James VI: February 1591

James VI: February 1591

520. Robert Bowes to Burghley. [Feb. 3.]

The convention of Huntly, Marishal, and others appointed to have been at Montrose on Wednesday last was put over for a few days. Huntly and Marishal were to meet there, and thence to come hither with Erroll and Caithness and their friends. Huntly's friends at home urged him to show himself in court, "whiles Murray, Atholl, and his other adversaries were here dressing their busines for their most proffittes"; but his friends in court advised him to return and tarry at home, promising to advance his affairs better than he could. The King's goodwill towards him continues, but he likes not of his repair hither in this forcible sort. Huntly sent hither to excuse his fault that he did not give bond for his good behaviour within the time limited, promising to do it, and seeking thereby occasion for his repair hither. Murray and Atholl hearing of his coming sent to call their friends, and Murray rode to Bothwell at Kelso, whereat the King is much offended. Bothwell and other Stewarts have warned their friends to attend here, but the King has given order to restrain them, and sent to Bothwell to remain at home. He likewise sent John Drummond—Huntly's servant, in great credit—to Huntly, to will him to retire to his house: it is uncertain what he will do. Murray and Atholl, seeking this day to have spoken with the King, could not have access, wherewith they are deeply wounded.

Lord John Hamilton, under pretence of assisting his kinsman the laird of Enderwick at his day of law against Sir James Hume, captain of this castle, has warned his friends in great numbers to come hither with him; and Lord Hume, supporting Sir James, has put his friends in readiness: but the King has sent Captain Hamilton to Lord Hamilton to stay him, and has charged Lord Hume to depart out of this town to his own house, "and not to retorne with any extraordinary company." Hume has departed, but remains near this town.

"The Erle of Morton and Maxwell have their freindes under warning to come to them at the day of lawe in the matter in variance betwixt them, which now approcheth nere. But their bringing of forces is discharged and restrayned." Under these pretences many noblemen were ready to resort hither with extraordinary forces, and many already fill the streets and some attempts are feared. "Thereon the rest of the assemblies shall shortlie breake, without great effectes to be done at this tyme." Their plot is shaken by the restraint of assemblies, and they will appoint a new convention within this month.

The Master of Glamis is come, but he [Bowes] has not spoken with him, as—until he acquit himself—he can neither accuse nor excuse him. Sees no hope of his reconciliation with the Chancellor.

Francis Dacre has earnestly pressed to know her majesty's pleasure towards him and his petitions: he has not enough to pay his table and lodging, and seeks relief till he may know her mind, protesting that he can neither tarry here nor return to England till he hear her resolution. He might pass to Spain by a ship now bound thither, but is loth to take that course.

"Some of the worst sort of witches—discovered here—are eschaped and fled into England." The King desires that they may be apprehended and delivered to him, and would send David Seaton of Treanent, gentleman, —who knows them—to search them out. Has agreed to give Seaton letters to Sir Henry Woddrington, Sir John Forster, and Sir John Selby to assist him, and to arrest and keep in safety such as he shall find, that they may be delivered into Scotland or otherwise as shall best please her majesty and her Council.

The King has been informed that sundry persons—especially some of London—have been examined before Alderman Martin for false coining of money current in Scotland, and that the depositions taken are delivered to Burghley, which he thinks "wold discover a great nest of noughtie persons in this realme," and therefore desires that these depositions may be sent to him.

He [Bowes] understood that Bothwell was bitten on his arm near the elbow by his horse, and feared this should hinder the redresses on the Borders promised by him at days now at hand, so sought to prevent that danger; but it is answered that this accident shall be no hindrance to those redresses, "and that Bothwell hathe promised not to see the King's face untill he shall administer justice therein."

"Maxwell after his late retorne home did apprehend, condempne, and hang two Johnstons, whereupon the warres are like to begin againe betwixt him and Johnston"; but present tempests may be blown over as greater have been.

The King cannot maintain his pastime of hunting next summer without some "fallow dere masles" out of England, and desires Bowes to entreat Burghley to commend his request to her majesty in this behalf. For Burghley's information how to obtain and send them he will send an Englishman—being a woodman and serving him with the charge of his hounds—to attend Burghley; and he [Bowes] has directed his servant Christopher Sheperson to wait upon him also for the expedition thereof, as the time is short. Edinburgh. Signed: Robert Bowes.

3 pp. Addressed. Indorsed.

521. Robert Bowes to [Sir John Forster]. [Feb. 6.]

This morning before five o'clock I received your letter of the 4th instant, with the copies of your letters to Earl Bothwell and his answers. I resorted immediately to the King and told him thereof, with the contents of your letters to myself, moving him to take order with his Council that Bothwell might be speedily certified "that it was ther pleasure that this metting appointed to be betwixt the Earle and you att Stawford on Monday next the 8th hearof, for the administracioun of justice," shall be put over to some fit day at the same place this month.

The King is pleased that this meeting be deferred agreeable to your desire, and will advise with his Council this afternoon for appointing a new day, the place, and fit number to meet, and will give advertisement to Bothwell by Sir William Stewart or Mr. David Collesse. So soon as the King or Council shall acquaint me with their resolutions, I will give you timely knowledge thereof. Edinburgh. Signed: Robert Bowes.

1 p. Holograph. Indorsed. No flyleaf or address.

522. Robert Bowes to Burghley. [Feb. 13.]

By his last letters he informed Burghley as to the Borders. Her majesty's officers of the Marches, having lately met with Bothwell for the execution of the bills for Liddesdale and Mindrum, have doubtless already made their report. Sir John Forster had no liking to meet Bothwell with such numbers as he had prepared to bring with him to Stawford on the 8th instant, and by his desire he [Bowes] obtained the King's consent to adjourn the meeting, and to prescribe a convenient number for the next assembly. The King sent David Collesse to acquaint Bothwell with his pleasure, and to persuade him to hasten the redresses promised; whereupon such effects were done by Bothwell at his meeting with Sir John Selby and Nicholas Forster as have already been advertised. The King has shown such care to preserve quietness on the Borders that he [Bowes] desires Burghley to send him special thanks "to stirre him to continew in that course."

Bothwell acquainted him with his doings at the last meeting, and his progress in the administration of justice for Liddesdale, offering to make all offenders within his office always answerable according to the laws of the Marches, "and also to charge his owne person and possessions for the accomplishment thereof" Since the King is resolved to run his course with her majesty, he would also with his whole power advance the same, "and in manner to become an Inglishman"; protesting solemnly to Sir John Carmichael and Bowes that since he offered her his-devotion during the King's absence in Denmark "he had not used any intelligence with any forren prince or person whatsoever, nether consented to any thing offensive to her majestie; promising now the performance of all good offices." He has renewed his request for restitution of his barque, ordenance and tackling, carried into England from this Firth by Cowpland, an English pirate; and prays Burghley's help therein.

Huntly had timely warning of the King's restraint of the intended assembly of noblemen, so "stirred not out of his house." Erroll and others were on their way, but retired. The Chancellor and officers of the King's house believed this assembly to be for greater causes than was pretended, but know nothing certainly. Bowes was informed that a generall petition—grounded upon the inconveniences to the state and nobility by the grant of the King's commission to persons of no noble houses to govern in matters of state—should have been exhibited to the King by noblemen at that assembly in the names of the rest; seeking to remove the Chancellor and others. And although their purpose was stayed by the stay of this assembly, it is said they will come together here at the end of this week, on the departure of the Chancellor to his house in Lauderdale, and then draw out the plot devised; and that many noblemen have already resorted thither, contrary to the King's charge, and Huntly and others of like stamp are expected shortly. Whereupon the Chancellor and other councillors, for avoiding of all danger, purpose to acquaint the King with all these circumstances.

Has laboured to reconcile the Chancellor and the Master of Glamis, and that whole fellowship which has fallen asunder by their discord. The greatest difficulty "standeth onelie in the manner of their course to be taken, and in the chose of noblemen to be intertained and added to this fellowship." For the most peaceable sort of government these councillors should join with the King's favourites in his chamber; "butt the Chancelour and some others do not fullie allow as yett that the noblemen shalbe added, as the Master of Glames hathe bothe advised and also indented that without the associacion and support of some well affected noblemen he will not beare any part of the burden in this course and service, but rather retire him self and live privatelie at home. Next, in the choise of the noblemen to be called they do most disagree." The Chancellor would draw in Claud Hamilton and Maxwell; Glamis would rather have Morton and Erroll, whom the Chancellor suspects, while Glamis fears mischief from the other two. He [Bowes] has persuaded them "to committ the loosing of this hard knott to the consideracion and handlinges of the rest."

"It is muche merveiled that Crawford and the Master of Glames should be thus sodenly agreed. And it sticketh fast in the stomackes of these counsellours, that Glames without their privitie should make offer and covenaunt to assigne his office of the Lord Threasurer of Scotland to the laird of Spina." Glamis assures him that it is still in his hands; that he did not offer it, but it was sought by others; and that he is not entangled by promise or privity with any new association. But the other councillors are not satisfied.

The King continues his favour towards Huntly, and seeks to compound his feuds with Athol, Murray, and their friends. It is said he has given commission to Huntly to apprehend all under Athol, Murray, and their friends who are at horn, but that Huntly will not hastily execute this and so hinder the agreements sought by the King. Also that the King has by private letter given Huntly leave to come hither, "but he will not hasten so to do before that Atholl, Murray, Grant, and Mackentoish shalbe departed from this towne." They have leave to depart and will return within a day or two. The Duke of Lennox is ridden to meet Huntly at Montrose to set forward the reconciliation. Some look that Huntly will come hither with him, but others think this enterprise is so shaken as it will stay his coming, "or at least suspend the attempt of the matter."

"The Chancelour hathe made him self so sure of the King and chamber as in great securitie he is departed this day towardes his owne house in Lawtherdell to the mariage of his nece in his house, purposing to retorne hither the 17th hereof. The Chancelour, distrusting partlie Huntlay, is contented to enter into frendship with Atholl, Murray, and the Stewarts; wherein the advise and consent of Bothwell was sought by Atholl, and Bothwell well imbraceth the motion. Huntlay for his good behaviour hathe given in caution the lardes of Aughendowne and Bagwhen. And Atholl and Murray have given the bondes of the lardes of Grantullie and Tarbott."

Albeit it is given out that James Gordon is in Flanders, he is in Scotland under Huntly, saying mass daily. Fentry has newly gotten the King's warrant for his liberty, and is to repair to Balwearie, and be ready to enter when called for. So the punishment threatened to the Papists is like to be easily passed over.

The laird of Buccleugh is returning to England to seek remedy of the gout. He may be a good neighbour to the Borders, wherein the Chancellor will urge him to good offices, and prays Burghley's favour to the laird for his sake.

Prays Burghley to remember to give order for Francis Dacre; for warrant to Sir John Selby to send hither the Scottish witch taken in England and committed to prison in Berwick, for whom the King earnestly calleth; and for the delivery of John Dixson, Scottishman, that killed his father and remains in the East Wardenry. Edinburgh. Signed: Robert Bowes.

4¼ pp. Addressed. Indorsed.

523. Robert Bowes to Burghley. [Feb. 13.]

On the 10th instant he received Burghley's letter of December 31, at the hands of Alley. The said Alley came from Berwick on the 4th instant, but did not make him [Bowes] privy to his coming till the 10th, but entered into matters with George Carr and others, to whom he was addressed with letters out of Flanders, "as myn intellygencer, of his owne stampe, hath informed me." Whereupon, being ignorant of his errand, he [Bowes] provided for his arrest in case he left without stating it. Being sent for, he came, and delivered Burghley's letter, opening no part of his affairs, alleging that secrecy promised best success and stood most with Burghley's mind, promising to return when he had obtained his desire, or at least a full answer, and impart the matter and obtain advice from him [Bowes]: who let him depart, and has not heard from him since. Hears that by George Carr's means he obtained "the King's warrant, with the privitie of the Chauncelour, to lycence and protecte Henry Dathicke, Inglyshman, with his two or thre servantes, to come into and remayne in this realme for recoverye of his helth; as also his desieres in other thinges." Wherein he [Bowes] makes no curious search, lest he hurt his cause; if he please Burghley he will be atisfied. Edinburgh. Signed: Robert Bowes.

1⅓ pp. Holograph, also address. Indorsed.

524. James VI. to Elizabeth. [Feb. 15.]

"Richt excellent, richt heich and mychtie princesse, oure dearest suster and cousine, in oure heartyest maner we recommend ws unto zow, thanking zow richt heartyle for the gude furtherance quhilk oure distressed subject Archibald Johnnstoun, burges of oure burgh of Edinburgh, hes be zoure speciall favoure and directioun found be the ordoure of zoure Counsale, in the prosecutiown of the heavye spoyle of certane guidis pertenyng to him and his pertiners, committed twa zeir syne be Roger Windhame, now inwardit upoun thair sentence in the Marschall seas."

"In quhilk ordoure, albeit they have uttered their honorable and worthye zeale to justice, and in the executioun thairof a cair to se oure subject helped, zit nottheles we ar informed that the said Windhame, cairless of his imprisoment, hes resolved to remane continit thairin rather or the said sentence sould be effectuat upoun his guidis; thairby baith to elude the intentioun of thair said decrete, and frustrat the compliner of that satisfactioun quhilk justice hes adjugit unto him."

"Quhairupoun we have accordit to requeist zow zit anew, as we do rycht effectuuslie, that be zoure favoure, and directioun of zoure Counsale, the said Windhame may be compellit to refound to oure said compliner the sowme quhairin he is adjugit, of the readiest of his movables, according to thair first decre and reasoun; that thairby oure said subject may reap the benefite and confort of thair sentence quhilk equite allowis unto him, unfrustrat ony mair be his parties fruictles and ineffectuall imprisoment, quhilk can be to him na satisfactioun nor relief." Holyrood House. Signed: "Youre most loving and affectionatt brother and cousin James R."

½ large p. Addressed. Indorsed.

525. James VI. to Burghley. [Feb. 15.]

"The furtherance and favoure quhilk, be this berars gude report, he hes found with zow, in his expensive proces deducit be him agains Roger Windhame befoir oure dearest susters Counsale, movis ws with oure hartyest thankis for this guidwill effectuat to him at oure requeist, to recommend unto zoure favoure the executioun of the sentence gevin according to zoure first decre and sentence, that thairby he may reape that satisfactioun quhilk justice and gude raisoun allowis him be zour decrete. Seing the end of all sic sentences gevin in favoure of ony partye respectis alwayes the reparatioun of the partye grevit, without the quhilk it can import na benefite to him, cheiflie in this particular, quhairas baith the decretis adjugeing the said Windhame in a pecuniall sowme to the compliner, for satisfactioun of his heavy losse incurrit be his meane, gude raisoun cravis that they have executioun in sic forme and maner as best may mak the same effectuat, to the contentment of the partye in quhais favoure they ar gevin; quhilk can be by na bettir meanis nor by comprising of his guidis, according to the tennoure of the first decrete; seing that his restraint, he being obstinat, can be na payment to the party, and consequentlie mon frustrat the intentioun of zour sentence in caiss he be na further preissit."

"Quhairunto we requeist zow very hartelye to interpone zoure meane, and to perfyte the ordoure begun be zow for oure said subjectis help be executioun of the said sentence upoun his parties landis and guidis, as ze will do ws rycht acceptable pleasyur and report thairfore oure hearty thankis." Holyrood House. Signed: "Your assuered guid freind and cusing James R."

²/3 p. Addressed. Indorsed.

526. Robert Bowes to Burghley. [Feb. 23.]

The first quarrels between Huntly and Murray arose for the fishings in the Spey, claimed by Murray and occupied by Huntly, as parcel of the bishopric of Murray, to which Huntly pretended title. The griefs between Huntly and Grant sprang from the slaughter of one of the Grants by Huntly's servant. "Thereon Huntlay procured commission to apprehend one Grant for slaughter of one towardes Huntlay, who, comming to the lard of Grantis house to take his kinsman, was so encountred by the lardes of Grant, Cadder, Mackentoish, and the freindes and tenauntes of Atholl and Murray, as Huntlay was driven to retire with disgrace." Huntly in revenge came to Tarnaway, Murray's house in Murray, to arrest Grant for that slaughter and surprise Murray, Grant, and Mackintosh being all in that house. But the brother of the laird of Cluny—being a Gordon specially beloved by Huntly—was there slain. Huntly's commission was revoked, and he returned home with this loss and dishonour.

The Earls of Caithness and Sutherland, the lords of Elphinstone, Drummond, and Inchafray, the barons and lairds of Auchendown, Cluny, Gethe, Buchan, Patlurde, Innermurchy, Findlater, and other barons, are ready to assist Huntly. Athol and Murray are especially "partied" by the lairds of Grant, Caddell, Mackintosh, and others, strong enough to encounter Huntly in his own bounds without the aid of the King. Bothwell and the rest of the Stewarts are also ready against Huntly; but the Duke of Lennox remains neutral, Huntly having married his sister, and Athol and Murray being of his name and blood. He is employed by the King to pacify these feuds; wherein he has greater desire than power. Huntly's disposition is known to Burghley; Athol and Murray are well affected in religion and the amity between the realms.

The laird of Niddery, in a fray in Edinburgh, killed the brother of David Edmonston of Womet, and by the mediation of friends the matter was compounded. "Neddry riding latelie by the barne doore of Edmonston, espied him in the barne, and divers tymes crossed and rode to and fro. Whereby Edmonston conceived that he purposed ether to assault him or els to offer some wronge and shame to him; and thereon sent his servantes for horses and weapons. In the meane tyme Neddry rode to Rosling nere adjoyning and sent home his servantes, who retorning by the barne, Edmonston and his men pursued them; but finding Neddry absent he lett them depart without hurte." Hereupon Niddery charged Edmonston with breach of the agreement, and a combat was appointed at Kelso. Bothwell countenanced Niddery, and Hume of Pollard—that married Edmonston's sister—took part with his brother-in-law, bringing many Humes and gentlemen to the field.

Encloses a note of the matters proved against the witches, whereof some are already condemned and executed. "These witches have confessed many other thinges in their abuse of Godes name and yealding them selves to evill spirittes. And many thinges are told to please the examiners—chefelie the King—to wynn grace, and that are farre more strange then trewe, as my self and others touched with a shamelesse and drunken woman can witnesse and prove: wherein my name and place sufficeth to give them matter to rattle at as they list and were— I thinck—suborned. And yet in the discription of my person they have so farre erred as the King and the examiners sufficientlie condempned the tale, notwithstanding that this rogish woman perswaided that the Inglish ambassadour, being a litle black and fatt man with black haire, and soone after the King's departure into Denmark—as I am informed— had bene with them in a celler and given them gold to hange up and charme a tode for the hurte of the King in his life, and to hinder the issue to come of his bodie." Many things they told which they recanted at their execution. John Fianne, executed in Edinburgh, at his death denied all he had acknowledged, saying he told those tales by fear of torture and to save his life. The King will have their examinations printed soon after they are ended. (fn. 1) At his request he [Bowes] has written to the officers of the Borders to apprehend such witches as have escaped to England; and asks Burghley to send warrant to Sir John Selby and other officers that they may be delivered for the King to the deputy warden of the East Marches of Scotland.

Angus M'Connell and Maclane were arraigned for burning houses, murders, and other outrages, being treason in this realm. Maclane claims the farm of the King's possessions in the Isle of Islay in the Hebrides, where M'Connell has a good inheritance and occupies those possessions by force. Maclane long ago entered the isle with his forces, and slew all the men, women, children, and cattle he could bring together, and long wars ensued. At length they were reconciled, and Maclane married M'Connell's sister. Afterwards M'Connell feasted his brother and all his friends in a barn, but in the night assembled the country and killed 80 of Maclane's kinsmen, saving him alive for his wife's sake: "yet he kept him prisoner, bynding him with an iron cheyne to the arme of an other man." Maclane escaped, and the wars were renewed. Donnell Gorman and M'Leod of Lewis party M'Connell, whom Argyle has also assisted. And M'Leod of Harris joins with Maclane, who is valiant and wise.

M'Connell's possessions lie in Kintyre, Islay, and the adjacent islands. He has other possessions in Ireland. Maclane possesses the isles of Mull, Terry, and little islands there. Their lands are forfeit to the King, but he will not take them, but rather take of each of them a fine of 10,000 marks Scots and as much in yearly rent. But M'Connell's possessions being of greater value, he is to pay more. Edinburgh. Signed: Robert Bowes.

3 pp. Addressed. Indorsed.

Enclosure with the same:

[Confession of Agnes Samsone.]

"Certane notes of Agnes Samsone her confession, 27 Januarii 1590; quhairupon sche was convict be ane assise and brint in Edinburgh 28 day for ane witch."

"Imprimis the said Agnes confessit that efter the death of her housband the devill apperit unto her in the nicht quhill sche was solist and pensive for the sustentation of her and her bairnis, bidding her be of gude cheir and leive of that cair for her children, promising that gif sche wald serve him sche nor they sould lack nothing. And being movit with her povertie and his fair promisis of riches and revenge of her ennemies, tuik him for her maister and renunceit Christ. Efter the quhilk he gave her ane sore scart upon the right thigh, ane large span above the lid of her kne, quhilk continewit sore half ane zeir; and appontit their nixt meiting half zeir efter in ane churchezard."

"Item, that the devill appeirit unto her somtyme like ane blakman, somtyme like ane dog, and somtyme like ane turse or ruk of hay, at quhe sche socht her whole responses."

"Item, that kept convention nixt at Barro kirkzard with other tua; quhair efter common talk with all, he callit her apart and axit yf sche felt anie sore sence ther last meiting; and quhen sche confessit sche had, he answerit it was his mark and sche sould feil it no more sore; quhilk sche fand ever true; and efter her apprehending, being brodit with prenis, felt no pricking at all."

"The thrid meiting was ben of Garvet kirk at the wattersyde, five in November."

"The fourt betuene Cousland and Carbarrie thre [sic] in November, quhen he commandit to be gude servands to him."

"The fift convention was at Foulesutherw Mure, nyne in November, quhair thei raisit the devill with ane rope quhilk sche bade them haill. They axit, 'Quhat sall we hail'? Sche answerit, 'The devill zour maister'; and thei drew him up and consultit for wracking of David Setoun and his gudes, efter the quhilk hes followit great deads of his beasts."

"The devill gave them glistering things as thei had bene peces of stampit glass, quhilk he commandit them to saw in the mure, and quhatsoever came first over sould perish. And the hynds daughter hes bene vexit with strange and terribill apparitions, as namlie of ane man callit Jhone and ane woman callit Bessie quhom sche saw and herd bot none els. Thei scratch and nip her, and pullis her with violence from the hands of them that holds her. And in the beginning of Februar instant tuke of the zarne of her spindle quhairwith sche span, and tyed it about her neck to wirrie her had it not bein takin fra her neck."

"Item, sche confessit that the devill appeirit to her in mannis likenes, and warnit her to come to ane convention at North Bervick the last Michaelmes, and sche raid thither and her sone in law before hir; quhair was convenit manie persons of quhom sche knew bot a few. The men were dint nyne tymes weder schinnis about, and the wemen fyve tymes, quhair the devill apperit and spak manie thingis unto thame, and thei maid homage to him and kissit his ers. They opinit tua graves within the kirk and ane without, and [tuik of] their fingers, toes, and noses, and pairtit the joints among thame, quhilk the [sic] kept upon them until thei were dryit, and then maid powder of thame to doe evill withall."

"Item, sche confessit that sche had bene out of Scotland be sea tuise, and in her veyage slaid away suiftlie, and remanit somtyme 48 houris somtymes langer, and was in ships upon uncouth costes; and had bene oftener on the sea, namlie upon Hallow Even was ane zeir ane and tuentie sailit in ane bote and came to ane ship quhairin the [sic] drank gude ail and wyne: ther maister the devill went before them on the sea and gydit them, and drownit the schip quhairin their were, quhairof the [sic] recevit som part of the spoill; and the said Agnes gaif of her part 20s. to her servant Jhone Gordoun alias Graymeill, quha alwayis awatit upon her."

"Item, sche confessit that upon ane complent of ane woman of the frowardnes of her father-in-law and her earnest desyre to be quite of him, sche maid ane picture of wax and raisit ane spirit at ane wattersyde beside ane breire bush, desyrit him to inchant it to serve for his destructioun, and send it to the said woman to be put under his bed feit or bed heid. The like sche did against ane Archie quhom ane other feirit and wald be quite of."

"Item, that sche did put inchantit powder or muilds maid of the dryit joints of deid bodeis in ane clout under som wemens bed feit to releive them of the dolour of their birth."

"Item, sche confessit that sche knew quhen anie was bewitchit be the smel of their linning clothis or the sueit therein, and be luiking on them. And gif sche never saw them sche wald knaw it be her words, quhilk sche callit her prayer quhen sche said it to that end. And likewise that sche understude be her said prayer gif the patient wald die or leive: for gif sche stoppit in rehersing of it the patient wald die, sche wald never come to visit such persons; bot if sche did not stop in her prayer, nothing wald aill the patient. The words and verses quhilk sche had to this use were these, quhilkis sche practisit upon hundreths:"

"I trow til Almichtie God that wroght
Both heaven and earth and all of nocht:
Into his dere sone Christ Jesu
Into that aullholie Lord I trow,
Was gottin of the Holie Ghost
Borne of the Virgin Marie:
Steppit to heaven that all went then
And sitis at his Father's richt hand.
He bade ws come and there to dome
Baith quick and deid as he thocht quhome.
I trow als the Halie Ghaist,
In halie kirk my hope is maist;
That halie ship quhair hallowaris wynnis
To ask forgevenes of my sinnis;
And syne to ryse in flesh and bane
The lyf that never mair is gane.
Thow sayis, Lord, lovit mot ze be
That formed and maid mankind of me:
Thow coft me on the halie croce,
And lent me bodie, saule, and voice,
And ordenit me to hevins bliss;
Quhairfore I thank ye, Lord, of this,
And all zour hallowers lovit be,
To pray to thame to pray for me,
And keip me from the fellon fea
And from the sin that saule would slay;
Thow, Lord, for thy bitter passioun
To keip me from sin, warldlie scham, and endless damnatioun:
Grant me thy joy never wilbe gane
Sweit Jesus Christus, Amen."
"Sche usit likewise other verses, quhilk sche repetit in releving of wemen of the pains of their birth; and men and wemen, young and old, of sondrie diseasis cassin on be witchcraft, quhilkis were these:"

"All kynd of evils that ever may be,
In Christis name I conjure the;
I conjure the both more and less,
With all the virtues of the mess;
And richt swa be the nailes sa
That nailit dere Jesus and na ma
And richtsa be the samyn blude
That raikit over the ruithful rude.
Furth of the flesh and of the vane
I conjure the in Godis name."

"Item, sche confessit that sche charmit innumerabill beastis of ther diseasis. Her accustomit maner was to gang betuene everie couple of thame and graip ther backs and wombes, and say Ave Maria over them as thei stude in their stales."

"Item, sche confessit that sche inchantit ane ring quhilk had ane stane in it, quhairwith ane gentilwoman sould procure hir maistres favouris."

"Item, sche confessit that sche raisit the devill be her evocations to ask yf a gentilwoman sould leive or die. He apperit to her in liknes of ane blak dog before supper, sche being alone; bot efter supper, having the gentil woman's thre daughters with her, of quhome ane wald have drownit her self in the well out of the quhilk the dog came and quhether he went, and was hardlie stayit throcht the violent pulling and halding of her sisters and the said Agnes Samsone. The said gentilwoman was mad ane quarter of ane zeir therefter."

"These are the cheif and generall poyntis of her confession, quhairunto the rest being particular practises may be almost referrit. For of the 102 articles of her dittey sche confessit 58. Sche deit maist penitentlie for her sinnis, and abusing of the simple people renuncet the devil, quhom sche oftentymes callit 'Fals decever of God's pepill': and had hir only refuge to God's mercie in Christ Jesus, in quhom alane sche was assurit to be saif, as that theif quha hang at his right hand."

"Besids this Agnes Samsone there are brint in Hadintoun Gilbert Mackgill and Jhone his sone, Catharin Gray na les skillit then this Samsone, Jhon Gordoun alias Graymeill, Erish Marioun, Meg Dun, and other twa, quhose particular pointis were long to describe, ane in Dalkeith, ane in Dumfreish, quha for the most part confirmit sondrie of the saidis conventionis quhairat Agnes Samsone was, and manie other points of her dittey; quhairin they them selfis hath bene partiners."

"One Jhone Feane alias Cunynghame confessit him self partiner with Agnes Samson and others in sondrie of these conventions by sea and land, and that he wrote ane letter at one convention and send it to Leith for raising ane storme there, as their convention in the Pannis sould doe the like, to stay the Quene of Scotland to come in Scotland. Quhilkis all he denyit obstinatlie unto the death."

"There are moe then fourtie apprehendit and under triall and examinatioun instantlie, quhairof we remit the severall pointis unto the ischue."

4 pp. Copy.

527. Robert Bowes to Burghley. [Feb. 23.]

Burghley's letter of the 10th instant reached him on the 15th, whilst the King was at the Chancellor's house at Lauder, at the marriage of his sister's daughter to the young laird of Lugton. The King and Chancellor returned the next day, but owing to the King's great affairs and the Chancellor's "sicklie disposition" he [Bowes] could not get access till Saturday the 20th. Entreated the King to show favour to Sir John Carmichael in the matter between him and the laird of Inderwick, telling him that her majesty sent him hearty thanks for his goodwill already shown in this behalf, praying its continuance. The King has already brought the parties to some agreement, "and is readie to induce the other copertners and sisters of Enderwick's wife's—claming these landes in the handes of Sir John—to come to like order." For which Sir John renders thanks to her majesty.

He acquainted Francis Dacre with her majesty's answer to his requests, and with Burghley's doings in his favour, and what it behoves him to do to obtain her goodness upon his humble submission. He was at first willing to acknowledge his faults for his entry into and abode in Scotland without licence, and attempt to pass to Spain, resolving to set down the same in writing to be presented to her majesty, and praying him [Bowes] to give him in writing the sum of Burghley's letter in this behalf, that he might thereby frame his confession and petitions; and he [Bowes] did so. Dacre framed a draft, but thinking it too rough to send to her majesty forbears for this time to send his submission in writing, offering to make it upon his knees or to deliver it in writing as it shall please her to direct. He says his debts grew by his law-suits, being driven at one time to answer 140 actions; that his creditors and kinsmen being sureties for him sought to arrest him for sums he could not pay, whereby, and by the delay of justice in his suits, he was forced to fly, and dare not return to England without her majesty's pardon, and also her goodness to enable him to content his creditors and sureties.

"William Cowburne, burgesse of Edenbrough, bothe brought hither from Lynn two Scotishmen charged to have counterfeited the coynes of this realme, and also delivered the deputie Thresurour some depositions taken in England and concerning the discoverie of that offence: but the King being still informed that Sir Richard Martyn, late maior of London, tooke other and further depositions touching those causes, which depositions remayne ether with your lordship or in the handes of Sir Richard, therefore he prayeth your lordship to cause searche to be made for them, and in case they shalbe founde, that they may be sent to him."

As to fallow deer to be had in England, the King will send Cuthbert Rayne, an Englishman, to Burghley about it: he is ready to start.

The assembly in Edinburgh—whereof Bowes wrote—was speedily scattered after the King declared "his constancie to resist the attempt of any innovacion, and to punish whosoever should be knowne to interprise the same." To compass this the Chancellor and chamber were newly reconciled, binding up their freindship by the surest knots they could; and thereon they opened to the King the danger of those numbers and forces, without discovery of the plot intended, which is not yet disclosed, though smelled by the Chancellor and others. "It was thought mete that the King should withdrawe his eare from suche populer motions." Early in the morning he passed to the Chancellor's house at Lauder, and tarried only one night. There he openly renewed his former graces to the Chancellor, and "hereupon it is thought that the late flame likelie to have heated the Chancelour shall not hastelie be kindled, but rather raked up in the ashes for a tyme, notwithstanding that some new grudges lately conceived against him by some noblemen offended with his course in their causes and sutes in lawe threaten to blow the coles ones againe."

Before the Chancellor departed to his house he [Bowes] drew him and the Master of Glamis near to an agreement "by the mediacion of the societie, who wished that Glames might be received togither with some noblemen well affected and the chamber for the better strengthning of their cause." The difference is such in the chief of the noblemen as they are now omitted and the Chancellor and chamber united, with purpose to take in Glamis and other officers in the King's house. Glamis has since—by the King's secret direction—met the friends of the young Earl of Argyle at Campbell to treat in the marriage betwixt the young Earl of Casellis—Glamis' sister's son—and the sister of Argyle; which match the King wishes broken. The Chancellor, claiming interest in the tuitions of Argyle and Casellis, hinders it, ill pleased that Glamis should deal therein.

The matter betwixt Glamis and the town of Forfar—whereby Glamis fell in great danger—was submitted to four of the Sessions, and Crawford and Glamis were agreed by the King's mediation; yet now Crawford has left Glamis, renewed the contention betwixt Glamis and Forfar, and made friends with the Chancellor. Some think that Crawford, Ogilvie, and Indermeath have given their bands to the Chancellor, to the prejudice of Glamis, "and to beard him at his owne dores."

By the Chancellor's means the laird of Lugton—father of his new nephew—obtained a decree of the Sessions on Saturday last against the Earl of Morton, father-in-law to Glamis, for a good portion of inheritance: "Glames is sharplie pricked, and Morton mightelie stormeth" against the Chancellor. The Justice Clerk and the young laird of Whittinghame —the Chancellor's nephew, who acknowledges Morton for his chief— absented themselves from the Session at the time of the determination hereof. Thus jealousies are nourished betwixt the Chancellor and Glamis, so as it is hard to join them; under colour of society each shall seek to undermine the other. The Council and state is distracted by these occasions; peace may be looked for in the morning, but the alarm sounded before night: sundry councillors are resolved to retire and await events.

Albeit the King has shown readiness to compound the feuds of Huntly against Athol and Murray, employing the Duke of Lennox therein, yet by the sight of the favour still given to Huntly the matter has hitherto had small success. "Hereupon the King and Counsaill have by their act of Counsaill declared the rode of Huntlay at the house of Murray at Terneway—where John Gordon his kinsman was slainle—to be done for the King's good service; with a proviso that it shal not prejudice Murray in his lawfull defence for that slaughter before the Lord Justice." Huntly thus countenanced by the King, and comforted—as is believed— by the Chancellor and Chamber, purposes to come to Spynie castle and plant his forces at Elgin. He has increased his retinue by fifty gentlemen, allowing to every one of them two geldings. He has drawn to Elgin many of his Highlanders, who daily spoil all passengers and many inhabitants thereabouts. To encounter Huntly, Murray prepares to lie at Forres, near to his house at Tarnewaye and within eight miles of Elgin: "for Atholl and Murray with their followers thinck them selves strong enough for Huntlay and all his forces, in case the King shall stand indifferent betwixt them. . . . It is said that Glames chefelie procured this act of Counsell for Huntlay, and that the Chancelour and Glames contend whether of them shall possesse him: whereby Huntlay gayneth no litle proffitt betwixt them."

The King purposes to take pledges of M'Connell and Maclane to pay 10,000 marks Scots a-piece for a fine, and the like yearly for the increase of his revenues. M'Connell having the greater possessions shall be taxed at some higher rate. To draw together the King's possessions in those isles, he will exchange parts of his land there with M'Connell. Maclane will not be able to deliver the pledges, for many of his followers, hearing of this new charge on his lands, have revolted and left him.

The officers of Exchequer have travailed this long time to increase the King's revenue, and for the sustentation of his house; and by drawing into his hands such part of his property as he had during his minority granted away they have advanced his revenue 5,700 marks Scots, besides the thirds of spiritual livings and the temporalities of all monasteries. Many of the King's servants will be pinched herewith, but great courtiers will easily escape.

Bothwell continues his good course for the redresses. He [Bowes] has sought "that he might be releived for suche faulters under him as he hathe delivered above his owne rate and porcion," as by the enclosed copy of the act of Council will be seen. By his offers to deliver any offender under himself or any warden in Scotland for whom the wardens will not answer it is deemed he would declare himself worthy of the lieutenancy of the Borders; which room the King is loth to grant.

George Carr shall shortly be sent into Flanders for Catholic causes. Erroll, Montrose, and Fentry met lately at Calender with the Master of Livingstone to confer of Catholic affairs: "where Montrosse accompanied with his page kept him self secrett in his chamber, and his page, demaunded whether he was there, denied, saieing that his sonne and not him self was commed thither and was sick." Fentry during his imprisonment has married the laird of Balwearie's sister, and obtained the King's warrant to transfer his ward from John Graham's house, his near kinsman, to Balwearie's house, where he and his wife remain, with all liberty they can desire. This favour to him and other Papists breeds great discontent. James Gordon remains still in Huntly's limits, notwithstanding the late proclamation, but the laird of Auchendoun keeps him to be conveyed before Easter into Flanders.

By the King's favour—through Sir George Hume, a gentleman in his chamber—the laird of Inderwick has obtained a decree of Session against Sir James Hume, captain of this castle, for the abbacy of Eccles. The captain, finding no remedy without loss of his office, intends to assign the office to one well affected to England. He [Bowes] would have the captain "comforted with best advies, and the office bestowed in the best handes: he thincketh him self litle beholden to the Chancelour and the Master of Glames in this matter," who have desired to satisfy the King's appetite rather than equity. He [the captain] and the best sort of the Council have considered how to preserve the custody of the castle, and have resolved to leave the government of court and state to the Chancellor and chamber at the beginning of next month, and to abide at home until they see amendment of the present errors. This day the captain has sent to the Chancellor to take his determinate answer, he [Bowes] having dealt with the Chancellor in his behalf.

On Saturday the 20th instant he heard that an Irishman accompanied with three or four others arrived the day before at Glasgow, "bringing with him six faire Irish hobbies and fowre great dogges to be presented to the King here." He kept himself close in the town, purposing to come hither the Monday following, but was stayed. His name is "Orowrick" [O'Rourke]; his son, being delivered to the Lord Deputy of Ireland, escaped out of ward, and gathering some rebels killed some of her majesty's subjects in Ireland, and continues rebel amongst them. His father fled hither to obtain succours, intending to return to Ireland and join his son, and such Spaniards as should by then be landed in Ireland. He said two thousand Spaniards were already in Ireland, but that is not true. He [Bowes] acquainted the Chancellor with his arrival, praying that he might be taken and kept surely; and also complained of this government, being so mild towards Papists and the seditious, as Spain and Leaguers were encouraged to practice here, and traitors durst boldly enter this realm to seek succours against religion and her majesty. The Chancellor, approving this government, offered his whole endeavour to defeat the designs of such persons, and promised to stay this stranger at Glasgow, but he [Bowes] desired he might be drawn hither, his errands discovered, and himself committed to safe keeping till her majesty's mind were known.

This day the King received a letter from O'Rourke, and sent Roger Aston to him [Bowes] to signify the contents thereof, and to offer to stay him at Glasgow, or do whatsoever might best please her majesty. By his letter he certified—as Aston reported—that the deputy of Ireland had dealt severely with him and his son, otherwise than stood with her majesty's knowledge and pleasure. He prayed that he might come to the King's presence, and remain in this realm for his safety, "doubting to come hither before he had obtayned the King's licence, least the ambassadour of Ingland should procure his trouble." The King had no liking that he should come hither, and he [Bowes] prayed that he might be safely kept at Glasgow until her majesty should send hither her pleasure; which the King granted.

Leaves Border matters to the report of the officers of the Marches. The King and Council have agreed to give redress for Mindrum and other bills, as by the copy of the act enclosed. They seem willing to execute justice for all attempts since the meeting of the commissioners at Berwick, and Sir William Stewart of Tracquhare has been with Bowes, persuading that one gentleman from every March in England—knowing the laws of the Borders—should come hither and confer with him [Bowes], the Chancellor, Sir John Carmichael, the Clerk Register, and one other gentleman of Scotland, to consider the bill for those attempts, and give order for redress, leaving the execution to the ordinary authority of the Wardens. Knew not how this might content her majesty, so spared to embrace this overture.

The King daily calls for delivery of the Scottish witch taken in England, and John Dixson that killed his father and remains in the Marches of England. The Spaniard imprisoned at Berwick craves by his letter to Bowes "to be ether releived by her majesty's mercies or rid of his paynes by her justice." Edinburgh. Signed: Robert Bowes.

7²/3 pp. Marginal notes by Burghley. No flyleaf or address.

Enclosure with the same:

[Act of the Scottish Council.]

"Holyrood House, 12 Feb. 1590-91."

Cf. Reg. of Privy Council of Scot., iv. 805.

"Forsamekle as for surty of releife of the personis enterit for redres of the sax Inglish billis filit at the Mydle March be the comyssioners aganis Lidisdaill, as also for releife of the Kingis majestie and his wairdants for attempttat [comm]yttit at Myndrome, Johne Lord Maxwell faythfully promeist and become actit and obleist in presence of his highnes to cause Jok Armestrang sone to Will of Kinmonth, Hectour Armestrang of the Hilhouse in the kirktoun of Ewisdaill, George Armestrang of Arkiltoun, Johne Batysonne callit Johne of the Scoir, Will Armestrang callit of Kinmonth, young Thome Armestrang of the Gingilles and Adye Armestrang his brother, answer and make redres for the pairtis of all their steilfellowes dwelland upone the said Lord Maxwelle's landis:"

"Lyke as also Alexander Lord Hume promyssit faythfully and became actit and obleist in his hienes presence that he soulde gar his men fyllit in the saidis billis, viz., Robert Ellot of Glenveren, Archie Armestrang sone to the lard of Quhithauch, Nichol Scot in Mespeble, and Andro Scot callit the Braidis Andro, answer and make redres for the pairtis of all uther thaire steilfellowes duelland upone the said Lord Hume's land for releife of the personis that soulde be entarit for redres of the saidis billis within twenty dayis after delyvery were made; and for greater suirty of the said releife the said John Lord Maxwell and Alexander Lord Hume promissit and became actit and obleist to enter and presente the personis above written, thaire men, tenauntis, and servandis to Francis Erle Bothuile, Lord Crychtoun, Heallis and Lidisdaill, Great Admirall of this realme, at Kelso upone the fourth day of Februarie instant, to be kepit be him in his strenght aie and quhill ane perfect suirty were maid unto him for releife of the persones that sould be enterit for the saidis billis that thay are fylit in respectyve, saulffand that it sould be lauchfull to the said Erle Bothuile to enter and delyver in England ony ane of the said twa Scottis of Ewisdall foull in the said bill of Myndrome as sould happen ayther of thame to fall by lot to be enterit tharefore, and that the said steilfellowis sould not only make reliefe for thaire parties of the saidis billis, but alswa of the expences of the personis that sould be delyverit thairefore, aie and quhill thay were freed, lykeas at maire lenght is conteynit in the said promeiss and act made thereupon."

"And albeit that the said Erle Bothuile according to his promeis maid to his majesty enterit and delyverit his awne men of Lidisdaill for redres of saidis sax bailiis fylit by the commissioners, as alsua offerit to have enterit se mony of his as were appoyntit to be delyverit for redres of the said bill of Myndrome: Newirtheles the said Johne Lord Maxwell and Alexander Lord Hume faylzeit in entering and presenting thaire men, tenauntis, and servaundis above specifiet to the said Erle Bothuile for the greater suirty of the said releife; quhairthrow his men remainis unreleevit, the said bill of Myndrome as zit undelyverit for, to his hienes great offence and displeasure."

"Therefore his majestie, with advice of the lordis of his Secret Counsell, ordainis letters to be derect, charging the said Johne Lord Maxwell, and John Maxwell of Nedirpollok as cautioner and suirty for him, and the said Alexander Lord Hume, and George Hume of Wedirburne as cautioner and suirty for him, to releife his majestie, and his wardins, and the personis enterit for the saidis billis of the same billis, and the availe of the guidis and geir conteynit therein, as alsua of the expenses of the personis enterit for redres thereof, within sax daies nixt efter they be chardgit thereto, under the payne of rebellioun and putting of thaime to the horne: or ellis that thaye upon the 24th day of Februar instant compere personally before his hienes and lordis of Secret Councell at Halyrudhouse, or quhair it sall happen thame to be for the tyme, bringand with thayme enterand and puttand the saidis personis, men, tenauntis, and servandis to the saidis Lord Maxwell and Lord Hume, and shew ane reasounable cause quhy they sould not make the said releife in maner foresaid; with certyfication to thame and thay faylze, letters salbe derect simpliciter to put thayme to the horne, and to escheit etc. As alsua letters to poind and apprise the readyest landis and guidis of the saidis principall personis and thaire suirtyes conjunctly and severally elkane for thaire awne partis for the avayle of the saidis billis, as they are sworne, togidder with the saidis expenses, according to justice."

1 p. Copy. Indorsed.

528. Robert Bowes to Burghley. [Feb. 23.]

"Upon knowledge guven me of the arryvall of Orowricke att Glascoo, I supposed that he had beyn the same person for whome Alley laboreth here. Therfore that I shold nott crosse or hurte Alley's trode in any sorte, I sentt for hym secretly in the nyght, to be informed by hym whether this stranger was knowen to hym."

"Wherupon he opeyned then to me parte of his doynges and successe, with such plain[ess] as I trust he will kepe promys with your lordship: geving me to thinke that he knew nott this man nor his errandes, butt left me to followe myn owne course towardes this Iryshman, as I shold thinke best."

"Alley is nere the endc of his busynes here, with hope to compasse his desiere. He is presently gone to the Lord Seaton and other frindes theraboutes, intending upon his retorne hither to hasten into Ingland to your lordship. Butt I have wyshed that he myght expend some few dayes to visite Huntley and that crewe in the northe, outt of whose brestes he myght discover some part of the venym that poysoneth this realme. He hath defferred his resolution to his retorne hither." Edinburgh. Signed: Robert Bowes.

1 p. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed.

529. Robert Bowes to Burghley. [Feb. 23.]

The Chancellor has expended 2000 l. for the King's affairs, and is now pressed by his creditors. The King cannot raise this sum without her majesty's help, which he is loth to ask, but is compelled to request that such portion of her yearly gratuity to him "as her majestie maye convenientlie spare" may be delivered for his use and to releive the Chancellor, to such as the King shall authorise to receive the same. And the Chancellor prays to know when it shall be delivered, that the King may send for it. James Hudson is appointed to attend upon Burghley herein. Edinburgh. Signed: Robert Bowes.

²/3 p. Addressed. Indorsed by Burghley.

530. James Hudson to Burghley. [Feb. 23.]

"The cawss why the Chanceler sekith this means for pament of that whiche the King is in dettid to hime is this, that alwaes when hir majeste bestowith any thinge upon the King, he hath ether such urgent ocassyons for the present usse ther of him self, or ells his cheiff favoretts Sir Alexander Lindsay, laird of Spynei, or Sir Gorge Home have a promiss of a great part therof beffoar it be arryvid; so that the Chanceler can noct have his owin dew dept unless he should therby dissapoynt the King him self or his favoretts and so procuer his enemeis ane advantage agaenst him; but this poynt he hath prudently alwaes preventid—althowch with the danger of his lyff dyverss tymes—and with great expenssis, wher of I can particularly inform your lordship of my owin knowlege, whiche wer over longe to truble your honor with in wryttinge."

"Your lordship knowith the man by his acssyons passid, and how he hath bein loath to be chargeable to hir majeste at anny tyme him self, ye, loath that the King should so oft in unseasonable tymes have burdenid the queins majeste; but when he could not stae importunetei, then was he glad to instruct the King's ambassadours with the best reassons he could and to draw ther instrucsyons."

"He was drivin to furnish the King's hoal charge of his sudeyn voyadge to Denmark, al upon his owin credit. The King was so bent to it, and the peiple blamid so the Chanceler for a staer of that mach that they wer in a muttany agaenst him, whiche he also was glad to excuess to hir majeste."

"He hath dyverss tymes by havinge mony and credit staed great aparance of danger boath to the estaet of relegeon and the best affectid ther to hir majeste by a pressent livei of a gaerd, whiche other waes mycht have suffrid no delae; and the lyk dangers mae occur hear after, and the rather if the evil inclynid know hime to be unprovydid for a pinshe: for they know ther is no other that wil disburss but he; and becaws he is the head of the good faxsyon the burdinge lyeth alwaes upon his shoulders."

"Yit in this he is very modderatt, for his request is only to know secrettly whatt tyme it wil pleas hir majeste to apoynt for the King's pensyon whiche it pleassith hir majeste to bestowe yearly upon the King, that therby he mycht keip the King from importunattinge hir majeste til hir highness owin pleassuer and apoynttid tyme cume: and witth al that then he myght adress the King's warrant to suche as shalbe apoynttid for the resseyt ther of, least he should—if it came hoam—be preventid or els loass sume frendship therby."

"He doeth very confidently beleive that hir majeste wil noct refuess this his reassonable suett, and alsso trustith that by your honor's good means onley with hir highness he shal resave by me sume asurance in this matter boath of the quantety to be hoppid for to the King, as alsso for the apoyntid dae off pamentt."

"I ame the moar boweld to move this suet and the laerd of Carmichel's for that I sei it is wel spent on them that hath and wil doe al dewteful service to hir majeste that lyeth in ther power; seinge alsso that it is monny goen from hir majeste howssoever, for the King wil never forgett that hir majeste hath promisid a yearly penssyon, nether wil he forbear to crave it."

"The Chanceler is loath to usse this means, but that he seith no wae to help him self at hoam; and for the matter it self it is moar fit for hir majeste and your lordship to juge upon then for me to usse moe words in."

"If it shal seame good to hir majeste to gratefye hime in this his first suet with a favorable grant, it will tye him as muche as if hir highness had givin him as muche furth of hir owin coffers: and in that estaet he is the worthyest to keip suer in al respects."

"The King hath left his extreordenarei travell and now hath takin him self to a moar eas and warmness: and the longe gowin that he was wunt to haet he hath now takin for a disseas in his syd whiche he hath bein a longe tyme trublid with. I prae God send hir majesteis hart and syds to be longe sownd." Not signed.

Postscript—"Mr. Aston hath willid me humble to beseach your honor to send for Jhon Rattsey laett servant to Sir Walltter Mylld . . . es and that he mae be comitid to sum w[ar]d til he pae him 300 l. and moar wh[ich]e he owith hime for the 600 whilk hir majeste bestowed upon hime thre years agoe, wher of he hath gottin nothinge as yit. He dryvith hime of with bad shifts and delaes, and he wil never gett peny unless it be by your honor's good means, for he never kept one promiss to hime as yit in thre years; and now the gentleman is abil to bear it no longer." Unsigned.

3 pp. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed by Burghley.

531. Roger Aston to James Hudson. [Feb. 23.]

"There is anyerland [an Ireland] man come to Glaskoo and has writen to the King to crave his presenes": he has brought horses and dogs. He is commanded to remain where he is till the King be advertised for what cause he comes. If he come as rebel to the queen he shall have neither audience nor benefit of this country; if for poverty to seek the King's favour with her majesty he will do him all the good he can. Has carried this word this day to the ambassador.

Sir James Sandilands will have Aston to come with him; if he can dispatch his business in time he will.

Hudson is to be careful to get "Rattse," and not to spare to give largely for that purpose. M'Connell and Maclane are fined at 10,000 marks apiece, "and shall geve in soure pleyges to the King, every one of them 10,000 marks be yere." The King has taken in all the property that was given out in his own time, which has greatly augmented his living.

"Delever this other letter according to the dereccion."

"I soud the Chansler and my lady the nott you sentt inclosed. He is your fast frend, and so you maye acowntt." Signed: Roger Aston.

¾ p. Holograph. Addressed.

532. Lord John Hamilton to Burghley. [Feb. 24.]

"The decreittis gevin be ze lordis of the Quenis majesteis Previe Counsell in favouris of Archibald Johnestoun, burges of Edinburgh, being seine be the Kingis majestie my soverane, and quhat zeill ze beir towardis the administratioun of justice, as als to his majesteis requeistis, quhilk deservis thankis, I could do no les upoun my awin creditt, lyk as of befoir, nor to pray zour lordship, seing the differrence usit be his partie adversar, albeit he be retenit in ward upoun decreit pronuncit, nor pray zour lordship effecteouslie, as ane quhome I knaw to be cairfull in all guid caussis, and speciallie tweching stranegeris, to tak sic ordour quhairby the berar may have satisfactioun of his loss, and that of the reddiest of his parteis movabillis, conforme to zour lordships decreittis; sua that the persuit therof be not eludit be the restrent of his partie, in respect his retening can be no satisfactioun to the complener."

"In quhilk doing, besydis my soveranis thankfull acceptatioun of zour cair in this erand, I will think my self bund to do the lyk furtherance to ony zour lordships cuntreymen recommendit heir." Edinburgh. Signed: "Zour lordships assurit frinde at pouar to coummande, J. Hammilton."

¾ p. Addressed. Indorsed.

533. Robert Bowes to Burghley. [Feb. 25.]

Albeit the King's letters to her majesty, the Privy Council, and Burghley, in favour of this bearer. Archibald Johnston, suffice to further his suit for recovery of his goods against Roger Wyndham, yet being moved by the Provost of Edinburgh and most of the well affected, he recommends his cause, having daily experience of the good offices rendered to her majesty by the said provost and other petitioners. The bearer has also given proof of his good affection towards her. Edinburgh. Signed: Robert Bowes.

²/3 p. Addressed. Indorsed.

534. James VI. to Burghley. [Feb. 26.]

"Thir beiraris Frances Tennent and George Scott, burgessis of our burcht of Edinburgh, being refused of justice and redress of sindrie greit and havy wrakkis incurrit be thame be meanis of the inhabitantis of the townes of Sanct Valery, Tresport, Newheavin, and otheris on that coast adhering to the League, and forceit thairby to help thame be our derrest brother the King of France's and our proper letters and permissioun to repair thair losse upoun the personis, schippis, or guidis of quhatsumevir inhabitant of the saidis townis quhair evir thai can apprehende thame: we have accordit to thame to requeist zow be this present that following zour former favour utterit sa effectualie to the help and outred of our uther subjectis dampnifeit be the same meanis, for the quhilk we hartlie thank zow, ze will likewayis procure to thir saidis beiraris our derrest suster zour soveranis gude favour and allowance to restraine and sease quhatsumevir personis, schippis, or guidis they can find and comprehend within any pairt or heavin in England pertening to any of the foirsaidis townis, use and dispone thairon according to the tennour of our said darrest brotheris letters and ouris, without ony trubill or oppositioun to be made unto thame be any officear executar of hir lawes, or any hurt or danger to be incurrit be thame thairfoir in any sorte."

"Quhairanent, praying zow to let thame have sic letters as may best further thame to the premissis in any pairt quhair thai sal happin to comprehend or challange ony of the foirsaidis, as ze will do ws acceptable and thankfull pleasur, we committ zow, rycht trustie and weilbelovitt cousing, to Goddis gude protectioun. Frome Halyrudhous." Signed: "Your assuired freind and cousing James R."

²/3 p. Addressed. Indorsed.

535. Observations by Burghley Concerning Scotland. [Feb.] Cott. Calig., D. II., fol. 9.

"[4] (fn. 2) September [1590]. On Blythman delyvered to Alexander Hume of Huton Hall for a Spanyard brought to Barwyk."

"16 September. Manny English fishermen taken about Orkney by Spanish shipes to the nomber of 100."

"17 September. Sir Jhon Carmychell kept a day of march with the Lord Scrope at Rockley [Rockcliffe] neare Carlile and kept good justyce."

". . . October. The Spanish Papistes in Scotland offer ayde to the King to render England without chang of the relligion, and therin the Chancellor hath . . . delt withall."

" . . . a multitud of Papistes intended at Edinburgh but di[scovered]."

"6 November. Henry Lock at Edenburgh."

"20 November. The King disavoweth Archibald Dowglass to [do] any service for the King."

"28 November. Francis Dacres sheweth his discontentment . . . pass into Flanders to receave 2000 li. which Edward hath left at his deth."

"5 December. A revocation of all grantes made by the King of [Scots which] war of the property of the croun."

"7 December. The Chancellor of Scotland wryteth to the Lord Tresurer of England . . . commandment. The King's resolution ageynst the [Papists]. A fray betwixt the Earl of Huntley and Murray."

"17 [December] 1590. Anno 24 Jacobi 6. A remission to the Erl Huntlay of all crymes . . . in May 1589, and of his fact at the brig of Dee, &c."

"20 December. The yong Lord Zanchar cam into England to travell . . . frendes have sought meanes to stey his . . ."

"25 December. Monsieur Morlans sent to the King of Scottes from the . . . letters from the King to sondry princes in . . . of sold[iers]. This Morlans cam to England . . . ted by sea out of . . . ."

[1591] ". . . [Ja]mes Gordon declared a[nd] published a rebell, and . . . erss with hym."

". . . of Januar. Ordred by the Kyng upon promises of the Erle Bothwell for Liddesdale, the Lord Maxwell for his land dwellers, Sir Jhon Carmychell as warden of the West Marches, and the Lord Hume for his land tenantes, that a nombre of Scottish men by names of Armstronges and Ellottes and such lyk shuld mak satisfaction for six bills fyled for the Midle Marche of England. And the Erle Bothwell promised for the attempt of Myndram which was committed in the King's absence to be also answered."

". . . January. A combatt intended betwixt the laird of Nederay and David Edmonston of Bornhouss; Bothwell frend to Nederey, Hume of Pollard brother-in-law to Edmonston."

"[Willia]m Carr, that was named to have killed the Lord Russell with a shott, was hurt at Edenburgh by Cesfordes men, who avowed afor his deth that he did not kill the Lord Russell."

"Francis Dacres maketh meanes to come to England if he may have some relyffe to lyve."

"[Fe]br. Lord Maxwell sence his retorn hath hanged two Jhonstons. Alley hath by George Carr's meanes obteyned the King's passport for on Henry Dethyck an Englishman to come into Scotland."

"[Feb]r. The King licenseth Francis Tennant and Georg Scott to arm ther shippes against the Leagors."

"The Queen's majesty wryteth to the King of Scottes for apprehension of O'Rork."

"The King wryteth by Roger Ashton how willyng he is to apprehend O'Rork to be delivered, affirmyng that if he had the King of Spayn in his hand he wold delyver hym to the Queen, and affirmeth all hir ennemyes to be his ennemyes, not exceptyng his co[usins]."

"The Erle of Westmoreland wrot letters to the King and the Chancellor, wherof the King hath advertised hir majesty by Roger Ashton."

"[Th]e M'Conell was imprisoned by the King, and uppon his delyvery the King [res]tored hym to his landes, addyng a clause for his good behaviour . . . of England."

". . . hir majesty ageynst M'Conill, Donnell . . . Master Og[ilvy], so to . . . Innes, Eleich of Macdareych . . . Donnell M'Conell Gorn payeth to the King . . . the rentes which he hath receaved of the Kinges landes . . ."

"These two ar also bound to kepe peace with the . . . Jhon Cambell of Caddell becam a suerty for these two."

"M'Conell hath much land in Ilay, wher M'Clan for . . . and M'Conell impeacheth M'Clan therin, wheruppon . . . them. Afterward beyng reconciled M'Callan marryed M' . . . Jhon M'Conell invited M'Clan with all his frendes, and after that he had feasted them in a barn he killed the gretest nombre of M'Alan's frendes, . . . M'Clan, kepyng hym as a prisoner."

"Donnell Gormon and Macclode of the Lews tak part. Maclod Henry favoreth M'Alan. M'Clan possesseth the iles of Mull, Terry, &c. M'Conell possesseth Ila and landes in Cantyre."

"December 1589. Mr. Robert Bowes sent to Scotland in the King's absence to the Lord Jhon Ha[milton] to be informed by Mr. William Ashby ther ambassador."

"24 March 1589 [90]. Erle Bothwell offreth to send to the Duke of Parma to . . . enterprise in Scotland is not sperable, by reason of . . . she hath in Scotland, but hir majesty did not lyk . . . of Fentry thyther, who might promise the contrary. [Richard] Douglas was used by Bothwell for this ma[tter].

". . . Englandes . . . anno 1590 . . . [Earl M]arischell sent out of Denmark from the King of Scottes."

"Thomas Foular that servet the Lady Lennox dyed at Edenburgh."

"King discharged Sir William Kyth of his chamber, because he was more rychely apparrelled than the King at the mariadg, and placed Georg Hume son to Alexander Hume of Manderston in the office of the King's wardrop."

"Bishop of Dyrry [Derry] lurketh in Scotland."

"The Kyng of Scottes and the Queen departed from Elsygnewe [Elsinore] the 21 of April."

"Erle Bothwell offreth by his letters to the Duke of Parma to renounce his forrin intelligence with hym, and to be a favoror of the religion and the amyty."

"Anna Cambell, wiff to Tyrlogh Lennogh, is in Scotland."

"King and Quene arryved at Leth."

"Bowes saluteth the King and Quene with gratulation for ther arri[val]."

"The Quene of Scottes crowned, wher war made fifteen [sic] knights; Drumlanrygk, Douglas, Cesford, Car, Ormiston, Cockborn, Johnston, Carmickell, Master of Glamis, Home."

"Decree to apprehend James Gordon as a Jesuit contrary to an act of parlement [of] 1587."

"King promiseth to send Colonell Stuard and Mr. Skyne to the assemble of the [D]utch princes to negotiat for a peace with Spayn."

"[Earl] of Worcester arryved at Edenburgh. He advertised the King that he was chosen . . . the order of the Garter with the French Kyng."

"Carmychell sent from the Scottish King to the Queen's majesty."

"[Queen of] Scottes wryteth a kynd letter to hir majesty by the Erl of Worcester."

"[Sir] Jhon Carmichill had 500 from the Queen which he imprested to Collonel Stuard and Mr. Jhon Skene."

". . . to his promiss delyvered to the Erle of Worcester . . . Huntley, Arroll, Craford, Bothwell, and Montrose . . . Bothwell and Master of Gray . . . the Lewes . . . others that the Master of Glamis shall kill the . . . ."

"The Master of Anguss offreth to be reconciled to the kyrk."

"The mariage of Arroll with the Erl of Morton's doug[hter] . . . to the King's commandment for which Morton was charged to . . ."

"20 July [1590]. Jhon Lisle [Leslie] neveu to the bishop of Ross prisonor in the gal[leys] delyvered for Jhon Farrior prisoner in Paris."

"23 July. Sir Alexander Stuard commended to the Duke of Parma from Lennox. Huntley, &c., offreth secret service to the Queen's majesty."

"7-8 Augusti. The King hath stated a nombre for his Counsell, promisyng . . . that shall be by them devised."

"Lord Chancellor, Tresorer, Tresoror Deputy, Controllour, Collector, Justyce Clerk, Clerk, Carmichill, Callothy, Captain of the Castle."

"5 August. The Erle Bothwell sought to have of the Queen's majesty 1000 with . . . hym for this surrender of Drumfermlyng."

"6 August. Mr. Bowes the ambassador offred a memoriall to the Chancellor of . . . answered to hir majesty."

"Erl Bothwell refusyng to be bond for Lyddesdale is committed to the castle, but next daye gyvyng suertyes of the Erl Murray and the Lord Hume he was delyvered."

"The order promised to the Erl of Worcester to be performed, and the Quene to affyrm the same."

"Twoo commissioners to be sent to Spayn to furder the nego[ciations of] Stuard at Brunswyk."

"Jhon Penry to be banished."

"The presbytery to be forbidden to condemn the eccles . . ."

"13 August. A memoryall delyvered by the Chancellor of sondry thynges."

"14 August. The Kyng gave good answer to the memorial presented by . . . The ministers ar commanded to call for all the . . . at the brig at Dee . . . named to be sent . . ."

6 pp. In Burghley's hand.