James VI: April 1591

James VI: April 1591

545. Robert Bowes to Burghley. [April 3.]

Has received Burghley's letters of March 18 and 21. Before the receipt of the first of those letters he had signified to the King and Council her majesty's liking of the overture for redresses of the Borders: they have appointed men, day, and place as already certified.

The journey of Sir James Sandilands is stayed. It was not meant that he should seek the yearly gratuity given by her majesty to the King —which rather is to be employed for payment of the King's debts to the Chancellor, Sir John Carmichael, and others—but that for his own pleasure, and to see her majesty and the court, he might spend some time and his own money.

"Upon apt opportunyty and agreeable to your lordship's letter, I have in mery manner cast out in discourse with Collonell Steward that the late negotiacion caryed into Germany by himselfe and Mr. John Skeane—presentely visited with long sicknes—and the myndes of the princes with whome they travelled have bene frosen up with the could of this wynter, as the wayes were." Finding that the Colonel could say or do little to content him, he let it fall by accident before the King and Chancellor. The King seems nothing pleased that so weighty and well advanced a cause should be thus passed over with silence. He looks daily to hear of its progress, purposing to hasten it by his letters.

Roger Aston has doubtless made known O'Rourke's actions, and the act of Council concerning his delivery. The King has earned further thanks of her majesty in this matter, providing, at his [Bowes'] request, that the said act of Council should be registered and signed by the clerk, to be a precedent in times coming for mutual delivery of traitors and rebels entering into either realm, and also "an inward terror to all rebelles to adventure to shroude themselves in eyther of these kyngdomes." A copy of the act is enclosed. And the King earnestly protests that he will firmly observe all treaties with her majesty, especially the last. Has told the King that O'Rourke remained secretly in Glasgow, where he might be found and taken, and the King with speed and secrecy wrote to the prior of Blantyre to search him out. Upon the prior's certificate that O'Rourke lurked indeed in Glasgow the King gave notice thereof to him [Bowes], and at his request charged the prior to apprehend and keep him safely, the warrant to the prior being carried by a servant of Sir John Carmichael that the matter might be kept secret and executed with surety. The prior afterwards certified that he had apprehended O'Rourke, and would see him safely kept till the King directed some transporting of him, which he desired to be done with diligence for the benefit of the town of Glasgow, as will be seen by the copy of his letter enclosed. Soon after the King secretly addressed Sir John Carmichael —who only, with the King, Blantyre, and himself [Bowes], was privy to this course, and did good offices therein—with warrant to receive O'Rourke from the prior and deliver him speedily to Lord Scrope at Carlisle, being nearer to Glasgow than Berwick, and fit for his transportation into Ireland or England, as her majesty shall direct. "The King gave order to defray the chardges of Owrorke resting unpayde to his host at Glasco." But that all such things might be cleared without the King's charge, and for greater certainty, Bowes sent Henry Locke with Sir John to Glasgow, trusting to hear on his return of the execution of these things. To compass the apprehension and delivery of O'Rourke he has used the help of the Chancellor, Sir John Carmichael, and the prior of Blantyre, who have shown good endeavours for her majesty therein. Desires Burghley to acquaint her with their good offices, and procure thanks for them.

He showed to the King and Carmichael the clause in Burghley's first letter directing him "to put Carmyghell in mynde to acquyt himselfe of the promisses made by him in the King's behalfe for the suppressing of open Papistes in this realme, and to weaken the force of the conspiratours of the brigg of Dee. Wherein the King, acknowledging the errour past and excusinge himselfe thereof—as he did the like to the mynisters in this towne that very lately moved him in the same cause—promysed to see speedy reformacion, and hath gyven order that sundry of the pryncypall Papistes heere shalbe taken and comyt to close warde, willing the mynisters to call on the Counsell for speedy execucion thereof, and to informe him of any defalt succeeding in this matter." Carmichael has so moved the King in the matter, for his own honour, that he has made the like promise to him, and directed him to remind him of it until it be accomplished, to quit them both of their promises and satisfy the church. Thus Burghley's letter has wrought this good effect, that either the Papists shall be roundly dealt with or the means of their escape discovered.

According to the direction in Burghley's last letter he told the Chancellor that her majesty, finding he had imparted to him [Bowes] the receipt of the two letters from the late Earl of Westmoreland in secrecy, out of goodwill to her, did heartily thank him. Yet it seemed strange to her that the matter should be made questionable, for reasons given by Burghley, and because of the estate, qualities, and actions of that Earl. He [Bowes] enlarged upon this, saying that at the first breaking of this mystery to him he thought it to have been brought hither by the Englishman presently travailing here and now in his return. The Chancellor answered that his meaning was not to bring it in question whether the party sending the letters—or any other of his stamp— should be received in this realm, but how the matter and messenger might be used for the common benefit and her majesty's contentment; and he was ready to further the most profitable course. Since her majesty likes best that no dealings be granted here to any such persons or their messengers, "with purpose to draw on good effectes to the common causes," his ears from henceforth shall be utterly closed against them. He [Bowes] having told him "that sundry of the fowles of this feather seeke to buyld their nestes in this realme," he promises to persuade the King, and by all means in his power to defeat their designs.

Understanding that the King was acquainted with this matter, has told him her majesty's mind therein. He [the King] commended her resolution to give no entry to seditious practisers, or suffer their messengers to escape without chastisement, like as he himself had dealt with Alexander Dixson that brought those letters from Westmoreland, whom he had so sharply warned as he thought Dixson would beware to commit the like fault hereafter. "He seemeth to take compassion of such persones as by necessity and for small offences shalbe constrayned to leave their natyve cuntryes and seeke refuge in forayne realmes: but he resolutely protesteth to shew no favour to any knowen traytor or rebell agaynst her majestie that shall come into this realme."

The King earnestly calls for delivery of John Dixson that killed his father, resident in the east wardenry of England. Burghley and the Lord Chamberlain gave order to Sir John Selby for the apprehension and delivery of Dixson, who cannot hitherto be taken. The King is nothing pleased, still pressing the matter, chiefly upon the apprehension of O'Rourke.

The laird of Caddell, one of the tutors of the Earl of Argyle and in special credit with him, has offered his devotion to her majesty, promising on behalf of Mackonell and Donald Gorme that they shall not only do her the like service, but that none under them shall aid her rebels in Ireland: offering to do his whole endeavour that none of the young and loose men in Argyle, Kintyre, or thereabouts shall offend any of her good subjects in Ireland. Desires he may receive her majesty's thanks and be encouraged.

The King, being desirous to pay the Chancellor and Carmichael the sums due to them, purposes to employ her majesty's yearly gratuity to those uses; wherein further order will be given to James Hudson to solicit Burghley in this behalf. And because the King minds to continue Sir John Carmichael in the west Borders, where he shall have great expenses, therefore he has written to him [Bowes] to procure the payment of 500 l. to Sir John; who greatly needs this relief, but will not press her majesty for it except as it shall stand with her pleasure, which he prays may be made known to James Hudson.

"The Master of Glaymes is returned to the court to acquyte himselfe of the late brute raysed that the Lord Hume and he had practysed to have surprysed and killed the Chauncellour in Edinburgh. By his presence the rumour is readyly quenched, and the Chauncellour and he remayne outwardly in fayre termes without any inward love or trust in their hartes."

The King and Chancellor have heard that Sir James Stewart, late Earl of Arran, was secretly come to his brother-in-law's house, Afflecke in Leith, awaiting opportunity to work harm to the Chancellor or stir the boroughs against him, upon the questions depending betwixt the King and the boroughs for the new impost of three French crowns to be allowed to the King for every tun of wine transported by any Scottishman into this realm or any other place. "For this cause the towne of Dundye hath bene put to the horne, and the rest of the boroughes withstood the order set downe for the King. But now it is agreed that the King shall have three crownes for every tun of wyne brought into this realme onely. And that the towne of Edinburgh for the residue of the boroughes shall have the fermyng of all other small customes for 4,000 l. Scotish by yeere duryng the contynuance of this impost for wynes. By this the matters betwyxt the King and broughes are pacified, and the brute of Sir James Stewarte's doynges found to be of small truth or importaunce."

"In the late conference for the new reconsiliacion betwixt the Erle Bothwell and Lord Hume it is said that they have dyscovered that the Chauncellour underhand dealt severally with them to have increased and nourished the contentions betwixt them, and that this matter is greately stomaked by them and others."

The King and Queen are ready to ride to the Chancellor's house at Lauder, to pass some few days there and then go to Dunfermline. But it is now thought the Queen will rather remain at Dalkeith. Edinburgh. Signed: Robert Bowes.

7 pp. Addressed. Marginal notes and indorsement by Burghley.

Enclosure with the same:

[Act of the King and Council.]

Order for apprehending an Irishman named O'Rourke, and delivering him to the Queen of England. 16 March 1590-91.

½ p. Copy. Indorsed by Burghley. Abstract in Register of the Privy Council of Scotland, iv. 597.

Second enclosure with the same:

[The prior of Blantyre to James VI.]

"According to your highnes direccion I have apprehended the persone your majestie wret for, and sall, God willing, sie him surely kepit till your majestie direct sume transporting of him, quhilk I wold your majestie wald caus be done with diligence."

"It was thought at his first entry within this cuntry that he had brought with him mair nor to serve him selfe, but I will assure your majestie sa fer as I can trie he hes not presentely to make his awne chardges till it come out of his owne cuntry."

"Becaus this towne of Glasqow quhairin he is apprehendit hes their chife traffique in Ireland, and fears greately that this man's trouble salbe very hurtfull to their trade of levinge, I am moved therefore at the earnest desyre of this people to interceid maist humbly at your majeste's handis, that this man may be so freendly handlit as the qualitie of his offence will permit." Glasgow. 30 March 1591. Signed: "Blantyre."

²/3 p. Indorsed by Bowes.

546. Robert Bowes to Burghley. [April 3.]

On Monday, March 29th, Alley departed hence, with purpose to repair to Burghley and inform him of all his doings here. If any of the guests, desirous to come hither by his means, shall be known to Burghley to resort into this realm, he [Bowes] trusts he will advise him thereof, that he may "ether encounter or els wynke att ther practyses" as he shall be directed.

Alley's whole address here has been to the Catholics, among whom he has had sundry times conference with Colonel Stewart, who seemed ready to further his business and give him some light on affairs here. It appears that the Colonel abused both the King and Alley when he told the latter "that the King had sentt privilye an especyall person to Glascoo to warne Owrorke to provide for hym selfe and sayftye." The Colonel still seeks to have charge either of men to serve in the Low Countries or France, or of some negotiation to princes in Germany or the Low Countries. By Alley's report Burghley will be able to determine how far he is now to be trusted. Edinburgh. Signed: Robert Bowes.

1¼ pp. Holograph, also address. Indorsed.

547. Robert Bowes to Burghley. [April 6.]

On Saturday last, the 3rd instant, Sir John Carmichael delivered to the prior of Blantyre at Glasgow the King's commission for the delivery of Sir Brian O'Rourke to the custody of Carmichael. The town of Glasgow sought to move Carmichael and Blantyre to suffer him to remain there for two or three days, that they might inform the King what loss of trade in Ireland should come to their town if he should be ill treated. Finding that they could not prevail, they let fall some boasts that Carmichael, Blantyre, and their friends about Glasgow should repent any harm done to O'Rourke; "and spared not to to call them Queen Elizabethe's knyghtes, and said that the King was bought with Inglish angelles." Tumult arose in the streets, and one of Bowes' servants waiting on Mr. Locke—sent with Carmichael—had some ruffle done to him. At this it was thought necessary to hasten the carriage of O'Rourke out of the town that night, with pretence that he should be conveyed to the King. "Whereupon Carmighell late in the afternone brought fourth Owrorke without bootes or riding apparrell, and amyddest the people following in greate number and in tumultuouse maner caused him take his saddle, and so passed from them." After they had peaceably ridden eleven or twelve miles Carmichael dismissed Locke to certify the King and himself [Bowes] of these doings; and with his prisoner rode to his own house at Carmichael, about eight miles from the place where he parted with Locke. Carmichael purposed the next day—being Easter Day—to call more strength to him, and therwith to pass with his charge in the afternoon to Carlisle.

For charges left unpaid by O'Rourke, and for apparell newly made, he owed in Glasgow 47l. Has taken order for the payment thereof, that the King might not be burdened, nor the town have cause of offence. O'Rourke's friends say that he was warned of his apprehension intended: "yet being resolved to abide the comyng fourth of Mackonill, that he myght returne home with him and have his favour in the succours that he sought at his handes; and becaus his apparell—being fayre and costly —was not fynished, nor his servant come agayne to him with money, and trusting to have bene secreat and safe in Glasco, he adventured to abide still there and attend the enlargemente of Mackonill." Locke is ready to serve for his convoy from Carlisle to London if desired, and can inform Burghley of all that has passed. The King is greatly pleased at this success; as by Sir George Hume he has given Bowes to understand, and promises that this shall be but the beginning of the witness of his goodwill to her majesty. He is solicited to have regard to the weal of Glasgow, but affirms to tender more her majesty's welfare, and leaves the order of O'Rourke to her good disposition. Carmichael and Blantyre have likewise put her pleasure first in this action, praying that if any favour be given to O'Rourke it may be known to the town of Glasgow that it proceeds partly at their suit, or that at least such compliments may be sent from her majesty as Glasgow and other parts may think themselves favourably dealt with.

Is informed that immediately upon the first apprehension of O'Rourke by Blantyre, and upon this delivery to Carmichael, messengers were sent to M'Connell, to Edinburgh, and to some noblemen of this realm, "and that my selfe is barked at by some such as I trust will not bite me." Finding the King to continue this course with her majesty this storm will be speedily calmed. The King and Council have resolved that M'Conell, Maclane, and Donald Gorme shall be shortly enlarged. Encloses a copy of the act of Council concerning them, that they shall keep the peace with England. M'Connell and Maclane continue their offers of devotion to her majesty, and upon their coming abroad will come severally and secretly to confer with him [Bowes]. It is for her to choose which of them she will entertain, for they are too "contrariously bent" to hold together.

"The King and Counsell have appoynted that Barbara Naper, Effam Mackallem, and Robert Grey[r]son—lately accused by severall wytches— shalbe arraygned and thoyle assiss at Edenburgh the 12th heereof, for the conspiring of the King's death and compassing of the death of Archbald, late Earle of Angus, deceased. It is ordayned that the depositions of six witnesses of any quality whatsoever shalbe receyved for sufficient testimony and prooffe of the fact. Sixteen counsellours are appoynted to be heere in this towne at that tyme."

The Earl of Angus is dangerously sick. The Master his son is here to work his desires, wherein he may prevail more than he is worthy, being backward in religion. Murray is to come the end of this week to answer to things objected against him. Grant and Mackintosh will keep his forces together against Huntly at Tarneway until his return. Huntly continues at Strathbogie, and is no party against Atholl, Murray, and the rest against him. He is driven to disperse among his friends fifty men received from the Borders with Captain Carr, which he thought to have kept for his guard in his own house. Edinburgh. Signed: Robert Bowes.

3¼ pp. Indorsed. No flyleaf or address.

548. Act of Submission of the Archbishop of St. Andrews. [April 8.] Printed in D. Calderwood, Hist. of the Kirk of Scotland (Wodrow Soc.) v. 119-124.

"Brother, understandinge the sharpe procedinges of the assemblies in my contrarie, and beinge troubled with sicknes that I mighte not give confession of that doctrine wherein I hope that God shall call me, and that at his pleasure I maye departe in unitie of Christian faythe, I thoughte good to utter the same to your wisedomes, and likewise to crave your godlie wisedome's assistance, not for the restitution of anie worldlie pompe or preheminence, which I litle respecte, as to remove from me the slaunders which I raised into this countrie concerninge the variance of doctrine speciallie in my parte, wherein I protest before God that I have onlie ane single respecte to his glorie, and by his grace I shall abide therein unto my live's ende."

"First, I confesse the true doctrine of Christian religion to be taughte within this realme, and detest all papistrie and superstition, like as, blessed be God, I have detested into my harte the space of thirtie yeeres, since it pleased God to give me the knowledge of the truthe; wherein I have walked uprightlie aswell here as in other countries, as the Lorde beares me recorde, untill there last dayes, wherein, partlie for ambition and vaineglorie to be preferred to my brethren, and partlie for covetousnes, I have possessed gredilie the pelfe of the churche; I did undertake this office of bishopric, wherewith most justlie the sincerest professors of the churche and worde have founde faulte, and condemned the same as impertinent to the office of anie sincere pastor of God's worde; and albeit men woulde colour the same and the imperfections thereof by diverse clokes, yet the same cannot be concealed from the spirituall eyes of the faithfull, nether can the men of God where they are put to there conscience dissemble the same."

"Nexte, I confesse I was in an erronious opinion that I beleved the governmente of the churche to be like to the kingdomes of the earthe, plaine contrarie to the comaundementes of our master Christ, and the monarchie whereby the churche is governed not to be onlie into the parson of our Saviour Christ, as it is, but in the ministers, who are nothinge but vassailes under him in an equalitie amonge them selves."

"Thirdlie, that I maried the Earle of Huntlie contrarie to the churche's comaunde at the Kinge's comaunde, without the confession of his faythe and profession of sincere doctrine of the worde, I repent and crave God pardon."

"Fowrthlie, that I traveled both by reasoninge and otherwise to subjecte the churchemen into the Kinge's ordinance in thinges that apperteynes to ecclesiasticall matters and thinges of conscience, I aske God mercie, whereuppon greate enormities hath fallen forthe into this countrie."

"Fiftlie, that I beleved and so taughte the presbyters to be a false invention and woulde have it so estemed of all men, which is an ordinance of Christ, whereof I crave God mercie. Further I submitt my selfe to the mercie of God and judgmente of the assemblie, not measuringe my offences by my selfe nor infirmities of engyne, but to the good judgmente of the churche, to the which I submitt my selfe alwayes, and beseeche you to make intercession to God for me, and to the Kinge's majestie, that I maie have some moyen to live and consume the rest of this my wretched life, for whose cause I have comitted all these errors, and God hath justlie recompenced me in his judgmente."

"As where I am burdened to have beene the setter forthe of the booke called 'The Kinge's Declaration,' wherein the whole order of the churche is condemned and traduced, I protest before God that I was so comaunded to write by the Chancellor for the tyme, but cheifelie by the Secretarie, where he himselfe penned the seconde article of parliamente concerninge the power and authoritie of judicatorie to be absolutelie in the Kinge's power, and that it shoulde not be lawfull to anie subjecte to reclaime from the same, under the penaltie of the actes, which I suppose was treason."

"Item, where it is alledged that I shoulde have condemned the doctrine pronounced and taughte by the ministers of Edenboroughe, and to have allowed onlie my owne opinion concerninge obedience to the prince, I confesse and protest before God that I never understoode nor knewe anie but sinceritie and uprightnes in the doctrine of the ministers of Edenboroughe in that pointe nor no other."

"Further, I confesse that I was the author of the acte discharginge the ministers' stipendes that did not subscribe the actes of parliamente, wherewith God hath justlie recompenced my selfe. As for anie violent course, it is knowne well who was the author thereof, and my parte was tried at the ymprisonmente of Mr. Nicoll Dowgliche, Mr. Patricke Melliwell, and Mr. Thomas Jake, and others."

"As for your wisedome's desires to have my owne opinion concerninge the booke of the declaracion of the Kinge's intention, the same is at more lengthe declared in the confession which I have alreadie exhibited, wherein I have condemned the whole articles therein conteyned, like as by there presence I condemne it. As where yee require what became of the bookes of the assemblie which I had all preserved whole unto the returninge of the lordes and ministers out of Englande, and if I had not preserved them my Lorde Arrone intended to cast them in the fire; and upon a certen daye in Folkelande before they were delivered to the Kinge's majestie, the bishop of Aberdeine, accompanied with Henry Hamilton, rent out some leaves and destroyed some thinges as made against our estate; not without my owne speciall advise."

"As for the bookes which I have sett forthe, I have sett forthe nothinge excepte one comentarie upon the first epistle of Paule to Timothie, which I directed to the Kinge's majestie and kepte no copie for my selfe, but understandes that Mr. John Gaddice gat the same from the Kinge and lent it to Mr. Robarte Habburne; further I wrott nothinge, but onlie made mencion in my preface upon the Apocalips that I woulde write one booke called 'Psillus,' which beinge prevented by diseases God woulde not suffer me to perfecte it, and the litle thinge which was written I caused to be distroyed; and likewise I have sett forthe the booke of Job with the Apocalips and Lamentations of Jeremie all in verse to be printed in Englande. As for my intention, I am not disposed nor able to write anie thinge at this time; and if it please God I were restored to my healthe, I woulde chaunge my stile as Caietanus did at the Counsell of Trent."

"And where yee require concerninge a booke latelie sett forthe in Englande called "Southlivius,' against the forme and order of presbyters, if I was partaker with it or had knowledge who set it forthe, wherby I am ignorant thereof but by the title thereof, and knowes not the man, but if it pleased God to give me dayes I shoulde write in his contrarie to the maintenance of the contrarie profession."

"I praye the brethren to be reconciled and at unitie and peace with me in askinge of them forgivenes, because sicknes suffers me not to come over to the colledge which I woulde gladlie doe, to aske God and you forgivenes, that it woulde please you to repaire hether that I maie doe it here. Lastlie, it woulde please you to interceede to the Kinge's majestie, that if God shall a litle while [sic] my wretched dayes, I maye have some litle quiet moyen to live, for it is not as some reportes."

"Moreover I condemne by this my subscription that whatsoever is conteyned in the epistle dedicatorie to the Kinge's majestie before my booke of the Revelation that is ether slaunderous or offensive to the brethren."

"Moreover I promise to satisfie the brethren of Edenboroughe or anie other churche within this realme, accordinge to good conscience, in whatsoever they finde themselves justlie offended and contrarie to the worde of God in anie speeches, actes, or procedinges which are passed from me; and concerninge the comentarie written upon the first epistle of Paul to Timothie, because there is manie thinges therein conteyned offensive, and that tendes to allowe the estate of the bishoppes otherwise then God's worde can suffer, I condemne the same."

"That which I have here written endited by me, Mr. Patricke Adamson, and written by my servitor, Mr. Samuell Cuningham, and subscribed by my hande, as acknowledged by most sinceritie of conscience and in the presence of God before there witnesses directed to me from the Sinadoll Assemblie because of inabilitie of bodie to repaire towardes them."

"Sic subscribitur your brother in the Lorde, Mr. Patricke Adamson." Witnesses; David Fargyson, Nicoll Dowgliche, James Manypenie of Pitmill, Androwe Woode of Strewethie, Robarte Wilky, David Russell, David Spence, John Calclithe, William Mury. St. Andrews."

2 pp. Copy. Indorsed by Burghley.

549. Archibald Douglas to Burghley. [April 12.]

"Forasmuche—if it maie please your good lordship—as at my last being with you I delivered unto your honour a pardon for one Thomas Peareman for the deathe of Thomas Michell, with letters of requeste, as also my owne intreaties for your lordship's honorable favour in the behalf of the saide Pearman, for the better putting your lordship in mynde theareof, and also your honour's more speedye answeare and dispatche of the poore man this bearer, whoe lieth here a suter for the same at exceeding great charges and expences, have I written this much, which I here comende to your honour's good liking: whereof not dowbting but the cause itself being a deede of charitie—the rather for my sake— your lordship will favorably consider, I cease from further troubling your honour." Signed: "Your lordship's at all powar to be commandit, A. Douglas".

½ p. Addressed. Indorsed.

550. Queen Elizabeth to the tutor of the Earl of Argyle. [April 12.]

"Wher as by our ambassador with our good brother the King of Scottes your soverayn we understand your good disposition, beyng tutor to the yong Erle of Argile, to cause all such as in Argile or in any of the out isles of Scotland do depend uppon the sayd Erle to conform themselves to lyve within the conditions of the good peace that is betwixt the sayd Kyng and us for our dominions and people, and namely towardes our subjectes of our realm of Irland, beyng ther neighbors; we have thought good to lett you know our good acceptation of your offer made herof to our ambassador, and to gyve you thankes for the same."

"And as ther lyvyng peasibly towardes our good subjectes in Irland shall be—as we dowt not—but pleasyng to the King our good brothar, so ther is no dout but the same shall be profittable to themselves, which we know the former Erle of Argyle wold have sene performed, as havyng had good proff of our favors to hym. And in lyk manner we will gyve streyt order that none of our subjectes in Irland shall attempt any thyng ageynst any of the dependantes of the Erle of Argyle, or ageynst any the good subjectes of our good brother the Kyng, wherby God shall be pleased who is the author of peace, and our countres and people on both partes shall receave comfort therbi."

1 p. Draft in Burghley's handwriting. Indorsed.

551. Robert Bowes to Burghley. [April 13.]

Having received a letter of Robert Allatt certifying that on the 8th instant he was at Durham, hopes he has ere now been with Burghley and reported his doings in Scotland. George Carr—with whom he chiefly travailed—departed the 10th instant towards Huntly and the north, to make provision for the receipt of such persons as Allatt shall bring with him. Their coming is daily looked for, for it is believed "that they will bring in plentye of gold, and restore sondry jewels of greatt valewe that sometymes were the King's mother's and have beyn morgaged in France." It may be that the expectation thereof purchased such ready despatch as Allatt bringeth from the King and Chancellor by means of George Carr. But the King begins to enquire of the conditions of these strangers, and hath no great liking to deal with them, thinking that he may not alter his course, nor keep in this realm any that shall be offensive to her majesty, neither can they stay long hidden in this country.

In those matters in working by Allatt he [Bowes] keeps himself close, "that his [Allatt's] trodde shall nott be troubled," but he has pressed the Chancellor to turn himself directly and manifestly against the Papists, and has wrought with others to persuade him to the same, so that the Chancellor has now firmly promised "to shake them cleane from hym, without regard of any profytt that he can gather by intelligence with them," and to procure that they be so warded and dealt with as none shall have cause to think he will in any wise uphold them. Those who have travailed with him are satisfied that he will keep his promises, and wish him to be encouraged and preserved from the hurt of his enemies to proceed in this resolution, which shall preserve the King and government in peace. Desires the said Chancellor may have testimony of her majesty's favour, to remove doubts conceived by any report. Edinburgh. Signed: Robert Bowes.

2 pp. Holograph, also address. Indorsed by Burghley.

552. Robert Bowes to Burghley. [April 15.]

Yesterday he received Burghley's letter of the 9th instant, rejoicing that her majesty received so well the King's proceedings and his own diligence in the matter of O'Rourke, and intended to signify the same to the King with her own hand. Desires that the Chancellor, Carmichael, and Blantyre may also receive thanks, and encouragement to continue their good offices. He gave notice to the King of her acceptance of his proceedings, who showed himself resolved to run out his course to do her pleasure. The King said that as Bothwell had been before charged of evil practices with the witches "so now upon the examinacion of Richard Graiham—the pryncipall of the witches heere—before the Counsell and others appoynted to deale with him, it is come to greater matter." For Graham, fearing to die either by the law or by Bothwell's hands, prayed to live in prison or banishment, promising to reveal all he knew. He confessed that Bothwell urged him to devise means to hasten the King's end, and drove him to it to avoid his own destruction. Bothwell told him that a necromancer in Italy had foretold that he should be very great in possessions temporal and spiritual, that he should with his own hands kill two men, that he should fall into the King's hands for capital causes, obtain pardon for the first, but lose his life for the second; and that the three first matters having taken effect, he would prevent the danger foretold. It was devised that a waxen image of the King should be made, "one tode to be enchanted and hanged up, and a peece of the head of a yonge calfe newly calfed to be taken." This was uttered to sundry witches, especially Jely Dunkyn, who was wont to assemble the witches at Graham's command. The King said that Jely Dunkyn and others confessed at first that Bothwell had dealt with them, but afterwards denied it and accused him [Bowes].

Graham acknowledged that Bothwell—hearing that some of the witches had accused him, and that Graham was to be examined—dealt with him to accuse him [Bowes] of practising with him to destroy the King, saying that Bothwell and Bowes begin with like letters, which might suffice to make the witches think it was Bowes that had travailed with Graham. Therefore, at his late examination, Graham charged him [Bowes] with it, and Jely Dunkyn continues to accuse him; but he was supposed to have dealt with Graham four days after Lammas Day, and at that time Asheby was resident in Scotland for her majesty. Graham declared that during his imprisonment Bothwell had several times sent him money, persuading him to stand fast to the denial, "and to say that Bothwell had bene with him to enquyre whether his mother had bene bewitched or not," and for no other matter. The persons thus sent to him confess this to be true. For the further examination and disposition of these matters the Council entreated the King to be present, and to stay the arraignment of three witches. Whereupon the King came hither yesterday, and heard Graham confirm his deposition. He returned in the evening to Dalkeith, purposing to be here again to-day and to remain some time to proceed in these behalfs with diligence.

"The erle Bothwell is sent for to be heere to morow; and some towardes him, being especially chardged with knowledge and practyse of sondry particular matters heerein, are lykewise comaunded to appeare." Thus the truth shall be known. Bothwell has all in readiness to go abroad, and possesses an old licence from the King to pass to other countries; some think he will use it and refuse to come hither. The King wished her majesty might know how he was dealt withal, and seems to look for advice from her.

"The Duke of Lennox hath caryed one of the daughters of the Erle of Gowry from Wester Weames—where the King for the better surety of her keeping out of the Duke's company had placed her—unto the house of Atholl at Dunkeale, and there maryed her." The King is highly offended, but means are to be made that he shall be pacified. Before the receipt of Burghley's letter sundry of O'Rourke's company were departed from Glasgow to Ireland. But if Trevor—named in that letter —be in this realm, he [Bowes] will make some reckoning of him.

The Chancellor gives good contentment to the well affected, and is prepared to set his course against the Papist. Desires that by the sight of her majesty's good opinion towards him he may be encouraged. Edinburgh. Signed: Robert Bowes.

Postscript—"This daye Robert Greyson, one of the three witches to have bene examyned, died, and as it is thought by the extremyty of the tortours applyed to him. He hath confessed litle, and yet it is said by the rest that he was pryvy to all their accions."

3½ pp. Addressed. Indorsed.

553. Andrew Mowatt to Queen Elizabeth. [April 15.]

"It pleasethe your heighnes to understand that I, Andres Motte, esqueyer, retayner, and subjecte under the Kynges majestie of Denmarcke, and, for carten causes which God hathe appoynted, dwellinge at this present in his majestie realme of Norway, which am of layte yeres come oute of Shottland, in which place my landes, goodes, and ineritance doth lye and remayn which God hath geyven me to enierett of my progeniteis, gevinge your moste excelent heighnes my greatte sorowe and heavei complaynt to understande that I have benne two seaverall tymes spoyled and robede with Inglysh men dwelling within your majestie realme of Ingland, unto my greate heyndrance and lose of manie houndrthe dolleris."

"Fyrste, in anno –86 the 12 in Auguste am I robede and spoyled in my dwellinge house called Olleberie in Shottlande bye Inglishe men, the capten beinge named Capten Beare dwellinge in Ratclyf beseides your majestie citey of London, or havinge his abbydinge in the same place. Which capten hade a shipe called the Blacke Leyon of Hull, master tharof called Ellexsander Chapman, dwellynge in Hull, havinge with them an other small barke to thare pennes and haveinge in bothe shipes a greate nomber of men. At which tyme they have not only spoyled my house, but allso have tacken from me in goulde and money and seylver warcke and other goodes the some of two thowsande doleris, beseides my apparell and obligacones and deades which I woulde not meyse for syxe houndrethe doleris."

"And now agayn in anno '90 I had occason for to sayll from Norwaye to Shottlande, and from thense to my soffrayne lord and prence the Kynges majeste of Skottlande upon sarten matteris I hade for to declare unto his highnes. And beinge come nere to the lande of Shottlande thare came an Ingleshe man of ware upon me and robede me of all that I hade in my shipe, and tocke from me at that present tyme in goulde, selver, and goodes, the some of foure thowsande and fyve houndrethe dolleris, beseydes a wryteynge which my soffraune lord Kynge Jemes his majestie be fore hade geyven unto me, with sarten other obleygacones and billes aperteyning to my sealf, the which I woulde not meise for a thowsande doleris. Upon vhich saide rover was a roppares sonne of Skarbroughe in Yorckshyar as nere as I can larnne by my shiper and marineris, which saide ropperes sonne hathe a marke in one of his checkes cout with a sorde."

"And beinge so spoyled and robed two seaveralle times with your majesties subjectes, and havinge by them had suche a greatte lose upon my goodes and monye, it hathe cawsed me to macke my humble sutt and complaint unto my souffrainte lord, the Kinges majestie of Danmarke, whoo hathe of his majesties heighenes wryten his lovinge letteres unto your souffrainte majestie in my behalf."

"And for that I do understand that my souffrainte lord and Kynnge his majestie wrytethe not so large instrouccones unto your highnes of theise persones as I my self with dyveres otheres can showe and testefye, it mackethe me the boulder to present this my humble suppleicacon unto your majestie, moste humble besechinge your heighnes not onlye to geyve me pardon for this my boulde enterprice, but also of your gracious goodnes for my souffraynt lorde and Kynge his majesties sacke to be a healpe unto me, whareby I may come unto my ownne agaynne of theise forsaid parsones which have so crewellye meisowsed me, or other wayes to have lawe and justes agaynst them in suche order as it shall seme beaste unto your majesties heighnes. Wryten upon my hows called Gereis Weycke in Norway." Signed: Mowat of Howpland.

2 pp. Addressed. Indorsed.

554. Robert Bowes to Burghley. [April 17.]

Bothwell came yesterday to this town with eight servants and resorted to the King and Council assembled in the Chancellor's house. The Chancellor demanded whether he knew Richard Graham, and he answered that he knew him. The Chancellor enquired when and where be first knew him; he could not remember; it was three or four years since, "and he regarded the fellow so litle as he could not gyve any certen accompt in these behalfes." With passionate words he threatened the life of any that would affirm that he had conspired with Graham against the King. The Chancellor asked what had passed betwixt him and Graham, telling him that Graham had charged him with evil device against the King's life. Bothwell said that Graham had offered him a ring of sundry colours, showing him that there was a spirit enclosed in it whereby he might know what should betide himself, and whether his servants dealt truly with him, which ring he scorned: affirming constantly that no matter concerning the King ever came into conference betwixt them. He alleged that this matter grew not only by Graham, but sprang from his enemies, who conceiving that Graham should be an instrument to work reconciliation betwixt him and Sir James Stewart, doubted that he should bring Sir James again into court and the King's favour, whereby the court and state should have been altered, and some of his enemies should have fallen. For prevention whereof this practice with Graham was devised against him. He steadfastly denied the matter, and would not ask pardon of God or the King herein, praying that his accusers might be put into the boots or other tortures with him, and the truth discovered by the confession of one of them; or else that the accuser might first suffer death, which if he should endure without confession that he had falsely accused him, then he would acknowledge himself guilty, and willingly receive execution of death; praying that these may be tried with all expedition. He was dismissed and committed to the castle, with order that none should speak with him. In the way to the castle he sent Richard Douglas to him [Bowes] to assure him that he had not practised against him with Graham as the latter affirms. This day Graham shall be brought before him to justify his accusations.

"Albeit the King have bene much pricked forwardes to the execucion of justice, yet he appereth to be resolved to preserve Bothwelle's house in his children, whatsoever he shall determyne on the father's lyfe. And the King saith he wilbe loth to be the instrumente that the devill or any nicromancer shalbe found true in their answeres." But the most part so press the trial, and execution of justice, that his life is in danger. Archibald Chirnseede, Bothwell's servant, was charged by Graham to have brought him money sundry times from Bothwell, persuading him to stand fast in his course promised, that Bothwell might get his life and liberty. Sundry other things, Graham says, passed betwixt them. Whereupon Chirnseede was sent for. Bothwell affirms that he had sent him to Aberdeen before the letters came, so Lord Lindsey is commanded to take him and bring him hither.

Amidst all these troubles the King prays that the fallow deer he looks for may be sent from England. He [the King] thinks Cuthbert Rayne —appointed to attend on Burghley in this behalf—is sick, and beseeches that order may be given to his [Bowes'] servant, Christopher Shepherdson, who will wait upon Burghley for this matter.

This day the Chancellor has resigned his office of Secretary, and Richard Cockburn is appointed to it. Edinburgh. Signed: Robert Bowes.

Postscript—This day Bothwell and Graham, being confronted before the King and Council, Bothwell prayed the King to know what he would charge him with. The King answered, with practice to have taken his life. Bothwell asked if he would lay any other matter than that only. The King said it sufficed, and willed him to clear himself thereof. Bothwell desired that this might be recorded, and being granted, he asked Graham how he could charge him herewith. Graham still affirmed that he had urged him to do this against the King, and had sent Chirneseede and his man to persuade him. Bothwell utterly denied any such dealing with him, alleging that Graham's testimony was of no credit. And if Chirneseede or his servant had practised herein it was without his privity, and he left them to answer for themselves. Hereupon he is returned to the castle, showing a good countenance in hope of his speedy delivery.

3 pp. Addressed. Indorsed.

555. Robert Bowes to Burghley. [April 27.]

Upon receipt of Burghley's letter of the 13th instant he again signified to the King her majesty's good acceptance of the delivery of O'Rourke —now in her possession—her promise of reciprocal dealing, and of a letter. The King answered that her good acceptance was sufficient recompense, and promised to do her all the pleasures in his power. "The townes of Glascoo and others coastinge on Ireland have bene earnest peticioners to the Kinge to moove her majestie to gyve order for the preservacion of their trades in Ireland": the King prays her to direct the Lord Deputy of Ireland to provide for his subjects in this behalf. And the Chancellor, the prior of Blantyre, the Secretary, and others have prayed Bowes to recommend the matter to Burghley, offering that if her majesty will save O'Rourke's life, good bonds shall be given that he and his sons will hereafter be loyal subjects. Sir John Carmichael and the prior of Blantyre rejoice to hear that her majesty accepts their endeavours in the matter of O'Rourke, praying that if she give him any grace it may be known to Glasgow and the other towns to be at their request, to reconcile the inhabitants to them, "who are generally called the Queen of Inglandes knyghtes, and cheefely Carmyghell, of whome many thinges are said to be done for her majestie agaynst Bothwell and for her majestie's pleasure."

The King sent Sir George Hume to let him [Bowes] know his great need of money, and require him to entreat Burghley to move her majesty that he might speedily receive this year's gratuity. James Hudson is to receive it, to provide out of it some things in London, and to bring the residue to the King, who desires to know the time appointed and the sum to be delivered. Has laid before the King and Sir George the great charges that her majesty endures for the common causes of religion, the French King, and the Low Countries, "perswading some freendly forbearaunce untill her majestie's coffers myght be better replenished." But this state is not contented to suffer delay.

The King has called a convention of the nobility, boroughs, and barons to be at Holyrood House the 6th of May for the arraignment or other disposition of Bothwell, against whom little of importance is discovered beyond what was known to the King before his departure on Wednesday last by the depositions of Richard Graham, who steadfastly stands to his charges against Bothwell. Bothwell alleges that these troubles are brought on him by means of England, charging chiefly therein Sir John Carmichael and Mr. Robert Bruce, minister in Edinburgh. The King is much grieved therewith, telling Bothwell openly that before this he forged untrue suggestions against noble personages in England who with honour acquitted themselves. The Chancellor bitterly told him "that his fault heerein to the King was greater then consulting with witches, which is death by the lawes of this realme, and which offence Bothwell hath already taken on himselfe." The Chancellor, Clerk Register, Advocate, and others, authorised by the King's commission to examine Bothwell and take his answers in writing, offered to proceed; but he refused to set down anything in writing or to charge himself with any matter, unless he might be first assured of the King's pardon for all his offences except the practice of the King's death. In this he stood upon the King's promise passed to him; but the King affirms to have promised pardon only for the slaughter of the two men and for the treason at the bridge of Dee.

"Rynian Chirmseede—whome in my former letters I named Archbald Chirneseede—and David Nesbeth his servant have not hitherto appeared, notwithstanding that Bothwell promysed that they should come in." Proclamation is published in all market towns commanding them to appear upon pain of treason, but it is thought they will withdraw, for Graham has more matters against them, proving their dealings with him for the King's death and other sorcery and wickedness. Bothwell's friends and retainers are commanded by proclamation to depart out of Edinburgh, and not to come within four miles of it or the court. Barbara Naper, one of the principal witches, wrote to Bothwell to stand fast, showing that his enemies had devised his dittay—that is, his indictment, which letter was delivered to a woman to take to one of Bothwell's servants to convey to Bothwell. Being open it was read by sundry, whereof one instructed Robert Bruce, who advertised the King. But the woman burnt the letter.

Because the captain of the castle would not give leave to such as desired to speak secretly with Bothwell, he is angry with the captain. He begins to think his case more dangerous than he looked for, for the preachers in their sermons and in private exhortations to the King and councillors urge that these matters be examined, the innocent protected, and the guilty cut off. Has not been idle in this, as opportunity served. The King has good will to punish thoroughly this fall in Bothwell if it be found against him, but says it appertains to the Council, and desires that they should prosecute the cause. But the Council, thinking that the King shall come to the best execution by the sight of his own danger, leave the matter to his own course, which they will agree unto without any gainsay, until the meeting of the convention.

William Leslie made petition to the King and Council that the act of Parliament in favour of the Bishop of Ross might be declared by act of Council to be good and effectual; but the matter is referred to the ministry, without hope of the success desired. In this Huntly was very earnest, but prevailed little.

The King and Chancellor had written so sharply to Huntly to confirm the assurances to the laird of Spynie, as Huntly thought meet to accomplish the King's will and to come to court, thinking that the Duke and Bothwell were so cast down as he might—by the help of Spynie and other friends—recover some room in court. But he is returned as wise as he came.

"The Queen, Chancellour, and counsellours have so prevayled with the King for the Duke of Lennox as the King is pleased that the Queen shall wryte to him to come to her. And it is looked that the Duke shalbe shortly restored to the King's good countenaunce and to his offices in court."

Richard Cockburn, sister's son to the Chancellor, is made Secretary by the commendation of the Chancellor, who resigned the office to him. He is a good scholar, well affected in religion, and ready to do her majesty service.

Cannot yet learn where Trevor is. Some Irishmen say that "he is called as well Trevour as also Charles," and that Charles—called by some Trevour—is a tall, slender man; that he had been some time in Ireland, escaped out of Dublin, and came hither with O'Rourke, and was his secretary. Here he hurt one of his fellows, and departed from his master with 40 l. into Ireland.

His [Bowes'] servant Shepherdson has advertised him that upon his suit to Burghley to understand her majesty's pleasure as to payment of the remains due to the garrison at Berwick, Burghley said that by her direction he had appointed all his [Bowes'] possessions to be seized, and the fees of his office at Berwick, his diet and entertainment at Edinburgh, to be stayed. In this and all things he submits to her pleasure, to which he yields life, liberty, and possessions. And forasmuch as he has taken sums from Scottishmen in Edinburgh to be paid to them at London, and has assured the payment out of sums now due to him, and those creditors begin to press him and must be satisfied, though it be with the sale of his plate and such poor things as he has, he beseeches Burghley to provide that the sums already due to him, thus assigned to his creditors, may be delivered to Shepherdson to save his credit. He cannot serve in this place upon the benevolence of his friends and his own means and credit, without her majesty's relief. And having offered all his other possessions, fees, and entertainments for payment of the arrears at Berwick, he prays her majesty to pardon his fault, grown upon the ground of necessity, and would know her pleasure as to payment of the said remains to the garrison, and acceptance of his bonds for repayment of the same; and also as to his fees and allowances. Edinburgh. Signed: Robert Bowes.

Postscript—Has just received Burghley's packet containing a letter from her majesty to the King, one from Burghley to himself, and three proclamations forbidding all persons to resort to any towns held by the French King's rebels, or to traffic with them.

6 pp. Addressed. Indorsed.

556. Robert Bowes to Burghley. [April 27.]

"With your lordship's packet delyvered presently to me I receyved this packet inclosed, to my greate admyracion and plundge. For albeyt that it is subscribed with the name of Zachary Locke—an honest and faythfull gentleman—yet I suspect the matter, the rather because Mr. Henry Locke, his kynsman and knowing his hande, is of opinion with me that this dyreccion or superscripcion is not wrytten by him, who in his experyence would not addresse these thinges—touching such personages and matters—thus barely to me." Sends the packet as he found it, having read the letters left open, and trusts he has committed no error.

"The author of these letters being myne old host in St. Andrewes and using to doe good offices to me, hath my pasport to London in hope of his good behavour; but I fynd him occupied farre beyonde his promyse and myne expectacion. Therefore I leave him to the censures of them that may determyne of him and me." Edinburgh. Signed: Robert Bowes.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed.

557. James VI. to Maitland. [April]. Add. MSS., 23, 241, fol. 40.

"Chancellaire, I mervell that sa vyse a man and aulde a counselloure as ye are soulde have done sa unvyse a turne as to have founde fault with the generallitie of my revocation, especiallie considdering the purpoise I spake to you at my last going ovir in youre auin yairde, sat sapienti, as to the offending of any by this revocation. Ather it may praejudge thaim or not; gif it may not, it is nathing, and nathing can offend naboddie; gif it may, have I not aneuch adoe with my auin? And gif the people kneu quha ualde offende uith that thay neidit na maire but hisse till him."

"I have offendit the haill cuntrey, I graunt, for prodigall geving fra me, but quhen I take to me nane can be offendit but the particulaire person. But of all men it sett least the counsall or chekker to have found fault uith this turne, for by this uaye the vulgaire opinion conceavit of thaim thir manie yeiris, that thay uaire bettir freindis to my person nor my purse, uill not onlie be confirmid but hauldin nou as confessid. It is ill to be callid a theif and syne found stealling; gif I hadd bene present quhen thay articlis uaire redd to the counsall as Scoggain badd the greatest ghooke lay on the first strype, sa ualde I have biddin him that uas maist claggitt uith the Kingis geir finde the first faulte, and it ualde then have bene ansourid cum alto silentio; but gif youre publike offer hadd bene parformid be everie ane, this ualde not have bene skarrid at."

"As for youre auin pairt, keip youre self fra ueill daunsit and ueill playde. Your felicitie uarldlie man depend onlie upon ane, and consist onlie by and in him."

"This farr I uritt onlie to youre self, for that goodeuill ye knau I beare you. Let the uprichtness of youre meaning be unspottabill by any als ueill in bearing uith as in doing. This farr I reccomend to youre auin onlie reiding. The rest follouing ye may communicat it to the counsall or sicc as it apparteinis unto. Gif I have bene shairpe, blaime the shairpeness of the humoure that hes trublid my heade and bredd sicc impatience. The incessant laboure I have tane upon effaires all this yeire, uith the residence in ill ayred Edinbrouch this tyme of yeire hes sa ueakinid my complexion and sa subjectid me ta sindrie shouris of diseasis, as it is unabill to me to mell in affaires quhill I be sumquhat restid; and thairfor I reccomend unto you thir principall pointis to be rememberid in my absence."

"My uyfis ellevin hundreth pundis man be heir the morne at evin, uithout tryst breaking. Macleane is nou releivid, and the gentlemen I doubt not or nou hes keipit thaire promeis. This man be done and ather yone sone or never; car elle mesme y assigne ce temps."

"I gart the Secretaire writt yestirday a question to you about the claithis of sum Dutche fellouis; ather monney or claithis, choose you quhilke of thaim, but I think rather claithis."

"The tua aydis of the kitchein rann out yesterday and ualde not make the supper readdie, saying condition uas not keipit. The maister cuike and his boy behovid to dress the meat. Call for the rou, see quhat is conditionid and yett unaccomplishid. Lett it be presentlie mendit, sen it is butt sa pigraill a maitter. Suppois ue be not uelthie, lett us be proud poore boddies. Remember youre promeis maid to the Quene of Denmarke; take the thankis and honour of it youre self."

"The man that gatt the hundreth crounis the last yeir is cum heir againe the yeire. Advyse quhat to do uith him. The Secretaire sall tell you the particulairis of that the morne. Sen theire can na present tryall be hadd of the Erl Bothuell, I thinke best he præpaire him self to depairt uithin threttie or fourtie dayes, his absence to be na neirair hande nor Germanie or Italie. That he remaine quhaire he is quhill the schipp be readdie to pull up saillis. Onlie sicc personnis as mellis uith that præparation by speciall lycense at tymes to be admittid unto him. Great souertie to be taine, Louthian baronis being cautionairis for his depairting at that day, for his not returning uithout lycence, for practising nathing uithout the cuntrey and for leaving sum principall man to be ansourabill for Liddisdaill. In my opinion Bukleach uaire meittest for that chairge. Lett the mann and shippis namis that transportis him be notifeit uithin fyftein dayes, that burgess caution may be taine of him for transporting of him to sicc or sicc portis, and for that cause lett that mann be uarnid to be maister of his auin shipp. Quhat lettir is milorde craving of reccomendation to other princis, graunt thaim sa being thay be honorabill. As for the cullourid cause of his depairture, advyse upon sum honorabill excuse, for thair is na uant of maitter."

"Trye by the medicinairis aithis gif Barbara Nepair be uith bairne or not. Tak na delaying ansour. Gif ye finde sho be not, to the fyre uith her presesentlie [sic], and cause bouell her publicclie. Lett Effie Makkaillen see the stoup tua or three dayes, and upon the suddain staye her in hope of confession. Gif that servis, adverteis; gif not dispatche her the next oulke anis, bot not according to the rigoure of the dome. The rest of the inferioure uitchis, of at the naill uith thaim, but garr see that Richie Grahme uant not his ordinaire allouaince quhill I take farther ordoure uith him. Remember yone action before the counsall betuene the Grayes and the Atholl men. Fair ueill, for I ame ueirie of writting." Signed: James R.

2⅓ pp. Holograph.