|
| May 16. |
2188. Advertisement of the Conflict in Scotland. |
|
The Queen's number was 6,000. The Earl of Argyll her
lieutenant general. The company of the Lords was 4,000.
The Hamiltons had the vanguard. Both companies strove
for a hill side. Their meeting was at a strait passage
through a village. The fight lasted three-quarters of an hour
till the Queen's party gave way. At the beginning of the
chase Murray required all his to spare shedding more blood.
The Queen beheld this conflict within half a mile, standing
upon a hill. The number of slain is six or seven score besides
those who have died since, and 300 of the Queen's side taken
prisoners. Gives the names of the principal prisoners and
slain. Of the Lords' side never a man of name slain, but
divers sore hurt. The Earl of Argyll as they were joining
for fault of courage swooned. Divers were taken and not
brought in, for there was father against son, and brother
against brother. After the fight had long continued a gentleman of the Highlands called Macfarlane, who not twenty days
before was condemned to die, yet at the suit of the Countess
of Murray had his pardon, and was accompanied with 200
of his countrymen, came in and executed great slaughter.
Hamilton Castle has been yielded to the Earl of Murray.
The Laird of Grange had charge of the horsemen of the
Lords' part, who that day played his part. Gives a list of
the noblemen with the Queen. On the day that the Earl of
Murray went to receive the castle of Hamilton certain of his
horsemen ran a foray and took many nags, which he caused
to be delivered up again.
Endd. Pp. 4. |
| May 16. |
2189. The Queen to Sir Henry Norris. |
|
Whereas by her last she willed him to impart to the French
King how she was informed of the preparation of ships as
she took it into Scotland; not long after the writing of the
same, the Queen of Scots escaped out of Lochleven by means
of one George Douglas and was conveyed to the castle of
Hamilton, from whence she has sent John Beaton both to her
and to the French King to demand aid of men and money to
recover her estate. Has answered that she was glad she was
at liberty and meant to give her aid, but could not like that
any foreign force should enter Scotland. Norris is to repair
to the King and declare her meaning and doings, and to
require him to forbear sending any power of men of war to
Scotland.
Draft in Cecil's writing. Endd. Pp. 4. |
| May 17. |
2190. Sir Henry Norris to the Privy Council. |
|
Has received their letter of the 27th April concerning a
depredation done by the French upon a ship of certain
merchants of Bristol coming from Lisbon; and mentions the
steps which he has taken thereon.—Paris, 17 May 1568.
Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. P. 1. |
| May 17. |
2191. Sir Henry Norris to Cecil. |
|
1. The sudden news of the Queen of Scotland's escape has
caused no small expectation of the motions likely to ensue
in those parts. If it be true it will be a means to cause the
house of Lorraine to proceed with greater lenity against the
Protestants; that in less offending them he may the sooner
draw some forces hence to aid his niece. Cannot hear of any
preparation that way. Great watches are kept nightly, and
the searches of Protestants' houses with the inquisition of
their faith still continues. On the 15th inst. certain nobles
of the Court have made promise to the King to answer for
all such gentlemen and others of their retinue to be of the
Romish sect. It is thought that others abroad shall be
required to do the like. |
|
2. The Queen Mother is now well recovered. If she had
died this Court had stood in perilous state, the Cardinal of
Lorraine hoping to have usurped the tuition of the French
King. The Duke of Aumale and divers of that company were
in the night suddenly with their forces arrived here. The
Prince of Conde and the others are at their houses. Has
obtained the King's letters with express commandment to the
judge of Nantes to do speedy justice to the merchants of
Bristol.—Paris, 17 May 1568. Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. Pp. 2. |
| May 17. |
2192. Dr. Man to the Queen. |
|
Has so dealt with sundry of the Council that the allegations of her subjects trafficing to Vigo were well liked and
the contrary part dismissed hence, such as sued to straiten
their trade to the King's ports of Bayonne or Corunna. Has
also dealt with the King to suppress certain slanderous
histories.—Barajas, 17 May 1568. Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. P. 1. |
| May 17. |
2193. Dr. Man to Cecil. |
|
Has received the Queen's letters of the 6th April in favour of
certain her subjects trafficers unto Vigo. Has dealt by means
of some of the King's Council touching the calling in of certain
histories published commonly sold and read here in the
Spanish tongue authorised by the King's privilege; in sundry
parts whereof the Queen, her father and mother, and the
realm of England be exceedingly ignominously, falsely, and
slanderously infamed to the world. The King sent word that
he was very sorry, and that the history shall be shortly new
printed at Salamanca, at which time he will give special
order that all such indecent reports and points impertinent
shall be left out in the new impression. Upon this Man sent
again and besought him not to pass it over so slightly, for
that the Queen could not be answered to her satisfaction
with the leaving out of these slanderous places in the new
impression, unless he shall withal give order for the calling
in and utter extinguishment of all the books entitled
"Historia Pontificall y Catholica" which be already printed;
setting a strait penalty upon all his subjects or others who
shall hereafter sell, read, or keep any of the said books, and
to command the like punishment to be executed upon the
author of the said slanders, as Her Majesty would execute
upon any person who durst attempt the like against the
the King in her dominions. Is better lodged here, but much
more chargeable.—Barajas, 17 May 1568. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 2. |
| [May 17.] |
2194. Historia Pontifical y Catholica. |
|
Three extracts out of the above work reflecting on the
chastity of Queen Elizabeth and her mother, and stating that
Luther and his friend Henry VIII. had both gone to hell
within eight days of one another.
Endd. by Cecil: Sent by Mr. Man. Span. P. ½. |
| May 17. |
2195. The Queen to Mary Queen of Scots. |
|
Congratulates her on her escape, and sends the bearer to
declare her counsel in certain matters which touch her in
estate and honour. If Mary had had as much regard to
honour as she had respect for an unhappy villain, every one
would have condoled with her misfortunes, as to speak
plainly not very many have. Desires her to listen to the
bearer, who will explain to her that those who have two
strings to their bow may shoot strongly, but rarely straight.
—Greenwich, 17 May.
Endd. P. 1. |
| May 17. |
2196. Sir William Drury to Cecil. |
|
Having now one of the persons whom he sent to Glasgow,
he sends up this bearer the Under Marshall with the report
of the whole proceedings. On the 15th he received the Lords
of the Privy Council's letters touching his conference with
the opposite Wardens of Scotland for the punishment of
malefactors. Requires some certainty for his entertainment
here, for the use of these charges, and in Scotland for intelligence. The bearer has been in the country these six months
and met with divers adventures; within these eight days he
with five others met twelve Scotchmen within the English
ground furnished everyone with a good spear, who were forced
to yield.—Berwick, 17 May 1568. Signed. |
|
2. P.S.—The Earl of Murray minds to assemble a new
force and go seek the Queen; and shortly afterwards to call
a parliament.
Add. Endd. Pp. 2. |
| May 18. |
2197. Sir John Forster to Cecil. |
|
Has received answer for Tividale which he sends herewith.
For the news of Scotland there are so many lies that he
dare not write thereof. Sends another letter written by the
man who wrote the first, wherein he shall perceive what
difference there is between them.—Alnwick, 18 May 1568.
Signed.
Add. Endd. P. ½. |
| May 17. |
2198. Thomas Kerr of Ferniehurst to Sir John Forster. |
|
Assures him that he and the dwellers within his heritage
will make no misorder; and desires him to appoint a place
and time for their meeting.—Ferniehurst, 17 May. Signed.
Add. P. ½. Enclosure. |
| May 18. |
2199. Richard Lowther to Forster. |
|
On Sunday last about six at night the Queen of Scotland
accompanied with the Lords Fleming, Seton, and Livingston,
with a few others arrived at Workington. Yesterday he
made his repair thither to receive Her Highness, whom he
found at Cockermouth, where she stayed all night; and this
day he has conducted her to this city and lodged her in the
castle, and the noblemen and others who came with her in
the city abroad. Also the French Ambassador is this way
returned forth of Scotland, and presently here.—Carlisle, 18
May 1568. Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. P. ½. |
| May 18. |
2200. Walter Kerr of Cessford to Forster. |
|
Whereas it was appointed that they should meet on the
21st inst., he is sent for by the Regent and cannot keep the
said meeting, but will not fail to meet him that day twenty
days.—Halidon, 18 May. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. ½. |
| May 18. |
2201. The Queen to the Earl of Murray. |
|
Laments the divisions in Scotland, and is desirous that a
good accord may be made, and that no foreign force might
be brought in. Has sent the bearer Thomas Leighton with
letters to the Queen. Requires him to give speedy answer
to such things as he shall declare; so that she may understand and proceed to do that which she sincerely means for
the tranquility of that realm.
Copy, in Cecil's writing. Endd. P. 1. |
|
2202. Fair copy.—Greenwich, 18 May 1568.
Endd. by Cecil. P. 1. |
| May 18. |
2203. Instructions for Mr. Leighton. |
|
He is to go to the Queen of Scots and express her rejoicing
for her delivery out of captivity. Has determined to understand her state and to charge her subjects to submit themselves to her, and if they will not conform thereto to let them
plainly understand that for her part the Queen should not
want for assistance. Sends him to understand whether she
will be content to stand to her order without soliciting foreign
power from France, which if she will do, and if her subjects
will not yield to reason by persuasion, she will give her such
aid as shall be requisite to compel them. If the Queen shall
like this manner of proceeding he is to offer to resort to the
contrary party and to understand whether they will be
content to be advised by her, which if they will, she will
speedily send some honourable person into the realm to treat
between them. And as she shall like hereof he is to repair
to the Earl of Murray, and having delivered her letters of
credence move him and the others combined with him to
compromise the whole controversy to her. He is also to
show the Queen of Scots the causes why she specially requires to deal in this matter: The first because she is next
in blood and neighbourhood. The second because she is
meetest to do it for the opinion she has of her subjects that
either they will be advised by her, or compelled by reason
of her nearness. The last is she sees evidently that if the
Queen being offered her aid, will solicit the aid of France and
bring men of war into Scotland, she must needs conclude the
principal intention will be to renew old troubles. If she
refuse he is to say, that the Queen of England is very sorry
for that she shall be moved to alter her mind contrary to her
natural desire.
Draft, in Cecil's writing. Endd. Pp. 3. |
|
2204. Fair copy.
Endd. Pp. 2. |
| May 18. |
2205. M. De Bosel to Cecil. |
|
Desires that he will obtain an answer to the letter which
he brought to the Queen from the Count Hoogstraten and
other friends and relations of the Counts Egmont and Horn,
and also that he will favourably recommend the said Counts
to her.—London, 18 May 1568. Signed.
Endd. Fr. Pp. 1½. |
| May 19. |
2206. Sir William Drury to Cecil. |
|
The Queen of Scots if the Earl of Murray's power draw
anything towards her where she now is at Treves that stands
in a Loch in Galloway minds to draw into England. Murray
has returned to Edinburgh bringing the best of the prisoners.
His return is to refresh his people, and to see execution and
justice on certain of those whom he has in his hands. Divers
requests have been made to Drury to receive some of those
who have escaped.—Berwick, 19 May 1568. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. ¾. |
| [May 19.] |
2207. Loan to the Muscovy Merchants. |
|
Calculation of the interest on 4,000l. and portions of the
same lent to the Muscovy merchants; amounting at 12 per
cent. to 880l. and at 13 to 953l. 6s. 8d.
Rough notes. Endd. by Cecil. P. 1. |
| [May 19.] |
2208. Contract for Cables. |
|
Calculation of the gain made by the Muscovy Merchants
on a contract of 4,000l. for the supply of cables.
P. ¾. |
| May 19. |
2209. Articles between the Queen and the Muscovy
Company. |
|
Contract with the said merchants for the delivery of cables,
hawsers, cordage, and other tackle at Deptford dockyard to
the value of 4,000l. 8s. 10d.
Endd. by Cecil. Pp. 2¾. |
| May 20. |
2210. The Spanish Ambassador to Cecil. |
|
The sureties of Louis Thierin have been summoned before
the judges delegated to investigate the matter of the spoil
committed on him, in order that they may be made to pay
the costs of the suit. Unless the Queen interferes the said
Louis in addition to what has been taken from him by force
will lose the rest of his goods.— Signed.
Add. Endd.: 20 May 1568. Lat. P. ½. |
| May 20. |
2211. Humfrey Lock and John Fenton to Cecil. |
|
1. Complain of the greedy covetousness of the Company in
England and the evil behaviour of the factors in Russland.
Are brought into the briars and there tied fast as sheep among
brambles, being of their own countrymen slandered and belied.
The Russes are made to believe by their means Her Highness
to be a deceiving and dissembling prince, in that she sent
worthily commended such as in her realm were the very
outcasts of all, and there not so able to live as to have to
their backs any good garment, who were apparelled to come
before the Emperor by the merchants upon credit. Carried
himself out of England 40 marks worth of apparel, and the
rest came not naked, but Mr. Jenkinson having a great deal
of paltry apparel provoked men to buy it. The prodigality
of the merchants is such that they cannot abide any artificers
to have estimation but to be altogether under their commandments. Complain of their unreasonable prices which fond
dealing brings them nought of credit, for other men perceiving
their folly offer to serve the Prince of all such wares as come
out of England a third part better cheap than he is served
at the merchants' hands. The merchants are here esteemed
as most greedy cormorants. |
|
2. Are sorry that Cecil is one of the voyage, for where
in three or four years he gains one hundred pounds he sells
for the same in one year one thousand pounds worth of
honour. They poor artificers have been bought and sold
already. Anthony Jenkinson got 800 roubles, but this and
other doings if ever he come to Russland will cost him his head. |
|
3. Have devised a way of making more salt in one week
than there was made in two with the burning of less wood in
two weeks than they burnt in one. Wish they were out of
Russland.—From the city of the Moscove, 20 May 1568. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 4¾. |
| May 20. |
2212. Sir William Drury to Cecil. |
|
The Earl of Murray has returned to Edinburgh and bestowed the chief prisoners in the castle, and made proclamation yesterday that the 10th prox. all persons to be in readiness in warlike manner with fifteen days' victual. Blackness
is rendered to him. They of Dumbarton have run a foray
and got a good prey. Sends notes of such as were favourers
of the Queen, and such as were slain or taken.—Berwick, 20
May 1568. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 1¼. |
| May 20. |
2213. Sir John Forster to Cecil. |
|
Sends the whole doing of these troubles in Scotland to him.
The Regent minds to raise great power and go towards
Lord Herries on the 10th of June; so that it were good that
some more regard were had for their frontiers. Desires to
know the Queen's pleasure for his dealing in these matters;
for upon knowledge thereof he trusts to work Liddlesdale and
many others of that Border to stand the Queen in stead in
anything she will use them for. In the meantime will put
off with fair words such as would deal in that matter.—
Alnwick, 20 May 1568. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. 1. |
| May 20. |
2214. Richard Lowther to Lord Scrope. |
|
1. Great persuasion was used that the Queen of Scots should
not be lodged in the castle, which he would not suffer to
take place. Letters have arrived from the Privy Council to
the Sheriffs and Justices of Cumberland and Westmorland
directing them not only to see to her honourable entertainment, but also her and her company in safeguard. The Earl
of Northumberland will be here tomorrow; what is his
meaning he knows not, but will have the Queen's custody,
until she shall be removed specially by the Queen of England
or her Council. If there is either honour, commodity, or
praise to be had in presenting her to the Queen, it were good
that Scrope looked to it before another.—Carlisle, 20 May.
Signed. |
|
2. P.S.—Complains of the attachment of certain of his
servants and desires him to obtain a supersedeas. There has
been on all sides great slackness, for though he warned the
country by beacon few gentlemen came forward.
Add. Endd., with seal. Pp. 2. |
| May 20. |
2215. Sir Henry Norris to Cecil. |
|
The Queen of Scots' escape is assuredly taken to be true,
and it was agreed to send a ship laden with artillery, and
munition, and certain money to Dumbarton. The Prince of
Conde makes no abode in any one place, and has sent a
gentleman to the King to require that the Protestants may
safely return to their houses.—Paris, 20 May. Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. Pp. 1½. |
| May 21. |
2216. Nicholas Elphinstone to Cecil. |
|
Has declared to the Regent Cecil's opinion for the quieting
of the present troubles, and also by whose means the invasion was made upon the frontiers of Ireland, it never being
known to him till Elphinstone's return. The matter was
disclosed by a gentleman taken prisoner in the late battle,
one of the Earl of Argyll's friends.—Edinburgh, 21 May
1568. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. 1. |
| May 21. |
2217. Maitland of Lethington to Cecil. |
|
If by the Queen of England's protection they may avoid
the force of foreign nations they see little peril at home; if
she be otherwise disposed it will be no small benefit to deal
plainly with them. The sufficiency of the bearer shall excuse
his shortness.—Edinburgh, 21 May 1568. Signed.
Add. P. 1. |
| May 22. |
2218. John Willock to Cecil. |
|
As he travelled from Loughborough hitherward, he perceived the people in this north who are ignorant of religion
and altogether untaught, much to rejoice at the liberty of the
Queen of Scots, and sundry of them do not let to utter their
good minds towards her. This should be seen to, for that
her wit which may abuse is not unknown to Cecil.—Berwick,
22 May 1568. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. ½. |
| May 22. |
2219. Richard Lowther to Lord Scrope. |
|
Yesterday the Earl of Northumberland arrived, who declared that his repair was for the conducting of the Queen
of Scots, whom Lowther said he might not depart from
without very good authority; whereupon after he had used
some rough words towards him, adding that he was too
mean a man to have such a charge, and that he marvelled
how he durst take it in hand, he desired to speak with
the Queen, whereunto Lowther agreed, and he seemed to be
satisfied, but afterwards sent for him to his lodging, and
upon those letters to the sheriffs and justices demanded the
delivery of the Queen, which Lowther would not do without
a special discharge. Whereupon the Earl growing into some
heat and anger gave him great threatenings, with many evil
words, calling him "varlet," and such others. Trusts that
Scrope will without further craving consider of him.—Carlisle, 22 May 1568. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 1. |
| May 22. |
2220. Sir William Drury to Cecil. |
|
The Earl of Murray yesterday went to Stirling. Before
his departure divers of those taken in the field were arraigned
and condemned, and are returned to the castle. The day of
meeting at the setting forth of the Queen's company, the
French Ambassador came amongst them and exhorted them
to discharge their duties manfully, and promised them rewards
from his master.—Berwick, 22 May 1568. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. 1. |
| May 23. |
2221. Sir Henry Norris to Cecil. |
|
Has received the Queen's and his letters of the 16th inst.
The reason that he did not fulfil his first negotiation was that
the ships had departed for Muscovy that were thought to be
rigged into Scotland. Has received a letter of importance,
which he sends.—Paris, 23 May. Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. P. ½. |
| May 22. |
2222. James Persall to Sir Henry Norris. |
|
On the 18th inst. was a proclamation in Dieppe upon pain
of death that no ships should depart, but all above 60 tons
for to embark artillery and munitions for the service of the
King. They now for certain pretend to take their voyage
into Scotland. Soldiers in great numbers draw towards the
coast. There are not in Dieppe six able ships for no such
thing, and the shipping in other quarters is very small for
such purpose.—Rouen, 22 May 1568. Signed.
P. 1. |
| May 23. |
2223. The Queen to Sir Henry Norris. |
|
The Queen of Scots has had an overthrow and came into
England on the 17th inst. Orders him to signify this to
the French King, and that she has sent persons to attend
upon her, and provide for her all things for her surety; and
that she means speedily to proceed in consideration how she
may reduce her honourably in concord with her subjects.
Is to require the King not to send any force into Scotland.
Incomplete draft in Cecil's writing. Endd. Pp. 1½. |
| May 23. |
2224. Answer to the Ambassador of Portugal. |
|
1. Where he mentions the sending of an ambassador to
the King of Portugal to demand compensation for the sinking
of a vessel and cargo belonging to the brothers Winter, and
the liberation of the crew, who are confined in the fort of
St. George de las Minas; and the King's reply that the crew
should be released, but that compensation could not be
granted as it was a capital offence for the Portuguese even to
trade in those parts where Winter's ship was found; the
Queen does not admit of the King's right to make laws
binding on her subjects, since his are excluded from trading
in no part of her territory. As the injury was inflicted by
the King's soldiers he ought to make compensation. Where
the ambassador demands that John Hawkins shall be tried
and punished, no law, divine or human, will permit this to
be done in his absence. |
|
2. With respect to the two principal requests of the ambassador, first, that the Queen shall prohibit her subjects from
trading on the coast of Guinea on pain of death; and secondly,
that she should pay nearly 60,000 ducats to compensate the
Portuguese for piracies committed on them at different times.
To the first she can only answer as she has done before, that
though she cannot see any just cause for restraining her subjects, still, as the King very earnestly insists upon it, she
will warn her subjects not to traffic in those parts of Ethiopia
owning the King's rule or paying tribute to him. To the
second she replies that it is unreasonable to hold her liable
for the faults of her subjects in which she was in no way
participant, nor has she ever denied justice to any Portuguese
who lawfully demanded it.—Complains of injuries inflicted
on certain of her subjects by the Portuguese.
Endd.: 23 May 1568. Lat. Pp. 6. |
| May 23. |
2225. Pietro Bizarri to [Cecil]. |
|
Sends a list of the names of certain abjurers who were
condemned to the flames and lesser punishments, 10th May
1568; also news from Vienna of 13th May.—Venice, 23 May
1568. Signed.
Orig. Ital. Pp. 2. |
| May 24. |
2226. Sir Henry Norris to Cecil. |
|
Received the Queen's of the 16th inst., and forthwith sent
to demand audience, but has been deferred till to-morrow.
Supposes these delays are used because they are minded to
confer with the Duke of Chatelherault, who this day comes
to the Court.—Paris, 24 May 1568. Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. P. ½. |
| May 25. |
2227. Dr. Man to Cecil. |
|
Being sequestered from Madrid he finds not such favour
as he was wont for the expedition of such things as occur.
Most men, from hatred or fear, refrain to deal with him.—
Barajas, 25 May 1568. Signed.
Hol. Add. Endd. P. 1. |
| May 26. |
2228. Drury and Browne to the Privy Council. |
|
According to the Queen's letters received yesternight, there
is order taken that a band of 100 "hable" harquebussiers
under Captain Read shall to-morrow march towards Lord
Scrope. Complain of want of money to meet any extraordinary charge.—Berwick, 26 May 1568. Signed.
Add. Endd., with seal. P. 1. |
| May 26. |
2229. Sir William Drury to Cecil. |
|
Marvels to hear how divers are gladded with the Queen of
Scots' escape, and also of her entry into England. Great
care and circumspection is to be used where she is to remain,
and with whom, lest some show more affection than duty,
for he has secretly learnt that she minds neither to leave
Bothwell for a husband, nor to atempt as time may serve, to
attain to her long pretended to England (sic.) She has northwards many well-wishers. She minds to speak largely and
promise fair. Has said unto Captain Read [such things] as
may serve to purpose. Thanks him for providing the money
for his extraordinary charges. Would gladly understand
whether if the Queen still remains he may deal with one to
give some cause to breed her liking, to feel whether she will
in anything further use him.—Berwick, 26 May. Signed.
Endd.: For Mr. Secretary. Pp. 1½. |
| May 26. |
2230. Sir William Drury to Cecil. |
|
The Queen of Scots' entry into England may breed as much
trouble there as it has done in Scotland. Lord Temple is
placed in the town of Dumbarton with 250 persons to keep
the castle from receiving any more victuals. Upon Saturday
ten were condemned, whereof seven were lairds. By order
from the Earl of Murray, twelve of the greatest carriages
are sent to Hamilton to bring away the principal stuff, as
tapestry of silk, and furnitures of beds of rich stuff which
were King James'. The houses and castles of the rest of the
earls contraries some are yielded, and the rest sent unto to be
received, but who has the escheats is not certainly known. |
|
2. At the first coming of the Queen to Hamilton, the Earl
of Murray was unfurnished of men and money, and Morton
supplied 4,000 marks Scottish. Yesterday the Laird of
Riccarton and Mr. James Wardlaugh came to the town for
safety, and required passage to their Queen.—Berwick,
26 May 1568. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 2. |
| May 27. |
2231. Thomas Jenye to Cecil. |
|
The preparations upon the news of the Queen of Scotland's
enlargement were very hot, but now cold and calm enough.
Count Montgomery is in Bas Normandy, and governs all
things for the behalf of the religion very peaceably, having
since his arrival measured the outrages done upon the religion
with like revenge. They of Rouen are in nowise contented
to receive the King's soldiers. They have made proclamation that all strangers and such as be suspect persons of any
faction shall avoid the town within twenty-four hours. There
is not anything intended thereby to any person known of
honest traffic; it was only meant to the Flemings who are
many, and of the religion.—Rouen, 27 May. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 2. |
| May 30. |
2232. Sir William Drury to Cecil. |
|
1. Forwards a packet from Murray. The rich stuff is come
to the castle of Edinburgh from Hamilton. The Earls of
Argyll, Huntly, and others seek to be reconciled. The Laird
of Waughton and others have put themselves into the Bass.
Has this day given license to certain servants of the Queen
of Scots to repair to their mistress. There shall presently
be one sent from the Earl and Lords to the Queen of England.
—Berwick, 30 May 1568. Signed. |
|
2. P.S. (on small separate piece of paper).—The bringing
away of the stuff from Hamilton is not of most sort best
liked. There are more glad of the Queen of Scots' arrival in
England, the Queens' Majesty's receiving of the same not
known, than he would have believed.
Add. Endd. P. 1. |
| May 31. |
2233. Sir William Drury to Cecil. |
|
Nicholas Elphinstone this day passed through this town
towards Lord Scrope to confer with him touching the quieting
of things upon the Borders. The Bishop of St. Andrew's
is yet in Dumbarton. Their provisions are in such state
as will not serve them. Such as are prisoners shall be
straitlier looked unto than before, and some of them like
to suffer. Corn shall be bestowed in Dunbar, together with
certain pieces of great ordnance. The Queen of Scots demanded of two of her lawyers their opinions how she might
be restored again to honour and rule, who answered only by
Parliament or by battle, when she said, "By battle let us try
it."—Berwick, last of May 1568. Signed.
Add. Endd. Pp. 1¼. |
| May 31. |
2234. John Willock to Cecil. |
|
The common state is exceedingly troubled, for that part
which heretofore gave their names as Protestants have openly
resisted the public regiment, under colour of old familiarity
and friendship, and also by the multitude of godless Papists
and abhorrers of justice, who delight to live without check.
The chiefest instruments remain in their former subborness
looking still for aid to maintain their wicked enterprises.
The castle of Dumbarton is kept, which comforts the froward.
The Bass is taken by the laird thereof for his defence. The
West Border is much broken by Lord Herries' occasion, and
the North is not quiet. The towns remain wholly in obedience. They that were at the last field are hid, some are
condemned, but none executed as yet. The works of the
Queen are so detected that few of the most froward can
excuse them, and yet has she sent for Bothwell to come again.
It is proposed by the Regent to ride to Dumfries about the
10th June to reform the thieves and rebels there.—Edinburgh,
31 May 1568. Signed.
Add. Endd. P. 1. |
| May 31. |
2235. Sir Henry Norris to Cecil. |
|
1. Although open hostility to this late pacification to the
outward sight seems buried, yet is there such jealousy and
hidden hatred amongst the nobles as daily springs new occasions of discontent. The Duke Montmorency has departed
to his house, ten leagues from Paris, were divers of the
religion have had secret access unto him. Mons. D'Anville
links himself with as many gentlemen and captains as he
can, and for the most part keeps at his house in Paris. The
Prince of Conde has lately complained by his letters to the
King of the Cardinal of Lorraine, saying that there would
never be peace in France as long as he was near his person.
Soon afterwards the Prince was advertised that the Queen
Mother had said that she would never suffer him to return to
the Court, whereupon he wrote to the King, declaring that
he was not only content willingly to leave the same, but also
the realm, so that the Cardinal would do the like, otherwise
he was minded to show himself open enemy to him. Upon
this there arose some talk before the King, when the Marshall
Vielleville said that he could not blame the Prince for
defending his life against the malice of his enemies. The four
marshalls agree all in one against the Cardinal. There be
two kinds of the people whom the Papists term Huguenots,
viz., Huguenots of religion, and Huguenots of State. The
one of these perceiving that the Cardinal works to ruin them,
and their own peculiar force not sufficient to withstand his
malice, have shown appearance that they will join with the
other, who, seeing themselves excluded from all government,
and those of Guise to usurp the whole authority, presently
practise a firm faction and league between themselves, either
part promising to support the other. The Cardinal Chatillon's
late being with Montmorency at his house and some other secret
meetings, has caused vehement suspicion hereof. The King
has sent privy despatches to the governors of the provinces
that in case the Protestants make any assemblies they shall
run upon them by force of arms as enemies to his crown. |
|
2. The Protestants of Beaumont complaining to Mons.
Montmorency that they could not, according to the Edict,
have any commodious place for preaching, he sent his Provost
Marshall with a good company to assist them. Hereupon certain of the inhabitants complained to the King, who caused
one of his secretaries to write to Montmorency that he would
not permit any preaching at Beaumont. One of the Prince's
captains is imprisoned here, being accused of subborning
certain of the King's guard. He does not deny having given
money to divers soldiers, but to no other end than to lead
them into Flanders. There are also suddenly vanished sixty
soldiers, and the King has sent horsemen to espy whither
they are gone. |
|
3. Mons. D'Andragues has caused three captains of the
religion to be slain near Orleans, where he is governor, using
ths inhabitants with all extremity, and will not suffer them
to have any exercise of religion, whereof the Prince of Conde
has complained to the King. Several towns have refused to
admit the King's garrisons. One of the Queen Mother's
private councillors, named Virall, being suddenly surprised
with sickness, a little before his death told his familiar friend
and physician, Baylifias, that the Queen had made this peace
to no other end than that those of the religion being now
exhausted by long charges, and divided asunder at their
houses, might with greater facility be despatched. |
|
4. The 6,000 Swiss yet remain within four leagues of
Paris. The reiters for the Prince are upon the skirts of Bur
gundy, and will not depart until they be satisfied. On the
18th inst. at Dijon were slain five reiters, and thirteen of the
inhabitants were murdered in revenge. On the 30th inst.
were four slain not far from Norris's lodging, and one of them
was dragged before his gate and thrown into the river.—
Paris, the last of May 1568. Signed. |
|
5. P.S.—On the 30th, an old servant of the Queen's,
named Bellemain, declared that this present there came to
him a great favourer of the religion, who willed him to
advertise Norris of the following, whereof he was present at
the perusing and determination: That Memorin, now in
England, has brought the chiefest jewels of the Queen Mother
to lay in gage to get money to aid the Queen of Scots and
set her in her former estate and dignity; and further, has
authority to give great gifts, and thereby to get her to be
restored, or else sent here, which he trusts they will carefully
prevent. If she can have the Queen of Scots returned hither
she has undertaken to aid her with 8,000 men from hence,
and 12,000 to be sent by the King Catholic to pass over into
Scotland. A greater friend to the French than the Queen
of Scots lives not. The Emperor has made semblance to
take the protection of Flanders. Has sent along Normandy
and Britanny, but cannot hear of any ships that are rigged
forth.
Add. Endd., with seal. Pp. 6¼. |
| May 31. |
2236. Articles presented to the French King by the
Admiral. |
|
Complains of the placing of garrisons in Orleans and other
towns, who ill-use and plunder those of the religion; also
that in Burgundy they have been ordered to return to their
houses in the towns, where they are not allowed to go abroad
except at certain hours; also of the illegal executions of certain of the religion, and of the general non-observance of
the Edict of Pacification.
Copy. Notes in the margin. Endd. by Cecil. Fr.
Pp. 6. |
| May. |
2237. Occurrences in France. |
|
Matters that have passed in France since the peace was
made, chiefly concerning the payment of the reiters on the
Prince of Conde's side.
Endd. Fr. Pp. 11. |
| [May.] |
2238. Charles IX. to the Queen. |
|
Having heard that the Queen of Scots has sought refuge
from her subjects in England, he is sure that she will assist
her. Commends the bearer, M. De Montmorin, to her.
Signed.
Hol. Add. Endd. Fr. Pp. 1¼. |
| May. |
2239. Battle of Langside. |
|
Note of certain escheats of those who were of the Queen's
party, with the names of those to whom they were given.
Add. to Cecil. Endd. P. ½. |
| May. |
2240. The Laird of Riccarton. |
|
Alexander Hepburn, Laird of Riccarton, being first household servant to the King, was suspected of the murder, seeing
after the committing thereof he followed the Earl of Bothwell,
chief murderer, in all his enterprises. Notwithstanding, being
taken in favour by the Regent, and continued in office, unthankfully was the first that practised the alteration of State,
by conveying the Queen out of Lochleven Castle.
Endd. P. ½. |
| [May.] |
2241. Alexander Pringle to the Countess of Murray. |
|
The Laird of Riccarton, the principal deviser of her son's
death, now eats and drinks at the Bishop of Durham's board,
and has great sums for the furnishing of the Earl of Bothwell.
Wishes her to pass to the Queen to have him taken. Mentions others who repair to the Queen at Carlisle, whom it
were well to have taken. Signed.
P. 1. |
| May. |
2242. Petrus Romerson to the Spanish Ambassador in
England. |
|
Petrus Romerson of Amsterdam complains of Sir Thomas
Grey, Governor of Dunstanborough, and Lancelot Lisle for
seizing his goods, and Sir Ambrose Cave for granting them
license to sell them, seeming to prove the two first to be
pirates by certain articles of the intercourse. After a long
time he has obtained sentence for 400l., being 90l. less than
his principal, besides his charges for following the same
four years. The 29th article of the intercourse gives after so
many admonitions license of letters of reprisal, which for
relief of his need he is forced to require.—London, May 1568.
Signed.
Endd. Lat. Pp. 4¼. |
