Calendar of the Cecil Papers in Hatfield House: Volume 15, 1603. Originally published by His Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1930.
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'Cecil Papers: May 1603, 1-15', in Calendar of the Cecil Papers in Hatfield House: Volume 15, 1603, ed. M S Giuseppi (London, 1930), British History Online https://prod.british-history.ac.uk/cal-cecil-papers/vol15/pp70-91 [accessed 30 April 2025].
'Cecil Papers: May 1603, 1-15', in Calendar of the Cecil Papers in Hatfield House: Volume 15, 1603. Edited by M S Giuseppi (London, 1930), British History Online, accessed April 30, 2025, https://prod.british-history.ac.uk/cal-cecil-papers/vol15/pp70-91.
"Cecil Papers: May 1603, 1-15". Calendar of the Cecil Papers in Hatfield House: Volume 15, 1603. Ed. M S Giuseppi (London, 1930), British History Online. Web. 30 April 2025. https://prod.british-history.ac.uk/cal-cecil-papers/vol15/pp70-91.
May 1603, 1-15
| John Kyllygrewe to Sir Robert Cecil. | |
| [1603], May 1. |
Is a prisoner on account of various suits for
debts claimed in the right of the late Queen, and other suits,
which he details. Prays that till his accounts be discharged
with the King, he may remain prisoner, either with the bailiffs
of Westminster, or in the marshal's keeping of the Exchequer:
or otherwise, that the keeper of the Gatehouse may suffer no
other executions may be laid upon him till the King's pleasure
be further known.—Gatehouse at Westminster, 1 May. Signed. Endorsed: "1603." 1 p. (99. 153.) |
| John Osberne to Sir Robert Cecil. | |
| 1603, May [1–13.] |
There hath been in Brigstock parks the
last week many disorderly assemblies, resisting them that
offered to carry the wood already felled, and not suffering the
deer to be driven out of the park into the forest. But these
disorders were committed before the publishing of the King's
commission directed to Mr. Sheriff and others for the repressing
of all tumults there. Mr. Sheriff hath very carefully since,
being assisted by my Lord Mordant, proclaimed it in the park,
calling the people of the towns adjoining thither. He hath
given order to his under sheriff for the proclaiming of it in the
market towns near the parks, which I will presently see
performed. Mr. Sheriff hath sent his man to you to signify
his proceedings, who will be always ready, if these outrages
continue, to suppress them. Holograph. Seal. ½ p. (100. 69.) |
| George Nicolson to the Same. | |
| 1603, May 2. |
Encloses his bill of charges 101l. 16s. 8d. for
his services in Scotland till the day of her Majesty's death, which
makes him clear for all her Majesty's time. He has paid 20l.
to TD (fn. 1) for two quarters' allowance, so that he is cleared with.
Requests payment of the above sums. Begs Cecil to help him
to some place as he is able for.—2 May, 1603. Holograph. 1 p. (99. 154.) |
| John Crane, to Sir John Carey, Governor of Berwick. | |
| 1603, May 2. |
Asks instructions with regard to the warrants
for the last half year till the Queen's death. Without the
warrants no payments can orderly proceed.—Berwick, 2 May
1603. Holograph. 1 p. (99. 155.) |
| Sir Henry Cooke to Sir Robert Cecil. | |
| 1603, May 2. |
The King was yesterday so troubled with dust,
as he is desirous to have some private way made for him, to
avoid the same in coming to your house. As the same cannot
be done without coming through your grounds (which I think
is most convenient through Peryours and Chesthunt Park)
I am to entreat you to give order to some of your servants or
tenants to see the same performed. Broxborne, 2 May, 1603. Signed. ½ p. (213. 122.) |
| Sir William Harvye to the Same. | |
| 1603, May 3. |
The hale Cecil wrote for, he has not, but
he has sent a double tent of more room than the hale was.
Offers services.—Savoy, May 3, 1603. Holograph. ½ p. (99. 156.) |
| Thomas, Earl of Ormonde to Sir Robert Cecil. | |
| 1603, May 4. |
Has now sent the conveyances, with a certificate, under the hands of Sir Nicholas Walshe and Justice
Everard, of the fines and recoveries passed of his lands, according
to the late Queen's pleasure, as may appear by the answer sent
herewith to the joint letter he received. Prays Cecil to be a
mean to the King that his suit touching his nephew, and for
the continuance of his house, may be effected as the late Queen
intended. Acknowledges Cecil's favours. For their proceedings with Waterford he refers to the Lord Deputy's letter,
wherunto he has signed.—Waterford, 4 May, 1603. Signed. 1 p. (99. 157.) |
| Percyvall Harte to the Same. | |
| 1603, May 4. |
Understanding of his Majesty's repair and
abode at Cecil's house at Tibbolds, he presents such fish and
fowl as the country and the season will yield.—Lullingston in
Kent, 4 May, 1603. Holograph. ½ p. (99. 158.) |
| Edward Coke, Attorney General, to the Same. | |
| 1603, May 4. |
Though it little concern you, yet knowing
your honourable inclination, and how it concurs with your
desire, I thought good to acquaint you how his Majesty of his
bounty has restored the Earl of Rutland to his land, and Mr.
Littleton's children also to their father's lands and goods.
There is a poor gent. in Norfolk Sir John Heydon who has
tasted of your high favour. I think him as poor as ever Irus
was, and yet you might do exceedingly well to be a mean for
his delivery, being confined to his poor mother's house. I
perceive the least public grace from the King does the poor
Attorney good, and I heard by some near about him that he had
a disposition to confer that favour upon me that King E[dward]
4 conferred upon Hussey his attorney, Henry the 7 upon
Hubberd his attorney, Henry the 8 upon Hales his attorney,
and the Queen my dear Mistress upon Gerrard her attorney.
Besides, in ancient time, Speakers of the Parliament have been
graced with knighthood. I thank God I am not ambitious,
but as all my good fortunes have come either by your honourable
father or by you, so I would account it the greater if it came by
your honourable means.—4 May, 1603. PS.—When you have read this letter it is fit for the fire. Holograph. Endorsed: "Mr. Attorney General." 1 p. (99. 159.) |
| Gio. Fr. di Sonia to Geronimo Palmozzi. | |
| 1603, May 4/14. |
The last letter I have from you is of the 2nd
of April last written from Paris. You will have arrived in
your own country to see new things; here there was speedy
news of the death of the Queen of England and the election of
the King of Scotland, who it is hoped here will be catholic and
friendly to this Crown, and every attempt will be made to build
up a firm friendship; and for these reasons intercourse has been
granted to English vessels in Spanish ports; and other marks
of friendship there will be, because it is thought good for both
Crowns that they should be at unity. Don Giovanni di Tassio,
corriero maggiore of Spain, will go in four days to Flanders,
and will go on to England if the Archduke shall judge to
congratulate that king. There are to be 100 galleys in the
Mediterranean, and 50 galleons in the ocean; this is the King's
will; but it will suffice that the revenue of the sussidio and
cruciada shall not be spent upon anything save on these two
fleets, with which they will vex the Turks. It is supposed that
the States will be a little cast down by the death of the Queen.
I am hoping much from a letter from you with news. I cannot
write our cipher distinctly; perhaps you might send me an
alphabet, so that we could understand each other. Write to
me all that happens and I will answer you on my way. Holograph. Italian. Endorsed: "S. Domitio Peroni, Valladolid, 14 May, 1603." Seal. 1 p. (100. 7.) |
| The Archduke Albert to King James. | |
| 1603, May 4/14. |
I will reply to the courteous letters which
your Majesty has been pleased lastly to write by the Count of
Arenberge, whom the Infanta, my dear and beloved companion,
and I have resolved to send to offer you our congratulations on
the gain of this new Crown. Your Majesty will understand
of Nicholas Scorza, the present bearer, the reason we have not
been able to perform this duty sooner. He is going over to
obtain a passport and safe-conduct for the said Count of
Arenberge.—Bruxelles, 14 May, 1603. Signed. French. 1 p. (135. 38.) |
| M. De La Fontaine to Sir Robert Cecil. | |
| [1603], May 4. |
I think you will have had some letters from
me not long since so that I will now only add that having yesterday visited Monsieur Beaumont, I found him in some perplexity
at [not] having had hitherto command to approach his Majesty
and at having to request his audience not only for the purpose
of compliments but also for business. This he has delayed
doing in order to avoid importunity especially when you other
gentlemen were approaching the King. However yesterday
morning he received another dispatch to the same effect of
May 8th, (fn. 2) on which day no letters had yet been received in
France from his Majesty. This induces him to send and demand
his audience in such a way that I see well that for divers reasons
he apprehends delays and a putting-off which would be vexatious
and serious for him both on the public and his own private
account. I beg you therefore not to doubt that if by your
persuasion he can obtain his access he will be very grateful and
obliged to you. Londres, 4 May. Holograph. French. Endorsed: "1603." 1 p. (187. 36.) |
| Privy Purse expenses of Sir Robert Cecil. | |
| 1603, May 4. | Payments by Sir Robert Cecil's servant for privy purse expenses, 16 April 1603 to 4 May 1603. Includes— |
| Payments for boat hire: 2 boats, Lambeth to my Lord Chancellor's and back 2s.: to the Star Chamber, 6d.: Mr. Cooke and others of my Lord's men, Greenwich to London, 4s.: to Lambeth and back 12d.: to Greenwich, coming with money to Sir Philip Herbert 12d. &c. | |
| Payments to bringers of presents: Barbary falcon from Count Arimbercke 3l.: 6 lamfrey pies from my Lord of Bath 10s.: "sparagos" from Sir Michael Stanhope 2s.: 2 Irish greyhounds from Sir John Davyes 20s.: pheasants and a partridge from Sir Gamaliel Capel, 5s.: rabbits and "sparagos" from Sir Michael Hicks 2s.: 2 brace of greyhounds from my Lord Cumpton 20s.: young geese and chickens from my Lady Gilford 10s.: sweetmeats from Sir Gilbert Wakering, 2s. 6d. | |
|
Other payments include—to my Lord 40s. to play at tables
and received back, 39s., 1s.: to my Lord at the garden gate to
be given by my Lord to the poor 5s. and 5s.: for a fan for my
Lord 15s.: to an old man that came to Brigstock 5s.: to the
poor at the Parliament Stairs 12d. Dick the cook his year's
wages 26s. 8d.: at the Parliament Street to 4 poor folks, 12d.:
to a French boy by my Lord's appointment 20s. 4 pp. (206. 3–4.) |
|
| Simon Wyllys to Sir Robert Cecil. | |
| 1603, May 5. |
Encloses papers out of France from Walter
Orme, a decayed merchant, whom Cecil may remember to have
seen soliciting for justice in the causes of the merchants that
trade there, wherof the papers contain particulars. Wyllys
cannot conceive why they are addressed to him, unless Orme is
ignorant of his departure from Cecil's service.—Aldermanbury,
5 May, 1603. Holograph. 1 p. (99. 160.) |
| Mrs. Southwell. | |
| 1603, May 6. |
Warrant by John Skynner, captain of 100
footmen in the town and garrison of Berwick on Tweed and
deputy governor, to all mayors, sheriffs, constables, &c., to
assist with horses or any other occasion Thomas Meade, gent.,
of the said garrison, whom Skynner has appointed to attend
Mrs. Southwell; wife of — Southwell, esq., commanded by his
Majesty and the Council to be at London with convenient
speed. Berwick, 6 May, 1603. Signed. Seal. 1 p. (100. 16.) |
| Earl of Oxford to the "Lord of Essendon." | |
| [1603], May 7. |
Begs Cecil's help in obtaining the keepership
of Waltham Forest, and the house and park of Havering. It
was in his ancestors almost from the time of William the
Conqueror to Henry 8th, who took it for the term of his life.
Details proceedings taken by his father and himself in the late
Queen's time to have it restored.—Hackne, 7 May. Holograph. Signed: E. Oxenforde. Endorsed: "1603." 1 p. (99. 161.) |
| James Worseley to Sir Robert Cecil. | |
| 1603, May 7. |
I wrote to you the 5th of May by Mr. Derrum,
a merchant in London, a follower of my Lord Admiral's, and
for doubt that my letter might not be delivered, I write again,
being a dangerous matter. There came, as I imagine, a Jesuit
into Dieppe the 4th of May, for passage into England, enquiring
where might be his safest place for landing, and whether he
might not carry over his books and use his relics and religion
there. It was answered him he might, to venture a hanging.
"Well," said he, "come what will, I must over;" which
resolute answer makes me think him some dangerous person,
and sent for some principal matter by those which envy our
prosperous estate. He had his beads, with other relics of dead
men's bones, which he showed secretly. Very full of money he
is, and has divers letters for England, and his excuse is that he
is sent to the Italian Ambassador, where, as he says, he will use
his relics. There have of late gone over 3 others of his kind,
with 17 or 18 priests which have gone in French boats
and landed in places where they might not be examined, and
some go to London. There went over with the Jesuit a gentleman that was very "chose" [? close] and kept himself very
secret till his embarking: but I have learned his name is
Gage, and he has been long in Italy. These Jesuits now having
the liberties of France, as of late it is given them, will fly over
apace, if it be not seen unto. I have written to Sir Thomas
Fane of Dover Castle for his landing. My lying here is chargeable, if I might crave your goodness to me.—Deep, 7 May,
1603. Holograph. 1 p. (187. 37.) |
| W. Bishop of Lincoln to Sir Robert Cecil. | |
| 1603, May 8. |
King Henry the 6th appointed the Bishops of
Lincoln visitors of that noble college by him founded in the
University of Cambridge, and granted them authority to enquire,
correct and reform all manner of persons, crimes and disorders,
when required by the Provost and officers there. On very
urgent occasions, which the Provost will report at large, I was
required to visit the College, and on May 3 I came there, and
the next day, after a learned and godly sermon by Mr. Eland
my chaplain (afterwards spitefully traduced by Mr. Woodyeare,
a captain of faction in that College) the whole Society were
called, and took their oath to present. The presentments
were so intricate and large that they required a long time to
be perused and conferred with the statutes, in regard whereof
on Saturday, I signified to the whole Society in the chapel that
I must follow the counsel of Jethro given to Moses, viz., to refer
the proceedings in levioribus to the Provost, officers and seniors,
and to reserve graviora to myself and my commissaries: which
I told them should be condignly punished and reformed. But
the younger factious sort (whereof there are a great number)
incited by their captains, grew into such an outrageous uproar
and tumult, some exclaiming upon tyranny, some upon oppression, some crying out that I was a partial judge because of my
familiarity with the Provost, some challenging the Provost's
place, some (very boys) bursting out into seditious terms,
calling the Vice-provost a dunce &c., and all of them with
confused clamours saying, "We appeal to the King, We appeal
to the King" (which they were resolved to do before my coming
to the College) that I, fearing riot or violence to myself, was
constrained like an Ephesian town clerk to prorogue my visitation till the 19th of September, and to dissolve the assembly
and depart my ways. Now my suit (which I have also made
to the Archbishop of Canterbury) is that you would acquaint
his Majesty with the premises, and be a mean to him for establishing that authority which his progenitors have given to the
Bishops of Lincoln, and for correcting the authors of the aforesaid "garboile" and tumult. Otherwise I do not see how there
can be any good order or government in that College or
University.—Buckden, 8 May 1603. Holograph. 1 p. (99. 162.) |
| Release of Prisoners. | |
| 1603, May 8. |
Gatehouse in Westminster. Note of such
prisoners' names as are commanded in Mr. Hunter's name by
Mr. Redway to be delivered, the 8th of May, 1603. 1 p. (142. 188.) |
| M. Beaumont to Sir Robert Cecil. | |
| 1603, May 8/18. |
The Sieur d'Anval having told me that you
had resolved with his Majesty upon the letter of which you
spoke to me and that you would have it dispatched to-day, I
desire by this to remind you of it and to beg you to address it
to the English Ambassador, to whom I will have it sent safely
and with all diligence.—Londres, May 18, 1603. Holograph. French. Endorsed; "French Ambassador." ½ p. (187. 39.) |
| Sir Anthony Sherley to the King. | |
| 1603, May 9. |
Importuned by the King of Spain's earnest
letters to his Ambassador delivered here but opened by his
Secretary, dated the 1 of March, and by others to the Duke
of Sissa of fresher date of the 10 of April: sent hither by him
by Gasparo Garinco his Secretary: to quicken my office to
your Majesty, to intercede for an amity between your two
crowns though it were a most honourable subject for a gentleman in these times to spend himself and his diligence in: yet
neither the one nor the other could move me then so much
nor at all as the loyal duty which I owe to your sacred person,
and the honour and good of yourself and your state: neither
will I be diffident though some who I little thought would say
so that your Majesty's change of State will have also altered
that favour and gracious confidence which I did and do assure
myself to have with your Majesty. At the least I know that
in your royal benignity you will vouchsafe to hear me, who will
never presume either to counsel or persuade anything, but only
propound to your Majesty things as they are. As I said then
before to your Majesty, your just pretendences in France make
your potency fearful, yourself to be had in jealousy, and can
admit no sure foundation of amity. O there must in all discourse grow times which will call your Majesty to remember
your ancient right, and facilitate the way to recover it; neither
will your Majesty ever be contented to raise France to such a
power and strength as may turn unquiet thoughts upon yourself,
either for the present or the future; and every small thing
which is diminished in this state of the world from either the
strength or reputation of Spain is added to him. Besides, he
is wonderful hugely grown in leagues, in which he fortifies
himself daily, the Zuitsers, divers princes in Germany, the
Pope, Duke of Florence and the Venetian, which are made
most confident unto him, and most diligently preserved so, and
daily by benefits (which is no real part of his disposition) more
and more confirmed: these growings at the least in my simple
discourse must be counterpoised, not being without great
designs, which effected must and will add too much to his
greatness. If your Majesty, he, and the world make war with
the King of Spain, there is no question he must be broken, and
his powers fall into their hands who are by the opportunity of
their situation fittest to receive them: your Majesty's realm
being so placed that you may bear much of the charge, mightily
help others' increase, and procure little benefit to yourself.
Thus I am bold to lay before your excelling wisdom the state
of things as his industry, and that of his ministers, have made
them for him: how your Majesty's amity will turn both
opinions discourses, and really the nature of them, by easing
the King of Spain from so great a weight as a war from you
also, and add reputation to the main course of his affairs, that
is in the greatness of your Majesty's judgment to consider.
Your Majesty commanded Mr. Keythe to write unto me in a
letter dated the 1 of January that you were well pleased the
King of France should be troubled, but without appearance of
your connivance: upon which there were divers instruments
first used to lay beginnings, put forward with all celerity, and
have begun foundations which will rise questionless to greater
matters: for though the Pope and Venetians concur both in
their firm intentions to France, yet there is both great heartburning and ambition between them, the one not bearing the
other's increase in Italy; of which there have passed divers
demonstrations, quieted for greater interests and by the
industry of the French ministers, which this matter of Ragusa
now fallen out will not admit: for this Signiorie upon their
confidence of France, and opinion of their strength by sea,
having received those which rebelled from the Raguseans into
their protection, are so engaged that without dishonour and
testimony of their weakness they cannot retire themselves from
their act: and the Pope will excommunicate them as he has
protested: by his Nuncio in open senate: neither will the
King of Spain suffer their damage which are under his protection:
the Signiori therefore arm by sea and land conveniently for
their defence, if extremity fall out, but without rumour or bruit;
what the event can be your Majesty can best judge. The matter
of Savoya and Geneva is cunningly thrust on: and only temporised by the Spanish Ministers, who being uncertain which
way your Majesty will resolve, are cold in embarking their Mr.
in so great an action as that must grow to. But in the mean
time there is so much done, that a small matter will inflame
almost an unquenchable fire. This then is the state of the
world here, and thus may be troubled much of the French
designments, by troubling those upon whom he has reposed
much of his foundations and himself. How your Majesty
will dispose of things consists in yourself. I, as an humble
and loyal subject, pray daily for all conditions of your Majesty's
felicity. I will never say that you should trust the Spaniard,
for I know them a people so wedded to their vast and proud
designs, which they could never hope to accomplish all honourably, that they have given over themselves to craft, to artifice,
to abusing of the world, and to all sort of treachery which may
serve their own interest. Therefore what you please to do with
them must be also your interest, till time give you proof how
and in what you may grow to greater confidence. I have in
my duty to your Majesty laid before you the greatness of him
whom you must suspect, who has the Turk, the Venetian, the
Pope, the Zuitsers, divers princes of Germany, and his own
forces to increase him. The other has none but himself to
maintain him, his allies being so distracted that they can do
no more than maintain themselves. If you oppose yourself
also unto him he is ruined, and so it is as much as confessed by
his frequent seeking of you. If you please to make any amity
with him you counterbalance the world. What profit it will
be for your Majesty and State your exceeding wisdom best
knows. I have only propounded: urged by them: most by
my duty; and I am sure my intention is good, neither will you
conceive me so "vilde" that I am further engaged with them
than a most loyal subject of yours ought to be; for by the Lord
of my salvation I never had once spoken with them but by the
occasion of what I thought fit for your Majesty's affairs in those
times, and kept them upon my hand for these matters of Persia,
in which the state of his Indias is interested, in which no man
can keep him but myself: and that I did also to have more
power to move them and bind them to all which might arise
fit for your service: from whence grew the Ambassador's
protestation for my imprisonment, my liberty and person
importing so much these great affairs of his Master's and the
Emperor's in Hungary: if I could have moved or can yet move
the Persian arms against the Turk and turn them from the
King of Spain: this is the truth of all: neither in this do I
once move more without your licence: neither had the Spanish
Ambassador stirred for me then if it had not been an apparent
act of persecution: the letter which came against me being
seen by an honourable merchant, one Augustino Marino, related
to him: and my attachment being forth of the "pregaii," out
of which court none cometh but for matter of State: and though
I am confident in your favour that I doubt not at all of your misunderstanding me: yet as I am free from all other thoughts of
dependence accept [except] your Majesty in my own conscience:
so I say all to you truly and plainly which malice may interpret:
you will pardon my presenting my duty by letter, since I am
both yet restrained of my liberty, and extreme sick: forcing
myself beyond my ability almost to send you this present of
my duty. Moreover since it pleased you to command Mr.
Keyth to give me so gracious comfort that what I did and should
propound to you had and should have favourable access, I
presume so confidently on my own sincere intentions, and more
upon your great wisdom and word of a true virtuous king, that
as I depend only on you, so that I shall ever have the freedom
to say liberally to you what I think occurring for your service:
and since nothing can better unite the general hearts of your
subjects than an equality: in the greatest things I say nothing:
but in the other I will ever say what I have already said, that
your Scottish merchants must also trade to put off the name of
poverty, which is ever despised by the richer, and that not
suffered by the other: but all must be reduced to the like use
of God's benefits, as God has made you like head of them all.—
Venice, 9 May, 1603. Holograph. 4 pp. (99. 163–4.) |
| The Provost and Fellows of King's College, Cambridge, to Sir Robert Cecil. | |
| 1603, May 9. | Our College, having been lately distracted with intestine dissension and divers inconveniences, and finding all domestical remedies too weak to redress the same, has according to our royal Founder's directions and form of his Statutes, called the Bishop of Lincoln to appease those storms. We are now in worse case than before, the strength of the execution of our Statutes by ourselves, being too weak by reason of the multitudes of delinquents, and his Lordship's well intended proceedings strangely and tumultuously in our open chapel and his presence interrupted by a pretenced appeal to the King's Majesty, contrary to the tenor and intent of our Statutes. |
|
Upon the 9th May, being the second day after the visitor's
departing, divers of them, whereof Mr. Lysle and Mr. Griffin,
sen. were chief, entered the College stable, where the Provost's
geldings are kept, and took against the wills of the horse keepers,
a couple of the geldings—notwithstanding the Provost's charge
to the contrary for that himself that very same day was to use
them in his journey on College business—so upon the sudden
putting him to provide common hackneys a little before his
journey towards London. For this action Mr. Lysle alleged
that he had a warrant by the consent of the more part of
the Fellows, whereas the Provost or Seniors had no knowledge
or privity. We therefore crave your help in this our distressed
and confused estate for the speedy reducing of our body to
our ancient peace and government.—King's College, in Cambridge, 9th May, 1603. Signed: "The Provost and Seniors of King's Coll: in Cambridge." 1 p. (136. 112.) |
|
| George Carewe to the Same. | |
| 1603, May 9. |
Yesterday I wrote an idle letter to you from
Duncaster; now being in Wetherby I received this enclosed.
I was never an importunate suitor. What is come to my hands
I humbly present.—Wetherby, 9 May 1603. Holograph. |
|
Postal Endorsements: "Wetherby att 4 of the clocke att night
the 9 of May, 1603. Hast Hast Post Post Hast George
Carewe, Rd. at Weatherby the 10 May at 4 in the morn,
W. Thomsone. Scrobie 10 May at 3 afternone. Tuxford the
10 at 5 afternon. [Two inscriptions torn off.] Stamford the
11 at almost 3 in the morn'g. Caxton the 11 past 7 in the
mornyng. Huntingdon, the 11 at 10 before none." ½ p. (187. 38.) |
|
| The Master of Gray to Sir Robert Cecil. | |
| 1603, May 10. |
I have only made this addition to my former,
in respect of this gentleman to whom I have imparted all I
would say touching your last. I have found so honourable
dealing in time past that I shall ever by the grace of God show
myself ready to serve you in all duty, not doubting but you will
remember that the mighty lion never repented him of his
friendship shown to the silly mouse. For privacy or correspondency now, it is not requisite, neither have I reason to
mistake your "retraict," seeing the case is altered. But as
my private affair shall occur I must have recourse to your
favour.—Huntly, 10 May 1603. Holograph. 1 p. (99. 165.) |
| The Privy Council. | |
| 1603, May 10. |
Act in Council, appointing Privy Councillors.
—10 May 1603. Contemporary copy endorsed by Cecil. 1 p. (99. 166.) |
| Penelope, Lady Riche, to the Earl of Southampton. | |
| May 10. |
I hope my first letter will excuse some part of my
fault, and I assure you nothing shall make me neglect to yield
you all the truest assurances I can of my affection and desires
to be held dear in your favour, whose worthy kindness I will
strive to merit by the faithfullest endeavours my love can
perform towards you. Your L. daughter is exceeding fair and
well, and I hope by your son to win my wager.—Chartly, 10 of
May. Holograph. 1 p. (99. 167.) |
| T. Lord Buckhurst to Sir Robert Cecil. | |
| 1603, May 10. |
By these letters directed to my Lord Keeper
and myself you may see how by our letters certain ships laden
with victuals for Ireland are stayed. I would think that, the
great dearth there considered, it were fit that letters of revocation of our former restraint were speedily sent. If you so think,
and give order for such letters to be made, the Lords may be
made privy before they be to be sent. If there be any cause
of counsel either forenoon or afternoon, I pray you let me know
by this bearer, for to come and attend with disgrace I like not.—
10 May, 1603. Holograph. Endorsed: Lord Treasurer, ½ p. (187. 40.) |
| Thomas Arundell to Sir Robert Cecil. | |
| [1603], May 10. |
Is requested by Mr. Harry Carew to declare
such speeches as he has heard reported to be spoken by Crane,
a Puritan preacher dwelling in Sherborne, in the West Country.
Nothing of late has been more generally spoken of than those
slanderous reports. Crane said that Cecil and Arundel were
wholly for the Infanta of Spain, and were as duly prayed for
there as the Queen of England was here when she lived; and
that it was pity of their lives—with other speeches to that
effect. Can produce sufficient witnesses. The matter was
preached in the pulpit openly.—10 May. Holograph. Endorsed: "1602." [?1603] 1 p. (187. 41.) |
| [The King] to the Earl of Kent. | |
| 1603, May 11. |
We have been informed by our cousin the
Countess of Shrewsbury of the great desire which our cousin
the [lady] Arbella Stuart hath to [come] to our presence thereby
to have the better occasion to present her love and duty to us.
We [do] very well approve those desires of hers, and for that
purpose are well pleased that she do repair to our court at
Gr[eenwich] in the company of our cousin the Countess [of]
Shrewsbury, her aunt, where we shall be willing to confer [with]
her and make her know how well we wish her in regard of her
nearness in blood and how much it doth content us to understand so much of her good carriage of herself as we do by report
of her aunt the bearer hereof. Draft. Endorsed: "1603, May 11. Mynute to the erle of Kent." 1 p. (135. 176–2.) |
| Sir John Mallory to Sir Robert Cecil. | |
| 1603, May 12. |
I was acquainted you were hardly conceited
against me and should dispose otherwise of the ward I was
a humble suitor to you for. I beseech you let no conceit overthrow my poor credit with you, since ever I have more relied
of your house than of any other of the nobility whomsoever.
I would myself have spoken with you at York, but seeing the
times unfitting, thought fit to forbear, expecting more convenient
opportunity.—Studley, this 12 of May. Holograph. Seal. 2/3 p. (100. 1.) |
| Sir Robert Cecil. | |
| [Before 13 May, 1603.] |
Customs and subsidies of all the
fine wares farmed by Sir Robert Cecil which have been brought
into the port of London since March 1. Total 4,656l. 14s. 4d.—
Undated. ¼ p. (98. 93.) |
| Lord Cobham to Sir Robert Cecil. | |
| 1603 [before May 13.] |
It is ordinary reported about the
town that his Majesty within very few days after his repair to
Greenwich will go down to his ships. How I shall carry myself
I must crave advice of you: whether it were not fit for me to
invite him to my house. If you would as from me move him, I
should take it very kindly. I have a humour fallen into my
legs, so painful that I am not well able to go: yet within two
days I hope to be well; by it I am hindered from coming to
you. Let me know how the King used my Lady of Kildare,
and whether he has spoken of me to you; and what the reports
be of the speech that passed between the King and me. In
London they be very strangely and falsely reported. I made
a true report to you, whatever else you may have heard. What
answer I shall make to Arenberg I pray you be a means that I
may know, for this I forgot to tell you, that the Duke telling the
King of my coming and that I was desirous to know his pleasure
touching this letter, he made him an angry answer, and told
him that I was more busy in it than I need to be; though to
me he said no such matter, but seemed that at the coming of
the Council I should know his pleasure.—Undated. Holograph. Endorsed: "1603." 1 p. (99. 111.) |
| Foulke Grevyll to the Same. | |
| 1603 [before May 13.] Two letters:— | |
|
1. I wait not upon you because I bring nothing worthy of
you. When you please to command my service I shall be proud,
as I am of your favour.—From the Austin Friars this instant. Endorsed: "1603." and in a later hand, "before May 13." Holograph. Seal. ½ p. (100. 2.) |
|
|
2. I was this morning first at your chamber to have waited
upon you, and after sought you at the Council chamber; where
not finding you I, like a valiant gentleman, went to your privy
chamber door, but could hear no news of you. How ill
provided I am and ever was for heat and press you know.
Into your love I presume to recommend myself, and rest to be
commanded by you as your own.—From the Austin Friars
this instant. Holograph. 2/3 p. (100. 3.) |
|
| The Earl of Cumberland to the Same. | |
| 1603 [before May 13.] |
All things shall be ready for you at
the Chace, and I hope there will be showed at Ro. Nores's a
good show of deer. The commoners of Enfield I perceive by Ro.
Conesbye commit many extreme disorders that is the destruction
of the game, and will clearly prove to the King their unreasonable humours. I have caused the ranger and keepers to set
them down in a petition to the King; they have it ready to
deliver to him, but I have willed them to forbear delivering
it till they hear from you. Send them word what they shall
do in it; I think it were best to deliver it this day because they
shall have good time after at large to discourse with him of it.
You may very well let the King dine at Padis lodge, for it is by
West that now dwells there very prettily trimmed up, and
many things already made ready of purpose. Holograph. Seal broken. 1 p. (102. 165.) |
| Sir Henry Davers or Danvers to Sir Robert Cecil. | |
| 1603, [before May 13.] |
Prays him to procure a letter from
his Majesty to Lord Mountjoy to establish him in the grant
made to him and signified to Cecil from Lord Henry Howard.
When it is signed he is secure and it may well remain in Cecil's
hands till he attends him. Holograph. Seal. ½ p. (102. 169.) |
| Sir John Davis to the Same. | |
| 1603, [before May 13.] |
Of late I know not by what means
there hath been a heavy imputation laid upon me touching
my carriage in my lord of Essex's trouble. To my worthy
friends I from time to time gave a true narration of all that had
passed. To others I forbore to speak anything. Since the
Queen's death, out of the exceeding desire I had to give full
satisfaction, unto my lord of Southampton I made a full relation
of all those passages before his coming out of the Tower. He
was then content to free me from all falsehood and malice
towards my lord of Essex and himself, yet intimated error and
weakness in being over credulous to Sir Walter Ralegh's oaths,
who the better to gain my confession had sworn unto me that
Sir Fer. Gorges had confessed all, and alleged some particulars
of our projects at Drury House, as the possessing of the Court
and the calling of a Parliament which his lordship said Sir Fer.
Gorges denied to be his confession, but was thrust into the book
amongst other untruths. Since that time upon the continuance
of his lordship's disfavour (as I took it) because his followers
continued in their reports still much to wrong me at my coming
to the Court at Mr. Cromwell's, in the presence chamber before
Lord Harry Howard, I besought his favour again, made repetition of my carriage in that business, and brought it to the same
pass again, that his lordship did clear me as before from malice
or falsehood, but could not take off the tax of error or weakness,
which I told him was as heavy to me as villainy or treachery,
and therefore besought him better to esteem of my discretion
than to think that I could be so overtaken, for it appeared to
be his true confession by the testimony of my Lord Keeper, my
Lord Treasurer, my Lord Admiral and your honour. Upon
the naming of my Lord Admiral and yourself he was pleased
to come unto this conclusion, that if the confession which is
published to be taken on the 16th of February be testified by
your honours to be Sir Fer. Gorges's true confession, that
then he would acquit me of all. Which condition I also
accepted, and therefore beseech you, by the same honour
whereby you nobly saved my life, justly to determine this
controversy, the matter being absolutely referred to my Lord
Admiral and yourself. Holograph. Seal. 1½ pp. (102. 171.) |
| Sir George Devereux to Sir Robert Cecil. | |
| 1603, [before May 13.] |
Since the death of my nephew, the
Earl of Essex, I have been kept from my living of 200l. to live
upon his wife's benevolence, and now, being married to the
Earl of Klenricard, she has taken that benevolence away likewise, so that there was, I think, never poor gentleman more
distressed. I have lain sick 23 weeks to my utter undoing
and the second day that I went abroad I was arrested for 20l.
at the suit of one Readman, and now I am in prison, where I
am like to perish, unless it please God to raise me some friends
to relieve my present want. I have seen above threescore
years, and yet never knew imprisonment nor arrest before.
I received more benevolent favour from Sir John Foskew than
from all the friends and kindred I have in the world, and I
beseech you to pity me in sending me something to supply my
present want. Signed. Endorsed: "1603." Seal. 1 p. (103. 1.) |
| Captain Edward Fisher to the Same. | |
| 1603, [before May 13.] |
There are some captains of Ireland
that have made means to his Majesty for the continuance of
their companies in entertainment so long as his Highness shall
have use of any there, the one of them, Captain Lloydd by means
of the Earl of Southampton, the other Captain Ropper by Sir
Henry Bromley, both which are of less continuance in the wars
than myself. Therefore have I made means to a Scottishman
near the King, who doubts not to obtain the same in my behalf.
I intreat if his Majesty chance to demand your opinion of me,
you will be pleased to vouchsafe the same according to your
wonted favour. Holograph. Endorsed: "1603." ½ p. (103. 7.) |
| Thomas and Edward Hayes to the Same. | |
| 1603, [before May 13.] |
Have been told that complaints
were made to the King against the moneys of Ireland. Crave
to understand his Majesty's opinion and judgment concerning
the same. Stand confident in the justification of that action.
Have considered of sundry projects for the King's service in
Ireland, as to which they are now without, attending Cecil's
pleasure. Signed. Endorsed: "1603." ½ p. (103. 13.) |
| Theophilus Howard to Sir Robert Cecil. | |
| 1603, [before May 13.] |
I should wrong myself to let pass
the servant of him that I am so much tied to honour without
these few lines, for want of a worthier means to testify my
affection. Holograph. Endorsed: "1603." Seal. ½ p. (103. 20.) |
| Charles, Earl of Nottingham, to the Same. | |
| Three Letters:— | |
| 1603, [before May 13.] |
(1) I send you here inclosed a letter
to the K[ing] my sovereign, wherein it may be that I have put
in something too large an offer. If you think so, I pray you in
your love give me your advice, and draw some lines over and
under that you would have put out, and also mend that which
is otherwise amiss. I have no curious words: it is not my style
to use them, yet being my first letter to him, I would not have
it too barren. Let me have your help. Holograph. Endorsed: "1603." ½ p. (103. 32.) |
|
(2.) I think you shall hear by to-morrow night that both the
Commissioners of the States as also those from the Archduke
are landed. The Archduke's Commissioners are the Count
Arenberg, Gaste Spinola, the Count Soreo, and the President
of Brabant. The Archduke hath set at liberty all the prisoners
that are English, in the galleys as elsewhere. There would
be care had for them to be well lodged. For the States' Commissioners, they are already provided for by the Mayor upon
our letter. [PS.]—There be men of great quality and some of account, which be appointed to meet them. Holograph. Endorsed: "1603." Seal. ½ p. (103. 33.) |
|
|
(3). I have spoken with the Recorder of Bristol, and have
hope to find out some of them that are returned from the Straits,
to make an example of them, but I perceive that Sir Thomas
Shurly has encouraged many to go thither with hope of favour
of the Duke of Florence. It were easy for the Venetians and
Gennases [sic] now in the summer with their galleys to cut them
all off, and in honour it touches the D[uke] of Florence to help
to do it. I have taken order with two good merchant-ships
that are now going into those seas to take as many as they can
meet and I know that they go master of those ships, and use
that trade continually and know the hurt these wretches do to
the trade [and] will ferret them out. I mean after I have
spoken with the king to proclaim all such men of war as are
in the Straits pirates. It is strange you shall not hear of a
complaint of any now but within the Straits. Holograph. Endorsed "1603." Seal. ½ p. (103. 34.) |
|
| Thomas Packer to Sir Robert Cecil. | |
| [?1603, before May 13]. |
It has pleased God to call my late
father out of this world, during whose long reversion of the office
of Privy Seal, and in the end being only two years in ordinary,
he attended for Mr. Alington, and employed me under him
about 14 years. In respect of the said Mr. Alington's debility,
and my long continuance in that office, I beseech your approbation of me to attend therein as his deputy. Undated. Holograph. ½ p. (103. 38.) |
| Penelope, Lady Rich, to the Same. | |
| 1603, [before May 13.] |
Your noble favours towards your
absent friend, and myself, have long since obliged my affection
in the highest degree. I beseech you let me know if you have
made that dispatch into Scotland, and if any commission
can be speedily obtained. Sir John Townshend will be a fit
messenger to send with the good news into Scotland, who
desired me ten days since to speak to you, that if there fell out
any such occasion he might be employed. Holograph. Endorsed: "1603." Seal. 1 p. (103. 50.) |
| Captain William Taaffe to the Same. | |
| Two Letters:— | |
| 1603, [before May 13.] |
(1) Upon my last motion unto her
Majesty, the Earl of Shrewsbury and Sir John Stannope being
present, her Majesty was graciously pleased to grant my suit,
and sent my petition to your Honour for my dispatch. Soon
after I understood by Mr. Brewerton that you were to give
direction to Mr. Lake for drawing a letter from her Majesty
to the Lo. Deputy for that purpose. I beseech you endorse
her Majesty's pleasure upon my petition, to the end I may
better inform his Majesty the truth, and receive contentment
for my service. Holograph. Endorsed: "1603." ½ p. (103. 65.) |
|
(2). A later letter respecting the foregoing suit. Unsigned. ½ p. (103. 66.) |
|
| The King to the Same. | |
| [1603, before May 13.] |
Most trusty and well beloved
councillor, although my continual great business would not
have enforced my shortness, yet the trust of this confident
bearer may very well supply the silence of my pen. I have
given him in notes the things wherein I crave your advice,
wishing you to assure yourself that neither your own late
sovereign nor other king living shall more confidently and
constantly rely upon the advice of a councillor and trusty
servant than I shall ever do upon yours. James R. Holograph. Undated. Two seals on yellow silk. (134. 46.) |
| David Foulis to Sir Robert Cecil. | |
| 1603. [before May 13.] |
I am even now come from my horse
and attend your direction here unknown to any. If you will
send one of your men to convey me in to you quietly, you shall
do well for I must see you before I see your fellow councillors
and 3[?] is gone. Therefore I must meet you by your own
means. Signed. Endorsed: "1603." ¼ p. (188. 10.) |
| Justices of Peace of Lancaster to the Council. | |
| 1603, May 13. |
By your letters of the 13th of April last to
the Bishop of Chester and us, it appears you have been certified
that there is extraordinary provision made of arms by recusants
in these parts, and therefore wish us to inform ourselves of the
quantities, and by whom the same is bought. We have
examined all the armourers and others known to use the sale
of armour in this county, as to what quantity of armour, weapons
or gunpowder they have lately sold to any recusant, and to
whom: who all depose that to their knowledge they have not
so sold any.—Wigan, 13 May, 1603. Signed: John Ireland, Richard Asshtoun, Rychard Holland, Ra. Asshton, and Thomas Preston. 1 p. (99. 113.) |
| Thomas Hesketh to Sir Robert Cecil. | |
| [1603, May 13.] |
The Lord Keeper is of opinion that it is the
safest way to take the oath. If you can come to his house in
the morning, he will, without further warrant from the King,
give you your oath. If you cannot do so, he will come out of
the Chancery into the Court of Wards, at any time in the afternoon when you shall send for him. I beseech you return your
resolution, for if you come to my Lord Keeper's house I will be
ready there to attend. Holograph. Undated. Endorsed: "13 May, 1603." ½ p. (187. 42.) |
| Dr. John Du Port to Lord Cecil. | |
| 1603, May 13. |
His comfort at the late honour conferred upon
Cecil. Wishes Cecil may receive such heat from this most
glorious Orient sunshine as may dry up the stream of his griefs
for the loss of his late mistress.—Jesus College in Cambridge,
13 May, 1603. Holograph. Seal. ½ p. (100. 4.) |
| Fulke Grevyll to Lord Cecil. | |
| 1603, May [13]. |
Among the old and new nobility there are
few in both kindness and worth beyond you, and these being
your natural titles it may please you to preserve them in
yourself because mine and many good men's interest lies in
them.—From the Austin Friars this Friday. Holograph. Seal. ½ p. (100. 68.) |
| Thomas Warburton to the Same. | |
| [1603, after May 13.] |
The miseries heaped upon him by his
adversaries in Cecil's name constrain him to beg Cecil for a
favourable hearing.—Undated. Endorsed: "1602" [in error]. ½ p. (93. 162.) |
| The Bailly and Jurats of Jersey to Sir Walter Ralegh, the Governor. | |
| 1603, May 14. |
We had hoped after the receipt of your first
letters to dispatch our deputies towards his Majesty and to
thank you for the care you have had for our protection upon
this change of reign. But before we could resolve to send our
deputies, we have received your second letters, which have still
more abundantly testified of your goodwill. The hope you have
given us from the coming of this great King to that crown having
caused us to swallow all the sorrow and bitterness that we could
have conceived from the death of our late Princess, makes us
say with the true Israel of God, 'Blessed be he that cometh in
the name of the Lord.' As for our defence which you desire
we should care for together with your lieutenant, we expect
that he as superintendent in these matters will inform you of the
duty we have done therein. For the articles you advised us
to add to our petition to the King we hold them very necessary,
as also to set forward our deputies upon this good occasion
that presents itself, expecting they are going in search of you.—
From the Assembly of the States, 14 May, 1603. Twelve signatures. French. 1 p. (100. 6.) |
| William, Lord Sandys, to Lord Cecil. | |
| 1603, May 14. |
Has been in the hands of the physician ever
since Sunday last. Desires the continuance of Cecil's favours
both for his absence now, and for the speedy discharge of his
bonds of the fine imposed on him, having paid at one entire
payment 1000l. into the Exchequer, and bonds given in for
4000l. more payable by 200l. a year.—"From my lodging,
Charing Cross, 14 May 1603." Signed. 1/8 p. (100. 8.) |
| Fulke Grevyll to Lord Cecil. | |
| 1603, [?May 15.] |
If he knew what service to do Cecil or
when to wait upon him would do either or both with joy and
contentment. In the mean time remains quiet at Deptford.
From Deptford, this Sunday. Holograph. Seal. ½ p. (100. 5.) |
| Lord Norreys to the Same. | |
| 1603, May 15. |
I meet divers reports here in Yorkshire that
the Queen will not begin her journey shortly; wherefor I have
stayed from proceeding farther northward; and for that I
have business of great import, meant to come to London. But
I would know from you whether her Majesty's coming be so
sudden as that I may not come thither; for here they say she
will not set forward this month. How long you think in
likelihood it will be ere she set forward, is all I seek.—From
Doncaster, this 15 of May. Holograph. 1 p. (100. 9.) |
| The Earl of Lincoln to the Same. | |
| 1603, May 15. |
I and the Lord Norris by command of the
Council travelling toward Berwick were certified at Northallerton
by the Earl of Orkney, and afore by Sir G. Douglas and others,
of her Majesty's unfitness to remove for a long time. Finding
my old griefs and diseases to increase I have presumed to require
you to be a mean that such respect may be had of the infirmities
of my age that my services may be such as my decayed body
may endure. I am also by my longer absence than was
expected in fear to endanger my whole estate, for my days of
payments to you and others creep on very fast. Further, my
old adversary Sir Ed. Dymmock by his servants renews his
great outrages, beating and maiming my servants, spoiling my
houses and meadows which he forcibly entered, and whereof
restitution was granted the last term by the judges. My cause
has been thoroughly sifted afore my Lord Keeper and all you
that were of our late Queen's Privy Council, where he showed
his audacious impudency in complaining of me first to give
some colour to his insolent outrages. Truly my case is lamentable if in my absence consideration hereof should not be taken.
—Northallerton, this 15th day of May, 1603. Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (100. 10.) |
| Capt. John Skynner to the Same. | |
| 1603, May 15. |
A letter I received from you and others of
the Lords for the sending up of Mrs. Southwell, by which I
commanded her to address herself to her journey; but she
betook herself to her bed for two or three days and with vexing
made herself ill indeed. Directly she hath answered she will
set the contempt, and this warrant doth not limit me any
extremity towards her. Besides, I am sent to from her Majesty
to use her civilly, who otherwise renounceth her. I will perform
this this day (for yesterday I had her halfway out at the town,
but could not get her on without violence). She shall remove
out of this town 6 or 8 miles into Northumberland to a private
house out of the way, where I will keep her close prisoner
without suffering her to write or receive any letters but what I
may see, to stop her importuning those she should not, and
clamouring. She saith she is not able to travel, will not go
except his Majesty send her allowance for her charge, and hath
no money, hath not men for attendance, fears she shall be
murthered, will not believe the King knoweth anything of her;
with many other violent exclamations. Now you understand
her contempt, if you send me any particular warrant what you
or the other lords with you command shall be most gladly
obeyed.—Berwick, this 13 of May. Holograph. Seal. 1¼ pp. (100. 11.) |
|
The Enclosure: Certificate by Thomas Meade, Mrs. Southwell's keeper, a gentleman of this garrison, 50 years old, of the
truth of the above. In the handwriting of Skynner, signed by Meade. ¼ p. (100. 12.) |
|
| Robert [Bennet], Bishop of Hereford, to Mr. Secretary Cecil. | |
| 1603, May 15. |
Would have come to Court to-day, to pay
the fee due to Cecil and take his leave, with acknowledgments
of his kindness, but understands that great concourse there is
not accepted; and desiring to betake himself to his charge, he
is forced to do so by letter. Prays Cecil to continue his favour
to him. What duty is now omitted he will supply on his
return at the Coronation.—Lambehith, 15 May, 1603. Holograph. ½ p. (187. 43.) |