THE ARRAIGNMENT and Conviction of Sir Walter Raleigh, At the King's Bench-Barre at WINCHESTER. on the 17. of November. 1603.  
Before the right honourable the Earl of Suffolk, Lord Chamberline, the Earl of Devonshire, Lord Henry Howard, Lord Cecil, Lord Wotton, Sir John Stanhope Lord chief Justice of the Common-Pleas, Popham and Andrew's, Justice Gaudy, Justice Warberton, Sir William Wade, Commissioners.  
Copied by Sir THO: Overbury.  
LONDON, Printed by William Wilson, for Abel Roper at the Sun over against St. Dunston's Church in Fleetstreet. Anno Dom. 1648.   


THE arraignment and conviction of Sir Walter Raleigh, At the King's Bench bar at Winchester 17. Novemb. 1603.  
AFTER that Sir Walter Raleigh was brought to the bar, he sat upon a stool within a place made of purpose for the prisoner to be in, and expected the coming of the Lords: during which time he saluted divers of his acquaintance with a very steadfast and cheerful countenance. When the Commissioners were all assembled, having stood up a while he desired the marshal to ask leave of the Lords that he might sit, which was presently granted. Then the Court proceeded in his Arraignment according to the ordinary course; unto which Sir Walter did orderly and willingly dispose himself: as the Jury was culled to the book, he was asked whether he would challenge any of the gentlemen impanelled for his Jury, he said he knew none of them, but hoped they were honest men, and so desired the Court to take their choice of them. The Jury being sworn, who were Sir Ralph Conisbie, sir Thomas Fowler, sir Edward Peacock, sir William Rowe Knights. Henry Goodier, Roger wood, Thomas walker, Thomas Whitby Esquiers. Thomas Highgate, Robert Kempton, John Chawkie, Robert Brumley Gentlemen. The indictment was red by the clerk of the crown Office, the effect whereof was as followeth.  
THat he did conspire and go about to deprive the King of his government, and to raise up sedition within the realm, to alter Religion, and to bring in the Romish Superstition, and to procure foreign enemies to invade the kingdoms. That the Lord Cobham, the ninth of June last, did meet with the said Sir Walter Raleigh: Cobham was then in Durham House in the Parish of St. martin's in the Fields, and then and there had conference with him how to advance Arabella Steward to the crown and royal Throne of this kingdom, and that then and there it was agreed; that Cobham should treat with Aremberge, ambassador from the Archduke of Austria, to obtain of him 600, thousand crowns to bring to pass their intended Treasons: It was agreed that Cobham should go to Albert the Archduke, to procure him to advance the pretended title of Arabella, from thence knowing that Albert had not sufficient means to maintain his own Army in the Lowcountreys: Cobham should go into Spain to procure the King to assist and surther her pretended Title. It was also agreed the better to effect all these conspiracies that Arabella should write three Letters, one to the Archduke, another to the King of Spain, and another to the Duke of Savoy, And promising three things; First, to establish firm peace betwixt England and Spain; Secondly, to tolerate the Romish and Popish Superstition; Thirdly, to be ruled by them for the contriving of the Marriage, and for the effecting of these traitorous purposes, Cobham should return by the Isle of Jersey, and should find Sir Walter Raleigh captain of the said Isle of Jersey there, and take counsel of him for the distributing of the foresaid crowns as the occasions and discontentment of the Subjects should give cause and way: And further that Cobham and his brother Brooke did meet on the ninth of June last, and Cobham told Brooke all the Treasons, to which Treasons Brooke gave his assent, and did join himself to all these: And after on the Thursday following Cobham and Brook did traitorously speak these words. That there would never be a good world in England, till the King and his Cubs (meaning his royal issue) were taken away, and the more to disable and deprive the King of his crown, and to confirm the said Cobham in his intents, Raleigh did traitorously publish a book falsely written against the most just and royal title of the King, knowing the said book to be written against the King, which book Cobham afterwards received of him; And further for the better effecting of these traitorous purposes, and to establish the said Brook in his intents, Cobham did deliver the said book to him on the fourteenth of June, and on the sixteenth of June for the accomplishment of the said conference and by the traitorous instigations of Raleigh, did move Brook to incite Arabella to write to the three foresaid Princes to procure them to advance her Title, & that she, after that she had obtained the crown, should perform three things, viz. To establish a firm peace betwixt England and Spain; Secondly, to tolerate the Popish Religion with impunity; Thirdly, to be ruled by them three in the contracting of Marriage by their assent: And for the better effecting of these Treasons Cobham upon the 17. of June by the instigation of Raleigh did write Letters to count Aremberge and delivered the said letters to one Matthew de Lawrencie, who delivered them to the Count for the attaining of 600000. crowns, which money by other letters Aremberge did promise to perform payment of, and those Letters Cobham did receive on the 18. of June, then did Cobham promise Raleigh that when he should have received that money, he would deliver 8000. crowns to him, to which motion he did consent. And afterwards Cobham offered Brooke, that when he should have received that money, he would give 10000 crown's thereof to him, to which motion Brooke did assent.  
Master sergeant Heale opened the matter, and delivered the effect of the indictment; In whose speech this was observed, that he charged Sir Walter to have intended the Intitling of the Lady Arabella Steward to the crown, who he said had no more title thereunto than he had himself, and further said after a little pause, that he for his own part did disclaim and renounce all title thereunto. whereat Sir Walter Raleigh smiled. The sergeant concluding Mr. Attorney Cook began, and with a long disourse amplified (with vehement words and actions) the several treasons whereof Sir Walter stood indicted, wherein he so far moved Sir Walter that he many times offered to make answer for himself before the Court would give him leave; protesting Mr attorney told him news he never heard of before, and that his memory (by reason of his sickness) was so feeble that he could not remember so many circumstances as Mr. Attorney tired him withal; But Mr. Attorney pressed the Lords that the King's evidence ought not to be broken, or dismembered, whereby it might lose much of its grace and vigour: notwithstanding it was yielded, when M. attorney came to his proof, Sir Walter Raleigh should have leave to answer his several points as they were objected: In Mr. Attorney divers things were observed which were said and used in his narration or evidence. Some captiously noted that he said this treason did tend not only to the overthrow of true religion and destruction of all our souls, but even to the loss of our goods, lands, and lives: But it seemeth he meant reciprocally: others thought him full of impertinent phrases and compliments, and specially when he spoke of the King's issue or of the Lords, after he said he would say nothing of them, than he would presently fall into gross and palpable adulation of them to their faces: but in their commendations he spoke nothing but truth: some noted his care and diligence in delivering to the people that the King said he would lose lands, crown, & life before he would suffer a toleration or alterration in Religion; and that to these traitors (for Cobham and Gray were upon the buy) he had done nothing rigorously, nothing unnaturally: nothing precipitately, not rigorously, because no torture used: not unnaturally, because the brother was not pressed (further than he would) to accuse his brother: not precipitately because of the long time his gracious Majesty had promised before he would bring them to their Arraignment: this was much to the satisfaction of the people, but this he was commanded to deliver: All the assembly could have wished that he had not behaved himself so violently and bitterly, nor used so great provocation to the prisoner: which the better sort imputed to his zeal in the King's service, and to the passion which overwhelmed him in the cause of his country: as when he broke forth into these and the like speeches: This horrible and detestable traitor, this main traitor (for the rest were upon the buy) this instigator and seducer to treasons, he that hath a spanish heart, you are an odious man, see with what a whorish forehead he defends his faults: this is he that would take away the King and his cubs, O abominable traitor: but many that prejudicate of Mr. Attorney's nature would hardly be persuaded but those speeches proceeded out of the insolency of his own disposition given to triumph upon poor delinquents, and men in misery, honest men have reason to think the best: And as the attorney was noted, so was the carriage of Raleigh most remarkable, first to the Lords (principally to my Lord Cecil) humble, yet not prostrate; dutiful, yet not dejected, for in some cases he would humbly thank them for gracious speeches, in other acknowledge that their honours said true, as in relating some circumstances: And in such points wherein he would not yield unto them, he would crave pardon, and with reverence urge them, and answer them, as in points of Law, or essential matters of fact; towards the jury affable, but not fawning, not in despair nor believing, but hoping in them carefully persuading them with reasons, not distemperately importuning them with conjurations; rather showing love of life then fear of death. Towards the King's council patient, but not insensibly neglecting, not yielding to imputations laid against him in words, and it was wondered that a man of his heroic spirit could be so valiant in suffering, that he was never overtaken in passion: But when it was insinuated that it was said that it would never be well till the King and his cubs were taken away, he said that Mr. Attorney used him basely, barbarously, and rigorously, and that he was abase slave and a wretch that spoke the words, but he received comfort in these base words of Mr. Attorney for he hoped that it should be the worst he should be able to do against him.  
The accusation may be said to be of two parts, viz. personal against the King, and publicly against the State and quiet of the realm. Both high Treason, the personal Treason was of two sorts. The first a conspiracy against the King's life: the second a practice to disable the King's title to the crown of England. To prove that Raleigh intended the King's death, the confession of George Brooke was enforced, who said that his brother my Lord Cobham told him that he and my Lord Gray were but upon the buy, but the said Cobham and Sir Walter Raleigh were upon the main for it, and should never be well till the King and his cubs were taken away. And further said that he thought in his conscience that the said speech of the King's cubs proceeded from Raleigh. And it was further declared, that the confession of George Brooke was enforced, and not voluntarily made, until Sir Griffin Markham, and Watson the Priest had vouched him for the knowledge of some farther purpose, than the surprising of the King. To this Sir Walter answered that George Brook would say anything of him, but he thanked God he never spoke with him; for if he had spoken but five words he perceived that it had been enough. Then my Lord Cecil said that indeed he thought that George Brook had a spleen to Sir Walter, but his brother my Lord Cobham and he were good friends, and therefore he could not tell whither he hated Raleigh so much as to do his brother so great a displeasure, and said, that my Lord Cobham might if he did practice (as himself confessed) with Spain, give Sir Welter's name in to credit him withal, as a man that favoured him, and on whom he did presume more than he had reason. To prove that Raleigh practised to scandalize his majesty's Title to the crown. My Lord Cobham's confession was produced, That Sir Walter delivered him a book concerning the King's Title, but told him withal, that it was a very foolish book which he delivered to his brother George to consider of, and George Brook confessed that his brother gave him such a Book, whereof he read only the Titles of the Chapters, containing matter against the King's Title and Line. And it was not omitted by the attorney, that this book was delivered upon occasion of my Lord Cobham's discontentment. Raleigh confessed that he had such a book which he never read, but it was entitled, A Defence of the Queen's proceedings against Mary Queen of Scotland, And constantly denied that he delivered it to my Lord Cobham, but that my Lord Cobham took it out of his Study (if he had any such of his) without his knowledge, he protested: Here my Lord Henry Howard signified that my Lord Cobham was asked in his examination whither Sir Walter gave him the book, or that he took the same? and he said that Sir Walter gave it him: But that since he had told some (who were again with him) that whereas he had said that Sir Walter gave him the book, the truth was he took the same of himself out of his study when he was asleep. Then my Lord Cecil asked Sir Walter, where he had the book; and he said he took it out of my late Lord Treasurer Burleighs study after he was dead. My Lord Cecil desired to know whither out of that which was left to him or to his brother? And he said out of that which was in my Lord treasurer's house in the Strand. Whereupon my Lord Cecil published, that after his father's death, Sir Walter desired to search for some Cosmographycall descriptions of the West-Indies which he thought werein his study, and were not to be had in print, which he granted, and said he would as soon have trusted Sir Walter as any man: though since (for some infirmities of Sir Walter's) the bonds of his affection had been cracked, & yet reserving his duty to the King his Master (which he could not dispense withal in his service) he swore by God he loved him, and found a great conflict in himself, in that so complete a member in a commonwealth was fallen away. But he must needs say that Sir Walter used him discourteously to take the book away and not to acquaint him therewith: nevertheless he said he need not to make any Apology in the behalf of his Father, considering how usual and necessary a thing it is for councillors and those in his place to intercept and keep all such kind of writings, for whosoever should now search his study (or at least his Cabinet) should like enough find all the famous libels that ever were made against the Queen that dead is: and shall also find divers made against the King our sovereign Lord that now is, since his coming to the crown: Sir Walter said that the book was a manuscript, and had noted in the beginning with my Lord Treasurers own hand, this is the book of one Rob. Snag, and affirmed that as my L. Cecil had said, he thought a man might find also in his house all the libels that had been made against the late Queen: But M. attorney said that he was no privy councillor, nor he hoped never should be: my Lord Cecil answered that he indeed was no councillor of state, yet he had been often called to consultation: Sir Walter thought it a very severe interpretation of the law to bring him within the compass of Treason only for this book written so long agone as it was, whereof no man had read more than the Titles of the Chapters: and which was burned by George Brook without his privity; admitting that he had delivered it to my Lord Cobham, not advancing, nor approving the same, but discommending it, as Cobham's first confession was; and he put this case, If he should come to my Lord Cecil (as oft he had done) and find a searcher with him with a packet of libels, and my Lord let him have one or two to peruse, this he hoped was no treason. To prove this treason against the State and commonweal my Lord Cobham's confessions were read to this effect. That it was agreed between Sir Walter Raleigh and him that my Lord Cobham should deal with Count Aremberg to procure six hundred thousand crowns, that Count Aremberge did promise to satisfy his request, to the intent to advance the Title of Arabella: and that it was likewise concluded that Cobham should (under pretence of travelling) go into the Low-Countries, into France, and Spain, and carry three letters from the Lady Arabella to the archduke, to the Duke of Savoy and to the King of Spain to obtain the said sum of crowns, and thereby to promise three things unto the Princes. First that there should be a peace concluded with Spain. Secondly, that there should be a toleration of Religion in England. Lastly that she would not marry but by the direction of the said Princes. And that she should come back by Jersey, and there he should meet with Sir Walter Raleigh and then they would agree how to dispose the money to discontented persons (whereof he thought he should find many at his return) and that Sir Walter should have a great number of crowns from the said Count Aremberge, And that Sir Walter thought that the best course to trouble England was to cause division in Scotland: And my L. Cobham further accused Sir Walter, to have b in the only instigator of him to all these treasons. And one Mat. de Lawrencie, a merchant of Antwerp that was used between Count Aremberge, and my L. Cobham, confessed that Sir Walter Raleigh supped with my Lord Cobham one night when he came to my Lord Cobham's house, and that they three went alone to Sir Walter Raleigh's house in the Strand by water, and that the said Matthew de Lawrencie delivered a letter to my Lord Cobham from Count Aremberge at Durham-house, and immediately Sir Walter went up with my Lord Cobham into his chamber, and Matthew de Lawrencie tarried below: Sir Walter confessed that he knew very well, that Matthew de Lawrencie held intelligence between Count Aremberg, and my Lord Cobham, and so did the Lords of the council know, that it had been so these seven years by licence of the Queen: But that he knew to what purpose it was now of late he denied, other than he took it to have been concerning the business of the peace with Spain, for that my Lord Cobham said that his brother George Brook was very loath to accuse him, Sir Walter proceeded, and asked, whither my Lord Cobham had accused him or confessed any such thing. It was answered that my Lord Cobham had been asked whither he had spoken any such thing concerning his said brother's unwillingness, and he would make no other answer but that he had: however he said it proceeded out of a discontented mind from the said George Brook, which M. attorney said was a confession of their pretence in law. Then Sir Walter Raleigh, said that if my Lord Cobham had accused him as they alleged, he ought to renew his accusation to his face, that so he might not be massacred by heersay, and affirmed it was Sir Nicolas Throgmortons' case. There was further urged against Sir Walter for intending to make away the King the testimony of one that had been lately at sea, who was in the Court in a blue cassock and deposed. That being at Lisbon not long after the coming in of the King into England, a Portugal Gentleman asked him whence he was, and said of of England: Then he asked whither our King were crowned or not, and he answered he hoped so by this time, whereupon the Portugal said that my Lord Cobham and and Sir Walter Raleigh would make him away before it were long, Sir Walter made light of this rumour and of the witness, and said that he thought it might be so; for that my Lord Cobham knowing that he had written a book and presented it to the King, to move his mind not to make his peace with Spain, hearing him one day at his Table dispute very violently against the peace, told him in his Gallery presently after, he need not be so much against the peaces, for he should have seven thousand crowns to labour for it, and that he thought it to be a toy nor knew how to deserve it, yet his answer was let me see the money, and then I will answer you to the purpose. And my Lord Cobham told him further, that he would offer a great sum of money to my Lord Cecil and to my Lord of Northumberland to the same end, but he dissuaded him from it, and told him, they would hate him as long as they live for it. And Sir Walter said further, that the occasion of my Lord Cobham's accusation was this viz. When as Sir Walter perceived by the Lords that they had the said Matthew de Lawrencie in jealousy to do some bad offices between Count Aremberge and my Lord Cobham (who as he thought was justly condemned upon these advertisements) that he observed my Lord Cobham that night (when my Lord Cobham brought him home to his house) to go back past his own stairs towards his Countess' lodgings, with the said Matthew de Lawrencie, as if he had been very sorry to have parted with him. Then he writ to my Lord Cecil to signify to him that in his judgement if he apprehended Matthew de Lawrencie presently, it might be a means that he might intercept their intelligence (perhaps not yet ripe) And if otherwise Mat. de Lawrencie might perchance be shuffled away, and so left it to his lordship's consideration: And afterwards my Lord Cobham had constantly denied these matters upon his examination, this letter was showed unto him as though Sir Walter had induced him to all the inconveniences he had fallen into, which after he had read, he desired to read it again. And upon assurance it was Sir Welter's Letter, in a great passion he broke forth into these speeches; Oh villain! Oh vile traitor! hath he used me thus? Nay then I will tell you all, and thereupon in madness and persuasion of the wrong that Sir Walter had done him, he delivered the right accusation, the substance whereof was not denied, though M. attorney noted that he considered of a second time before he entered into passion, Sir Walter appealed to all that knew my Lord Cobham, that he was as passionate a man as lived, and said, that in his choler he had accused his friends of greater matters than these, and had been sorry for it afterwards. The King's council replied that the confession of George Brook of the foresaid speeches of my Lord Cobham touching himself, and Sir Walter, for a further plot than they two by any way could excuse, must stand good in law, in that those speeches were uttered (as it appeared) before those matters came out, and before my Lord Cobham had conceived the spleen against Sir Walter upon the sight of this letter. And further produced my Lord Cobham's confession. That Sir Walter after his first being before the Lords, did write unto him the said Cobham, that he had been examined of many things concerning him, but he had cleared him in all: Now the Lords protested that all this while he was not asked one question touching my Lord Cobham, and therefore the attorney inferred that he writ this out of a fearful and guilty conscience, to confirm my Lord Cobham in his denial, against he should be examined: Sir Walter hereupon declared that my Lord Cobham put him in trust to pass the Inheritance of certain fee farm lands for him, and gave divers jewels of great value for his security, which were in his bosom at the time of his apprehension, and that my Lord Cobham had a Cabinet worth thirty pound, which Master attorney should have had for his favour: and that at his return from the Lords with private restraint to his own house; my Lord Cobham's footman came to him to know what was done in the business: and he unwilling to have it known that he was restrained, dispatched the footman, saying he would write to his Lord, and so did by Captain Kemish. Besides for that which he writ of the said business, and acquainted my Lord Cobham that he had been examined, and that he had cleared his Lordship: he did write so in this regard, that though he were not examined of my L. Cobham, yet he talking with my Lord Cecil, and his Lordship telling him he was glad there were no more in the action than there appeared, and that he hoped such a one was not in, S. Walter said that my Lord Cobham was absolutely clear: and my Lord Cecil replied he did hope so, and thought no less: all which was said in regard my Lord Cobham was thought to be discontented. But afterwards my Lord Cecil said, Sir Walter you have Kemish against you who carried the letter and tore out that sheet, which concerned the Lords of the council (for so was my Lord Cobham's confession) and he hath been offered the rack for it, but what he has confessed, I as yet know not: Answer was made by Sir William Wade, that Kemish had confessed he carried a letter, and knew nothing at all of the contents and that indeed he was told that he deserved himself to be put to the rack for it: well said Sir Walter the Rackkeeper was called for, was he not? Sir William Wade said, that it was privately reported, that Kemish had his Master's letter back from my Lord Cobham, but Sir Walter confessed no such matter. But concerning that he was charged withal, for practising to make a combustion in Scotland, he confessed the words of my Lord Cobham's accusation to this effect, That he thought the best course to trouble England, was to cause sedition in Scotland, and said that he had thought so any time these twenty years, and so it had been also held by the wisest men in this kingdom: And he had delivered his opinion to be such divers times to the Lords of the council, and he thought that there were few there but were of his opinion: Sir Walter also offered to the consideration of the jury, that my Lord Cobham had not subscribed his accusation; Then the Lords requested my Lord chief justice to deliver whether subscriptions were necessary by the Law, and my Lord chief justice said they were not: Nay said Sir Walter, pardon me my Lord, for this, by your lordship's favour, I take to be the course of examination in this kind. After that the examinate hath confessed, and his confession is written, it is all read over again distinctly and deliberately to him, that he may be sure to say nothing but truth: and then in confirmation that it is undoubtedly true, and that he will stand thereunto, he is to subscribe the same. Now my Lords, if my L. Cobham did accuse me thus rashly out of his passion, and afterwards when he had read it again, began to relent, and (with sorrow for the wrong he had done me) refuse to set his hand thereunto, than I say my Lords I have reason to take hold of it: And it is well known to you my Lord Cecil, and my Lord of Northampton, how he hath recanted his accusation, moreover he hath most penitently sorrowed for this injury he hath done me, and could never be quiet in his conscience till he had purged me. Master attorney said, that in my Lord Cobham's accusation there were many things, that he had recanted, but there was no essential point prenominated, which he had recanted: And my Lord Cecil said, that the reason, that my Lord Cobham gave, why he would not subscribe, was, because he thought he was privileged by his degree: wherein he appealed to my Lord chief Justice, who answered that it was a great contempt to refuse to subscribe, but it did not appear that thereupon he did subscribe. Then Master attorney delivered that it was Sir Welter's policy to have but one witness, because he thought that one witness could not condemn him. Sir Walter thereupon furiously started up, and said to him, Master attorney, you must not think that all that maketh for me is policy, and all that maketh against me is plain, and God revealeth it. I were well fitted for justice, if you should come to be my judge, what indifferency is there in this my Lord chief Justice? Remember I beseech your Lordship the statute of the first of Edward the Sixth hath this That no person shall be condemned of treason unless he be accused by two lawful accusers, and those to be brought before the party, if they belong to England. And remember too the statute of the 13 of the Queen. No man shall be arraigned of treason, without the oath of two sufficient and lawful witnesses brought face to face. My Lord chief Justice said, the statute of the first of Edward the Sixth, was repealed by the first and second of Philip and Mary, and reduced all trial of treason to the course of the Common-law. And that the statute of the thirteenth of Elizabeth extended to such offences as were mentioned in the said act to be committed against the Queen that dead is. And that all was now put to the Common-law, and that by the Common-law one witness was sufficient concerning presumption, some of the Judges said: That by the law a man might be condemned without a witness, only upon presumption. As if the King (whom God defend) should be slain in his Chamber, and one is seen to come forth of the Chamber with his sword bloody being drawn, were not this evident both in law and opinion without further inquisition? And my Lord Chief Justice said that one witness accusing himself too, was very great testimony; especially in this case. For it was not to be imagined that my Lord Cobham would do himself so much harm, as to adventure the loss of his honour, lands of so great worth, and his life, for any spleen to Sir Walter, unless the matter were true, and therefore the accusation was very strong against Sir Walter. Note that the treasons against Queen Elizabeth, which by the statutes of the thirteenth of her reign were to be proved by the oath of two witnesses, were death or bodily harm intending to death, imagined against her, levying of wars within or without the realm against her, plots to depose or deprive her, publishing her to be a Tyrant, heretic, infidel, schismatic, usurious, &c. Sir Walter proceeded and urged, that though these statutes lived not, yet he knew very well the reason of these statutes and equity of them lived still. But howsoever I am sure (said he) the law of God liveth for ever. And you shall find it in Deutronomy in the seventeenth Chapter. In o'er duorum aut trium testium peribit qui intersicitur. Nemo occidatur uno contra se dicente testimonium. And in the nineteenth Chapter. Non stabit unus testis contra aliquem: quicquid illud peccati, et facinoris fuerit. Said in ore duorum aut trium testium stabit omne verbum. Divers other places of the old Testament are to this purpose, confirmed by our Saviour too in the eighteenth of Mark, and the eight of John, and by Saint Paul, Corinth 2. 13, And by the whole consent of the Scripture. And if the Common-law be as Brookes saith (who was a great Lawyer) then there ought to be two witnesses: For he saith a trial is by verdict, and by witness, wherein my Lord chief Justice said he was deceived. But said he you tell me of one witness, let me have him. Prove these practices by one witness, and I will confess myself guilty to the King in a thousand treasons. I stand not upon the Law, I defy the law, if I have done these things I desire not to live: whether they be treasons by the law or no. Let me have my accuser brought to my face, and if he will maintain it to my face, I will confess my judgement. Here my Lord Chief Justice being required to signify his opinion of the law in this case, he said it was not the law to have the witness brought to his face, considering he accused himself also: To the which the rest of the Judges agreed Sir Walter replied, it was not against or contrary to the law: Howsoever I do not expect it of duty: And yet I say you should deal very severely with me if you should condemn me and not bring my accuser to my face. Remember a story of Fortescue a reverend Chief Justice in this kingdom; Tells of a Judge in this kingdom that condemned a woman for murdering her husband, upon the presumption or testimony of one witness (as it seemed) and after she was burned, a servant of the man's that was slain (being executed for the same fault) confessed that he slew his Master himself, and that the woman was innocent. What did the Judge then say to Fortescue, touching the remorse of his conscience for proceeding upon such slender proof, Quod nunquam de hoc facto animam in vita sus ipse purgaret. That he could never be at peace of conscience whilst he lived, although he but gave consent upon the verdict of the Jury. But my Lords for the matter which I desire, remember too the story of Susanna: Daniel thought the Judges fools because they would condemn a daughter of Israel without asking the witness a question: Why then my Lords, let my accuser be brought, and let me ask him a question, and I have done: for it may be it will appear out of his own tale, that his accusation cannot be true, or he will be discovered by examination. But yet principally my Lords remember what is said in the xix. of Deutronomy, Si steterit testis mendax contra hominem accusans cum prevaricatione, stabunt ambo, quorum causa est ante dominum, in conspectu sacerdotum, et judicum, qui fuerint in diebus illis. And I will tell you, Master attorney, if you condemn me upon bare inferences, and will not bring my accuser to my face: you try me by no law but by the Spanish inquisition. If my accuser were dead, or not within the land, it were something. But my accuser lives, and is in the house, and yet you will not bring him to my face. About this time my Lord Cecil asked him, if he would take issue upon these points upon my Lord Cobham's testimony: if my Lord Cobham would now justify under his hand his accusation, and it might be that he would (by the advice of the Lords) join issue with him, Sir Walter made no direct answer thereunto, but still besought them to bring his accuser to his face. My Lord Cecil then replied, Sir Walter, it cannot be granted you: you have heard yourself that the Law will not dispense with it. It may not be forgotten that before Raleigh had been so importunate to have his accuser brought to his face, he used very probable reasons to the Jury to satisfy them, how silly and foolish an enterprise this was, whereof he was accused, and how unlikely a thing it was that he should enter into it. First, said he that I should make choice of my Lord Cobham of any man living: A man of no following, nor of no force; that I should dream of disturbing of the state, now everybody was so glad of the Kings coming, and of unexpected peace: and now the state was greater, and stronger than ever it was. That I should be so simple to expect money from Spain: for I knew how much that King's revenue was impaired, and his treasure intercepted. I also knew well that where he had usually in his Havens, 6 or 7 score sail of ships, now he had not six or seven sail of ships: I knew well too that his Jesuits begged from door to door in Spain: and I knew well that the King of Spain was bankrupt, as was protested by most of the Merchants of Christendom: And could I imagine then that in his poverty he could disburse six or seven hundred thousand Crowns? or if he had been in case, could I think it so easy a matter, to obtain such a sum of money of the Spaniard? do Princes so easily now a day's part with such Masses of money? I knew that the Queen of England disbursed no money to the States of the Low-countries (though it were partly for her own security) before she had the Brill and Flushing in pawn. I knew likewise she disbursed no money into France (though for the like occasion) till she had New-haven in pawn, and afterwards more warm security: Nay, the Citizens of London would not lend their Queen money, till they had her lands in pawn. What pawn had we to give the King of Spain? What did we offer him? Or how could we invent to offer to him the letter of an Arabella, whom he could not choose but know to be of no following, what a mockery is this? what would I make myself? A Cade? A Kett? A Jack-Straw? Against these probabilities, the presumptions before alleged, were laid altogether, to fortify my Lord Cobham's accusation, in the ordering whereof Master attorney showed great wisdom and care in his majesty's business. And whereas Sir Walter had urged, that it was not likely the King of Spain would be so easily persuaded to provoke the King of England to a war, considering his bad fortune in six or seven enterprises against this State, and what he had lost by war with England: Master attorney said he was so much the more likely to desire revenge, and to entertain the least hope thereof. But Raleigh answered: All you suspicions, and inferences, are but to fortify my Lord Cobham's accusation; My Lord Cobham is the only man that doth accuse me. My Lord Cobham lives and is in the house, let him maintain his accusation to my face. My Lord Cobham hath confessed himfelfe guilty, he is merely at his majesty's mercy: and without doubt shall highly offend the King, if he go back from his word, wherein he hath abused his Majesty, and so is to look for no mercy, but shall surely die. On the other side he hath accused me to instigate and draw him into these treasons, and if it be so, than I have been the overthrow of him, his honour, estate and all. He is a man of a most revengeful nature, as all the world knows, who would he be more willingly revenged on, then on him who hath been his utter overthrow? Why then my Lords if he will not displease the King in hope of mercy and compassion (Which is his only plea) If he will be revenged on the man that brought him to all this, that hath ruinated him and his house, then will he justify his accusation to my face, then good my Lords let us be brought face to face. My Lord of Northampton replied, Sir Walter you have heard it cannot be granted you, pray importune us no longer. No longer said Raleigh? it toucheth (my Lord) upon my life which I value at as high a rate as you do yours. At last Sir Walter was asked, whither he would say any more. Then he directed his speech to the Gentlemen of the Jury, saying, you have heard the proofs, I pray you consider that these men (meaning Master attorney and the rest of the Lawyers) do usually defend very bad causes every day in the Courts against men of their own profession, as able as themselves: & if they can do so, what may they do with me, that never studied the law till I came into the Tower of London: That have been practised in other affairs, and am weak of memory and feeble as you see, for he was fain to have pen and ink to help his memory in the long speeches that were made against him. But remember the godly saying of Saint Augustine, Si judicaveritis tanquam jam judicandi estis. If you would be content to be judged upon suspicions and inferences, if you would not have your accusation suscribed by your accuser. If you would not have your accuser brought to your face (being in the same house too) where you are arraigned, if you would be condemned by an accusation of one recanted and truly sorrowful for it, if you in my case would yield your bodies to torture, lose your lives, your wives, and children, and all your fortunes upon so slender proof. Then am I ready to suffer all these things. Now after Master sergeant Phillips had made a very long repetion of all the accusation. Master attorney asked Sir Walter again whither he would say any more. Raleigh answered if he would say any thing he would answer him. Master attorney told him the King's council must speak last. Nay by your leave (said he) he that speaks for his life shall speak last. Are you contented said Master attorney that the Jury shall go together: yea, in God's name said Sir Walter. Then Master attorney entered into a speech to this effect: Now Jesus Christ shall be glorified, Jesus Christ shall have a great victory this day, as great as when it was said vicisti Galilee. Now Sir Walter I will prove you to have a Spanish heart. See with what a whorish forehead he hath defended his fault: he hath deceived my poor Lord Cobham as Eve was deceived with an apple, by a letter in an apple, and hath seduced this poor Lord to write I know not what to him against his conscience: But he could not sleep quietly till he had revealed the truth of it to the Lords, and voluntarily of himself written the whole matter to them with his own hand but yesterday, which I will read with a loud voice though I be not able to speak this sennight after: and so pulled my Lord Cobham's letter out of his pocket, which was in effect thus to the Lords, vizt. That Sir Walter had written a letter to him a week before to entreat him for God's sake, to signify unto him by his letter that he had wronged him in his accusation, and told him that the Lords had appointed to meet at Master attorney's house, to consider of his cause: and that it was better to be constant in denial than to appeal to the King, and that he should take heed of Preachers by my Lord of Essex's example. Now it was (Writes my Lord Cobham) no time to dissemble, and therefore he protested unto their Lordships before God and Angels: That the accusation of Sir Walter was substantially true. And further confessed that Sir Walter had dealt with him since the Queen's death to procure him a pension from Spain, to give intelligence when any thing was intended by England against them. This letter was wonderfully esteemed by Master attorney and most effectually applied with many quaint Phrases against Sir Walter, who answered nothing to those speeches which were personal, having said before, that they were used only to bring him into detestation of the world, but spoke to this effect. Now it shall appear that my Lord Cobham, is an unworthy, base, silly, simple poor soul. Master attorney said, Is my Lord so poor? Yea, (said he) in Spirit. Would to God you were so (quoth Master attorney:) Sir Walter proceeded; I will tell you the troth. It is true I got a poor fellow in the Tower, to cast up a letter tied to an apple (for so Cobham's letter was conveyed) in at my Lord Cobham's window, when the lieutenant was at supper, (which I was loath to have spoken of, lest the Lieutenant should be blamed, but all the Lieutenants in the world could not have helped it) wherein I entreated him for God's sake to do me right, and to right the truth unto me: because I knew not whither I should be arraigned before him or no: and hereupon he writ to me how he had wronged me: and herein I did nothing that was dishonest for aught I know; but I sent him a letter again, (because I heard he should be arraigned first) and desired him to publish my innocence at his arraignment; But that notwithstanding he writ unto me again, which letter I have now about me (being all my hope) and I beseech your Lordships to peruse it. Master attorney would not have it read, but said, My Lord Cecil mar not a good cause, My Lord Cecil replied, Master attorney, you are more peremptory than honest, you must not come here to show me what to do. Then Sir Walter desired my Lord Cecil particularly to read it, because he knew my Lord Cobham's hand, which at his request my Lord Cecil did. The letter was to this purpose. That whereas my Lord Cobham did not know whither he or Sir Walter should be first arraigned, and because the blood of Sir Walter, and undoing of him, his posterity should not be required at his hands at the last day. Therefore he did by this letter confess, that he had wronged Sir Walter in his former accusation, and that Sir Walter was innocent of any such practices, and this was true as he hoped to be saved: hereupon Sir Walter desired the Jury to consider what a man this was, and what his testimony was, yet if it were worth any thing. The protestations which he had made to clear him, were more violent than those which he had made against him. And the reason that might draw my Lord Cobham to write this last letter in accusation of him, were greater than could be alleged to persuade him to write the letter in his excuse: here my Lord chief Justice desired my Lord Cecil, and my Lord of Northampton to satisfy the Jury, that there was no condition of favour promised to my Lord Cobham for writing this last letter: which they both did protest to their knowledge. Nay said Sir Walter I dare say your lordships would not offer it. But my Lord Cobham received a letter from his wife, that there was no way to save his life but to accuse me: which was said upon the going together of the Jury. Concerning the matter in my Lord Cobham's letter of standing to his denial, and to admit no preachers by the misfortune of my Lord of Essex; and his desire of a pension from Spain. I protest to God said Sir Walter they are false like as the rest. Saving that this I do confess; That my L. Cobham offered me a pension, and I (alas my Lords) loath to cast him away, and being confident that I had dissuaded him from those humours, did conceal it. But that ever I dealt with him for any such pension is most untrue. And for the meeting of the Lords at Mr. Attorney's house, he heard so he protested by hap by a child of his. After all this, the Jury went together and stayed above half an hour, and returned with their verdict, Guilty. Then my Lord chief Justice asked what he could say why Judgement should not be given upon him. He said he knew the Court was to give Judgement after their verdict, and so was willing my Lord should proceed. Then my L. chief Justice pronounced Judgement against him in this manner, viz. Sir Walter Raleigh, you are to be conveyed to the place from whence you came, and from thence to the place of execution, and there to be hanged till you are half dead, your members to be out off, your bowels to be taken out, and cast into the fire before your face (you being yet alive) your head to be cut off, your quarters to be divided into four parts, to be bestowed in four several places, and so (said my Lord chief Justice) Lord have mercy upon your soul. Sir Walter upon this, humbly desired, that the King might know the proofs against him. And that he did persist in his loyalty, notwithstanding the said verdict (which he would pray his said Jury might never answer for) And further said, the death of him and my Lord Cobham should witness between them. Only he craved pardon for concealing my Lord Cobham's offer to him. And humbly besought the King to have compassion on him, he was a poor gentleman and had a poor wife, and a poor child, raw, and unbrought up: he had much forgotten his duty in concealing my Lord Cobham's fault. So Judgement being given as aforesaid, and he having talked a while with the Lords in private, went back with the sheriff to the prison, with admirable erection, yet in such sort, as a condemned man should do.   

The proceedings against Sir Walter Raleigh Knight, At the King's Bench bar, in Westminster, The 28. of October, 1618. Together with his execution at Westminster, on the 29 of October Anno the 16. Iacobi Regis &c.  
UPon Wednesday the 28 of October, Anno. Dom. 1618. The lieutenant of the Tower according to a warrant to him directed, brought Sir Walter Raleigh from the Tower, to the King's Bench bar at Westminster: where the records of his arraignment at Winchester was opened; And he demanded, why execution should not be done upon him, according to the judgement therein pronounced against him.  
To which he began in way of answer, to justify himself in his proceedings in the late voyage,  
But the Lord chief Justice silenced him therein, saying, there was no other matter there in question, but concerning the judgement of death, that formerly hath been given against him, The which the King's pleasure was, upon some occasions best known to himself, to have executed, unless he could show good cause to the contrary.  
Unto which Sir Walter Raleigh said, that he was told by his council, That in regard his majesty since the said judgement, had been pleased to employ him in his service, as by Commission he had done, it made void the said judgement, and was a verification unto him.  
But the Lord chief Justice told him, that he was therein deceived, and that the opinion of the Court was to the contrary.  
Wherewith he was satisfied, and desired that some reasonable time, might be allowed him to prepare himself for death.  
But it was answered him, that the time appointed was on the morrow, and that it was not to be doubted, but that he had prepared himself for death long since.  
And I am glad said the L. Chief Justice, that you have given the world so good satisfaction of your Religion, as by some books published by you, you have.  
And so Master attorney general, requiring in the King's behalf, that execution might be done upon the prisoner, according to the foresaid judgement. The Sheriffs of Middlesex, were commanded for that purpose, to take him to their custody, who presently carried him to the gatehouse.  
From whence, the next morning, between the Sheriffs of Middlesex Sir Walter Raleigh was brought to the old Palace, in Westminster, where a large Scaffold was erected for the execution.  
Whereupon, when he came with a cheerful countenance, he saluted the Lords, Knights and Gentlemen, there present.  
After which, a Proclamation was made for silence, and he addressed himself, to speak in this manner.  
I desire to be borne withal, for this is the third day of my fever, and if I shall show any weakness, I beseech you to attribute it to my malady, for this is the hour in which it is wont to come.  
Then pausing a while, he sat, and directed himself towards a window, where the Lord of Arundel, Northampton, and Doncaster with some other Lords, and Knights, sat and spoke as followeth,  
I thank God of his infinite goodness, that he hath brought me to die in the light, and not in darkness, (but by reason, that the place where the Lords, &c. sat) was some distance from the Scaffold, that he perceived they could not well hear him, he said, I will strain my voice, for I would willingly have your honours hear me.  
But my Lord of Arundel said, Nay, we will rather come down to the Scaffold, which he and some others did.  
Where being come, he saluted them severally, and then began again to speak as followeth, viz.  
As I said, I thank God heartily, that he hath brought me into the light to die, and that he hath not suffered me to die in the dark prison of the Tower, where I have suffered a great deal of misery, and cruel sickness, and I thank God, that my fever hath not taken me at this time, as I prayed to God it might not.  
There are two main points of suspicion that his majesty as I hear, hath conceived against me.  
To resolve your Lordships wherein his Majesty cannot be satisfied, which I desire to clear, and to resolve your Lordships off:  
One is, that his Majesty hath been informed, that I have often had plots with France, and his Majesty had good reason to induce him thereunto.  
One reason that his Majesty had to conjecture so, was, that when I came back from Guyana, being come to Plymouth, I endeavoured to go in a bark to Rochel, which was, for that I would have made my peace, before I had come to England;  
Another reason was, upon my flight, I did intend to fly into France, for the saving of myself, having had some terror from above.  
A third reason is, his Majesty had reason to suspect, was the French Agents coming to me, besides it was reported that I had a Commission from the Frech King, at my going forth, these are the reasons that his Majesty had, as I am informed to suspect me.  
But this I say, for a man to call God to witness, to a falsehood at the hour of death, is far more grievous and impious, and that a man that so doth cannot have salvation, for he hath no time of repentance, then what shall I expect, that am going instantly to render up my account. I do therefore call God to witness, As I hope to be saved, and as I hope to see him in his Kingdom, which I hope I shall within this quarter of this hour, I never had any Commission from the French King, nor never saw the French King's hand writing in all my life, neither know I that there was a French Agent, nor what he was, till I met him in my gallery at my lodging unlooked for, If I speak not true, O Lord let me never enter into thy kingdom.  
The second suspicion was, that his Majesty had been informed, that I should speak dishonourably, and disloyally of my sovereign; But my accuser was a base french man, a runagate fellow, one that hath no dwelling, a kind of a chemical fellow, one that I knew to be persideous, for being by him drawn into the Action of fearing myself at Winchester, in which I confess my hand was touched, he being sworn to secrecy over night revealed it the next Morning.  
But this I speak, now what have I to do with Kings; I have nothing to do with them, neither do I fear them; I have only now to do with my God, in whose presence I stand, therefore to tell a lie, were it to gain the King's favour, were vain: Therefore, as I hope to be saved at the last judgement day, I never spoke dishonourably, disloyally, or dishonestly of his Majesty in all my life; And therefore I cannot but think it strange, that that Frenchman being so base and mean a fellow should be so far credited as he hath been.  
I have dealt truly, as I hope to be saved, and I hope I shall be believed: I confess, I did attempt to escape, I cannot excuse it, but it was only to save my life.  
And I do likewise confess, that I did feign myself to be ill disposed and sick at Salisbury, but I hope it was no sin, for the Prophet David did make himself a fool, and suffered spital to fall down upon his beard, to escape from the hands of his enemies, and it was not imputed unto him: so, what I did, I intended no ill, but to gain and prolong time till his Majesty came, hoping for some Commiseration from him.  
But I forgive this Frenchman and Sir Lewis Stewkelye withal my heart, for I have received the Sacrament this morning of Master Deane of Westminster, and I have forgiven all men, but that they that are persideous, I am bound in charity to speak, that all men may take heed of them.  
Sir Lewis Stewkeley, my keeper and kinsman, hath affirmed that I should tell him, that my Lord Carewe, and my Lord of Doncaster here, did advise me to escape, but I protest before God, I never told him any such thing, neither did the Lords advise me to any such matter: neither is it likely that I should tell him any such thing, of two privy-Councellors: neither had I any reason to tell him, or he to report it; for it is well known, he left me 6,7,8,9 and 10 days together alone, to go whither I listed, whilst he rod himself about the country.  
He further accused me, that I should show him a letter whereby, I did signify unto him, that I would give him ten thousand pounds for my escape; But God cast my soul into everlasting fire, if I made any such proffer of 10000 pounds, or 1000, but indeed I showed him a letter, that if he would go with me, there should be order taken for his debts when he was gone, neither had I 10000 pound to give him, for if I had had so much, I could have made my peace better with it otherways, then in giving it to Stewkeley.  
Further, when I came to Sir Edward Pelham's house, who had been a follower of mine, and who gave me good entertainment. He gave out, that I had there received some dram of poison, when I answered him that I feared no such thing, for I was well assured of them in the house, and therefore wished him to have no such thought; now God forgive him for I do, and I desire God to forgive him, I will not only say, God is a God of revenge; But I desire God to forgive him, as I do desire to be forgiven of God.  
Then looking over his note of remembrance, well said he, thus far I have gone, a little more, a little more, and I will have done by and by.  
It was told the King that I was brought perforce into England, and that I did not intend to come again; But Sir Charles Parker, M. Trefham, M. Leake, and divers know how I was dealt withal by the common-souldiers, which were 150 in number, who mutined, and sent for me to come into the ship to them, for unto me they would not come, and there was I forced for to take an oath, that I would not go into England, till that they would have me; otherwise they would have cast me into the sea, and therewithal they drove me into my cabin, and bent all their forces against me.  
Now after I had taken this oath, with wine, and other things, such as I had about me, I drew some of the chiefest to desist from their purposes; and at length, I persuaded them to go into Ireland, which they were willing unto, and would have gone into the North parts of Ireland, which I dissuaded them from, and told them that they were redshanks that inhabited there, and with much ado, I persuaded them to go into the south parts of Ireland, promising them to get their pardons, and was forced to give them 125 pound at Kinsall, to bring them home, otherwise I had never got from them.  
I hear likewise, there was a report, that I meant not to go to Guyana at all, and that I knew not of any mine, nor intended any such thing or matter, but only to get my liberty, which I had not the wit to keep.  
But I protest it was my full intent, and for gold, for gold for the benefit of his Majesty, and myself, and of those that ventured, and went with me, with the rest of my countrymen: But he that knew the head of the mine would not discover it, when he saw my son was slain, but made away himself.  
And then turning to my Earl of Arundel, he said, My Lord, being in the Gallery of my ship, at my departure, I remember your honour took me by the hand, and said, you would request one thing of me, which was, that whither I made a good voyage or a bad, I should not fail, but to return again into England, which I then promised you, and gave you my faith I would, and so I have.  
To which my Lord answered and said, it is true, I do very well remember it, they were the very last words I spoke unto you.  
Another slander was raised of me, that I would have gone away from them, and left them at Guyana.  
But there was a great many worthy men, that accompanied me always, as my sergeant Major, George Raleigh and divers others, which knew my intent was nothing so.  
Another opinion was held of me, that I carried with me to sea, 16000 pieces, and that was all the voyage I intended, only to get money into my hands.  
As I shall answer it before God, I had not in all the world in my hands or others to my use, either directly or indirectly, above a hundred pound, whereof when I went I gave my wife 25 pounds thereof, but the error thereof came as I perceived, by looking over the Screvenors' books, where they found the bills of adventure arising to a great sum, so raised that false report.  
Only I will borrow a little time of M. sheriffs to speak of one thing, that doth make my heart to bleed, to hear that such an imputation should be laid upon me, for it is said, that I should be a persecutor of the death of the Earl of Essex, and that I stood in a window over against him, when he suffered, and puffed out tobacco in disdain of him, God I take to witness, I shed tears for him when he died, and as I hope to look God in the face hereafter, my Lord of Essex did not see my face, when he suffered, for I was a far off in the armoury, where I saw him, but he saw notme.  
I confess indeed I was of a contrary faction, but I know my Lord of Essex was a noble gentleman, and that it would be worse with me when he was gone; for I got the hate of those which wishad me well before, and those that set me against him, afterwards set themselves against me, and was my greatest enemies, and my soul hath many times been grieved, that I was not nearer him when he died; because as I understood afterwards, that he asked for me at his death, to have been reconciled unto me.  
And these be the material points I thought good to speak of, and I am now at this instant, to render up an account to God, and I protest as I shall appear before him, this that I have spoken is true, and I hope I shall be believed  
Then a proclamation being made, that all men should depart the Scaffold, he prepared himself for death: giving away his hat, his cap, with some money, to such as he knew, that stood near him.  
And then taking his leave of the Lords, Knights, Gentlemen, and others of his acquaintance, and amongst the rest, taking his leave of my Lord of Arundel, he thanked him for his company, and entreated him to desire the King that no scandalous writing to defame him, might be published after his death, saying further unto him, I have a long journey to go, and therefore I will take my leave  
And then putting off his doublet, and gown, he desired the headsman to show him the Axe, which not being suddenly granted unto him, he said I prithee, let me see it, dost thou think that I am afraid of it, so it being given unto him, he felt along upon the edge of it, and smiling, spoke unto M. sheriff saying, this is a sharp medicine, but it is a physician that will cure all diseases.  
Then going to and fro upon the Scaffold on every side, he entreated the company to pray to God to give him strength.  
Then having ended his speech, the executioner kneeled down and asked him forgiveness, the which laying his hand upon his shoulder he forgave him.  
Then being asked, which way he would lay himself on the block, he made answer and said, so the heart be straight it is no matter which way the head lieth: So laying his head on the block, his face being towards the East, the headsman throwing down his own cloak, because he would not spoil the prisoner's gown, he giving the headsman a sign when he should strike, by lifting up his hands, the executioner struck of his head, at two blows, his body never shrinking nor moving, his head was showed on each side of the Scaffold, and then put into a red leather bag, and his wrought velvet gown thrown over it, which was afterwards conveyed away in a mourning coach of his Ladies.   

Sir Walter Raleigh's Letter to the King the night before his death.  
THe life which I had most mighty Prince, the law hath taken from me, and I am now but the same earth and dust out of which I was made. If my offence had any proportion with your majesty's mercy I might despair, or if my deserving had any quantity with your majesty's unmeasurable goodness I might yet have hope, but it is you that must judge and not I, name, blood, gentility, or estate I have none; no not so much as a being, no not so much as a vitam planta: I have only a penitent soul in a body of iron, which moveth towards the loadstone of death, and cannot be withheld from touching it, except your majesty's mercy turn the point towards me that expelleth. Lost I am for hearing of vain man, for hearing only and never believing nor accepting: and so little account I made of that speech of his, which was my condemnation (as my forsaking him doth truly witness) that I never remembered any such thing, till it was at my trial objected against me. So did he repay my care, who cared to make him good, which I now see no care of man can effect. But God (for my offence to him) hath laid this heavy burden on me, miserable and unfortunate wretch that I am. But for not loving you (my sovereign) God hath not laid this sorrow on me: for he knows (with whom I am not in case to lie) that I honoured your Majesty by same, and loved and admired you by knowledge, So that whither I live or die, your majesty's loving servant I will live and die. If now I write what seems not well favoured (Most merciful Prince) vouchsafe to ascribe it to the council of a dead heart, and to a mind that sorrow hath confounded. But the more my misery is, the more is your majesty's mercy (if you please to behold it) and the less I can deserve, the more liberal your majesty's gift shall be: herein you shall only imitate God, giving free life: and by giving to such a one from whom there can be no retribution, but only a desire to pay a lent life with the same great love; which the same great goodness shall bestow on it. This being the first letter, that ever your Majesty received from a dead man: I humbly submit myself to the will of God my supreme Lord, and shall willingly and patiently suffer whatsoever it shall please your majesty to afflict me withal,  
Walter Raleigh.   

The Copy of Sir Walter Raleigh's Letter to his Wife, the night before his death.  
YOu shall now receive (my dear wife) my last words in these my last lines. My love I send you that you may keep it when I am dead, and my council that you may remember it when I am no more I would not by my will present you with sorrows (dear Bess) let them go into the grave with me and be buried in the dust. And seeing that it is not God's will that I should see you any more in this life, bear in patiently, and with a heart like thyself. first I send you all the thanks which my heart can conceive, or my words can rehearse for your many travails, and care taken for me, which though they have not taken effect as you wished, yet my debt to you is not the less: but pay it I never shall in this world. Secondly, I beseech you for the love you bear me living, do not hide yourself many days, but by your travails seek to help your miserable fortunes, and the right of your poor child. Thy mourning cannot avail me, I am but dust. Thirdly you shall understand, that my land was conveyed bona fide to my child: the writings were drawn at midsummer was twelve months, my honest x Brett can testify so much, and Dolberry too, can remem●er somewhat therein. And I trust my blood will quench their malice that have cruelly murdered me: and that they will not seek also to kill thee and thine with extreme poverty. To what friend to direct thee I know not, for all mine have left me in the true time of trial. And I perceive that my death was determined from the first day. Most sorry I am God knows that being thus surprised with death I can leave you in no better estate. God is my witness I meant you all my office of wines or all that I could have purchased by selling it, half my stuff, and all my jewels, but some one for the boy, but God hath prevented all my resolutions. That great God that ruleth all in all, but if you can live free from want, care for no more, the rest is but vanity. Love God, and begin betimes to repose yourself upon him, and therein shall you find true and lasting riches, and endless comfort: for the rest when you have traveled and wearied your thoughts, for all sorts of worldly cogitations, you shall but sit down by sorrow in the end. Teach your son also to love and fear God whilst he is yet young, that the fear of God may grow with him, and then God will be a husband to you, and a father to him; a husband and a father which cannot be taken from you. Baily oweth me 200 pounds, and Adrian 600 in Jersey I also have much owing me besides. The arrearrages of the wines will pay, your debts. And howsoever you do, for my soul's sake, pay all poor men. When I am gone, no doubt you shall be sought too, for the world thinks that I was very rich. But take heed of the pretences of men, and their affections, for they last not but in honest and worthy men, and no greater misery can befall you in this life, then to become a prey, and afterwards to be despised. I speak not this (God knows) to dissuade you from marriage, for it will be best for you both in respect of the world and of God. As for me I am no more yours, nor you mine, death hath cut us asunder: and God hath divided me from the world, and you from me. Remember your poor child for his father's sake, who chose you, and loved you in his happiest times. Get those letters (if it be possible) which I writ to the Lords, wherein I sued for my life: God is my witness it was for you and yours that I desired life, but it is true that I disdained myself for begging of it: for know it (my dear wife) that your son is the son of a true man, and who in his own respect despiseth death and all his misshapen & ugly forms. I cannot write much, God he knows how hardly I steal this time while others sleep, and it is also time that I should separate my thoughts from the world. Beg my dead body which living was denied thee; and either lay it at Sherburne (and if the land continue) or in Exeter-Church by my Father and Mother; I can say no more, time and death call me away, The everlasting, powerful, infinite, and omnipotent God, That Almighty God, who is goodness itself, the true life and true light keep thee and thine: have mercy on me, and teach me to forgive my persecutors and accusers, and send us to meet in his glorious kingdom. My dear wife farewell. Bless my poor boy. Pray for me, and let my good God hold you both in his arms. Written with the dying hand of sometimes thy Husband, but now alas overthrown;  
Walter Raleigh.  
FINIS.