SEMPER EADEM A DISCOURSE concerning the Spanish fleet invading England in the year 1588. and overthrown by her Ma.tie Navy under the conduction of the Right-honorable the Lord Charles Howard high Admiral of England: written in Italian by Petruccio Vbaldino citizen of Florence, and translated for A Ryther: unto the which discourse are annexed certain tables expressing the several exploits, and conflicts had with the said fleet. THESE books with the tables belonging to them are to be sold at the shop of A. Ryther being a little from Leaden hall next to the sign of the Tower. TO THE RIGHT HONOURABLE, CHARLES, LORD HOWARD, BARON OF EFFINGHAM, KNIGHT OF THE MOST NOBLE ORDER OF THE GARTER, LORD high Admiral of England, and one of her majesties most Honourable privy Council: A. R. wisheth long life in perfect health, with great increase of honour. I AM BOLD, RIGHT Honourable, to present this book unto you & to crave your favourable patronage therein, because there are many reasons which move me so to do. First, the subject matter of the book, which is yourself especially, and the rest of the leaders, under whose happy conduction her majesties navy prevailed against the Spanish fleet. Secondly, the time, which I have spent in the graving of the several Tables belonging to the book, whereby the reader shall have not only the report, but the sight as it were of what notable thing soever was performed by your Honour in that high and honourable service. Thirdly, the book itself, which as it hath been kept back these two years almost from our men in an unknown tongue, so (as I guess) it had lain hid for ever, had not the good foreseen given just occasion of the publishing thereof. Last of all, the time itself doth move to that which I have done, which being the beginning of the new year, calleth for by custom a NEW YEARS GIFT, that is, as I construe it, a sign as ability permitteth, of that dutiful thankfulness, which I acknowledge myself to owe unto your honour. The which my thankfulness, because I had none other more convenient sign, I was enforced to show in presenting you this book. Forsomuch therefore as it is now come abroad to the view of the world, translated and printed at my cost, I was moved by the reasons aforesaid, to crave your honours patronage, that thereby I might the better withstand, both the malicious tongues of such as carp, and the manifest injury of such as are ready unadvisedly to counterfeit another man's work: The which your Lordship's favour obtained (as my hope is) shall bind me forever to pray for your Honours daily increase in all good things. Your HONOURS most humble, A. RYTHER. To the Reader. Who list to hear and see what God hath done For us, our realm, and Queen against our foe, Our foe the Spaniard proud, let him o'errun This little book, and he the truth shall know: The place, the time, the means expressed be In book to read, in graven maps to see. Which when you read, and see, retain this thought, That howsoe'er the mean deserved well, 'Twas chief God against our foe that fought, And sent them quick through midst of sea to hell. Whether both quick, and thick let them go down, That seek to alienate the title of our crown. T. H To the Reader. I could have wished courteous reader, that this book with the tables belonging thereto, might have come to thine hands immediately after the repulse of the Spanish fleet, but seeing it could not be so, I must count it better late than never. Though it come somewhat late, I doubt not but it will breed some pleasure, because the remembrance of pleasures passed are always delightsome. If in the graven tables there be any thing which doth not please thee in regard of the work, I crave pardon for it, because I count myself as yet but a young beginner, do but yet strive to attain to that excellency, which I wish for. In the book itself the truth of every thing is set down so near as might be, and therefore it is so much the more to be regarded, being also by my friend translated faithfully, only the Italian flourishes were here and there omitted, because in our English tongue they could not sound well without suspicion of flattery. Farewell. Thine A. Ryther. A DISCOURSE CONCERNING THE SPANISH FLEET, INVADING ENGLAND IN THE YEAR 1588. overthrown by her majesties navy, under the conduction of the Right honourable the L. CHARLES HOWARD being high Admiral of England, written in Italian by Petruccio Vbaldino citizen of Florence. THE queens Majesty having diverse ways understood the great and diligent preparation of the king of Spain, in diverse parts both by land and sea, not only of the strongest ships of all places within his dominions: but also of all sorts of provision and munition necessary for a mighty fleet, which was to come from Spain and Portugal (for the furnishing and better direction whereof he had drawn together into the places aforesaid, the most principal and ancient captains and soldiers, aswell of the kingdoms of Naples and Sicily, as of Lombardie and other parts of Italy, and the more remote parts of India, as by every one was long before very evidently perceived, by reason that the preparation of these things together with the number of the ships, mariners and soldiers, the diverse sorts and quantities of victual, the great number and divers kinds of artillery, with the sum of every several kind, were sufficiently specified unto all countries by certain Pamphlets, laying forth at large his whole intent: the which Pamphlets were printed and published in Spain and Portugal, and other provinces of Christendom, with this title; The most puissant and most happy fleet of the king of Spain, against the Realm of England:) Her majesty, I say, having in this manner received so open and manifest information hereof, as also certain intelligence of horsemen and footmen sent in so great number, that they were sufficient for the furnishing of diverse camps in the low Countries, under the government of the duke of Parma his lieutenant general for those provinces, & withal knowing the multitude of the ships of war, and the possibility that the said king had to transport his soldiers out off Flaunders, and land them in England, not sparing to give out thereupon open and free report, that all that provision was for the invasion and conquest of England: And forsomuch also as at the same time the king himself by means of his aforesaid General the duke of Parma, pretended a certain treaty of peace to be made with her Majesty (albeit this offer was in truth known in England, not to have been made but only to take advantage of the time, and to make her Majesty negligent in preparing for her defence, although she notwithstanding desirous openly to declare her good inclination unto that, which is a just & christian commendation in a prudent Princess) refused not in any point this treaty & offer of peace, greatly desired of all christian people: and therefore for that purpose gave commandment to certain noble men of her privy Counsel & others, with certain Governors of her forces in Flaunders, to deal in this matter with the commissioners that should be there appointed in the name and behalf of the said king: And our commissioners after their departure and manifest declaration that they began to parley to some purpose concerning this treaty, being driven off a long time to small effect, and without any manifest hope of agreement likely to ensue, until such time as the Spanish fleet was not only discovered in the English channel, but also withheld and bridled from their purpose in joining with the forces of the duke of Parma, and transporting an army into England: and finally until such time as it was enforced to withdraw itself and seek some better fortune in the northern seas, being every where else unable to make any forcible resistance: Therefore her Majesty as well to declare her propense readiness, if on their part any sincere intent of peace had been, as her vigilant providence not to be deluded by so subtle and malicious an enemy, furnished herself by sea with a mighty fleet, and by land with no less diligence to resist so great forces as by all nations were reported to come against her: For it was never known in the memory of man, that so great preparation was ever heretofore at one time made out, either by king Philip himself, or yet by the emperor Charles the 5. his father, although his power were much more and his occasions of war far greater. The diligence therefore of the Englishmen, answerable unto the care of the Prince, was such and so great, that her Majesty was provided of a mighty fleet to defend her by sea from the enemy, between the first of November 1587. and the 20. of December next ensuing, a time in truth very short for such a provision, in regard of so many years spent by the said king in preparing of his fleet, which notwithstanding did show of what force it was by experience afterwards made thereof against the English navy, gathered together within 50. days, and provided and most excellently furnished of all things necessary for such a purpose. The care & charge of this navy was commended unto the right honourable Charles L. Howard, Baron of Effingham, L. High Admiral of England, who for his place & office, noble courage, experience in martial affairs, and nobility of blood and descent, was thought most fit & worthy to be employed in that service. He had in his company a sufficient number of honourable, worshipful, and valiant personages, famous both in respect of their birth & the gifts of mind, desirous to serve their Prince and Country in such a cause as this, being judged of the whole English nation both just and necessary: likewise of seafaring men and private soldiers so competent a number, as might be answerable unto the power of so great a Prince in so weighty a cause. The L. High Admiral therefore with these forces keeping for a season the narrow seas and channel between England and Flaunders, sir Francis Drake knight, mentioned here also in honour of his good deserts, was by the advice of the Lords of the counsel & his honour so commanding it, sent towards the west parts with certain of the queens ships and others from certain ports of England thereabout, being in all not above the number of 50. sail of all sorts, there to attend the L. high Admiral his coming with greater forces, if occasion should so require. In the mean season the L. Admiral with his Vice admiral the L. Henry Seymer, kept the narrow seas, accompanied with 20. ships more, very well furnished at the charges of the citizens of London, besides many other from diverse parts on that side of the Realm, that lieth from the town of Dover up to the northward, which met all together in good order, and well appointed for the wars. And here the Lord Admiral understanding for a certainty, that the fleet of the enemy was already launched and at the sea, he weighed ancre, and leaving the L. Seymer with sufficient forces of the queens ships and other vessels to watch what the duke of Parma would do, or was able to undertake by sea, and parting from thence the 21. of May 1588. to the westward with her majesties navy, and 20. ships of London, with some others, he arrived at Plymouth the 23. of the same month: where sir Francis Drake with 50. sail which he had under his charge, met with the L. Admiral in very good order. And then the two navies being joined together into one, the L. Admiral made sir Francis Drake his Vice-admiral. Arriving then at Plymouth, his Lordship presently gave order for provision of victual for the whole navy, that it might want nothing, that should tend to the necessary service ensuing. The whole navy was at this present about 90. sail of all sorts. This provision being complete, he resolved with himself to put forth to the sea again about the 30. of May aforesaid. But the wind not serving his turn, he kept himself abroad, sailing up and down within the sleeve between Vshant and silly, attending some sight or report of the enemies fleet. Where having waited a certain time, somewhiles drawing near to the coast of France, & sometimes to the coast of England, he returned, being thereto enforced by a great tempest, with his whole navy into the Port of Plymouth the 6. of june to refresh his company there. In the mean season there were discovered between Vshant and Silly certain ships of the Spanish fleet, not above the number of 14. which were known to be severed from the whole fleet by violence of the aforesaid tempest. But before they could be encountered withal by any of the English navy, the wind came about, whereby they had opportunity to return back again, saving themselves from all perils in their haven called the Groin, into the which also the rest of the Spanish fleet was put to provide themselves anew of other things which they wanted, and specially of fresh water. Of this thing the L. Admiral had intelligence and advertisement from sundry parts, as also that the Spanish fleet was by great fortune dispersed & severed into divers places, through penury of many and those necessary things, through diseases and mortality of men, although the report hereof could not afterwards be verified, whereof the certain truth was, that being troubled with tempest, they were commanded to come a shore at the Groin. The L. Admiral therefore seeing the coast of England and France clear and free from all danger, as by diligent search it was understood, resolved by the advise and opinion of his counsel, to take the advantage of the next wind that should blow from the North, that passing to the coast of Spain he might find the enemy's fleet so dispersed in the Groin, and in other parts of Galitia where they had driven by the storm. This was put in execution between the 8. and 10. of the same month, the wind being then at the North, which within a while changing unto the South, after that he was come within 40. leagues or there about of the coast of Spain, made him to cast a doubt of that which afterwards happened indeed. For laying this before him as his principal care, according to the charge laid upon him by her Majesty, to be diligent and careful for the defence of the coast of England, and considering that with the wind which was now changed and very good to make for England, the enemy might set out and pass for England without discovery of his fleet, he returned back with the whole navy, and the 12. of the same month he arrived at Plymouth, there accordingly to provide himself of all that was necessary. The 19 of june his honour had intelligence by a bark or pinnace, whose captain was Thomas Fleming, amongst other behind him in the sleeve for discovery, that the Spanish fleet was discovered near unto the Lyzarde, As appeareth in the 1. table. the wind being then South and by West. And therefore albeit that by reason of the great number of English ships which were in Plymouth, it was with that wind very hard to bring them forth from thence (as the military art of the Sea and the condition of their affairs required) yet was there such diligence used by the L. Admiral and the rest by his example, as they endeavoured therein with such advise and earnestness, that many of the ships at the length warped out of the haven, As appeareth in the 2. table. as if the wind had been wholly favourable unto them: which thing could not have fallen out but through the long and certain skill which the English Masters generally have in marine discipline. To the which reason this may be added, that they were all of one nation, of one tongue, and touched with a grievous and equal hatred toward their enemies, being mightily persuaded of their forces. Whereupon we may in such cases assure ourselves of what importance it is in seafaring matters, for a fleet of any prince whatsoever, invading any foreign state or kingdom, to encounter with a fleet ready for defence in such manner as the English navy was, for so much as the fleet invading being provided diversly of Masters and Officers differing one from another in custom, language, and conceit, cannot in any measure give any assured hope of certain victory, how honourable soever the commander be. Many of the ships therefore came forth, by reason that the men were moved in the foresaid respects to labour diligently, and so much the rather, by how much the captains and chief officers both by counsel and hand, showed themselves more diligent and industrious. By these means the 20. day of june the L. Admiral accompanied with 54. ships, came forth with the same wind that the enemy had from the south-west: Which thing certainly was not esteemed a small thing to be done, in regard aswell of the wind as of the narrowness of the place itself. The Spanish fleet being manifestly discovered about 140. miles from Edestone, and clearly seen of every one toward the west, and so far off from Foye as the English fleet was, that is 25. ordinary English miles: the next morning being the 21. of june, all the ships which were now come out of the haven, had gotten the wind of the Spaniards, and approaching somewhat nearer, found that their fleet was placed in battle array, after the manner of a Moon crescent, being ready with her horns & her inward circumference to receive either all, or so many of the English navy, as should give her the assault, her horns being extended in wideness about the distance of 8. miles, if the information given have not deceived my pen. The reason of their arraunging in this order, arose upon the foresight of the duke of Medina Sidonia general of the Spanish fleet, who approaching the coast, sent out a small ship to espy somewhat concerning the English fleet, and hearing by certain fishermen taken prisoners, that our fleet was in Plymouth, he prepared himself as aforesaid, for the avoiding of all such chances as might after befall. Whereupon about 9 of the clock before noon the L. Admiral commanded his Pinnace called the Disdain, to give the defiance unto the duke of Medina: after which he himself in the queens ship called the ark went foremost, As appeareth in the 2. table. as was convenient, and began hotly to fight with a great ship which was admiral of the Spanish fleet, in which ship he thought by reason of certain likely conjectures the duke of Medina to be, considering also the said ship was so well accompanied by others. The fight with her continued so long and so hot, that divers other ships, yea the most part of the Spanish fleet came to her succour. As appeareth in the 3. table. In the mean season the Vice-admiral sir Francis Drake, with master john Hawkins, and master Martin Frobisher fought with a Galeon of Portugal, wherein they thought Don Martin de Ricaldes the Vice-admiral to be. This fight was so well maintained for the time it continued, that the enemy was enforced to leave his place, and to give way gathering toward the East. In the which point of removing, As appeareth in the 3. table. a great Galeon wherein Don Pedro de Valdes went as captain, falling foul with another ship of their fleet was deprived of her foremast, so that she could not follow the body of the fleet that forsook her, to the great marvel of the English men themselves, whereby Don Pedro became prisoner, as afterward shall be declared. As appeareth in the 4. table. Furthermore also there was at this time a great ship of biscay about 800. tun in burden, that was spoiled by fire upon this occasion: The captain of the soldiers that went in her having small regard (as is reported) of an orderly and civil life, did insolently beat a certain Flemish gunner: what cause he had I know not, whether upon occasion of words touching his charge, or by means of the gunner's wife, whom he had abused according to the custom of that nation. Whereupon the perplexed man seeing himself among such a kind of people, as not only made him serve their turns at their own pleasure, but disgraced him in as vile manner as if he were a slave, despairing both of life, wife, and his young daughter, and perchance rather moved with the dishonour of them then by his own misfortunes, (which mind is many times in men even of mean condition) he set himself on fire in a barrel of gunpowder, procuring thereby through the loss of his own life, and the extreme hazard of those that belonged unto him, & the loss of many men's lives beside, a cruel revenge of his injuries received by one only man. This example may serve to instruct such as command over others, how they ought to behave themselves with less insolency: inasmuch as the mind of man is always ready to revenge, after the custom of this our bloody age, if he be not borne utterly void of a quick wit and lively spirit. Through this mischance of theirs all the upper decks were blown up, all her furniture marred, and much other spoil done, besides the death and maiming of her men, so that being utterly unable all that night to help herself, she was succoured by the galliass, and for the time saved in the body of their fleet. But to return unto our purpose. This first skirmish continued not above two hours, because the L. Admiral considering that he wanted as yet 40. ships which could not so readily come forth of the haven, thought he should do better service if he stayed their coming before he proceeded any further, beating behind upon the enemy, lest he should bring the rest too much in hazard, and therefore he thought it not profitable too much to embolden and prick those forward that he had with him in a matter that was not greatly convenient, either for the honour of the Realm, or his own person, neither did the military discipline of the English nation purchased by long experience at the sea give him leave to do it. And therefore he put forth his flag to call the other captains to counsel, who agreeing unto his determination, received instructions concerning the order that they were to keep in following the Spanish fleet. Then having given liberty to every man to return to their charge, he gave order likewise to his Vice-admiral sir Francis Drake to appoint the watch for that night, and to bear out the light. The same night the Spanish fleet lay about 14. miles off from the Stert. The next day following early in the morning it was under the wind not so far off as Berie. As appeareth in the 4. table. In the mean time the English fleet wanting light, because the vice-admiral sir Francis Drake leaving his place to follow 5. Hulks which were discovered in the evening very late, it came to pass that all the other ships stayed behind, not knowing that they were to follow, or whither to direct themselves: so that there might have followed some great inconvenience had they had to do with an enemy more practised in our seas. But as it seemed by report, the said vice-admiral was moved to do this by means of a certain curious diligence and a military suspicion, growing in his mind upon certain and very probable conjectures, grounded on circumstances of matter considered in his mind: and therefore he gave them the chase, thinking that they had been enemies. But being overtaken and their officers examined, and being known to be friends, or at the least wise not enemies, he permitted them to go their way, returning himself unto the fleet the day following. The L. Admiral notwithstanding accompanied with the Bear and the Marie Rose coming a little behind his stern, As appeareth in the 4. table. by reason of the clearness of the air (which at that time of the year is ordinarily very great through out all England) followed the enemy all that night within a Culverin shot. By occasion whereof the rest of the fleet was cast so far behind, that the morning after the nearest part thereof could hardly descry the tops of the other ships, As appeareth in the 5. table. and many of them were clean out of sight, so that with all the force of their sails they could hardly come all together the whole day following until the evening. The next day the Vice-admiral sir Francis Drake being in the queens ship called the Revenge, having also the Roebuck and a Pinnace or two in his company, took Don Pedro de Valdes, who as was said before, had lost the foremast of his ship: and having received the said Valdes as his prisoner, and certain other gentlemen of most account that were therein, he sent the ship together with the prisoners unto Dartmouth, under the conduct of the Roebuck, and he himself made toward the L. Admiral, under whose lée he came that night. The same day being the 22. of the month, a little before the Vice-admiral sir Francis Drake was returned unto the fleet, the Spaniards forsook the ship which the day before was spoiled by fire. To the which ship the L. Admiral sent the L. Thomas Howard, and with him M. john Hawkins, who being in the cockboat of the Victory went a board her, and there found a lamentable sight. For all the uppermost decks of her being torn and spoiled by the fire, there were in her 50. men miserably burnt with the powder. The stink in her was so great, and the ship itself so filthy, that the L. Howard departed presently from her: and returning with M. john Hawkins to the L. Admiral, they informed him of that they found and saw there. For which cause there was presently commandment given, that the little pinnace of captain Fleming should conduct her unto some port of England, where they might most commodiously help themselves. Whereupon it was carried to Waymouth the next day following. For all the mishap that befell this ship, they understood that the Spaniards had taken out of her all the best things that they could, casting off the bulk of her together with certain gross stuff therein, as for that time altogether unprofitable. About this time her Majesty seeing that all hope of peace was frustrate, called home again her Commissioners from Flanders, who were by the duke of Parma most courteously dismissed, very honourably accompanied, and themselves and their carriages safe conducted to the marches of Calis, which way they took their journey. But to the matter: the night last before mentioned there befell a great calm, and thereupon 4. Spanish Galliass severed themselves from the rest of their fleet. This thing made the Englishmen to doubt that that night they had resolved to give the onset upon some of their lesser ships, imagining that they might annoy them the rather for that they were the rearward of the fleet. But afterwards the Galliass (whatsoever the occasion was) enterprised nothing, either for that they saw they could not safely do it, or else because their minds were not thoroughly settled upon that which before they thought to do: a thing many times falling out in such persons as are but poor in counsel and resolution, that they continue in their perplexed conceits without any effect or commodity ensuing thereof. As appeareth in the 5. table. The morning following being Tuesday the 23. of the month, the wind was at North East, whereupon the Spaniards came back upon the Englishmen with the advantage of the wind, directing their course toward the land: the which course was not profitable for the Englishmen. Therefore to take the advantage of the Enemy, they cast about toward the west with a reasonable compass, their ships being very good both of sail and stirrage, that they might bring about their purpose. Now the Spaniards to hinder their intent, As appeareth in the 5. table. after they perceived it, offered to come near aboard to fight with them, trusting in the huge greatness and height of their ships. The which offer of theirs the English men refused not, but began presently to bring themselves into battle array, which the enemy perceiving he also did the like. In this case the Ark, the Lion, the Bear, the Elizabeth jonas, the Victory and certain other ships were content to follow the ship called the Non Pariglin. In the mean season the Triumph with other 5. ships of London, namely the Merchant Royal, the Centurion, the Margery joan, the Marie Rose, and the Golden Lion were so far to the rearward, and so far severed from the rest of the fleet, that the Galliass undertook to give them an hard assault. But they were well entertained by the ships for the space of an hour and an half, until at the length some of the queens ships, coming to succour the Triumph and the Londoners, dealt so well in the matter, that the Galliass were driven to retire. The wind came about at this present to the South east, and afterwards to the South west and by south, at which time a certain number or Squadron of the Queens together with other Merchant's ships gave assault unto the Spanish fleet, As appeareth in the 6. table. and that so furiously to the westward of them, that the Spaniards were all enforced to give them way: For which cause the Lord Admiral considering both the discommodity and danger, whereinto the Triumph and the other five ships were come, he called other of the queens ships that were not far off, and gave them straight commandment to follow him, and to charge the enemies which were to the west ward with all their force: giving further order to them all, not to discharge any one piece of ordinance before they should come within a musket shot of the enemy, in as much as that was the only way to secure the ships of their friends with the greater damage of the enemy. This was well performed by the Ark, the Elizabeth jonas, As appeareth in the 6. table. the Galeon Leicester, the Golden Lion, the Victory, the Marie Rose, the Dread-nought, and the Swallow. Which thing the duke of Medina perceiving, he also came forth with 16. of his best Galeons', to hinder and impeach the Englishmen in the defence of the Triumph, seeming in this case to pretend, that the reason of the fight did so require; whereas the regard of his honour did no less enforce him unto it: because it seemed unconvenient that he should in every thing be inferior to the Englishmen: and therefore he made large promises unto those by whose means the victory should be gotten. Howbeit that fell out in the end that was prefixed by the stars, that is, that the success of the conflict falling out on his side as hardly as in such a case might be, the Spaniards in the end were enforced to give place and to retire unto their array of battle. In this conflict one William Cocks captain of a little pinnace called the Violet, belonging unto sir William Winter, behaved himself very valiantly against the enemy in the greatest heat of this encounter: but within a little while after, he lost his delight wherewith he was not very well acquainted, and his life by a great piece of ordinance, fortune not being correspondently favourable unto his courage, which therefore was not whit profitable to the perfection of his purpose. As appeareth in the 6. table. Toward the evening 4. or 5. Spanish ships came out from the rest of the fleet from the south eastward, against whom certain of the English ships came, and namely the May flower of London, which discharged certain pieces upon the enemy with a very honourable declaration of the Marine discipline, and being accompanied by other ships that were there found they all behaved themselves no less diligently (which thing was not at the first hoped for) showing their desire tempered with a wish of other company. The conflict continued from the morning unto the evening, the L. Admiral being at all times ready and vigilant in all adventures that might fall out: And thereupon he was sometimes more, and sometimes less eager in the conflict as necessity required, giving thereby evident example how others should behave themselves. It might well be said that for the time it was not possible to see before this battle in this sea so hard a conflict, nor so terrible a spoil of ships, by reason of the pellets that flew so thick every way: to conclude, there was never seen so vehement a fight, either side endeavouring through an headstrong and deadly hatred the others spoil and destruction. For albeit the musquettiers and arquebusiers were in either fleet many in number, yet could they not be discerned or heard, by reason of the more violent and roaring shot of the greater ordinance, that followed so thick one upon another, and played so well that day on either side, that they were thought to be equal in number to common arquebusiers in an hot skirmish. The battle was not only long, but also near at hand within half a musket shot, and that to the great advantage of the Englishmen, who with their ships, being (as was aforesaid) excellent of sail and stirrage, yet less a great deal then the Spanish ships, and therefore more light and nimble, sought not at all, according to their manner otherwise, to board them, but keeping themselves aloof at a reasonable distance, continually beat upon the hull and tackle of their enemy's ships, which being a great deal higher could not so conveniently beat the English ships with their ordinance. This long conflict being finished and every one retiring unto his part, the next day following (which was wednesday the 24. of the month) was passed without any thing done, because by reason of the fight that day before there was spent a great quantity of powder and shot: whereupon the L. Admiral sent divers barks and pinnaces to the shore for a new supply of such munition. For her Majesty prudently foreseeing each thing necessary for her men, ordained that there should be sufficient provision made, according as should be needful, aswell of victuals as of munition. It seemed moreover that day that the Spanish fleet was nothing grieved with that days respite, but were all of them indifferently glad of that breathing, inasmuch as thereby they had good opportunity to look to their leaks, whereof no doubt they had a great number, for they had carried away many shrewd stripes from their enemies, their hurts being of great likelihood so much the more in that the Spaniards were penned up in a narrow room. As appeareth in the 6. table. This day the L. Admiral for certain convenient reasons, divided the whole body of the fleet into four squadrons, by means of which division the enemy might be greatly and more continually troubled. The first squadron he kept for himself: the second he assigned unto sir Francis Drake his Vice admiral: the third to M. john Hawkins: the fourth to M. Martin Frobisher, and after noon he gave order, that in the night fire of the merchant's ships in each squadron (for that as they were of sundry parts of the Realm, so they were equally divided into each squadron) should charge the Spanish fleet in as many parts at one and the same time, that at midnight the enemy might be kept occupied. This order taken (as it was very likely) might have had as good effect as it was wisely given: but by reason of a great calm which fell out, no part of this advisement could be accomplished, fortune interrupting good counsel. The next day being the 25. of the month and Saint james his day, there was a great Spanish Galleon left behind her company to the South ward near to the squadron of Master john Hawkins: As appeareth in the 7. table. so that the barks belonging unto the greater ships, were within Musket shot of her. By reason hereof 3. of the Galliass and another ship that was in manner of a Galleon and well appointed, came from the Spanish fleet to succour this Galleon. Against whom went out the L. Admiral in the Ark and the L. Thomas Howard in the golden Lion, and drew so near being towed by their boats, that they did them much harm, whereby one of them requiring the help of the rest, being succoured by them returned unto the fleet: And from another, by means of a shot coming from the Ark, there was taken away her light and thrown into the Sea; the third lost her beck. Whereby these 2. ships the Ark and the golden Lion declared this day to each fleet, that they had most diligent and faithful Gimners, desirous aswell of the common good, as of the private honour of their leaders the Lord Admiral and the L. Thomas Howard which went in them: which commendation might rightly be imparted with them concerning this happy event, because the calm was so great, that albeit the two fleets were well able to behold the fortune of each of their friends, yet notwithstanding they could not help them at all: at the length the wind beginning somewhat to arise, the Spaniards took the opportunity thereof, and put themselves forward to help those of their side, and succoured them honourably. After this time the Galliass in whose puissance the greatest hope of the Spanish fleet was founded, were never seen to fight anymore, such was their entertainment that day. The two fleets notwithstanding approaching nigh one unto another began a conflict, but they continued it but a while, except one ship called the Non Pariglia, & another called the Marie Rose, which having taken in their topsails stayed themselves there, to make as it were a certain experience of their manhood upon the Spanish fleet, behaving themselves honourably for a season. In which time, the Triumph being to the northward of the Spanish fleet, was so far off, that doubting that certain of the Spanish ships would assault her to the windeward, they succoured her with divers boats that got the wind easily: for the Bear and the Elizabeth jonas even at one instant having knowledge of the danger wherein the other were, drew near unto them, As appeareth in the 7. table. desiring both in regard of the honour of their commonwealth, and also for the preservation of their friends and countrymen, to be partakers of the like danger and difficulty. Whereupon each ship doing her duty they jointly saved the Triumph from all harm, and recovered the wind. And thus this days work ended: whereof I may say, that the conflict was no whit shorter than the day itself. At this present the Englishmen considering the great waist of powder and shot that had heretofore been made, the L. Admiral determined not to assault the enemy any more, until he were come nigh unto Dover, in which place he knew he should find the fleet under the charge of the L. Seymer, and sir William Winter, who were ready to join with him, that thereby he might both fortify himself with a greater number of ships, and in this manner provide themselves of munition from that part of the Realm. Upon friday therefore being the 26. of the month ceasing from fight, the L. Admiral (aswell for their good deserts and honourable service, as also to encourage others to like valour) was desirous to advance certain personages to the degree of knighthood, for that behaving themselves manfully aswell with their ships as their good advise, they were worthy that degree of honour: and so much the more worthy in that being far separated from all courtly favour, which many times imparteth the chiefest honours unto the least deserving men, As appeareth in the 8. table. they declared their valour in the eyes of either fleet. Therefore the two Lords, viz. the L. Howard, and the L. Sheffeild: Roger Townsend, john Hawkins and Martin Frobisher were called forth, and the order of knighthood given them by the L. Admiral as their general. This day there came to the service of her Majesty in her fleet divers Gentlemen, honourable both by blood and place, but much more in respect of their courage and virtue, for that in these public affairs and so necessary service of the wars, they willingly offered their service in the defence of their country and honour of her majesty. This day also and the next being the 27. the Spaniards followed their course quietly before the English fleet. In which time the E. of Sussex, the L. Buckhurst, sir George Carie knight, and the captains of the forts and castles thereabout, sent their men with powder, shot and victuals, to the L. Admiral to assist and help the army. The same Saturday towards the evening the Spaniards drew nigh to Calis under the coast of Picardy, As appeareth in the 9 table. and there suddenly cast anchor almost right against the left hand of the haven to the westward, a little less than five miles from Calis cléeves. The English fleet also cast anchor within a culverin shot of the enemy to the westward. In the mean season the L. Seymer and sir William Winter joined with the L. Admiral, whereby the English fleet increased to the number of 140. ships of all sorts. But the Spaniards with all speed sent tidings unto the duke of Parma of their arrival, who at this present was at Bruges, who having retained with him all his seafaring men many days before to this purpose, yet proceeded no farther in the matter for that time, although for such time as the king had limited him, he for his part took as much care as might be looked for at his hands. For having already embarked a certain number of his soldiers, he was careful in like manner to dispatch the rest as soon as they should be ready, that they might take opportunity to come forth, furnishing them abundantly with victual and munition. But in the mean time such a chance fell out as made frustrate not only his, but the conceit also of the duke of Medina, and wholly overthrew their enterprise, in that her Majesty was not a little careful and troubled in mind concerning the success of these affairs, albeit she herself had committed her whole fortune into the hands of almighty God. Moreover also the L. Admiral having by certain notice understood, that the duke of Parma had prepared a great number of tons of water, and ten thousand chosen footmen to be embarked for the joining with the fleet, which could not be avoided if the duke of Medina were not compelled to avoid that place, knowing also the evident peril that was to be feared, if the Spanish fleet should be suffered to refresh itself, and to be furnished with so many soldiers, he applied his wits so in the deliberation of these matters of weight and importance, having the consent of others more practised, that no time might be lost for the furtherance of this service: and for so much as the forces of the enemy were not yet united and joined together, therefore the 28. of this month at midnight he provided eight small ships dressed with artificial fire, to the intent to drive the same upon the Spanish fleet. As appeareth in the 9 table. This thing was diligently and effectually brought to pass under the charge of captain Young and captain Prewse, two valiant and courageous men. By reason hereof the enemy was not only enforced to break his sleep, but the fire coming so suddenly upon him (not remembering himself at the very instant time of any other remedy, either more safe for himself, or more excusable) to cut his cables, to let slip his anchors, and to hoist up sails as the only way to save his fleet from so imminent and unexpected a mischief. Furthermore by means of this tumult and confusion (which in truth was very great) the chief galliass fell foul with another ship, upon the cable of whose anchor her stern was set so fast, that they could not lose her all the night long, so that the next day following she was enforced with her oars to make toward the land, and to draw nigh to the havens mouth of Calis, to save herself in that place: but not knowing that water, and having no profitable and convenient counsel for the time, she fell upon a shelf. This thing being in good time espied by the L. Admiral, As appeareth in the 10. table. he sent thither his greatest boat under the charge of Amieus Preston his lieutenant, and together with him Thomas Gerard and M. Harvey two of her majesties Gentlemen and servants, and others of the court, and of his own servants, who fought with her, but unequally, for that the ship being graveled could with her force prevail but little. In this conflict it chanced that a musket shot stroke Hugo de Moncada chief captain of the galliass, a noble and valiant man, in the head. The which mishap joined with the difficulty of stirring themselves in their defence, bred such a despair in every man, that the greater sort leapt into the water to save themselves by swimming into the haven, although many of them perished in the water. By this disorder of the enemy, the Englishmen being more secure, took her and sacked her to their great commodity, above an hundred men being entered into her, and their company increasing more and more. Whereupon Monsieur Gordon governor of Calis, a man of good estimation in respect of his prerogative in that place, sent his nephew to give the Englishmen to understand, that they should content themselves with the ordinary spoil, and that they should leave behind them the great ordinance, as a thing belonging unto him by virtue of his office. The which embassage sent the second time unto men more intentive unto their prey then other men's reason, made the Gentleman to be evilly entertained by our men, in such sort, that they would have forcibly taken from him some trifling things about him, thinking him to be a Spaniard. Whereat M. Gordon being offended, caused certain pieces of ordinance to be discharged from the Town, and then the Englishmen departed, leaving the galliass at his pleasure after the loss of some soldiers, having notwithstanding sacked 22000. ducats of gold, appertaining unto the king, and 14. coffers of movables of the duke of Medina, with some other both money and movables of other particular men, and some prisoners, among whom was Don Roderigo of Mendoza, and Don john Gonzales de Solerzavo under captain of the galliass. During the time of surprising of which galliass, sir Francis Drake Vice admiral being in the ship called the Revenge, As appeareth in the 10. table. accompanied with Tho. Fenner captain of the Non Pariglia, with the rest of that squadron, set upon the Spanish fleet, giving them an hot charge. Within a while after sir john Hawkins in the Victory accompanied with Edward Fenton captain of the Marie Rose, with George Beeston captain in the Dread-nought, and Richard Hawkins in the Swallow, with the rest of that squadron, put themselves forward and brake through the midst of the Spanish fleet, where there began a vehement conflict continuing all the morning, wherein every captain did very honourable service: among the rest captain Beeston deserved special praise. Unto this fight came the L. Admiral accompanied with the Earl of Cumberland, they L. Thomas Howard, the L. Sheffeilde, and in that place where the fight was made, and the victory was gotten, they were publicly commended, that of their own accord had made show of the fruits answerable to the hope before conceived of them. Not far from this place there was a great Spanish galleon seen, which was set upon on the one side by the Earl of Cumberland and George Ryman in the Bonaduenture, and on the otherside by the L. Seymer, in the ship called the rainbow, and sir William Winter in the Vanguard, yet she saved herself valiantly, gathering into the body of the fleet, As appeareth in the 10. table. although with ill success: for she was so beaten and so terribly rend and torn with our great ordinance, that the night following in the sight of her own fleet, she sunk, her men, as is thought, being saved. After this captain Fenton in the Marie Rose, and a Spanish Galeon met together, being east and west one of another, yet no nigher then that their shot might play safely, and fly between them without any great hurt. Captain Fenton notwithstanding and those that were with him, were worthily commended for their service begun and accomplished with such prosperous boldness. The same day the deeds of sir Robert Southwell were evidently seen: for being a man borne to virtue and commendation, and desirous to purchase honour, to the end that he might not make frustrate the judgement of his Sovereign, who before time had made him knight, divining how much in time to come he would further the profit of the common wealth of England, he enforced himself not only to satisfy either in counsel or pains the public intent, but also the private commodity of the L. Admiral his Father in law, in that he had dutifully promised him sure and faithful service, whereupon for the same he received condign praise of every man. There was also particularly praised Robert Cross captain, who in the ship called the Hope, gave a sign of fruit to be looked for in him, not inferior unto that which the ship wherein he went did by the name it carried, cause us to hope for. It fell out also the same day, that the L. Henry Seimer and sir William Winter did so thoroughly beat two Spanish Galeons', although they were of the chiefest of them and the best provided, that they were enforced to withdraw themselves to the coast of Flanders, where forsomuch as they were in a very evil taking, as well in respect of the murder of their men, as the manifold leaks of their ships, they were surprised, and without fight rifled by the Zelanders, and with all the men in them carried as prisoners unto Flushing. Among these, the chiefest was Don Diego Pimentello, a man very famous among his country people. It seemeth hereby that we may with reason gather, that in these conflicts many of the Spanish ships perished, albeit that most men think that few of them miscarried. After this battle which was made the 29. of the month, the L. Admiral the 30. day ordained, that the L. Seimer and sir W. Winter should return with their fleet unto their appointed office in the channel, which was to keep the coast from the danger that the duke of Parma seemed to threaten. The which duke had already lost the opportunity of being able to do any thing for the accomplishing of the common intention of the Spaniards, or according to the instructions received from the Spanish king whatsoever they were: Because the sudden and unlooked for departure of the duke of Medina with the whole fleet from the coast of Calais, and his small abode upon any other coast, caused the whole care of the aforesaid duke that he took upon the main land, to become void, so that he did not embark the rest of his men to join with the duke of Medina. The Lord Admiral therefore determined to follow the As appeareth in the 11. tabl. Spanish fleet only so long until they might be shot up to the Northward, whither the Spanish fleet directed her course, but to what end it was not known. And that he with the same wind might come to the firth, which is upon the coast of Scotland, if so be that he saw the enemy pass those parts. Whereupon he thought moreover, that it was good to stay his fleet from attempting aught upon the Spaniard, until he should have good intelligence of their purpose, thereby to work a mean utterly to disperse and otherthrow them. But the Spaniards kept their course about the islands of Orknay, declaring thereby, that they minded to return that way into Spain along by the North coast of Scotland, which as skilful men conjectured, would be to their evident danger, as it fell out afterward. As appeareth in the 11. table. Perceiving therefore the purpose of the enemy, when he was shot up 55. deg. 13. min. to the Northward, and 30. leagues of from Newcastle, the L. Admiral resolved with himself to let the Spanish fleet keep on her way: Albeit at the first he was minded to give them a strong assault upon the second of August: but persuaded otherwise by a more safe advise and counsel, he wisely stayed himself from that action, leaving the event that should ensue unto fortune, who might work some farther matter upon them: seeing the enemy had taken that way to save himself. Moreover, he considered the scarcity of munition, whereof at that present he had but little, and that upon this occasion, for that the ships that lay on the coast appointed by order from her Majesty to carry such provision, knew not where to find our fleet in time convenient. The Spanish fleet therefore, as for her own welfare it was requisite, having gone on so far before, the L. Admiral resolved to put into the firth in Scotland, as well to refresh himself with new victuals, as also to dispatch certain other matters which he thought necessary. But the wind being much westward and against him, the day following he changed his course, and returned into England with his whole fleet the 7. of August, although by reason of a tempest which befell them, part of the ships put into Dover, part to Harwich, the rest into Yarmouth. Hitherto I have described, according to the instructions and direction which I received of those things that fell out between the Englishmen and the Spaniards, adjoining thereunto such particular discourses as I thought to be necessary, and such ornaments of speech as the matter and the Italian tongue did specially require: Now therefore it remaineth for the finishing of our former discourse, briefly and evidently to set down the issue of all the things before mentioned. THe Spanish fleet passing (as aforesaid) into those seas, which for the most part are quiet and calm enough, whether it were driven too and fro in them with contrary winds, or by some other fatal accident that fell out, it continued therein tossed up and down until the end of September, As appeareth in the 11. table. with fearful success and deadly shipwreck along the whole coast of Ireland: so that the duke of Medina Sidonia was enforced to leave there behind him about the number of 17. good ships, besides those 15. that were thought to be lost in the months of julie and August, and so to return into Spain. The persons lost in Ireland were esteemed to be about 5500. So that all being accounted together, it is certainly avouched, that all the ships that were lost amount unto the number of 32. and the men accounted one with another arise to the number of 13500. or more. The prisoners also of all sorts in England, Ireland, & the low Countries arise to the number of 2000 and more. As for the loss of the ordinante, & the common or private treasure, or whether the duke after he was preserved from the former fearful and mortal dangers lost any more ships, or no, or last of all, how many he brought home with him again into Spain, I mean not to occupy or trouble my pen with any such superfluous curiosities, being willing to leave that matter unto such as have received certain tidings thereof: because I study (so far forth as is possible) for brevity without procuring unto any man either hatred or evil report. And therefore to knit up this present treatise, this is reported, that after her Majesty was thoroughly assured of the return of the duke into Spain, and that her seas were clear and free from all her enemies, and having called home the L. Seymer with his fleet, it seemed good unto her (as a convenient thing) that her people should render unto almighty God as great thanks as might be, for that it had pleased him thus to work and bring about the deliverance of them all. And therefore the 19 of November, by public edict and order from her Majesty, there was generally made throughout the whole Realm, a most frequent assembly of all sorts of people publicly to give thanks unto God all the day long, for so singular a benefit received, with this intention, that the remembrance of the said benefit, should upon the same day of every year to ensue, be renewed in the mind and eyes of all men throughout the whole nation, with an evident and religious acknowledgement, that the common safety of them all was accomplished by the special favour of God, the Father of all good things. Her Majesty also being afterwards desirous to do the like in her own behalf (as it was convenient) came into Paul's Church in London on Sunday being the 24. of the same month, with a most decent order and assemblies of all the Magistrates and companies of the City standing in a rank in the street, replenished most abundantly with people, through which her Majesty was to pass, being accompanied with such a princely train of all those that had been instruments of that notable victory, that it seemed her Majesty together with the rest, having gotten the victory, was desirous in triumphing manner to show her thankful mind unto the Londoners also, for the charges and pains they had undertaken all the year before, in the service of the Crown and the commonwealth, together with the increase of their own reputation, being accounted the foundation and chief stay of all the other parts of the Realm. Wherein her Majesty followed the example of divers kings her predecessors, who upon special favour, according as good occasions moved them thereunto, have given many large privileges and liberties unto the said City, which at this day is doubtless more populous, more wealthy, more mighty, and more free, then ever it was héretofore. FINIS. Imprinted at London, by A. Hatfield, and are to be sold at the shop of A. Rither, being a little from Leaden hall next to the Sign of the Tower. 1590.