James VI, June 1593

James VI, June 1593

65. James VI. to Elizabeth. [June 4.]

According to our promise and your expectation we have directed towards you this gentleman, Sir Robert Melvill of Murdocarny, knight, our Treasurer, amply instructed in all such matters as we have thought convenient to be propounded unto you; and as these are grounded both upon reason and honour, we hope assuredly to receive satisfaction. We have in like manner given him in charge to certify you of the performance of such points as were contained in our answers sent with Lord Burgh, wherewith we expect you shall rest fully satisfied. Holyrood House. Signed: James R.

⅓ p. Broadsheet. Addressed. Endorsed by Burghley's clerk.

66. James VI. to Burghley. [June 4.]

Having directed the bearer, my ambassador and your old acquaintance, to the Queen, I thought good to accompany him with these few lines to desire you that, after you have heard by his own discourse what matters he is to deal in, you will be a furtherer of his good and speedy despatch. "My request is, then, that youre charitie beginn at youre self in extending it so farr furth to youre neerest neichbouris as may procure the safetie of both the realmes and the standing of the trew religion within thame." I am sure you may, if you will, be a good instrument in this "earande," and your will cannot but be kindled by the dutiful respect you owe and have ever borne to your prince and country. Tum tua res agitur paries cum proximus ardet. But here I end. Sat sapienti. Holyrood House. Signed: James R.

²/3 p. Holograph. Addressed. Endorsed by Burghley's clerk.

67. Queen Anne to Elizabeth. [June 8.] Cott. MS. Calig., D.ii. fol. 87.

Sending conventional expressions of friendship by the ambassador. Holyrood House.

½ p. French. Copy. Transcript in Harl Mss. 4648, p. 120.

68. Sir Robert Melvill's Instructions. [June.] Cf. Warrender Papers, ii. 209–214.

"The copie of Sir Robert Mellvyllis instructions nowe embassadour from the King of Scottis to the Queenes Majestie of England."

None of the Queen of England's subjects to receive the Earl Bothwell, under pain of losing their offices if they have any, or of being otherwise punished at her Majesty's pleasure, according to ancient leagues and the late agreement betwixt both realms.

10th July next to hold a Parliament at Edinburgh, therein to proceed in all good matters touching the Church and suppressing the rebels and their accomplices whomsoever within Scotland.

All Earls of Scotland are of the Privy Council by birth, but special choice [is] made of men known to be wise and well affected to both realms, as the Duke, Mar, Chancellor, Secretary, Lord Privy Seal, Master of Glamis, Laird of Colluthy, Laird of Carmichael, Sir James [sic] Melvill, and the Collector. All others shall sit in general Council causes, but these above mentioned in special affairs. Whatsoever disorder has been committed on either side [i.e. on the Borders], recompense to be made or the officers thereof to lose their places. A request that all who were at Falkland raid with Bothwell be delivered into Scotland according to the law of the Borders.

Pay is demanded for 600 soldiers for six months, the one half to be horsemen and the other footmen; pay to begin 1st July next: the money for the whole pay to be delivered either to Sir Robert Melvill or Mr. Robert Bowes. This they account will in the six months suppress all their rebels on the firm land.

Request made for two ships, powder and munition for suppressing the rebels in the West Isles.

The accounts to be "cast" from the beginning of the King's annuity in 1586, to this time, and the arrears to be delivered to his ambassador. And further, "as ther is not done anye thinge prejudice [sic.] to his title of succession of the Crowne of England, not to doe any thinge hereafter for disablinge his title."

1 p. Endorsed by Burghley's clerk.

69. Robert Bowes to Burghley. [June 10.]

Sir Robert Melvill was ready to enter on his journey on the 1st instant, and since then the King pricked him forwards earnestly, but I travailed with the King, sundry of the Council and Sir Robert that before he set out the King would give proof by open action (especially by the "indelate" removal of the Countess of Huntly from Court) that Sir Robert might deliver to her Majesty perfect assurance both of good performance of the King's promises by Lord Burgh, and for reformation of this estate, presently suspected to be near to troublesome and dangerous alteration. It is feared that not only shall this be seen in experience before the next Parliament, but also that rebels, Papists and Spanish faction shall seek to delay and defeat the Parliament by change in Court, by violence or by other means, whereby the person of the King shall not be free from peril. I have persuaded that the King should withdraw to some fit place of strength or be better guarded till the end of the Parliament. Wherein I find less care taken than the danger threatens; the rather seeing that the Earl of Morton, the Master of Glamis, Sir Robert Melvill, Blantyre and Linclouden have departed from Court, that Mar and others will return to their own houses very shortly, and that the Court is presently void of noblemen, other than the Duke, Lord Hume and Spynie, with some courtiers in no good opinion with men well affected. By this occasion Melvill's journey has been delayed till the 8th instant, whereupon at 5 p.m. he rode to Elphinstone, purposing to be with the Chancellor at Lethington yesterday, and there to remain until he shall be assuredly certified that Lady Huntly is removed from Court, which was done yesterday with no little difficulty. Melvill intends to be at Berwick on the 11th. (fn. 1) Because the malicious in this realm have boasted that Sir Robert shall lose his packets and find troubles before he shall arrive at Newcastle (as he and others have informed me), therefore I have required Mr. John Carey and Sir John Foster to provide that he may be well accompanied from Berwick to Alnwick, and from Alnwick to Newcastle, where my son, Ralph Bowes, shall meet and convoy him beyond Durham.

The King told me (1) that the Parliament was of necessity "continewed" from 15th May until 10th July, to the intent he might have time to call to him the fittest noblemen and other commissioners in Parliament, and with their advice prepare all things for the expedition of his own affairs and for the surety of the forfeitures of Angus, Huntly, Errol and other rebels, for it is thought that if they dare appear at the Parliament they shall not be forfeited unless the noblemen be well prepared, and the barons, burghs and Kirk stand constantly to it; (2) that he had made choice of a Council to be resident about him, naming the Duke, the Chancellor, (fn. 2) Mar, the Master of Glamis, Mr. Robert Melvill, Blantyre, the Secretary, the Collector, the Justice Clerk, the Clerk Register, Sir John Carmichael and the Laird of Colluthy, the true catalogue whereof he promised should be delivered to your lordship by Sir Robert [sic] Melvill, directed to take her Majesty's advice in the good liking of the persons chosen and how to have their acts executed without alteration; (3) that he marvelled to find me so earnest for the removing of the Countess of Huntly from Court before Melvill's departure. I replied that the sight of this kind countenance towards her, out of time and order, and her abode in Court, gave overgreat advantage to the Countess, her husband's friends and solicitors, to work a breach in the amity with her Majesty, and to tempt many noblemen, barons, burgesses, kirkmen and others for their favour to be shown in Parliament and otherwise. The King thereon resolved to speak again with Sir Robert, who did not like to depart before this lady was removed. It appeared that the Duke and Mar (fn. 3) both wrought her abode at Court, and also persuaded the Queen of Scots to like thereof. She was sent to Leith yesterday after 8 p.m., where she remains. This day the Queen, the Duke, Mar and many courtiers went to Leith to visit her. She proposes to pass northwards to-morrow to Carneburro (Carneborough), a Gordon's house near Strathbogie. I was informed that some courtiers had comforted her with liberal promises of favour—which I did not keep long from the King, and, by Sir James Melvill, received his good answer and promise to be careful for prevention of that and all other dangers. I have certified all these to Sir Robert Melvill; (4) that he had given instructions to Sir Robert Melvill to inform her Majesty of his purposes for the accomplishment of his promises—promises which he renewed very liberally. He still pressed the restraint of Bothwell in England; whereof now he conceives good hope and waits advertisement from his ambassador.

It seems that Sir Robert will seek not only for payment of the yearly gratuity and "to drawe the somme to be payde to certenty," but also further aid for maintaining a guard for the King's person, for punishment of the rebels, subduing the West Isles, etc. As the King now proffers to her Majesty all kindness, upon hope of aid, so likewise many of this nation make many fair overtures to me for her Majesty, but chiefly for their own benefit. Atholl and the Master of Forbes are willing to withstand and pursue Huntly, yet they need, they say, some help to furnish horses and armour.

Mr. Anthony [l.Alexander] Dixon—sufficiently known, I think, to your lordship by his troubles in England—has offered to draw to her Majesty's devotion Angus, Huntly and Errol, who will give hostage and all other bonds to bind them to the performance of their promises; and in case her Majesty does not accept them and their offers (wherein I shrink to give any comfort to them), then he offers his own service to discover the practices in this realm, Spain or the Low Countries, and for surety of this good meaning he will bind himself with good caution in this town to repair once yearly to your lordship or another to give account of his doings and to be employed at her Majesty's pleasure. To remove my suspicions of his former profession of Papistry and course against England he has yielded many reasons proving the cause of his present change and of his resolution to change no more. He desires a yearly pension. I think him very able to do especial good offices. I also recommend a recompense for Francis Mowbray, now in company with Sir Robert Melvill (fn. 4)

This state has slidden so deeply into confusion that the King's power does not suffice to recover it. Few noblemen seek to relieve, but many of them practise to exchange or else overthrow it. The well affected barons, Kirk and burghs, lamenting the ruins, despair of the repair of it or standing of the King without her Majesty's timely aid. Edinburgh was yesterday suddenly in arms and troubled with an uproar stirred by sundry courtiers. James Gray, the King's servant, had before carried away forcibly the sole daughter of the Laird of Carnegie, still living; and having married her against her will, as she says, was by order driven to deliver her to the custody of Robert Jowcye (now on his journey towards London). This young woman should have been affianced within few days to Lord Hamilton's base son. Albeit great personages in Court had earnestly persuaded her to return to Gray, yet she utterly denied; therefore he, resolving to recover her again by force, sent the young Laird of Loggie to her lodging, which was straitly kept; but Loggie entered and, finding the young woman there, gave signs to James Gray, Sir James Sandilands and other courtiers, who, breaking open the doors, surprised the woman and have carried her away. (fn. 5) Whilst this was in execution Lord Hume, with some courtiers, servants, and some of this town, defended the head of the lane and put back such as came to the rescue. At the same time the Duke and Mar were at tennis near the place, yet they did not show themselves in the action, which they utterly "refuse," but they are not free from suspicion. The father will not complain to the King in regard that he looks for no amends that way, yet the King far clears himself from any privity. The town intend to exhibit their complaints to-morrow to the King, and the ministers to do the like the next day. This is feared to be the beginning of greater troubles. The fear is increased partly by bruits of sedition, and partly by the late escape of the Laird of Johnstone out of Edinburgh Castle, which many think that he would not have attempted if he did not trust some sudden enterprise of others for his safety. All other occurrences I shall advertise by Roger Aston, who is willed by the King to put himself in readiness to overtake Sir Robert. Edinburgh. Signed: Robert Bowes.

5⅓ pp. Addressed. Endorsed by Burghley's clerk. Underlined in parts, and notes in the margin in Burghley's hand.

70. Robert Bowes to Burghley. [June 17.]

On receipt of your letter of the 9th instant, I made diligent enquiry whether any Spanish shallops have arrived in Scotland, but cannot learn of any. I have sent to make further search on the east and west seas, and in the Isles, where sundry seditious persons have entered into rebellion. It is advertised that Donald MacConnell Gorme, usurping the title and possession of M'Leod (Macklode) of Lewis, and confederated with M'Leod's tutor Harris (Herys), the Laird of Glengarry, and Mackinnon (Mackennonde) of Skye, has entered the county of Ross with 2000 men, pretending to invade Mackenzie; but it is suspected that they will turn to the party of Huntly and the other rebels. The report is not yet confirmed. I am informed that Donald looks for aid from Ireland. I have learned that there is a baron in Galloway called Kilthill, but have had no time to try whether he is the party named in your lordship's letter.

I have acquainted the King with her Majesty's commandment to her Wardens that no man shall receive or relieve Bothwell or any of his party. Lord Scrope has written to me that in his office her Majesty's commandment shall be obeyed, and lately Sir Robert Melvill by his letter to the King has well confirmed all this. Whereupon the King has promised to proceed effectually in all things with her Majesty, and to give "indelate" order that Liddisdale shall live in peace. The favour of the King of Scots (Arabia Petrea) towards Huntly (Chanus) is not quenched, and the same is greatly nourished by the Duke (Herenius), Mar (Sempronius), Spynie and others; and I am assured that it will kindle and burst out into flame if Sir Robert Melvill (Reder) find no contentment in England (Damascus); that therein Huntly and his party shall obtain great advantage; that the well affected cannot find a better occasion to bind themselves together for defence of the common causes which by Sir Robert Melvill's good success are likely to have prosperous end, the rather that the King of Scots and all his shall be firmly tied to that course, and that for the execution of the same all things shall be rightly employed as the Queen of England shall dispose. Otherwise the well affected may (they think) justly sue for redress in all things and press the accomplishment thereof, a matter worthy of grave consideration.

The Lairds of Ardkinglas and Lorne are bound to "tholl" [i.e. stand] an assize on the 19th instant for their trial for their slaughter of the Laird of Caddell, which matter Argyll so earnestly follows, purposing to be at this day of law with great companies of noblemen, barons and gentlemen. It is looked that Ardkinglas shall marry the base daughter of Lord John Hamilton and that Hamilton with great forces will accompany Ardkinglas at this day. Besides, the day of law for the late slaughter betwixt the Lord Fleming and Drumlanrig against Johnstone and Drumallyer is appointed on the 21st instant. By these occasions this town will be filled with great assemblies of noblemen and others stirred with feuds, whereby it is much feared that sudden uproars and troubles shall ensue both to hazard the surprise of this town and the defeat of the holding of the Parliament. The Lords of Session are purposed to levy 100 men for their guard, and this town will entertain men and keep themselves in arms for this time to prevent the danger, which the King and Council might readily effect by timely order, but the King has few councillors with him at present.

Captain James Stewart, sent for (as it is said) by the Duke, Spynie and Dunipace, has been these five or six days at Craggyhall, near this town, hoping by his friends' means "to recover Courte" and the office of Chancellor, which, if it should take effect, would work sudden and trange alteration in this estate. But now the Queen and the ambassadors of Denmark, by the King's advice, begin to like the Chancellor's offer of the lands in his hands, being parcel of Dunfermline, the Queen's dower. The Chancellor, hoping to be restored to the Queen's favour, trusts to return to the Court and to his office; whereupon it is looked that the reformation intended shall find the better progress, that the Chancellor and Mar shall enter into good friendship, and that therein the Duke and the Chancellor shall be reconciled, and other agreements made for the union of the councillors to serve the King with quietness.

Huntly remains most at Strathbogy and Bog of Gight, where, fearing sudden attempt, he keeps strait watch and ward about him. Angus lies oftentimes at Balfour (Baforde) the house of the Laird of Pitarrow, his wife's brother. Errol abides at his house at Sandende. I am informed that they have lately received great comfort from foreign parts, and possess the favour of many noblemen and others of quality, whereby, it is thought, they shall escape the danger from Parliament unless her Majesty shall agree to give timely counsel to the King for their pursuit.

I have procured two several commissions for the apprehension of the Abbot of New Abbey and three Englishmen. One is directed to Lord Maxwell in respect that he has promised the ministers here to do his endeavour: the other is sent to Mr. Andrew Knox, who will not fail to execute the commission if he can; but the parties are far from him, and I doubt of the success of the other. I enclose a letter addressed to your lordship by Mr. John Skene, late ambassador with Colonel Stewart to the Princes in Germany, and whose good offices to her Majesty have deserved thanks and comfort, which he trusts to receive by your goodness. Skene is a suitor in favour of Mr. William Lumsden (Lumsdane), Scottishman, who, alleging that he was spoiled on the seas by the Vice-Admiral of Cornwall, and that therein George Law, his friend, was slain, prays to have redress. I request you to recommend James Murray, late Master of the King's Wardrobe, to her Majesty, who, before this, has commended him to the King. By renewing this matter to Sir Robert (to be reported by him to the King) she shall greatly comfort this gentleman, continuing his accustomed good service to her Majesty. I refer all other things to the report of the bearer, Roger Aston. Edinburgh. Signed: Robert Bowes.

3½ pp. No address. Endorsed by Burghley's clerk.

71. Robert Bowes to Burghley. [June 20.]

Being very credibly advertised not only of the progress of the practice to restore Captain James Stewart, drawn to Craggyhall for that purpose, and entertained lately at Leith by the Duke, Spynie and Sir George Hume, but also that the Captain had obtained the King's protection and licence to have free access to Court, Edinburgh and all other places in Scotland, to prosecute his suits in law before all judges, at his pleasure, wherein he intended to tender his suit for the office of Chancellor and thereon should be again authorised to put in practice his former violence and fury against the Church here and the amity between these two realms, and that this course was laid to break the amity, to stay or wrest the Parliament approaching, and to advance the designs of rebels, Papists and Spanish factioners, therefore I "opened" these to the King and travailed to bar the Captain's further passage herein. The King denied having given any late protection, and asserted that, albeit he had given liberty to the Captain about half a year or more past to prosecute his suits in all Courts as a loyal and free subject, yet he did not mean to, nor hereafter will, receive him into the office of Chancellor or the Court, wishing me to certify the same for her Majesty's satisfaction. Because I saw how deeply this matter wounded the hearts of the well affected and because persons of good quality and credit had assured it to me, therefore I desired him to satisfy her Majesty by a letter to herself or to Sir Robert Melvill, or by note in writing to me. He has chosen to write to Sir Robert. Perhaps the letter (which I have sent to him) may be found general and slender, but the matter is now well stayed and the well affected pacified thereby. I moved the King seasonably to call the nobility and Convention to him to put all things in order for the punishment of the rebels by the next Parliament; whereunto he agreed. He has firmly promised that immediate order shall be taken to make Liddisdale live in peace, that Lord Scrope shall find good concurrency with Maxwell, and that justice shall be done in the bills of Sir Cuthbert Collingwood.

It was "rounded" [whispered] in my ear that at this next Parliament the establishment of a second person in succession of this crown should be strongly moved and furthered; whereof I warned the King, who appears very resolute to restrain any such motion, and will not endure to be esteemed to be the "sonne settinge."

The composition to be given to the Queen of Scots by the Chancellor for his lands in Musselburgh, parcel of Dunfermline, and to be assured by this Parliament to the Queen, is drawn to the point of agreement by the King's means and with the liking of the Queen and the ambassadors of Denmark. The King has written to the Chancellor to come hither to finish this cause and to serve himself. It is looked that he will be here in the end of this week. Yesterday the King called the Duke and Mar, letting them know that their "younge yeares" and advice did not suffice to carry the weight of this government in these troublesome storms, and that he had written for the Chancellor and was resolved to use his service. The Duke readily agreed to lay aside his "particulers," and Mar, acknowledging goodwill towards the Chancellor, and that he had nevertheless been suspected for the Duke's sake, has offered to do his endeavour to reconcile the Duke and the Chancellor.

That the rebels may be forfeited by this Parliament, and that Dunfermline may be assured to the Queen, the King has sent to the Chancellor to procure the means of noblemen and others having vote in Parliament. This the Chancellor has promised to do, but he "makethe curtesye" to retain afterwards in sound course some of the noblemen and others willing to advance the King's pleasure in these behalfs. For it is thought that the rebellious lords enjoy such favour amongst the courtiers and possess such friendship in the nobility that it will be hard to banish them from this realm, notwithstanding that they shall be forfeited or attainted by Parliament. I am informed by my wise friend, who received the same in very secret sort by a "familliar" of the Duke of Lennox (Herenius), that the King shall be tempted to shake off his kindness with her Majesty by fair overtures of great advantage to be obtained by the assistance of Spain, the Leaguers in Germany, and a strong party of Catholics in England, and also by "castinge upp" (as they term it) the indignities done to him by England in the person of his mother, in the negotiations of Mr. Wotton drawing on the raid of Stirling, in Mr. Asheby consenting that he should be declared second person, and in Bothwell maintained to his dishonour and danger, with such other matters likely (as they think) to stir him to embrace their advice. Because "these" have been in communication amongst the Spanish factioners, and peradventure intended by them, I give your lordship timely knowledge thereof, praying that I may be directed how to guide my course.

Lord Hamilton and Argyll, with many noblemen, and exceeding great numbers are in this town to accompany Ardkinglas or Macaulay (Mackall) at this day of law for the slaughter of Calder, pursued by Argyll. The hearing of the cause is deferred, with hope that it shall be brought to a good agreement. The danger feared from this great assembly is much abated; yet the Session is newly incorporated with this town of Edinburgh, and the town still stand on their guard. Atholl's servants sent to distrain in Lord Ogilvy's lands were assaulted and five of them are slain, and some of Ogilvy's people hurt in danger of their lives. Sixty horsemen, armed and "musled," were seen at Newhaven near Leith the other night, at midnight, but they are not discovered as yet. The King has been informed that some courtiers offered "to have put him out." Edinburgh. Signed: Robert Bowes.

3 pp. Addressed. Endorsed by Burghley's clerk.

72. Robert Bowes to Burghley. [June 22.]

Yesterday morning the coming of the Chancellor to this town upon the King's letter was "discovered" to the councillors and courtiers, and that after satisfaction given to the Queen for his lands in Musselburgh (which was meant to have been done to-day) he should serve the King in his office. This return in this manner is thought sudden and bold, and nothing honourable or pleasant to the courtiers; and it has kindled warm passions here.

In the afternoon Lord John Hamilton and Argyll, with their companies, met in Canongate, near the cross, where the straitness of the street gave no room for the troops to pass easily, so that the foremost, "romblinge" together, strove for the gate, and pistols on both sides were "bended" and sundry swords drawn in such sudden rage that it was strange that they should so part in sunder. Yet because Hamilton and Argyll were before in kindness (except that Hamilton did presently "partye" Ardkinglas, pursued by Argyll), therefore they both sought to appease the tumult, wherein the Master of Glamis and Blantyre (accompanying Argyll with the followers of the Duke, Mar, Morton and their own friends) are said to have pacified greatly the persons offering the assault. But Hamilton much condemns the Master herein. At length, the gate being evenly parted betwixt them, they passed without blood or hurt. This ruffle gave a great alarm in Court, where the Duke and Mar were with the King, and where Lord Seton, his brethren and Niddrie, coming hastily from the King to Hamilton's party, escaped narrowly "the shott of garde bente uppon them uppon the soddaine crye and sight of ther haste." The King has commanded Hamilton and Argyll to keep their lodgings till this day, that order should be taken betwixt them, and this day warrant is given by the King to Blantyre, Linclouden and Mr. Patrick Galloway to take assurances for the peace. Hamilton, hearing that the courtiers had procured a charge to him to depart from this town, sent to the King to certify that he would rather be seen dead in these streets than thus to pass away with shame. The King is pleased to stay the charge, and purposes to "agree" the parties. Yet Hamilton, doubting the worst, has sent for fifty harquebusiers, whereupon it is looked that he shall be indeed charged to depart, and some have advised that, if he will not willingly get him gone, the Earl of Mar shall withs hot out of the Castle send him away.

Blantyre, Linclouden and the Clerk Register were sent this day to the Chancellor to persuade him in the King's name to retire to his house; but he prays to remain here lest his adversaries cut him off on the way, as was done to Mr. John Graham. Whereupon he is hitherto stayed, but to be returned to his own house without hope of hasty return. For it is said that the Duke and Mar, lately contented with his return upon the King's call, have now plainly affirmed in the King's hearing that he shall never have their goodwill. Nevertheless the King still appears resolute to have the Chancellor with him before the Parliament. Young Cessford, coming this day to the Chancellor with 400 horsemen, was charged to retire, and has returned. Montrose, Fleming and others being here for Hamilton and the Chancellor are commanded to depart out of this town. Lord Hume, coming hither for the courtiers, is discharged.

Yesterday about 4 p.m. Mr. George Carr escaped out of this castle, finding at the port two men with a horse attending for him. He had before by letter to Angus excused his doings against him, promising to make amends, in regard that the terror of torments and death enforced him to accuse Angus and the rest. It is thought here that he has withdrawn to avoid the proof of his confession against the rebels in the next Parliament, where it is feared they shall not be tried guilty.

This day an infamous libel was found on John Carne's door, containing a declaration "givinge th'admonition" of the raid at Falkland, that the Duke and Mar had conspired the King's death, the overthrow of religion with slaughter of the ministers, the sacking of Edinburgh and the spoil thereof, and the poisoning of Lord Hamilton. This has been presented to the King, and is lightly regarded. These novelties and accidents occupy the people with expectation of great effects to stay the Parliament, or at least so to "wreast" it that no hurt shall be done against the rebels and Papists beyond their own contentment; yet the King seems still determined to prosecute things according to his promises. For appeasing these troubles I have sought access to the King, travailed with some parties, and conferred with divers councillors, persuading that fit mediators may be applied for the expedition thereof. This has been liked by the councillors and parties with whom I laboured, but the King has not had leisure to give me audience. Edinburgh. Signed: Robert Bowes.

2²/3 pp. Addressed. Endorsed by Burghley. Underlinings and note in the margin [the Chancellor] in Burghley's hand.

73. Money paid to James VI. [June.]

"Severall sommes of monie paid to the use of the King of Scottes in the yeares followinge": 1581, 4000l. 1582, 6000l. 1583, nothing. 1584, 2000l. 1585, nothing. (fn. 6) 1586, 4000l. (by Roger Aston from Berwick). 1587, nothing. 1588, 5000l. (sic) (by Mr. Bowes, received of Robert Carrell, 2000l.; by the Earl of Huntingdon to Mr. Bowes, 3000l.). 1589, 3000l. (fn. 7) (by the Laird of Wemyss). 1590, 6000l. (by John Colville, 3000l.; by Sir John Carmichael, 3000l.: 6000l.). 1591, 3000l. (by Hudson). 1592, 2000l. (by Hudson). 1593, 2000l. (by Ro. Melvill).

"In viii yers hath been paid 25500—which is for every year 3m and im vc over. If it had been iiiim yearly it should have been xxxiim, so there would lack 7m."

½ p. In the hand of Burghley's clerk. Rough notes in Burghley's hand opposite some of the figures and at the end of the account.

74. Money paid to James VI. [June 26.]

Note of money paid to the King of Scots from 1587 to 1592. [A fair copy of the items found for these years in the preceding.]

½ p. Endorsed by Burghley's clerk: "26 Junii 1593. Paymentes to the King of Scottes."

Copy of the same.

75. Answer by the States General of the Low Countries to James VI.'s Propositions. [June 27.] [July 7.] Printed in Warrender Papers, ii. 215–220.

The States General of the United Provinces of the Low Countries, having examined the proposition made on the part of the King of Scotland by Sir William Stewart, Commendator of Pittenweem, by virtue of his letters of credit, dated the 16th February last, and having maturely deliberated with him thereanent, do in the first place very humbly thank his Majesty for his favourable esteem, declaring that on their part also they will always be very ready to please him according to the ancient treaties, obligations and friendships between Scotland and these countries, being very glad that God Almighty has endowed his Majesty, for the good of the common cause of Christianity, with all the regal qualities necessary for the safeguarding of the true reformed religion, and the common rights and liberties of the lands and peoples professing the same against the violences and evil practices of the Pope of Rome, the King of Spain, and their associates, whose design undoubtedly tends to subjugate under their tyranny, through pretext of the Roman religion, all realms, countries and states. Whereof the examples not only in these Low Countries, but also in England, France, Portugal, Germany, and lastly also in Scotland, are but too evident and notorious, and sufficiently warn the kings, princes, potentates and estates, against whom nothing has yet been actually attempted, to be well assured that they are concerned as much as are those against whom enterprise has already been made. Every one ought with good reason to praise the foresight and resolution of his Majesty, who before the said machinations against his own person and realm had been discovered, foresaw that to resist the Spanish ambition, and its pretended monarchy and tyranny, it was fitting that the Kings of France, England, Scotland, Denmark, and the Protestant Princes of Germany should make common cause. The whole of Christendom will always remain obliged to him in that he made a beginning, and some years ago sent the said Sir [William] Stewart and John Skene his ambassadors. And forasmuch as the said design of the King of Spain and his associates has since become clearer than ever, especially with regard to what has happened and still happens daily in France, and what has also more lately been attempted in Scotland, besides the great preparations and new levies of horse and foot which are being made every day by the King of Spain for service on land and water, the said States in no wise doubt that all the said Christian kings, princes and states will perceive that it is more than time to make a general alliance and counter-league, defensive and offensive, against the said pernicious design.

The States thank his Majesty for the information given to them by the ambassador of the pernicious proceedings practised in his realm by the ministers of the King of Spain with some of his own principal subjects, and which would infallibly have succeeded but for the intervention of God. And as they were distressed by reason of the said dangerous design, so are they rejoiced that the mighty hand of God (Who called his Majesty to the realm) has thus benignly preserved him, for the good of all Christendom and of his own realm. They are quite certain that that is a sure sign that His divine Majesty will guide to a happy end the King's heroic resolution to advance a general alliance and confederation between all Christian kings, queens, princes and states, and thereby to bring to naught the said pernicious and dangerous design of the King of Spain and his adherents.

And since his Majesty has asked their advice, they declare that they could advise no better means than that the said alliance be promptly made between the King of France and Navarre, the Queen of England and Ireland, the Kings of Scotland and Denmark, and other princes, states and republics which shall desire to associate themselves thereto. It should be not only defensive, but also offensive, by land and water, to give the King of Spain so much business in his own country that he may be constrained to leave the realms of others in peace. So far as concerns the Low Countries, they will ever be found very prompt and prepared to hearken to it jointly with the said King of France, Queen of England, Kings of Scotland, Denmark and others. They believe firmly that the said alliance may be best advanced under God by his Majesty, who has very great particular interest therein, was its originator, and has private and fitting commodities. They also feel confident that he will employ himself to set forward his said sound proposition for the good of all Christendom and of his own realm in particular, and will carry it out happily to his great honour and reputation.

Moreover, they thank his Majesty that he maintains good intelligence with them in affairs of common interest in religion and estate; and on their side they desire ever to have a mutual and equally faithful intelligence with him and to please him in all things possible, and especially in that which his Majesty desires touching the transport of powder and arms for five or six thousand soldiers, and the seizure of such of his rebels as may presume to come into these countries.

As far as concerns the particular of the said ambassador, the States do not doubt that he, considering ripely the reasons contained in their answer written to his Majesty on 12th November 1590, will be content and accept one or other of the presentations.

Finally, the States thank the ambassador for undertaking this legation for the public weal of Christendom, and request him to make a favourable report to his Majesty, and to excuse the delay of this reply, for the reasons verbally declared to him. Done in the assembly of the States General at the Hague. 7 July 1593. Subscribed: By order of the said Lords States. Signed: C. Aerssen.

2½ pp. Copy. French. Endorsed.

76. Answer of the States General. [June 27.] [July 7.]

"The headis contayned in the aneswer of the Generall States made to the proposytion exhibited by William Steward, Ambassadour of the Kings Majesty of Scotland."

[An abstract in English, of the contents of the preceding.]

½ p. Copy. Endorsed.

77. Edward Englyshe to Mr. Henry Maynard. [June 28.]

According to your letter, I have made search to satisfy his lordship as to what sums of money have been paid forth of the Receipt to the King of Scots' use before June 1588, so far as by any of the warrants I can gather; for before that time, if any sums were paid to the said King's use, the money was paid to such as Sir Francis Walsingham appointed; whose privy seals from time to time went without prest or account and without showing the cause of the employment of the same,—which were sometimes for French causes and otherwise to us unknown. And in like sort Mr. Secretary Davison received sundry sums of money, and at some times Francis Milles, Thomas Milles, William Stubbes and other their servants received the same by their appointment; so that the warrants being many and for sundry uses, I have thought good to certify only those I find went into the north parts, which is all we are able to declare touching the same. Signed: Ed. Englyshe.

(Money paid towards Scotland.)

1 p. Holograph. Also address. Endorsed by Burghley, with date 28th June 1593.

78. Robert Bowes to Burghley. [June 28.]

By the mediation of four councillors and five ministers appointed by the King, the quarrels betwixt Hamilton and Argyll at their accidental meeting in Canongate are fully appeased and the parties reconciled. Sundry false bruits and wicked surmises have been dispersed in Court that Lord Hamilton, the Chancellor and the rest of their companies, pretending to come hither to countenance Ardkinglas at his day of law, intended to have altered the Court with the slaughter of the Duke, Mar, Sir John Carmichael and others, and also by removal of the guard and sundry courtiers from the King. It has been thought that these vain tales have been devised not only to stop the Chancellor's return to Court and to dismiss Hamilton and the other lords with malcontentment, but also "to cast bones to sett them togither by the ears," that by the occasion of their dissension the Parliament might be stayed.

I am so weakened by sickness that I do not look for hasty recovery; nevertheless I "crept downe" to the King to persuade some timely order for prevention of the dangers, etc.; wherein I found him well disposed. He prevailed with Hamilton and those with him to retire to their own houses, under promise to return with convenient numbers to the Convention and Parliament; against which time the King promises to labour to "put up" the notes of the discords amongst these noblemen. The Chancellor, coming hither on the King's letter, had no access, and with the King's counsel has withdrawn to Lethington. The King has firmly resolved that he will have his service at the next Convention and Parliament, wherefore he has employed Blantyre, Linclouden and Alexander Hume of North Berwick to take assurances and to reconcile the Duke, Mar, Hume and other courtiers with the Chancellor, and also declared plainly that if they refused reason he would rid himself of them and receive the Chancellor and his service. This reconciliation is working, but is much hindered by Lord Hume's absence, for the rest of the lords in Court will not conclude any agreement without his consent. He has ridden to his sister at Dunottar, but the King has sent to call him back.

The King is so determined to hold the Parliament on 10th July next that he has assured me that he will fight to perform his promises. He has written to Sir Robert Melvill to assure her Majesty of the same. The greatest difficulty in the composition betwixt the Duke and his party and the Chancellor will be the demand that the Chancellor shall bind himself to assist the Duke in all his affairs, and thereby be drawn from Hamilton. I have heard that the Chancellor will agree generally to promise to assist the Duke in all his lawful causes, yet he will not be bound to leave off kindness with Hamilton. The King seems to like well of this course, and wishes good agreement betwixt the Duke and Hamilton. The Duke sent the Laird of Bogie to remove all suspicion of any unkindness towards Hamilton, who answered that he never gave any just cause of offence, and referred it to the Duke's own conscience to think what he had done against him and his right, chiefly in seeking to defraud him of his birthright, in that he endeavoured to have been declared the second person in succession of this crown. The matter is "continewed" in fair terms that all things may be peaceable at this Parliament. Edinburgh. Signed: Robert Bowes.

2½ pp. Addressed. Endorsed by Burghley's clerk.

79. Robert Bowes to Burghley. [June 30.]

Yesterday, in the rage of my sickness, I was informed that Mr. William Orde, Scottishman, born in the north and noted to be a Papist, had been sent to Spain in favour of the Papists, and that returning lately from Madrid (Madrill) in Spain to Flanders, he embarked in a ship of Dysart and would be in Dysart yesternight or this morning. He arrived last night at Dysart, and, upon warning which I procured to be carried to the minister there, was apprehended and this morning sent to the Provost and ministry here, with the writings and letters taken about him at his arrest. Amongst these were found letters of particular persons in Spain and Flanders addressed to merchants of this and other burghs, which hitherto are not read. Some other letters, left by him in the ship, have likewise been got, but are not yet sent hither. With these there is a commission granted by the King [of Scots], and under his great seal, to Mr. William Orde, making him conservator for the merchants there, and giving him power and authority, for the benefit of the Scottish merchants trading in Spain, to make the King's great seal to be so well known in Spain that, if the counterfeit thereof should be showed forth to colour any goods brought in by others than Scottishmen, it might be espied and known.

Orde, in his examination before the Provost and others of this town, acknowledges that the King employed him in this service, which he affirms to have done truly and faithfully, and not to have dealt in any other matter in Spain, adding for proof that the Secretary would "advouche" the same. The Provost opening to the King the manner of Orde's apprehension, his bringing hither, etc., the King said that he did employ Orde in this service and had given him commission under his great seal. Information had been made to him that sundry Englishmen had "coloured" their goods in Spain under pretence that they were Scottishmen, and for testimony showed forth instruments and writings under the King of Scots' great seal, whereby the merchants of Scotland trading [with] Spain were greatly troubled and brought into suspicion and danger. Therefore, for the help of the Scottish merchants and at the petitions of Robert Jowcy and Thomas Fowlis, presently in London, he granted commission to Orde, agreeing with the one found upon him; and he willed Orde to be delivered upon caution from ward, unless he can be charged with other matters. [In the margin: "I heare that James Hudson can give your lordship some light in this matter."] I remember that the Secretary told me that the King had given commission to prevent this inconvenience to his subjects through the counterfeiting of his great seal.

Lord Hume has not yet returned, whereby the resolution between the Chancellor and courtiers has received little progress and the holding of the Parliament is the more doubted. The King having written to the Earl Marishal to come to the Parliament, the Earl excused himself by the greatness of the affairs of his office of lieutenancy. But the Master of Forbes, the messenger, pressed him a second time, and he shows himself ready to do as the King shall direct. The King purposes to write with all speed for the Earl's presence to this Parliament.

The Earls of Huntly and Errol, with the principals at Murray's slaughter, were lately showing themselves openly at Murelins, an alehouse or beggarly inn on this side of Aberdeen, and from thence a gentleman has come hither to travail with the ministers to receive the Earls' submissions. This suit being coldly embraced, "this traveller hathe bosted, sayenge that, since th'offers of th'erls cannot be accepted, therfore they will provyde for themselves by all the means they can, and care little for ther enemyes."

The news brought by Orde is that the Emperor has, with his cost, got an abstinence of war for some years with the Turk; that the King of Spain has agreed that the Emperor shall have his eldest daughter in marriage, and the Duke of Parma his youngest and third daughter; that the naval army lately sent by the King of Spain for the rescue of Blois [? Blaye] shall be repaired and increased, to be employed against England, or for Scotland. Edinburgh. Signed: Robert Bowes.

2²/3 pp. Addressed. Endorsed by Burghley's clerk.

80. Rental of Dunfermline. [June.] Harl. MSS. 4637c. fol. 134.

"The present state of the rent of Dumfermling in Junij 1593, according to the rentale subscrivit be David Seytoun of Parbroth, comptrollar, and delyvrit to the Danishe ambassadouris in May 1590, of quhilk rentale thir are the totale soummes.

"Money. This totale summe of money is collectit and maid of the particularis following, viz.:—

81. Requests to be made by Sir Robert Melvill. [July 2.]

1. Please your honour to remember the help craved of her Majesty for prosecution of his Majesty's rebels. The force required is 600 horsemen and footmen—equal; to be entertained for six months, unless some foreign forces arrive to the support of the rebels.

2. To remember order to be taken with Bothwell, his accomplices and his resetters in England. [In the margin, in Burghley's hand: "Proclamation is mad."]

3. To remember the gratuity with arrears.

4. To remember a ship or two for the Isles, for "expugning" of some rebels' houses.

5. That redress be made to our Warden for the delivery of those that accompanied Bothwell to Falkland and named in bills from our Warden to the Warden of the West March of England. [In the margin: "The particulars to be shewed."]

6. To remember her Majesty's answers "of" letters delivered by the Queen of Scotland, the King of Denmark and one of his subjects. [In the margin: "Matters of pyracy."]

7. That his Majesty has given me command to crave pardon of her Majesty for Waldegrave the printer.

8. To remember the poor Scottishmen who have been suiting here so long.

9. What shall be craved by her Majesty of the King's part to be yielded both by procedure and writ. Signed: S. Robert Melvill.

The first enlarged 1. The sum monthly for every 100 horsemen will be about 260l.; for every 100 footmen, about 100l.

One part of these forces to be employed for his Majesty's guard, the other part for prosecuting the rebels, their goods and geir, and to put guards in their houses for possessing of their livings, suppressing and apprehending of them with their "weill willaris." Signed: S. Robert Melvill.

¾ p. Holograph. Marginal notes by Burghley, and endorsed by him: "2 July 1593. The Scottish ambassadors petitions abridged." Cf. No. 68.