|
| Feb. 16. |
1269. Paulet to Burghley. |
|
It is thought the King will take good leisure to answer
the Cahiers exhibited by the Estates, the demands of the
nobility being such that he shall have Nomen Regis sine re
if he grant them, and those of the third Estate not easy to be
observed if wars ensue, as disposing of spiritual promotions,
selling of offices, and such like. The Protestants have been
admitted in so small number to the Estates that their voices
have gone for nothing, the deputies having been especially
appointed and named by those of the contrary party, and yet
the King finds to his pain that the Estates are general and
free, as may appear by their free demands. The King has persuaded with the Estates in consideration of their great charges
to leave 12 for every Estate to receive his answers, and the rest
to depart. The nobility and clergy yielded unto it, but the third
Estate refused with great and high words, concluding that they
had no such commission. The new league or association is put in
practice in all parts of this realm, the consequence whereof
may seem to be of great and imminent peril, not only to the
Protestants of the realm, but to all other of like profession.
The intelligences between France and Spain were never greater
and straiter than at this present, and therefore good for them
to care for their neighbours lest when they be in trouble none
shall remain that care for them. If reason and judgment do
not suffice to move them to provide for their surety by succoring their distressed neighbours, yet necessity will force them to
learn that their own arm cannot defend them, and their safety
consists chiefly in their union of foreign nations of like profession. Bussy d'Amboise, Governor of Angers under Monsieur,
has been long looked for at the Court, and now at the last is
reputed for a malcontent. The castle of Angers has been
shut against him by his lieutenant, and he now lies at Pont de
Cè, as his only place of succour and refuge. Puygalliard is
sent to Angers with six companies of footmen. Mauvissiere
wrote to the King on the 20th, saying him that the English
hearing the resolution of the Estates with regard to religion
have made ready as if for some great enterprise, and warning
him to keep good watch on the coast. Is advertised that in
the beginning of January, Fitzmorris remained quietly in the
town, and did not make any preparations for the sea. The
King has promised the President of Bordeaux and the deputies
of Guienne to come in person to those parts. The ambassadors
of Casimir are said to be at Nancy in Lorraine. M. d'Humays
and all his company are returned from La Charité with the
loss of their labour. M. de Guitery scours the country with
his light horsemen, and has intercepted divers of the King's
packets from Rome and other places. Charatier, secretary to
Danville, is said to have taken 1,000 crowns in reward at his
late being at the Court, and at his return has received his
last reward at Montpellier, where he was hanged. The young
Bricquemault having assembled some forces and intending to
join with Clemont d'Amboise was suddenly killed in his house.
The deputies of the King of Navarre were dismissed the 13th,
and were willed to declare that the King was resolved to have
but one only religion in his realms. Though it may appear
the King of Navarre answered the Estates in milder terms
than the Prince of Condé, yet is he resolutely bent to defend
the cause of religion, and has taken this course in his dealings
upon good and deliberate advice, only to avoid some hard
sentence that might have been pronounced against him by
the Estates, and to entertain his good friends which are in
good number amongst them in good opinion towards him. It
is said that the Duke of Saxe, seeing the Emperor obstinately
bent to extirpe all other religion than the Romish, will essay
to elect some Protestant prince as King of the Romans, and
that doubting lest if the Spaniards were in good quiet he
might be a block in his way, the Duke will assist the Estates
of the Low Countries, and to these purposes he and the Duke
of Brandenburg have in readiness 40 cornets of reiters. The
Queen of Navarre keeps her chamber, grieved in one of her
legs with a disease thought to be incurable. The Bishop of
Paris is departed towards his brother the Count de Retz yet
in Provence, who is said to continue in extremity of sickness,
and to have lost his hearing.—St. Die, 16 February 1576.
Signed. |
|
Add., with seal. Endd. Pp. 3. |
| Feb. 1. |
1270. The King of Navarre to the Estates. |
|
Copy of the letter, No. [ ] of the same date.
Enclosure. Fr. Pp. 1¼. |
| Feb. 16. |
1271. Paulet to Walsingham. |
|
Has been content at the request of a friend to take the
charge of this French packet, and yet thought good to be
assured the Queen should receive the advertisements before
the delivery of the packet, therefore has required the bearer
to deliver the same to him, praying him to take order for its
conveyance to the French Ambassador. Trusts he remembers
Mr. Jacomo's pension. Is very sorry to hear he leaves the
Court for a season, fearing lest the poor churches of God in
France and Flanders will repent his absence; God increase
his health and preserve him therein.—St. Die, 16th February
1576. Signed. |
|
Add. Endd. P. ¾. |
|
1272. Mr. Heneage to Paulet. |
|
His service is very acceptable at the Court, and will satisfy
the expectation of the best, which opinion to have and to
deserve is not common. Hears from Court they are certainly
come to an accord in Flanders. Prays him return the bearer
within 10 or 12 days.—London, 2 February 1576. |
|
Copy. Enclosure. P. 2/3. |
| Feb. 16. |
1273. Dr. Wilson to Walsingham. |
|
Though Don John has sent his mind in writing to the
Bishop of Liege of his conformity to the accord, and sent to
the States to deal for a full end of all things, the States will
not deal as yet with his deputies until they have received an
answer from the Prince of Orange of his mind. It is said
that the Prince will shortly be at Ghent, and Don John comes
to Namur and on to Louvain. Many of the wiser sort, and
such as are inclined to the Prince, begin greatly to conceive
a suspicion of Don John's dealings. It is to be feared that
some great matter will fall out shortly, and some begin to
say plainly "nolumus hunc regnare super nos," but desire
rather that one of the Emperor's brethren shall take the
place, one that is lawfully born and not wrongly begotten,
yea, and one that is less transformed into a Spaniard's nature.
Thinks there is no great hope of peace before the fortresses
are delivered up and the Spaniards marching beyond Luxembourg. Sends the capitulations given by Count Bossu to the
captains and soldiers at Utrecht the 9th inst. Whereas
Francisco de Leon and Gonsalvo de Raddondo are reserved,
the Countess of Egmont has gone hither to entreat that they
may not be delivered until her son be fully discharged, not
having the best opinion of Don John. Sends the Prince's instructions to MM. Haultain and Mansarde given on the 7th
inst.; also a doleance to the King, which he is never like to
see. Has desired Swevenghem to deal with the States for
the enlargement of Sympson and others of Cotton's company
at Nieuport. The French Ambassador, being chief chamberlain to the Duke of Alençon, was set on by his master to do
as he has done and never by the King. The King, fearing
his brother's greatness, took displeasure with M. de Mondoucet,
his ambassador here, that he should proceed so far without
commission. M. de Haleyan, the chronicler and secretary to
the King, being here of late for the enlargement of Count
Mansfeldt, bears such hatred to Mondoucet, as at his being
here he said he would do his errand to the King to make him
feel the smart.—Brussels, 16 Feb. 1577. Signed. |
|
Add. Endd. Pp. 2. |
| Feb. 9. |
1274. Terms of Surrender of the Citadel of Utrecht. |
|
The garrison may march out with their arms and baggage,
and shall be safely conducted to the next Spanish garrison,
together with those who are in the citadel who are not
soldiers, except Francisco de Leon and Gonsalvo de Raddondo.
The castle, with all munitions of war and provisions, is to be
delivered over to Count Bossu.—Utrecht, 9 Feb. 1577. |
|
Copy. Endd. Enclosure. Fr. P. 1. |
| Feb. 17. |
1275. Publication of the Perpetual Edict at Brussels. |
|
Publication at Brussels in the King's name of the Perpetual Edict confirming the pacification of Ghent, consisting
of 19 articles, providing for the departure of the Spanish and
German soldiers, amnesty for the past, and the delivery of
prisoners, maintenance of the Catholic religion, also of all
privileges and rights pertaining to the Low Countries, together
with the reception of Don John as the Governor.—Brussels,
17 Feb. 1577. |
|
Endd. by Burghley. Fr. Pp. 15¼. |
|
1276. Copy of the above. |
|
Endd. Fr. Pp. 10. |
|
1277. Second and eighteenth articles of the above. |
|
Fr. Pp. 2⅓. |
| Feb. 17. |
1278. Negotiations between Don John and the Prince of
Orange. |
|
1. Don John demands—1.—The publication of the Edict of
peace in Holland and Zealand. 2. That they should show
him what further assurance they would have for their surety,
and they shall be satisfied therein. 3. That the Prince of
Orange should cease from fortifying, and should disarm, as
his goods and honours are restored to him, and the Spaniards
departed the country, which were the two only causes of his
entering into arms. |
|
2. The Prince of Orange and the States of Holland and
Zealand reply—1. That they will not assent to the publication,
as the conditions on which they agreed to do so have not
been fulfilled. 2. They require no other assurance but the
accomplishment of the pacification of Ghent. 3. That the
loss of his goods and honours, and the Spaniards being in the
country, were not the only causes of his entering into arms,
but the maintenance of the liberties of the country, which are
not yet restored, neither is he restored to his goods and
honours as alleged. |
|
Points wherein the pacification of Ghent is not accomplished. |
|
1. All foreign soldiers are not voided the country, as the
Almains remain. |
|
2. The Prince's lands and honours are not yet restored to
him. |
|
3. The Count of Buren is not sent home to him. |
|
4. The Prince's government is not rendered to him in such
sort as he had it by commission from his Majesty. |
|
5. The deputies of the States have submitted the assembly
of the States General to Don John's pleasure, which is directly
contrary to the pacification and priviliges. |
|
6. They of the religion are not received into their dwelling
places without molestation. |
|
7. They have admitted Don John to the Government without
the consent of the Prince and the States of Holland and
Zealand. |
|
8. Don John is suffered to have strangers about him
contrary to the pacification of Marche-en-Famine. |
|
9. Divers strangers and factious men are suffered about him,
who have been great authors of the former troubles, as Octavio
Gonzaga, Fernando Nunez, &c. |
|
A new Inquisition brought into the country whereby no
man escapes without trouble for his conscience. |
|
The condition on which the Prince and the States of Holland
and Zealand consented to agree to the pacification was that
the States General should be bound to them in sufficient
bonds, signed and sealed with their hands and those of the
governors of the provinces, and all captains and colonels, that
they would see the pacification of Ghent really and effectually
fulfilled from point to point, and take order for the redress of
anything attempted against the rights, priviliges, and liberties
of the Low Countries. |
|
Endd.: 17 Feb. Fr. Pp. 2. |
| Feb. 19. |
1279. Dr. Wilson to Lord Burghley. |
|
Sends a copy of some articles of the peace. The peace was
published with sound of trumpet, Te Deum, and ringing of
the great bell, and yet with so little rejoicing that he takes it
for malum omen. Many will not be persuaded that the
Spaniards will go away, and a number are very sorry that
the Prince was not a doer in this peace. They send this day
Swevenghem and Meetekirke to the Prince not to ask counsel,
but to tell him what they have done. It is hard to say how
he will brook their dealings. His secret friends here wish
him to assent, but not to trust, putting him in hope that
somewhat will be done hereafter. Thinks that upon any
good advantage this peace will be broken either by the Prince
or Don John. The Earl of Westmorland, Stuckley, and
Jenye are come with the other rabble of rebels to Don John,
and use themselves very insolently against the Queen, as he
is informed by Mr. Powle's son. Has written to the Queen
for her letters against these lewd persons. The Bishop of
Liege has promised to take order against them.—Brussels,
19 Feb. 1577. Signed. |
|
Add. Endd. by Burghley. P. 1. |
| Feb. 18. |
1280. Dr. Wilson to the Queen. |
|
The long desired peace was proclaimed by sound of trumpet
in the Town House of Brussels yesterday, the copy whereof
he sends herewith. On the 15th it was agreed that the
accord should not be signed until the Prince of Orange had
been spoken withal and made acquainted with their doings;
but yesterday they went through with the peace and signed
it amongst themselves, purposing to send M. Swevenghem
and M. de Meetekirke to the Prince to show him all their proceedings, who is persuaded to allow their doings, so that the
act of pacification stands still in force. Went this day to
speak with the Duke, but could not, nor any other "propter
histernam crapulam," therefore he went to the Bishop of
Liege, and found him a very grave, wise man, and after congratulating him on the peace, prayed him to have regard to
certain evil strangers that lurked within his territories at
Liege, Hoye, and other places. He answered that there were
some English in some of his towns. Wilson told him that
they had committed actual rebellion in their own country,
and continued still in the same lewd mind without repentance
or seeking for grace, and therefore prayed that he would not
allow such evil-disposed people to be cherished within his
government. He said that such people were not fit to dwell
among Christians, being enemies to God and all good policy,
and desired to understand who they were that he might
cause them to remove out of his country altogether. Recommends the Queen to write to the Bishop, whom he hopes will
be as good as his word, as he seems a marvellously discreet
and godly man. This evening Champigny and a councillor
named Endevilde came from the Council of State to declare
this joyful news of the peace, and to express their thanks to
the Queen, as the chief cause of the peace, by aiding them
in their most need, which feared others from attempting to
quell them. As they confessed this goodness, he desired them
to remember it, and when Don John came to endeavour to
procure the banishment of the English rebels, which they
promised to do. Has been with Count Barliamont, Count
Mansfeldt, M. Dassonville, and Boissot, declaring that he had
been sent here from the Queen to know the cause of their
imprisonment, and to procure their enlargement, who, being
now all at liberty, thank her for her princely dealingBrussels, 18 Feb. 1577. Signed. |
|
Add. Endd. Pp. 2½. |
| Feb. 16 & 19. |
1281. English Merchants in the Low Countries. |
|
1. Request of certain English merchants to the Prince of
Orange that as they have already discharged the customary
dues at Antwerp they may be allowed to proceed on their
voyage without further detention or charges. |
|
2. Note in margin to the effect that they may be allowed
to proceed on giving caution for the payment of any further
dues for which they may be found lawfully liable.—Middleburg, 16 Feb. 1577. |
|
3. Extract from the treaty of 1507, defining the tolls to
which the subjects of England trading in the Low Countries
are liable. |
|
4. Note in margin by the Council.—Middleburg, 19 Feb.
1577. |
|
Fr. and Latin. P. 1. |
| Feb. 19. |
1282. Dr. Wilson to Walsingham. |
|
Informs him of the proclamation of the peace at Brussels,
and of the mission of M. Swevenghem and Adolphe de Mertekirke to the Prince of Orange. The greatest matter which
will trouble the Prince is the article of religion, which is
strangely agreed on by the States. Never saw so little
rejoicing for a peace, and the reason is that some do not like
these proceedings, because they tend to the destruction of the
Prince and the ruin of religion, and others think there is no
peace at all until the Spaniards be clean rid out of the
country. This is called the Duke of Arschot's peace, whose
soft and fearful nature has yielded to all things, and the rather
to keep out the Prince of Orange from the government here.
Has written to the burgomasters of Nieuport for the enlargement of Sypson. The Duke of Arschot goes on Tuesday next
towards Namur to bring Don John to Louvain. The French
Ambassador goes with him, in whose train he has sent Mr.
Fremin. The rebels swarm about Don John, being come
to him of late, the lewd Earl, Stuckley the Romanist, and
Jenye who was at Milan, besides the whole rabble of the rest.
Has given bills to the Council of State for their banishment,
and they have promised to deal earnestly with Don John.
The Bishop of Liege has promised that none shall rest where
he has government. It is said that the Prince is in possession
of Amsterdam.—Brussels, 19 Feb. 1577. Signed. |
|
Add. Endd., with seal. Pp. 1¾. |
| Feb. 19. |
1283. The Prince of Orange and the States of Holland and
Zealand to the States General. |
|
In reply to their request for their opinion on the conclusion
of the Edict of Pacification with Don John, they cannot but
approve of their zeal in endeavouring to obtain restoration of
peace and tranquility to their afflicted country, but considering the articles separately they are not so well satisfied, as
their ancient rights and privileges and the release of the Count
of Buren do not seem so well provided for as they might be,
and are contrary to the pacification of Ghent. Also the
approbation to them is not given simply and categorically, but
is subject to an infinity of cavillations similar to those which,
since the time of Madame de Parma, have led to a horrible
effusion of blood. They further find some points most prejudicial to the honour and reputation of the country, as they
are entering into a composition with those whom they have
declared to be scoundrels (schelms), villains, and rebels, and
who have leagued and plotted with the Spaniards. Besides,
the Queen of England and Monseigneur, who have behaved so
well to them in their trouble, should have received more
express and honourable mention than they have done. Also
they do not find in the said articles that any assurance is
provided for the inhabitants of Holland and Zealand, as was
done in the treaty at Breda and that of Ghent. Neither is
there any mention of restoring individuals to the enjoyment
of their properties and offices, either in the Low Countries or
in the Franche Comté of Burgundy. There is no mention of
the demolition of the citadels and castles which have been the
cause of infinite woes, which matter cannot but be suspected
by the people, so lately threatened at Hoye, who certainly ought
to be well assured for the future, when they will be disarmed,
and Don John will be governor of the country. Express their
surprise at the suddenness of this understanding with Don
John, especially after all the communications that have passed
between them. As, however, it is no use to debate about
matters already concluded, they promise that for their part
they will observe the terms of the pacification of Ghent, and
trust that they are ready to do the same. Will agree to the
present accord providing that the States General will give a
solemn promise that in the event of the Spaniards not withdrawing at the time appointed they will break off all further
negotiations with Don John and proceed to drive them out by
force of arms, and that they will not recognise Don John or
any one else for governor until all points that may be prejudicial to the stipulations of the Pacification of Ghent may be
satisfied.—Middleburg, 19 Feb. 1577. |
|
Copy. Endd. Enclosure. Fr. Pp. 5½. |
| Feb. |
1284. The Prince of Orange to Dr. Wilson. |
|
Thanks him for his advertisement of what has passed in
England between M. de Gastle and certain English captains,
and also for his advice concerning the pacification with Don
John, which entirely agrees with the resolution that they have
already come to, a copy of which he encloses, by which he
may see that his sole intention is to procure the deliverance
of this country from oppression. Trusts that the Queen will
assist their just cause, seeing that in their preservation rests
the assured peace of England.—Middleburg, Feb. 1577.
Signed. |
|
Add. Endd.: Rece'd 24 Feb. Enclosure. Fr. P. 1. |
| Feb. 22. |
1285. Proclamation of the King of France calling out the
Gendarmerie. |
|
Fourteen companies are to assemble at Poitiers under
himself on the 25th March to march to Guienne, and on
the same day and at the same place nine companies under
the Count de Ludde for service in Poitou. On the 25th
March, at Bordeaux, under the Marquis de Villars, Admiral of
France, 23 companies at Bordeaux for such service as they
shall be required. On the 20th March, in Gien-sur-Loire, 18
companies under the Duke of Anjou. On the 25th March, at
Vallence, in Dauphiny, under the Sieur de Gordes, lieutenantgeneral of the province, 16 companies for such service as they
shall be required. On the 25th March, at Carcasonne, under
the Sieur de Joyeuse, lieutenant-general in Languedoc, five
companies for such service as they shall be required. For
service in Burgundy and Champagne, under the Duke of
Guise, when they shall be called upon, 28 companies are to be
in readiness. Other companies are to repair on the 25th
March to the governments of Picardy, Normandy, Brittany,
Haut Auvergne, Bas Auvergne, Limousin, and Angoumois.
All are to come with the greatest despatch possible, and none
shall receive pay who do not come with necessary equipment.
—Done at Blois, 22 February 1577. |
|
Endd. Fr. Large printed sheet. |
| Feb. 20. |
1286. The States of Poland to the Emperor. |
|
The Emperor's Ambassador is detained at Constantinople a
prisoner in his lodgings, and it is reported that the Turk
makes great preparations both by sea and land. Peace has
been entered into with the Venetians, whose ambassadors have
received presents of horses, robes, and Turkish swords. Three
thousand horse have been levied for the French King in
Germany. The Diet of the Emperor is deferred till April
on account of the election of the Emperor as King of Poland,
and perhaps may be put off longer. The Emperor hopes that
his second son Ernest will be elected by the States of Poland
as his coadjutor. The Emperor will require great subsidies at
this Diet.—20 Feb. 1576. |
|
Copy. Endd. Lat. and German. Pp. 1⅓. |
| Feb. 20. |
1287. The King of Denmark to the Queen. |
|
Requesting the apprehension of one Zacharie Loach, his
subject, who having taken up great sums of money by counterfeiting his hand and seal has fled into her dominions. |
|
Copy extract. Endd. P. ¼. |
| Feb. 20. |
1288. Advertisements from Hoye. |
|
1. There have been divers practices with Don John by Sir
Francis Englefield and the Countess of Northumberland as
concerning the Queen of Scots, who have let him understand
that with a small number of horsemen upon the sudden it is
very easy to carry her away. Gabriel Dennis is the solicitor
of the matter for the said Sir Francis Englefield to Escovedo,
and he the means to Don John. There have been of late in
Namur many Englishmen, but since the writer's coming all
gone but Sir Francis Englefield, who is hid in a nunnery. |
|
2. Don John has within three leagues of Hoy 2,000 reiters,
five ensigns of Almains, two ensigns of Walloons, besides one
of Spaniards, and the ordinary bands of Luxembourg and
Burgundy. |
|
3. The following are ready upon sending for. |
|
First, Count Hannibal, the nephew of Pius IV., has levied
30 ensigns of footmen; also in Burgundy 3,000 footmen.
Brunswick has prest to levy 10,000 footmen and 5,000 horsemen. |
|
Endd. by Burghley. P. 2/3. |
| Feb. 22. |
1289. Release of Prisoners. |
|
Whereas the States General of the Low Countries have
given in charge to M. Buchoaytha, Archdeacon of Ypres, and
to the councillor, Jean Gilles, to repair to John Escovedo to
understand what day were fittest to be appointed for the
Spaniards to go out of the towns and forts according to the
treaty lately concluded; they entering into talk of the enlargement of prisoners on both sides, Escovedo desired
particularly that Dr. del Rio, Hamilton a Scot, Paul de
Somere, Lady Mondragon, and other persons detained at
Mechlin might be set at liberty, and in exchange he would
deliver the Count of Egmont and other persons detained at
Lierre. Escovedo being put in mind that Hamilton was a
stranger, answered that he must be set at liberty, for that the
Queen of Scots had written to them to that effect in his
behalf, which speeches Escovedo repeated in the afternoon,
as Jean Gilles by these presents testifies to be true.—
Brussels, 22 Feb. 1576. |
|
Endd. P. ⅓. |
| Feb. 25. |
1290. Dr. Wilson to the Queen. |
|
The Prince of Orange has given his consent to the peace
signing, and agreeing to the whole with this caution, that
they being authors of this accord so suddenly made should
look well to themselves, for that they were nigher danger
being in terra-firma than himself. The Prince has sent to
him his resolution, together with the assent of the States of
Holland and Zealand in writing, and a letter in answer to
one of his touching M. Gastel's broad speech in England, of
Don John and his opinion of the States' doings here. Cannot
too highly honour his wisdom. Religion is the chief cause
that fears the unlearned clergy and simple nobility here
either to suffer the Prince to be amongst them, or her Majesty to have any authority with them. The Duke of Arschot
has gone to Namur to Don John, at whose going Wilson
delivered a list of the rebels and fugitives whom he desired
might either be executed or delivered to him to be sent into
England according to the Entercourse of 1495, article 55.
Made like request to M. Champagny. Has promises from the
Bishop of Liege and others that the fugitives shall not rest
at Liege. Escovedo, King Philip's secretary, has been earnest
with the States for the restitution to liberty of Dr. Del Rio,
whose father was a Spaniard, of the younger Hamilton,
whose brother killed the Regent of Scotland, and is now
with Don John, having broken prison here; and of one Paul
de Somers, a famous spy for the Spaniards and a great forger
of writings and letters. These three were sent about a fortnight past to the Prince in Zealand, to be examined, the one
for the Spaniard's dealings, the other for Scottish practices,
and the third being a known forger of writings and a
notorious spy could bring great matters to light. When
Escovedo was asked what he meant to deal for Hamilton,
being a stranger whose elder brother had murdered a Regent
of Scotland, he answered that both the Hamiltons were
creatures and pensionaries of the King, and that the Scottish
Queen had written letters very earnestly in both their
favours to Don John. The Scottish Queen has also written
letters to Madame Blomberg, Don John's mother, in favour of
Standen for his enlargement who was presently discharged
by her means. By this may be seen the Scottish Queen's
care to deal for such persons and the great liberty she has
to write, and that for practises she is in as good case as if
she were at liberty. Escovedo being in Antwerp to warn
the Spaniards to give over the castle within 20 days, sends
word that he dare not insinuate the date unto them to begin
before he be assured that the 300,000 florins shall be paid
to them at the very last twentieth days' end; so that it seems
that no reckoning of days shall be made until the money be
assured. Champagny excuses himself from writing to her
Majesty at present, because at his last being in England
Rodas slandered him to the King that he had laid a plot to
destroy all the Spaniards and to dispose of the country as to
the States and her Majesty should seem fit, and if his writing
to her should become known to Antonio Guerras this evil
conceived opinion would be confirmed more and more.
Champagny notes Don John to be a man of small discourse
and little experience, and has the same opinion of most of the
Spaniards, who seem to know much by their pride and
stoutness, and yet are very ignorant in political government.
He commends highly the Prince of Orange for wisdom, and
hopes when things are quieted the King will do justice upon
the Spaniards, and cause Duke Alva's doings to be examined
and his process to be made. The States had been earnest
with him to return to the Queen for further service to be
done, which he imagines is for more money. Is informed by
Powles son of the Chancery, that the Earl of Westmorland
lately received 2,000 crowns out of England. It is reported
that Don John will come forward to Louvain with only his
ordinary train.—Brussels, 25 Feb. 1577. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 2¾. |
| Feb. 25. |
1291. Dr. Wilson to Walsingham. |
|
Sends a printed copy of the peace, together with the
resolution and allowance of the Prince and States of
Holland and Zealand, and a letter from the Prince, and
desires him to show them to the Queen and the Lords of
the Council. Sends also an attestation of Escovedo's speech
touching the Hamiltons. The departure of the Spaniards is
very uncertain, for the time of 20 days for the Spaniards to
yield up their holds begins after the insinuation made by
Escovedo, who is now at Antwerp, and whether he has yet
given any such warning is very doubtful. He has sent word
that until the Spaniards be assured of the first 300,000
crowns to be ready to be paid at the very last day after his
insinuation he dare not insinuate any such matter unto them.
The Treasurer Schetz and the Receiver-General were sent from
hence the 22nd to satisfy the Spaniards. The States' camp
is strongly seated within little more than a mile of Lierre, to
the number of 14,000 footmen, who will break out to open
war if the Spaniards do not shortly yield up their holds.
Don John is to come from Namur to Louvain to take the
government upon him.—Brussels, 25 Feb. 1577. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. 1. |
| [Feb. 25.] |
1292. Du Gastel's speech to Don John. |
|
Heads of a speech to be delivered to Don John, pointing
out the danger that would arise from his not agreeing to the
peace, chiefly from the side of France, who would certainly
help his enemies and cut off the supplies that he has hitherto
drawn from that country. Warns him of two intended practices
against Spain; the one to break the truce between the Turk
and the King of Spain, and the other to invade his Indian
dominions with 6,000 men under Strozzi. The loss of the
Low Countries would open a gap of further defection in other
of the King's dominions, which would be imputed to Don
John, as he has no lack of enemies in the Court of Spain. In
Walsingham's writing.
Endd. Pp. 3. |
| Feb. 25. |
1293. Dr. Wilson to Lord Burghley. |
|
Sends herewith a printed copy of the peace to which the
Prince has given his assent. Has not yet received any bonds
from the six particular towns. Has spoken to M. Swevenghem,
the Duke, M. Champagny, and the Greffier of the States, who
all promised they should be delivered, if not at the day, yet
very shortly afterwards. Has been earnest with the Duke
and the Council of State for the apprehension of the rebels
not only for their banishment, who have promised to be very
earnest with Don John.—Brussels, 25 Feb. 1577. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. ½. |
| Feb. 26. |
1294. Walsingham to the Regent Morton. |
|
He may see by her Majesty's letter sent herewith in what
good part she accepts his of the 5th inst., and since the
receipt of the same she has entered into a deeper care and
consideration of the defence of her own realm and her good
neighbours, than at any time heretofore. By the advertisements from the Low Countries, which he sends, he may see
how the States are like to be abused by a long and colourable
treaty for peace. He may also see in what bad terms things
stand in France for any hope of a sound peace. Spain, France,
and the Pope no doubt concur and conspire in all things, and
therefore a greater care should be had for a general amity and
combination between all princes of the religion, at least to
defend themselves if not to invade their enemies.
Draft. Endd.: 26 Feb. 1576. P. 1. |
| Feb. [26.] |
1295. Queen Elizabeth to the Regent Morton. |
|
Has received his letter of the 5th inst., exhorting her to
take care for the preservation of her own person, the continuance of quietness in her realm, and the upholding of the
common cause of religion, for which she thanks him, as also
for the continual care and pains which he has taken for the
administration of justice in behalf of her subjects and for the
tranquillity of both these realms. |
|
Draft. Endd., Feb. Pp. 1⅓. |
| Feb. 26. |
1296. Petition of the Merchant Adventurers to the Prince
of Orange. |
|
As they have been unable to find any one who will be
caution for them for the payment of certain tolls on their
merchandise, and as they have already remained 40 days,
being also 50 persons, which has put them to great expense
and loss, they now beg that the Prince will allow them to
go to England without paying any further charges on their
goods. Short note in Dutch, dated Middleburg, 26 Feb. 1577.
Copy. Endd. P. 1. |
| Feb. 27. |
1297. The Deputies at Antwerp to the States General. |
|
The peace was published at Antwerp to-day to the great
contentment, both of the people and also of the Spaniards.
The notice will be given to-morrow to the Spaniards, so that
their departure will take place by the 20th March. The peace
has been proclaimed in various other towns, and all acts of
hostility ordered to cease. It will be well if the States will
publish the same orders in their camp. The forts on the
Scheldt are to be disarmed so that traffic may be free. Julian
Romero has bought a quantity of wheat at Bergen-op-Zoom,
which he wishes to sell again. It will be advisable to purchase
it and make it into bread, which may be sold again to the
Spaniards at a good profit.—Antwerp, 27 Feb. 1577. Signed. |
|
Copy. Endd. Fr. Pp. 1½. |
| Feb. 27. |
1298. News from the Low Countries. |
|
1. Brussels, 20 Feb. 1577.—The clerical party in the States
General have been the principal cause of this peace, because
they were very much afraid that if the States continued
sitting, their credit would diminish and that liberty of conscience would follow. Besides this the prelates feared lest the
States would turn out all bishops appointed by the Spaniards
and Cardinal Granville, as being contrary to the privileges of
the country. In addition, there was the jealousy of the Duke
of Arschot and his brother towards the Prince of Orange, as
they feared lest if the war continued he would become head
of the State. They were also with many nobles and others
bought over by the promises of Don John. This peace is
called "La Paix des Prestres" from the number of clergy
concerned in its negotiation. A copy has been sent to the
Prince of Orange for his signature, but they have published
the peace without waiting for its return. In the meanwhile
the people are waiting in arms, and the States have numerous
forces. |
|
2. Brussels, 27 Feb. 1577. Don John of Austria entered
Namur on the day of St. Mathias, where he was honourably
received and escorted thence towards Louvain by the Duke
of Arschot and 500 horsemen. The occasion of this peace
was the lack of good chiefs on the side of the States, as the
Prince of Orange was not yet appointed. The departure of
the Spaniards would have been more honourable if after
fair fighting they had been punished for their villainies;
but considering the prisoners they had, and the occupation
of sundry strong points by the Almains, together with the
determination of the Spaniards that they could only be
driven out by force at a great cost of life and money, the
States have made this sort of peace. Great credit of the
Prince of Orange with the people. It is thought that the
Spaniards will march through France. |
|
Endd. Fr. Pp. 2½ |
| Feb. 28. |
1299. Rowland Johnson to the Privy Council. |
|
1. Shows them the double entries and false charges of
Barton, the Controller's man, in his accounts of the cost of
the repairs and new works at Berwick. He has made Barton
make a correct copy of his book, which he encloses, and which
shows the total cost to be 319l. 19s. 0¾d. For this Barton
has caused Mr. Bowes, the Treasurer, to stay four poor men's
wages, but by the testimony of the honest and substantial
workmen, also enclosed, it will be seen that they did work
both truly and painfully, and prays that their wages amounting to 46s. 8d., be paid them. He alleges he stays it because
two of them are soldiers which ought not to work in day
wages by the statute. Marvels that he and his master did never
restrain the same these 16 years, and it has always been
allowed for such necessary men as were needful, as masons,
carpenters, smiths, and bricklayers. If soldiers should not be
taken to do such work, to press men out of the country would
not only be a hindrance to the Queen's service, but also be a
great deal more charge for prest and conduct money, which
Barton knows well enough. |
|
2. Thinks it good to remember them of his suit touching
the stay of his man's wages these two years, and also for his
riding charges about the Queen's affairs, as appears, by the
enclosed declaration, and to his charges at the Court last year,
when he remained nine months and fourteen days at 6s. 8d.
per day, which came to 95l., and also for his riding charges to
survey Edinburgh Castle two several times before it was won,
also Dumfries, Carlaverock Castle, Annan, Hodham, and such
like places as appears upon the declaration. As he has a faith
to God all these reckonings will do little more than pay his
debts. "From my poor house at Middleton George in the
Bishoprick."—28 February 1576. Signed. |
|
Add. Endd. Pp. 2½. |
| Sept. 30. |
1300. Works at Berwick. |
|
Corrected copy of Mr. Barton's book referred to above
showing details of the works done at Berwick from the
1st October 1575 to 30th Sept. 1576, the total cost being
319l. 19s. 0¾d. Signed by Rowland Johnson. |
|
Endd. Pp. 56. Enclosure. |
| 1576? |
1301. Works at Berwick. |
|
Declaration of Rowland Johnson's riding charges referred to
above amounting to 257l. 10s., and on which he remarks that
had the Laird of Grange gotten him at Edinburgh Castle a
greater sum would not have saved his life. Signed by Rowland Johnson. |
|
Endd. Pp. 3. Enclosure. |
| 1577. Jan. 26. |
1302. Works at Berwick. |
|
1. Particulars of the cost of labour and materials in erecting 21 watch-houses at Berwick, amounting together to
26l. 5s. 4d. |
|
2. Copy of a certificate, signed by 14 of those on the work,
that four other men whose wages are stayed by Barton's means
were employed with them. Signed by Rowland Johnson. |
|
Endd. Pp. 3. Enclosure. |
| Feb. 28. |
1303. Rowland Johnson to Lord Burghley. |
|
To the same effect as to the Lords of the Council.—Middleton George, 28 February 1576. Signed. |
|
Add. Endd. Pp. 2¾. |
| Feb. |
1304. The States of Brabant. |
|
Having read the opinion of the Prince of Orange and the
States of Holland and Zealand on the accord made between
Don John and the States General of the Low Countries on
19 Feb. 1577, declare that it has always been their
intention to maintain the provisions of the Pacification of
Ghent, if necessary by force of arms. |
|
Endd. Fr. P. 1. |
| Feb. |
1305. Francis Peyto to Lord Burghley. |
|
The cause why he has not sent the genealogy promised of
the House of England, which so good space was in perfection,
the painting and arms only reserved, was that he was only
able to find one young painter having will to enter on this
enterprise, and before he began his labours his house was
visited by the plague, all his servants taken to the hospital,
where they have since died, and himself (and that by favour)
fast bolted into his house for the space of 40 days. Three
days after that, to comply to a new order taken throughout the
city, he was obliged to return to a new caging called "generall
quarentena," which is continued to this day. This is an invention to cut away all conversation, which is thought to be
the nearest way to extinguish the malice of the plague, it
growing as they say upon infection and upon no corruption of
the air, wherein hitherto has seemed to have risen good effect,
helped possibly much by the cold season of the year. The
poor painter with whom he was in accord died more than two
months past, so he has to seek a new man.—Milan, February
1577. Signed. |
|
Add. Endd., with seal. Pp. 2. |
