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George Stanberye, Mayor, to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1602, Aug. 12. |
On the 11th, he received Cecil's of the 8th, with a packet for the Lord President of Munster, which he has given to Lewes Clotworthy, agent in Cork for John Wood of London, victualler of her Majesty's forces in Munster : as also two former packets for the same, which came from the Mayor of Bristol, one dated 19th July; who will deliver the same. He now waits for a fair wind. Cecil writes of a post barque, but here is not any, nor never was. If Cecil appoint one for that purpose, it shall be performed.—Barnstaple, 12 August, 1602. |
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Holograph. 1 p. (94. 133.) |
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Henry Mountagu to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1602, Aug. 12. |
Begs him to further his brother, Doctor Mountagu, for the Deanery of Windsor, as he hears the now Dean should shortly remove. Acknowledges former favours.—Temple, 12 August, 1602. |
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Holograph. 1 p. (94. 134.) |
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Lord Grey to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1602, Aug. 12/22. |
Our approaches go on slowly, the enemy with his army being come up close to us. The Admiral still commands, and the news of the Archduke's coming I hold unlikely, time having so fortified us as, out of reason of war, he can expect little honour at our hands, but by protraction of this siege to cut off all future attempt, unworthy of his presence. The Admiral's works to impeach and dislodge us are yet to no purpose, only on the other side of the Maes he has begun one which, if he advance, may shortly force us to seek a new quarter. We are divided into three several camps, the distance between which, and duties enforced
to nourish our approaches and receive so strong an enemy at every hour ready to gain upon us, has extremely harassed and worn our army, especially our new English, impatient of endurance, and worst accommodated in quarter. We are no undertakers, doubting, I assure you, to see so much as a regiment of ours drawn out to skirmish : security only welcome, and danger, how probable soever to succeed well, held uncounsellable : strange positions for the war. Our other proceedings, besides our works (which far exceed all that ever this country saw) yield nothing worthy report. Because I hear nothing from you, I doubt much of the delivery of my former, which I sent by a messenger express from my quarter. Mr. Gilpin has acquainted me with your favourable letters unto the Haghe, yet I doubt to receive any such condition from these men as may continue me here, which I could have wished until my country might otherwise have employed me, but in case not, I purpose to see you by Michaelmas, which will be the uttermost this army can continue in field. The town, I hope, will be ours in some 20 days.—Grave, 22 August st. no.
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Holograph. Endorsed :—“1602, August 22/12.” 2 pp. (94. 135.) |
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Adryan Gylbarte to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1602, Aug. 12. |
Has made Cecil a river in his park better than if it were natural, and has less impediments, more pleasure, more profit and more beautiful. Defends himself from aspersions with regard to his work. As to work still requiring to be done. Has made four or five fords for the deer to go through, and be fit places for the herons to feed on the shoals, which they cannot do on the high banks. Whatever fish Cecil puts in none can go away, if it be less than a minnow or an eel, or as big as a goose quill. There is also a fair square pond. The work is worth half Cecil's house and park. Begs for a hawk, according to his first covenant with Flint. Will deliver to Mr. Haston an account of the 50l.—Durham House, August 12. |
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Holograph. Endorsed :—“1602.” 1½ pp. (94. 136.) |
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Lord Cobham to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1602, Aug. 12. |
The bearer is son to Croston, a merchant of London, and has been living in Spain, and page, as he says, to the Duke of Lerma. But that he desires to be addressed to you, I know no great cause, for little he can say.—Cobham, 12 August, 1602. |
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Holograph. ½ p. (94. 137.) |
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Advertisements. |
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1602, Aug. 6/16–12/22. |
De Valledolet le 16 Aoust 1602. Nous tenons pour assuré, que les gens de guerre et galères que l'on a fait venir d'Italie seront employés contre le Turc au
Royaume d'Alger, avec l'assistance du Roy de Fez, qui, avec grand nombre des Mores, s'y est déjà acheminé, et a assiégé, ainsi que l'on dit, un lieu nommé Tremissen qui est pres d'Oran. Le dit Roy de Fez a fait passer de deça deux des principaux de ses sujets pour y être en hostage et servir de sûreté de sa foi à l'observation de certaines articles et conventions traitées entre eux, tant pour la conquête que l'on fera que pour ce qui concerne les forces que le Roy d'Espaigne y envoie, lesquelles ne sont obligées qu'a garder la mer contre le secours que le Turc y pourroit envoyer, et les principales expéditions de la terre doivent être faites par les Mores. L'armée Espagnole est encore à Calix, et ces environs, et s'agrossit tous les jours. |
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Dudit lieu le 19 dud. mois. Ladite armée Espagnole ne partira que . . . est, d'aller rangant la côte d'Espagne . . . s'arrêter la aux écoutes, . . . . cution que feront les Mor . . . . . mil hommes en . . . . Frederic Spinola . . . . . galères, desquelles il y en a . . . . . seulement jusques en un lieu . . . . dudit Lisbonne, et autant audessus de l' . . . . . la mer, ou il etait encore le 10 de ce mois . . . . sept cents Portugais nouveaux soldats sous la . . . . de Meneses, et cinq cents Espagnols qui sont sous . . . . . . La resolution est d'aller droit en Flandres sans s'a[rrêter] à S. Ander, ou il doit prendre en passant autres quatre c[ents] soldats Espagnols. |
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Le meme jour aussi, et avec lesdits galères, passèrent au dit lieu de Belin les dix navires de guerre que l'on a equippées aud[it] Lisbonne, desquelles est General Don Diego Brochero et Don Pedro Sarmiento, Maître de Camp de gens de guerre, qui ne font que mil Espagnols, de ceux que Don Juan del Aguila y avait menés. Cette flotte va vers la Tercere, et autres isles prochaines, pour attendre et escorter les gallions des Indes de Portugal qui doivent venir cette année, et aussi pour donner ordre à quelque mutinerie, qui a été ces jours passés aud[it] lieu de la Tercere parmi les soldats qui y sont en garnison, lesquels ont tué leur Maître de Camp, par ce qu'il les payait mal. |
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Du 22 dudit lieu et mois. L'armée de mer ne sera employée ailleurs que en Alger. Elle est encores à Calix, et au port de Sainte Marie, et n'en doit partir qu'à la fin de ce mois, et prendra lentement sa route par où je vous ai écrit, et ne s'engagera à rien sans grande apparence et fondement. |
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Frederic Spinola est sorti tout à fait de la rivière de Lisbonne pour son voyage de Flandres, et pareillement les dix navires de guerre de Don Diego Brochero pour celui de la Trecere. |
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Much damaged. 1¼ pp. (94. 153.) |
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Advertisements from Brussels. |
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1602, Aug. 12/22. |
Leurs Altesses sont encores, l'un ici et l'autre en Flandres, pour avoir égard à l'une et l'autre Province,
et advancer les affaires d'Ostende et Grave. Don Juan de Medicis est arrivé ici, et depuis le Duc d'Ossuna, avec autres grands, sans qu'on sait à quelle fin ils viennent, ne soit pour montrer la grandeur de nos princes, et l'orgueil Espagnol. |
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Les bruits courrent que les 3,500 Italiens sont passés le pont à Terzin en Savoye avec congé du Roi de France, et déjà arrivés en Bourgoigne, mais la Court n'a encores aucun avis sûr. |
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Les affaires de France tiennent ceux d'Arthois et Henowe en telle doute, qu'ils ne savent sur quoi se fier, et ne veulent aussi pour ce consentir de contribuer pro rata avec les autres Provinces. Si de la se commence aucune trouble, vu qu'on n'en a des moyens n'y d'argent pour satisfaire aux frais de guerre, ce seroit fait bientôt de cet Etat, car les principaux de ces pays ne savent d'où en tirer plus, et moins de penser pourquoi on y fait venir tant des étrangers vu la necessité présente, et courtesse d'argent partout. |
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Le Maître d'Hostel de Spinola avait confessé que son maître avait eu quelque perte en combattant avec les Anglais près de Lisbon; mais que le Roi d'Espagne lui avait donné cinq galères en réompense, dont nous concluons ici qu'il a perdu autant. Aussi disait—il, qu'elles ne viendront pardeça pour cet an, mais s'employeront ailleurs, ce que peut être sera en Irlande. |
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L'irrésolution ès affaires d'état ici est fort étrange, car son Altesse pensant une fois aller à Maestricht, et de la au camp, changeant subitement d'avis, à été depuis voir autrefois l'Infante. Il semble qu'on trouve mieux que l'Admirante hazarde seul l'honneur, que d'avoir sond[it] Altesse participant, puis qu'ici en Court on fait état que vos gens à la fin emporteront Grave. Cependant est l'intention aussi, qu'en cas que le dessein ne succéde, qu'on le quittera, et attentera d'entrer en l'isle de Tertole, car notre Court a de tout la tête vers là, ou bien en quelque quartier ou les gens se pourront rafraîchir et vivre, car en notre camp commence l'argent et ammunitions à faillir grandement; et quand on a trouvé quelque moyen pour deniers, le tout n'est bastant à servir aux necessités de nos Princes, et les grands de leur suite, sans que les soldats puisse avoir denier, non sans danger de quelque alteration. |
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Endorsed :—“Advertisements Brux[elles].” 1½ pp. (94. 162). |
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Don Gaston de Spinola to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1602, Aug. 12/22. |
Monsieur, la conosance que je heu (sic) de feu monsieur votre pere, avec becup de faveur receus de lui en Angletierre, mont tougiour teneu tres oblige a vous rendre service et me donent ocasion de employer le porteur de ceste monsieur de Mobre, de votre conosance pur vous comuniquer quelque chose de buche que je remete en luy, layant trove gentillome asses capable et vertuese non obstant que laviont
quelques uns rendu suspet par deca, mes les ovres lont purge avec honèur l'affere et de consequence jespere que le prenderes de bone part pur vous etre le messager tres affne et moy tres desiruse de vous fere conotre par effet que je me honore detre grat (sic) a ceus qui mont montre bone volunte com hafait a mon endruot feu milor Sicilus. Surquoy priere le creatur vous doner tout contentment vous besant bn hubt les mains.—A 22 d'aust, [1]602. |
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Holograph. Endorsed : “Brought by Fr. Mowbray the 6 Sept. From Bruxells.” Seal. 1 p. (184. 83.) |
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Henry Lok to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1602, Aug. 13. |
Being in these parts of Cornwall, and meeting with Sir Nicolas Parker, I understood by him of the arrival of Penkevell in Cornwall, and of his stay of him, and of his letters thereon sent to you, with his desire to be directed for his discharge, which as yet he has not received. Of Penkevell, he gives good report upon some trial by discovering of a lately arrived wanderer known to him, a student in Spain, and now by that means in durance here. His desire was I should let you know what I found by him, but on conference with Penkevell, I find no more than he has already particularised to you, which seems to import no ability in him then in Spain, nor likelihood hereafter, being thus discovered, to do any service. Whether his own needless fear, or discovery of him there, has bred this his cumber and cause of return home, being banished hence, or else some new counter practice out of Spain to be performed here, I commend to your consideration, only signifying that Sir Nicolas craves to be discharged of him. |
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For that I now see and fear the worst issue of John Killegrew's cross dealing, being neither like to be bettered by your favour out of the Court of Wards, or his many oaths and assurances, I crave to be remembered for employment at home or abroad, public or private, until the perils I am like to incur for Killegrew and others be compounded for.—Perin, 13 August, 1602. |
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Holograph. 1½ pp. (94. 138.) |
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Captain Jo. Ridgewaye to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1602, Aug. 13. |
Since my last letters of July 13, His Excellence, understanding that the Archduke's army commanded by the Admirante (for himself lies sick, as we hear, at Bruxilles), did advance with all speed towards Reine-Barke, sent thither presently Grave Ernest with a troop of horse, ten Dutch foot companies and five English, whereof mine was one. There we arrived the 20th July, landed in the island before the town, ensconsed the utmost part of it, entrenched all the rest, and added some fortification to the town itself. Then we were commanded back again to our leaguer, for the Admirante
had this while drawn all his forces thither, built a bridge over the Maese, passed over his army, and encamped himself close by his Excellence's quarter, with a resolution to force our quarters, and so to relieve the town; which we have hitherto prevented, though with extreme duty and toilsome works, for we have fortified exceedingly on both sides the river, and held our army watches every night. The town has made many poor sallies, but three days since they sallied very bravely with 600 foot upon our English approaches, yet we maintained our trenches, and at length beat them in again; where Sir Edward Cecil, with his whole troop of horse, charging them close to the counterscarp, had his horse shot under him, and nine more of his troop hurt and slain. We lost 20 horse besides and ten footmen, and a captain, two lieutenants and two sergeants. They had, as we hear, above 70 men hurt and slain. The day before, our “Grand Engenire,” Andreis de Roy, was slain. We have advanced our approaches close to the counterscarp of the town, and doubt not within these 30 days to carry it, for it is impossible it should be relieved, unless our whole army be beaten. Sir Francis Vere this morning, being in our trenches, was shot with a musket from the town into the cheek bone of his face, which is all broken; the bullet has gone back towards his neck. The chirurgion has dressed him, but in regard of the pain he would not suffer him to search much for the bullet, yet the chirurgeon says there is no danger of his life.—From before the Grave, 13 August stilo antiquo 1602. |
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Holograph. 1 p. (94. 139.) |
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The Mayor and Aldermen of Hull to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1602, Aug. 13. |
We have hitherunto found your Honour's most favourable furtherance prest and ready to help us in our pitiful complaints touching the great wrongs committed against our poor neighbours by the King of Denmark. We are informed that her Majesty is pleased to cast her princely eye upon our distressed estates and to address our good Lord Eurye, with others, in embassy unto Bremen, about her Majesty's affairs there. We beseech you, therefore, so to deal with the Lord Ambassador and others, that, being the better acquainted with our griefs aforesaid, he may be drawn to proceed in the same according to his honourable consideration.—Hull, 13 Aug., 1602. |
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Signed, Marmadewik Hadylse, maior; Wm. Gee : Robart Dalton : William Richardson : Jno. Lyster : Jno. Chapman : John Graves : Anthony Burnsell : Hughe Armyne : William Barnett. Seal. 1 p. (184. 74.) |
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Don Gaston de Spinola to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1602, Aug. 13/23. |
Monsieur, l'affection que Jay au porteur de ceste, et que me semble que l'avez en mesme degré, est cause que je vous prie de luy vouloir adiouster foy et credence
de ce quil vous dirat de ma part sur le particulier des joyaulx, que furent engaiges en l'an 78 par les Estats Generaulx appartenants a feue sa Mate de haulte memoire, que la Mate de la Royne vre maistresse tient, envers laquelle espere employerez vostre credict, pour les pouvoir rachapter a quelque pris raisonable, come en chose semblable, et que ne touche que le service du Mre, seray tousiours prest de vous rendre le reciprocque servir mon Mre, et pour vous conoistre doté de beaucoup de courtoisie, et pour ce me suis adressé a vous, pour avoir a mon voiaige d'Engleterre passé 18 ans receu beaucoup de faveur de Milor Secilus, vostre pere, auquel Jay tousiours honnoré et desiré servir pour ses vertus comme Je feray a vous quant y vous plairat me commander. Surquoy je prieray, etc.—De Bruxelles, 23 d'Aougst, 1602. |
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Signed. Endorsed : “Brought by Fr. Mowbray the 22 Septr.” Seal. 1 p. (184. 84.) |
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Thomas Windebank to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1602, Aug. 14. |
Is forced to stay from the Court through want of health, and begs Cecil to excuse him to her Majesty. He has in his hands the bill for Musgrave's pension, Mr. Willis' bill, the warrant for the loan of 20,000l. to the tinners, and a bill for Mr. Kightley to be a teller upon Sir Henry Killegrew's surrender; and begs Cecil to send him word whether he shall keep them, or send them to him.—At my poor house, 14 August, 1602. |
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Partly holograph. 1 p. (94. 140.) |
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Roger Houghton to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1602, Aug. 14. |
Hereinclosed I have sent your Honour three letters, one from Mr. William, another from Mr. Gilbeart and the third from Mr. Garaway, the merchant. Touching your Honour's rental, the note of your debts, the charges of your river and such like, I will perfect against your coming. Where I purposed to have removed your household on Wednesday last, I have not, by reason I found such a dust over all the house, that we could not possibly dress a piece of meat in any kitchen there. I do hasten the works all I can; they tell me by this day sennight those works at the east end of the house will be at an end, and then we may remove thither very well.—From your Honour's house in Straund, 14 Aug., 1602. |
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Holograph. Seal. ½ p. (184. 75.) |
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Sir John Peyton, Lieutenant of the Tower, to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1602, Aug. 14. |
Florance Macarte hath often with much earnestness made offer of service. In my late conference with him, he propounded some service of extraordinary importance, and refuseth the benefit of his pardon, if he be found to have been a practiser in the late invasion or to have
held any intelligence with Spain. He desireth no other favour than in such proportion as he shall merit, and because I know the fellow neither wanteth brains nor experience, I should think him a man of strange parts if he should propound service of no consequence with so strong a confidence. I enclose his relation, desiring your direction for my further proceeding therein. Touching my particular, the season of the year and the necessity of my estate move me to intreat your mediation to her Majesty for leave to go into the country, before the length of the day be much shortened, which would prejudice my intended endeavours; my purpose being to employ my absence for the general good of those parts, which hitherto by inundations have continued utterly unprofitable to the commonwealth. Her Majesty, before her remove from Greenwich, willed me to think of some person fit to supply my place during my absence. I hold Mr. Anthony Deering a man very sufficient for that purpose, being a discreet gentleman of a fair living, well acquainted with the service of the place and nature of the persons under my charge, and one upon whose loyalty I dare repose my life and fortunes, of the which I had good experience in the late troubles. My leave I humbly desire for two months, the which notwithstanding, I will always be ready to return within two days.—Towre, 14 Aug., 1602. |
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Holograph. Seal. 1¼ pp. (184. 76.) |
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News from Venice. |
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1602, Aug. 14/24. |
From Ragusa there is news of a rebellion of the island of Agosta against that republic, which has been suppressed. |
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Francesco Contarini has left for Constantinople as ambassador in place of — Nani. |
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People still say that the Spanish fleet is to attack Algiers. From Lisbon there is news that the Dutch ships have taken ships with 2,500 cases of sugar on board within fifteen miles of that place. No business can be done in Lisbon owing to the continual inroads of these English and Dutch ships. |
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From Vienna come full details of the war with the Turks; and there is also similar intelligence from Gratz and Prague. |
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From Turin, on Saturday, we had news of the execution of Biron on the 30th; and that there was no disturbance in France. |
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There are letters here stating that Duke Charles of Sweden had made himself master of Riga owing to the lack of provisions in that place. |
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From Frankfort, we hear that M. di Tillini left with his Walloon troops for Hungary by way of Wurtemburg and Ratisbon. |
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From Constantinople, there is news that the brother “del Scrivano” had defeated the Ottomans and was preparing to
besiege Angeri. The Janissaries are still disaffected. And although provisions are still being sent to Hungary, it is thought that the Sultan and the Emperor are secretly treating for peace. |
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From Mantua, there is news of the punishment of thirteen Jews and all their families who had abused Fra Bartolomeo called the Saint and the Christian religion. |
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The Signoria of Venice has decided that in future no stranger shall buy or give a pass to Zante or Cephalonia, intending that every pass shall be taken out here. |
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The differences between Lucca and Modena have been accommodated. The former are to pay 25,000 crowns of indemnity. |
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Italian. 4 pp. (184. 86 & 87.) |
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News from Rome. |
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1602, Aug. 14/24. |
The post from France last week brought letters from Paris of the 3rd instant. On the 27th ultimo Biron was taken from the Bastille and brought by water to the Palace, with his hands loose, in a boat guarded by the two captains of the royal guard and ten other soldiers and followed by two boats full of armed men. The process was read to him before the Parliament and the sentence condemning him to be drawn at a horse's tail to the Place de la Grève and there broken on the wheel. Biron admitted the contents of the process, but when he heard the sentence, he fell into a fury, saying that this was the reward for all the services done to the King by himself and his father. But the Chancellor quieted him, promising that the King should pardon him the public execution; and he was taken back to the Bastille in the same fashion. The King was prayed to pardon the drawing and the breaking on the wheel, and commuted the punishment to simple decapitation on the Place de la Grève, and finally, upon the prayers of the family, to decapitation in the Bastille, which was carried out on July 31 in the presence of the officers and many noblemen, to the number of sixty altogether. During the three days Biron had not failed to beg the King for his life, offering to be confined for life to his house, or banished for life from France, and expressing his wish that as he could no more use his sword in the service of France, he might be banished to the war in Hungary; in a word, he did not cease to demand pardon for his great fault. His family joined in the prayer, but the King told them that he had pardoned the offence against himself as he had done before, but seeing that Biron had conspired against his young sons and against the State, the King saw no way to save him without incurring in life and after death blame from his children and other men in that he had failed in his duty towards justice. When they begged for the honour of the family that at any rate Biron should not be executed
as a traitor, the King replied that he himself was descended from the Count of St. Pol, who had been put to death for that very crime, and that he did not find himself any less honoured on that account by other Kings, nor need they be anxious on that score either; and to assure them on this point, he confirmed them all in their offices, and promised to do yet more for them when there was opportunity, if they continued to serve him with their wonted fidelity. |
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When Biron was brought on to the scaffold, his hands still unbound, and the executioner came near him to perform his office, Biron fell into a passion and threatened to strangle him if he dared to touch him. He took off his doublet himself, bound his eyes, and asked one of the gentlemen standing by to raise the hair, which, falling over the neck, would have been in the way. He did not trouble at dying without confession, which drew from the King the remark that he regretted that Biron cared more for worldly than for spiritual things. Biron had upon him 1,500 crowns won from the Queen on the night of his arrest. Of these he gave 500 crowns to the captain and soldiers who had served him in his imprisonment, 500 he distributed to some of the begging monks, and the rest he ordered to be sent to certain of his relations. He took from his finger a diamond worth 3,000 crowns and sent it to his sister, whom the King allowed to have the body of her brother to bury on the estate of Biron in the tomb where his father had been buried. But all his goods were confiscated to the crown, with the estate of Biron, which was deprived of its ducal title for ever. It is said that the trial of the Count of Auvergne will soon be begun, not without some doubts as to his life. Great diligence is to be used in the discovery of the other conspirators, who are supposed to be numerous; and the King is determined to clear the country of them so as to be free to employ himself in a way more to his liking. They write that the King has repeatedly summoned the Duke of Bouillon, who is in Flanders; the Duke has not put in an appearance, though he promised to come soon. A courier has been despatched to Hungary to recall the Duke of Nevers. They say that Polacco has begged the King in the Pope's name to send an embassy to Spain, for that otherwise the King of Spain would be forced to recall his from France. During the audience the King was observed to be very angry and to be gesticulating with his hands, but his decision is not known. Itonea d'Ossuna, coming from Flanders to Paris, wished to visit the King at Fontainebleau, but the King bade him stay in Paris, where he would give him audience. It is said that he was sent by the Archduke to complain of the number of French soldiers serving in the army of the States and to ask for a declaration of war or peace between France and the House of Austria. The Spanish Ambassador had asked for a pass for 3,000 Neapolitan troops and some Spanish troops on their way to Flanders, according
to the clauses of the treaty, but was told that the conspiracy of Biron had made it impossible at that time. When all the conspirators had been discovered, and it was clear that there was no intelligence between them and the Spanish commanders, these troops would be allowed to pass just as those of Spinola had been already. The Spanish Ambassador immediately communicated this reply to the Archduke and the King of Spain. |
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Certain items of Roman news follow. |
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On Tuesday evening a special courier arrived from Lyons for the French Ambassador. It is said that the King has laid hands on the Baron de Luz, who was Biron's lieutenant in Burgundy, and who had fled unto Franche Comte. The French Ambassador has been to see the Venetian Ambassador, and they are known to have spoken with the Ambassador of the Grand Duke. |
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The Pope intended to have sent Count Ottavio Tassone on a special mission to the King of France to obtain passage for the soldiers going to Flanders, but news has been received that the King has granted permission. |
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Italian. ½ pp. closely written. (184. 88.) |
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The Earl of Sh[rewsbury] to Lord [Ormond]. |
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1602, Aug. 15. |
I long looked for the return of Mr. Danyell your servant, but came hither into the country before his coming; yet we looked he would have been there much sooner, which was the cause you heard nothing from your nephew Mr. Butler. Upon Butler's first coming over, we expected you would have sent some order, both for his safe continuing in this realm where her Majesty should appoint, and for his maintenance, considering that I wrote you that her Majesty was pleased, at the motion of your friend Mr. Secretary, to send for your nephew hither, out of her favour especially to yourself; whereby you could not be ignorant that your undertaking for him, and order for his maintenance, must be acceptable here. But I perceive Butler is come without any such order : therefore it will be fit that you give satisfaction in that behalf, and also in what sort you intend to deal with him hereafter, if he carries himself in such loyal sort as becomes him, as well for succeeding you in your titles and dignities, as in such of your lands as you think good to estate upon him, if it please her Majesty to allow thereof, and that God shall not bless you with a son. Concerning his marriage, I wish you to refer it wholly to be disposed of by her Majesty. I wish you would acquaint Mr. Secretary with all these particulars, who will so dispose of your desires in moving her Majesty therein as will be to your satisfaction.—Sheffield, 15 August, 1602. |
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(PS.)—My wife and I beseech you to present our commendations to the Countess your wife, and to my lady sister your daughter. |
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Draft or copy. 1½ pp. (94. 141.) |
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The Earl of Shrewsbury to Mr. Secretary [Cecil.] |
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1602, August 15. |
I have received a letter from my Lord of Ormonde sent by his servant Danyell, and another from Hadsor the lawyer, which I send herewith. I have written an answer to Ormonde, copy whereof I have sent Hadsor, willing him to show it to you, which if you like of may be sent him. I have written both to Hadsor and Danyell that I wish Hadsor to go over to Ormonde, who then might be drawn to take such a course for his nephew as were fit and might be best liked by her Majesty; otherwise, I fear the faction about the noble old Lord being so strong against him, he may be drawn for [from] offering or doing for him that which were fit. If you like Hadsor should go, you may so use it with him and Danyell together as he will not refuse it. In Hadsor's letter, you may perceive where Danyell wishes young Mr. Butler should match, but it proceeds not out of any such desire either in my wife or me; for though he may be worthy better fortune than any daughter of mine, yet neither of us have any such meaning; Mr. Hadsor is altogether mistaken therein; neither have I any other end in moving you for the bringing hither of that young gent., Theobald Butler, than my love to the old Lord and the public good which would issue for the establishing of that title with her Majesty's liking now in the life of this Earl; where otherwise, the lands being estated as I think they are, there is like to fall out great mischief after the Earl's time. Hereof you can better judge than I. |
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I wrote lately of my desire that young Clifton, her Majesty's ward, might be of St. John's in Cambridge, but have had no answer from you. It is said here, her Majesty has stayed her progress, and is gone no further than Sir William Clark's, and so back to Richmond, but I know not the certainty thereof, in so remote a hole we live as we hear seldom so much as where the Court is. If the weather be as wet with you as it is here, it is no marvel that her Majesty stay her progress, for it not only hinders our harvest extremely, but, which is more, my hunting and hawking, which is no small misfortune. Your laner I look for here about ten days hence. God send she prove as well as I have heard of her.—My house at Sheffield, 15 August, 1602. |
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Holograph. 2½ pp. (94. 142.) |
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George Harvy to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1602, Aug. 15. |
Sends letters from the Lord President of Munster, for the Lord Treasurer and Cecil, by the bearer, Paulfreyman, the President's servant.—Marks, 15 August, 1602. |
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Holograph. ½ p. (94. 151.) |
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Lord Cobham to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1602, Aug. 16. |
Hearing of your going to Tibols, I thought good to send you some fowl such as I have here, a fat
“shouler” and six “olins,” with a basket of apricoks and plums.—My house at Cobham, 16 August, 1602. |
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Holograph. ½ p. (94. 144.) |
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Edward, Lord Zouche to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1602, Aug. 16. |
I arrived here the 13th of August, having upon Thursday been met with the Sheriff and divers knights and gentlemen of Worcestershire, and by the Bishop of the diocese, two miles from Worcester, and was brought to the city, where the bailiffs and their brethren met me, and so we went to the Bishop's palace, where he entertained me exceeding kindly. Next morning I was brought by them two miles or more out of the town. Afterward I had the company of Mr. Welsh and Mr. Purslowe till I came into Herefordshire, or near, where I met Mr. Cornewell and his friends, and so passed till within a mile or two of Ludlow, where the Council and those which have any thing to do in that court met me with the seal, as they term it, though I have none, nor have not yet, for they say Mr. Powell keeps it and carries it in his pocket, so as though it seem as a great ornament that the seal goes ever with that Council, yet it is in conceit rather than in show. The day after I arrived in Ludlow, I spake to the Justice and Council, that I might in court publish my commission, where, when I came, I found cushions of state laid, one for me, the other for the Justice, which I found fault withal, and thought good to acquaint you with, that if anything be spoken thereof you may know what fell out, for I think it will fall out sometimes that there will be crosses, because Mr. Justice had rather take too much than leave any, and I would be loth to lose anything belonging to the place also. But when I shall understand what her Majesty's pleasure is to have left of that which belongs to the place, I will willingly yield to her commandments; yet I hope that in my behalf you will proffer my suit, being found unworthy to enjoy her Highness' countenancing of the place, to be called from the same, than that so worthy a place should for my fault be any way blemished. When my commissions were read, there was a motion made by Sir Richard Lewkernar concerning an oath, but I demanding whether my Lord of Pembroke did take an oath or not, it was resolved that he did not, neither was there any would say that any was used, and so are records kept. For aught I can see as yet, as they may say, this is, and that is not, at their pleasures. I signified that I was willing to take an oath, and thought it fit an oath should be taken, but since I was to begin a new course, I would be loth to prejudice the place. But, methinks, it were not amiss that an oath were appointed, since all places that I know of justice, except Lords Lieutenants, take oaths. If, therefore, it be thought fit that an oath be ministered, let a letter be written from her Highness of her pleasure, which may after be in record. My suit is that if any new directions
be for this place, I may be heard before they be concluded. As I find the place more honourable than profitable, and some things taken from it and added to the meaner places, I pray some means may be found that my estate be not weakened. If I be any blot in the place, I beseech you either help my bettering, or procure my removing.—Ludlowe, 16 August, 1602. |
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Holograph. Endorsed :—“Lord President of Wales.” 3 pp. (94. 145–6.) |
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Sir William Monson to the Earl of Nottingham and Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1602, Aug. 16. |
Since my writing to you, I have received a letter from you not much differing from the course I undertook of myself for the hastening of the voyage; but now being fully authorised by your letters to take up such wants as is needful for the ships, in one day I supplied all our wants, as well for sea store as otherwise, and this day being Monday, howsoever the wind is, having fair weather, am ready to put to sea. |
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Because it has pleased you to make stay of the Answer, by reason of some defects which I always suspected in her, it were meet her Majesty's ships should be attended with some pinnace to be employed upon any occasion that shall be offered, either to advertise you into England, or to discover where greater ships dare not adventure. In respect the charge is small and the necessity great, I have dealt with Mr. Stalladge for the present fitting one, and sending her after me. |
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Here are in the port of Plymouth divers ships, both French and Dutch, and in the town divers Spaniards and Portingals, expecting a wind and passage to go for Spain. I have thought good to make stay of all such ships and men 21 days after my departure. If you shall think it convenient to discharge them sooner, or detain them longer, you may please to give directions, otherwise the Fort is resolved to perform my request. |
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Notwithstanding the encouragement of men in taking the carrack, which was some fortune to every man besides their ordinary pay, their minds are little reformed of their abuses towards her Majesty's service, but daily run away, making no more difference between receiving her Majesty's press than an ordinary private action in a man-of-war; for it is an incredible thing to inform you of the number of sailors that are run away since our coming home. But to prevent such disorders, I have taken a course which, if it be well executed, I hope will somewhat further her Majesty's service. I have written to the chief officers of the towns where any presses have been, that if they find any pressed man returned from her Majesty's ships without a discharge under my hand, that they shall apprehend him, and cause him to be conveyed
to the gaol, to receive his trial according to the statute. I have likewise writ to the judges of the Assizes, that if any such offendors come before them, humbly to entreat them to execute the law with great rigour against them, and that if they find any such worthy of death, to sentence them to receive it at Plymouth, to terrify all seamen by their example.—Plymouth, 16 August, 1602. |
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Holograph. Postal endorsements :—“Plymmouth 16th of August 5 in the morning; at Ashberton the 16 of August at 8 of the cloke in the night; at Exeter at 2 in the cloke in the morning the 17 of August; Honiton at 5 of the clock in the morning; Shafton 10 of the clocke in the morning; rec. at Sarum the 18 of August at 2 in the afternowne; r. at Andever at 8 at night being Wensday; Basingstooke at 12 att night; at Harford Bridge at 2 in night. Stains at 7 morn.” 1½ pp. (94. 147.) |
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[Sir Robert Cecil to Lord Zouche.] |
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1602, Aug. 17. |
Although the interest which it has pleased you to give me makes me apter to move you more than is good manner I should (though but in trifles) before you be settled, yet the opinion which mine own mind warrants me to hold of your acceptation thereof by the measure of mine own disposition towards you, emboldens me to entreat you to license Mr. Powell, the Deputy Secretary, to repair hither, because I should use him in some particular business wherein he has experience. I send you your commission, warranting your receiving of entertainers. |
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News we have none, but that the Count Maurice is at Grave, and the Archduke's army within a mile of him, between whom there has been some skirmishes, to the Count Maurice his advantage, and not unlikely to come to battle. Out of Ireland we hear nothing but well, the Deputy being preparing for a new journey to Tirone, where no Spaniards are yet arrived. Her Majesty is at Otelands, and our progress dissolved. |
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Draft, with corrections by Cecil. Undated. Endorsed :—“17 August, 1602, Minute to my L. Zouch.' 1 p. (94. 148.) |
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Lyzbeth, Lady Lumley to Mr. Secretary [Cecil]. |
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1602, Aug. 17. |
With an enclosure, and begging him to favour her brother's suit.—Nonsuch, 17 August. |
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Holograph. Endorsed :—“1602.” 1 p. (94. 149.) |
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George Stanberye, Mayor, and John — to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1602, Aug. 17. |
Lieutenant Keyrton, the conductor, repaired here on Sunday last, according to the Council's directions, and next day they proceeded to the mustering and viewing of men, arms and apparel, which appear to be
sufficient and serviceable. Shipping, victuals and all other necessaries are in like readiness, and they only wait a fair wind.—Barnstaple, 17 August, 1602. |
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Signed as above. Damaged. Endorsed :—“Mayor of Barnstaple.” 1 p. (94. 150.) |
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Hugh Broughton to the Archbishop of Canterbury. |
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1602, Aug. 18. |
I had prepared two treatises for the King of Scots to show fully the errors of your divinity and D. Bilsone's; and presently Englishmen came to Hannaw. Then I thought good to send both to yourself, that you should confute me if you think you have the better; if not, yield, so that all the realm may know you did me injury in persecuting and defeating of her Majesty's purposed preferments, for S. Davids, for Christchurch and for London. After the Queen's words were much for me, yours prevented; yet I showed no grief. Now óρχíζω ┬oύ θєoύ that you judge betwixt God and yourself, whether I have not showed that you are past hope of all colour of defence. Also, I had recommended a Latin treatise to Sir John Hollis; take that too. I seek nothing but the strength of the truth. I had rather handle the cause as having no adversary, than by confuting particular men's arguments. When the truth is tried, then I must require justice against Barlo, the railer. I pass more for the truth of this article than I would for an archb[ishop], and if Barlo dare, let him join his words and mine all, and let the realm judge. If you will neither yield nor do this, you have no conscience.—Hannaw, 18 August, 1602. |
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(PS.)—I could have sent a libel that some favourer of L. Ess[ex], as it seems, made against Barlo; it touches Lambeth in extremity of disgrace; but by others he is like to have it. And I would not deal in Ess[ex] matters. I will say neither good nor bad of him and burn all kind of libels. |
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Holograph. 1 p. (94. 152.) |
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1602, Aug. 18. |
Lease from the Queen of the Manor of Porchester to John Duffield. |
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Certified copy. Latin. 7 pp. (141. 229.) |
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“Pro Cortalla” to the “Marquis de Cassan, Conte del Bosco”. |
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1602, Aug. 18/28. |
Vostre Seigneure aura de sçvoir que le Conte Maurice tient assiegée une ville des nostres appellée Grave, et nous avons esté pour la secourir; mays il s'est tellement fortifié que nous ne l'avons sceu secourir et sommes retirez. A ceste heure se dict que nous irons prendre ung chasteau appellé Ravesteyn pour oster les vivres à l'ennemy; mays j'y veois peu de provision, cur a nous mancquent seulement deniers, munitions de guerre et vivres : du reste sommes fourniz de toutes chose. En oultre je dis a vous que je demeure tout estonné a veoir ce que se passe aujourdhuy en ceste armée,
au regard de son Alteze de Parme, qu'elle est reduicte en termes qu'elle ne prendroyt moins d'une grange, et sommes tousjours prests a fuir, et l'ennemi a prins astheur (a ceste heure) la possession de nous estre formidable, et se mocque de noz affaires : tellement que je doubte qu'en peu de temps nous n'aurons plus que faire au paÿs bas, car il ne fera a nostre service. |
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Ostende est aux mesmes termes que le premier jour, ny il n'y a aulcune esperance de la gaigner, d'aultant qu'on n'a jamays sceu trouver le chemin de luy oster le secours. Quand nous sommes partiz du secours de Grave, se sont desbandez 800 chevaulx et un bon nombre d'infanterie de noz gens, et on dict qu'ilz ont commencé une mutinerie, et plusieurs aultres qui se retrouvent icy au camp sont pareillement eslevez, et attendent les nouvelles ou se retirent les premiers, pour se retirer a l'assemblée : tellement que pour finir les negoces de Flandres, elles vont au pis, et je pense de me retrouver bientost a Bosco, puis que j'ay desia demandé congé, laquelle on m'a promis. Noz gens qui sont venuz soubs la charge du Sr. Marquis Spinola, sont desormais tous en ruine, en partie fuiz et morts, et le surplus malade; et le bon Marquis nous a traicté au pis, et particulierement nous aultres capitaines, nous ayant mené jusques en Bourgoigne avant donner la premiere monstre, et depuis n'a donné aultre chose, afin que ne puissions rembourser nos prests; et pour faire que ne puissions de rien proufiter il nous a fait 2 reveues en 8 jours, tellement que jamays je ne me brouilleray plus avecq les Genevoys.—Du Camp le 28me d'Aoust. |
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Endorsed :—“Copy of the translation of the intercepted letter.” Headed :—“Translat de l'Italien.” 2 pp. (95. 19.) |
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Captain R. Wigmore to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1602, Aug. 19. |
You having been informed in those courses which crossed the farther proceedings of this army into Flanders, and lately by Sir John Stafford of such accidents as have since fallen out here, little is left to me whereof to write. After the Count Maurice had overpassed some 20 days in the fortifying of his camp, and drawing of three several approaches upon this town, the Admiranty brought his whole forces to a little dorp called Cuke, where he likewise encamped upon the 30th of July last; which place is not distant from Count Maurice his quarter above one English mile. There he remained 14 days, not without some show in the beginning of a resolution to force the Count Maurice out of his quarter. But finding that not feasible, and having coldly attempted the thrusting of 2,000 men into Grave, upon the 12th of this month he dislodged and marched (in show back again) above Venloe, which gave occasion of some doubt in the Count Maurice that his purpose was to invest Bercke; whereupon he forthwith despatched the Count Ernest to that place with three companies of horse and 1,200 foot. Howbeit, the more
probable conceit (I believe) will fall out to be, that his determination is to turn about upon Ravasteyn or Megen, and there to cut off the passage of the Maze, which as the Admiranty himself of late did truly term it, is the chief chamber of the army, and only relief for the same; and it now begins clearly to appear that the Count Maurice does more feelingly apprehend this design of the enemy's than anything else whatsoever; in regard whereof, he bestows the most part of his time in fortifying the English quarter, and in the taking of more ground toward Ravasteyn. |
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Besides, it is well known that Grovandonck, Governor of Bolduke, has offered from thence to victual the Admiranti's army for a month. This course may very well protract time and lengthen the siege, howbeit in the end the town will questionless be carried, for the States' army is already furnished with a magazine of victuals for two months, and the Count Maurice will rather bury himself 200 foot within the ground than be forced to fight. |
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Our approaches are on all sides drawn so near the town that within these two nights we make an account to sap in the enemy's outworks. |
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Upon Thursday the 12th inst., Sir Francis Vere being in one of the trenches of his own approach, was grievously shot in the face with a small bullet, but the wound being visited by his surgeon, was found curable and without any danger which might threaten his life. Howbeit for his better recovery, he caused himself to be removed from the disquiets of an army, and upon the Monday following arrived at Dortt, accompanied with no other but myself and some part of his household train. He is in a very good way of amendment, albeit that even at this instant I am credibly informed that the army is possessed with an assured opinion of his death in passing to this place. Most certain it is that the young Count Henry has already raised his tents where those of Sir Francis Vere did lately stand, and commands the English quarter, whereat Sir Francis Vere doth dryly smile, although I find that he is nothing well pleased with these and others the Count Maurice his dealings by him. |
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The army has of late been very ill paid, and some say that the States General cast the default upon the excessive hugeness of the Count Maurice his works, the which are indeed more than most wonderful. |
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I hope within these few days to see Sir Francis Vere in that strength as may embolden me to leave him, and return unto the army, from whence you shall be advertised of whatever may come to my knowledge.—From Dort, 19 August. |
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Holograph. Endorsed :—“1602.” 1½ pp. (94. 155.) |
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Lord Cobham to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1602, Aug. 20. |
The bearer, Cobham Doves, who has done service in Ireland, received pay there of money of the new
standard; whereof making tender to Robert Blake, agent for the exchange there, that he might receive bills for the payment thereof in England, he was denied unless he would give allowance to Blake of a f . . . part, which he refused, and [left] his money in the hands of the commissary there. This course in time will breed no small inconvenience to the service. The Lord Treasurer is to further Doves' petition at the Council, and he begs Cecil to do the like.—Palace at Canterbury, 20 August, 1602. |
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Signed. Margin torn. ½ p. (94. 157.) |
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Lord Buckhurst to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1602, Aug. 20. |
I am newly returned from visiting my sick daughter at Cowdrey, and now am going to see how the carrack's goods are discharged from the ships and laid up in Ledenhall. The which once accomplished, I mean to write to my Lord Admiral, yourself and Mr. Chancellor that we all together may visit the state of these goods and dispose thereof to her Majesty's best benefit. Meantime, I purpose to make a step into Sussex for some five or six days where I have not been but on two days these five years. And now I must desire you humbly on my behalf to move her Majesty in a suit which I hope she will think reasonable, just and charitable, whereof I beg leave to use some little preface to the matter. There hath been beyond seas for recovery of his health, by her Majesty's license, at Pont Amouson in Germany, one of my sons these three years. Her Majesty will remember him by the token that of all the children I had he was the finest and comeliest boy in nature, with such a rare curled head as her Majesty pleased to take a very special liking of him, but such was his misfortune as in a very great sickness he fell into a lethargy, from which time he hath fallen into a distraction of his senses. As for his cure by practice of physic and otherwise in England and abroad, he hath cost me above 2,000l., but now having been these two years in Germany, where I was put in hope some good effect should have followed, I have about a month past received advertisement that after all my cost and so long a time consumed he is rather worse than better, and so no hope of any good to come from that place. Wherefore now I am resolved to send him to Padoa, where I will commit him to a council of physicians there, being assured that if by the skill and knowledge of physic he be to be cured, that place above all the world doth yield the most rare and excellent physicians to perform it. The time for his travel to Padoa is now betwixt this and Michaelmas, and for that my son Thomas Sacvill, who is so much devoted to the wars of Hungary, hearing now of such preparations by the Turk against next summer, doth again desire to put himself into that service, as also for that by reason of a fall which he had from his horse in the camp at his last being there he hath had a long pain, which is now much lessened but not fully cured, and is put
in great assurance that by the baths of Padoa the same will be recovered, therefore he is willing at my desire to pass to that place of Germany where his brother is, and from thence be his conductor to Padoa, and so to pass to the Emperor's Court, and there to remain this winter, from whence he will from time to time advertise me of such occurrences as there are to be had, and by reason of his good acquaintance with divers of the best sort in that Court, being also well known to the Emperor himself and by her Majesty's former gracious letters of recommendation to his Majesty, he doubteth not but to be able to advertise very good occurrences from time to time. Since his former licence is near expiration, my desire is that you will move her Majesty for her licence to him to pass into Germany for these Turkish wars for two years more, and by that time I hope he will be satisfied if not surfeited of his desire, and be able to serve her Majesty, which is my only hope. I beseech you as soon as you conveniently can to move her Majesty for this her licence of travel, for he must bring his brother from Pont Amouson to Padoa by Michaelmas, unto which it is 10 days' travel, and unto Pont Amouson from Paris it is eight, and therefore quod facis, fac cito.—This 20 Aug., 1602, Horseley. |
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Holograph. 3 pp. (184. 80–81.) |
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News from Venice. |
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1602, Aug. 20/30. |
Letters from Constantinople describe the departure of the Venetian Ambassador and the compliments accorded to him, and promised to his successor. From Asia, the news of the defeat and death of Assan Pacha was confirmed. |
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Wednesday evening, the Council of Ten acquitted Captain Giacomo Carati; his lieutenant, who had falsely accused him, was sentenced to imprisonment. |
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Private letters from Milan state that Colonel Madruz had turned there to go to Trent. The Colonel of the Neapolitan troops, who are on their way to Flanders, was to fill up his numbers, which had been reduced by desertion. The Spaniards sent to Savoy are in the Valley of Agosta; the Count Fuentes had sent them some pay and orders to go to Flanders; for which purpose the Duke of Savoy and the Count had sent the Count di Visia to the King of France. |
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From Vienna come full details of the progress of the war, and there is similar news from Prague. |
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Letters from Lyons of the 13th and from Paris of the 8th confirm the news of the execution of Biron. His secretary has been released and banished from France. The King is disposed towards peace, and has sent orders to M. de Laverdine to withdraw his troops from Burgundy, and has also ordered that the Neapolitan and Spanish troops are to be allowed to pass to Flanders. The trial of the Count of
Auvergne is expected and M. de Passagio, Commander of Valençay, has been arrested and brought to Paris. |
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From “Soria,” there is news that the King of Persia is not advancing against the Turks, but has fallen out with Usbeck, King of the Tartars. |
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The Imperial Diet is to meet this October at Ratisbon, where the Archduke Matthias will represent the Emperor. |
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Some say the Spanish fleet, which is being made ready in Portugal, is meant for Ireland to help the Earl of Tyrone, whose brother is now in Spain. |
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From Leipzig we hear that on the 20th of September the Duke of Saxony is to be married at Dresden to the sister of the King of Denmark. |
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Italian. 4 pp. (184. 95 and 96.) |
