|
April 2.
Newhaven. |
95. Lord Stourton and the Council at Newhaven to the Lord
Protector and the Council. On the 30th of March Sir Richard
Cavendish, Captain at Blackness, sent to Lord Stourton one John le
Roy, denizen and bookbinder, dwelling in New Alley, beside
Cornhill, at London, who had landed at Blackness that day,
bringing with him a packet of letters from the French Ambassador
in England directed to Marshal du Biez. Perceiving Le Roy to be
neither post, pursuivant, nor household servant to the Ambassador
and to have no passport or licence to leave the realm for such
purpose, they conceived suspicion in him and his proceedings,
concluding to visit his packet, wherein they found two letters, one
directed to the Marshal and the other to the Admiral of France.
After viewing that of the Marshal, they found it ciphered, by reason
of which they could gather no intelligence therein, except that the
beginning mentioned the death of some one which he hoped not to
be true, and so proceeded in cipher to the end, where these words
occurred "whereof I have thought good to advertise you to the
intent that, being upon the frontiers, you may give order as shall
appertain." After this was done they closed up the letter again in
the packet with that for the Admiral, (by the bigness of which it
seemed other letters were therein inclosed,) and so made the present
packet as it cannot be perceived that any thing has been done at it.
They then sent Le Roy to Sir Edward Wotton, Treasurer at Calais,
with the letters and intelligence that they had of the same, who
advised them to make Lord Grey privy to their knowledge, and that
if any stay were made of Le Roy, it should better be at Boulogne
than elsewhere. This advice was followed, and Lord Grey after
examining Le Roy, returned him to Lord Stourton, saying that he
would not meddle in the matter but left Lord Stourton to act as he
thought fit. Wherefore seeing that neither from Calais nor Boulogne
were they recommended to detain Le Roy, and considering the
amity between the two Sovereigns, they sent him off yesterday,
paying his charges during the time of his stay here. Submit this to
the Council, and desire instructions how to act in any similar case,
where letters are carried by a private individual. [Two pages and a
half.] |
April 3.
Guisnes. |
96. Sir John Wallop to the Lord Protector. Three or four days
ago, certain people of Fiennes being at Ardres said to the Governor
there:—"'We are now sworn subjects to the King of England, and
you say we shall be French shortly again. In the mean season we
lament the life we have there, without order taken for the administration of justice, so that the same is dangerous and seemeth wild,
neither depending upon the law of the one Prince or the other.'
Whereto Blerencourt answered 'Taisez vous, taisez vous, ne parlez
vous plus d cette heure de cela; we shall shortly enter into
Boulogne and Boulognois, the English men remaining our good
friends,' and therewith brake off." The Comptroller of Ardres
had affirmed these sayings, and added that Baron de la Garde
made the report at his coming out of England. Hears that the
French have put in Bruningberg, which was said to be within the
limits of Boulognois, 40 or 50 footmen more than usual, and several
of whom he inquired the cause of this assigned as a reason that
they were afraid the place should be taken by the English. One
who dwells within a mile of it, said that he was not aware of its
being re-enforced, but that a person in the parish where he lives was
taken and carried to Montreuil, on the charge of designing to deliver
the castle to the English. This, perhaps, is merely to give a colour
to the augmentation of their troops. The tales current among the
French and Imperialists as to the re-delivery of Boulogne are innumerable. Is informed that the warlike preparations and money
collected in France, are not intended for the redemption of Boulogne
but against the Emperor; and that a large number of Germans have
already come to Mezieres. [Two pages.] |
April 3.
[Passion Sunday.] The Old Man. |
97. Sir Thomas Palmer to Sir William Paget. In the former
Commission of Oyer and Determiner his name had precedence of
Mr. Poynings', but in the new one Mr. Poynings' takes place before
his. Complains of this, for although it is somewhat of the woman
to pass upon these things, yet since the world receives such trifles
for estimation or decay of credit, and that it is specially dangerous
among men of war to rule without estimation, he thought it not
amiss to write in this case, yet not without some combat, for he
found himself not a little troubled to be any thing stung with such
fancy. Craves no more than was given him unsought for. It may
have proceeded from error of the writer, but in case his credit be less
than it was, would like to know the truth, so that he might
endeavour himself to win it again. [Two pages.] |
April 3.
Blackness. |
98. John Brigantyne to the Lord Protector. Orders having been
given by the Council that the garrisons should receive four months
pay, Lord Stourton paid his three weeks ago. The payment of
this one was stayed at the time till the books could be made up,
when Sir Richard Cavendish sent them to Wilcocks, the Treasurer's
clerk at Boulogne, and received from him on the 29th ult. as payment for the whole garrison, officers excepted, 300l., all victuals
and their charges deducted. On the evening before Sir Richard
left for London, had requested him to remember that the poor
soldiers should have their pay; but received for reply, that "he had
made up his books and Wilcocks would send him no money." Thus
they are uncertain when they shall receive what has been so long
appointed to be paid; moreover some soldiers have intelligence of
this receipt, whereon they murmur and grudge, which shall be well
appeased and prevented. Would not wish to seem troublesome, else
before this should have complained to his Grace of the demeanour
of Cavendish, by whom divers and sundry politic governances have
been omitted, rather to the injury than security of the fortress, as
Poulet and Harington, to whom he had declared this, can testify.
[One page.] |
April 4.
Boulogne. |
99. Lord Grey to the Lord Protector. Leonard Gayton, who has
long been prisoner in France, is returning home, and has declared to
him the inclosed news. [Quarter of a page.] Incloses, |
|
99. I. "The saying of Leonard Gayton, late prisoner in France."
Gayton states, 1. About last Midsummer, Martin, a
Frenchman, fellow prisoner with him at Montreuil, and
subsequently condemned to death for felony, told him that
if the late King would not render Boulogne, he was to be
made away with by a poison of such nature as it should
not take effect until six weeks after being administered,
and from the operation of which he could not escape unless
an antidote was immediately given. By whom the poison
was to be given Gayton could not learn. 2. Since the Earl
of Warwick left France, a Gascon imprisoned with him,
said that Boulogne would be had well enough again;
and when Gayton said he thought not, for no money could
redeem it, "No," quod the Gascon, "then will your King
have sour sauce for his sweet meat, for he will be poisoned
or it be long too." 3. About a month before Christmas, a
servant of M. de Guise, imprisoned on suspicion of being
a spy for the late King, and who afterwards was executed,
told him that two Italians were to go to England to give
poison to a certain great man about the King, and thereafter to his present Majesty and the Lady Mary. 4. The
same person said that were his present Majesty poisoned
first, the late King would have left the realm in such a
state as not to suit their purpose; wherefore his death
was first resolved upon and then that of his son, when
in the confusion thereby created, the Dauphin would land
with an army at Tymouth [Tynemouth] haven, and join
the Scots. 5. Also, that after the late King's death,
the present one should not be poisoned until the French
King was dead. 6. Farther that in France no one looks
upon his Majesty as righteous born, or holds that the
Lady Mary can inherit, for that her mother was deposed.
7. He also added, that if his father were dead the
Dauphin would offer money for Boulogne, and if it were
refused he would then besiege forthwith. 8. All this
had been corroborated last Christmas by one Poushyn
[Poussin] sometime servant to Bradfield, of Guisnes,
then a prisoner as supposed spy for the late King, and
now in the galleys; "offering farther that if the King
that dead is, did live Candlemas-day, let him be hanged."
9. Poussin also said that several about the late King,
and of the Council were better French than English.
[One page and a half.] |
April 6.
Calais. |
100. Sir Edward Wotton and Francis Hall to the Lord Protector
and Council. The bearer Hugh Smyth, having had warrant to levy
about London 300 men and to bring them hither, had received
therefor 289l. 3s. 4d. Being called upon to give account of his disbursements, he demands in his book 14 days' wages, as due to his
band before they left London. On their saying that they could not
allow this, as they never knew wages allowed to any soldier before
the day of his arrival, instead of which they were allowed conduct
money and their transportation, he replied that they remained in
London much longer than 14 days after he levied them. Besides,
the rate of conduct money for each soldier is a halfpenny per mile,
and he charges two shillings and sixpence for each man from London
to Dover, which is rating the distance at 60 instead of 55 miles.
His other demands they think also exceeding large; but having
compromitted them to their order they submit to the Council these
two demands, wherein they are unable to make any direction, because the man, as he says, having expended the money among his
soldiers, of whom already many, for their ruffian factions, have been
dismissed and others received into their places, he is not, in their
opinion, able to restore the same. Desire their pleasure as to these
that they may proceed both to the perfecting of his books and the
payment of the soldiers under him and Robert Coningsly, who, as
well as their victuallers, would right gladly receive their dues. [One
page and a half.] |
April 7.
Boulogne. |
101. Lord Grey to the Lord Protector. Has received intelligence
that three Scottish ships have taken 15 English vessels laden with
wine, and that two of the largest French ships at Homflete [Honfleur] are being rigged forth to the wars. It is also rumoured that
all those now at Newhaven shall be in like manner addressed. Hears
that 22 lighters have arrived at Abbeville from Amiens, freighted
with wheat, bacon, and other provisions; that 700 men at arms are
to be placed upon the frontiers hereabouts; that the French King has
paid his infantry for all the time they have served since the peace;
and that they have enrolled 50,000 footmen to be in readiness.
Since his father's death the French King has cassed from the Court
the Admiral, Madame D'Estampes, M. de Longueville, and M. de
Tays, and has received again the Constable, Cardinal Bellay, and M.
D'Aumale. [One page.] |
|
102. Same to same. Interceding for one William Spenser, a
prisoner. [One page. Much mutilated.] |
April 7.
Boulogne. |
103. John Rogers to the same. Gives minute details of the
operations at the different ports, which advance steadily, and
mentions a plan for converting the Blackness into an island, by
cutting through the land in the valley that goes from sea to sea,
"for so shall both flood and ebb run through the haven and make
it always deep." The bearer, who is a servant of Sir William
Godolphin, with the rest who have any skill of mining, have no
doubt but they can sink wells to the depth of the low water, which
will not exceed 10 or 12 fathoms in depth, and sink them 10 or 12
fathoms from each other, and so make drifts from the one well to the
other beneath, joining them all together, save that next the sea,
which towards a spring when time is shall be opened, so that the
tide may go clean through, which will do much more in little time
than the hands of many men. The bearer, who is a miner, will
explain farther. The work can be executed in six months by 100
miners. Great want of carriages for the works. Recommends
monthly payment of the labourers. Can get no provisions out of
Flanders, as they will not take English money without abatement of
20 per cent., and say that the English merchants are the causers
thereof, since they themselves will only take it in Flanders for
Flemish money, and yet the Flemings say they have not cried it
down. Desires that such as have the King's hides and fells of the
cattle killed at Boulogne may take up such necessaries there by
exchange, and deliver them at Boulogne for reasonable money. Has
received 1,600 chaldrons of coals from Newcastle, and 1,400 more
have to come; but when the traders were last here they privily
bargained with the French to deliver them coals at St. Valery.
[One page and a half.] |
April 8.
Boulogne. |
104. Lord Grey to the same. Has received from one of
his espials confirmation of the intelligence communicated in his
letter of yesterday. The French King, who has the good will of his
merchants as never French King had, has in readiness such a
number of artillery as was never before seen in France. There is a
large mass of victuals at Paris, besides the stores at Abbeville and
elsewhere; and if his offer for Boulogne is rejected, he intends
within six weeks to take them unprovided. Seeing that all the
accounts from his espials agree, and are confirmed by Englishmen
who have passed through the country, deems it his duty to urge
provision on his Grace. Urges that the seas, which were closed at
Lady-day, be again opened for the transport of provisions, else there
will be both a dearth and excess in the consumption of their stores.
Had to-day a letter from M. de Rieulx, expressive of the French
King's desire that amity should exist between De Rieulx and Lord
Grey. Suspects they wish to found a quarrel upon the works now
going on for the improvement of the haven. |
|
P.S.—Being desirous to send his son and heir to school at Paris,
has received from the French King, by means of M. D'Estrees, promise
that in case of war he shall be freely delivered, and requests licence
from his Grace that he may go thither. [Two pages.] |
April 8.
Guisnes. |
105. Sir John Wallop to the Lord Protector. On the 6th had
received his Grace's letter of the 4th from Westminster, with his
determination that the portal should be altered, and immediately
wrote to Touchet, desiring him, if he did not fully comprehend the
instructions, to return the note by John de Henault himself, when
he should be able properly to explain them. Touchet has been employed as inspector of the masons since they came to Calais, and
his diligence is a great furtherance to operations. The Imperialists
do not seem to be making any warlike preparations. As Coningsby
returns to England, thinks it right to advertise of his honest
bearing and the good order of his men, and could have wished him
here at the first when the Lord Deputy sent hither his eldest son.
His wife returns her most humble thanks for being held in remembrance by his Grace. [One page and a half.] |
| April 11. |
106. The Council to Lord Grey. Inclosing schedules of the
numbers of men to be deducted from the respective garrisons, and
sent to England. The vessels which go with the coals will serve
for transports. [Two pages. Inclosures three pages, one of them
autograph of the Lord Protector.] |
April 12.
Newhaven. |
107. Lord Stourton to the Lord Protector. The munitions and
ordnance sent from the Tower have arrived, and the portion
intended for Blackness will be sent thither as soon as carriages
can be provided for its conveyance. Urges that houses of stowage
may be provided for the victuals and munitions. Although the
French rumours are commonly uncertain, is determined to stand on
his guard against all events that may chance. They have here only
three lasts of good powder, and therefore beseeches that five or six
lasts more may be sent, with five mortars and pestles wherewith to
make fireworks and renew the powder. Also moulds for the falconet, falcons, sacre, and demi-culverins; and a bell of good sound
and bigness for a watch-bell, both to retire the people and cattle
abroad, and to give order with at the alarms when any such shall
happen. Requests all these may be sent immediately. Thanks him
for having taken the bearer, his son Charles, into his service, and
hopes he will behave as of duty becomes him. [One page and a
half.] |
April 14.
London. |
108. Lord Cobham to Sir William Paget. Leaves for Calais this
evening, and would have been glad to have seen him before his
departure, but has this day received his despatch at the Court, and
is ordered in consideration of certain weighty matters to cross over
with all diligence. Desires to be heartily remembered to Lady
Paget. [Half a page.] |
| April |
109. Instructions given by King Edward VI. to Lord Cobham, Sir
John Wallop, and Sir Edward Wotton, to meet with Commissioners from the French King for the purpose of settling the
boundaries of the Boulognois, and particularly as to the tower of
the Church of Bourcin. Signed at the commencement by the King,
and at the end by the Duke of Somerset, the Archbishop of Canterbury, the Bishop of Durham, William Lord St. John, John Lord
Russell, Thomas Lord Seymour, and Sir Edward North. [Five
pages.] |
April 14.
Boulogne. |
110. Lord Grey to the Lord Protector. Acknowledges his letter
of the 4th, and shall vigilantly watch the proceedings of the French
King and the Emperor, besides attending to the safety of this place.
Sends the venit and expenditure of the last month, so that the
necessary supplies may be forthwith provided. Again urges the
opening of the seas for all victuallers to repair freely hither. It
is necessary to have the bridge and gate made at the Old Man, the
nose of the bulwark towards the base town made up, and that
towards Calais heightened and rammed, and its flankers made perfect. Houses of stowage are also required there. Boulogneberg is
in reasonable good case, but more houses of stowage are required,
and Rogers has been instructed to attend to these points. The
answer to St. Germain's suit, and all other matters shall be duly
attended to. [Two pages and a half.] Incloses, |
|
110. I. "Victuals remaining at Boulogne the 14th April, Anno
Regis Edwardi Sixti primo. [Broadside.] |
April 14.
Boulogne. |
111. Same to same. Yesterday received two letters from his
Grace, the one touching the doubts to be gathered from Cardinal
Pole's coming into Scotland, the other relating to the diminishing
of the garrison. Is somewhat troubled how to answer these, for
while on the one side there is a likelihood of the continuance of
amity, on the other there is great suspicion to the contrary. To
be plain, he wishes the numbers should rather be increased than
reduced; for it has to be remembered, among other things, that
the Old Man is more exposed than before by reason of the surveyors
making up the point of the bulwark towards the base town, where
also is wanting both a bridge and gate (the new work within
being of small strength), which piece of the Old Man is of no small
importance. The season of the year when they shall know their
neighbour's disposition is approaching, and it is to be kept in view
that the numbers in the French fort have been increased of late by
600 at the least, and that the work at the jetty contents them
not a whit. The Newcastle ships had sailed before receipt of his
Grace's letters: in two or three days will send the names of such
captains and bands as are meetest to be cassed, if any reduction is to
be made. [Two pages.] |
April 14.
Blackness. |
112. John Brigantyne to Sir William Paget. During the absence
of Sir Richard Cavendish, the officers placed under Brigantyne's
temporary command have comported themselves disobediently to
him. Yesterday having ordered the soldiers, whom he finds very
tractable, to go to the market-place, one Nicholas Elmes, Clerk of the
Watch, "in derision said unto the soldiers, 'Get you hence unto the
sermon, or preaching.' "Farther, on the arrival to-day of the
artillery and munitions for this piece, having applied to Anthony
Hutton, Clerk of the Ordnance, for six of the new harquebuses, he
received for answer that "he will deliver none until his master's
home coming." William Cavendish, also, the son of Sir Richard,
who has lately come hither, compared and menaced him in his
lodging, and when he subsequently sent for Cavendish to speak with
him, he was told that if he had anything to say he should come to
Cavendish at the Captain's house. The object in sending for him
was to obtain an indenture as to the store of artillery, which he
cannot procure either from Cavendish or the Clerk of the Ordnance.
Farther, having this day applied to another Cavendish, Clerk of the
Victuals, for an account of the remain of provisions, now very small,
was answered that "he would not obey me, do what I could."
These parties are instigated and supported by Lady Cavendish,
not for the first time, as she daily interlaces herself with the King's
affairs. Requests that these matters may be reported to the Lord
Protector. [One page.] |
April 15.
Boulogne. |
113. Lord Grey to the Lord Protector. With reference to the
Council's letter, touching employment in Flanders of such hides and
fells as come of cattle spent here, informs him that such as come of
the King's cattle are disposed of by Aucher at his liberty, and such
as come of the butcher's killing he has hitherto received from Lord
Grey to make his provision of herrings and other necessaries from
Flanders. As English money is not now current either in France or
Flanders, he will require to be supplied with such money as will pass
for the contentation of his espials and other affairs, as they will not
take hides or fells from him. [One page.] |
April 16.
Calais. |
114. The Council of Calais to the Council. The surveyor of this
town has found on the coast upon this side of the White Sand, a
kind of stone, both profitable to fill up the jetties here and for
building, and has set men to dig out and fashion the same stone.
As conveyance will be less chargeable by water than by land,
they suggest that a large flat-bottomed vessel of the porting of
80 tons or more, devised by Sir Richard Cavendish, now lying
unemployed at Dover, should be sent over for the carriage of the
stones. The Treasurer having lately signified to the Lord Deputy
that the custom and subsidy of the wools and fells now shipped
hither would not extend above 2,200l., and that he should lack
3,300l. 7s. 6d. more for paying the wages of the garrison, due on the
6th curt., beg that this sum may be sent before the Deputy's return
from England, or at the farthest by his Lordship. [One page.] |
April 17.
Boulogne. |
115. Sir Richard Cotton to the Lord Protector. Arrived here on
the 14th, with treasure to pay the garrisons, and finds great necessity and poverty, as well as at Newhaven and Blackness, the fortifications of which well proceed. The money which he has is not
sufficient for more than two months' pay, and the men are much
more indebted both for victuals and other necessaries, wherefore
requests that the poor men may be had in remembrance. [Half a
page.] |
April 17.
Calais. |
116. Sir Edward Bray to Sir William Paget. Paget when at Guisnes
had wished him to part with some lands in Staffordshire, which he
purchased from his late Majesty. This at the time he refused to do.
Is now, as Mr. Elderton can declare, reluctantly driven to sell them
for the exchange of other lands, by reason of a promise made to him
having been broken. Has in consequence desired Elderton to offer
them to him. [One page.] |
April 18.
Calais. |
117. Lord Cobham to the Lord Protector. Arrived here on
Sunday the 17th, having been letted by reason of contrary winds to
cross sooner. Is informed that the Flemings are in equal doubt
with themselves as to the intentions of the French, and have accordingly appointed certain captains on the frontiers, as at Nieuport,
Dunkirk, and Burborough, to furnish up their bands of men-of-war,
to be in readiness to resist any sudden movement of the enemy. A
man of arms of this town tells him, that when at Ardres yesterday,
Blerencourt stated his expectation of being removed from the command there, by reason of his being related to Madame D'Estampes,
who is banished from the French Court. A merchant of Paris, who
came here yesterday, met between Amiens and Montrieul, various
men of arms, in companies of three, four, and five, but to no
great number, without drum, ensign, or captain. Montrieul was
very full of infantry, apparently for augmentation of the garrison
there. The same merchant brought letters containing the following
news, which he affirms are true:—The French King begins to ruffle
with his nobility. The Lord Admiral, who was recently in England,
is banished the Court, and his office given to M. de Sedan, alias
Robert de la Mark, as well as his government of Normandy to the
Marquis de Guise. The Constable of France, who had been banished
the Court during the life of the late King, is restored and made
Grand Governor of the realm. Madame D'Estampes and all her train
and favourites, are banished the Court. M. D'Aubigny, brother to
the Earl of Lynes [Lennox], a Scottish Lord, whom his brother has
long kept in prison in the Bastilian in Paris, for his brother's offence,
has been enlarged. M. de Lorge, who commanded the French army
in Scotland, is committed to ward in the said Bastilian. "Finally,
he chaseth out of his Court all those whom his father loved, and
loveth whom his father hated." Has this day dispatched expert
and tried espials into France and Flanders: the missions of these
men will henceforth be very chargeable in consequence of the difficulty of exchange of money in angels, being often shillings sterling,
and crowns of the sun at 18 and 19 groats. Intends to send his son
to the coronation of the French King, to the intent he may learn
some news there; desires to know if this meets with his Grace's
approval. A soldier of Ardres this morning showed him that last
Saturday victuals arrived at Estaple, conducted thither by galleys
for the furniture of the French forts. Has sent one there to know
the truth. Beseeches that the poor soldiers here, who sustain great
penury for lack of money, may be paid. Has appointed the bearer,
William Normanton, to bring the money, if his Grace is content. |
|
P.S.—Daily contentions as to the limits arise between them and
the French; the latter contending that his Grace had agreed the
whole parish of Fiennes to be within their limits. Begs to be informed
of the agreement of the limits in writing, trusting that in such the
Couswade and other parcels in contention before the wars have not
been forgotten. [Two pages and a half.] |
April 18.
Newhaven. |
118. Lord Stourton and the Council at Newhaven to the Lord
Protector and Council. Have received their letters, and have
an earnest eye to the place, which as yet is imperfect, for that, the
mounts and curtains towards the sand hills lacking height, are so
subject to the said hills, as the enemy from them may annoy the
piece greatly to their danger. Wherefore if any change of time
should fortune, it will be requisite that either a sufficient number
of pioneers be speedily sent to raise these mounts and ramparts, or
else they shall need to be furnished with 2,000 or 3,000 men to
guard the hills and the piece in case of attack. Poulet and
Harington, having viewed the piece, can give full confirmation of
its state. Send statement of the victuals (missing). The stowage
houses being quite insufficient, Lord Stourton has caused two houses,
each 60 feet in length, and 24 in breadth, to be framed at Beltye, in
these marches, which, with diligence, shall be conveyed hither, and
set up. If carriages, whereof they are in a manner destitute, could
be had, thorough provisions could be made of houses for stores and
for the soldiers, who still are lodged in thatched cabins, the danger
of which is obvious. Send statement of ordnance wanted (missing).
The Surveyor is busy with the counter-muring of the ditches, which
will soon be completed, when he will proceed with the gate, of which
there is great need. Meanwhile they will not fail to provide rods
and faggots to rempair, and make hurdles and mands, with all else
which they can devise for the safety of the fort. [Two pages and
a half.] |
April 18.
Calais. |
119. Lord Cobham to Sir William Paget. Arrived here on
Sunday the 17th, and should have been glad to have spoken
with him ere he left, if time had permitted. Refers him to the
Protector for news of the French. Has written to the Protector of
his intention to send to France his son William, who he thinks
should offer his service to the French King for a year, in which he
is the more likely to succeed if he has a letter from the Protector to
the King or his Council. Will not send him without Paget's consent,
because he is his servant; but should he allow this, will proceed
and send his servant Jermyn with his son. In this case, if the
Protector and he approves, requests letters in the young gentleman's
favour to Dr. Wotton, the Ambassador resident, so as he may somewhat set him forth. "Where I promised you an hogshead of Paris
wine; truly the same was brought to London, and third thereof
broken out for lack of a crane to take it up, so as I could not
perform my promise, Wherefore I pray you to pardon me. For
that one hogshead, I will send you one whole tun of French wine, of
the purest and best sort, so shortly as I can. Also I have sent to
my Lady your wife, according to my promise, some asperges [asparagus] seed." The Protector having promised, that if the world is
quiet, he may return home again for a time, beseeches Paget's good
word in that part when opportunity shall serve. [One page and a
quarter.] |
April 18.
Calais. |
120. Lord Cobham to the Lord Protector. Has this day spoken
with the merchant of Orleans, called Nicholas Petan, who told him
that he left there about 15 days ago; and although on his way to
Boulogne he saw few men of arms, the common rumour was, that
there were assemblies of them in sundry places to go into Piedmont.
Subsequently he showed him secretly that he would return by Paris
to learn from his friends there, alleged to be many and of secret
knowledge, what enterprises are entertained, and therewith inform
Lord Cobham, who for that purpose now sends one of his servants
with him to Paris. Among other matters Petan had inquired in
what state the religion of England was now set, saying that he fears
the present French King will be more extreme and cruel to the religion than his father was, seeing that the Constable is a person that
does not favour it. "Whereby I do note the man to be of a right
honest judgment." He is also a man of substance, and in order
that he may convey intelligence without suspection, will be content
to bring wines of the best quality to Calais, and to deliver them this
year for his Majesty's store and his Grace's provision for 5l. sterling
per tun, and the same next year at less price by four crowns a tun.
Understands that the Captain of Ardres had expressed to a gentleman his desire to know when Lord Cobham was returned to Calais,
as he would be glad to see him to appoint a day for their hunting
together. Will apply himself thereto, if it shall be his Grace's
pleasure, which however he first desires to know. [One page.] |
April 18.
Boulogne. |
121. Lord Grey and Sirs Henry and Thomas Palmer to the
same. Perceiving that their neighbours of the fort daily repaired to view the new works of the jetty at the haven, Lord Grey
ordered some of the Council should in like manner every day go to
see what went on; and yesterday, the two Palmers having met there
M. le Baron, who is now lieutenant to M. de Rieulx, lately come
from the Court, and M. de Broyne, lieutenant to Villefranche, a conversation ensued between them, which was opened by the French
observing that the fort advanced apace. They were informed that it
was not a fort, but a jetty, for the mutual convenience of French
and English ships, which, as they might see, was very necessary,
and that no ordnance was to be placed upon it. The French observed, that since it was not a fort they might do as they pleased,
but if it were, it neither might nor would be endured. They then
inquired, what news of the Protestants? and were answered, none,
except it was understood they had great hope in the French, and
began to gather men. The French then proposed a walk, which was
agreed to, and they proceeded in the direction of the fort. The French
said that ere long the Protestants would have 50,000 men in the
field. "God send them well to do!" said the Palmers; "and we
also," rejoined their companions, "desire no less, for there is no
faith in that Emperor." They proceeded to say, that the present
King saw enough in his father's lifetime, and intends to be revenged
on him; not perhaps this year, but if once sure of the English, or
only of their sitting still, next year most certainly he should make
war; that he has already sent many to Piedmont for fortifying
and maintaining the garrisons there, and minds to demand Milan,
Artois, and other things; that on these frontiers he will fortify no more
than what has been commenced; that they were removing to the
fort the stores which had been laid at Portet for its fortification,
and intended to make no haven there, as the charge would be too
great, and to small purpose, seeing that they wished to have Boulogne
again by marriage or exchange, but, by one composition or another,
Boulogne they must have. Sir Thomas Palmer being asked if Ambleteuse was strong, affirmed, if the King had one piece stronger than
another, it was that. The French considered that it does not serve
the English so well as it would have served them, for they might
have laid their ships there, distressing the supplies by sea, while the
garrison would have impeached the passage of Calais. Sir Thomas
objected that this would have been hard to do, as the haven there is
dry, and at every low water in the night, their garrison being
stronger than that of the French, would have destroyed their ships,
while by land the French could have done little harm. This last
point they admitted, but said that by sea they could have done what
they listed; their ships having always been afloat where they could
have taken no hurt, and could have issued when they saw cause.
M. le Baron then referred to the political views of the Emperor, who
he said, wished to marry the daughter of England, to the intent that
he might the better enter into the realm, and considering that the
King was young, the Government conducted by divers heads, and the
country tickle to stir upon small occasion, thought to take advantage
of these several points for his revenge. Wherefore the English ought
to wish special success to the Protestants, of whom if the Emperor
had the overhand he would think himself able to ask every man how
he believed. On this, Sir Henry Palmer refuted M. le Baron's
opinion; and in regard to the tickleness of England, said that not
only was it then in full quietness, but that never was it so wavering
that any foreigner took advantage of it. The conversation then
turning upon the practicability of invading England, M. le Baron
said that he had been in the Isle of Wight, and other places, and for
ought he could perceive, before they could gather any number to
fight he would take such a footing that it would not be easy afterwards to remove him. Being twitted with the loss of one of their
chief captains and others in the Isle of Wight, and being repulsed
before they came where the force lay, he admitted this, but said that
he saw what might have been done with proper governing, there
being many places where to land and only one fortification, which
could not abide ten shots of the cannon, while all the other forts of
the country were of small strength. To this it was answered, that
seeing they meant well, they therefore took their remarks in good
part; but said, "We assure you that England is one of the most
difficult realms to set foot on land for a foreign prince, that is this
day in Christendom; for he cannot come to the shore without likelihood of great loss in the landing; and when he is landed, he must
come as to the sault the first day; and after that, if he pass it, he
must yet look to fight every day, and to have battles offered him
without end. And as our fortifications are not so easy to be beaten
as you think, so though they were never so strong, it is not England's profession to trust in lime and stone. And if there were
want of anything when you were there, be you assured, it hath been
seen and redressed since; for your sudden attempt in England, to
be plain with you, warned us in some things; and therefore we say
to you as to our friend, England needeth at this day as little to care
as any other realm." The Frenchmen swore by their troth they were
glad of it, and then mentioned what changes had taken place in
France. Among these (in addition to what Lord Cobham had heard,
see No. 117, antea) M. de Vendôme is made Lieutenant General of
Picardy, and Du Biez, his lieutenant; M. de Hely, Governor of
Hesdin, is dismissed; and St. Germain, who is now at Ardres, has
charge of all the fortifications in Picardy, to complete and alter as
he likes. All taxes and tolls are put down throughout the realm.
They mentioned also the banishment of Madame d'Estampes, who
has been "commanded to repair home to her house with all her
college of ladies;" and then, having reached the gate of the fort, gave
the Palmers a collation, thereafter accompanying them to Portet,
where they saw 30 carts carrying stone to the fort, and two or
three ships laden with Newcastle coals landing their cargo. Have
tried to find the names of the Newcastle men who brought the
coals, but who have left, and having learnt that a victualler of
Colchester has delivered some beer to the French, have given orders
to apprehend him when he leaves, for such punishment as his Grace
may appoint. [Nine pages.] |
April 19.
Boulogne. |
122. Lord Grey to the Lord Protector. Recommends some person's suit. |
|
P.S.—The fortifications of the Old Man, and the heightening and
vamuring of the bulwark next Calais, are already let to task to
soldiers, which does not impeach or hinder any of the other works in
progress. [One page. Much mutilated.] |
Eod. die.
Greenwich. |
123. [The Lord Protector] to Sir Richard Cotton, Treasurer of
Boulogne. His letter of the 17th, mentioning that the soldiers
murmur for want of sufficient pay, has been received. More money
will be sent soon; in the meanwhile let him persuade them with
good words to be contented. [One page. Minute.] |
April 21.
Calais. |
124. Lord Cobham to the Lord Protector. On the 18th had
sent the trumpet of this town to Montreuil and Estaple under the
pretext of searching for a servant alleged to have absconded, as may
be seen by the letter inclosed. The trumpet returned to-day, and
assures him that there are no more than the usual number of soldiers
at Montreuil, and no report of any more coming, neither of any
reinstatement thereof. At Estaple he viewed the works and the
haven, where little progress has been made during the last four
months, although 40 masons and many women are labouring there
at present. Could hear of no arrival of victuals there, and saw no
galley or ship in the haven, except three hoys. Returning by Hardelot he observed that the castle there and the walls are taken down
and much lower than formerly; also that much wood has been cut
in the neighbourhood, in which is a great nest of thieves and murderers. [One page.] Incloses, |
|
124. I. Letter from the Governor of Estaple, M. Ynnardbedel,
dated April 20th. If the servant can be found he shall
be apprehended and sent to Lord Cobham. [Half a page.
French.] |
April 22.
Calais. |
125. Lord Cobham to the Lord Protector. An Easterling merchant who arrived to-day informs him that Duke Maurice has recently revolted and is reconciled to the Duke of Saxony; that the
Emperor has gone to Bohemia to pacify rebellion against Ferdinando,
who would have had them to war against the Duke of Saxony,
which they refused to do for religion's sake; and that the French
King has sent a good sum of money to the Landgrave, in order that
he may renew his army and join with others against the Emperor.
[One page.] |
April 24.
Calais. |
126. Same to Sir William Paget. The intelligence which he
communicated in his last letter to the Lord Protector has to-day
been confirmed by a friend from Antwerp, who also mentions that
the Bohemians have elected a new King. From Picardy one of his
espials has this day returned, having visited Amiens, Corbie, and
Compeigne, in neither of which did he find any men of war or heard
of any hostile intentions towards the English, it being even doubtful
whether war is to be moved against the Imperalists. At Amiens the
fulling mills are now converted to the beating of gunpowder; and
at Compeigne are 30 pieces of brass ordnance, which were brought
there before the last King's death. Amiens, Abbeville, Corbie,
Compeigne and other places on the frontier are furnished with
30,000 quarters of wheat; the price of a quarter being now three
shillings and fourpence sterling. His espial from Rouen has not yet
returned, but a credible friend from Flanders, who was at Rouen
six days ago, says that the ships there which were formerly ready
are now unrigged, and all the soldiers allowed to go where they list
till the 25th of May, unless they are countermanded. His espial
on return visited Arras, Bethune, Aire, and Saint Omer; these were
furnished with a good number of Imperial cavalry. His espial
heard it announced in Picardy that the French King will not ratify
the articles of the last treaty passed by his Ambassador and the
Baron de la Garde in England. This has caused Lord Cobham to
stay his son's journey to the French Court, until the Protector's
pleasure therein is known, although all things for him have been
made ready at great charge, especially in loss of exchange of money
for his voyage. Desires to know his Grace's pleasure whether he
shall go or remain for a time. [One page and a half.] |
