James VI: December 1590

James VI: December 1590

503. James VI. to Burghley. [Dec. 1.]

"It is lamentabillie exponit to ws on the behalff of ane Johnne Leslie, our subject, a zoung gentilman and scollar of sextene zeiris of aige or thairby, quha in the moneth of Junii last, taking jornay hamewart in his native cuntrie frome the pairtis of France, quhairin he had spent a certane tyme at the scuillis, wes taikin at the harbrie called the Heid in England be the capitane of the toun thairof, and convoyed to zou at Westminster; quhair, upoun informacioun that he wes a special servand to the bischop of Ross in France, he wes committit in prissoun and still remains in greit distres and calamitie; and be zour commandement is appointed to be retenit quhill as ane Johnne Wellis, Englisman, curriour, taikin and keipit prissonare at Rowen—as is thocht—be the meanis of the said bischop, be relevit and sett at libertie; althocht the zoung gentilmannis ado with that bischop wes that, being his cousing and kynnisman, he ressavit support and avancement be him in sic thingis as concernit a scollare allanerlie, having na uther melling with him nor his effairis, howsaevir ze be gevin utherwise to understand."

"Sua that of gude ressoun he can not be challanged for ony deid of that bischop, gevand he wer the authour of the curriouris imprissonment, or mycht releve him, as we heir the contrarie. For that curriour is keipit and thocht to releve ane Edmond, a Jesuyte, detenit captive in Londoun, and not for the caus nor of the knawlege of that zoung scollare and gentilman. In consideratioun quhairof, and that he is voyd of all offence deserving sic truble or imprissonment, and with this is a gentilman borne to heretage and our frie subject taikin in his returne from the scuillis, as is befoir remembered, and sua na lauchtfull prissonare, we have taikin occasioun upoun petie of his grevous calamitie and undeservit truble herwith joint, ernistlie and effectuuslie to requeist and desyre zou to command this gentilman scollar to be sett at libertie and fredome, that without farder stay or truble he may reteir him selff hame toward his honnest parentis; quhairin ze sall do ws richt thankfull and acceptable plesur, to be requyte with the lyke to any recommendit be zou in sic a lauchtfull sute or a gretar mater." Holyrood House. Signed: James R.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed.

504. Act of the Scottish Privy Council. [Dec. 5.]

"At Holyrood House, 5th Dec., 1590."

"The quhilk day the Kingis majestie and Lordis of Secreit Counsaill and Checker, understandinge that throw sinister information and importune sute his majestie hes bene movit unadvisitly and unprofitably to dispone and gif away to divers personis ane greit part of the rent of his hienes propertie, asweill in money and victualls as in cains, customes, and uthir dewties, be the lawes, constitutions, and actis of Parliament made be the advise of thre estatis of this realme perpetually annext to the intertenyment and sustentation of the crowne; and his majestie with the advise of the sayd lordis, considerynge the hurt and prejudice susteynit be his grace throw delapidation of his hienes rentis foresaidis, intendynge to reduce and brynge the same to the richt use quhairunto the same was desinit and appoyntit be the sayd lawis, constitutions, and actis of Parliament made for sustenynge of the crowne as sayd is, ordains his graces advocat to call and persew the present possessouris, purchaseris, and havearis of the saidis rentis, quhais names salbe geven to hym in bill, for reduction of their pretendit titles and richtis quhairby they clame to posseid, brooke, and use the same. And in the meantyme ordains letteris to be direct to inhibite and forbid all chalmerlains, stewartis, baillies, and customaris of burrowis, and all utheris quhame it effeiris, that nane of thame take upon hand to answere or make payment to any person or personis, of quhatsumevir estate or degree they be of, of any part of the sayd rentis of the Martynmes terme last bipast crope and zeir of God 1590 zeirs, and that be open proclamacon at the marcat croceis of the heid burowis of the shires quhair the said landis and rentis lyis; and in lyke maner to inhibite and forbid all and quhatsumevir person or personis, purchasoris, and broukars of ony land, fishynge, pension, or rent foresaid, that nane of thame take upon hand to uplift, rassave, or intromett with ony part thairof under the pane of repayment thairof."

1 p. Copy. Indorsed.

505. Robert Bowes to Burghley. [Dec. 7.]

Upon receipt of Burghley's letter of November 23, told the King, at the first opportunity, that Burghley had gathered out of Davison's pamphlet the parts concerning the King, and therwith charged Mr. Bancroft; and showed the King—the Chancellor only being with them —Bancroft's letter to Burghley. (fn. 1) "The King redd this letter advisedlie, commending the witt of the inditour, and noting therewith the memoriall of the rodes at Ruthen and Sterling, of the preambles of the statutes passed in the tyme of that government, and of the doinges of John Cowper and James Gibson, ministers. He misliked the testimonie grounded upon Browne," and examined the submission made by Bancroft in that letter; and concluded that he thought it meet that Bancroft, in the place where he preached that sermon or elsewhere, should explain his words to quit him from that blemish. And he gave order to the Chancellor to signify his resolution to Burghley; as by the Chancellor's letter enclosed. Bancroft's letter remains in Bowes' possession, without any copy demanded.

Huntly understanding that the Earl of Murray, Grant, Calder, Mackintosh, and other his adversaries were together at Murray's house at Tarnoway in Murray, came thither with about three hundred men, with pretence of privy commission given him by the King to apprehend John Grant then at horn for murder and in the house. At his approach John Gordon—brother of the laird of Cluny and a principall author of those troubles—was shot in the mouth with a harquebuss and thought to be slain: and thereupon Huntly stayed to come any nearer to the house. The King hearing of it sent letters to all the parties, discharging their forces, revoked the commission granted to Huntly for the apprehension of Grant, and commanded Huntly to ward at St. Andrews, Murray at Stirling, and Atholl, Grant, and the rest at St. Johnstone. The letters addressed to Huntly were delivered to him while he was before Turnaway, and thereupon he was advised to retire. Grant and Mackintosh conveyed themselves secretly to their own tenants to levy forces against Huntly, who had retired to his house at Bogygeeth. Murray and the rest, with Atholl, hastily raised above two thousand men and pursued him. Huntly came to St. Johnston's on Monday, November 30th, purposing to haste to the King with all speed to complain to him. On the morrow Bowes being advertised of these things opened them to the Chancellor, who could not think that Huntly could come to St. Johnston's so hastily, or durst present himself to the King. But that night, after 10 o'clock, Bowes heard that Huntly was come over the water, and had sent to the King the lairds of Cluny and Cobardye to pray access. Bowes then sent Roger Aston to acquaint the Chancellor therewith, and to procure him audience the next day; and at that audience he recounted to the King the dangers past and yet to come through the faction of the Brigg of Dee, in open arms against him; their seeking the overthrow of religion, profession of papistry, refusal to satisfy the church in spite of their promises; and lastly their plot to bring foreign forces into this realm, and to stir other princes against her majesty.

The Chancellor bore witness with Bowes, and showed such devotion to her majesty as deserves a letter of thanks from Burghley. Bowes added that her majesty would not give any countenance to any of her subjects, of whatever degree, who should attempt any like matter against him, but would rather punish them; he reminded the King of his promises to the Earl of Worcester, her majesty, and himself as to his course against this sort and other papists, concluding "with request that Huntlaie the chefe of this faccion might not be hastelie imbraced," and that he would turn himself against these men and the papists.

The King answered that, upon the submissions of the factioners of the Brig of Dee, he had given them remissions for all former faults; but if it can be proved that since then they have practised against her majesty's person or estate, he will punish the same as severely as if done against himself, being as careful for her safety as for his own; that some of the papists were already in ward, and he looked that the rest should be in three or four days, promising to take such order therein as shall satisfy her majesty. "He agreed that Huntlay should be commaunded to enter to his ward at St. Andrewes, according to his former charge"; but forasmuch as he and his adversaries were to be here the 11th instant for order of those causes, he could not deny him to come hither at that time. It is not meant he shall be a courtier and remain here.

Prayed the King to certify her majesty of his resolution herein and in the Border matters, whereupon he charged the Chancellor to write to Burghley. The Chancellor had already framed some letters, which he showed to Bowes, but upon the King's correction and Bowes' disagreement on some points, the matter has been thus long delayed: the Chancellor's letter is enclosed.

"It is told me that the Countesse of Huntlay is purposed to come hither and present her sister to the Quene's service, with offer of her owne attendance about the Quene; wherein all their freindes in courte will imploy them selves and meanes to work her desieres. And it is thought that under the shadowe of her abode about the Quene that her husband shall gitt longer tyme to abide here and in courte."

Called for speedy redress in Border matters, chiefly for Liddesdale, which for sixteen years had preyed upon England without punishment. It is promised that upon Bothwell's coming hither in two or three days he shall be charged to give full redress; and upon his default order shall be taken for the satisfaction of the grieved subjects in England. Two "faulters" in the bill of Mindrum shall be delivered, and justice done in all other bills.

The King is pleased that the English pirates, Abraham Lawes and William Daniell, shall be delivered into England; and having received the letters of the Lord Admiral of England to send them up to Burghley at the charges of the merchants of London spoiled by them, Bowes attends the coming of such as those merchants have written they will send to him.

"The Erle of Orkeney, still excusing him self, offereth the wasted howles of the schippes taken by the Spaniardes and left at Kirkwaye. The owners thereof are so poore as they make little sute for recoverie thereof." Bowes prays direction.

Francis Dacres has let him [Bowes] know that he is departing—with the King's passport—to Spain instead of Flanders, in the ship of William Naper, burgess of Edinburgh, now ready for Spain.

Encloses the copy of a letter written by Robert Bruce in Flanders to the Chancellor, found in the packet intercepted in England, but sent hither because directed to the King. Some think he is dissembling, and "that he is alreadie commed, and travailing in his accustomed waies."

"The Chancelour and the Master of Glames give good counten[a]nce to others, without any mencion of their late greefes." Albeit Bowes has travailed with themselves and their friends, and received frank offers on all sides, yet he finds little effect, and fears such hurt to one or both as will shake the present quietness in this state.

It is confirmed "that the 12,000 crownes are brought in at the little creake nere to the Read castle in Angusse." Some say that he [Angus] was lately tempted with gold, which he thought came in at that creek; but others flatly deny it.

"On Wednesdaie last at night two of younge Sesfordes men, and by their maisters commaundement—as it is said—watchet secretlie William Carre of Ancrom in his retorne to his lodging, and comming closelie to him on the stare as he was entering did shute him into the belly with a dagge and killed him." Young Cessford departed that night into England as is said, but Bowes thinks he remains at his own house, where it is said that Bothwell was with him after the fact and brought him to sup with him at his house at Kelso, being the newly reconciled.

Sought to have had the confession of Carre before his death, whether he killed Lord Russell or not; but his friends would not suffer the minister to deal thoroughly with him.

The King "by his owne especiall travell" has drawn Sampson, the great witch, to confess her wicked doings, and to discover sundry things touching his own life, and how the witches sought to have his shirt or other linen for the execution of their charms. In this Lord Claud and other noblemen are evil spoken of. The witches known number over thirty, and many others accused. "Their actes are filthy, lewde, and phantasticall."

"All commissions for lieutenauntcies are discharged, chefelie to cut of the contencion betwixt the Lord Hamilton and the Erle of Angusse that have duble grauntes of one office."

"One straite acte is made that the King may take againe into his owne handes his propertie, without exception of any parson." Edinburgh. Signed: Robert Bowes.

4²/3 pp. Addressed. Indorsed.

Enclosure with the same:

[The Chancellor of Scotland to Burghley.]

"The bussye dealinge of seditiouse persownes in both the realmes and a frequent intercourse of intelligence amongest thame, whereupon groweth so manye false surmyses and lewde rumoures as often suche thinges as be weill intended and done are depraved and misconstrued, together with certane motiones made by Mr. Robert Bowes, ambassadour resident heir, hes moved the King my sovereyne to commaund me to acquent your lordship with his majesties good meaning and intention. A resolution hath bene taken heir to commit the most obstinat and as ar deamed most practizing papistes to verye freindlye gardes, whiche by likelyehoode they themeselfes would have procured. This I know to be advertised frome this, and interpreted not onlye a foolishe lenitye bot a singulare favoure, and—as appeares—breades them a commoditye to continew their practizes with greater sewrtye and lesse suspition. It was no privat advyse of any particular or suspected persone, bot by deliberation of the wysest and best affected heir. Yf they yealde not obedience to so moderat a decree, then shall they be justlye criminall, and plainlye convinced, in that they most deny in the eyes, yea, even of those that most affectes thame; and if they obtemper, yet arre they not thereby ather pardoned or licentiat, bot wilbe so used as they shall not be able to harme in any sort the religion or ather of these states, and the sequele shall interpret what wes projected thereby."

"Your lordship may rest assured the King my sovereygne will not only be no fauteur of anye partisan or that affect thame—whome God in his wraithe hes made a spectakle to the worlde for so barbarouse desseinges against his trueth and this ilande—bot will with all sinceritye set up his rest of crowne and lyfe for defence thereof to his uttermost."

"Though I be lothe to trouble your lordship with particular jarres that arre often incident to this state, yet of one I mon adverteis your lordship, lest his majesties proceadeur therein be misreported or misconstrued."

"There hathe a broyll fallen out in the north of this realme betwixt the Earle of Murray, assisted be the Earle of Atholl, and the Earle of Huntlye, wherein the Earle of Huntlie hes the worst, one of his narrest kinsemen being deadlie wounded, which hes set the whole north in twoe partes, having taken armes on both sydes."

"The Earle of Huntly, to preoccupat his majesties favour, made haist to make his complaynte, bot being within ten myles to court is sent to St. Androiss till the adverse pairtye be also present to pleyde their cause."

"Justice must be done according to the qualitye of the offence, and the countrey setled, for they mon both appeare in counsell. Yf ather the Earle of Huntly or any whatsumever hath since his pardone, or shall in any sort offend against that state, or be direct or indirect meanes practize to empaire the same, he shall not onlye na wayes participat his highnes favour, bot will with all severitye be demeaned and used be his majestie as one who had most heighlye offended against his owne crowne and person."

"His highnes hes seine the apologetik submission of Dr. Bancroft, wherein that he mislykes most is that he hes credited the report of one Broun, a pernitiouse sectarye, and ather banished or fugitive for hereticall doctrine. His majesties desyre is that he shoulde tak occasioun ather in the same or lyke publick place to interprete suche his speaches as have bene mistaken, and to utter what was his good and verye meaning; which wilbe a full satisfactioun to his highnes heir, and no palinodye to him."

"The King my sovereyne hes bene often interpelled be Mr. Bowes that full redresse may be for all attemptates on the Bordouris. The most parte resting unsatisfyed is by the disordered of Liddesdaill, for the whiche his majestie hes commaunded to call the Earle Bothuell indelayedlye, to whome they apperteane be inheritanc[e], and so will sie by him redresse made according to the auntient forme. Whiche and all the residue I wilbe a meane to cause be satisfyed with all convenient speede, so that no occasion of complain[t] shall remaine in that behalfe."

"I have set doun to your lordship a rapsodye in heape, being so straitted with tyme and overchairged that I am enforced to omit somethinges most necessarye—but requyring ample discourse—and to send you this indigested masse." Holyrood House, 7 December, 1590. Signed: Jo. Thyrlstane."

2 pp. Addressed. Indorsed.

506. Robert Bowes to Burghley. [Dec. 7]

"After the writinge of myn other letter of the date hereof, my secrett frend delyvered to me the double of the forme of the bande inclosed, and devised—as he said—by sedycyous heades, aboutt some noblemen evill affected and other papistes, to drawe a nomber of the nobilitye to partie the cause for the overthrowe of the Chancelour, and to subscribe the instrument for the ayde and suretye of the interprysers." This thing is shortly to be put in practice: if it succeed this state is like to come into a dangerous course.

The King has given leave to Sir James Stewart to seek the recovery of his possessions and rights. Sir James is advised to be at Killoch a while, to await the King at his hunting, hoping for further grace.

Has warned the Chancellor and others well affected, and they are "thorowly awaked," the Master of Glamis frankly offering himself to the Chancellor and company; their meeting is to-morrow, but Bowes dare not show the bond, for fear of prejudice to the person who delivered it to him, to whom he is under promise. Edinburgh. Signed: Robert Bowes.

1 p. Holograph, also address. Indorsed.

Enclosure with the same:

"A combination of divers of the nobillitie of Scotland for removinge of certaine officers abowt the King."

"We of the nobilitie and peares of this realme undersubscrivand, understanding be credeble reporte, and seing causes that the desolacion and subvertion of justice with the perrilling of the true religion professed in this realme hes consistit in the pernicious and evill counsaill of certane evill inspirit persons usurpand our places in estate and civell administracion, maist proper and pertinent for us and our calling, and being borne to that effect, as the lowable lawes and actes of Parliament made there annent in the daies of his majesties noble progenitours at maire length beires; nevertheles to our greit prejudice and hurte, certaine of base degree and small linage in the tyme of his highenes minoritie and less age contractit sic familiaritie with his majestie our soveraigne lord, that thereby they have obtayned the said offices and other dignities due unto the nobilitie of this realme as said is: and in that behalf we are altogether debarrit fra his highnes presence, and frustrate of our perticuler effaires depending before the civill magistrate, which in dede is a thing that na sanctuacie [sic] can lesumlie digest with silence, for be the sinister informacion and colurit forme of doinges and procedinges against us they make his highnes and the maist part of his loving subjectes to understand us to be evill affected to the true religion, and inquiet members of the common wele, howbeit they by all apparent signes kyethes them selves to be of that inclinacion. For remedie quhairof we binde and obliss us hinc inde by our greit aythe of veritie, that in case any of us sall attempt or take upon hand directlie or undirectlie to do anything quhairby the said sediciouse persons may be cuttit of and reduced to their former maner of leving, or execute otherwaies to them deith for their demerittes, that then and in that case we after subscrivand, as is afore rehearsed, sall fortifie and assist the committer of the said fact to the uttermost of our powre, and in case of failze to be repute and estemed as defamit parsons and never to have creditt here efter."

¾ p. In hand of Bowes' clerk. Indorsed.

507. Roger Aston to James Hudson. [Dec 7.]

Has received Hudson's letters, one by the ambassador, the other by John Dougal. As to William Cockburn, he hopes Hudson is satisfied from his majesty and others, for commission or credit he has none except a stolen letter which he will repent he ever saw. Hudson has sufficient warrant to stay his proceedings. His majesty takes Hudson's proceedings in good part in advertising William Cockburn's dealings and also in procuring for the merchants that have the letter of marque. He thinks himself greatly beholden to Burghley for his favour to the poor men, and will cause the ambassador to write his thanks.

Since his last letter, of November 2[6]th, the King has prevented the then expected battle in the north, for when they should have met, Huntly's commission was discharged which he had obtained to apprehend one of his "contrapartt." He came to Tarnoa, the Earl of Murray's house, and charged him to deliver some that were there. One of his servants, John a-Gordon of Cluny, was shot through the cheek blade: he is yet living.

Huntly returned across the Spey to his house of Bogagygh. His adversaries gathered so fast as he durst not tarry long there, and sent to know the King's pleasure; who commanded him to return to St. Andrews and remain there. Atholl is commanded to St. Johnstone and Murray to Stirling. Huntly's friends have laboured for his coming to court, but it is not yet granted. The Chancellor and he are agreed, and he is expected ere long. The King means him to tarry only two or three days. His coming can do no hurt, for the King is constant in the two chief points. No one should condemn without good proof, for popes and their accomplices will daily practise, whether the King will or not: none can say he ever entered into their practices. Matters would have been different had he had good help. He is not always as careful as he should be.

At the King's command the Chancellor has written fully to Burghley. Although sometimes there may be occasion for discontentment, yet by good instruments it may be helped, for neither her majesty nor this King desire anything but peace and quietness.

The Master of Angus is committed to ward with the lord of Bass, Fentry with John Graham, and James Gordon at Seaton. We are now busy examining witches, who confess many strange things. Last Wednesday night the young Lord Cessford slew "William Ker of Ankerram," being his near kinsman; he was shot through the body with a "pestolatt" when going to his own chamber at nine o'clock, "and leved twenty two owres, his tong and memory serving him to the last owre." After he was shot he over-ran them a good piece to Lord Hume's lodging. The Chancellor is heavily troubled for this matter, for the young man married his niece. Acquainted his lady with Hudson's other letters. Hudson desired answer of David Marre's letter. Marre is in Dumfries, and has been long time with Carmichael. Desires to be commended to Lord Sayer and Mr. Carmichael. At Court. Signed:

3 pp. Holograph, also address. Indorsed.

508. Robert Bowes to Burghley. [Dec. 18.]

Received his letters of November 29th, December 4th and 10th—this last on the 15th—but could not get the King at leisure till the 16th instant, Thursday, and has since awaited the end of the troubles betwixt Huntly, Murray, Atholl, and others. Acquainted the King "with the takeing of the Spanish bark at the Groine, and brought to Sandwich, and howe the same bark should have conducted the two pataches with treasure into this realme"; that the same treasure shall be sent hither next spring, and that Huntly and his partners are named to receive the same to the purposes mentioned in Burghley's letter of the 4th instant. Dwelt much on this matter of the money, that the King might behold the plot of the King of Spain and the papists, "and that Huntlay was the piller whereon they grounded their foundacion," so as the King's favour to him at this time should encourage Spain and the papists to proceed with him, and enable him the better to work their desires. At least it should grieve her majesty that her advice should receive so little credit with him, and her estate and his own be so little regarded by him.

The King answered that he should give order to watch for these pataches so diligently as they should not escape, nor the treasure be employed as desired, but that the practice intended shall be defeated.

"He opened howe farre Huntlay had bound himself to him to quenche all intelligence with all forraine princes, and what weakenes he sawe evidentlie in his person to enterprise or compasse any matter of weight." He thinks no great danger shall arise by Huntly, but seeing it doth so deeply concern religion, her majesty, and himself, "he wold therefore be allwaies waking and watchfull to looke bothe to Huntlay and also to other his subjectes suspected in that behalf; concluding that he was soveraigne to them all, and must protect them, and that the withdrawing of his countenaunce from Huntlay at this present should leave him to the willes of his adversaries and be his hastie overthrowe."

Bowes "moved him to consider whether the wellfaire of Huntlay or of this great cause should be preferred: yet he continewed in mynde to preserve Huntlay in this danger, and promised to be carefull for the safetie of this cause." The King said he had already made publication of hostility against the French rebels, and restrained all his subjects to traffic with any Frenchmen but such as are at the French King's obedience, and had lately denied the earnest request of some of his subjects seeking to deal with those of Havre ["Newhaven"] to recover their goods.

As promised by the Chancellor's letter to Burghley, the King has directed the Chancellor to take resolute order with Bothwell for Liddesdale, wherein the Chancellor also promises largely.

The King told Bowes he had made enquiry for Penry—whom her majesty thought to be secretly kept in Scotland—but heard he was departed. His wife continues in Edinburgh, supported by his friends, some of whom say that he departed a good while past, and it is not known where he is.

The King has "planted Wal[de]grave to be his printer upon caution given that he shall not hereafter offend her majestie or estate." This man is drawn to be a nearer neighbour than Bowes likes to the house where he lodges, but he will have little dealing with him except by Burghley's direction.

Let the King know that it was much noted "that the weightie matters in Scotland and promised by him were still in fieri and not in esse; and that his course to committ traitours to their freindes wold be found weake; further, that her majestie pitied the state of the contry, seing so many breaches amongst the counsaillours, and thancked God that had blessed her ether by her owne creditt to kepe, or by good foresight to chuse, suche Counsellours as allwaies accorded and studied to serve her and advance the publick weale. He praised muche her majesties governement, and wished to have like Counsaillours, excusing him self by the jarres amongst his Counsellours that thinges were not accomplished in due season. I also shewed him that your lordship pities his estate, being thought fortunate in all thinges, saving that he wold not be master over his sediciouse subjectes, nor draw his counsailours to serve him. This work he said must be performed by a King in Scotland that might reigne as longe as thre Kings before him; thancking your lordship very hartelie for your good will uttered therein towardes him."

Has further examined his informant as to Calais, and finds that a Catholic lately come from Flanders assured him that some mean should be made to tempt the governor there; but the governor might not embrace the offer, though large.

Has offered Francis Dacres the things mentioned in Burghley's letter, and laid before him the benefits growing by his humble acceptance, and the mischief by refusal, occasioning her majesty upon that and his departure to her enemies to transfer all his rights and titles to herself and her successors, to his perpetual shame and the comfort of his adversaries. Dacres seems much moved, and seeks to stay the ship wherein he should sail for Spain till he may write to Burghley and receive his answer. He promises to remain her majesty's loyal subject, and "also to deny to receive of the King or other prince whatsoever any pencion or other promocion to serve against her majestie. He complayneth that his debtes are great in England, determyning nether to begg there nor live in prison." He purposes to depart if he cannot stay the Salamander, but if he can stay her for fifteen days he will resolve further and write to Burghley. This ship and the merchants are ready to sail with the first wind, intending to compass Ireland and sail by the west seas. (fn. 2) "William Naper the owner hathe hard that the Spanish bark is brought to Sandwich, and his conscience telleth him that he hath given great aid to the Spaniardes; therefore it is feared that some of her majesty's ships shall crosse their waie in their voyage."

The King tells him [Bowes] that upon suit made by William Cockburn he granted him letters to be addressed to Burghley, the Lord Admiral, and the Lord Chamberlain, for redress to be made to Cockburn for goods taken by English pirates. Whereupon Cockburn caused one Moyses, a clerk, to draw not only those letters, but also—without the King's privity—to write in the King's name to Archibald Douglas to negociate that and other causes. Cockburn came to the King at Linlithgow, and being ready to ride, presented all the letters to him, without mentioning the letter to Douglas. The King signed them all without suspicion, but afterwards, the matter being revealed to him, wrote to James Hudson to command Cockburn to return to answer to his faults, and to inform Burghley of this practice. The King appeared highly offended with Cockburn. "His opinion towardes Mr. Archbald appeared at this tyme to be very slender": that may be due to the Chancellor, who little favours Mr. Archibald or his doings.

Huntly, Murray, Atholl, and the others, being sent for by the King, resorted to this town with greater numbers than the proclamation appointed. Upon examination of the matters of Huntly and his friends against Murray, Atholl, and the lairds of Grant and Caddell, for the slaughter of John Gordon at Tarnaway—Gordon having died since Bowes last wrote—the King and Council, finding they could not compound the quarrels, ordered that Huntly should give caution of 20,000 l. Scots to keep good order in the country, Murray should be likewise bound in 20,000 l., and Grant and Caddell in 5,000l. a piece, "to underlie the lawe for the slaughter of Gordon, and not to disquiet the contry." Atholl was not at the slaughter, so no bond is taken of him.

At the request of the Countess of Huntly, her husband's bond was suspended for fifteen days, whereat the other party much stormed, noting the King's partiality towards Huntly against the Stewarts, and thinking that Huntly in the mean time would attempt some revenge, whereupon they will make such provision as is like to cause further troubles, except the King and Council stay the same. "For the Stewartes hearing that Huntlaie had newlie banded with Montrosse and other noblemen, they are likewise purposed to strengthen them selves with all that will partie them. Wherein they hope that Maxwell, Hume, and sundry others—in whom Huntlay before had great affiance—will joyne in band with the Stewartes. And hereby they looke to be so stronge as Huntlay shall hardlie remayne in his owne house or contrye. Wherein also some amongst them well affected have said and promised that the Jesuites, Papistes, and Spaniardes shall not walk in the northe and about Huntlaie's freindes' gates as before they have boldlie used to do."

The Chancellor is of opinion that by these and other discords the practices intended against him, and to have been shouldered by the Master of Gray, shall fall, or at least be stayed. And the other plot against him upon the general band—whereof Bowes enclosed a copy in his private letter—is like to be defeated or suspended. Other fruits may follow that shall hinder the wonted liberties of papists and Spaniards here, except these quarrels be reconciled in odium tertii and be turned against the Chancellor, wherein some will employ themselves.

Bothwell has taken part with Murray and Atholl before the King and Council and in the streets. "Wherein his companies so mustered before his lodging, at the tyme that Huntlay should have commed to me, as the provost of this towne thought it mete to shut the portes for some tyme, and to convey Huntlay in the afternoone to and from me to his lodging nere the courte. Lenox hath leaned muche to Huntlay in favour of his sister the Countesse; but being sharpelie said to by Bothwell and wiselie advised by other freindes he hathe drawen him self amongst the Stewartes."

On Wednesday last Huntly came to Bowes, and declared that he understood her majesty to have been so hardly informed against him as she conceived much worse than he deserved: that since his subscription to the articles of religion he never offended her nor dealt with foreign princes against her. Reminded him [Huntly] of the great benefits which he and his house, in the late pacification in this realm, had received by her majesty's goodness; and of his large offers of service uttered to Bowes, which he shortly forgot and turned to the Pope and the King of Spain against her. "He answered that he did then as all the rest of the nobilitie did, who in open perliament praied the King to revenge the death of his mother." Laid before him that before her death, and after the King showed himself satisfied in that behalf, and also after his subscription to the articles, he had intelligence with the King of Spain and Parma, to the hurt of her majesty, and against this King, whose authority he resisted in open armes: and reminded him what commissions and letters he had given to sundry practisers, recommending them to Parma and others; which persons by his commissions did and do entertain intelligence with the Pope, the King of Spain, and their ministers, to the hurt of religion and both these sovereigns; that for those purposes money had been sent hither by foreign princes, "whereof he had his porcion and chefe distribucion." He denied none of these things done before his subscription, affirming that since then he had not dealt in such causes, nor given warrant to any to traffic for him; if any had in his name practised with foreign princes it was without his consent. Asked whether after his conversion he had discharged these practisers, or received advertisements from them, or knew that they were now occupied in such matters? "To these he answered litle, but turning him self to the mark whereat he was advised to shute," he said that as the King his master had resolved to keep firm amity with her majesty, he would apply himself to the same, and from henceforth be ready to do her service if she would accept the same; pressing him [Bowes] to promise her acceptance thereof. But Bowes—telling him that his former actions had been such as he durst not bind her majesty till he knew her pleasure therein—wished him to make his good behaviour since his subscription, and his present good mind evidently known to her majesty, and he would then assure him of her good acceptance. Yet if he list not to take this course, Bowes would acquaint the King with this conference, and recommend his offers to her majesty. Herewith he appeared satisfied, and departed.

The next day Bowes reported to the King the substance of this conference; and hearing that some had said he took greater liberty with Huntly than was warranted, he explained that he took this course to let Huntly and others know their errors, and to move the King to beware to give him over great countenance till he had better experience of his actions. On the Friday after, Murray, Atholl, and their friends sent two gentlemen to Bowes, offering devotion to her majesty; and Bothwell also sent before them two other gentlemen with like offers. Maxwell and Harris, with others, have also been with him, tendering their services. Bowes contented them for the time, and now prays Burghley's direction.

Whilst Huntly abode here he obtained a remission, whereof a copy is enclosed. He sought also the renewing of his patent for the lieutenancy, and by encouragement of some courtiers the patent was drawn, and Bowes has a copy; but the King denied that he had been ever moved therein, resolving to grant no such office, and the Chancellor assures Bowes he shall not have it. "Thus he and his wife departed this daie to Leithe to passe over the water at the next tyde, with small contentment. Yet he hathe given and assured the laird of Spina, the King's Vicechamberlane, the inheritance of thirty five chalders of victualls, being worth yerely 200l. sterling. And many thinck that bothe for that purpose he was called hither, and hathe also received the grace that he hathe gotten. The King semeth now to be well pleased with his deperture."

The Chancellor and Huntly are agreed, by direction of the King, and a bond of friendship drawn by the Justice Clerk betwixt them, which the King keeps. For the Chancellor will no other caution for his bond than the King' promise, and has offered to send the bond to Bowes, and will show it to his friends. He has courteously entertained Huntly, but knows him so well "as he shall not enter farre into him." Huntly has not stuck to tell the Chancellor that some pretending friendship with him have yet dealt with Huntly for his overthrow. This is thought to be the Master of Glamis, now absent. The Chancellor has been otherwise moved to set himself against Glamis, but friends labour to remove these jealousies.

The quarrels betwixt Hamilton and Angus, Hamilton and Huntly, and Hamilton and Hume are reconciled. Erroll sought a quarrel with Huntly for banding with the Chancellor without his privity; but the Catholics will appease this.

Bothwell, disposed to show young Cessford all the favour he can, has nevertheless let Hume know that he will not party Cessford against him. Cessford, by the offence of the King for the slaughter of William Carre, is departed into England.

"As your lordship hathe written to me that Cuningham, brother to the laird of Barnes, is found to be a traitour, so also I have bein advertised that the lard hath promised the captaine of the Spanish bark to provide him great store of mutton and beefes at his retorne in Christianmasse next, and to prepaire sondrie other thinges to be readie for the pleasure and proffitt of the King of Spaine. Wherein also promis is made that in due tyme five hundred gentlemen and Borderers shal be ready to breake the Borders." Edinburgh. Signed: Robert Bowes.

7 pp. Marginal notes by Burghley. Addressed. Indorsed.

Enclosure with the same:

[Remission granted to the Earl of Huntly.]

Printed in Criminal Trials, ed. Pitcairn, i. Pt. ii. 180.

"James by the grace of God King of Scottes, to our Justice, Justice Clarke, and their deputis, greting. Forasmuche as in ane court of justiciary halden in the Tolbuith of our burghe of Edenbroughe by our justices in that part constitute by our commission, upon the 24th daie of May 1589, our right trustie cosen George Erle of Huntlay, Lord Gorden and Badzeneth, being accused upon the dittey given in against him by our advocate conteining in effect the pointes following: that is to saie, for the treasonable traficking with strangers and ministers of straungers sic as Jesuites, seminaries, preistis, and excommunicate persons for the alteracion of the religion presentlie professed within our realme, according to the sinceritie of the evangell, to the overthrowe of our person, and receiving of monie and Spanishe gold to the effect and for the causes foresaide, and for the subscriving of a bande to the treasonable effect above written at Strickmertyn, Glentener, and Ald Montrois, against the lawes, beside divers conventicles, contractes, leagues, and conspiracies reiterat and renewit, and treasonable takeing of the towne of St: Johnston, and for art, part, red, and counsaill of the convocacion made in armes for takeing of our house and pallace of Halyroodehouse, and of our person supponit to be therein, and to have slaine our trustie cosen and counsellour John, nowe Lord of Thurleston, our Chancelour, and divers others; and for performng thereof tristing to have mett at the Quarrell Holes betwixt Leithe and Halyrudehouse, and comming a-gateward in armes to that effect to Dumfermling; for the treasonable takeing of [ ] Ridpithe, one of our garde, keping him prisoner and impeding of the execution of our letters for the maintenaunce of our estate; for the treasonable asseiging of our house of Kirkhill, raising of fier, and takeing of Thomas, Master of Glames, our threasurer in the place of Achendoun; for art, part, rid, and counsaill of the treasonable takeing of our cote armour from William Rankeler, herauld, makeing our proclamacion at the markett crosse of Aberdene; for the treasonable makeing of proclamacions in our name for convocating of our leigis; makinge slanderous reportes as tho we had ben kept captive; for the treasonable convocating of ane oist and army of our leigis against us at the Brig of Dee, of mynd to have invaded our army when we were present in parson; for his treasonable speaking against the peace and quietnes of the amitie or libertie conteined in Parliament, incurrand the paines of our act maid thereannent, as the said dittey at mair length perportis. Whereof, albeit the saide Earle in his conscience affirmed himself to be innocent, yet having cum in upon a resolute purpose to submit himself in our will, and not willing to be contraditour to us, hoping that we wald weighe the circumstances of his accusation, he submitted him most humblie in our will, as the act of our adjornall thereupon beiris. And nowe we, having considered the humble and voluntary submission of our said cousing, and weighed the circumstances of his said accusacion, nawyse mynded to seeke the wrack and subvertion of the noble blude and auncient houses of our realme, but to recover and reteine them in our due obedience, have therefore of our especiall grace received and accepted our said cosen George, Erle of Huntlay, in our mercy and favour, and declaris our determinate will by these presentes, that he is and salbe free, remitted, and discharged of all the crimes above written conteyned in his said dittye for which he came in our will as said is, and of all accion, criminall or civill, that we had, have, or may have against him, his life, landes, or gudes, as also reintegrates and rehabilitates him to his gude fame and warldlie honour, and to use all lawfull dedes in judgement and outwith as if he had never come in our will, or that the said crimes nor nane of them had never bene committed. Wherefore it is our will and we commaund you that ye pronounce this our will in judgement, and registrate the same in the bukes of adjornall, which we commaund our advocate to see done and perfected, and to consent to the same in our name, for the which these presentes shalbe to you and him sufficient warrant. Holyrood House, 17 December, 1590."

1⅓ pp. Copy, in the hand of Bowes' clerk. Indorsed.

509. Mr. Archibald Douglas to Burghley. [Dec. 19.]

"At my being with you I did forgett to haif ony speach concerning one Sir Alexander Stewart, who hathe remaned some tyme in this towne. If he be recommendit be ony to your lordship, I beleawe it shalbe best done to deale wyslye wyth him. I am effrayd that the man shall prowe bot indifferentlye honist, besidis inconvenientis that he may unvislye thrust him self in to, as moyr particularlye your lordship may onderstand when your lasur may serve."

"Sen I come from your lordship my Lord Crechtone hath beyn wyth me. He is myndit to sea your lordship when he shall onderstand of your returning to this towne." Signed: A. Douglas.

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

510. Robert Bowes to Burghley. [Dec. 26.]

Perceives by Burghley's letter of the 13th instant that her majesty— grieved to see such troubles likely to grow in this realm—would have him consider "whether this last matter for the band shalbe further attempted," and to take the Chancellor's opinion as to opening the same to the King for the prevention of inconvenience. Has been advised by some well affected, that within six weeks something would be enterprised, except some better course be taken by the courtiers: this he has communicated to the Chancellor, who esteems lightly of these things, and would not trouble the King therewith, for the latter is so resolutely set against all motions to work alteration in the state as the enterprisers dare not hazard themselves against him. The well affected think that the hearty reconciliation betwixt the Chancellor and the Master of Glamis shall put all things out of peril; therefore Bowes has travailed with the Chancellor and Glamis, whereby they are presently in good terms; and by his means the prior of Blantyre is also labouring "to pull up the roote of their greifes," which yet are nourished by such means as herewith will be partly seen. It is hoped this labour shall bear fruit; the Chancellor and others, being thus warned of dangers, will avoid all inconveniences, whereof the Chancellor stands in little fear.

Although John Pott, servant to Francis Dacre, gave Bowes notice of his master's departure, "affirming that he sawe him on the sea," yet upon better advice Dacre returned, "resolving to give over that voyage, and to committ him self and his estate to her majestie's goodnes." He has written Burghley the letter enclosed, with his petitions, by advice of Bowes. Dacre has chosen this course, praying Burghley's help, and to be speedily advertised of her majesty's pleasure, that he may dispose of himself and his poor case, "having presentlie under 40 l. sterling in his purse, and knowing no meane to gitt any more when that is spent. His debtes—he saithe—are so great in England, and his frendes so tyered to sustaine him, as he determineth resolutely to live in forrayne contries except it shall please her majestie to have compassion."

"I have acquainted the King with the causes of the stay of John Lesley, sonne of the doughter of the busshop of Rosse. Wherein the King at the first thought it a matter worthy of consideracion, whether he was justly deteined in England: but upon myne informacion of the maner of his comming thither, and offence in entrie with suche lewde letters, the King afterwardes shewed him self well satisfied in the cause, and to leave Lesley to answere for his owne crymes."

"Monsieur Morland, commed hither from the French King with dispatche by the Vicount of Turine, hathe obtayned bothe the King of Scotlandes letters to the princes in Germany for the expedicion of the levy of the army to be sent in the aide of the Frenche King, and also his grant to have 3,000 Scotishmen to be sent into France for the French King's succours, in case the French King shall send for them."

The King granted these things, with large offers to party that cause with all his power, as he will make known to her majesty, and will pursue such course as she thinks best. This French gentleman sought to have Bowes present at his last access to the King, which was granted, and Bowes will solicit the cause after his departure hence in a few days to the Viscount of Turenne in Germany.

Bothwell has written to Lord Scrope for a meeting to be had to give redress for Liddesdale; and the Chancellor and Clerk Register have been with Bowes about Border causes. He has written to the wardens of England, hoping justice shall be done if the King and Council perform as they have newly offered.

"Bothwell, the admirall here, hathe sought that Lawes and Daniell, Inglishmen—and deteined here at my request for piracies done by them on some marchantes of London—might be delivered to him to be tried, and the warrant was fraymed and drawen to have bene signed by the King, but I have staied the same." Great suit is made to Bowes for their liberty, and they will get it, unless they be removed to England or put on their triall here.

Lord Claud Hamilton is well recovered, and offers his devotion to her majesty, acknowledging that during the life of his mistress the King's mother he was wholly drawn to serve her; but now he has found his fault, and will be glad to make amends. Maxwell and Harries have renewed their offers to her majesty with great fervency, Maxwell referring to Lord Scrope for proof of his good behaviour. The said Maxwell advised Huntly to quench his intelligence with the King of Spain, Parma, and the Pope, as ever bringing him into trouble and endangering his life and possessions. Atholl and Murray also offer good offices, seeking her majesty's commendation to the King in their behalf, "and in their causes against Huntlay."

"Arrell hathe bene with the Chancelour and offered kindenes to him. They are entred into good tearmes, but their frendlie agreament consisteth muche on the disposition of the Master of Glames, who hathe especiall interrest in Arrell." Huntly had obtained commission to call the Clanquhattons to answer justice. They appertain to Mackintosh, and are themselves so strong, and he so strong to assist them, as Huntly shall not hurt them without loss to himself; yet he will take speedy revenge on those Highlands for the slaughter of John Gordon. Some wise men were content these troubles in the north might continue, to rid the rest of the realm of these northern lords. But now this commission against the Clanqhattons is revoked.

"The King and Queen are passed over the water to Aberdore to expend there four or five daies with the laird of Spina his vice-chamberlaine." Some give out that Huntly would return to him there, but others of better quality say that no such thing is intended. James Gordon the Jesuit crept secretly thither, but was advised to depart with speed; and such as emboldened him to adventure thither have gotten little thanks. Edinburgh. Signed: Robert Bowes.

4 pp. Addressed. Indorsed.

Enclosure with the same:

[Francis Dacre to Burghley.]

Understanding by Bowes of Burghley's honourable mind to do him good at her majesty's hands—which were no small comfort to him—he being ready to embark to seek his fortune elsewhere, upon this hope held out sought to stay the ship. Necessity drives him to seek a small portion which his brother left him at his death; but being loth to leave anything undone which becomes a dutiful subject he has refused the advantage of that ship in hope of Burghley's help. Beseeches Burghley to acquaint her majesty with some petitions enclosed, although they be not set down in due form. He trusts her majesty and Burghley will not condemn him. Edinburgh. 25 Dec. 1590. Signed: Francis Dacre.

1 p. Addressed. Indorsed.

511. Robert Bowes to Burghley. [Dec. 26.]

In his other letter of this date has referred to the jealousies betwixt the Chancellor and Glamis. The Master of Glamis thinks that the Chancellor has so embraced Huntly, Bothwell, Montrose, Claud Hamilton, Maxwell, and others of the faction of the Bridge of Dee, as their credit in court shall be dangerous to Glamis, to the cause of religion, the peace of both these realms and surety of the well affected.

The Chancellor is persuaded that Glamis has sought to win to himself the goodwill of Huntly and others of that faction, against the Chancellor, and to plant in Council and government Marshal, Erroll, and Morton, to party Glamis against the Chancellor, without any care of the said causes. The mediators betwixt them say that no friendship can be established till they can be drawn to consent with the rest; first, to such government as shall be found most meet; next, to the choice of persons to be trusted with the execution; "and thirdly that the Chauncelour and Glamys may be well imbarked in the action thereof." They wish Burghley would "prick them forwardes in this way," by good advice to be written to Bowes and shown to them. Marishal, Erroll, and Morton hold off from the Chancellor, but the other noblemen named to be brought into court have lately received very good countenance by his commendations. The Chancellor told Bowes—before these agreements—that by the King's express command he was forced to agree with Huntly: "and he acknowledgeth that by the sight of Glamys secrett curtyng of these noblemen for his owne strengthe he was dryven to show the more favour to them," that he might not alone bear the burden and wrath of all malcontents, though ever ready to endure their feuds if he be accompanied with the rest of his fellows. But he solemnly protests that he will lay down his life before he will assent unto or enterprise anything to the hurt of religion or the amity with her majesty, wherein he has given such good proof, as Bowes dare not hastily enter into suspicion against him, but desires Burghley's advice for the satisfaction of the mediators. Edinburgh. Signed: Robert Bowes.

2 pp. Holograph, also address. Indorsed.

512. Mr. Archibald Douglas to Burghley. [Dec. 28.]

"I haif beyn so ernistlye pressed be the Lord Crechtone to mak your lordship acquaynted wyth his departure towardis Italye, as he sayis, and to onderstand if it shalbe your pleasur to command him wythe ony service in those partis, that I can not forbear to satisfye his dessire, albeit I culd wyth all my hart be contented that ony gud occasion culd be offered whearbye his going mycht be hyndered; and that the rather for that I knaw the moste part of his fryndis in Scotland to be inclyned thayronto. Bot this day he hes beyn wythe me, and so ernist to passe fordwart one his intendit jorney, that for no ressonis I can alledge to the contrarye can he be moved to stay ony longer than he may ressawe your lordships lettir to the magistrate of the port of Dowere for his sayfe passage. Wheirupone I haif takin occasione to send this bearar to your lordship to ressawe ony anser it shalbe agreable to your lordship to gewe heirin."

"I tak it to be so that this yowng [sic] called Sir Alexander Stewart, who gois in his cumpanye and to the Duck of Parma, is the greatast occasion of his suddane departure, and so much the worse to be lyked of."

"I dowbt not bot your lordship hes heard of suche newis of concorde as hath of layte occurred in Scotland, whiche makis me forbeyr to trouble you wyth the neydles repetition of thayme at this tyme. I haif also send to your lordship be this bearar Doctor Cesar's patent in reversione of Sanct Katherinis. Albeit I do weill know how far it is against your mynd to deale in ony mater that may carye apparent de captatione mortis alienæ, zit be ressone this mater doeth tend to the releif of so many poore distressed Scottismen, et sic ad evitandum magis malum, and takis nothing owt of hir majesteis cofferris, I will hartelye requeist your lordship for my cause to furthar that mater that is lyk to produce so many gud and charitable effectis." Signed: A.D.

1 p. Holograph. Addressed. Indorsed.

513. Note of money disbursed.

"The note of the diffraye of 300l. sterlinge taken by exchange in Edenburgh, viz., of Thomas Fowills and Robert Jowcye 200l., and of John Porterfeild 100 l., which somes tourned into Frenche crownes at the present rate heare amounted to 316l. 13s. 4d., and was diffrayed as followethe."

"To Mr. Androwe Knoxe and John Semple 400 Frenche crownes. Doctor Macalney 300 Frenche crownes. Mr. David Lindsaye 200 Frenche crownes. Mr. David Fowles 100 Frenche crownes = 316 l. 13s. 4d. sterlinge."

"Wherof 300 l. was taken in exchange as before is expressed, and the 16l. 13s. 4d. was disbursed by Robert Bowes, and is to be allowed to him in his next reconninge." Signed: Robert Bowes.

Note in Burghley's hand: "An ordre uppon the prive seale containing 320 l. to pay this 16 l. 13s. 4d. to Mr. Bowes. W.B."

²/3 p. Indorsed.

514. Burghley to the Lord Chancellor of Scotland. Lansd. 115, fol. 66.

"There are so manifest causes to move me to write to yow in all kindlie manner, as everie one of them aloane is sufficient for me to wryte and your lordship to receave the same in friendlie sort. The ould famyliar acquaintance in a verie strict amitye with your elder brother the younge Lard of Lethington, he a secretary to that crowne, and I then to this crowne, was so beneficiall to both these crownes by restoringe them by our minestery to suche a brotherly peace as nevar had bene in many hundred yeares before, as the memorye of the same is verie agreable to survyve towardes yow his brother, and a secretarye by office as he was, thoughe now also placed in an office being Chauncelor, which I accompte the principall secretary of that realme. Next to this the amitie professed and accorded by treatie betwixt the prynces of both theise realmes require conjunction of good will in such mynisters as are knowen to have creditt with their superiors wherein as I knowe yow are with the Kinge almoste the only counseller for managing of those affaires, so, without presumption, I may affirme that I fynd myself with some others interessed, to be acquaynted with the affaires of this realme."

"And in that respect I am the more willinge to have intelligence with yow for the furtherance and contynuaunce of our soveraignes amitye; and to add some more cause of my present writing by receaving your kynde letter at the handes of Sir John Carmychell, and by report of the Earl of Worcester of your kynd acceptance of my commeudacions sent to yow by his lordship I am to render your lordship thankes for the same. And to end my letter with that which might be a grounde platt of a long letter, I do in Godes name and for the suerty of your good Kinge, require your lordship to advaunce the good intentions of the King testified by his majestie to the Erl of Worcester, for the suppression of the professed ennemyes of the Gospell, by name Jesuytes and seminaryes, and the civill adversaries to the common amitie, by name Spanishe conspirators; and these being throughly suppressed, that King shall prosper in the sight of Almightie God and shalbe beloved and honored of all honest men in the whole iland: and joyning in this manner of action with the Christian prynces that professe the gospell, he shalbe feared as a potent prynce of the adversaries, I meane papiste, who truly my lorde I knowe being straightly pursued are but cowardes lyke their father the pild [sic] preist at Rome. And in this action facies hominis will prove in your young lustie King facies leonis. And so I leave all the rest that I might write of this argument to the bearar Sir John Carmychell, one verie ready to serve with your lordship in this action, and one that honoreth and estemeth your lordship woorthy the place which yow hold."

1¼ pp. Copy. Indorsed.