James VI: August 1591

James VI: August 1591

596. Proclamation against the Earl of Bothwell and Lord Hume. [Aug. 2.]

Summoning an armed levy to attend the King in person for pursuit of them and other rebels.

1¼ pp. Broadsheet. Copy. Indorsed by Burghley. See Register of the Privy Council of Scotland, iv. 662.

Another copy of the same.

Cott. Calig., D. ii, fol. 23.

597. James VI. to Burghley. [Aug. 2.]

"Richt trusty and weilbelovit, we greit zou hartlie wele." Understanding that the bearer, John Marscheall, merchant, burgess of our burgh of Edinburgh, was lately in his passing along the coast of England in a ship of Kirkcaldy laden with sugar, spice, and such other costly wares "pertening" him and his partners "unbesett" by a ship of Falmouth called the Pager Vice-Admiral of Cornwall, and not only so "extreamlie persewit and invaidit" that Edward Marscheall, his brother, George Law in Kirkcaldy, and three others his mariners were most cruelly slain, but also his whole "guidis" and "laidning" of the said ship "bereft" and violently spoiled, and himself threatened and compelled for fear of his life to give his "handwritt" and oath never to pursue nor "sute" redress thereof by law or otherwise, to his utter wreck, hardship, and undoing. "Off the quhilk gif he sall not ressave justice and sum spedy and gude redres—he being ane of honest fame and credeit—salbe weappit in extreame miserie," and his wife and children compelled through the loss of his whole substance "consisting thairin" to beg, "quhilk wer a piteous and lamentable cais"; and therefore upon information to be given of the particular goods spoiled from him, and of the names of the malefactors "committeris thairof," we request and hereby desire you very earnestly and "effectuuslie" to see this grievous enormity condignly punished and good and full redress made to this "complinar" for his great loss and "heirschip" with such promptitude and celerity as the case merits, that he be not wearied with long attendance upon justice, but may return to his wonted trade. Wherein as you shall "utter" your good affection toward equity, justice, and the continuance of the amity betwixt the realms, so shall you do us right thankful and acceptable pleasure. Edinburgh. Signed: James R.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed (by Burghley's Clerk).

598. Robert Bowes to Burghley. [Aug. 6.]

Yesterday I received your lordship's letter of 31st July with the good news therein, which news I drew forth and delivered to the King, and which he gladly accepted and communicated to others.

The custody of the castle in this town of Edinburgh shall still continue in the trust and charge of Sir James Hume, presently the captain thereof, agreeable to your lordship's motion in your letter mentioned, and as in my last before this I have certified; for he has so carried himself to the King's good contentment in these late actions towards Bothwell and Hume, and the same is so well reported to the King— wherein I have not been behind with my part—that the King has now turned his good countenance and favour to him.

Albeit that the King and sundry others of this nation and also myself have been so confidently advertised by letters and otherwise that I should be speedily revoked, that the same was generally credited and wrought the effects specified in my several and former letters to your lordship, yet by your lordship's last I am both satisfied therein and also ready to continue my duties, endeavour, and service to the uttermost I can to please her majesty during her highness' pleasure that I shall serve here. Nevertheless, may it please your lordship to make known to her majesty how much my means and credit in court and elsewhere in this realm are "maihemed" by the common expectation of my revocation and by experience of my bare estate, and how necessary it is that I shall not only in person timely amend the fault which my son has lately committed by his departure from your lordship without order taken for the surety of repayment to be maid for the "remaynes" to the garrison at Berwick, but also personally to proceed in all my accounts to her majesty, and to answer to such objections of my errors past in my service here as I hear have been laid against me and informed to her majesty. Wherein, in case her majesty pleases not to grant me leave to "come" and accomplish these things, then I shall send and instruct my servant, Christopher Sheperson, to supply my absence and to give the best contentment to her majesty and your lordship that shall lie in myself and my son and our whole power, right humbly praying your good lordship to return to me speedy advertisement of her majesty's pleasure herein, that in best time I may obey and perform the same with all humility and readiness. This much to the contents of your lordship's last letter received.

The King by his letters called hither the Lord John Hamilton, the Earls of Eglinton, Rothes, and Mar, the Lord Maxwell, Lindsay, and others to give their advice and assistance in these present affairs: and by proclamations published the noblemen, barons, gentlemen and others of the inhabitants in Lothian, Merse, and Tyvidale were commanded to come to this town with armour, weapons, and victuals to attend on the King in his expedition against Bothwell and Hume to be entered into this day. Whereupon 3,000 barons and gentlemen of the best affected sort were gathered and ready to serve the King; and for the more surety of the accomplishment of their allegiances and duties to the King in this service, sundry of the barons and gentlemen have subscribed to a band devised for that purpose and to the effects appearing in the copy of the bond enclosed. In the meantime the friends of the Lord Hume—being religious, loyal, and serviceable gentlemen—made their earnest suit to the King and diligently solicited the Chancellor to be mean for the King's grace and favour to be showed to Hume, and that they might be suffered to treat with him to withdraw and retire himself from Bothwell to the King's obedience and pleasure, and to be reconciled with the Chancellor. For which reconciliation with the Chancellor the King directed them to confer and take order with the Chancellor's self. It was granted that the goodman of Huton Hall, the Laird of Brokesmouthe, and Alexander Hume of North Berwick should travail with the Lord Hume; and they have so prevailed to draw him to submit himself to the King and to be agreed with the Chancellor—in which last point they found the greatest difficulty—that he has come in and rendered his body this day to ward in the Blackness, where he shall remain for five or six days in company of his three friends who travailed for him, and afterwards to be bound with his friends to depart this realm or to do as by the King and Council shall be appointed.

Whilst Hume's friends were thus labouring with him, Sir William Keith, as it is told me, was employed and sent to Hume to hold him fast with Bothwell, and great means were made to Buccleuch, as I have heard, to join with them: wherein he made no haste, but rather resolved to preserve his duty to the King before his love to Bothwell and his mother, as by his own words and declaration I can witness, and have testified the same to the King. Nevertheless, at the earnest request of Bothwell and the lady his wife, mother of Buccleuch, and upon respects known to himself, he rode to meet Bothwell and Hume at Moreham on Wednesday last the 4th hereof. In the way his friends both warned him that his journey and purpose were discovered to the King and Chancellor, and also advised him to return. Yet he held still his purpose, and met Bothwell and Hume, letting them know that they had so disclosed their own secrets that he would not take any part with them, but faithfully obey and serve the King, and wished them to address themselves to the same course. Hereupon Hume readily resolved to break fellowship with Bothwell, and hastily leaving them came to his friends at Dalkeith and followed their counsel, as before is expressed. Bothwell and Sir William Keith returned that day to Kelso, and Buccleuch came back to Edinburgh. So that by Buccleuch's refusal to join with them that knot amongst them was loosed, and Bothwell and Sir William Keith left to provide for themselves. On the next day Bothwell called before him his servants with him, opening to them his present case and distress, and with great sorrow dismissed them. At night he and Sir William Keith with three men departed towards the north, and this day they passed this water of Firth, purposing, as it is thought, to ride into Caithness. The King is advised that Bothwell will speedily address himself to the Duke of Parma; and the same is so confidently given to the King and told me that I have thought good to advertise your lordship thereof with better expedition.

Before this the King had been informed that Bothwell openly reported that he had written to her majesty for her favour, complaining and proving by my letter intercepted that I had greatly stirred the King against him, and that her majesty had disclaimed to have given me any direction or warrant therein, showing to such as travailed for him her majesty's good countenance and mind to be favourable towards him; and finding the King partly occupied with this report, I readily satisfied him. At this time it came also to my hearing that I had been charged to have been so carried in course with the ministers that thereby I had set the King and nobility in sunder, a matter which here has gotten so small credit, in regard that the truth is so evident to all men, that I need not to travail greatly therein, and whereunto I shall so answer and clear myself by manifest means to her majesty as I trust shall well content her majesty and discover the drift of the authors of this surmise. Albeit that I have had means about Bothwell to know his own doings and place of repair, with the times of the resort of sundry of his servants and their abode in this town, Canongate and Leith, yet I have walked within my tether and bounds, forbearing to deal in causes touching him, further than to advertise your lordship of the progress thereof; and I shall not refuse to let the contents of my letter intercepted, or any other matter to be tried to be done by me, to be the evidences to prove me guilty of blame in any thing, either in my actions against Bothwell without her majesty's warrant, or yet in matter in any letter appearing to condemn me, as at any time when it shall please her majesty to call me to account I shall well verify.

Bothwell's coffers, with his plate and apparel left at Roslin, are taken and possessed by Mr. William Leslie, to whom Huntly, having the escheat of the Laird of Roslin, had committed the keeping of that house; so that Bothwell, as himself hath told, is not so furnished as he purposed to have been. His servants remaining here attend and look for his return to them within one month, but by good advice the King is informed that he will hasten to Parma, as before; which I leave to your lordship's good consideration, with humble request to direct me speedily how I shall now carry my course in matters concerning him, chiefly in case I shall be moved by the lady his wife, or any other, to be mean for him to the King: for seeing none of this nation will now adventure to present anything to the King for him, I am given to understand that his wife at her coming hither this day or tomorrow, or some other, will entreat me to enter into that office, wherein I dare not meddle before I shall receive direction from your lordship.

Sir William Keith, taking his fortune with Bothwell, is gone with him, but it is doubted whether he will serve the Duke of Parma, or rather travel into Italy or other nations. His lands and possessions are given to Mr. William Leslie, and the King's wrath is so kindled against him that he shall hardly recover and find any grace at his hands.

At the coming of the Lords of Ochiltree and Spynie to Glammis, to apprehend the Master of Glammis, they found there the Earl of Erroll and the young Laird of Glammis; but the Master was departed before they came about the house. Erroll and young Glammis entertained the King's commissioners with all courtesy, but the young laird is now removed, doubting that he should have been commanded to come to the King, and committed to such as should have tendered him marriage to his misliking and hurt of his house, and in such sort as he could not refuse without the King's offence and displeasure, notwithstanding that the King has granted to the young laird himself his own wardship and marriage. The Master thinking to have been severely dealt withal, in regard that the King has honoured him with so great an office, and that he had been lately with the King and so sufficiently declared and proved his innocency in the crimes objected against him that he thought the King to have been satisfied therein, therefore he sent unto and prayed me to move the King in his behalf, which I have done, and also acquainted the Chancellor with my doings, and so far prevailed that I trust in time and in some convenient order to bring the matter to good end: yet distrust of true meaning reigns so highly in the hearts of the Chancellor and the Master of Glammis for the particulars betwixt themselves, that I find very great difficulty to wade through this cause; but I shall spare no labour, in regard of the great advantage that may grow to the establishment of quietness in this realm by the King's favour to be showed to the Master and the reconciliation to be made betwixt these parties. And as I shall proceed and find success your lordship shall be advertised, humbly praying your good lordship to give me timely advice and order how I shall stand betwixt those two especial persons, whose qualities and quarrels I have so largely certified by my sundry letters before sent to your lordship that I need not recount anything thereof for the consideration to be had in the address of your lordship's said advice to be directed to me.

Marishal remaining still in this castle stands upon and earnestly prays to be tried. It is intended, as I am informed, that he shall be set at liberty shortly, with restitution of the King's good countenance; and that the griefs betwixt the Chancellor and him shall be compounded; so that all these quarrels breeding these late troubles in any other than in Bothwell shall be once again wrapped up. But sundry of the Chancellor's friends, and other wise men, think it needful that he shall now fasten his door with double bars in manner like the "Hyelandsmen" after their reconciliations with their enemies. And it is thought that by the late signification of the King's pleasure to him, in the appearing of these storms, he shall hereafter carry his course more plausibly towards noblemen, and chiefly to such as have had pikes against him.

The King had purposed on the 9th hereof to have set forwards with all his forces against Bothwell, Hume, and all others with them, but seeing they are dispersed it is advised that he shall stay that journey. It is left to be determined tomorrow at the assembly of the Council, and the journey likely to be broken. Buccleuch has put in surety to depart out of the country and has the King's licence for the same, with notice given to my self that his passage through England or abode there with her majesty's favour shall please the King and will be thankful to the Chancellor, who wishes him well and desires that he may find her majesty's goodness towards him, which he trusts Buccleuch shall with good offices well deserve. Therefore it is required that it may please her majesty to grant him safe-conduct to pass through or remain in England for some time, and that this safe-conduct may be very speedily sent to me that I may deliver it to him in such time as he may depart and come into England, agreeable to his bonds entered in that behalf; wherein it may please your lordship to have in memory to procure and send to me his safe-conduct with speed, or to let me know what I shall answer and do in the matter for the contentment of the parties suing for the same.

Her majesty's letter or commendation to the King in the favour of young Cesford will suffice to obtain his pardon, wherein his father hath been with and delivered to me the notes enclosed, and showing the grounds of the quarrels against William Kerr slain by young Cesford. He and his friends, offering their good devotions to her majesty, are earnest suitors for her majesty's goodness to intercede to the King for this young gentleman, that may and will be ready always to do all good offices to her majesty, and presently accomplishes especial services to the King: in which respect it is required that it may please her majesty with better expedition to write for him or otherwise commend his cause to the King as shall best like her majesty; wherein I pray your lordship to let me know her majesty's pleasure, that I may in season content the suitors herein.

The Duke of Lennox is by proclamation published to be admiral of Scotland, sheriff of Lothian, and constable of Haddington, offices lately the inheritance of Bothwell: these are granted by the King to the Duke for nineteen years. The "factorie" of the honours and lordships of Crichton and Hailes, other parcels of Bothwell's possessions, are likewise given to the Duke; and it is intended hitherto that at the next parliament the inheritance thereof shall be assured to the Duke.

Huntly is become a very great courtier, and has made such liberal offers to serve the King "and kepe his quarterage against the King's rebelles" that the King much cherishes him for the same. He has made means to myself to win her majesty's good opinion towards him, wherein I look that the Laird of Cluny will shortly deal further with me. I am ready to entertain him with courtesies requisite, but I dare not enter further with him than I shall be directed by your lordship with her majesty's will and pleasure, which it may please your lordship to send timely to me. The lieutenancy in the north is prepared and made ready for him, together with three several commissions to be proclaimed lieutenant in three several shires, yet not delivered, for wise and good councillors impugn the same in regard of the troubles that shall arise thereby in the north. It is said that Atholl Murray, and the rest of that fellowship, hearing of this great authority given him and doubting that he shall annoy them and their friends by the colour thereof, have lately knit themselves together by band to withstand all wrongs to be offered or done to them by Huntly, and "they thinck them able to put him to foile" in case the King shall hold of his hand betwixt them: so as it is looked that new troubles shall arise there in case Huntly shall obtain the lieutenancy as he looketh for. Edinburgh. Signed: Robert Bowes.

4²/3 pp. Addressed. Indorsed by Burghley.

Enclosure with the same:

Cf. Register of the Privy Council of Scotland, iv. 666.

(Band of Scottish noblemen and gentlemen against Bothwell.)

"We the lordes, earles, barrons, gentlemen, and others under subscrivand faythfullye promissethe by theise presentes that we and everye one of us shall trewlye serve and obaye oure soveraigne lorde his leiutenantes, wardens and officers or others havinge his majestes comission in all thinges tendinge to the advancement and forthsettinge of his highnes autorytye and service, and in speciall in the searchinge, seikinge, persute, takinge, and apprehendinge of Francis sometyme Earle Bothwell, Alexander Lord Hume, and others whatsoever declared traitors, rebells, and consperators agaynst his highnes and his authoretye, ther asisters, partakers, resetters, intercomonars, and furnishers of them meit, drinke, house, harbrye, or other necessaryes. And in casse they or anye of them shall happen to resorte or repayre throughe anye of our boundes, landes, rowms, posessions, or annye other partes to our knawlidge, we shall take them if we be of power, or otherwayse shall showte and rayse the fraye, rayse ourselves and our haile forces, that we may make and concurr and joyne everye ane of us anfauldlye with others shall [or] repayre to his majestes leiutenantes, wardens or others havinge his highnes comission, and passe forthwart, assist and take playne parte with the persute, takinge, and apprehendinge of the sayd trators, rebells, and other forces, or expellinge and haldinge of them fourth of the contrye, suffrenge them to have noe resett nor refuge therin so farr as we maye lett. The skaethe, harme and subversion of his majestie, his present estate and authoritye we shall not knowe nor heare by anye means but disclose and impind the same to our utter power; and finallye for the better furtherance of his majestes service sall laye asyde lyke as presentlye we laye asyde all particulers quarrells, deadlye feades and contreversyes standinge amongst us; and for noe cause shall shrincke from his majestes service as we and everye one of us will answere to the almightye God and his majestie, uppon our faythe, honours, and aleageances, and under the payne everye one of us of 10,000 markes monye of this realme to be payed to his highnes. In witness wherof we have subscribed our handes to theise presentes as followethe, at Edenburgh, the 5th of August 1591. Sic subscribitur. Cesforde, Mincto, Hundelye, Wat of Badrowll, Hunthill, Bun Jedburct, Harlwood, Mincto, Wedderburn, Hutten Hall, Alexander Hume of North Berricke, Mayns, Aiton yonger, Jams Bronfeilde for the surname of the Bronfeildes, John Readpithe, Patrike Dickson, Blacader younger, East Nesbet, Spot, Bass, Freinton, Inderweik, Salmeston elder, Swinton, Congilton, Fortoun, Smetoun, Byllye, Renton, Pranderguest, Androw Carre of Fawdonsyde, Beinston, Salt Cottes, Hermiston, with sondrie others."

1 p. Copy. Indorsed by Burghley.

Copy of the enclosure.

Cott. Calig., D. II, fol. 53.

599. Robert Bowes to Burghley. [Aug. 11.]

On Saturday the 7th instant at midnight the King embarked at Leith and passed over to Falkland, where he remains, intending to take his pastime with his hounds and not return before Michaelmas. The Chancellor departed on Monday last to his house at Lethington, where he purposes to abide until the King's return to Holyrood House, for the sessions shall break up on Saturday next, and thereby the Chancellor shall have little occasion to be here before the King's coming. Quietness is expected in the meantime.

Lord Hume was yesterday enlarged out of Blackness upon bonds by himself and his friends to quit the realm before the 26th instant, whereupon the goodman of Huton Hall and Alexander Hume of North Berwick have in Lord Hume's name required him [Bowes] to procure her majesty's safe-conduct for Lord Hume with six servants to pass and repass through England, as well from the Marches as from any port in England where he shall fortune to arrive; and that the safe-conduct may be sent speedily, that he may seasonably enter into his journey for the King's contentment and discharge of his bonds. Prays that the safe-conduct may be sent, or direction to satisfy Lord Hume and his friends, being very well affected to religion and the amity of the two realms. Hears that some of Lord Hume's servants will seek to persuade him to take his voyage by sea for Flanders within ten days, but his better friends travail to draw him to England and keep him there some time, for reasons to be signified later.

John Ogilvie, the young Laird of Powrie Ogilvie, intending to travel into foreign parts, desires her majesty's safe-conduct to pass through England, purposing to repair to him [Burghley] and acquaint him with his errands, which he trusts shall please her majesty and his lordship. Walsingham often employed this gentleman, and found good offices done by him: therefore commends him.

A friend of Bothwell's has sounded him [Bowes] whether he would make suit to the King in his behalf that his pretended voyage into Spain might be stayed, to avoid evil to himself and troubles in the realm. Has pointed out that princes "seldome well disgest threatning peticions," and parted in even terms, doubting to be assayed in more plain manner, in case Bothwell remain in this realm, or settle in Germany or other place not offensive to the King. Prays direction, as he dare not wade deeply without warrant. The King has given commission to the Master of Ochiltree, captain of fifty horsemen, to apprehend Bothwell and sundry of his servants present at the slaughter of Sir William Stewart, uncle to the Master. It is given out that Bothwell is in the north and purposed to pass by sea into Germany: Atholl advertised the King that he sent to have spoken with him, but Atholl refused. Some say he is departed in a barque of Dundee lately bought by some about him, others that he is again in these parts with Sir William Keith, who was seen in Edinburgh on Monday last at night.

Lord Hamilton brought Huntly to him [Bowes], who promised devotion to her majesty, seeking her favour. He [Bowes] reminded him of former errors, of Papists about him, and employed with intelligence to foreign princes; he stands on his trial and offers amendment in all things. He has assured Mr. Bruce and other ministers that he will embrace and maintain the reformed religion, whereunto he has before this subscribed; will remove from him his uncle James Gordon the Jesuit, and receive a preacher to instruct himself and family. Has received him in good part for her majesty, and now attends his actions to confirm his good meaning. That he may be drawn forward in religion and in action against Bothwell the King intends to give him Kelso in recompence of Dunfermline conveyed to the Queen.

Earl Marishal was delivered soon after the King's departure. The Queen was an earnest suitor for him, and intended to come hither to the King for his delivery if the King had not set him at liberty.

The Master of Glammis has by letter renewed his request to him [Bowes] to intercede with the King for him, and also to procure that he may be received and remain in England, and that he [Bowes] would "write quietly" to the English Wardens for the same. Because the Chancellor is "conceited" against Glammis, and mistrusts him, therefore he [Bowes] acquainted him with this desire of Glammis that he should sue to the King for him; but the Chancellor was so much against it that he could not press the matter; nor dare he meddle as to the Master's going to England, without direction from his lordship. The Chancellor and Glammis cannot be reconciled; an especial ground of troubles in this realm. It is thought that the Master's office of Lord Treasurer shall be given to the Laird of Spynie, and his place in the session to Huntly.

Lord Claud Hamilton is again visited with his former disease, and is troubled in his conscience in matter of religion. He strives to confer with Mr. Robert Bruce, but his friends, thinking the desire to proceed from his sickness and being loth that the same shall be discovered, have withdrawn him from the town to his house, hoping for his recovery. Edinburgh. Signed: Robert Bowes.

2½ pp. Addressed. Indorsed by Burghley.

600. Robert Bowes to Burghley. [Aug. 11.]

Lord Hume presses earnestly for her majesty's safe-conduct to him to pass through England, therefore he [Bowes] writes again in haste about it. Hume says he dare not tarry beyond the 26th instant, and is loth to take his voyage by sea, purposing to start within two days after the receipt of the safe-conduct. His friends also beseech his lordship to commend his suit to her majesty, and with all speed to send down this licence. He [Bowes] is ready to pass over the water to Falkland to the King. Edinburgh. Signed: Robert Bowes.

½ p. Addressed. Indorsed.

601. Queen Elizabeth to James VI. [Aug. 12] Printed in Tytler's Hist of Scotland, (1877 edn.), iv. 341-2.

"Manie make the argumentes of theire letters of divers subjectes, some with salutations, some with admonitions, other with thankes; but, my deare brother, fewe I suppose with confession; and that at this time shall serve the meetest for my part. I dowbt not but yowe wonder whie yt is that in time soe perillous to your person, soe dangerous for your state, soe hatefull to the herers, soe strange for the treason, yowe finde me, that from your birthe held most in regard your seurtye, showld nowe neglect all, when yt most behoveth to have watchfull eies on a most needy prince."

"Nowe heare thereof my shrift. It is true that my many councelles I have knowen oft thankid but seldome followed. When I wished you raigne you suffered other rule; if I desired awe you gave them libirtye; my timely warnings became to late performance; when it required action it was all to beginne: which when I gathered as in a handefull of my memory, 'I will now trye,' quoth I, 'what at a pinche he will doe for him selfe, for nearer then with lyfe may no man be assayled.' And hearing how audacity prevayled in so large measure as it was made a question whether a wich for a king's lyfe might serve for a sufficient prize, and that the price of a king's blood was sett at so low a rate, with many wondring blessings I in attentive sort attended the issue of such an error, and not seing any great offence layd to so slight a care I fearefully doubted the consequence of such an act; yea, when I heard that quakingly men hasted to tryall of such gylte, I supposed the more loved where least it became, and the most neglected to whom they owed most bonde, well was assured that more addition could never my warnings make, and to renew that so ofte was tolde should be but petitio principii. With saffe conscience having discharged my office, I betook you to your best actions, and thought for me there was no more remayning."

"And now I trust that this may meritt an absolution. I will make you partaker of my joy that I heare you now beginne—which wold to God had sooner been—to regard your surety and make men feare you, and leave adoring false saints. God strengthen your kingly heart and make you never fayle your selfe, for then who will sticke to you. You know me so well as no blowdy mynde ever lodged in my brest, and hate beare I none to any of youres, God is witnes; but ere your dayes be shortened lett all youres be. This my charity."

1 p. Copy. Indorsed.

602. James Hudson to Burghley. [Aug. 12].

"Mae it pleas your honor to pardon the longe staie of the inclossid, which came upon missinge your honor at court wher I sent my man to waet upon your lordship. The Lord Sanker of Scottland hath dyvers letters to your honor from Scotland in his favor: the efect of them ar to request your lordship to deswaed hime from travellinge towards Italy and thoes paerts. He is a very younge genttilman boath of years and untravellid."

"This slawchter of Wilyam Ker off Ancram wil breid great mischeiff and increas the jarr betwixt the Chanceler and the Master of Glams. I understand the Chanceler haeth derecssyon from the King to serttefye your honor of theas matters, of Huntley and al other things there. It mae pleas your honor to let this other goe in your honor's paquet, which is ane answer tuchinge a payntter the King wrot for." Unsigned.

¾ p. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed.

Enclosure with the same: [Aug. 12.]

(Occasions moving Sir Robert Carr to kill William Carr of Ancrum.)

"Item the said Sir Robert Keris father, Warden of the Midill Marcheis of Scotland for anent England, at ane tyme haifing ane warden court at Kelso for trying the innocencie and giltynes of persouns fyllit in Englis billis, conforme to the order usit to sich as hes occasioun to clame to that judgment, ane man enterit to his tryall in that court, the said umquhill William, unluikit for be the Laird of Cesfurd his cheif, being so neir of bluid discendit of his hous, sister and brether bairneis, the fourt persoun of that discens; nochtwithstanding quhairof, to the said Laird of Cesfurdis grit ignomynie, schame, and dishonour, did with forthoucht purpois conwein the Lord Home, the Laird of Wedderburne in the Mers, and syndrie uther his grit forceis quhairwith he was accompaneit, wiolentlie reft out of judgment in the wardens awin presence Sir Robertis father the sam man accuissit, and in manyfest and proud contempt of his office and authoretie conwoyit him away, sua that the lyk schame and injwrie that hous newer sustenit befor."

"Nevertheles the said Sir Robert Ker, upoun the ernest sute of the said somquhill William, with the intercessioun of freindis weill effectit to baithe thair weillis, mavit his father to remit that grit contempt, at quhilk tyme the said William promist never to faill agane to his cheifis displesour. Nochtwithstanding quhairof, within werre schort space thairefter, the said Sir Robertis father being dyvers zeiris proveist of the burghe of Jedbruct, for the better sustening of the charge of his majesteis serweice in the Bordowr effairis was authoreisit in that office be speciall directioun of his hienes: zit the said William contenuing still in his misbehawiour, raisit sich factioun in that brughe schamfullie to disgrace him of his prowistrie and to promot utheris thairin, quhill it broucht the sam in questioun befor the King and Counsall. In the quhilk actioun the said umquhyll William nocht onlie prewelie be quhat moyane he could bot also oppinlie kythit and declairit him self injwrious enemie to his father and him self, quhairin dyvers dyatis was appoyntit, and baithe the parteis being at Edinburgh for the tyme, it happynit be accident the said Sir Robert and William to meit in the nicht on the Hiegait, Sir Robert being woundit with the greif of the utheris misbehawiour rakleslie happenit to slay him. Theis tuo grewous particularis, besyd syndrie uther dishonouris and greifis done be him agains that hous quhairof he was discendit, broucht on that unhappie deid; sua that the same proceidit nocht throucht ony wantonnes of the zoung manis estait, bot rather be the wnhappie procurment of the said umquhill William, quha sould hawe reverenceit his cheif in condignne knawlege."

1 p. Indorsed by Burghley: "12 Aug. 1591. The case of Sir Robert Carr, yong Lard of Cesford, for Killyng of William Carr."

Copy of the same.

Cott. Calig., D. 54b.

603. James VI. to Elizabeth. [Aug. 16.]

"Richt excellent, richt heich and michtie princes our dearest suster and cousine, we recommend ws unto zou in hartlie maner. Having of befoir be sindrie our letters maid zou acquaint with a certane spoyle committit be ane Nycholas Qwattis and his cumpany, pyrattis, upoun the berare, David Gardin, burges of oure burgh of Dysert and his partineris, quhais commissioun he beiris, foure zeir sensyne or thairby, with the greit travell and expenssis sustenit be him in persute and recoverie of decreit in zour court of admiraltie of the sowme of fyve hundreth pundis sterling in sum recompance of thair losse, and in the sute of executioun of the same decreit, first agains the said Qwattis, and consequentlie ane Captane Raymount, bandisman and cautionare for him, quhairby our said subject neglectit his uther effairis and treade, and involvit him selff in sic debt within that zour realme as without zour protectioun he may not frelie persew his caus: off quhilk spoyle and losse he and his partinaris resting zit unrepairit in defalt of executioun of the said decreit, to thair greit hinder and undoing, thair haill substance consisting thairin, he hes taikin occasioun to cum in sute of redres at zour handis in esperance to attene thairunto, being accumpanyit with this our recommendatioun. We requeist zou heirfoir, our dearest suster and cousine, to gif commandment to put the said decreit in executioun, cheiflie agains the said Capitane Raymount, cautionare and full debtour to our said subject in this caus, quhairby he may have satisfactioun and sum recompance of his and his partineris greit losse, be maid able to pay the debt contractit be him in persute of that caus, and may returne to his wounted treade." Falkland. Signed: "Youre most loving and affectionatt brother and cousin, James R."

½ broadsheet. Addressed. Indorsed.

Copy of the same.

604. James VI. to Burghley. [Aug. 16.]

"Richt trusty and weilbelovit we greit zou hartlie wele. The berar, David Gardin, burges of our burgh of Dysert, efter lang proces, greit travell, and expenssis recovering the admirallis decreit in a caus persewit be him for him selff and his partineris agains ane Nycholas Qwattis, Englisman, and his associattis, pyrattis, quha had violentlie be way of pyracie spoyled thair guidis foure zeir sence or thairby, the same decreit restis zit unput in executioun agains the said Nycolas and ane Capitane Raymount his cautionare, quhairby our said subject hes sustenit greit losse and na les hinder in his treade. Quhairupoun we have be our letter recommendit this mater to the Quene, our dearest suster, zour soverane, requeisting that he may ressave redres and favour heirin aggreable to equitie and justice. We have heirby alsua taikin occasioun effectuuslie to requeist zou to interpone your help in the furtherance and favour of our said subject in this his honest caus, and specialie to gif directioun for putting of the said decreit in executioun baith agains Nycholas and Capitane Raymount his cautionare, alreddy adjudgeit in the sowme of ane hundreth pund sterling for not reentrie of him in ward: as alsua seing the said David may not frelie travell in persute of this caus be ressoun of sum dett contractit be him in Londoun, that ze will purches him libertie to pas and repas quhill he may be able to releiff him selff thairof, as ze have done to him of befoir: quhairin ze sall do ws verray thankfull and acceptable plesur." Falkland. Signed: James R.

¾ p. Addressed. Indorsed.

605. Robert Bowes to Burghley. [Aug. 16.]

When he was at Falkland with the King the latter declared himself willing to give speedy redress for the attempts done by Liddesdale on the West Marches, yet there is difficulty in the execution thereof, Buccleuch, present keeper of Liddesdale, being about to leave his office and the realm, and no fit person found for that room other than young Cesford, whom the King will receive to grace and put in this office if her majesty write for his pardon. The friends of young Cesford have arranged for composition to be given for the slaughter of William Carr, and again press him [Bowes] to entreat his lordship to procure such letter from her majesty in favour of young Cesford with good expedition. Desires speedy understanding for their satisfaction and the relief of this young gentleman, who may be readily brought home, and so placed in office as to do especial services, which his friends promise.

The King desires safe-conducts for Lord Hume and the Laird of Buccleuch to pass through England, and that the same may be sent speedily to hasten their departure out of this realm.

By his [Bowes'] motion to the King, and by means of the Earl of Mar, the Master of Glammis shall have access to the King at Stirling this week; where albeit he shall declare himself free from all dealing with Bothwell or practice against the Chancellor, yet the King has been so persuaded that the violence supposed to have been intended against the Chancellor was devised by the Master, that he is minded to commit him to ward at Stirling in the custody of Mar. The Chancellor condemns the Master and his actions toward himself, and fears to renew any friendship with him. Forbears to meddle till he receive direction.

Has been entreated to move the King to show grace to the Earl of Roslin. As recompence it is offered that he shall be made acquainted, by means of a Catholic in Scotland, of all the practices of the King of Spain and his instruments here and in the Low Countries. But the King is loth to hearken to any suit for Roslin, because he showed favour to Bothwell and his escheat is given to Huntly, whose profit the King will not hinder. Therefore dares not embark herein without warrant from his lordship.

The wife and friends of Sir Alexander Stewart affirm that he was not in Aberdeen or other place in Scotland since his departure out of England about January last; but two honest persons of Aberdeen say they saw him there about Easter; that he ate and drank in the house of the Earl Marishal in Aberdeen, whilst the Countess lay there. They say that Sir Alexander never lodged in Marishal's house, but in some place unknown to them. These two persons have promised to send further testimonies, to remove all doubt. The Earl Marishal was with the Chancellor on the 12th instant, and departed with great kindness. Lord Hume was expected to visit the Chancellor, but passed by to North Berwick without sight of him: yet Hume's friends travail to reconcile him and the Chancellor. Thus these late griefs are stayed for this time, but most men think that the roots remain and will yield worse fruits hereafter.

The King has ridden this day to Stirling, intending to pass to InchMurin to hunt the buck and take his pastimes. Sundry noblemen have promised their endeavours to preserve the country in quietness. Edinburgh. Signed: Robert Bowes.

2 pp. Addressed. Indorsed.

606. Robert Bowes to Burghley. [Aug. 27.]

Has received her majesty's letter addressed to the King, (fn. 1) the safeconducts for Lord Hume and the Laird of Buccleuch, with his lordship's letters of the 14th and 17th instant. Resorted to the King, then at Dumbarton in progress, and delivered her majesty's letter, with report of his lordship's opinion "in the weightie contentes flowing sodainly from her majeste's penn" in his lordship's sight. The King gravely noted the frame and substance of the letter, and with pleasant countenance, declaring his good acceptance, commended the excellent order, singular wisdom, and rare friendship that he found therein, acknowledging that his lordship's opinion was built upon a sure foundation. He said he would not return further excess of thanks, or new promises "to aventure any surfeit thereof," but rather that his future actions, grounded on her majesty's advice, should witness how much he honoured her counsel and embraced her goodwill. Upon some proof given of his good accomplishment he intends to write to her majesty.

The safe-conduct sent to Lord Hume was delivered to him in Edinburgh on Sunday the 22nd instant. Nevertheless he embarked yesterday at Leith to save his bond entered for his departure out of this realm on that day at the farthest. He pretended to take his course for Lynn or other port in England, but misliking the vessel and finding the wind unfavourable, he returned to Leith yesternight at eleven o'clock, and this day departed towards the south with pretence to pass through England, which his wife and friends greatly wish. Some think he shall be entreated to stay in this realm longer than shall content his friends accompanying him and being cautioners for him, but others hope that the counsel of his religious friends shall prevail. The Chancellor and he are agreed, and eight friends on either side bound for the performance of the accords.

Has delivered her majesty's safe-conduct to the Laird of Buccleuch. He wished to have entered England at Berwick rather than by Carlisle, as by the passport is directed, yet accepts it with great thanks, purposing to begin his journey on the 7th of September next. The King is pleased that these passports are granted, and resolved not to give any prorogation of the days prescribed for their departures.

The King acknowledged that the service of young Cesford was very necessary for him and for the quietness of the frontiers, yet said he had hitherto forborne to pardon him for the slaughter of William Carr, and stayed the agreement to have been made with the said Carr's wife and friends, that some example might be given for the terror of others, and that the composition might the better please the parties offended. Now, upon his [Bowes'] motion agreeable to his lordship's direction, the King is contented to further the agreement, to grant remission to young Cesford, and soon after to commit to him the keeping of Liddesdale, in hope that he shall well serve him and do good offices to her majesty for preservation of peace and justice on the Borders, the rather as he has obtained grace by her means.

Bothwell has lately written to the King requiring his goodness to be shown to his children, and to know his pleasure to what foreign place he shall resort. This letter Colonel Stewart brought to the King at Stirling at the request of the Countess of Bothwell: the King read the letter openly, that all the presence might know the contents and his evil acceptance thereof. He utterly refused to promise favour to the children or appoint any limits to Bothwell, but to leave him to his own course as his rebel whom he would pursue. Because the Colonel only received the letter open at the Countess's hand, and refused to present to the King any suit for Bothwell, therefore the King passed over his doings, declaring that no person hereafter should trouble him with any matter for Bothwell, against whom he remains resolved, intending to dispose all his lands to others without regard of his children, saying that otherwise he shall enable them after his own death to execute their feud against such as serve him faithfully against Bothwell. Has been dealt with to move the King on behalf of Bothwell, that he might be drawn from Spain and Spanish courses, but the King is so resolute against him that he [Bowes] might not meddle in the matter. Although many "made curtisie before to take any part of his lyvinges," many now strive to get them before others. The Master of Ochiltree abides at Kelso with his horsemen taking the profits thereof for the King's use. Bothwell begins to see himself abandoned by his friends, and the burden of his distress and danger of his overthrow work great grief and fear in him. He returned lately into these parts, but now carries himself so close that none but a few special friends know where he is. It was suspected that Mr. Richard Douglas and Captain Haggerston met him last week in Angus, and thereupon the guard, having commandment to apprehend Mr. Richard, sought him in Edinburgh but could not find him. Trusts he will come in shortly and acquit himself of this crime.

The Master of Glammis entered into ward in Edinburgh castle on Tuesday the 26th instant. He had conference with Hume in this town before his entry, but they agreed little. Sundry of the Council are trying to reconcile the Chancellor and the Master. When he [Bowes] was with the Chancellor at Lethington, by request of these councillors he broached that reconciliation, which is likely to take effect; and the Master shall be at liberty within few days.

Parliament is summoned and proclaimed to begin on the 20th of November.

Upon controversy betwixt the Earl of Argyle and Lord Ogilvie for the "seigniorie" of Cupar abbey, the Master of Ogilvie, understanding that the Dean of Brechin was keeping the Court for Argyle "did take and ruffle the Deane with such disgrace" that some men of Argyle's killed fifteen or sixteen of Ogilvie's tenants in the rescue of their goods carried away by Argyle's [sic] men. In revenge the Master of Ogilvie slew four of the Campbells dwelling near him and ever ready at his commandment. These men were under Atholl, who joined with Argyle and put in readiness four thousand to revenge that slaughter. The King has sent Sir James Chisholm, the Laird of Tullybardine, and Mr. John Graham to Argyle, Atholl, and the Master of Ogilvie to stay their forces and pacify their griefs.

Last week God called to his mercy Alexander Erskine, a man specially devoted to her majesty. And this morning Sir Lewis Ballantyne, Justice Clerk, died: his office is like to be bestowed on the young Laird of Whittingham, his place in session on Mr. Richard Cockburn now Lord Secretary, and his room of Master of the Ceremonies on William Shaw. The King is at Hamilton where he [Bowes] was entreated to have been, but his occasion to write to his lordship, and his present state unfit for such great assemblies, drew him hither. The King will be at Stirling on Monday next, and after some few days return to Falkland.

Will send up Christopher Sheperson, who will enter in his ledger the payments made at Berwick, clear those reckonings, and wait upon his lordship. Edinburgh. Signed: Robert Bowes.

3 pp. Addressed. Indorsed.