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| April. |
866. Agreement between Lord Scrope and Lord Herries. |
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The agreement between the Wardens of the West Marshes
of England and Scotland. First. Their lordships shall meet
on Tuesday the 28th April next at Gretna Kirk, and there
make delivery of so many bills as in the mean season they
may conveniently file. Secondly. Upon the Wednesday to
repair to the several grounds, lately called the Debateable
Lands, and there to keep their several courts in their sovereign's
name, each in the territory of their prince, and to settle what
inhabitants thereof may be answerable to the Wardens of
either realm. Thirdly. Thence immediately, with such numbers of footmen and horsemen as at their indent at Burgh
was agreed upon, they shall repair to the Harlowe Wood and
pursue all fugitives and disobedients of either realm, and so
daily to continue as long as they shall think convenient.
Whosoever shall make receipt of any fugitive, or any of their
goods and cattle, shall be delivered for the fugitives' offence.
Fourthly. All attempts or slaughters hereafter committed and
done against the peace shall be dealt with strictly, according
to the last treaty of peace made at Carlisle. Signed.
Pp. 1¼. |
| April 1. |
867. Walsingham to Lord Burghley. |
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On receipt of his letter of March 20, he communicated to
the Queen Mother Her Majesty's answer touching the marriage matter, and told her that she could not speak more
clearly than heretofore she had done, which was that she
could not accord to take any for her husband whom she
should not first see, nor could she consent to his using any
manner of religion that is prohibited by the laws of the
realm. To the first, she answered that the King and she
could never consent to his coming over without surety that
the marriage should proceed; and to the second, she said that
it was neither honourable for him to abandon his religion upon
the sudden, neither could the Queen in reason require to
have a husband to live without exercise of religion.
Upon these two points there passed between them long
debating, and in the end Walsingham promised to make
Her Majesty privy to the Queen Mother's request, though
he said that as far as he could perceive she was resolved to
accept neither of them. To her complaint of the support
that the Count of Montgomery received, he showed her
that divers of her subjects of great quality, courage, and
livelihood, had laid before Her Majesty sundry reasons to
induce her to think that the fire lately kindled in France to
the ruin of those of the religion there, was also meant to
extend to her, using vehement speech to her, that if she
forbore to support them that she would be the cause of her
own ruin and that of her realm. They have also laid before
her that now is the time for her to recover such provinces in
France as appertain to the crown of England, and for her
better encouragement have offered to find her an army of
20,000 foot and 2,000 horse for the space of six months.
Farther, it has been discovered by such as are in Scotland
arrived out of France, that when their own troubled causes
are settled they are disposed to attempt somewhat against
Her Majesty. Lastly, he showed her how little account has
been made of the recommendations of the Queen of England
and the Princes of Germany for those of the religion here,
seeing them persecuted contrary to the assurance given by
their Majesties to their ministers. Notwithstanding all this,
Walsingham declared that such was the affection of the
Queen to the crown of France that she was resolved to persevere in her league, and to see the breach come from the
French King. To this she answered, that she knew by advertisements from the French ambassador that there was great
solicitation made by her subjects, as also great offers, and
therefore they acknowledged themselves much beholden to
Her Majesty for her intention to persevere in good amity.
She protested that neither she or the King had any intention
of disquieting the Queen, but merely to persuade those of
Scotland to accord matters and acknowledge their Queen for
their governor. Walsingham replied that this was a breach
of the league, for that it had been agreed that neither one or
the other should give law unto Scotland, but join in maintenance of the government which they themselves should
agree upon. To her complaint about the staying of Verac,
he answered that it should seem more strange to his mistress,
that considering that it was agreed that matters of Scotland
should be treated in common, that any should be sent secretly
thither, and that she was persuaded that he had been sent
over by some who envy the good accord between the two crowns
rather than by the King. The Queen Mother "seemed to be
much entangled with this matter, and had not therefore much
to say for the staying of him."—Moret, 1 April 1573. Signed.
Pp. 3¼. |
| April 1. |
868. Submission of Ferniehurst. |
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Sir John Forster to the Regent of Scotland. |
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Understands his Grace takes in evil part his procuring a
letter from the Queen in favour of Ferniehurst, who both
sought his life at Stirling, and burnt his corn at Dalkeith.
The letter was procured not in any respect against him, but
to serve his turn. His goodwill cannot be unknown to him,
and to them that were in his authority before times, wherein
he was as willing to do as much as any subject in all
England, and not in words but in deeds, when he came to
the field with all the power he was able to make for maintaining the King's authority and suppressing the evil people
of Liddlesdale. The Earl of Huntley wrote to Ferniehurst
that if it pleased him he could bring him in the same bond he
and his friends were in, perceiving which he thought it more
surety for the realm and the quiet of the Borders, that he
should be brought in by the Queen's means. Trusts he will
not take his doings therein otherwise than his true meaning
was towards him, and must be a humble suitor that his
submission be taken as others are.—Alnwick, 28 March
1573. |
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Sir John Forster to H. Killegrew. |
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Sends a copy of his letter to the Regent that he may be
privy thereto, beseeches him to deliver the same, otherwise
to return it. Beseeches him if he do deliver it to qualify the
Regent all he may for the better help of Ferniehurst.—
Alnwick, 28 March. Signed. |
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The Regent to Sir John Forster. |
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It was no wonder he found it strange that letters in favour
of Ferniehurst came by his procurement, not so much for his
evil deserts towards him, as for the friendship standing of so
long continuance between themselves, of which no cause for
breach has been ministered on his part. Was loth to have dealt
at the hands of the Prince without knowledge of his own disposition and meaning. Is not forgetful of his goodwill toward
those who have preceded him in the Regency, nor unmindful
of the friendship he himself has received, which he has always
been of intention to acquit. The Earl of Huntley only dealt
for himself, and his own friends and servants properly depending on him, in which number he cannot understand Ferniehurst to be in anywise comprehended, neither to have entered
in public defection through any the Earl of Huntley's occasion.
How far the favouring of Ferniehurst may tend to his (the
Regent's) advancement is not so substantial to be thought of,
as how pernicious his bypast trade of doings has been, not
only against the quietness of his own country, but also how
by his means chiefly the peace between the realms has been
endangered, and the Queen's realm and people invaded and
troubled by fire and sword. After which bypast doings no
better fruit has any appearance in him to follow, whereof if
the Queen were truly certified she would not think him
worthy to be travailed for, nor allow of his present entertainment in her realm, nor that he should be assisted by her
subjects in such things as he has been about to attempt
against the liege subjects of the King. Whereof he has had
sufficient cause of complaint to make to the Queen, but has
not entered that way to work, but rather thought meet to
crave amendment of it, which if he obtain he has the better
cause to think of friendship friendly continued, otherwise the
matter so urges him for his King and country that he cannot
keep it in silence from the Queen. Never heard of any
submission of Ferniehurst that in honour or reason could
be thought worthy of answer.—Holyrood House, 1 April
1573.
Copy. Endd. About pp. 3. |
| April 3. |
869. M. De la Mothe Fenelon to Lord Burghley. |
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Begs that M. Verac may be permitted to proceed with his
mission to Scotland, or at least that he may be allowed to
forward the little gilt suit of armour and the swords which
the King of France has sent as a present for his nephew.—
London, 3 April 1573. Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. Fr. P. 1. |
| April 4. |
870. Earl of Huntingdon to Lord Burghley. |
|
Has sent 500 soldiers and 200 pioneers to Berwick. The
weather was such and the waters so out that he could not
make the speed he desired, but hopes they shall come in good
time for the Castilians. Sir W. Drury thinks they shall need
the other 200 put in readiness by the Queen's command.
This poor man has need of his favour, yet he will not desire
more than the justice of his cause deserves; he is hardly
matched, and it is the harder for that he is a stranger in the
country, which amongst them is res magni momenti.—York,
4 April 1573. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. 1. |
| April 4. |
871. H. Killegrew to Lord Burghley. |
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Certain officers whom the Marshal sent, accompanied by
the master gunner, carpenter, and the miner, have taken a new
view of the Castle; they all agree that it cannot long hold out,
therefore marvels at the obstinacy of those within, and cannot
imagine what moves them, unless it be the hope of succour
out of France, whereof there is no appearance, or that they
trust to do something with the riches they have within for
making their peace, or that they think there is no assurance
for them but only to put themselves in the Marshal's hands
when he comes. Is at his wits end to consider their case,
and fears their hearts be hardened to an ill destiny. Yesterday the Regent said that Lord Lindsay told him before
the other Regent's death that he should die, and himself be
Regent, and further that if England came in the Castle should
be won, and the Captain hanged over the walls, though he
makes no account of these trifles, yet would not spare to write
them. Has brought the Regent to consent that the Earl of
Rothes, who is of most credit with Grange of any man in
Scotland, should write to him of the preparation coming
against him, and exhort him to think upon the matter, and
that if he meant well, and to come to such end as might stand
with the King's surety, he would deal and labour for him. The
woman sent by the Regent to the Castle is stayed within, for
she came no more. If Lord Rothes' purpose fail he will himself make a voyage to the Castle before the hostages depart,
which be not yet all come, and until they come he knows not
certainly which shall go, but the best and most number he
can get; the Regent thinks some difficulty to him that more
hostages should be demanded of him than was in his predecessor's days, both for the coming to Leith and Hamilton.
The Regent says his life shall go rather than any inconvenience happen to the people or ordnance. The Duke has sent
in his surety bonds, and the Earl of Huntley has sent his
bond to his servant subscribed with four; that he might procure to have the rest subscribed here, he is content to receive
200l. pension, as his man has assured him. Now that they
have performed their promises they look to have promise
kept to them, therefore beseeches him to procure letters to
the Regent which appertains to the Queen to do for their
surety. The Earl of Athole offers himself to the obedience of
the King, but for religion will look not to be pressed against
his conscience; the Regent's purpose is to have him subscribe
the bond for service of the King, and for the matter of religion
to refer him to the law, not minding to grant any liberty to any
man. This day the Lord Seton is to bring his answer to the
Council whether he will subscribe to the King's obedience; if
he do, he shall put in caution to continue so, and further shall
be bound not to practise with any at home or abroad to the
contrary, nor against the religion; if he refuse he shall to
ward. Lady Livingstone is still kept at Dalkeith, where
James Kyrkcaldy is also, but she will yet confess nothing;
the Regent says women learn a lesson of their mother that
they should never confess whatsoever they did evil. This
week she is to be confronted with witnesses and writing; the
Regent would not have her husband or any suspected come
out of France till the end of the next parliament, being
advertised that some would come with divers letters from the
Bishop of Glasgow; he has taken order to apprehend them,
and has desired him to give warning if they land in
England. The letters sent to Stirling to be unciphered are
not come back. Archibald Douglas is removed from Stirling
to Dumbarton Castle. The agreement between the Earl of
Rothes and Lord Lindsay will stand on the sentence of the
Laird of Lochleven. The Regent lies in wait for the two
brethren who slew the Regent at Linlithgow; they are to
come home shortly. Lord Livingstone's coffers are opened,
but nothing found in them of any importance. Sends
letters touching the suit of the Warden of the Middle
Marches for Ferniehurst. Gives the names of the noblemen
who will assist the Regent at the coming in of the army, none
are disobedient but the Castle.—Edinburgh, 4th April 1573.
Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 6½. |
| April 4. |
872. Sir W. Drury to Lord Burghley. |
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The good success the Rochellois and they of Haarlem have
had by their bold issuing is very welcome. For their parts
that go against the Castle of Edinburgh there shall appear
both will and courage, though the clime and the rest be so
"defysyle" and evil. On Wednesday sent various officers as
well for the further countenancing of the matter as to see
what was to be more done to the trenches, which are both too
low and too narrow. Having with them some carpenters and
sawyers they will make platforms and defences before the
army come, which will save the Queen's charge 500 marks
at the least. They were divers times shot at and very
narrowly missed, the dust being stricken about and upon
them; they confirm Mr. Errington's saying that they within
have been, to their skill and strength, fortifying, which will
much hinder the works; one of their new works is on that side
where he intended to have taken some advantage, but is now
prevented. Lord Huntingdon has signified that the Yorkshire
men shall be here on Wednesday or Thursday next, when
after a day's rest he minds to set forwards, not tarrying for
the ordnance, which is already shipped, and ready to take the
first wind, which yet is contrary, and for the last week has been
stormy. They mind to be jealous and careful of the ordnance,
and he wishes to go there to attend the same, rather than it
should tarry them; besides, being there, they will be doing
something, trying by words if they can win, and draw
them to have better regard of themselves. Prays to be
directed whether he may yield if the Regent require any of
his company to be sent from him to defend any causes that
may arise; willingly he would not sunder with any of his force.
Is sorry if his servant Williams has any way omitted his
duty, but it may be that he (Drury) did not signify the time
of his coming hither. Has dealt with the Treasurer how he
is to deal with Verac or any of his messengers if they come
after he has gone; if they come ere he go they shall tarry
longer than they would, "or if they be suffered to pass, the
same shall little please them."—Berwick, 4 April 1573.
Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 2. |
| April 5. |
873. H. Killegrew to Lord Burghley. |
|
Trusts Lord Rothes' going to the Castle will do good, for he
returns again this day with good answer from the Regent.
If they have any grace within it will appear between this and
Wednesday, when the hostages shall be ready to go to Berwick
and the Marshal ready to march. If the accord follow it will be
some ways chargeable, wherewith he trusts they will be better
contented than that the army should come in. Must burden
the Queen to pay somewhat of Grange's debts, and Lethington
must be sustained for a time in England. The Regent by the
accord will have many more enemies than before, by so many as
shall lose thereby, and therefore must have for some time, till
he be assured, a guard of soldiers to preserve him, and that
the Queen's purse must feel six months at the least. It stands
him in hand to have a good guard, for he is sure his life will
be sought, and that he yields to this accord for pleasing the
Queen's mind. Has made some show that he would be a suitor
for the Regent to be chosen a knight of the Order, whereof
he liked well. Beseeches him to remember the pensions
whereof he has already written. If the Queen do not entertain these men France will assuredly do so, and make the
Regent a knight of their order, and so, if the Queen has a
mind to bind these lords and so the country, to depend upon
her, it should be done while the occasion serves. The preparations notwithstanding go forwards, and the master gunner
and master carpenter, beside the commodity to make their
platforms, have had good opportunity to view the Castle in
all places, much to their contentment and satisfaction. If
there be any accord the time is so short between this and
Wednesday next, the 8th, when the men will be ready to
enter, that he cannot have his answer, and therefore must
ground himself upon the general desire the Queen has to have
accord without sending in men, though it be to her charges
without which it can neither way be compassed, but he will
observe the best he may. Lord Seton has agreed to obey the
King and subscribe the bond. There is no doubt Athole will
do the like if the accord follows.—[Edinburgh], 5 April 1573.
Signed.
Add. Endd. Injured by damp. Pp. 2. |
| April 5. |
874. Letter from Venice. |
|
On the 2nd of April the son of the Venetian ambassador
at Constantinople came secretly with the conditions of peace,
and yesterday the Papal and Spanish ambassadors were
informed of them by the senate. It is said that they made
use of a Jewish physician, who was very friendly with the
first Bassa, in this negociation. The causes of this peace are
reported to be because the King of Spain would not fulfil his
promises of sending assistance, or pay his debts to the
Venetians. It is reported that the conditions of the peace
are that the Venetians shall restore all places taken from the
Turks in Dalmatia, pay 300,000 crowns, and leave Cyprus to
the Turk. The Venetians are preparing to defend themselves
in case of any attempt against them on the part of the
Spaniards, who are raising a force of 12,000 men in the
Milanese. Great indignation of the Queen Mother of France
with the Duke of Alva on account of his communicating her
letters to the Queen of England, for the revenging of which
insult she wished that she could restore to life those Huguenots
who were lately massacred, chiefly through her instigation.
News from Rochelle. Negociations for peace in France.
News of Germany and Poland.—5 April 1573.
Endd. Lat. Pp. 7. |
| April 6. |
875. Sir Valentine Browne to Lord Burghley. |
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The money in his hands goes fast away by charge of the
pioneers, artificers, and other ministers already sent into
Scotland, and by divers provisions made there and here, and
for freight and the necessary furniture of the General. Thinks
meet to put him in remembrance thereof, as there are 300
soldiers already entertained, staying for the arrival of those
coming out of Yorkshire. He will perceive by Mr. Killegrew's
letters that there is no time let slip.—Berwick, 6 April 1573.
Signed.
Add. Endd. P. 1. |
| April 5. |
876. H. Killegrew to Sir Valentine Browne. |
|
They abide more help, for no stay is made of any provision
for the siege as the next way to accord. A weapon in a
man's hand is called a peacemaker. Such deal and other
planks as are there must be laid to his account, for the Scotch
have no money. Their three culverins want nothing to be
supplied, and so that part of his letter is answered. Looks
within an hour for the Regent, Lord Rothes, and Lord Boyd
to come and confer with him. Wishes for his dame, but
hopes, by hook or by crook, to see her at home in a month.
—Edinburgh, 5 April. Signed.
Add. Endd.: Mr. Killegrew to my Lord. Enclosure.
P. 1. |
| April 6. |
877. H. Killegrew to Lord Burghley and the Earl of
Leicester. |
|
Yesterday morning the Regent, the Earl of Rothes, and
Lord Boyd came to confer with him about the Earl's
doing in the Castle, when it was resolved that he should go
up again, and that if Grange would put the Castle into his
hands for the King's use, the Regent would grant him
sufficient conditions of peace and security, until which
were performed, he, together with Lethington and Lord
Home, should remain, if they would, therein. Rothes has
gone again to the Castle this morning, and the Regent is
ridden to Dalkeith to examine Lady Livingstone and Kyrk
caldy. He may see what virtue the smell of the Queen's
forces has in making rebels know their duty to their King.
If his service in this accord be acceptable, because he has wife
and children, and nothing to leave them whensoever God shall
call him, would humbly beseech him, in respect of this service
and many others since the journey to Newhaven, where he
served at his own charges, with five horsemen, and never had
wages for them nor himself more than 200l. in money and a
licence to bring in certain wine, to be a mean for him to the
Queen to grant him the fee farm of the lordship for which he
was suitor at his coming. It lies in his own country, and is
yet in lease for 17 or 18 years to come. If his extreme need
did not force him, he had rather his service did deserve it
than he thus without desert should crave the same. The
Regent's meaning is to leave no preparation for the worst,
though he hopes there will be no need of their coming. Before
the footmen be at Berwick the end of this treaty shall be
known. Lord Seton has leave till the 8th to bring in his
sureties for obedience, so that none is left to profess the Queen of
Scots' authority.—Edinburgh, 6 April, in the morning. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 2. |
| April 7. |
878. H. Killegrew to Lord Burghley and the Earl of
Leicester. |
|
Yesterday, after he had written, the Regent sent for him to
go with him, the Earl of Montrose, the Justice Clerk, and
Alexander Hay to Dalkeith, to examine Lady Livingstone
and Grange's brother. Lady Livingstone, although things
were so evident that she could not deny them, would
confess nothing but by tears and silence. James Kyrkcaldy
said he received the first 10,000 francs from the King of
Spain's treasurer, and the last 15,000 of the treasurer of the
Queen of Scots in the Bishop of Glasgow's house. Farther,
that the Pope, the Emperor, the French King, the Venetians,
and the Dukes of Savoy and Florence, were of the League, and
had determined to reform the religion both in England and
Scotland, to restore the Queen of Scots, and depose the Queen
of England. The French King said that it should cost him
his crown but that he would see his sister restored to hers
again. Sends a letter written in cipher by Lethington to the
Bishop of Glasgow. If Mr. Somers can do anything with it
he shall have the others. It is written in Chisholm's cipher,
who is now in France, and bound homeward. If Verac have
a cipher, they here would gladly have a copy of it, touching
whose stay the Regent earnestly desires that neither he nor
Livingstone, nor any such, be suffered to come into Scotland
before the parliament, lest they mar a great part of that
which is so well begun. Seeing the Regent, the Earls of
Argyle and Huntley, and Lord Boyd are content to receive so
small sums as pension, the sooner they were assured thereof
the better. The Regent truly well deserves to be honoured
with the Garter. By the next will send his pedigree and
alliances, although no man doubts of his nobility and the
antiquity thereof. The Earl of Athole arrived yesternight,
so that all are come to the Regent, whose authority increases
daily. Yesterday and to-day the abstinence continues. Is
as yet ignorant of that which has been done by the Earl of
Rothes, but the Regent feared the Castilians meant but drift
of time, and to see what they could win by the abstinence,
and therefore desired the Marshal to diminish no part of his
proportion, and that such as be at Edinburgh may lose
no time. Thinks the abstinence has made for the best, for
Fleming has discovered much more advantage than he had
done before, and the master carpenter also, who that morning
assured him that if the Castilians abide the battery the Queen
shall have the honour to win it, and that it cannot stand 10
days. He knows how to approach with little danger, and has
found a piece of ground of such advantage that there shall not
a man within be able to stir for the shot. This night there
will be 100 pioneers from Berwick, who to-morrow shall be
employed unless the Earl of Rothes do some good. Has not
complained, yet truly his expenses have been more great than
he can bear. Cannot perceive that Grange or Lethington will
in any sort come into England, and the Regent tells him that
by his goodwill France they shall not see, for fear of new
practices.—Edinburgh, 7th April 1573. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 3. |
| April 7. |
879. The Regent of Scotland to Lord Burghley. |
|
The travails of the Ambassador have greatly availed, and
appear still to do further good, to the satisfaction of the
Queen's godly and honourable intention to have the country
quieted to the obedience of the King, and continuance of the
amity. Seeing the settling of these matters cannot well be till
after the parliament now approaching, for that the noblemen
lately returned to the King's obedience are then to receive
their surety, and restitution to lands and livings, it would do
harm if any evil affected had access to practise anything to
the prejudice thereof, and therefore prays that till then Verac
may be stayed. His direction is for no good, but rather for
putting in doubt things entered in accord, and to hinder the
amity between the two realms. His meaning is not that he
shall stay here at his liberty, but rather to return him, which
is meeter to be done after the Estates be departed from the parliament, for some may mislike his usage in that sort. The
like stay is needed for Lord Livingstone and others repairing
from France, of whose affection heretofore no good proof has
appeared.—Holyrood House, 7 April 1873. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. 1. |
| April 9. |
880. Earl of Huntingdon to Lord Burghley. |
|
Has heard from Sir W. Drury that the Castle is beginning
to parley, and so has not been so hasty in sending the other
two hundred men. Doubts they of the Castle do of policy dally,
either to win time or for some other respect. Is beginning
this day to confer about the commission sent down for the
musters, and most of them to whom the Queen has committed
the special charge do here assemble. Wrote of late to the Earl
of Leicester for licence to be absent at St. George's feast, but
fears he has forgotten him; would be bound to him (Burghley)
if he might know the Queen's pleasure. York, 9 April 1573.
Signed.
Add. Endd. P. 1. |
| April 9. |
881. M. Maisonfleur to the Queen. |
|
Is obliged to write to her concerning his private affairs on
account of this last calumny, which he perceives comes from the
same workshop as the first. Reminds her that when he first
arrived in London the Vidame began to endeavour to render
him suspected by her, Burghley, and Leicester, giving out
that he was come over to attempt something against her
person, and afterwards that he was merely deceiving her.
When he showed by his actions that he was neither a murderer
nor impostor, the Vidame fearing lest he should be considered
a false accuser, has brought the most horrible charges against
him, and has craftily induced three or four persons of authority
in the French Church in London to spread the report that he
had come over to assassinate the Count of Montgomery, and
so managed that the Count had advertisements to this effect
from three or four quarters, and even from France. These
are the sort of schemes that come from "La Cabale des
Alchimistes" to injure the innocent, like the letter which was
lately dropped in her chamber to the prejudice of the Count
of Montgomery. In the letters which they have written
against him to the Count, they have only used conjectures
which they wish to be taken as certain facts. First, that he
served under the late Duke of Guise in Italy; that he was
much esteemed by the Queen Mother; that although he had
professed the religion, yet he did not live at Court like one of
the reformers, "d'autant que je faisoys l'amour partout;" and
lastly, that since he had never taken arms for the gospel even
when the Prince and Admiral were alive and commanded
flourishing armies, it is not likely that now, when matters are
at such a desperate point, that he would hazard himself in
Rochelle except with some evil intention. These are the
arguments that they have made use of to convict him of
wickedness. Admits that he had a command under the Duke
of Guise during the first troubles, and fought on the King's
side, but then he had no more knowledge of the gospel than
St. Paul had before his conversion. Since, however, he has
been called to a knowledge of religion, though the King and
his mother have employed both prayers and menaces, he has
not borne arms for them. On this account the Cardinal of
Lorraine and the House of Guise have so hated him, that
during the last troubles they sent a provost marshal and thirty
arquebussiers who took him prisoner, though he was sick of a
fever, and for eight days he was in danger of losing his head
for a charge that was brought against him of having had
preaching in his house, contrary to the edicts of the King.
Everyone knows also that during the last massacre his house
was pillaged. Confesses that until two or three months after
the late massacre he did not think it lawful to take arms
against the King, when having heard the arguments of certain
ministers, he resolved to set out for Rochelle, from which he
was only detained by the express commandment of Don
Lucidor. As for the lack of reformation that was observed
in him whilst he was living in the Court he admits that he
did not always live as chastely as he might, but there is no
place so dangerous for a man disposed to gallantry as the
Court, or where he will have more difficulty in walking in
the right path; nevertheless, his life had never been so loose
that he might be thought so base as to be ready to do anything unworthy of a gentleman. Was in such favour generally in the French court that he does think that his accusers
if they had been in his position would have left it as he has
done. Is ready to be cut in quarters if it can be proved that
he has undertaken anything against the Count of Montgomery,
and would be ready to fight Julius Cæsar himself if he accused
him of it. Hopes amongst other things that if he is guilty
of this crime, every word that he has spoken since his childhood
may be transformed into as many devils to drag him down to
the lowest depths of hell. Begs that she will take his part
and serve as the shield of Ajax against the false accusations
of his enemies, who neither love her or her service. All that
has been brought against him will be found to proceed from
the Vidame, who thinks by these means to revenge himself
for the shame put upon him by Maisonfleur in the quarrel
which they had when they were in London, and who used
these words to his secretary, "They shall see whether in good
time I will not be revenged on Maisonfleur." Begs that she
will cause these calumnies to be sifted out, and he will on
the first victory she gains compose for her the finest triumphal
hymn that has ever been written. Plymouth, 9 April 1573.
Signed.
Fr. Pp. 10. |
| April 10. |
882. Prince Louis of Nassau to the Queen. |
|
Understanding that the French King desires to confirm the
league with her by an alliance between his brother and her,
he humbly begs her to consider whether by this means peace
may not be bestowed on the church, which is everywhere
afflicted and oppressed. Many who fear God and are well
disposed towards her think that not only is there some
hope of this, as the King has said he would treat them
more leniently if this came to pass, but also that it would
increase the security of her own estate by preventing any
league between the Kings of France and Spain to her prejudice. Begs that she will omit nothing to bring about such
a good end, and declares his readiness to do her service whensoever she shall command him. Dillemburg, 10 April 1573.
Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. Fr. Pp. 1½. |
| April 11. |
883. Sir Valentine Browne to Lord Burghley. |
|
Is sorry the Lords [of the Council] conceive him to bear a
very liberal hand upon the Queen's charges in the intended
service, the last estimate being taken much to surmount that
formerly sent. The first estimate per mensem for 800 footmen, 200 horsemen, and 140 gunners, pioneers, and ministers
of ordnance amounted to 2,717l. 0s. 10d.; the last set out
for 1,000 footmen, 40 horsemen, and 340 gunners and pioneers,
with coat and conduct money added thereto, comes to no
more than 2,972l. 4s. per mensem, so that the numbers being
greater for the honour and security of the service the amount
is little augmented, they being both estimates and uncertain.
Although some things seem diminishable in the estimate, yet
in other things greater charges arise, as by the hire of more
hoys, and more carriage by land must also be used. Knowing his great care to have the Queen's service advanced
in such cases to the uttermost, he dares not take upon himself
to account beforehand of any charge than that is the least
agreeable with so princely and royal furniture of ordnance.
Must put him in remembrance for a further supply of
money, which cannot be less than twenty days' charges
according to the estimate, for by the charges of engineers
and pioneers sent into Scotland the money which he had with
him went fast away; there are 360 soldiers at Berwick, and
to-morrow the soldiers from Yorkshire and the Bishopric
enter into charge, and their coat and conduct money must
be paid and discharged. Will from time to time advertise
him of the expenditure, and the money that can be saved will
be ready to be returned. Whatsoever help the Regent gives
is laid as costly and chargeable to the Queen's accounts, than
if it should come out of England; some proof he has already
thereof being sent to make payment of a carriage between
Leith and Edinburgh for a sum under ten shillings. They
account all things done as more for the behoof of England
than their own security. A great number of the lords and
commons of Scotland be not all of one opinion to see their
ancient hold so overthrown, which he wishes were beside
Hercules' pillars. For conveyance of money, his man Beverley
who has served him for twelve years may be trusted, and it
were more safe if Williams, Sir W. Drury's man, might
accompany him, by whom he desires the 300l. paid for the
jewels may be sent. Has received the money for the bridge
work with the warrant for 100 trees.—Berwick, 11 April
1573. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 2. |
| 11 April. |
884. Queen Elizabeth to the Earl of Huntley and Lord
John Hamilton. |
|
Perceives their good conformity to the peace and tranquillity
of the realm, and their honourable agreement to the pacification. Cannot counsel or advise otherwise than in conformity
to her first design and purpose, that all quarrels, doubts, and
fears which might breed grief, dissension, or jealousy among
the nobility might be clean put away, or suspended for a long
time. So for the murders of the late Regents is of advice
that all actions or accusations should surcease and be suspended, and in nowise be presented until the King come
to that age as by the laws and customs of Scotland he shall
take the government to himself. Does nothing more wish
that that realm, her so near neighbour, should be at peace,
and therefore promises to be cautioner for them and for the
Regent, for the observation and performance of the pacification, trusting they will relieve her of her promise by keeping
that they have agreed unto, or else she must declare herself
an enemy unto them. If any man do anything contrary to
the agreement, he shall see it with speed repaired and redressed.
And these her letters, subscribed with her hand and signed
with her signet shall be a sufficient caution for them at all
times.—Greenwich, 11 April 1573.
Copy. Endd. Pp. 2. |
| April 11. |
885. Queen Elizabeth to the Regent of Scotland. |
|
Extract from letter contained in No. respecting the
murders of the Regents.
Endd. P. 1. |
| April 11. |
886. Sir W. Drury to Lord Burghley. |
|
If he finds he does not his best to save charges will willingly
refuse ever hereafter his favour. He (Burghley) writes to
him as all his former doings have been, honourably, fatherly,
and friendly, and it daily increases his bond. Will advertise
the Lord President at York of the names, estates, and qualities of the hostages as soon as he can, but cannot yet get the
names of six, though he has demanded ten or twelve, and has
yielded argument sufficient to prove the more that comes the
more surety to the Regent and the cause in hand. Perceives
he still wishes that if the Castilians should, upon his seeking
of them, offer to deliver the Castle to the Queen, that he
should receive it, and afterwards deliver it to the Regent,
but he will to the best of his skill play his part that the same
may be rendered without force. Has not of late, nor without
offence or suspicion, being at Berwick, been a dealer to bring
the same to pass, but when he shall be there, ere force be used,
or a piece of ordnance landed, will try what he can do. The
Earl of Rothes, who of late without his knowledge or consent
has dealt with them, with show of persuading them to yield,
has done great harm; he, and such as followed him, have
given them more courage and comfort than they had before;
he of all others was worst chosen, the man that Grange loves
and credits most. The Yorkshiremen will be here to-morrow,
they have been looked for these eight days; the foul weather,
whereby the waters be risen, has stayed them. The wind
has been for ten days contrary to them; on Wednesday sent
a hoy towards Leith in the morning, but she was driven
back again in the afternoon. Minds on Wednesday to go in
with the forces, although the wind serve not for the vessels
wherein is the ordnance. Beseeches his opinion touching the
draft sent by the Regent, and has noted on the margin what
he mislikes. Begs that he may be excused if neither now or
lately he answered in writing the instructions of the Privy
Council, but will do his best to answer in execution of what
they have commanded.—Berwick, 11 April 1573. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 3. |
| April 12. |
887. Dr. Valentine Dale to Lord Burghley. |
|
M. de Carrouges, Governor of Rouen, being absent, M. de
Boucquemare, Premier President of the Court of Parliament,
received the letters which Dale had from the French ambassador, and sent to him the lieutenant of the Castle and three
of the governors of the merchants of the town, who offered
themselves in anything that should be the Queen's pleasure
in favour of any of her subjects. Learnt by the English
merchants that M. de Carrouges about 15 days before had
expressly declared to them that he had received commandment from the King to see them preserved in all their rights.
Dale told the governors of the merchants that he would
learn the estates of the English merchants, and that after he
had been with the King, M. de Carrouges should have
advertisement of such things as should be most convenient
for the entertainment of the traffic. The French merchants
show themselves very desirous for the contentment of the
English and the Queen's good favour, and the English are
satisfied touching their security; but are much grieved with
a new exaction upon their cloths, which is let to farm for
10,000 francs by the year, and as they suppose the farmer
gains double as much over his rent. Furthermore, the French
put the English cloths in water, and if they do not abide
the trial they seize them as forfeited by a new ordinance,
and so draw the English into processes worse than the loss
of the cloths, the fault not being in the merchants but in the
clothiers. They think the time now to be convenient to make
redress hereof, because the term of the old farmer of this new
imposition is now almost expired.—Rouen, 12 April 1573.
Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. Pp. 2¼. |
| April 12. |
888. Dr. Valentine Dale to Sir Thomas Smith. |
|
Took his way by Rouen while his carriage went the next
way to Paris, whereby the English merchants are well com
forted for the present. The French find such gain by them
that they could be denied nothing at their hands. The bruits
amongst the merchants arose by occasion that the passages
were stopped for preparation upon the sea coast, which M. de
Carrouges excused to the merchants, and declared that he
had received a fresh commandment from the King to preserve
them in all their rights.—Rouen, 12 April 1573. Signed.
Add. Endd., seal. P. 2/3. |
| April 13. |
889. Incoming of the English Forces to Scotland. |
|
The King's Majesty's proclamation bearing the very
occasion of the incoming of the English forces, with his
Highness' commandment for their good entreatment and
friendly usage. |
|
It is not unknown what great goodwill and friendship
the Queen of England has borne towards him and the preservation of his innocent person since his birth, but also
what care and travail she has sustained for the safety and
preservation of the realm in the ancient liberty. It is not
forgotten that at the beginning of her reign a peace was made
which has happily continued, as also how shortly after the
realm being in danger of French conquest, by her forces and
aid sent to the siege of Leith the strangers were expelled. The
like care appeared in the month of May 1570 when the conspirators which pretended the King's deposition were profligate
and disappointed, and the Castle of Glasgow succoured and
relieved, she never occupying any strength or hold which she
was not always willing to render to the owners upon their
returning to obedience. Since then by her ambassador's
letters and messages good peace is restored over all the
country, the Castle of Edinburgh excepted, which was put
by the late Regent the Earl of Murray into the hands of
William Kyrkcaldy of Grange, who unmindful of his truth and
promised allegiance has for the space of two years raised and
continued civil war against the King and his authority, rejecting the godly pacification which the chief noblemen and others
returning to obedience have received. Seeing his principal
ordnance, powder, and bullets are detained within the Castle
and used against him, the Queen of England has been required
by the Regent and nobility of the realm for succour for the
expugnation and recovery thereof, which has been granted,
after all good means to bring those within to obedience by
treaty, whereby peace may be restored to the borough of
Edinburgh and the whole realm. Therefore he straitly charges
and commands that proclamation be made thereof at the
market cross at Edinburgh and other places needful, that none
be ignorant of, or sinisterly deprave or misreport his dearest
sister's kindly intention, that all thankfully receive the general
of her forces and persons under his charge, and show and give
them good favour and intreatment in lodging, meat, and
drink, upon their reasonable charges, "unraising" the present
price in anything, and that none take upon them to do them
harm, grief, or uncourtesy in body or goods, under pain of
death, being repute as seditious and wicked instruments,
partakers with the rebels in the Castle. Holyrood House,
13th day of April 1573. Per Actum secreti Consilii. Imprentit at Edinburgh be Thomas Bassandyne. Cum Priveligio
Regis.
Endd. by Burghley. Broadside. |
| April 14. |
890. H. Killegrew to Lord Burghley. |
|
Sends particularities of Lethington's demands, no man
being more sorry that honest and friendly persuasion cannot
induce him to acknowledge his duty. Where it may be
alleged that the conference of the noblemen which they
desired to have been in the Castle might have taken effect in
some more indifferent place, it was not forgotten, but they
will in nowise come forth, neither Lethington, Grange, or
Lord Home, who only be the men that must treat. It was
resolved in the Council that no more offer of parley should be
made till the Queen's forces come, but if they would demand it
they shall not be refused. To-morrow therefore the Regent is
determined to send away ten hostages by Lord Ruthven, who
shall receive the Queen's general at Coldinghame, and there,
upon the interchange of indentures for observing the covenants,
deliver his hostages. Intends to go with them to Berwick
and see them safe before the artillery "sorte" the haven, for the
safe conduct of which there are two ships which have lain in
Leith Roads for lack of wind these seven days. Yesterday
being market day the enclosed proclamation was made. The
Regent has sent private warning to Coldinghame, Dunbar,
Haddington, Preston, and Leith, for providing against the
army coming. The Earl of Angus and Lord Lindsay meet
with the gentlemen of Lothian and receive the general at
Douglas, and accompany the army to Leith. The Regent
has to assist the forces seven hundred soldiers in pay, and all
those that look for any commodity by their livings in the
Castle. They will not abide the cannon, but there is no
way to bring them to reason without it. Is in good hope
that a month's pay or less will make a sound end to the
civil war. The Earl of Argyle told him that he would serve
the Queen next to his own King; the nobility are more and
more inclined daily to the Queen's devotion. The Regent
always gives him the place of honour and right hand, both
abroad and at home. Hopes he will move the Queen for pensions
for the Regent, Argyle, Huntley, and Boyd, and a licence for
four geldings for Argyle. If there be no remedy but Verac must
needs come before the parliament, the Regent has desired to
be advertised in time that he may prepare for his safe keeping,
until the Castle be reduced and the parliament ended. This
night one of the soldiers of the Castle that came forth for
water is taken and like to be hanged. The pioneers go on
apace with their trenches, and hitherto have lost no blood.—
Edinburgh 14 April 1573. Signed.
Endd. Pp. 4. |
| April 13. |
891. The Incoming of the English Forces to Scotland. |
|
Manuscript copy of the King's proclamation (No. 889).
Endd. by Burghley. P. 1. Enclosure. |
| April 14. |
892. Verac to Sir W. Drury. |
|
The Queen of England having made difficulty in granting
him a passport before until she knows if the Earl of Morton is
agreeable thereto, he sends thither the bearer, for whom he begs
a passport. Hopes after the return of the messenger to see him
himself. London, 14 April 1573. Signed.
Add. Endd. Fr. P. ½. |
| April 14. |
893. Pietro Bizarri to Lord Burghley. |
|
Sends a note of the conditions of the peace between the
Venetians and the Turks. Mehemet Bassa is to have a
present of 30,000 zecchins for having negociated the peace.
The Cardinal of Augsburg died at Rome on the 2nd instant.
—Augsburg, 14 April 1573. Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. Ital. P. ¾. |
| April 15. |
894. The Regent of Scotland to [H. Killegrew]. |
|
The Castle required that the colonel would speak the Laird
of Pittarrow, which being condescended unto, they met at the
little postern. In a long harangue Pittarrow required that
seeing the noblemen whom they craved to come to the Castle
refuse so to do, that certain persons of meaner condition might
be permitted to confer with them, whom they hoped to satisfy
with reason. Has willed answer to be given; that if conference shall be the grounds shall be known whereupon; in case
the same were the things already moved no time would be spent
in conference thereupon; if, however, there were likelihood
of greater conformity reasonable answer should be given.—
Holyrood House, 15 April 1573. Signed.
P. 2/3. |
