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Sir John Petre to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, October 2. |
Expresses his regret at Cecil's inability to accept his invitation, apparently to visit him. His daughter returns her thanks for the too much cost which Cecil has bestowed on her son Robert.—Ingatstone, 2 October, 1599. |
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Holograph. 1 p. (74. 4.) |
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Sir Thomas Egerton to the Lord Treasurer, the Lord Admiral and Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, Oct. 2. |
Upon receipt of your letter, which was about nine of the clock yesternight, I acquainted the Earl of E. with her Majesty's pleasure, whereupon he hath set down in writing that which I send hereinclosed, and did also deliver unto me, to be sent to your lordships, the fiant of the commission to the new Lords Justices. He came hither very ill for his health, did eat nothing, and this night hath rested little, being troubled with a great looseness which enforced him to rise often, and other distemperatures both in his stomach and head. After the writing delivered unto me, he remembered verbally two things more : (1) that some of the Council in Ireland have a great desire to return into England, which he thinketh fit to be foreseen and stayed at this time, lest scandal and inconvenience might ensue upon it there, upon the knowledge of his disgrace here; (2) that there are many implacable factions between the lords of the Irishy and such as be neutrals, which he doubteth will break out into very dangerous consequence if speedily some principal English commander be not sent thither to manage that state. These things, in discharge of his duty, he prayeth to be made known to her Majesty. |
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For his private estate, which he complaineth to be weak and broken, as your lordships heard, he desireth humbly that two of his servants, who have the knowledge and understanding of it, may have access unto him to receive instructions to deal with his creditors (which be many and earnest, and violent to take
advantage of forfeitures of mortgages and bonds wherein himself and others for him stand deeply engaged), and that they may likewise repair to his counsel-at-law for these his affairs.—Yorke House, 2 Oct., 1599. |
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Holograph. Endorsed :—“Lord Keeper.” 1½ pp. (74. 5.) |
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Henry, Lord Cobham to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, Oct. 2. |
I send enclosed a letter I received this morning from my lieutenant of Dover Castle, with the copy of a cocket given by those of Yarmouth. You see his reason why he has made this stay. I pray you let me have present direction from you what herein I shall do. My opinion is to suffer them to pass. With your favour, the officers of Yarmouth would be written unto to know by what authority they give these passports. There have passed by their cocket above 30 horse within this month, and all out of Scotland. I hope to see you to-night.—From my house in the Blackfriars, 2 Oct., 1599. |
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Holograph. ½ p. (74. 7.) |
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W. Stallenge to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, Oct. 3. |
This last day I received your letters concerning Gaspar Dias, with whom there shall be order taken according to the Lord Admiral and your commandment. And this next day, God willing, I intend to deal with him in particular concerning the rest. |
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This day here arrived a small bark which about the 16th day of the last month, near the islands of the Tersera, met with 17 sails of the Adelantado's fleet, all very great ships, the most part of them having spent their mainmasts. The captain of this bark reports also that he saw driving at the sea thereabouts divers trunks, chests and such like, whereby he supposes that divers of the said fleet have been last [? lost] at the seas. He says further, that at the Terseras and St. Michells there is a very great plague. From the Groyne, as yet, I hear no further news.—Plymouth, 3 Oct., 1599. |
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Holograph. 1 p. (74. 6.) |
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Sir Thomas Egerton to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, Oct. 3. |
In this mine unwonted charge I am as careful as I can to keep myself from error. The letters I have received from you I have answered with speed, and haste perhaps hath bred some unwilling oversights in me. If you find any such, I pray you excuse me, and admonish me of it. Her Majesty said unto me that when I had settled the Earl, her pleasure was I should attend upon her. Whether you know any such occasion as may move my stay, I desire to understand. I would be glad also to know what course to hold for the place in the Chancery. The term begins on Tuesday next. It is more than time that one be appointed for the service. I expect only her Majesty's good
pleasure. The course I desire is the less gainful to me, but more for the credit of me in the place I hold, and therefore the more to my contentment, and for that respect I prefer it before gain; otherwise gain is as due to me as to him that went last before in the Rolls.—York House, 3 Oct., 1599. |
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Holograph. Endorsed :—“Lord Keeper.” 1 p. (74. 8.) |
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Dr. Jo. Benet to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, Oct. 3. |
Expresses his acknowledgements for his appointment to the Council [of the North], but complains that proper precedence has not been given him, and that the name of Mr. Feme, deputy secretary, has been put into the commission and instructions before his. He is advised that a suggestion has been made by Ferne to Cecil that not only those four of the learned Council (whereof Ferneis none), but such others also as are in ordinary and in fee, have usually had place of all councillors at large, except they were knights; which is utterly untrue. For divers esquires and doctors of law have been of this Council, not bound to contiuual attendance, yet never any of them gave place to the secretary; and at this present, D. Gibson, being but a councillor at large, is placed above Mr. Ferne and Mr. Beale too. Mr. Vuedale, Mr. Eynns, Mr. Blythe, Mr. Cheeke, Mr. Rookeby and Mr. Beale, all until this time [were placed] under all the rest of this Council, and now first of all, not only Mr. Beale but Mr. Feme his deputy, is placed before the writer. Refers to the testimony on the matter of Mr. Hesketh, Attorney of the Wards, and Mr. Edward Stanhope, two of this Council, and prays Cecil to take information thereon and decide the matter.—York 3, Oct., 1599. |
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Holograph. Endorsed :—“Dr. Bennett.” 2 pp. (74. 9.) |
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Richard Knyghtley, George Harmor, William Lane and John Spencer to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, Oct. 3. |
Upon a letter from the Lord President in Mr. Young's behalf, they entertained Young for that time to be their muster master, and dealt with him liberally at his departure. They are desirous to satisfy Cecil, but pray that they may bestow the place upon some gentleman of their acquaintance dwelling amongst them, whom they will find less chargeable and more agreeable to their desires.—Northampton, 3 Oct., 1599. |
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Signed as above. |
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Endorsed :—“Commissioners for the Musters in Northamptonshire. Answer to your Honour's letter in favour of Mr. Young.” 1 p. (74. 10.) |
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Sir Francis Vere to the Earl of Nottingham and Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, Oct. 3. |
Your commandment concerning Sir Henry Dockra shall be obeyed. Though he hath wronged me to my
Lord of Essex, I had no purpose to call him to such an account, for I have no ambition to satisfy by private quarrels, especially with such an enemy, but shall reserve my sword so much as I may for better uses.—London, 3 Oct., '99. |
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Holograph. 1 p. (74. 11.) |
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Sir George Carey to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland. |
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1599, Oct. 5. |
On Tuesday last Sir William Warren returned from Tyrone to his own house. On Wednesday he came unto me, and delivered unto me the substance of his negociation. And then we both went to my Lord Chancellor, and caused Sir William to set down under his hand what he had done or could gather in this his late journey, the true copy whereof your Lordship shall receive enclosed in our letter to your Lordship. But after I found no certainty to be gathered by him of Tyrone's resolution, but only that this cessation for six weeks (being near almost expired) he would keep the same inviolable, and that he would give no farther direct answer until he had spoken with O'Donell, which seemed to me but a temporising answer, considering that I know that O'Donell had been with Tyrone not past four or five days before Sir William came unto him; and farther, by Sir William Warren's relation, that Tyrone proposed to come to the borders forthwith upon the delivery of his wife (which was daily expected) and bring with him all his creatures and with greater forces than he had been accustomed, with some other circumstances that liked me not of the best; therefore, taking Sir William apart, I put him in mind of the favours your Lordship had done him in making him knight, by increasing his company of 25 horse, with the government of Caryfergus, and the special choice your Lordship had made of him in this business. These respects ought to bind him very deeply unto your Lordship. I told him farther that the State in England (as himself knew very well) held but a jealous conceit of him; and therefore bade him advise himself well of his own credit and your Lordship's honour; having upon full confidence that Tyrone would willingly desire her Majesty's gracious favour, your Lordship had purposely made a posting journey into England, thereby the better to effect that by your Lordship's presence which otherwise by letters would hardly be brought to pass : and himself well known to be inward with Tyrone, if he should now of the sudden break out again before he had made his petitions known to her Majesty, and her Highness's resolution thereon, the world would judge him very treacherous from the beginning, and himself to be suspected in the carriage of that matter. I found that those speeches did amaze and perplex him, being matters (as he said) that he dreamt not of before, and therefore would in shorter time than was formerly appointed betwixt Tyrone and him, ride to Tyrone again, and would so work that he would bring that direct answer which should, he hoped, content your Lordship. Our general letter was written to the dissent of some of us, and some question whether it were better to write particular to your Lordship or to the Lords,
or to both. I desire a speedy dispatch of your business, and I wish a short return for your Lordship hither. Sir Edward Wynkefyld being sick and in great want, he hath already at several times one hundred and ten pounds. Captain Sym Merick is this day buried.—Dublin, 5 October, 1599. |
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Holograph. |
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Endorsed :—“Sir George Carew.” 1 p. (74. 12.) |
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Henry, Lord Cobham to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, Oct. 5. |
Recommends the petition presented by the bearer for the release of a poor Scottishman, a Capuchin which came out of France in company of an Englishman of the same order, who is prisoner in the Marshalsea and in extremity of sickness.—From my house in the Blackfriars, 5 Oct. 1599. |
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Signed. ½ p. (74. 13.) |
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Ry. Ailwarde, Sheriff, to the Earl of Essex. |
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1599, Oct. 6. |
The wicked rebels here within this country of Waterford little respect he peace or cessation of war, I mean the bastard Thomas Fitz James of the Decies, who now hath many Connaught and Ulster men as bonaghts or cessed there in the barony of Decies, and also filching, robbing in the highway and stealing, and no less bad and wicked course holden by the bastard Thomas Poer, and the Lord Poer's brothers, named David and Maurice Poer, who keep rebels and notorious malefactors and nightly spoil me and other civil gentlemen here. I did write to your Honour to Dublin of the burning of towns, spoiling and ravishing of women, and to appoint some other garrison of English soldiers at Kilmanehym, for the Lord Poer and his brother David's men that lie in garrison at the Castle of Kylmanehym doth but spoil Waterford gentlemen of their cattle, and the said Lord Poer and David his brother keep there but apparent traitors and notorious malefactors, albeit, my good Lord, I had 11 towns burntand and spoiled by the Poer's rebels, and for nought else but for apprehending and executing of Thomas Poer and Thomas Fitz James his men. Yet will I follow truly and sincerely her Majesty's service, and disclose to your Honour, and such as be put in trust for her Majesty, the faults and defects of this my bailiwick, I mean in this county of Waterford. This honourable knight Sir Robert Mancefield, Admiral of her Highness's shipping, saved me and many gentlemen, and our tenants a good portion of cattle and some towns unburnt. These “petite” lords of Ireland seek by tyranny to suppress poor and good conditioned gentlemen of better ability than some of these Irish lords are, to get them Irish accustomed captaincy, viz., to have the gentlemen and good subjects to be attendant to them, and not to her Majesty, which divers good statutes and laws in this land utterly forbid. I as a poor sheriff of her Majesty, and being afflicted by rebels and their secret maintainers for cleaving so fast and earnest to her Majesty's service, do beseech you to have and procure great care
of us, the true loyal subjects in this land, and specially of us the Corporation of Waterford, where this 400 and odd years, since King Henry the Second's time, my ancestor hath been placed with the gift of 40 plow land (as appears by the said King Henry's letters patents which I have to show at this time present), and so all the citizens continue loyal and faithful, saving backward in religion, and given some to maintain dangerous priests, and they go not to church, none of that city, excepting Sir Nicholas Walshe and myself. Have care of us to appoint soldiers of her Majesty's at Kilmanehym. All these two days I stood here at Passage to stop the passage of Ulster rebels that came hither into this country 140 strong as bonaght to the Earl of Tyron, that they should not pass over into the county of Weixford, where I had the great and good assistance of Sir Robert Mansell, and by that means those rebels were driven to return back, and I send word to the noble Earl of Ormond who was near to Waterford and encountered them, and had the killing of 120 of those traitors, and this was done by that noble Earl this present evening. Thoas Fitz James would needs keep the like Ulster and Connaught rebels in the Decies as bonaght to Tirone, and I hope will come to the like end. Good my Lord, hasten over and have care of this kingdom, and ever consider and advise of the speediest way to cut off the traitors and their masters; and look to search out the secret priests out of cities and towns. The camping of the army have spoiled my and my tenants. Near Passage, the rebels of the Poers burnt and wasted 14 towns of mine, and all for serving her Majesty, yet in despite of all rebellious hearts I will cleave fast to her Majesty. I advised that a garrison should be appointed in time at Lismore and at Dongarvan, and none as yet is placed; that Thomas Fitz James of the Decies and the Lord Poer's brothers David and Maurice should be fast committed, or put upon sure and fast able sureties, and none is done. Many a poor true subject that pays her Majesty's cess and charge has paid, by the spoil of their cattle within this my bailiwick, for not performing that course I advised and your Honour (as I hear) directed.—6 Oct., 1599. |
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Postscript.—Comfort me with a few lines and some help here to be at my command to serve her Highness, albeit it were but the pay of ten horses. Such haply as less deserve it may have it. |
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Holograph. 3½ pp. (74. 15.) |
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W. Stallenge to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, Oct. 6. |
I have had conference with Gaspar Diaz and find him very willing o accomplish your desire, protesting to deal faithfully therein; but whereas, by the Lord Admiral and your letters, Captain Oselie and I are commanded to send him with the Alferez and the rest of the Spanish prisoners, he desires rather to go by way of France, so that I intend to send him for Bayon in a bark of my own that is here ready, and will give order to my man to furnish him there with 30 crowns which he demands towards his charges. He has promised to go to
St. Anderas, Ferroll, the Groyne, and Lisborne, and to other places as he shall find occasion. For his present need, I have here disbursed something. At his return, it may please you to reward him farther. He says the Alferez has left order in London for the escaping of the three Spaniards that remain of the Cales prisoners, and therefore desires that they may be well looked unto. He cannot directly charge any that be actors therein, but suspects Salvador Machado and Antonie Swero, Portingales remaining in London, both which were Don Anto his men, and are to be found every day at the Exchange. He desires care may be had if Pedro Furtado come again into this realm, for that he is an enemy to this State.—Plymouth. 6 October, 1599. |
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Holograph. 1 p. (74. 17.) |
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Sir John Hart to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, Oct. 7. |
He has had no answer from Cecil concerning Richard Greene, who was admitted into “our hospital” to be cured of a disease, and there uttered divers lewd speeches, copy whereof the writer sent to Cecil in his letter sent by Mr. Dr. Fletcher's man. He detains Greene in prison until he hears Cecil's pleasure in the matter.—7 Oct., 1599. |
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Holograph. 1 p. (74. 18.) |
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William Cicill to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, Oct. 8. |
Being in prison, compelled by dire misery, has no one to turn to for help save Sir Robert. Sir John Popham, the Chief Justice, favours his adversary John Arnold, his (the Chief Justice's) kinsman, to whom Cicill is not and never was indebted. A word from Sir Robert to the Chief Justice will be sufficient to secure his release, &c.—8 Oct., 1599. |
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Holograph. Latin. 1 p. (74. 19.) |
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James Perrott to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, Oct. 8. |
Thanks Cecil for his favour in procuring her Majesty to sign his book for some of Sir John Perrott's lands, which Sir John left to him by his conveyance.—Oxenford, 8 October. |
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Holograph. Endorsed :—“1599.” ½ p. (74. 20.) |
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Sir Thomas Egerton to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, Oct. 8. |
If it please you to take pains to be here tomorrow about 2, I think it will be fittest time to speak with the E. And for my going to the Court, I am of your opinion, the sooner the better for her Majesty's service, whatsoever we shall bring from him. Besides, it will be more agreeable for my “taxe” to come to the Star Chamber from the Court on Wednesday morning than to the Chancery on Thursday. But these
circumstances of time I leave to be ordered as you shall think meet, and to-morrow when we meet, we may resolve of them.—8 Oct., 1599. |
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Holograph. Endorsed :—“Lord Keeper.” 1 p. (74. 21.) |
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Henry, Lord Cobham to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, Oct. 8. |
This morning, from my Lieutenant of Dover Castle, I received this examination of William King, a carpenter newly come from Dunkirk. He writes unto me he is very poor and out of apparel. He has not sent him up but keeps him there till he receive answer from me, which I will make as from you I shall receive directions. This he does to save charges in sending him up. I pray you return me your pleasure.—From my house in the Blackfriars, 8 October, 1599. |
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[P.S.]—The Queen commanded me to send for Sir Thomas Wilford, who to-morrow will be here, which I pray you acquaint her Majesty with. |
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Holograph. ½ p. (74. 23.) |
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Mons. De La Fontaine to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, Oct. 9. |
In favour of the bearer, a merchant named Chauvin, from Dieppe, strongly recommended also by Monsieur de Chattes, their Governor. |
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Besides the person I lately named to you for the journey and purpose you desire, I have here another who will be as suitable “et avec plus de confiance.” If you wish, I will bring him to you. |
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Holograph. Undated. French. Endorsed :—“9 Oct., '99.” 1 p. (74. 22.) |
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Thomas Windebank to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, Oct. 9. |
Although I attended yesterday somewhat late, yet her Majesty did put me off till this morning, and now hah signed the letter which I would not but presently send. The date must not be forgotten to be put in, nor the endorsement by Mr. Edmunds. The warrant also for the merchant Farmer, I have gotten signed.—9 October, 1599, at Richmond. |
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Signed. Seal. ½ p. (179. 89.) |
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Sir Thomas Egerton to Mr. Secretary. |
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1599, Oct. 10. |
I return unto you your letter here enclosed, and thank you for your grace and friendly admonition and advice. I take more contentment in this your kind and loving dealing with me than I can well express, and I will ever cherish your favour and good opinion as that which I prize and esteem very dear and precious. |
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For the matter, I wish and pray that the issue may be good for her Majesty. For myself, I have learned and observed silentii tutum præmium. If I hear any speech, my answer is so sparing as
for the most part it is no more but cor regis in manu Domini, and that I wish and hope that all will be well, and her Majesty's counsel guided to an honourable and good end. |
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I cannot forget the vacancy of the place in the Chancery, and I would be loth to have any other judge but her Majesty, if it might be. Howsoever, help, I pray you, it may have an end, and rather than to linger thus, let her Majesty command what she will, I am resolved and ready to perform, and if I may not gain, yet may so save something, or be the lesser loss by the bargain.—10 Oct., 1599. |
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Holograph. 1 p. (74. 24.) |
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Peter Mounsell, of Brasenose College, Oxford. |
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1599, Oct. 10. |
Letters testimonial in favour of Peter Mounsell, Master of Arts, and student of the College for sever years or thereabouts.—Brasennose, 10 October, 1599. |
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Signed :—Edward Rillston, Vice-principal; Geffrey Percivall; Edwarde Foxcrofte; John Leech; Edwarde Gee; Jero. Wrighte; Richard Taylor; George Barton; Robert Hiron; Gerard Massye. |
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1 p. (74. 26.) |
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R. Douglas to Archibald Douglas. |
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1599, October 11. |
I have received a letter from my brother Thomas again written from London the 3 of September, come to my hands the 8 of October, relative almost in all points to another that I received from him a great while ago, to the which and every point thereof I have answered at length by letters directed to you by sea, for I perceive those that go by land miscarried sometimes, for I wrote to you and him at length, and very particularly, because it touched me in credit, by a packet which I sent to Mr. Shastonne, the postmaster of Berwick, to be sent by him to his uncle, Mr. Portar, who, as you know, has been this long while and yet is at London, and this I sent away a fortnight more before Mr. James Sempill took his journey. And therefore, I beseech you to enquire for them, for albeit, as Thomas writes to me, you allege it is my form to make mention of letters I never wrote, yet I protest I never used that form, nor never affirmed I had written when I wrote not. These letters contained an answer to Thomas his first letter that he sent by sea, and made you advertisement of Mr. James Sempill's coming and the King's displeasure conceived against you for your alleged familiarity with Mr. John Colvill, with some other particulars then incident in this State. To this I need to be long in answering, since I have at all length satisfied every point thereof by my last sent by sea; only this excepted, concerning Sir George Elphinstone's suit to you for a tack of the benefice of Glasgow, promising in recompense thereof to do good offices for you at his Majesty's hand, it is of truth that, to move him to be the more earnest to do for you, I laid the bait unto him, and would be glad with all my heart he or another that were able to do you good had
the right thereof, and if you be able to reduce such tacks as you set of the benefice to the Prior of Blantyre at your last being in this country, which will not expire so long as he and his son lives and nineteen years after their decease, I will take upon me that the demission of the benefice, nor no other thing proceeding from me, shall do harm or prejudice any right you will set to Sir George or any other person whatsoever. But this will require your own presence with credit both in Court and Session, where the Prior as yet carries greater credit than every man believes. My brother writes to me that you have resolved to write no more to me except I satisfy all the heads of his letter, which I have done in every point uprightly; but providing that you be well and your matters succeed to you happily, both here and where you are, I am contented that you write or not as pleases you, for in all these matters it is sufficiently known, and if you know it not already, as I am assured you may do, you will, ere it be long, by experience understand what has been my part. and how I sought never myself or my own particular, but only your weal and benefit, which I shall ever do, think of me as [you] please, until I see you settled in a good estate in your country, and then let your friends judge betwixt you and me; for in all things as I carry an upright conscience, so I shall be answerable and countable. Since the receipt of Thomas his last letter, I have not been at Court, for the King remains at Linlithgow, but I trust the bearer will bring you from Sir George Elphinstone the answer of your letter to his Majesty, which I pray God may work good effects, and because I understand nothing thereof by you, I will not meddle except I be desired. I hope to have occasion within some few days to write unto you by a friend who is to go to London and will see you quietly.—From my mother's house, 11 October, 1599. |
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Holograph. 1½ pp. (74. 25.) |
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J. Comans to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, Oct. 11. |
In favour of the Cales prisoners charged to have an intent to escaping.—11 October, 1599. |
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Holograph. Italian. 1 p. (74. 27.) |
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Sir Thomas Egerton to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, Oct. 11. |
I thank you for your letter. As I received it this morning, I was giving order for my journey, meaning to have been at the Court by one of the clock. I will now attend as I am appointed, and pray for a good issue of this business, and that the public may be in time foreseen and provided for.—Yorke House, 11 October, '99. |
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Holograph. ½ p. (74. 28.) |
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M. Noel de Caron to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, Oct. 11. |
In favour of a Welsh servant of his, who desires Cecil's recommendation to the Bishop of Bangor.—Clapham, 11 October, 1599. |
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French. Holograph. 1 p. (179. 90.) |
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Sir Thomas Sherley to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, Oct. 13. |
Thanks Cecil for his favour to his son. “These two bad fellows” have used very contemptuous speech touching the validity of the protection, as Sir Richard Weston, whom he has entreated to follow this cause, can inform Cecil. Gives particulars of the fellows : i.e. Cooper, nephew of Serjeant Cooper; and John Yonge, whose father-in-law, customer of Sussex, was removed by Lord Burghley for lewdness.—13 Oct., 1599. |
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Holograph. 1 p. (74. 29.) |
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Sir Thomas Sherley to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, Oct. 13. |
Thanks Cecil for sending the pursuivants for Cooper and Yonge. Makes no doubt they will find them. Understands Cooper will rather “lie by it” than release the writer's son; therefore prays they may be committed to some very hard prison, to constrain them. If they do not release his son, the latter is utterly undone, as he is unable to give them any security, having spent the help of all his friends for the preparation of his intended voyage. Yonge only has plotted the matter. Touching the words of contempt, they shall be proved, as Sir Richard Weston informed Cecil. Prays for a letter to the sheriff of Kent to command him to accept no further actions against his son.—13 October, 1599. |
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Holograph. 2 pp. (74. 30.) |
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Sir Edward Coke to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, Oct. 14. |
As to the manor of Swaffham, near the place of his nativity, which the Queen has granted to him. He has caused a lease to be drawn and subscribed by the Lord Treasurer, Mr. Chancellor, and Mr. Solicitor. Details his reasons why he does not take it by the commission, but desires to have it from her Majesty.—14 Oct., '99. |
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Holograph. Endorsed :—“Mr. Attorney General.” 1 p. (74. 31.) |
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Eli. Trelawny to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, Oct. 15. |
Cecil and others have commission for the sale of certain of the Queen's manors. Prays that Mr. Trelawny may purchase the manor of Trelawne here in Cornwall, and that Cecil will make stay of the manor till Mr. Trelawny's return out of France.—Poole in Cornwall, 15 Oct., '99. |
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Holograph. Endorsed :—“Mris. Trelauny.” 1 p. (74. 32.) |
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Thomas Windebank to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, Oct. 15. |
Having received your commandment for sending her Majesty's letter for the “ordenaunce” for the States about seven of the clock this night, I thought it was too late for the messenger to return, wherein if there be any fault for want
of speed, I must take it to myself and crave pardon. I have framed the letter upon a memorial given me by Monsieur Caron himself; who then said he would send for it, when he should know it were done, for that he did know there were duties to be paid for it, whereof if I made that mention herein, I humbly beseech you pardon. I have thought good to send this copy also, to the end Monsieur Caron may take order with such parties as he shall think good, according to the tenor of the warrant, and for paying us the fees also.—15 Oct., 1599. |
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Holograph. 1 p. (74. 33.) |
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Sir Thomas Leighton to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, Oct. 16. |
Your letters of 11 August in answer to mine of the 8th came not to me before the 15th inst., having been all the time stayed by contrary winds. Notwithstanding, I trust I have performed that which in your letters is chiefly required, which was to inform myself and advertise of the certainty of the intelligence contained in the letter from my Lieutenant of Sark, by me sent to you; as by my other letter of August 11 by me sent to you in like haste as the former, which I trust were with you the 14th day at the farthest, manifestly appeared that those advertisements contained in my Lieutenant's letter were not true. Since, I have written you sundry advertisements, as well of the passing by this isle of the six galleys, as of the fleet at the the Groyne, with all the particularities, which I trust you have long since received. I am greatly encouraged to find by your letters that her Majesty takes in so good part my diligent care in advertising.—Guernsey, 16 October, 1599. |
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Holograph. 1 p. (74. 34.) |
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Sir Thomas Egerton to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, Oct. 16. |
About 12 of the clock, as I came from Westminster Hall, I received your letter, with these nine papers enclosed. I perused them, and then delivered them to the E. of E., which he immediately considered of, and then sent for me and declared unto me verbally what he conceived of it. I told him I might mistake, or by weakness of memory not fully report, his speech or meaning, wishing him that if there were anything which might import her Majesty's service, or the state of that kingdom, he would rather set it down in writing. Thus I did take the best course for satisfying of anything which her Majesty in her princely wisdom might expect. Hereupon he did forthwith set down in writing this which I send you here-enclosed, and so leave it to your good consideration, for mine excuse, if I have erred herein, as I hope I have not, for I meant the best. |
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The papers I do return herewith unto you. And rest now fitter for the physician and apothecary than for any other good use, but lack time to attend them.—York House, 16 October, 1599. |
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Holograph. 1 p. (74. 35.) |
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Sir John Hart to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, Oct. 17. |
Has formerly written of one Richard Greene, and his lewd speeches. Greene is still detained in prison until Cecil's pleasure be known. If Cecil pleases to refer his punishment to the Lord Mayor and Court of Aldermen, it shall be inflicted upon him according to the quality of his offence.—From my house in London, 17 October, 1599. |
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Holograph. ½ p. (74. 36.) |
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Sir Thomas Leighton to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, Oct. 17. |
When last in England he was a suitor for the Mastership of the Game of Fekenhame forest, which Sir Fulke Greville was then in question to pass over to the Lord Windsor. Has now compounded with Sir Fulke. Neither fee nor profit belong to the office, but the holder must be at 20l. charges to see the game well kept. Prays Cecil's help to obtain the office by patent, his son to be joined with him. All the deer have their feeding upon his grounds. The forest is almost destroyed, for there is scarcely left 200 deer. If he gets the office, he will put into it 500 deer from his own park.—Guernsey, 17 October, 1599. |
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1 p. (74. 37.) |
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Richard [Bancroft], Bishop of London, to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, Oct. 18. |
According to her Majesty's pleasure, I have dealt with Mr. Morley and Mr. Day concerning the question betwixt them about printing, but I can in no wise agree them, both of them standing peremptorily upon the validity of their several letters patents from her Highness, which Mr. Morley saith the common law must decide, and Mr. Day will have the matter determined by the Lords in the Star Chamber. The several words of their grants whereupon they rely are here enclosed.—At my house in London, 18 October, 1599. |
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Signed. ½ p. (74. 38.) |
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Sir Thomas Egerton to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, Oct. 18. |
This evening the Earl of Essex received this letter enclosed from Sir Geffraye Fenton. It was brought by one Ogle, the Earl's servant, from Drodagh. Immediately upon receipt of it he delivered it to me, and I have sent it to you to be used as in your wisdom you shall think meet.—Yorke House, 18 October, 1599. |
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Holograph. Endorsed :—“Lord Keeper.” ½ p. (74. 39.) |
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S. Skery to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, Oct. 20. |
Expressing his thanks to Cecil for his deliverance, and the protection of his innocency.—London, 20 October, 1599. |
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Holograph. 1 p. (74. 41.) |
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R. Douglas to [Archibald Douglas]. |
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1599, Oct. 20. |
I wrote to you lately, by Mr. David Wardlaw, an answer to such things as you caused my brother Thomas to write to me in your name, since which time I understand that your letter that you sent to the King, and another to Sir George Elphinstone, has wrought no better effect by the unforgivable malice of Sir George Home, whose credit still with the King to the overthrow of all our name continues greatest. There [is] a command to be sent to Mr. James Sempill to seek either your delivery or your banishment out of England, so that for my part I know not what to think, whether it be better to deal for you here or not, for now when all your friends thought your troubles finished, and the King in disposition to deal with you and employ you, being hindered from that by nothing but the bruit of your familiarity with Mr. John Colvill, which we thought partly by your own apology, partly by Sir George Elphinstone his credit, who stood to be careful of you, should be removed; now Sir George Home, understanding that, and fearing your rising as prejudicial to him, has employed all his credit and obtained so much at the King his hand, over facile, alas, to his own hurt, as to procure that command to Mr. James Sempill, which I understand the gentleman has no will to use, but has as yet upon good reasons refused, and has requested the Secretary here to stay the command, neither as yet have I learned if a reiterate command be sent unto him to prosecute the matter against you or not, for I perceive, except he be again commanded to it, he will not. I will learn within a day or two the truth of the matter, and thereof shall advertise you with the first sure commodity I can find. I suspect also Mr. James Sempill not to be so friendly in your matters as we looked [for] and he himself promised faithfully, for I understand by a friend who saw his letter to the Secretary, when mention was made of you, that he seemed to be somewhat jealoused of you, and albeit he commended your officiosity towards himself, and in that respect was unwilling to procure you harm, yet on the other part, he wrote of your inability to do him any good or harm, by reason of your little or no credit there, and that point he should have eschewed if he had been careful to do you good here, and rather declared both your good will and ability to serve the King, and made it rather greater than it was in deed by his words smaller, when, on the other part, he is long in amplifying James Hudson his credit and his [good] service, and his own particular far by that I looked for at his departure, for he seemed to me to be in a very hard conceit of Hudson, and resolved to eschew all private and effectual dealings with him, whereof I see the contrary both by his letters to the King and Secretary. I pray you make your profit of this advertisement, but let it be very secret, and beware Mr. James understand it not, for he will soon know how it comes, and it will undo the party by whom I have it. The state of this country and all other things concerning your own particular estate, I have conferred at length with the bearer, whom as you may credit, so he will resolve you
better nor I am able to write. Whereupon to the next occasion, wishing you in the meantime to be of courage, and think, as you have put off many greater storms, so this small one shall not greatly harm you, and in the meantime to let it be known here that you are able both to do good and evil according as you are dealt with.—From Dalkeith, 20 October, 1599, Your L. loving nephew |
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Holograph. Address torn off. Damaged. 2 pp. (74. 43.) |
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Sir Thomas Egerton to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, Oct. 20. |
As I came from Westminster Hall at 12 this day, this letter was delivered to me, written to the E. by Sir G. Fenton (as it is thought), and commanded by is Lordship to be delivered to me. I send it unto you to be used as you shall think meet.—20 Oct., '99. |
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Holograph. ¼ p. (74. 44.) |
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Sir Thomas Egerton to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, Oct. 20. |
I have returned unto you this letter to the E. He perused it, and after delivered it again to me. His health decreases worse and worse, as his physician reports to me.—20 October. |
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Holograph. Endorsed :—“1599.” ½ p. (74. 42.) |
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William Becher to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, Oct. 23. |
Has been prisoner in the Compter two years upon a warrant, copy of which he encloses. As the warrant frees him from actions and executions, he has hitherto only attended the despatch of such business as has been for the Queen's satisfaction, which is near fully accomplished. Nevertheless, some of his creditors take themselves to have full liberty to lay their executions upon him. Prays either to be discharged from the warrant, or else that Cecil would direct the officers of the Compter that the creditors may pursue their suits at the common law, but are not to charge him with any action or execution till he be first freed of her Majesty's commandment.—23 Oct., 1599. |
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Holograph. 1 p. (74. 45.) |
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Thomas [Jones], Bishop of Meath, to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, Oct. 23. |
An advertisement has been delivered to me that Sir Chr. Blunt, late marshal of this realm, was a little before his departure into England reconciled to the Church of Rome in the house of one James Jans, an alderman of Dublin, by two seditious Popish priests named Lawler and Fitzimons. The first of these is discovered many ways to be a dangerous practiser in this perilous time. The second is a seminary priest which about a year since came out of Spain. This intelligence I received in private from [“one Udall” erased], a late servant to
the Earl of Essex and now a depender upon [“Sir John Stanopp” erased], to whom he is now repairing, and hath promised me to reveal this matter in England; but in duty fearing lest he should not make this known, I signify it to your Honour in sort as I received it from Udall, who, I doubt not, upon his examination, will deliver his cause and ground of knowledge of this matter.—Dublin, 23, October, 1599. |
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Holograph. Endorsed by Cecil :—“The B. of Meath.” 1 p. (74. 46.) |
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Filippo Corsini to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, Oct. 23. |
I have received your letter whereby I understand your desire concerning the 18,000 which her Majesty's ambassador hath there in ready money to be paid here to her Majesty's use. For answer thereof, I have not great correspondence with Sesto Spada; nevertheless, for one or two thousand crowns, if he shall charge me thereof, I am content to accept and pay his letters; but for greater sum I will not accept them; and for Ferrarin, I do not know him, and therefore, if he should charge me of any sum, I would not accept his letters. But there is one merchant there, right honest man, whose name is Gio. Battista Maddalena. If the whole sum be paid unto him, and he shall charge me therewith by his letters, I will not fail to accept and pay the same at the day; for whom, if your Honour's pleasure is, I will write him my letters to that effect, not knowing any other course whereby her Majesty may have more profit than to deliver it there to have it paid here.—London, 23 Oct., 1599. |
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Signed. ½ p. (74. 47.) |
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Dr. Ch. Parkins to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, Oct. 23. |
I humbly thank you that you have well liked of my necessary purpose for Carlisle, and also kindly yielded your favourable letter to that Bishop in my behalf. I doubt not but that he will be the readier if he may understand by your letter, that her Majesty will not be well pleased when she shall understand that duties appertaining to her Deanery and College of Carlisle are very negligently performed by the “Resiants” there; from whom her Majesty's servant, now Dean by her high institution, can obtain no reasonable account or good dealing. Wherefore, seeing he is to attend commonly about the Court for some occasions of her Majesty's service, and now is to go for Carlisle this audit time there, to settle some better order for the government of his charge, it is required that the Bishop will assist him in good sort, as upon just occasion he shall desire the same, or as your Honour in your better judgment shall think fit. I now therefore send my servant the bearer hereof, as you willed, for your said letter.—From my lodging at Westminster, 23 Oct., 1599. |
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Holograph. Endorsed :—“Dr. Perkins.” 1 p. (74. 48.) |
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Jo. Frauncis, “Post” of Chester, to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, Oct. 24. |
I received your letter of the 22nd inst. This day, whereby you require to be certified whether a former packet sent from you and received by me the 9th inst., being directed for Ireland, and the treasure, were gone or not. On receipt of that packet, immediately after the directions were come for release of the shipping in these parts formerly stayed, I delivered the same packet to Henry Aynsdale, owner of a bark of this river, and took his word for hastening away the same and procuring a certificate of its delivery at Dublin, with which packet he made sail about the 12th; but by adverse winds, not only his bark, but the treasure and all the rest of the shipping, were driven back and constrained to put into Beaumaris, where they have stayed ever since, until now upon show of a favourable wind that I hope they are gone, and will by the grace of God be very speedily at Dublin. I cannot learn of any passage of late out of Ireland, saving the post bark which brought over two packets, which I hope you have before this received. The post bark arrived yesterday at Holie Head.—Chester, 24 Oct., 1599. |
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Signed. 1 p. (74. 49.) |
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Robert Beale to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, Oct. 24. |
Prays for relief of his necessities. His whole livelihood, after 28 years' service, consists of the bare fee of the Clerkship of the Council, and a portion of the office of the Secretaryship at York, which both have but the allowance of 80l. yearly. “If it be thought that I had a sufficient recompence by mine office at York, I can truly answer that my stay from going thither proceeded not by any fault of mine own, but for that my name was made odious to the whole world for carrying down the commission for the execution of the Scottish Queen, which was delivered unto me by all or most of the Lords of her Majesty's Privy Council. Whereupon it was thought good that I should be retained here, and another admitted to serve in that place.” Gives details of his services. His office at York is like to be impaired, so that all ability of living will be wholly taken from him. He hears that Cole, one of the examiners at York, died on the 16th inst., and that the Lord President has bestowed the reversion of the place on one of his servants. Gives the history of this office of examinership during the Earl of Sussex's time and afterwards, and shows how it has been made to prejudice his office of secretary. Now that Cole is dead, he desires to be restored to the whole use of his office, as it was in former times and in law appertains to him, or for some compensation. It is also reported that the Lord President, when he removes, will carry the signet with him, and will award commissions to end causes by others than by the Council attendant at York. This will be a manifest wrong to his (the writer's) letters patent. Prays for remedy of these grievances.—London, 24 Oct., 1599. |
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Signed. 4 pp. (74. 50.) |
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Henry [Cotton], Bishop of Sarum, to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, Oct. 24. |
One Tenant, a Scot, who professed himself to be a physician, was heretofore resident in Sarum a year more or less, and being this last summer departed to London, where I understand he is yet abiding, left a trunk behind him with his host; which of late he sending for, the said trunk was opened by the consent of the carrier and his host, wherein were found divers papers and letters of his own, and withal a broad seal of brass, which we take to be the King of Scots' arms, with divers other instruments written, some sealed with the said seal, and others ready for the same; which things, being by the industry of the Mayor of Sarum and other his brethren seized upon, and so brought to me, I not knowing whereunto these things might tend, thought it our duty to make stay of the same, and with the consent of the Mayor have sent the seal, together with the instruments drawn and sealed, to your Honour by this bearer Mr. Hooper, by your wisdom to be considered and censured according.—Sarum, 24 Oct., 1599. |
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Holograph. 1 p. (74. 52.) |
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W. Stallenge to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, Oct. 25. |
His last was of the 9th inst., since which time there has not happened any matter to advertise. At the request of Mr. Pope, he dispatches this packet, with Pope's letters, which he says import her Majesty's service.—Plymouth, 25 October, 1599. |
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Holograph. ½ p. (74. 53.) |
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Robert Lane to Mr. Percival, servant of Mr. Secretary [Cecil]. |
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1599, Oct. 25. |
Begs for his favour as to the warship of the son of William Turpyn, of Knaptoste, Leicester. Asks him to accept this small note of his gratuity enclosed.—25 Oct., 1599. |
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½ p. (1901.) |
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Sir Anthony Mildmay to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, Oct. 26. |
Of his poor estate. Has served the Queen 30 years at great charge, both in Court and other places wherein he has consumed whatever his father left it in his power to sell. Has lately bestowed his daughter in marriage, parting with 300l. land for her advancement; his debts are great through his last employment, and what remains is but a bare rent, which disables him almost utterly from keeping open his doors any longer, and, what grieves him most, disfurnishes him from doing her Majesty service. Prays Cecil to make this known to the Queen, that his absence from attending her may not be mistaken, and the want known may be either supplied by her bounty, or his default pardoned. If the Queen does not think him worthy of any
reward for his long service, prays for leave to absent himself for three years beyond seas, to recover strength of body, mind and means.—St. Bartholomews, London, 26 Oct., 1599. |
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Holograph. 1 p. (74. 54.) |
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Robert Beale to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, Oct. 27. |
Acknowledges Cecil's letter. Vindicates himself from the charge of dissembling and double dealing with which his familiars have scandalised Cecil. Desires the matter of York to be dealt with by Cecil rather than by the Council or any other; nevertheless, upon Cecil's commandment, he has set down how the case stands, and trusts he can make good proof of it, and is much deceived if his cause is not justified by law. He would be glad to recover and keep his own, especially his present standing in such a degree of necessity as it does, being not able well to pay his debts, and leave his wife and children anything.—London, 27 Oct., 1599. |
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Signed. 2 pp. (74. 55.) |
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Christofer Rooper to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, Oct. 27. |
A deputy commissioner of Mr. Felton's, named John Kifte, assisted by officers of Sir Thomas Conningesby, high sheriff of the county of Hereford, upon the showing of my name wrongfully inserted as a convicted recusant into the schedule of the general commission against recusants of that county, after the same commission came down sealed; and that (as the said Felton's deputy reported) the same was done by the warrant of the Lord Chief Baron, who denies the same; hath in August last in most outrageous manner entered the grounds of my father, under the pretence of being mine, and thence violently driven his cattle, to the value of 120l.; and afterwards, finding that I had never been convicted nor indicted, to colour their precedent act, indicted me at the assizes at Hereford the day following, and still detained the cattle till my father's friends entered into great bond to bring them in, an act more than the law allows, had they been mine and I also guilty, before such time as I had been lawfully convicted. By reason whereof I am compelled to call the parties before you in the Star Chamber where these wrongs may be redressed, for the which I most humbly desire your assistance.—27 October, 1599. |
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Signed. 1 p. (74. 56.) |
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Filippo Corsini to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, Oct. 28. |
Your letter I have received, and according to the tenor of the same, I send you enclosed a letter for Gio. Battista Maddalena of Paris, which is the very copy of the letter written unto him concerning the monies which is in the hands of her Majesty's Ambassador at Paris.—London, 28 October, 1599. |
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Signed. ½ p. (74. 57.) |
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John Jefferey to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, Oct. 28. |
Being let to understand that you have conceived some displeasure against me concerning the examination which I took of one Captain North in the time of my mayoralty, wherein, as I do acknowledge that I have committed an error, so do I humbly desire you to impute it to ignorance and to remit the same, assuring you that I did it not with any undutiful intention toward your Honour, whereof I am ready to satisfy you whenever it shall be your pleasure that I shall attend you.—At the Court, 28 October, 1599. |
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Holograph. 1 p. (74. 58.) |
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— to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, Oct. 29. |
The vacancy of occurrents and want of subject, together with an indisposition of mine by reason of some sickness, has occasioned this past silence. The loud noise and frequent reports of troubles in England, tossed up and down in the mouths of many and descanted on diversely, are at the last hushed quite and turned into a quiet, I hope perpetual. Of Spain, France and other parts, here is little stir also at this time, the matters of Saluzzo offering no great matter for speech of late. Howbeit, many have imagined that the French and Savoyards were going together by the ears because of certain information of musters lately past and soldiers levied in the State of Milan; but the occasion for that, being found to grow in the behalf of the Finale (a port bought by King Philip, near Genova, to the great hindrance of that State, the King being able to pass anything whatsoever to Milan by his own haven without use of the Genovese) that opinon fell; and most men (of those that may have their judgment trusted to) hold that the matters of Saluzzo will never break out into a war; and are in this so obstinate, that though they were informed of the contrary in practice already, yet would they not believe it; founding their reasons on certain grounds of the Pope's either interest with the King of France or some other matter, whereof as secret they seem curious; “but one bear is that with as great contumacy builds a contrary conceit upon other secrets for the disposition of the King's final purpose, which he is persuaded will in the end show itself.” The old Constable is still at Milan, but like to be removed shortly. He is none of the most contented in regard of the daily commands he has from his Maistre to give satisfaction still more and more to the Church about the controversy of jurisdiction. The marriage of Parma with the Pope's niece goes forward. The King of France his match with the Duke of Florence his niece is thought now to be in like manner well advanced. There have been reports of the Lady Arabella's marriage to this King, and the Fre[nch] would needs say it was so forward as there wanted nothing to make it certain but the publishing of what was privately concluded; but now this world here is of another opinion, and the judicious censures of those that already imagined
him married to his new mistress proved as successful as many other humorous constructions that busy brains make daily; yet obdurate in their opinion, will they not believe the general bruits and inclination almost of all judgments, but still hold the King will marry the Damoiselle D'Entraghes, though no man else hears any word more spoken of her. Of Spanish preparations, how or of what condition or of what certainty they be, no man can penetrate. I have lately met with Spaniards newly come thence, but I could not profit anything by them. The matters between this state and the Pope which bred some jealousy about the cutting of the Po, come to good terms, finding that the state of the church neither in Ferrara nor other places shall be nothing prejudiced by the same Taglio, which undoubtedly goes in hand, out of hand. The French soldiers that arrived here, 600, are sent, one-third to Verona, another to Palma, and the third elsewhere.—Venice, 29 Oct., 1599. |
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Unsigned. 1½ pp. (74. 59.) |
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J. Throckmorton to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, Oct. 29. |
I hope this entrance into treaty for peace with the Spaniard is to better purpose than to deceive ourselves with the continual treacherous practices of the French, our natural ancient cunning deceivers. I doubt not but you have long ere this discovered them. Here it is so palpable that the common sort do remember their late purposes of treachery for Antwerp and the rest of the towns, at that time practised by them : with this saying, better for us, of ourselves to return Spanish : there may be some hope left us of reconciliation; than by this second French betraying of us unto him, forcibly in the end to be brought unto it. Other [say] thus : What can we await from them who have ever betrayed us? What may be observed out of these discontents, I will hope for better in these than desperate resolving; yet in the meantime I wish our “cautions” better secured. I hope we shall esteem better of them than to abandon them to these terms. It is you who may have the alone glory of now saving them. I am right glad that your Honour is noted by them to do all : they may in time be worthy your protection. I would to God that this your going about once again with them could bring forth so good fruit unto us as by a new contract to exchange the town of the Brill for the town called Enckhousen in North Holland. Her Majesty could not be better served by any subject. I doubt not but you know the consequence thereof. The like assurance I have that you may bring them either thereunto, or to what else you please, or if not, then do they plainly discover already to be provided of new masters, than the which, in my poor opinion, a greater inconvenience could not come unto us; for I doubt we shall find the combination to be as well “Skottis” as French. I leave the future hazard and danger that thereby may befall us unto your wisdom. In my poor observation, I do note in some of these who manage in chief this commonwealth very inconstant dispositions; not that they can be better secured by any other
nation than by us; but because they would retain to themselves in their subtle government a certain kind of an opinion to the world of a powerful ability in themselves at all times to put out and bring in whom and when they list; and perhaps, if at this present those same can in their devices prevail, they will have a great approbation thereof. I dare not presume to advise anything, but I do fear we cannot have a secure peace from the Spaniard if we shall forsake our strengths with these people. There is no man can or shall desire to you more honour than myself. In my poor conceit, the causes of these countries may open the highway to your future great estimation.—Vlushing, 29 Oct., '99. |
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Holograph. Endorsed :—“Captain Throgmorton.” 3 pp. (74. 60.) |
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Captain Thomas Bridges to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, Oct. 29. |
My case being now known unto such as it has pleased you to give order for my examination, I am a humble suitor for my enlargement. I have provided sufficient sureties according to the order; and beseech you to consider of my long restraint, to my utter ruin if I have not your grace.—The Gatehouse at Westminster, 29 Oct., 1599. |
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Signed. Seal. 1 p. (179. 91.) |
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Sir John Popham to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, Oct. 31. |
Upon Sunday was se'nnight, when her Majesty had speech of the tin cause, she directed that my Lord of Oxford should be made acquainted with Bullmer's offer. If you have not already written to his Lordship in it, and understood his opinion therein, for that I hear her Majesty will have some speech of that cause to-morrow, I have thought good to put you in mind thereof.—Westminster, last of October, 1599. |
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Holograph. Endorsed :—“Lord Chief Justice.” 1 p. (74. 62.) |
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Sir Thomas Fane to Lord Cobham, Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports and Lord Lieutenant of Kent. |
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1599, Oct. 31. |
This evening here arrived from Yarmouth two Scots; one named Harry Leslie is of the French King's guard, and has a certificate from the Captain of the Guard testifying the same; the other named Robert Croft is a retainer to Lord Hume, now in France; which Scots have brought with them 11 horses and certain dogs, belonging, as they say, to Lord Hume, who means to present them to the French King. I enclose the copy of their cocket or certificate from Yarmouth concerning the said horses and dogs, and for that many gentlemen of late bring horses hither, as they say, out of Scotland to be transported into France, I have thought good, under some courteous pretext, to make stay of these until your pleasure be further known; as also what course you will have observed in the like cases hereafter.—Dover Castle, 31 Oct., 1599. |
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Holograph. |
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On the back :— |
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“Dover this 31 of Oct. at 10 at nyght. hast post hast post hast hast post with spede. Tho. Fane. |
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Canterbury past 2 in the morning. |
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Sittingborne the 1 of November at 5 in the morng. |
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Dartford the first of November a 11 afore noone.” (74. 64.) |
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The Enclosure :— |
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Copy of the Yarmouth customs cocket, as above. 1 p. (74. 63.) |
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Hugh Baylye to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, Oct. |
The charge which I have taken in hand for the cure of Mistress Franncys Cecill that she should go well and perfect of herself : now, thanks be to God, she is well and out of her instruments. My bargain was, when I took her in hand, to receive for the curing of her £100. I desire you therefore that I may be satisfied.—Undated. |
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Endorsed :—“1599, Oct. For £100 for curing the Lady Fr. Cecil.” ¼ p. (74. 65.) |
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Frances, Lady Stourton to Sir Robert Cecil, her brother-in-law. |
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1599, Oct. |
I might justly hate myself if I should forget to love the children of so dear a sister, or the father of those children, who hath given so great testimony to the world of his love towards the mother and them. Wherefore, as their company and welldoing shall ever be one of my greatest comforts, so will I never cease to wish your greatest happiness.—Undated. |
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Holograph. Endorsed :—“Oct., 1599. Lady Stowrton.” ½ p. (74. 66.) |
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Henry, Lord Cobham to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, Oct. |
The Mayor of Dover, the bearer hereof, brought up with him Jasper Swifte, the brother of him that was the last year hanged. He hath been some 2 years in the College of Douay and now came thence. He seemeth penitent for his offence in so long remaining amongst them. He offereth to take the oath of supremacy. He is kinsman to Cotten, Bishop of Exeter, and prayeth that for some time he may remain with him, and upon his report of his carriage he may return to Oxford, where he desireth to follow his study. These be his desires, which I refer to your pleasure. I pray you that the Mayor of Dover may be paid for his charges.—From my house in the Blackfriars, October, 1599. |
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Holograph. 1 p. (74. 3.) |
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Elizabeth, Dowager Lady Russell to Sir Robert Cecil. |
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1599, Oct. |
Good nephew, I hear what I am not willing to commit to paper, yet as an aunt near in blood I cannot with
conscience but let you know that it is brought to my ears here in my very cell that most vile words have been openly uttered of you at an ordinary. Thus I manifest it to be true, long since written, Naturam expellas furca tamen usque recurrit. Use it to your own good without my hurt for my good will, which, to no small detriment to myself in the like, I have received in your father's life for friending him in such cases by his own desire. This I mean to cause you, being warned and thereby half-armed, to take heed to yourself and life; lest, as the poet saith, Ille dies primus lethi primusque malorum, causa fuit, wherein the Earl of Essex was committed, to whom I never sent since his return, neither, God is witness, doth any know of this but God and my pen; but only fearing our Sovereign's disquiet and your own peril, I do but put you in mind of what may follow by former example. |
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Ac veluti magno in populo cum saepe coorta est
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Seditio, saevit que animis ignobile vulgus
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Jamque faces et saxa volant; furor arma ministrat. |
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The report of this was brought to me by one tied to me in duty and otherwise, that heard it and reproved it, saying withal that he was sorry that he was in their company to hear a councillor so spoken of. What the words were, I list not to write, but will tell yourself when I see you. In the meantime, I sorrow in my heart my sovereign's hurt, your peril, I fear, and danger to come, to her Majesty's disquiet and trouble. I can but pray, which, I am sure, is most devoutly done here day by [day] in the Friars in the most reverent manner, for her Majesty and her Counsel. Your loving aunt, Elizabeth Russell Dowager. |
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Holograph. Endorsed :—“1599, October.” Seal. 1 p. (179. 92.) |
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William Udall to the Queen. |
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1599, c. Oct.] |
According to her Majesty's direction received by Sir John Stanhope, she shall understand the means used to discover the speeches which passed between the Earl of Essex and Tirone. Three gentlemen went to the waterside, where Essex was to meet Tirone. My Lord of Southampton had charge to keep all men from hearing, but these gentlemen had an opportunity by a hollow place to shroud themselves from sight, and so heard every word. One of them, Thomas Blount, an esquier of good worth of Astley in Worcestershire, is Udall's author. He being examined, will avow what Udall has written and somewhat more. |
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Her Majesty desires to know a means how to prevent the setting up of “a new Earl of Kildare and a Baltinglas.” Udall enters at great length into the history of the question, the present situation, and the reasons alleged for setting up a new Earl, and the means of preventing it; and details the proceedings of Morris Fitz Thomas, whom the rebels mean to make Earl. The chief strength of Fitz Thomas lies in the base Geraldines, Udall's brothers-in-law, who are with Tirone in setting up the new Earl. He reviews their proceedings, and makes various suggestions for bringing them to the Queen's service. |
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Since his last going to Ireland he made offer of the following services to the Earl of Essex : He first offered him the vicar general from the Pope of the English pale, who now labours in Dublin and in the English pale for Tirone; the services of the base Geraldines; Spanish discoveries by one Captain Blaye; but Essex refuses them all. He also informed Essex in vain of the rebels' intents and practices : of various abuses, as the forging and stealing of records, the passing in grant of manors where garrisons are kept, and of simony. |
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Now that the Queen has restrained Essex, and it is heard that Tirone refuses any further peace, all this is imputed to her and Mr. Secretary, and it is said, if she had suffered Essex, he would have made a general peace. This imputation he is determined to answer, and to make plain proof that Essex's restraint is so far from causing that new rebellion, that it will be the occasion of the greatest good in Ireland; and further, that Essex's government there has occasioned greater, more general, and more desperate rebellion. He advises the Queen to publish some reasons by some means in Ireland for Essex's restraint, to free herself and Mr. Secretary from imputation, and so daunt the rebels, and put her subjects in hope. Suggests that the following causes be alleged for Essex's restraint : (1) Because he did not examine the country complaints and oppressions, according to the Queen's directions; (2) that he went the Munster journey before he took order otherwise; (3) that he was more plausible to the rebels than to the subjects, and placed his garrisons upon the heart of the subjects and not upon the borders; (4) that he made that peace with the rebels which was neither honourable nor secure, but stood at the rebel's choice; (5) that in the loss of soldiers under Sir Henry Harrington he was too severe; but in the loss of soldiers in Ophaley and Connaught, when Sir Coniers Clifford was slain, both of them imputed to cowardice and treachery, there was no examination at all, which is a great touch unto him; (6) the making of so many unworthy knights, which is jested at in Ireland, and said that he made more knights than he killed rebels; (7) he left Ireland at such a sudden, all men in such amazes and perplexity, that subjects knew not what to do, whether join with the rebels or remain subjects.—Undated. |
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Holograph. 6½ pp. (186. 159.) |
