dundee and St. Andrews, with sundry others in Angus and Fife, were possessed with late bruits that Angus, Huntly and Errol had in the night surprised Aberdeen and made search for the ministers, who, with the Provost, escaped, and that the Earls had planted themselves in the Earl Marshal's house in that town, and still held the town, to the great danger of all the ministers and well affected in the parts thereabouts. For the timely safety and deliverance of the ministers and well affected persons, and to abate with speed the pride of these traitors, many barons, gentlemen, burgesses and ministers of Angus and Fife speedily convened, and resolved to present their petitions to the King to leave all solemnities for the baptism and to proceed with forces "indelatelye" against these rebels, or else they would adventure with their strengths to encounter the Earls. These bruits were sent to and communicated with some of the ministers of Edinburgh, together with advertisement by letters what was done by the convention mentioned, and also with request that these of Edinburgh would be careful to advance the timely prevention of the dangers. Some ministers of Edinburgh made some intimation hereof, persuading the course resolved by the convention in Fife. Yet in the end it is found that these Earls sent some to take the old walls and site of the old castle at Aberdeen, which they soon abandoned, and that thereon the bruit was hastily given out that they had surprised and held Aberdeen. Because these reports have come so generally to all men's ears hereabouts and may peradventure be certified in divers sorts, therefore I have thought good to acquaint your lordship with the particularities expressed.

I have been informed that sundry of the ambassadors here (particularly the ambassador for Mecklenburg) have goodwill to help Bothwell, but no little difficulty and danger is seen to be in the first motion thereof. Therefore it is advised (as I hear) that supplications be framed in Latin and French by Bothwell, expressing his case and praying the ambassadors to intercede for him, and that one supplication shall be cast at the door or in the house of every ambassador that it may be brought to his particular sight and also to the common knowledge of them all, whereby they may have an apt occasion of conference. . . . (fn. 5) se and of motion to the King.

Lord Hume has lately passed over the water, which many think shall be to speak with persons of suspicious qualities. It is said that the sum of 9000 marks Scots was assigned to him out of the taxation, and that because the same was not paid, therefore he will be no courtier unless payment shall be first made. The Earl of Erroll has written to some captains here to entreat them to come and take pay of him and the rest. Some of the captains have showed his letter, and will have none of their money, whereof they themselves give out to have great plenty. Edinburgh. Signed: Robert Bowes.

2½ pp. Addressed. Endorsed by Burghley's clerk.

319. Mr. Archibald Primrose to Mr. John Colville. [Aug. 7. (fn. 6) ] Printed in Colville's Letters, p. 284.

I cannot furnish you with such comfortable news as I would, because I find the King "the auld man." Yet I hope that, if you have a little patience, your liberty shall come unlooked for, to your contentment. For, as I hear, Philip (the great Turk) and his confederates have, by their instruments here, offered to the King (Q) that if he will give Papists (their merchants) liberty of conscience (to utter their wares) without controlment, and to use their own liberties "unoffending" the estate otherways, they will presently give to the King 100,000 crowns, with promise of further [money] as they find their merchants have liberty.

The King minds to ride in person for the purpose in hand and for keeping of his promise to her Majesty (Audin), and the ministry. But in my opinion there is no good to be expected at his hands, for I think him yet the same as before; and for such as have credit beside him, namely, the Chancellor, Glamis and Sir Robert Melville, I have no better hope of them than of him, for they are the "hunteres" of him to all this mischief. And yet they persuade the ministry, as I fear they do her Majesty, of the contrary. I pray God that neither the one nor the other be deceived with their falsehood, and that He may remove such "jugloures" from the King's company.

Ambassadors have come here from the Estates, who, I hear, have commission to renew the old league and are to make great offers to his Majesty for this effect, namely, a yearly annuity to the Prince of 10,000 crowns, besides 30,000 crowns to be delivered in ready coin and other jewels amounting to little less. I shall so handle the matter committed to Jeremy Lindsay's (Pudicus) remembrance that, by God's grace, he and I shall find out a wedge of the same wood to undo the traffic of the Spanish religion (the Great Turk's merchants).

I assure you that, if you could be content to follow counsel and to forget things past, I dare promise that Mar and the Duke "sall tak ane doing for you" and settle matters betwixt the King and you. "Quhairanent" as you find yourself disposed, send me your answer. Signed: "Your auin gossep."

Postscript in Mr. John Colville's hand.— I have deciphered so much of this letter as is not in your alphabet. After the signature is written in Sir Robert Cecil's hand: "Archy Primros the Duke's commissioner and Collector of King's subsidie present."

1½ pp. Addressed: "To Y." No endorsement.

320. Intelligence from Scotland. [Aug. 8.] Cott. Calig., D.ii. fol. 189. Transcript in Harl. MSS. 4648, p. 238.

The strangers who came first into Scotland in the ship of Midd[elburg], obscure men and of base degree, were directed with two articles [? to the Popish] lords, the one to persuade them to remain constant in the [Catholic religion] and neither to yield nor abandon the country in respect of supp[ort of men] and money providing for them, and specially to assure them Gordon and Mr. Robert Abircromby were shortly to return and s[ome strangers] with them. The other was to view the havens and sea por[ts in the north] for the most commodious and fairest landing.

In the ship of Calais, arrived of late at Aberdeen, [were] Mr. James [Gordon, Mr.] Robert Abircromby, two Englishmen and a Fleming. The Fleming [appears to] be a gentleman, and one of the Englishmen to be a bishop[ric man] banished at the rebellion in the north. The other Englis[hman is thought] to be a Jesuit or seminary priest. Their outwardly pretend[ed errand the Lords] letter to the town of Aberdeen, whereof this sent herewithal is [the copy, declares]. (fn. 7) But their errand in effect is to assure the coming of stran[gers on] condition that they first "kyith" [i.e. proclaim] themselves and make a party [in arms, whereby] they assure themselves of three advantages,—one, to be the [first "hasters"; second], to "overharle" the country, at least so many as are not of th[eir faction, whereby] the well affected countrymen in those parts can make no [impediment to the] strangers at their landing; thirdly, that they may by "stouth," [treason or] otherwise "tak sic forthes" [? forts] lying on the seacoasts beforehand that [when the strangers come] they may be a "recept" to them in respect the [King of Spain's] affairs are so many and great that he cannot spare an[y great number] on them for the present. This is all that so far as the King's present intelligence can yet reach unto or in his Majesty's conception, considering [the present state] of Europe, is likely or possible by them to be done. There is a Scottish Jesuit come through England by land, [whose] haunt is not in the north with the rest, but his Majesty has been informed that he has been in company [with Bothwell].

1 p. At the head: "Notes of intelligence." Edge injured by fire.

321. Sir Richard Cockburn to [Burghley]. [Aug. 8.] Cott. Calig. D.ii. fol. 201. Copy in Harl. transcript.

For discharge of my promise I send here enclosed some notes of intelligence and the copy of a letter written by the Papists lords to the town of Aberdeen. When you have perused it, please impart it to her Majesty, and be a furtherer of my second audience. London. Signed: R. Cokburne.

¼ p. No fly-leaf or address. Edges injured by fire.

322. Mr. John Colville to Mr. Henry Lock. [Aug. 10.] Printed in Colville's Letters, pp. 118–119.

By the enclosed, which I send as I received it from our own "Quondam," (fn. 8) you will see our present estate, all being in great diffidence of the sincerity of the Court. The King travails mightily with all the ambassadors to make no intercession for Bothwell, and frequent messages pass betwixt him and the Papist lords, to the grief of the Church. Quondam (A. Primrose) presses me to hearken to the counsel of some who would have me "at quietnes," and, if I could have it with honesty, I would crave it above all earthly thing. But I fear the subtlety of my adversaries on the one hand, and respect my faithful duty here on the other, above all earthly thing, and therefore I will so deal in the matter that the enemy shall not compass me, nor my friends think me inconstant; but what I do shall be with their consent and as a matter necessary for their service. Since Q (the King) is yet under great suspicion, travail that N (Bothwell) be not cast off until the verity is cleared; for if the King fail there cannot be such a wedge to "ryis" him by as a wedge of his own wood. I remit all other matters to James Forrett. Tweedmouth. Signed: Y.

Postscript.—To our Secretary it may be said that there is no performance in things promised by Court; for the pursuit against the Papists, promised for the 11th, is "continwed" to the 26th, and the King cannot be so soon prepared after the baptism on the 18th, because the ambassadors cannot be dismissed within eight days.

Then inform him that a request is to be preferred to his Majesty by the Church and barons that, in respect that sundry of his courtiers are thought to be over-favourable to the Papists and will seek to impeach his own zeal if he be present there with them, he will direct such lieutenants as are known most zealous in religion and greatest ill-willers to them, accompanied with some of the ministry and barons to see that the pursuit be not in show only, as it was when his Majesty went before against Huntly.

Shew him that the continual intercourse of Patrick Murray betwixt his Majesty and Huntly, and of Dunipace betwixt his Majesty and Errol, is manifest in Scotland, however he mask it in England. Let those others be delivered to Mr. Forrett. Let Cecil (Mecenas) have the alphabet [i.e. cipher] besides, because it is needful he open my letters wherever you be.

2pp. Holograph, also address. Names in cipher, diciphered by Lock.

323. "Memoriall" for the Earl of Sussex. [About 10] [ Aug.]

"A Memoriall for the Earl of Sussex, being sent to christen the King of Scottis sonne."

On your arrival at Edinburgh you shall confer with Mr. Bowes for a time convenient to deliver her Majesty's letter to the King and Queen, to both of whom you shall declare that she has sent you to congratulate them for the great favour bestowed upon them by Almighty God in sending them a young prince, to whom she wishes God's infinite blessings, and that she has now directed you to assist, in her absence, at his baptism, whither her Majesty had sooner sent the Earl of Cumberland, if God had not visited him, even at the instant of his readiness to depart, with a dangerous sickness, whereby she was occasioned to choose you, who have hastened as speedily as you could. Though it is not to be doubted that the remembrance of the person whom you shall represent, together with care for your own honour and commendation, will ever be a sufficient watchword in all your carriage, to avoid all manner of levity in your actions or other error by quarrel or contention, the rather in regard that by this concourse of ambassadors so many eyes will behold you and censure [i.e. judge] your words and demeanour, yet it is fit you be acquainted somewhat with the state of that country for avoiding of mistaking one person for another or showing other ignorance of those things which are commonly known.

The present troubles of Scotland, so dangerous to the state of religion and amity, and so dishonourable to the King, are derived from this principal head. [In the margin in Sir Robert Cecil's hand: "Here beginneth the recapitulation of things fore passed, only for memory, and not to be spoken."] First, the King of Spain has long sought to disturb the Queen's Majesty in her own kingdom, at home, by corrupting divers noblemen to rebel against her, and, when this could not prevail, by an open invasion with his navy, termed "invyncyble," which by God's providence was overthrown. Since, as well as before, he has wrought upon divers subjects in other kingdoms to divide them from their sovereigns, as in France by setting up the League, and now in Scotland by comforting rebellious Earls against the King; and, to the intent he may have good colour for his unjust actions, he has drawn in the Popes (in whom commonly he purchases particular interest at their creation) to make the pretext of religion, and for that purpose he makes missions thither of priests, Jesuits and seminaries. The Spanish King, having found bad success in many of these courses, bethought himself of the most convenient way to annoy the realm of England, which was by setting practice on foot in Scotland. Understanding that there were in Scotland divers noblemen badly affected and backward in religion, of proud, unquiet spirits and of small living, he assailed them by two ways; first, by Jesuits of their kindred and acquaintance to confirm them in their obstinacy; secondly, to engage themselves by taking money of him, to be at his devotion, to receive strangers, to deliver harbours and "holdes" for them, whereby he might afterwards work his malice upon the state of England.

(You hereby seeing his purpose, it remains that you understand how he and they have proceeded in Scotland. "By aucthoritie yow may know that no religion is openly professed and established but the profession of the Gospell, not different in any substance from ours, yet where those lords are is there muche excercise of the contrary.") There are three Earls, one called Huntly, who is of the family of the Gordons. His uncle, James Gordon, is a Jesuit and has been a messenger both to Spain and Rome from him and to him. The second is the Earl of Angus: his name is Douglas; of his name there are many Protestants, but he is a Papist, and Spanish. The third is the Earl of Errol, whose name and family are Hay. He is no less Popish than Spanish. These by the persuasion of the Jesuits and other adherents grew enemies to all the noblemen who were professors of religion, as the Stewarts, a name allied to the King and of great honour; amongst whom one is called the Earl of Murray, whom Huntly treacherously slew. These three Earls five years since took arms against the King at the raid called "the Brig of Dee." All their forces were paid by the King of Spain. Since that time the conspiracy of the Spanish Blanks was discovered by her Majesty's means, and they have been attainted in Parliament. Now, finding themselves oppressed, they daily send for forces, and have had money sent them with which they prepare themselves in all insolency to resist the King, who intends to go or send against them, and has already been offered 1000 men paid by his burghs to go against them. Lastly, when certain persons who came out of the Low Countries were apprehended at Aberdeen, the King's town, the Earls forcibly took possession of them and hold them all, which may inform you that these are dangerous traitors to the King, and that the Queen has reason to encourage the King to pursue them. They are favoured by many allies in Court, and specially by the Humes, who are inward with the King and backward in religion. The Duke of Lennox is to be courteously used in company or discourse. Lord Hamilton is next heir to the crown of Scotland if the King dies without heir, and therefore to be used by you with respect, if he come to you, as one of good religion and a friend to the amity of England.

Because you shall haply hear talk of Bothwell, this you may know. He is a nobleman of great birth, a Stewart, and loved by the ministry and towns because he professes religion and now is opposed to the Popish Earls. Yet he is more in the King's indignation than any; for he, being disgraced and banished from Court, suddenly approached the King's person in his chamber, possessed his Court and sought to govern the King, who was in fear of his life; and though for that time he was content to forgive him in show, yet is he most odious to him. Bothwell had also of late gathered forces with pretence to be revenged on Lord Hume. But, coming to Edinburgh, the King himself came into the field against him; and, though he retired quietly, yet has this redoubled the King's displeasure, and he remained attainted as well as the others. But of this matter or man you are not to make mention to the King or any other; but if the King should chance to say anything to you, as imputing that the Queen has showed some favour to him, you may say clearly that, though you know nothing of those affairs, yet you have heard that the Queen has misliked him ever since that dishonour offered to the King; and that you have heard her even in Court publicly avow the detestation of the fact. You may say that you think that, as he has such commandment on the Borders and as her Majesty's subjects have had many losses redressed by his means, the gentlemen or people there may have, underhand, harboured him without the Queen's privity, and therein nothing moved them more than the opinion that the King had pardoned him, and that he was an enemy to the Papists. This you may "seeme" to have heard, but not to have any direction to deal in; concluding further that you have heard and know, that the Queen has proclaimed that whosoever shall receive or aid him shall incur the penalty of her indignation; and that this is inviolably observed and shall be.

[In the margin in Sir Robert Cecil's hand: "Here only beginneth such speach as your lordship shall deliver besyds your first complement."] You shall, therefore, after the first compliment of congratulation, say to the King that her Majesty has been wonderfully well satisfied with his kingly resolution to proceed forthwith to suppress these dangerous persons who are so engaged in foreign practice that it cannot be safe for him while they have any means to kindle such a fire in his kingdom, and it is a comfort to her to hear that his people and good subjects are furnishing him with forces to be employed against them. This they would sooner have done if sooner the King had used more roundness in declaring himself against them; so if the King should now give any underhand show of favour, though even in matter of small moment, the opinion and fame hereof (which is even the greatest oracle to the vulgar who judge by outward shows) will "abate the hartis" of those who now are resolved to pursue them, and will add force and means to the contrary party to fortify themselves, and make them able to put the King's own estate and religion in danger. If, now, the conduct of the action be committed to such as are affected to them, or if breath be given them to receive foreign force, their pursuit will vanish to smoke, and in short time they will be only instruments of the subversion of the whole of his estate and kingdom.

If he make answer to this that he does what he can, and must be enabled or else cannot do it, and that the Queen knows it well, your answer in that case may very well be that, although in particular you are not informed to answer him because his own ambassadors have returned her own reasons, yet this you have heard her say, that she has both heretofore and now of late had as great a consideration of his occasions as her own affairs would permit, being forced to help the French King and the Low Countries, and being likewise daily in attention of her enemies' malicious practices; yea, and that you heard heard Majesty affirm, and that the opinion of all the wisest is, that with a resolute expedition now in time he shall be very well able with the very strength of his own country to subdue this rebellious faction within his own realm, considering by how many second collateral means that party may be weakened by those who have particular feuds against them.

If, haply, he shall say that he has trusted to her Majesty and that if he would take help of others he might live in better safety and quiet, you may answer that you never heard any man doubt so much of his own piety towards God or judgment in the world as either to adhere to him who is an enemy to God's cause or to trust that a Spaniard would ever help him but with hope to make him a prey for his own ambition, and therefore the least support from her Majesty who is incorporated into his fortune ought to balance the greatest proportion of help that could be derived from any such who would desire no better advantage than, by colour of being joined in strait friendship with him, to "bransle" all the kings, princes and estates of Europe that are his friends; whereby, being severed from them, he should be left subject to his appetite who never yet came as an adjutor, but with an end to be a possessor. Therefore you may conclude that you would be glad, with the news of his good health, the Queen's and the young Prince's, to bring certain report of his further progress in the affairs which so essentially import him.

The reason may also well be made by your lordship that, if the King shall give any new causes of suspicion that he will make any favourable agreement with the Earls, it will alter the minds of those of his nobility who now are "oposyte" to them, making them doubt that after the reconcilement all manner of revenge shall be "incerted" upon their own shoulders by those Earls for doing the King's service in their prosecution. If you confer with Mr. Bowes in all these things he can best tell you how they are to be used and when.

7 pp. Draft in the hand of Burghley's clerk. Endorsed.

Fair copy of the same, omitting the paragraph in brackets. (Vol. 52, p. 88.)

Another copy. Calig D.ii., fo. 216.

324. Elizabeth to James VI. [c. Aug. 10] Printed in Tytler's History, ix. p. 138–139; spelling modernised.

I make a note of my happy destiny, in beholding my luck so fortunate as to be the baptiser of both father and son, so dear unto me; and pray Almighty God to bless you both. Believe that I never counsel or advise you aught which tends not chiefly to your good; and I conjure you that, receiving so assured knowledge of what your lewd lords mean, you neglect not God's good warning. All kings have not had so true espiers of their harm, but have felt it before they heard it; but I, in whom you never yet found guile, "am best testimony of your to to many fortellars." I request you to bear with the youth of this noble Earl, and to have honourable regard to him for his good nature and his parentage, being of my blood, and coming from a prince of whom you may make surest account.

¾ p. Copy. Endorsed: "Copie of her Majestie's letter to the King of Scotts."

325. Elizabeth to Queen Anne. [August.]

Some time ago we received extreme pleasure by learning from our ambassador of the birth of the young Prince, and would have congratulated you before, if Baron Zouche, our ambassador, had been able to come to your presence, as we charged him divers times. But although there was then some hindrance, we have since been infinitely rejoiced not only by the announcement of the tidings by the King, but also by the honourable invitation to assist at the baptism. We send the Earl of Sussex, Viscount Fitzwaters, (fn. 9) as our representative. The love and hereditary friendship which united us to the late King, your father, we would at all times show to yourself, and reiterate our good wishes for the prosperity and felicity of the Prince, [etc., with other formal compliments].

1 p. Broadsheet: in French. Copy. Endorsed by Burghley's clerk: Aug. 1594. Minute of her Majesties letter to the Queen of Scottes by the Earl of Sussex."

Another copy of the same (vol. 52, p. 87).

Draft of the same in English, with corrections in Burghley's hand.

326. Ordering of the Chapel for the Baptism. [c. Aug.10] Harl. MSS. 4637, C. fol. 140.

"The forme and ordering of the chapell for the baptisme."

In primis, in the north-east corner of the chapel shall be placed his Majesty's seat upon a platform of two steps' height, whereupon shall be set his Majesty's chair and table, covered with a fine table-cloth of "fresit" (fn. 10) cloth of gold covering the steps before the table and part of the floor.

Next, upon the same platform to the westward on his Majesty's right hand shall be placed a chair for the King of France, who was invited and promised to send his ambassador to the baptism. Thirdly, in the east end of the kirk to the southward on his Majesty's left hand shall be "dressit" [i.e. prepared] a seat for the Queen of England, environed with a travese (fn. 11), where her ambassador to the baptism shall be placed. He shall have his own officers to serve him in all things requisite. Next thereto shall be placed a chair for the resident ambassador of England. Fourthly, shall be placed the ambassadors for Denmark on his Majesty's right hand, next the chair of the ambassador of France. Fifthly, shall be placed next to the ambassadors of England the ambassadors of Brunswick and Mecklenburg (Maiklenburgh) in "semball" [i.e. similar] chairs, with a table set before them, covered with a velvet "tapye" [? tapestry]. Sixthly, shall be placed the ambassadors of the Estates, next to the ambassadors of Denmark, set in chairs with tables, covered with velvet, before them. Item, all the stage whereupon the said seats are to be placed, to be covered with tapestry, and all the rest of the floor in front of the seats within the choir to be covered in like manner.

Item, that no man enter within the barrier except those appointed by his Majesty and Council, viz.: The lords that bear the honours, the barons that bear the pall, the noblemen and councillors and ministers for the execution of the action, Lady Mar, the ladies of honour, Mistress Nurse ("Maistresse Nureis") and a "rokkar," with the four persons appointed to be on his Majesty's stage, viz.: Master of the Wardrobe; Captain of the Guard; Thomas Erskine, Gentleman of the Chamber; Mr. Peter Young, Great Eleemosynar.

Item, that a table be set in front of the pulpit, whereupon shall be placed the crown ducal, and the basin, laver and other things borne before the Prince to the kirk. A form to be set on the east side of the pulpit for the lords, knights and other strangers that shall be appointed within the barrier, accompanied with those of his Majesty's Council who may not have the commodity to be placed within the "daskis" appointed for the nobility.

"The ordoure how the Prince salbe convoyit to the Kirk."

First, he shall be transported from his own chamber to the Queen's chamber of presence, where he shall be laid upon his bed of estate "dressit on thre stageis in princelie forme and coverit with ane lawne claith cuming furth ane large place of the flure."

At the coming in of the ambassadors Lady Mar, accompanied with "Maistres Nureis" and such ladies as she shall think meet, shall take the Prince and deliver him to the Duke of Lennox to be presented to the ambassadors, who shall all come to receive the Prince at his hand. He shall be borne to the kirk by the chief ambassador present, accompanied with the rest of the ambassadors, marching in their rank, followed by Lady Mar, the dames of honour, "Maistres Nureis, rokeris and sic utheris as salbe appointit," and convoyed by trumpets, heralds, and bearers of the honours, (fn. 12) viz.: Lord Hume the crown, Livingstone the towel, Seton the basin, Sempill (Sympill) the laver. The pall to be borne by the Lairds of Buccleuch, Cessford, Dudhope and Traquhair (Tracquair).

The Prince's robe royal to be fastened about him, the tail lying over the arms of the ambassador that bears him and borne by the Lords of Sinclair and Urquhart, and with some of the senators appointed to convoy and entertain the ambassadors during their going to and being in the kirk. The time of his convoying to the kirk a number of the most honest men of Edinburgh shall stand in rank betwixt the chapel door and the door of the raanse [?] of the new "werk" [i.e. building].

At their coming to the kirk his Majesty shall rise from his seat to receive the ambassadors at their incoming in the choir, where the ambassador that bore the Prince shall deliver him in the same form as he was received; thereafter he shall be delivered to the "Maistresse Nureis and the rokkeris" to attend upon him in the chapel.

The sermon finished, the minister appointed for the baptism shall stand up before the pulpit and "do the haill actioun" in Latin, during which time his Majesty and the ambassadors shall stand up, and the Prince to be presented to the minister by the ambassador that bore him to the kirk.

The whole action finished and thanks given to God, they shall return in the same order as they came. When they come to the chamber of presence the Prince shall be laid upon his bed of honour, and thereafter be made and styled Knight and Baron of Renfrew, Lord of the Isles, Earl of Carrick, Duke of Rothesay (Rothissay), Prince and "Stewart" of Scotland,—which shall be published by sound of trumpet and voice of heralds; and thereafter a largesse to be cried and silver to be cast among the people at the discretion of the directors. Immediately thereafter these who are to be made knights shall be dubbed in the hall next to the said chamber. After the Prince shall have received his styles, the ambassadors in his Majesty's presence shall deliver their presents, which shall be placed upon a table prepared for that cause.

These things being done, the ambassadors shall be convoyed to their rooms till supper, when persons shall be appointed to accompany them to the hall, where their Majesties shall be at their incoming; and there the ambassadors to be placed at table in the same form and rank as in the kirk.

"The forme and ordour of the service."

The first service to be brought in and placed on the table by barons, lairds and gentlemen that are to be made knights, convoyed by the Great Master and four ordinary Masters of Household, conform to a minute made of all the officers that are to serve that day. The second service to be brought in upon the chariot of triumph, drawn by a Moor, accompanied with six personages. The third service to be brought in upon the chariot of triumph drawn by a lion. The fourth service shall be brought in by a ship sailing with her sails out until she come to the mid-hall, where she shall set her main top-sail. Item, all the said services to be convoyed by the Great Master and ordinary Masters of Household; the chariot of triumph and the ship at every time with divers sorts of music and instruments for the delectation of the hearers; and the Great Eleemosynar shall say the grace. And thus, supper finished and the boards removed, the great ball shall begin.

3½ pp. Probably a draft, with corrections.

327. Robert Bowes to Burghley. [Aug. 13.]

Yesternight after 8 o'clock I received your letters of the 7th, perceiving thereby that her Majesty is moved by the view of some matters specified in my former letters (the instrument to stop my own passage) to forbear to call me from hence suddenly or to send hither some new man unacquainted, and also has willed your lordship to advertise me hereof, and to let me know that she will presently give order for a good sum of money to be delivered to me by way of aid, besides my ordinary entertainment. Before the receipt of your letter I had sent from hence by land and sea to Newcastle, Berwick and other places the most part of my household stuff, apparel, writings and other furniture. I had prepared all things for my departure, and I fully trusted to have obtained the happiness to have seen her Majesty before my end, which my present weakness, estate and case prognosticate to be at hand. Her Majesty's pleasure has been, is, and shall be a law to me contentedly to obey her will, and for her honour and service to offer and give my body to sacrifice. I thank her for this intended aid, which I shall gladly employ in her service here, for the furtherance whereof I have especially sought to be particularized upon the present conditions, which I would gladly have imparted to her by word. By some convenient means I shall shortly renew the memory of my disabilities, working great hindrance in her Majesty's service here, and my own estate oppressed many ways, chiefly with the loss of 2000 marks yearly for the space of these five years last past, and this burden, still continuing on me by my abode here, much hinders the expedition of the payment of my debts to her Majesty and utterly beggars myself and all "comed of me." Nevertheless I shall with all loyalty and diligence to the uttermost of my power continue my service here, agreeable to her Majesty's pleasure, and until the effects "remembred" shall be renewed and opened for me.

Half an hour before the receipt of your letter I received another from Mr. David Foulis, certifying the prorogation of the baptism to the 25th instant. Of this prorogation I have advertised Mr. John Cary that he may acquaint the Earl of Sussex therewith on his coming to Berwick, and have also written to the Earl; and, hearing that the house of Stirling could not be made ready at the prescribed day, I have prophesied this prorogation and the allegation of the cause given out purposely to qualify the delay of the King's raid against the forfeited Earls. This delay of the King's raid deeply wounds the hearts of the well affected in regard that many doubt of his sincere meaning therein, and that it is commonly seen in experience that the defeat or drift of appointments brings slow execution and hard success.

Because Mr. David Foulis has certified that a good number of islesmen (meaning Donald Gorham and "his companyes") are going towards Ireland (wherein I do not certainly know with what truth or mind he writes the same), and that by letter from the Lord Clerk Register it appears that Donald has gathered his forces for other exploit than Ireland, therefore I enclose the letters of the Clerk Register (fn. 13) and of Mr. Foulis that you may judge of the truth in the same. Please keep to yourself these letters that the parties be not prejudiced by me or my means. By credible intelligence sent to me from the west parts in this realm and given by other persons here of good quality, the information of the Clerk Register is confirmed, adding further that Donald has come from Tarbet to return home. The Countess of Argyll has come to the Earl of Morton, her father, at Dalkeith, and an especial friend of mine is requested to come first to her, and next to ride to her husband, and by this means I trust to learn further truth touching Donald's voyage to Ireland, and to procure Argyll's help to divert him if he is purposed indeed to invade any part there. I find Argyll ready, with the advice of the Kirk, to proceed in the cause against Huntly and the rest, wherein he shall be whetted by many good means.

"It is informed" that the forfeited Earls have sought to levy men in Sutherland and Caithness and to entertain them with pay, but they cannot prevail therein; that they now travail to tempt the courtiers with gold to win the King to grant them to live quietly at home, with liberty of conscience, and, if they cannot obtain this, that then they will depart and pass by sea, but to what parts it is not known. For their passage they have prepared three barques under Thomas Sutherland, David Hay, and one other (of whom I have before written). It is given out that Lord Hume, whilst he was beyond the water, spoke with some sent from Huntly, and has persuaded Huntly to enter into some new offers to satisfy the King and Kirk and to depart out of the realm, which Huntly, by the advice of Mr. Walter Lindsay, will not do but with condition to have liberty of his conscience; and that Sir George Hume lately met, at Dunblane, with one sent from Huntly, and after long conference he returned to the King, expending three hours in secret speech with him. It is suspected that some personages of honour and great quality purposing to attend upon the King shall seek to persuade him to execute some few of the base sort of the offenders to deliver the rest from peril, and therewith to satisfy the crying ministers and people, and that, if the King will prosecute the Earls with rigour, these noblemen will not stick to preserve them from hurt. It is told me that Huntly assembled his friends to know what their parts shall be for his defence, if the King sh . . . (fn. 14) ade him. Whereunto all the Gordons of estimation, except Buckie and two with him, declared that they would not take part against the King and Kirk.

The ambassador for Mecklenburg, intending (as I was warned) to draw me to broach the matter for Bothwell (Argonartes), sought to have speech with me, but I have prevented this. I dare not deal therein without further direction and warrant, and therewith I trust that I may be instructed with what especial offices and courtesies I shall entertain the ambassadors that my course taken with every several person may please her Majesty. Finally, resting now in grievous fetters and expecting to be delivered by her Majesty's seasonable grace or by the stroke of hasty death, the end of all worldly miseries, I right humbly pray you to further the expedition of my delivery. Edinburgh. Signed: Robert Bowes.

Postscript.—Please give order that this letter addressed to the Secretary may be delivered to him, as Mr. David Foulis desires. This day, at the closing up of these presents, I received your packet of the 8th instant, filled only with sundry letters sent by the Secretary, and I have caused all these letters to be delivered.

3 pp. Addressed. Endorsed by Burghley's clerk.

Enclosure with the same.

(Mr. David Foulis to Robert Bowes.)

In respect his Majesty has not heard from England or France of their ambassadors' "incumming," he has this day prorogued the baptism to the 25th instant. Your lordship may advertise accordingly. His Majesty is most desirous to have it ended to the effect he may hasten his expedition to the north. I hear a good number of our islesmen are going towards Ireland. I leave to your consideration what it may "breid." Stirling. Signed: D. Foulis.

Postscript.—Will you do me the favour to send this letter to the Secretary as soon as you have occasion to write yourself ? His Majesty desires your lordship to write to the Governor of Berwick for the passage of Cuthbert Raynie and Edward Dodsworth (Dodsuart), hunters; which he does not doubt you will do, "seing ye lovit the game your selfe sum tymes." He marvels for what cause they should be "stayet" there. This my letter to him is for that effect also. 12th August 1594.

½ p. Addressed. Endorsed by Bowes.

Two small red wax seals.

328. Sir Richard Cockburn to Burghley. [Aug. 15.]

For the receipt of her Majesty's letter to the King and your wish for further answer to my satisfaction I yield your lordship most hearty thanks. If the answer received be to his Majesty's satisfaction, I shall rest well contented. For my own particular interest, the good countenance and gracious usage received of her Majesty may well serve as a full recompense for the undertaking of this journey, which I am from my heart sorry has not produced the wished effects. Yet I hope, having dealt always sincerely and not exceeded my instructions, that his Majesty shall account of my procedure as my devotion to his service has merited. In the meantime, I have resolved some little stay here till I be acquainted with his Majesty's further pleasure. I have directed the bearer to satisfy your lordship in the other contents of your letter. London. Signed: R. Cokburne.

⅓ p. Addressed. Endorsed by Burghley's clerk.

329. Jerome Lindsay to [Mr. John Colville]. [Aug. 16.] Printed in Colville's Letters, p. 262.

The commission, of which I wrote before, is true; for the gentlemen themselves, at their landing, wrote to the town of Aberdeen, desiring to pass through, because they were directed from so many Catholic princes to the King's Majesty. There is a great dealing betwixt Sir George Hume, Thomas Erskine, Patrick Murray and Sir James Chisholm with some other Papists who remain at Dunblane. The three Earls are secretly buying armour and feeing horsemen. They look for Spaniards to serve them for footmen. They are in great hope, and laugh at all that is done against them here. They are busier dealing in the Protestants' lands here than the King is in dealing of theirs. They have made their catalogues of such as they will slay and such as they will save. These things I have of the minister at Aberdeen, (fn. 15) who came here on Tuesday last. I am put in hope to be "set upon" some armour which they have "coft" [i.e. bought] here, and some soldiers that are hired to go to them. Advertise me what to do. The rest to my father's (fn. 16) coming from Stirling. Farewell. Signed: Pudicus [Jerome Lindsay].

½ p. No fly-leaf or address. Endorsed by Mr. John Colville. "The 16 of August 1594"; and by Cecil's clerk: "16 Aug. 1594. Mr. Jerome Lyndsay." Faded.

330. Mr. James Murray to "faythfull Gawane." [Aug. 16.]

Although we be absent in body, which is my greatest grief, yet shall we never be absent in heart. I hope in that blessed God Who has both preserved you and delivered me that He shall perform the rest in His due time. Mr. Bowes (S) (fn. 17) has "schawin" me some very favourable instructions sent to him by Sir Robert Cecil in my favour. "Quhome of" [i.e. from whom] it proceeds, I can not tell surely as yet, but I pray you to thank Sir Robert for his great favour, undeserved on my part. Albeit I am well acquainted with his father, I was never acquainted with him. There is a great and mischievous plot set down here against the Queen (P) and the Duke of Lennox (O) for their disgrace. "I hoip in God sall work sum guid" (sic.). I pray you so far as you may in your parts be their friend, for I will make your service and goodwill manifest to them both. The King (Q) is in great fear of "Liander" at this time. If he can have grace to guide himself, will God [he] will do well enough. As for news, the King is very busy preparing all for his banquet. But I cannot hear that there will be very many noblemen at it, for his "requeistes" are refused and he is compelled to send charges to them. The Chancellor was not minded to have been present, but now I hear that he will be there upon the King's earnest request. I hear of no Earls but Marishal and Montrose. Glencairn is charged to come. Hamilton will not be there. The jealousy increases daily betwixt the Duke, Mar and Hamilton. The wind begins to blow very loud amongst them, "quhilk is abill to turne to ane storme." Sweet Mr. Bowes (S) and his faithful bedfellow remain your constant friends. I pray you be of good comfort, for God who has "revellnit" (sic) you from time to time, "it cane nocht be bot he will performe." I pray to the great God for you, and present my hearty commendations to your bedfellow and all your bairns.

1½ p. Addressed "To faythfull Gawane." Endorsed by Mr. John Colville: "16 of Agoust 1594," and by Cecil's clerk "Mr. James Murrey." Some names of persons in cipher deciphered.

331. Robert Bowes to Burghley. [Aug. 17.]

It is resolutely determined by the King and Council that the baptism of the Prince shall be solemnized at Stirling on Sunday the 25th instant, and be no longer prorogated for any cause whatsoever, as I have advertised Sussex. The King has showed himself wholly bent to set forward all his forces against the forfeited Earls on the 26th of this month, agreeable to the proclamation, and on the third day after the baptism to follow in person. The ministers have much persuaded the expedition of this journey, and thereon the King offers (as I hear) to proceed at the time limited if he may be accompanied with 400 footmen and 200 horsemen, levied and maintained by the burghs, as before has been offered. But the Council have been credibly informed that the scarcity of all victuals is so great in the north parts that the King and his army cannot be sustained before the corn (yet green and not ripe) shall be gathered. It is also thought dangerous to adventure the King's person in field with insufficient force, and therefore it is thought meet by the Council to defer the King's raid until the last of September. The King is not advertised of this act of Council concluded this day in Edinburgh, yet it is looked that this order and prorogation shall be allowed and stand in force.

I have been informed that at this baptism the forfeited Earls will offer to submit themselves for the satisfaction of her Majesty, the King and the Kirk, under such provisions as shall be found profitable for both realms, [and] that this offer is chiefly devised to stop all motions for Bothwell and to win time to the rebels. Mr. Walter Lindsay is the chief instrument in these practices, and it is given out that he has received a liberal share in parting [i.e. dividing] the 30,000 crowns lately brought in with Mr. James Gordon and by the "Falker" of Brussels, who is taken to be a Spaniard, and remains with Huntly. Besides, Mr. Walter is so warm in Papistry that it is gathered that he will not now give advice to the Earls to shrink in their Catholic religion.

Alan MacKendowy (Mackendowye), a follower of Huntly, has lately slain thirty-three men and two women under MacIntosh, and thereon MacIntosh has slain twelve of MacKendowy's men. The King has earnestly moved Lord Hamilton and other noblemen to be present at the baptism. But Lord Hamilton excuses himself, alleging that he cannot come to Stirling without greater guard for his person than is fit for him to bring thither. Some for him have been lately with me—pressing me in the effects before "remembred," and wherein I have taken the course directed by your lordship. But no words now, without some taste of his desire, can give him contentment, as shortly will further "breake" and be known, and wherein I humbly pray to be holden blameless. Edinburgh. Signed: Robert Bowes.

1⅓ pp. Addressed. Endorsed by Cecil's clerk.

332. Robert Bowes to Sir Robert Cecil. [Aug. 17.]

Forasmuch as by your letter of 22nd July your advertised me that Sir Thomas Parry should have order to deal with the King for Mr. James Murray, who presently has great need of her Majesty's commendation, which he well deserved, and because I fear that Sir Thomas Parry shall be stayed for longer time than Mr. Murray's distressed case can endure without his prejudice, therefore I renew this matter to your honour, praying you to be "mean" that her Majesty may by letter give to the Earl of Sussex the like order to deal with the King for Mr. Murray as before was given to Sir Thomas Parry. Finding by Lord Burghley's letter that my revocation is prorogated, I intend with the next opportunity to make the true condition of my wretched estate known to her Majesty and him, that provision may be taken for the benefit of her Majesty's service here and some compassion had for me and my miseries. Edinburgh. Signed: Robert Bowes.

½ p. Addressed. Endorsed by Cecil's clerk.

333. The Train of Sussex. [Aug. 20.]

"To attend the Erle of Sussex into Scotland." Lord Wharton, Sir Henry Bromley, Mr. Hugh Portman, Mr. Henry Guildford, Mr. Oliver Cromwell (Crumwell), Mr. Thomas Monson, Mr. Henry Clare, Mr. Edward Greville, Mr. Nicholas Sanderson, Mr. Edward Gorges, Mr. William Jeffson.

½ p. Endorsed: "20 Aug. 1594. The names of such as attend the Earl of Sussex into Scotland."

334. Robert Bowes to Burghley. [Aug. 22.]

On the 19th instant I received your letter of the 14th by which I understand that the coming of the Earl of Sussex was not likely to be before Monday the 19th. I was informed by George Douglas of Long Niddry (Lange Nedderye), newly returned from the ambassador at London, that the Earl would certainly enter on his journey on the 19th, that the carriages with her Majesty's presents to the Prince were already at Berwick, and that the Earl's carriages were near Berwick, yet the train accompanying him, and to be served by post, was so great and the ways presently so foul and troublesome that he could not conveniently come to Stirling before Tuesday the 27th at the soonest, so that if the baptism be not prorogued for some days he could not be present. Of these circumstances I have advertised the King by letter, leaving wholly to his pleasure to proceed in or prorogue the baptism. All the ambassadors here, particularly for Denmark, earnestly press for expedition, so that I do not know whether the time shall be any further adjourned. This delay of the coming of her Majesty's ambassador is diversely interpreted and the King appears to be much perplexed therewith. But his lordship's repair hither, which I trust shall be in good season, will readily quench all surmised reports and yield satisfaction to the King and this estate.

The King continues at Stirling, having called thither all the ambassadors to this baptism. I myself abide here attending the coming of Sussex. Because nothing is hitherto heard of the French ambassador, promised to have been sent with the Laird of Wemyss, therefore it is now not looked that any shall be sent by the French King to this baptism.

Whereas it is her Majesty's pleasure to have me to stay somewhat longer, and has given order to pay me 200l. by way of aid to enable me, as I think, both to sustain the extraordinary charges at this time and also to clear and end this service with good contentment to all parties with whom I have dealt, and whereas your lordship desires to know whether it shall be sent hither to me or paid at London, therefore I pray that this sum may be delivered for me to William Craven, woollen draper, at the sign of the Sun in Watling Street, in London, in satisfaction of so much money newly received here by me of William Milbourn, servant to Mr. Craven. For the defray of this money I shall give account at my coming. In all other parts of your letter I shall with the next opportunity, and upon my further negotiation of the same, advertise your lordship of my doings and success.

The Baron of Broderode and Monsieur de Valca, ambassadors for the Low Countries, have earnest desire to see her Majesty in their return, praying therefore with good expedition to have safe conduct for them and their company to pass through England, with commission for post horses at their own charges. In like manner John Earl of Gowrie, purposing to travel to Italy and other foreign places for his instruction, heartily prays to have safe conduct for him and four or five in his company to pass through England with his own horses. He intends to pass very quietly and with all the speed he can, praying to have this safe conduct with best expedition. May these requests be presented to her Majesty, and may I receive timely direction to answer and satisfy them therein ?

It is advertised to me by letters that Argyll has given forth his proclamations to convene his forces, intending to set forwards against Huntly on the 31st of this month; that he has again reconciled MacConnell (Mackonel) and MacLean and agreed with Donald Gorm, and they all will join their forces with him, whereby his army will amount to 8000 men; that Atholl prepares likewise to join with Argyll; that Huntly has likewise made his proclamations to gather his forces to withstand Argyll; and that Mar and others in Court mislike Argyll's course herein, saying that he will be met and fought withal to his great peril. As these courtiers use all means to stay him, so many well affected prick him forward in this action, the progress whereof is not yet very certain, and Argyll shall be well comforted and aided by many good men.

It is told me that Mr. Walter Lindsay, the chief instrument and counsellor for the forfeited Earls, with the "Bauker" of Brussels and one of the Englishmen arrived lately at Aberdeen, has departed by sea for Flanders. Some think that Mr. James Gordon, the Jesuit, is in their company, but by others I am informed that he remains still with Huntly. Huntly and the rest have sought that the King would give audience to their solicitors in offers for his satisfaction, and, being denied, it was required that the King's Council might hear the solicitors; which was likewise refused, and thereon request was made that one councillor might be authorised to deal in that cause. Since this motion the Master of Glamis (as I hear) has spoken with Huntly and others of them, and it is deemed that he has the King's commission in that behalf. Yet I have heard that very lately the King has uttered sharp words against the Master, testifying that he thinks himself greatly abused by him. But with what mind the King has thus spoken is not well known. Huntly and the rest have been lately in Angus, where Bothwell has been also, and some conference has passed by mediators (as I hear) to reconcile Bothwell and Huntly, or to take some order and course betwixt them. In all this your lordship will be certified, I trust, by others with better certainty than I give. Edinburgh. Signed: Robert Bowes.

2²/3 pp. Addressed. Endorsed by Cecil's clerk.

335. Earl of Argyll to James VI. [Aug. 26.]

According to direction I sent out men to invade the highland men, assisters of your Majesty's rebels in the north, who, perceiving their "wrack and skaith" thereby before their eyes, were forced to "come speake" with me and are willing to adhere to me and the rest of your Highness's deputies, if you would direct to them a special charge in a missive letter to the effect foresaid, that thereby they might be resolved of your Majesty's will, for Huntly and his associates press by all means to persuade them that you have directed this commission against them "for the fashon onelie." Therefore please to direct your letters that the action may be easier. Garvred.

¼ p. Copy in the hand of Bowes's clerk.

336. Robert Bowes to Burghley. [Aug. 27.]

I have received your letters of the 18th and 20th instant, together with another packet of the 20th, stuffed with letters to Mr. David Foulis and Roger Aston. All the letters to others I have sent to Stirling to the parties to whom they were addressed. With great difficulty the King has drawn the ambassadors at Stirling to consent that the baptism be deferred until to-morrow, the 28th, with express promise that they shall be permitted to depart homewards on Thursday next. Upon this prorogation (accorded on the 23rd) the King wrote to me certifying his doings therein and requiring me to direct an especial person to the Earl of Sussex, and also sent George Douglas of Long Niddry to inform him of these proceedings, and earnestly to require him to hasten his journey that he may be present at the baptism. George Douglas has passed in post to Sussex, and I have sent my servant with the King's letter and with advertisement of other circumstances touching this cause and to move his lordship to use the best speed he can agreeable to his instructions. The solemnities and banquets began on Sunday last, the 25th, and shall be continued until the end of the baptism, so that the ambassadors may depart on Thursday.

This morning Sussex certified me by letter that he will be here this night, and pass forward to Stirling with all expedition. He has sent Mr. Rowles with his letter to the King with request to put over the baptism until Friday next. I have provided that the Queen and Council at Stirling shall be effectually moved to further this prorogation, which haply may be granted. Before this I procured the King's passport for Sussex's train, and, getting the privy seal to the same on the 16th instant, I sent it that day towards his lordship.

By late advertisement, given me by two honest persons of Irvine and by a baron adjoining, I am informed that Donald Gorm landed at the Route near the Band and other places thereabouts in Ireland with 1800 Scottishmen of the Isles to aid the rebels there, and that James M'Sorley, the son of Sorley Boy [M'Donnell], received these Scots, who tarried little time, but returned back upon directions sent to them from the Isles commanding their retreat. It is still confirmed that some of Donald's companies departed from him and retired home, as by the Clerk Register and others in the west has been certified; whereupon it was conceived that Donald and his forces, being on the seas and numbering above 3000 men, were scattered and turned home. Of this I shall shortly give more perfect information, for some of the ministry here have presently ridden to the Earl of Argyll, by whom the truth may be learned, and who shall be effectually moved for her Majesty to stay, so far as he can, all the loose and broken people in the Isles and coasts thereabouts in Scotland from entering into Ireland to aid any of her rebels, and also to call home all such Scottishmen as presently are giving them support. Upon return of these ministers (looked to be within ten or twelve days) I shall give you further knowledge in these behalfs. Albeit sundry seek to stay Argyll's journey with his forces against Huntly, yet hitherto he cannot be dissuaded, and has his forces in readiness to proceed with expedition, which (I think) shall not be hindered by the advice and exhortations of these ministers thus quietly and suddenly gone to him.

In the part of your letter touching the verses written by Mr. Andrew Melville, and printed by Robert Waldegrave, I shall with the next opportunity proceed as directed, and advertise you of my success. At present the King and Waldegrave are at Stirling and I am bound to attend in this town the coming of Sussex, and to meet him this day.

The Laird of Logie, coming to the banquet at Stirling on Saturday last, was taken by John Hume of Crumstane, captain of 50 horsemen, and committed to ward in Blackness by the King's commandment. This is done for Bothwell's cause, which Logie greatly favours, and presently it is thought that Bothwell shall receive little relief or comfort at this banquet. It is told me that he has been lately tempted with large offers to be reconciled with Huntly, and that he still "holdethe him free" that he may know her Majesty's pleasure and take the advice of some godly of the Kirk. But I refer all this to the advertisement of others.

It is given out that Huntly has lately met some courtiers at Dunblane; that Lord Hume has entertained some mariners and six pilots to be sent to Spain for the convoy of the Spanish fleet; which fleet many now think shall not so hastily trouble these seas and country as has been feared. Edinburgh. Signed: Robert Bowes.

2¼ pp. Addressed. Endorsed by Cecil's clerk. Notes in the margin in Burghley's hand.

337. Burghley to the Earl of Sussex. [Aug. 28.] Cott. Calig., D.ii. fol. 192. Transcript in Harl. MSS. 4648, p. 240.

We here think that your lordship is [near arrived] to Berwick; and because by letters of the 19th from Mr. [Bow]es it is doubted whether the [chri]stening did hold upon Sunday last or not, if you shall understand certainly that the ceremony has been passed upon Sunday before your coming, her Majesty's pleasure is that you shall not [co]me into Scotland nor suffer her present to be carried thither. But you shall, as of your own discretion, without seeming to have direction from hence, advertise Mr. Bowes that you do not mean to come into Scotland, considering your message was only to be present at the baptism; and so you shall require him to declare to the King that you will not presume to come into Scotland, considering the purpose of your journey is already at an end; and yet you shall tarry at Berwick until you have further direction from hence upon such answer as you shall receive from the ambassador. But if the christening be not past, but so deferred that you may come to the same, then you shall continue your journey as before. Answer with speed how you find this matter past or not past. Greenwich. Signed: W. Burghley.

²/3 p. Addressed. Endorsed by Burghley's clerk. Edge injured by fire.

338. Sir Richard Cockburn to Burghley. [Aug. 30.]

Requesting that a packet of letters addressed to Mr. Bowes may be conveyed to Scotland by post. London. Signed: R. Cokburne.

Postscript.—I have heard no certainty of the baptism. If your lordship has received any advertisements thereof I beg to know by the bearer.

⅓ p. Holograph, also address. Endorsed by Burghley's clerk. Red wax seal.

339. Report of the Baptism of Frederick Henry Prince of Scotland. [Aug. 30.]

"A true reportarie of the most triumphant and royal accomplishment of the Baptisme of the most Excellent, right High, and mighty Prince, Frederick Henry, By the grace of God, Prince of Scotland. Solemnised the 30 day of August 1594."

"Printed by Peter Short, for the Widdow Butter, and are to be sold at her shop vnder Saint Austines Church."

[The "reportarie" narrates the coming of the ambassadors and their entertainment in Scotland before the Baptism, with an account of the pastimes and shows; the proceedings of the ceremony of the Baptism; the knighting of the Prince and proclamation of his title; the dubbing of knights, with their form of oath; a description of the banquet and concluding festivities and courtesies.]

12 pp. Black letter.

There is another copy in the British Museum (G. 6170).

340. Robert Bowes to Burghley. [Aug. 31.]

Albeit that the baptism was resolutely appointed to have been solemnized on Wednesday the 28th instant, and the ambassadors to depart on the morrow, yet upon understanding by Sussex's letter sent with Mr. Rowles that the Earl had come to Berwick on Monday last, the 26th, and would be at Stirling the Wednesday following, therefore the King and Queen put over the baptism to the next day. On the Earl's arrival at Stirling on Wednesday he sent me the same night to the King to seek further prorogation, which on the morrow, with some difficulty, was granted, and the solemnization deferred until Friday. On Thursday Sussex had presence of the King and Queen, to whom he delivered her Majesty's letters with all due compliments, and on the morrow accomplished for her Majesty all rights and ceremonies incident to the baptism, in all which he has well and honourably carried himself for her Majesty's honour and with the good liking and acceptation of the King, Queen and others. He has so sufficiently certified to Sir Robert Cecil the particularity of his actions and the effects succeeding thereon that I refer all to the view of his letter.

After the Bishop of Aberdeen (fn. 18) had baptized the Prince in the vulgar tongue of his nation and reported his words and actions in Latin, that all the ambassadors might understand what was said and done, "and that in the meanetyme some other acte passed," he entered into the pulpit and in Latin discoursed of the genealogies, alliances, leagues and amities contracted between the Kings of Scots and every one of the princes sending their ambassadors hither to this baptism. He laboured much to make known how this Prince was descended from these princes, "namely" [i.e. especially] from the Kings of England, and herein he sounded the great praise of her Majesty and her benefits to the King. "But he rubbed on the racke wheron Mr. Andrewe Melvill had stricken" in his verses entitled "Principis Scoti Britannorum natalia." Wherein I will shortly call for account, and thereon your lordship shall be further advertised as well what passed and shall be answered by him, as also what the King's answer shall be in allowance and commanding that Mr. Andrew Melville's verses should be imprinted.

Argyll's raid against Huntly is stayed for twenty days by the direction (as I am informed) of the King, so that many of the well affected begin to despair of seeing Huntly effectually prosecuted to his overthrow. It is said that the King has been offended that Mr. Robert Bruce and Mr. James Balfour, ministers in Edinburgh, repaired to Argyll. Wherein it was answered that Argyll sent for Mr. Bruce and the King had given order to all the ministers to exhort all noblemen and others to pursue the forfeited Earls, for the execution of which order these two persons have resorted to and travailed with Argyll. I am informed that Donald Gorme has returned home; that he intends to put away his wife, and to marry O'Donel's daughter; in which respect it is thought he is thus ready to aid O'Donel, and that he will not follow Argyll. Of all which I shall give you further certainty on my next meeting with Mr. Bruce and Mr. Balfour. Stirling. Signed: Robert Bowes.

Postscript.—The Prince is named Frederick Henry, Henry Frederick. The name "to remayne" is Henry.

1½ pp. Addressed. Endorsed by Cecil's clerk.

341. Earl of Sussex to Sir Robert Cecil. [Aug. 31.]

By reason of the foulness of weather and way on my journey I could not reach Berwick before Monday last, where I was received very honourably by Mr. Governor; and finding the baptism was to be on the Wednesday following, so that I could not be there in time with her Majesty's present, therefore I gave notice to the King, by Mr. Rowles, of my purpose to be at Stirling on Wednesday aforesaid, and sought that the baptism might be put over for a day or two, and I myself passed forwards the next day to Edinburgh, and on the day following to Stirling, leaving Mr. Coningsby (Conisby) to bring the carriages forward with her Majesty's presents. Hereupon the King and Council resolved to defer the baptism no longer than Thursday; and because I could not in that short time have convenient leisure to deliver her Majesty's letters and to have her presents presented with her honour, therefore I sent Mr. Bowes to seek further prorogation of the baptism, which with great difficulty was put over until Friday last. I received the presence of the King and Queen on Thursday, and thereon, after due compliments, I delivered to them her Majesty's letters, with declaration of my instructions touching only the baptism of the Prince, for, upon good consideration, I deferred the charge concerning the Papists and attainted Earls until better opportunity and until I should understand whether the other ambassadors had [dealt] or would deal therein.

The King and Queen have well received her Majesty's letters and the employment of me in this cause. On Friday, the 30th, the christening was solemnized, whereat precedency was given to me for her Majesty, and thereby I carried the child to and from the church, where all things were ordered with all rights for her Majesty's honour. The presents to the Prince were orderly presented and very thankfully accepted by the King and Queen and greatly admired by the Scots, Danes, Germans and Dutchmen, affirming them to be the most stately presents that ever they saw. Trusting to finish all things very shortly, I purpose, if I can and if my health shall serve me, to return on Thursday next to Edinburgh and, after my leave taken, to come forward on my journey to the Court, whereof I can give no certainty of the time, because I feel myself partly "dystempered" and I know not how readily I shall be dismissed by the King. Stirling. Signed: Ro. Sussex.

1²/3 pp. Addressed. Endorsed by Cecil's clerk. Postal notes, marking times and stages of journey.

342. Mr. Richard Coningsby to Sir Robert Cecil. [Aug. 31.]

My lord of Sussex with all the rest of his train came to Stirling on Thursday, 29th August, and on Friday, the 30th, the christening was very solemnly performed within the new chapel in Stirling, where was a very great assembly for these parts. Though I have a great desire to advertise your honour of the state of this country, the shortness of time does not permit me, nor is my acquaintance such as to enable me to satisfy my desire. My disposition is not to be much inquisitive, for I assure your honour I find no manner of content in respect of her Majesty's southern countries, and I verily believe if your honour were once here you would hold my opinion. We now look for our despatch, which we desire. Sussex has honourably performed his service. Stirling. Signed: Ry. Connyngesbey.

²/3 pp. Holograph, also address. Endorsed.

343. Mr. John Colville to Sir Robert Cecil. [Aug. 31.] Printed in Colville's Letters, pp. 120–122.

The 25th hereof the Laird of Logie was taken at Stirling and sent to the castle of Blackness, and some horse were sent to Fife in search of Spynie and Crawford, who are thought to be Bothwell's friends. Himself is thereabout, but I hope in no danger. The three Papist Earls for truth were privately at Dunblane on the 25th dealing for stay of Argyll, who is preparing against Huntly at the instigation of some of the ministry. The banquet began at Stirling on the 25th, but I hear the baptism will not be till 2nd September. Since his last coming from the north Hume has hired a great many pilots. Since the return of James Forret I have not seen Bothwell, but I go in presently to find him, to know how he will accept of the answer sent with the said Forret. Sussex at his "bygoing" would neither speak nor receive information of us, alleging he was already informed how to proceed in case the Danish ambassadors should begin first to move for Bothwell; whereat I was well pleased by reason I do not esteem it for her Majesty's service that any great intercession were made, or that Bothwell should have his peace so long as you have no certainty of Q [the King]. For if Q prove unkind (as I know he will), "it is best to ryis him with a vage of his awin wood." Though I am a Scotchman yet I am not of that number qui sibi fingunt principem Scoto-Britannorum. I doubt not your honour has seen "Natalia nostri Principis" made by some placebo to flatter our King and offend her Majesty.

On the 24th one Mr. Wellwood (Valwood), civilian in St. Andrews, spoke with me at his "bygoing." By him I saw the said Natalia and understood that he had a direction to the King from some of this realm who hated Bothwell and wished his Majesty prosperity, who, notwithstanding, wished him to "reconcile with" Bothwell for strengthening himself. Who these are I could not find out from him, "bot I sall do diligence now at my ingoing to try." But whosoever they have been, they have been no friends either to your father or yourself; for so much he said to me, not knowing how far I was "rendered" to your service. When matters occur pertinent to yourself, or when I am required by the parties (as I was in other two letters) to write specially to your honour, let it not be thought presumption in me or distrust of Mr. Lock; "bot as ever it be," let me know your own pleasure herein.

By your letter to Mr. Governor and another from Mr. Lock to myself I find you have had a great conflict with our ambassador for my removing, and that your honour "seemis informed" I am too desirous to come up. For the former I thank your honour for your courtesies; and to the other I protest that it was never in my mind to come up or to remain here but as you should direct me for her Majesty's service, to which I dedicate myself, not after my own opinions or any Scotsmen's, but by her prudent commandments. If your honour think it be not for her Majesty's service more than for any respect to these noblemen, surely I am "ill interprit." They, indeed, sundry times have pressed me to go up, taking a better opinion of my labour than I do myself. Yea P [the Queen] once requested me, but I told plainly I would do nothing without permission or commandment from above. Therefore I cannot but think there are some "that crossis me," for what cause I know not. From such, please your honour, since you are my Mecenas, let me have your "patrociny" and be not ashamed to defend and comfort me. Signed: Jo. Colville.

Postscript.—"For Mr. Forret, I sall advertis him of your pleasour."

3 pp. Holograph, also address. Endorsed by Cecil's clerk.

344. James VI. to Thirlestane. [Aug. 31.] Add MSS. 23, 241, fol. 52.

We forget not the pain and "fashierie" which you had in dealing with the partners in the Mint (Cunzehous) at the obtaining of the last silver from them. That has relieved some part of this strait, but the use that it was taken from remains destitute, and we are cast anew in no less difficulty, but rather greater than before through that and sundry other occasions, whereof we have more particularly informed the bearer and send him expressly to you that, as you have been so great a furtherance heretofore, you will now crown your own work and help this relief among the rest; whereupon depends our honour and the necessity of the "furniture" of our house, which it were more than dishonour to let fall while the strangers remain here. We can find no other "moyen" saving that which we have communicated to the bearer, whereanent we look for your "deliberat" advice and instant help as we have not wanted it heretofore "in sic tymes of pruif." Stirling. Signed: James R.

Postscript [in the King's hand].—"Helpe nou or never, for I assure you I ame not ydle for you in the meane tyme."

¾ p. Addressed.

345. Troubles of Scotland. [August.]

The present troubles of Scotland seem to grow by two especial parties.

First, from the factious Catholics, of whom Huntly, Angus and Errol are chief, as well by their personal insurrection five years since at the Bridge of Dee (at which time they paid their forces with Spanish gold), as also by their later Blanks to the King of Spain. These being intercepted, they stand now convicted by law, and yet did not fear to send over new commissioners and pledges, to strengthen places, to receive James Gord[on], with sundry Jesuits, Alle[n] and Green (fn. 19) from the Pope, and (which is testimony of their high confidence in foreign aids) to force a city of their sovereign, and to take out of Aberdeen these practisers, who were imprisoned in their Prince's name. They have friends about him, as is suspected; which should move his Majesty the more warily to look to the presence of them and to hold his own person not in safety if their designs may take place.

The other parties seem to offend their sovereign neither for malice to religion nor of purpose, but partly in a general dislike of a hard hand held by the friends of the Papists (who have chief grace in Court) against the chief of nobility, best affected and the King's nearest of blood, and partly in commiseration of Bothwell. Although these parties mislike Bothwell's later attempts of approaching his Prince's person violently, yet his humility afterwards, and readiness to give place to his adversaries at the King's command, make men hold him innocent of any treasonable purpose and to be somewhat heavily dealt with by such as, with breach of the King's princely promise, have since again condemned him after he had by a common trial of law been acquitted, and by his Majesty's letters to foreign princes been avowed a faithful and dutiful subject, which also was the cause which induced our borderers, in imitation of the universal affection of the Scottish nation, to be inclined to his relief, which yet now is utterly restrained, and yet since his return to Scotland the King [is] the more endangered and encumbered.

1⅓ pp. Draft in Henry Lock's hand. Marginal notes and corrections in Sir Robert Cecil's hand.