James VI: April 1590

James VI: April 1590

371. Robert Bowes to Walsingham. [April 3.]

Forsamuch as Lord John Hamilton, the Earls of Angus, Mar, and Morton, the Master of Glamis, Mr. Robert Bruce and others have commended the good behaviour of Richard Wigmore, at their request Bowes now recommends him to Walsingham.

Accompanies their report with like confirmation by his [Bowes'] own sight of his good carriage. The said Wigmore offers himself and his whole services to be employed as Walsingham shall command. Edinburgh. Signed: Robert Bowes.

½p. Addressed. Indorsed.

372. Robert Bowes to Burghley and Walsingham. [April 3.]

Has already certified that upon receipt of their letters he stayed the dispatch of James Grayme, whom Bothwell was sending to the Duke of Parma, and persuaded the Earl to break with the King of Spain and Parma, and to follow her majesty's advice given in their letters and signified afterwards by Archibald Douglas, showing that the Earl was willing to stay his purpose and give manifest declaration of his zeal for the peace of both realms.

Now answers their letter of 24th March, and signifies that he stayed the employment of Captain Hackerston into Spain; has drawn the Earl to cut off his intelligence with Parma and Spain, and to seek the possession of the Spanish bark, to be kept till the King's return; whereof Richard Douglas, who is ready to depart within a few days, will further acquaint them.

Bothwell seeking to possess himself of the Spanish bark, which was behind the Isle of May and ready for Dunkirk, persuaded the captain to put her into his hands, for she wanted victuals, pilots, and mariners. The captain had given secret direction to the master and two of his fellows to depart speedily for Dunkirk: Bowes being advertised of this, told the Earl, and the said master and two fellows were suddenly taken at Leith before they could get boat. "Now the bark is brought in at Ely nighe unto Largo in Fife, and this daie shalbe delivered at Leith to the custodie of th'erle, who hathe promised to kepe the bark safelie, and dispose the companie in the townes of that coast to be releived untill the Kinges retorne." The captain continues in the charge of the provost of Edinburgh, with order to be delivered to Lord John Hamilton. And James Colvile the pilot—commanded by the King to be kept strait and booted—sailed for Denmark with Colonel Stewart on Sunday last, March 29th.

Bothwell, having prepared one or two vessels of good burden and well furnished, intends to employ them under Captain George Lockhart, his servant, against the King of Spain's subjects in Spain and the Low Countries and against the Leaguers. He prayeth her majesty's letters of mark or reprisal in this behalf, with "libertie to bring into dischardge and make sale in England all suche prizes as shalbe taken. Mr. Richard Douglas will present and follow this peticion to her majestie at his comming for th'erle." But for the better expedition the Earl required Bowes to commend his suit.

For these causes has attended the Earl these six days, and deferred his letters. Bothwell has now passed over the water to reconcile Atholl and Montrose, and Erroll and Atholl, and to complete the band amongst the Stewarts against Huntly. "But Montrosse hopeing to compound the greefes betwixt Huntlaie and Murray, to the good contentment of the Stewardes, therefore Huntlaie is sent for to meete Bothwell and th'others." Huntly is so sick, as it is thought he will not be able to meet them. The end of feuds and entry into bands are often the beginning of great actions.

By means of a Catholic instrument whom he employs Bowes discovered the coming of the bishop of Derry into Scotland, and has since sent a person into the north to spy out him and his doings, and has "travailed to lay for him" by means of Bothwell in the Highlands, Angus in Fife, the Master of Gray on the coast, Auchinleck in Kintyre, the prior of Blantyre at Glasgow, John Colvile in the north and some Catholics in Edinburgh. Nevertheless it appears by their letter of March 24 that her majesty notes in Bowes "some want of care to lay for him"; he desires them to acquaint her with his actions that she may be better satisfied. The bishop is passed to Angus Mackonell, where if he make any stay Bothwell hath promised to take him, but Bowes fears he is so far passed as he can hardly be recovered.

"Sithence the departure of Colonell Stewart as is before mencioned, Mr. William Fowler was readie to have passed to the King in an other ship, but the wynd and storme hath staied him. The rest of the shipps for the King's transportacion are readie and will sett forward with the next wynde."

William Fowler received a letter from Stephano Legorata, captain in Newport, with two others enclosed directed by Gabriel de Riza to the Earl of Erroll and Assuerus painter; copies now enclosed. These two letters Fowler delivered to the provost of Edinburgh to show to the Council; they cannot understand the cipher, nor who "Assuerus painter" may be. Bothwell was taken to be the party, but assures Bowes that he does not know the cipher or matter, nor has he any cipher with the person sending these letters. Gave notice before of like letters sent to Lord Herries and others, and his Catholic instruments have seen others purporting that the King of Spain will this year send forces into Ireland and Scotland; but the latest advertised that he will employ all his preparations for France.

Here some sudden trouble is feared by the bruits spread that Erroll would come to Callander, Huntly to Dunfermline, Maxwell hither, and the rest to places near this town. Erroll is now at Callander and will meet Bothwell shortly, but the others stir not and the state is quiet.

As to redress on the Borders the Council have written to Cessford. Sir John Forster certified Bowes of a day foray run in Riddesdale by the Elliots and others of Liddesdale under Bothwell: he has procured the Earl's letter to Thomas Trotter his deputy to cause all prisoners and goods taken in England to be immediately delivered, with such redress as shall satisfy the wardens. This letter Bowes has sent to Sir John Forster, that he may take order with the deputy, to whom Bothwell has written to meet Forster's deputy on the 13th instant. Bowes has sent Cessford the Council's letter for the execution of justice: the Council is ready to do all in its power for quietness on the Borders. Edinburgh. Signed: Robert Bowes.

2½ pp. Addressed. Indorsed.

373. Robert Bowes to Burghley and Walsingham. [April 3.]

Bothwell promises readily to run her majesty's course. Bowes has also been advertised by Catholics and persons little beholden to him "that in his laite being beyond the water he hathe delt with sondry of the Spanish faccion to disswaid them to cast of their course for Spaine, whereby he hath purchassed suspicion." The factions continue their plots, only fearing the return of the King, "which by old prophesies they thinck wilbe ether long deferred or els not at all."

The said Bothwell is wounded with English doings and the last advertisements from Archibald Douglas, but seems constant, and hopes for better contentment by Richard Douglas.

Here lurketh in Northumberland John Boast and one Rockwood, "sometymes towardes th'erle of Arrundell, and suspected to be about evill offices." Offer is made for their apprehension, either in England or quite near; "and Rockwood is offered chefelie to be catched." Bowes awaits directions, doubting much of the arrest of Boast, but thinks Rockwood might be taken.

Fears some change towards himself on account of his disability to take the bishop of Derry. Would gladly yield to revocation if he may be seasonably forewarned. Will be right diligent to take order immediately after the return of his son. Edinburgh. Signed: Robert Bowes.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed.

374. James VI. to Robert Bowes. [April 4.]

"Since the closing, goode Bouis, of this other lettir unto you, Coronell Steuart is arryvit heir, quho hath deliverid unto me a lettir of the Quenis youre mistress, with another of youres. I perceave scho hes goode lyking of that ouverture I causid be maid unto her. Be sure I never inploied my self in any thing uith bettir uill and forduartness then I will do in this. I stayed onlie upon a uarrande all dealing in that matter quhill now. Ye may assure the Quene I shall leave nathing undone in that matter that the schortness of the tyme of my abode heare uill permitt, for I trust by the tyme of this lettiris cumming to youre handis uynde and ueather shall make my dyett." "From the same castell." Signed: James R.

¾ p. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed.

375. Robert Bowes to Burghley and Walsingham. [April 5.]

Is advertised by a Catholic, who heard it from a Jesuit haunting the Spanish faction, that the bishop of Derry, pretending to be an English Jesuit, is still with James Gordon the Jesuit and thereabouts, and so secretly that it is difficult to speak with him or get letters to him, "for he is stricken withe suche feare to be apprehended as he will not trust to shew him self to any other then to Mr. James Gorden or suche like," and hasteth to return to Ireland. His errand was to acquaint the Catholics and confederates for Spain in this realm that many Irishmen of quality and some Englishmen in Ireland were ready to stir a commotion there, if they may be sure of succour from Spain and the aid of such forces as may be drawn out of the isles and other places in Scotland. He says that O'Neil being old and weak and not willing to deal in this matter, his friends—offended therefore with him—will hazard themselves in the enterprise. And at the persuasion of O'Neil and his friends the Laird of Loughnell—one of the house of Argyle, having great interest amongst the islands in Scotland—shall be brought to raise all his forces and take charge of the action

The lady of Kintyre purposes to come hither as soon as she shall recover her health, to entreat Bowes to commend her petition to her majesty on behalf of O'Neil her husband. If it take effect before Bowes receives direction, he will seek to withdraw her husband and her friends, in Ireland and Scotland, from this action.

For this practice it is purposed that the Catholic lords, and others having credit in the isles, shall travail with the clans there to levy as many as they can get and arm for Ireland, and to take up so many horsemen in the west and south of Scotland as can be gotten. The bishop advises them not to transport horses, which would be troublesome and discover their plot: he will furnish horses in Ireland. Huntly shall be entreated to move Claude Hamilton his uncle to draw the gentlemen of Lennox and other friends to set forth all the horsemen they can, and Huntly himself to send as many footmen as he can, with fit leaders for the same.

"The busshop perswaideth that Angusse Mackonell and the Lard Loughnell shall suffice to have the chefe chardge of all the footemen and horsemen to be imployed and sent out of Scotland in this journey. That the Master of Angusse being intreated to have taken a principall chardge herein hathe refused."

"Instrumentes" are appointed to travail with Maxwell, Herries, the abbot of New Abbey—wherein Bowes will give warning to Lord Scrope— the Master of Eglinton, the Laird of Bargany and others for the levy of horsemen. After the report of the success of this business, and resolution taken thereon, one Englishman shall be sent into Flanders with the bishop of Derry with advertisement of that resolution, whereupon they look that forces shall come to them from Spain by the west seas.

Will do his best for the further discovery of these practices and the prevention of danger, and asks for directions.

"This daie the Spanish bark is brought to Leith, and now so well in the possession of th'erle of Bothwell as he may well answere for the safe keping thereof." Edinburgh. Signed: Robert Bowes.

1²/3 pp. Addressed. Indorsed.

376. Robert Bowes to Walsingham. [April 5.]

Encloses letters from the Master of Gray to Walsingham, to Gray's servant Edward Johnston now in London, and to Bowes. The Master desires expedition in the convoy of his letter to Walsingham, and the progress of the cause for Captain Hackerston; and the messenger who brought the letters pressed for haste.

"The matter in the letter to me ys nott only strange butt also so hoolle [sic: holy] to be touched by me as I dare aventur no further then to send all to your selfe to be disposed as you shall think best. Att this presentt th'erle Bothwell and Mr. Richard Dowglas are absentt. I can nott therfor lerne or assure you whether th'erle ys pryvye to this corse, tendyng —as I verely thinke—to shake of Mr. Richard Dowglas and his frendes frome further dealinges in those behalfes. And yt ys evydentt enoughe frome whence this advice commeth, and to whatt ende ytt ys dyrected." Leaves it to Walsingham's consideration, praying to be delivered from the danger that may fall on him by busy and undutiful offices, and asking for direction as to Mr. Douglas, and for accomplishment of the honest offices to be done to the gentleman interested in this matter. Edinburgh. Signed: Robert Bowes.

1 p. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed.

377. Mr Archibald Douglas to Burghley. [April 5.]

"Having occasione to send this bearar to my Lord Chambrelain be him to knaw hir majesteis pleasur when the Lord Justice Clerk ambassadour from the King my soverayn may haif accesse to hir majesteis presence, the present necessite that I am reduced in to doethe compelle me to wesite your lordschip be these fewe lynes hartlye to pray you to mowe her majeste to haif consideration thayrof at this tyme. Wthervys it vill appeir to manifestlye to the sayde lorde and to all wtheris that I am not onelye debauched bot also owt of all gud graice wyth hir hyenes, whiche, God willing, I shall nevir deserve."

"I pray your lordschip to pardon me that I am so earnist in this mater, wherwpon will depend my hoill reputation, gud or ill fortune at my maister the Kingis hand, which shall newir serve vthirvise bot for hir majesteis service and veill."

"I wold be glayde also to onderstand from your lordschip hir majesteis pleasur what sche wold vysch the Erll Bothwell fordar to do besidis the staying to send Mr. Richarde Dowglas in ony voiage; for that effect I haif alreadye vrytin to Scotland." Signed: A. Douglas.

²/3 p. Holograph, also address. Indorsed.

378. The Chancellor of Scotland to Robert Bowes. [April 7.]

"Having advysed the King my sovereynge to make choyse of this gentleman, the Laird of Carmichaell, to carye his highnes directions to the counsale and others there, knawing him to be sincerelye devoted in religion and course, and weill affected to ws bothe, I have also imperted to him my conceptions, whiche I doubt not he will faithfullye delyver unto yow."

"I intend not to use anye more intercourse of letters, bot in fewe dayes be Goddes grace to be my owen messinger, at what tyme yow shall have more effectuall tryell how I doe rest devoted to the happye amitye of our twoe sovereyngnes, whiche I shall doe all my endevour be all the good offices I can, and faythfullye concurre with yow to nurishe and encrease to my uttermost. In the meane whyle I doubt not bot yow will have watchefull eye in that state, whereof the present calme dois not proceade of the resipiscence or toward disposition of the factiouse and unquyet, but that everey man leaning at his owne garde, leaning to no public protection, is thereby the more assured, and the worse affected ar lothe by there privat actions to irritat his majestie or to move him to hard concept of thame, expecting his speadye returne; lest also they should detect thame selfis by ineffectuall broylles when as they may not possesse his majesties persone or care, nor remove suche as are the most impediment to theyre desseinges, and of chiefest credit about him; whereof nather can be effictuat in his highnes absence, so thay ar moved rather to surceasse, then altogether leave off there practizes. Forder in this, and toward the ouverture lately mocioned be Colonell Stewart, I remitt to the relation of the bearer." Elsinore. Signed: "Your vearye looving friend Jo. Maitland."

¾ p. Addressed. Indorsed.

379. Colonel Stewart to Robert Bowes. [April 7.]

"Be his majesties awn letter, as also be my Lord Chanslaris, ze uill understand what is thought and farther intendit to be done in that matter I brught with me, boothe nowe and before my comyng, derectted toward her majestie be the Justys Clark."

"Thaer salbe na gude devoiris, God willing, omytted heir, albeit no thing cane be sertyfyett before we see howe matteris salbe takin and semethe to frayme with this counsell or governoris, wha is presently convynet at Copmanhovin, and one derectted expres from his majestie to understand whare confarrence with our Chanslare and tham is most meit or convenyent to be hade."

"This is all that zett can be done. Be the next, faelzeing his majesties self, your lordschip uill understand farther."

"Your lordschips letter to his majestie was dyffyssill, albeit I brought ane other with me that was na les dyffyssill to be weill redd. Allwais the one and other is well understand, and evin so thought of. God grant that the event or effect of that gude matter may be alse happie as the begynnyng is zett lyket and effectted of sic as knowethe the same."

"The rest with all the newis in theis parts I most remyt to the suffycyenssie of the berrare your lordschips gud frende." Elsinore. Signed: William Stewart.

1 p. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed.

380. Bothwell to Robert Bowes. [April 8.] Printed in letters to . . . Colville, Ban. Club, p. 249.

"Finding that I could not so quikli repair to Edinbruch as I loukit at depairtur, I thocht guid to send for Mr. Jhone Coluing that be him I micht aquent you[r] lordschip with my procidings heir; quhais sufficienci and credit is at both our handis sic that it schould be onnessesar I schould fache your lordschip uith longer letter bot remit the samming to his declaratioune." Kinghorn [Kinghairin]. Signed: Bothuel.

½ p. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed.

381. John Arnote, Provost of Edinburgh, to William Asheby. [April 8.] Eg. MSS., 2,598, fol. 268.

"At zouir being in this cuntrie I spak sumquhat to zoure warschip that I wes of mynde to put in rememberance of new to hir majestie and counsale how that of lang tyme byganne I wes verray ewill misusit be sum ewill disposit persones Inglismen, quhilkis reft and spuilzeit fra me the haill guidis and geir quhilkis I than had upone the sea. Quhilk wrang donne to me, with mony uther wrangis, reiffis and spuilzeis quhilkis wer at that tyme done to Scottismen, wer cravit at hir majestie and counsale to haif bene redressit; and than thare wes ane fyne to haif bene lifted upone the cuntrie for to recompance the saidis skaithis; zit upone sundrie occasionis that fell out thairefoir the same tuke litill or na effect."

"Now becaus I persave that this generale ordoure is nocht lyke to tak ane end sone, becaus it is estemit as forzet be ressone of the lang protracting of tyme, thairfoir I am counsallit be my freindis to mak sum litill particulare sute for my self. And sua I am of mynde to caus ane of my sonnes in law, quha is now in Londoune awaittand upone ane persute of his awin, to present ane supplicatioun in my name to hir majestie and counsale to this effect: praying zoure worschip thairfoir that my ressonabill sute may be convoyit be sik freindschip as ze may ressonablie mak, as I dowte nocht bot ye will. This berare will informe zow mair at lenth in this mater." Edinburgh. Signed: J. Arnote provest of Edinburgh

²/3 p. Holograph, also address. Indorsed.

382. Robert Bowes to Burghley. [April 9.]

On Monday the 6th I received your letter of the first instant, with the copy of Mr. Windebank's letter to yourself, and signifying her majesty's direction upon view of my letter to you shown to her by him. I find by his report and your letter to myself that her majesty thinketh it not convenient that Bothwell should stay his letters to the Duke of Parma till Richard Douglas return to her to follow her mind in the further carriage of the matter with the Duke, but rather that he should without delay execute her advice made known to him by Archibald Douglas and myself. The Earl had passed over the water into Fife before the receipt of your letters, appointing with me to return hither yesternight, Wednesday the eighth instant; nevertheless by letters received this morning from him and Mr. John Colvile, I perceive he is this day gone to Dunkeld to compound the griefs betwixt Atholl and Montrose, and Erroll and Atholl, and to confer with Atholl, "whose aide maye greatlie prevaile," for the apprehension of the bishop of Derry; in which causes he is like to expend some few days. Therefore, that her majesty's pleasure may be accomplished with expedition, I have procured Richard Douglas to write to the Earl, persuading him either to come hither with all speed or to write to Parma, as her majesty advised," for the indelate quenching of th'intelligence with the Duke, and tymely staieing of forces to be sent by him into any part of this isle," and to dispatch his letters to the Duke with all haste. For this last point the greatest difficulty will be found, for there is no ship ready to carry these letters; therefore it was thought meet to send them by Mr. Douglas to London, that all may be done with her majesty's privity and advice, and that the letters might be sent thence to the Duke with all speed. There is small traffic hence to Flanders except through England, and they will get to him more speedily and at less charge from London; "nevertheles suche meanes as can be found here shalbe assaied to hasten the convoy of th'erles letters to the Duke, and to follow the course standing most with her majestes pleasure and contentment."

By sundry ways I have espied that Bothwell has noted some change of her majesty's mind towards him; he appears deeply wounded, but continues his devotion to perform his promises and do her service, as upon my conference with John Colvile, sent by him to be with me tomorrow or soon after, I shall more particularly do your lordship to understand.

For prevention of the "draught" said to be laid by the bishop of Derry to carry horsemen and footmen hence to stir rebellion in Ireland, I have sought the help of the few well-affected councillors assembled here in the cause betwixt Lords Hamilton and Sanquhar and Dumlanerigg, and procured letters to the lairds of Cadder and "Arkyndesse" and Neil Campbell, bishop of Argyle, tutors to the young Earl of Argyle, both to dissuade Angus Mackonell and the Laird of Lougheneill, and to stay all under their rule from attempting anything in Ireland.

Besides my letters to Lord Scrope to cast an eye to Maxwell, Herries, and the abbot of New Abbey to see what the ministers—employed to raise horsemen for Ireland—shall do, I have enquired by my friends here what shall be sought at the hands of the Master of Cassillis and Bargany, and travailed with them and others in Lennox and thereabouts, so that the labours of these evil instruments to trouble Ireland shall work little effect in those places, in case promise shall be kept with me.

This day I am informed by my friend lately returned from the north that James Knowes, "excommunicate for papistrie, and accustomed to transport to and fro Jesuites the letters and advises of the Spanish faction" hath ready "at Findaughtie nere the mouthe of the ryver of Spaa" a small barque laden with corn for Flanders or France. But they say he purposes to sail for Dunkirk within 6 days, and that his chief freight is the Englishman that accompanied the bishop of Derry and other practisers, with letters for Spain. I have procured some of the Council's letters to stay and search this ship. "But doubting the successe wished to fall out in the boundes so nere unto Huntlay" I choose rather to commend it to your knowledge.

Lord Hamilton is on his way to Jedworth to do justice in Border matters. He finds the greatest difficulty of redresses to be made to England to be for the attempts done for Liddesdale under Bothwell's rule. Bothwell has written to his deputy to give satisfaction to her majesty's Wardens, yet the better to prick him and his deputies forwards in the same I have procured the Council's letters as by the copy here enclosed. I have advertised Sir John Forster, and Sir John Selby thereof, and of all my doings with the Council and the Lord Lieutenant of the Borders. Edinburgh. Signed: Robert Bowes.

2 pp. Addressed. Indorsed.

Copy of the same.

383. Robert Bowes to Walsingham. [April 9.]

"Your last of the third hereof I received this daie, and delivered th'inclosed therein agreable to the direction thereof." Received a letter from Burghley on the sixth instant. He now writes to Walsingham in substance what he has written to the Lord Treasurer this day. In Mr. Colvile's letter now enclosed, a violent mean is thought of against the Bishop of Derry. Bowes dare not agree thereto, neither shall her majesty by his consent be ever touched with any such thing unless he be so commanded. Edinburgh. Signed: Robert Bowes.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed.

Enclosure with the same:—

[Mr. John Colvile to Robert Bowes.]

Printed in Letters of . . . Colville, Ban. Club, p. 249.

"Pleis your lordschip, the 7 of this instant at my lordis Bothuellis desire I went to Kinkarn althoct werey ewill at eiss. His lordschip began to regret that he fand sum alteration in hir majestes mynd concerning him, and maid gret protestations of his sincerite sen his promiss. I wes indeid sory and so I remane to see him ony way discouragit, wnderstanding his courage and good qualites, and how good a instrument he may be in the co . . . (fn. 1) amite. Yit in end his lordschip hes fayctfully promisit nocht to chang his mynd except sum grete occasion wer offerit to him on hir majestes sy[de], whiche I hoip in God nether he sall mereit nor hir majeste offer to him wythout just causs. For declaration of his sincerite his lordschip assuris me he will direct out tuay or thre schippis for the persuit of siche as servis for the Legue or King of Spain: and I am commandit to say sumquhat farder in that matter to your lordschip, whiche I remit to Fryday if my helthe may serve me to trawell; wyth suche other matteris as I can nocht writ."

"As to the Irische bischop, he knawit whar he is and what he is about to do. Althocht it salbe difficill to cary him levand avay out of the boundis whar he resedis, yit he may be killit as I sall schaw your lordschip at meting."

"My Lord Bothuell wyth th'erll Montross the 8 of this instant ar gon to Dunkell, partlie for that matter, for it is by my Lord Athollis meanis that the bischop must be had. Bot thair cheif erand is that Atholl and Montross may be of new reconciliat, for thai haif never agreit sen the dethe of Gowry. Whatsoever bruittis be giffin out to the contrary, this is thair principall erand. Thai think also to deill sumwhat betuix Atholl and Arroll, bot thai haif na hoip to speid."

"Arroll had bein in Callender at his sister the mestres of Levistoun, and the saxt of this instant returnit home. He wes in Kinkarn as he came, bot nocht as he returnit."

"My lord Montross had him werey hartly recommendit wnto your lordschip, and hathe also giffin me sum commission wnto your lordschip whiche I continw to meting." Stirling. Signed: Jo. Coluille.

Postscript—"As Mr. Diksone went to Edinburgh he mett my man be the way, and prayit that I suld excuss his silence, for he protestit he knew na thing of effect sence he departit fra me."

2 pp. Holograph, also address. Indorsed.

384. Earl of Bothwell to Burghley. [April 11.] Lansd. MSS., 63, fol. 82.

"I have so certane pruif of zour lordships gude will and affectioun being towartes me in all suche effairis as I had to do in that cuntrey that I can nocht bot think my self soe obleist to requite the same with quhatsumevir gude offices may be in my hand to be performed. This assurance has embaulded me at this tyme to recommend to zour honors favourable help certane merchandes of this townne my verie gud freindis and sum of thame my servandes, in quhois behalff one Archbald Jhonestoun is presentlie suter to hir majestie and zour honors off hir counsale, praying verie hartlie zour lordship that sence their sute is verie reasonable, as being be storme of wedder drevin upone the coast of Norphoke and thairefter pilleit be sum of ye cuntrey men thair, zour honor will have cair to sie zame according to justice satisfied, and that the rather becaus thai appertene to me and I have some [enteres?] thairin. Thus nocht dowting of zour honoris gude will in this mater as the parteis thame selffis hes alreddy maid honorabill report thairoff." Edinburgh. Signed: Bothwell.

¾ p. Addressed. Indorsed.

385. Elizabeth to the Queen of Scotland. [April 16.]

I have never been so little faithful to my friends as not to treasure their memory even after their offence. And hence you may be well assured of my affection, as adding thereto the honourable alliance lately concluded between a prince whom I hold so dear and a daughter of my much honoured brother; to whom I shall not fail to show in good effect the warm love that I bear him. And I beg you to believe that it will afford me singular pleasure to gratify you in whatever manner I may know to be agreeable to you, and I desire nothing more than to hear the happy news of the return of both of you into Scotland, in order to be able to hear news of you more often.

½ p. French. Copy. Indorsed: "Copie of her Majestes lettre to the Queen of Scotland in answer of hers to her Majesty sent by Mr. Justice Clark, written the xvjth of Aprill, 1590."

386. Robert Bowes to Burghley. [April 16.]

On Monday last the thirteenth hereof I received your lordship's letter of the eighth instant, certifying the decease of Sir Francis Walsingham—to my great sorrow—and answering my letters of the third hereof addressed to your lordship and him, for my great help and furtherance in her majesty's service.

Before the receipt of your letters I had sent other letters to you and Mr. Secretary, which I trust are brought to you. I shall send to you only until otherwise directed.

Bothwell, on receipt of Richard Douglas's letter to him—which by my last I showed should be sent to him—returned hither on Sunday last, the twelfth, at night. On the morrow Lord Hume came suddenly to him, and entertained him with the reconciliation betwixt them. Soon after he came to me, agreeing to send with all speed to the Duke of Parma to cut off intelligence with him, and to restrain the sending of any forces into any part of this isle, agreeable to her majesty's advice signified. Finding no ship in readiness for the Low Countries, he purposed to send Richard Douglas to her majesty to convey his letters that way, but because I have found by your letters that her majesty likes not Richard Douglas's return to her, I have persuaded his stay till I hear her majesty's pleasure touching his repair to her, "and also of the manner of his staie to be made, without danger of alienacion of the mynd and devocion of th'erle to her majestie and her service," wherein I desire direction. The earl still protesteth to honour and serve her majesty next his own sovereign, and faithfully to perform his offers. Nevertheless he is greatly troubled with conceit that her majesty holdeth him in suspicion, she having been informed "that he offered to deliver Barwick to the King of Spaine, and promised to do him effectuall service. Wherein he acknowledgeth that before he entred into this course with her majestie he had made liberall offers to the King of Spaine." Since he tendered his service to her majesty he affirms constantly that he has not dealt any way with the King of Spain or with any one for him. But he conceives that her majesty is informed that he has promised his services to that King since his offers to her: he is very earnest to know the author of this report and to clear himself from the guilt thereof.

He declares himself so to stand at this present as the timely experience of her goodness towards him shall fully satisfy and win him, and the long delay of her goodwill shall hazard to wound and estrange him. How I shall proceed with him, and whether Mr. Douglas may still be sent to her majesty by him, it may please your lordship to direct me.

On Monday morning last Lord Hume came to Bothwell, "and so well agreed betwixt them-selves as their late and earnest feade is turned into tender and familiar frendship." Albeit this reconciliation was suddenly effected by Sir John Carr, William Leslie, and Thomas Tyrie, with the assent of the parties, and without the privity of Lord Hume's friends, yet it is deemed it was drawn on by others of greater credit, with secret intention to work the hurt of the Chancellor soon after the King's arrival here. At present Bothwell professes great goodwill towards the Chancellor, his wife and friends, but it is thought the Chancellor's adversaries will seek to tempt him to change his mind. Of which plot against the Chancellor I have already given warning, wishing that while Justice Clerk is at London his griefs against the Chancellor—if any such be—may be removed, and the evils threatened prevented by his good advice.

By such enquiries as Bothwell made he is persuaded that the bishop of Derry is already departed to Angus Mac Onell, yet I am informed that he continues in places near to Mr. James Gordon. "Th'erle thinketh that he can not be apprehended in the hye land and brought hither alive. And th'erles frendes in the hye landes have offered to cutt him of in case he be there; unto which violent course I dare not consent." I trust he shall have little power to work great hurt or levy many men here for Ireland but that warning shall be given thereof; wherein I have liberal promises from persons of credit, as by my former letters will appear.

"On Mondaie last it pleased God to call Mr. Thomas Fowler out of this world." The King's advocate informed Bothwell that Fowler had sundry jewels and writings that—by his own confession made to the advocate—appertained to the King, and prayed they might be stayed: which the earl executed, taking into his custody jewels estimated by Fowler's servant at 600li. and bonds from persons in this realm amounting to 300li., as Fowler's servant has informed me. These jewels and bonds the earl promises to redeliver as by order shall be appointed. Other goods of small value he has delivered to Fowler's servant.

"Whilst th'erle Bothwell was beyond the water he hathe compounded the greefes betwixt th'erles of Atholl and Montrosse, and hath not delt in any other as he had purposed, but left them to better opportunitie." Because you would know the grounds of the feuds among the northern lords, and to have been reconciled by Bothwell, I enclose a note thereof.

I thank you for the advertisements from France, and pray that I may have such from time to time as Mr. Secretary used to send me; for the exchange of such news often gets me better intelligence than I could have for money, and serves towards her majesty's service.

"The Lord Hamilton is presentlie at the Borders for execution of justice and redresse to be done there. In his waie through Dalketh—the house of th'erle of Morton—he entred into the stable there, to see a gelding of the Master of Glames his brother in lawe, which he liked so well as he wold have taken him with him; but the gardinar there havinge some chardge of the gelding offered to stopp him, whereuppon one of his men dischardged his pistoll upon the gardiner and killed him. One other of Morton's servuantes is hurt in that ruffle, and two of the Lord Hamilton's servauntes sent to fetche his cloke left in the stable were deteyned. To stirre debate betwixt the Lord Hamilton and Morton, and that the Lord Hamilton might be stayned with bloode rashlie drawen by him, his adversaries give out that he killed the man with his owne pistolett."

"Yesterdaie morning before the finishinge of these presentes I was advertised that the lard of Carmighell was arrived at Leith with letters from the King to the Counsell and myself, whereupon I thought it meet to staie these untill I might speake with him, and give your lordship full advertisementes in all thinges. Sone after the lard sent to me the letters of the Lord Chancelour and Colonell Steward, appointing to bring and deliver to me this morning the King's letters and creditt committ to him. Th'effectes of which letters will appeare by the sight of them inclosed. And for report of his creditt mencioned, he shewed me that the King understanding by Colonell Stewart—comming to him after the departure of Justice Clark—that the factious and disquiet subjectes in this realme, finding no tyme in the King's absence to attempt their desiers, ether to possesse the King's person or care, or to remove from him suche as have best creditt with him and be chefe impedimentes of their evill designes, and best instrumentes for the publick wellfare of all good causes and courses, have therefore chosen rather to suspend then utterlie to cast of th'execution [of] their practises, which they purpose to interprise at the King's retorne, and afterwardes to mayntayne and sett forwardes to th'uttermost of their powers. For the prevencion of these dangers, touching not onelie the person and estate of the King and this realme, but also the common causes of religion and this wholl isle, and to establish suche a governement to be continewed hereafter in this realme as the sedicious sort shalbe bridled, the well affected comforted, and whereby the common perills may be avoided, the King is advised and driven of necessitie to raise and kepe a gard about him of one hundred horsemen and one hundred footemen, and hathe appointed the Lord of Carmighell to be capten of this gard and with all spede to levie the same. And bicause the powre of the King sufficeth not to defray the paie unto and kepe this gard without the ayde of her majestie—by whose relief he onelie trusteth to be supported in this good purpose tending to bothe their suerties and wellfares—therefore he hathe required me to commend the Kinges mynde and desier in this behalf to your lordship, to be imparted to her majestie in suche tyme and manner as to your lordship shalbe found convenient. For he thincketh that the Justice Clark shalbe retorned homewardes before the receipt hereof: and upon the King's owne retorne into this realme his purpose is to seeke her majesty herein by other and especiall meanes from him self. In this I have not onelie recounted to the lard the exceding chardges that her majestie dailie endureth for her owne defense and safetie against the King of Spaine, and by the aides given to the Frenche King, Lowe Countries, and many other waies, but also laide before him that the mocion of this great matter should be done rather by an especiall chosen minister of the King's owne then by my self or penn: yet he urgett the matter with suche necessitie, as he affirmed the King and this estate should be put to extreame hazard and danger except the King might herein be releived by her majestie."

"And albeit we have referred this matter to further conference with the King and the Lord Chancelour, against which tyme I trust to be instructed with her majesty's pleasure for my further course therein, yet having passed over thus farre in the discoverie of the King's mynde and desiere in the same, I have thought it my duetie thus at lardge to report it to your lordship, commending the prosequting of the same to your lordship's good consideracion and wisedome, and humblie praeing to be directed to guide my doinges to please her majestie."

"The letters addressed by the King to the Counsell shalbe delivered this daie at their assemblie, which wilbe very small. The chefe effectes thereof are to appoint them to put all thinges in redines against the King's comminge, which is looked shalbe within tenn daies, for he was determined to imbark yesterdaie and the Quene his mother in lawe hasted him forwardes."

"The Lard of Carmighell assureth me that the King his soveraigne having in his hand before his departure this platt for the league motioned by Colonell Stewart, will bend his wholl wittes and powre to advance the good successe thereof, and that the King and state of Denmark are likewise resolved to sett it forwardes with all they can. Wherein he commendeth chefelie the care of the Chancelour of Scotland in the advancement of this cause."

"It is ordered by the King that the Duke of Lenox, the Lord John Hamilton, th'erles of Bothwell, Atholl and Marre, the ordinarie and secrett Counsell and the Lords of the Session shall onely attend upon the King at his arrivall. And to prevent sodaine troubles to be moved at that tyme, all others are restrained to present them selves nere to the place of the King's arrivall until further order shalbe given and published."

"The Duke of Miclebroughe hathe apointed to be with the King at Elsinore the tenth of this month; and the King of Denmark will send with his brother in lawe in Scotland his Admirall, Brade Ranson and Stephen Brave, to be commissioners for th'execution of the great honours to be given to the Quene, which commissioners shalbe accompanied with thirtie gentlemen of Denmark of good qualitie. The opinion that the Scottish Quene should be with child is not so generallie imbraced as before it hath ben."

"The King takeing displeasure with Sir William Keith that he was noted to have bein more riche in his apperrell then the King, to th'offence of sondrie great personages in that assemblie, hathe removed him from his place in the King's chamber and office of wardropp, and given the same office to George Hume sonne of Alexander Hume of Maunderstand."

"It is muche merveled that none hathe bein imploied and sent by her majestie into Denmark, for at the departure of the Lard of Carmighell none for her majestie was commed thither."

"That I do not committ any errour to offend her majestie to take the precedencis of any that shalbe imploied and sent hither by the King of Denmark, it may please your good lordship to direct me spedelie therein, otherwise I shall take this place." Edinburgh. Signed: Robert Bowes.

4¼ pp. Addressed. Indorsed. Marginal notes in Burghley's handwriting.

Enclosure with the same:

[Discords in Scotland].

"The beginninges and groundes of the perticuler greefes and discordes risen amongst these parties following, viz. betwixt."

"Th'erles of Atholl and Montrosse."

"After the death of th'erle of Gowrie—late Threasurer of Scotland— th'erle of Montrosse succeded in that office, with great suspicion of Gowries frendes that he had bein an especiall instrument and meane to bring Gowrie to that violent end, which suspicion was increased by the conceipt of Gowrie conceaved upon th'accion and advises of Montrosse against him in his life tyme."

"Atholl maried the daughter of Gowrie, and with her he entred into the feades of her father, which feades have continewed untill the same were compounded th'other daie by the mediacion of th'erle of Bothwell."

"Atholl and Arrell."

"Th'erle of Arrell maried the sister of Atholl; soone after the mariage she died, and Atholl and his frendes thincking that her husband had intreated her unkyndelie have bein slowe to paie her porcion to Arrell, being 9000 li. Scottes. After at the late journey of the King against Huntlay, Arrell and other confiderates in th'accion and band of the brigg of Dee, the escheat of Arrell was graunted to Atholl, who entred into Arrells houses and possessions, and—as Arrell alleadged—willfullie wasted and defaced the houses, to the great hurt and dishonour of Arroll."

"These matters are continewed untill the Kings retorne, for Bothwell thincking that the composition thereof should offend the Lord Chancelour of Scotland, thought it good to suspend it untill he might conferre therein with the Chancelour."

"Atholl and Huntlay."

"Atholl intertayning George Drummond of Blare—an old servant and very secrett with his father—imploied him in all his chefe affaires, finding him at length so entred into practises as he put him from his service. Whereupon Huntlay intertayned Drumond, with Atholl's great displeasure."

"After, Drumond being in the conspiracie with Huntlay for th'accion of the brigg of Dee, Atholl obtayned his escheat, and thereon did cast downe Drumondes houses—as Huntlay thincketh—in dispite of him. For Huntlaie was perswaided that Atholl at that tyme did shew him all the displeasures in his powre. This cause also resteth not compounded."

"Huntlay and Murraye."

"George Douglas late busshop of Murray did graunt and assigne in fee simple to James late Earle of Murray and Regent of Scotland, the fisshinges in the river of Spaie, which discended to th'erles doughter, now wife of th'erle of Murray sonne of the Lord of Downes. Huntlay hath not withstanding after the death of the said busshop both entred into and still holdeth the said fishinges, and also the castle of Spina, and all the goodes of the busshops aforesaid, whereunto Murray maketh clayme, as also Bothwell pretendeth some interest in part thereof."

"These discordes are not yet reconciled, but left to the King, who is at this present purposed to shew Murray—being a Steward—all the favour he can, notwithstanding that Huntlay maried the Duke of Lenox sister."

1 p. Indorsed.

387. The Justice Clerk to Burghley. [April 16.] Land. MSS., 63, fol. 84.

"Gine my abyding heir might advance the King my maisteris and hir majesteis service I vald nocht werrie how long so evir I suild remaine; bot sence my long tarye efter taking guid nicht may perchance be imput to my negligence, for exonering my deutye redar than douting of zoure guid rememberence, I have taking this present bauildnes of importunitie to hartlye requeist zow, seing it is nocht my fortun to do that guid service heir quhilk in hart I wiss suild content boith thair majesteis, that so soun as hir majesteis laser may permit I may be sent home, quhair I houip my mein credit sall serve them boith for better effect." London. Signed: Justice Clark.

⅓ p. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed.

388. James VI. to Elizabeth. [April 21.]

"Having directed our weilbelovit George Mar, borrow maister of this burgh of Elsingure and merchant to ws in thir pairtes, to by to our and our darrest bedfallowis behove sic furringis and other necessaire provisioun baith for our personis and our houss as in thir eastern pairtis be interchainge of Englishe claith ar mast commodiouslye recoverable; we have therefore thought meit to requeist zow be this present that following zour favorable disposition in our effairis ze will let our said merchant have zour frie grant and licence be him selfe and his factouris in his name to by, carye and transport furth of zour realme twelfe hundreth peace of Englishe claith frie of all usuall imposition and custume; the ane halfe thereof this present zeir and the other in the zeir nixt ensewing, to be interchaingit be him to our said use, according to our directioun gevin him thereanent, as ze may be asseurit to have quhatsumever commeditye our countrie zeildes furthcummand to zour lyke requeist; and the said graunt thereof accompted be ws in a speciall favour." Elsinore. Signed: "Youre most loving and affectionatt brother and cousin, James R."

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed.

389. Mr. Archibald Douglas to Burghley. [April 21.]

"Yisternicht I ressawed this lettir from Scotland which I thocht expedient to send to be preusid be your lordschip. I beleawe the ambassadour thayr resident hath vrytin moyr particularlye of the contentis thayrof, whearbye your lordschip may and for dyvers respectis in knawledge gewe bettir answer than I can for satisfaction of the Erle. Bot whatsoewir your lordschip shall think expedient that I shuld vryte ather to his lordschip or to my newphew, upon information resawed from your lordschip I shall be readye to do it."

"Such newis as the Larde of Carmihill hath gevin owte of the King his returning I leawe to the ambassadouris letteris. He now lewyis som forcis that ar thocht rather to be for preserwation of our Chancellar than for the Kingis seurtye; and the rather it is beleawed be resson it is knowin that by his procurment Sir William Keyth who was in the Kingis gud fawour at departure is now bannisshed the court and from ony return to this yle." Signed: A. Douglas.

¾ p. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed.

Enclosure with the same:—

(Richard Douglas to Mr. Archibald Douglas.)

"As I vrotte to you be my last that itt vold be verie harde for me to shift my comming to London, both that my lord att his hither comming vold neidis heve me to folloue itt furthe, even so the other day quhen he arryved heir he desyritt me to mak my selff readye vithin a day or tuo att the fardest to beginne that journey, and vold heare no reasson that I culde allege unto him in the contrair, bott he vas resolutt to heve the last answer he shuld expect, and vold no longar disgest delayes. Quherupon indeid I vas, thought unvillinglie, making me readie for the journey, quhen these soroufull newis of the deathe of Mr. Secretarie, that hes greved me verie far for monie respectis, and amongst others nocht the lest for your cause, vere brought unto this toune. Quherupon I tuik occasion and vith all moved my lord ambassadour also to persuade my lord that since so greatt ane accident culd nocht bott breade some alteration in that state, as also some delay in the resolution upon his lordschip's affaires, that he vold be contented to differ my going untill bothe the ambassadour might heare from my lord Treasurar and I from your lordschip, quhilk ve doutitt nocht shuld be vithin eight dayes."

"In the meane tyme bothe his lordschip and I tuik upon us to adverteis, he my lord Treasurar and I your lordschip, of his lordschip's villingnes and forduartnes to folloue furthe that course layed doune to him be her majestie, and of his resolution to vrytte to the Prince of Parma as he vas desyritt, quhilk is alreadie done, and if the commodite beis offered shalbe sentt auay presentlie; if nocht, itt must be sent to London and their some expedient found for the convoy of itt."

"All other matters my lord vill leave to my comming, att quhilk he vill deale verie roundlie vith her majestie, and if he can be assured of her hienes goud affection, then he vill leave of all other freindshipp quhatsomever ether att home or abroade that may ony vayis be prejudiciall to the veill of her majestes roilme and the quyetnes betuixt their majesteis and cuntreys. Otheruayes he vill crave to be dischargitt of that promise he hes made to her majestie, and be att his advantage to do quhatt best shall pleas him herefter: in quhiche peremptorie resolution he is so satled that longar for no persuasion he vill nocht be contentitt to delay."

"Att my lordis being over the water last he hes done litill of that he ventt aboutt, for in steid of agreing of Huntley and Murray, Arroll and Atholl, he hes left itt vorse nor he founde itt, and hes onlie agreitt Muntross and Atholl. He hes layd a platt for apprehension of the Irishe bishop, and hes him sure if he come in these feildis as he is undoubtedlie luikitt for. If he gett him as he luikes for, he vill nocht deliver him bott under condition that hes lyff be savitt, for he thinkis itt dishonorabill unto him to deliver anie man to the bucherie."

"As for that vas suspectitt of the meting of some of our malcontentitt lordis, I think it shall produce no greitt effect, for a mistrust that is amongst themselves; yett I am crediblie informitt that they heve resolved to meitt his majeste att his returning vith forces, and sease upon his person; and suche as vill oppone them selves unto them to putt them outt of the way, namelie the Chancellar: bott this course semes harde and I suspect they shall lack courage."

"Oure state in all other things is vonderfull quyett. Huntley is sick att Spynie, and manie thinkis of his old disease. The Erle Bothuel and Home are agreitt this other day by manie mens expectation, quhilk vill tak auay all occasion of trouble from this part of the cuntrey."

"Yesterday your freind and myne Mr. Foular departed from this lyff efter a long and grevous sicknes, intestat so far as yett appeares. The Erle Bothuel be command hes seasitt upon his papers and jeuellis for the Kings use: by thom itt appearis nocht that he hes bein so vealthie as vas thought. I heve for some quhat concerning him the greattar desyr to sie you shortlie."

"Itt is marvelled heir their comes no vorde from my lord the Justice Clerk, and I long to heare somequhat from you concerning him and his journey."

"I spake vith my lord anent his barke, quho vill nocht ressave her bott vith her furniture as she vas taken auay; and so he dessyris you to cause her be brought about from Plimmouthe to anie part about London, and he shall send to ressave her: for he vill nocht be contentitt that Blanerres brother or anie other their shall intromett vith her to go to seas." Edinburgh, 14 April 1590. Signed: A. Douglas.

2 pp. Holograph, also address. Indorsed.

390. The Laird of Coldenknowes and others to Elizabeth. [April 22.]

"Upoun knawlege of the miserable and pietifull estait of twa men, the ane namyt Johnne Gibsoun, Scottisman precher, and the uther Johnne Willokis, discendit of Scottishe progenitouris, now baith lying in prisoun at Leycester, convicted be a jury of robbery, a cryme deserving seveir punishment, gif thir personis wer indeid gilty thairof: bot the trewth being—as we ar credibly informit—that thay ar clene and innocent of the same cryme, and wer aucht myles absent fra the place the tyme of the committing thairof, as we traist salbe cleirlie testifiit be precheris and utheris personis of gude credite: we ar moved for the respect of thair said innocency to interpone our humble and eirnest requeist unto zour majestie for saulftie of thair lyffis; maist humbly beseking zour hienes to grant unto thame your gracious pardoun of the said cryme, quhilk they stand in daunger of zour lawis for, be occasioun of thair convictioun, notwithstanding thair said innocency; quhilk we doubt not salbe pleasing to God, and we sall acknawlege it as a speciall benefite quhensoevir we may gif pruif of our thankfull myndes thairfoir." Edinburgh. Signed: Coldenknoes; Dignauall; Robert Meluill; Carmychaell; P. Young.

½ p. Addressed. Indorsed.

391. Robert Bowes to Burghley. [April 24.]

Has delayed answering his letter of the 14th instant, received on the 20th, looking to have matters of importance to write. Will endeavour, according to Burghley's direction, to send the Bishop of Derry into England, as her majesty wishes, but he is at this time so surely guarded that he (Bowes) despairs of either entrapping him or taking him by any authority. It is again promised that his levies for Ireland shall be so encountered as the numbers levied shall be small and that he (Bowes) shall be advertised of any forces to be gathered.

"In this th'old tutours of Argile, by the meanes of good instrumentes for her majestie, are willing to do the good offices in their powre. And the younge earle having nowe accomplished th'adge of fourteen yeres, and presentlie at Glasgo with his frendes to chuse new tutours, is purposed to make choise of th'Erle of Marre and others of his owne bloode, which I trust to drawe to yeld to her majestie their good willes. And the like is also promised to be done for her majestie in the highe-landes, Lenox, West Borders and other places, where the forces for Ireland are sought to be levied."

According to direction, has stayed the sending of Captain Haggerston. Bothwell and Richard Douglas cannot learn of any ship for the Low Countries to take Bothwell's letters to Parma, so as they still think those letters may be sent with best expedition from London. The earl desires to send Richard Douglas to her majesty with those letters, to be in all things guided by her. Desires direction in this behalf, and also touching the earl's request to have her majesty's letters of mark, and leave to discharge in England, having as yet only heard Burghley's particular opinion therein and not her majesty's pleasure.

Sent Walsingham a letter addressed to him by the Master of Gray for the employment of Captain Haggerston; that letter is called for to be delivered again to Gray; Bowes desires to have it and other letters returned. (fn. 2)

John Penry, a Welshman, named in Burghley's letter, was resident in Edinburgh before Bowes going thither, and published lately a book without the privity of the ministers there, who have hitherto well entertained him, but Bowes thinks he shall not long remain there. He no longer comes to public assemblies, but keeps himself secret, with purpose to remove shortly.

Crawford and Sanquhar desired leave of her majesty to pass through England to parts beyond the seas. Walsingham advertised Bowes that her majesty granted them leave and it should be sent shortly. Bowes is pressed by Sanquhar either to procure her majesty's letter for his leave or to commend him to her with a letter for his passage. He craves direction for Sanquhar alone, thinking Crawford will not go out of the country as he pretended. The well affected can well spare them out of the country.

The state continues in great quietness, for the daily expectation of the King's arrival stirs the best sort to provide for his welcome, and stays the attempts of the seditious. "But the nomber of malcontentes are so increased by the conceipt taken of the Kinges resolucion to reforme th'estate of his governement, to the prejudice of the generall and ordinary votes and presence of the nobilitie in counselles and matters of estate, and the preparacion of a gard to shoulder and mayntayne this innovacion to be established, together with the late discourting of Sir William Keeth—all which are deemed to be wrought by meanes of Lord Chanceluor of Scotland with promis of th'assistance of th'estate of Denmark—as it is verie likelie that some fier shalbe kyndled shortlie after the Kinges retorne and satling." Has warned the Chancellor's friends hereof, and will warn the King and Chancellor at their coming.

The captain of the Spanish bark is in safe custody, the company discharged, and the bark and furniture seized by Bothwell. James Colvill the pilot was arraigned in Denmark and adjudged to be beheaded for bringing in the bark in seditious manner, but is respited on promise of confession. At Carmichael's coming away he had not entered into his confession.

By means of the Master of Glamis, Erroll has renewed conference with Morton for marriage of Morton's daughter, but Erroll likes the younger daughter, and Morton presses the marriage of the elder. Sir Robert Melville is willing to set this match forward to draw Erroll from Huntly.

"The King of Scottes hath had longe disputacion in Latyn with Hemingius in Denmark, tarieng with him one night, and found him conformable in all th'articles of religion, saving onelie in predestinacion: wherein the King hathe hope that he shalbe reformed. And many of the learned in Denmark—as it is certified—do acknowledge their errours in the reall presence of the sacrament, images, and other like thinges: nevertheles the reformacion is said to be staide untill the King shalbe able to reforme and establish all thinges in th'estate; in which tyme it is looked that the nobles and gentlemen being adversaries to this reformacion shalbe dead or converted."

It is credited in Denmark that the King of Spain, intending to be monarch of Europe, has given his daughter in marriage to the emperor, with the Low Countries for her dowry. Sundry of those with the King in Denmark write that the Muscovite has invaded Sweden.

"That your lordship may know th'effectes of the King's letter to the Counsell and his directions to the Lard of Carmighell, I send inclosed the copies of the King's letter and direction mencioned." Edinburgh. Signed: Robert Bowes.

2½ pp. Addressed. Marginal notes and indorsement in Burghley's hand.

392. Robert Bowes to Burghley. [April 29.]

Finding it your lordship's pleasure to be advertised what Bothwell looks for from her majesty upon his offers made to her, and what is meant by the words in Richard Douglas's letter to his uncle Archibald Douglas, "that th'erle wold deale francklie upon sight and triall of th'assurance of her highenes good affection to him; otherwise that he might be clearly discharged of his promis made to her majestie and remitted to his owne course and advantage," I have sought to know the earl's mind therein, and also conferred with Richard Douglas. Albeit the earl has stood upon very honourable terms with me, pretending that no hope of mercenary reward drew him to those offers to her majesty, but only the considerations expressed in my other letter with these, "yet he trusteth that her majestie will of her owne benevolence extend her bountie for the releif of his estate, and to supplie some part of that which he might have at other princes' handes. Wherein some motion hathe bein made before to Sir Frauncis Walsingham for the manner of his good contentment in this behalf. The particularities whereof Mr. Archibald Douglas can deliver to your lordship in case the same be not alreadie knowne to your lordship."

Furthermore, when he was persuaded that her majesty retained some hard opinion of him and his intention, and had little regard of his necessity, and charges to be sustained in her service, he thought it expedient either to be assured of her affection to him or to withdraw himself in time with least offence to her and honour to himself. Touching her good opinion of him he is satisfied, nevertheless he looks to be relieved with her further favour and bounty, which employed with expedition will bind him and his service to her.

"The report of the successe of Justice Clark in his late negotiation with her majestie for the King his soveraigne hathe put some feare in the heades of sondry well affected here that the sediciouse sort shall labour to pick out some advantage therein. And I have hard of some thing to be in brewing therein which I shall travell to remove by the meanes in my powre, being readie to do further as I shalbe directed." Edinburgh. Signed: Robert Bowes.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed by Burghley.

393. Robert Bowes to Burghley. [April 29.]

On the 27th instant he received Burghley's letters of the 22nd. He conferred thereupon with Richard Douglas, but could not speak with Bothwell till this day. According to Burghley's direction he has stayed Richard Douglas's journey and obtained the earl's promise to send his letters to Parma by the next ship that shall sail for Flanders, to cut off intelligence betwixt them.

Bothwell also promised to deliver to him (Bowes) a copy of his letters to the Duke of Parma—to be forwarded to Burghley—at his return from Dunglass, whither he rides this day with Lord Hume to compose the feud with Alexander Hume of Maunderston for the slaughter of David Hume—called David the Devil—son of said Alexander, slain by Bothwell. To remove all doubts of her majesty's acceptance of his offers, has let him know that albeit he understood by advertisement from a councillor that letters from the King of Spain to Parma and from Parma to that King have been intercepted and brought to her majesty, whereby sundry practices in favour of the King of Spain betwixt persons in Scotland and the Duke of Parma have been discovered; and amongst others that Bothwell had offered that King the delivery of Berwick and other services: "yet her majestie so distinguishes the tymes of his offer mencioned to the King, and of the tender of his good devocion and services to her self, as her highness hathe found and dothe interpritt that he had made his first offer to the King whilst he was offended with England, and upon his reconsiliacion and change of mynde had afterwardes shewed francklie his good will to her majestie," which she accepts, retaining no suspicion against him, and assuring herself of the faithful accomplishment of his offers to her. Herewith he was well satisfied, promising to proceed constantly according to his offers. Because Burghley would be advertised what the said Bothwell looks for from her majesty—to the intent that upon experience of her good affection he might deal roundly with her, or else be discharged of his promise and left to his own course agreeable to Mr. Douglas's letter to his uncle —therefore when telling him of her majesty's favour, and her readiness to prove it by all thankful means, Bowes let him know her willingness to cause his bark to be restored to him, and to grant him letters of marque and leave to discharge in England prizes taken at sea of the goods of Spaniards; and sought to feel what other especial matter he desired. Hereupon Bothwell entered into discourse of his former life, and his course with her majesty and other princes; and that now he saw the King his master so greatly affected to her majesty, and her good will so beneficial for the King, for religion, and for both realmes, he had resolved to leave all other princes "howsoever they might yeld particuler profittes to him self"—and to devote himself to her service, in hope to find favour with her agreeable to his service. He added that albeit his estate needed repair, and that from other princes he might have more than he would receive, yet he would not "indent with her majestie in any suche sort," neither should the hope of mercenary reward bind his services to her, but that, next his own sovereign, his services shall be at her commandment. He attends her majesty's pleasure as to any good offices in his power, and her answer to his requests for his bark, letters of marque, and leave to discharge in England.

"By suche order as I tooke with John Montgomery, servant to Mr. Thomas Fowler, all the papers of notes and intelligence left in his house are safe in t'handes of the said John, to be ordered as your lordship shall direct."

Carmichael's motion for aid towards levying a guard for the King has not been renewed to him (Bowes); it will not be further stirred till the King's coming. He did not put Carmichael in hope of the commendation of it by his letters, or the success by her majesty's bounty, but told him that her other great charges for the common causes would not suffer to hear of any such burden to be sustained by her.

Had thought the bishop of Derry would be found at one of the houses of Huntly or of the lairds of Aughendowne and Grant, where he had been secretly kept; but he passed over Tweed near Kelso on Saturday last the 25th instant "with purpose to ride as farre as Durham, and within ten daies to retorne into Scotland by the west or myddle marches of England," or else from some port on the west of England to embark for Ireland. Looks rather to come again into Scotland, yet is afraid to travel in that realm. Bowes awaits his return, and has written to Lord Scrope to advise him thereof, and sent fit persons to the bishopric and Northumberland to hunt him out, but knowing no certain place doubts the apprehension of him; yet he has sent to pursue him in such secret manner that it may fall out better than is looked for.

The lady of Kintyre, wife of O'Neill, comed to Glasgow and not able by her sickness to travel forth, has written to Bowes—as by the copy enclosed—to cause her three letters to be conveyed to her majesty, Burghley, and Sir John Parrett. Her messenger said that her letters contained the complaints of O'Neill against the Earl of Tyrone for spoils, burnings, and slaughters committed in harvest last, for withholding O'Neill's lands without rent, and for hanging Hugh, son of Shane O'Neill; also her petition to her majesty for a yearly pension, agreeable to the letters of the Lord Deputy of Ireland, brought to her majesty by Mr. Fenton, secretary in Ireland. The three letters were closed, and no copies showed to Bowes, neither was the messenger known to him. Finding that the lady and her messenger had power to do her majesty service—chiefly touching the bishop of Derry—he put off sending the letters till he could do so with better warranty, that he might receive order from Burghley and also draw the lady and the messenger to Edinburgh, thinking thereby to draw likewise the bishop of Derry.

"Before the retorne of the Justice Clark to this towne, it was bruted and given out here with great confidence that her majestie had rigged and made readie eighteen shipps to be spedelie imploied and sent into the east seas to surprise the King of Scottes in his retorne."

This troubled many, and he (Bowes) sought to find the authors of the rumour, and to satisfy the Council of the untruth of it. The bruit was suppressed, but revived by some who came from London with the Justice Clerk—who is greatly grieved therwith—with such certainty as the report received credit among the Council, and some wished to set forth a pinnace to warn the King; but others conferring with Bowes and distrusting the tale, advised to stay the pinnace lest it should work evil to the amity between the sovereigns and their realms and delay the King's return.

"To increase these jealousies it is this daie given out that the towne of North Barwick discovered tenn shipps—which they tooke to be Inglishe —bearing with that coast and plieing northwardes, and afterwardes put into the seas. Moreover it was crediblie told th'erle Bothwell that my self was hastelie and secretlie rydden to Barwick upon the rising of these brutes and discoverie of the shipps. And dailie newe tales are forged and devised to give credit to these rumours, which are spred so farre and be so well credited as my powre sufficeth not to staie and quenche them." Prays order therein.

Many noblemen are grieved at the commission given by the King to Carmichael to levy two hundred footmen in Edinburgh for the King's landing, and to restrain the nobility and ladies from attending the King and Queen at their arrival. It is bruited that the King purposes to establish a new form of government, "which they thinck shalbe drawen nere to th'order used in Denmark, and that thereby the wholl nobilitie shalbe prejudiced in their auncient priveledges for their free accesse to the King's person, and vote in Counsell and matters of estate."

Montrose said openly that he deserved punishment that advised the King to raise a guard and put his people in arms when no need could be seen, and when the King, Queen and company ought to be received with great joy. It is said the Chancellor has ordered Cessford, Farnihurst, and others of his friends to be at the King's arrival with their friends and servants well armed, so as this offence, grieving this sort of the nobility and the Chancellor's adversaries, is like to be laid wholly on him, who shall hardly escape some evil to come "peradventure to rebound against the King" except it be prevented.

The Master of Glamis has heard that the Chancellor in Denmark has declared himself a greater adversary to him than he looked for, and by his mean the office of captain of the guard is turned over from Glamis to Carmichael.

Glamis by special messenger solicited Bothwell to join others of the nobility for redress of these evils, chiefly on the Chancellor. "But Bothwell hathe refused, saieng that he wilbe free of all bandes at the King's retorne and ready to serve him. And being reconciled with the Chancelour, with promis to enter into no band or societie against him before he should speake with him, therefore he will not assent to joyne with any companie before he shall first speake with the Chancelour and finde that he hathe not kept promis with him."

Lord Hume has acknowledged to Bothwell that the Chancellor only set him on to seek Bothwell's life, and now persuades him to join others to discourt the Chancellor; yet Bothwell still refuses.

The Master of Glames procedeth diligentlie to sett forwardes the mariage of Arrell with the doughter of Morton to drawe Arrell to that partie, and hathe latelie found meanes to procure an interview betwixt Arrell and the mayde. Hereupon Huntlay hath sent to Arrell a gentleman of creditt to diswade him from that mariage."

Montrose, the Master of Leviston, Fentry and others met with Erroll at "Meggins" the 21st instant to persuade him to keep bond with his old friends, and not enter into any new association for the love or beauty of a woman. "Arrell was readie to agree to continew frendship with th'old frendes, saieng that he would ether be able to drawe his wife's frendes to his owne course, or els he wold not deale in the matter. This faccion with Marshall and others are thought to be lincked against the Chancelour."

Huntly has sought leave of the Council to depart to foreign countries, but the Council answering that they have not hitherto meddled in such matters have referred it to the King. Many think that had he obtained leave he would not have gone out of the realm.

"Th'erle Bothell lett me knowe that Maxwell and Jonston are agreed; likewise that Buckcleugh shall agree with Fernihurst, and that th'assurance is alreadie taken. Sondrie other feades are latelie compounded by the Duke of Lenox at his late being at Glasco, at which tyme he was invited to the Lord Claud Hamilton's house, where he was muche wellcomed. Th'erle Bothwell hathe discovered that the capten of the Spanish bark hathe counterfaicted all the commissions given to himself, and the letters addressed to Bothwell, Maxwell, and the lard of Maye."

The little bark of James Knowes loosed at Aberdeen the 21st instant, and put out with the ship of that town for the King in Denmark, but soon changed her course and is departed for Flanders. Edinburgh. Signed: Robert Bowes.

4½ pp. Addressed. Indorsed by Burghley.

Enclosure with the same:—

(Anna Campbell, wife of O'Neill, to Robert Bowes.)

"Forsomuch as if your lordship will call to remembrance the letters which your lordship did carie out of Sterling from my chefe th'erle of Argule in favour of my husband and me to her majestie, by the meanes of which letters we received great favour and creditt at her majestes handes, for the which we render your lordship many thanckes, for I ensure your lordship that we have nought received of before suche favorable letters as we did at that present. And now, my lord, seing that your lordship hath shewed us suche frendship in tymes past, we beseche your lordship to be so good as to cause these our letters directed to her majestie, my Lord Threasurer, and Sir John Perratt to be caried from thence to the court: and also your lordship to write in the companie of these our letters, desiering of her majestie and the rest to whom the letters is directed to hast their gracious answere back throughe England into Ireland to my husband Onele; who as I doubt not but your lordship knoweth and hath had intelligence that he is a duetifull and a loving subject to her majestie, and is nought presentlie delt withall as equitie and justice dothe require. The which if her majestie knewe of, would nought thinck good of the same, weigheng how her majestie knoweth his good and duetifull service towardes hir highnes, the which shall ever be sure to his lyve's end as knoweth God. And, my lord, because we have none at this present that hath knowledge in carieng suche letters, and also because we have in tyme past received suche a gudelie answere of our former letters caried by your lordship, it maketh us to be bold upon your lordship, as nought acquainted with your lordship, to will and beseche your lordship to carie or cause carie these our present letters. Thus being done we are bound to indevour our selves to pleasure your lordship efter our powre in any tyme comminge, the which by the grace of God shalbe performed if your lordship require. And, my lord, my husband being thus delt withall by th'erle of Tyrone hes thought expedient to write his letters to her majestie and Counsell."

"Your lordship shall understand that I am here in Glasco sore troubled with sickenes, and if I had bein so [sic] I would have commed and spoken with your lordship my self, of the which I would have bein very glad. It will please your lordship to give creditt to this bearer my servaunt in lesum matters." Glasgow 25 April 1590.

¾ p. Copy. Indorsed by Burghley.

394. Robert Bowes to Burghley. [April 30.]

The King of Scots, the Queen and his company embarked at Elsinore on Tuesday the 21st instant, keeping together till they lost sight of Norway and until Tuesday last. That day Colonel Stewart and the provost of "Clenclowden," shipped in several vessels, left the King, and the Colonel arrived this day about two o'clock in the afternoon at Leith. The provost and Mr. George Yong are in sight, and it is looked that the King and Queen will be at Leith this night or tomorrow morning.

The Duke of Lennox and Earl Bothwell—being with Lord Hume at Dunglass—are sent for, with other noblemen appointed to be here at the King's landing. The Council—being very few—are presently together to provide the King and Queen lodgings at Leith and Holyrood House. Edinburgh. Signed: Robert Bowes.

½ p. Addressed. Indorsed.

395. [ ] To [ ]. [April.]

Yesterday evening I received letters and news by way of Flushing, which concern without any doubt one named Charles Bally, being an extreme papist, who was living with the Queen of Scotland at the time when the King was murdered, having also been a prisoner in this town of London at the Tower twenty-two years ago at the same time that the bishop [of Ross] was taken on Easter Day, and at the time that the Duke of Norfolk was taken and executed. The said Charles was twice in Scotland a little time ago, and has said in Antwerp that he found many sympathisers there, having been sent thither by the Prince of Parma, and as I understand shall very soon return thither, or perhaps is now there.

I know the man as if he were my brother in face and form. He is of middle height, walking a little lame, his face rather ruddy, the nose hooked or crooked.

½ p. French. Indorsed: "Apr. 1590. Charles Baily, abyding with the Quene of Scotts at the tyme of the murdringe of the Scottishe Kinge."