Cecil Papers: March 1600, 16-31 | British History Online

Calendar of the Cecil Papers in Hatfield House: Volume 10, 1600. Originally published by His Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1904.

Citation:

'Cecil Papers: March 1600, 16-31', in Calendar of the Cecil Papers in Hatfield House: Volume 10, 1600, ed. R A Roberts( London, 1904), British History Online https://prod.british-history.ac.uk/cal-cecil-papers/vol10/pp72-92 [accessed 16 November 2024].

March 1600, 16–31



	George Nicolson to Sir Robert Cecil.
1599/1600, March 16.	It is not true, as I reported in my last letter, that Bothwell should be come hither with George Seaton of Perbroath. The priest who spoke with the King and gave him an answer to Doleman's book is said to be here again. On Sunday Beltres came hither, which stayed the King till Thursday last, when he went over the water to reach Montrose for the General Assembly on Tuesday, and to return to the Convention at St. Johnston's the 27th hereof by way of Stirling, and so hither. I stay here to avoid increasing the King's suspicion that I look too near to him. Beltres brought her Majesty's letter, being, as I hear, plain with a touch of her good counsel. The King is not satisfied in the other matters (saving for the money) that he solicited and means to send again to the Queen about them. The Treasurer is in a great rage at Beltres for disbursing of the gratuity without his advice and hand, and the King is content that the Treasurer take the law of him. Thus for money the nearest friends fall out, but this will be but a “brunt,” as was with Mr. David Foulis at his return. For Beltres has the King's hand for almost all his payments.
	There is a suspicion that the Earl of Murray and the Stewarts have a plot against Huntley, and the King understanding the dislike his people have of the Convention, has appointed his household to be there to guard him in warlike manner, and was exceeding angry with the Controller for saying he could not furnish their expenses. I think the Convention will be adjourned without touching on the great matter; for the King hears from all sides of the people's malcontentment. The King marvels how the Queen can hear so many tales of him (he says), and blames the Master of Gray, saying he will hang him.
	The King still pursues the entry of our pledges; their cautioners offered to pay all the bills they were entered for, for doing whereof they have time given them till the 11 of the next, and then must be entered in person if the bills be not satisfied.
	I am asked by a very honourable person [margin : Angus (32) is the man] to say that what favour shall be showed to Spotte (10026 nkt) shall be dutifully remembered to her Majesty (12) and his friends. Sir George Hume (90) only holds him out of the King's (16) favour. The gentleman is honest, secret, and deserves favour. I humbly thank you for the license for corns, but it may rather undo than do us any good, as I have given over my part, and depend upon her Majesty.—Edinburgh, 16 March, 1599.
	[P.S.]—“Here is word come that my Lord of Spina is dead or in danger of death, having taken the fever by the hurts given him at the fight between him and the Mr. of Oglevy.”
	Holograph. Seals. 1½ pp. (68. 104 : 2.)
	Thomas Nicholson to Henry Lok.
1599/1600, March 16/26.	I have been far frustrate of my expectations by the negligence and malice of bearers; for having sent you notes, then two pairs of letters, some have been miscarried; now at last your friend Francis' letter, which I sent with one of mine, has returned to my hands, to my great grief. For which reason I have sent this bearer, who was formerly employed by my Lord to come to you, but being stayed by sickness is now “convalescit,” to inform you by word of mouth, to whom both my Lord and myself desire that you will put full trust.—Calais, 26 March, new style.
1599/1600, March 16/26.	Holograph. Endorsed :—“1599.” Seal. ½ p. (68. 105.)
	Dennis McCartie to Sir Robert Cecil.
1599/1600, March 16.	My imprisonment being now known to you, I entreated one Watkins, a prisoner in this place, to draw for me a letter to beseech your warrant for my discharge, explaining therein the cause of my imprisonment, and how the cause was not urged by me but by the party hurt. But Watkins, I understand, made a contrary information, wherein he abused me and others, which I had cause to suspect, in regard when he had written over what he had drawn before, he sealed it up, and would not let me see it; so that when I was called to answer to it, I denied it to be my work or meaning. This will I hope justly satisfy your Honour and acquit the Mayor, Mr. Walley, and all others of any desert of information. Leaving such punishment to be assigned for Watkins as he has deserved by your judgement, being a device of his to defeat his creditors, I only ask a speedy warrant for my liberty, that my adverse part, doing this of malice, may have no advantage against me by humour.—The Prison at Bristol, 16 March, 1599. Signed : “Dennis McCartie his mark.” ½ p. (68. 106.)
	Sir Arthur Gorges to Sir Robert Cecil.
1599/1600, March 16.	At my being with you, I forgot to tell you of the Viscountess' death, the reversion of whose jointure is passed to me in my lease at a rent reserved and increased by special words. But what with the desperate debt of 250l. which the Lady owed me (and was now to have paid it) and with the part allotted to the Viscount, in which she had her thirds, and now comes free to him, my portion will be but little increased by the three years' fruition, which is all the time of my lease. It has pleased God this very day to take from me a son that was your godson; yet I do persuade myself that God hath done it in His foreknowing mercy and wisdom, seeing that I am held back from all means to give them sufficient ad victim et vestitum, a destiny unworthy of an honest man, and a misery not growing by my own idleness.—Chelsea, 16 March, 1599. Mr. Percival has perused my lease to see it such as I affirm.
1599/1600, March 16.	Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (69. 1.)
	The Mayor and Aldermen of Bristol to Sir Robert Cecil.
1599/1600, March 18.	Upon examining the matters alleged by Dennis McCartye, we find by his own confession and the testimony of Captain George Kinge and other gentlemen who were present when Lieutenant Owlde was hurt, that there were then no speeches used in any sort concerning your Honour, nor did we hear of anything of the kind until by your letter. But the said Dennis confesses that he requested Thomas Watkins, a scrivener, to frame a petition to inform your Honour of his imprisonment upon an action of battery at the suit of the said Owlde, and to ask your letter to us for his enlargement. This the said Watkins first drew up in a few words, but afterwards added the matters concerning your Honour without the knowledge of the said Dennis. Watkins is a very malicious and evil disposed person, who has laid in prison here almost this half year for money whereof he would have defeated his master. Touching Mr. Wallye, we know that he was an earnest suitor for the said Dennis; who is proved to have given the said Owlde a dangerous wound in the neck, of which he was like to have died, the quarrel beginning at dice. And after the verdict and damages of 40l given by the Jury, we persuaded the said Owlde to accept 20 marks for his charges, and would have remitted the rest if that could have been paid.—Bristoll, 18 March, 1599.
1599/1600, March 18.	Signed :—“John Hort, Mayor,” followed by the names of the Aldermen. Seal. 1 p. (69. 3.)
	Sir Thomas Egerton, Lord Keeper, to Sir Robert Cecil.
1599/1600, March 19.	I long for liberty, and hope to receive some speedy direction from her Majesty before your coming from the Court. My indisposition of health increases, and the physicians promise me small comfort in this unsavoury house; yet am I enforced this day to put myself in their hands, and hope soon after to take the benefit of a clear and open air. As I little esteem long life (for this half year has taught me to say Vixi satis), so while I live, I desire a healthful life.—At York [House], this Wednesday morning, 19 March, 1599.
1599/1600, March 19.	Holograph. ½ p. (69. 5.)
	The Same to the Same.
1599/1600, March 19.	Sir, this day, about eleven of the clock, Sir Richard Berkeley was with me, and delivered unto me her Majesty's gracious warrant under her sacred hand for my liberty. I see I have erred with Peter in weakness of faith; but her Majesty hath supplied the defect of faith and hope, which is proper to the Deity. I will observe the directions given me, and will then attend the repair of my weak health, by physic and change of air, as the physicians shall direct, whose vassal I now am.—York House, 19 March, 1599.
1599/1600, March 19.	Holograph. 1 p. (69. 6.)
	Richard Lowther to Sir Robert Cecil.
1599/1600, March 19.	Upon the opposite Warden's return from Edinburgh, I wrote to him to suggest a meeting, whereunto he consented, appointing this day at Tordoe Wathe, where we agreed as follows.
	First, that past offences shall be enrolled, exchanged and tried, foul or clean, according to the custom of the Border.
	Secondly, that a day of march, to be agreed upon after the bills tried, be kept at the most usual place called Gretnoe Church, for making a reciprocal delivery of offenders. Thirdly, that faults committed on either side after this meeting and proclamation shall be forthwith delivered for, by principal malefactors, and to answer the same with double and “sawfee,” or otherwise continued in strait prison, till the bills be satisfied to the contentment of the complainers.
	Mr. Leigh, not coming unto me, hath taken his journey towards Court through Northumberland.—Carlisle, 19 March, 1599.
	Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (69. 7.)
	John Watson to Sir Robert Cecil.
1599/1600, March 19.	The Lord Treasurer yesternight appointed me to receive 15,000l more to the 17,000l. he gave me order to receive before, so as the whole amounts to 32,000l.; to be thus divided—25,000l. to Dublin for Leinster and Connaught, and 7,000l. for Munster; so that I cannot start until Saturday. For that Sir Thomas Maria Wingfeilde should not stay until I had received the treasure, I paid him so much of my own. You asked me of Sir Henry Wallop's clerks that served him at his death, how they were bestowed. I enclose a list of their names, and would ask for your favour in furtherance of Mr. Treasurer's business, which will advance my credit with him.—From my lodging in the Strand, 19 March, 1599.
1599/1600, March 19.	Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (69. 8.)
	[Sir Henry Lee] to Sir Robert Cecil.
1599/1600, March 19.	It pleased my Lord of Essex now a good space since to move me to favour one Henry Whitton in a suit for the Controller's place of Woodstock, which an ancient uncle of his has now held some fifty years. And because I know his good deserts and his uncle's many services to the Queen, which, in her sister's time, procured him disgrace and threatened him danger, I very readily join in asking your furtherance for his suit to have this office, as his uncle had it by his old patent. This will be a kindness to my Lord, a satisfaction to me, the preferment of a man of desert, and a comfort to his aged uncle.—Dichley, 19 March, 1599.
1599/1600, March 19.	Unsigned. Seal. 1 p. (69. 9.)
	Richard Lee to Sir Robert Cecil
1599/1600, March 20.	I perceive by my friend Sir Edward Wooton the continuance of your favours to me; and by Lord Cobham's letter, her Majesty's princely regard of me, with too much fear I should take harm by the witches of Muscovia xxx [years] since, wherein I shall so thoroughly satisfy her Majesty that all doubt shall be removed of my credit with your Honour ever. How far my poor reputation and state is engaged in going, the world takes notice of. The merchants have resolved of myself with general consent; they were informed by Mr. Cherye that the Queen liked their choice; some of them have put servants to go with me; besides divers of my friends' preparation at great charge. My brother Sir Harry Lee, for my more grace, has provided a present of better than two hundred marks. I hope her Majesty, after above thirty years' service, will not suffer me to be disgraced, but will be pleased with the merchants' free choice. For though many of better quality might have been chosen, yet some as mean as myself have been employed.—London, 20 March, 1599.
1599/1600, March 20.	Holograph. (69. 10.)
	Sir Henry Lee to Sir Robebt Cecil.
1599/1600, March 20.	Urging Cecil to arrange that his brother be allowed to go upon his voyage. I would rather wish his end than that this disgrace should come upon him, especially upon so vain a toy as hath without ground been given out, and no truth in it.—Dichlee, 20 March, 1599. Signed. Seal. 1 p. (69. 12.)
	Sir J. Popham, Lord Chief Justice, to Sir Robert Cecil.
1599/1600, March 20.	Acknowledging a summons to attend at a council, at which “I will not fail, if the state of my body may abide travel.”—Littlecot, 20 March, 1599.
1599/1600, March 20.	Signed. (69. 11.)
	Thomas Windebank to Sir Robert Cecil.
1599/1600, March 20.	Even almost out of hope of doing anything, yet with that poor cunning that I could devise, I got access to her Majesty and have obtained the signing of the bill here included, with this charge, to remember you in her Majesty's name to deal with my Lord Treasurer for the bonds of performance [of] such things as are to be done by Mr. Dobson; which though I said that I thought you had already done, yet her Majesty willed me in any case to write thus much. And for anything else, nothing done, being referred till after noon.—This 20 of March, 1599.
1599/1600, March 20.	Holograph. ½ p. (178. 139.)
	Henry, Lord Cobham to Sir Robert Cecil.
1599/1600, March 21.	I pray you send this letter of mine to Sir Walter Rawley by post. When you were last with me, you told me the Earl went not to his house till the next day, upon which assurance I laid a satin doublet, which I have lost, for that night at eight o'clock he went thither, as I am confidently assured. The town news is that 14 of the 19 ships are presently to be made ready, and that my Lord Thomas shall command in this journey. There is never a good bone setter in London, so that I am constrained to send for Stufild, who my physician, Dr. Turner, doth hold to be the very best in England. My pain is great and increased.
1599/1600, March 21.	Holograph. Endorsed :—“March 21, 1599.” Seal. 1 p. (69. 13.)
	W. Smith to Sir Robert Cecil.
1599/1600, March 22.	My aged mother, being extremely tormented with a pain in her stomach, which no physic can remove, I would humbly ask you to give her a little of the distilled water which I brought from Florence and delivered to your Honour; for I know the same to be of an excellent virtue, and hope it will do her good.—London, 22 March, 1599. I have sent a little silver bottle by this bearer for the same.
1599/1600, March 22.	Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (69. 14.)
	Captain Thomas Lee to Sir Robert Cecil.
1599/1600, March 22.	Asking Cecil's allowance of his presenting a petition to the Council.—From the Savoy, 22 March, 1599.
1599/1600, March 22.	Holograph. ½ p. (69. 16.)
	Richard Gyfford to Lord Buckhurst and Sir Robert Cecil.
1599/1600, March 22.	From Toulon in France, the 22 of March, 1600.—I could not put in practice my pretended purpose, for the thing I went for was in safety before my arrival in that country. In regard whereof, and understanding of a general embargo, I went for Malaga, thinking there to have laden my ship with wines, and so return home, once having thoroughly known a certain time for the execution of my pretence. And being there in traffic, an embargo came and stayed all shipping. But I knowing well the danger and unsecureness of that place and country, did always stand upon my own guard, and defended myself through God's assistance from 50 or 60 musketeers which were sent in a frigate and other boats to make stay of my ship, notwithstanding half our men ashore and there remaineth prisoners. I directed my course for this place, where I have furnished myself with sufficient men for my turn out of other English ships which I found here. And because I am in place where I can make no benefit of my merchandizes, nor return a saving voyage, I have thought it good (and I hope to your good liking) to take freights in these parts until the time serveth whereby I may put in execution and, by God's grace, effect the thing I look for, which will be about September next. In the mean time, and so soon as possibly I can vent such commodities as I have, your Honours shall hear of me, having fit opportunity to send by. There was news at my being at Malaga of a fleet preparing at St. Lucas, but for what place or purpose there was no certainty. All shipping were stayed, as well there as in all other places. There was one of the Twelve Apostles which came from the West Indies in the last fleet which came home about the latter end of November, and arrived at Malaga with three millions of treasure, her masts spent and without any company. She was within the mouth of the Straits before they knew where they were. The treasure was landed at Malaga before my coming thither.
1599/1600, March 22.	Signed. Seal. ¾ p. (77. 84.)
	Sir Richard Barkley to Sir Robert Cecil.
1599/1600, March 22.	Because I would strictly observe her Majesty's direction and your Honour's I am told to trouble you with these few lines. Here is yet remaining in my Lord of Essex his house, over and above the number allowed by your Honours at my Lord Treasurer's house, these following; one to look to the wardrobe and linen and to deliver it out, and to keep the lodgings clean and sweet; one other to carry wood and coal; a third, a scullery man, to make clean and look to the vessel; a fourth, a gardener, but he lodgeth not in the house. I should be glad to hear whether these men may remain.—Essex House, This Easter Eve.
1599/1600, March 22.	Holograph. 1 p. (69. 15.)
	The Same to the Same.
1599/1600, March 23.	After I had sent my man with my letter to you yesterday, my lord of Essex fell sick and went to bed. He came forth this morning unto his dining chamber something amended. This evening he groweth ill-disposed again and feareth another fit of an ague. I desire to understand your pleasure whether Dr. Monford and Dr. Atkins may be allowed to resort to his lordship, who were his physicians at his being with my Lord Keeper.—At Essex House, this Easter day.
1599/1600, March 23.	Holograph. Endorsed :—“23 March, 1599.” ²/3 p. (49. 66.)
	Lord Willoughby to Sir Robert Cecil.
1599/1600, March 23.	I send you Sesforde's letter. My desire hath been to visit you, not so much for these affairs as for my affection. Yet concerning the matter of the pledges, I think that her Majesty of her mercy may dismiss them; but in ordinary course of justice they deserve nothing but extremity, the time of satisfaction being expired. Nor are Sesforde's reasons to be admitted; for the security of the Border should depend less upon pledges of such base quality than on the vigilance and sufficiency of the Wardens there, as one of whom I speak. But if justice be qualified, I think it should be upon such grounds as the matters, standing, as I conceive, very crude in their form “might come to better digestion by the virtuous heat of their under standing have (sic) managed them”; for though some of us will not refuse to wipe dishes to serve Her Majesty, yet we are loth to finish others' buildings, lest our labours be made less and our disgrace more. But if I mistake this, I wish the offenders were brought to the final trial upon swearing and delivery at true days, that the hope of restitution might be satisfied.—London, 23 March, '99.
1599/1600, March 23.	Signed. ½ p. (69. 17.)
	Edward Seymour to Sir Robert Cecil.
1599/1600, March 24.	Has a long time been very desirous to manifest his duty to him and to acquaint him with some matter worthy his knowledge, but could only now do so in willing this bearer, Nicholas Bugans, who lately came out of Spain, first to repair unto Cecil. His carriage in those parts is held to be very honest, and (for one of his sort) very sufficient.—Berry Castle, 24 March, 1599.
	Endorsed :—“24 March, 1597 (sic). Mr. Edw. Seymour to my master.”
	Holograph. ½ p. (49. 70.)
	Sir Edward Dyer to Sir Robert Cecil.
1599/1600, March 24.	Let it please you to accept my hearty thanks as honourably as you did perform the noble favour in writing to Mr. Attorney so effectually on my behalf. The bearer is willed by Sir John Fortes [cue] to attend at the Court. It seems Sir John will prefer an offer of ours to her Majesty for service. I would ask you to hear Mr. Typpar a little, that you may see the better cause to shew your liking of our proposition. This will prove a critical day with me in that business.—The City, 24 March, '99.
1599/1600, March 24.	Holograph. 1 p. (69. 19.)
	Lord Cobham to Sir Robert Cecil.
1599/1600, [before March 25] .	On Sunday last my foot was put in joint, which being so long out, and the party that set it thought skilful, yet old and weak, that it was very near a whole hour before he could put in the bone. Judge what pain I endured; since the splinter which is of iron to keep the bone in must not be altered for 14 days, and is so hard tied about my foot that the pain I now endure is very great, besides the cold weather which increases it. They assure me for my comfort that there is no blemish to my leg.
	How to satisfy the Lady I know not; I have written unto her. By some 4 days past, I prayed my Lord Thomas to do my commendations unto her. I see none that I know come where she is but I pray them to salute her from me. For her mislike that I am not willing she should come to me, if reason will satisfy her, in my letters I have yielded her my opinion; if visitation between her and me, or matters of ceremony, be of more force than the truth of my love, which I have given her the best assurance of, I can but blame my unforwardness, and wish it were in my power that ceremony might be satisfaction. I speak of too great happiness to myself.
	Holograph. Endorsed by Secretary Herbert :—“1599, Mar.” Seal 1 p. (69. 38.)
	Lady Denny to Sir Robert Cecil.
1600, March 25.	Understanding that it hath pleased her Majesty to sign Mr. Dobson's patent for the office, I entreat you to be a means that the 200l. yearly yet stayed by her Attorney to her use may be assured for the relief of me and my desolate children.
	I perceive how much I am bound to your Honour in this my suit, and therefore I am the more grieved that you should be misinformed of me by Sir Edward Denny, who, as my lady Stafford told my children, hath reported that I refused his kind offer to be at the charges of his uncle's funeral, and that he hath given Mr. Denny a manor of 140l. a year, yet I sought to bar him from cutting off the entail of Amwell. The untruth of which report, I defer to answer till I may attend you at your coming to London, when you shall find me ready to follow your directions concerning this land of Amwell.—London, this 25 of March.
	Holograph. ½ p. (77. 91.)
	William Worthington to Sir Robert Cecil.
1600, March 25.	He has a lease from King's College, Cambridge, which he desires to renew. Quotes the statute fixing the terms of College leases. Complains of the increased amount of rent payable in lieu of corn, by reason of the prices of corn in these days; also of the rent payable in lieu of oxen. States terms he is ready to offer for sealing money on renewal. Prays Cecil to be a mean to the Queen to grant her mandatum to the College to renew his lease, and abate the rent payable in lieu of oxen, and that he may be otherwise favourably dealt with.
	Holograph. Undated.
	Endorsed :—25 March, 1600. 1 p. (250. 67.)
	Captain Thomas Blount to Sir Robert Cecil.
1600, March 25.	You were pleased to promise me, at my being in Court, letters to the Lord Mountjoy for my preferment to a charge in Ireland. You appointed Mr. Udall to put you in remembrance thereof, since which time I have expected by him to receive your letters, I beseech you now to write unto the Lord Mountjoy and let me have the letter by this bearer.—The 25th of March, 1600.
1600, March 25.	Holograph. ¾ p. (77. 92.)
	Sir Thomas Egerton to Sir Robert Cecil.
1600, March 26.	Yesterday I made a wilful escape; and brake from the physicians and from an unclean and unwholesome house. I am now seeking clean air on Hounslow Heath, because I would gladly repair a decayed copyhold that is falling into the Lord's hands for lack of reparation. I would gladly use this freedom for a few days, unless you see any use of my service to her Majesty.—26 Martii, 1600. (77. 94.)
	Sir John Peyton to Sir Robert Cecil.
1600, March 26.	It hath pleased you to require my certificate touching Mr. Desmond's suit, that her Majesty would discharge certain debts of his unto mercers, tailors and other creditors; to pay his teachers of languages, writing and other qualities, and for money borrowed to relieve his sisters before her Majesty granted them pensions. His debts grew most in Sir Michael Blount's time and all before my coming into this place, the whole being 170l., for the payment whereof he seemeth to have great care in conscience.—From the Tower, 26 March, 1600.
1600, March 26.	Holograph. Seal. ¾ p. (77. 95.)
	Charles McCarty to Sir Robert Cecil.
1600, March 26.	It pleased you to appoint Mr. Wade to draw a letter in my behalf to the Lord President of Munster, for continuing my possession in the Castle and lands of Kilkrea, and to proceed to the determination of the long controversy depending between me and Cormock McDermot for Muscry; and, until the same were determined, to allot to me such competent portion of the said country as to the said Lord President should seem meet. Mr. Wade hath forgotten to insert the clause that until the suit were determined I should have some meet portion as aforesaid. I beseech you that the letter may be new drawn with the said clause inserted, and that I may have the charge of the forces of Muscry; according to the said former order.—26 Martii, 1600.
1600, March 26.	Holograph. ¾ p. (77. 96.)
	Sir Richard Barkeley to Sir Robert Cecil.
1600, March 26.	The Countess of Leicester came hither by water this afternoon, attended on with a man and one gentlewoman, and stayed here with my Lord of Essex not two hours, and returned by water again. His Lordship hath not been troubled with any fit of an ague these 3 or 4 days. He was yesterday reasonably well, but somewhat worse to-day, yet walketh in his chamber, and meaneth to-morrow to take physic.—At Essex House, the 26 of March.
	Holograph.
	Endorsed :—“1600.” ½ p. (77. 97.)
	Robert Beale to Sir Robert Cecil.
1600, March 26.	I think the copy enclosed is the thing which your Lordship desires. Other I have none nor can tell where it is to be had. I will attend you as soon as I may, and the weather shall be more mild.—This 26 of March.
1600, March 26.	Holograph. Endorsed :—“1600.” Seal. ¼ p. (77. 98.)
	Richard Ogle to Sir Robert Cecil.
1600, March 26.	At the last summer's service, I being only of all Holland [Lincoln] charged to send up to London two horses, it then pleased you, upon my uncle Skynner's information, to discharge them. I thought myself much bound by such a favour, and thereupon in Michaelmas term purposely came up to acknowledge my thankfulness, but upon two days' attendance not obtaining access to you, I departed fearing some undeserved displeasure. But since, understanding by my brother Captain Ogle that you vouchsafed to remember me, I was emboldened hereby to shew my thankful mind. Your manor of Essendine is within 10 miles of my habitation, where if my service can be accepted, it shall never need to be commanded.—From Pinchbeck, 26 March, 1600.
1600, March 26.	Holograph. ½ p. (78. 1.)
	Sir Thomas Gorges to Sir Robert Cecil.
1600, March 26.	Urging that a warrant should be directed to the Sheriff and Justices of Dorsetshire for the apprehension of Edmond Stansfyld. He hath been already outlawed by several proclamations and commissions of rebellion, and now violently keeps possession of her Majesty's house of Lulworth, the inheritance of Ambrosia Gorges.—26 of March, 1600.
	Endorsed :—“Sr. Tho. Gorg. Sr. Arthur [struck out]. Sr. Ferdinand Go. Tibbol Gorg. Sr. Ed. Gorg. Sr. Will. Gorg.”
	Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (180. 49.)
	George Nicolson to Sir Robert Cecil.
1600, March 27.	This young gentleman, the young laird of Broxmouth, being to go into France to see the fashions of the country, has desired me to be means for the licence to pass through England. I have, because my Mr. was much beholden unto their house, as many of her Majesty's Ministers have been, written to Sir John Cary for their passport. I commend the gentleman to your courtesy therein.—At Edinb[urgh], the 27 March, 1600.
	[P.S.]—The gentleman's name is George Hume, young laird of Broxmouth, and with him Mr. Alexander Hume, his uncle and minister of Dunbar.
	Holograph. ½ p. (78. 2 :)
	George Frevile to Mr. Percival.
1600, March 27.	I delivered a. petition to Mr. Secretary in Trinity term last for one Mrs. Morehouse, late the wife of John Morehouse, preacher, deceased, touching the wardship of her daughter Elizabeth, now 3 years old. My Lord Treasurer that dead is did grant it her for her father's sake, who was his scholar, as Mr. Clapham his clerk best knoweth. I spake with you also about the matter in Michaelmas term last, when the office was not certified to the Court of Wards. The mother would know Mr. Secretary's pleasure, what she must pay for the wardship of her daughter, whose land is no more than 20 marks per annum of customary land in Cumberland, where the tenants have tenant-right, and she shall have nothing but the bare rent of 20 marks. The mother hath also a lease of the land for 21 years, paying no rent. The consideration hereof I leave to your discretion, and crave your friendship for the mother and the child.—From Walworth, 27 March, 1600.
1600, March 27.	Holograph. 1 p. (78. 3.)
	John Daniel to Lord Cobham, Warden of the Cinque Ports.
1600, March 27.	I am right sorry to hear that you keep your bed. Being committed to this place upon an execution, I am forced to visit you with these few lines. I pray you, according to my former request, by your letter to Mr. Secretary, to persuade him to be a means to her Majesty for granting the sum of my suit, which will rid me out of all troubles. This being done, I will not while I live trouble her Highness for money matters. I must perish here if I be not holpen in time.—From the Marshalsea, this 27 March, 1600.
1600, March 27.	Holograph. 1 p. (78. 5.)
	Vincent Skinner to Sir Robert Cecil.
1600, March 27.	Obirn [O'Brien] hath already received the money, for which I was directed to make an order and present payment, and had despatched him before the receipt of your letters. To-morrow morning Charles McCarty expecteth the receipt of his, who had been likewise despatched if he had come when the other did. I am sorry there was such haste made, receiving this advertisement that I do.—At Westminster, this Thursday night, 27 March, 1600.
1600, March 27.	Holograph. ½ p. (78. 6.)
	Sir Walter Ralegh to Sir Robert Cecil.
1600, March 27-	Because I know you can receive no pleasinger news from hence than to hear of your beloved creature, (fn. ) I thought good to let you know of his good health. I assure you he is now better in health and strength than ever, and his stomach, which was heretofore weak, is altogether amended, and doth eat well and digest perfectly. He is also better kept to his book than anywhere else.—27 March.
1600, March 27-	Holograph. Endorsed :—“1600.” Seal 1 p. (78. 7.)
	Richard [Vaughan], Bishop of Chester, to Sir Robert Cecil.
1600, March 28.	The bearer hereof, Mr. Adams, one of her Majesty's preachers for Lancaster, having occasion to travel up to London, I thought it my duty to advertise you by him of the good opinion generally conceived of his painful endeavour, good discretion and wholesome example of life, which have much confirmed her Majesty's people (daily assaulted by popish wolves) in their obedience, and good hope besides of winning many recusants. There is nothing that would more further this good work than the stirring up of the justices of peace in that county by your letters, to give countenance and aid to this business, the severe punishment of such malefactors as abused her Majesty's messengers, whose cause is shortly to be heard before you and the Council in the Star-Chamber, and the bridling of some few of the chief recusants. I pray you, amidst your graver affairs, to think upon the ruins of God's Church, the chief scope and true project of all Christian policy.—Chester, this 28 March, 1600.
1600, March 28.	Signed. Endorsed (wrongly) :—“27 March.” 1 p. (78. 4.)
	John Daniel to Sir Robert Cecil.
1600, March 28.	I was committed to this place on the 21st of this month by one of the Knight Marshal's men, upon an execution. I remain in great extremity for want of ability to pay for my diet, wherefore I beseech you to be a mean to her Majesty for granting me 120l. fines or forfeitures, and that the privy seal may be delivered to Sir John Fortescue, to take such order between Mr. Francis Smaleman, the merchant, that have my patent, and me, as he may be constrained to receive the rest of the 140l. he delivered me, which is 20l., with some reasonable consideration for the tolerance of his money, and that I may receive the patent with the rest of the privy seal. To the rest of my creditors, I will pay each a little every quarter out of my pension, till they shall be fully satisfied. The misery of this place is such as my heart will break unless I hear from you shortly.—From the Marshalsea, 28 March, 1600.
1600, March 28.	Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (78. 8.)
	The Sheriff and Justices of Northamptonshire to the Privy Council.
1600, March 29.	We have, taken bond of one John Treadway for his appearance before you the 12th of April next. We return his bond, according to your Lordships' direction.—29 March, 1600.
1600, March 29.	Signed :—W. Browne. Ant. Mildmay. E. Mountagu. 1 p. (78. 9.)
	Sir Henry Lee to Sir Robert Cecil.
1600, March 29.	I made bold to write to the Council in my cousin Captain Lee's behalf, if not in employment in the present service, which if it might seem too much in respect of the present opinion held of him, yet for leave at the least to pass for Ireland, there to make sale of such things as he hath hardly come by both by charge and blood. Accept in good part, I beseech you, a keeper's remembrance. If I had aught else of more account, I would send with it.—From Woodstock Lodge, 29 March.
1600, March 29.	Holograph. Endorsed :—“1600.” Seal 1 p. (78. 10.)
	John Budden to Sir Robert Cecil.
1600, March 29.	In reply to a petition of one Pytney, bringing certain accusations against him in connexion with land, parcel of her Majesty's manor of Gillingham, co. Dorset, escheated to the Crown on the attainder of Charles Lord Stourton, but re-purchased by Lord Stourton by Budden's means from Hugh Worthe, a man of the Lord Ghief Justice.—Shaftesbury, 29 March, 1599 [error for 1600].
1600, March 29.	Holograph. Endorsed :—“Hartford Bridge 2 April, 1 in the afternoon. Staines at 5 in the afternoon.” Seal. 2 pp. (78. 11.)
	Pitton, Wilts.
1600, March 29.	Brief of Richard Zouche's office, made upon his death, March 29, 1600, relating to the manor of Pitton, Wilts.
1600, March 29.	1 p. (P. 2176.)
	Lord Buckhurst to Sir Robert Cecil.
1600, March 30.	This cold having taken hold of me and brought my body into some looseness, I did hope that this night it would have ceased, and then I meant to have come to the Court this morning. But it continueth upon me so as to go into the air might utterly overthrow me. This much I thought fit to write to you, that her Majesty may know the cause of my absence.—Sunday morning, 1600.
1600, March 30.	Holograph. Endorsed :—“30 March.” Seal. ½ p. (78. 12.)
	Lord Buckhurst to Sir Robert Cecil.
1600, March 30.	I had forgotten in my letter this morning to write to you of the earnest desire which my Lord of Southampton yesterday did make unto me, that I would move her Majesty on his behalf for her favour to kiss her hand, and if that may not be, for license to go again into Ireland. Since my indisposition will not permit me to accomplish his desire myself, I pray that you will in my behalf, and though the first be denied, yet that her Majesty will be pleased to grant the last, whereby he shall the better redeem his fault and do his country some service.—From my house this Sunday, 1600.
1600, March 30.	Holograph. Endorsed :—“30 March.” 1 p. (78. 13.)
	Lord Henry Seymour to Sir Robert Cecil.
1600, March 30.	I was this morning two miles on my way to the Court, but, “saving your Honour,” enforced to draw home again upon extreme looseness. My Lady of Warwick sent me word yesterday she had remembered me to her Majesty, which I should know when I came to the Court.—This 30 March, 1600.
1600, March 30.	Holograph. ½ p. (78. 14.)
	Matthew [Hutton], Archbishop of York, to Sir Robert Cecil.
1600, March 30.	In January last, I sent unto you an institution for Mr. George Brooke to the prebend of Strensall in this church, together with a mandate to the Chapter to give him real possession by his proctor. Since which time, I heard nothing either from your Honour or from him. It is thought the best prebend in this Church, the second at the least. Having a dispensation, he is bound to nothing but only to procure three sermons a year, which the farmer of his house in York is bound to discharge. It is thought well worth 200l by year, if it were out of lease; and, leased, about one hundred marks de claro. Her Majesty is to give a dispensation because he is not clericus.—From Bishopthorp, the 30th of March, 1600.
	[P.S.]—Whatsoever hath been informed of the abuse of the Ecclesiastical Commission, or the revolt of this country from religion, I assure your Honour is nothing so.
	Signature. Seal. ½ p. (180. 50.)
	Anthony Payneter to Sir Robert Cecil.
1600, March 30.	Prays to be appointed to the office of Surveyor of Ordnance, now void by transgression; he having been brought up in that office. Refers Cecil to the Lord Treasurer's report on his application. Hears that Mr. Hardie accounted himself sure of the office by Cecil's means, and that divers noblemen were suitors for the rest.
	Holograph. Undated.
	Endorsed :—“Anthony Painter, March 30, 1600.” 1 p. (250. 136.)
	R. C. [Sir Robert Cecil] to “Mr. Blunt”
1600, March 30.	When I consider upon how hard terms the Earl of Essex stands to me, and how apt divers of his followers are to throw imputations upon me, as one that either did or would encourage you to speak in his prejudice, I must desire to be excused for using any particular commendation of you. For though your own conscience can tell you how far I was from any such course with you (though I was and ever will be ready to hear anything delivered with simple truth which has relation to my Sovereign's service, whomsoever else it may be displeasing) yet for me to commend a Blunt to a Lord Mountjoy must savour of some extraordinary private end. Therefore, I pray you interpret well my answer, and let it suffice you that I shall always be disposed to give you right in anything when your name shall come in question, though to embark myself into your desires (to whom you are but a stranger) I am not in any sort determined.—Richmond, 30 March, 1600.
1600, March 30.	Draft or Copy. ½ p. (251. 134.)
	Roger Wilbraham, Solicitor of Ireland, to Sir Robert Cecil.
1600, March 31.	I have enclosed the minutes of a letter drawn according to your direction, which I hope may best respect her Majesty's honour and service and the satisfaction of the Lord Burke.—From St. John's Gate, 31 March, 1600.
1600, March 31.	Holograph. Seal. ¼ p. (180. 51.)
	Richard Tomson to Sir Robert Cecil.
1600, March 31.	It is well known to your Honour by daily experience, that such kingdoms as depend not upon foreign trades, as our realm of England for the greater part doth, and such persons as get their maintenance within their countries, and are not compelled to seek the same by travelling abroad, do seldom feel the many and often losses incident to merchants, which, beside the ordinary dangers of the seas, are subject to arrests, stays, and many times confiscations of their goods for other men's offences. It was my case in 1582 at Malta and Rome; it hath been my evil fortune in France and Italy since that time to sustain hindrance for the like respects, and at this present many stand in danger to be much endamaged for such causes. We have no remedy but by way of humble petitions to her Majesty and her noble counsellors. I have thought it convenient to make my case known to my Lord Treasurer, and although the cause be ancient, yet shall it be manifested to be true, and that the variance between the Pope and the family of the Vezinis about this money was the loss of our ship and goods, and deprived us of all access for justice beyond the seas. I beseech you not to listen to any wrongful informations that they were confiscated for any offence or misdemeanour of the owners. It lately came to my knowledge, by mere accident, that her Majesty made stay of certain money in her hands as belonging to the Pope, and that Sir Horatio Paulo Vezini did at this present sue for the recovery thereof. This caused me to revive the suit which had many years been buried in oblivion. I am willing to clear myself of any hatred towards Sir Horatio for any former matter concerning the Spaniards of '88, wherein if you were rightly informed, I believe I should be deemed rather to have performed the duty of a good subject than to have intermeddled upon envy to anyone or desire of profit to myself. The suit tendeth not to pray any money from her Majesty, but being found that she may relieve the wrongs of her poor subjects by the money of so capital an enemy as the Pope, she may repart some portion thereof amongst us, for the mitigation of our damages.—The last of March, 1600.
1600, March 31.	Holograph. 1½ pp. (78. 15.)
	W[illiam Bourchier], Earl of Bath, to Sir Robert Cecil.
1600, March 31.	Enclosing the examination of Richard Gifforde, a gentleman that hath been in captivity in the King of Spain's dominions by the space of four years, [See letter of 10 March, p. 63 supra.] May it please you to yield your assistance for the payment of such monies as I have desired my Lordships to pay unto this messenger, which was disbursed in the late levy of 100 men for her Majesty's service in Ireland.—From Towstock, the last of March, 1600.
1600, March 31.	Signed. 1 p. (78. 16.)
	The Attorney-General (Coke) to Sir Robert Cecil.
1600, March 31.	A title is no more of necessity (as you are informed) to a proclamation than to an act of Parliament, which of ancient time never had any. But if it be your pleasure to add a title, the one already endorsed is not agreeable to the body of the proclamation. I think this title, being general, is fittest for all the several parts of it, viz.: “A proclamation concerning coin, plate, and bullion of gold and silver.”—31 March, 1600.
1600, March 31.	Holograph. ½ p. (78. 17.)
	Justices of the Peace of Leicestershire to Sir Robert Cecil.
1600, March 31.	Ourselves and divers other of the Commissioners of the Peace do hold, by her Highness' grant under the Seal of the Duchy of Lancaster, certain tenements for divers years yet to come within the close of the dissolved College of the Newerke, near to Leicester Castle, where the general assizes and the quarter sessions for the county are kept. To these houses we have been accustomed to repair to execute the tenor of the said Commission, not having any other near place to resort unto. The inhabitants of Leicester have very lately, without our privity or assent, procured by a late grant from her Majesty, the said close, and three other parishes or hamlets within the limits of the said commission, to be incorporated into the town, intending thereby to transfer the government of this place and other hamlets from the county to the town, to our great discontentment. For their said grant, it is held by counsel to be insufficient in the law. Our humble suit is, that if the said grant do fall out not to be good in law, you will please not incline to further any suit of theirs which may tend to the prejudice of the county and ourselves.—From Leicester, the last day of March, 1600.
1600, March 31.	Signed :—Henry Beaumont, Tho. Cave, Henry Cave. 1 p. (78. 18.)
	Henry Dillon to Sir Robert Cecil.
1600, March 31.	I have received a letter from a gentleman of my country who continues in Paris, bearing date the 28th of March, signifying that there is a countryman of ours lately come from Spain, who affirmeth that there are 3 ships with money and munition gone from thence to Tyrone, wherein the Grand Prior of Ireland was to pass, commonly called the Prior of Kilmaynham, who is a Spaniard. I have these 3 weeks been sick, otherwise I would have attended upon you with this advertisement.—From my house in Shyre Lane, the last of March, 1600.
1600, March 31.	Holograph. Seal. ½ p. (78. 19.)
	Sir Thomas Egerton, Lord Keeper, to Sir Robert Cecil.
[1600, March.]	In this minute enclosed, ye shall perceive who and how many they be that the E[arl of Essex] desireth to have to attend upon himself. For others that are to be used for meat and drink and such other necessaries, he refers himself to that which Sir Ry[chard] B[erkeley] shall in his discretion think sufficient.
	Of physicians, &c., he says nothing, as though his health were the least and last thing he thinketh of.
	Holograph. ½ p. (69. 4.)
	John Hopkins, Mayor of Bristol, to Lord Buckhurst.
1600, March.	Upon receipt of your letter of the 8th of this month, I have paid the thousand pounds which I received of Sir Thomas Gerarde, knight, by the hands of Cuthbert Gerarde, unto William Gage, agent for John Jolles and William Cockaine of London, who have appointed him to receive the money of me and to deliver to me my acquittance for the receipt thereof.—Bristol, this — of March, 1600.
	Gage's receipt appended.
	Signed. Seal. 1 p. (78. 20.)
	Eliza[beth] Cecil to Sir Robert Cecil.
1600, March.	Though at the first it be strange to begin with two suits, yet I find my boldness so great in venturing of one as I can no ways excuse it but by adding another. The one is humbly to desire pardon for my presumption; the other, that you would please to vouchsafe me your favour in a suit which Mr. Edmouns hath to the city concerning the place which Dr. Flecher held of late, that by your favourable letters to the Mayor and Aldermen he may. obtain the same.—Your thankful and dutiful loving niece.
1600, March.	Holograph. Endorsed :—“March, 1600.” 2 Seals. 1 p. (78. 21.)
	Sir William Cornwallis to Sir Robert Cecil.
1600, March.	When I waited on you the other day, you were pleased to say that you would again move her Majesty to remember the grant of that suit unto me. Sir John Fortescue can affirm it, who signified her Majesty's pleasure to Mr. Attorney, whereupon he drew the book for me that remaineth still with him, as you might perceive by his letter to me which I shewed you at Sir Walter Rawley's. If I may not enjoy it, I must needs discover I am a reprobate servant for ever.
1600, March.	Holograph. Endorsed :—“March, 1600.” Seal. ½ p. (78. 22.)
	Sir Edward Denny's Widow and Children.
[1599/1600, March.]	An agreement was made betwixt Sir Edward Denny and Mr. Dobson, his deputy in the office of the Statutes [merchant], whereunto Mr. Auditor Purvey, Mr. Prideaux, counsellor at the law, Mr. Edgcombe, Mr. Ashley and others are witnesses, that Sir Edward Denny should procure Mr. Dobson the patent of the office in his own name, and upon the sealing of the patent, Mr. Dobson should pay her Majesty 1,100l., a debt due by Sir Edward Denny to her Highness, which he very carefully desired to have satisfied. Also that Mr. Dobson should pay him 200l yearly during Dobson's life out of the benefit of the office, or if God called Sir Edward, the same to be paid to the use of his wife and bringing up of his nine small children; for which Mr. Dobson gave him security. Which agreement by her Majesty's gracious goodness taking effect, the widow and her children shall be relieved, and if she marry again there is such caution in the agreement as the 200l yearly to be paid shall go to the relief, bringing up and bestowing of the children, who, if the office shall be otherwise bestowed, are like all to beg at her Majesty's Court gates for relief : whereas by this means they shall all be provided for, and the office discharged honourably for her Majesty and to the contentment of all her subjects, the gentleman who hath hitherto executed the same being a sufficient person, honest and careful of the place, as is well known to all the Judges and her Majesty's counsel, who are willing to testify so much under their hands.
	It may be great prejudice to her Majesty to place in this office an unskilful, corrupt or negligent person; for through this office most of the wealthy subjects and needy also do pass businesses continually. Therefore it is to be wished that her Majesty might be truly informed what inconvenience may follow.
	Mr. Darcy, in his office which her Majesty granted him for leather, attempted such exactions and cominitted such outrages as disquieted all England.
	He is not able to execute the office himself, but able to countenance whomsoever he deputes, how unfit soever. He intendeth it to his wife's first husband's son, one Peter Blore, a scrivener of London, mechanically brought up to that trade and to the knowledge only of the use of money.
	1 p. (178. 140.)
	Clerkship of the Statutes.
[1599/1600, March.]	Certificate from Sir John Fortescue and Edward Anderson that the bearer, Mr. Dobson, having desired them to certify their knowledge of his sufficiency for the office of clerkship of the statutes which he, as deputy unto Sir Edward Denny, of long time executed, they signify that they hold him very sufficient to execute that office and worthy to be employed therein, having—for aught they can understand—very honestly discharged his duty in that place.
[1599/1600, March.]	Signed. 1 p. (178. 141.)
	Lord Buckhurst to Sir Robert Cecil.
1600, March.	I had forgotten to let you know that Mr. Caron was this day with me, and amongst other matters, prayed me that by your help and mean he might, for Count Maurice, have licence to pass six English ambling nags.—This Friday, 1600.
1600, March.	Holograph. Endorsed :—“March, 1600.” ¼ p. (180. 52.)
	Minute from the Privy Council to the Commissioners of Munster.
[1600, March.]	Although we find it strange in the last account of treasure sent to Munster, that the sum of 5,000l. was issued with th[at] speed and for by-reckonings, when it was only apportioned to pay the lendings of the army, yet have we again sent over 9,000l. to serve by estimation for three months. If it arrive before the Lord President, we require you to forbear to issue any of it but for lendings, and to be sure that no part be paid for any lendings claimed befo[re the Earl] of Essex's arrival in March last. For [we seeing] that Mr. Treasurer hath received so great sums in full [pay] of the lendings ever since, do wonder to hear that Munster was so far behind-hand, and do much mislike it that you would take upon you to give warrant for any such particular sums as by the note of the Paymaster appeareth to have been issued, when you saw our purpose to have some good portion reserved till the Lord President arrived. We do think it strange that the Q [ueen hath] so poor checks raised in that province, where you certify that it is so hard to draw any strong head of an army. Surely, if the Queen have had 3,000 foot and 250 horse in Munster as well as she hath paid so many, it might have been expected that the rebels shall not have been all this while so absolute commanders even before Tyrone came to that province. We do require you therefore to take order that an account be sent us how much money hath been defalked for checks, victuals and arms. We have also given order for victuals to Munster, to be sent half to Cork and half to Limerick, for 3,000 foot and 250 horse.
[1600, March.]	Draft, part in Cecil's hand. Unsigned. Endorsed :—“March, 1600.” 2 pp. (78. 24.)
	James Bagg to Sir Robert Cecil.
[1600, March.]	The Queen already having disposed the government of the Port and Island at Plymouth, the Mayor and inhabitants of that town beg that, for better security of quietness than they enjoyed under the late governor, they may be admitted to present to the Council certain articles to be added to the former orders prescribed by the Council between the late governor and them; and to be freed only from the last article of the former orders; as by the enclosed particulars may appear.
	Signed. Undated.
	Endorsed :—“March, 1600.” 1 p. (250. 133.)
	The Enclosure :—
	Articles to be presented to the Council (by way of addition to the Jormer) touching the security of the Fort and Island at Plymouth, and for the peaceable quietness of the inhabitants.
	Undated, 2 pp. (250. 134.)
	Christopher Reade and his Partners to Sir Robert Cecil.
1600, [March].	Pray that the Commissioners, now to be sent to treat with the Danish Commissioners at Emden, may have order to deal with their cause, which is for restitution of their ship and goods piratically taken by a Danish captain, Mounce Henison. Endorsed :—1600. ¾ p. (P. 1684.)