|
Feb. 3.
Boulogne. |
3. Lord Grey to same. Andrea de Reynes, an Albanian captain,
who served formerly under him at Guisnes, has, since being discharged, remained in Flanders, not being allowed to return to
his own country. Now hearing a rumour that the French intend to war with England, he has refused a continual stipend
from the Regent, and offered to serve his Majesty, being able to
raise, if need be, two horsemen of his own notion. Volland van
der Ley, who also served under him at Guisnes, and is now at
Frankfort, has likewise refused a life-entertainment from the Emperor, and sent a German to offer his services to his Majesty. He
can raise either 1,000 or 2,000 foot, whichever of these numbers
may be wished. Desires to know his Majesty's pleasure herein.
[One page.] |
Feb. 3.
Old Man. |
4. Sir Thomas Palmer to Sir William Paget. Requests Paget
will have in remembrance his exchange which the King promised
him at Mr. Howard's. It shall be no loss to his Majesty and a
great commodity to him: if obtained, will trouble his Majesty with
no more suits. May believe that there is some, and that makes
him thus earnest. Desires to be commended to Lady Paget. [One
page.] |
Feb. 4.
Guisnes. |
5. Sir John Wallop to same. Since his letters of the 29th ult.
has again sent into the borders of Picardy and Artois, but
cannot perceive any assembly of French troops more than is
ordinary between this and Paris. Has learnt from Flanders that
strict command is given that all the imperial borders of Artois shall
within nine days thrash out their corn and bring their store into
St. Omer and other like places. Also order has just been made
that all strangers in the towns shall be reported after the manner
used in Calais, and men are being severally enrolled for the better
strengthening of the garrisons. The same bruit continues in regard
to the Swiss, who appear by the Grand Master's letter to be in
readiness, and that the French King should say they were made for
the aid of the Queen of Scots or for Boulogne, and nothing meant
against the Emperor. The Burgundians say he assembles them for
fear of the Emperor revenging his practices at Genoa and Milan;
which doubts the other will most appear hereafter. This opinion
of the Burgundians shows that the French King means nothing but
well to his Majesty; but should these sudden storms of war, which
now be calmed here, rise again, he shall with all celerity give
notice of them. Requests he will obtain a letter from the Council
to Dr. Wotton, to complain to the French King or the Admiral of
Messrs. Blerencourt, Vassé, and Dampone, who detain from him 500
crowns for prisoners, and for which they are bound both by promise
on honour and letters obligatory. Blerencourt's debt has been due
for nearly two years and the others for one. They daily make fair
promises, as does Marshal du Biez, to whom he has complained, but
with no result. The bearer, Guisnes [Henry Fellows, pursuivant
extraordinary], carries with him the vouchers. Notwithstanding
the appearance of calm, deems it necessary that labourers, masons,
and carpenters, should be sent over to repair the castle and outworks, especially the ditches. Has several times mentioned this to
the surveyor, who says he will shortly go to England and name it
to his Majesty and the Council; yet in the meantime requests him
to write for the carpenters and masons, as none can be spared from
Calais, which the Lord Deputy affirms. The water of the outer
ditches before Purton's bulwark is so much fallen, and a shelp or
hard sand grown so nigh to the front of the said bulwark, that a
man may stand upon it and in a manner look into the loops. This
he would now stop if he could get any masons, although the water
were deep enough, and will keep none open but the flankers. [Three
pages.] |
Feb. 4.
Boulogne. |
6. Lord Grey and Council at Boulogne to the Council. Upon the
credit of Sirs John Bridges, Leonard Beckwith and Thomas Palmer,
have surveyed all the defences, and although a report of their state,
and the store of victuals and stowage, has been recently sent to
Paget, they make a special one in reference to each piece, as will
appear by the inclosed schedules (missing). They find in the upper
and lower town, the remainder of the little victuals that they have
for the whole pieces: at Boulogneberg, no stowage either for powder
and munition, or for victuals. Wherefore they have caused one
vault with a house over it to be put in hand already, and mean with
all possible diligence to have up another; and having lack of labourers
for doing this, and for repairing the ramparts, vamures, ditches, and
bulwarks there, they have withdrawn from the Old Man some part
of the labourers, and as soon as the houses shall be ready, they shall
store them with powder and munition, wine-sacks, biscuit, herrings,
and other necessaries, sufficient for two months at least, if they shall
have it so to do. The Old Man is equally deficient in stowage, but
as speedily as they can it shall be remedied in like manner for the
same space of time. But as for these and the other requirements
they have so few labourers, they wish that more may be sent, because
the pieces being imperfect, the weakness of one may peril another.
The Young Man remains in his old state, and nothing done thereto.
Repeat the suggestions of Lord Grey, in his letter of 29th ult., as to
the better and more economical provisioning of the forts. The
artillery and munition last sent not having yet arrived, they do not
report upon the supply of the pieces, but on their being received
they shall distribute them, and inform their Lordships what else shall
be needed. Meanwhile their chief lack is money, victuals, and
labourers. They have perused New Haven and Blackness, and
found both imperfect; at the latter is stowage for four months, but
no kind of victuals, and the latter lacks both stowage and victuals.
Signed by Lord Grey, John Bridges, Edward Dymock, Leonard
Beckwith, Richard Windebank, Henry Palmer, Thomas Palmer,
James Croft, Nicholas Arnold, Adrian Poynings, and Edward Dudley.
[Four pages.] |
Feb. 4.
Newhaven. |
7. William Lord Stourton, Sir Richard Cavendish, and Adrian
Stockes (Council at Newhaven), to the same. Sir Richard Cavendish has made a survey of Newhaven, and the wants requiring to be
supplied are contained in the enclosed schedules (missing). There
is sufficient stowage of victuals for one month for the men here at
present; but in case of war, they would require a thousand more,
and victuals accordingly, with places therein for the same. Request that with expedition shall be appointed such as shall effectually
in this need see the accomplishment of the same; and in the meantime, as the fort is very imperfect, that 700 labourers shall be
sent. Farther, in consideration of their long lack of payment (to
the no little misery of the poor soldiers serving here) beseech
that they may now have one entire pay, whereby they may be
the better able to serve, and the like distress be avoided in time
coming. [Four pages.] |
Feb. 4.
Blackness. |
8. Lord Stourton, and Council at Newhaven, to the Council.
Send returns of the ordnance and munitions here (missing). In case of
war will require 500 more soldiers. Request that 400 labourers may
be sent forthwith, and payment according during their work from time
to time, the lack of which has much letted in that behalf the speedy
furtherance heretofore. Should his Majesty's intention continue concerning the mole, without which this piece will be more chargeable
than necessary, through default of carriage, the estimate in the schedule
applicable thereto will require to be altered. In consideration of
the men having been unpaid, Lord Stourton has been obliged to
provide all kind of apparel for them, and is personally bound for the
payment; request therefore they may now have an entire pay. There
is stowage of provision sufficient for four months for the present
number here; hope soon to have more ample space for the same
purpose. Have made such delivery of wood to the brewers and other
victuallers, that they are almost clear without, and if they have
not speedy redress therein, they shall soon be utterly destitute. If
the King's affairs here are to be speedily accomplished, remembering, through want of a haven, the charge of land carriage, their
Lordships must advance money for the provision of horses, mares, and
waggons of his Majesty's own, whereby his cost will be minished. In
meantime, request they will write to Lord Cobham, that his Majesty
may be served with waggons out of the Low Country here, for want
of which his affairs are not a little hindered. Albeit, for every load
from Hambeltue [Ambleteuse] hither, the waggoners receive three
shillings and four pence, yet where by Lord Cobham's mandatum
they should many times receive ten, instead thereof, they can have
but five for his Majesty's use. They are in greater misery here
than any others on this side of the sea; for while others pay only
four shillings for a barrel of [ale ?], they pay for the most part six
shillings and four pence; and for bread often thirty shillings the
quarter, others paying but eighteen; and as much for the carriage
of wood by land as it is worth in value. The poor soldiers are now
thoroughly unprovided of harness. With an entire pay will take
such order that every man will be able to furnish himself: urge
an advance of this. [Three pages.] |
Feb. 5.
Calais. |
9. George Lord Cobham to the Earl of Hertford, Lord Great
Chamberlain of England. The French and the Emperor levy men in
divers places, and M. de Vendeville, captain of Gravelines, also levies
500 men, which seems most strange, having heard that he has not
done the like in any time of war. In consideration of the heavy and
grievous news of the King's death, which causes them to have dolorous
hearts, requests to know his Lordship's pleasure what order they shall
take to express and show outwardly the mourning which in their
hearts they have already conceived; that is to say, whether they
shall wear mourning apparel or not. [One page.] |
Feb. 6.
Tower of London. |
10. The Lord Protector and Council to Lord Stourton and the
Council at Newhaven. Orders have been given to the Treasurer of
Boulogne for payment of the garrisons of Newhaven and Blackness
for four months, "or at the least as far forth as 2,500l. will stretch."
This sum has been sent to the Treasurer, who will pay Lord
Stourton and others specially named in the schedule such diets
and wages as are therein mentioned. The pay of 6d. per diem
to all the other soldiers shall be delivered to Lord Stourton
and Sir Richard Cavendish, to be by them distributed to the said
soldiers; proper books being kept by them of the numbers of the
men, and of the days of their entry into wages, which, duly
signed and delivered to the Treasurer, shall be his sufficient discharge.
Are also to cause monthly musters be made at Newhaven and
Blackness on such days and times as musters are made at Boulogne,
of every which muster the Clerk Comptroller shall make a book to
be signed by Lord Stourton and two others of the Council there,
which shall be sufficient discharge to the said Treasurer of Boulogne,
by whom all extraordinary charges for the King's service shall be
paid by warrant directed to him from Lord Stourton and other two
of the Council. [Minute. One page and a half.] |
| Feb. 7. |
11. Same to the Customers of all the ports, Desire them to publish
a proclamation permitting the free exportations of grain and victuals to Calais, Boulogne, or Newhaven, taking from the exporters
sufficient bond with sureties to the double value of their lading, and
receiving certificates under the hands of the deputy at each place
that such exports have been properly unladen and bestowed there
and not elsewhere. Warn them under pain of exemplary punishment, to beware of sufferance and light handling, whereby the
revenue has been defrauded. [Minute. One page.] |
Feb. 5.
Calais. |
12. Lord Cobham and Council at Calais to the Council. Yesterday afternoon the Emperor's post arriving out of England, declared
to them the death of the King their late master, "which were to us
all the most dolorous and lamentable news that ever we received;
for there were never any gentlemen that did lose so loving a master,
nor never subjects that did lose so precious a sovereign lord, nor so
prudent a governor." Desire to know whether they are to retain
their respective offices. Meanwhile as the last letters from their
Lordships announced that in consideration of the powers of the Emperor and the French King being both ready levied and up, they
thought meet to send hither a crew of 500 men, they think that this
most pitiful chance being joined to these considerations, that number
should be increased to at least double. The town is at present very
slenderly furnished of all kinds of victuals, malt only excepted.
"Some of these which were appointed purveyors for the town, having
made their provisions of cheese and butter in Suffolk, and of beeves
in Kent, the same have been taken from them by such as have had
commission to provide for other places." Therefore request such
redress and speedy help for their better furniture of victuals as shall
seem most expedient. Signed by Lord Cobham, John Fogge, Edward
Braye, E. Wotton, E. Somerset, Francis Hall, and William Sympson.
[Two pages.] |
| Feb. 7. |
13. The Lord Protector and Council to the Lord Deputy and
Council at Calais. In consequence of their letters complaining of
the want of provisions, the Council have opened all the ports to
allow of victuals being imported to the forts of Calais, &c., on the
conditions mentioned in the preceding minute. They are desired
to discharge the duties of their offices until the King's farther pleasure is notified to them, and to supply the pieces at Newhaven and
Blackness with carriages for the conveyance of fuel and other
materials. [Minute. Draft, partly autograph of Petre. One
page.] |
Feb. 7.
Calais. |
14. Lord Cobham to the Lord Protector. Through his Lordship's
mediation had obtained licence from the late King to repair into
England, of which at the time he did not avail himself. Now, perceiving that his Lordship may grant him the like licence, requests
that he will do so, if but for ten days, not only for the dispatch of
certain urgent business, but also for the desire which he has to see
the King now his master. [One page.] |
Feb. 7.
Calais. |
15. Same to Sir William Paget. The Imperialists daily levy
men, and yesterday the musters were taken at Gravelines, as he
is informed by one of this town who saw them. The Lady Regent has come to Arras, with the intention of visiting the frontiers;
on Saturday last the Grand Master went with her from St. Omer.
Is informed from Antwerp that the Duke of Saxony has lately prevailed against Duke Maurice. Twelve Scottish ships have lately
been freighted at Dieppe with ordnance, shot, and powder for Scotland. Yesterday 60 of the 500 soldiers appointed hither arrived;
these he has sent to Guisnes to be under the charge of Mr. Basset,
and to help to make up the vamure of the town towards Hampnes,
which was left unfinished when Lord Grey left. These soldiers were
slenderly set forth, the most of them being unfurnished with weapons,
and those who were prest at the greatest distance having received
only one shilling apiece to bring them hither, and the others only
eightpence. Yesterday, Francisco Bernardo arrived here, slept at
Wallop's, and thence to France. Sends herewith intelligence of him
of Corbie [a spy]. Begs to know whether he shall write his news as
hitherto to Paget, or to the Protector, or the Council. Has written
to the Protector a letter to like effect as the present. [One page and
a half.] Inclosure, |
|
15. I. On 26 January the King and Council at VillersCote-Retz gave commission to two Swiss Captains of infantry to raise 18,000 foot, and money to go soon after
into Italy with 22,000 more French infantry. De Bonnivet
is their colonel; De Tez is commander of the Artillery,
without relation to the men-at-arms, and light horse,
which likewise are to go there about the middle of March.
Artillery and all sorts of munitions are in active preparation for Marseilles, Bordeaux, Brittany, Picardy,
and other places. All the captains of infantry from
every part of the King's dominions have been ordered to
the Court, and have instructions to raise infantry, as
soon as they shall receive orders, for Picardy and elsewhere. The Seigneur de Belflorier is colonel of the infantry for Picardy. All the captains of the men-at-arms
and light horse have been ordered to the Court, and
commanded to make musters at the end of this month.
12,000 muids of wheat, and 10,000 puncheons of wine
are to be sent to Abbeville, Montreuil, Terouanne, and
Ardres, early in April, and part of the money has been
paid to the Commissaries. 20,000 muids of wheat are to
be sent to Marseilles and its vicinity for supplying the
Turk. Last December, at Folenberq [Folembray] the
King swore, on the honour of a gentleman, that before
the feast of St. John was past he should have again his
town of Boulogne, or be King of England, else perish in
the attempt. [French. One page and a half.] |
Feb. 7.
Newhaven. |
16. Lord Stourton to the Council. Yesterday received their letters and proclamation of the King, whereby he is apprised of the
decease of his late Majesty. Trusts the son may follow the worthy
steps of his most noble and redoubtable father. Will endeavour
to discharge the duties entrusted to him to the uttermost of
his power. Begs they will consider the want of money and victuals
expressed in his last. |
|
P.S.—Has sent for the surveyor of the works frequently, but he
has failed in his promise five times, and this day sent to say that
he could not tell when he should come, wherefore has taken the
labourers from working on a ditch on the base town, and set
them about the making of false trenches in the ditches against the
mounts, which, in his opinion, and that of most men of war, is as
great a strength to the fort as to have 200 men more. Should the
surveyor feel himself aggrieved they will please to consider the case
as above said. Has also set 100 soldiers to assist in the work, and
promised them payment, for which, when time comes, they will
please to see him discharged. [Two pages.] |
| Feb. 7. |
17. The Council to the Council at Calais. The bearer, Hugh
Smith, has been appointed to have the leading of 100 hagbutters,
and the levying of 200 other soldiers, whom he is ordered to convey
to Calais for employment where they shall think meet. For
these men he has received a fortnight's advance of money for
costs, conduct, transportation, and wages, at the rate of 8d. sterling
per diem for each hagbutter, and 6d. each for the other soldiers.
Desire them to assign to every 100 a captain, a petty captain, and
standard-bearer, at the rate of 4s. per diem to each captain, 2s. to the
petty captain, and 1s. to the standard-bearer. The like pay is to be
given to 200 more men about to be sent. Desire to be informed
whether any of the said 200 have arrived, and that they shall
deliver to Smith 100 harquebuses at reasonable prices, deducting for
such a reasonable proportion monthly from the wages of each man.
[One page. Minute.] |
Feb. 8.
Guisnes. |
18. Sir John Wallop to Sir William Paget. Since sending his
servant, John Clerk, with such news as he had learned of Mons. de
Rieulx, had written several letters concerning the movements of the
French, and that the hasty manner of their assembly was somewhat
calmed, although they were in readiness. Yesterday, had written
to the Lord Protector of their preparations, and that Francisco
Bernardine being here he had sent one of his men with him to
Montreuil to see what could be learned. To day he has returned,
bringing with him an English merchant from Rouen, who shows
that there is no stirring of men betwixt this and that, and that his
Majesty's death had been heard of eight or ten days ago. The merchant will inform Paget of any farther communication. Divers who
spoke with his man who went to Montreuil made great bragging after
their fashion. Last night the Lord Deputy sent here 60 footmen
from Kent, right tall men, and wrote that he is to send more soon.
Is the more glad of this, because they of Ardres have now enrolled
all the men-of-arms they have in this country not yet taken into the
town, but suffered to till their lands, and more ploughs sent within
these two days. Heard that on Sunday came to Ardres 80 or 100
horsemen armed, but since finds this is not true. [Two pages.] |
Feb. 8.
Boulogneberg. |
19. Nicholas Arnold to Sir William Paget. Requests his interference in a matter of difference between him and Sir Richard Lee, the
particulars of which shall be explained by the bearer. [Half a page.] |
Feb. 8.
Bas Boulogne. |
20. Adrian Poynings to same. Requests his assistance in arranging his private affairs. A great part of his living standing in
hazard is like to be lost, unless Paget puts to it his favourable
and helping hand, considering that the person from whom he must
receive it is unable by the bondage of the Statute to make other
than a life grant. A redress of the Statute will not only be a
personal benefit to him and a number of poor men, but be a good
assistance of all such grants that his lord shall make hereafter;
so that his lord has as much cause to desire the remedy of it as all
his tenants and farmers, seeing his commodity is like to be greatest.
[One page.] |
Feb. 9.
Blackness. |
21. Sir Richard Cavendish to the Council. Expresses his great
regret for the death of the late King, whom for 34 years he has
most faithfully served; so much so that since his first coming to
Dover to serve his Majesty there, now seven years ago, he could
never have one day to take order for his profit in his poor living.
Requests permission to repair to the Court to have his commission
renewed by his present Majesty and to confer with their Lordships in
reference to his charges. [Two pages.] |
Feb. 10.
Boulogne. |
22. Lord Grey to the Lord Protector. Has received from his
espials in France the following intelligence:—Their galleys are in
the Seine. The Germans in the French service have gone to Scotland. The horsemen under M. de Querquie, who were sent with
others "to frontier the Imperialists," have not returned. M. de Biez
is at Biez. No rumour of wars but at Davresne [Dêvre]. Fourteen
Scotch ships are at Dieppe, Rouen, and Hableneuf [Havre de Grace]
where they are being laden with ordnance and munition, and will
sail for Scotland shortly. |
|
P.S. Since writing the above has received by Sirs Hugh Poulet
and John Harington divers letters from the Council, and amongst
them one touching the entertainment of Captain Andrea. Desires
to have his Lordship's pleasure touching Volland Van der Ley.
Almaine. Several Frenchmen have secretly left this territory for
Davresne, with all their goods and chattels; this he takes to be a
token of war. [One page.] |
Feb. 10.
Calais. |
23. Lord Cobham to Sir William Paget. To-day an Englishman
arrived out of France, who on Monday last, being at Rouen, saw 20
galleys lying ready in the river there, of which it was reported some
are to be sent to Scotland; and every garrison town which he passed
had artillery recently mounted upon the walls. The preparations
by the French do not appear to be so great as rumour makes them
to be; for having lately sent a messenger to Sourssone [Soissons ?],
where a great number of men of war were reported to be assembled,
he is now informed that there are none. Has this day received the
proclamation of Richard Brooke, which has remained at Dover four
days by reason of contrary weather. Has addressed letter of import similar to this to the Lord Protector, to whom and to Paget
he will write severally until he has knowledge of their pleasure in
that behalf. [One page.] |
Feb. 12.
Guisnes. |
24. Sir John Wallop to same. Thanks him for his most gentle
and comfortable letter of the 6th inst. and for his having remembered him to the Protector and Council, from whom he has received
a letter this day, with answer to the article of carpenters, masons,
and labourers that he most desired. Two days ago had written to
him by a merchant from Rouen, who mentioned that the vessels being
rigged there were reported to be bound for Estaple; but this day has
received a letter from Padilla at St. Omer, showing that these are
meant for another purpose, as he will see by the said letter inclosed.
Padilla is the same person who wrote to him of the marching of 6,000
French, which finding to be untrue, he had in his answer touched him
roundly. Padilla in his reply excuses himself by saying that he
learned it from the captain of St. Omer. If these news be true they
are of importance. Trusts that the soldiers to be sent will be placed
under his charge, as all the others were, except when Lord Grey was
made General by reason of the hurt of his leg. Begs that Paget will
set this forth for his sake. [One page and a half.] Inclosing, |
|
24. I. Letter from Padilla, St. Omer, February 11. Has been informed
by a Spaniard, lately prisoner in the French galleys,
that naval preparations are going on fast; 23 galleys
and one galiot are being rigged out at Rouen, and much
artillery is sent down the river from Paris, and the general opinion among the captains of these vessels is that
their destination is Scotland. He had also seen about
10,000 pioneers mustered, who are soon to come to fortify
the frontiers, such as Estaple and the forts; but it is
privately said to build a fort where they had previously
commenced one, and which had been objected to by the
English. Believes what the man said to be strictly true.
As for the marching of the 6,000 men, in regard to which
his veracity has been impugned by Wallop, assures him
that he heard it from the captain of the town, who said
one of his people had seen them, and therefore Padilla
considered it a duty to inform him. Offers to serve his
Majesty, and to bring with him 20 Spanish soldiers; and
if there is no certain intelligence of war begs a place for
himself and a cousin, whom he has with him, in the
meanwhile. [French. Two pages.] |
1546–7. Feb. 13.
Calais. |
25. Lord Cobham to the Lord Protector. Yesterday a Frenchman arrived here, and being at host with one Parret mentioned to
him his wish to see Cobham to speak for certain secret overture.
This morning had sent for him, when he stated in presence of the
Treasurer of the town, that his name was St. Ligiers, born at St.
Ligiers, in France, had been one of the French King's Guards, and at
request of M. de Lorge had accompanied him to Scotland, where by appointment of the Governor and De Lorge he had been made captain of
Hume castle, which he kept at the time when the Protector invaded
Scotland, and ne recovered, as he says, the castle of Lanton [Langton]
and Isbec at same time. But, contrary to promise, having received
no reward for his long service, and having spent all his own money,
amounting to 300 crowns, he left Scotland last June, arriving at
Dieppe, and remaining in his native place till Allhallowmas, when
he went to the French Court, trusting to have some reward
either from the King or De Lorge. Being unsuccessful, he went
shortly before Christmas to Antwerp, intending to offer his services
to his Majesty's Ambassador there. But being confined for a month
with severe illness, he altered his intention and has come here to
make that offer, having, as he says, practised in many wars, as
well in Italy, France, Germany, as in Scotland, and knowing all the
holds and strengths in Scotland and how to win them, he thinks he
can do better service to his Majesty than to any other. He further
says, that having with him eight gunners, four of these being cannoniers and the other four harquebusiers, provided that they be not
known in Scotland, and talk French, he dares undertake to win Hume
castle for his Majesty, and will ask no reward until the enterprise is
achieved. The man is of a tall personage, very well spoken, and
desirous to serve the King; and will remain here until he knows his
Lordship's pleasure. Requests to be informed how they shall order
him, with such celerity as shall be thought expedient, as the man is
at this present needy of money. [Two pages.] |
Feb. 13.
Calais. |
26. Same to Sir William Paget. A verbatim copy of the
preceding letter to the Protector in reference to St. Ligiers. [Two
pages.] |
Feb. 13.
Boulogne. |
27. Lord Grey to the Lord Protector. Several French fishermen
at Rouen and Dieppe, who formerly resided here while occupied by
the French, have requested permission to remove with their
wives, families, and boats, and exercise their vocation here.
Having given them no definite answer, requests to know what he
shall say to them. A soldier has come here from the fort to secret
entertainment. He is a very good cannonier, and has not only
drawn a plat of the fort, showing therein the sort of the watch and
its division in quarters to the charge of captains, but also written
down the number of the soldiers and the quantity of victuals.
Sends them (missing) that his Lordship may perceive they are more
privy to their neighbours' estate than careful for the half of their
wants. "A Frenchman of late coming hither for killing of a man in
his country (as he says), which since seemeth false, having warning
by me to depart, suddenly conveyed himself away from the fort
taking with him a cape of one Francis de Benyon, French, one of
our guides here; who hearing tell that he was at the fort, sent him
word he was a thief, and of likelihood a spy also, for that he
departed so unhonestly; who answered again by writing yesterday
in the morning, that he did lie, and that he would prove it upon his
body, offering to come down to the sands on the far side, and to
bring with him two swords and two capes, willing him to meet him
there at nine of the clock following, to try this quarrel. Which
Francis coming to ask me leave, and seeing he could not speak
with me, for that indeed I was not well at ease, thinking he should
take shame if he should fail his hour, which then drew nigh apace,
went thither and there found the said Frenchman, accompanied with
five gentlemen of the fort, who had brought with him accordingly
two swords and two capes. And either of them choosing his father
and having a sword and a cape, being in his hose and doublet, unarmed in any point, joined together, where the said Francis politicly traversed both for the advantage of the ground and sun, not
striking vainly but with advantage also, so as at the last he with a
feign hit the other about the upper part of the thigh, wherewith he
fainted and called for his father, who according to the appointment
among themselves made, would not answer, but let them alone.
And then again the said Francis stroke him in the forehead, wherewith he fell down, and therewith Francis killed him out of hand.
This done, such gentlemen as as of our part saw the same, and those
of the other part took leave friendly the one with the other, and departed with the said Francis, without having any manner of hurt."
Had reprimanded Francis, but considering that they were both
French men and the English side had the honour, said the less to
him, only defending them and the rest from fighting again without
licence. Requests to be informed whether he shall grant such
messenger licence, should any challenge happen hereafter. Desires to
know his pleasure touching Volland van der Ley, whose messenger
still awaits answer. [Three pages.] |
| Feb. |
28. Instructions given by King Edward VI., with advice of the
Protector and Council, to Sirs Hugh Poulet and John Harington, to
inspect and report upon the state of the garrisons at Boulogne,
Calais, and Newhaven, the number of men in service, the state of
the finances, and the stowage of provisions and ammunition. [Thirteen pages. Autograph of Petre.] |
Feb. 14.
Boulogne. |
29. Lord Grey, Sir Hugh Poulet, and Sir John Harington, to the
Council. Incloses a statement of the present number of men,
remain of victuals, and quantity of stowage in the forts (missing).
The bearer, John Hornyold, will declare what seems sufficient until
the end of June next. In all the pieces there is scarcely sufficient
stowage to receive what is requisite for four months; yet Lord
Grey trusts to make shift for the stowage of such quantity when it
arrives. But if they intend to send any larger mass of victuals to
remain, new houses must be erected and others well repaired. Such
repairs may be most conveniently employed on the palace and Our
Lady's church in High Boulogne, there being already fair cellars
and the wall of the houses standing. The timber-work necessary
for these repairs should be framed in England and sent hither,
otherwise it seems hard to devise how the same may be well holpen.
[One page.] |
Feb. 14.
Blackness. |
30. Sir Richard Cavendish to William Lord St. John, Great
Master of the Household. Acknowledges his letter of the 7th, in
which he intimates intention to relieve their want of victuals.
Will prepare stowage for the same. Sends schedule of ordnance,
munition, and other necessaries required (missing), for "this piece
most needful to be remembered, but now most in oblivion." [One
page.] |
Feb. 15.
Calais. |
31. Lord Cobham to the Lord Protector and Council. Has this
day received from the Captain of Ardres the letter of which copy
is inclosed. Although since the proclamation of peace there has
been permitted free and open passage of beer between the two
places for the more speedy utterance of his Majesty's malt here as
usual before the wars, yet has thought proper to defer his answer
until certified of their Lordships' pleasure. As the grain in question
has not yet arrived, and they are now occupied in setting forth
jousts and other exercises of arms, as are here intended on Sunday,
Monday, and Tuesday next, he has desired the messenger to spare
his answer until these triumphs be past, trusting in the meantime
to know their pleasure. [One page.] Incloses, |
|
31. I. M. Blerencourt to the Lord Deputy at Calais. Ardres,
Feb. 15. As barley and oats are fetching a very low
price where his rents are payable, and bring a good one
here, he has caused 500 or 600 cestiers of Paris measure
to be brought to Montreuil; and as it will cost him a
considerable sum to bring them hither by waggon, requests to be permitted to have them conveyed by Calais.
Will be glad to reciprocate the like favour. [Half a
page. French.] |
Feb. 15.
Calais. |
32. Lord Cobham to Sir William Paget. Has received his letter
in favour of Hugh Smith, who arrived yesterday with the men
whom he had levied, and will show him as much favour and preferment in his business as he can. As on Sunday, Monday, and
Tuesday next, they have appointed triumphs to be made at the
tilt, tourney, and barriers, in honour of his Majesty's coronation,
and also have determined in consideration thereof to make fires, and
set abroad in the market certain hogsheads of wine and beer to be
drunken and spent by the commonalty, he will remain to see things
accomplished and then cross over. Thanks him for procuring his
licence to go to England; looks for his answer touching the Frenchman St. Ligiers, and hopes ere this he has received his last of
herrings. [One page.] |
Feb. 15.
Boulogne. |
33. Sir Hugh Poulet and Sir John Harington to the Lord Protector and Council. They have not yet been to Newhaven and
Blackness, but knowing their Lordships' anxiety for speedy information as to the number of men and quality of provisions and
stowage, send herewith by John Hornyold the particulars relating
to the pieces here. They have written to Lord Stourton and Sir
Richard Cavendish for certificates as to these matters in Newhaven
and Blackness, which they also transmit. Will proceed to these
places to-day and return hither to-morrow. [One page.] |
Feb. 15.
Boulogne. |
34. Sir Hugh Poulet to Sir William Paget. Sends the respective
certificates by the bearer, John Hornyold, for whom he desires
Paget's help in the obtaining of the office of Auditor of Calais,
which he merits by his honest demeanour in the same. Hopes that
Harington and he will soon be able to discharge their commission
here and to return. [One page.] |
Feb. 16.
Calais. |
35. Lord Cobham and the Council at Calais to the Lord Protector
and Council. Have received their letters by Hugh Smith, who
brought with him 278 men; of whom some were levied in London,
some by the way, and others after his arrival here. Of these they
have taken certain notes that his Majesty may not be deceived.
And whereas their Lordships had appointed that of the 300 men to
be levied by Smith, 100 shall be hagbutters, at the wages of eightpence per diem, they finding their own weapons and powder; in
their poor opinion the increase of wages to hagbutters will not
only be a great hindrance and decay to the archery of the nation,
since all men covet the highest pay, but will be a mean, as they
have found by experience, that the able and tall men who receive
for other weapons only sixpence a day shall be greatly discouraged,
when they see such weak personages entertained for the harquebuse,
as besides that weapon are apt nor meet for any other service of
war, and yet very few of them skilful and expert of that weapon.
Hugh Smith is appointed to the command of 200 of the men; the
other 100 are placed under the leading of Robert Coningsby, and
all are placed in the East pale here. They are all unarmed, having
no weapons but swords. The Treasurer has directed Smith within
two days to furnish a statement of his expenditure of the 200l.
received from their Lordships. On the 6th, 73 more soldiers arrived
from Kent, all of whom, except 15 or 16, were reasonably armed
with bills and bows. These have been placed in the town of
Guisnes. [One page and a quarter.] |
Feb. 16.
Calais. |
36. Lord Cobham and Sir Edward Wotton to the same.
In reference to their inquiry whether he the Deputy had abated
any part of the old entertainment of his espial of Corbie, informs
them, that in the last wars he and his two men being always
accounted part of the band of Coclo Albanois, captain of horse, were
allowed for all three 30 crowns per mensem, reckoning 30 days to
each month, which the men thought very small payment. Nevertheless, since the end of the wars, not only has such payment been
stopped, but all kinds of foreign coins are so enhanced that the
crown of the sun cannot be had here under six shillings and twopence, and the double ducat under twelve shillings and eightpence
of English groats; so that were his old entertainment continued, his
loss in the exchange of one month's wages would extend almost to
the fourth part of the whole month's pay. The man travels to the
French Court, which, according to the prices of all things now, is
no little charge to him, and as their Lordships now understand his
case they will please determine for him as seems meet. [One page.] |
Feb. 16.
Calais. |
37. Lord Cobham to the Lord Protector. Taking occasion of
certain wrongs done by the Captain of Gravelines to some of his
Majesty's subjects here, had written by a discreet messenger to
M. de Rieulx for redress, but principally with a view to ascertain
the state of affairs between the Imperialists and the French. Sends
copy of De Rieulx's reply, and on his arrival in England, which will
be immediately after the triumphs, will relate all that passed
between his messenger and De Rieulx. It would be too long for
detail herein, as the interview had lasted above four hours. [One
page.] |
Feb. 15.
Boulogne. |
38. Lord Grey to Sir William Paget. As it is right necessary to
have here a pothecary for the making and ministering of such
medicines as the physician, Doctor Martin, shall appoint to the
patient, and as such ought to be a man of experience and honesty,
whereof they have a great lack, and can have none such without
some allowance of stipend or wages, requests that he will not only
provide a reasonable sum for such payment, but will procure the
appointment of a suitable individual, as they have no man in this
town convenable for the same. [Half a page.] |
Feb. 18.
Boulogne. |
39. Lord Stourton, Sir Hugh Poulet, and Sir John Harington,
to the Lord Protector and Council. The wall about the fort of
Newhaven is raised to the full height of 10 feet, except one part
40 feet in length, fallen out this winter, and now ready to be completed in 15 days, which shall be turfed upward to the top of the
height of 12 feet above the wall. The mason work required rests
chiefly upon the perfecting of four flanks and the gate to the fort
(whereto the drawbridge is almost ready), and about the cellars
and the walls for the stowage-houses to be made there. The great
earthwork to be done rests chiefly upon the raising of the west
and north-west bulwarks and curtains of that side, which are in
hand, and the cleansing of the ditch about the piece to the depth
assigned shall follow. The turfing of the bulwarks and curtains
shall be proceeded with as fast as the scarcity of carriages for
bringing the turfs will allow. The surveyor, Mr. Rogers, has
apportioned the labourers and soldiers to the works in such numbers
as the inclosed schedule (missing) will show, so that he trusts the
flankers, bulwarks, and curtains will shortly be in good state of
defence; and, if it meets with their pleasure, he intends to send for
200 labourers more, for the better and more rapid completion of the
works. A forced vamure is also set in hand about the fort, which
shall be done by ten labourers assigned to Lord Stourton, without
let of the other works. As there are no mills and little stowage
for provisions and beer of strength able to last three or four months,
they think the seck should be the most convenient store for the fort.
The state of the artillery and munition, with what is wanted in
that department, will be seen by the inclosure (missing). Two
carriages require to be provided for him who has the order of the
victualling, for conveyance of the provisions from the haven to the
fort, as at present they require to use the carriages employed on
the works, which not only hinders operations but often delays the
unloading of the vessels for want of convenient vehicles. For the
better order of the soldiers, desire that constables and vintners may
be assigned to the numbers of the garrison in same manner as at
Calais. [Two pages.] |
Feb. 18.
Boulogne. |
40. Lord Stourton, Sir Hugh Poulet, and Sir John Harington,
to the Lord Protector and Council. In terms very similar to the
preceding. Blackness stands in the same point as when the Protector left. No part of the wall about the fort is commenced; more
labourers are required; meanwhile the masons are busy hewing
stones for the cellars and places of stowage. Sir Richard Cavendish
has been prevented by sickness from being here to-day, so the letter
goes without his signature. [Three pages.] |
Feb. 21.
Boulogne. |
41. Edward Dudley to Sir William Paget. Returns thanks for
the preferment of his lieutenant and gentleman-porter, as it is a
great encouragement to them and all others in his service. The
surveyor has staked out the Young Man, and intends to proceed
with the building, but as carriages are very scarce here for lack of
money, Dudley has disbursed some part of his wages for furnishing
them in order to the more speedy building of the fort, which shall
cost his Majesty as little as anything on this side of the sea. His
own soldiers shall labour at it, and he hopes they may be allowed
a groat a day as other soldiers. For his own money he shall be
contented to forbear to the uttermost he can; and if he had the
same that others have, would willingly spend a good part on
building this fort, which is so necessary for defence of the base
town. The Council having staid the work for lack of pioneers, his
own men shall supply the place of pioneers, but he must require
masons and other craftsmen, which may be the better spared, since
for lack of carriages they cannot work elsewhere. Requests the
Council's letter to the surveyor to go in hand with the works as
shown on the plot sent herewith (missing), and the letter of the
surveyor conveyed by same bearer. [One page.] |
Feb. 21.
Boulogne. |
42. John Rogers (surveyor of Boulogne) to same. Has traced
or staked forth a little castle within the Young Man, as he thinks
very fit for the place. Wishes to know if it may be gone in hand
withal, as Mr. Dudley is not a little fain thereof. Has sent by
the bearer a plot on the scale of one inch to 10 feet. The one
point stands directly to the hill on which is the windmill, the other
point to the French fort; the gate opens right towards Bas Boulogne. Dudley has promised that his own men shall dig the
cellars and foundations, and his own carts carry their stuff thereto.
Though the plot seem tedious to do, yet will it lightly be made and
without great charge; neither shall it let any other work. Would
have sent a statement of all the other works which he has in hand,
had they not been recently surveyed and reported on by the
Commissioners. [One page.] |
Feb. 23.
Calais. |
43. Sir John Wallop to the Lord Protector. Yesterday received
a letter from the Captain of Ardres, complaining that certain wood
had been cut in the forest of Fiennes, that belongs to the county of
Guisnes, for the Bailiff and Henry Spruce. Has replied that if any
wood has been cut there it was not by his orders, and he has
nothing to do therewith; but all the woods that belong to his
Majesty's conquest are under the control of Godolphin, to whom all
letters on the subject should be addressed. Prior to the late King's
death had received a similar letter from Blerencourt, and returned
a like reply, of which, as Paget wrote to him, his Majesty took very
well, and farther stated that his Majesty had taken order with
Godolphin what answer he should make. But as he again complains, is in doubt whether such answer was received. Awaits
orders thereon. The triumphs were as follows:—On Sunday was
running at the tilt with 30 men of arms, all English (except one
Burgundian, a gentleman of St. Omer, named Gomer), of whom
three were challengers, and the rest defenders, divided into two
bands,—the one being commanded by the Marshal and the other by
the Comptroller,—very well appointed and right well horsed. On
Monday the same number tournayed; the rest were two Burgundians well horsed for that purpose. On Tuesday was fighting at
barriers, as well with the push of the pike as with the combat of
swords. Never in his time did he see at Calais so goodly a band
and so many do well in all these feats, whereat the strangers gave
great praise to them. There were of Burgundian gentlemen a good
number, but of French only four or five, of whom three were of
Tyrwin [Terouanne]. These strangers were all honourably entertained by the Lord Deputy and the rest of the Council, with much
banquetting, interludes, and masks, to their great content; and the
Burgundian Gomer had the prize for the tournay, which he
deserved very well, and in all his other doings showed himself a
good man of arms. He that encountered him showed himself his
full match, one of the towardest men in all three feats that Wallop
has seen for many years, named Highfield, a young man and one of the
three challengers. Of the other two, one was son of Lord Brooke,
who showed himself right rough and courageous in all three; and
the third was Jerningham, who behaved like a man of experience
and one well acquainted therewith. Hears that many ships are
coming to the French out of Brittany, and that preparations for
stowage of corn are being made at Montreuil, Hesdin, and Terouanne, where for lack of sufficient granaries they occupy cellars
with separations. Requests that he may be continued in such
authority at Guisnes as he has hitherto been, with power of
appointing captains where none are appointed by the Protector and
Council, in such manner as Mr. Gage [Sir John] can tell him has
been usual. [Three pages.] |
Feb. 23.
The Old Man. |
44. Sir Thomas Palmer to Sir William Paget. When at Mr.
Herbert's last year his late Majesty granted his suit to have in
exchange other lands for those belonging to the dissolved college
of South Malling, and farther understanding the hard bargain
which he had made in the purchase, considering it was intended
that he should have 50l. lands by the year of free gift, had said
there should be a farther amends besides made to him at his next
return, as at the time both Paget and and the Chancellor of Augmentations were informed. At that said last return he was pre
vented by want of time from moving the suit farther; wherefore
begs Paget's assistance therein. The king shall be no loser, and he
a gainer of some commodity. Has written to the Lord Protector
and the Lord Chancellor to the like effect. Has nothing to stick to
assuredly but this college, and would therefore gladly frame it so
as he might hereafter have some poor living where he shall be
unable peradventure to serve abroad. His living in England is
very small, considering the pensions which he pays out of his land,
and these to people likely to live as long as himself, and his husbandry has not been such as has any whit enlarged it. [One page
and a quarter.] |
| Eod. die. |
45. Sir Thomas Palmer to the Lord Protector. On the same subject and in nearly similar terms, beseeching his Grace "who has been
the founder of his beginning and furtherer hitherto in all his causes,"
to help him in his suit, as unless he does so he sees it "wholly
quailed and out of hope." The rent of Malling is not raised, neither
lease granted nor house spoiled, though it is true that he finds a
few more spiritualities in it than his Abbot requires. [One page
and a half.] |
| Eod. die. |
46. The same to the Lord Chancellor. On the same subject and
in like style. [One page and a quarter.] |
Feb. 24.
Boulogne. |
47. Sir Hugh Poulet and Sir John Harington to the Lord Protector.
On Monday last they were at Newhaven and proceeded in the
evening to Blackness. The works, considering the number of labourers
employed, go on well; and the fort of Newhaven rises to good perfection of strength. Since reporting on the state of Blackness there have
been 200 labourers and soldiers employed at work upon the northwest bulwark, which was the place most deficient in height, and an
increase of other 200 workmen immediately would bring it to
good point of defence, before the enemy could well be in the
field to annoy it, although Sir Richard Cavendish still thinks 400
necessary. Until, however, the tedious conveyance of victuals
can be relieved, they think the smaller number of men enough; and
that the fort should be completed for the protection of the haven,
prior to any steps being taken for the exercise of feats of arms and
other pleasant pastimes set forth in honour of the triumphant feast
of his Majesty's coronation. Think that their abode here five or
six days longer will suffice for their duties. [Two pages.] Inclosing, |
|
47. Proceedings in honour of the coronation, as follows:— |
|
"First, six of the men at arms of this town, viz.: Richard
Jerningham, Richard Eldersham, Thomas Wood, David
Cornwall, Hamond Upton, and William Griesby did
challenge all comers at the ring (for lack of a tilt), the
tourney and barriers to be executed upon Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday last past; whereof warning was given
by the trumpet in time as appertaineth thereto. |
|
"Item. Henry Dudley captain of the Guards, to enlarge the
same triumph, devised to run at random with every of
the challengers and to assay the thing what they could do.
Dudley and Jerningham the Thursday before met in the
field in their hosting harness and ran the one against the
other with coronet staves, and at the second counter met
so freely that both went to the ground, their harness flying about the field and their horses astonied, but (thanks to
God) without hurt both leaped on horseback again and
brake sundry staves very honestly. |
|
"Item. For the better shewing of the feats there was a large
pound beside the Old Man railed in, and the challengers'
tents and holes pitched near thereunto, and a forced house
well garnished to feast all comers, where the Lord Deputy
and the Council kept three long tables furnished every of
the said three days for all gentlemen that would repair
thither. |
|
"Item. Upon Saturday the challengers came into the field guided
by Mr. Crofts, Under Marshal, their padrino, accompanied
with divers gentlemen, having their shields set forth with
pretty and sundry devices; every of the said challengers
in his colour of silk apart for knowledge of the one from
the other, with the trappings of their houses suitable to
the same; and being brought to the field with sound of
trumpets, their shields were set upon sundry trees pight
there for that purpose. |
|
"Item. Upon Sunday after the Lord Deputy had dined in the
field, being accompanied with the ladies and gentlemen
of the town, and with divers captains and gentlemen of
the French fort, besides those of the garrison, came in the
defendants conducted by Sir John Bridges, High Marshal,
their padrino and divers other gentlemen, in two sundry
bands, the one being six gentlemen, like Turks, and after
them eighteen other men at arms, all well mounted, well
armed, and well set forth in silk with their colours and
devices, both men and horses. |
|
"Item. The Lord Deputy placed himself with the Council,
strangers, and gentlewomen upon a scaffold made for that
purpose, to behold and judge every man his doings. |
|
"Item. After sundry courses in the ring came in Henry Dudley
out of the Old Man, accompanied with Sir Henry and
Sir Thomas Palmer, his padrino, and twelve other gentlemen, all in silk of one suit, carrying every of them a
staff garnished with colours, and so passed round about
the field. |
|
"Item. The challengers ran with every defender three courses at
the ring, which was of all parties very well handled;
but Richard Jerningham had the prize, which was a
goodly plume of feathers. Then came in Henry Dudley
(who also in his three closes had before right well handled
himself in the ring) and broke a staff with every of the
challengers, which was on every part well done, but Henry
Dudley there did most notably. |
|
"Item. The next day was the tourney on horseback, which was
wonderfully well foughten, Sir Henry and Sir Thomas
Palmer, Mr. Poynings, and Mr. Arnold being appointed
to be sticklers, and to see all things indifferently used.
There were few or none departed till their swords or
armour brake or failed. Most men said they never saw
a more brave tourney. There was one of the challengers'
horses overthrown with a shock, as it happened, but yet
recovered again without forsaking the saddle; and in
likewise a defendant overthrown with plain force by
Richard Jerningham, whereby he had the prize, which
was a curtilashe. |
|
"Item. On Monday, at night, there was a request made to the
Lord Deputy, that where there had been justs challenged
upon the land that it might please his Lordship to grant
to six Flemings to challenge all comers that would just
on the water the next day in the mole of the haven at full
sea, which was granted; and the Fleming sounded the
drum against all Englishmen and Frenchmen. The
time came, and the Fleming in his boat with a drum and
a lance on his thigh after the manner, one poor Englishmen had gotten a boat, and having a lance in his hands
met once and failed; the second time the Fleming lost his
spear; the third time the Englishman overthrew the
Fleming into the water, who was in danger of drowning. |
|
"And after that the said challenge waxed cold, the Lord Deputy
with the rest went to the aforenamed place, where the feat of
arms at the barriers was lustily handled on either part,
but in conclusion the prize of that feat was given to
Eldersham, which was a fair sword and a dagger. |
|
"Item. That Tuesday, at night, the foresaid Mr. Crofts, padrino
of the challengers, did come with them to the Lord
Deputy's house in a very fair mask, all suited in pilgrims'
apparel of black velvet, and so ended these honourable
pastimes. |
|
"Item. There are twelve gentlemen, captains of this garrison, which
have challenged all comers at the just of the pike; and
that challenge is appointed to be answered with a like
number of gentlemen on Sunday next coming." [Three
pages.] |
Feb. 26.
Calais. |
48. Lord Cobham to Sir William Paget. Has apprised the Lord
Admiral that a Portuguese ship yesterday ran aground at Sandgate,
and the merchants and mariners forsaking her escaped to land. John
Neale of this town being fishing thereabouts made for the wreck and
brought from it hither 72 loaves of white sugar and eight broken
loaves, 78 loaves of black sugar and three broken loaves, also four
bales of white soap. These remain in the custody of Edward May,
Lieutenant of the castle here, for better preservation, being somewhat drenched with salt water. Has given commands to the
Bailiff of Sandgate, the Lord Admiral's deputy, to look diligently
to the safe keeping of the rest of the goods, which are esteemed of
great value, among them being a good proportion of sweet wines,
until his Lordship's pleasure is known. Requests him to be a mean
with the Admiral to send instructions connected herewith to the
Treasurer and Lieutenant. [One page.] |
Feb. 27.
Boulogne. |
49. John Merbury to the Lord Protector and the Council. Having
been appointed, after the departure of Sir Thomas Moyle and the
Commissioners of the limits in the Boulognois, to make surveys, he
has done the same; but there being considerable uncertainty regarding the parishes of Bursin, Hardynham, Nabringheyn, with the
chapel of Colennbarge, and a part of Fiennes, requests to have their
advice thereon, as many English and Picards much desire to take
leases of the King's part of the lands. A speedy answer is necessary, because the time for tilling and otherwise occupying the land is
near. Wishes to know whether he shall make a statement to the
Auditor here of the half-year's rent due to his Majesty at the feast
of the Annunciation of our Lady next ensuing for the high and
base towns of Boulogne, and such other lands as are presently let
in the Boulognois and its marches, in order that he may appoint for
the collecting of the said rents. [One page.] |
Feb. 28.
Calais. |
50. Sir Edward Wotton to the same. All the works and provisions for the same, with the crews here, remain unpaid from
Michaelmas last till now, with the exception of sundry prests and
payments as he has in the interval paid out of money received
from the surveyors of victuals, seeing he has received no money from
England since Michaelmas aforesaid. Therefore sends a declaration
of the money due, amounting to 2,670l. 2s. 8d., requesting that it
may be sent by the bearer, Hugh Counsell, as the people are urgent
for payment. Many necessary works require to be done in the
spring, which, though they will cost much, must be executed, or
else greater inconvenience is like to ensue. These the Surveyor
will declare. Wherefore they had better send at least 1,000l. more
than the sum specified in the declaration, to prevent his too often
troubling them with the unthankful request of money. [Two pages.]
Inclosing, |
|
50. I. Declaration above referred to; in which it is to be
noticed that the salary of each "poticary" is exactly the
half of that paid to the captain of the company to which
he is attached. [Broadside.] |
Feb. 28.
Boulogne. |
51. John Merbury to Sir William Paget. Requests to know his
Majesty's pleasure on the points of limits and rents mentioned in
his letter to the Protector and Council. Also that he may have
permission to go to England when he has taken order on the premises, seeing, as he mentioned when Paget dispatched him hither,
the time was so short that that little which God has lent him being
sparkled in divers places, he had no time to take order therewith,
and since then his travail has been daily such in his Majesty's
service that before now he could find no time requisite to make suit
for the same. [One page.] |
