James VI: July 1589

James VI: July 1589

138. Mr. Archibald Douglas to Burghley. [July 1.] Cott. Calig., D. I., fol. 368.

"I ressawed your lettir proporting . . . (fn. 1) majeste had seyn the declaration touching the procea . . . [aga]inst the layte Quene of Scottis, whearof hir hyenes . . . lyk, and culd be contented it shuld be signed . . . to the King my soverayn if I had any authorite . . . [re]quire the samin. And fayling thayrof it . . . your Lordships meaning is that I shuld certifye so . . . the King my soverayn, to the end he may cau[se] . . . samin be required of hir majeste if it be his pleas[ure] . . . it."

"It may pleis your Lordship to be inf[ormed] . . . ane copye of suche declaration as it shuld pleis . . . to gewe to the King my maister anent the [pro]ceading was craved of hir hyenes be the Lar[d] . . . and be my self; and for this effect onelye . . . dessired that his hyenes mycht be adwise[d] . . . the form granted be hir majestie wolde satisfye . . . whearfore it was required be his hyenes."

"Your lordship may onderstand that nather of ws . . . to ressawe the sayde declaration signed, oneles the copye . . . first be sent to his hyenes to be advys[ed] if hir majeste shalbe pleased to deliver the . . . declaration as it formed onto me [sic]. I shall . . . gentill man wyth it to my maister or than . . . self to mowe his h yenes thayr anent . . . such instruction as I shall ressawe, and so . . . to knaw hir majesteis pleasur heirin." Signed: A. Do . . .

1 p. Holograph. No flyleaf or address.

139. Anne Vernon to William Asheby. [July 3.] Eg. MSS., 2,598, fol. 2.

"Wheras this berrar, my cossen Kelsterne, now is occasoned unto Edenbrowghe for certayne bondes of my husbandes remayneing in one Mr. John Cramonth's handes, one of the lawyars in Edenbrowghe, wiche bondes he is to call uppon haveng owt of ther handes, so that my request is and this berrar be neydfull of your lordships good helpe, to doo us that favore and furtherans convenyentlye butt as yow maye. Further, my said cossen berrer her of is occasoned to the cowrte for a particuler of his owne, wiche of him selfe verry well that he can doo, not trobling anye others . . . Edenbrowghe." Signed: Anne Vernon.

½ p. Holograph, also address. Indorsed.

140. Thomas Byng to William Asheby. [July 6.] Eg. MSS., 2,598, fol. 4.

Gives thanks for the Scottish token. Is glad Asheby's stay in Scotland has been longer than he wished, as it is for his country's benefit.

"Your suite in the behalf of your nephew, this bearer, I were to blame if I should not affect with all my hart. Only I can but be sory that his kynsman, who yet enjoyeth the place, dyd not sooner acquaynt him with his determinacion that way: whiche if he had done, thinges might have been prepared in some better forwardnes to that effect then now in short tyme can be wrought."

Ashby's nephew will report of the matter. "Grantcester". Signed: Tho. Byng.

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

141. Thomas Fowler to Walsingham. [July [6].]

On the King's coming to Aberdeen on the 4th instant, there came to him a merchant and two masters of ships just arrived from Denmark. They bring assurance that Earl Marishal landed at Copenhagen on Sunday last, where the whole nobility of that country had attended more than 20 days for his coming, the parliament being ended. He was received with great honour, the people there desiring speedy proceeding with this marriage. These men—with whom Fowler has spoken severally—assure the King that great provision is made for the young lady's coming; 12 ships fully furnished, three of them most princely apparelled, besides [four] for horses and stuff—16 ships in all. They tell of rich provision of apparel, jewels, furnishing for horses, coaches and women; more than 500 tailors and embroiderers have been at work upon it for three months. The Queen-mother has bought many jewels for her, especially pearls.

Many ladies and noble men are coming with the princess at their own great charge. This forwardness is here thought strange even by the King himself, because there has been no dealing yet that they might assure themselves he would marry there; yet all here rejoice, hoping they will refuse none of the King's demands, and desiring the match to proceed, especially the trade towns.

The King grows in affection for the gentlewoman, and talks much of her virtues; she has taken great pains to learn French for his sake.

He is repairing and augmenting his house at Edinburgh, but other provision is there none; all spoiled and decayed. The King hopes her majesty will deal bountifully with him, and asks Fowler what he thinks about it. "He is now well mynded to procede severely agaynst all the pryncypall frendes of Hontley, and Arroll and his frendes, by a justyce cowrt which presently is holden here for that purpose, and refuses all sutes of the wives and frendes of any of them."

The King leaves Aberdeen the 9th instant, and means to be at his farthest journey the 17th or 18th: there he hunts the hart with hownds in a forest called Cromarty, and returns home by the Earl of Atholl's "to chrysten him his fyrst sune." He means to be at Falkland the 10th of August, and is accompanied with the Duke, the Earls of Angus, Atholl, and Murray, the Master of Glamis, Sir Robert Melvin, Justice Clerk, and others, with good trains. He has been entertained at gentlemen's houses all the way hitherward, far better than Fowler thought to have seen in these parts, and is to be so entertained all the journey, almost 120 Scottish miles from Aberdeen northwards. The Chancellor sent to dissuade the King from this northern journey, and others mislike thereof, but he will forward. When the King hears how the Earl Marishal is answered of his demands, he means to send to her majesty to acquaint her with the matter and to desire her help. Aberdeen. Signed: T. Fowler.

Postscript—"The Master of Gray goes not this jornay. He is very bussy to make and [sic] agreement betwen all the Humes and the Erll Boddwell withowt the Kinge's knowlege as he thinkes."

2¾ pp. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed.

142. William Asheby to Burghley. [July 7.]

Nothing of importance has happened since he sent by James Hudson, but this bearer, Monsieur Lisle, sent hither from the King of Navarre three or four months past, returning to France through England and meaning to see the court in passing, being well known to Burghley, Asheby has committed to him divers particularities of the King and state; he "being thoroughlie acquainted with this countrie and brought up in this court as a child, and well affected to our nacion." Edinburgh. Signed: W. Asheby.

1 p. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed.

143. Barnard Whetstone to William Asheby. [July 8.] Eg. MSS., 2,598, fol. 8.

Desires to hear of Asheby's good health: "for which cause my father—your brother—and I have thought good to send this bearer, my owne saryant, to your lordshipe." Hears that where Asheby is there are "spanyels which wyll set partriges, called with us settinge dogges"; desires one by bearer. Woodford. Signed: Bar: Whitestons.

½ p. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed.

144. Robert Naunton to William Asheby. [July 9.] Eg. MSS., 2,598, fol. 9.

Is distressed that Asheby has not had his two letters. Wrote also to Captain Carvell to use the best means for their speedy conveyance. Returned yesternight to London to solicit Walsingham and Burghley for Asheby's revocation; when he hears her majesty's resolution he will hasten to Scotland.

"I am to request your letter to Mr. Secretary for his warrant for a sealed packet, which will hasten my returne greatly; and Justice Clinche I have aunswered that I come poste; if this faile, I muste crave your letter to my uncle Frauncis that I may have a geldinge of yours from him to jorny with."

His former letters, if intercepted, may breed displeasure. "I wrote them incensed with such indignities as I saw offered by some whom it lest became." Complains that Asheby's service is not better accepted of. Refers all news to his next, being as yet a stranger in London. Is sorry he has failed to meet Mistress Fowler; he went four times to her house, and Mr. Tanfeld appointed a time for him to meet with her and himself, but failed. "This Wedensday, the morrow after my returne hither out of Cambridge, my cosen, William Ashby of Lowsley, and I have agreed to suppe at the Spittle with her if she be there. Wherof if it hitt, I [will] certifie you and Mr. Fouler." Desires to be commended to Mr. Fowler, Roger Aston, Wigmore, Hudson, Richard Douglas and the rest. "From the postmasters Mr. Goffe at Bosomes Inne in St. Laurens Lane." Signed: R. Nauntan.

3 pp. Holograph, also addressed. Indorsed.

145. Itinerary of King James. [July 9-Aug. 8.] Eg. MSS., 2,598, fol. 19.

"The Kings majestie departit fra Abirdene on Wednisday the ix of July to Knokhall the Lord Sinclaris hous. The tent day in Turreff. The xj in Banff. The xij and xiij in Spynie. The xiiij in Darnway, the Erll of Murrayis hous. The xv in Invernes. The xvj in the Chanonrie of Ross. The xvij in Cromarty and thairabout in Ross, to tarey at hunting quhill the xxiij in Kilrawak. The xxv in Spynie. The xxvj in Craig of Boyne. The xxvij in Tolquhone, the xxviij agane in Abirdene, quhair remaning sum few nychtis his majeste intendis God willing to returne be Drum, Mureailhous, Edzell, Glammis, and therfra be St. Johnnestoun or Dundie to Falkland, quhair he salbe God willing agane the viij of August."

¾ p.

146. James Colvile, Laird of Easter Wemyss, to Monsieur Buzenval. [July 13.]

I have received your letters with the money and specie contained in the note; and although the sum is small, and the specie such that I must lose much upon it, yet having no other aim but to serve the King of Navarre, I promise you to do my utmost to depart, which will be at the end of this month by God's help, and to furnish what is fitting for the completing of the said levy; and I wish not otherwise to make request to his majesty, for the hope, nay, the good assurance that I have, that he will recognise the service that I am doing him in this matter, and will consider it according to his goodness how and when it shall please him.

As to what I had written to Monsieur de Buhy, I did it knowing very well those of this country who deserve respect, and I assure myself that when he knows me he will have no cause for discontent but will find me ever ready to do him service. Meanwhile I pray you to see that Monsieur de Buhy writes to the King for us others, that it may please him to cause 100 crowns to be given to every one of our captains on our arrival at Dieppe, and that the soldiers have some victuals, refreshments, and commodities to help them to reach the camp, until, being with the King of Navarre, they may be able to receive money, which will encourage them both to do so much the better service to his majesty, and will remove all cause of disorder and discontent from our people who are foreigners, for whom I beg you also to be pleased to write to the King our master and to the governor of Dieppe; and also, if you please, to speak to Mr. Walsingham to send me as soon as may be a passport for myself, for my companions and retinue, to pass peaceably along the coasts of England, and to have assistance from the country and provision of victuals and all things needful for our passage. Edinburgh. Signed: "Dest Veimes."

1 p. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed.

147. Robert Naunton to Thomas Fowler. [July 13.] Eg. MSS., 2,598, fol. 11.

Finds Mrs. Fowler pliable to her husband's direction. There wants only a reconciliation between her parents and Fowler; they will hardly otherwise let her depart. They cannot take it kindly that he refuses their accompanying her to Yorkshire. The gentlewoman herself is pitifully distracted between her duty to her husband and to her parents, and rejoiced to hear "of your semblable good affection towardes her." She thinks his alienation due to busy-bodies, and is desirous to make the journey if she may be properly accompanied. London. Signed: R. Nauntan.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed.

148. Robert Naunton to William Asheby. [July 13.] Eg. MSS., 2,598, fol. 12.

Has interviewed Walsingham at Nonsuch, who referred him to Burghley, and promised him a packet to take to Scotland.

Burghley told him that both he and Walsingham had moved Asheby's suit to the Queen, "but as yet she was neither of nor on, but remained uncertaine, upon the uncertaintie of the state there. In the end he told me that Sir George Carie was like to come thither er longe, and he—as [he] thought—should bringe you home with him."

Has visited Asheby's friends at the "Spittle"; "Mistress Mainie toke your letters as kindlie as she had done your former silence unkindlie." Her daughter is willing to go to Scotland, if her husband take order that it may be with her parents' blessing and seemly convoy. She asks Asheby's mediation.

Mr. Hudson has told him that her [majesty] is well content at his [Hudson's] report of Asheby's behaviour at the christening, "aswell for your present, which she doubted before that the country there wold hardlie have afforded; and therefore is to provide a second complement here wherwith to present my Lady Hamilton there; as also for your mariage in other circumstances appertaininge." Mr. Agard goes to the country tomorrow; he has paid Asheby's money to Mr. Lynford, and is to give Naunton a copy of his accounts.

Essex is at court, and in favour. Drake and Norris are still at Plymouth, "with small forwardnes to make report of their successe to her majestie. Some speech there is of a second service toward the Indies."

Mr. Rogers is like to be employed for Denmark and Germany. Signed: R. Nauntan.

2 pp. No flyleaf or address.

149. William Asheby to Walsingham. [July 14.]

Wrote to Walsingham yesterday, enclosing a letter from Fowler touching the proceeding with Denmark. Has received the safe-conduct signed by her majesty, with a letter from the Council touching "the transporting of the Spaniards into Flanders, who are seking, if anie Scotsman would venture, to passe from hense by the north of Scotland into Spaigne onlie with some of the chefest; but none here will undertake to transport anie without pasport."

According to the direction of the Council, will have care that satisfaction be had for the murder of the trumpeter ere the safe-conduct pass out of his hands. Four ships are ready for their transporting, and the Spaniards flock apace to Edinburgh, Leith, and Burnt Island, to the number of 600. Many are dead since their arrival, many in miserable case; some better entertained in noblemen's houses than they look to be in the wars, and so loth to go hence. Thinks some of the chief shall be stayed, "for diverse Scotsmen deteined in the holie house in Spaigne." Edinburgh. Signed: W. Asheby.

1 p. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed.

150. William Asheby to Burghley. [July 14.]

Wrote yesterday to Burghley, enclosing a letter from Fowler, [etc. as in letter to Walsingham of same date.] "The King is in the north of Scotland; the Lord Chancellor at his house caulled Lawder in Lodian, but expected tomorrow; upon whose comming order wilbe taken for the dispatch of the Spanniardes.' Thinks some of the chief shall be stayed here, "to redeme on Lambes sone of Lyth, and some other Scotsmen in the inquisicion in Spaigne." Edinburgh. Signed: W. Asheby.

1 p. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed.

151. William Asheby to Thomas Mills. [July 15.] Eg. MSS., 2,598, fol. 13.

"I must nedes thincke my self gretly pleasured at your handes for the curtesie yow have shewed to my nevew Naunton in procuring Mr. Secretaries letters in his behalfe to Mr. Doctour Styll, master of Trinitye Colledge in Cambridge; besides the warraunt yow healpt him to for the packet he brought from me" [sic]. Hopes Walsingham will give Naunton a packet to take to Scotland; speaks of his nephew's forwardness in learning. "I praye yow deliver the inclosed to my nevewe or send it to Mr. Agar's howse in Hosier Lane by Smithfeild." Edinburgh. Signed: W. Asheby.

1 p. Draft. Indorsed: "To Mr. Milnes the 13 of Julie." [Sic: the draft is dated 15 July.]

152. James Hudson to Walsingham. [July 15.]

Understands by Mr. Archibald's nephew the ill-will Mr. Archibald bears him for the things concerning him the King gave him in direction to the Queen and Council; likewise how his suit and credit were in good state before Hudson's coming. This being done against him by the King and Chancellor if he prevail—"you will loase better and honester"—that can do more than 100 such as he, that lacketh credit and some think honesty. "His specyall servant in discoursse told me that he can noct sei wherin the traytor lords in Scottland deserve any punishment, or yit to be callid traytours, or to be callid befoar a juge. I toek it to be his master's opinyon that it was only ment agaenst the Chanceler, and therfor should noct be punished by the King, beinge but a perticuller amongest subbjects." Their champion Bothwell before Hudson's coming offered his friendship and his eldest son in pledge to the Chancellor; and all for the favour of him whom so often he slew with words.

Mr. Hunter is in debt to his merchants through sending their goods to Scotland for his own use, as I know by his friends, himself, and his enemies, to the value of 200 li. Walsingham gave 40 li. to him, 20 li. to his man, and 3li. to him that he sent. Now his demand is great: Hudson could tell how to please him and content them both. Some get double their loss, some nothing who deserve better; all are unthankful. Unsigned.

1 p. Holograph, also address. Indorsed by Walsingham: "15 July 1589. From Mr. Hudson."

153. The Master of Gray to Hudson. [July 17.]

"I mervell I have hard no thing from you since your perting. All letters ye send delyver them to Mr. Secretary and desyr his honor to send them as his ainis to Captaine Carvell, for I have takin ordre how George Crau shall send them to me. The day ye pertit I rod and spak th'Earle Bothuell vhom I fand villing to accord to any reassonable maiter, so that the Chancellar and he are aggreit in termes, and he is now at free vard in Saltoun. I am schortly to ryd agene to Laudren to aggre my lord Houme and him, for bothe have submittit the maiter to me. Marie, first I am to ryd northe to his majestie, vho hes vrettin to me to be at him the 26 of this instant in Aberdeine, for then he is to be of retourne from Invernes."

"At his majesteis ryding northe I connexitt him, and receavit many good vordis; as tuitching my particulaire, he is to satisfie me. The causes of theis caressis ye shall understand by my nixt from Aberdene Goduilling."

"As I sheu you at your perting, maiters ar lykly to fall furthe betuene the Maister of Glammiss and Chancellar: for the Chancellar hes stayit behind the King, yet hes not bein ydle, bot hes done quhat he could to procure some frendschip."

"The Master of Glammiss accompannit the King northe and hes delt for all the outlawes, and hes disapointit the King of a great deall of money he luikit for; for the compositiouns ver remittit to him and the rest of the officeris, and he hes aggreit vith all men, and of some he receavit particulaire gain. He brocht th'Earle of Arroll to Aberdeine and keipit him in his hous thre nichtis: so his compositioun is maid to enter in vard in Glammiss after he hes spokin vith the King at his retourne to Aberdene. The Master brocht the bailly of Arroll to Glammiss vith him, and the Laird of Fintrie, and bothe thair housis renderit, so that all that maiter is nou redeucit in vind."

"Of lait thair is some more opin malice enterit betuene the Chancellar and the Master, so that schortly I feir ye shall heir tell the one of them shalbe a preparatiue for the utheris vrak."

"I am nou bissely socht be all handis, bot I sueir to you I shall keip quhat I have promeist. Bot I have a speciall commaund out of his majesties auin mouthe to medle vith no man, bot quhair he commaundis me, and this he hes injoinit to me for a preufe of my obedience. If sume man beis not send from thence of vysdome and experience in good seasoun, maiters vill spill verie fare. I dare not vryt so plainly as I knou, bot in the manis dispositioun ve spake of I did not erre; and schortly it shall appeir."

"Colonell Steuart hes receavit new directiouns fo[r] Denmark fare lesser then theis th'Earle Maraschell cariit, for he hes upon no condicioun that the lady be left behind; and love letters. This hes deiply offendit Sir Villiam Keythe, and the Master of Glammiss is not content nor nane of th'Earle Maraschells freindis, for the ordre is thocht verie proposterous, and the maiter disgraceable for th'Earle: so that they mislyk sumquhat of the Chancellar for it, thinking him the doer of it; quhairin they judge not fare astray, for he seis it is a maiter vill effectuat, and therfor he dois lyk a vyse man rather to forder it nor hinder it. I have in lyk maner maid Atholl fast vith us."

"Send me vord if ye have vrettin any to me, and by vhom, for I have receavit none. Ye shall communicat the contentis of this to my Lord Threasurer and Mr. Secretary, and by my nixt ye shall knou forder. I pray you remember one the letter I craveit from her Majestie and Counsell anent my behaviour at my last being thair, and quhat ves thocht of Mr. Archibald Douglas letters; and send me all neuis." Foulis. Signed: Mr. of Gray.

Postscript—"Receave your dauchter and her dauchters commendatiouns and do myn to yours. I feir my nixt send you vord I am become a greater courtier nor I protest befor God I desire to be.

3 pp. Holograph, also address.

154. James VI. to Burghley. [July 19.] Lansd. MSS., 1,236, fol. 51. Printed in Papers relative to the Marriage of James . . . Ban. Club, App. I. p. 3.

"Rycht trusty and weilbelovit we greit zou hart[l]ie wele. Having derectit the beraris Robert Jowsie and Thomas Foulis marchandis of Edinburgh toward Londoun, for bying and provisioun of certane abulzementis and utheris ornamenits requisit for decoratioun of our mariage, we have taikin occasioun to recommend thame to zour greit courtesie, hartlie requeisting and desyring zou to interpone zour goudwill and moyne to thair expeditioun and furyerance in that tuone, sa that thai be nawayis interruptit nor hinderit in the performance and executioun yairof, bot may ressave quick and haistie dispasche, as ze will report our richt speciall and hartlie thankis and do ws acceptable plesure. Frome ye Chaunonrie of Ross" Signed: "Youre loving freind, James R."

Postscript in James's hand: "I pray yow further this, for yet now it is ane extraordinarie occasion."

½ p. Addressed. Indorsed.

155. [Michael ?] Throckmorton to William Asheby. [July 20.] Eg. MSS., 2,598, fol. 14.

Desires to send greetings by Asheby's nephew Naunton. Mislikes the former's revocation so much laboured and now granted. "You will comme home horste upon hoope, whiche is never a jade but at his jornayes ende."

Reminds Asheby of the proverb: "Better halffe a loaffe in hande then muche breade in a commone ovene. From Pickeryng howsse, Mr. Wottones." Signed: [M ?] Throkemorton.

1 p. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed: "Received the 6 of August at Edenburgh. R. Nanton." Seal.

156. William Asheby to Walsingham. [July 22.]

The two captains of the Spaniards, Patricio and Gorotto, upon the procuring of the safe-conduct, have gathered their companies, which were dispersed through Scotland, to Edinburgh, Leith, Burnt Island, and Kirkcaldy, 660 ready to be shipped—400 serviceable men, the rest sick, lame, miserable wretches who will never be fit for service. "The transporting of them is comitted to William Neper and George Thurbrand, burgers of Edenbrowghe, who have conducted foure Scotishe shipes to transport them into Flaunders, and now are readie with anie good wind to depart from the Firth."

Those that murdered the English trumpeter are not yet apprehended. The Chancellor has commanded two or three to be stayed for satisfaction; if this is not done, Asheby will detain the passport, and let them take their hap: if they meet English or Dutch ships without safe-conduct they will get their deserts: they are poor and proud, and unable to resist any force that shall encounter them.

The King is at Ross; the 23rd to return towards Aberdeen, and so to Falkland by August the 8th. Out of Denmark there is no news but by private letters of the safe arrival of the Earl Marishal and other ambassadors the 29th of June; how he was received with great honour, and his message acceptable to all. They write from thence privately that the marriage will be concluded and the young Queen ready to be sent hither before the King's wedding apparel be here made, or any house repaired to receive her. The King is but a cold wooer, yet has sent some more articles by Colonel Stewart, some say to hasten the marriage, others to delay it. He is not hasty of marriage, but will match with the Danes to please his boroughs and merchants; "the nobilitie here affect rather the French to match withall then with anie other nacion. What wilbe the event is yet uncertein."

An old feud is renewed betwixt the Laird of Ferneherst, a Carr, and the Laird of Buccleuch, a Scott; three or four of Ferneherst's side have been slain in Edinburgh, but none apprehended for justice. If wisdom be not used, it will divide the whole clans of the Borders: the Carrs and Humes in Lothian and the east are strong and will hold together; the Scotts, Johnstons, and Maxwells in the west are nothing inferior, and will follow Buccleuch.

These feuds make them poor and divided: want of justice is the cause of barbarous cruelty: the King's miserable state and his lenity will ruin his state. Edinburgh. Signed: W. Asheby.

2¾ pp. Holograph, also address. Indorsed.

157. William Asheby to Burghley. [July 26.]

The Spaniards embarked at Leith and Burnt Island, and departed the 25th of July towards the Low Countries. "Some few is yet here left, sparkled abrod in noble men's houses, chosing rather to lead a serving man's life at ease in this countrie then to folow the warres in Flanders in want and danger. With Maclane, where the Spanish ship was burnt, at an island cauled Mula, on the west of Scotland, there is yet forty or fifty souldiours left, which he will not suffer to come awaie, but imploies them against his neighbours and enimies."

For satisfaction of the trumpeter the two Spanish captains have left a Spaniard with the provost of Edinburgh to be answerable for the malefactor, who, they say, is in Scotland. If they could have gotten him, he had been executed before they parted; if he escape to the Low Countries, they will procure his execution, for the performance whereof this Spaniard shall be answerable at the King's will in the custody of the magistrate.

"Out of Denmarck is retorned the Lord Dingwall, with Mr. George Yong, and Doctor Skein. Theie arrived at Aberdine the 22 of Julie, and from thence straite to the King farr north. What newse thei bring your honour maie in part gheasse by the inclosed sent me from Mr. John Colvile lying at Aberdine." The merchants begin to fear that the match will not go forward, and blame the Chancellor, saying that letters were intercepted in order to hinder the marriage; wherein they slander him. If the King do not relent of his demands there is small hope of the young Queen coming this year, which will content the King, for as yet he has no house repaired meet to receive such a princess: Colonel Stewart was instructed to procure some delay until the spring. Edinburgh. Signed: W. Asheby.

2 pp. Holograph. Indorsed.

Enclosure with the same.

[Mr. John Colvile to William Asheby.]

Printed in Letters of John Colville . . . Ban. Club, p. 247.

"The xxijth at four after none the Lord Dingwall with Master Sken, Yowng, and Fowler are arived from Denmarke, quhair they haif bein verey weill interteyneit, bot are retornit to haif resolucion in certain heidis concerning that mariage quhairin they thincke noct thairselves sufficiently instructit. Thaie are in good hope that all shall end to his majestes contentment, and the article I thincke which they most stand on is concerning the tocher; bot I knawe his majestie is so noble that he will preferre his contentement to any commoditye. They have not yet seine the younge prinsses because she was not at the court."

"The Earl Marshall with the constable of Dundye remainis at ther pastyme till thei personis returne, quhilk wilbe with diligence. Yt will yet be aucte dayes or his majestie can retorne to this towne; he has had good game which makis him stay the langer."

"Pleis your lordship imput my lang silence to the distance of place and lake of messengers; for I am as well affected to serve her majesties servandis and ministers in all lewfull manner as any strainger that ever resavit comfort in her landes." Aberdeen. 22 July 1589.

1 p. Copy. Indorsed.

Original of the enclosure.

Cott. Calig., D. I., fol. 542.

158. Mr. Archibald Douglas to Walsingham. [July 26.]

"The names of the Scottis gentillmen that ar cummed hyther from Parise ar George Meldrum, larde of Fyve, Mr. Alexander King, sone to Alexander King, adwocat in Edinburgh, Archibald Lambe in Leyth, and Robert Meynzeis of the town of Aberdeyn. Thay gewe it owt that the occasion of thayr going hom be sea proceadis from necessite, whearof thair is apperance. Thayr newis ar that the Duck de Mayn luked for some forcis at thayr departure, and intendit thayraftir to gewe battallie. Some particulariteis off the taking of Ponthois thay declayr, which I think be so weill knowin to your honour that I vill not trowble you vyth needles repetition."

"If it shalbe hir majesteis pleasur to hawe me altogethir ruyned, I must be [sic] of necessite be contentid thayrevyth, and lamenit my mishappe that is the first that is ruyned throw hir service. If othervaise, I dowbt not bot hir majestie vill consider of my request, and offir that necessite pressis me to pray your honour to mak hir hyenes acquaynted vyth." Signed: A. Douglas.

¾ p. Holograph, also address. Indorsed.

159. Mr. Archibald Douglas to Burghley. [July 26.]

"I delivered your lettir to Mr. Doctor Ceasar, who sayis to me that he shalbe vyth your lordship tomorrow. As towardis ony satisfaction to be mayde to these poore men of the towne of Ayre, nather that ony ordour vilbe takin be him for the help of the poore man called George Padye of the towne of Leyth in Scotland that hath beyn utterlye ruyned be pirattis, speciallye be Sir Woggan and his sonnis, nather for the ansering of ony spoilis conteaned in ane buke delivered to my lorde Admirall, can I sea that he hath ony derection or mynd to do it. And thayrfor I haif derected the men to your lordships self, to be used as it shall pleis your lordship to gewe derection."

"Some of thaym hath avated xvij monetheis, some ix monethis, to crave justice. Thay ar lyk to awayte longar if be your lordships meanis thay shall not be helped." Signed: A. Douglas.

¾ p. Holograph, also address. Indorsed.

160. Thomas Fowler to William Asheby. [July 28.] Eg. MSS., 2,598, fol. 16.

Has been prevented from writing by sickness, and now has no messenger but a hired one. On the 23rd instant there came to the King at the Laird of Boyne's the Lord of Dingwall, Mr. George Yonge, and Mr. John Skeyne, from Denmark. His demands are there thought too hard, but all things are ready for her coming away: her guard, horses, ships, plate, jewells, apparel, pages, "alakeyes," and all so costly it is strange to hear; one of her coaches has no iron in it but all silver.

It is thought the King will not insist upon his hard conditions; "for the cheffe of all is that the yonge ladi is so far in love with the Kinges majeste as it were deathe to hir to have it broken of, and hathe made good proffe divers wayes of hir affeccyon, which his majeste is apt inowghe to requite." So soon as his majesty can assemble his Council, the Lord of Dingwall goes back with speed, and Sir Robert Melvin goes to her majesty to acquaint her with the proceedings and require her help in his marriage: which will bind him to her more than all that ever she has done for him.

Has been driven to leave the King and go to Aberdeen for his health: if he recovers he will continue with his majesty; if not, will come to Edinburgh and seek help. "I am growne leane and faynt; therefore am even wery of wrytynge and of doinge anythinge." The King comes to this town tomorrow. Aberdeen. Signed: T. Fouller.

1 p. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed. Seal.

161. Notes by Alexander Hay. [July 30.] Eg. MSS., 2,598, fol. 18.

"By sindrie advertismentis from Abirdene concurring, the Kings majeste wes lowked for to be thair without faill upoun Tyisday at nycht, the xxix of this present Julii, and from thence to returne southwart without delay. It wes louked that my Lord Chancellair suld have past and mett his majestie at Abirdene, for the mair spedy dispatche of the ambassadouris returnit from Denmark, bot for sum necessarie considerationes the Chancellair is lyke to remane still at Edinburgh quhill the Kings majestie cum to Striveling, St. Johunstown, or Falkland."

"It is reportit that his majestie persistis very affectioned to have his mariage fullye treabit [sic] and consummat with all possible diligence, notwithstanding all difficulties objectit, and that the ambassadouris returnit salbe out of hand dispatcheit to Denmark for that purpois."

"The burrowis or townis ar written to for convening of thair commissioners or deputies at Edinburgh agane the viij of August nixt, becaus of thair speciall interest in the mater of the league with Denmark."

"Sindry directionis ar to be send owt concerning the reformatioun of disorders on the bordouris, for the bettir continewance of the peace and amytie; and a proclamatioun for the Kings majesties reparing thither in persoun agane the xx of October nixt." Edinburgh.

²/3 p. Indorsed.

162. Burghley to William Asheby. [July 30.] Eg. MSS., 2,598, fol. 20.

After writing my other letter, your nephew being ready to depart, your letter of the 26th instant came to my hands telling of the departure of the Spaniards, and the return of the Lord of Dingwall and others from Denmark, with copy of a letter from Mr. John Colvile. I will acquaint her majesty and her council with the same, and you shall hear from me if there be cause. Signed: W. Burghley.

Postscript in Burghley's hand: "I hope this accident of France will hold the King ther in some suspence for his marriadg."

½ p. Addressed. Indorsed: "Re: at Dundie the 6 of August 89, R. N." Seal.

163. William Asheby to Burghley. [July 31.] Cott. Calig., D. I., fol. 366.

"Upon the retorne, right honorable, of the Lord of Ding[wall] from Denmarke, sent by the Earl Marshall to ma[ke] relacion how farr thei had proceaded in there embassaye, the King presentlie sent to the Lord Chancellor to summon a convencion at Edenborough against the 10 of August next, cheflie of the bor[oughes] and townes, by reason of there spetiall inte[rest] in the matter of the league with Denmark, and hoping thei will contribute more bounty towardes his charge at this present. His heighnes, as your honour maie see by the ar[ticles] I sent before, demaunded a great dower with [the] yong princes; but the Danes, thinking t[hat] kings should match for love and aliance, and not expecte somes of monie, answered th'a[mbassadors] that if it pleased the King of Scotland t[o] accept the yong ladie with such porcion as t[he] late King her father left for her, which is n[ot] passing 70,000 dollors, that the yong King [her] brother, and the Queen Regent her mother, [and] the whole state of Denmarke were mo[st] agreing to this match. And on this hope [such pre]paracion was made to have sent her, th[inking] the Earl Marshall came with intent to h[ave] caried her in to Scotland, without demaund[ing] of such greate somes mencioned in the instruccions and other articles which cam . . . (fn. 2) To this the Earl Marshall could not well [consent] —his instruccions naming so great a some, [and] standing upon divers other articles which c[ould] not be graunted—without further knowing the Kings mynd; whereupon presentlie retorned t[wo] of the commissioners to understand his m[ajestys] full resolucion, and to retorne with all expedicion to Denmarke to the Earl there remaining."

"It is here sene that his majestie persistes ve[rie] affectionate to have his mariage fullie tr[eated] upon and consummate with all possible dilig[ence], notwithstanding manie difficulties objected, [so] that the Lord of Dingwall, Mr. George Yong, and Doctour Skeine shalbe out of hand disp[atched] againe to Denmarke for that purpose."

"The King retorned to Aberdine the 29 of Julie. The Lord Chancellor should have mett his majestie for more spedie dispatch of the embassadours retorned from Denmarke; but now the Lord Chancellor stayeth here to conveine the deputies of [the] boroughes at Edenborough the 10 of August, at which tyme the King is here expected."

Here are directions to be sent out for reformation of disorders on the borders, the continuance of peace, and a proclamation for the King's repairing thither in person the 20th of October next.

The Spaniards that were with Maclean in the isles on the west, which are 3 or 4 score, are come to Edinbugh and await opportunity to be transported into Flanders; they came hither 2 days after the others were departed.

"There is an Inglishe pyrate that keapes this cost and robbed latelie a Scots marchand h[ard] by Aberdine, whereof the Scotes greatlie exclame for the great hurt thei receave by him: the pyrates name I cannot yet l[earn]."

"A man of warr about Barwicke would rep[ress] both Inglishe and Scottes and Dunkerkers w[hich] haunt theise costes and do great hurt bo[th] to England and Scotland." Edinburgh. Signed: W. Asheby.

Postscript—"The King will presentlie send to acquaint her majestie with his proceading, and to desire her healp and kind dealing at this tyme against his mariag; which will bynd him most sure and faithfull to her majestie. Sir Robert Melvin is named for to be sent, [whereof] your honour shalbe advertised more certain by my n[ext]."

3 pp. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed.

164. William Asheby to Walsingham. [July 31.] Cott. Calig., D. I., fol. 450.

Upon the return of the Laird of Dingwall from Denmark, sent by the Earl Marishal to inform of their proceedings, the King sent to the Chancellor that there might be a Convention at Edinburgh against the 10th of August, chiefly of the boroughs and towns because of their interest in the league with Denmark, hoping they will contribute more bountifully towards this marriage. His highness demanded a great dower with the young princess. The Danes, not expecting this, answered the ambassadors that if the King pleased to accept her with the portion her father left for her, not passing 70,000 dollars, her brother, mother, and the state were willing, and preparations were made to send her, thinking that the Earl Marischal came to carry her to Scotland. The ambassador could not reply without further instructions, so sent three of the commissioners to understand his majesty's resolution, and to [return] by the 8th of September to the Earl Marischal. His majesty persists to have his marriage consummated with all diligence; the Laird of [Ding]wall, George Young and Dr. Skeine shall be out of hand despatched again to Denmark. The King returned to [Aberdcen] the [29] of July, where the Chancellor should have met him for the more speedy despatch of the commissioners from Denmark. The Chancellor stays here to convene the deputies of the boroughs at Edinburgh about the 10th of August, when the King is expected.

Directions are to be sent out for reformation of disorders on the Borders, for the better continuance of peace and amity, [and] a proclamation for the King's repairing [thither] in person against the 20th of October. Edinburgh. Signed: W. Asheby.

Postscript—Three or four score Spaniards that were in the Isle of Mu[ll] with Macklane, and were out of the ship that was fired, are come hither to be transported into Flanders, but the Spaniards here had departed, so they await the next opportunity.

"Here is an Englishe pyrate keapes this cost, and haith robbed a Scottisheman hard upon Aber[deen], but I cannot learne his name; whereof the S[cots] ex[clame] that theie are greatlie hindred by . . . a man of warr to lye ab[out] Barwicke [to] represse both Inglishe and Sc[ottish] pyrates, which hunt this cost, and those of Dunkirke also."

The King will shortly send to her majesty to acquaint her with all his proceeding, and to crave her help and kind dealing, as hitherto, now especially against his marriage.

"Robert Melvin is named to come f . . . now going to myte the . . ."

3 pp. Holograph. Addressed.

Draft of the same.

Eg. MSS., 2,598, fol. 24.

165. Roger Aston to [Burghley ?]. [July 31.] (fn. 3) Cott. Calig., B. VIII., fol. 179.

I have had no commodity to write but now, because the King is returned to this town to conclude Parliament, which dissolved on Saturday the 29th of July. I cannot certify of good proceeding of matters here; many here fear greatly that all will not be well. It appears by the proceedings of this secretary that he has altered his course. He has of late preferred the Earl of Huntly, Sir John Seton, and divers other papists, but chiefly Huntly who is now one of the King's chamber and daily occupies his ear, seeking to debar all others but those of his faction. There are four in the chamber they have laid their count to remove and have already begun with the Controller. The other three are the Lord Privy Seal, Mr. Keith, late ambassador, and myself. We are determined to abide all storms. They have given out that we are the Queen of England's pensioners and have intelligence there. They have sought of late to have me removed from the King, but he will not condescend by no means. If matters go forward as they do, I will take little pleasure to be here except to do her majesty service.

I have long hoped some good course be followed forth between her majesty and this King but I see daily less appearance, for they that occupy his ear are altogether enemies to her majesty, and papists, and were it not to do her service "I could nott endoure to here thatt I here; he thatt speketh worst is best lyked."

"The Secriter has taken so grett a hatred agenst Mr. Arcball as he will never soffer any course to go forwart where in he is a deler."

All the papist bishops are restored, that is Glasgow, Ross, and Dunblane. The ministers begin to cry out and are many discontent. What this will turn to God knows.

"The Lordes are under eting and drinkeking frensip, bott the one halef of them trost nott another; every one flatteres other to gett there tornes dune att this tyme."

Many of the nobility are not come, and chiefly the earls. Morton shall be restored, and all that hath been forfeited since the Kings coronation.

Many Acts are made at this time, which shall be sent as soon as they come forth, chiefly touching religion: that no man shall deal with any Jesuit or seminary priest under pain of forfeiture of all his goods, and his body to prison during the King's pleasure; "the sed Gesewitt or prest shall soffer the ded;" all men shall give confession of their faith within a certain time or leave the country.

Fentrie has gotten liberty for three months to advise with himself. All the temporal lands of all benefices are annexed to the crown so that there will be no more bishops, priors, nor abbots. This is thought a great matter and has passed with great difficulty. It will augment the King's rent much.

No word has come from Denmark. That marriage is grown cold. They have persuaded the King to the Princess of Navarre, but it is thought they mean rather Spain, or else the house of Lorraine.

There is no intelligence come from France this long time. Our ambassadour, Chisholme, comes not good speed. I fear Mr. Archibald Douglas shall not be able to do any good here, for the Secretary works so against him and makes him so odious no man dare speak of him; yet such as love not the Secretary hope he shall work his fall, who at this time guides as he pleases. "The King is geve to his pasteim and lefe all the burden on him." This country cannot abyde one man to guide all.

I know the King has desired such offers of her majesty as she will not grant. The death of the Queen is kept in such memory here as no thing is omitted that may keep the same in memory. The King's mind is to live quietly and not have any trouble in his own country nor in any other place; these things that were done on the Borders were by his knowledge; what other men may do underhand by his knowledge I will not be answerable for. It is given out here that her majesty has stayed the marriage with Denmark and is not willing he should marry in any place; and that there was 6,000 men coming down to the Borders; whereupon proclamation was made that all men should be ready within six hours. Her majesty need not fear any wars from here as there is no means to do it, and the country is divided, the most part and the best desiring to live in quietness. The King himself is resolved not to deal that way, but what evil company may do I leave to your honour to consider.

"The evell openyon that is here taken of Ingland is the caues I dare nott writt so oft as I wold. I am so nere loke to that I dare nott speke to any Ingles man." So long as they can lay nothing to my charge I care not; I shall leave nothing undone for her majesty's service. Let not Mr. Archibald know I write to you for I will not write to please him.

I was determined to have come into England, but I fear if I come I shall bring myself in suspicion here, and not be able to do her majesty such service as I would. I wrote to you by Mr. Richard Douglas touching my suit at her majesty's hands; as I receive advertisements from him so I will do. I am indebted in London which I must see paid ere it be long.

"This daye being the last of the Perlementt, the Secriter is made Chenceller. After the conclusion of all matteres, the Chansler mad a long orracion in the name of the iij estates, offreng there lyfe, landes, and goodes in the reveng of the Kinges motheres morther, wich was conferm[ed] be a generall voyes of all the hole houes. Nott withstanding all this to morro we take gorne to the boke honting, and has as mouch mynd of thatt as of any ware."

It is enacted that no Scots man shall marry an English woman without licence under the great seal. Holyrood House. Signed: Roger Aston.

4 pp. Holograph. No flyleaf or address.