|
| Oct. 2. |
938. Advices from Flanders. |
|
From Dunkirk, 2 Oct. 1576.—The castle of Ghent is still
besieged, though they have not given the assault. It is thought
certain that the Estates will accord with those of Holland and
Zealand. It has been forbidden under pain of death to talk of
the Gueux; also to aid the rebel Spanish soldiers, who are to
be slain wherever they are found. In Brussels they have
liberated Viglius and some others, so that it is hoped that
by degrees an accord may be made. The Spaniards remain
still in Alost and Mondragon with the Count of Meghem are
before Antwerp. |
|
Endd. Ital. Pp. 12/3. |
| Oct. 2. |
939. Piracy. |
|
Commission by the King of France to Boucher, Sieur Dorsay, and Hector, Sieur de Perrouze, to report on all the complaints of depredations on the sea made by the subjects of
the Queen of England against the French. |
|
Copy. Fr. Endd. Pp. 1¼. |
| Oct. 2. |
940. Dale to the Queen. |
|
Is highly bound to her for his return. Wrote to Monsieur,
advertising him of the coming of his successor, and that he
was ready to receive any commands to her. For answer he
has written him a letter, with an other to her with loose
cachet, as they most use in this country, whereby she may
perceive that these delays [the stay of Du Plessis] proceed
not from Monsieur, but of them about the King who would
not that he should have any intelligence with her but by the
King. M. la Noüe is returned to Monsieur and travails to break
the practices of other which endeavour to sever Monsieur,
from the King of Navarre and the Prince of Candé, and divers
other gentlemen of the religion do remain about Monsieur,
though many be departed by the occasion of Bussy d'Amboise
who abuses Monsieur and all that are about him. The Bishop
of Mande [Mantes], his chancellor, and other that are about
him being wrought by the King, use continual practices to bring
him in jealousy with his friends, and to keep him always in
awe of the King. For himself, he gives ear to La Noüe and
others whom he perceived to be his true councillors. The
Queen Mother appoints to go towards him in a day or two.
It is thought she will make the more account of him for that
there is much heart-burning between the King and her since the
making of this peace the conditions whereof the King likes
not and imputes it to his mother. Has divers times of late
advised her, as they were both her sons, to shew her love indifferently to them both, not serving the one to the prejudice
of the other, which she seemed to like of and take in good part.
—Paris, 2 October. Signed. |
|
Add. Endd. Pp. 2¼. |
| Oct. 2. |
941. Dale to the Privy Council. |
|
Has received their letters touching the ship and goods of
certain merchants of London having traffic in Barbary taken
by the French and brought into Bourgneuf in Brittany, and
other letters for certain of Portsmouth who have been likewise spoiled by the French. Had already obtained the King's
letters to M. Boulle, Lieutenant in Brittany, and to the officers
of the Admiralty of that country, for the delivery of the ship
and goods, and for the other has requested the King to call
the Governor of Fecamp, who is charged with that fact to
answer before the Privy Council here. Has been very instant
with the King and Queen Mother for a special commission
for depredations done on the Queen's subjects, such as the
Queen has granted for the depredations done on the French,
and delivered to the King an authentic copy of the commission
to make the like thereby; whereupon the King sent to him
Secretary Pinart and others with divers complaints for spoils
committed on the French, and who desired the Queen's commission might either be renewed or more effectually executed,
and promised to be solicitors to the King to grant the like
here. Answered, as truth is, that there had been very many
restitutions made, whereof Pinart had a particular note
amounting to a great value, whereas they could not shew any
restitution of their side these many years. In the end they
shewed themselves desirous that justice might be ministered
on both sides, and so departed. The King continues still in
his intent to assemble the General Estates, and the particular
Estates are holden throughout the realm to prepare their
demands. The Queen Mother prepares to go towards
Monsieur. La Noüe is returned from the King of Navarre to
Monsieur and travails to reconcile them. The poor men of
the religion are insolently abused in many places as they go
and come to their preaching. Other things hang in suspense
upon the expectation of the Estates.—Paris, 2 October 1576.
Signed. |
|
Add. Endd. Pp. 12/3. |
| Oct. 2. |
942. Dale to Burghley. |
|
Sends a copy of a complaint of them of the religion of this
town which were outraged in their return from preaching; there
was the like of late in Tours, whereupon it was moved that
the preaching should be no more in that town. Monsieur
has sent for Du Plessis to despatch him anew to her Majesty,
and he passed this way towards him the 25th September.
The Queen Mother is in preparation to go towards Monsieur,
sed festinat lente et causatur egestatem nummariam, which
be part of her let, but withal she would be about the King
to take some occasion to let the assembly of the Estates.
She sees, present as she is, her authority diminishes with the
King, yet has she despatched the Guises hence, and sent away
Vaudemont after them, who was left here to keep the goal
but was soon weary of it. For these considerations she can
be the better content that Monsieur abide away. Has divers
times taken occasion to confirm her that she should so preserve the one son that she seem not to neglect the other,
which speech liked her well, for no man else does "reu" with
her in that humour. (He sees he writes more merrily than
custom, now he hears of the ambassador's arrival on this side.)
Bellieure is returned from Duke Casimir, but in his way he
found the King's reiters mad for lack of money comme
loups enragés, and therefore now is the more diligence used
to find money for them. In the meantime the reiters are
about Verdun marching homewards. Some say they are
to be employed for the Estates in the Low Country and that
the King levies 6,000 harquebussiers privily to that end.
Others say that Count Charles goes to serve the King with
four of the cornets of reiters which served the King. Learns
for truth the King moved Monsieur to be a dealer against the
King of Spain, and promised him great aid, but understands
that Monsieur, perceiving to what end it was done, posts it
over to the King and proffers to move his friends to serve the
King if he will do any exploit that way, but not to go thither
himself. Understands also there are of the Almains reitmeissters which proffer to serve the King in that country.
An ambassador is come from Genoa, and honourably and
favourably received and defrayed by the King; cannot learn
of any particular negotiation, but generally to entertain
strait amity, both in time of sickness and adversity. Hopes
there may be a letter sent to some of the captains of the
Queen's ships to be his conduct against them of Flushing.—
Paris, 2 October 1576. Signed. |
|
Add. Endd. Pp. 2. |
|
943. Dale to the Privy Council. |
|
Copy of his letter of the 2nd October, No. 941.
Pp. 1⅓. Enclosure. |
| Oct. |
944. Exercise of religion in France. |
|
Complaint by those of the religion of Paris to the King
of the outrages committed on them while going to and
returning from the preaching allowed by his Edict. They
were set upon with stones, dirt, and filth, women and girls
were decoiffées, and some of them were forced into the Temple
St. Nicholas and forced to pray contrary to the liberty of
conscience allowed by the Edict. Some of the Swiss of his
guard who stood by as spectators, assisted also in the outrages.
They pray him therefore to take effectual means to prevent
a recurrence and to punish the perpetrators. |
|
Copy. Fr. P. 1. Enclosure. |
| Oct. |
945. Note in Dale's hand. |
|
Contains the same news as in his letter to the Queen of the
same day. Pp. 1½. Enclosure. |
| Oct. 2. |
946. Dale to Walsingham. |
|
Contains the same news as in his letter to Burghley of the
same day.—Paris, 2 October 1576. Signed. |
|
Add. Endd. P. 1. |
| Oct. 2. |
947. Dale to Smith and Walsingham. |
|
The Queen Mother is wholly occupied about the preparation for her journey towards Monsieur, and to make provision
for money, for that her absence may be somewhat long if the
Estates do hold, and money is very scant at this time, because
all that may be had is sought for the pay of the reiters and
Swiss. She makes no more haste than she must needs,
because she would linger to take occasion to let the assembly
of the Estates, and being now entered into some jealousy with
the King she would be loth to work anything with Monsieur
for his coming, whereof she might repent her. In the meantime she has sent M. Vaudemont away, because she would
leave none of her enemies behind her, which she takes to be
all of the house of Guise. He may perceive by the supplication of them of the religion of this town with what insolence
men begin to handle them already. They are promised to
have justice, how it will be performed God knoweth! There
happened much the like at Tours, the 22nd September,
whereby there is like to arise some tumult, whereby they
of the town which are not of the religion made suit to La Fin,
the governor under Monsieur, that the preaching might be
had out of and not in the town, for avoiding of inconvenience,
but Monsieur commanded it should be exercised within the
town according to the Edict. The reiters march fair and
softly to the frontiers, and now are about Verdun. Is well
advertised there is a privy treaty between the King and them
of the Low Countries that the Estates should discharge the
King of 60,000 guilders to the reiters, and give them like
entertainment that Duke Casimir had in France, and upon
those conditions that they should serve the Estates together
with 2,000 French harquebussiers.—Paris, 2 October 1576.
Signed. |
|
Add. Endd. Pp. 2. |
| Oct. 3. |
948. News from Paris. |
|
Monsieur is resolved upon this reconciliation with the King
to go to the Court, and then, as is thought, the practice in
hand will go forwards to make amity between him and the
house of Guise, and to exclude Montmorency. He has already
sent to the King of Spain and other princes, and is resolved
to send to her Majesty. Divers reasons are used to incense
him against the Protestants, as that they are the weaker party,
and that by joining them he discredits himself and endangers
his title to the throne, and that they give no full credit to any
who embrace Popery. The Duke will not engage in any
foreign war unless the King allows him, which it is not thought
he will do. Great companies are levied in divers parts of
France. One half of the King's reiters are paid and discharged, and the other half remain on the frontiers, within
ten leagues of the Duke of Guise. It is thought that the
assembly of the States shall be held when the King will be
assisted with 200 gentlemen of his household, armed with
pistols, 1,200 Swiss, and other forces. The Duke of Guise has
caused two captains of the religion, named La Chappelle and
Du Mo . . . ., to be slain.—Paris, by letters of 3 Oct. 1576. |
|
Mutilated by damp. Endd. P. 1. |
| Oct. 4. |
949. Mr. Colshill to Lord Burghley. |
|
The plague is universally spread in all places in Germany,
and shrewdly is this town infected, and so it is said of Italy,
especially of Milan and Venice. The Bishop of Cologne from
the Pope has dispensation to marry and to resign his bishopric
to the son of the Duke of Bavaria, who is a Bishop and Canon
here, and to retain the electorship and other seignories. This
is denied of the Chapter as contrary to their privileges, as the
Canons are all dukes and earls; it is thought that this will
prove a bloody cause in Germany, for that both parties be
greatly friended and allied. The Pope and the Emperor stand
for the Bishop to be Elector, and the same to be for ever
annexed to his house. Begs that he may be paid his fee for
the general stewardship of Somerset and Dorset. His charges
are so great that he cannot continue the same without his
Lordship's favourable help.—Cologne, 4 Oct. 1576. Signed. |
|
Add. Endd., with seal. Pp. 1½. |
| Oct. 4. |
950. Order by the Estates of Brabant. |
|
Understanding that there is in the hands of Jehan van
Steenwincle, receiver of the town of Antwerp, a sum of 60,000
florins, proceeding from the revenues of the said town; as
money is urgently required for the King's service on account
of the war, they require him to deliver the said sum, for
which they promise repayment in three months to William
le Rouche, Receiver-General of Brabant.—Brussels, 4 Oct.
1576. |
|
Copy. Endd. Fr. P. 1¼. |
| Oct. 7. |
951. George Gascoigne to Burghley. |
|
The jealousy grows every day greater and greater that
France will deal with the Low Countries. The King and
Queen Mother are this day departed out of this town, the
Queen Mother towards Monsieur, and the King upon pleasure,
as it is said. His reiters march, and are already beyond
Verdun, which is the direct way towards the Low Countries.
The money to make them march was borrowed upon credit,
and can assure him that the Duke of Arschot's agent was one
of them which became correspondent. The said agent is
yesterday departed hence in post upon a great sudden, having
lain in the house where he "hosted" more than twelve months
past. His secretary, who yet remains, seems to be much perplexed in such sort that he fears somewhat amiss on that
side. The Duke of Nevers levies a company of footmen, and
Monsieur another, both to go towards the Low Countries. The
King seems evil content with his brother's doings, and therefore the Queen Mother pretends to go to him; the King
pretends also to assist the King of Spain. The Duke of Guise
is expected to lead the reiters, and is presently near about
them. M. de Soure is yet behind in the Low Countries.
Trusts shortly to understand more, for to-morrow he goes
towards the Low Countries. Beseeches him to procure stay
of process in a suit before the Court of Wards till his return.
—Paris, 7 October 1576. Signed. |
|
Add. Endd. P. 1. |
| Oct. 11. |
952. Arrest of Portuguese Goods. |
|
List of sums of money arising from the sale of Portuguese
goods granted to different English men in recompense for their
goods arrested in Portugal, amounting to 20,300li.—11 Oct.
1576. |
|
With notes in Burghley's writing. Endd. Pp. 12/3. |
| Oct. 12. |
953. Sir Amias Paulet to Burghley. |
|
Will not trouble him with the tedious discourse of his proceedings with the French King and Queen, and the Queen
Mother as well, because the ordinary course of those dealings
is well known to him, and also that he shall be made acquainted, no doubt, with his letters addressed to the Queen
to that purpose. Found them in outward appearance to
nourish amity, and to that purpose received as great and ample
promises as could be delivered. The treasons and dissimulations of this Court are thought to be as deep and dangerous
as at any time heretofore. Finds many good men, singularly
affected to religion, who have received him with great affection,
and will deal roundly and confidently with him. Has spoken
with La Noüe and young Plessis, and is already entered into
good acquaintance in the Palace. Being unskilful and unexpert in these matters, thinks it very likely in this first
entry he has committed many faults. Sends a note of such
things as he can learn at this present.—Paris, 12 October
1576. Signed. |
|
Add., with seal. Endd. P. 2/3. |
| Oct. 12. |
954. Advertisements from Paris. |
|
Monsieur is possessed wholly by his Chancellor and Bussy
d'Amboise, both wicked and pernicious men, whereof one is
promised a cardinal's hat and the other is at the devotion of
the King. By their cunning dealing it is out of doubt
Monsieur is reconciled to the King, and will come to the Court,
himself having said no less to La Noüe. It is also practised
to make amity between Monsieur and the Guises, and to
exclude Montmorency. Monsieur having sent to the King
of Spain and other Princes, has at last been intreated by the
importunate suit of his friends to send to the Queen. He is
entertained by them of the religion only in appearance,
whereby to make the profit of him that may be, and the King
of Navarre and the Prince are entertained by them in effect.
Monsieur is incensed against them of the religion by all the
arguments that may be devised, and principally by three
reasons. First, that the stronger part of the realm consists
of Catholics, and therefore in supporting the Protestants he
loses the credit of the contrary party, and so excludes himself from the possibility to be King of France. Secondly,
that it is made a maxim with them of the religion not to
embrace with sincerity any that make profession of Papacy,
and therefore he is not to look further at their hands than
shall serve for their advantage. Thirdly, that they have
made their vaunts that by their only help he has attained to
his greatness, and that he holds his appanage as of them.
Monsieur will do nothing for the matters of Flanders unless
the King will avow him, which it is not thought he will do.
The Protestants have been persuaders of this enterprise, with
opinion that there is no other means to entertain peace in
France, alleging that the greatness of the King of Spain and
his intelligence in this Court is the chief cause of the troubles
here, but has been advertised that they wax cold, and think
it more their surety first to quiet their own fire at home and
then to help their neighbours abroad as they may. Great
companies are levied in divers parts of this realm by the Duke
of Guise, Bussy d'Amboise, and others, and four regiments
under the conduct of Grillon, Beauvais, Nangis, Brichanteau,
and Martinengo, Italian, which have been broken of late, are
suddenly returned again. The cause of these preparations is
thought to be, first, that this force shall serve to good purpose
to authorise the Estates where the Catholics pretend to do
great things, and then they are at their liberty to succour the
King of Spain or his adversaries, as they shall see cause.
One half of the King's reiters are paid and discharged with
300,000 francs, borrowed of some merchants, the other half
remaining yet in the frontiers, within ten leagues of the
house where the Duke of Guise is. It is thought the assembly
of the Estates will hold, where the King will be assisted with
200 gentlemen of his household, armed with pistols, 1,200
Swiss, and 12 cornets of reiters, besides other great forces
levied by the Duke of Guise, under colour to go into Flanders
to help the Spaniards. The Duke of Guise has caused two
captains who had borne arms for the religion to be slain;
divers others are fled for fear. Don John of Austria is at the
Court of Spain, where he requires the absolute government of
the Low Countries, to dispose of all things there at his
pleasure, and otherwise will not come thither. If the troubles
in Flanders had not happened, 6,000 harquebussiers had been
sent into the county of the Count Palatine. The Queen
Mother proceeds towards Monsieur to Tours, and from thence
to Cognac to the King of Navarre, and will not fail to do all
she can to bring him also to the Court; but many good men
will let it if they can, and yet Duras, one of the trusty
servants of that King, is won to their purpose. |
|
Endd. Pp. 2. Enclosure. |
| Oct. 12. |
955. Sir Amias Paulet to Walsingham. |
|
1. Sends a copy of his letter to the Queen, that he may see
his errors and excuse him, praying him to advertise him
plainly and sharply of his faults, and he shall find him a
willing scholar. Must confess he does many things he knows
not what, wherein his only comfort is that by his means they
may receive favourable interpretation. De la Noüe, young
Plessis, and he met by appointment half a mile out of the
town, where La Noüe discoursed with him of many things, but
thought he dealt not so roundly in the matter of Flanders
as in other things, but is informed by his secret and good
friends that he waxes cold. The Ambassador for Scotland
has been with him, prays to be advertised how he shall use
himself towards him. |
|
2. Thanks him for his letter to M. Gondi and M. Pinart,
but M. Changy is with the Prince of Condé. Grows to be
prettily acquainted with the great master of the palace, and
some of his old acquaintances have found him out already.
The late sickness of his wife and children of the small pox
is sufficient excuse that she paid not her duty to the Queen
before her departure. Gascoigne has departed towards Flanders. M. du Pin, once secretary to the Cardinal of Chatillon,
comes into England, he seems not unworthy of his favour
and has good credit with M. de la Noüe. This Court and
country was never so full of treason as it is at this present,
and it is to be feared lest the just judgment of God be not
far off.—Paris, 12 October 1576. Signed. |
|
3. P.S.—Has been so troubled with entertaining the Ambassadors of other nations, and especially of those of the
religion, that he has been forced to make his despatches by
night. Some say the "occurrents" are much abused in
England, and that the French Ambassador is acquainted with
the most part of them, which oftentimes breeds discredit to
the Ambassador among his own countrymen. All provisions for
horse and man are excessively dear, and especially wines,
that have failed this year in the most part of France. Can
be undone but once, and this is all the hope he has of any
other comfort. Prays his advice if he may be bold to ask
allowance for his wife's transportation, carriage, and post
horses, which seems very reasonable, because she is part of
his train, Mr. Dale affirming that it ought to be paid of
right, and that for his part he will have it. The Ambassador of Savoy reports that the Duke of Guise levies great
forces in Italy, but to what end he knows not. La Noüe is
of opinion to have the Low Countries divided between the
Queen of England, the Princes of Germany, and the Princes
of this realm, and that Zealand and Holland should remain
with the Queen. Said he should do well to move this matter
when he sent to the Queen to recommend the observation
of the Edict to the Estates. Prays him let Du Pin know
he recommended him, because he deals well with him. It
may please him to remember La Noüe is not in his cipher.
Dale has intreated his messenger might have the packet and
could not deny him. |
|
Add. Endd. Pp. 2¼. |
| Oct. 13. |
956. Dale and Paulet to the Queen. |
|
1. Paulet arrived in Paris on the 3rd, Gondy repaired to them
the next day with commendations from the King and declaring he would give audience to them the Sunday following.
The Queen Mother was resolved to take her journey towards
Monsieur on the Monday, and it is said she had entered into
her journey this last week, if she had not attended Paulet's
coming. She is departed, and the King with her, on Monday
last. |
|
2. At the Court a chamber was provided for them, where
the gentlemen of their trains were received with them at
dinner and were well used. Immediately after dinner they
repaired to the King in his bed chamber, where Dale declared
that he had been at his suit discharged of the office of Ambassador, and that she had chosen Sir Amias Paulet descended
of good parentage, and who had served her many years in
the Isle of Jersey, to reside as Ambassador, and who would
do his best endeavour to preserve the amity, and not fail to
consider the tranquillity and profit of both realms, and therefore prayed him to accept him with as much favour as he
customably used towards other of his calling. The King,
being glad to hear of her good inclination to continue the
amity, and her choice of a gentleman so well qualified, received
him very courteously. Then Paulet said he was resolved to
do his uttermost to fulfil her command to observe the amity,
and prayed him that if at any time by evil suggestion he
might be moved to conceive otherwise of him that he would
suspend his judgment till he had received his answer, which
he doubted not would content him, and said that he should
consider himself a vile and miserable creature if he did not
do his best goodwill not only to continue but also to increase
the peace. The King answered that he desired nothing more
than to keep friendly intelligence with her, and thanked her
for the choice of him, receiving him thankfully. |
|
3. Being informed of sundry cruel outrages committed in this
town against them of the religion; and being also advertised
by De la Noüe that it was resolved to violate the Edict at
the assembly of the Estates, and that the House of Guise has
stirred up many sinister practices to full effect, and being
earnestly requested in that behalf by De la Noüe, Paulet
thought it good to say somewhat (wherein, if he offended, upon
advertisement thereof he will avoid to commit the like here
after), affirming to him that those Princes which shall advise
him to violate his promise made to his subjects desire nothing
more than to see fire and sword within his realm, and by his
utter loss to serve their own turns, and that she had already
felt to her great grief and displeasure that these troubles
were prejudicial to her subjects, and that through the licentiousness of the civil war her merchants travelling the seas
were daily molested and vexed, and finally prayed him that
his word and promise be the word and promise of a sacred
prince. The King declared to him he had not forgotten the
former troubles and miseries of his realm, and trusted never
to fall into the like again; he found his country possessed
with discord at his first coming to the crown, but he was now in
good peace with his subjects and would do his best endeavours
to conserve the same. |
|
4. Then Dale declared to him that he could not be ignorant
of the cruel and outrageous cruelty used against the poor
Protestants of Paris, a dangerous example to the other parts of
the realm and a great discouragement of his subjects that make
open profession of religion upon confidence of his Edict, unless
some speedy remedy be provided and the principal offenders
punished. He answered that he had already given order to the
Provost of Paris and other to take order that the like outrage
be not committed hereafter, and also to punish the delict
already committed. This is the sum of their proceedings with
the King, from whom they were conducted to the Queen
Mother's chamber, where they found her accompanied by the
French Queen, where, upon information from Dale to like
effect as was before said to the King, Paulet delivered her
her letters, wherein he used the like speech to her touching
the amity as he made to the King, and then prayed her to
think that no Princess in the world was better affected towards
her than she, and that she was no less assured of the Queen
Mother's good affection. Said it was a thing most reasonable
there should be a good and firm amity between them as
Princesses which have the reputation throughout the world
to be the highest in authority and the rarest and most excellent in wisdom and good government, although the same
have appeared in contrary actions. She had so governed her
country since her first coming to the crown that she had
not felt the smart of troubles at home or abroad, but the
Queen Mother's government had been mingled with many
anxious broils, but she had appeased the same with such
dexterity that the realm was restored to its former quietness; the merchants travelled without peril, the peasant
followed the plough, and the whole nobility with one mind
endeavoured to serve their King with all fidelity. As she
had the honour of this happy peace so she was the only hope
for the conservation of the same, the world knew right well
the sword of this realm was committed to her, and that she
alone could make peace and conserve it. The Queen Mother
answered that she rejoiced to hear of her inclination to cherish
the amity, and finding him so well affected thereto could not
but accept him in very good part, that she was the Princess
she loved and honoured most, for plain declaration whereof
she had proffered to her her sons, her chief and principal
jewels and that the fault was not in her there was no more
done in those matters, and that she would so behave herself
to the conservation of the common peace that the Queen shall
find her good opinion of her is not frustrate. |
|
5. Then Dale besought her to have consideration of the
insolent dealing of those of this city against those of the
religion, and to conserve that which she had already procured. She answered that order was taken therein, and the
offenders should have their due punishment, and trusted the
like should not be committed hereafter. |
|
6. Having ended with her, Dale drew near to the French
Queen and signified to her his return, and that he doubted
not Paulet would be welcome to her. Then Paulet presented
the Queen's hearty commendations to her and told her she
desired much to hear of her good health and prosperous estate,
and was right glad to hear of her good inclination to conserve
peace at home and abroad. She received the message with
great thankfulness, saying that her husband desired nothing
more than to keep amity with the Queen and his subjects. |
|
7. Mention having been made of the insolencies of those
of this town against the Protestants, they think good to
describe to her the particularities thereof. Those returning
from their preaching were received by 1,500, or by estimation
more, of the common people of the city, whereof some threw
stones from the ramparts and others, having stones in their
hands, struck and hurt many of them very grievously, others
had their cloaks taken away, and some their purses, women
had their heads uncovered and were thrown to the ground,
other women were carried to the next church with violence
and there constrained to kneel to images and renounce their
religion. They omit to make mention of their words of
reproach and other blasphemies, which were very odious.
The greatest peril was, being entered within the bridge and
the portcullis of the gate closed against them, they looked
assuredly for a second massacre, and many put themselves
on their knees and made their prayers to God. Then the
Provost of the Merchants and three or four of his fellowship
came to the gate and caused the portcullis to be raised, giving
the people access into the town, but this was done so coldly
that the fury of the people was thereby rather emboldened
to commit the like outrage at some other time than dismayed
for that they had done already. On Sunday last, by order
of the King, horsemen were disposed in the highways adjoining
the city to withstand the insolency of the people, which was
the more easily done because all the women and many of the
men of the religion did forbear to resort to the preaching.—
Paris, 13 October 1576. Signed. |
|
Copy. Pp. 7½. |
| Oct. 13. |
957. Dale to Burghley. |
|
The ambassador has been very favourably received. The
Queen Mother understands the Guises prepare all the forces
they can make both in Picardy, Champagne, and Burgundy,
which she supposes to be done by the privity of the King against
Monsieur and indirectly against herself, and therefore she thinks
it best to keep her friends on the other side. Whereas the
King would be contented to set forward Monsieur and his
friends towards the Low Countries, more to get rid of them
and weaken their party than for any hope or will he has to
do good, understands she is inclined to let that voyage and
keep the strength of Monsieur about him. She appoints also
to go to Cognac to take some order between the King of
Navarre and his wife, which matter she tenders very much,
and yet will it be a very hard thing to do, for, although he
makes countenance to be desirous to have his wife, yet he
minds it not indeed, but thinks the refuse should come from
her, and she of her part would not come to him in any wise,
wherewith the Queen Mother is much grieved and travails to
content him and get her requests of the King. The Prince of
Condé is in St. Jean d'Angeli, and solicits the King very
earnestly both for himself and for them of the religion; the
King answers him in courteous terms. One Fremming is
sent into the Low Countries to proffer the Estates to serve
them with 5,000 harquebussiers and 2,000 horsemen, with
instructions to demand present money to set them in the
field, to agree upon their entertainment by the month, to
appoint the time and place of rendezvous near some town, to
back them if they should be constrained to fight, to have the
advantage of the field for doubt of such mischance as happened to Genlis. The Prince of Condé and La Noüe are willing
to go into the Low Countries if the King would set them
forth, and Monsieur is content to send Bussy d'Amboise,
insomuch that Bussy has sent out commissions to levy
men for the voyage. The King entertains them with talk,
and could be content to be rid of them, but is well advertised
he is not minded to deal that way. Notwithstanding he
sends Silvanus, a man born in the Low Countries and well
acquainted in all places there, to learn the affections of every
town there and the means they have to defend themselves
against the Spaniards, and what forces the Spaniards have
whereby to judge if they may be driven out and the King
able to set foot in any of the towns. Is in his way homewards.—Clermont, 13 October 1576. Signed. |
|
Add. Endd. Pp. 2. |
| Oct. 13. |
958. The Prince of Orange to the Lords of the Council. |
|
As these matters between him and the Merchant Adventurers would have been greatly embittered if it had not
been for their prudence, he remits himself to the good
judgment and advice of her Majesty and her Council. He
therefore sends over M. Taffin fully instructed, to whom he
refers them.—Middleburg, 13 Oct. 1576. Signed. |
|
Add. Endd. Fr. P. 1. |
| Oct. 13. |
959. Instructions for Jacques Taffin sent into England on
the part of the Prince of Orange and the Estates
of Holland and Zealand. |
|
He is to declare the extreme regret of the Prince at hearing
that her Majesty has conceived some indignation against
him and the States, and in order that she may be truly
informed of the state of affairs he has informed Winter and
Beale of all that has happened from the commencement,
besides giving them letters in which is shown his intention
of always conforming himself to her Majesty's pleasure.
Mons. Villiers has informed them of the Queen's promise to
release the ships of war and other vessels which have been
detained. There remain however two points in suspense,
that is to say, the contract between the Prince and the
Merchant Adventurers for the loan of 253,000 florins and
certain pieces of light ordnance; secondly, the terms on
which the English ships can be allowed to traffic with
Flanders. They have therefore sent Taffin to the Queen,
that after hearing their complaints and explanations she may
succour them, and also that he may explain matters to the
Privy Council. It is true that since the beginning of these
troubles the English merchants under colour of traffic have
greatly assisted their enemies with victuals and munitions,
and likewise by false charter parties, attestations, and other
deceits enabled them to get what they wanted to the ruin
of the common cause. To stop these frauds the goods of the
said merchants were seized and adjudged lawful prize by the
Admiralty of Zealand, whereupon they have had recourse to
calumniations, and by means of false representation have
obtained letters of marque and reprisals. The truth of this
matter was explained to Mr. Rogers, the Queen's envoy sent
over to complain of these arrests, who was unable to say
anything against them. On the other hand the Prince and
the States, though much solicited, have never sought to make
reprisals for the wrongs done to Hollanders by the English.
Matters standing in these terms at the time of the siege of
Zericksee, it was found expedient according to the usages of
war to stop all vessels of what nations soever, and on this
occasion certain ships of the Merchant Adventurers were
stayed. Thereupon those to whom the four vessels belonged
which had been detained in England, and whose release had
been often promised, sought that they should be kept as
pledges until their ships were set at liberty and other similar
wrongs redressed. As in addition the English were fitting
out vessels against them, it was deemed expedient that the
ships should be detained until the Queen might be informed
of the truth of these matters. Taffin is to desire the Queen
and her Council to stay all traffic with the Low Countries or
at least, if that prove too prejudicial to her subjects, that she
will permit them to constrain them to anchor in Holland or
Zealand. As for the assurance that the Queen requires that
those of Flushing shall not injure her subjects, in regard to
the past the Prince begs her humbly to consider how difficult
it is to control people at sea (a matter not unknown to her
and her Council), and for the future, having withdrawn all his
permissions to go to sea, he hopes there will be no further
occasions for complaint. Finally Taffin is to show the
Council the state of affairs and the affection that they have
to obey Her Majesty; and also how difficult it is for the
Prince to rule when he is not sovereign, and where the continuance of the war depends on the will and liberality of the
people. He is to beg the Queen not lightly to believe evil
reports against them, and to assure her of their goodwill
towards her.—Flushing, 13 Oct. 1576. Signed: Guillem de
Nassau. |
|
Endd. Fr. Pp. 9. |
| Oct. 14. |
960. Francisco Giraldi to Lord Burghley. |
|
The Judge of the Admiralty has informed him in writing
of his Lordship's will, and he has caused him to understand
the substance of his reply. Will send his secretary to let
him know what further he may be able to do.—Certosa
[Chertsey], 14 Oct. 1576. Signed. |
|
Add. Endd., with seal. Ital. P. 1. |
| Oct. 15. |
961. M. de Mauvissiere to Walsingham. |
|
Recommends to him the bearer who is sent to England
touching a ship laden with Spanish wines, the property of
Pierre Lacheray of Rouen, withholden by Lord Clinton.
Prays him to cause expedition thereof.—London, 15 Oct. 1576.
Signed. |
|
Add., with seal. Endd. by Walsingham. Fr. P. ¾. |
| Oct. 15. |
962. M. de Mauvissiere to Walsingham. |
|
Recommends the suit of Jehan Durant, of Quillebœuf for
a ship withholden by Captain Leighton, captain of Jersey,
and begs him also to have in mind the suit of Peter Brosse,
merchant of Rouen, for salt sold by Sir Arthur Champernoun.
—London, 15 October 1576. Signed. |
|
Add., with seal. Endd. by Walsingham. Fr. P. 1. |
| Oct. 15. |
963. M. de Mauvissiere to Walsingham. |
|
Recommends the suits of Pierre Chambellan, who demands
restitution of four ships laden with salt, and of Jacques
Pinchon, charged by certain Rouen merchants to seek restitution of a ship named "La Loyse," laden with "Newland
fish" (cod) of the value of upwards of 20,000 livres Tournois (all of which were taken, as reported, by Jehan Callis
and his consorts.)—London, Oct. 15, 1576. Signed. |
|
Add. Endd. Fr. P. 1. |
| Oct. 1. |
964. Piracy. |
|
Copies of depositions taken before certain magistrates of
Rouen and Caudebec to prove the taking of the four ships
claimed by Pierre Chambellan. |
|
Endd. by Walsingham. Fr. Pp. 23½. Enclosure. |
| [Oct. 15.] |
965. Petition of Pierre Chambellan and others to M. de Manvissiere praying his assistance to recover the ships laden with
salt taken by the English, restitution of which was promised
by Dale in three months. |
|
Endd. by Walsingham. P. 1. Enclosure. |
| Oct. |
966. Petition of Jacques Pinchon to the same effect with
regard to "La Loyse," laden with cod. |
|
Endd. by Walsingham. Fr. P. 1. Enclosure. |
