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Sir Thomas Fane to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1600, Dec. 1. |
Having received the enclosed, albeit the matter is altogether strange to him, yet he thought it requisite to pursue the advice thereby intimated, and therefore sends the bearer, his near kinsman, who is to be trusted.—Dover Castle, 1 Dec., 1600. |
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Holograph. ½ p. (82. 39.) |
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William Becher to the Privy Council. |
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1600, Dec. 2. |
Prays for restitution of his books and writings, the detention of which prevents him from defending himself
against demands and suits. Some of his creditors, upon Smith's slanders, have exhibited a bill in Chancery against Quarles, himself, and Lecester, surmising that he has conveyed great wealth to Quarles or another. Denies this, and explains his dealings with his property. Prays for speedy redress, or that the Council would dispose of his life also, and extend their charity to his poor wife and children, whose great want he shall not long endure to see.—2 Dec., 1600. |
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Holograph. 1 p. (82. 40.) |
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Jo. Rooper to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1600, Dec. 2. |
Prays Cecil to receive into his service his son, who has now freed himself from suspicion of recusancy by dutifully repairing to the church.—2 Dec. |
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Holograph. Endorsed :—“1600.” 1 p. (82. 42.) |
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Sir Walter Leveson to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1600, Dec. 2. |
Thanks for his favour. Has lately fallen ill, which will turn to very great inconvenience, and groweth only by his being closed in a dark melancholy lodging. Beseeches him to move the Lord Admiral that he may take the air in the garden and yard, the keeper attending him. Had rather be out of this world than to fall lame and decrepit.—From the Fleet, 2 December, 1600. |
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Holograph. Seal ¾ p. (89. 138.) |
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Henry, Lord Cobham to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1600, Dec. 2. |
This morning from Sandwich, one John Neville, an Irishman, was brought unto me, newly from Brussels, and brought with him these enclosed letters delivered unto him by John and Thomas Stanniers. Those letters which have no name came from John Stanniers, the other letters are written, the one by Petit to Dacres in Scotland, the other by Chris. Cussack to Robert Chamberlain, priest to Tyrone. You shall be best able to judge when you speak with the party. He hath made these offers unto me : that he will bring Tyrone's head to the Queen; he will likewise find the means that when any treasure is sent from Spain for Ireland that the ship that brings it shall come for England. This idle discourse he hath had with me. He went directly from Ireland with Tyrone “past,” he hath been in Spain, at 'Rome, and now in the Low Countries. When he landed, he presently delivered these letters to the officers, and prayed that as privately as might be he might be brought unto me, fearing to be discovered by some of his countrymen. I think it fit to keep him in my house till you shall send for him.—From my house in the Black Friars, 2 December, 1600. |
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Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (89. 139.) |
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Lord Mounteagle to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1600, Dec. 2. |
The care that I had that so base a creature should not lay the least stain on your Honour, caused me not long since to acquaint you with the lewd misdemeanours of one Parsons, an attorney, whose scandalous reports may be an ill precedent unto vicious men to censure you. Before I would give any information, I acquainted my best and ablest friends with it, and weighed precisely all the circumstances, and because I would make my proofs as strong as possible, I have drawn from Wales this letter enclosed, which declares the whole course of Parson's lewdness and fortifies the testimony of Jeanes.—The Strand, this second of December, 1600. |
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Holograph. 1 p. (181. 39.) |
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Thomas Mathews, chamber keeper, to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1600, Dec. 2. |
For the concealed wardship of Havell Page. Note by Cecil thereon. |
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Endorsed :—“2 Dec., 1600.” 1 p. (P. 1203.) |
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Thomas Walker to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1600, Dec., 2. |
Underkeeper of the Queen's lodgings at White hall. For the wardship of Jerom Jeffereys, of Gloucestershire. |
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Endorsed :—“2 Dec., 1600.” ½ p. (P. 1205.) |
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John Hanam to his Grandfather, Sir John Popham, Lord Chief Justice. |
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1600, Dec. 3. |
On Nov. 5 he sent his servant for England, by whom he advertised Popham of his being at Geneva, and his determination to remain if it liked Popham. Gives directions for remittances. |
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I cannot advertise you of any later occurrent in the wars of Savoia than of the rendering of the fort of Monmiliano unto the King, which is a place of principal importance, yet the provisions within it did nothing answer the expectation, and chiefly the artillery, which amounted unto but 13 good pieces. The Governor upon composition assured himself of good recompence in France in exchange of that his possession in Savoia, not daring to trust himself in the hands of his master, who has not spared any of his captains that have rendered any place, were the necessity never so great. Since, the King has drawn all his forces before the fort of Saint Catherin, 5 miles distant from Geneva (the near ness whereof gave me occasion to visit the army). It seemed that the captain deferred the rendering of the place to have the honour of compounding with the King himself, for within 4 days of his arrival he came to parley, and offered himself and the fort unto the King if he were not succoured in 12 days, which term expires the 18 of December according to their account. The King presently after the composition went towards Lions, to meet with the Queen. There is one other fortress upon the river
of Geneva which holds for the Duke, and at this time there is cannon had from Geneva for the battery of it. Here is likewise the citadel of Burg, which holds out. These excepted, the King is master of all Savoia, and they must yield, for that they have no hope of any succours this year.—Geneva, 3 Dec., 1600. Your obedient nephew. |
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Holograph, 1 p. (82. 43.) |
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Edmond Hoare to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1600, Dec. 3. |
The Lords on Sunday last, before hearing his petition on behalf of the inhabitants of the county of Wexford, or other information of the causes of their overthrow and increase of the rebels' pride, with their opinion how the same might be remedied, referred the cause to the Lord Deputy of Ireland. He now presents a brief of the petition, and their conceit of the causes and remedies. Of all the counties of Ireland, they have, according to their power, been the most serviceable and least chargeable; having at no time craved aid, but been able to defend themselves and offend their rebellious neighbours, which they might likewise now have done if they had been countenanced and governed as in former times; and knowing also that all the extremities they have endured will not be so grievous as to find their cause should be so little regarded here, whence only they hope for relief. |
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The heads of the petition. |
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The said county contains 20 baronies or hundreds, whereof 15 now possessed by the Irish in rebellion and but 5 by the English. |
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By the assistance and encouragement of the traitor Tyrone, their ancient enemies and bordering neighbours the Kavenaughes, with the forces of Mountgarrett's sons, and the rebels of Lex, Offaley, and Feaughe McHughe's sons, have made several main roads into the said 5 baronies, namely in March, 1598, May, and Hallantyde following, 1599; also at Christmas and Candlemas the same year, and in Lent following, and likewise in May and July last, 1600; besides daily incursions, whereby the said inhabitants are brought to such misery and desolation as unless some present course be taken for their defence, they must either fly the country and leave it to the rebels, or submit themselves to their merciless tyranny. |
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Item, there have been spoiled, taken and defaced by the rebels 30 castles in the said 5 baronies, of which 5 have been again recovered, repaired and now kept by the owners. |
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Also, the said inhabitants, though of small power, yet have they, in their own defence, and invading the rebels' countries, done many good services, the rebels having at no time entered the said 5 baronies but with such great loss of their men as they sustained not the like in any other country of like or far greater circuit, which hath increased their malice and desire to root them out. |
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The said 5 baronies have been at excessive charges in sending horsemen at several times to the North; in victualling divers companies of her Majesty's soldiers, both horse and foot, without receiving any payment for the same; in sending of beeves, wheat, oats, and other provision to several armies and garrison places without satisfaction; and in erecting and maintaining on their own charge several companies of horse and foot, by the appointment of the Lord Lieutenant and otherwise, as well for their own defence as for prosecution of the rebels. So as while they had anything left they never desisted to employ their uttermost endeavours in the service of her Majesty; and now having only willing men, without command or means, they are exposed to the daily rapine and spoil of the rebels.—3 Dec., 1600. |
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Signed. 1 p. (82. 44.) |
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“Captain Blage's note of the Setting Forth of a Ship.” |
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1600, Dec. 3. |
Contents of a ship set forth, by the Queen's orders allowed. A ship of six score tons is allowed every month 12l. sterling. Then she is allowed a captain, a master, a master's mate, a pilot, boatswain (“bothson”) and his mate, a gunner and his mate, two quarter-masters and two mates, a purser, a cook, a steward, a carpenter, a “surgent.” These be all the officers, and for their wages, the captain is to have 5s. a day, the master 40s. a month, and his mate 20s., the pilot 20s., the boatswain 17s. 6d. and his mate 13s. 8d.; the cook 17s. 6d.; the gunner 15s.; and his mate 13s. Ad.; for the two quartermasters, 17s. 6d., and for both their mates 13s. 4d. apiece; the steward, 17s. 6d., and the carpenter so much more, the “sargent” 15s., and for all the rest, the common company, 10s. a month. Every man is allowed a gallon of beer a day, which is for 50 men 24 hogsheads a month; 1,400 of bread a month, 1,600 pieces of beef, after 2 lbs. to a man a day; 150 fish, 75 lbs. butter, after the rate of frac12; lb. to four men a day; 150 lbs. cheese; to thus much amounts the victuals that her. Majesty allows for 50 men to go for the seas. Besides there is allowed 30s. every month for candles, wood, plates, cans, tapes, trenchers and such like necessaries. |
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Besides, her Majesty allows munition for the great ordnance and all manner shot, with musket and pikes, musket shot and all other necessaries thereunto belonging. |
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I will furnish the said ship with 4 sakers, 2 minions, and 2 falcons, thus much allows her Majesty as nigh as I can remember. |
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Endorsed :—“1600, December 3.” ¾ p. (89. 142.) |
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Dorothy, Lady North to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1600, Dec. 3. |
For the wardship of her son and lease of his lands during his minority, 2¾ years.—3 December, 1600. |
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1 p. (P. 1906.) |
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T., Lord Buckhurst to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1600, Dec. 4. |
Of his illness, which confines him to his chamber. Recommends to Cecil the cause of his son-in-law Sir Henry Glemam, who has long and justly borne the burden of the Queen's heavy indignation. To that affliction has been added the dangerous sickness of Glemam's wife, who has found the joy of the Queen's gracious visitation one of the chiefest means of her recovery. He lately moved her Majesty that Glemam might be restored to favour; whereunto she answered that he should move her at some other time, at that time having been wearied with many matters precedent. Is debarred from doing so by his enforced absence, and prays Cecil to move her in Glemam's behalf.—4 Dec., 1600. |
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Holograph. Endorsed :—“Lord Treasurer.” 1 p. (82. 45.) |
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Jo. Du Port to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1600, Dec. 4. |
Expressing his willingness to receive any favour or honour that Sir Robert Cecil may wish to confer upon him.—Jesus College, Cambridge, 4 Dec., 1600. |
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Signed. Endorsed :—“Mr. Dr. Duport to my Master.” Seal ½ p. (181. 40.) |
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Wardships. |
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1600, Dec. 4. |
Three letters to Sir Robert Cecil, viz.:— |
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(1) Cormock.—For the wardship of the heir of John Bysse, of Somerset, yeoman. Endorsed :—“4 Dec., 1600.” ½ p. (666.) |
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(2) David Tannet.—For the wardship of the heir of John Jones, of Surrey. Endorsed :—“4 Dec 1600.” |
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Note by Cecil :—“Let a commission be granted.” 1 p. (667.) |
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(3) William Tooke.—For lease of the lands of John Goulton, of North Biding of Yorks. Endorsed :—“4 Dec., 1600.” |
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Note by Cecil that he is to have a particular. ½ p. (851.) |
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W. Elston to John Predeaux. |
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1600, Dec. 5. |
Details proceedings with regard to the causes of Predeaux, Antony Monday, and Bruen, Mr. Serjeant Hele's man, in the Admiralty Court and the Stannary. |
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The world runs here crabwise, sidelong, driving every man out of his bias, so that if eight men sit at table, you shall hear seven of them complain of this corrupt time, and such as have lands wish money in their purses for it. This city is growing to great misery, both with the artificer and merchant groaning under the burden of exactions; in a word, hold that you have, and do not be outfaced in right. For news, this : the French King prevails much in Savoy, even to the getting of the whole Dukedom. Count de Foyntus, the Spanish general, with a force of 20,000 Spaniards, being laid to front the French, have been defeated, and the passage is made clear now into Italy, so that the King at his pleasure shall be able to pass his army unto Milan. Great
wars this next year is like to be between the French and the Spaniard, and such a candle is lighted as will go near to set Spain on fire, besides his being driven quit of Italy. Don Sebastian the King of Portugal, that was supposed to be slain in Barbary, who has been kept as a slave in Asia, is now in Venice, and her Majesty sends one Prynne a Portingal, that sometime was his man, to go thither to see whether he be the man or not. This also troubles the Spaniards much. The Flushiners lately gave a wipe to the Cardinal in the river of Andwerpe, where they in the night surprised at the key of Andwerpe 12 ships, which was manned and furnished for some exploit against Lyllowe. They came so sudden upon them, with one galley and 8 flat bottom boats, that they boarded the ships, and put man and boy to the sword, not saving one. There were 800 soldiers in those ships, and not one saved, and one ship laden with arras for the King of Spain's house, of great value, brought away. These things do so trouble the Cardinal that he cannot look abroad.' The Spaniards have their hands so full at home with the French, that neither men nor money can come to him, and the Cardinal's wants are so great that it is thought ere long his own people will rise against him. |
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Desires to be recommended to Mr. Powlewhele and the whole company of gentlemen and gentlewomen.—5 Dec., 1600. |
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Holograph. 2 pp. (82. 47.) |
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The Lord Admiral and Sir Robert Cecil to Lord Willoughby. |
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1660, Dec. 5. |
We cannot now forbear to acquaint your Lord ship in particular with the case of Sir William Evers, of whose secret conference with the King of Scots her Majesty had so perfect and particular notice delivered her since her first sending for him about your causes; for her Majesty findeth error in your Lordship, both in respect you would employ him being no Borderer (nor having nothing to do at Berwick), and also because your Lordship directed it in such a manner as he describeth it, for by that course he relateth of going so far to Sir Robert Car so disguised, so secretly, and in the time when the King was in that quarter, your Lordship sees you gave him an assured means for his access without any suspicion if it had not by other accidents been discovered. His manner also of usage by Sir Robert Car and his dealing with him, who was the layer of this plot and hath greatly bragged of it, was very strange, and yet by colour of this employment of your Lordship, a man every way unfit for such a proceeding in respect of many circumstances of his fortune, having had, as it seems by his own confession, many accesses into Scotland, notwithstanding all is discovered, yet he now can say that what fell out did happen only by the accident of your employment and so useth it for his protection. And therefore her Majesty requireth your Lordship to signify unto us what you know of all particulars of his journey and his end, what was the conference with the King if he have confessed it to you, or that you have learned it since, or anything
else he did there, and in what places he told you he had been. Her Majesty hath also willed us to let you know how strange an answer he made at the first for his going so privately; for he excused it under pretence that men do use to go privately upon trysts. Whereof we doubt not but your Lordship will think this a strange fashion if he reported it to you as he did to us. To conclude, we are sorry to find that the gentleman hath so over shot himself as thereby to endanger her Majesty's good opinion. Nevertheless we do wish to receive from your Lordship some such answer as may free you from any imputation, which we will impart to her Majesty so soon as we shall receive it, and therefore desire to have expedition used herein. |
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Draft, corrected by Cecil. Endorsed :—“5 December, 1600. Minute from my Lord Admiral and my Master to my Lord Willoughby.” (181. 41.) |
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Wardships. |
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1600, Dec. 5. |
Two letters to [Sir E. Cecil]. (1) John Hare sends a list of concealed wardships in Salop and Montgomery, and prays grant of them for himself and Mr. Stileman, Cecil's servant at Theobalds.—5 Dec., 1600. |
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1 p. (500.) |
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(2) Ann Smith. The suit of her brothers Sir Jo. Scott, John Smith and Richard Smith, her husband's executors, for the wardship of her son, is made with her consent. |
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Endorsed :—“5 Dec., 1600.” ½ p. (1204.) |
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Sir John Cutts to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1600, Dec 6. |
Has examined himself since Cecil's speech to him last summer, which tended as though his conscience should accuse him as unworthy Cecil's favour, and protests he finds therein no witness against himself, and is persuaded, were it laid open to Cecil's judgment, it would acquit him. Finds some neglect of attendance and service, which he is ready to redeem. Beseeches Cecil's good opinion of him, which heretofore he has desired by offering him the service of his son.—6 Dec., 1600. |
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Signed. ½ p. (82. 46.) |
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Sir Robert Sidney to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1600, Dec. 6. |
I daily find myself more bound unto you for the good speeches I understand you to give of me, and it is among my greatest pains that I cannot come abroad to make my thankfulness appear to the world. But I trust that among those whose endeavours you may find occasion to use, I shall not be found unnecessary. My Lord of Pembroke is well recovered, but his recoveries are such as do not promise long continuance, and therefore I humbly beseech your Honour to have care of my Lord Herbert.—Baynards Castle, 6 Dec., 1600. |
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Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (181. 42.) |
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Dr. Richard Clayton to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1600, Dec. 6. |
I have received your Honour's letters in the behalf of a young gentleman Mr. Jervis, her Majesty's ward, to be placed in our college, and I have provided him with such a tutor as I doubt not will be very provident and careful for his good education. Mr. Billingslie, of our House, who is his tutor, hath received of this bearer, Mr. Wrotteslye, twenty pounds towards his maintenance. What his ordinary charges for his diet, books, apparel, tuition, &c., in such sort as is fit for him (being admitted into our fellows' commons) will amount unto by the year, I cannot directly set down, but I take it some forty pounds or thereabouts. If any sinister means or indirect dealings should be used either by Sir Richard Pawlet or Mr. Wrotteslye for the conveying away of the young gentleman, your Honour well knoweth that in such a college as ours, where so great a number of scholars are and so many lectures and disputations daily frequented, both privately in our House and publicly in the Schools, there is more fear of danger in that respect than if he should be placed elsewhere. But I trust such careful regard shall be had over him, that, although such practices were attempted, yet they should be prevented.—From St John's College in Camb., this sixt of December, 1600. |
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Signed. 1 p. (181. 43.) |
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Sir Richard Paulet to Thomas Gervys. |
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1600, Dec. 6. |
Good Tom : Though authority forbids my seeing thee, yet know that my heart and goodwill is present with thee to do thee any friendship or pleasure. And although that malicious father-in-law or step-father of thine will suffer thee with his liking not to have any comfortable friends, yet trust you in God and He will raise thee many, to the overthrow of his malice. And be not you daunted though I be chidden, for I will endure much more for the love and good of thee. And if you find any cause for misliking, either in your journey or when you come there, if you let me understand of it, I do not doubt but to procure you remedy. Farewell, sweetheart. |
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Memorand.: That the 6th of December, 1600, at Cambridge this letter in the presence of us whose names are here under written was taken out of the pocket of Thomas Gervys, her Majesty's ward, by George Wrottesley, his committee. And the said committee asking of the said ward where he had the letter, and who wrote the same, the said ward said he knew it was Sir Richard Paulet's letter, and that it was let fall where the said ward should come by one Reaye, a friend of the said Sir Richard. William Billingesley, tutor. Christopher Goodwyn, messenger of the Court of Wards. |
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Copy. Addressed : “To him whom Mr. Wrottesleye loveth little, as I verily think or ever could perceive.” (181. 44.) |
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[Sir R. Cecil] to George Kendall. |
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1600, [Dec. 6.] |
I have received your letter by this bearer, John Ellys, who for aught I know came directly to me, being carefully observed since his arrival at Dover. As for George Weekes, I know not what to say, considering he hath so far swerved from his first purposes, as it seemeth he will hardly be drawn to it again, but I will leave it to sequel, for it may be, he dabbled with Smyth and Smyth with him, and what yourself shall be able to do without him, I leave to yourself, having gone as far, till I see some proof, as I am disposed; not so much for the money, for I think nothing lost that is spent for her Majesty's service, but because it is a kind of scorn to a man to be deceived. I have suffered this bearer to return unto you and to carry answer to such letters as he brought from Captain Smyth, but he seemeth too weak to commit any matters of her Majesty's service, and besides, you show not sound judgment that would have me trust him. I therefore add, doubt not but if you do your Sovereign service, I will see you to all fullness rewarded and maintained. |
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I have given this bearer six angels towards his charges. |
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Cipher. Undated. Unsigned. Endorsed :—“1600. This was brought back by Ellys because he could not meet Mr. Kendall.” (181. 65.) |
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[See a draft of this, S.P.D., Eliz., CCLXXV. 133. Calendar, p. 495.] |
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Dorothy, Lady North to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1600, Dec. 6. |
As to the lease of the lands of her son, during his minority. Proceedings of the executors therein, whose object is to benefit themselves and make him a ward to them. She cannot seek her son's relief, unless by law she has authority to deal for him. His marriage was made of late without her consent, or almost privity, and the money given in marriage taken from him. Prays Cecil's favour in the matter.—6 Dec., 1600. |
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1 p. (2320.) |
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Enclosure :— |
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Reasons alleged why it should be more meet that the lease of the Lord North's lands during his minority should be granted to the executors of the late Lord North than to the Lady North the mother, with answers thereto. 1 p.
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Henry Heyward, Mayor, to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1600, Dec. 7 |
Encloses information given by a Dutchman, come from St. Lucas, as to matters in Bayon, Spain and Portugal.—Dartmouth, 7 Dec., 1600. |
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Holograph. On the back :—“hast, hast, hast, post hast. Receaved at Aysheberton by sixe of the clocke in the morninge the eight of December. |
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into Honyton a bouut tenne of the clocke in the mornyng. |
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Crewkern at 6 at night. |
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Shastone 8 in the moring. |
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At Saram at 12 a Cloke at nowne. |
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At Bassingestoke at 1 in the after nowne the 11 of December.” |
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½ p. (82. 41.) |
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Lord Buckhurst to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1600, Dec. 7 |
The public service, which must go forward whose health soever go backward, moves me to signify unto you that to-morrow at 2 of the clock in the afternoon, or before, as shall please you, I will be ready at my house to attend the des patch of her Majesty's services, with the presence of my Lord Admiral, Mr. Chancellor and yourself, and of such other as you shall think fit, to whom it may please you to give warning for their coming accordingly. The causes that I think upon, are these :— |
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1. The officers of the Ordnance to come before us for matters concerning that office. |
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Warned by me; namely, the officers. |
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2. The officers of the Admiralty to come before us for matters concerning that office; informed by Mr. Wigs. |
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Mr. Wigs and the Auditors of the Prests, warned by me. |
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But the officers of the Admiralty to be warned by the Lord Admiral. |
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3. The matter of the tin. For this the Turkish merchants and the farmers of the tin and divers other to come before us. |
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The Turkish merchants |
warned by me. |
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The farmers of the tin |
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Mr. Carmarden and Mr. Midleton |
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Rich. Conoll, a chief dealer |
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Sir Walter Rawley to be warned by you. |
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4. The debt of Palavisino. |
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The Lady Palavisino's solicitor, warned by me. |
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If there be any other matters fit then to be considered, you will please to warn the parties.—Sunday, 1600. |
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Holograph. Endorsed :—7 Dec. 1 p. (82. 48.) |
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Dr. Fletcher to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1600, Dec. 7. |
I have been a long unhappy suitor to serve her Majesty in the place of Bequests. I am now in hand to renew my suit. Your favourable commendation, or no other means, will be effectual. I humbly crave it. I desire not to intrude myself into the service of those two who attend about her Highness' person, but to be assistant in the Court at Westminster as the manner is of the third man who attends that place. My small desert towards you shall make my obligation more.—From London, the 7th of December, 1600. |
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Signed. Seal ½ p. (181. 45.) |
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Captain William Smith to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1600, Dec. 8. |
Offers services. Although his leaving the service of the Hollanders must be disgraceful to him, yet he has carried himself in no way prejudicial to her Majesty's service. He is at Abbevill in Prance, where he will stay until he under stands Cecil's commands.—Abbevill, 8 Dec., 1600. |
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Holograph. 1 p. (82. 49.) |
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Elizabeth, Dowager Lady Russell to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1600, [Dec. 8.] |
I sent my man of purpose only to tell you that because I hear her Majesty means to go hence on Thursday next, if it please you to send me word when I may find you at leisure in your own house private, I would come by boat and visit you only to see how you do, though my heart will not yet serve me to come to Court, to fill every place I there shall come in with tears by remembrance of her that is gone. This is all; I have no suit in the world to trouble you with. Thus much I have done because my man could not speak with you. Your loving aunt, Elizabeth Russell, desolate dowager. |
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[P.S.]—I am such a beggar in debt since the marriage of my daughter your cousin, as that I am not able to keep coach horses in town nor to hire any, and therefore mean to come by water. You must not blase my beggary, for then you will mar my marriage for ever. |
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Holograph. Undated. Endorsed :—“Lady Russell, 8 Dec. 1600.” 1 p. (82. 50.) |
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Sir Thomas Sherley to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1600, Dec. 8. |
On behalf of two very proper young gentlemen, Mr. Walter Welche and Mr. George Ivye, who desire licence to travel for a year. They are men of living both, and very well affected in religion.—London, 8 Dec., 1600. |
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Holograph. 1 p. (82. 51.) |
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The Master of Gray to [the King of Scots]. |
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[1600, Dec. 9.] |
If I wrote in my own particular I would impart my meaning to such as I knew were in best conceit with your Majesty, but seeing I write now only in a matter that touches yourself, I only write to yourself. According to your Majesty's commandment, I shall retire me forth of England, but am sorry to find your Majesty in that case with England that the repairing thither of your subjects should breed in you any jealousy. If better union both of princes and subjects be not, I fear in end your Majesty find the counsel givers to have advised to your prejudice, when repentance shall have no place. But I leave to preach, seeing my sermon is not in season, yet a silly preacher must say somewhat for himself. Where then your Majesty writes that you have daily advertisements that I meddle in matters above my reach, to do you service you shall have
proof that my reach extends further than the intelligence of the advertisers, for whenever it shall please you that I come into Scotland, I shall come on my own peril, and if any one report of all made of me shall prow true, or an author found to stand by it, I shall condemn myself as culpable of all; which is all I can say for a general accusation. But, Sir, the truth is this : I do not : as your Majesty esteems. I wish you best of any creature, for one; and when your Majesty thought I did you greatest offence, then did I love you best, and accounted I did you, best service. But it is true, service done to your Majesty abides the censure of many; and now in this my absence, as I shall answer to God's judgment, my only study has been to make myself once again capable to serve you. And whenever it shall please you that I come to your Majesty, you shall find I have profited so far that I am assured in your greatest design I can serve you in better offices than any born your subject at this hour : for I am able to give you sufficient reckoning what you may look for of all the princes in Europe, as I shall be answerable on my allegiance, which is a dependant of the first. To write to you every particular, indeed I will not, for no mall shall cut the “gress” [? grass] under my “heilles” [? heels], but put me to proof when so it shall please your Majesty, I shall be ready. This far I will write, that whom you esteem your best friends shall try your greatest enemies, and of whom you expect least, you may have on good behaviour that you never looked for. Nam corda regum in manibus Domini. For myself, I am sorry that your alienation both from the course and myself permitted me not this while to serve you, as from my heart I wished, for fear many times of wrong construction. Always matters spilt are all redressable. And to let your Majesty know somewhat my meaning, I affirm there is no course for you but that wherein I once left you, to keep fast with the Queen and estate of England : for your own forces are not constant. As for foreigners, I shall “skume” [?skin] the chiefest, beginning at the Pope. Who ever advised your Majesty [to] deal that way was not your friend, as the Duke of Florence wisely advertised you, for in that estate a poor old priest, the very emblem of avarice, is “promoveit,” who, in the short time he has to reign, “amuseth” on nothing but how to make up a temporal house for his memory, without any future respect for a benefit to his successors. As for the King of France, he is your greatest unfriend, and policy wills him to be so : his crown likely by him for to be left in pupillage, what reason should move him to wish a greater neighbour than a King of England ? What he says in public, I am not ignorant, but if he thought to perform he would say less, besides that his practices with some here have depicted his mind most clearly. As for Spain, you have proven what evil all yours have received of them both in Spain and Flanders, so without doubt they love none [who] love you, for that ye shoot both at one mark. And where it is imagined that [of] Spain and France the one may be had, for that they shall never agree in that point, they will both agree that
a third be preferred to you, whom it shall not make so great as it shall your Majesty. As for the Princes of Italy, DD. of Savoy and Loraine, they be “meine” [? mean] and followers of the “riejant” [? regent] princes. As for them of Germany, they may well send your Majesty many Latin letters, but look not of them further than they may. Money they have not to serve your turn, beside that of all men in earth they be most miserable wretches, and mercenaries to all other princes, men without money they cannot send you. So, Sir, I come back to the “retraict,” which must be Scotland and England, leaving matters always to your Majesty's judgment. I beseech your Majesty think that, whatever I am, I am not altogether idiot; and not being idiot, I must know it is more honourable for me, and in end shall be more profitable, to serve you nor all the princes in Europe. Advise then, Sir, and lay all passions aside, your Majesty shall see I shall deserve very well, for I am free yet of all princes, yourself “accepted” [excepted], and only to come to this point for your greatness and contentment, and, as God knows, have fended hardlier than many would believe, considering the part I have carried. Of one thing I am sorry, that your Majesty should speak so hardly of Mr. Secretary Cecil, for that you allege my Lord his father “cuttit” your mother's throat. I am assured your Majesty knoweth that I know more in that nor any Scottish or English “leivand” [living], the Q. “accepted,” and that for I do remember your Majesty of a note I gave you in that matter : that the Earl of Leicester or Sir Francis Walsingham were only the cutters of her throat and inducers of Davison to do as he did. I take on my conscience it was far from the Q. or his father's mind that she should die when she died, as I have yet some witnessing in the world. And, Sir, I assure you this, that if your Majesty shall fall again in good course with the Q., Mr. Secretary will prove as good a friend as you have in all England. Let them inform you of him as they please, but think never to have him otherways, for he has sworn to me that if he knew to be the greatest subject that ever England bred, he shall never serve any other prince after the Q. And I think if it were not for love and obligation, he would never endure the excess trouble he has presently, nor almost is it possible for him to serve so “penibly,” for albeit he has a very well composed mind, yet the ability of the body is so discrepant that it cannot correspond the capacity of the mind. Time, Sir, will in all give you light, and I remit my part to it, and shall conform myself to the prescription of the answer I shall receive from you, although never so hard, for I am willing to endure whatsomever can occur, rather than not to merit your wonted favour. Mr. of Gray. |
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Endorsed :—“Copy letter to the K. Chillingham, 9 Dec.” 4 pp. (90. 91.) |
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— to John Budden, Feodary of Dorset. |
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1600, Dec. 9. |
As to the lands of Robert Binghams, deceased, and the Queen's title to the wardship of his heir. Instructs him,
at the suit of Paul Salmon, to appear for the Queen's claim at the finding of the office.—Court at Westminster, 9 Dec., 1600. |
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Unsigned. 1 p. (2121.) |
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Edward Coke to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1600, Dec. 10. |
This wound that my lease of Aston's lands has got per infortuniam cannot be cured but by your hand. I have consulted with my good friend Mr. Attorney of the Wards, and have taken such order for a good ground of your proceeding herein as appertains, for I never will make suit that may after breed any offence to you. And yet I account this amongst the rest of your high and exceeding great favours towards me. Mr. Hare attends you with my new lease.—From the solitary Temple, 10 Dec., 1600. |
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Holograph. Endorsed :—“Mr. Attorney.” ½ p. (82. 52.) |
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Sir Anthony Ashley to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1600, Dec. 11. |
On Captain Waynman, Marshal of Connough, setting forth for that service, Ashley was bound for him for 47l., which debt, through Waynman's breaking his promise, Ashley has been constrained to pay. Prays for Cecil's letters to Sir George Carey, Treasurer of Ireland, to defalk weekly a portion of Waynman's entertainment for the satisfaction of his debt.—11 Dec., 1600. |
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Signed. 1 p. (82. 53.) |
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G. Peckham to the Earl of Essex. |
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1600, Dec 11. |
Continued sick ever since a fortnight before Christmas until three weeks after Midsummer, whereby he was not able to repair his old garments, being then very mean and worn; and within a few days of his going abroad, was arrested into the Counter, Wood Street, upon an execution, where he is like miserably to finish his old years. Prays for some such apparel as his lordship will wear no more; a nightgown will do him great pleasure.—11 December, 1600. |
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Signed. ½ p. (83. 74.) |
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William Garway, Richard Staperr and Thomas Cordell to the Council. |
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1600, Dec 12. |
They have, according to Cecil's order, called the Company together, and acquainted them with Cecil's motion touching the transportation of 300,000 weight of tin yearly into the parts of their privileges. The generality could not be brought to undertake by way of contract so great a quantity; although they purposed to deal in the commodity as amply as their trade afforded them vent. The other motion made by the Council, touching a general permission to be given, without restraint by any ordinance of the Company, that any brother of the Company
might carry out as great a quantity of tin as he listed, they consented to, for the advancement of her Majesty's service, to their own prejudice.—London, 12 Dec., 1600. |
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Signed as above. 1 p. (82. 54.) |
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Ga. Earl of Kildare to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1600, Dec. 12. |
It pleased you at my departure to be a mean to her Majesty in my behalf for the government of Ophaly, which I have lately obtained. Likewise you assured me that my entertainment of Colonel's pay, now extinct, should be allowed me as others in the list. Notwithstanding, Mr. Treasurer, upon a conceit of displeasure conceived against me, undeserved to my knowledge, detains that, and the rest of my pay for myself and those men for whom I had licence by my Lord Deputy and tolerance from the State there. I beseech you let him understand I complain to you of him, that by your favour my due may not be detained from me. |
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At my departure it pleased her Majesty to use gracious words to me, charging me in a favourable manner for crossing her, promising to do for me, and that ere it were long. Please consider that the best part of my patrimony is spent in her service, and my small means, and further me in obtaining the reversion of those lands in fee simple which shall fall after the death of my aunt. They are things granted from her Majesty's predecessors, in lieu of other lands formerly granted by them of the inheritance of my house, of which her Majesty wrote to the Deputy that no grant should pass to others of any part of those lands. Notwithstanding which, divers have sought to interest themselves in some part thereof by her Majesty's grant; for the preventing whereof, and to obtain possession, I desire you to join with the rest of my friends, and allow me your best furtherance. My return hither without some token of her Majesty's favour is a great decrease to my credit.—Dublin, 12 Dec., 1600. |
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Holograph. 1 p. (82. 55.) |
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John Lee to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1600, Dec 12. |
When lately before Cecil and the Commissioners, he forbore to lay open sundry abuses that Mr. Paulfreyman has committed, greatly to the prejudice of his master. He can do no less than disclose the truth of Paulfreyman's whole carriage ever since he, Lee, has been an officer, which he forebore to speak of in the presence of the Lords, in regard of Cecil's honourable opinion of Sir George Carewe. Has caused the matter to be gathered into a brief computation, and leaves it to Cecil' s censure.—Greenwich, 12 Dec., 1600. |
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Signed. 1 p. (82. 56.) |
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John Watts to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1600, Dec. 12. |
According to your request, I have sent the greatest part of my store of “tobaca” by the bearer, wishing
that the same may be to your good liking But this tobaca I have had this six months, which was such as my son brought home, but since that time I have had none. At this present there is none that is good to be had for money. Wishing you to make store thereof, for I do not know where to have the like, I have sent you of two sorts.—Mincing Lane, 12 Dec., 1600. |
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Holograph. Endorsed :—“Mr. Alderman Watts.” ½ p. (82. 57.) |
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Sir John Popham to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1600, Dec. 12. |
According as my Lords gave direction upon Sunday last, I have made a brief of the statutes that prohibit the use of guns in some kind, as you may perceive by the brief which I delivered yesternight to Mr. Smyth, one of the clerks of the Council, with which I delivered also a form of a preamble to the proclamation, relying principally upon the murders, robberies and other insolencies committed by the use of them contrary to law. The body of the proclamation, as it is to contain an express commandment to observe the statutes in that behalf, and to see them duly put in execution, so must it have also a direction to all her Majesty's officers and ministers, and all others to whom it may appertain, if any such be used or carried [in] any city, town or other place, that the same be seized, and the party offending dealt with according to the law; with such other particularities as it shall please you to add touching the matters proponed by Mr. Cofferer. I send you also here-enclosed the paper you gave me. It seems the party is plainly an accessory after the fact, but that is pardoned, and for being accessory before the proof standeth more doubtful : besides it is so long past as I cannot tell what may be conceived, if after so long a silence the matter should now be set on foot. For the latter matters of the note, they are such as if they be proved, they might be dealt in in the Star Chamber, where it is finable. The gentleman you sent me I have heard, but I find no more touching those matters than are comprised in the note. I have also sent you enclosed conceit of mine touching the pardon moved for Munster men, which it may please you to consider of.—Serjeants' Inn, 12 Dec., 1600. |
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Holograph. Endorsed :—“Lord Chief Justice.” 2 pp. (82. 58.) |
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Dudley, Lord North to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1600, Dec. 12. |
Prays Cecil to move the Queen to grant him the enjoying of his lands during his minority. His grandfather's executors seek it only for his good, and if his mother, who sues for it, prevail, it will far more hinder his estate than profit hers. Disposition of the family property.—Charterhouse, 12 Dec., 1600. |
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1 p.
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Enclosure :— |
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That it would please Mr. Secretary to bestow the custody of Gyles Bladwell, a lunatic, upon George Lee Hunte, gent. |
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Endorsed :—“Granted to my Lord North.” (P. 1903). |
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William Stallenge to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1600, Dec. 18. |
Mr. Pope, passing this way towards the Court the 10th inst., desired me to enquire aboard the Triumph of London for the enclosed letters. This last day here arrived a flyboat from Rochelle, which on Thursday last was robbed by three Donkerks men-of-war near the Start. They took away the master, and having rifled the flyboat, suffered her to depart with the rest of the company. It is thought those three ships are of the seven that Mr. Pope reports departed from St. Anderes, and it is feared they will do much hurt upon this coast, if speedy order be not taken to drive them from hence.—Plymouth. 13 Dec., 1600. |
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Holograph. 1 p. (82. 59.) |
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Lord Buckhurst to the Churchwardens and the rest of the Vestry of St. Martin's in the Fields. |
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1600, Dec. 13. |
There is due by the parishioners 16l., for mending and making new the highway at the town's end by the Mews, and 6l. for lights and torches which were provided against her Majesty's coming on Nov. 10. These sums are to be paid by such parishioners as are well able, and not by the poor. The Churchwardens and one other to be appointed to collect it, and give the vestry a true account, the overplus to be distributed to the poor. Whereas they make doubt of gathering the sum, by reason that many best able to pay have heretofore paid little or nothing at all to the like, he hopes they will find none unwilling to pay this according to their abilities, but also other duties which shall hereafter become due. If any deny, their names are to be returned.—Sackvile House, 13 Dec., 1600. |
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Signed. 1 p. (82. 60.) |
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[The Lord Admiral and Sir Robert Cecil to Lord Willoughby.] |
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1600, Dec. 14. |
We have received your letters of — of November, which we have read to her Majesty, who has commanded us to return you this answer, that she has noted in the course of your services, as well as in the time of your government, not only great care and affection towards her person and state, but as much sincerity in your words as she could expect from any, or wish to be in any, which has been the cause at all times that she has clearly and plainly resorted to yourself, whensoever there has been cause, to receive your answer; and therefore in this time has held no other course with you than such as may make you see the continuance of the same gracious disposition towards you which she has ever had. And therefore wills you to think that although she sent to you to know whether that gentleman might (ex post facto) have acquainted you with what he had done, and “happily” have excused his speech with the King to have been rather upon the accidental circumstance of his being at that time in those quarters, than out of any set purpose he had
when he went in to have done as he did; yet she was as free from any conceit that you would ever have allowed it, if you had known it before, as she does now clearly and essentially credit whatsoever you have affirmed in these your letters unto us; and so much for that part concerning Sir William Evers. |
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For your other cause, wherein Mr. Musgrave and others have made complaints, she says she has therein referred the matter to the best and most indifferent judges she has, and therein wills you to be as confident in her, that as she will never balance the judgment of sincerity of those that do complain, either Musgrave or Selby, with that experience which both she and the world have had of you in those causes; so that you shall wrong yourself to be grieved at her proceedings, or to imagine that you or any shall need to make offer to her of your place, in such a charge, when she that has power to take it shall have any just cause to suspect you or them of hollowness, or cunning in their minds or actions. Nevertheless, because she is a Prince that may not stop her ears to gentlemen that are appointed by her in place and service under governors, but must receive their complaints and hear them, you must not think it long that in that cause you neither hear from her nor us until the matter has been thoroughly examined, of which my Lords can take no better course than hitherto they have done. To conclude with your Lordship, as this which we have written are her Majesty's words, wherein you ought to receive great comfort, so we may assure you of our own knowledge that your Lordship is very happy in her Majesty's good opinion of you, neither shall you need to doubt, howsoever it may be that the peevishness of some in that government may have tempted you, as flesh and blood, to take some courses that are not at all times convenient, though on the other side not such but they may (by some precedents) be tolerated, yet it shall appear, by the end her Majesty will make, that she will dispense with a governor in many things, which in others, whose proceedings (howsoever externally disguised) do discover any inward contempt, shall not be endured. |
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Draft, with corrections by Cecil. Undated. Endorsed :—“14 Dec., 1600. Minute to my L. Willughby from my Lo. Admiral and my master.” 3 pp. (82. 61.) |
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Sir Thomas Sherley to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1600, Dec. 14. |
Renews his application for licenses to travel [for Walter Welche and George Ivye; see Dec. 8, 1600]. They are both of honest conversation and soundly affected in religion. They are so far from being busy heads, that the deepest strain they ever gave their wits was no deeper than to study a pair of cards, or some other like idle vanity.—London, 14 Dec., 1600. |
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Holograph. 1 p. (82. 63.) |
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Richard Martyn to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1600, Dec. 15. |
As it pleased Cecil to write to Mr. Sackford concerning a green velvet chest which he has bought, whereby
he perceives Cecil desires it to be reserved for him, he sends it by his servant, being most willing Cecil should have it at the same rate he should have had it.—The Mint, 15 Dec., 1600. |
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Holograph. Endorsed :—“Alderman Marten.” ½ p. (82. 64.) |
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Captain E. Fitz-Gerald to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1600, Dec. 15. |
Prays Cecil to further the payment of over 600l. due to him for apparel and other necessaries for his company in Ireland; in consideration of his long and chargeable suit at his last being here, being then imprisoned and put to silence upon some informations given to the Lords against him, whereof he was acquitted by the whole State of Ireland on their letter of commendation to the Lords, and of his being here now five or six months. He has spent 160l. since first coming here about this suit, and will not have 40l. of the money after his creditors are satisfied.—Westminster, 15 Dec., 1600. |
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Signed. 1 p. (82. 65.) |
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William Becher to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1600, Dec. 15. |
Prays that his petition and letters to the Council, which remain with Mr. Smyth, Clerk of the Council, as he under stands, unread, may be read and answered.—15 Dec., 1600. |
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Holograph. 1 p. (82. 66.) |
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Sir Henry Brouncker to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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[1600,] Dec 15. |
According to your direction, I have written to Mr. Nicholson, and do not doubt of his care to satisfy my desire. For the matter, I need not say much in my own defence, being justified by the testimony of a good conscience, and freed in her Majesty's opinion and your Honour's. It is true that I dealt plainly with the King to make him see the danger of the course he ran, and her Majesty's royal nature to open her knowledge of it. Till my employment, I was utterly ignorant of the state of Scotland, which of purpose I neglected above all others. What I delivered to the King, I had it by my instructions, or by conference with you, and if in neither of those mention was made of the Master of Gray, or any other, for author of the intelligence, then could I not know or apprehend him to be the advertiser, but by revelation, which in these days is not ordinary. A King that has sold himself to policy will make no conscience to serve his turn by my discredit; but I rather think that the Master of Gray seeks to repair his ruined estate by her Majesty's bounty, and frames this lie as a step to come unto it. Howsoever, I account it a great happiness to serve a Queen infinitely wise in discerning the “sleytes” of the world, and constant in her gracious opinion of my faithfulness, which is my comfort. On yourself I safely repose my whole estate as the strongest support thereof. Your continual favours are the pledges of your honourable love which exceedingly contents me.—15 Dec |
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[P.S.]—Mr. Fullerton is now here, a man long known to me, and well esteemed by the King. If you shall think it fit, I can make him a second and sure means of my full justification. |
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Holograph. Endorsed :—“1600, Sir Henry Broncker.” 1 p. (82. 67.) |
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Edward Lucas to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1600, Dec. 15. |
His answer to Cecil's letter reprehending him for his usage of William Flowerdew, the Queen's ward. Details his proceedings with respect to William, his elder and younger brother, and his sister, and their property; and replies to the charges made against him by their relations.—Thriplowe, near Cambridge, 15 December, 1600. |
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1 p. (1958.) |
