|
July 26.
R. O. | 1067. The King of Sweden to the Queen. |
|---|
| Credence for his son John, Duke of Finland, and Steno
Erici, Baron of Greffsnest and Captain of Jencoping, about to
proceed into England upon the matters formerly opened to
the Queen.—Stockholm, 26 July 1559. Signed: Gostavus. |
|---|
| Orig. Lat. Broadside. |
|---|
July 26.
R. O. | 1068. Eric, King of Sweden, to the Queen. |
|---|
| His father, Gostavus, King of Sweden, sends to her at this
time as his Ambassadors his son, John Duke of Findland, and
Steno Erici, Baron in Greffsnest and Captain of Jenkoping,
upon matters which are chiefly personal to the writer. Hopes
his brother will obtain a favourable answer.—Stockholm, 26
July 1559. Signed: Vestræ serenitatis amantissimus, Ericus. |
|---|
| Orig. Lat. Broadside. |
|---|
July 26.
R. O. 171 B. | 1069. Another copy of the preceding.
Modern transcript. |
|---|
July 26.
R. O. | 1070. The Queen to Sir Thomas Challoner. |
|---|
| She has directed Cecil to write to him respecting the misdemeanour of the Ambassador [of the King of Spain] at her
Court on the 26th inst. If he has occasion to speak of it with
the Conte de Feria, or the King, he shall say that for the sake
of the latter she passes it over, and that the former gave the
Ambassador [the Bishop of Aquila] example and instruction
at his departure. |
|---|
| He shall ask the King to permit Sir Thomas Gresham to
ship to England 6,000 Collen cleves and 100 barrels of powder
for her service.—Otford, 26 July 1559. |
|---|
| Draft in Cecil's hol. Endd. by him: 27 July. To Sir
Thos. Challoner. Pp. 2. |
|---|
July 26.
R. O. | 1071. Mundt to the Queen. |
|---|
| In his last letters, dated 19 inst., he wrote that the Elector
Palatine had advised him to remain here a few days longer
whilst his proposition should be submitted by the Elector
Palatine himself to the Princes and States of the Confession
of Augsburg. This delay was increased by the absence of
Wirtemburg and Deuxponts, upon whose return the matter
was discussed, and it was decided that an embassy should be
sent to her. Perceives that the Princes wish that this should
be done quietly, knowing that the Emperor does not like
such embassies. A portion of the contribution of Frankfort
is still unpaid, and 300,000 "aurii" are to be paid in addition;
yet the Emperor is not content herewith, and demands as
much more, stating that he has no confidence in the peace
with the Turks, who have lately made an inroad upon Istria.
Further, that as it is reported that the elder Turk is dead,
the successor will probably break the peace. |
|---|
| The States are therefore now deliberating whether they
shall not to some extent satisfy the Emperor's demand, and
unless they make some addition thereunto the Diet will be
still further prolonged. |
|---|
| The Emperor's journey into Alsace is altered in consequence of the death of the French King; it is not known
for certain where he will go, whether into the Tyrol, or
into Austria. The report about the immediate departure
of the Count von Helfenstein and his suite into England is
still rife; the Count has lately returned here. The Baron
von Harrach, who was also said to be going into England,
has departed into Austria. The Pope has lately written
to the Emperor for the reformation of the clergy in Germany,
since their impious life and evil manners occasion the Catholic
religion to be neglected and ruined. The Emperor has laid
the Pope's complaint before the spiritual Electors and the
other Bishops here, earnestly advising and commanding them
to consider the spirit of the times, and to correct the
manners and life of these persons by a revival and enforcement of the ancient discipline. There is now the prospect
of a better understanding between the Pope and the Emperor, the latter striving to show the greatest obedience
and respect to the former. The Princes and States of the
Confession of Augsburg are speedily to meet about the settlement of certain doctrinal articles, and a general agreement
upon matters of faith among themselves and throughout
their States.—Augsburg, 26 July 1559. Signed. |
|---|
| Orig. Hol. Add. Endd. Lat. Pp. 2. |
|---|
July 26.
R. O. | 1072. Mundt to Cecil. |
|---|
| Although the Diet is not yet finished, yet as there is no
longer any discussion upon the chief articles, thinks of departing home to-morrow. Before his arrival at home he will have
been absent from it five full months, that is, from 1 March,
on which day he left it along with the Commissaries of the
republic of Strasburg. This amounts to 153 days. Before
that period he had gone to visit (as Cecil knows) the Elector
Otto Henry at Heidelburg, who was not going to the Diet,
on account of his corpulency, and yet the Queen had ordered
that he was the first person who should be visited. |
|---|
| These journies are expensive; there are the servants, the
horses, clothes, despatch of letters by post, entertainments,
visitings, bribes for spies, presents to be made at inns, one's
daily expenses, as well ordinary as extraordinary. To bear
these is beyond his power (he is not wealthy), especially when
it is known that he is in the service of the richest of realms
and the most liberal of Queens. Massonus [Mason] and
several other persons can state what was the allowance made
to the writer in the days of Henry VIII. and Edward, when
he went to the Diet in Germany. Leaves the consideration
of these claims to Cecil and the rest of the Council, reminding them that he has served England for thirty-two years.—
Augsburg, 26 July 1559. Signed. |
|---|
| Orig. Hol. Add. Endd. Lat. Pp. 2. |
|---|
July 26.
R. O. | 1073. Croft to Cecil. |
|---|
| Has received presently from Kirkaldy the advertisements
herein enclosed, who has now declared himself plainly, and is
with the Protestants. He was suspected by the Scottish
Queen for speaking with Master Percy and the writer. Cecil
may now consider the contents hereof something according to
Croft's opinion in his letter of the 22nd inst.—Berwick, 26
July 1559. Signed. |
|---|
| Orig. Add. Endd. by Cecil: With the news of the composition. |
|---|
July 26.
R. O. | 1074. Croft to Cecil. |
|---|
| The Regent of Scotland, having had intelligence that the
Congregation that lies at Edinburgh began to "scale"
[separate], upon Sunday with great diligence sent the Duke
and M. Dosel with such power as they had. Reckons the
French at 1,200 men and the Duke and his friends at about
500. Some of the Lords and gentlemen of the Merse and
Tevedale went in that company, being very few. Coming near
to Edinburgh upon Monday, the Protestants hearing thereof
assembled themselves in battle without the town, near
Holyrood House; the French also did the like. Notwithstanding the great show of both parties, they fell to communication, wherein they could not agree; but respite is taken for
three days. In the meantime either party makes itself
stronger, so that it will appear shortly what shall become of
this great variance. The Congregation yet stands firmly to
have religion go forward and the Frenchmen expulsed. The
French remain in Leith, and on the 28th inst. the Regent
marches from Dunbar, having for her guard one ensign of
Frenchmen which lies at Dunbar and another which lies at
Aymouth, who mind this day to depart to Dunbar, to help
to conduct the Regent. They have required him to send
some persons to view the state of Aymouth before their
departure. |
|---|
| Knew of the Frenchmen's going towards Edinburgh upon
Monday, but thought it not meet to advertise anything till
he might understand some ground of their going. As the case
stands now there is little to be judged what shall follow
till the three days be past and the power of every side
assembled.—Berwick, 26 July 1559. Signed. |
|---|
| Orig. Add. Endd. Pp. 2. |
|---|
July 27.
B. M. Cal. E. V. 79 o. Forbes, 1. 172. | 1075. Throckmorton to the Queen. |
|---|
| 1. On the 22nd received her letters of the 16th from Mr.
Killigrew (who then arrived in Paris), which mentioned that
Richard Tremayne was to be employed by her, and her opinion
of the Earl of Arran being helped from Geneva into England
or Scotland. Received also her other letters of the 19th,
touching the consultation had for the French King's style to
be published to her prejudice, and bidding him remain there
only as a private gentleman if the French King minded there
to put their first deliberation into practice, signing himself
to the Queen's prejudice. Is also informed by these letters,
that commands are given to the French Ambassador on that
side not to repair to the Court unless sent for by the Queen.
Tremayne delivered also letters to the King and Queen of
Navarre, the Duke of Guise, and the Constable. |
|---|
| 2. For answer, Richard Tremayne has not yet come to him,
but when he does, will send him to Geneva and Tygure,
[Zurich], to understand something of the Earl of Arran, (and
in case he can meet with him, to proceed according to her
letters,) of whom he has heard nothing since the despatching of Mr. Randall from hence to Chastelereu, in company of
the Earl's master of his horse, other than such advertisements
as he sent her, which he had received from the said Mr. Randall.
Whether the Earl be at Geneva or Zurich, where order was by
the writer taken for his arrival, does not know. |
|---|
| 3. It is said the Earl went eastward from Chastelereu, and
on the 23rd the Baron of Corton, (who is not lodged far from
Throckmorton,) told his host that the Earl on his way to
Geneva had endured great penury, hiding himself for 15 days
in a wood, and subsisting on fruit; and other news he has not. |
|---|
| 4. Touching the other letter of the 19th, as to the matter
of the French King's style, he has been told that after the
first deliberation, a seal was made bearing the arms of
England, France, and Scotland together, with this style alone
"Franciscus Dei Gracia Francorum Rex." This being
perfected was shown to the Council by the Duke of Guise
and Cardinal of Lorraine; among whom was the Constable,
who, having seen the seal, (as Throckmorton was told by
one who seemed to know much,) stood up and said to
Messieurs de Guise (as he termed them) that he thought
it not honourable that there should be used in the seal of
France any other arms than those of France; alleging that
the late King, had never done so, nor had his ancestors,
though laying claim to Naples, Milan, and divers other important places. Then some stay was made of the seal; and as
yet they use the late King's seal, and the King [Francis II.]
did lately write himself in a commission as French Kings used
to do. He will not easily learn more until the late King be
buried (which will be about the 20th August); at whose
burial it is the custom here, as he is put in his tomb, to
publish, Le Roy est mort, and then the new King is proclaimed
with his whole style in order. The uncertainty as to how to
behave himself to the King until these matters are known to
a certainty being such, he has thought it best to retain the
King's letter and that to the Duke of Guise, until he shall
be more fully instructed. |
|---|
| 5. Has thought good to send Mr. Killigrew to meet the King
of Navarre to deliver him the Queen's letter, which will be
the better welcome to him, causing him to think the messenger
expressly sent to him. Thinks good to deliver the Constable's
letter forthwith, that he may be the better affected to her if
any question be put further in the Council. |
|---|
| 6. On the 19th the Duke of Savoy and the Prince of Orange
rode in post towards Flanders, which Prince has promised to
return by a day. The cause of the Duke's going is to renew
the treaty between France and Spain, which was made between
King Philip and the late King. |
|---|
| 7. On the 21st the Duke d'Arcus with the Count Carravallier arrived in post at the Court. His mission is to condole
with the King, and to make agreement for the continuing of
the league between them, and to perform all the articles
agreed with France, Philip being willing to aid France with
money or any other thing, yea, with the travail of his own
person. Understands a commission is sent into Gascoign for
men to be levied for Scotland. It is said the young King of
Denmark is dead. |
|---|
| 8. The Court removes to S. Germain's on the 25th to remain
until near the King's burial. The Duke of Alva and the
Constable remain at Paris. Does not understand that M. de
Noailles is to be revoked, but hears that when the King is
buried and things put in order, all the ministers shall be
changed, and among them the Ambassador to England, being
of the Constable's appointment. |
|---|
| 9. On the 25th the Duke of Arcus goes to Flanders; Signor
Ruigomes next day to Spain, whither King Philip hastes to
follow. The advertisement touching the usher calling for
place for the French Queen was spoken rather of pleasure by
him than of any set purpose, because the Lady Stafford was
hard by it. |
|---|
| 10. Sends the Queen enclosed a note of such news as the
Ambassador at Venice sent him, touching the Pope and the
great conflict among the Turks. |
|---|
| 11. Whereas commission was granted to an officer of the
King's here, for letting the lands at Calais within the pale for
seven years; he can get no one to take leases of them for that
time, saying that within eight years it will be restored to the
Queen. The officer went to the Cardinal of Lorraine, who
asked him if he were so mad as to believe it really would be
restored; and told him though the time of making the peace
caused that covenant to be put in, no such thing was ever
meant; and he therefore willed him to tell the tenants secretly
that there is no such restitution meant. |
|---|
| 12. Corsica is not yet restored to the Genoese; the cause
thereof is, that when commissioners arrived to make restitution thereof, Ursino, (who has the charge for the French
King there,) by the secret means of the great Prior caused the
people of the isle to withstand its surrender to the Genoese.
The Queen may inform the Spanish Ambassador hereof. Pierre
Corsica has arrived at this Court, and is well received of the
King. |
|---|
| 13. Heretofore wrote to the Queen of the sending of the
Duke of Wirtemburg and the Cardinal of Augusta from the
Empire to that Court. The Duke refused to be joined with
the Cardinal; but being pressed by the Emperor, he said the
Cardinal was his enemy and had sought to kill him. The
Cardinal repaired to the Duke's lodging, and desired to know
whether what he had heard were true. The Duke affirmed it,
and said he would stand to it; and being pressed by the
Cardinal to say who gave him such information, said that
he understood by letters from Rome that the said Cardinal
in the Pope's presence had proponed matter that the Pope
should find means to despatch him, and if he could not, the
Cardinal would; adding that if the Duke of Wirtemburg
were not put out of the way religion could never be staid in
Almaine. The Cardinal utterly denied it, and then the Duke
said he had received letters from the Cardinal Bellay to this
effect, which he showed to the Cardinal of Augusta. He being
satisfied with the Duke, forthwith wrote a despatch of
the matter to the Pope, who, in reply, committed Cardinal
Bellay to prison; and it is charged to be for the Cardinal of
Augusta's cause. So said one who came by Paris from Italy
on the 24th inst. to pass into Flanders. |
|---|
| 14. The Princes of Condé and Ferrara shall be forthwith
despatched into Flanders for the confirmation of the late treaty
between France and Spain and its continuation. Is also told
that after long debatings amongst these men about Scotland,
they have decided to send De Labrosse and the Bishop of
Amiens with 1,000 footmen and 100 men at arms; who, on
their arrival, shall visit the fortifications, to see which are to be
kept and which abandoned, and to place the soldiers in them;
and then to see what they can do with the spirituality to
appease the garboil among them. If they find difficulty, they
have commands now in harvest time to employ the men of
war to store up as much provision as they can gather, and to
destroy all the country round them. And if the men they
take will not serve their purpose, the Marquis D'Albœf will
be sent after with greater force. The men for Scotland will
be shipped about the 8th of next month. |
|---|
| 15. Cannot but remind the Queen to be careful of the hostages, notwithstanding any good countenance they make. On
the 25th the Vidame of Chartres was with him [Throckmorton]
and gave him two supplications, the copies of which he sends
her. The suppliant does him [the Vidame] much dishonour,
and his doings seem otherwise worthy her indignation.
Prays her to cause the party to be secretly apprehended, and
to signify the same to him [the writer], that he may give her
advice how to proceed. The suppliant names himself the
Duke of Norfolk's servant, and has two names, Thomas Gery
and Munceaulx, and is son to Philbert, late physician at
Calais. He has a sister married in London to a surgeon who
might tell where he is. Secresy should be used. |
|---|
| 16. On the 26th James Hambleton, the Lord of Ormestone,
the Earl of Arran's lieutenant, came to his lodging and told him
that as yet there is no certain knowledge where the Earl was.
And said also that the Duke of Chastilherault's lands, before
seized into the French King's hands, were restored again on
the 25th inst. to the Duke's use. Nevertheless, he said, he
thought it done only to retain the Duke's devotion to the
French. And to inform the said Duke of this and of their
using of his son Davy, and of their purposes to Scotland,
the said Hamilton will shortly send to the Duke into Scotland
a gentleman named Henry Nesbet, for whom the writer gave
the said Hambleton a passport, bearing date July 26th. Prays
the Queen to give him one to Scotland, when he shall arrive
at the Court. |
|---|
| 17. A sea captain, John Rosse, has the conducting of the
soldiers into Scotland. An Ambassador from Sweden has
arrived; and the Queen may wish to learn his business from
the French Ambassador resident with her. |
|---|
| 18. When he had this far written, the Vidame sent word
that they had found the party for whose apprehension he has
written to the Queen; therefore she can stay in this matter,
unless indeed he escape and come to England.—Paris, 27
July 1559. |
|---|
| 19. P.S.—Has thought good, although the Vidame has
found the party, to send her the supplications, for it concerns
her service. After perusing them she may like to send them
to Mr. Secretary, for the opening of the contents thereof may
otherwise work some displeasure to the Vidame. |
|---|
| Orig. Add. Endd. |
|---|
July 27.
B. M. Sloane, 4134. 393. | 1076. Another copy of the above.
Forbes' transcript |
|---|
July 27.
R. O. Forbes, 1. 181. | 1077. Throckmorton to the Queen. |
|---|
| Although has signified sundry advertisements in his other
letters in this packet, addressed to her, to her Council, and to
Cecil; yet thinks it meet to advertise her particularly of the
things following: |
|---|
| The Vidame of Chartres (who has given him [Throckmorton] cause to think he is the Queen's friend) informed
him last night that the French mean to break shortly with her;
for on the 25th they were told that she intended to impeach
their doings against the Scots, and also that there is a league
between her and them. Whereupon they have to-day sent the
Duke of Ferrara to the King of Spain, and mean shortly to
send thither the Prince of Condé to conclude a new league
between France and Spain to her detriment. He said further
the French hoped the King of Spain would endeavour himself
to repress rebels and heretics, so the French trust to win the
alliance of Spain though they lose that of Scotland; and she
(say they) shall lose the King of Spain's amity to win her
ancient enemies. The arrival of the Duke of Arcus gives
France hope of the King of Spain's assured amity. |
|---|
| Doubts not she will advisedly weigh not to suffer the
French to suppress her friends in Scotland; and yet not to
lean to the Scots unless they join their forces in unity. As yet
they do not draw all one way, for besides the French nation
there, there is a French faction among themselves, which must
be extinct. Prays her to give her Ambassador with the King
of Spain in charge, and to use all other means, to decipher the
contents of this new league between Spain and France. Nor
should she let the Spanish Ambassador resident in England
abuse her with sugared words; for the writer sees and hears
enough to make him think that the King of Spain is but a
hollow friend to her, and so may do her more harm than an
open enemy.—Paris, 27 July 1559. Signed. |
|---|
| Orig. Hol. Portions in cipher, deciphered. Add., with
armorial seal. Endd. by Cecil. Pp. 3. |
|---|
A.D. 1559.
July 27. R. O. Sloane, 4134. 409. | 1078. Another copy of the preceding.
Forbes' transcript. |
|---|
July 27.
R.O. | 1079. Throckmorton to the Lords of the Privy Council. |
|---|
| On the 20th inst., came to his lodgings, two Frenchmen
dwelling at Nantes, who delivered to him, on behalf of certain
English merchants trafficking that way, a supplication touching certain impositions, wherein they found themselves
aggrieved; the copy of which he encloses. |
|---|
| On the same day, a servant of his, an Englishman, (whom
he took pleasure in for his skill in music,) was taken by
certain of the Grand Prior's folk, as he walked in the street,
and carried away. He therefore sent to the Duchess of Guise
(the Duke and the Prior were not in town,) to complain; she
sent for answer that the servant should be sent home, which
was not done. |
|---|
| Next day sent a servant to the Court, (which was at
Medune) to declare the matter to the Grand Prior, who
answered, that application should be made to him at his
return to Paris. |
|---|
| When the Prior arrived on the following day, the writer
did so; and received for answer that neither he nor any other
Ambassador should let him to do what he would therein.
Throckmorton's messenger, not seeming satisfied with that
answer, was willed by the Prior to tell his master that he
might do as he would, for he [the Prior] would do what he
thought good herein. The writer thereupon sent to the
Cardinal of Lorraine, who said he knew not the matter, but
would speak to his brother. |
|---|
| On the 24th sent to the Cardinal again, and he returned for
answer that he had not yet spoken with the Prior, and seemed
to make light of the matter. Has also sent diverse times to
M. de Noailles and aggravated the matter with him, but all
will not serve. Cannot hear what has become of his servant.
Asks their advice and assistance herein.—Paris, 27 July 1559.
Signed. |
|---|
| Orig. Add. Endd. by Cecil. Pp. 3. |
|---|
July 27.
R.O. Forbes, 1. 179. | 1080. Throckmorton to Cecil. |
|---|
| Has received his letter without date by Mr. Killigrew, with
two from the Queen to himself, one of the 16th, and the
other the 19th inst., with others to the King of Navarre and
the Queen, the French King, the Duke of Guise, and the
Constable. Will put the contents into execution as soon and
warily as possible. For the delivery of the rest of the letters
has signified his mind therein to the Queen, so will not repeat
it. Being uncertain what to do for his proceedings here, and
the rather because he has not received instructions, and
knows not the contents of the letters sent to him to be
delivered, (the ignorance of which may be evil for the Queen,)
reminds him of this. Asks for instructions in these things
and that Cecil would send two other letters instead of those
for the French King and the Duke of Guise, for he supposes
their date will be old; and also to send him the minutes of
these, and those also sent hereafter. And because the old
Queen, (called la Reine Mère), has, though not in name, the
authority of a Regent to the French King, thinks a letter
should be sent to her. |
|---|
| Is secretly informed that there is a party in Scotland, to
place the Prior of St. Andrew's in the state of Scotland, and
that he also aspires thereto by all secret means. And as the
state of France is governed by the Cardinal of Lorraine and
the Duke of Guise, the Duke having only the charge of the
war, and the Cardinal that of other affairs, as of the finances,
the matters of estate, &c., and the special doing with all
Ambassadors; for this cause, the Queen's minister here must
have some favour with him, if he hope to do any service in
such matters as the Ambassador shall have to do with the
French King. Albeit he supposes the Queen has as small
devotion to the Cardinal as he has to her, yet it were well that
affections are dissimulated, for when he [the Cardinal] shall
know the Duke of Guise is written to, and he [not] regarded,
he will be as careless of them as they are of him, which shall
smally further the Queen's service. |
|---|
| Thought good to send this despatch by John Melvin, a trusty
man, whom he knows to be honest and very zealous in
religion. Thinks him not capable of himself to go through
with any matter of great importance, but is trusty, and with
instructions will serve well. Reminds Cecil there is enmity
of long continuance between the Earl of Arran's house and
that of Lennox; to the intent that in all his [Cecil's] practices
for Scotland he may have due regard thereunto. |
|---|
| Though he has talked with many men of diverse nations,
finds none so trusty as James Melvin, presently in Scotland,
the Constable's servant, a man of good capacity; and Cecil
will do well to use the best means he can, should he come by
him, to make him the Queen's, for he will be able to do her
great service. Refers him, for the rest of the occurrences, to
the Queen's letters. |
|---|
| P.S.—Desires that the enclosed may be sent to Croftes or
Percy to be by them conveyed according to the direction.—
Paris, 27 July 1559. Signed. |
|---|
| Orig. Portions in cipher, deciphered. Add. Endd. by
Cecil. Pp. 3. |
|---|
July 27.
B.M. Sloane, 4134. 405. | 1081. Another copy of the above.
Forbes' transcript. |
|---|
July 27.
R. O. | 1082. [Cecil] to Sir Thomas Challoner. |
|---|
| To-day, about 1 o'clock after dinner, came hither the
Countess de Feria, conducted by King Philip's Ambassador,
and Don Gioan d'Ayla. She was invited to retire into Lady
Howard's chamber, or Lady Sidney's, which she very gently
refused, and seemed better content to tarry in the Chamber of
Presence until she might see the Queen. The Bishop [of
Aquila] required the Vice-Chamberlain to show the Queen
that the Countess was desirous to see her, and if she might
not do that speedily she should go before and he would tarry
behind to make her excuse. The Lord Chamberlain prayed
the Bishop to take patience awhile and the Queen would
speak with the Countess. "It were meet (quoth the Ambassador) that the Queen should remember whose wife she is,
and that the County de Feria is not her vassal." These
words he spoke so loud and angrily as it was hard to forbear
without some round answer; nevertheless the Lord Chamberlain answered him temperately. The Bishop was not
content, but required that he might forthwith speak with
the Queen before the Countess should speak with her;
which request being showed to Her Highness, and being
advertised by divers which stood by, of his former disordered
speech, she sent the Lord Chamberlain to him requiring to
know of him whether he had any matter on his master's
behalf, who said he had none. Hereupon she forbare to speak
with him, and sent for the Countess de Feria to come into
her privy chamber, with whom she had very much familiar
and loving talk; and indeed the same Countess showed herself very sorry for that the Ambassador had been in such heat,
and used such disordered terms without just cause. |
|---|
| The Countess having taken her leave, the Queen sent for
Don Giovan d'Ayla to come into her privy chamber, who,
instigated by the Bishop, said that he was commanded by
his master to come into her presence only in the company of
the said Bishop. Hereupon the Queen, meaning not to proceed
with the said Bishop in any further offence, as he had given
great cause, sent her letters to the said Don Juan d'Ayala
by him to be delivered to the King of Spain. |
|---|
| The Countess departed with very good contentation, and
was accompanied to her house very honourably, with the
Lord Chamberlain and others, the train of the Court. "Surely
the Bishop forgat himself very much;" all he can pretend is
that the Countess is with child, and had to ride to Rochester,
twelve or thirteen miles off, both of which were well considered by the Queen, so that she was dismissed about 3 of
the clock, so as to have six hours before night to ride her
journey; and considering the heat of the day more meeter
to be ridden toward the evening than nigh the midday. |
|---|
| Draft. Endd. by Cecil: 27 [altered from 26] July 1559.
To Sir Thomas Challoner. Pp. 3. |
|---|
July 27.
R. O. | 1083. Reformation in Scotland. |
|---|
| The Lords of the Privy Council of England to the Lords of
the Congregation in Scotland. |
|---|
| Have seen their letters sent hither by this bringer, and
understand by Cecil further advertisement brought to him.
Have conceived their good meaning both towards God's glory
and the freedom of their country. Cannot forbear but recommend their good wills and devotion to the furtherance of
such good things; and wish them strength in God, to the
glory of His name, and power both of their own nation and all
others that favour the glory of God to the maintenance of
their liberty from captivity to strangers. Mean not by
writing to dilate much at this present, yet shall they not
neglect such godly and honourable enterprises, upon hope
that thereby this famous isle may be conjoined at the last in
heart, as it is in continent land, with one sea, and in one
uniformity of language, manners, and conditions. Refer for
the rest to letters written by Cecil; and wish them and all
their assembly, the nobility there, such comfort as the writers
would wish to themselves in the like case.—Otford, 27 July
1559. Your Lordships' loving friends, W. Northampton,
W. Howard, F. Bedford, Penbroke. |
|---|
| Orig. Endd. by Cecil: 28 July. Letter of the Council
to the L. of Scotland. Not sent. Pp. 2. |
|---|
July 27.
R. O. | 1084. Draft of the above. |
|---|
| Cecil's hol., endd.: 27 July 1559. The letters to the Lords
of Scotland. Pp. 2. |
|---|
July 28.
R. O. | 1085. The King of Spain to the Queen. |
|---|
| Intercedes in behalf of the bearer, Deryk File, who had
served her father and brother in the wars, and who had
formerly enjoyed an annual pension given him by Queen
Mary (whose letters he will produce to the Queen) but which
is now discontinued.—Ghent, 5 cal. Aug. 1559. Signed:
Philippus,—G. Perezius. |
|---|
| Orig. Add. Endd. by Cecil. Lat. Broadside. |
|---|
July 28.
R. O. | 1086. Reformation in Scotland. |
|---|
| Cecil to the Earls of Argyll and Glencarne, the Prior of
St. Andrew's, and the Lords Boyde and Ucheltrey. |
|---|
| The bearer brought on 26th inst. their letters dated on
the 19th, as well to him apart as to the Queen. By the former
they answer divers questions made by him in his former
letters upon the matters named by Mr. Kirkaldy touching
their causes now in hand. Has not only himself considered
the whole contents of their letter, but also with others (as
by their letter shall appear) whose estate the bearer can
report to them. |
|---|
| For replication to their common letter, must needs confess
that the two principal points intended by their proceedings
are such as all good Christian men ought to allow, (1) to abandon idolatry, (2) to maintain the liberty of their native
country from thraldom of strangers. The ends are simply
good in themselves; but as to the means, there may arise
diversity of opinions. Is it the office of all sorts of men to
do this, or of some only? If of some, to whom does it
belong and to whom not? Makes no determination against
their doings. Nothing can be more joyful to them [the
English] who, by exalting their Sovereign Lady to this kingdom have abandoned idolatry and brought our Saviour Jesus
Christ into this kingdom, than that the same blessing may
come to them [the Scotch]. |
|---|
| The English have cause to rejoice also that England is
delivered from the power of strangers. "But whether ye
do indeed take that way that should both soonest and sureliest lead you thereto, it may be, and is, much doubted. Ye
know your chief adversaries, (I mean the popish kirkmen)
be noted wise in their generation. They be rich also,
whereby they make many friends, by their wit with false persuasions, by their riches with corruption. As long as they
feel no sharpness nor offence they be bold, but if they be
once touched with fear they be the greatest cowards. In
our first reformation here in King Henry VIII's time,
although in some points there was oversight for the help of
the ministry and the poor, yet if the prelacy had been left
in their pomp and wealth, the victory had been theirs. I
like no spoil, but I allow to have good things put to good
uses, as to the enriching of the crown, to the help of the youth
of the nobility, to the maintenance of ministry in the church,
of learning in schools, and to relieve the poor members of
Christ, being in body and limbs impotent. Knows of no
better example of any reformed State than Denmark. |
|---|
| If they say that the present time requires the defence of
themselves, he admits it is true; "and to me the more marvel
that ye omit also such opportunity to help yourselves.
Will ye hear of a strange army coming by seas to invade
you, and seek help against the same, and yet permit your
adversaries, whom ye may expel, keep the landing and
strength for the others? Which of these two is easiest, to
weaken one number first, or three afterward? Surely what
moveth this to be forborne I know not; but what hurt, yea
what peril, shall come thereof is evident. How many of
your flock in that realm lack you to shew themselves ready
to come to the fold whilst these wolves lie gaping against
them? What will be the end when the beginnings be these?
Will they favour you in Scotland that burn their own daily
in France? What may the Duke's Grace there look for,
when his eldest son was so persecuted as, to save his life, he
was forced to flie France and go to Geneva not without great
difficulty; his second brother, the Lord David, now cruelly
imprisoned by M. Chevignye, one chosen out to show cruelty
to your nation ; (fn. 1) divers others of the Earl's family put to
torture; and, finally, the duchy of Chastelherault seized to the
crown ? And to show you their proposed tragedy, the young
Queen so sweareth, so voweth, so threateneth to destroy all
the house of Hamilton, as it is beyond all marvel to see your
old Regent there can inchant the Duke's ears to hear nothing
thereof. God open his heart according to his knowledge.
He maketh a slender account to see his sons, one driven away,
the other imprisoned in France, and yet to be abused so
far, (as I think, against his conscience,) in the end to be the
slaughterman of his own family. It is manifest why the
Queen in the end will be more cruel against his family, notwithstanding this his service, than against yours presently;
and yet this is the determination had in their Council, first
devised by the Cardinal of Lorrain, that the taking away of
four heads thereof shall quiet the matter." |
|---|
| Such being their purposes, they here [in England] cannot
but favour them [in Scotland]. Yet there are difficulties: the
war has lately ceased with France, and it is a matter of
weight to enter upon a new one. Many things are to be considered which cannot be conveniently written nor suddenly
determined; therefore he has imparted to this bearer sundry
things to be declared unto them, which being resolved upon,
may bring forth some fruit to the glory of God and the
weal of both their realms. God send them the strength of
His Spirit, not to faint in the course of His Gospel and to
maintain concord among themselves! " Your doings may
bear the universal name of the Great Council of Scotland,
for lack whereof your adversaries may rejoice and your
friends rest perplexed. Such is the valour and opinion of
authority, and such hath been (not only in France but in
other realms) the laudable reformation of some weals almost
ruinated by insolency of governors." Likes the bringer
hereof so well for his fidelity that he has committed further
credit to him. |
|---|
| Draft, in Cecil's hol., and endd. by him: 28 July 1559.
Copy of my letter to the Earls of Argyll and Glencarne,
the Lord Prior of Saint Andrews, the Lords Boyd and
Ucheltrey. Pp. 6. |
|---|
July 28.
B.M. Sloane, 4734. 182. Knox, ii. 34. Calderw. 1. 494. | 1087. Cecil to Knox. |
|---|
| "Non est masculus neque fœmina, omnes enim, ut ait
Paulus, unum sumus in Christo Jesu. Benedictus vir qui
confidit in Domino; et erit Dominus fiducia ejus." |
|---|
| Has received his letters at the same time he thought
to have seen him at Stamford. Knows not what is the cause
of his let. Forbears to descend to the bottom of things until
he may confer with such a one as him [Knox], and therefore
if his chance shall be hereafter to come hither, wishes him
furnished with good credit, and power to make good resolution.
Although the writer's answer to the Lords of the Congregation is somewhat obscure, yet upon further understanding
Knox will find the matter plain. Need wish him no more
prudence than God's grace, whereof may God send him plenty.
—Oxford [Otford], 28 July 1559. Signed: Yours as one
member of the same body in Christ. |
|---|
July 28.
B.M. Sloane, 4737. 102. | 1088. Another copy of the above. |
|---|
July 28.
R.O. | 1089. William, Lord Grey, to Throckmorton. |
|---|
| Requests him to be surety with his [the writer's] son for his
[Grey's] coming to Paris, upon his faith that he shall for his
personal forthcoming for the term that M. la Roche shall
give him, there to find sureties for his ransom and to be true
prisoner. Herewith sends his faith to La Roche signed with
his own hand, perceiving by the bearer his servant and
chiefest of Grey's guard, that his ransom is concluded upon.
Is forced to trouble him, for he doubts his son is not able to
get sureties there so well as the writer. Promises by his
faith that he will sooner die than Throckmorton shall be
found faulty in one jot of word for him, and whatever promise
for him is made binds himself by this letter to perform.—
Unzaye Castle, 28th July 1559. Signed. |
|---|
| Modern transcript. Add. Endd. P. 1. |
|---|
July 28.
R. O. | 1090. The second leaf of the original of the above, bearing address
and endorsement. |
|---|
| P. 1. |
|---|
July 29.
R. O. | 1091. Challoner to the Queen. |
|---|
| Arrived at Dunkirk upon Sunday night last, and departed
thence to Bruges, where he remained a season to send a
servant to the Court at Gand, requesting the Count de Feria
to appoint him some convenient lodging, which he with
difficulty obtained, in consequence of the great concourse of
the nobles to the Feast of the Toison and the unwillingness
of the Spanish Friars. Arrived here at Gand upon Friday
last, where the day before the King in person had celebrated
the late French King's obsequies very solemnly, and that
Friday in the afternoon personally received the new Regent,
Duchess of Parma, at her entry into the town. |
|---|
| Immediately upon his arrival he sent to the Count de
Feria requesting him to procure an audience with the King.
The answer (uttered by the Count, as the messenger reported,
"with very cold semblant") was that he would endeavour so
to do, but that until the solemnities of the Order were achieved,
the King should have no good opportunity to admit him.
Wots not well what to say of the affection and inclination of
the Spaniards generally towards the English. The Count is
a person of principal favour about the King and one of the
greatest of his Council. |
|---|
| The ceremonies of the Order were as follows. The King
and the Knights of the Order passed to the great Church
yesternight to evensong. "I did behold, disguised, in a
house, the solemn pomp thereof; where first, the procession,
with xxi mitred Bishops and Abbots in pontificialibus,
and amongst them the Bishop of Arras, went before. Then
the officers of arms and trumpets followed, next whom
those of the Order, of the number of a xxiiij, and amongst
them the Duke of Savoy, two and two together, and next
them the King, all clad in robes of the Order, with their
chaperons upon their heads, very rich and fair to behold.
And last, a great number of his other Lords and gentlemen
of his Court, closing up the pomp at the King's back. Ambassadors saw I none there. They say the King, with those
of the Order, this Sunday, the Mass ended, dineth at the
Town House at the cost of the Lords of Gand." |
|---|
| The King will depart hence by 8 proximo towards Flushing
in Zealand, where after two or three days tarrying he will embark for Spain; his ships are in order and he makes all direct
haste he can. How shall the writer use himself to the King at
his departure? He has licensed all Ambassadors and others of
his train (except certain chosen) to follow him into Spain by
sea or through France, at their election. Challoner, remembering the Queen's pleasure, signified by her to him at his leave
taking (to the effect that he should not follow Philip into
Spain, but should remain in the Low Countries), does not
make account that he will pass with him. The favour that
any of our nation should find in Spain, when travelling from
place to place, should be very meagre, and great circumspection
would be necessary, as he judges by their talks and opinions
in this Court. |
|---|
| Will visit the new Regent after he has been with the King.
Hears that the Duchess of Lorraine returns shortly home into
Lorraine "smally satisfied with the preferment of the other,
for old emulations' sake." Various other bruits are current,
but they are diverse and variant. |
|---|
| The Council standeth now upon a few heads, which rule
under the Prince in highest trust; Alva and Ruy Gomez (now
absent), the Count de Feria, Don Antonio de Toledo, Don
Juan Manriques, late Viceroy of Naples [another Spaniard
whom he has forgotten (fn. 2) ], the Bishop of Arras, with the two
secretaries Perez and Erazzo. "Through these men's hands all
matters of estate do pass." |
|---|
| Few of the Burgundian Lords follow the King, but after his
embarkment return home. |
|---|
| "This Prince now standeth in reputation of his forces, the
counterbalance of France being depressed by the late French
King's death. The Spanish gentlemen of this Court dissemble
not their acknowledgment thereof, and esteem themselves
thereafter."—Ghent, Sunday, 29 July 1559. (fn. 3) Signed. |
|---|
| P.S.—The Prince of Ferrara is coming in post to visit the
King with eighty horse; the Duke of Guise is reported to be
coming with him, but this is scarcely credible. |
|---|
| "It should seem, for aught I yet learn, that the King
Catholic is by reports out of England much incensed against
us, and indeed the spies there are very many in the Count de
Feria's lodging." |
|---|
| Orig. Hol., with seal. Endd. by Cecil. Portion in
cipher, deciphered. Pp. 7. |
|---|
July 29.
R. O. | 1092. Sir Thomas Challoner to the Queen. |
|---|
| "Minute to the Queen's Majesty, 29 July 1559," of the
last despatch. |
|---|
| Draft. Endd. by Challoner: M. to the Queen, 29 July
1559, from Gand; sent [by] Nicholas Ferrers, merchant of
London. Pp. 8. |
|---|
July 29.
R. O. | 1093. Challoner to Cecil. |
|---|
| Writes to the Queen as he will perceive. "I like not hitherto
this much; what will further fall out I will not fail to write.
They seem to much dislike Mr. Wotton's being of the Council,
as if now he had lost his credit among them." The Countess
de Feria has been princely met upon the way; she shall rest
her in a Spaniard's house at Bruges. He will write this
afternoon to the Count, and thereby in part will feel his
answer.—Sunday, 29 July 1559. |
|---|
| Orig. Add. Endd. Hol. Portions in cipher, deciphered.
P. 1. |
|---|
July 26 & 29.
R. O. Forbes, 1. 182. | 1094. Throckmorton to Cecil. |
|---|
| The bearer, Mr. Andrew Connyngham, the Earl of Glencairn's son in Scotland, who has served the French King in
the late wars with the charge of 100 light horsemen, is
now moved, (as are many of his countrymen,) to return
home through England. The writer thinks good (forasmuch
as he is a man of service and a nobleman,) to tell Cecil of
his coming, that he may be offered to see the Queen and
kiss her hands, and receive more than common entertainment;
whereby her service may be furthered. He has been with him
[Throckmorton] and declared his great affection for England,
and his evil satisfaction for such entertainments as his
countrymen have found themselves grieved with there.—
Paris, 26 July 1559. Signed. |
|---|
| This letter was opened after the first sealing, this gentleman having occasion to stay longer than he thought. Throckmorton will advertise the Queen of what has passed since his
last letters sent by John Melvin, of 27 July. The Duke of
Saxe is departed from this Court in post in great secret, no
man can tell whither, though it is thought to levy men in Germany. Understands that the Ambassador of Sweden (of
whom he advertised in his last despatch) is brother to the
present Queen of Sweden, and on the 28th went to S. Germain,
to have audience. All the colonels of the Almaynes from the
Court are this day gone to S. Germain's, where they have good
entertainment and countenance of the house of Guise. Supposes Cecil will hear of the Earl of Arran in England before
he, the writer, will here; for the Earl departed the 6 July
from Losanna, in Switzerland, in post, and sent him word
he would embark when he could conveniently find passage.
Butomcourt (who Throckmorton thinks passed to England,)
had in charge to will the Queen Dowager of Scotland to
conform herself to the Scots' proceedings in religion, and
to dissemble with them, supposing this the best means to
work their purposes. And at this very present hears they
mind to stay the sending of men hither; but if this be
certain he cannot say, being the first advertisement. Prays her
to advertise the Scots of this dissimulation of the Queen
Dowager, and to what end it be done.—Paris, 29 July 1559.
Signed. |
|---|
| Orig. Add. Endd. by Cecil. Portions in cipher, deciphered. Pp. 2. |
|---|
Aug. 26 & 29.
B.M. Sloane, 4134. 411. | 1095. Another copy of the above.
Forbes' transcript. |
|---|
July 29.
R.O. | 1096. Cecil to Croftes. |
|---|
| Yesterday he despatched hence Mr. Whytlawe, who lacked
the best part of their answer, because they [in England] challenged the cold proceedings of the Protestants there [in
Scotland] against the French; and because also Cecil looked
daily for the coming of Mr. Knox to these parts, according to
his request and their contentation here, signified to him by
Sir H. Percy. Yesternight had received advertisement by Sir
H. Percy's letters, that the coming of Mr. Knox is delayed
until Whitlawe's return; and also that it is understood that
the Queen has sent for the Lord Hume and the power of the
Merse and Tyvidale, and that the Lords Protestants are
coming to Haddington towards the Queen. It is thought
meet that he [Croftes] should give good ear to these proceedings "and to continue the Protestants in their humours," so
that neither the persuasions of the Queen there, nor any lack
of comfort hence, should cause them to come to any accord
with the French, considering it cannot be without their ruin,
and consequently our peril. |
|---|
| As he shall see cause therefor he may be bold to make them
assured of help from us before the time of their danger;
they shall have some help of money for a beginning, "wherein
indeed is meant such proceeding as the Queen shall not be
therewith in honour chargeable." |
|---|
| Has this day heard from Newhaven in France, where is
provision of twenty-two sail, whereof four only are men of
war; their preparation is for the number of 2,000 men. Their
captains are gone to the Court in post and appoint their return
the last of this month; but it is thought the number of their
soldiers will not be ready by that time, and yet they make all
the haste that can be. Two of the ships are ready to depart,
which shall come beforehand to signify to the Queen [Regent]
the arrival of the others. Hereof he shall do well to give
advertisement. Looks hourly for some intelligence out of
France for their proceedings there since the coming of the
King of Navarre to the Court, how the house of Guise and
he will part the governance, whereof he will inform Croftes. |
|---|
| In this doubtful time, my Lord of Northumberland should
have in consideration some readiness of his wardenry, in all
events to be aiding to that piece. Let the Treasurer signify
hither the estate of his office and the debts there, wherein
the writer is uncertain, by reason of the extraordinary expense
of these works. |
|---|
| Draft, endd. by Cecil: 29 July 1559. Copy of my letter
to Sir James Croftes. Considerable portions of this letter
are underlined, probably with the intention of being expressed in cipher. Pp. 4. |
|---|
July 30.
R. O. | 1097. [Knox to Croftes.] |
|---|
| "Instructions to John Knox, the penult. of July 1559."
Commission is given him to speak and propone these heads
subsequent. |
|---|
| 1. To declare to them to whom he is directed that this
league is other than heretofore has been contracted or commenced upon between these two realms. |
|---|
| 2. To declare the number of the nobility and of the towns
that require brotherly concord with them; and the order
taken for consultation of matters. |
|---|
| 3. That though the contemplated league is only yet proponed
to the Privy Council, which consists of certain of the nobility,
yet it is much desired of the whole Barons, who partly accuse
the Council of negligence in that they have so long delayed to
seek support. |
|---|
| †4. That the Duke and Earl of Huntley have by their
honour and faith promised to concur and assist, in case the
Queen Regent break any "joit" of this last appointment;
the heads whereof he [Knox] can declare. |
|---|
| †5. That such comfortable support be given as may impeach the enterprise of the enemies, and that to be ready
upon the borders able to join with the petitioners without
long delay. |
|---|
| †6. That the Queen and her Council should labour "to dress
our borderers to one effect," and especially the Homes and
the Kerrs. |
|---|
| Nota. (fn. 4) | †7. That the Fort of Aymouth be incontinent after the
sight of the French army taken and kept by them [the
English], the Scots being assuredly informed that the enemy
purposes to occupy it. |
|---|
| †8. That Stirling being a key and principal place which may
divide and cut asunder the north from the south, if money can
be furnished to sustain a garrison there, the Scotch will
enterprise the taking of it. |
|---|
| †9. That some strength must be made by sea for the safety
of Dundee and S. Johnston; and therefore that Broughty
and the fort should be taken and fortified, which now would
be easy to be done by reason of the favour and concurrence
of the whole country. |
|---|
| 10. That they [the Scotch] and their posterity will bind
themselves to be enemies to the enemies and friends to the
friends of the English, if they thoroughly agree in this league,
and that they will never contract with France without the
consent of the English, so as to be united with them in one
body, so that neither can make war nor peace without the
consent of the other. |
|---|
| †11. That they require this league (1) for the glory of God,
and that the true preaching of Jesus Christ, with the right
administration of His Sacraments, may be universally and
openly maintained in this isle, and that the tyranny and
superstition of that woman Antichrist may be utterly suppressed and abolished in the same; (2) that the liberties, laws,
and privileges of both these realms may remain inviolate of
any strange or foreign power. The Scots therefore promise
the English that neither will they themselves invade England,
albeit to the same they are provoked by France, nor yet will
they suffer any other to molest it. |
|---|
| These articles having been given to him [Knox] with
commission to amplify and explain the same if any obscurity
appeared, he was commanded to require, under the 5th
article, (touching the comfortable support,) that "not only
must the Queen and her Council have respect that soldiers
must be laid in garrison among us, and that men and ships
must be in competent readiness, if we be assailed, but also
that some respect must be had to some of the nobility, who
are not able to sustain such households as now in the begining of these troubles are requisite. For the practice of the
Queen Regent is to stir up enemies against every nobleman
particularly, even in the parts where he remaineth." |
|---|
| Further, he had commission to speak with Sir Harry Percy
touching the entrance of my Lord Marshal, which might be
prolonged if his father, the Earl Marshal, would plainly assist
the petitioners. He also asks that horses may be sold to
them for reasonable prices. |
|---|
| These were the chief heads which he was required to communicate to him [Croftes] and Sir Harry Percy. Requests
that they be signified to the Queen and such of her Council
as he [Croftes] thinks expedient. Wishes, however, that Sir
H. Percy be participant of the whole. Urges [Croft] to be
diligent for Christ's sake. "The Spirit of wisdom rest upon
you, now and ever." |
|---|
| July 30. | Thinks it superfluous to write anything to Mr. Cycill,
"considering that I have opened the whole case to you." The
heads marked with this sign † are to be specially remembered
and diligently answered. This other "ticket" is to be sent to
Sir Henry Percy, and the letters, directed to Mrs. Bowes,
are to be delivered to Mr. George, her son, to be sent unto
her. "They are dated at S. Andrew's, from whence ye may
alledge ye have received them among others. Thus yet I
desire your felicity in Christ Jesus." |
|---|
| Orig. No signature or add., but Knox's hol. Pp. 4. |
|---|
[July 30?]
R.O. | 1098. [The Prior of S. Andrew's to Percy.] (fn. 5) |
|---|
| Has received his writing with most hearty thanks, will do
thereafter, conform to the same, God willing. Further [as to]
the man [Percy] desired should come and speak, he shall
come in by the west border and meet with Percy in Alnwick
or Newcastle, if it please God to grant the opportunity,
within the space of eight or ten days. To him he refers all
other things, commending his correspondent in the mean time
to the protection of God. Has also received his cipher, and
will use the same accordingly. |
|---|
| Orig., on the third of a page of paper. |
|---|
July 31.
R. O. | 1099. Adolphus, Duke of Holstein, to Cecil. |
|---|
| The affairs of England are always interesting and important
to him. Is rejoiced, therefore, to hear of the succession of
Elizabeth, and the re-establishment of the pure Evangelical
religion in England. Thanks her for having sent Armigilius
Wade to him as her Envoy, by whom he despatches these
letters.—Gottorp, prid. Cal., Aug. 1559. Signed. |
|---|
| Orig. Add. Endd. by Cecil. Lat. Pp. 4. |
|---|
July ?
R. O. | 1100. List of the Retinue of the Duke de Feria. |
|---|
| "A list of the Duke de Feria, his train," arranged under
these two divisions: |
|---|
| 1. Estat de la suitte de duc de Feria. |
|---|
| 2. Cavilliers qui viennent avec son excellence. |
|---|
| The total number is 205 men, for whom six score and nine
beds are required. |
|---|
| Endd. Fr. Pp. 3. |
|---|