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Gilbert, Earl of Shrewsbury to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1598, June 1. |
In favour of Mr. Anthony Wingfield, 'my cousin,' in a suit which hath been by preoccupation moved unto my Lord of Canterbury and his good favour promised long since. Mr. Wingfield will impart the matter, and hath hope in Lord Thomas Howard and Lord Harry that they will favour his suit to Cecil.—June, '98. |
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Holograph. Seal. |
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½ p. (61. 46.) |
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Edward, Lord Zouche to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1598, June 1. |
After to-morrow, when I am to take physic, I shall be ready receive instructions, and shall then crave but three days to bid my friends farewell and be gone. I purposed to have waited upon you, hearing you were in London, but, finding from Mr. Dr. Parkins that you were gone, I write instead. If it might be I would either be furnished with instructions and peruse of them in some measure, or have the Queen's direct command to take them as they are delivered to me. Meantime these poor things I prepare for my journey will, I hope, be ready by next Wednesday, yet am I willing to go without them if so commanded.—London, 1 June, 1598. |
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Holograph. |
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1 p. (61. 47.) |
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Lord Hunsdon. |
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1598, June 1. |
Grant by Thomas Lord Buckhurst and Sir Robert Cecil to Sir George Carie, Baron of Hunsdon, Lord Chamberlain, of an annuity of £100 for 8 years, if Sir John Pakington's starch patent do so long continue.—1 June, 1598. |
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Signed, G. Hunsdon. |
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1 Membrane of Parchment. (218. 1). |
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H. Townshend to Lord Burghley. |
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1598, June 2. |
I understand that a matter, wherein Margaret Vernon, a ward committed unto me by composition with Mr. Wakeringe, is plaintiff against Mr. John Manners defendant, is fixed for June 26, being at issue but last term. The cause is for the stay of a suit begun against the said ward's servants at common law for the title of a farm. I am now commanded by my Lord President to attend here this next term; wherefore, in view of the prejudice that will be caused to my ward by my absence, I would ask that the hearing be postponed until Michaelmas term.—Tickenhill, June 2, 1598. |
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Signed. Seal. |
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Addressed.—Sir William Cecil, K.G., Lord High Treasurer of England. |
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1 p. (61. 48.) |
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Thomas Chaloner to Anthony Bacon. |
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1598, June 2. |
After a tedious journey by reason of the snowy mountains and uneasy ways I am safely arrived at Lyons, whereof I thought it convenient to advertise you, and withal to discharge part of so much as was committed to my charge by Sir Anthony Sherley at his departure for Constantinople. Whose love and zealous affection to my Lord Marshal and yourself is so well known that it were in vain for me to make any long protestation thereof. Therefore, in excuse of his journey toward the Levant without especial order, and perhaps disagreeing from some letters received at Venice, I can by my particular knowledge certainly inform you that he left no stone unmoved or means untried to find employment in the state of Venice, which is so far from entertaining new actions or new instruments for war, that they hardly vouchsafe those few which they have either good grace or large pension. All things appertaining to innovations or tumults in Italy lay dead, being neither wills nor ready means apparent to enterprise any matter of great consideration. His journey to Monsieur Desdiguières seemed a matter which would draw on a greater expense than the experience or reputation could return. For besides that there was no hope to bear any charge where there are already almost as many captains as there are soldiers, and the troops in those quarters being small and the enterprises in respect to the great bruit for the most part of small moment, whereunto adjoining the assurance of the issue of peace in France, the reasons seemed very lively unto him not to bend his course that way. In conclusion, finding all projects answer his expectation weakly save only that of the Levant, he imparted it unto the Grand Duke and Signor Foscarini. The former named by letters urged it as a matter most necessary and of weighty consequence, promising to signify his allowance and opinion thereof to my Lord Marshal. The second in my presence gave him the greatest encouragement possible, affirming the undertaking of such an exploit to be beneficial to all Christendom and in particular to
Venice, which by the traffic overland from thence was mightily enriched before the Portugales were lords of those parts. And for the facility thereof he held it so manageable that none but God only by miracle could give disturbance thereto. To prove that it stood with the grounds of Christianity he used many reasons, as the transporting the war from our homes, as it were, into another world, the overwhelming of ambition and dispersing of those wares and merchants to all traffickers, which to the empoverishing of all estates are now only made private to the Spaniard. In sum he held him happy that should by this good and lawful means immortalize his name for ever. For my own part I find among the letters written to Pius Quintus one especially touching this matter written from the King of Portingale, whereby he laments unto the Pope the hazard that he hath to be deprived thereof by the passage of the Red Sea, and intimates an intent already settled to attempt against him, against which he despaired to be able to prevail. Moreover the Senate of Venice, desirous to enjoy their accustomed traffick from those parts, understanding that certain Indian kings were in Portugal, they addressed their ambassador to congratulate with the king thereof, but their drift secretly was to move those kings to make head against the Portuguese, promising aid of leaders or to send founders to cast ordnance and make other weapons of war. This their practice was discovered by the kings themselves, and thereby ensued shame and discontentment to the Venetians to be taken playing double. But if it seem not good to the highest in our isle to give an open applause to this action, yet it is no new thing for princes to wink at private men's actions, which they will never commend till the event succeed fortunately. Example hereof we have in Ludovico Visconti Duke of Milan, who, by disbanding his captain Francesco Sforza, subtily succoured Lucca, albeit he had given his word to the Venetians and Florentines not to interpose himself in that action, and this dealing underhand of his is by historiographers and politicians held both for discreet and without touch of honour. By this time I hope that Sir Anthony Sherley is arrived at his desired parts, where his intent is to attempt nothing without warrant from England. He is now so far forward on his way that if he be advised to proceed I hold the design half achieved. His most earnest desire and request is that my L. Marshal will vouchsafe to maintain him in the favour of my Lady Cheyny, especially being advertised that some back friend hath sought to discredit him with her. And of this I am and must be, for the love I bear him, a continual solicitor. News in these parts are none. Monsieur Dediguières hath disbanded his forces, the plague is in Grenoble, which hindereth me from going to see him—Lion, 2 June. If it please you to write, your superscription may be, “A Monsieur Pierre Gulyttes, Lion,” for thereby your letters shall safely come to me. Holograph. |
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3 pp. (61. 49.) |
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The Earl of Pembroke to Lord Burghley. |
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1598, June 2. |
Mr. Townshend, one of this Council, informs me that the cause wherein his ward Margaret Vernon is plaintiff against Mr. Manners, now sheriff of Derbyshire, is to be heard on the 26th. Our term begins on Trinity Monday, and Mr. Townshend is appointed to attend, and I see not how I can spare him, because no other lawyer except Mr. Justice will then be able to attend owing to the circuits; for which reason I desire that this cause may be postponed until the Michaelmas term.—Tickenhill, 2 June, 1598. Signed. Seal. |
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½ p. (61. 51). |
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Dr. Fletcher to the Earl of Essex. |
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1598, June 2. |
We are here attending on the States General touching the affairs of the Merchants Adventurers, but have had no audience. “Grave” Maurice is here at the Hague. The peace between the two was proclaimed at Antwerp and other towns of Flanders and Brabant upon Sunday. I would only advertise you of the disposition which I observe in this people and some of the States with whom I have conferred. They fear not so much the peace as lest the Queen should be induced to incline unto it. At Brussels of late was a dumb show representing the French King and Cardinal who after long wars fell to a treaty. While they are conferring, in cometh a lady and conveys herself behind the French King and pryeth what they say, expressing much perturbation at it, sometimes fawning and sometimes flattering and plucking the French King by the sleeve. In the meantime one of the minions begins to chafe, enquiring what she is that presumes so near. Where it is gestured she is the Queen of England. So they whisper and laugh at the conceipt. With that there come in four or five fellows dressed like boors, and begin to press to the place and interrupt the treaty. Whereupon the Cardinal inquires what they are, and they are described to be boors of Holland. Whereat the king laughs at the rudeness of the poor men. But the Cardinal gestures that he will hang them all up, so soon as he hath done with his great business. So we are mocked by them while we treat of peace.—The Hague, 2 June, 1598. Holograph. |
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1 p. (61. 52). |
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John Killigrew to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1598, June 3. |
Complaining of the miseries of his 4 months' imprisonment; firstly, that now being more than fifty years of age his health suffers; secondly, the sufferings thus caused to his wife; thirdly, that he can only see his children at the window; fourthly, that for his own support and his family's he has pawned or sold his horse and clothes, and is now so much in debt for his diet that he knows not how he shall live; for which reasons he sends his petition, which he hopes will be deemed reasonable for his creditors and not hurtful to any.—June 3. |
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Signed. |
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½ p. (61. 54.) |
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John Killigrew's Petition. |
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My enemies and creditors are malicious towards me; wherefore, desiring to settle my estate for the benefit of my wife and family, and being willing to pay my creditors their principal debts with the receipt of my living, I desire that you would authorise Lord Anderson, Sir Anthony Mildmay, Sir Edward Dyer, Serjeant Heale, Dr. Stanhope, Mr. Poynes, clerk of the Queen's Kitchen, and Mr. Moore, sheriff of London, to examine what my true debts be, and direct that the mortgagees of my living shall accept their principal with reasonable use, and give time for the payment of it. Otherwise, for not paying £500 at next Midsummer, I lose a living of £600 a year; and for not paying £300 at Michaelmas, I lose £400 a year. Moreover, I would ask you to give me some enlargement of my imprisonment, considering that what the Queen has taken from me is worth £2000. Besides, I have laid out £2000 more, whereof £1000 disbursed within three years, and therefore is my land mortgaged; which may be redeemed with my own money, had I but my freedom and the ordinary course of law. |
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I owed the Queen £1000, for which my land was extended. The late sheriffs of Cornwall under that extent have seized and detain not only that amount but £1000 more; although the debt of £1000 has now been paid to the Exchequer, as appears under the officers' own hands. Proof of this has already been made by me into the Court of the Exchequer; and if I may find relief at your hands, my estate shall be settled and my creditors satisfied. |
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Signed. |
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1 p. (61. 53.) |
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The Mayor, Aldermen and Commonalty of Oxford to the Earl of Essex. |
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1598, June 3. |
During the time of your government of us we have forborne to complain to you of any wrongs done to us by scholars of the University : for that we hoped suffrance would in the end work the end of their wronging of us, specially for that your Lordship, a known honourable patron of learning and learned men, hath taken the protection of us against their injuries, for which we ever acknowledge ourselves most bounden. It is our duty to be careful that some of our citizens be trained and made fit soldiers, and specially now in respect of your Honour, to whom in any employment of yours we would present men expert and able to serve. The fault was by particular persons committed, and therefore our complaint shall be of them, and not of the University in general, though the magistrates' slackness of punishing the offenders drive us to complain in the Star Chamber, if it may stand with your allowance thereof.—Oxon, 3 June, 1598. |
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1 p. (62. 14.) |
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The Bishop of London to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1598, 3 June. |
I am informed that you have a purpose to move her Majesty concerning the placing of a Master in Trinity Hall, which hath caused me to let you understand that the Fellows, yesterday in the morning, without consent, have chosen one Dr. Cowell to that place. He is a man of very many good parts, and hath good experience in the government of that University. My Lord of Canterbury and your father did write their several letters to the Fellows yesterday in that behalf, not knowing of the said choice. He is well known unto them both, and hath been employed for the compilation of some part of Saunders' book de Schismate, whereof her Majesty hath taken notice, and promised him a good turn in that respect. Besides, he is her Law Reader in that University, and simply in mine opinion the fittest man for that Mastership. I desire you to give him your good favour, and if her Majesty had an intent to prefer another, that you will be pleased to satisfy her with that which is already done for so worthy a man. I have sent you hereinclosed the copy of a letter which came yesternight to Dr. Cowell from the Fellows of Trinity Hall, and this morning he has gone down, as they desire, to be admitted.—3 June, 1598. Signed. |
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1 p. (136. 62a.) |
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The enclosure :— |
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The Fellows of Trinity Hall, Cambridge, to Dr. Cowell. Announcing his election as Master in the place of Dr. Preston, and if he accept, desiring his presence forthwith for his admission to the same.—2 June, 1598. Signed., Jo. Butts, Rob. Turner, Edw. Catcher, John Blomfield, Chr. Wyvell, Henry Byrde. |
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P.S.—Mr. Linne, Mr. Gibson and Mr. Apleyarde could not be found to subscribe, although they were electors, and we were loth to stay the messenger for their subscriptions. |
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Copy. ½ p. (136. 62.) |
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Sir Ferdinando Gorges to Lord Buckhurst and Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1598, June 4. |
I do see it often used as a good help with old servitors of the Court, when they seek for preferment, either to plead poverty, to repeat their services, or to complain of small rewards; from all or any of which, although I cannot exempt mine own hapless condition, yet dare I not feed my hope with those ordinary allegations which other more fortunate men do find as means sufficient to induce commiseration. But as one designed to a more graceless destiny, am enforced to seek my relief in a far inferior kind, falling from the hoped bounty of a prince to a servant even to the strict justice of a Sovereign to a subject. So that now instead of seeking some gracious reward for twenty years of my youth spent in attendance of her sacred person, I am driven only to crave recompense for that great
portion of my poor living which very extraordinarily hath been taken from me; the circumstances whereof this enclosed information can truly relate. Wherein I shall most humbly beseech that you would so recommend the same to her princely judgement, that I may not be enforced as one forsaken of all other means to importune her Majesty with public and continual petitions.—At my House in Wood Street, 4 June, 1598. |
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Signed. Seal. |
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½ p. (61. 55.) |
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John Colville to the Earl of Essex. |
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1598, June 4/14. |
From the penult of the last after this count to 4 hereof I did remain at Amiens, attending the coming of the King to meet these hostages and ambassadors, but on the 5th all was appointed to meet at Compiegne, whither on the 11th the Constable went, but sent back word that the meeting should be at Paris on the 18th, Compiegne being too small a place. |
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On the 7th here and throughout France the peace was proclaimed; for the King were here, the Constable, the Counts of St. Pol, and de Chaume, Messieurs de Bellevre, de Sillery, Beaulieu, Caumartin; for the Pope, the Cardinal, the Nuncio and General of the Cordeliers (sine quo factum est nihil)); ambassadors from the King of Spain to receive the King's “serment” on the peace; President Richardot and l'Audiencier Werreychen; hostages to remain in France till the towns promised be rendered, the Duke D'Aerschot, l'Admiral d'Arragon, le Prince Comte D'Aremberg, Don Louis de Velasco. The proclamation declared a perpetual peace to be concluded between the two Kings. I got this copy from Arras. Here no one but the Deputies, not even the Constable, knows the articles of peace, which makes me think that all shall not please you and other friends. In Paris a friend has promised me a copy. It would be well therefore that as long as C[olville] is in Paris your (pater) ambassador were told to receive his letters; for after (60) Colville have seen (42) the French King, he will be able to speak more to the purpose. There is a (pater) ambassador to be sent to (73) Spain immediately after the dissolving of this assembly, with whom it were well to have some discreet person. |
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The Cardinal will be sore vexed to render Ardres; for the the Spanish mutineers there have hanged forty of their own nation that were for the Cardinal, and have advertised him that they will not render till they have both payment and remission signed by the King. |
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Holograph. Seal. |
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2 pp. (61. 84.) |
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George Gilpin to the Earl of Essex. |
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1598, June 4. |
The course the States meant to take to open unto the Provinces what their Deputies had brought home with them, is somewhat changed. Deputies will be sent to perform the charge by mouth. Vanderwerck goeth into Zealand, Ottinga for Friesland and Groeningen, and for Utrecht, Gelderland and
Over Yssel, two others, Heremale and Hell, men fit and of credit in those parts, as Sir Francis Vere knoweth. The Provinces never use to agree to anything in general without the knowing of more particulars, and then is there also difficulty enough, especially in money matters. I have had orders to urge them forward that her Majesty might know what they will do to give her contentment upon that declared to the deputies that were in England. Their hope of her is now good, having heard by Mons. Caron of the sending over of Sir Francis Vere with more particularities. I have received your Lordship's letter of the 29th, and performed that you appointed. It was exceedingly well taken of them as a singular favour, and will be a great light to proceed by in their dealings with the Provinces, coming in so fit a season when they of Holland meet in ample number, wishing the demands may not be too great for the Provinces, all of them having liked very well of the prolongation of the time given to her Majesty to treat, for now may they have more leisure to work that which in this state cannot be done on the sudden. I will continue to prepare their minds. His Excellency is well inclined with all the other of his quality. The Advocate Barnefeild is ready to do his best. His credit and vogue is rather increased than diminished, both in his and the other Provinces, by his last employment, though he want not also his enviers and secret enemies. The Fr. King's mind is here interpreted as I touched in my former. All their minds run on her Majesty's favour and aid, being still of opinion that the Cardinal and his King are either brought very low or else they purpose a further matter by this agreement with France, considering what a foot and party they had had in that realm, and the apparent means to have wearied that people by continuing of the wars. Until the towns be surrendered, many cannot be persuaded that it will be effected. Of late the Prince of Orange wrote a long persuasive letter to his Excellency to induce him to the liking of a peace, and also to persuade and labour it with these men with his credit and authority. Now was the time to do themselves good, and losing this occasion would hardly get the like. France had left them, and England was looked for to follow. They may make their agreement with good conditions, and the past would be buried in oblivion. Such an act could be gotten for the House of Nassau as would restore it to its former honour, both in respect to the late deceased Prince their father, his Excellency, and all other of the name having served against their king. To this or like effect ran the letter, but it was manifest that the letter was first so penned in Spanish and then translated into French, being written by the Prince himself, whose hand is well known, and no doubt but it was the Cardinal's direction. His Excellency acquainted the Chief therewith, but not yet resolved what to be answered. They are as sure of him as of themselves. The enemy continues the making preparations, but as yet doth nothing else, only spreads rumours, as if he would attempt three or four places together.—From the Hague, this 4 of June, 1598. |
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Holograph. |
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3 pp. (177. 31.) |
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R. Brakenbury to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1598, June 5. |
My humble suit is that your servant my nephew may have leave to go down with me into the country to see his parents, who having no more are desirous to see him, and also to pass something in more safety to him for his profit hereafter. Holograph. |
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½ p. (61. 57). |
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R. de la Fontaine to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1598, June 5. |
The bearer has been plundered on the coast of France. He has caused two of the pirates to be arrested in Guisnes, and was obliged to prosecute them. But when the trial was almost over, the Court of Lille was stayed from giving justice, as “M. L'Admiral” wished them to be brought hither, Mr. Leighton having also his claims, and the Court of Lille its privileges, while the brother of one of the prisoners boasts, now that he has the Queen's pardon, now of some other resource. There are so many delays possible in such a case that the prosecutor may be ruined without a special order for diligence from the Council, for which I would ask.—London, 5 June. |
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Signed. French. |
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1 p. (61. 58.) |
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The Mayor of Boulogne to the Earl of Essex. |
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1598, June 5/15. |
I sent a packet with advices. These are to add that as lately as a week ago three or four Seminaries, Spanish Jesuits, have passed towards your quarters. I could make no further enquiry concerning them, being in a place, which is only half ours. Take great care at the landing places of your havens; 'tis there the danger lies. No fresh news of the two persons who were to come. We have just had advices that Count Maurice has just escaped being killed by a Jesuit. God keep the Queen. I know there is a Scottish priest at present at Brussels either engaged in, or vowed to, or wishful to undertake, something great. If I learn anything I will lose no time in giving you the certainty thereof, and in consideration of the service which I have vowed to you, I will entertain the spies who have served me during the miseries of our estate, so as to learn if anything is undertaken against you or your allies. I cannot be sufficiently grateful for the favours which my brother has received from your greatness.—Boulogne, this 15th of June, stilo novo, 1598. |
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Holograph. French. |
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1 p. (177. 39.) |
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John Phelipps to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1598, June 6. |
Acknowledging the receipt of £10 sent to him through Mr. Rainsford, and expressing his gratitude for Cecil's favour, upon which alone he builds his hope of some employment, or other benefit.—London, 6 June, 1598. |
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1 p. (61. 59.) |
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Sir Edward Norreys to the Earl of Essex. |
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1598, June 6. |
The great expectation of peace hath taken away all occasions of news which the wars were wont to yield, so that these are only to recommend my humble service to your Lordship, and to request your favour in what may concern me.—Ostend, this vi. June, 1598. |
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Holograph. Seal. |
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1 p. (177. 33.) |
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Vernon v. Townsend and Others. |
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1598, June 6. |
Certificate of proceedings in the cause between Gilbert Wakering ex parte Margaret Vernon, against Henry Townsend and Dorothy his wife, John Mannors, John Vernon, and others.—6 June, 1598. |
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1 p. (21. 44.) |
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John Gyles to Thomas Middleton, Merchant. |
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1598, June 7. |
My last was of the 24th of last month, with one inclosure from your brother. This week Mr. Romney, my old friend, willed me to write to you. From Antwerp and all places we have certain news that peace is concluded between France and Spain. I have read a copy of the Cardinal's letter from Brussels to those of Antwerp and Ghent to make fires of joy, to ring the bells, to fire off the guns and make processions and sing “Te Deum” in honour of the peace. The hostages for the performance of the conditions left Brussels for France last Thursday, viz : the Duke of Aerschot, the Count of Arenberg, Don Juan de Velasco, and the Grand Commander of Aragon. The country people write that for certain there will be peace between England and these countries and Spain; but I see not how, and for my part I will not believe that the Spaniard or Papist will hold any promise that they make with a Lutheran. Thomas Brown is in Holland and has been there 8 or 10 days : I can do nothing with him, yet no man tries more means. But I live by one God. But instead of strangers he might let his countrymen live by him. But write him not thereof, for he is choleric and a very honest man as any is here of our company.—Middelburgh, 7 June, 1598. |
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Holograph. |
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1 p. (61. 45.) |
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Sir Edward Coke, Attorney General, to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1598, June 7. |
I have by her Majesty's commandment drawn a new pardon subject to the ordinary proviso for the keeping of peace and being of good behaviour, the effect whereof is that if they break the peace (which your Honour knows may easily be done) they are not to be punished for peace breakers only, but their pardon also becomes void and they may be put to execution for their former offence. |
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I have also sent herewith the pardon which I drew upon signification of her Majesty's pleasure by Sir J. Fortescue, both which her Majesty required me to return to her Highness; and for that I am now busied about the getting in of treasure into her Majesty's coffers, I am bold to commit the same to your Honour.—7 June, 1598. |
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Holograph. Endorsed :—“Mr. Attorney-General.” |
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1 p. (61. 60.) |
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Lord Burghley to Sir Edward Coke. |
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1598, June 7. |
Mr. Attorney, I send you herewith a petition exhibited to her Majesty by Sir Thomas Nevell, knight, and her Majesty's resolution touching the same signified unto me by Lord Buckhurst, as by the indorsement thereof under his lordship's hand may appear unto you. I send you also two particulars of both the manors and a note under the hand of Mr. Osborne touching their tenures, and do now require you to cause to be made as well a book of assurance to her Majesty of the manor of Newton Stowe offered in exchange, as also a book of assurance from her Majesty of her Highness' remainder in Bed-minster desired to be sold, with a reservation of a tenure in socage upon the same manor of Bedminster.—7 June, 1598. |
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Holograph. Seal. |
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½ p. (61. 61.) |
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Mr. Hungerford to the Earl of Essex. |
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1598, June 7. |
I delivered with what speed I could your Lordship's letters to Mr. Gilpin, and in the heels of them cometh others from Mons. Caron to the same effect to these States, which I assure you was as good as any costly water to the comforting heart and stomach, these men being fully possest that her Majesty resolutely would make peace with their enemy, and they contrariwise resolved rather to see all consumed with fire and water than to trust to any promises or conditions the Spaniard had or should make them, and thereby to become at his discretion and kindness. I have, since my coming into the country, had conference with such as I could conveniently acquaint myself with, of the nature of their war and our peace : I mean how many great and urgent reasons her Majesty hath to accept of peace now offered her with such conditions as better may not easily be desired, especially seeing the war consumeth not only her public treasure, but hindereth the private trade of our merchants into those parts from whence their greatest riches hath always come, and that they, contrariwise, whose the war originally is, enrich not only their cities in public, as their expenses show in buildings and costs they daily make, but, in particular, to their merchants almost all, and this by traffic with their own enemy, in which they betray their own cause and of those too that stand confederate with them. To this some say, Why, let your men use us or other to their like profit, or else let us both forbid, one as other, wholly to trade thither, and make
prize of all such as shall use it. So that I gather they will agree to anything her Majesty shall demand to benefit and assure herself, will she but join and assist them in the war. And yet, to open boldly unto your Lordship my opinion, I see their little country now so full of cities and towns, and those swarming so with people that live by daily trade and water labour, that I scarce think the States and better sort, who are but few, shall, by any commandment or edict, keep the multitude from seeking and fetching their gain where they know it is to be found. But were some places, as I think they might now be, wholly and absolutely made her Majesty's, it would sufficiently bridle them and repress them; and should the war be resolved to proceed in, I think many other princes of Germany, and the Protestant Switzers too, who are strong, will easily be brought to join in league against the confederacy of the Pope, the Spaniard, and their adherers. There hath lately been in Antwerp great feastings and solemnities to celebrate this new peace. Amongst others, to acquaint your Lordship with the jests of this country, one was a solemn meeting (as the report goeth) of a Pope and Spanish King, whom the French King came likewise to visit and make friendship with, and was admitted without much ceremony to receive him or no. Next after him cometh a gallant and princely woman's person, clothed, virgin-like, all in white, royally crowned, holding in her hand a posy, which she showed herself willing to give them a smell and scent of, might she likewise be admitted to their feast and company, and so at last was with more difficulty than the first. Next unto her come two, both apparelled in blue, one better than the other, but with a cat upon his shoulder crying “maw, maw,” to show who carried him. The other, clown-like, with a great cheese under his arm. Both these offered, with great care and desire too, what they had to be brought near the rest, but without any respect these were denied, and, being at last importunate, were with cords drawn out of the room, which the Hollanders censure as a sign of the King's meaning towards Count Maurice and themselves. And indeed, feign they this or be it true, every one's heart is here so obstinate against the Spaniard and hardened to continue the war, that they will hazard all in the cause afore yield any subjection to the Spanish King, yea, I think, would rather be aliorum servi quam Hisp. subditi. There is a great speech of the Turk's preparation against Hungary, and that the Emperor will surely send some of the German princes to handle of the peace with these States, and to pledge for the performing religiously the conditions of it, but I assure myself they will scarce be admitted into their country. This morning the Court is full of the revolting of Peru from the Spanish King, be it true or no, and of the English lord that doth great harms to the Spanish at sea. To-morrow I purpose, God willing, to go higher into the country, and in some fortnight I hope to be returned hither again.—The Age, this seaventh of June, '98. |
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In sympathetic ink. Holograph. Seal. |
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2 pp. (177. 34.) |
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Lord Burghley to Lord North, Treasurer of the Household, and Sir William Knollis, Comptroller of the Household. |
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1598, June 7. |
Observations upon the demands of John Jolles, for the victualling of 4,000 men for 4 months in Ireland, and for transportation of the same thither.—June 7, 1598. |
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Signed. |
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1 p. (204. 74.) |
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Antonio Perez. |
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1598, June 8/18. |
Antonio Perez says that your Majesty's favour is not less great than the wrath which still pursues him in all its freshness. Moreover he says, that while he shows his gratitude, he must ask for fresh favours. Yet if your Majesty's clemency be so stern, that his life and person remain in greater danger than ever since 'esta prueva por la nota,' he must beg that the business be settled at this moment, for if it be passed without result his destruction will be near at hand. He also wishes to be informed of your Majesty's resolution while his life is safe, in order that that wrath may be moderated by seeing some proof of your Majesty's favour. I ask much, who am worth little, yet not much considering that your Majesty has already shown me favour, and that I must now either establish myself in your Majesty's service, or retire to a corner to die out of the reach of that wrath which pursues me.—18 June, 1598. |
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Signed. Spanish. |
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1 p. (177. 40.) |
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Edward, Lord Zouche to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1598, June 9. |
Asking for a warrant to enable him to take money with him out of the Kingdom on his mission, and enquiring if he may have commission to stay or take up any ship for sailing or returning home.—Hackney, 9 June, 1598. |
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Holograph. Seal. |
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½ p. (61. 63.) |
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William Waad to Lord North, Treasurer of the Household, and Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1598, June 9. |
I repaired to Mr. Stafford to the Gatehouse according to your direction, who showed me the letters about him written from divers preachers unto the lady his mother, to intimate to her his purpose to enter into the ministry and to show their opinion of his conversions, and that he was become a new man, which letters I think he carried expressly about him. He, doubting lest I had searched a lodging he hath at Westminster, told me it might be objected against him a deed of gift he had made of his goods about a year since, which was done, he says, upon occasion of a quarrel he had with a gentleman, with whom he should have fought, and so the same lay in his desk; but searching his chamber by that occasion I could not find it, and his wife told me it was at his house in the country. |
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The day he was removed from Westminster, seeing one Charles Brommall in company of one of my servants, he conceived I purposely brought him hither to view him. This Charles hath had occasion to go to the enemy, and Mr. Stafford meeting him last year at Flushing was very inquisitive of him about Moody that was prisoner in the Tower with him for the same cause, and at their being at Flushing Mr. Stafford was daily in company with a friar that was stayed there. This he told me guessing that Bromall had told me as much. He then prayed to have paper and ink to write; I told him I would move your Honour; then he required liberty of the prison; after falling into some distemper, desired to be brought to his trial; I told him he knew he might long since have been brought to trial, but for his friend's sake his name was forborne to be brought in question; and though he thought there was not proof against him at present, time might discover more, and it was a relapse in him was cause sufficient to keep him in durance. He then made vehement instance to be tried, and swore by a great oath the Queen should then understand more than she knew or should know otherwise. I took hold of these words and urged him to declare the same, but could not prevail. He said it was not worth knowing, and I should laugh when I heard it, but till he was brought to public trial he would not utter it, and withal took a book out of his pocket on the backside of which with a pin he had made divers letters. 'Look you,' said he, 'though you will let me have no pen and ink, I have set down with a pen certain letters to help my memory.' I asked him the meaning of one or two as S. 'That is shaven,' quoth he, 'and C is crown for my shaven crown'; and he would have turned his former earnest speech into jest. Walter Williams giveth him so bad a report, it is not worth the reporting. For my part I think, however else he may be charged, he is not far from a humour of frenzy.—London, 9 June, 1598. |
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Holograph. Seal. |
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2 pp. (61. 64.) |
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Sir Francis Vere to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1598, June 9. |
I will make all haste over, it being late yesterday before I received my full despatches. To-morrow I start. The wind is not very contrary; if it continue so any time, and her Majesty keep the foreign reckoning of the month from the date of my despatch, the States may bring their offers too late. In my diligence there shall be no fault; whatever shall arise from my small experience, I hope you will favourably cover.—London, 9 June, 1598. |
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Holograph. Seal. |
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1 p. (61. 65.) |
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Robert Paddon to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1598, June 9. |
Your letters of the 7th I have received by this bearer. Your request I cannot here accomplish for want of
books and other remembrances. I will be at London upon Tuesday next, ready to do my best. This business may be done as well in the party's absence as otherwise.—Henton Dawbury in Hampshire, 9 June, 1598. |
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Signed. |
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½ p. (61. 66.) |
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The Vice-Chancellor and University of Oxford to the Earl of Essex and Lord Buckhurst. |
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1598, June 9. |
We understand there is a complaint made of an outrage or tumultuous disorder committed by some of our University against certain townsmen of this city, and that your lordships are determined, for the peaceable and speedy ending of all strife, to hear and examine the truth thereof. Which, as on the one side it bindeth us in all duty to render most humble thanks to you for not censuring us without hearing our defence, considering the worthy saying of a governor.—“If it suffice to accuse, who shall be guiltless?”—so on the other side it moveth us for manifestation of the fact and proof of our innocency to send hereinclosed a short and true report of all that was done by the parties, then officers of our University, and principal agents therein.—Oxford, 9 June, 1598. |
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Signed :—Thomas Rains, Vice-Can., Tho. Thorneton, John Rainolds, Henry Robinson, Leonard Taylor, Ric. Late-warr, Thomas Singleton, John Case, Bartholomew Warner, and Fr. Bevans. |
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1 p. (62. 15.) |
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The enclosure :— |
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“A true report of all that happened between the scholars of the University of Oxford and townsmen there the 27 May last.” |
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The inhabitants assembled on the two Sundays before Ascension Day, and on that day, with drum and shot and other weapons, and men attired in women's apparel, brought into the town a woman bedecked with garlands and flowers, named by them the Queen of May. They also had Morrishe dances and other disordered and unseemly sports, and intended the next Sunday to continue the same abuses. Details the proceedings taken by the University officers, and the riotous conduct of the inhabitants, in armed resistance to arrest, discharging volleys of shot, and using seditious speeches. The Vice-Chancellor on his return sent to entreat the Mayor to meet him, to which message the Mayor made a frivolous and dilatory answer, and in the meantime preferred an unjust and scandalous complaint against the University. Undated. |
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1 p. (62. 15.) |
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George Gilpin to the Earl of Essex. |
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1598, June 9. |
By my last of the 4th I certified so much as that time yielded. I have now no special matter, this serving chiefly for the conveyance of the enclosed, which I could not send away sooner for want of a fit messenger into Zealand. The Deputies sent into the Provinces departed on Monday last. Those remaining here attend in great devotion the coming of Sir Francis Vere. They of Holland now met in very ample number have since Tuesday begun to deal in their business. The speech goeth among the best in particular conferences that they will proceed with the wars whatsoever others may do. No certainty yet of what the Cardinal will do or whither he purposeth. The reports come diversely.—From the Hague this 9 of June, 1598. |
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Holograph. Seal. |
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1 p. (177. 35.) |
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William Saxey to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1598, June 10. |
It was through the favour of your father and yourself that I obtained this place, wherein I have always endeavoured to do my duty; and so in a cause not pried out by me, but obtruded upon me, concerning John Fitz Edmund detected in grave offences, I was enforced either to proceed or incur discredit by concealment. Accordingly I brought it to that issue that, if the Queen's pardon had not prevented me, it would have appeared that the cause was justly undertaken and followed without respect of gain or malice. Yet I grieve that the suggestion of some other made against me has worked my discountenance as though my information had been false. In relief whereof I crave the renewal and continuance of your favour, which I had not lost had I been as well known to you as I have been to the Lord Keeper and the other Judges these 38 years.—Youghall, 10 June, 1598. |
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Holograph. Seal. |
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1 p. (61. 67.) |
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The Mayor, Aldermen, and their Brethren of the City of Oxford to the Earl of Essex. |
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1598, June 10. |
To “Our very good Lord and Steward.”—Have sent up two persons who were in the outrage whereof they complained in their former petition; and enclose a note of the manner of the outrage. If the offenders confess the contents, they will rest satisfied with Essex's pleasure for punishment and restitution; if they deny the contents, they pray that their complaint may be proved in a Court of Justice.—Oxon, 10 June, 1598. |
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1 p. (62. 17.) |
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Enclosures :— |
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(1.) “The manner of the outrage committed the 28th day of May last by certain scholars of Oxon upon divers of the townsmen.” |
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The Mayor suffered a company of 150presence forthwith for his admission to the same trained soldiers, and other young men, to go early in the morning to try their pieces, and to return into the city in battle array. They were stayed by one Danyell, that said he was a proproctor, and some scholars with him, who took from them their drum, and divers weapons, striking and beating divers of them, and committing others to prison. The uproar caused a great concourse, both of scholars and citizens, and if it had not very suddenly been paralyzed by the citizens giving way, there had been a bloody day and much slaughter. The goods that the scholars took away they keep : nor has any punishment been inflicted upon any of the scholars. The Mayor and his brethren, not meaning to make it a public matter as between the University and the Town, but private as a wrong done to particular townsmen, desire the punishment of the offenders in the Star Chamber. Undated. |
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1 p. (62. 18.) |
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(2.) “The manner of the outrage committed by Mr. Danyell, a Master of Arts and Minister of New College in Oxon, Mr. Gee, a proctor, and divers scholars, upon certain trained soldiers and townsmen of the city of Oxon, early in the morning, the 28th of May last.” This paper gives additional particulars of the above occurrence. |
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1 p. (62. 19.) |
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Desoulsour to Father [Nangle.] |
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[1598, June 10/20.] |
My very dear father and much loved cousin, my only reason for not writing before was my fear to give you the trouble of writing in an unfamiliar language, but as you attack me, I shall take my revenge with the help of God, who is my witness that I doubt not that you always remember us. I commend to you my cousin de Villemonter. The nearer the time comes when she is to vow herself wholly to God, the more Satan labours to lay ambushes for her, so much that we fear she may be sorely delayed by them. She is much afflicted in mind, or would have written to thank you for your spiritual assistance through which she hopes to resist all the assaults made upon her. I commend her to you, and also my sister and my brother's daughters, who all remember you and desire that you should remember them. Undated. French. Holograph. |
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1 p. (61. 95.) |
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S. M. le B. to Father Nangle. |
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[1598], June 10/20. |
Mon tres ayme en nostre seigneur, quand je reçoy de vos nouvelles cela m'est plus agreables que sy trouvois le plus grand thresor du monde; car l'absence estant
facheuse, au moins quand l'on scay la disposition estre bonne, cela apporte du contentement. Vous n'estes paresseux descrire, comme je voy par les vostres, estant le messager tant pres a partir. Voyla qui me donne bien a cognoistre la souvenance qu'aves de moy et aussy reciproquer la mienne qui et continuelle. Je suis marrie que n'aves reçeu vostre libvre; cestoit le principal de ce que j'avois envoie, mais il et difficile que l'on ne perde envoiant sy loing. Je n'estimois que pussies rien recevoir. Les agnus n'estoient rompus; quand aux chapeles, je sçay bien quils ne sont asses beaux pour vous; s'il m'en vient je le vous garderay. Je suis infiniment ayse qu'ay la commodite recevoir vos lettres et envoie les miennes par ce bon pere de vostre convent. Il en et fort soigneux. Ma cousine Marguerite luy a faict dire des messes. J'en feray tout ce que je pourray de moy; ne suis pas plus devote qu'il ne faut; plust a Dieu que je fusse telle comme me desires; c'est d'estre solitaire, mais tant plus je desire le repos et moins je l'ay; toutes les personnes auquelles vous recommende vous presentes le semblable. Je n'ay la patience les vous nommer sinon ma tante le prevost et la C[ousine] de Villemonter et M. le Soubz, lequel et fort malade. Je le vous recommende a vos prieres. Vostre tres humble fille et affectionee. S. M. le B. Jay faict vos recommendations aux filles Dieu et ay mande a M. de Hacqueville sy elle voulait escrire.—20 June. |
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Holograph. |
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1 p. (61. 97.) |
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X.I.M. to Father Nangle. |
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1598, June 10/20. |
Apologising for not writing. “Je ne manqueray jamais envers vous d'une sincere pour vous rendre les effects de la puissance que vous aves acquise sur moy. Faictes moy donc ce bien de m'aymer comme je vous honore.” M. de Soubz is very ill; I ask your prayers for him. “Vostre bien humble fille X.I.M.”—20 June, 1598. |
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French. Holograph. Seal. |
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1 p. (61. 98.) |
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The Duke of Florence to the King of Scots. |
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1598, June 10/20. |
“Serenissimo Re, mi fu resa l'amorevole lettera di V. Mata., dal Sigr. Ruberto Critton, barone di Sanciar, et m'e stato carissimo di intender che ella gradisca cosi cortesemente la mia affettionata et obsequente inclinatione verso le virtu che sento predicare di lei, et il mio zelo della salute sua, et del commune benefitio della Republica Christiana, et della Chiesa et Religione Cattolica.” Augurs well for his future reign, and begs credence for the said Baron Robert.—Florence, 20 June, 1598. |
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Endorsed :—“Copy of a letter from the Duke of Florence to the King of Scots.” |
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(133. 178.) |
