Cecil Papers: October 1595, 1-15 | British History Online

Calendar of the Cecil Papers in Hatfield House: Volume 5, 1594-1595. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1894.

Citation:

'Cecil Papers: October 1595, 1-15', in Calendar of the Cecil Papers in Hatfield House: Volume 5, 1594-1595, ed. R A Roberts( London, 1894), British History Online https://prod.british-history.ac.uk/cal-cecil-papers/vol5/pp397-417 [accessed 29 September 2024].

October 1595, 1–15



	Captain Robert Crosse to Sir Robert Cecil.
[1595,] Oct 1.	I have been hopeful to commend unto your Honour some acceptable news, but so hath God disposed of my laboursome endeavours as they yield no better fruit than the safe return of Her Majesty's ship to Plymouth. I have ever desired to do my dutiful service for Her Majesty, for the furtherance whereof I have now both employed my uttermost labours and spent largely of my poor estate; for the ill success whereof I may justly condemn such victuallers as are officed to furnish Her Majesty's ships, whose abuses are greater lets to sea service than any policy or act of the enemy. Thus I am forced to return, to my great grief, constrained thereto by the want of water, beer and many other very necessary provisions, as also by the infection and sickness of the company, which have specially proceeded from the corruption of ill victuals laid aboard by the officers. From these abuses arise loss of great expenses and labour, and by reason of them men either disobey Her Majesty's commission or fall into mutinies. Of all which I can now speak by experience, and will (God willing) signify the particulars when you please to command me. I have effected Her Majesty's commission so far as my power extended, and observed such directions as were set down by my Lord Admiral, Sir Francis Drake and Sir John Hawkins, whose performance of promise had in reason given a more successful event to my voyage than hath befallen me, since by our being together we might have extended ourselves in a greater circuit, and by that means have met with the two carricks which (as I certified your Honour) came into Lisbon the second of August. But notwithstanding I attended them according to their determined appointment, I never saw them nor had the company of my lord of Cumberland's ships, whose wants were (in common sense) the assured lets that I could not see those carricks. I met with divers other ships, but they were all Flemings except one Baskyn, which I burned, and a fly boat which I sent to Barbary for water, hoping thereby to be relieved and enabled to abide longer at sea, and to attend the coming home of the West India Fleet. At the same time I lost the Crane in a fog, for whom I sought, in the height which I appointed them to keep, twenty-eight days; but could not find her. Contrary winds likewise have hindered the return of the fly boat, and by importunate petitions of the company and in regard of their extremities, I was forced to come for England. Yet at our first departure from thence I abated a can of beer from their accustomed allowance, and since, for the space of two months, have allowed them but two cans to a mess, which restraint I ordered because I ever resolved to do for Her Majesty some acceptable service.
	I doubt not but some will judge of me according to my present success, but I am comforted that in your honourable consideration and approved judgement I shall be found faithful and willing to accomplish Her Majesty's command.—The first of October, from aboard H.M.S. Swiftsure, at 5 o'clock in the afternoon.
	Signed. Seal. 1 p. (35. 37.)
	Edward Wilton to the Earl of Essex.
[1595, before Oct. 2.]	The King arrived at Paris the last of September. M. de la Force and Antonio Perez went to meet him at Fontainebleau. The King used him well, and means no doubt to gratify him with many honourable courtesies, if he could be content to frame his humours to accept of such as France affordeth. The favours with which your Lordship graced him in England were so great, as I fear they will be the chiefest cause of his discontent in France. He looks to receive the like in a just proportion at the King's hands, but that his present occasions cannot afford him. His humours are so harsh and cross, both to the King and French, as were it not in regard of your Lordship, I think his entertainment here would be very mean. He importunes a King that will not be importuned. He is at defiance with the financiers whom the King himself is glad to court. This night, having refused the money they brought him, wanting somewhat of the sum he expected, he protests to go to the King and to tell him that if His Majesty will have him stay in France, he will only give him leave to live upon your Lordship's purse, thereby engaging your Lordship to sustain an unnecessary charge, and not so well contenting the King, in my opinion, with that offer. Your Lordship assigned me to attend him. There is not any thing I desire more than to stay in France in hope to make myself more fit for your service, but to spend my time where I cannot please grieves me not a little. I think it impossible that any man living should please him. His fears are infinite, his suspicions equal with his fears, the causes whereon these are grounded, worse than all. This only grieves me most that I think your Lordship will herein be deceived if you expect that he should here seat himself and do you such offices as your favours at his hands have well deserved; since I dare affirm that he will rather do anything than live in an underproportion to that course he has set down for himself, the same, notwithstanding, being such as no hope remains to have his humour therein satisfied at the King's hands.
	Signed :—Ed. Wylton.
	Endorsed :—“Ed. Wilton about Perez, Received per Wiseman 2^o Oct. 1595.”
	[Murdin, pp. 692–3, in extenso.] (20. 32.)
	Lady Margery Norreys to Sir Robert Cecil.
1595, Oct. 2.	It is great comfort to my lord and me to find her Majesty's most gracious acceptation of our sons' services, and thank God that hath blessed us with anything in our selfs or them that may be grateful or acceptable to her Highness; and I pray you, Sir, deliver to her Majesty my most humble duty and thanks for this her high most gracious favour in sending to me the very certainty of my sons' hurts, greatly to my comfort, that now I may be in hope that they may live to do her more acceptable service when and where it shall please her to employ them. Indeed, Sir, I must confess that it did much amaze my lord and me at the first hearing of their hurts, considering the places to be dangerous. But now, having received this great favour from her blessed Majesty, I am more relieved, and take greater joy (“yoe”) in it than I am any ways able to express. But let me entreat you, Sir, that what wanteth in me it will please you to supply, whom I have ever found so honourable and assured a friend to me and mine as I should think me most happy if any of us might deserve it. My lord yieldeth you his most hearty thanks for your honourable remembrance of him, whom you have power ever to command.—Wytham, this ij of October, 1595.
1595, Oct. 2.	Holograph. ½ p. (35. 38.)
	Ambrose Rogers to Sir Robert Cecil.
1595, Oct. 2.	It may please you to be advertised that as yet I cannot answer your expectation touching the Marquis of Baden, of whose only arrival I was yesterday first informed, but will endeavour myself in what I may to effectuate the tenour of your honour's letters. I remember that one of that name was either banished the Empire or forced to fly the same not long since. Who this is, or what may be the cause of his arrival, I hope shortly to certify your honour.—London, this second of October, 1595.
1595, Oct. 2.	Holograph. Seal. ¼ p. (35. 39.)
	W. Borough to Lord Burghley.
1595, Oct. 2.	Account of Russia cordage, this year delivered by the Company of the Muscovia Merchants into H.M. great Storehouse at Deptford Strond for the use of her Highness's ships, showing the quantity already delivered to amount to 4,980 hundredweight; which after the rate of 23s. 4d. the hundredweight amounts to the sum of 5,810l.
1595, Oct. 2.	Dated :—“2 October, 1595.” ½ p. (35. 40.)
	Lady Dorcas Martyn to Sir Robert Cecil.
1595, Oct. 2.	After I had read the information which my husband sent unto me and willed me to make answer unto the same, I did think that the Lord had now appointed a way whereby my brother (your poor tenant) may have relief of you. Also, that you may know how unchristianlike he hath been used by them that have taken his house before such time that he was minded to depart from it. My brother, dwelling in Lincolnshire, having occasion to come to the terms, and having spent much in law for his own right, was glad to hear of a house near London, being weary and sickly with much travail, being also told that your Honour did put out none paying their rent, was the more liberal in bestowing costs in manuring and fencing of the grounds; besides, the mill being out of reparation and lacking a stone, he was driven to bestow 15l. or ever he received any profit thereof, besides the trouble and charges he hath had with the vicar for the tithe of the mill, a thing which (as your bailiff informed him) was not wont to be paid; wherefore, in defence of your right, he hath been excommunicated four times, the which hath cost him 10s. every time to be absolved, besides his other charges in law for that matter; which he was promised by your steward to be borne out in. After all this cost and travails, my brother at Whitsuntide last had warning to remove from thence at Michaelmas following, and having no place near to remove unto, having both corn on the ground and cattle, was driven to sell them, to his great loss. Also he was an humble suitor to your honour and would fain have had your lawful favour, but by no means he could come to the speech of you, and it was told him that it was your pleasure that he must give place to one Mr. Bowes. Then came the gentleman, who was very earnest with my brother that he might enter at Midsummer, promising to buy his corn and other things and to give him ready money, but he is unpaid for the most part thereof, having the benefit of all things there. And as touching the information given to your honour, it is altogether an untruth, neither came there any of my servants upon the ground that they have to do with, saving that when my men came to desire to have the 'botte' which was my brother's, to gather the fruit in the orchard, which is in the mill field, the which (with the orchard and mill) he keepeth for that he was promised a lease for that he bestowed costs of the stones and other reparations, the which mill hath usually been let by itself, paying 9l. by the year. The which, it seemeth, that the gentleman would likewise have, not paying anything to my brother for his charges that he hath been at. Thus have I, in behalf of my poor brother, certified you of the truth, beseeching you to stand his good friend who is far off.—Totnam, the second of October, 1595.
	Headed :—“Thanks be to God, which giveth you wisdom not to believe ill reports before you have heard the truth.”
	Signed. Part of seal. 1 p. (35. 41.)
	Lord Burghley to the Deputy Governor of Stoade.
1595, Oct. 2.	Directing the re-delivery to one Peterson of certain materials, delivered by him for her Majesty upon declaration of her liking and accepting of them, and to recall the bond given for payment of a certain sum; forasmuch as it appears evidently that one Smith, who went over as employer concerning them, is not able to perform that which he confidently promised and undertook to effect.—From the Court at Nonsuch, 2 October, 1595.
	Signed :—W. Burghley.
	Endorsed :—“Dated, 2 October, '95. R. 9 ditto. Answered, 15th per Dad and 16th per Powlett to Wm. Cokayne.”
	Addressed :—“To my loving friend the Deputy Governor of the Merchants trading Stoad.”
	½ p. (35. 42.)
	Mons. de Lomenie to the Earl of Essex.
[1595,] Oct. 2/12.	Thanks him for his remembrance and will inform the King of it at his return to France. Was, indeed, charged to take his advice upon what he was to propose to the Queen; but did not expect to have this good fortune until after he had been introduced. Mr. Williams will see him to-morrow morning and impart to him most of the writer's charge.—Thursday evening, 12 Oct., new style.
[1595,] Oct. 2/12.	French. Holograph. 1 p. (172. 74.)
	Ambrose Rogers to William Waad, Clerk of the Council.
1595, Oct. 3.	As to the Marquis of Baden. Having now found occasion of speech with some of his company, finds that the Marquis arrived on this day se-night at London, followed with some thirteen persons de sa suite : that he came out of Holland; that he came only to see the country, and that he proposeth on Sunday to repair to the Court; from whence he meaneth to take view of the Universities. Mr. Henry Wootton, it is said, hath been twice with him, and Mr. Spilman from whom more information can be obtained. Thinks that he maketh his address to her Majesty by the Earl of Essex, for he useth Mr. Wootton very friendly.
	Learns also that he is son to the lady Cecilia who some thirty years since was here in England (sister or daughter to the King of Sweden), with whose sister the Count of Emden, that now is, matched in marriage. He hath passed these days in viewing the tombs of Westminster and Powles, Paris garden and such like pastimes. Prays Waad to participate thus much unto Sir Robert Cecil.—This third of October, 1595, London.
	Holograph. Seal broken. (35. 43.)
	Sir Thomas Cecil to his brother, Sir Robert Cecil.
1595, Oct. 3.	Thanks for your advertisement. “The counsel you give is true, if I could taste, it, but the hope of that whereof you write unto me promiseth little assurance; for my friends are barred to speak for me, my enemies strong to dissuade, her Majesty not apt to give, nor I to receive so small advancement as perhaps she would allow me; so as, to conclude, there will be no such office void by his death, which her Majesty will think me worthy of, that I would take in place of this contentment, I sue for of my travail.” You will by this time have received a letter I obtained of my lord my father, with great importunity, which I beg you to impart to her Majesty, to prepare my way against Sunday next to speak myself.—Friday.
	P.S. Touching the other matter you wrote of, I have moved my lord, but he returned no answer.
	Endorsed :—“1595.”
	Holograph. 1 p. (172. 77.)
	News from France.
[1595,] Oct. 4.	The Regiments of Swissers appointed for Brettaigne arrived at Paris about the 20th September; paid in part, and the remainder of their pay expected to be gotten out of the profit the King meaneth to make by creation of new hereditary offices, and certain laws in Parliament—a course displeasing to many of the King's honest servants and friends, but undertaken of necessity to supply his wants for the Swiss, for the Duke of Bouillon's service on the frontier, and for his own journey to Lyons.
	The King purposeth the despatch of Mons. St. Luc for Brettaigne with all speed, hath changed his resolution for sending of D. Montpensier, upon notice of her Majesty's pleasure that she is contented with the stay of the Marshal d'Aumont, signified by the French ambassador, Mons. de Beauvoir. The Marshal's troops strong, 3,000 foot and 800 horse.
	The Marshal d'Aumont hath withstood the delivery of Morlitis to the English, alleging the condition wherewith it was rendered to the French; but the King persisteth in the observation of his promise.
	The Duke of Nevers much discontented with the employment of the Duke of Bouillon, which himself desired, and hath asked leave of the King to depart.
	The Bishop of Evreux upon his despatch toward Rome, upon letters lately sent thence that gave hope to the Pope's favour and signified good acceptance of the Bishop's coming. But the Pope so handleth the matter as that he draweth it out at length in expectation of a peace with the King of Spain; whereto some special person of the League hath earnestly solicited the King, as a matter of more facility and better assurance than to treat with the D. de Mayne.
	The Duke of Savoy soliciteth for a peace, with condition he may enjoy the Marquisate of Saluzzes.
	Copies of letters intercepted from the D. de Mayne to the King of Spain and others.
	Great preparations on the frontiers; great ravages and spoils in the country of Cambray, which Mons. Balagny taketh as an alarm of a siege to him; but others judge a false show.
	News of the taking of Gavarin in Hungary, a town of especial importance, and of Regia in Calabria by the Turks, which hath caused the troops drawn out of Naples to return.
	The King sendeth one to D. Montmorency to acquaint him with the agreement made with them of Tholouse, requiring his concurrence and endeavour to bring it to a conclusion, being governor of that province.
	The isles of Marreques in Provence, reported to be taken either by the D. of Savoy or D. of Espernon.
	The King hath compounded with the governor of Noyon for 30,000 crowns and the gift of certain abbeys.
	The change of the King's purpose for sending D. Montpensier into Brettaigne, enforced by the necessary stay of the said Duke about his person, by reason of the desperate discontentment of the D. of Nevers upon the D. of Bouillon's employment; and of the attempt of Duke Espernon, who is said to have sought the investiture of the county of Provence at the Pope's hands, and to have made party with the K. of Spain and those of the League.
	Headed :—“Extract of news out of divers French letters, received the 4 of October at Nonsuch.”
	Endorsed :—“1595.” 1½ pp. (35. 44.)
	J. Guicciardin to the Earl of Essex.
1595, Oct. 4/14.	By his of the 9th ult. certified receipt of Essex's letters of 14 July. Since then has had nothing to write, and was loth to interrupt weighty affairs “with idle compliments, which by reiteration grow tedious.” Has now received the duplicate of his letter. Three months ago, sent a small piece of plush “which was made here for the Duke and by him delivered unto me to send unto your Lordship, as an assaye and (though a small trifle) as a gage of his love towards your Lordship.” All news here is already common in England, “and therefore will cease to be fastidious unto your Lordship.”—Florence 14 Oct., new style, 1595.
1595, Oct. 4/14.	Holograph, partly in cipher with decipher inserted. 1 p. (172. 76.)
	Panama.
1595, Oct. 5.	A military statement of the situation and defences of the town of Panama.
	The author states that he holds a royal order to view and fortify the ports of the North Sea, and deals with the defences of Panama on the side of Nombre de Dios, Cruzes, &c. Among other things mentioned is a trench which was made upon news of the “corsair” Francis Drake, and the bay of Acle, by which the corsair formerly entered.—Dated Panama, 5 Oct. 1595, and signed, Batesta Antonellas.
	Spanish. 3 pp. (35. 45.)
	Thomas Ridley to Sir Robert Cecil.
1595, Oct. 5.	Cannot by reason of other business this day attend on Cecil, but if he has occasion to use him, will wait on him at Court or at London any day this week which may be appointed.—Windsor Castle, 5 October, 1595.
1595, Oct. 5.	Holograph. Part of seal. ¼ p. (35. 47.)
	J. Goring to Sir Robert Cecil.
1595, Oct. 6.	Begging him to accept these few lines as a true token of dutiful affection towards him, who ever shall have full power to command one who will daily pray for the prosperity of him and his.—Flushing, 6 October, 1595.
1595, Oct. 6.	Holograph. Seal. ½ p. (35. 49.)
	H. Constable to the Earl of Essex.
1595, Oct. 6.	If Essex held any hard conceit of him, supposes that those who guide their affections by his Lordship would not have favoured him as they have done, and the courtesies received from this honourable bearer put him in hope of Essex's favour and of the bearer's furtherance thereof. Embraces this opportunity, therefore, as the fittest to open his heart, protesting that until his departure from England he was more affectionated to him than to any, and that, howbeit contrariety in religion have since forced him to depend on others, yet this was with resistance of his nature.
	Is now resolved to render himself again, with treble increase of devotion, to Essex, as the worthiest prince which this day liveth. Though passionately affectionated to his religion, is not of those which wish the restitution thereof, with the servitude of his country to foreign tyranny, and has not omitted, as occasions offered, to dissuade his countrymen from violent proceedings, and such as be in authority in the church from approving of them. In which actions, hopes he may be not unprofitable to this country, and by reason of his means to gain credit with his party, he will be better able to do service to Essex, by whom he will be commanded in all things wherein his religion be not prejudiced. Hopes his Lordship will be as willing that he should have some preferment under a King that loves his lordship as that baser persons and worse affected should; if it would please him, if not by direct letters to the King yet by some secondary means, to let it be known that he were not unwilling the writer should receive greater and surer maintenance from him, he would employ his Catholic friends to procure it.—Paris, 6 of October, 1595.
	Holograph. Seal. 2¼ pp. (35. 50.)
	Edward Wylton to the Earl of Essex.
1595, Oct. 6/16.	I wrote before to your lordship that Señdor Perez was not a little discontented, partly that his entertainment in France was not according to his expectation, and partly for the dangers threatened to his person, for which cause he determined to speak with the King and then resolve of his stay or departure. The King deferred him until his coming to Pontoyse. There he had conference with his Majesty, craved leave to depart, or if he would have him stay, that he might be pardoned if he wrote to your lordship for maintenance, refusing altogether to be referred to the financiers. The King heard before that he would not stay (for he had freely given it out to many) except he might be a councillor and be employed in his service, and not that only, but that he looked and now also craved of his Majesty to be honoured with the order of the Saint Esprit, so as the King must either return him disgraced or promise those favours. He promised all, referring him to the Count Chomberge for his pension. At his return to Paris he went to the said Count, certifying his wants, praying to have 500 crowns, the remainder of those thousand so long since promised. He prayed him of patience; that there were greater matters now to be considered of; which answer put him into so violent a choler as he replied : “This is the 10 October; after this day I will never ask more either of you or of the King, or any other that liveth” : wrote to the King that he should rather send him to the officers of Spain than to his financiers, and that he would give him leave to send to your lordship for money according to his former resolution. Your lordship, I hope, will pardon me if I write what I think. I do assure myself that the only respect of your lordship caused the King to uphold him in his humours, not meaneth, I fear, that he shall receive that discontent from others that he himself forbore to give him at that time. Two days since the Count Chomberge sent him word that the King had written to have him to him into Picardy. He himself knoweth not the cause, but supposeth that the Due de Buillon so persuaded the King, as well for his counsel in some particular action of the Spaniards as for the great desire he had to see him. Within these two days he meaneth to take his journey, having promise of the Count Chomberge for his first month's entertainment. He protesteth to me that he looketh for no contentment in France; that he will presently see England; yet he laboureth nothing more than to make known in England that he receiveth infinite favours in France. My lord, I do not think that he hath any will either to stay in France or go into England, for many causes, but chiefly (as he saith himself) lest his enemies should upbraid his entertainment here, so as I gather, if the King hold him still in good terms, he means to write to your lordship for ornaments for his knighthood and for a thousand crowns in plate to furnish him as a councillor. And then, if he receive further discontent (which I nothing doubt) he goeth directly to Venice. But, if he have not that colour, he purposeth first to visit you, but not to stay, as he protesteth.
	I know I have presumed much in writing to your lordship a thing so contrary to your expectations, and the rather for that he himself, a man to whom your favours have sufficiently manifested your love, laboureth to give you a contrary show. Notwithstanding, I know you are honourable and desire nothing more than to know the truth, so as being your servant I thought myself bound in all duty to write this.—A Paris, 16 Octo. 95, stilo novo.
	The passages in italics are in cypher, deciphered by the Earl of Essex.
	Holograph. Seal. 2 pp. (35. 69.)
	Sir Francis Vere to the Earl of Essex.
1595, Oct. 7.	I dare not but write for the discharge of my duty, though I have nothing at all worthy your lordship. Our army doth attend now daily a revocation hence, and to be put into garrison, the news being come for certain that Cambray and the castle are yielded to Fuentes. For which there is great sorrow amongst us, and no small fear crept into the hearts of these men by this late prosperity of the enemy. Your lordship and the men of war which hoped to follow you for the succouring of the place grieved that their slender defence hath prevented you, and myself taken down from the hope I had conceived to have been near your lordship in a day of battle. We have it here very “whoatt,” and ascertained from very good place, that the deputies of the princes of Germany are arrived at Frankfort, and have begun amongst themselves to treat and negociate, according to the instructions given them, in what manner they shall propound a peace unto these men, and make account to be in a readiness against the arrival of the Cardinal of Austria, who is expected here by the midst of November. None of all the unfortunate chances of war toucheth these men so near as this alarm of peace, and so much the more for that it is likely to be propounded in a time so dangerous for their state. For no doubt but the people are very prone to give ear unto the motion, seeing a stop in their own course of victory, a declining in the French King, both in his actions of war and from his affection to the common cause, and a demand of repayment by her Majesty and withdrawing her subjects; withal an opinion taking root in them that those that have helped them being now bare of treasure, and knowing their own might not sufficient to withstand their great enemy. If this be not withstood by putting new hope and courage into the people, it is like there will follow some great inconvenience to these men, whereof their neighbours may have share. As for us poor men of war, we may be idle awhile, but a little peace will forge so much matter of war that we shall have more than we can turn our hands to. The Prince of Orange cometh along with the Cardinal of Austria, being restored to his liberty and livings, and honoured before his departure from Spain with the order of the Fleece. The Count Fuentes shall go viceroy in Sicilia, Steven de Ybarra is revoked into Spain, and a principal officer of Don Juan d'Idiaques cometh in his place. We here are not sorry for the change, because we judge the King cannot send so good servants. His Excellency hath made his army exceeding perfect and fit for any hazard, if we prove as good in earnest as we are in sport, which we believe well of, and in the same lay up all our hope till the next occasion.—Camp near Wesell, this 7 October, 1595.
1595, Oct. 7.	Holograph. Seal. 2½ pp. (35. 52.)
	Lord Burgh to the Earl of Essex.
[1595,] Oct. 8.	“My noblest Erle. The Governor of Breda, with the assembly of such forces as the garrisons about those quarters could furnish, attempted upon Lere in Brabant. The beginning succeeded well, for he surprised and entered the town, but the issue misbefel by the disorder in direction, for what was valiantly undertaken was drowned in dissoluteness. Our men, being in many houses, omitted the means of safety, and intended altogether to their greediness of spoil. In which gluttony the burghers took advantage and repossessed a port, whereby they called their neighbours' assistance, and reinforced themselves, and recovered their city, with the slaughter of so many as saved not themselves by flight, of which sort were few, being, of a thousand in the enterprise, the half unreturned.”
	One thing I observe in this nation, the prosperity of some few years past is checked and controlled in all the adventures of this summer. October 8.
	Signed :—Thomas Burgh.
	Endd. :—“ye L. Burgh. 8 Octob. 1595, at ye Brill.”
	Seal. 1 p. (20. 39.)
	Musters in Kent.
1595, Oct. 8.	Indenture between Sir Thomas Welfford, knight, and Thomas Fane, deputy lieutenants, to the Right Honble. Lord Cobham, lieutenant of the county of Kent, on the one part, and Capt. John Brooke, Esquire, on the other part, whereby the latter acknowledges that he has received from them, towards the 135 men to be furnished by the county of Kent for the Queen's service beyond the seas, 68 men, whereof 30 are out of the lath of St. Augustine's, 14 out of the lath of Shepwey with the hundreds annexed, and 24 out of the seven hundreds of Seraye; and that he has also received for them 68 coats, 32 corslets furnished with pikes and swords, 20 muskets furnished, and 16 calyvers furnished; and the former acknowledge that they have received from Captain Brooke 13l. 12s. for coat money of the said 68 men.
1595, Oct. 8.	Signed and sealed by John Brooke. 1 p. (35. 54.)
	Anthony Poulett to Sir Robert Cecil.
1595, Oct. 8.	Praying for the Queen's licence to come over during this dead season of the year, unfit for any attempt by seas, as he desires to give account of his two years' service in the isle unto the lords of the Council, and has private business of his own which doth necessarily require his presence in the west parts for some little season. Will leave the isle sufficiently provided of a lieutenant to supply his place, and does not demand it on other terms than to return within fifteen days if required. Craves Cecil's favour herein, and that with more earnestness, as it importeth very deeply his poor estate to spend a little time in England.—Jersey, this 8th of October, 1595.
1595, Oct. 8.	Signed and dated by Poulett. Seal. 1 p. (35. 55.)
	Thomas, Lord Burgh to the Earl of Essex.
[1595,] Oct. 8.	The most contentment I could imagine in this world were to be near you ever; therefore (since that is denied) to hear from you and find my part in your favour without decay (which I most affect) must be exceedingly acceptable. Twice of late I have received yours, wherein I note likelihood of action, whereof, as I assure me, if the foundations be well laid, there can turn nothing to the danger of our State, so I am out of doubt that it will bring honour to you in whom must be trusted the weight of such business. Hereof I cannot but be glad, because a virtuous man unexercised is like the plants in winter whose sap is retired to the root; and being called to practise, is beautified as they be when their fruits make appearance. There is nothing which hurteth states more than security; therefore Aristotle in his polity saith with good reason, Qui rempublicam salvam esse volunt debent formi dines quasdam parare ut caveant. It is now time to look about; it is safe to make provision whilst we be threatened, and to be suddenly surprised argueth want of counsel and bringeth inevitable peril. They sleep quietly at whose doors the guard is watchful. I wish (and even from my soul) that the spirit of discretion may so breathe into our wise men as they may foresee and provide, without which they cannot prevent. Thereby shall your lordship not be to seek when you should execute, and you shall eternise a name of noblest remembrance. I, as the most devoted to you, will ask no greater honour than to carry a pike where you command, to whom I will faithfully live and die.
	I am bound to my charge for want of a deputy. I choosed Sir Fernando Gorges; and now by her Majesty's purpose for the West he holds me in suspense whether he will return or no. If he be better placed or to his contentment, I would bestow this elsewhere, that I might give myself ease. I cannot stay long in this country; I dissemble not with your lordship, I am entered into a consumption, yet will I not seek leave; but, if it take more hold, I will bring my bones into England, and tender myself to her Majesty for a late commiseration when it can not help.
	I leave the political matters of this country to the ambassador's relation; as for the martial, they give no cause for a penful of ink. I would I might do you service, my dearest Earl. Believe of me as you have done.—“Melancholy Brill,” 8 October.
	Endorsed :—“1595.”
	Holograph. Part of seal. 1 p. (28. 81.)
	Lord Cobham to Henry Broke, his son.
[1595,] Oct. 9.	Son Harry. I pray tell Mr. Broom that his wife is come over and landed well at Dover. He shall do well to find his contrivances for her to come to London, and to provide her a place to remain there until he have been in Ireland. I send hereinclosed a letter to the commissioners of Dover to suffer her to come away with her necessaries. Her Majesty removes on Thursday next to Somerset House, and on Saturday at night to Whitehall.—From the Court at Richmond, the 9 of October, your loving father, W. Cobham.
	P.S.—I send you my son Cecil's letter for the receipt of the 30l. Let him have some 5l. to send for his wife : the rest he shall have when he is ready to go into Ireland.
	Endorsed :—“1595.”
	Holograph. ½ p. (35. 57.)
	Lord Dudley to Sir Robert Cecil.
1595, Oct. 10.	Craving his favours in the matter between him and Mr. Littleton in the Star Chamber, the matter and manner of which he has caused to be briefly set down as it was done, with the occasions inducing the same, and the offers which he made for satisfaction, and sends by this bearer; craving also that Cecil will be a mediator for him unto Lord Burghley for his assistance at the hearing, without which he will be undone, as his adversary hath already openly promised unto himself.—From Duddeley Castle, this 10th of October, 1595.
1595, Oct. 10.	Holograph. Seal. ½ p. (35. 58.)
	A[nthony] Ashley, Clerk of the Council, to Sir Robert Cecil.
1595, Oct. 11.	Recommending this bearer, Pope an inhabitant of Sarum, brought up by pursuivant for the matter of search, being credibly certified that he is faultless, and is prosecuted rather of private malice than for any just cause, having since the prohibition uttered none but under the authority of such as seemed to have it; he is willingly conformable by bond or otherwise, as shall be thought convenient. The man, to his knowledge, is very honest and well esteemed of by the Earl of Pembroke and others, whose testimony the messenger Lyons would not permit him to procure; who, contrary also to order, exacteth fees of him faultless, which Cecil will no doubt redress.—From London, the 11th of October, 1595.
1595, Oct. 11.	Signed. Seal. ½ p. (35. 59.)
	U. Skynner to Sir Robert Cecil.
1595, Oct. 11.	Relative to one brought before him at Enfield by Mr. Hayes, whom Hayes met going to London with partridges, taken against the Statute, and whose examination he sends herewith.
	He has since brought as his surety Mr. Stapleford, a purveyor for her Majesty's household, mentioned in the examination, who affirmed as much as is contained therein, but denied that he had ever any partridges of him but only three, and those for her Majesty's diet, as these were pretended to be; but misliked much the taking of any so near Lord Burghley's house, where her Majesty so often resorted and had cause to have them preserved for her own disport, besides Burghley's pleasure, and Cecil's resorting also more frequently.—Westm., 11 Octob. '95.
	Endorsed :—“M^r U. Skynner to my master. With the examination of Jo. Pennyfather.”
	Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (35. 60.)
	Enclosure :—
	Examination of John Pennyfather, of Cheston in the county of Hertford, taken at Enfield the 8th of October 1595.
	The said examinant, being met in a place called Balstockes in Enfield, going to London with a close basket and seven partridges, some alive and some dead, confesseth he took them on Tuesday the 7th of this month a little after sunset, and was carrying them to London to one Mr. Stapleford, one of the Queen's purveyors; at whose request he took them for the Queen's use and service, as he saith, and should have of him for every quick partridge, 10d.
	Being demanded how long he hath used this trade and how often he hath taken partridges in this manner, will not confess but this only time.
	Item.—Being demanded how long he hath had the nets, where and of whom, saith he had them of the said Stapleford who bought them for him for this purpose, promising to procure the Lord Chamberlain's warrant.
	Being further demanded of whom he learned to take partridges, saith he hath seen divers take them, and nameth one Vale, belonging to the Lord Chamberlain or to some of his gentlemen, and saith that Vale is an ordinary taker of partridges, and dwells at Hadley.
	Signed. 1 p. (35. 56.)
	Sir Ha Cocke to Sir Robert Cecil.
1595, Oct. 12.	Has this day received his letters touching one Penny-father and his son, which he perceives have lately offended in taking of partridges—an old occupation of the father's, for which he hath heretofore been punished. The son many other ways is a very lewd fellow, and ran away above two years past with another man's wife of Chesthunt; for whom the writer has often sent forth his warrant. God willing, will with all convenient speed do what is possible against them.—From Punsborne, the xij^th of October, 1595.
1595, Oct. 12.	Signed. ½ p. (35. 61.)
	Sir Robert Sydney to the Earl of Essex.
1595, Oct. 12.	I have often importuned my Lord Treasurer since my coming over about powder and other wants which we have in this town, but never could have yet answer by writing from himself. By word of mouth he has delivered to Rob. Whyte that Her Majesty's pleasure is that I should move the States for powder, and that she will give direction to your Lordship to write unto me about it. It is true that the States are in a sort bound unto it, but they have never performed it, as they have in like manner broken many other points of the contract, although they have been very often urged unto it by myself, and in like manner by Sir Ph. Sydney and Sir Wil. Russel during the times of their government. I beseech your Lordship that at your leisure you will read over a copy of a letter I write to my Lord Treasurer, about this point, which I send you here inclosed. Truly it is an infinite both shame and danger to see such a place as this so carelessly provided for. I would the Queen would once begin to commit the care of these things to your Lordship, that hereafter I might address myself unto you, for your Lordship understands the English a soldier speaks. Notwithstanding, I beseech your Lordship not to be at knowledge of this letter, except my Lord Treasurer show it unto you, but as occasion shall fall out, to serve yourself of it according as you shall think fit for the service of the Queen and my good.
	Within these five or six days I will send some short remembrances to the Queen herself about this town of hers. Truly, if ever, I think now Her Majesty hath cause to look about her, and consequently all those that have any charge under her. The loss of Cambrai doth much amaze this people, and that which touches them more is an opinion that the King will fall to a peace with Spain, which cannot be without great hazard of their ruin. For it is to be feared that the same necessity that brings the French King to yield to a peace with Spain, will also bring him to make peace without the including of either their men or us. Your Lordship sees the articles of his absolution from the Pope; if either in heart or by necessity he agrees unto them, it is plain what will become of all them of the Religion. On the other side, the Cardinal's coming is most assured, bearing with him fire and water as they call it. The 28th of August he went from the Court, and the 15th of September he embarked himself at Barcelona, so as by this time he must be in Italy. At his coming he will make all fair offers of peace, which not taking place, as I am of opinion they will not, he hath four millions to make himself ready for the war. Time will show what will come of those negotiations, into which also the Empire doth thrust itself, and here be princes looked for to deal about a peace, only for aught I can see the Queen is like to be left to herself, except there be some secret dealings as there was against the meeting at Borwright, and indeed she does not give her neighbours occasion to put their fingers in the fire for her. God, I hope, will maintain her, and I would some good way might be found, not how to make a peace, but how that no peace might be made, for that I think will fall out to be the best for England. But I am fallen to be a discourser ere I was aware. Desires a copy of the discussion by the Duke of Bouillon and his lordship's answer.—Flushing, 12 October, 1595.
	Holograph. 2½ pp. (20. 42.)
	Encloses :—
	Sir Robert Sydney to Burghley.
1595, Oct. 13.	I understand from Robert White, the Clerk of munition, and Mathew Silam, the master gunner of this town, both which I appointed to solicit from your Lordship a resolution touching the wants here of powder and other things necessary for the guard of this place, that your Lordship hath willed them to make me answer that Her Majesty's pleasure is, that I should call upon the States to be supplied by them, as they which of the contract are tied to the same. And the said Robert White doth write unto me that your Lordship willed him to send me word that Her Majesty will give direction to my Lord of Essex to make her pleasure therein known unto me. As soon therefore as I have received order from his lordship and that the States of this province do come together, I will urge them to the performance of as much as in this point they seem to be bound unto by the contract. But in the meantime, seeing the question is now of the well doing of this town, I humbly beseech your Lordship to let Her Majesty know that this course is more uncertain and insufficient than the good of her service requires. For, first, I think they will hardly do it, and if they be brought to do anything, they will so slowly begin and so scantly do it, and so keep all the means in their own hands, as our necessities will increase every day more and more. Of my knowledge, Sir Philip Sydney did press it, in his time, and Sir Will. Russel likewise while he was here; and before my going into England, I did solicit the same, and yet none of us could ever bring anything to pass. Neither shall I have now better success than before. For they are so used to my words, as they know already the worst I can say, and will never study how to answer me. If, therefore, Her Majesty will effect anything, it must please her to write unto Holland to Mr. Bodley to move the States General, and to send me a letter to the States of Zealand. For thereon they shall see I do not usurp her name of mine own head, as perhaps they think governors will do, when they need anything concerning their charge. If the States do consent to perform the points of the contract, they are only tied to furnish powder, match and bullets, and those also for the ordinary use only of the garrison, and that only for five companies. We are here eleven companies; we should be twelve, and all they together little enough; there is also one in the Ramekins. If, therefore, the States do furnish the five companies in this town, and that one in the Ramekins, which was the garrison agreed upon, from whence then shall the rest be supplied? If Her Majesty doth not value this place, truly she hath made a very ill bargain for so much money, and if she think herself sure enough without it for her payments, it is to no purpose to entertain such a troop of unnecessary fellows as are here of us, that daily devour so great a portion of her treasure. When the garrison was placed here, it was not against the King of Spain, but to keep the town to her use till she were reimbursed of the money she lent to the States, and to be in some part a recompense for drawing the King of Spain's hatred unto her. These causes remain still the same. And if at the first a whipcord might seem strong enough to bind them, the time since hath brought in such alterations as a plough chain is now weak enough, the quantity of the loan greatly increased, they much more able to hurt than before, the contract wholly broken, yet Her Majesty seems to commit herself now at the last unto their courtesies. For we are placed here as men that should fight, otherwise neither our number nor our quality is necessary. Here, therefore, the question must rise, whether when the States shall have any purpose against Her Majesty, they will desire to have us able to hinder them or not? If Her Majesty did keep a sufficient magazine in the town, that the garrison might not be unfurnished upon an extremity, then might she boldly, by me, urge the States to the accomplishment of the contract. But it is to much they are already privy, that the course holding as hitherunto it hath done, yet once every six months we are at their commandment. I do not speak this to make the Queen jealous of the States. I do not desire to fill Her Majesty's thoughts with jealousy of her allies, till I see just subject. Only I will embrace mine own charge, and look upon it whereof I am to yield account, and therefore do say, which I beseech may not be offensive, that Her Majesty hath of this town, the only place, for one town, that, being not within her own kingdoms, is most fit for her Crown, and that there was never place of such importance so extremely ill provided for as it is for the most part. Nay, I would it were, but in proportion, as well cared for as the least village is under the States, that bears the name of a place of war. We have no provision of victual, of powder, of arms, of instruments for the artillery, and other necessary uses, our fortifications wholly imperfect, and if it should be upon the life, as I may call it, of the town, the Treasurer for the Wars, officers are forbidden to trust the Governor for a penny . . . and truly if the Queen break with the States, as she seems to threaten by Mr. Bodley's proposition, and her own letters, so as they do hope of no further assistance from her, or that by her proceeding in any unfriendly sort they have occasion to expect, or to say they do expect, either hostility from her or her compounding with the King of Spain, if we be not able to trust unto ourselves, but must trust to the courtesies of them whom we must look for to be our adversaries, there cannot many days pass, but such occasion may be taken by them, wherein almost I may say that prayers and vows must be our best defences, and that it will be in their hands to effect that the Queen must say she had once a town of Flushing. It may be said that when the Queen will openly break off with them, she will then [have] time enough to take care for the town, but this may very well prove too late, and be the preparing of a medicine after the patient is dead. Calais is a fresh and a grievous example of a place thought invincible and lost within eleven days, the time not suffering succours to be brought, and the place itself attempted when it was full of wants. I trust Her Majesty's reign shall not be touched for the like mishap, and that the State of England shall not be said to have stumbled twice together at one stone, and truly it concerns your Lordship and the rest, whose advises her Majesty hears, and who manage all matters of state under her in your own particular, to take care this town be not lost for want of due provisions, they having been so often demanded of me, who have the charge of it, for in such an occasion the fire cannot burn us, but that some of the ashes will fall upon you. . . My demands shall be reasonable and usual in all places of war, that it will please Her Majesty to maintain the ordinary garrison so as it may be sufficient both to resist any attempt of the burghers, and out of the smallness of it, not to give encouragement to attempt. So that I think yet for these occasions eleven companies will be reasonably well. Already, as I said before, we are eleven. I hold the burghers to be above three thousand and all armed. But this is no sufficient number of eleven companies if we shall abide a siege, especially of the forces of these countries. For the late example of Cambrai sheweth what it is to have an enemy in face, and the inhabitants within unassured. Also if Her Majesty do fall to any open disagreement with the States, she must increase the garrison. For the town is to be attempted every way, and we lie amidst many garrisons, from whence upon any warning, and undiscovered men may be drawn, and in such a case we have no reason to assure ourselves of the inhabitants. And herein Her Majesty's service doth require, that as she proceeds in any unkindness with the States, we, that have charge of her towns, may be advertised, to the end that accordingly we may the more watchfully look about us. It may also please her to have respect of the fortifications, which are exceedingly out of order, and must be wrought upon while we are at quiet; for after once an enemy comes before us, it is too late. The ramparts be by much too low and too narrow; the mounts, where necessarily there must be of them, very insufficient; the sea dykes or walls, by which all towns which stand as this doth are “easilyest” carried, nothing provided for; the parapets but bad, no palisado about the town, and, to conclude, all things imperfect. Notwithstanding, the town has the reputation of one of the strongest places of these parts of Christendom. The situation, no question, as good as may be, only the wants of the employing of some charge upon it. Her Majesty was persuaded to “cash” a company, and to bestow the whole entertainment of it upon the fortifying of Ostend, the difference of which two places for the good of her service, I refer to the judgment of all the world. If Her Majesty will not herself do anything I would it would please her to send me a couple of letters, one to the States of Zealand, and another to them of this town, requiring of them to take some care of the fortifications, and to give me by some other letter charge to solicit them. I will leave nothing untried to bring them unto it. Her Majesty sent Mr. Adams to view Ostend. I would it would please her to send him, or any other man of judgment, to look upon this place.
	A third matter I demand is a provision of victual; not that I would have the garrison victualled out of England, for the want of the profit that the town now makes by the sale of their commodities would alienate their affections from us. The which magazine might be renewed from six months to six months, selling away the old, and bringing in fresh. My last demand is provision of munition, arms and some more pieces of artillery, though they were but of iron, such as were sent unto Ostend. Our provision of munition must be of two manners, for first we must have powder, match and lead for the ordinary uses of our guards, for it is in vain to hold and guard, if we have not wherewith to charge our muskets and harquebuses, and the keeping of our guards strong is the true performance of our duty here. I think I cannot be blamed for the allowance I give, for after the rate I hold, a soldier hath not above two charges a week, and, if it may be, I will set yet a straiter proportion. But, besides this, all well ordered towns of war have a store of powder, match and lead, arms of all sorts, bullets, spare carriages and other necessaries for the artillery, instruments of all kinds, as matches, shovels, axes, and many other things. Neither yet are the expenses great that Her Majesty should be troubled withal. For the victual, if it be well handled, will bear itself; the munition that is ordinarily spent Her Majesty is paid for by the soldiers, saving some very little that goeth into the great ordnance. I set down no quantity till Her Majesty be resolved to do anything or not, and then it will be easily determined how much will be sufficient.—13 October.
	Copy. 4¼ pp. (20. 48.)
	Florence McCarthy to Sir Robert Cecil.
1595, Oct. 12.	I have acquainted your honour on Saturday with my Lord's honourable usage and favour towards me, having showed him some writings concerning a part of those lands and also the land itself in his book of maps, whereby I found his Lordship well satisfied therein, the rather that my father-in-law's chief living (which in all is very little) is his rents, duties, chieferies, command and creation of those petty lords, whose countries I showed in his said map, which I believe his Lordship knew very well before. Whereupon, he willed me to resort to Mr. Stanhope and to get him to move her Majesty again for me, and that I should have his Lordship's favour and furtherance therein; or if her Majesty would have him to write thither to be further informed thereof, he would do it. Wherefore I humbly beseech your Honour to have some speech with my Lord of me, to the end you may understand this much by him, for thereupon Mr. Stanhope hopes to make a good end with her Majesty for me, whereby I shall not be driven to come hither from the wars this winter, but live there with my people to work them to do some good, and to see what good I may be able to do with O'Donnel.—xii Octobre, 1595.
1595, Oct. 12.	Holograph. ¼ p. (35. 62.)
	The Earl of Essex and Sir John Norrys.
1595, Oct. 12.	(1.) Sir Robert Cecil to Sir John Norrys.—Sir John Norrys : For that it seemeth I am made the reporter of some speech of yours concerning the alteration of captains by my Lords of the Council (when occasion hath been to raise or remove them) which giveth the Earl of Essex cause to expostulate with you whether you did particularly mean it by him or inclusive with the rest of the Council, I say this for your satisfaction, that as I never heard you say anything (either of the directions of that honourable table or of any particular member of the same) which became you not always in duty and discretion, so for that point concerning the placing of captains this I only said, and in the Queen's own presence (when some speech of captains' names came in question after your departure and that some of my lords commended one and some another) that I did find it now grown to a great difficulty to distinguish so precisely of the merits of captains, as in removing or preferring one beyond the other, to confer always the best where best was deserved. The Earl of Essex replied that he thought it easily done, and that he could ever do it of any troops that had served under him. To which I answered him that it might be so, but yet my lord, said I, when I spake with Sir John Norrys last day concerning some Britanie captains to be changed, he answered that it was hard to satisfy all that had deserved well, and that, if of necessity their Lordships must raise some, there would be as good put out as were left in, for so had it been done heretofore. This I said of your speech, and as I remember you did say so. But if by these my words so spoken any occasion must be causelessly taken to draw you into such questions as you desire not, then, I pray you, if you do forget you did say so, stick not to leave it upon my mistaking, who am not so peremptory as not to mistrust mine own memory in such a case. Only this much I must affirm, that there and then I said it, and now do still think it, that at the last time of alterations my lords did leave as good out as some whom they kept in, not out of lack of grave consideration (for no man is of their lordships' wisdom better assured) but partly out of necessity to leave some out, and partly for want of due information of the circumstances of every man's particular desert. For which my speech then and now I must and will yield at all times and to all persons such answer or such satisfaction as shall be fit for me, having spoken nothing then with any mind to tax any person myself or to obtrude you to suspicion of any ill meaning toward so great a person, between whom and you, if there were grown any dryness, I could not from yourself take any notice of such alteration. This is the truth, which needs no shadows nor supports, for it will ever stand alone. And so I commit you to God. This xijth of Oct. 1595.
1595, Oct. 12.	Contemporary copy. (35. 63.)
[1595, Aug.]	(2.) The Earl of Essex to Sir John Norrys.—Sir, I write this letter to be satisfied to these two questions. First; whether your honour to Sir Robert Cecil or to any man else said that I had put out better captains than I had left in. Secondly; whether you have included me with the rest of my Lords charging or reporting that the Board hath done so. By my next letter you shall know a reason of these questions, and by your answer I shall resolve how to stand towards you.
	P.S.—Let your answer be direct and such as I need not write twice to one purpose.
	(3.) Sir John Norrys to the Earl of Essex.—Right Honourable, To answer directly to your Lordship's letter I must say that I do not think that I was ever so unadvised as to intermeddle myself by speeches with the doings of any of Her Majesty's Council, either of your lordship in particular or of the Board in general, and in this matter I had no subject at my being in England, for then there were no captains put out but such as myself was consenting to. And therefore I dare the more constantly deny it. And of your lordship's doubt it were spoken to Sir Robert Cecil, himself can satisfy you; if to any other, the disposition of the report can give your lordship light of the truth. Thus much I must say, by your Lordship's permission, that this often manner of expostulating with me makes me doubt that, because I have earnestly sought your good opinion, you do the more contemn me, which I shall be sorry should fall out. When I receive your Lordship's next that you mention, it may be I shall have matter to write more particularly. In the meantime I remain your Lordship's as shall be fit for me.—13 Aug. 1595.
	Endorsed by Cecil's Secretary :—“Thearl of Essex to Sir Jo. Norreis, with Sir Jo. answer.”
	Copies on the same paper. (35. 65.)
	John Ferne to Sir Robert Cecil.
1595, Oct. 12.	I have sent you a young rucking gelding, something above the age of four years, humbly beseeching your acceptance of so small a gift in good part. The plentiful choice of geldings in these north parts is much impaired by the access of Scots to each fair, where they buy up all, being licensed so to do (as they say). Nothing is here occurred since my coming worthy of advertisement, only Wright, the Jesuit (having been with his popish friends at York) hath peradventure confirmed them in their superstition. The common sort of men well affected in religion took offence, and the subtlest sort of papists (as I hear) had him in suspect, but he is returned to London on the 7 of this month. He is held unlearned by our divines which had conference with him. I do most humbly thank you for your exceeding favours, beseeching the continuance of them towards me, wholly resting at your command in all service.—From York, this 12th of October, 1595.
1595, Oct. 12.	Holograph. Seal. 1 p. (35. 64.)
	P. FitzJames [Segrave] to —.
1595, Oct. 12.	His affection to his lordship for manifold special benefits and favours received from his parents causes him to be more sorry than can be expressed for the answer to Frederick, considering the irrecoverable hurt of not permitting the dearest friend his lordship hath in this world to come and make known what so much tendeth to his advancement and her Majesty's service. His lordship seems either more timorous and base of courage than is needful in so weighty a matter so greatly importing both himself and the Queen, or not so provident of things as a man of his wisdom, birth and learning ought to be. His coming can do no harm, and the want far more harm and loss than his lordship knows.
	If his lordship will appoint no other place where he may come unto him, let it be at least at the merchant's lodgings at Middelbrowe, called Peter Belmaker, unto which he will come as soon as he receives the passport and letter from his lordship, being ready for the affection he bears him to take that and much more pains and charge for his advancement. Hopes his wisdom will not neglect the opportunity, which now lost cannot be recovered. As this is like to be his last letter, advertises his lordship that he may be assured that by his coming his lordship may be advanced to that his heart can wish, and to be the first and greatest man, after her Majesty and the Lord Treasurer, in England.—From Anwarpe, the 12 of October, 1595, in haste.
	Endorsed :—“Copy of P . . . . letter to me, of the 12 of Oct.”
	Holograph. Without address. 1 p. (35. 88.)
	Sir John Forster to Lord Burghley.
1595, Oct. 13.	Thanks him for his favourable letter in the behalf of the Lord Ewrye; as he has written to the Queen, will deliver Ridsdale and Tindale to the said lord in as good obedience and as peaceable as ever they were in any warden's time. As for his house at Hexham, which Burghley proposes for his lordship's use, it is no ways fit for the purpose, there being neither provision of hay, corn, grass or any other necessary. Means to be at Hexham shortly, but cannot stay there for want of provision. Must go in a horse litter by reason of his imbecility and crookedness of age. Whosoever hath informed his lordship that Hexham is a fit place, hath deceived him therein, for it lacks provision in all things needful. Morpeth Castle is a more fit place, being, as is reported, partly in her Majesty's hands, and he may there be full furnished of corn, hay and grass for his horses in summer and winter. Also it is best suited for the resort of the country to him, for that it lies in the heart of Northumberland.—From my house nigh Alnwick, this 13 October, 1595.
	Endorsed :—“S^r John Forster to my lord. He cannot spare his house at Hexham.”
	Holograph. 1 p. (35. 66.)
	James Douglas to Archibald Douglas.
1595, Oct. 13.	Since the receipt of your last of 13 September, I awaited your other letters from the Lord Scroope, and how soon I shall receive them, they shall (God willing) be delivered as you appoint. Remember, I pray you, to procure a letter to the Lord Scroope to receive my letters directed to you, and cause them be sent by post. Advertise me if I may come safely towards you as I wrote before. I doubt not you have advertisement of the death of the Chancellor, who deceased the 3 of this instant; of the death of the Earl of Atholl before. It is thought that either Mar or the Prior of Blantyre shall obtain the office of chancellery. Whoever gets it of two, the other will be content. This lurking displeasure at Court is not quenched. Mar appears to carry greatest credit with his Majesty. The Queen is at Edinburgh, whose followers are misliked, and the chiefest of them to be extremely used. I think the office of Secretary shall wake also. It were good if ever you mind to return home you addressed you now to settle you again, for in my opinion the time is very proper. His Majesty is to pass the winter at Holirud House. The whole Borders in Scotland begins to open their preparations suspected this long time, and great trouble is likely to fall forth. The Earl of Angus has obtained no favour as yet. The lady Bothwell has obtained his Majesty's good countenance and a protection to her sons, rather for the evil will borne to Sesford and Buceleugh than for any good will to her Lord or her. If I had the means to send my letters you should be oft advertised of such news as comes to me. And as for yours to be sent in Scotland, I have sufficient means to see them delivered as you shall direct.—13 October, 1595.
1595, Oct. 13.	Holograph. 1 p. (35. 67.)
	Sir Horatio Palavicino to Sir Robert Cecil.
1595, Oct. 13.	Received the accompanying letter for the Queen some days ago, but did not deliver it because it is a petition to her Majesty to act as sponsor at the baptism of the child of an Italian gentleman, servant to the Marquis of Anspae, and the request seemed preposterous, he having no acquaintance with her Majesty, save that three years ago he came to discover a treaty against her person and the fleet made by a Captain Menines with the Duke of Parma, to which Cecil's father gave little credit. His name is Antonio Oltrana and he is one of the Counsel of the Marquis, who is a prince near Nuremberg and the house of Brandenburg, and who, with his wife and the duke of Wirtemberg, has also promised to be a sponsor.—13 Oct. 1595.
1595, Oct. 13.	Italian. Holograph. 1 p. (172. 75.)
	Thomas, Lord Burgh to the Earl of Essex.
1595, Oct. 13.	Complimentary and offering services.—October 13.
	P.S.—Upon the dissolving of the army, which is instantly to be disposed into garrison, you will receive plentiful matter of the ambassador's business, which occurrents I will leave to him, and will only write as anything cometh fresh to my understanding. There be rumours of a general peace noised again. Yet is it thought Fuentes will proceed in the course of his victories, only converting the way of them to some action in these Low Countries. The Prince of Orange is said to come with large commission from the King of Spain. In the wavering between these varieties, men be here unsettled. A few more weeks will minister better how to discern. But as for me, let the times bring on as they may, I will be to you ever the same, in a constant heart to reverence the virtues of my most honoured count.
	Holograph.
	Endorsed :—“13 Oct., 1595.” (204. 23.)
	Françoys de Bourbon to the Earl of Essex.
1595, Oct. 13/23	Prays for permission to the bearer to purchase 12 or 15 “hacquenees” for him; some of them to be entire.—Paris, 23 Oct., 1595.
	Signed.
	Endorsed :“Le Prince Conty, 23 Oct., 1595, novo stilo.” There is also a list of names, Le Prince Conty and 11 others.
	1 p. (204. 24.)
	Dr. Thos. Nevile, Master of Trinity College, Cambridge, to Sir Robert Cecil.
1595, Oct. 15.	Immediately on the death of Mr. Vice-Chamberlain, your Honour was the person to whom I most inclined for the office of our Steward. But because I had been formerly moved for “moe” than one or two of great place, I was advised to make offer thereof unto your father, who hath been ever a singular patron of this our college, which I made speed to effect accordingly, and had passed the same by a full consent among us two days before the sending of this messenger; with that respect had unto your Honour, that if it so stands with his Lordship's pleasure, we are as well content to confirm it unto you.—From Trinity College in Cambridge, 15 October, 1595.
1595, Oct. 15.	Signed. 1 p. (136. 33.)