Cabala, Mysteries of State, IN LETTERS of the great MINISTERS of K. James and K. Charles.  
WHEREIN Much of the public Manage of Affaires is related.  
Faithfully Collected by a Noble Hand.  
LONDON, Printed for M. M. G. Bedell, and T. Collins, and are to be sold at their Shop at the Middle-Temple Gate in Fleetstreet, 1654.   

The Preface to the Reader.  
HEre is published a Piece, not to be matched in Antiquity; a Collection, not so much of Letters, as of the mysteries of Government, the wisdom, and manage of Public businesses in the late Reigns, where the great Ministers of State are presented naked, their Consultations, Designs, Policies, the things done by them, are exposed to every man's eye, as they were brought forth by themselves. The most famous of all Modern Historians glories in the helps and advantages he had above all men else to write; He came (so he tells us) prepared and furnished from the Cabinets of Princes, 
Strada.  be had seriously perused, and sifted their Letters and Orders; the Letters of the Illustrious Persons employed by them, the private Commands, Dispatches, and Instructions of Embassies; Debates, and Resolutions of Counsels, without which all History must be lame and imperfect.  
This was the way to make the causes of actions as visible as their effects, and without which all Diligence and Faithfulness else will do little. Much of the History of the last years of King James, and beginnings of King Charles may be here read. Here the height of the mighty Favourite the Duke of Buckingham may be taken; The Arts and Subtleties of Spain, of the Conde Gondomar, and the English-Spanish Party are discovered; the Journey into Spain, breach of the Spanish, overtures for the French Match, for the renewing Leagues with the enemies of the Spanish Pride and Universality; the carriage of the Imperialists, French, Netherlanders, and other Concurrents of those Reigns, are exactly Related: with the Practices of our home- Roman Catholics, and growth of those who were here called Puritan then; the Secrets of the Court and State; without any false gloss to writhe, or straighten, to deprave or extenuate, with more truth and sincerity, than all the Annals can show; where Passion and Interest sway oftentimes too much, and the cleanest hand makes blots and stains, carried away with Love or Hatred, to the side or man. Here are no snares set to catch or inveigle any man's judgement, all things are left clearly to their own worth and Reputation.   

A TABLE OF THE LETTERS Contained In this Collection.  

EArl of Somerset to King James, Page 1.  
Lord Chancellor Bacon to the King, 31. July, 1617. p. 8  
Lord Chancellor Bacon to the King, 2. Januar. 1618. 5  
Lord Chancellor Bacon to the Lords, 5  
Lord Chancellor Bacon to the marquis of Buckingham, 25 March, 1620. 10  
Lord Chancellor Bacon to the King, the 25. of March, 1620. p. 10  
Lord Chancellor Bacon to the Duke, 122  
Magdibeg to the King, 11  
A Letter by King James to the Lord Keeper, Bishops of London, Winton, Rochester, St. david's, and Exeter, Sir Henry Hubbard, and others, 30. Octob. 1621. 12  
The Archbishop of York to King James, 13  
A Letter from Spain concerning the Prince's arrival there, 30. Septemb. 1623. Madrid. 17  
The Earl of Bristol to the Prince touching the Proxies, Madrid. 24  
The Earl of Bristol to Secretary Cottington, April the 15th. 1623. 28.  
The Earl of Bristol to the Bishop of Lincoln, August the 20. 1623. p. 20.  
The Earl of Bristol to the Bishop of Lincoln, 24. Septemb, 1623. Madrid. 22  
The Earl of Bristol to the Prince, September 24. 1623. Madrid page 26.  
The Earl of Bristol to the Duke, the 6. of December, 1623. Madrid, 28  
The Earl of Bristol to King James, the 27. of July, 1624. London. 30  
King Charles to the Earl of Bristol, Jan. 21. 1625. 17  
The Earl of Bristol to the Lord Conway the 4. of March, 1625. Sherborn. 19  
The Lord Conway to the Earl of Bristol, March 21. 1625. 19  
Sir Walter Aston to the Duke. 30  
Sir Walter Aston to the Duke, 15. Novemb. 1623. 34  
The Duke of Buckingham to Sir Walter Aston. 34  
The Duke of Buckingham to Sir Walter Aston. 36  
Sir Walter Aston to the Duke of Buckingham, December 22. 1623. 37  
A Memorial pressing for the Palatinate, etc. given to the King of Spain by Sir Walter Aston, 19 Jan. 1623. 38  
Sir Walter Aston to the Duke, 22. Jan. 1623. 40  
Sir Walter Aston to Secretary Conway, the 22. of January, 1623. 40  
Sir Walter Aston to the Lord Conway. 44  
Sir Walter Aston to the Lord Conway, 5. June, 1624. 46  
Sir Walter Aston to the Lord Conway, 17. July, 1624. 58  
Sir Walter Aston to the Duke, 20. of Octob. 1624. 52  
Sir Walter Aston to the Duke, the 10. of December, 1624. 165  
Sir Walter Aston to the Duke, 10. of Decemb. 1625. 53  
Dr. Williams to the Duke, 54  
Williams Lord Keeper to the Duke, 27. July, 1621. 55  
The Earl of Southhamptons Letter to the Bishop of Lincoln, 57  
The Lord Keeper to the Duke, 22. July, 1621. 61  
The Lord Keeper his answer to the Earl of southampton, 2. August, 1621. 58  
The Lord Keeper to the Duke concerning the same Earl of southampton, 2. Aug. 1621. 59  
The Lord Keeper to the Duke concerning the Lord of St. Alban, Octob. 27. 1621. 60  
The Lord Keeper to the Duke concerning the Earl Marshal's place, 1. September, 1621. 62  
The Lord Keeper to the Duke, 16. Decemb. 1621. 65  
The Lord Keeper to the Duke about Mr. Thomas Murrayes Dispensation, etc. 23. Febr. 1621. 66  
The Lord Keeper to the Duke about the Liberties of Westminster, the 6. May, 1621. 68  
The Lord Keeper to the Duke, Aug. 23. 1622. 69  
The Lord Keeper to the Duke about the Lord Treasurer, September 9 1622. 70  
The Lord Keeper to the Duke of Buckingham, the 14. of October, 1621. 82  
The Lord Keeper to the Duke, 8. Aug. 1623. 83  
The Lord Keeper to the Duke, the 21. of September, 1622. 93  
The Lord Keeper to the Duke, 12. Octob. 1622. 75  
The Lord Keeper to the Duke. 78  
The Lord Keeper to the Duke. 84  
The Lord Keeper to the Duke, 6. Jan. 1623. 86  
Mr. John Packer to the Lord Keeper, the 21 of January, 1623. 86  
The Lord Keeper to the Duke, 2. Febr. 1623. 88  
The Lord Keeper to the Duke, 24. May, 1624. 93  
The Lord Keeper to the Duke, 22. Aug. 1624. 95  
The Lord Keeper to the Duke, 11. Octob. 1624. 95  
The Lord Keeper to the Duke concerning the Countess of southampton, 17. Novemb. 1624.: 96  
The Lord Keeper to the Duke, 24. Decemb. 1624. 99  
The Lord Keeper to the Duke concerning Dr: Scot, the 4. of Jan. 1624. 100  
The Lord Keeper to the Duke, 2. March, 1624. 101  
The Lord Keeper to the Duke about Sir Robert Howard, 11. March, 1624. 103  
The Lord Keeper to the Duke, 13. March, 1624. 104  
The Lord Keeper to the Duke, 22. March, 1624. 106  
The Bishop of Lincoln to the Duke, the 7. of January, 1625. 107  
The Bishop of Lincoln to his Majesty, 108  
The Lord Keeper to the Viscount Annan, the 17. of September, 1622. 109  
The Bishop of St. David's to the Duke, the 18. of November, 1624. 113  
The Bishop of St. David's to the Duke. 114  
The Bishop of Chichester to the Duke. 114  
The Bishops of Rochester, Oxford, and St. David's to the Duke, concerning Mr. Montague, 2. Aug. 1625. 116  
Dr. Field Bishop of Landaffe to the Duke. 118  
Bishop of Landaffe to the Duke. 119  
Dr. Corbet to the Duke. 121  
Earls of Worcester, Arundel and Surrey, and Montgomery to the King, 121  
The Earl of Suffolk to his Majesty, 122  
The Earl of Suffolk to the Duke. 123  
The Earl of Suffolk to his Majesty. 124  
The Lady Elizabeth Howard to the King, 126  
The Lady Elizabeth Norris to the Duke. ibid.  
Sir Edward Cecyl to the Duke. 128  
Sir Edward Cecyl to the Duke. 129  
Sir Edward Cecyl to the Lord Conway Secretary, 2. of June, 1625. 130  
Sir Edward Cecyl to the Duke, 3. June, 1625. 132  
Sir Edward Cecyl to the Duke, 19 July, 1625. 134  
The Lord Wimbledon to the Duke, 28. April, 1626. 135  
The Lord Wimbledon to the Duke. 137  
Sir John Ogle to the Duke, 3. June, 1625. 138  
Sir Robert Mansel to the Duke, 9 June, 1621. 140  
Sir Robert Mansel to the Duke, 10. July, 1621. 143  
Sir John Pennington to the Duke, 27. July, 1625. 144  
Captain Pennington to the Duke, 150  
Mr. Trumbal to the Secretary, 31. March, 1619. 151  
Mr. Trumbal to the Secretary, 23. Octob. 1619. 156  
Sir Thomas Roe to the marquis of Buckingham Lord Admiral, 17. Decemb. 1621. 158  
L. R. H. to the Duke of Buckingham: 159  
Sir George Carie to the marquis of Buckingham, the 8. of Decem. 1619. 162  
To King James, ab ignoto. 163  
Archbishop Abbot to Secretary Nanton, 12. of September, 1619. 169  
The Lord Brook to the Duke, 11. Novemb. 1623. 170  
Dr. Belcanquel to Secretary Nanton, 26. March. 173  
Sir William Beecher to his Majesty, 4. Febr. 176  
To King James ab ignoto. 178  
Sir Isaac Wake to the Secretary, the 27. of September, 1619. 180  
Sir Isaac Wake to the Secretary, the 5th. of October, 1619. 184  
Sir Isaac Wake to the Duke, 13. Febr. 1621. 188  
Sir Isaac Wake's Proposition for the King of Denmark. 190  
Sir Henry Wotton to the Duke, 25. Jan. 1619. 192  
Sir Henry Wotton to the Duke, 29. July, 1622. 193  
Sir Henry Wotton to the Duke, the 2d. of December, 1622. 194  
Sir Henry Wotton to the Duke. 196  
Sir Henry Wotton to the Duke. 197  
Sir Richard Weston to the Duke, 26. June, 1622. 200  
Sir Richard Weston to the Duke. Brussels 3. of September, 1622. 201  
Sir Richard Weston to the Duke. 17. July, 1623. 202  
Sir Richard Weston to the Duke, 20 May, 1624. 203  
Sir Richard Weston to the Duke. Chelsey, the 23 of July, 1624. 204  
Sir Richard Weston to the Duke. Chelsey, 12. of August. 1624. 206  
Sir Francis Cottington to the Duke. Madrid, 1. October, 1616. 206  
Viscount Rochfort to the Duke of Buckingham. 209  
King James to Pope Gregory the 15. the 10. of September, 1622. 211  
Pope Gregory the 15. to the Prince of Wales. Rome, 20. of April, 1623. 212  
The Prince of Wales his Reply to the Pope's Letter. 214  
The Pope to the Duke of Buckingham. Rome, the 19 of May, 1623. 216  
To King James ab ignoto. 217  
To King James ab ignoto. 222  
Mr. Ch. Th. to the Duke. 228  
To Count Gondomar. 233  
Conde de Gondomar to the Duke. 13. Febr. 1625. 237  
Padre Maestre at Rome to the Spanish Ambassador in England. 12. June, 1621. 238  
Don Carlos to the Lord Conway. 3. Septem. 239  
marquis Ynoiosa to the Lord Conway, 5. of September, 1623. 242  
Collections of Passages and Discourses betwixt the Spanish Ambassadors and Sir Arthur Chichester, 18 Jan. 1623. 244  
Sir Arthur Chichester to the Duke, 25. Jan. 1623. 243  
Passages betwixt the Lord Nithisdale and the Spanish Ambassadors, 22. May, 1624. 247  
The Lord Nithisdale to the Duke. 22 June, 1624. 249  
Sir Toby Matthew to the King of Spain. 251  
Sir Toby Matthew to the Duchess of Buckingham. From Bulloign, 9 June, 1625. 253  
Dr. Sharp to King James. 255  
Dr. Sharp to the Duke of Buckingham. 257  
The Lord Cromwell to the Duke, 8. Sept. 1625. 262  
Sir Robert Philip's to the Duke of Buckingham, 21. of Aug. 1624. 264  
The Earl of Middlesex to the Duke. 266  
The Earl of Middlesex to his Majesty, the 26. April, 1624. 267  
The Earl of Carlisle to his Majesty, 14. Febr. 1623. 269  
The Lord Kensington to the Duke. 273  
The Lord Kensington to the Prince, the 26. of February, 1624. 276  
The Lord Kensington to the Duke. 274  
The Lord Kensington to the Prince, 26 Febr. 1624. 276  
The Lord Kensington to the Duke. 278  
The Lord Kensington to the Prince. 280  
The Lord Kensington to the Duke, 4. March, 1924. 282  
The Lord Kensington to the Secretary Lord Conway, 284  
The Lord Kensington to the Duke. 288  
The Lord Kensington to the Duke. 291  
The Lord Kensington Earl of Holland to the Duke. 292  
The Earl of Holland to his Majesty. Paris, 13 March, 1625. 294  
The Earl of Holland to the Duke. 296  
Mr. Lorkin to the Duke, 30. August, 1625. 299  
Mr. Lorkin to the Duke, 17 Sept. 1625. 301  
The Lord Herbert to his Majesty. From Merton Castle, 13 Octob. 1623. 304  
Mr. Edward Clerk to the Duke. Madrid, 6. Sept. 1623. 306  
Mr. Edward Clerk to the Duke. Madrid, the 1. of October. 1623. 307  
Sir Anthony Ashley to the Duke, 12 May. 1621. 307  
Sir Walter Raleigh to the Duke, 12. Aug. 308  
Sir Henry Yeluerton to the Duke, the 15. of March, 1623. 310  
Sir John Eliot to the Duke, 8. Novemb. 1623. 311  
The Earl of Oxford to the Duke. 311  
The Lady Purbeck to the Duke. 313  
Dr. Donne to the marquis of Buckingham, 13. September, 1621. 314  
Dr. Donne to the Duke. 315  
Sir John Hipsley to the Duke. London, the 1. of September, 1623. 316  
Sir Dudley Carleton to the marquis of Buckingham. Hague, 24. Febr. 1616. 317  
Sir Dudley Carleton to the Duke of Buckingham. Hague, 10. June, 1620. 322  
Sir Dudley Carleton to the Duke. Hague, 31. of January, 1622. 325  
Sir Dudley Carleton to the Duke. Hague 23. of August, 1622. 327  
Sir Dudley Carleton to the Duke. Hague, 9 of December, 1623. 334  
Sir Dudley Carleton to the Duke. Hague, 13. Decemb. 1623. 334  
Sir Dudley Carleton to the Duke. Hague, 18 of December, 1623. 337  
Sir Dudley Carleton to the Duke. Hague, 24. of January, 1625. 340  
Sir Dudley Carleton to the Duke. Hague, 16 of February, 1625. 342  
Sir Dudley Carleton to the Duke. Hague, 16. of April, 1624. 343  
Sir Dudley Carleton to the Duke. Hague, the 20. of June, 1625. 345  
Sir Dudley Carleton to the Duke. Hague 20. of August, 1625. 346   
Read the Letters according to the Order of this Table.   

The Table of things most remarkable.  

A.  
ADmiral of England his Office, p. 102 

of Castille takes place of the Imperial Ambassador, 165    
Aerseus, 342  
Algiers Voyage, 143, 144  
Allegiance Puritans will not swear it, 121  
Alps when passable, 186  
Anchre Marshal of France. 320  
Archbishop of Canterbury shoots a Keeper by mischance, 12. see tit. James King, etc. for the Palsgraves' accepting the Bohemian Crown, 169, 170  
Archbishop of York against Toleration of Popery, blames the Voyage into Spain, 13  
Argile Earl, 291  
Arminians chief in the Dutch State, 322  
Arundel Earl Marshal, no friend to the Bishop of Lincoln, 62, 63, 74, 302, 307, 316.  
Ashley Sir Anthony, gives the Duke of Buckingham intelligence of Plots against him, 308  
Aston Sir Walter will not consent that the Prince Palsgrave should be brought up in the Emperor's Court, 17 see Bristol Earl. Concurs with the Earl of Bristol in prefixing a day for the Deposorio's, without making certain the restitution of the Palatinate, which is beynously taken by the Prince, 35. in danger for it to be called off, there, 36, 37. His Care to discover Plots against his Master's Crowns, 49, 51, 53. of the Merchants, 168. see Merchants. Prosecutes the marquis of Ynoiosa, in defence of the honour of England, 52. sues to return home, 52, 54. will not see the Archduke in Spain, and why, 166  
Austrian Usurpation, 191. See tit. Spain.   

B.  
BAcon Viscount St. Alban Lord Chancellor declines all Justification of himself, 5, 6. 

Casts himself upon the Lords, 6  
Discontents the marquis of Buckingham, 8.  
his ways to make the Kingdom happy, 9  
advices King James concerning his revenues, devises a book of his estate, there-how he carried himself when a Counsellor, and otherwise, how esteemed, 10. Never took bribe to pervert Justice, 11. his pardon, 60, 82    
Barnevelt, 318. factious, no friend to the English, an Arminian, 331  
Bavaria Duke offers to depend wholly on Spain, 167. see Palatinate.  
Beaumont Lord fined in the Star-Chamber, 16. E. 2. 58  
Bergen besieged, 328  
Bergstrate given the Archbishop of Mentz, 335  
Blanvile the French Ambassador an enemy to the Duke of Buckingham, holds intelligence with the Duke's English enemies, 295. his Character by the French. 300. See 274, 296, 297, 302.  
Blundel Sir George, 129  
Book of Common Prayer translated into Spanish, and why, 73. See Spaniards.  
Borgia, Cardinal, 178  
Bovillon Duke, 165. seeks the protection from the States united, 320. weary of the Palsgrave, 327  
Brandenburg Elector, 317, 336  
Bret, a Peusioner in disgrace, 204  
Bristol Earl first mover in the Spanish Match, negotiates in it, 16. Earnest to conclude it, 24, 25, 26, 306 

●hidden by the King Charles for giving the Spaniards hopes of his inclination to a change in Religion, for his manage of things concerning the Match, and undervaluing the Kingdom of England, 16, 17. Consents that the Prince Palsgrave shall be bred in the Emperor's Court which the King Charles takes ill, 17.  
Proffered by the King the favour of the general pardon, or to put himself upon his trial, 18. Under restraint for his errors in Spain, 19 removed from his offices, forbidden the Court, denied his Parliament Writ, there. Justifies himself, 19, 20. to King James, 30. Differs in opinion from the Duke of Buckingham concerning the Match, 21. Seeks the Duke of Buckingham his favour, 28. charged to be his enemy, his wisdom and power at Court 161, 162. Conde of Olivarez offers him a blank paper, signed by the King, bids him choose what was in his Master's power— he refuses, 42    
Brule Peter his practices, 302  
Buckingham Duke his carriage and esteem in Spain, 16, 22. See Olivarez. 

contemns the Earl of Bristol, 21. See Bristol.  
an enemy to him, 231  
The Spaniards will not put the Infanta into his hands, 22  
thought an enemy to the Match with Spain, 32, 92, 159, 218, 219, 222, 237, 243, 248, Censured, 159, 160, 218, 219, 221, 222, 263, 210.  
Forgives wrongs, 58  
Steward of Westminster, 69  
Haughty to the Prince of Wales. 78  
Used to sit when the Prince stood, etc. 221  
falls from his affection to William's Lord Keeper. 87. See Don Francisco.  
his power, 91  
King James his words of him on Don Francisco's relation 92  
Mediates for the Earl of Suffolk, 125  
No audience of Ambassadors without him 216. taxed to King James freely, 218, 219, 220, 221, 223. defended, 224, 225, 226, 227.  
a faithful servant, 229  
Charge against him in Parliament, 228, 229, 230  
Procures graces for the Nobility and Gentry, 231    
Breaks the Spanish Designs and Party, 265 

for the Match with France, 291  
A Confederacy by Oath against him, 307, 308  
The Queen of England had need of his friendship, 303  
Dares submit the judgement of his Actions to any trial, 87    
Buckingham Countess, 254, 302  
Buckleugh Lord, 327, 329  
Button Sir Thomas in the Voyage of Algiers, 143, 144.   

C.  
CAlcedon, a titulary Roman Bishop in England, 81  
Calvert Sir George, 202. See 304.  
Carlisle Earl Viscount Doncaster loves not the Bishop of Lincoln, 74, 89. See 180, 182. persuades King James to feed his Parliament (so he) with some crumbs of the Crown, 270. refuses, See 288. Count Mansfelts Commission for Colonel to his son, 273  
Carlos, Archduke in Spain, 165  
Calderon Don Rodrigo Marquesse de las Siete Iglesias his Riches, confined, 208  
Carleton Sir Dudley Ambassador, in the Low-Countries, 317. writes to reconcile Sir Horatio Vere, and Sir Edward Cecyl, 323. his prudence to reunite England and the States, 331, 332  
Carone Sir Noel, Ambassador in England from the Low-Dutch, 321-325  
Cavendish, 97  
Cecyl Sir Edward, General, 128, 345. sues for Command, will save the King in Expenses, 128. a loser by his service, 129. see 345. See Vere Sir Horatio. Viscount Wimbledon commands in chief at Sea, neglected, maliciously accused, examined, 135, 137, 138  
Charles Prince of Wales, King of England after, how entertained and honoured in Spain, 14, 15, 16. 

Not to be shaken in Religion, contrary to Conde Gondomar's Information to his Master, 15. got the love of all men in Spain, 16, 22, 159  
Will not proceed in the Match without restitution of the Palatinate and Electoral dignity. 17, 35, 36  
Displeased with the Earl of Bristol for raising an opinion among the Spaniards; of his willingness to become Roman Catholic, and his offers of seducing that way, 17  
will not be bargained with for future favours, 18. will not be drawn to things but freely, 18  
His affability, patience, constancy, 22  
his civil and wise Reply to the Pope's Letter, 215  
No lover of women. 237  
Defends the Duke of Buckingham's actions, as done out of politic Compliance for the Palatinate cause, 228, 229, 230  
will favour as he pleases, will grant the Lords and Commons all things fair and honest, 230  
Ill used by delays in Spain, his Voyage thither censured, 288, 289, 304    
Chevereux Duke, a servant of the Prince of Wales, 277, 278, 230. See 300, 301.  
Chichester Sir Arthur disinherited by the Duke, 243 

his conserence with the Ambassadors of Spain, 244, 245    
Chidley a Sea Captain, 141  
Churchman an homicide, 12, 55, 56  
Church of England Reform, 116  
Church differences, Judges of them, 117  
Clerk Edward, 306, 307  
Cleves and Juliers the succession of them pretended to, 317  
Coborn, a Captain of the Duke of Brunswick, 283  
Contracts ever before Marriage, where, 106, 107  
Coke Sir Edward, 104, 122  
Conde imprisoned, 176  
Conference betwixt Don Francisco and the Lord Keeper, 86, 87. betwixt Sir Arthur Chichester and the Spanish Ambassadors, 244. the Earl of Nithisdail and them, 247  
Confession of Don Pedro concerning the Armada of 88 259  
Conway Lord, Secretary, advises the Earl of Bristol, 19 

estranged from the Lord Keeper Lincoln, 89  
a Martial Secretary, 198  
enough the Duke's servant. 316    
Cordova Don Gonzales, 328, 329  
Corona Regia. See Libel.  
Cottington Sir Francis. 23, 81  
Council Table of King James somewhat too much pressing upon the King, 75  
Courtenvant marquis, 286  
Cox King Edward the sixth his Schoolmaster, Master if Requests, and Privy Counsellor, enters Orders. 68  
Cromwell Lord, Counsels the Duke, 263.   

D.  
DEnbigh Countess, 302  
Denmark King his offers, 190, 191.  
Dispensation with a Lay man to hold care of souls cannot be, 66, 67  
Dominican Friar turns to the English Church, 79  
Don Francisco's Discourse to the Lord Keeper, 86, 87, 90, 91, 92, 93. 

His cunning to speak with King James, 90. Accuses the Duke of Buckingham, 90, 91    
Donato a Venetian Ambassador, gives the lie to the Duke of Savoy, an enemy to Paul the Father of Venice. 187 

banished once at Venice, twice in England. 192    
Don Doctor, 314. Presents the Duke with a book of devotions, ibid.   

E.  
ELiot Sir John imprisoned, 311  
Elvis Sir Gervas' his posterity restored in blood and estate, 3 

Most guilty of the death of Sir Thomas Overbury, 3    
Emperor Ferdinand the third deals unworthily with King James, 166. and against his own Letter, 234 

changes the Germane Customs, 171  
his proceeding against the Palsgrave protested against, 336    
Elizabeth Queen of England her Speech to her Army at Tilbuty, 260 

Restrains the Papists, and why, 258  
protects the Low-Countries, and upon what terms, 333, 338    
England alone happy in its Religion, 112 

inclined to popularity. 228, 229  
not what it hath been, 261    
Episcopacy gone what will follow, 117  
Essex Earl commanded to fight the Spanish Ships, let's them escape, 135   

F.  
FEria Duke, 168  
Fiat marquis, 293, 302, 288  
Finch Lady created Viscountesse of Maidstone, 79  
Fleet of Spain, 43, 53 

Plate-Fleet, 48, 49. part cast away, 208  
of Portugal, 53. for Brasil, 167  
Of the Spaniards, Venetians, and Turks, 186, 207. of the Low-Countries for the West-Indies. 341, 346    
Frenchman burnt in Spain for contempt to the host, 51  
Frenchmen use the English basely, 149 

their Contract for the English Ships, 150    
French King falls upon those of the Religion, 164, 177  
France governed by the Queen Mother at the proposals of the Match with Madem, which she is earnest for, but will do nothing till the Treaty with Spain be broke, 274, to 277. 

The French not much solicitous for the English Recusants, 275, 284, 285  
Richness of their habits at a Masque in honour of the English, 278, 279  
fear the Spanish greatness, 281  
desirous of the English alliance, 282, 283, 287  
articles of the Match disliked by the English, 289  
endeavour to break the Spanish Treaty, 305  
Give precedency to the English, 254     

G.  
GAbor Bethlem, 335  
Gage employed about the Dispensation, 233, 238  
Gear Sir Michael. 135  
Gerard Sir Thomas seized, upon suspicion of designs against the King, 272  
Gifford, a Sea Captain, his design upon a Gallion in the Gulf of Mexico, 343  
Gondomar, his false relations of the Prince of Wales, 15 

Commanded again for England, 54    
Goodness ever most easily betrayed, 270  
Goring Sir George, 96, 200, 330, 316 339  
Grandees of Spain severally present their King with sums of moneys to relieve his wants, 168  
Grandmont French Mounsieur, 285  
Gregory the 15. tempts the Prince of Wales to change Religion, 212, 213 

tries to make the Duke of Buckingham, 216    
Greiham, 316  
Gresley, ibid.  
Gelderland States have the leading voice in the united Netherlands, 323  
Goring Sir George, 200  
Guicciardines Judgement of Venice, 8   

H.  
HAlberstat Christian Duke of Brunswick, 240  
Hamilton marquis, 316  
Hartford Earl's Petition, 89  
Harton Sir Christopher, 226  
Haughton Sir Gilbert complains of the Lord Keeper Williams his servants, 74  
Henderson Colonel slain at Bergen, 328  
Henderson Sir Francis, 329  
Henrietta Maria of France, after Queen of England, 253. beautiful, discreet, and full of respect to the Prince of Wales, 270, 277. See 278, 290 

sends privately for his picture, 280    
Herbert Lord, of no faction, his Informations to King James from France, 304, 305  
Holland Earl Lord Kensington in France, when the Treaty for the Match there was beginning for it, 274, 275, 276, 277, 278, 279. received by the French King, 278. speaks to him concerning the Match, 282. with the Queen Mother, 289. with Madam, 290. allowed at all times free entrance into the Lowre, 294  
Howard Sir Robert, 103, 104.   

I.  
JAniville Prince for the Queen Mother, 176. forwards the alliance with France, 279  
James King of England famous for wisdom, mercy, etc. 7 

Appoints Commissionere to inquire of the Archbishop of Canterbury's Case, 12.  
See Archbishop of Canterbury.  
his promises to William's Lord Keeper, 56.  
Never breaks his word, 77  
Protector of the Protestants, 110, 111  
sought to, to be declared Head and Protector of that faith; as the Spaniard would be taken to be of the Roman, 305  
Protector of the Venetians owned so by them; conservation of the public tranquillity relies upon him, 179, 180  
Aids the Savoyard— joins in the cause of Cleve, 170  
Promises not to draw his severity to Donato the Venetian Ambassador into example, 192  
sought to by the Spaniards to join against the Pirates, 207  
writes to the Pope, 211  
aims at the universal peace of Christendom, 270  
what a friend to the Low-Countries, slighted and ingratefully dealt with by them, 331  
The German Princes rely upon him, 336    
Infanta of Spain, 15.16, 21, 22. 

her virtues and beauty, she loved the Prince of Wales, 26  
her portion, 27    
Ingram, 226  
Inquisitor General presents a consulta to the Spanish King to procure a Jubilee, 51. 

See Jubilee.  
is the first who offere toward the King's necessities. 168    
Joachim of Zealand, 342  
Irish raise aspersions in Spain of persecutions in England, 15 

practices of their Priests there. 49    
Isabel Clara Eugenia her Compliment to the Bavarian, 240. See 167, 335  
Jubilee from Rome to expiate for the Contempt done to the Host, 51  
Junto of Divines to consider of the Spanish King's Oath, by which he would undertake for the King of England's performance of Articles, 15  
Jurisdiction Episcopal used in England without the King's consent, against Common Law, 81   

K.  
KEeper of the Seal where questionable, 76  
Killigrew, 316  
Kings Gods shadows, 12 

yielding to demands, must deny nothing, 227     

L.  
LAken Nicholas his discoveries concerning Corona Regia, 151, 152  
Lamb Dr. of Law favoured by the Bishop of Lincoln, 56, 62  
Langrack Dutch Ambassador at Paris, his advertisements of affairs, 318, 319  
Landaffe Bishop sues for preferment, troubled, 119, 120  
Laud Bishop of St. David's sues to be a Commissioner, and why, 113  
Lawyers mischievous in Parliaments, 226  
Le grand professes service to the Prince of Wales, 277  
Laicester the Favourite, 226. 

refuses to be Admiral for the Lord Steward's place, 102. no man in Parliaments durst touch him, 226    
Letters of Mart against the Spaniard, 344  
Libel against King James by the Papists, called Corona Regin, 151, 152  
Liberty of a free Subject, 19 

a pretence, 229  
Of Kings invaded by the Spaniard, 191  
Of Westminster impeached by the Lord Steward and Earl Marshal 68, 69  
where Liherties are to be impleaded, 69    
Liege, King of Spain raises a Fort there, 279 

Offered protection by the French King, 283    
Lieutenants of Counties chosen, 76  
Londoners deceive the King in his Customs, undo all other Towns, transport silver, enemies to the Duke, 226  
Low-Countries, offers of those States to Sir Edward Cecyl, 130 

their proceed in affairs, 317, to 320  
how much bound to England, 339  
Jealous of the English, their courses for Religion, 321. carry themselves strangely to the English. 331  
apt to fall into faction, 324  
desire the King of England's protection, 337  
why they haste not to conclude. 339  
Send Ambassadors into England to treat. 342    
Lude, Count, 285  
Luines, the great French Favourite, 176, 177.   

M.  
MAconel Sir James, a fugitive Scot, seeks to be entertained in Spain, 209  
Magnus of Zealand, 317  
Malcontents of King James and King Charles their Reigns, 225  
Mansel Sir Robert before Argier Commands against the Turks, 140, 141, 142.  
Mansfelt Earl hates the house of Austria, entertained by the Venetians, how obedient to the Palsgrave, 189. In the Low Countries, 328, 329  
Maqued a Duke a Pirate, 166  
Marriages of Princes of different Faiths, in what manner, 106  
Marshal of England his office, power, etc. once hereditary— Marshal of the King's house, 63, 64  
Masques in France, 278, 279  
Master of the Horse to the King, 102  
Mathewes Sir Toby. 251, 252, 253.  
Match with the Infanta of Spain, the proceed, 15. See Infanta.  
Many things yielded to for it, 236 

The Portion and all the temporal Articles were settled, 23, 25  
Difficulties in it from Rome and Spain, 233, 234, 236, 238, 239.  
The Prexie, 106, 107  
Betwixt the Priree of Wales and Madam of France, 275-279. Concluded, 292, 53  
agitated betwixt the Emperor's Son and the Infanta Donna Maria, 167  
Isabel Clara Engenia moves for the Prince of Poland, 167  
Betwixt the Emperor's Daughter, and Palsgraves' Son, 170, 171    
Maurice of Nassaw Prince of Orange, a blunt Prince, 324, 331 

against the novelists, 321, 322  
would reconcile Sir Horatio Vere, and Sir Edward Cecyl, 323  
he and the Prince Conde differ, ibid.  
gives away Colonel Hyndersons Regiment contrary to an act of the States, 329  
desires the protection and friendship of King James, 331, 332, 337, 338    
Melon seeds sent out of Italy to King James by Sir Henry Wotton, 195  
Merchants of England denied the free entrance of their Commodities in Spain, 46, 47. the order of prohibition stayed, 52, 168 

ill used there, 48    
Michael Sir John, sues injustly in Chancery, 83, 84  
Middlesex Earl sues to the King for grace, 203 

fined, 204  
will not consent to any diminution of the Crown revenues, 266  
begs time for his defence, 268    
Modena Duchess, 188  
Mole, an Englishman in the Inquisition, concerning King James his Book for Allegiance, 194  
Montague after Bishop of Chichester imprisoned by the House of Commons, who (so he) had nothing to do with him, 115 

Requires the Papists to prove certain questions, 115, 116  
Three Bishops defend him, 116, 117, 118.  
and his Pook Appello Caesarem, so much desliked by the Puritans, 116. 118    
Montgomery Earl taxed, 27. See 302.  
Murray Schoolmaster to the Prince of Wales, a Puritan, preferred to be Provost of Eton, 66, 67, 68   

N.  
NEcessity only drives men to Sea, 102  
Newburgh Duke in Spain, 165, 166 

shares in the Palatinate, 335    
Nithisdail Earl his Conference with the Spanish Ambassadors, 247  
Nove Mounsieur, 319   

O.  
OFfice of the Originals, 70  
Ogle Sir John gives Extracts of the Duke and Ambassadors Letters, 137. See 322.  
Olivarez Conde the Favourite of Spain, his and the Duke of Bucking hams farewell, 16 

his protestation to the Earl of Bristol, 40  
saves the marquis of Ynoiosa from the prosecution of Sir Walter Aston, 52  
his Rodomontade, 289  
The Contessa of Olivarez prays for the Duke of Buckingham, 33    
Opinions of some in the Church dangerous, 117  
Ornano Colonel Monsteur of Orleans his Governor, 286  
Ossuna Duke, Vice Roy of Naples, counterfeits madness to cover his disloyalty, 182 

Threatens the Venetians because they would not be rob by him, 183  
Confirmed in his Government, avoids the Spanish trap, 184    
Oxford Earl, 22, imprisoned, 209 

secks to the Duke of Buckingam, but gallantly, 312     

P.  
PAlatinate of the Rhine cause of breach in the Spanish Match, 17, 35, 38, 234, 235, 307. mangled by the Emperor by jousts, 335 

difficulties in the restitution of it, 171, 172, 346  
Ever beaten upon, 245. 248  
the upper settled on the Bavarian, 335    
Pardon of the Lord of St. Alban, 60  
Parma Duke, 186. imprisons his bastard son, 188  
Parliament of England— House of Commons not where before Henry the 1. thwart the King, their privileges graces of Kings, 65 

grown in the late Reigns tumultuous and licentious, 224  
private grudges made public business, 230  
what men dangerous in Parliaments, 215  
See 226.  
Of Spain grant their King 60. Millions of Ducats which the Cities will not ratify, 45  
Palsgrave a desperate enemy to the Emperor, 172. promised restitution conditionally, 241. content to submit, 337    
Passages betwixt the Keeper Lincoln, and Don Francisco a Spaniard, concerning Peace or war betwixt England and Spain, upon breach of the Match, 77  
Paul the Father of Venice, 187  
Peckius, 333  
Peers Judges in Parliament, 6  
Pennington Sir John, 141. will not deliver up the King's Ship for the French service, 147, 148 

his advice concerning the Contract of the French for the use of some English Vessels, 150    
Persian Ambassador his suit to King James, 12  
Philibert of Savoy Viceroy of Sicily, his good affection to King James, 158 

at Messina, 182  
dares not fight the Turkish Fleet which he finds too strong for him, 186    
Philipa Sir Robert. 264 

mediates with the Duke for the Earl of Bristol, 265    
Pirates of Algiers, 142 

Of the Levant seek for pardon, 156  
formidable, ●58  
infest the Coasts of Spain, 206, 207    
Popes their arts, 172  
Porcheres, 301, 303  
Portland Earl. See Weston Sir Richard. Presents given on both sides in Spain, 16  
Prisoners in the Fleet, and the damned in Hell compared by the Keeper Lincoln, 65  
Privileges of Parliament, 65 

made a colour, 227    
Procession upon the Jubilee in Spain by the King, Queen, etc. 51  
Proclamation concerning the signature of Bills, 82  
Protestants of all parts beholding to King James, 110, 111  
Provost of Eton, hath cure of souls, must be in Orders, 66, 67  
Purbeck Lady (so she) much affects her husband, 313 

Complains highly of the Duke and his Family, 313, 314.    
Puritans, see Allegiance, haters of the Gavernment, begun in Parliaments, fall upon the Counsellors of State, willing to clip the King. 225  
Putean had a hand in Corona Regia the Libel. 152   

Q.  
Queen of Bohemia her virtues, 329, 337  
Queen Mother of France. 176. for the Match with England, 390, 296 

young Queen shows great respect to the English Prince, and is earnest for the Match with Madam, 277  
not Spanish, though a sister of Spain, 278     

R.  
RAwleigh Sir Walter, insolent, 226 

his Western Voyage, had described those Countries, makes the Duke of Buckingham his Intercessor, 308, 309    
Records of the Order of the Garter, 221  
Reformation of Justice, rules for it, 617.  
Refuges Monsieur, 319  
Religious life, entering into it after betrothing, 24  
Richlieu Cardinal, when first of the Cabinet Council, 287  
Richmond Duke Lord Steward, 100, 101. See 336.  
Richmond Duchess gives 1600 l. the year for a house to sleep in, 106  
Rochel so straight blocked up in November, 1625. no intelligence could be had from thence, 272  
Rochfort Viscount his generosity, 209 

sues for the Earl of Oxford's Liberty, 210. See 310.    
Rochfoulcaut Cardinal. 282  
Ro: Sir Thomas frees 13. English from the Spanish Galleys, by the favour of Philibert of Savoy, 159  
Roman Catholics favoured in England, because of the Spanish Match, and to comply with the Articles, 80, 81 

Bishop of Lincoln his advice concerning it, ibid.  
titular Bishop of Chalcedon in England, see tit. Williams.  
Complain of persecution in England, 95 238  
to the Spanish Ambassador, turbulent, 105  
King James his Clemency to them disliked, what that was, 110, 111, 112. and why. 233, 236, 242  
Jesuits stir up the French King against the Calvinists, because King James executes his Laws against the Papists, 111. their practices in Parliament against the King, 225, 229  
Imprisoned in the time of the Queen; and why, 258  
Contrive tumults, disarmed by the King, their insolency, 271, 272     

S.  
ST. George Madam, 296, 302  
Saine-Leger Sir William, 334, 335  
Sandys Sir Edwin, 76  
Santa Croce marquis, 178  
Sarmientoes Don, 318  
Savil Sir Henry, Provost of Eton, 69  
Savoyard Ambassador, 275, 299, 30●, 301, 303.  
Savoy Duke, 168 

a friend to the Palsgrave, disinherited by the Spaniards, 185  
defeats them, 208    
Say Viscount a Malcontent, 225, 307  
Saxonia Duke, a friend to King James, and the Palatine Family, 167  
Scot Doctor described by the Pishop of Lincoln, 99, 100, 101  
Scotch Masters confiscated in Spain, and sentenced to the Galleys, 50  
Scultetua at the Synod of Dort, 173  
Serclaus a Dutch Gentlewoman, tretting on both sides betwixt the Dutch and Spanish, 332  
Shipwreck of the Plate Fleet, 48, 49  
Ships attempted to be fired, 135  
Sib●andus a furious Calvinist at the Synod of Dort, 174  
Soissons Count, a Prince of the Blood of France, would marry Madont of France, 282 

his incivility to the Earl of Holland, 289  
altered, 286    
Somerset Earl sues to the King for his life and estate, rise upon his Father's Merits, 1, 2, 3 4  
South hampton Earl confined to his own house, 57 

hardly dealt with, but without the King's Order, 61. See 316.    
Spanish King gives precedency to the Prince of Wales, 14 

Much sought to by the English Papists, 252  
aims at the universal Monarchy, 274, 281    
Spaniards committed many errors in the Match 23 

forward to give any security to the accomplishing it, 24, 25  
Cautelous in their proceeding, 243, 247  
arm, the Grandces summoned, and the Battalon, 51. for the Sea, 166    
Sleight and wrong the English, 54  
●eise the Venetian Vessels in the Ports of Naples, arm in all their Dominions, 178, 179, 182 

their subleties, they rob the Venetians, 183. their plots upon the States united, 333. Complain they cannot obtain free audience, 246    
Spanish Rodomontades, 289, 248 

intended with their Armada to have rooted out the English Nation, 259  
by the Match to have form a party here, 305. See 338, 339.  
Get more by their policies then Swords, 261. no peace can be with them— there. would make peace with the Dutch, 327  
will not believe the English had either Faith, Church or Liturgy, 79. See Book of Common-Prayer.  
burn the Princess Palatines Jointure in sight of the English Ambassador, 329    
Spinola, 328, 333  
Star-Chamber an ancient Court, 58 

●eld Pleas of restitution of Ships and goods, 75    
State, when the word came first over hither, 226  
Steward of the house, 63 

Office of Lord Steward, what, 101, 102    
Success things not to be judged by it, 304  
Suffolk Earl his Staff of Treasurer taken away, 126 

sentenced in the Star-Chamber, 122  
will not persuade his sons to leave the Court, delivered from the Tower, 123, 124, 125    
Synod of England, 117 

of Dort, passages of it, 173, 174, 175  
of no authority with us, 117     

T.  
TIlley Count besleges Heidelbergh, 234, 329  
Tilliers Count, 305  
Toirax, 286, 287  
Treasurer of England accuses the Lord Keeper of Lincoln, 72, 73  
Treasure ill managed, 122  
Tresham of the Powder Treason preserved his estate, 3  
Trugot Mademoiselle, 301  
Trumbal an Agent at Brussels for King James, his care to find out the Author of Corona Regia, 152, 153  
Turkish kindness to the Venetians, 186  
Tyrconnel Page to the Queen of Spain, 49   

V.  
VAlette marquis, 285  
Vandenbergh grave Henric, 328  
Vaux Lord committed to the Fleet for resisting the King's Commands, 271  
Venetians in danger of the Spaniard, seek to King James, 178, 179 

sue to him to forbid exportation of Artillery, etc. 180  
refuse Turkish aids against Christians, 186. incivil to the Duke of Savoy, 187    
Veiville marquis, 274, 284, 286, 287, 289.  
Vere Sir Horatio slighted unreasonably by Sir Edward Cecyl, as inferior in birth and worth, 134, 323  
Viceroy of Portugal, 45  
Ville-●ux Cleres, 293, 300  
Vorstius questioned for blasphemous propositions, 175  
Uproars in Naples, Milan, etc. 188   

W.  
Wake Sir Isaac Employed in Savoy, his prudence, 180, 181, 186. 

governs himself according to his instructions, 184  
not supplied with moneys, 189    
War the most prosperous hath misfortune enough in it to make the author unhappy, 33 

knowledge of it the highest of humane things, 133  
preparation of things shows experiencewhat war is lawful, 258    
Weston Sir Richard Earl of Portland, 198, 199. a fit Minister, 234 

treats for the Palatinate at Brussels, cannot prevail, 201, 234.  
accused to the Duke, 202  
Intercedes for the Earl of Middlesex, 203    
Wilford Sir Thomas sinks a Turkish man of war, 141  
Williams Dean of Westminster, Lord Keeper, and Bishop of Lincoln, after sues for the Bishopric of London, 54 

his Ecclesiastical promotions, 55  
advanced by the Duke of Buckingham, 62, 70.  
his opinion of the Archbishop of Canterbury's mischance, where his ambition is visible, 56    
Will serve the Earl of Southampton while he makes good his professions to the Duke, 58 

loves the Earl of Bristol at this rate, 23  
sits in the Common Pleas. 61    
Will not seal the Lord St. Alban pardon, and why, 61, 62, 81. 

nor Sir Richard weston's Patent, 93  
nor an order for a Papist Priests liberty, 62. nor the Earl of Arundels' Patent for the Earl Marshal's place, 68  
An enemy to the Lord Treasurer, 62  
To the Earl of Arundel, 62, 63, 64.    
Will not discharge a prisover for contempt of a Decree in Chancery, 65 

seems to advise King james to dissolve the Parliament of 1621. to find out other ways to supply his wants, and acquaint the Kingdom with the undutifulness and obstinacy of the Commons, 66  
accused by the Lord Treasurer, of making injust advantages of his place, vindicates himself. 71, 72, 74.  
forbidden the Court, 78    
Will not seal the King's Patent of honour, without knowledge of the Duke's good pleasure, 79 

against the Council Table, 75  
Dislikes prohibiting execution of Statutes against the Papists, 80  
His advice to hang the titulary Bishop of Chalcedon, 81    
Would have all honours and offices derived from the Duke, 83, 84 

Is his vassal, 85, 100, 101, 103  
Lives not but in the Duke's favour, 107  
Loves and hates as the Duke does, 84, 88, 94  
does equal Justice, 83    
Wants, 85  
Would not be overtopped, 94 

charged by the Duke to run Courses dangerous to his Country, and to the cause of Religion, betrays the Duke, esteemed by him a fire brand, and not worthy of trust, 87, 88  
his Reply, 89, 96.    
Writes unworthily of King James to the Duke, 94 

sues to the Duke for the Countess of Southampton, 96    
Would have the Duke to be Lord Steward, 101, 102 

Mercy with Sir Edward Coke, 104  
advices concerning the Proxies and Marriage with France, 106, 107  
In disgrace, the Seal taken away, excuses himself to King Charles, 108  
suspected as a Malcontent, and willing to imbroil, 225    
Wimbledon Viscount. See Cecyl Sir Edward, etc.  
Wotton Sir Henry, 193, 194. sends rare Pictures to the Duke, 195 

Complains that after his long service his Embassage should be given another, and himself left naked without any rewards, or provision for his subsistence, 196, 197  
too bashful, 199    
Wynwood Sir Ralph, Ambassador in the Netherlands, how contemned there. 331.   

Y.  
YElverton Sir Henry, 310  
Ynoiosa marquis, Ambassador in England, his ill Offices here, and false informations, 40, 41, 50. 

endeavours to slain the Prince of Wales his honour, 52. See Olivarez.  
for the Duke of Bavaria 's pretences, 167    
Young Patrickl 94   

Z.  
ZAnten Treaty, 318  
Zapara Cardinal Viceroy of Naples, 188  
Zutenstein of Utrecht, 317    

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Calendarium Pastorale, sive Eglogae Duodecim, totidem Anni mensibus Accomodatae, Anglicè olim scriptae, ab Edmundo Spencero, Anglorum Poetarum Principe, nunc autem Eleganti Latino Carmine donatae, à Theodoro Bathurst Aulae Pembrokianae, apud Cantabrigiensis, aliquando socio. And the same in English, against the Latin; in Octavo.  
The Combat of Love and Friendship; A Comedy, as it was formerly presented by the Gentlemen of Christ-Church in Oxford; by Robert Mead, sometime of the same College: in Quarto.  
Miscellanea spiritualia, or devout Essays, by the Honourable Walter Montague Esquire, the second Part: in Quarto.   
The End.   

Books Printed for 

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REports of certain Cases, Arising in the several Courts of Records at Westminster, in the Reigns of Queen Elizabeth, King James, and the late King Charles; with the resolutions of the Judges of the said Courts, upon debate, and solemn Arguments. Collected and lately reviewed by Justice Godbold; in Quarto.  
The Touchstone of common assurances, by William Sheppard Esquire; in Quarto.  
The whole office of a Country Justice of Peace, both in Sessions, and out of Sessions; with an Abridgement of all the Acts and Ordinances of Parliament, relating to the office of a Justice of Peace; in Octavo.  
A Collection of several Acts of Parliament, published in the years 1648, 1649, 1650, 1651. very useful, especially for Justices of Peace, and other Officers, in the execution of their duties, and Administration of Justice, with several Ordinances of the like concernment, by Henry Scobel Esquire, Clerk of the Parliament: in Folio.  
A Collection of several Acts of Parliament, which concern the Adventurers of Ireland, by Henry Scobel Esquire, Clerk of the Parliament; in folio.  
A General Table, to all the several Books of the Reports of the Lord Cook, with two Tables, one of the principal Cases, the other of the general Titles, arising out of the matter of the Reports, done into English; in Octavo.  
The new Natura Brevium, of the Reverend Judge Mr. Antho. Fitzherbert, with the Authorities of Law, Collected out of the year-Books: an Abridgement with Writs, and return of Writs, translated into English; never before Printed; in octavo.  
The Grounds and Maxims of the Laws of England, by William Noy Esquire, in Octavo.  
The Atturney's Academy; being the manner of proceed in all Books printed for William Lee, D. Pakeman, and Ga. Bedel. the Courts of Record at Westminster, and other Courts of Law, and Equity; in Quarto.  
An excellent Treatise entitled, For the Sacred Laws of the Land, by Francis White Esquire; in Octavo.  
De Priscis Auglorum Legibus, being the ancient Laws of England, in Saxon, and Latin, out of the Authors (Mr. Lambert) own Manuscript Copy, published with the Additions of Mr. Wheelock of Cambridge; in folio.  
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Reports, or new Cases of Law, by John March, in Quarto.  
Statuta pacis, containing all Statutes in order of time, that concern a Justice of Peace; in Duodecimo.  
Three Learned Readins, the first by the Lord Dyer, of Wills; second, by Sir John Brograve, of Jointures; third, by Thomas Risden, of forcible Entryes; in quarto.  
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The Book of Oaths, with the several forms of them, both Ancient and Modern; in Duodecimo.  
The Office of Sheriffs and Coroner, by J. Wilkinson of Bernard's Inn; with Kitchens return of Writs, newly translated into English; in Octavo.  
Synopsis, or an exact Abridgement of the Lord Cook's Commentary upon Littleton, being a brief Explanation of the Grounds of the Common Law, Composed by that learned Lawyer, Sir Humphrey Daveuport Knight, Lord chief Baron of the Exchequer; in Octavo.  
Miscellania Spiritualia, or devout Essay's, by the Honourable Walter Montague Esquire, the first Part; in Quarto.  
The History of the Civil wars of France, written in Italian, by Henrico Catarino D'Avila; translated into English by Sir Charles Cotterel Knight, and William Aylsbury Esquire: in folio.    


E. of Somerset to K. JAMES.  
BY this Gentleman your Majesty's Lieutenant, I understand of some halt you made, and the Cause of it, at such time as he offered to your Majesty my Letters. But soon after, your Majesty could resolve yourself and behold me nothing so diffident of you, but in humble language petitioning your favour; for I am in hope, that my condition is not capable of so much more misery, as that I need to make myself a passage to you by such way of intercession. This which follows after, I offer your Majesting though not as to yourself, for upon less motive you can find favour for me: Now I need only move, not plead, before your Majesty, as my Case doth stand, for what I seek to have done, follows upon what you have already done, as a Consequence and succeeding growth of your own act. But to the effect, that your Majesty may see that there is enough to answer those (if any such there be) as do go about to pervert the exercise of your Power, and to turn it from its own clear excellency, for to minister unto their passions: I have presumed to this end to awake your Majesties own Concelpt upon this subject, which can gather to itself better, and more able defences in my behalf upon this view; for though the acts of your mercy which are not communicable, nor the Causes of them with others, as derived from those secret motives, which are only sensible and privy to your own heart, and admit of no search or discovery to any general satisfaction, and that under this protection I might guard my particular sufficiently; yet my Case needs not hid itself, but attend the dispute with any, that would put upon it a monstrous and heavy shape. For though that I must acknowledge, that both life and estate are forfeit to you by Law, yet so forfeited, as the same Law gives you the same power to preserve, as it doth to punish, whereby your Majesties higher prerogative doth not wrestle with it, nor do you infringe those grounds by which you have ever governed; so as the resistance is not great that your Majesty hath, for to give life, and which is less, in the gift of estate, for that the Law casts wholly upon yourself, and yields it as fit matter for the exercise of your goodness. Once it was your Majesty's gift to me, so it may be better not taken then a second time given; for it is common to all men for to avoid to take that which hath been once their own. And I may say farther, that Law hath not been so severe upon the ruin of innocent posterity, nor yet Canceled, nor cut off the merits of Ancestors, before the politic hand of State had contrived it into those several forms, as fitted to their ends and government. To this I may add, that that whereupon I was judged, even the Crime itself might have been none, if your Majesty's hand had not once touched upon it, by which all access unto your favour was quite taken from me. Yet as it did at length appear, I fell, rather for want of well defending, then by the violence or force of any proofs: for I so far forsaken myself, and my Cause, as that it may be a question whether I was more Condemned for that, or for the matter itself which was the subject of that day's Controversy. Then thus far nothing hath appeared, wherein your Majesty hath extended for me your power beyond the reasonable bound, neither doth any thing stand so in the way of your future proceed, but rather make easy the access of your Majesty's favour to my relief.  
What may then be the cause, that Malice can pitch upon, wherefore your Majesty should not proceed for to accomplish your own work? Aspersions are taken away by your Majesty's letting me become subject to the utmost power of Law, with the lives of so many of the offenders, which yieldeth the world subject of sorrow rather than appetite to more blood, but truth and innocency protect themselves in poor men, much more in Kings. Neither ever was there such aspersion (God knows) in any possibility towards your Majesty, but amongst those who would create those pretences to misled your Majesty, and thereby make me miserable. If not this (whereof the virtue, and use, was in the former time and now determined) there is not any but your pleasure. It is true, I am forfeited to your Majesty, but not against you by any treasonable or unfaithful act. Besides, there is to be yielded a distinction of men as in faults; in which I am of both under the nearest degrees of exception; yet your Majesty hath pardoned life and estate to Traitors, and to strangers, sometimes the one, sometimes the other; Nay to some concerned in this business wherein I suffer, you have pardoned more unto, than I desire; who as (it is reported) if they had come to the test, had proved Copper, and should have drunk of the bitter Cup as well as others. But I do not by this envy your favours to any person, nor seek I to draw them in the yoke with myself, but applaud your Majesty's goodness, 
m. Sir W. Elvish.  being in that respect in a nearer possibility to come at me. Besides this, to Elvish your Majesty hath given estate, which is a greater gift than life, because it extends to posterity, who was the worst deserver in this business; an unoffended instrument might have prevented all after-mischief, who for his own ends suffered it, and by the like arts afterwards bewrayed it. To this I may add Tresham in the Powder Treason, 
Sir Lewis Tresham.  upon whose successors I do not cast any of his infamy, yet he preserved himself to posterity, so as what he, or others such as he, have defrauded by the arts of Law, and whom their own unfaithfulness made safe, I have much ado to hold by ingenuity, and Confidence. How may it be that because I disinherited not your Majesty, or because it returned in your power from whom I had it, it is in danger to be broken or dismembered. Let me hope that there is nothing which by favour may be excused, or by industry might have been avoided, that will fail me, where your Majesty is to determine. It is not I who thus put your Majesty in mind importunely: It is he that was your Creature, it is Somerset, with all your honours, and envious greatness, that is now in question. Kings themselves are protected from the breach of Law by being Favourites and Gods anointed, which gives your Majesty the like privilege over yours; 
Dr. Dunne.  As I took from Dr. Dunne in his Sermon, that the goodness of God is not so much acknowledged by us in being our Creator, as in being our Redeemer; nor in that he hath chosen us, as that nothing can take us out of his hands, which in your Majesty's remembrance let me challenge, and hope for: For the first accesses of favour, they may be ascribed to ones own pleasing themselves, but that appears to be for our sakes and for our good, when the same forsakes not our civil deserts. This redemption I crave, not as to my own person, but with your benefits once given; nor do I assume them very deep, for I have voluntarily departed from the hopes of persion, place, office; I only cleave to that which is so little, as that it will suffer no pairing, or diminution.  
And as in my former Letters, so by this I humbly crave of your Majesty not to let the practices of Court work upon your Son the Prince, not fearing your sufferance of my loss in that particular so much, (for I cannot lose it, but willingly all with it) as for to take off the Stage, that which in the attempt may prove inconvenient. And consider I pray your Majesty, that my hope in desiring to pass these had times, was to be restored to my fortunes; others are made unhappy by me, if otherwise, and then I lose my end. I speak of impairing, of changing, or supplying, as of any other way, all such alterations, and ruin, are alike, without I be worthy of your gift, and that I can be worthy of all, that Law can permit you to give, or cast upon your Majesty by a more nearer title, as it doth by this; I shall account them equal evils, that leave nothing, or a patched and proportioned one, changed or translated from one thing to another.  
But if your Majesty have any respects to move you to suspend your good towards me; let that which is mine rest in your own hands, till that you find all opposite humours conformed to your purpose. I have done wrong to myself, thus to entertain such a doubt of your Majesty; but the unrelenting of adversaries, which when you will have them, will sooner alter; and that all this while I have received nothing of present notice for direction, or to comfort me, from your Majesty, hath made me to expostulate with myself thus hardly. For God is my judge Sir, I can never be worthy to be; if I have these marks put upon me of a Traitor, as that tumbling and disordering of that estate would declare the divorce from your presence, lays too much upon me, and this would upon both.  
I will say no farther, neither in that which your Majesty doubted my aptness to fall into, for my Cause, nor my Confidence is not in that distress as for to use that mean of intercession, nor of any thing besides, but to remember your Majesty, that I am the Workmanship of your hands, and bear your stamp deeply imprinted in all the characters of favour; that I was the first plant engrafted by your Majesty's hand in this place, therefore not to be unrooted by the same hand, lest it should taint all the same kind, with the touch of that fatalnesse; And that I was even the Son of a Father, whose services are registered in the first honours and impressions I took of your Majesty's favour, and laid there as a foundation stone of that building; These and your Majesty's goodness for to receive them, is that I rely upon. So praying for your Majesty's prosperity, I am in all humbleness  
Your Majesty's loyal servant, and Creature, R. Sommersett.   

The Lo. Chancellor Bacon to the Lords.  
If it may please your Lordships,  
I shall humbly crave at your Lordship's hands a benign interpretation of that which I shall now write; for words that come from wasted spirits, and an oppressed mind, are more safe in being deposited in a noble Construction, then in being Circled with any reserved Caution. Having made this as a protection to all, which I shall say, I will go on, but with a very strange entrance (as may seem to your Lordships at the first) for in the midst of a state of as great affliction, as I think a mortal man can endure, (honour being above life) I shall begin with the professing gladness in some things.  
The first is, that hereafter the greatness of a Judge or Magistrates, shall be no Sanctuary, or protection to him against guiltiness, which in few words is the beginning of a golden world.  
The next, that after this example, it is like that Judges will fly from any thing in the likeness of Corruption (though it were at a great distance) as from a Serpent, which tendeth to the purging of the Courts of Justice, and reducing them to their true honour and splendour. And in these two points God is my witness (though it be my fortune to be the anvil upon which these good effects are beaten and wrought) I take no small comfort. But to pass from the motions of my heart, whereof God is only Judge, to the merits of my Cause, whereof your Lordships are only Judges, under God, and his Lieutenant; I do understand, there hath been expected from me heretofore some justification, and therefore I have chosen one only justification instead of all others, out of the justification of Job, for after the clear submission and Confession, which I shall now make unto your Lordships, I hope I may say, and justify with Job in these words, I have not hid my sin as did Adam, nor concealed my faults in my bosom. This is the only justification I will use. It resteth therefore that without fig-leaves, I do ingenuously confess and acknowledge, that having understood the particulars of the charge, not formally from the house, but enough to inform my Conscience and memory, I find matter both sufficient and full, to move me to desert the defence, and to move your Lordships to condemn and censure me. Neither will I trouble your Lordships by singling out particulars, which I think may fall off. Quid te exempta juvat spinis de millibus una? Neither will I prompt your Lordships to observe upon the proofs, where they come not home, or the scruples touching the Credit of the Witnesses: Neither will I present unto your Lordships, how far a defence might in divers things extenuate the offence, in respect of the time, or manner of the gift, or the like circumstances, but only leave these things to spring out of your own noble thoughts, and observations of the evidence, and examinations themselves, and charitably to wind about the particulars of the charge here and there, as God shall put in your minds, and so submit myself wholly to your piety and grace.  
And now that I have spoken to your Lordships, as Judges, I shall say a few words unto you, as Peers, and Prelates, humbly commending my Cause to your noble Minds, and magnanimous affections.  
Your Lordships are not only Judges, but Parliamentary Judges, you have a farther extent of arbitrary power, than other Courts: and if you be not tied to the ordinary course of Courts, or precedents, in point of strictness and severity, much more in points of mercy and mitigation. And yet if any thing I should move might be contrary to your honourable and worthy ends to introduce a reformation, I should not seek it. But herein I beseech your Lordships to give me leave to tell you a story. Titus Manlius took his son's life for giving battle against the prohibition of his General. Not many years after the like severity was pursued by Papirius Cursor the Dictator against Quintus Maximus, who being upon the point to be sentenced, was by the intercession of some principal persons of the Senate spared; whereupon Livy maketh this grave and gracious observation, Neque minus firmata est disciplina militaris periculo Quinti Maximi, quam mirabili supplicio Titi Manlii, The discipline of War was no less established by the questioning only of Quintus Maximus, then by the punishment of Titus Manlius. And the same reason is of the reformation of Justice; for the questioning of men of eminent place hath the same terror, though not the same rigour with the punishment. But my Case stayeth not there, for my humble desire is, that his Majesty would take the Seal into his hands, which is a great downfall, and may serve I hope in itself for an expiation of my faults.  
Therefore if mercy and mitigation be in your Lordship's power, and do no ways cross your ends, why should I not hope of your favours and Commiserations? Your Lordships may be pleased to behold your chief Pattern the King our Sovereign, a King of incomparable Clemency, and whose heart is instructable for wisdom and goodness. You well remember, that there sat not these hundred years before in your House a Prince (and never such a Prince) whose presence deserveth to be made memorable by records, and acts, mixed of mercy and justice. Yourselves are either Nobles (and Compassion ever beateth in the veins of noble blood,) or Reverend Prelates, who are the servants of him, that would not break the bruised reed, nor quench smoking flax.  
You all sit upon a high Stage, and therefore cannot but be more fensible of the changes of humane Condition, and of the fall of any from high places. Neither will your Lordships forget that there are vitia tomporis, as well as vitia hominis, and that the beginning of reformation, hath a contrary power to the pool of Bethesda; for that had strength only to cure him, that was first cast in, and this hath strength to hurt him only, that is first Cast in; and for my part, I wish it may stay there, and go no further.  
Lastly, I assure myself, your Lordships have a noble feeling of me, as a member of your own body; and one, that in this very Session, had some taste of your loving affection, which I hope was not a lightning before the death of them, but rather a spark of that grace which now in the Conclusion will more appear. And therefore my humble suit to your Lordships is, that my voluntary Confession be my sentence, and the loss of the Seal my punishment, and that your Lordships will spare any farther sentence, but recommend me to his Majesty's grace and pardon for all that is past. And so, etc.  
Your Lordships, etc. Francis St. Alban Can.   

Five Letters more of my Lord Bacons.  
Bacon to the King, July 31. 1617.  
I Dare not presume any more to reply upon your Majesty, 
Lord Keeper Bacon to his Majesty.  but reserve my Defence till I attend your Majesty at your happy return, when I hope verily to approve myself not only a true servant to your Majesty, but a true friend to my Lord of Buckingham, and for the times also I hope to give your Majesty a good account, though distance of place may obscure them. But there is one part of your Majesty's Letter, that I could be sorry to take time to answer; which is that your Majesty conceives, that whereas I wrote, That the height of my Lord's Fortune might make him secure; I mean that he was turned proud, or unknowing of himself. Surely the opinion I have ever had of my Lord (whereof your Majesty is best witness) is far from that: But my meaning was plain and simple; that his Lordship might through his great fortune, be the less apt to Cast, and foresee, the unfaithfulness of friends, and the malignity of enemies, and accidents of times. Which is a judgement (your Majesty knoweth better than I) that the best Authors make of the best, and best tempered spirits, Vt sunt res humana; Insomuch as Guicciardine maketh the same judgement (not of a particular person) but of the wifest state of Europe, the Senate of Venice, when he sayeth their prosperity had made them secure, and under-weighers of perils. Therefore I beseech your Majesty, to deliver me, in this, from any the least imputation to my dear and Noble Lord and friend. And so expecting, that that Sun, which when it went from us, left us cold weather, and now it is returned towards us, hath brought with it a blessed harvest, will when it cometh to us dispel and disperse all mists, and mistake.  
I am, etc.   

Lord Chancellor to his Majesty, 2. Jan. 1618.  
It may please your most excellent Majesty,  
I Do many times with gladness, and for a remedy of my other labours, revolve in my mind the great happiness which God (of his singular goodness) hath accumulated upon your Majesty every way, and how Complete the same would be, if the state of your means were once rectified, and well ordered, your people military, and obedient, fit for war, used to peace, your Church enlightened with good Preachers, as an heaven of Stars, your Judges learned, and learning from you, just, and just by your example, your Nobility in a right distance between Crown and People, no oppressors of the people, no overshadowers of the Crown, your Council full of tributes of Care, faith, and freedom, your Gentlemen, and Justices of Peace, willing to apply your Royal Mandates to the nature of their several Counties, but ready to obey, your servants in awe of your wisdom, in hope of your goodness; The fields growing every day by the improvement and recovery of grounds, from the desert, to the garden; The City grown from wood to brick, your Sea-walls or Pomerium of your Island surveyed, and in edifying; your Merchants embracing the whole compass of the World, East, West, North, and South; The times give you Peace, and yet offer you opportunities of action abroad: And lastly, your excellent Royal Issue entayleth these blessings and favours of God, to descend to all posterity. It resteth therefore, that God having done so great things for your Majesty, and you for others; You would do so much for yourself as to go through (according to your good beginnings) with the rectifying and settling of your estate and means, which only is wanting. Hoc rebus defuit unum. I therefore whom only love, and duty to your Majesty, and your royal line, hath made a Financier, do intent to present unto your Majesty a perfect book of your estate, like a perspective glass to draw your estate near to your sight; beseeching your Majesty to conceive, that if I have not attained to do that, that I would do in this which is not proper for me, nor in my element, I shall make your Majesty amends in some other thing in which I am better bred.  
God ever preserve, etc.   

The Lord Chancellor to the marquis of Buckingham, 25. March, 1620.  
My very good Lord,  
YEsterday I know was no day; Now I hope I shall hear from your Lordship, who are my anchor in these floods. Mean while to ease my heart, I have written to his Majesty the enclosed, which I pray your Lordship to read advisedly, and to deliver it, or not to deliver it, as you think Good. God ever prosper your Lordship.  
Yours ever what I am. Fr. St. Alban. Canc.   

The Lord Chancellor to the King. March 25. 1620.  
It may please your most excellent Majesty.  
TIme hath been, when I have brought unto you Gemitum Columbae from others, now I bring it from myself. I fly unto your Majesty with the wings of a Dove, which once within these seven days, I thought would have carrried me a higher flight. When I enter into myself, I find not the materials of such a tempest as is come upon me. I have been, as your Majesty knoweth best (never author of any immoderate Counsel, but always desired to have things carried suavibus modis. I have been no avaricious oppressor of the people. I have been no haughty, or intolerable, or hateful man in my conversation, or carriage. I have inherited no hatred from my father, but am a good Patriot born. Whence should this be? for these are the things that use to raise dislikes abroad.  
For the house of Commons, I began my Credit there, and now it must be the place of the Sepulture thereof. And yet this Parliament upon the Message touching Religion, the old love revived, and they said I was the same man still, only honesty was turned into honour.  
For the Upper House, even within these days, before these troubles, they seemed as to take me into their arms, finding in me ingenuity, which they took to be the true straight line of nobleness without Crooks or angles.  
And for the briberies and gifts wherewith I am charged; when the books of hearts shall be opened, I hope I shall not be found to have the troubled fountain of a corrupt heart, in a depraved habit of taking rewards to pervert Justice, howsoever I may be frail, and partake of the abuses of the Times.  
And therefore I am resolved, when I come to my answer, not to trick my innocency (as I writ to the Lords) by Cavillations, or voidances, but to speak to them the language, that my heart speaketh to me, in excusing, extenuating, or ingenuous confessing; praying God to give me the grace to see to the bottom of my faults, and that no hardness of heart do steal upon me, under show of more neatness of Conscience, then is Cause.  
But not to trouble your Majesty any longer, craving pardon for this long mourning Letter; that which I thirst after, as the Hart after the streams, is, that I may know by my matchless friend that presenteth to you this letter, your Majesty's heart (which is an abyssus of goodness, as I am an abyssus of mercy) towards me. I have been ever your man, and counted myself but as an usufructuary of myself, the property being yours. And now making myself an oblation to do with me as may best conduce to the honour of your Justice, the honour of your Mercy, and the use of your Service, resting as  
Clay in your Majesty's gracious hands, Fr. St. Alban. Canc.   

Magdibeg to his Majesty.  
May it please your most excellent Majesty,  
I Make bold after a long silence, to prostrate myself before your Majesty, and being the Ambassador of a great King, that counteth it an honour to style himself your friend, I do beseech you to afford me that justice, which I am sure you will not refuse to the meanest of your Subjects.  
At my first arrival into this your happy Kingdom, I was informed by the general relation of all that had recourse unto me, that one here (who had the title of Ambassador from my Master) did vainly brag that he had married the King of Persia's Niece, which kindled in me such a vehement desire to vindicate my Master's honour, from so unworthy and false a report, that at my first interview with him, my hand being guided by my duty, I endeavoured to fasten upon him a Condign disgrace to such an imposture. But the caution that I ought to have of my own justification, when I return home, biddeth me the more strictly to examine the truth of that which was told me (whereon my action with Sir Robert Shirley was grounded) and to have it averred in the particulars, as well as by a general voice. Therefore I humbly beseech your Majesty, that out of your Princely goodness you will be pleased to give such order, that this point may be fully cleared. Wherein for the manner of proceeding, I wholly and humbly remit myself to your Majesty: And this being done, I shall return home with some measure of joy to balance the grief which I have, for having done aught, that may have clouded your Majesty's favour to me. And so committing your Majesty to the protection of the greatest God, whose shadows, and elect instruments, Kings are on earth, I humbly take my leave, and rest, etc.   

The Copy of a Letter written by his Majesty to the Lord Keeper, the Bishops of London, Wynton, Rochester, St. david's, and Excester, Sir Henry Hubbert, Mr. Justice Dodderidge, Sir Henry Martin, and Dr. Steward, or any six of them, whereof the Lord Keeper, the Bishops of London, Wynton, and St. David's to be four.  
IT is not unknown unto you, what happened the last Summer to our trusty and well-beloved Counsellor, the Lord Archbishop of Canterbury, who shooting at a Deer with a crossbow in Bramzil Park, did with that shoot, casually give the Keeper a wound, whereof he died. Which accident (though it might have happened to any other man) yet because his eminent rank and function in the Church hath (as we are informed) ministered occasion of some doubt, as making the Cause different in his person, in respect of the scandal (as is supposed,) we being desirous (as it is fit we should) to be satisfied therein, and reposing especial trust in your learn, and judgements, have made choice of you to inform Us concerning the nature of this Cause, and do therefore require you to take presently into your Considerations, the Scandal that may arise thereupon, and to certify Us what in your Judgements the same may amount unto, either to an irregularity, or otherwise. And lastly, what means may be found for the redress thereof (if need be) of all which points, we shall expect to have your Reports, with what diligence and expedition you may.  
Dated at Theobalds', Octob. 3d. 1621.   

The Archbishop of York to King James.  
May it please your Majesty,  
I Have been too long silent, and am afraid that by silence, I have neglected the duty of the place it hath pleased God to call me unto, and your Majesty to place me in. But now I humbly beseech, that I may discharge my Conscience towards God, and my duty towards your Majesty. And therefore I beseech you Sir, to give me leave freely to deliver myself, and then let it please your Majesty to do with me as you please.  
Your Majesty hath propounded a Toleration of Religion, I beseech you to take into your Consideration, what your Act is, and what the Consequence may be. By your act, you labour to set up that most damnable and heretical doctrine of the Church of Rome, the Whore of Babylon. How hateful will it be to God, and grievous to your Subjects (the true professors of the Gospel) that your Majesty who hath often defended, and learnedly written against those wicked heresies, should now show yourself a Patron of those doctrines which your Pen hath told the world, and your Conscience tells yourself are superstitious, idolatrous, and detestable: Also what you have done in sending the Prince without Consent of your Council, and the privity and approbation of your People: For although Sir, you have a large interest in the Prince, as the Son of your flesh, yet have your People a greater as the Son of the Kingdom, upon whom (next after your Majesty) are their eyes fixed, and their Welfare defends. And so slenderly is his going apprehended, that believe Sir, how ever his return may be safe, yet the drawers of him unto that action, so dangerous to himself, so desperate to the Kingdom, will not pass away unquestioned, and unpunished.  
Besides, this Toleration you endeavour to set up by your Proclamation, it cannot be done without a Parliament, unless your Majesty will let your Subjects see, that you now take unto yourself a liberty to throw down the Laws of the Land at your pleasure. What dreadful Consequence these things may draw after, I beseech your Majesty to Consider.  
And above all, lest by this Toleration, and discountenance of the true profession of the Gospel (wherewith God hath blessed us) and under which this Kingdom hath flourished these many years) your Majesty doth draw upon the Kingdom in general, and yourself in particular, God's heavy wrath and indignation.  
Thus in discharge of my duty to your Majesty, and the place of my Calling, I have taken the humble boldness to deliver my Conscience. And now Sir, Do with me what you please.   

Next of all, in order, follow the Letters that passed between the King and his Agents, about the Spanish Transactions. The first Letter written, per anonymum, brings news of the Prince's arrival.  
The Copy of a Letter sent from Spain, concerning the Prince's arrival there, etc.  
I Presume his Highness being now returned, you may by Conference have such choice, and free relations of his proceed in Spain, that I may well hold my Pen, (it being not privileged with that freedom that the tongue is) yet to comply with that constant obligation I purpose still to owe you, I will write something, and point at some passages, where others perhaps may not so punctually inform you.  
The Prince's coming hither seemed not so strange, as acceptable, and pleasing unto all. The Common sort expressed it by extraordinary shouts, and acclamations of joy, offering, and marrying the Infanta (as it were) presently, by public voice, as having won and truly deserved her, by so brave an adventure. The King and State studied how to do him all the honour that might be: The first decree that the Council of State made, was, that at all occasions of meetings, he should have the precedency of the King. That he should make entry into the Palace in the form of State, as the Kings of Spain do in the first day of their Coronation. That he should have one of the chief Quarters of the King's House for his lodgings, one hundred of the Guard to attend him, all the Council to obey him, as the Kings own person. All prisoners were released, the new Proclamation against excess in apparel revoked, and sundry other arguments of joy. But a wonder lasteth not but for nine days.  
This universal joy was grounded upon hopes, that the Prince came not only to fetch a wife, but also to make himself a Catholic. 
Say you so?  The Pope incited him hereunto by Letters, which his Nuntio delivered. He sent a charge to the inquisitor general, to use all possible diligence herein. Many processions, and shows were made to stir him. But they soon saw how improbable it was to win him, 
For which God be thanked.  how amongst all his servants there was not one Catholic about him: what slight esteem they made of the Churches, and Religion here; some committing irreverent, and scandalous actions in the Kings own Chapel, so that they began to behold the English with an ill aspect, to inveigh against the Conde de Gundomar, that he should inform the King and State, that the Prince had a disposition easy to be wrought upon to be made a Catholic. Add hereunto the ill offices that the Irish do, who to preserve themselves in the Spanish pension did prejudice the business, by casting aspersions upon the English, the misinformation of the persecution in their Country, and in England notwithstanding being here, and the abuse of the Ambassador's servants in London.  
When the Prince came, there wanted nothing for the final consummation of all things but the dispensation, which came two months after. And whereas it was expected to come absolute, and full; it came infringed with Cautions and limitations, viz. That the Infanta should not be married till matters in England were in perfect execution; that in case the King of England could not give sufficient security, the King of Spain himself should swear, and undertake the oath for him. Hereupon a Junto of Divines was appointed to determine hereof, Whether the King might do this with a safe Conscience or no. These Divines went gravely and tediously to work; which put the Prince upon that impatiency, that he was upon point of departure. When at last the business came to a resolution, and so the Match was publicly declared. The Prince had then often (though publicly) access to the Infanta, the King being still himself present, and in hearing. After this a Ratification was sent for from Rome, but the Pope dying in the interim, and the new Pope falling suddenly sick, it could not be speedily procured. For want of this Ratification there was no Contract made, and the Prince himself seemed not to desire it. A little before his departure, the King and the Council of State, with the Patriarch of the Indies, the Prince-Prelate, after the Bishop of Toledo, (who is under age) swore to all the Capitulations, so that the Prince seemed to departed well satisfied. The King brought him to the Escurial, and a little before his departure, the King and he went into a close Coach, and had a large discourse together, (my Lord of Bristol being in another Coach hard by to interpret some hard words, when he was called.) And so they parted with many tender demonstrations of love. A Trophy of Marble is erected in the place where they parted. Many rich Presents were given on both sides. The Prince bestowed upon the Queen the biggest Crown Pearl in the world between two Diamonds. He gave the Infanta a rope of Pearl, and an anchor of great Diamonds, with many other Jewels. He hath been very bountiful to every one of the King's house, and all the Guard. Never Prince parted with such an universal love of all. He left every mouth filled with his Commendations; every one reporting him to be a truly Noble, discreet, and well deserving Prince. I writ what I hear, and know, and that without passion, for all he is the Prince of my Country.  
My Lord of Buckingham at first, was much esteemed, but it lasted little; his French garb, with his stout hastiness in negotiating, and over-familiarity with the Prince, was not liked. Moreover, the Council of Spain took it ill, that a green head, should come with such a superintendent power to treat of an affair of such Consequence, among so many grave Ministers of State, to the prejudice of so able and well-deserving a Minister as my Lord of Bristol, who laid the first stone of this building. Hereupon his power was called in question, and found imperfect in regard it was not confirmed by the Council. Thus the business began to gather ill blood between Olivarez, and him, and grew so far out of square, that unless there had been good heads to piece them together again, all might have fallen quite off the hinges. He did not take his leave of the Countess of Olivarez, and the farewell he took of the Conde himself was harsh; for he told him, he would be an everlasting servant to the King of Spain, the Queen, and the Infants, and would endeavour to do the best offices he could, for the concluding of this business, and strengthening the amity between the two Kingdoms; but for himself, he had so far disobliged him, that he could make no profession of friendship to him at all. The Conde turned about, and said he accepted of what he had spoken, and so parted.  
Since his Highness' departure, my Lord of Bristol negotiates closely, he is daily at the Palace to attend the Infanta, and he treats by means of the Countess of Olivarez.  
There is a new Junto appointed for the disposing of the Infanta's affairs, and we hope here, that all things will be ripe against the next Spring to bring her over. And so I rest, etc.  
From Madrid. 30. Septemb. 1623.   

His Majesties to the Earl of Bristol, Jan. 21. 1625.  
WE have read your Letter addressed to us by Buckingham, and We cannot but wonder that you should through forgetfulness make such a request to us of favour, as if you stood eavenly capable of it, when you know what your behaviour in Spain deserved of Us, which you are to examine by the observations We made, and know you will remember, how at our first coming into Spain, taking upon you to be so wise as to foresee our intentions to change our Religion, you were so far from dissuading us, that you offered your service, and secrecy to concur in it, and in many other open Conferences pressing to show how convenient it was for us to be a Roman Catholic, it being impossible in your opinion, to do any great action otherwise; how much wrong, disadvantage, and disservice you did to the Treaty, and to the right and interest of our dear Brother, and Sister, and their Children; what disadvantage, inconvenience, and hazard you entangled us in by your artifices, putting off, and delaying our return home. The great estimation you made of that State, and the vile price you set this Kingdom at, still maintaining, that we under colour of friendship to Spain, did what was in our power against them, which (you said) they knew very well. And last of all, your approving of those Conditions, that our Nephew should be brought up in the Emperor's Court, to which Sir Walter Aston then said, he durst not give his Consent for fear of his head; you replying to him, that without some such great action, neither marriage nor peace could be had, etc.   

Lord Conway to the Earl of Bristol. March 21. 1625.  
My Lord,  
I Received a Letter from your Lordship dated the 4th of this month, written in answer to a former, which I directed to your Lordship by his Majesty's Commandment. This last Letter (according to my duty) I have showed unto his Majesty; who hath perused it, and hath commanded me to write back this unto you again. That he finds himself nothing satisfied therewith; the question propounded to your Lordship from his Majesty was plain and clear, Whether you did rather choose to sit still without being questioned for any errors passed in your negotiation in Spain, and enjoy the benefit of the late gracious pardon granted in Parliament, whereof you may have the benefit; or whether for the clearing of your innocency (whereof yourself, your friends, and your followers are so confident) you will be contented to wave the advantage of that pardon, and put yourself into a legal way of examination for the trial thereof? His Majesty's purpose hereby is not to prevent you of any favours the Law hath given: but if your assurance be such as your words and letter import, he conceiveth it stands not with that public and resolute profession of your integrity, to decline your trial. His Majesty leaves the choice to yourself, and requires from you a direct answer, without Circumlocution, or bargaining with him for future favours before hand.  
But if you have a desire to make use of that pardon which cannot be denied to you, nor is it any way desired to be taken from you; His Majesty expects, that you should at least forbear to magnify your service, and out of the opinion of your own innocency cast an aspersion upon his Majesty's Justice, in not affording you that present fullness of liberty and favour which cannot be drawn from him, but in his own good time, and according to his own good pleasure. Thus much I have in command to write unto your Lordship, and to require your answer clearly and plainly by this Messenger sent on purpose for it. And so, etc.   

The E. of Bristol to the Lord Conway, 4. March. 1625.  
My Lord,  
I Received your Letter of the 25. of February, and therein a Commandment from his Majesty, and in his Majesty's name to make a clear and plain answer, Whether I desire or rest in the security I am now in, and to acknowledge the gracious favour of his late Majesty, and of his which now is, who have been pleased not to question my actions, etc. Hereunto I have laboured exactly to obey, but find that a plain and clear answer cannot possibly be made, until there be a clear understanding of the thing propounded; so that I may crave pardon if my answer be not so clear as I could wish it: for I must freely acknowledge, that I no way understand what is meant by the security I am now in, whether it be by the present estate I am now in, or not: If it be so, I conceive a man cannot be under a harder Condition; for your Lordship knoweth, that by order my person is restrained, and you were pleased lately to send me word, that you would not advise me to make use of the liberty which his late Majesty had given me of coming to London, although that were only to follow my private affairs, and for the recovery of my decayed health. I stand likewise problbited to come to the Court, or to the King's presence, (I pass by my being removed from all my places, and offices, and wholly depending upon his Majesty's royal pleasure.) But being a Peer of this Realm, I have not only by Commandment, been formerly stayed from the Parliament, but of late, my writ hath been detained, as though my honour were forfeited. And this is truly the Condition I am now in, but I cannot imagine that this is the security intended I should rest in; but am in hope, that the security intended is, that I may for the future enjoy the liberty of a free Subject, and the privileges of a Peer of the Kingdom. Which being so, I shall with all humility acknowledge his Majesty's grace and favour, and be ready to serve him with all fidelity even to the laying down of my life, not thinking it to stand with the duty of a Subject to press his being questioned, since such being the pleasure of his Sovereign, it were not in the power of any subject to avoid it. But in case his Majesty shall be pleased to bring me to any legal trial, I shall most willingly and dutifully submit myself thereunto, and doubt not but my innocency in the end will be my best Mediator for his Majesty's future favour. And in that Case I am a suitor that my Writ of Parliament as a Peer of this Realm may be sent unto me, and that my present repair to London may not displease his Majesty; As for the pardon of the 21. Reg. Jacobi, which you mention, I should renounce, but that I know that the justest and most cautious man living, may through ignorance or omission offend the Laws, so that as a Subject I shall not disclaim any benefit which cometh in the general as it doth usually to all other Subjects in the Kingdom: But as for any Crime in particular, that may trench upon my employments in point of Loyalty, fidelity, or want of affection to the King or State, I know my innocency to be such, that I am confident I shall not need that pardon. I shall conclude with a most humble suit unto your Lordship, that out of your nobleness, and that friendship that hath been betwixt us, you will use your best endeavours both with his Majesty and the Duke, that this unfortunate business may be passed over, by the renewing whereof I can see little use that can be made but the adding to a man's misfortunes already sufficiently humbled; For I am ready to do all that a man of honour and honesty may do; but rather than to do any thing that may be prejudicial to me in that kind, to suffer whatsoever it shall please God to send. And so with the remembrance of my humble service unto your Lordship, I recommend you unto God's holy protection, And rest  
Your Lordship's humble servant, Bristol. Sherborn Lodge, etc.   

Here next follow the Letters of my Lord of Bristol concerning the business of the Match.  
The E. of Bristol to the Lord Bishop of Lincoln, Aug. 20. 1623.  
My very worthy Lord,  
I Give you many thanks for your Letter of the 23d. of July, by which I understand your great care of me, by seconding a former motion it pleased your Lordship to make, of having me reconciled to my Lord Duke's favour, (A thing which I have infinitely desired) and have esteemed the good offices you have been pleased to do therein, as a very high obligation your Lordship puts upon me. But I conceive your Lordship will find that any motion you have made in that kind unto his Grace hath been despised, rather than received with any thankfulness, or that he hath returned you any answer of his inclination thereunto. For the truth is, my Lord doth look down upon my poor Condition with that scorn and contempt, that I conjecture the very moving of any such thing, especially under the term of reconciliation, hath not been pleasing unto his Lordship. But thereof your Lordship can make the best judgement by the answer you received from him. I do but guess thereat, by what I have heard he hath been pleased to say, and the manner wherewith he hath used me: Which hath been such, that the Spaniards themselves (which most afflicted me) have out of compassion pitied me. Yet I may with much truth assure your Lordship, that I have not omitted towards him either any respect or service that was fit for me to perform, either towards his person, or the high place he holdeth in my Master's favour, or unto his present employment; well knowing how undecent and scandalous a thing it is for the Ministers of a Prince to run different ways in a strange Court, but have attended him in all his public audience, and used in all kinds that respect and observance towards him, that I think malice herself cannot charge me with an omission. And my Lord, this is the truth, whatsoever may be said or written to the contrary: It is true, that some four months since in a business that no less concerned his Majesty and the Prince's service, then abruptly to have broken off all our Treaty, I was far differing from my Lord's opinion; And thereupon happened betwixt us some dispute in debate of the business, but without any thing that was personal, and there was no creature living at it but the Prince, to whose Censure I shall willingly refer myself. In me I protest it unto your Lordship, it made no alteration, but within half an hour I came to him with the same reverence and respect that I was wont to do, the which I have continued ever since, so that I have much wondered how it cometh to be so much spoken of in England, that my Lord Duke and myself should live here at too much distance. And I cannot find any other reason for it, but that every body hath taken so much notice of my ill, and contemptible usage, that they think it impossible for any Gentleman, but to be sensible of it. But if any one disrespect, or omission from me towards my Lord Duke can be truly instanced in by any man, I will be contented to incur his Majesty's high displeasure, and your Lordship's Censure.  
For the present News here, it is, that the ninth of this Month, the Prince intendeth (God willing) to begin his journey for England. And the day before, I conceive the Contract will be. The Infanta is to follow in the Spring, and the Prince hath commanded my stay here. I know not how things may be reconciled here before my Lord Duke's departure, but at present, they are in all extremity ill, betwixt this King, and his Ministers, and the Duke, and they stick not to profess, that they will rather put the Infanta headlong into a Well, then into his hands. I writ unto your Lordship you see with much freeness, and I entreat you let it remain with you. And so in much haste I only entreat your Lordship to believe, that you have not living an honester, nor a true hearteder a friend, and servant, than  
Your Lordships ever to be commanded, Bristol.   

The E of Bristol to the Lord Bishop of Lincoln, 24. of Septemb. 1623.  
My singular Lord,  
I Have dispatched this Bearer my servant Greislie with the draught of the temporal Articles, which I hope will be to the King and Prince his satisfaction, and he will let your Lordship have a sight of them.  
Since the departure of the Prince, there have every day passed Letters of extraordinary affection between the King, and the Prince; and the love that is here generally born unto the Prince is such, as cannot be well believed by those that daily hear not, what passeth both from the King and his chief Ministers. And to say the truth, his Highness hath well deserved it; for in the whole time of his being here, he hath carried himself with the greatest affability, patience, and constancy, and at his departure-with the greatest bounty, and liberality, that I think hath been known in any Prince in our times. And I protest unto your Lordship as a Christian, that I never heard in all the time of his being here, nor since any one exception taken against him, unless it were for being supposed to be too much guided by my Lord Duke of Buckingham, who is indeed very little beholding to the Spaniards for their good opinion of him, and departed from hence with so little satisfaction, that the Spaniards are in doubt, that he will endeavour all that shall be possible to cross the Marriage: Wherein certainly they are very much mistaken; For my Lord cannot but be obliged a servant for any particular distastes of his own to cross the advancement of his Majesty, and the Prince's service, especially in a business of so high Consequence as this.  
It may be your Lordship will hear many Complaints, and that the Match never was, nor yet is intended; I beseech your Lordship to give little belief in that kind, and the effects will now speedily declare the truth, if the fault be not on our side. It is true that the Spaniards have committed many errors in their proceed with the Prince; but the business is now by the Prince overcome, if we ourselves draw not back: For which I confess I should be hearty sorry, and so I conceive would most honest men; for if this match, and the alliance with Spain hath been so long desired by his Majesty, and that for it he hath been pleased to do so much, and the Prince to take so hazardous a voyage, if all the same reason's are yet on foot, which have ever moved the King and Prince to wish the match; if to this may be added, that his Majesty hath overcome all the difficulties on his part, and that both he, and the Prince do stand engaged for the performance of it, as far as Princes can be, God forbidden, that any particular distastes, or misunderstandings (which God knoweth have little relation to the business) should be of power to disturb it, especially now, when the Match is passed all danger of miscarrying, the portion, and all temporal Articles settled, and I hope to the Kings Content, and all other good effects that could be expected by this alliance in a very fair way, I hope there will be no cause of doubt in this kind; if there should be, I am sure that your Lordship would put to a helping hand to keep the business from being overthrown, since you have done so much for the overcoming of former difficulties, and the bringing it to the pass 'tis now in. If there be no cause of writing this, I beseech your Lordship to impute it to my zeal to the business, and my freeness with your Lordship, upon whose true love and friendship I so much rely, as I shall not forbear to tell you, any of my fears. I hope within 3. day's Sir Francis Cottington will be able to begin his journey towards your Lordship. He will tell you many truths, being on my knowledge, as hearty a servant and friend as 'tis possible for your Lordship to have. He hath told me how much I am bound to your Lordship for your love, and favour, and truly I will deserve it the best I can, and that I think will be only by loving you, for otherwise I conceive I am like to have little means of meriting at any body's hands, yet at your Lordships it may be I may, by being a man of honesty, and honour; And such an one I will lubour to be, and your affectionate friend and servant. And so I kiss your Lordship's hands.  
Madrid, etc.   

The E. of Bristols Letter to the Prince, touching the delivery of his Proxy to the King of Spain.  
May it please your Highness,  
IN this Letter I shall only speak unto your Highness concerning that particular whereof you were pleased to write unto me after your departure from St. Lorenzo, and have presumed to set down exactly the case as it stands. In what sort a woman betrothed, and post Matrimonium ratum, may before the Consummation of marriage betake herself unto a religious life; I have likewise set down unto your Highness all sorts of security, that may be taken before the betrothing for the preventing of any such course in the parties, that are to be betrothed. To this your Highness may add any other you can think of, for that the King, and his Sister, and all the Ministers profess so really the punctual and present performance of all that is capitulated with your Highness; That they will refuse no kind of security, that in reason can be demanded in this behalf: so that your Highness may set down, whatsoever you think this King and his Sister may do with decency, and honour, and they will be ready to perform it.  
I must now crave leave to speak unto your Highness like a faithful plain servant, which is, if your Highness' pleasure be to have use made of the Powers you have left in my hands; I no way doubt, but in this particular such satisfaction will be given, as will appear reasonable to all the world. But if your Highness' desire, that these Powers should not be used, they may be detained upon other just reasons which will arise in the treaty of the temporal articles. And I doubt not but the Deposorio's may be deferred for some few days upon other fair pretexts. But these inconveniencies I conceive will follow. First it will be of great discomfort to the Infanta, who until the Deposorio's are passed, is not her own woman, but must be governed by the pleasure of the Junto, which I think she is very weary of, neither till then may she declare herself to be yours, nor Comply with your Highesse in answering of your Letters, and Messages, and giving you those respects, and Comforts, which I know she would be glad to do. But if she should any way judge, that the delay of the Deposorios should arise from your Highness' part, I conceive she would take it most heavily. Secondly, it will certainly raise great jealousies in this King, and his Ministers, and retard the resolutions, that are fit to be taken with speed for the putting in execution that which is capitulated. I therefore offer it unto your Highness' wisdom, whether upon the satisfaction, which they will give in this particular, which will be whatsoever you can desire; and upon the agreement of the temporal articles your Highness would upon the coming of the Pope's approbation make any farther scruple in the delivering of your Highness' powers; If I shall, I am confident they will not press it, as not decent for the woman's part to urge the hasting of the Marriage. But I conceive it will cast such a cloud of Jealousy and distrust upon the business, that besides the discontent and affliction, which I know it will give the Infanta (which most worketh upon me,) it will so disorder the business, that it will make a stand in your whole proceed, and preparations, wherein they now go on cheerfully, and confidently, and I conceive will punctually perform all that they have capitulated with your Highness. I dare not so much as give myself leave once to question your Highness' intentions of proceeding to the real effecting of the match, which makes me desirous that all things may be executed, that may any way retard or disturb it. Only I shall like a faithful poor servant presume to say thus much to your Highness; That for divers years past, I know the King your father, and yourself, have held this the fittest Match in the World, and by a desire of effecting it, your Highness was induced to undertake that hazardous journey of coming to this Court in person. In the time of your being here, (admitting that their proceed have been in many things unworthy of you.) And that divers distastes have grown by intervenient accidents; Now things are reduced to those terms, that the Match itself is sure, the portion, and the temporal Articles settled (I hope to the King's liking and yours) And all other good effects that could be hoped for by this alliance, are in a fair way. If to these reasons may be added, That on his Majesty and your Highness' part, you have already passed by, and overcome the main difficulties; and your Highness by your journey hath satisfied yourself of the person of the Infanta, God forbidden, that either any personal distastes of Ministers, or any indiscreet, or passionate carriage of businesses should hazard that, which his Majesty and your Highness have done so much to obtain, and whereby doubtless so much good, and peace is to accrue to Christendom by the effecting of it; and contrariwise so much trouble and mischief by the miscarrying of it. Besides the individual happiness of your Highness in such a Wife, which the World supposeth you infinitely esteem for her person. And for her Birth and Portion is not where to be matched; And questionless for her virtue, and settled affection to your Highness deserveth you better than any woman in the World. I humbly crave pardon for writing unto your Highness in this manner, which I hope your Highness well enough knows, neither the benefits I have received from Spain, nor their grateful usage of me upon occasions (nor I protest unto your Highness any other earthly respect) moveth me unto it, but the zeal, and love I bear to your service, for which I shall ever undervalue any thing, that may concern myself. And therefore I shall conclude by entreating your Highness, that if you would have things go well, that a Post may instantly be dispatched back unto me, authorising me to deliver the said power upon the arrival of the dispensation, and having taken fitting security in this particular point. And this I earnestly beseech your Highness may be done with all possible speed and secrecy; and that the Spanish Ambassadors may not know that ever there was any suspension made of the delivery of the powers. In the interim I will find means if the dispensation come for 20, or 24 days to allege some other fair pretexts for the deferring of the Deposorios; But herein I desire I may know your Highness' resolution with all possible speed, etc. And so with, etc.  
Madrid. Bristol.   

The E. of Bristol to the Prince his Highness, Septemb. 24. 1623.  
When your Highness shall remember, that your Highness being here in person, it was not possible in less than a month, to get that dispatched which you were promised Mr. Secretary Cottington should have carried with him, if your Highness would have but stayed him 24 hours; I hope you will pardon your servants although they sometimes mistake in the time, which they limit for the procuring of the dispatch of business, especially if they depend upon the dispatches, that are to be procured from them. I have these 10. days had Grisly in a readiness to departed, having every day expected a resolution from the Junto. First in point of the portion, and since in the days of payment, and at last I have received their answer in them both, in such sort as your Highness will see in the paper enclosed, which is an extract of the heads of the temporal Articles that we have agreed, although I have only consented unto them de bene esse, until I shall receive his Majesty's approbation and yours: In the point of the portion, I have had a tough and a knotty piece of work, by reason that not only the Conde de Olivarez, but all the Junto were absolutely ignorant of what had passed in the late King's time, which I foresaw, and that was the cause that I moved so earnestly at the Escurial, to have the Conde de Gondomar remain here. They made many precedents to be searched, and found that the two millions demanded was four times as much as ever was given with any daughter of Spain in money. They alleged that it would be said, that the King of Spain was fain to purchase the friendship and alliance of England; that this would be such a precedent, as that Spain hereafter must marry no more daughters. I only insisted that it was a thing, by the last King settled, and agreed with me, that this King had by several answers in writing to me undertaken to pursue the business as it was left by his father, and to make good whatsoever he had promised. And thereupon desired that the original Papers, and Consultos of the last King might be seen, which very honestly by the Secretary Cirica were produced, and appeared to be such, that I dare say, there was not a man that saw them, that doubteth of the last King's real intention of making the Match. And questionless this had been the usefullest occasion to have disavowed former proceed, and I was resolved to put them to it. But both the King and his Council upon the sight of what had been promised by his father, presently took resolution to make good the two millions, only to remonstrate unto his Majesty the vastness of the Portion, and to desire him to consider how far the King had stretched himself in this particular for his satisfaction. And therefore, that he would have Consideration of it in such things for the future, as might be treated of betwixt them, and their Kingdoms. As for the days of payment, I insisted to have had half a million upon the Deposories, half a million to be carried along with the Infanta, and the other million at their Fleets the two next years after by equal portions. But I have now received the King's answer in this particular, which your Highness will see in the enclosed paper; as likewise what I have done therein by the Copy of the dispatch, which I now write about it to Mr. Secretary. So not having any thing more to add concerning this particular, I recommend your highness to God's holy protection, etc.  
Madrid.   

The E of Bristol to the Duke of Buckingham, Decemb. 6. 1623.  
May it please your Grace,  
THe present estate of the King's affairs requireth the concurrency of all his servants, and the Co-operation of all his Ministers, which maketh me desirous to make unto your Grace this tender of my service, that if there have happened any errors, or misunderstandings your Grace would for that regard pass them over: and for any thing that may personally concern my particular, I shall labour to give you that satisfaction as may deserve your friendship. And if that shall not serve the turn, I shall not be found unarmed with patience against any thing that can happen unto me. And so wishing, that this humble offer of my service may find that acceptation as I humbly desire, I rest  
Madrid. Your Grace's most humble servant, Bristol.   

The E. of Bristol to Secretary Cottington, Apr. 15. 1623.  
Good Mr. Secretary Cottington,  
THere is no man living knoweth better than yourself, how zealous I have been unto the Prince's service, and whilst I thought he desired the Match, I was for it against all the World. Now the Treaty is ended, the world shall see I never had, nor will have any affections of my own, but will wholly follow my Masters, as I have written unto you in my former Letters, and have not these four months spoken a word in the marriage. If his Majesty and the Prince will have a war, I will spend my life and fortunes in it, without so much as replying in what quarrel soever it be. And of thus much I entreat you let his Highness be informed by you. And I entreat you let me know his directions, what he will have me do, and how to behave myself, for I absolutely cast myself at his feet, which I desire to do the first thing after my landing, to the end that understanding his pleasure, I may commit no error. I beseech you to dispatch this bearer back unto me withal possible speed, though it be with not one word more, but what the Prince will have me do, wherewith I shall come muy Consolado. I understand that I have been much bound to the Prince for the procuring the 4000 l. to be paid, and for my Pension.  
I pray present unto him my most humble thanks: and I confess I have been much more comforted with that demonstration of his favour, than I can be with the money. I doubt not but at this time I shall have the effects of a real friendship from you in this particular. And so desiring to have my service remembered to my Lady Cottington, I rest  
Poitiers. Yours, etc. Bristol.  
Postscript.  
I Pray move the Prince, that one of the King's Ships may be presently appointed to waft me over; For I have a great charge of of the Princes with me.  
W. Grisly met me within 10. posts of Bordeaux, and is passed on to Madrid, I think he shall find the Blandones for his Highness in a readiness, for Mr. Stone taketh care of them, and hath the money in his hand.   

The E. of Bristol to his Majesty 27 July, 1624.  
May it please your most excellent Majesty,  
I Hope your Majesty will not be displeased that I continue unto you that most humble and just suit, which I have often made unto your Majesty, and your Majesty hath been often graciously pleased to promise, which was that I should be no ways lessened, or diminished in your Majesty's favour, and good opinion, until you should be first pleased graciously to hear me, and my Cause. And although your Majesty for just respects, hath not been pleased hitherto to admit me into your presence, which I esteem an infinite misfortune to me: Yet I hope that time will no way confirm those impressions of displeasure, which I do no way doubt, but will be fully cleared, whensoever I shall be so happy as by your Majesty to be heard. For I take God to record, that I have faithfully and honestly served you, and exactly pursued your ends to the best of my understanding, and abilities. And I do no way doubt but your Majesty will in the end protect so faithful a servant as I have been, and shall appear to be to your Majesty. And in the interim my most humble suit unto your Majesty is, that since I am neither admitted myself, nor any man else will speak any word in my defence, or justification, your Majesty according to your Justice, will let nothing that may be said of me redound to my prejudice in your gracious opinion: For it shall be found, that I will in all things wholly conform myself unto your Majesty's will and pleasure. So wishing unto your Majesty a happy journey, and a safe return with the increase of all happiness. I humbly, etc.  
London. Your Majesties, etc. Bristol.   

Here next of all follow divers Dispatches and Letters from Sir Walter Aston to the Duke.  
Sir Walter Aston to the Duke.  
May it please your Grace,  
I Have received so much comfort by the care which I see in your grace to take all occasions to honour, and favour me, that I should be glad (if it were possible) in my affection to your person, and in my desire to serve you, that your grace might see something in me above what you could find in any other servant. What an honest thankfulness can be. I am, and what an honest servant can yield you, shall be ever vigilant in me to serve you. Since the departure of the last post (by whom I wrote lately unto your Grace) my Lord of Bristol hath had audience with this King (taking me along with him) to whom his Lordship represented the King our Master's desire concerning the Palatinate in conformity to what his Majesty hath commanded by his late letters, we are now soliciting to hasten this king's answer, which we hope we shall shortly send unto his Majesty, and there is no diligence omitted by my Lord of Bristol, nor myself (that we can think on) to negotiate such an answer, as may be to his majesties good liking. The Dispatches from Rome are not yet come, but by letters which they have lately received from the Duke of Pastrana; it is advertized, that all things are concluded, and that he would send them away within a few days. By my Lord of Bristols Letter to his Majesty, your grace will understand the resolution, which his Lordship hath taken concerning his proceed upon the arrival of of the dispaches from Rome: his Lordships hath communicated with me his Majesty's Letter, and desired my opinion concerning the resolution, which he had taken, wherein I have concurred with his Lordship, not understanding it any way to be differing in substance from his Majesty's directions; the altering of the day mentioned in his Majesty's letters being only the changing it from a time when the powers are of no force, to a time when they may be of use: the putting of any thing in execution in the one time, or in the other, depending upon his Majesties, and his Highnesses further directions. I have hitherto understood, that his Majesty and his highness have really affected this match, and have laboured faithfully to second their desires with my utmost endeavours. There is none I am sure a better witness than myself of the affection which your Grace hath born unto it, which I have seen remain constant through many trials. And therefore until I understand the contrary from yourself, I must believe that your desires are the same, which I have seen them. I must ever speak my heart freely unto your Grace, and confess that upon the letter which I received from his Highness, and upon the sight of his Majesties to my Lord of Bristol, I have been jealous of his Majesty's heart and his Highness, that they are not that to the match which they have been; but these are but distrusts of my own, and not foundation sufficient to slacken or cool those diligences which I daily perform in conformity to his Majesties, and his Highness' Commands, and to what remains apparent of their desires. I shall therefore humbly desire your Lordship to open mine eyes, and if I am out of the way to let me strait, for I have no affections of mine own, but what agrees with my Masters, and will ever submit with all humility myself, and my judgement unto his Majesty's wisdom, and faithfully labour to serve him accordingly to what I shall understand to be his will and pleasure. But until I know by your Grace's favour by what Compass to guide my Course, I can only follow his Majesties revealed will; and will once take the boldness to represent unto your Grace in discharge of what I own you these Considerations, which my desire to serve you, forceth from me. I do look upon your Grace as a person infinitely provoked to be an enemy to this match, and believe, that you have had represented unto you many reasons, showing how much it concerns you to seek to break it, with all the force you have: But I can neither believe, that the error of one man can make you an enemy to that, which brings along with it so much happiness and content unto his Majesty, and his Highness: nor that your Grace's judgement can be led by those arguments, that under the colour of safety, would bring you into a dangerous labyrinth. Your Grace hath given noble testimony, how little you have valued your own safety in respect of his Majesty's service, and therefore I assure myself you would contemn all Considerations concerning yourself, that might hinder the advancement of his Majesty's ends. In the proceeding to this Match, there is the same conveniency to his Majesty, that ever hath been, there is the same Lady, the same portion, the same friendship desired, they professing here an exact complying with what is capitulated, and a resolution to give his Majesty satisfaction in whatsoever is in their power. From your Grace none can take away the honour of having been the principal means by which this great business hath been brought to a Conclusion. And whatsoever others may suggest against your Grace, the Infanta truly informed, cannot but understand you the person to whom she owes most in this business. Your Grace, and the Conde Olivarez, have fallen upon different ways, that which concerns the honour of the King our Master, being different to that, which he understood concerned most his Master, your ends were both one for the effecting of the Match, and with the Conclusion of it, he cannot but better understand you. Would your Grace would commit it to my charge to inform the Infanta what you have merited, and to accommodate all other mistakes here concerning the proceeding. If your Grace would reconcile your heart, I would not doubt, but with the Conclusion of the Match to compose all things to your good satisfaction, and to bring them to a truer understanding of you, and of their obligation unto you. In what a Sea of Confusions the breaking of this alliance would engage his Majesty, I will leave to your Lordship's wisdom to consider of, it being too large a discourse for a Letter.  
I will therefore only desire your Lordship to consider, that even the most prosperous War hath misfortune enough in it to make the Author of it unhappy: of which how innocent soever your Lordship is, the occasions that have been given you, will ever make you liable to the aspersion of it. This I writ not unto your Grace as thinking to divert you from what you are falling into; for I am confident your heart runs a more peaceable way: but I am willing, that you should see, that howsoever others should be inclined to carry you into this tempest, it concerns you, in your care of their happiness, and your own, to divert them from it. I humbly desire your Grace to pardon this error of mine (if it be one) which I can excuse with the affection, and infinite desire, which I have to see you ever happy and flourish.  
Concerning myself, your Grace knows my wants, and I doubt not but your Care is what I could wish. I should be glad when you have done with Peter Wych to see him dispatched away with some supplies unto me, which I shall be in extreme want of by Christmas, my debts besides in England being clamorous upon me for some satisfaction. I leave all to your Grace's care and favour, Ever resting  
Your Grace's humblest and most bound servant, Wa: Aston.  
Postscript.  
THe Contessa of Olivarez bids me tell you, that she kisses your Grace's hands, and doth every day recommend you particularly by name in her prayers to God.   

Sir Walter Aston to the Duke, 15. Novemb. 1623.  
May it please your Grace,  
MY Lord of Bristol intended to have dispatched away a Post unto his Majesty this night with the advice of the arrival of the dispensation, which came to this Town the 12th. of this month, hoping that he should have been likewise able to have given to his Majesty, and his Highness a clear account of all things concerning it. But the delivery of the Queen this morning (who is brought to bed of a daughter) hath stopped all negotiation, and I believe it will be these two days before he can be ready to send him away. There is no novelty (as I yet understand) that is come with the dispensation; there will be something desired for better explanation of his Majesties, and his Highness' intentions, and some omissions there are which as they understand was his Highness' intention should have been in the Capitulation, they being promised by his Highness. But I do not find that these will be any stop to the business. For they do press my Lord of Bristol very much to proceed presently to the Deposories. Your Grace shall understand all things more particularly by the next Post. I do now make the more haste, forbearing to trouble you with other occurrences, lest my Letters come short of the departure of the Post, as they did of his who was last dispatched from hence.  
I do most humbly desire your Grace to continue the doing me those offices that may continue me in his Majesties and his Highness' good opinion, and I doubt not but I shall be ever able to let your Grace see that you have not a more faithful servant, than he which your Grace hath most bound to be so, and that shall ever remain  
Yours, etc. W. A.   

The Lord Duke of Buckingham to Sir Walter Aston.  
IN your Letter of the 5th. of December, you desire me to give you my opinion, my ancient acquaintance, long custom of loving you, with constancy of friendship invites me to do you this office of good will, and to serve you according to your request. And for your more entire satisfaction, I will deliver the things in the past and present. You in all the beginning of the treaty won to yourself a good estimation, while you were only at large in the treaty, and had communication of the passages from the Lord of Bristol, as by courtesy: and in his absence handled no farther in the treaty of marriage then by direction from him. When the Prince was there, your carriage gave his Highness and myself all satisfaction. Now you must give me leave to put you in mind of the freedom used with you whilst we were at Madrid, and of the explanation, the Prince made of himself to you by his Letters from St. Anderas. From which you might observe, the resentment the Prince had of their proceed with him. And by his Highness' declaration to you from thence, you might see both his care and resolution not to engage himself into the marriage without good conditions for the Pallatinate, and Conservation of his honour every way. My care and my intentions were to move increase of honour to you, and to recompense by a good understanding to be laid in his Majesty towards you, which I pursued so soon, as I came to the King's presence. And the Prince's confidence was so great in you, as he joined you in the Commission, besides he declared himself to you by his Letters, not leaving you thereby to guess at his Majesty's directions to the E. of Bristol, which he was to communicate to you. Now you may think how strange it was to the Prince, and how much I was troubled (not being able to make your excuse) when your joint Letters made known, how you had concurred with the Earl of Bristol, to engage his Highness by prefixing a day for the Deposorios, without making certain the restitution of the Palatinate and Electoral dignity, the portion and temporal articles. Which proceeding of yours with the Earl of Bristol was so understood by the Lords of the Committee, as they took resolution once, to advise his Majesty to revoke both the Lord of Bristol, and you, upon those grounds, which you will understand by his Majesties own Letters, and Secretary Conwayes Letters written to you with this dispatch. I was not able at first by any endeavour to oppose the resolution of your revocation, so far had you cast yourself into misconstruction, and given stop to the progress of your own advancement. But with constant industry and time, I have won this point, of qualifying all ill opinion of you, and sufferance of your continuing there. So as it will be now in your power (by your Carriage) to come off without reproof. And I shall hope to overcome the rest with time, to to bring you again to the condition of honour and recompense. Being confident that since you see your own error, and acknowledge it, you will be careful by a stiff and judicious carriage to warrant all your present and succeeding actions. If you think at first sight I press you a little hard upon this point, you may be pleased to interpret it to be a faithful way of satisfying your request, and expression of my affection to have you to do all things suitable to your wisdom virtue and honour, and according to the wishes of  
Yours, etc. G. Buckingham.   

The Duke of Buckingham to Sir Wa. Aston.  
I Had not leisure in my former dispatch, being hasty to write the reason why I wondered at, the error you committed in the last dispatch of my Lord of Bristols and yours; for the matter is, that his Majesty having plainly written unto you both in his former dispatch, that he desired to be assured of the restitution of the Palatinate, before the Deposorium was made, seeing he would be sorry to welcome home one Daughter with a smiling cheer, and leave his own only Daughter at the same time weeping and disconsolate. And the Prince having also written unto you, that he never meant to match there, and be frustrated of the restitution of the Palatinate so often promised, that notwithstanding this clear Language, you should have joined with my Lord of Bristol in a resolution of so hasty a delivery of the Prince's Proxy, before you had received his Majesty's answer to your former dispatch, wherein my Lord of Bristol urged of his Majesty a harsh answer and direction, and his Majesty cannot but take it for a kind of Scorn, that within 4. days after ye had urged his Majesty's answer, ye should in the mean time take resolutions of your own heads. You may do well, because there is no leisure in this hasty dispatch for his Majesty to answer my Lord of Bristols last Letter (which will be done by the next duplicate of this same dispatch) to acquaint him in the mean time with this Letter, which his Majesty himself hath dictated unto me. And so in haste I bid you farewell.  
Yours, etc. G. B.   

Sir Walter Aston to the Duke of Buckingham, Decemb. 22. 1623.  
May it please your Grace,  
I Have commited to the trust and secrecy of this bearer Mr. Clark (whom I find your Grace's faithful servant) certain advertisements to be delivered by him unto you; which as one that shall (God willing) in all things show himself your passionate servant, I could no way conceal from you. And howsoever your Grace may have many advertisements from hence (the relations that come from England giving occasion to many discourses censuring the Prince, and your Grace) yet I hope to be so vigilant, that there shall hardly be any resolution taken by these Ministers which may have any reflection on your Person, that I shall not one way or other get notice of, and advertise unto you.  
I have in all things with so much affection desired to serve your Grace every way to your satisfaction, that it hath infinitely afflicted me, that I should have done any thing, whereby I might lessen your favourable opinions towards me, but I hope your Grace hath by this time set me strait both with his Majesty, and his Highness, and restored me to the same place in your affection, which I have formerly had. Which I am the rather confident of, since I cannot accuse any action, or thought of mine, that hath not born towards your Grace all possible respect and love. I found by experience here, that the favour which by your Grace's means I received from his Highness, and that which you were pleased likewise to honour me withal, had raised me many enemies; And I have reason to fear upon this occasion, there may be some, that well be busy to do me ill offices with you; but I trust so much upon my own sincerity, that as I never made any second means unto your Grace, but have ever singly depended upon the constancy of your goodness to me, finding myself the same that I have ever been, I make no means to resist such injuries as others may offer to do me, but continue depending wholly upon that goodness, and justness, which I know in your Grace, and which I assure myself will never fail me. I have not been so careless a Servant of your Graces, as not to have debated over, and over with myself, how far the proceed or breaking of the present treaty here might concern your Grace, which I have discoursed largely to Mr. Clark, thinking them of too large a body to be contained in a Letter, but I shall in all things submit myself to your better wisdom; And when you shall please to impart unto me, wherein his Majesty, and his Highness shall be best served, your Grace shall find in all my actions, that my affections with all obedience shall run the same way, and that my proceed, shall have those respects in them towards your Grace, as you may expect from your faithful Servant. And so, etc.  
Your G. etc. W. A.   

The Copy of a Memorial given to the King of Spain, 19 Jan. 1623. Still. Vet. Translated.  
SIR,  
SIR Walter Aston Ambassador of the King of great Britain saith, That the King his Master hath commanded him to represent unto your Majesty, that having received so many promises from hence to procure the entire restitution of the Palatinate, and Electoral dignity to the Prince his Son in Law, He commanded his Ambassador to press your Majesty with all diligence, that the said promises might take effect, not as a condition of the marriage, but desiring infinitely to see settled together with the marriage, the peace and quiet of his Son in Law, his Daughter, and Grandchilds; and having understood that this his desire hath received an interpretation far differing from his intention, hath commanded him anew for the greater demonstration of the desire which he hath to preserve the good Correspondence with your Majesty, to declare unto you, that he hath not propounded the said restitutions as a condition of the marriage, but according to that which he understood was most Conformable with the intention of your Majesty, declared by the Conde de Olivarez for the surest, and most effectual means to make the amity, which is betwixt your Majesty's firm and indissoluble, and that there might not remain any doubt or matter hereafter, that should cause dispute, he hath required that every thing might be settled under your Majesty's hand, desiring it likewise for the greater comfort of his only Daughter, and for to make the coming of that most excellent Princess of more esteem unto his Subjects, bringing with her (besides the glory of her own virtue, and worth) the security of a perpetual peace, and amity, and an everlasting pawn to his Kingdoms of the constancy, and real performance of your Majesty's promises, with such satisfaction to his hopes grounded the said promises, not as a Condition, but as the fruit and blessing of the alliance. Moreover he saith, That the King his Master hath commanded him to make this Declaration unto your Majesty, that you may know the truth and the sound intentions of his proceed, with the good end to which it aims, having renewed the powers, and deferred the delivery of them only to give time for the accomplishing, and settling that which hath been promised for the satisfying his expectations, and assuring the amity betwixt your Majesty's Persons, and Crowns; the King his Master hoping that your Majesty will likewise lay hold of this occasion, which you now have in your hand to give him full satisfaction in that, which with so much reason he desires, and therewithal a reciprocal, and everlasting blessing to both your Majesty's Crowns.   

Sir Walter Aston to the Duke, 22. of Jan. 1623. Still. Vet.  
May it please your Grace,  
HOwsoever upon the arrival of Mr. Greisley, I took the occasion of the ordinary, the day following to acknowledge unto your Grace the Comfort which I had received by your Letters; understanding by them the favour which you had done me, in diverting from me his Majesties, and his Highness' displeasure: I shall notwithstanding entreat here leave by the same means by which I received so much happiness to renew my humble, and most thankful acknowledgement unto your Grace. I most earnestly entreat your Grace to look upon me here as a servant that loves you in his heart, and that shall faithfully in all things Comply with what you can expect from such an one, and that therefore you will be pleased to preserve me still in the way, how I may serve his Majesty, and his Highness to their Content, and perform towards your Grace those offices of a servant, which may be most to your satisfaction. For I am now here in a dangerous time, in the greatest businesses, that have been treated of many years, and the bitterest storms threatening betwixt these Crowns, that have been these many ages. I have therefore no hope to save myself without I be guided by his Highness, and your Grace's trusts and care of me.  
The marquis of Ynoisa hath lately advertised hither, That he hath several times desired to have private audience with his Majesty, and hath not been able to procure any but what your Grace assists at. It is likewise advertised unto this King and his Ministers, that your Grace hath many meetings with the Sea Captains, and that your Counsels are how the War is to be made against Spain. For the avoiding of unnecessary repetitions, I do here enclosed send your Grace a Copy of my Letter to Mr. Secretary Conway, wherein you will find a relation of all things that are come to my hands at this present, that may any way have reflection unto his Majesty's service. And this is the course which I intent, and conceive most convenient to hold hereafter with your Grace, without you command me the contrary. In the said Copy your Grace will find a discourse of what hath lately passed betwixt my Lord of Bristol, and the Conde of Olivarez in the Pardo. Now that I may more fully discharge my duty, I have thought fit here to acquaint your Grace, that since the putting off of the Deposorios at a meeting that my Lord and myself had with the Conde, he did make a solemn protestation, that if the Treaty of the Match did ever come on again with effect, it should only be by his Lordship's hands, and no other. I than understood it, and still do, but for a frothy protestation, yet have held it my duty to advertise it, having passed in my hearing; the truth is, that my Lords answer was in Conformity to his last in the Pardo, every way rejecting it, saying, That he had rather be confined to any Town in Africa, then that his person should be any hindrance to the Match. Thus forbearing to trouble your Grace any farther, with my hearty prayers unto God for the continuance of his blessings unto you. I rest  
Your Graces, etc. W. A.   

Sir Walter Aston to Secretary Conway, 22. Jan. 1623.  
Right Honourable,  
BY the return of this Bearer Mr. Greisley, you will understand of the safe coming to my hands of your dispatch of the 30th. of the last month, with his Majesty's Letters therein enclosed. I do now herewithal send an account unto his Majesty of my proceed upon his Commands, which I do entreat your Honour to be pleased to present unto him, as also farther to acquaint his Majesty, that I have already spoken with divers of these Ministers, and given them such a declaration of his Majesty's good intentions in the pressing at this season for the restitutions of the Palatinate, and Electoral dignity unto the Prince his Son in Law, as I have order to do by the said Letter, but do find they are here so possessed with the ill relations they receive out of England, that I with much difficulty can scarce give them any kind of satisfaction. I have acquainted the Conde Olivarez with the answer, which your honour, and Mr. Secretary Calvert had received from their Ambassadors touching their audiences, the Conde himself having formerly acquainted me with their Complaint. His answer now was, That he understood they had acknowledged unto your Honours to have received from his Majesty in that point all kind of satisfaction, but that after you were gone the marquis of Ynoisa wrote a Letter to Secretary Calvert, telling him, that he did not well remember himself, of what had passed at his being there, but had since called to mind, that he had procured some audiences with the Prince with much difficulty. To which I answered the Conde, That it seemed the marquis was very light of his advertisements, to give such informations as might breed ill understandings betwixt Princes, and esteem them of no more Consequence, then to forget what he had advertised with so much ease. Concerning that malicious report here raised of the Prince's treating a marriage in France. I desire your Honour to let his Majesty know, that it is advertised hither out of England as a thing so certain, that there is not a Minister of State (excepting the Conde of Gondomar) that hath not given some credit unto it. I have therefore according to his Majesty's directions given such declarations touching the author and believers of it, as your Honour in his Majesty's name hath commanded me. I have likewise received by Mr. Grisly your Letter of the 31. of the last: In answer of which, all that I shall need to say here unto your Honour is, that my Lord of Bristol hath received your former Letter, acquainting him with his Majesty's pleasure concerning the same business, from whom his Majesty will receive an account thereof. This is all that I have to say to your Honour at this present touching those particulars mentioned in your Letter; I shall now here further acquaint you with such advertisements, as I conceive may any ways have reference unto his Majesty's service. My Lord of Bristol, and myself repairing some few days since unto the Pardo, having conference with the Conde of Olivarez, his Lordship acquainted the Conde with the Letters of revocation, which he had received from his Majesty, and withal desired that he would procure him licence to take his leave of the King. The Conde answered his Lordship, That he had much to say unto him by order from his Majesty, the substance of his speech was; That they had received large advertisements out of England, by which they understood the hard measure that he was there likely to suffer by the power of his enemies, and that the only crime, which they could impute unto him, was for labouring to effect the marriage, which his Master could not but take much to heart, and held himself obliged to publish to the world the good service that my Lord had done unto the King of great Britain; and therefore for the better encouragement likewise of his own and all other Ministers that should truly serve their Masters, he was to offer him a blank paper signed by the King, wherein his Lordship might set down his own Conditions, and demands; which he said he did not propound to corrupt any servant of his Majesties, but for a public declaration of what was due unto his Lordship's proceed. He said further, that in that offer, he laid before him the Lands, and Dignities, that were in his Master's power to dispose of; out of which he left it at his pleasure to choose what estate, or honour, he should think good, adding thereunto some other extravagant and disproportionable offers. My Lord's answer was, That he was very sorry to hear this language used unto him, telling the Conde, that his Catholic Majesty did owe him nothing, but that what he had done was upon the King his Master's Commands, and without any intention to serve Spain. And that howsoever he might have reason to fear the power of his enemies, yet he trusted much upon the innocency of his own Cause, and the Justice of the King, and that he could not understand himself in any danger: but were he sure to lose his head at his arrival there, be would go to throw down himself at his Majesty's feet and mercy, and rather there die upon a Scaffold, then be Duke of Infantada in Spain. On the 16th. of this month, there was declared here in Council a resolution of this King, to make a journey to his frontier Towns in Andaluzia, with an intention to begin his journey upon the 29. of this month Still. Vet. And as I am informed his Majesty will there entertain himself the greatest part of these three months following; so that his return hither will not be until the beginning of May. My Lord of Bristol hath sent divers to the Conde for leave to dispeed himself of the King, but in respect of his Majesty's being at the Pardo, he hath been hitherto delayed, and hath yet no certain day appointed for it: But I conceive it will be sometime this week. The Cause of the delaying of his Lordship's admittance to the King, as I understand is, that the same day that his Lordship shall declare his revocation to the King, they will here in Council declare the revocation of the marquis of Ynoisa. Howsoever in respect of the King's departure, (at which time they use here to embarge all the mules, and means of carriage in this Town) I believe his Lordship will not begin his journey so soon as he intended.  
All the relations which are lately come out of England do wish them to entertain themselves here with no farther hopes, that there is any intention to proceed to the Match; and this advice comes accompanied with such a report of the state of all things there, that hath much irritated all these Ministers, and let lose the tongues of the people against the proceed of his Majesty, and Highness. I labour as much as I can, and as far as my directions will give me latitude, to give them better understandings of the real intentions of his Majesty and Highness: but divers of them clearly tell me, That I profess one thing, and the actions of his Majesty and Highness (upon the which they must ground their belief) are differing from it. I shall therefore here in discharge of my duty advertise your Honour, that they do here expect nothing but a War, about which they have already held divers Counsels, and go seriously to work, preparing themselves for what may happen. Which I desire your Honour to advertise his Majesty, being high time, as far as I am able to judge, that am here upon the place, that his Majesty do either resolve upon some course for the allaying of these storms; or that he go in hand with equal preparations. Having observed in former times, the strange rumours that have run in England upon small foundations; I have thought it fit to prevent the credit which may be given to idle relations by advertising your Honour that I cannot conceive how any great attempt can be made from hence this year; howsoever businesses should go. The Squadron of the King's Fleet (under the Command of Don Fadrique de Toledo) is come into Cadiz, and joined with that which Don Juan Taxardo is Captain of. And as I am credibly informed, this King will have by the end of April between 50. and 60. Galleons at Sea. It is true that other years the number commonly falls short of what is expected, and their setting forth to Sea some month's later than the time appointed, but there is extraordinary care taken this year, that there be no default in neither.  
The chief end (that I can understand) of this King's journey being to see the Fleet of Plate come in, to take view of his Armado, and see them put to Sea. That which I understand is only left alive of the Marriage here is, that the Jewels, which the Prince left with this King for the Infanta and her Ladies, are not yet returned, but it is intimated unto me, that if the Letters which they shall receive out of England upon the answer they have given to his Majesty about the business of the Palatinate be no better, than such as they have lately received, they will return the Jewels, and declare the business of the Match for broken. I shall therefore entreat your Honour to know his Majesty's pleasure how I shall carry myself, if they be offered unto me, being resolved in the mean time until I shall know his Majesty's pleasure, if any such thing happen, absolutely to refuse them. The Princess some few days since fell sick of a Calentura, of which she remaineth still in her bed, though it be said she is now somewhat better. I will conclude with many thanks for your friendly advertizements concerning my own particular, which (God willing) as far as I can, I will observe, and do earnestly entreat you, that you will please to continue the like favours unto me, which I shall highly esteem of. And so with a grateful acknowledgement of my obligations, I rest  
Your Honours, etc. Wa. Aston.   

Sir Walter Aston to the Lord Conway.  
Right Honourable,  
I Have advertized by former dispatches, that the Parliament here had granted unto this King 60 millions of ducats to be paid in 12 years, which with 12 millions which remain yet unpaid of what was given the King at the last Session, this King was to receive 72 millions in the 12 years' next following. I shall now acquaint your Honour, that there are only 19 Cities that have voice in this Parliament, and that each of them do send hither two Provadores, (as they call them here) but these have no power finally to conclude any thing, but what is agreed on by them is to be approved of by the said Cities or the greatest number of them before it have the force of an Act of Parliament, and that therefore there hath been all possible art used to procure the Cities to confirm what hath been granted by their Procuradores touching the 60. millions; and it is here thought that one of the motives of this King's journey was, hoping by the authority of his presence to procure the consent unto the said gift of the 4. Cities which he is to pass by in this journey, namely Cordova, Sivel, Joen, and Granado, it being here doubted, that the said Cities might make great opposition to the said grant, notwithstanding his Majesty hath not had such success as was expected. But Cordova which was the first City with which his Majesty began, hath absolutely refused to give their Consent, letting his Majesty understand, though in as fair and respectful terms as they could express themselves. That it was a demand impossible for them to Comply withal. What the success of this may be is doubtful, Cordova having given but an ill example to the other Cities, and yet it is rather believed here, that the greatest number of them being under the Command of such as are either this King's servants, or absolutely under his dispose, that his Majesty will be able to overcome the business, and they are now busy how to settle the manner of the leavy of the said sum by yearly and equal portions.  
They having found here divers inconveniences in their new Government of Portugal by way of Governors, are resolved to place Vice-Kings again there. And for to gratify the Emperor have elected for that charge his third Brother Don Carlos, who is presently to make his repair thither. On the 27th. of the last month, my Lord of Bristol took his leave of the Queen and the Infanta, and on the Sunday following being the 29. of the said month, his Lordship delivered unto me the Powers which his Highness left with him, and those which have been since sent hither. His Lordship is preparing for his journey, and saith that he is already in such a forwardness, as upon the arrival here of Mr. Greisley, or any other from England, whereby he shall receive means for the taking up of moneys here, he will presently put himself upon the way. The Queen here some few days since fell suddenly ill, and swooned two or three times, but her indisposition lasted not above two or three days; Her Majesty is now (thanks be to God) very well again. The King having received advice thereof intended (as it is said) to come presently post hither, but upon better news, his Majesty proceeds in his journey, and for any thing that I can understand, it will be May before his return to this Town.  
There are lately thrown abroad in this Town divers Copies of a Proclamation pretended to be published in Ireland bearing date the 27. of January last. It hath made a great noise here, and divers of their Ministers have spoken with me about it, they conceiving it to be contrary to what hath been lately Capitulated. For my part, I have been able to give them no answer, not having yet understood from your Honour, nor any of his Majesty's Ministers, of any such Proclamation. I have seen the Proclamation as it came printed from thence, and do here enclosed send your Honour a Copy thereof, desiring you that you will acquaint his Majesty therewithal, that he may be pleased to Command therein what to his wisdom shall seem fit. To those that have spoken with me about this Proclamation (having first disclaimed the having had knowledge of any such thing) I have used discourses of mine own touching the abuses of those which are called titulary Archbishops, Bishops, etc. letting them understand here, that if those kind of people have been busy there to plant secretly their Government, they have far exceeded the favour which was promised them, and given his Majesty just cause to give order for the reformation.  
My last to your Honour was of the 7th. of February last by Albert Rivas, whom I dispatched with all diligence to you, since when I have received nothing from your Honour. I shall therefore, etc.  
Your Honours, etc. Wa. Aston.   

Sir Walter Aston to the Lord Conway, 5th. June. 1624.  
Right Honourable,  
IN a former Dispatch which I lately made unto your Honour, I sent unto you the Copy of a Letter, which I then had newly received from the Secretary Don Andreas de Prada, by which he advertised me, That the King his Master (according to what I had requested by memorial) had commanded, that all English Commodities and Manufactures (which I have long since advertized were prohibited by Prematica's published here for the reformation of abuses) should enter into these Kingdoms. I have long since performed divers diligences myself, both with the Secretary, and Precedent of Castille, for the procuring a declaration of the said order, being careful to prevent such inconveniences as the King our Master's Subjects might fall into for want thereof. But having been tossed up and down between the Secretary, and the Precedent with several delays, the one remitting me to the other. I repaired to the Conde of Olivarez (suspecting some novelty in the business) and acquainted him, that upon the receipt of a Letter sent me from the Secretary Don Andreas de Prada, concerning the free entrance of English Commodities, I had given notice by a Copy of the said Letter unto the King my Master of what was therein Commanded, and had likewise advertised the Merchants that reside in these Kingdoms of the said Order. I also gave him account of the several diligences which I had performed with the Precedent, and the Secretary, for the procuring a declaration thereof, and desired that he would presently command that there might be such course taken, that there should be no further delays used therein, since I should be loath to see the King my Master's Subjects encouraged by the said Order to repair hither with their Merchandizes, and fall into inconveniencies for want of notice given thereof unto their Ministers in the Ports. The Conde fell into discourses far from my expectation, ask me whether it was not free for any King, in his own Kingdom, to Command his own Subjects to wear what he pleased, saying further, that the English were not prohibited to bring in their Commodities, but that the King his Master might command his Subjects to spend the Bays, and other Commodities of his own Kingdoms, and not to make use of those that came from foreign parts, as to his wisdom for the good of his Kingdoms should seem best. That there should be a suspension of the execution of the said Pramatica's until St. James-tide, and no longer. To which I answered, That I made no doubt of the power, that every King had over his own Subjects; notwithstanding where it was articled betwixt two Kings, that there should be a free admittance of each others Commodities unto their several Kingdoms, and after a Command should be given prohibiting either of them unto their Subjects the making use thereof, it could not but be understood a defrauding and deluding of the Articles, and the true intention of them: but I told him I came not to dispute this now, for the Secretary's Letter had desired me to take notice of another resolution, therefore I desired, that there might be a speedy and public declaration made of what was therein signified unto me: or if there were any new resolution, that I might understand it. To which he answered (pretending that he spoke it as a freedom which he used with me) but came out with it in such a manner, as I saw he was full of it) That the truth was, that they would proceed here, as they were proceeded withal in England. That the King my Master had lately given leave to the Hollanders to transport Artillery out of England, and had denied the like to their Ambassadors having required it; which was (as he said) directly against the articles of peace, wherein it was Capitulated, That neither should assist with any kind of arms the enemy of the other. He said farther, That the English had taken Ormuh, and there was no satisfaction given concerning that business, nor appearance of any intention to do it, and concluded, That when the Articles of Peace should be observed to them, they would do the like. I told the Conde I had not understood any thing of those particulars which he mentioned, and therefore could say nothing unto him; neither thought I fit to give him any further answer, being loath in a business of this importance, where the Articles of Peace between these Kingdoms are in question, to do any thing at guess, but to advertise it to the King my Master, and to proceed according to such order as he shall please to give me. I do therefore entreat your Honour, that you will be pleased to acquaint his Majesty with what hath passed, wherein I doubt not but his Majesty will observe the distraction, and inconstancy of their proceed here at present, in Commanding, what his Majesty will have found by this Secretary's Letter, and taking presently after new resolutions. After this language which the Conde hath used unto me, I cannot expect any reason or justice here, and the Merchants have many suits depending wherein they have received great injuries, whereof I have not hitherto complained, because I was in continual hope of procuring redress, and their suits proceeded on, I cannot say as I would have wished, but according to the stile here, and in such manner as they have done in former times. I doubt not but his Majesty will therefore likewise please to consider what a stop there is likely to be here of all businesses concerning the Commerce, and either proceed as occasion shall there be offered, in the like manner, or take such a Course for settling things in better order, as to his wisdom shall seem best. I have since had some overtures made unto me, that the said declaration shall presently come out, in the mean time I would not wish, that the Merchants should adventure any thing trusting to their courtesy here. By my last unto your Honour which was of the 20th. of May, I advertized the advice which was given hither, That the galleons, that bring the Plate, were upon the way for these parts; Since when there is news of their arrival at St. Lucar, excepting two of them which perished in their journey hitherward, the one sprung a leak in a calm day, and sunk so fast, that there were only saved 52 men, the rest, which were about 200. persons, were all drowned, neither was any of her freight saved. The other was their Admirante, which corresponds with our Vice-Admiral, which likewise sprung a leak, but all the men aboard were saved, and a good part of her silver. There is lost upon Register in these two Ships three millions, and it is thought that there perished in them above a million in silver, and goods unregistered.  
Upon order that was lately sent unto the Assistente of Sevil, for the perfecting the Grant of the Millions to the King by the said City, there being doubt made whether it was a lawful Concession, or no; The Assistente called together those, that had voices in the said grant of the said Millions, and made a speech unto them, wishing a general Conformity to what his Majesty had desired of them; but the proposition was very distasteful unto the greater number, who little expected to have heard that business revived again. And the people having gotten notice upon the breaking up of that meeting of what had been there propounded, in a tumultuous manner ran after the Assistente, who was returning to his house, and hearing such a clamour behind him, thought that the people had been disquieted by some accident, and stayed to have appeased them, but by the curses which he heard, and the blows he received by the stones which were thrown at him, he quickly found against whom the fury of the people was bend, and so made all the haste he could to his own house, which at length he recovered sore wounded, and with much hazard of his life.  
The Irish Priests, and others of that Kingdom which reside in this Court, begin to grow very busy here, and do promise great matters unto this King in the assistance which his Majesty shall find in Ireland, whensoever he shall please to attempt any thing against that Kingdom; but for any thing I can learn, there hath been as yet so little ear given unto them, that they have not descended to make any particular offer. But they are treated here with much Courtesy, Tyr-Connel being made a Page to the Queen, and the rest receiving good satisfaction. I will be as vigilant as I can to trace out their steps, and I hope I shall be able to give seasonable advertizement of their proceed. Howsoever since secret Counsels may be held, and resolutions taken, which I may miss of; I doubt not but the King our Master considering the present jealousies, and distastes betwixt these Crowns, will be vigilant to secure that Kingdom, that there may be nothing neglected upon which they may here take any sudden advantage. By the English Merchants that reside in Malaga I have received advice, that 3. Scottish Masters of Ships have lately had a sentence pronounced against them by the D. of Medina Sidona, wherein their Ships and all their goods are confiscated, for having brought Holland Commodities to that Port, and their persons condemned to the Galleys; which notwithstanding their apellation unto the Council of War here, (which ought to have been admitted them) was presently put into execution. The same day that I received the advice, I gave in a Memorial to the Council of State, representing the rigorous and unjust proceeding against the said Scottish Masters, and desired that they would send their order, that the Apellation might be admitted, and that their persons might be presently returned off of the Galleys. I likewise repaired to the Conde of Olivarez, acquainting him with the proceed of the Duke, and was able to give him some examples of divers Hollanders that had been treated in the like occasion with far less rigour. Whereupon there is Command given according to what I have desired; and whatsoever shall become of their goods, I have a promise from the Conde of Olivarez, that their persons shall be treated with all Courtesy. It is published by the Ladies of the Palace, that the Queen is with Child, which hath filled this Court with much joy, and her Majesty hath so much better health now upon her being new with Child, than she hath had of the rest, that they are already here full of hopes that she will bring them a Prince, etc.  
Your Honours, etc. Wa. Aston.   

The Abstract of a Letter from Sir Walter Aston to the Lord Conway, 17. July, 1624.  
HE acknowledgeth the receipt of his Majesty's Letters of the 27. of June by Mr. Wych, and is busy in preparing to put those Directions in execution, and that being done, will give a speedy and full account. The marquis Ynoisa dispatched away a Post to Spain from Calais, and by him gave as malicious an account of his usage at his departure from England, and also of all other late passages there, as malice itself could have dictated. He omits no libels or infamous songs, nor spares his own inventions where they may serve to incense. The Credit they are like to give to their Ambassador, the height of discontent they are now in, the assurance given them of the weak and mean estate of all things in England may tempt them to offer the giving us a blow, where we are weakest. And therefore no necessary preparations for defence to be neglected on our part. None of their Armado stirs yet, but only 4. Galleons appointed to accompany for some days the Nova Espagna Fleet that put to Sea the fourth of this present.  
Sir Walter Aston doubts, that the light he hath received of the present state of things in England, and the Arguments to answer their Objections will hardly be applied to give any satisfaction. (things being in so much distemper there) And where the best answers on both sides are recriminations, he conceives little is to be expected but a direct falling out. The cause of their retarding Mendoza's coming for England hath been their desire to see the issue of the proceed with their Ambassador. All the Grandees, and principal persons of Spain are summoned to give their attendance with their arms, which is done by three Letters. 1. Admonitoria. 2. Apercibitoria. 3. Executoria. The two first are already set forth. And there is order likewise given for the Battalon to be in a readiness, which is the same as the Trained Bands in England. This is an ancient practice there upon suspicion of foreign invasion, or domestic Commotion. There are levies new making according to custom, for supplying of Garrisons; and though these Levies are greater than usually, yet not much worthy of note. An Ambassador arrived there for Denmark; his coming being given out to be to negotiate the business of the Palatinate, and to make overtures for a Peace with Holland: but if nothing be heard of this in England, it is not like to be true. A Request presented unto the King by a Consulta from the Inquisiter general, etc. to procure a Jubilee from Rome for expiation of the late great Contempt done by a Frenchman to the Sacrament. The King promiseth to do it, and he, the Queen, and the whole household will endeavour to deserve it by fasting, and other duties. In his answer to the Consulia there is a passage, that intimates his intention of looking abroad with his arms. The Frenchman was condemned, burnt publicly, and died a Roman Catholic. There have been divers processions in expression of the general grief for that action. The King, Queen, his Brothers and Sister, with the Grandees, and the Council went in procession about the two square Courts of the Palace, where there were 4. Altars built, one by the King's care, the rest by the Queen, the Infanta, Cardinal, Don Carlos, and Dona Maria, who joined in the care of one of them. The greatest riches of Diamonds and Pearls that were in the Churches thereabouts, and in the King's store were presented on those Altars, and were at ten millions. They intent to dispatch one Jaquesse Brones Secretary of the Council of Flanders, by post into England to bring Don Carlos warrant to come away, and to stay Agent in England until the arrival of another Ambassador, which will not be long. They stay the giving out of the order for the free admittance of English Merchandizes, until they see what will be done with their Ships in the Downs, etc.   

Sir Walter Aston to the Duke, 20. of Octob. 1624.  
May it please your Grace,  
I Assure myself that your Grace is very confident, that I have not only pursued the Complaint which I here made against the marquis of Ynoisa with the duty of a Minister in obedience to the King my Master's Command, but as passionately interested against his person, who maliciously attempted to slain (if it had been possible) the honour of the Prince his Highness and your Graces my noblest friend. And certainly my Lord, I should be infinitely afflicted in not having brought this business to that issue which I thirsted after, could I accuse myself of having omitted any thing, that might have sharpened them here against him: But the Conde of Olivarez with a strong and violent hand hath delivered the marquis from any exemplary punishment, which would certainly have been inflicted upon him, had he been left to the Council of State, and without care either of the King his Master's honour or engagement, hath saved the marquis, and left the envy of it upon his Majesty, if the King our Master will so please to understand it.  
In my last unto your Grace which was of the 24th. of the last month, I humbly entreated you to procure me his Majesty's leave to return into England for some few months, which suit I do here again renew unto your Grace. Howsoever in respect of this novelty in the marquis his business, I will forbear putting myself upon the way until I hear of the receipt of this dispatch: since if his Majesty shall please to give any demonstrations here of his sense of their unworthy proceed, I would be loath that those Commands should find me out of the way: with the remembrance of my duty, I rest  
Your Graces, etc. Wa. Aston.   

Sir Walter Aston to the Duke the 10th. of Decemb. 1625.  
May it please your Grace,  
THe Portugal Armado put to Sea on the 12th. of the last month Still. Vet. It consists of 22. Ships of War, 4. Victuallers, and two small Pinnaces of Advice: There goeth in it near upon 4000 Land Soldiers. From Cadiz I have now fresh advice, That Don Frederique is still in the Port, with the Fleet which he Commands, but himself and his men all embarked. That Armado consisteth of some 35. Ships of War, and about 8000. Soldiers, and both the Fleets are victualled for 8. months. That of Fortugal had first order to expect Don Frederique at the Cape St. Vincent, but hath since received command to proceed on the journey. It being now 27. days since the Fleet departed, and this remaining still in the Harbour, doth give me much cause of jealousy: especially understanding, that they have here advice, (which they give credit to) that the Troops lately delivered to Count Mansfelt are sent to succour Breda, fearing (if it be so) that they laying hold of it as a breach of the Peace (which interpretation I meet with in every discourse) should presently fall with this Armado upon some part of Ireland. I have no farther ground for this distrust, than what I have here represented, which your Grace weighing with the importance of their enterprise in hand for the recovering the Baya, and the occasions that will be given them from England, do best know what rigid judgement to make. Since I wrote my other Letter unto your Grace, (which accompanies this) I understand the French Ambassador by order from the King his Master, hath given account unto this King of the Conclusion of the Match betwixt the Prince his Highness, and Madam Christiene his Master's Sister. Whereupon this King, and the whole Court put on Galas: I conceive (howsoever I have not heard any thing thereof by any Letter unto me) that this is ground enough to Congratulate with your Grace this good beginning which I shall affectionately wish may in the success in all times prove a happiness to his Highness and a particular blessing to your Grace. The Conde of Gondomar hath newly received a Command from the King his Master (signified unto him by the Secretary Don Andreas de Prada) to put himself presently upon the way for England, which he hath answered he will obey, howsoever I believe he will keep his Christmas here. Mr. Butler whom your Grace left here placed with this King meets often with such discourses in the Palace, that as a faithful servant to your Grace, he hath no patience to bear, which he hath reason to believe will in a short time throw him out of this Court, which he would be glad to prevent, if he might have your Grace's command to return, being infinitely desirous that your Grace would dispose otherwise of him. I will conclude with the same suit for myself, there being none that hath more need of comfort from your Grace. I best know, that I have no way deserved any change or decay in your Grace's favour towards me, having not been slow in upbraiding this Nation with their obligations to your Grace, and their shameful ungratefulness, nor without a constant, and passionate desire to serve your Grace every way to your content, if your Grace's Commands would but direct me what to do, I do therefore rest confident of your care and goodness towards me. And so with my prayers to God to continue his blessings upon you, I rest  
Your Graces, etc. W. Aston.   

Dr. Williams to the Duke.  
My most noble Lord,  
IT hath pleased God to call for the Bishop of London. I am so conscious of mine own weakness and undeservings, that, as I never was, so now I dare not be a suitor for so great a charge. But if his Majesty by your Honour's mediation, shall resolve to call me to perform him the best service I can in that place, I humbly beseech your Honour to admit me a suitor in these three circumstances.  
First, that whereas my Lord of London hath survived our Lady day, and received all the profits, that should maintain a Bishop until Michaelmas, I may by his Majesty's favour retain all my own means until the next day after Michaelmas day; this is a Petition which I shall be necessitated to make unto his Majesty (if his Majesty by your favour shall advance me to this place) and injureth no man else in the world.  
Secondly, that whereas the Commissioners challenge from the Bishop's revenues a matter of 200. l. per annum, (this Bishopric being already very meanly endowed in regard of the continual charge, and exhaustments of the place) it would please his Majesty to leave in my hands (by way of Commendam) one Benefice of mine, which falls into his Majesty's dispose upon my remove, until it be determined by the said Commissioners, whether any part of the Bishop's means be due unto the Fabric. My humble suit is for Walgrave, a Benefice with Cure in North-hamptonshire, where I have laid out all my estate in temporal Lands.  
Lastly, that if it be found, that the Bishop is to join with the Residentiaries of Paul's in the repair of the Church, his Majesty would qualify me by a commendam to hold one of my own prebend's, when it shall fall to be a Residentiarie also; that if I be charged with the burden of Residentiarie, I might enjoy the profits of a Residentiarie.  
These three requests do (I confess) add unto me, but do not prejudice any one else whatsoever. I submit them and myself to your Honour's wisdom, etc.  
The names of such Ecclesiastical promotions as I now retain, and will fall to be disposed of by the King, if I should be removed.  

1. Deanery of Westminster.  
2. rectory of Dinam.  
3. rectory of Walgrave.  
4. rectory of Grafton.  
5. Prebendary of Peterborough.  
6. Chaunter of Lincoln.  
7. Prebendary of Asgarbie.  
8. Prebendary of Nonnington.  
9 Residentiaries place of Lincoln.    

Lord Keeper to the Duke, 27. July, 1621.  
My most noble Lord,  
AN unfortunate occasion of my Lords Grace his kill of a man casually (as it is here constantly reported) is the cause of my seconding of my yesterday Letter unto your Lordship. His Grace (upon this accident) is by the Common Law of England to forfeit all his estate unto his Majesty, and by the Canon Law (which is in force with us) irregular, ipso facto, and so suspended from all Ecclesiastical function, until he be again restored by his Superior, which (I take it) is the King's Majesty in this rank, and order of Ecclesiastical jurisdiction. If you send for Dr. Lamb he will acquaint your Lordship with the distinct penalties in this kind. I wish with all my heart, his Majesty would be as merciful, as ever he was in all his life; but yet I held it my duty to let his Majesty know by your Lordship, that his Majesty is fallen upon a matter of great advice, and deliberation. To add affliction to the afflicted (as no doubt he is in mind) is against the King's nature; to leave virum Sanguinum, or a man of blood, Primate and Patriarch of all his Churches, is a thing that sounds very harsh in the old Counsels, and Canons of the Church. The Papists will not spare to descant upon the one and the other. I leave the knot to his Majesty's deep wisdom to advise and resolve upon. A theume fall'n into mine eye (together with the rumour I last wrote unto your Lordship about) hath fastened me unto my bed. which makes this Letter the more unhandsome. But I will take nothing to heart, that proceeds from his Majesty, or from that King, who hath raised me from the dust, to all that I am. If the truth were set down, 1. That myself was the first mover for a temporary Keeper. 2. That his Majesty hath promised me upon the relinquishing of the Seal (or before) one of the best places in this Church, as most graciously he did. 3. The year and a halfs probation left out, which is to no purpose, but to scare away my men, and to put a disgrace upon me. 4. That my assisting Judges were desired, and named by myself, which your Lordship knows to be most true: Such a declaration would neither shame me, nor blemish his Majesty's service in my person. And it were fit a great deal, the penning thereof were referred to myself, then to Mr. Secretary, or the Lord Treasurer, who (if he had his demerit) deserves not to hold his staff half a year. I do verily believe, they will hasten to finish this act, before I shall hear from your Lordship, which if they do, God send me patience and as much care to serve him, as I have, and ever had to serve my Master; And then all must needs be well. I send your Lordship a Copy of that speech I have thought upon, to deliver at London upon Monday next at the Commission of the Subsidies: If his Majesty have leisure to cast his eye thereupon, and to give direction to have any thing else delivered, or any point of this suppressed, I would be directed by your Lordship whom I recommend in prayers to Gods good guiding and protection. And do rest, etc.   

The E. of Southhamptons' Letter to the Bishop of Lincoln.  
My Lord,  
I Have found your Lordship already so favourable, and affectionate unto me, that I shall be still hereafter desirous to acquaint you with what concerns me, and bold to ask your advice, and council; which makes me to send this bearer to give your Lordship an account of my answer from Court, which I cannot better do, then by sending unto you the answer itself, which you shall receive here enclosed. Wherein you may see what is expected from me, that I may not only magnify his Majesty's Gracious dealing with me, but cause all my friends to do the like, and restrain them from making any extenuation of my errors, which if they be disposed to do, or not to do is impossible for me to alter, that am not likely for a good time to see any other than mine own family. For myself, I shall ever be ready (as is fit) to acknowledge his Majesty's favour to me, but can hardly persuade myself, that any error by me committed, deserved more punishment than I have had, and hope that his Majesty will not expect, that I should not confess myself to have been subject to a Star-chamber sentence, which God forbidden I should ever do. I have, and shall do according to that Part of my Lord of Buckingham's advice to speak of it as little as I can, and so shall I do in other things to meddle as little as I can. I purpose (God willing) to go to morrow to Tychfield (the place of mine confinement) there to stay as long as the King shall please.  
Sir William Parkhurst must go with me, who hoped to have been discharged at the return of my Messenger from Court, and seems much troubled, that he is not, pretending that it is extreme inconvenient for him, in regard of his own occasions. He is fearful he should be forgotten. If therefore when your Lordship writes to the Court, you would but put my Lord of Buckingham in remembrance of it, you shall (I think) do him a favour. For my part it is so little trouble to me, and of so small moment, as I mean to move no more for it. When this bearer returns, I beseech you return by him this enclosed Letter, and believe that whatsoever I am I will ever be, Your Lordship's most assured friend to do you service.  
H. Southampton, etc.   

The Lord Keeper's answer to the E. of Southhamptons' Letter. 2. August, 1621.  
My Lord,  
I Have perused your Lordship's Letter, and that enclosed I return back again. And doubt nothing of my Lord Admiral's remembering of you upon the first opportunity. Great works (as I hope this will be a perfect reconciling of his Majesty's affections to you, of your best studies, and endeavours to the service of his Majesty) do require some time: They are but poor actions, and of no continuance that are Slubbered up in an instance. I know (my Lord) men's tongues are their own, nor lieth it in your power to prescribe what shall be spoken for you, or against you. But to avoid that Complacentia (as the Divines call it) that itching, and inviting of any interpretation, which shall so add to your innocence, as it shall derogate from the King's mercy, which (I speak as I would do before God) had a great cloud of jealousies, and suspicions to break through, before it came to shine upon you. This (I take it) is the effect of my Lord's exhortation, and I know it ever hath been your Lordship's resolution. How far you could be questioned in the Star-Chamber, is an unseasonable time to resolve. The King hath waved off all judgement, and left nothing for your meditation, but love and favour, and the increasing of both these. Yet I know (upon my late occasions to peruse Precedents in that Court) that small offences have been in that Court (in former times) deeply censured. In the sixteenth of Edward the second (for the Court is of great antiquity) Henry Lord Beaumout, running a way of his own about the invading of Scotland, and dissenting from the rest of the King's Council, because of his absenting himself from the Council Table was fined and imprisoned: though otherwies a most worthy and deserving Noble man. But God be thanked your Lordship hath no cause to trouble your head about these meditations. For (if I have any judgement) you are in a way to demean yourself as you may expect rather more new additions, then suspect the least diminution from his Gracious Majesty. For mine own part, assure yourself, I am your true and faithful servant, and shall never cease so to continue, as long as you make good your professions to this Noble Lord. Of whose extraordinary goodness, your Lordship, and myself are remarkable reflections. The one of his sweetness in forgetting of wrongs, the other of his forwardness in conferring of courtesies.  
With my best respect to your Lordship and my Noble Lady, and my Commendations to Sir William Parkhurst, I recommend your Lordship, etc.   

The Lord Keeper to the Duke concerning the E. of southampton. 2. Aug. 1621.  
My most noble Lord,  
I Humbly crave your pardon for often troubling your Honour with my idle Lines, and beseech you to remember, that amongst many miseries my sudden greatness comes accompanied with, this is not the least, that I can not otherways enjoy the happiness of your presence. God is my witness, the Lord Keeper hath often (not without grief of heart) envied the fortunes of a poor Scholar, one Dr. William's, late Dean of Westminster, who was so much blessed in the free accesses in that kind, as his Lordship (without a great quantity of goodness in yourself) may scarce hope for. This enclosed will let your Lordship understand, that somewhat is to be finished in that excellent piece of meacy, which his Majesty (your hand guiding the Pencil) is about to express in the E. of Southampton. It is full time his Attendant were revoked in my poor opinion, and himself left to the Custody of his own good Angel. There is no readier way to stop the mouths of idle men, nor to draw their eyes from this remainder of an object of Justice, to behold nothing but goodness and mercy. And the more breathing time you shall carve out between this total enlargement and the next access of the Parliament, the better it will be for his Majesty's service. Only remember this, that now you are left to be your own Remembrancer. Of all actions forget not those of mercy, and Goodness, wherein men draw nighest to God himself: Nor of all Persons, prisoners and afflicted joseph's: Celerity doth redouble an act of mercy. But why do I turn a Preacher of goodness unto him, who (in my own particular) hath showed himself to be composed of nothing else? Remember your Noble Self, and forget the aggravations of malice, and envy, and then forget if you can the E. of Southampton. God bless you, and your royal Guest, and bring you both, after many years yet most happily run over here upon earth, to be his blessed guests in the Kingdom of Heaven.   

The Lord Keeper to the Duke, concerning the Lord of St. Albon, October 27th. 1621.  
My most noble Lord,  
I Have received your Lordship's expression concerning the Pause I made upon the two Patents. The Proclamation of writing to the King's hand, and my Lord of St. Albon's pardon. The former I have sealed this morning in duty, and obedience to your Lordship's intimation. The latter I have not yet sealed, but do represent (in all lowliness and humility) these few Considerations by your Lordship to his sacred Majesty, wherein let your Lordship make no question, but I have advised with the best Lawyers in the Kingdom. And after this representation, I will perform whatsoever your Lordship shall direct.  
His Majesty and your Lordship do conceive, that my Lord of St. Albon's pardon and grant of his fine came both together to my hands, and so your Lordship directs me to pass the one and the other. But his Lordship was too cunning for me. He passed his fine (whereby he hath deceived his Creditors) ten days before he presented his pardon to the Seal. So as now in his pardon, I find his Parliament fine excepted, which he hath before the sealing of the same obtained and procured. And whether the house of Parliament will not hold themselves mocked and derided with such an exception, I leave to your Lordship's wisdom. These two Grants are opposite and contradictory (in this point) the one to the other.  
The King pardons in particular words, All sums of money and rewards taken for false judgements or decrees. And therefore the exception of the Parliamentary Censure (being inflicted but for the same taking of moneys and rewards) coming a good way after falleth too late in Law, and is of no force to satisfy the Lords (as I am informed) and I believe this clause was never seen in any other pardon.  
The King pardoneth in my Lord of St. Albon, the stealing away, altering, raising, and interlining of his Majesty's Rolls, Records, Briefs, etc. which are more in a Lord Chancellor's pardon, than the imbezeling of his Majesty's jewels in a Lord Chamberlains. And yet the Lord Chancellor Elsmore could not endure that clause in my Lord of Sommersets Pardon, unless he would name the jewels in particular.  
I will not meddle or touch upon those mistake which may fall between the Parliament and his Majesty, or the misinterpretation that enemies may make hereof to your Lordship's prejudice, because I see (in his Majesty's great wisdom) these are not regarded. Only I could have wished, the Pardon had been referred to the Council board, and so passed. I have now discharged myself of those poor scruples, which (in respect only to his Majesty's service, and your Lordship's honour) have wrought this short stay of my Lord of St. Albon's Pardon. Whatsoever your Lordship shall now direct, I will most readily (craving pardon for this not undutiful boldness) put in execution. Because some speech may fall of this day's speech, which I had occasion to make in the Common Pleas, where a Bishop was never seen sitting there these 70. years, I have presumed to enclose a Copy thereof, because it was a very short one.  
Your Lordship shall not need to take that great pains (which your Lordship to my unexpressible comfort hath so often done) in writing. What Command soever your Lordship shall impose upon me as touching this pardon, your Lordship's expression to Mr. Packer or the bearer shall deliver it sufficiently. God from heaven continue the showering and heaping of his blessings upon your Lordship, etc.   

The Lord Keeper to the Duke, 22. July, 1621.  
My noble Lord,  
With my truest affections, and thankfulness premised. I do not doubt but his Majesty and your Lordship do now enjoy the general applause of your goodness to the Earl of southampton. Saturday last he came, and dined with me, and I find him more cordially affected to the service of the King, and your Lordship's love and friendship, than ever he was, when he lay a prisoner in my house. Yet the Sunshine of his Majesty's favour, though most bright upon others (more open offenders) is noted to be somewhat eclipsed towards him. What directions soever his Majesty gave, the order is somewhat tart upon the Earl. The word of Confinement, spread about the City (though I observed not one syllable so quick to fall from his Majesty) his Keeper much wondered at. The act of the Council published in our names, who were neither present thereat, or heard one word of the same: yet upon my credit the Earl takes all things patiently, and thankfully, though others wonder at the same.  
Mr. Secretary signed a Petition of one Rookwood a Papist, and prisoner in the Fleet upon five several executions, that I should grant him his liberty. The King's name is used, and the mediation of the Spanish Ambassador. If I breaking rules so foully in favour of a Papist, (which I am resolved to keep strait against all men whatsoever) I shall infame myself in the very beginning. If his Majesty will have any special indulgence in this kind, I expect intimation immediately from the King, or your Lordship, and no third Person. Your Lordship will not expect from me any account of Council business, nor the setting at liberty of the late prisoners. Mr. Secretary is secret enough for imparting any thing unto me, so as I must remain in a necessary ignorance.  
There is a Country man of mine one Griffith, a suitor unto the Court for the reversion of an Auditor's place, recommended thereunto by his Master the Lord Treasurer. The place is of great Consequence for the disposing of his Majesty's revenues. The man is unfit for this, as presumptuous and daring for any place. Sir Robert Pie saith, he hath already written to your Lordship, and I doubt not of your care thereof. Doctor Lamb (the bearer) is a very sufficient, and (for aught I ever heard of him) an honest man. The King hath employed him in discovery of counterfeit Witchcrafts, in reforming of no ounterfeit, but hearty Puritans, and he hath done good service therein. If his Majesty (now in our pure air of Northhamptoushire) do not show him some favour, or grace, either by Knighting, or by using him courteously, The Brethren (having gotten out their Yeluerton again) will neglect and molest him too unsufferably. God from Heaven bless you. Remember your deanery, and Dean of Westminster, etc.   

The Lord Keeper to the Duke concerning the Earl Marshal's place, 1. Septemb. 1621.  
My most Noble Lord,  
I Beseech your Lordship to interpret this Letter well, and fairly, which no malice (though never so provoked) but my duty to his Majesty, and love to your Lordship hath drawn from me: both which respects as long as I keep inviolably, I will not omit for the fear of any man, or the loss of any thing in this world, to do any act, which my Conscience shall inform me to belong unto that place, wherein the King by your favour hath entrusted me. I received this morning two Commands from his Majesty, the one about a Pension of 2000 l. yearly, and the other concerning the office of the Earl Marshal, both conferred on the Right Honourable the Earl of Arundel. For the former, although this is a very unseasonable time to receive such large Pensions from so bountiful a King, and that the Parliament so soon approaching is very like to take notice thereof, and that this pension might (under the correction of your better judgement) have been conveniently deferred until that Assembly had been over. Yet who am I that should question the wisdom, and bounty of my Master? I have therefore sealed the same, praying secretly unto God to make his Majesty as abounding in wealth as he is in goodness. But the latter I dare not seal (my good Lord) until I hear your Lordship's resolution to these few Questions.  
Whether his Majesty by expressing himself in the delivery of the staff to my Lord of Arundel, that he was moved thereunto for the easing of the rest of the Commissioners, who had, before, the execution of that office, did not imply, that his Majesty intended to impart unto my Lord no greater power, than was formerly granted to the Lords Commissioners. If it were so, this Patent should not have exceeded their Patent, whereas it doth enlarge itself beyond that by many dimensions.  
Whether it is his Majesty's meaning, that the Patent leaping over the powers of the three last Earls, Essex, Shrewsbery, and Somerset, should refer only to my Lords own Ancestors, howard's, and mowbray's Dukes of Norfolk, who claimed this place by a way of inheritance. The usual reference of Patents being unto the last, and immediate predecessor, and not unto the remote, whose powers (in those unsettled and troublesome times are vage, uncertain, and impossible to be limited.  
Whether it is his Majesty's meaning, that this great Lord should bestow those offices, settled of a long time in the Crown, Sir Edward Zouch his in the Court, Sir George Reinel's in the King's Bench, and divers others. All which this new Patent doth sweep away, being places of great worth and dignity.  
Whether that his Majesty's meaning, and your Lordships, that my Lord Steward's place shall be (for all his power of Judicature in the Verge,) either altogether extinguished, or at leastwise subordinated unto this new Office? A point considerable, because of the greatness of that person, and his nearness in blood to his Majesty, and the Prince his Highness.  
Lastly, Whether it be intended, that the offices of the Earl Marshal of England, and the Marshal of the King's house, which seem in former times to have been distinct offices, shall be now united in this great Lord? A power limited by no Law, or Record, but to be searched out from Chronicles, Antiquaries, Heralds, and such obsolete Monuments, and thereupon held these 60 years, (for my Lord of Essex his power was clearly bounded, and limited) unfit to be revived by the policy of this State.  
These Questions, if his Majesty intended only the renewing of this Commission of the Earl Marshals in my Lord of Arundel are material and to the purpose. But if his Majesty aimed withal, at the reviving of this old office, A la ventura, whose face is unknown to the people of this age; upon the least intimation from your Lordship, I will seal the Patent. And I beseech your Lordship to pardon my discretion in this doubt, and irresolution. It is my place to be wary what innovation passeth the Seal. I may offend that great Lord in this small stay, but your Lordship cannot but know, how little I lose, when I lose but him, whom without the least cause in the world, I have irreconcilably lost already. All that I desire is, that you may know what is done, and I will ever do what your Lordship (being once informed) shall direct as becometh, etc.  
That there is a difference betwixt the Earl Marshal, and the Marshal of the King's house; See lambert's Archiron: or of the High Courts of Justice in England  
Circa Medium.  
The Marshal of England, and the Constable are united in a Court, which handleth only Duels out of the Realm, matters within the Realm, as Combats, Blazon, Armoury, etc. but it may meddle with nothing tryable by the Laws of the Land.  
The Marshal of the King's Household is united in a Court with the Seneschal or Steward, which holds plea of Trespasses, Contracts, and Covenants made within the Verge, and that according to the Laws of the Land, Vid. Artic. Super Cart. C. 3.4.5.  
We do all of us conceive the King intended the first place only for this great Lord, and the second to remain in the Lord Stewards managing. But this new Patent hath comprehended them both. This was fit to be presented to your Lordship.   

The Lord Keeper to the Duke. 16. Decemb. 1621.  
Most Noble Lord,  
I Have seen many expressions of your love in other men's Letters (where it doth most naturally and purely declare itself) since I received any of mine own. It is much your Lordship should spare me those thoughts, which pour out themselves in my occasions: But to have me and my assaires in a kind of affectionate remembrance, when your Lordship is saluting of other Noble men, is more than ever I shall be able otherways to requite then with true prayers and best wishes. I received this afternoon (by Sir John Brook) a most loving Letter from your Lordship, but dated the 26th. of Novemb. imparting your care over me for the committing of one Beeston for breach of a Decree. My Noble Lord, Decrees once made must be put in execution, or else, I will confess this Court to be the greatest imposture, and Grievance in this Kingdom. The damned in Hell do never cease repining at the Justice of God, nor the prisoners in the Fleet, at the Decrees in Chancery; of the which hell of prisoners this one, for antiquity and obstinacy may pass for a Lucifer. I neither know him, nor his cause, but as long as he stands in Contempt, he is not like to have any more liberty.  
His Majesty's last Letter, though never so full of honey (as I find by passages reported out of the same, being as yet, not so happy as to have a sight thereof) hath notwithstanding afforded those Spiders which infest that noble House of Commons, some poison, and ill constructions to feed upon, and to induce a new diversion, or plain Cessation of weightier businesses. His Majesty infers, (and that most truly, for where were the Commons before Henry the first gave them authority to meet in Parliaments?) that their privileges are but Graces and favours of former Kings, which they claim to be their inheritance, and natural birthrights. Both these assertions (if men were peaceably disposed, and affected the dispatch of the common bufinesses) might be easily reconciled.  
These privileges were originally the favours of Princes, and are now inherent in their persons: Nor doth his Majesty go about to impair or diminish them. If his Majesty will be pleased to qualify that passage with some mild and noble exposition, and require them strictly to prepare things for a Session, and to leave this needless dispute his Majesty shall thereby make it appear to all wise and just men, that these persons are opposite to those common ends, whereof they vaunthemselves the only Pat●●ns. But do his Majesty what he please, I am afraid (although herein the Lord Treasurer and others do differ from me) they do not affect a Sessions, nor intent to give at this time any Subsidy at all.  
Will the King be pleased therefore to add in this Letter (which must be here necessarily upon Monday morning) that if they will not prepare bills for a Session, his Majesty will break up this Parliament without any longer Prorogation, and acquainting the Kingdom with their undutifulness and obstinacy, supply the present wants by some other means. Or will his Majesty (upon their refusal) presently rejourn the the Assembly until the appointed 8th. of Feburary. This course is fittest for further advice, but the other to express a just indignation. I dare advise nothing in so high a point, but humbly beseech almighty God to illuminate his Majesty's understanding to insist upon that course, which shall be most behoveful for the advancement of his service. In our house his Majesty's servants are very strong, and increase every day nor is there the least fear of any Malignant opposition. God reward all your Lordship's goodness and affection towards. etc.   

The Lord Keeper to the Duke about Mr. Thomas Murrayes Dispensation, etc. 23. Febr. 1621.  
My most Noble Lord.  
I Should fail very much of my duty to his Majesty, if before the sealing of Mr. Thomas Murrayes Dispensation. I should not acquaint his Majesty explicitly, and freely, with the nature of this act, f●r differing from any dispensation in this kind, ever granted by his Majesty, since his happy coming to the Crown of England. For (to say nothing of the right of the election of this Provost, which being originally not in the King, but in the fellows, and now by their neglect devolved unto me, shall be fully and absolutely at his Majesty's command) the place is a living with cure of souls, and I am to institute and admit him to the cure of souls of the Parish of Eaten by the express Letter of the Statute; without admission, it is impossible he should receive any real or rightful possession of the same. Now that his Majesty or any of his Predecessors, did ever dispense with a Layman to hold cure of souls, I think will be hard for any man to show by any warrantable precedent, or record whatsoever. And I know his Majesty to he as much averse from giving any such precedent, as any Prince in Christendom living this day. This is altogether differing a Deanery, or an Hospital, which being livings without cure, have been, and may be justly conferred by his Majesty upon Laymen with dispensations de non promovendo. If Sir Henry Savil's example be objected, I answer, (besides that the Queen made Claim to the gift of the place by japse, occasioned through the promotion of the Provost to the Bishopric of Chichester, whereas his Majesty hath no such Claim thereunto at this time) That Savil never durst take true possession of the place, but was only slipped in by the Bishop, (who for fear of the Earl of Essex made bold with the conscience) Ad Curam et regimen Collegii, that is, to the care and government of the College. Whereas by the express words of the foundation, he is to be admitted, Ad Curam annimarum Parechianor 〈◊〉 Ecclesia Aetonianae, to the Cure of the souls of all the people of the Parish of Eton. Secondly, I hold it no Disparagement to Mr. Murray (nor do find him all together averse from the same) to enter into orders in the reign of a King so favourable to our Coat, as (Gods name be praised for it) reigns now over us. This will give satisfaction to all the Church, bring him into this place according to statute, and the foundation of that dead King, prevent such a dangerous precedent for a Layman to possess cure of souls in the Eye, and Centre of all the Realm, and by an everlasting testimony of his Majesty's Piety to the Church of England. Thirdly, what opinion this Gentleman hath of our Church government is better known to his Majestle, then to me. If he should be averse thereunto, it were such a blow unto the Church (the number of the Fellows and Students there considered) as the like were never given by public authority these 50 Years. Fourthly, howsoever his Majesty, and the Prince his Highness shall resolve thereof (at whose feet I lie to be wholly disposed) I hope it is neither of their royal intendments to transfer the Bishopric of Lincoln upon the Fellows of that house, who have rashly usurped a Power of admitting their Provost by any example seen before. Whereas all Provosts as well the Churchmen, who came in by Election, as the Layman recommonded by the late Queen, were (as the foundation exactly requires it) admitted by the Bishop of Lincoln their Diocaesand and Visitor. I hope i● was Mr. Murraies inexperience rather than neglect (never deserved by me) that directed them to this strange course; subscription, and other conformities, to be acted in the presence of the Visitor, are essentially to be required before he can be adinitted Provost of Eton. Lastly, Mr. murray hath hitherto mistaken all his course. He must be first dispensed withal (If his Majesty in his wisdom shall hold it fit) and then Elected first Fellow, and then Provost of the College (if he will come in regularly, and safely) whereas now contrary to Savils precedent, he is first Elected, and then goes on with his dispensation.  
All this I most humbly entreat your Lordship to make known to the Prince his Highness, and as much as your Lordship thinks fit thereof, to his Majesty. I will only add one note, and so end. It will be no more disparagement for Mr. Murray his Highness' Schoolmaster to enter into orders, than it was for Cox King Edward's Schoolmaster, a Master of Requests, and Privy Counsellor, to do the like, who afterwards became a worthy Prelate of this Church. I have discharged my duty to the King, Prince, and the Church of England. It remains now, that I should (as I will) religiously obey whatsoever I shall be directed in the sequel of this business.  
And so I rest, etc.  
Postscript.  
MY Lord, Mr. Murray since came unto me, to whom I shown this Letter, and told him I would send it unto you to be showed unto the King, and the Prince. I find him willing to run all courses, Priesthood only excepted. If the King will dispense with him, my Letter notwithstanding, I humbly beseech his Majesty, to write a Letter unto me, as a warrant to admit him only Ad Curam et Regimen Collegii, instead of the other words, Ad Curam animarum. I schooled him sound against Puritanisme, which he disavows, though somewhat faintly; I hope his Highness and the King will second it.   

The Lord Keeper to the Duke about the Liberties of Westminster, 6. May. 1621.  
My most Noble Lord,  
I Humbly beseech your Lordship to be a little sensible of those injurious affronts, offered without any show of equity unto this poor Liberty of Westminster. And for God's sake let me not want that protection, which not your Lordship only, but the two Cicils, and the Earl of Somerset, who neither regarded the Church, Learning, nor Honour in any measure as you do, have ever afforded every Dean of this Church. When I had (to my thinking) given the Knight Marshal full, and too much satisfaction, this day a Letter was offered to the Table (in my presence) violently pursued by the Lord Steward, and the Earl Marshal, to command this liberty, (which had stood unquestioned these 700 years) to show reason to Mr. Attorney, and Mr. Solicitor, why they prescribe against the Knight Marshal. A Course (as my Lord Precedent said openly) not to be offered to any subject of England. It is our Charter, and freehold of inheritance, to be showed only in a Court of Justice, and at the King's Bench, which we are very ready to do. And we may as well be questioned by a Letter from the Council, for all the Land we have, as for this. My Lord, the jurisdiction of this place brings not a penny to my purse, but it hath brought much sorrow to my heart, and now tears to my eyes, that I should be that unfortunate Contemptible man, who for all the King, and your Lordship's favour, and the true pains I take in answer thereunto, must be trampled down above all the Deans that lived in this place. Nor would it ever grieve me, if I had deserved it from these Lords by the least disrespect in all the world. I beseech you for the Church's sake, and your Honour's sake to be sensible hereof, and to know of the Bishop of Winchester, London, Duresm●, Mr. Packer, or Sir Robert Pie, whether ever any question hath been made to this liberty in this kind. If a Letter had been recorded to question the same, when the Lord Admiral was Steward, and the Lord Keeper Dean thereof, judge you in your Wisdom what would become thereof in future posterity, etc.   

The Lord Keeper to the Duke. Aug. 23. 1622.  
My most noble Lord,  
YEsterday upon the receipt of your Lordship's Letters of the 19th. of this instant concerning the hastening of the business of the original Writs, I sent presently for Mr. Attorney, and Mr. Solicitor, who were altogether unprovided for their parts of the dispatch, and are casually forced so to be, because three several Officers, in whose records they are to search, are now out of Town, and do not return yet these 7. days. But your Lordship shall not fail to have all things concluded 3. weeks before the Tarm, and I will (of purpose) put off all general ceiling until it be effected.  
In the mean time (your Lordship's Letter notwithstanding) it will be nothing for your Lordship's case to have Sir George Chaworth any way interested in this office of the originals; but I hold it fit to leave it (as it is in Law and Equity) forfeited for nonpayment of rent in his Majesty's hands; for upon that issue I do not doubt but my Lord of St. Albon, and Sir George will be content to hear reason.  
I have received extraordinary respects, and expressions from my Noble Lord the Lord marquis Hamilton, which doth exceedingly comfort and encourage me to go on, with some more alacrity through the difficulties of this restless place. I beseech your Lordship (who is Causa Causarum, the first Cause, that sets all these other Causes of my Comfort in Going) to take notice of the same, and to undertake this favour to be placed upon a poor honest hearted man, who would (if he were any way able) requite it. God's blessings, and the prayers of a poor Bishop over attend your Lordship, etc.  
 
Postscript.  
THe Spanish Ambassador took the alarm very speedily of the titulary Romish Bishop, and before my departure from his house at Islington, (whither I went privately to him) did write both to Rome and Spain to prevent it. 
Sir Toby Mathewes.  But I am aftaid, that Tobi● will prove but an Apocryphal, and no Canonical intelligencer, acquainting the State with this project, for the Jesuits rather than for Jesus sake.   

The Lord Keeper to the Duke about the Lord Treasurer, Septemb. 9th. 1622.  
My most Noble Lord,  
THat I neither wrote unto your Lordship, nor waited upon your Lordship since my intolerable scandalising by the Lord Treasurer, this is the true and only cause: I was so moved to have all my diligent service, pains, and unspotted justice thus rewarded by a Lord, who is reputed wise, that I have neither slept, read, written, or eaten any thing since that time; until the last night, that the Ladies sent for me (I believe of purpose) to Wallingford house, and put me out of my humour. I have lost the love, and affection of my men, by seizing upon their Papers perusing all their answers to Petitions, casting up their moneys, received by way of sees, (even to half Crowns, and two shillings) and finding them all to be poor honest Gentlemen, that have maintained themselves in my service by the greatness of my pains, and not the greatness of their fees. They are most of them ranted men, that do not serve me for gain, but for experience, and reputation. And desire to be brought to the Test to show their several books, and to be confronted by any one man with whom they contracted, or from whom they demanded any Fee at all; The greatest sum in their books is five pounds, and those very few and sent unto them from Earls, and Barons. All the rest are some 20 s. 10 s. 5 s. 2 s. 6 d. and 2 s. And this is the oppression in my house, that the Kingdom (of the Common Lawyers peradventure, who have lost I confess hereby 20000 l. at the least, saved in the parses of the Subjects) doth now groan under.  
Now I humbly beseech your Lordship to peruse this paper here enclosed, and the issue I do join with the Lord Treasurer, and to acquaint (at the least) the King, and the Prince, how unworthily I am used by this Lord; who (in my soul and conscience I believe it) either invents these things out of his own head, and ignorance of this Court, or hath taken them up from base, unworthy, and most unexperienced people. Lastly, because no act of mine (who am so much indebted for all my frugality) could in the thoughts of a devil inearnate breed any suspicion, that I gained by this office, excepting the purchase of my Grandfather's Lands, whereunto my Lord Chamberlains nobleness, and your Lordship's encouragement, gave the invitation. I do make your Lordship (as your Lordship hath been often pleased to honour me) my saithful Confessor in that business, and do send your Lordship a note enclosed what money I paid, what I borrowed, and what is still owing for the purchase.  
I beseech your Lordship to cast your eye upon the paper, and say it aside that it be not lost. And having now poured out my soul, and forrow unto your Lordship's breast, I find my heart much eased, and humbly beseech your Lordship to compassionate the wrong of  
Your most humble and honest servant, J. L. C. S.   

The Fair and Familiar Conference which the Lord Treasurer had with the Lord Keeper after some Expostulations of his own, and the issue joined thereupon, at White-Hall, Septemb. 7. 1622.  
THere is taken 40000 l. Object. 1 for Petitions in your house this year. Sol. Not much above the fortieth part of the money for all the dispatches of the Chancery, Star-Chamber, Councel-Table, Parliament, the great Diocese of Lincoln, the jurisdiction of Westminster and St. Martius le Grand; All which have resort to my house by Petitions.  
You have yourself a share in the money. Ob. 2  
Then let me have no share in God's Kingdom; Sol. it is such a baseness as never came within the compass of my thoughts.  
Ob. 3 It is commonly reported you pay to my Lord Admiral 1000 l. per mensem.  
As true as the other. Sol. The means of my place will reach to no more than two months.  
You never receive any Petitions with your own hands, Ob. 4 but turn them to your Secretaries, who take double Fees, one for receiving, and the other for delivering.  
Let the Cloisters at Westminster answer for me. Sol. I never to this day received any Petition from my Secretaries, which I had formerly delivered unto them with my own hands. This is a new fashion which my Lord hath found in some other Courts.  
Ob. 5 You sell days of hearing at higher rates than ever they were at.  
I never disposed of any since I came to this place, Sol. but leave them wholly to the Six Clarks, and Registers, to be set down in their Antiquity. Unless his Lordship means hearing of motions in the paper of Peremptories, which I seldom deny upon any Petition, and which are worth no money at all.  
You usually reverse Decrees upon Petitions. Ob. 6  
I have never reversed, Sol. altered, explained, or endured a motion, or Petition, that touched upon a decree once pronounced: but have sometimes made orders in pursuance of the same.  
You have 3. Ob. 7 Doorkeepers, and are so locked up, that no man can have access unto you.  
I have no such officer in all my house, Sol. unless his Lordship means the College Porters; nor no locks at all, but his Majesty's business, which I must respect above Ceremonies and Compliments.  
Object. 8 You are cried out against over all the Kingdom for an unsufferable oppression and grievance.  
His Lordship (if he have any friends) may hear of such a Cry, Sol. and yet be pleased to mistake the person cried out against.  
All the Lords of the Council cry out upon you, Ob. 9 and you are a wretched and a friendless man, if no man acquaints you with it.  
I am a wretched man indeed if it be so. Sol. And your Lordship (at the least) a very bold man if it be otherwise.  
I will produce particular witnesses, Ob. 10 and make all these Charges good.  
I know your Lordship cannot, and I do call upon you to do it, Sol. as suspecting all to be but your Lordship's envy and malice to that service of the Kings, and ease of his Subjects, which God hath enabled me to accomplish, and perform in this troublesome Office.  
J. L. C. S.   

The Lord Keeper to the Duke, 21. of September. 1622.  
My most noble Lord,  
MY Lord Brook diswarning me (from his Majesty) from coming to Theobalds' this day, I was enforced to trouble your Lordship with these few lines. My most humble thanks for your Lordship's most free, and most loving Letter, I do willingly confess my error, yet still of the mind, that your Lordship only, who justly taxed it, hath made it to be an error. If your love to me had not exceeded all reason, and desert of mine, my complaints were not effects of melancholy, but of a real suffering, and misery. I do confess (and rest satisfied withal) that his Majesty's Justice, and your Lordship's love are anchors strong enough, for a mind more tossed than mine is, to ride at. Yet pardon me, my Noble Lord, upon this Consideration, if I exceeded a little in passion, the natural effect of honesty, and innocency. A Churchman, and a woman, have no greater Idol under heaven, than their good name. And yet they cannot fight at all. Nor with credit, scold, and least of all recriminate, to protect and defend the same. Their only revenge left them, is to grieve, and complain.  
My misery I took to be this. I am one of those that labour in his Majesty's Cole-mines under the earth, and out of sight. My pains from five a clock in the morning to 10. or 12. at night are restless, and endless, but under earth, and out of his Majesty's sight. What other men do (or but seem to do,) it is ever before the King's face, and if his Majesty will not look on it, if he hath ears about him, he shall be told of it so often by the parties themselves, that he must hear of it whether he will or no.  
And as my service (by this remoteness is hidden from the King, so is it liable to be traduced to the King, and my relief (as in dispatching the motions of poor men by Petitions allowable to my orders,) made to be a Grievance to the Common Wealth. But in all these fourteen days (wherein by the voice of the City, I have remained a prisoner in my house,) where is that one party grieved, that hath troubled his Majesty with Complaints against me? Only my Lord Marshal hath dealt with my noble Lord marquis Hamilton, my Lord of Carlisle, my Lord Treasurer (as your Lordship may soon know by ask the question) to make a faction to disgrace the poor Lord Keeper, who never dreamt thereof.  
Sir Gilbert Haughton hath complained to my Lord Treasurer of my men for taking, (Hugh Holland was by and heard him;) If your Lordship do but ask him his reason, I think it will appear how well grounded their complaints be. Upon those two former Anchors I will therefore rest, and that so far from Cowardliness, that I will either challenge them before his Majesty to make good their suggestions, or else (which I hold the greater valour of all, and which I confess I wanted before this check of your Lordships) go on in my Course, and scorn all these base, and unworthy scandals as your Lordship shall direct me.  
I have sent a Copy of a Letter of mine to my Lord Anan, which his Majesty hath seen, and given his assent it should not be kept private; yet I would humbly crave your Lordship's opinion thereof (by Mr. Packer) before any Copy goeth from me.  
I am ever, etc.   

The Lord Keeper to the Duke. 12th. Octob. 1622.  
My most Noble Lord,  
I Will speak with the Jesuit to morrow, and deliver him his admonition from the King, but do send your Lordship here enclosed a Copy, of the Conference which I procured from him without his privity, only to make his Majesty, and your Lordship merry. I have also received a Letter concerning the French Ambassador which I will be ready to put in execution as your Lordship's servant, and Deputy but not otherwise. Yet your Lordship will give me out of that freedom (which was wont to be well interpreted by your Lordship) to let your Lordship understand, that I find all businesses of restitution of ships, and goods thus taken, to have been handled before the Council in Star-chamber all the reigns of Henry 7th. and H. 8th. without any contradiction of the Lord Admiral for the time being. But this to your Lordship in secret. I will be very careful of the Earl of Desmond, that neither his cause, nor your Lordship's reputation shall suffer thereby. And this is the account I can yet give of your Lordship's Letter, save that I humbly expect that answer, which your Lordships own Luckie hand hath promised in the postscript of one of them. I would ease your Lordship in this place, but to prevent complaint that (peradventure) may be first invented, and then presented. Your Lordship shall hear of a long narrative of our Council Table dispatches. That passage of our letter, which (as it now goeth) doth hope that his Majesty will spare to confer any suits of moment in Ireland until the return of the Irish Committee, was a blunt request to the King, to grant no suits there without our advice. Against this (concluded in my absence the first day of the Term) I spoke first to the Prince privately (who allowed of my reasons) then (when the Precedent would not mend it) at the Table openly, that I did utterly dislike we should tutor his Majesty, how to grant suits especially in Letters, that are to remain upon record. My Lord of Cantuar and the, Earl Marshal said, they had many Precedents in that kind. I answered, I knew they had none but in the King's time, and that I wished them (as I do) all torn out of the book and cast into the fire. I concealed my reasons, which now I will reveal unto your Lordship, because this is the third time, I have expressed unto your Lordship under my hand, my dislike of this kind of Limiting his Majesty otherwise then by word of mouth. First if his Majesty (which we see so often done) shall dispose of these suits otherwise, here are so many records remaining to malicious litious men to observe his Majesty's averseness from following the advice of the Council board.  
Secondly, if your Lordship shall procure any suit in this kind here are records also in time to come, that you cross and thwart the government of the Kingdom. And I pray God this be but mine own jealousy. The passage in the Letter with my Prating, and his Highness' help was altered, and for fear of misreporting, I make bold to relate the truth hereof to your Lordship.  
My Lords proceeded very resolutely in those reformations, which concerned other men. The Commission of fees enables the Committees to call before them all the Judges, as well as their under Officers (which was more than the King expressed at Hampton Court) amongst whom, the Lord Keeper is one, who from the Conquest to this day, was never subjected to 〈◊〉 call of any power in the Kingdom, but the King and the Parliament. And although I have not one Penny of Fee, which hath not continued above one hundred years, yet for the honour of the Prime place in the state (though now disgraced by the contemptibleness of the Officer) I am an humble suitor unto your Lordship, that my Person may be exempted from the command of Sr. Edwin Sandys, or indeed any man else, besides the King my Master. Otherwise I shall very patiently endure it, but the King hereafter may dislike it. The Justices of the Peace are also appointed, but (if the Judges and myself be not utterly deceived) to no purpose in the world, nor service to his Majesty. But when their Lordships came to surrender the under Leiutenantships to his Majesty's hands, whom the Lord Precedent, and I held fit to be created henceforward by several Commissions under the Great Seal, it was stiffly opposed, and stood upon, that the King should name them in their Lordship's Commissions only (according to a Precedent in the late Queen's time) that is, the King shall have the naming, but they still the appointing of them. And now it was pressed, that his Majesty intended not to disgrace his Lords &c: and your Lordship is to have a Letter from Mr. Secretary to know his Majesty's mind herein. If his Majesty shall not ordain them to be created by several Patents, it were better a great deal they should continue as they do. I am very tedious in the manner and (peradventure) in the matter of this Letter I humbly crave pardon etc.   

Passages between the Lord Keeper and Don Francisco.  
HE was very inquisitive if I had already, or intended to impart. what he had told me the night before in secret, to any man, to the which he did add a desire of secrecy.  
Because 

1. The King had charged him and the Friar to be very secret.  
2. The Ambassadors did not know that he had imparted these things unto me.  
3. The Popes were secret instructions which they gave to the Friar to urge and press the same points, which himself had done to the King.    
He confessed, that the greatest part of the Friar's instructions were to do all the worst offices he could against the Duke, and to lay the breach of the marriage, and disturbance of the peace upon him.  
He excused the bringing the Copy of that paper unto me, because the marquis had it yet in his custody, but said he would procure it with all speed. I desired him to do it, the rather because, besides my approbation of the form, and manner of the writing; I might be, by it, instructed how to apply myself, to do his Majesty service therein, as I found by that Conference, his Majesty's bent, and inclination.  
He having understood, that there was, though a close, yet an indissoluble friendship betwixt the Duke and myself, desired me to show some way, how the Duke might be won unto them, and to continue the peace. I answered I would pursue any fair course, that should be proposed that way; but for myself, that I never meddled with matters of State, or of this nature, but was only employed (before this journey of the Prince's) in matters of mine own Court, and in the Pulpit.  
He desired to know if they might rely upon the King, whom only they found peaceably addicted; otherwise they would cease all mediation, and prepare for War. I answered, That he was a King that never broke his word, and he knew what he had said unto them.  
He commended much the courage and resolution of the Lord Treasurer, which I told him we all did, as a probable sign of his innocency.  
He said that the marquis had dispatched three Curreos, and expected large Propositions from Spain to be made unto his Majesty, concerning the present restitution of the Palatinate. And that if this failed, they were at an end of Treaty, and the Ambassadors would forthwith return home.  
11th. April, 1622.   

The Lord Keeper to the Duke.  
May it please your Grace,  
I Received your Grace's Letter by Mr. Killigrew, so full of that sweetness, as could never issue from any other Fountain, than that one breast so fraught with all goodness, and virtue; Dick Winne may write freely, (as he talks) but alas! what can my wretched self perform, that should deserve the least acknowledgement from him, to whom I own so infinitely much more than the sacrificing of my life amounts to? only my love makes me sometimes write, and many times fear, fond and foolishly, for the which I hope your Grace will pardon me. I have been frighted more about three weeks since (about quarrels and jars, which now Dick Greyhams hath related in part unto the King) then at this present, I am. For God's sake be not offended with me, if I exhort you to do that, which I know you do, to observe his Highness with all lowliness, humility, and dutiful obedience, and to piece up any the least seam-rent, that heat, and earnestness might, peradventure, seem to produce. I know (by looking into myself) these are the symptoms of good natures. And for God's sake I beg it, as you regard the prayers of a poor friend, if the great negotiation be well concluded, let all private disagreements be wrapped up in the same, and never accompany your Lordships into England, to the joy and exultation of your enemies, if any such ingrateful Devils are here to be found: I am in good earnest, and your Lordship would believe it, if your Grace saw but the tears, that accompany these lines.  
I beseech you, in your Letter to the marquis Hamilton, intimate unto him your confidence, and reliance upon his watchfulness, and fidelity in all turns, which may concern your Grace. I have often lied unto his Lordship, that your Grace hath in many of my Letters expressed as much, and so have pacified him for the time. If we did know, but upon whom to keep a watchful eye for disaffected reports concerning your service, it is all the intelligence he and I do expect. His Majesty (as we conceive) is resolved to take certain oaths, which you have sent hither, and I pray God afterward no farther difficulties be objected. I have had an hours discourse with his Majesty yesterday morning, and do find him so disposed towards your Lordship as my heart desireth; yet hath been informed of the discontentments both with the Conde de Olivarez, and the Earl of Bristol. Here is a strange Creation passed of late, of a Vice-Counteship of Maidenhead, passed to the Heirs Males, who must be called hereafter Vice-Countesse Fynch. But my Lady Duchess hath the Land, and (as they say) hath already sold it to my Lord Treasurer, or shared it with him. I stayed the Patent until I was assured your Lordship gave way thereunto.  
My good Lord, because I have heard, that they have in those parts a conceit of our church, as that they will not believe we have any Liturgy, or Book of common prayer at all, I have (at mine own cost) caused the Liturgy to be translated into Spanish, and fairly Printed, and do send you by this bearer a Couple of the Books, one for his Highness, the other for your Grace. Not sending any more unless your Grace will give directions. His Majesty was acquainted therewith, and alloweth of the business exceedingly. The Translator is a Dominican, a zealous Protestant, and a good Scholar, and I have secured him to our Church, with a Benefice, and a good Prebend. Because we expect every day the dispatching of Sr. Francis Cottington thitherward, I will not trouble your Grace farther at this time, but do earnestly pray unto God to bless your Grace both now and ever hereafter with all his favours and blessings spiritual and temporal.  
And rest etc.   

The Lord Keeper to the Duke, 30. Aug. 1623.  
My it please your Grace,  
I Have no business of the least Consideration to trouble your Grace withal at this time, but that I would not suffer Mr. Greyham to return without an expression of my respect and obligation. I would advertise your Grace at large of the course held with our Recusants, but that I know Mr. Secretary is enjoined to do so, who best can. His Majesty at Salisbury having referred the suit of these Ambassadors to the Earl of Carlisle, and Mr. Secretary Conway, sent (by their resolutions) some articles unto us (the Lord Treasurer, Secretary Calvert, Sir Richard Weston and myself) to this effect.  
1. To grant a pardon of all offences past, with a dispensation for those to come to all the Roman Catholics, obnoxious to any laws made against the Recusants.  
2. And then to issue forth two general Commands under the Great Seal, the first to all the Judges, and Justices of the Peace, and the other to all Bishops, Chancellors and Commissaries not to execute any Statute made against them.  
Their general pardon we have passed, and sent unto his Majesty (from whence it is not returned) in as full and ample manner as they could desire, and pen it. The other general and vast prohibition. I prevailed with the rest of the Lords to stop as yet, and gave (in three day's conference) such reasons to the 2. Ambassadors, that (although it is no easy matter to satisfy the Caprichiousnesse of the Latter of them) yet they were both content it should rest until the Infanta had been six Months in England. My reason, if it may please your Grace, was this. Although this general favour, and connivance, whereof there are 20. of the Prime Council know nothing as yet, must at last be known to all the Land: yet is there a great difference between the publishing thereof A Golpe, at one push, as it were, and that instilling of it into their knowledge by little, and little by reason of favours done to particular Catholics. The former course might breed a general impression, if not a mutiny. This Letter will but loosen the tongues but of some few particulars, who understand of their neighbour's pardon, and having vented their dislikes, when they have not many to Sympathize with them, they grow cool again, so as his majesty afterwards may enlarge these favours without any danger at all.  
Secondly, to forbid judges (against their oaths) and Justices of the Peace (sworn likewise) to execute the law of the Land, is a thing (unpresidented in this Kingdom et Durus Sermo a very harsh and bitter pill to be digested upon a sudden, and without some preparation. But to grant a pardon, even for a thing that is Malum in se, and a dispensation with Penal Laws (in the profit whereof the King only is interested) is usual and full of precedents, and examples. And yet is this Letter only tending to the safety, the former but to the glory and insolency of the Papists, and the magnifying the service of the Ambassadors ends too dearly purchased, with the endangering of a tumult in three Kingdoms.  
Thirdly and Lastly, his Majesty useth to speak to his Bishops, Judges and Justices of the peace, by his Chancellor, or Keeper (as your Grace well knoweth) and by his Great Seal; and I can signify his Majesty's pleasure unto them, with less noise and danger, which I mean to do hereafter, (if the Ambassadors shall press it,) to this effect, unless your Grace shall (from his Highness, or your own judgement) direct otherwise.  
That whereas his Majesty being at this time to mediate for favour to many Protestants in foreign parts, with Princes of another religion, and to sweeten the entertainment of the Princess into this Kingdom, who is as yet a Roman Catholic, doth hold a mitigation of the rigour of those laws made against R●…nts, to be a necessary inducement to both those purposes, and hath therefore issued forth some pardons of Grace, and favour to such Roman Catholics, of whose faithfulness and fidelity to the state he rests assured. That therefore you the Lords, Bishops, Judges, and Justices, (each of those to be written unto by themselves) do take notice of this his Majesty's pardon, and dispensation, with all such penal Laws, and demean yourselves accordingly, etc.  
Thus have I been too tedious and troublesome unto your Grace, and Crave your pardon therefore, and some directions (which you may cause Sir Francis Cottington or some other to write, without your Grace's trouble) if there shall appear any cause of alteration. Doctor Bishop, the new Bishop of Chalcedon is come to London privately, and I am much troubled thereabouts, not knowing what to advise his Majesty in this posture, as things stand at this present. If you were shipped (with the Infanta) the only Council were to let the Judges proceed with them presently, hang him out of the way, and the King to Blame my Lord of Cantuar: or myself for it. But before you be shipped in such form and manner I dare not assent or Connive at such a course. It is (my gracious Lord) a most insolent Part, and an offence (as I take it) Against our common Law (and not the statutes only which are dispensed withal,) for an English man to take such a consecration without the King's consent, and especially to use any Episcopal Jurisdiction in this Kingdom without the royal assent, and Bishops, have been in this State put to their fine, and ransom for doing so three hundred years ago.  
I will cease to to be further troublesome and pray to Almighty God to bless your Grace, and in all humbleness take my leave, and rest etc.   

The Lord Keeper to the Duke, 14th. of October, 1621.  
My most Noble Lord,  
I Humbly thank your Lordship for your most sweet and loving Letter, which (as Sir George Goring could not but observe) hath much revived me droo●ing under the unusual weight of so many businesses. Let God suffer me no longer to be, than I shall be true, plain, faithful and affectionately respectful of your Lordship, as being most bound unto your Lordship for these so many fruits, but far more for the tree that bore them, your love and affection.  
If your Lordship shall not think it inconvenient, I do beseech your Lordship to present this Petition enclosed, either by word or writing unto his Majesty, and to procure a speedy dispatch thereof, because we are to meet on Thursday next. Also to acquaint his Majesty, that I stumble at the Proclamation (now coming to the Seal) against any, that shall draw, or present any bill for his Majesty's signature, besides those Clarks which usually draw them up, by virtue of their places. It is most prejudicial to my place, the Lord Treasurer, and the Judges itinerant who are often occasioned to draw up, and present to his Majesty divers matters, and especially pardons of Course. It is also too strong a tie upon your Lordship's hands; being intended by his Majesty against Projectors and Scriveners only. If it shall please his Majesty therefore to make an exception of the Lords of his Council, and Judges of Assize, it may pass to the contentment of all men. Mr. Attorney saith he meant this exception, but I find it not sufficiently expressed in the Proclamation.  
Also I humbly beseech your Lordship to meddle with no pardon for the Lord of St. Albon, until I shall have the happiness to confer with your Lordship; the pardoning of his fine is much spoken against, not for the matter, (for no man objects to that) but for the manner, which is full of knavery, and a wicked precedent. For by this assignation of his fine, he is protected from all his Creditors, which I dare say was neither his Majesties, nor your Lordship's meaning.  
I have presumed to send your Lordship a true Copy of that speech, which I made at Westminster Hall at my entrance upon this office; because somewhat was to be spoken at so great a change, and alteration in so high a Court; And I was never so much troubled in my life, not how, but what to speak. I humbly crave pardon, if I have failed in points of diseretion, which a wiser man (in such a case) might easily do.  
With my heartiest prayers unto God to continue all his blessings upon your Lordship, I rest deservedly, etc.  
 
Postscript.  
MY Lord, I find my Lord Treasurer affectionately touched with removing from the Court of Wards; and do wish with all my heart, he may have contentment in that, or any thing else, but orderly, and in a right method. Let him hold it but by your Lordship's favour, not his own power, or wilfulness. And this must be apparent, and visible: Let all our greatness depend (as it ought) upon yours, the true original. Let the King be Pharaoh, yourself Joseph, and let us come after as your half-brethrens. God bless you, etc.   

The Lord Keeper to the Duke, concerning Sir John Michael, 8. Aug. 1622.  
My most noble Lord,  
IN the cause of Sir John Michael, which hath so often wearied this Court, vexed my Lady your Mother, and now flieth (as it seemeth) unto your Lordship, I have made an order the last day of the Term, assisted by the Master of the Rolls, and Mr. Baron Eromley in the presence, and with the full consent of Sir John Michael, who then objected nothing against the same; but now in a dead vacation, when both the adverse party, and his Council are out of Town, and that I cannot possible hear otherwise then with one ear, he clamours against me, (most uncivilly,) and would have me contrary to all conscience and honesty reverse the same. The substance of the order is not so difficult and intricate, but your Lordship will easily find out the equity or harshness thereof.  
Sir Laurence Hid makes a motion in behalf of one Strelley (a party whose face I never saw,) that whereas Sir John Michael had put a bill into this Court against him, and one Sayers, five years ago for certain Lands and Woods, (determinable properly at the Common Law) and having upon a certificate betwixt himself, and Sayers, without the knowledge of the said Strelley, procured an injunction from the last Lord Chancellor for the possession of the same, locks up the said Strelley with the said injunction, and never proceeds to bring his cause to hearing within five years.  
It was moved therefore, that either Sir John's bill might be dismissed to a trial at the Common Law, or else that he might be ordered to bring it to hearing in this Court, with a direction to save all wastes of Timber trees (in favour of either party, that should prove the true owner) until the cause should receive hearing.  
Sir John being present in Court, made choice of this last offer, and so it was ordered accordingly. And this is that order, that this strange man hath so often, of late, complained of to your Mother, and now, as it seemeth, to your Lordship. God is my witness, I have never denied either justice, or favour (which was to be justified,) to this man, or any other, that had the least relation to your good and most noble Mother. And I hope your Lordship is persuaded thereof. If your Lordship will give me leave (without your Lordship's trouble) to wait upon you, at any time this day, your Lordship shall appoint, I would impart two or three words unto your Lordship, concerning your Lordships own business.  
Remaining ever, etc.   

The Lord Keeper to the Duke.  
May it please your Grace,  
NOw that I understand by Sir John Hipsley how things stand between your Grace and the Earl of Bristol; I have done with that Lord, and will never think of him otherwise, then as your Grace shall direct. Nor did I ever write one syllable to that effect, but in contemplation of performing true service to your Grace.  
I was much abused in the Lady Hennage her Vice-Counteship, being made to believe, it was your Grace's act, or else I had stayed it finally, (until the Prince's return) as I did for a time. If your Grace will give any directions in matters of that nature, I can pursue them. My Lord Treasurer's sons Wardship is a thing of no moment at all, and not worthy your Graces thinking of. And in good faith as far as getting, and Covetousness will give him leave, I do not see, but that Lord is (since your absence) very respective of your Grace, especially in your own person, and affairs. I never received any answer from your Grace concerning the Provostship of Aeton, nor was it good manners for me to press for the same, because in my Letters I did presume to name myself. The place is mine to bestow for this time, and not his Majesties, nor the Colleges. But I do very willingly reserve the Collation of the same, to be disposed as your Grace shall please. Yet this will be a sufficient answer to any former promise, or any reasonable Competitor.  
His Majesty (as your Grace best knoweth) promised me at the delivery of the Seal a better Bishopric, and intended it certainly, if any such had fallen. My Charge is exceeding great, my Bribes are very little, my Bishopric, Deanery, and other Commendams do not clear unto me above one thousand pounds a year at the uppermost. It hath pleased God, that the casualties of my office, (which is all the benefit of the same, and enriched my Lord Elsmor,) hath not been worth to me these two years past one shilling. It may mend when it pleaseth God.  
I leave all these, and myself, who am your Vassal, at your Lordship's feet, and do rest, etc.  
Your Graces, etc. J. L. C. S.  
Postscript.  
MAy it please your Grace, I troubled his Highness with a long relation of the Consulto we had about his Majesty's taking of the Oath. Which I had written to your Grace, and not to his Highness, but that I was frighted by great men, that I had done his Highness a displeasure in pressing his Majesty's assent unto the same. And I protest I was so poorly accompanied in my opinion, that I was truly afraid I had not done well. And therefore I took occasion to write my reasons at large unto the Prince. Which I heard by Sir John Hipsley from your Grace was well taken. I humbly thank your Grace, who I know forwarded the same. And so I perceive by a Letter from his Highness so full of sweetness, as I am overwhelmed.  
J. L. C. S.   

The Lord Keeper to the Duke. 6. January. 1623.  
May it please your Grace,  
Done Francisco being with me this night, about a pardon for a poor Irish man, whom I reprieved from execution, at the suit of those Gentlemen of Navarra, which are here with the marquis, let fall by a kind of supposition (affirming the matter to be as yet in the womb, and not fully shaped, and digested) words to this effect.  That if the King of Spain should make a double marriage with the second Brother of France, and his Sister, and bestow the Palatinate as a Dower upon his sister, in what case were we then? 
I answered, That we should be then, in no worse case (for aught I knew) than we are now: but that Germany might be in a far better case. Peradventure it was but a word let fall to terrify me withal.  
But your Grace may make that use of it, as to understand the language, if your Grace shall hear any mention thereof hereafter. I am very glad, and do give God thanks par le mejora de su hijucla hermosissima. And do rest, etc.  
Surely the French Ambassador is secret and more suspected then formerly by the People.   

Mr. John Packer to the Lord Keeper, 21. January, 1623.  
May it please your Lordship,  
SInce my coming hither, finding my Lord at good opportunity, I have acquainted him in what perplexity I found your Lordship at my coming from Westminster, and upon what reason. And though I am sorry I can make no comfortable relation of his answer, yet because it so much importeth your Lordship to know in what terms you stand, I could not conceal it from you, being agreeable to those reports your Lordship hath already heard, saving that his Grace told me, he doth not seek your ruin (as some others had related) but only will hereafter cease to study your fortune, as formerly he hath done; and withal added the reason, that your Lordship hath run a course opposite to him, which though he had cause to take ill at your hands, yet he could have passed it over, if it had been out of conscience, or affection to his Majesty's service, or the Public good, but being both dangerous to your country, and prejudicial to the cause of religion (which your Lordship above all other men should have laboured to uphold) he thought, he could not with reason continue that strictness of friendship, where your Lordship had made such a separation, especially having divers times out of his love to you, assayed to bring you into the right way, which once you promised to follow; but the two last times you met in Council, he found, that you took your cue just as other men did, and joined with them in their opinions, whose aim was to tax his proceed in the managing of the Prince's business. But instead of laying it upon him, they did no less, then throw dirt in the Prince's teeth. For either they would make him a minor, or put the refusal of the Lady upon his Highness, and to lay an aspersion upon his carriage there. His Lordship's Conclusion with me was, that for any carriage of his, he desireth no other favour, but that the greatest Council in England may be judge of it, and the like he wisheth for other men's actions. Yet I did what I could to persuade his Grace to expostulate the matter with your Lordship, which he told me, he would no more do, having done it already, but found no other satisfaction, but that by your practice you rejected what he had said, and besides, divulged what had passed between you, as he evidently perceived meeting with it among others. Whereby you gained only thus much, that they esteemed of you, as of a man fit, by reason of your passion, to set all on fire, but held you not worthy of trust, because you, that would not be true to him, would never be so to them.  
My Lord, this is a part I would never have chosen, but being imposed by your Lordship, I could do you no better service then faithfully, and plainly to discharge it, leaving the use to your Lordship's wisdom, and ever resting  
Your Lordship's most humbly at command, J. P.   

The Lord Keeper to the Duke. 2. Feburary, 1623.  
May it please your Grace,  
NOt presuming to write unto your Grace being so offended at me, but resolved with sorrow, and Patience, to try what I was able to suffer, without the least thought of opposition against your absolute pleasure; his Highness hath encouraged, and commanded the contrary, assuring me (which I cannot repeat again without tears) that upon his credit, your Grace neither did, nor doth conceive any such real distaste against me, but did only suspect I had conceived his Highness' mind in that full manner, which his Highness himself, is now fully satisfied. I did not. In the which error, and mistake of the Prince his resolution, for want of conference with your Grace, or some other, I did (as I freely confessed) offend his Highness, but not your Grace at all. Being ever resolved to stand, or fall (though diversified in opinion) Your Grace's most faithful and constant servant. I humbly therefore beseech your Grace first to receive back this enclosed Letter of Mr. Packers, and to burn the same, then to receive my soul in gage and pawn.  
1. That I never harboured in this breast one thought of opposition to hurt your Grace from the first hour I saw your face.  
2. I never consulted (much less practised) with any Lord of that Committee to vote on the one or the other side.  
3. I do not know that Lord in England, that hath any design against your Grace, and when I shall know any such, whosoever it be, I shall be his enemy as long as he continueth so unto your Grace.  
4. I do not know (nor do I believe,) but that your Grace stands as firm in his Majesty's favour, and in his Highness as ever you did in all your life.  
5. I never made the least show of siding with any opposite Lord unto your Grace, and I defy any man, that shall avow it.  
6. I never divulged your Graces, or the secrets of any man.  
In the next place, I do most humbly and hearty crave your Grace's pardon, for suspecting (that is the utmost of my offence), so true, real, and Noble a friend. Yet that I may not appear a very beast, give me leave once to remember and ever after to forget, the motives, which drew me so to do. And I will do it in the same order they came into my head.  
1. Your Grace's charge upon me at York house, that I was a man odious to all the world.  
2. Michel's Voluntary Confession, that my Lord Mandevil shown him a Letter from Spain, avowing, that the first action your Grace would embark yourself in, should be to remove me our of this place, which the least word of your mouth unto me, is able to do.  
3. A report of the Venetian Ambassador, that amongst others, your Grace intended to sacrifice me this Parliament to appease the dislike of immunities exercised towards the Catholics.  
4. Your Grace's motion unto myself concerning my place (which now I absolutely know proceeded out of love) at Whitehall.  
5. A most wicked lie, that one told, he heard your Grace move his Highness to speak unto me to quit my place, after your Grace's professions of friendship to me.  
6. Mr. Secretary Conwaies and my Lord Carlile's estrangedness from me, which I suspected could not be (for I ever loved them both) but true copies of your Grace's displeasure.  
I have opened to my truest friend all my former thoughts, and being fully satisfied by his Highness how false they are in every particular, do humbly crave your Grace's pardon, that I gave a night's lodging to any of them all.  
Although they never transported me a jott further, then to look about how to defend myself, being resolved (as God shall be my protector) to suffer all the obloquy of the world, before I would be drawn to the least ingratitude against your Grace. All that I beg is an assurance of your Graces former Love, and I will plainly profess what I do not in the least beg or desire from your Grace.  
1. No Patronage of any corrupt or unjust act which shall be objected against me this Parliament.  
2. No defence of me, if it shall appear I betrayed my King, or my Religion in favour of the Papist, or did them any real respect at all, besides ordinary compliments.  
3. No refuge in any of my causes, or clamours against me (which upon a false supposal of your Grace's displeasure may be many) otherwise then according to justice, and fair proceeding.  
And let this paper bear record against me at the great Parliament of all, if I be not in my heart, and soul, your Grace's most faithful and constant poor friend and Servant.  
His Highness desires your Grace to move his Majesty to accept of my Lord Says commission, and to procure me leave to send for him. Also to move his Majesty that my Lord of Hartford may be in the house, accepting his father's place, and making his protestation to sue for his Grandfathers, according to his Majesty's Laws, when the King shall give him leave. His Highness, and my Lords do hold this a modest and submissive Petition.  
His Highness upon very deep reasons, doubts whether it be safe to put all upon the Parliament, for fear they should fall to examine particular Dispatches, wherein they cannot but find many Contradictions. And would have the proposition only to aid for the recovery of the Palatinate. To draw on an engagement I propound it might be, to advise his Majesty how this recovery shall be effected, by reconquering the same, or by a War of diversion. This will draw on a breach with Spain, without ripping up of private dispatches. His Highness seemed to like well hereof, and commanded me to acquaint your Grace therewith, and to receive your opinion. I humbly, crave again two lines of assurance, that I am in your Grace's opinion as I will ever be indeed, etc.   

The Heads of that Discourse which fell from Don Francisco, 7. Die Aprilis, 1624. at 11. of the clock at night.  

This Relation was sent by the Lord Keeper to the Duke.  
HOw he came to procure his accesses to the King. The marquis putting Don Carlos upon the Prince and Duke in a discourse, thrust a Letter into the King's hand, which he desired the King to read in private; The King said he would, thrust it into his pocket, and went on with his discourse, as if he had received none. The effect was, to procure private access for Don Francisco to come and speak with the King, which his Majesty appointed by my Lord of Kelley; and he by his secrecy, who designed for Don Francisco time and place.  
At his first access, he told the King, That his Majesty was a prisoner, or at leastwise besieged; so as no man could be admitted to come at him. And then made a complaint against the Duke, that he aggravated, and pretended accusations against Spain; whereas its only offence was, that they refused to give unto him equal honour, and observance, as they did unto his Highness. And that this was the only cause of his hatred against them.  
At the last access, which was some 4. days ago, he made a long invective, and remonstrance unto the King, which he had put into writing in Spanish, which he read unto me, corrected with the hand of Don Carlos, which I do know. It was somewhat general, and very rhetorical, if not tragical for the stile. The heads of what I read were these, viz.  
1. That the King was no more a freeman at this time, then King John of France when he was prisoner in England, or King Francis when he was at Madrid. Being besieged and closed up with the servants and vassals of Buckingham.  
2. That the Ambassadors knew very well, and were informed 4. months ago, that his Majesty was to be restrained, and confined to his Country house, and pastimes, and the Government of the State to be assumed and disposed of by others, and that this was not concealed by Buckingham's followers.  
3. That the Duke had reconciled himself to all the popular men of the State, and drawn them forth out of prisons, restraints, and confinements to alter the Government of the State at this Parliament, as Oxford, southampton, Say, and others, whom he met at Suppers and Ordinaries to strengthen his popularity.  
4. That the Duke to breed an opinion of his own greatness, and to make the King grow less, hath oftentimes bragged openly in Parliament, that he had made the King yield to this and that, which was pleasure unto them. And that he mentioned openly before the Houses his Majesty's private oath, which the Ambassadors have never spoken of to any creature to this hour.  
5. That these Kingdoms are not now governed by a Monarch, but by a Triumvirs, whereof Buckingham was the first and chiefest, the Prince the second, and the King the last; and that all look towards solemn Orientem.  
6. That his Majesty should show himself to be, as he was reputed, the oldest and wisest King in Europe, by freeing himself from this Captivity, and eminent danger wherein he was, by cutting off so dangerous and ungrateful an affecter of greatness and popularity, as the Duke was.  
7. That he desired his Majesty to conceal this his free dealing with him, because it might breed him much peril and danger. And yet if it were any way available for his service, to reveal it to whom he pleased, because he was ready to sacrifice his life to do him acceptable service.  
And this was the effect of so much of the penned speech as I remember was read unto me out of the Spanish Copy.  
His Majesty was much troubled in the time of this speech.   

His Offer to the King for the restitution of the Palatinate.  
TO have a Treaty for three months for the restitution, and that money was now given in Spain to satisfy Bavaria. That in the mean time because the people were so distrustful of the Spaniard, the King might fortify himself at home, and assist the Hollanders with men or money at his pleasure. And the King of Spain should not be offended therewith.   

His opinion of our preparing of this Navy.  
IT was a design of the Duke, to go to the Ports of Sevil, and there to burn all the Ships in the Harbour, which he laughed at.   

Speeches which he said fell from his Majesty concerning the Prince.  
1. THat when he told the King, that his greatness with the Duke was such, as might hinder his Majesty from taking a course to repress him. His Majesty replied; He doubted nothing of the Prince, or his own power to sever them two, when he pleased.  
2. His Majesty said, That when his Highness went to Spain, he was as well affected to that Nation as heart could desire, and as well disposed as any son in Europe; but now he was strangely carried away with rash, and youthful Counsels, and followed the humour of Buckingham, who had he knew not how many Devils within him since that journey.   

Concerning the Duke.  
1. THat he could not believe yet, that he affected popularity to his disadvantage. Because he had tried him of purpose, and commanded him to make disaffecting motions to the houses, which he performed, whereby his Majesty concluded, he was not popular.  
2. That he desired Don Francisco, and the Ambassadors (and renewed this request unto them by Padre Maestro two days ago,) to get him any ground to charge him with popular courses, or to increase a suspicion of it, and he would quickly take a course with him.  
3. That he had good cause to suspect the Duke of late, but he had no servant of his own, that would charge him with any particular; nor knew he any himself.   

The end (as was conceived) of Don Francisco's desiring this Conference.  
HE had heard that the Duke had pushed at me in Parliament, and intended to do so again, when he had done with the Treasurer, and therefore showed, that if I would join to set upon him with the King, there was a fit occasion.  
I answered, that the Prince and the Duke had preferred me into my place, and kept me in it, and if I found them pursuing I would not keep it an hour. That what favour soever I shown the Ambassador, or Catholics, I did it for their sakes, and had thanks of them for it. And that I would deal by way of counsel with the Duke to be temperate, and moderate; but to be in opposition to my friend, and Patron, I knew he (being one that professed so much love unto me) would never expect from an honest man. Upon the which answer he seemed satisfied, and never replied word in that kind.  
I made an end of writing these notes about two of the clock in the morning.    

The Lord Keeper to the Duke, concerning Sir Richard Weston, 24. May. 1624.  
May it please your Grace,  
I Hold it my duty to give your Grace a present account of this Patent made for Sir Richard Weston. Having put off the sealing of the same as fairly as I could (though not without the clamour of one Lake, a servant of Mr. Chancelours, 
Mr. William Lake.  who very saucily pressed for a dispatch,) this morning, Mr. Chancellor spoke with me himself, to whom I made answer, That I would seal his Patent, according to his Majesty's Warrant, but would retain it in my hands (as I was directed) until I either spoke with the King, or received his farther Command in that behalf. He told me he would write unto your Grace concerning the stay thereof, and the stand of the King's business, until it were delivered, which course (I told him) was very fair. After I acquainted his Highness with my sealing and retaining of the Patent, and asked him, if he knew thereof. His Highness answered, he did know thereof, but gave no approbation of the course, and (although he durst not speak to cross it) he hoped I should have directions from the King to pull off the Seals again. Three hours after I went to his Highness the second time, and asked him, if he meant really as he spoke, or intended only to make me believe so. I desired to know his mind, lest I might steer my course contrary to his intendment. His Highness answered, He meant really, and would endeavour to effectuate all that he spoke. Which I thought very fitting for your Grace to know with all speed.  
But for the man himself, I must deliver unto your Grace my conscience. For aught I ever saw in him he is a very honest, and a very sufficient man, and such a one, as I never in all my life could observe to be any way false, or unfaithful unto your Grace. He was brought in by your Grace fore against my will, (as your Grace may call to mind, what I said to your Grace at Woodstock to that effect) not that I disliked the Gentleman, but because I was afraid he would be wholly the Treasurers, who began then to out-top me, and appeared to my thoughts, likely enough by his daring and boldness, (two virtues very powerful and active upon our Royal Master,) in time to do as much to your Grace. From that time to this, I never observed in Weston any unworthiness, or ingratitude to your Grace. Nay, craving pardon, I will proceed one step farther, I know no fit man in England for the office, if he come in as a creature of the Prince, and your Grace's; nor unfitter, if he should offer to take it, without your like. I think your Grace will remember, that this fortnight, this hath been my constant opinion.  
Upon the death of one Mr. Read, the Secretaries place for the Latin tongue is void. The Dean of Winchester, and I moved the King for Patrick Young, the fittest man in England for that place. And the Prince did, and will second the motion. I Beseech your Grace to assist us, or else the immodesty of his Competitor (that Lake I spoke of in the beginning of this Letter) will bear down this most honest, and bashful creature.  
God be thanked for your Grace's recovery and still preserve it. And so etc.   

The Lord Keeper to the Duke. 22. August. 1624.  
May it please your Grace,  
I Humbly thank your Grace for your favourable and Gracious remembrance, sent by my Neighbour Sir George Goring. Though I despair to be able to make any other requital, yet will I never fail to serve your Grace most faithfully, and when I grow unnseful in that kind, to pray for you.  
I beseech your Grace, that I may receive from the Prince's Highness, and your Grace, some directions how to demean myself to the French Ambassador, in matters concerning Recusants, and that Mr. Secretary may either address himself to Mr. Attorney General in these causes, or else write unto me plainly what I am to do.  
His last letter required of me, and the Judges (who neither are, nor will be in town these six weeks yet,) an account of this their supposed persecution, neither so much as intimating unto me what, or when I should return an answer, and supposeth some directions his Majesty should give me therein, the which (particularly, or dividedly from the Judges) I never received.  
I adventured out of mine own head to write that answer, I imagine your Grace hath seen, whether I did well, or ill therein I know not, but conceived his Majesty expected some answer. Yesterday the Ambassador sent unto me, to know if I had received any order from his Majesty to stay this (as he termed it) persecution. I assured him, there was no such matter in this state, and that as yet, I had received no order from his Majesty of late, but was in expectation to hear from the Court very shortly. I humbly crave your Grace's directions, what I am to say, or do in the premises, being otherwise a mere stranger in all these proceed. I writ to no body herein besides your Grace, so as if I receive no direction, (which upon my head, and livelihood I shall bury in all secrecy) I shall be in a pitiful perplexity, if his Majesty shall turn the Ambassador upon me, altogether unprovided how to answer. And so with my heartiest prayers for your Grace's health, I rest  
yours, etc.   

The Lord Keeper to the Duke. 21. July. 1624.  
May it please your Grace,  
I Can not suffer Sir George Goring to departed without these few lines, although the greatest matter of their contents must be this, to express unto your Grace my sorrow, and affliction, that I have no matter or occasion at all, wherein to show actually my affections and earnest desires to comply with my bounden duty in serving your Grace, and humbly to desire your Grace to believe, that there is no soul living shall do it more sincere-ly, and faithfully to the utmost of my understanding, than myself will do. I add this Caution the rather, because if ever I have offended your Grace, I take Almighty God to witness, it was only forwant of a perfect understanding of those high matters, and the persons bend, whom they concerned, not out of any corruption of affections towards your Grace, or the least staggering in a continued resolution to live, and die, your Grace's most constant, and most faithful servant.  
This, God in heaven (who seethe what I now write,) and the King, and Prince upon earth, do perfectly know, and I (nothing doubt it) will acknowledge unto your Grace. And thus with my most humble thanks unto your Grace for that assurance I received, that I remain (though unemployed and unprofitablely) yet in your Grace's good affection, I beseech Almighty God to preserve your health, and to increase your favourday, by day with God, with the King, with the Prince, and with all good men. The daily vows of etc.   

The Lord Keeper to the Duke concerning the Countess of South hampton 17. Novemb. 1624.  
May it please your Grace,  
I Know how few arguments I need to use to persuade your Grace to works of Nobleness, and charity. Your fashion hath been ever since my happiness of dependence upon you, to outrun, and prevent all petitions in this kind. Yet pardon my boldness to be an humble suitor unto your Grace to go on, as I know you have already begun, in extending your Grace, and goodness towards the most distressed widow, and children of my Lord of southampton. Your Grace cannot do any work of charity more approved of by God, more acceptable unto men, and that shall more recommend the memory of your Nobleness to future posterity. Sir William Spencer (the only Solicitor this sorrowful Lady hath now to employ,) will present some particulars unto your Grace, whom God ever preserve in all health, and happiness. And so, etc.   

The Lord Keeper to the Duke, 11. Octob. 1624.  
May it please your Grace,  
With my most humble and hearty thanks for all your favours extended, and multiplied daily towards me in sickness and health, which are such, and so many, that (although I trust in God I shall never prove so inhuman as to fail in any service, or faithfulness to your Grace,) I must for all that ever live, and die ungrateful. I thought fit to return unto your Grace this account of the message received by your Grace's Steward.  
I spoke with that Lord, and although he seemed to be quite off from the business, and had (to my knowledge) disposed of his money for a great, and a fair purchase here in London, and was resolved never to touch any more upon Watt Steward, (who had touched somewhat of his,) and with whom he had agreed for 4000 l. yet hearing the proposition to come so entirely from me, as proceeding immediately from your Grace, whose good favours this Lord (I protest unto your Grace) hath earnestly desired, and if at any time he hath straggled aside from the Prince's desires, and yours, it was merely and solely because he thought he was not so much relied upon as others of his rank. He promiseth me sometime to morrow a reasonable answer.  
His material Objections were these.  
1. QUantity of the money; so as first and last he is out 16000 l. whereas Cavendish his Countryman and neighbour got up from a Gentleman, for 14000. l. I answered, That I observed your Grace never got by any of these bargains, but that in this compass of a year or two, your favours exceed any gratuity presented.  
2. Precedency before Wallingford, and especially Vane. I did promise (for your service) to dispute the latter, but could say nothing to the former, because he was a Viscount, and his far ancienter Baron.  
3. Your Grace's favour, and reflection upon himself, (bred up in the experience of war and peace,) and upon his sons, all of them well bred, but most towards the War. I did answer generally, that upon his application of himself towards your Grace, I made little doubt, but he should receive good satisfaction in those expectances.  
4. Times of payment. I told him I knew he would demand but a convenient time therein, and that I knew your Grace would never stand upon.  
If I have erred in any of these addresses, I pray let your Steward come, and reform me therein; as also to tell me, whether if I find him coming forward, I may not say unto him, That your Lordship upon a former motion of mine, was willing upon the next change of the Commission for the Council of the War, to add him unto the number.  
I propose this,  
1. Because 'tis a new thing.  
2. Because he desires some excuse unto the World, by reason of some future services, why his Majesty should receive him unto this honour. I have wearied myself, and by this time (which doth less become me) your Grace too. I beseech your Grace to pardon the blottings and extravagancies, my head being yet but meanly settled. I beseech God to bless your Grace. And so, etc.  
Yours, etc.  
Postscript.  
MAy it please your Grace, this Lord hath returned his answer, which in good saith seemeth to be with due respect unto your Grace.  
1. That although the place was offered him for 4000 l. yet because the Offer proceeds from your Grace, (which he voweth to esteem as an especial favour as long as he liveth) he will pay to whom you shall assign 5000 l. and account it a real obligation of service to your Grace for ever, if you shall remit him the other thousand pound.  
2. That for the time, with humble thanks for your noble favour (which becometh not him to take in appointing the time) he returns it to your Grace to nominate two days of payment, as your Steward, or the person assigned shall think meet and fit for your Grace's occasions, desiring some small respite for the former, but as little as the party please afterwards for the second payment: for his Lordship will send in for his moneys forthwith. And he will give his bonds, or (which I hold superfluous from so sure a Card) his Mortgage in present for both payments.  
3. If your Grace shall make him your servant with this favour so nobly conditioned, he hopes your Grace may proceed on with his Patent thus forward, without any stay for any other Corrival, which notwithstanding he humbly refers.  
4. But desires, if his presentment be accepted, he may have leave by me to render his thanks unto your Grace personally sometime to morrow.  
And so I leave your Grace for this time in God's protection. And rest   

Yours, &c. The Lord Keeper to the Duke. 24. December, 1624.  
My most Gracious Lord,  
I Most humbly beseech your Grace for God's sake, and his Churches, to consider of this motion, which I do make unto your Grace, concerning the deanery of York now vacant, the Dean being struck dead suddenly, by a Letter, which one Dr. Scot procured from his Majesty, to be his Coadjutour.  
It is not for any man in particular; but against Doctor Scot, that he may not by the importunity of any one upon your Grace be promoted to this place, being the sixth, or seventh place of preferment Ecclesiastical within this Kingdom, but that your Grace would be pleased to remove Doctor White, or Doctor Hall, or whom your Grace shall please, unto this great Deanery, and bestow the lesser deanery (far above his merit) upon him.  
For these Reasons.  
1. I know that he hath sold away all his Live which he hath had in this Church, and hath at this day never an one.  
2. I am credibly informed, he oweth 5000 l. at the least. A vast sum for a poor Scholar, and too much to be got up in a poor Church. And most of this money in York.  
3. I know he is a great Gamester, and of no fitting conversation for a Churchman; but of very mean parts, either of Learning, or government.  
4. I am certified at this time, that he is a man often overseen in drink; but this I do not know.  
If therefore your Grace shall be pleased, upon my Lord Mordant's importunity to procure him any deanery, I do not doubt but his Lordship will be satisfied, and that Church eternally obliged unto you for that Commutation. And I beseech your Grace to believe him, that is no way interested herein, that it concerns your Grace very much in credit, and reputation, that so mean a man (amongst such a choice as the Church of England doth afford,) be not by your favour preferred to so high a dignity. God be merciful to my sins, as I have no end herein but your Honour, and the good of that Church, and therefore I recommend no particular man unto your Grace, but do rest  
Yours, etc.   

The Lord Keeper to the Duke, concerning Dr. Scott, 4. January, 1624.  
May it please your Grace,  
I Humbly beseech you to interpret favourably, what I said unto his Majesty or his Highness, as intending to put off Dr. Scott from this place. And no way (God be my witness) to cross your Grace, nor to hurt Scot, who might have been otherways sufficiently provided for.  
But I should have written or spoken unto your Grace? so I did in this Letter enclosed, upon Christmas Eve. But I confess I durst not send it, for fear of offending your Grace, which I do take all possible diligence to avoid.  
But, I spoke unto the King, and Prince? I did so; but with this caution, (which I know they do remember,) that if your Grace would not upon the motion exchange Scot to some other preferment, I did not hold it fit to press these charges against him, but would do my endeavour to still and quiet those of the Church of York, who (I confess unto your Grace) are the men that have written against him.  
But I recommended Dr. White, and another to the Prince, and Dr. Warner to your Grace: I confess it, but must distinguish the times, and the manner. I commended Dr. Warner, when I was informed Dr. White had his answer, and denial, and that your Grace was off from Dr. Scot, and did desire to hear from me, what Doctor Warner was, whom I recommended only in general terms upon the suit of another. What I said of him, I believe, and know to be true, but he is so far from being any creature of mine, that I protest before the Almighty God, I never spoke one word with the man to this very hour in all my life. I did conceive so meanly of Doctor Scot, that no worthy man in the Kingdom should have failed of my recommendations in this particular.  
Now I know your Grace's resolution, I do alter my opinion, and humbly crave your Grace's pardon for my meddling therein, although I know his Highness will bear me witness, it was with all dutiful respect unto your Grace. I shall be very careful of giving your Grace the least cause of jealousy in this kind again. And whereas I had put a poor suit in your Grace's hands about the helping of mypoor fortunes, I will let that, and all others fall, and desire only to be accounted  
Yours, etc.   

The Lord Keeper to the Duke, 2. March, 1624.  
May it please your Grace,  
THis heavy, and unexpected accident of my Lord Steward's death, makes me to be troublesome unto your Grace at this time. In safety and discretion, I might very easily spare this labour: but my obligation to your Grace is such, as if that I conceal any thing, which but myself apprehends fit to be represented to your Grace, whilst I affect the title of a reserved, close, and wise, I may lose the other of an honest man, which I more esteem.  
Thus much by way of preface.  
I represent this office of a Lord Steward, as a place to be either accepted of by yourself, or else to be discontinued (as for many years towards the latter end of Queen Elizabeth, and the beginning of our Masters reign it was) and in any case, not to be placed upon another, without the deliberation of some few years at the least. Being an office, that none but the King's Kinsmen, or Favourites, or Counter-favourites (raised up of purpose to balance the great one) have anciently possessed: I could desire your Grace had it in your own person; for these Reasons.  
1. It is an office of fair, and very competent get, but that is scarce considerable.  
2. It keeps you in all changes and alterations of years near the King, and gives unto you all the opportunities, and accesses, without the envy of a favourite. I beseech your Grace pause well upon this, and call to mind, if the Duke of Richmond was not in this case.  
3. It Gives you opportunities to gratify all the Court, great and small, Virtute Officii in right of your place. Which is a thing better accepted of, and interpreted, than a courtesy from a favourite. Because in this you are a dispenser of your own; but in the other (say many envious men,) of the King's goodness, which would flow fast enough of itself, but that it is restrained to this Pipe and channel only.  
4. There must be one day an end of this attendance as a Bedchamber man, but I hope never of being next unto the King, as a great Counsellor, and officer, and above all others, which you cannot be, but by this office. The Master of the horse is but a Knight's place at the most, and the Admirals (in time of action) either to be employed abroad Personally, or to live at home in that ignominy, and shame, as your Grace will never endure to do so.  
I will trouble your Grace with a tale of Dante the first Italian Poet of note. Who being a great, and wealthy man in Florence, and his opinion demanded, who should be sent Ambassador to the Pope, made this answer, that he knew not who Simo jo vo chista, Si jo sto chi va. If I go, I know not who shall stay at home; if I stay, I know not who can perform this employment. Yet your Grace staying at home in favour, and greatness with his Majesty, may by your designs and directions so dispose of the Admiral, as to enjoy the glory, without running the hazard of his personal employment. My Gracious Lord, if any man shall put you in hope, that the Admiralty will fill your Coffers, and make you rich, call upon them to name one Admiral that ever was so. As in time of hostility there is some getting, so are there hungry and insatiable people presently to devour the same. God made man to live upon the land, and necessity only drives him to Sea. Yet is not my advice absolutely for your relinquishing of this, but in any case for the retaining of the other place though with the loss of the Admiralty.  
5. I beseech your Grace observe the Earl of Leicester, (who being the only favourite in Queen Elizabeth's time, that was of any continuance) made choice of this place only, and refused the Admiralty two several times, as being an occasion, either to withdraw him from the Court, or to leave him there, laden with ignominy. And yet being Lord Steward, wise, and in favour, he wholly commanded the Admiralty, and made it ministerial, and subordinary to his directions.  
6. Remember, that this office is fit for a young, a middle, and an old man to enjoy, and so is not any other that I know about his Majesty. Now God almighty having given you favour at the first, and since a great quantity (I never flattered your Grace, nor do now) of wit, and wise experience, I would humbly recommend unto your Grace this opportunity to be nearest unto the King in your young, your middle, and your decreasing age, that is to be on earth, as your piety will one day make you in heaven, an everlasting favourite. There are many objections, which your Grace may make, but if I find any inclination in your Grace to lay hold upon this proposition, I dare undertake to answer them all. Your Grace may leave any office you please (if your Grace be more in love with the Admiralty, than I think you have cause,) to avoid envy. But my final conclusion is this, to desire your Grace most humbly to put no other Lord into this office, without just, and mature deliberation. And to pardon this boldness, and haste, which makes me to write so weakly in a theme, that I persuade myself I could maintain very valiantly; I have no other copy of this Letter, and I pray God your Grace be able to read this. I send your Grace a Letter delivered unto me from Conde Gondomar, and dated either at Madrid, or (as I observe it was written first,) at London. There is no great matter at whither of the places it was invented. I humbly beseech your Grace to send by this bearer the resolution for the Parliament. And do rest  
Yours etc.   

The Lord Keeper to the Duke about Sr. Robert Howard. 11 March 1624.  
May it please your Grace,  
SIr Robert Howard appeared yesterdy, and continues obstinate in his refusal to swear. When we came to examine the commission for our power to fine him for this obstinacy, we found that Sir Edward Cook, (foreseeing out of a prophetical, how near it might concern a Grandchild of his own day) hath expunged this clause (by the help of the Earl of Salisbury,) out of the commission, and left us nothing but the rusty sword of the church, excommunication, to vindicate the authority of this Court. We have given him day until Saturdy next, either to conform, or to be excommunicated. She hath answered wittily, and cunningly, but yet sufficient for the Conisance of the Court. Confesseth a fame of incontinency against her, and Howard, but sayeth it was raised by her Husband's kindred. I do not doubt but the business will go on well, but (peradventure) more slowly, if Howard continue refractory, for want of this power to fine, and amerce him. I beseech your Grace, either to procure me the favour to come, or to excuse my not seeing his Majesty in this time of his indisposition, which I hear still continueth. I beseech Almighty God (as in eternal duty I am bound) presently to ease him, and restore him to his perfect health Mr. Packers being away makes me unmannerly. I am humbly to desire your Grace to be pleased to move his Majesty (at your first opportunity) to sign this Commission, for the proroguing of the Parliament, and to read unto his Majesty this paper of names here enclosed, (which his Majesty is not to sign,) knowing his pleasure, whether he alloweth of them for Commissioners for the last subside of the Lords. I have added to the former the Earl of Montgomerie according to your Grace's direction, whom God almighty ever preserve. It is the prayer of etc.   

The Lord Keeper to the Duke 13. March. 1624.  
May it please your Grace,  
FOr your Brother's business, this is all I have to acquaint your Grace with. Sir Robert Howard appeared yesterday at Lambeth, pretended want of Council, (the Doctors being out of town) desired respite until to morrow, and had it granted by my Lord's Grace. Most men think he will not take his oath at all; I do incline to the contrary opinion, because (to my knowledge) he hath sent far, and near for the most able Doctors in the Kingdom to be feed for him, which were great folly if he intended not to answer. He is extremely commended for his closeness and secrecy by the major part of our auditors, (the He and She good fellows of the town,) and though he refuseth to be a Confessor, yet is sure to die a Martyr, and most of the Ladies in town will offer at his shrine. The Lady Hatton some nine days since, was at Stoke, with the good Knight her Husband for some counsel in this particular. But he refused to meddle therewithal, and dismissed her Ladyship, when she had stayed with him very lovingly half a quarter of an hour.  
The cause of my troubling your Grace is this. The French Ambassador is fired with some complaints of our Recusants, who (I verily believe) work upon him purposely, finding him to be of a combustible disposition. To morrow he is resolved to come upon you, and our Master with Complaints, for lack of performances to the Papists. And because I would furnish your Grace with as much answer, as I am acquainted with, (nothing doubting but your Grace is otherways better provided,) I make bold to present your Grace with these particulars.  
1. With a Letter from my Lord Archbishop of York in answer to another of mine; which shows how really his Majesty's promise hath been in that kind performed. I beseech your Grace to keep it safe in your pocket, until I shall have the honour to wait upon your Grace, when you have made use of the same.  
2. If your Grace shall hear him complain of the Judges in their charges, and of their receiving of Indictments; your Grace may answer, That those charges are but orations of Course, opening all the penal Laws, and the Indictments being presented by the Country, cannot be refused by the Judges. But the Judges are ordered to execute nothing actually against the Recusants, nor will they do it, during the negotiation.  
3. Your Grace may put him in mind, that my Lord Keeper doth every day, when his, (the Lord Ambassadors) Secretary calls upon him, grant forth Writs to remove all the persons indicted in the Country into the King's Bench, out of the power and reaches of the Justices of the Peace. And that being there, the King may, and doth release them at his pleasure.  
4. That the Spanish Ambassador never had, nor desired more than these favours.  
5. That you are informed, that Copies of Letters written from the King to both the Archbishops are spread abroad in Staffordshire, to his Majesty's disadvantage (for so it is) and that thereby my Lord Ambassador may perceive the bent of the English Catholics, which is not to procure ease and quietness to themselves, but Scandals to their neighbouring Protestant's, and discontentments against the King and State.  
I humbly crave your Grace's pardon for this boldness, and tediousness, and with my hearty prayers for your health, do rest  
yours, etc.   

The Lord Keeper to the Duke, 22. March, 1624.  
May it please your Grace,  
I Send your Grace here enclosed, the King's Commission, and the Prince's Proxy, not fairly written, (which the Ambassadors upon the place may procure in a frech hand,) but yet legibly, and passably. The Prince's Proxy refers the manner unto the articles, and particularly to the second, third, and fourth Section of those Articles; which gives me occasion to beg of your Grace pardon, to desire your Grace to think seriously upon the third Section, to advise with the Prince, and to give Mr. Packer charge to inform your Grace punctually what he knoweth, and may inform himself concerning those particulars. That is, How the Queen Margaret of France was married to Henry the fourth, and how Madam his sister was married to the Prince of Lorraine. For although they are both made alike in the article, yet surely they were not married after the same fashion. For the Duchess of Barr was married in a closet, without a Mass, by words only of the Present tense, as I believe, I have read in the History of Thuanus. A favour, which will hardly be granted to your Grace. And how Queen Margaret was married, my Lords the Ambassadors will soon learn, if your Grace will be pleased to write unto them.  
I hold it (in a manner) necessary, that your Grace do carry over with you in your company one Civilian to put your Grace in mind of the formalities required; and if your Grace be of that mind, your own Doctor, Dr. Reeves is as fit as any man else, who is a good Scholar, and speaks that language. Your Grace hath revived my Lord of Clare, since I spoke with your Grace. And I beseech your Grace to follow that resolution, and to let Mr. Packer draw up a warrant of 3. or 4. lines signed by the King to me to place him with the rest of the Council of War. It will be an occasion to take up more of that time, which he now spends with the Lady Hatton. For now I am resolved, that I was of the right in my conjecture to your Grace, that his Lordship had utterly refused my Lady Purbecks' cause (of the which the very common people begin to be ashamed) but is deeply engaged against my Lady of Richmond, 
Duchess of Richmond.  in the business of that famous (or rather notorious) feminine Contract, and bargain, of sixteen hundred pounds by the year for a house to sleep in.  
When your Grace shall draw up your Instructions, you will be pleased to use the words, To Contract, Espouse and marry Our Well-beloved Son, etc. because they do in those parts contract always before marriage. And your Grace will be pleased to express his Majesty's pleasure, that this is to be done by yourself, and no other: Because although the two Earls upon the place, have some such general words in their Commission, yet your Grace only is named in the Prince's Proxy, and now solely employed by the King to that purpose. Although I conceived this restraint to be fit a great deal for the instructions, than the Commission.  
I am extreme sorry to hear what a grievous fit his Majesty had this last night. But I hope it is a farewell of the Agues, and I pray God it be the last fit. And now am an humble suitor again, that I may come and look upon his Majesty, resolved to say nothing, but that which I will never cease to say, God bless him. If your Grace holds it inconvenient, I beseech your Grace to excuse me, and to account me as I will ever be found,  
Yours, etc.   

The Bishop of Lincoln to the Duke, 7th. of January, 1625.  
Most Gracious Lord,  
BEing come hither, according unto the duty of my place, to do my best service for the preparation to the Coronation, and to wait upon his Majesty for his Royal pleasure and direction therein; I do most humbly beseech your Grace, to crown so many of your Grace's former favours, and to revive a Creature of your own, struck dead only with your displeasure, (but not other discontentment in the universal world,) by bringing of me to kiss his Majesty's hand, with whom I took leave, in no disfavour at all. I was never hitherto brought into the presence of a King, by any Saint, besides yourself: Turn me not over (most noble Lord) to offer my prayers at new Altars. If I were guilty of any unworthy unfaithfulness for the time past, or not guilty of a resolution to do your Grace all service for the time to come, all considerations under Heaven could not force me to beg it so earnestly, or to profess myself, as I do before God, and you,  
Your Grace's most humble, affectionate, and devoted servant, Jo. Lincoln.   

The Bishop of Lincoln to his Majesty.  
Most Mighty, and dread Sovereign,  
I Have now these four months, by the strength of those gracious speeches your Majesty used, (when I took my leave of your Majesty at Salisbury,) and the conscience of mine own innocence from having ever wilfully or maliciously offended your Majesty, comforted myself in these great afflictions; to be thus enjoined from your Majesty's presence (the only heaven wherein my soul delighted,) having submitted myself (I hope dutifully, and patiently) to the discharge from that great Office (for the execution whereof I was altogether unworthy;) My required absence from the Council Table; my sequestration from attending your Majesty's Coronation: And your Majesty's favourable pleasure (for so I do esteem that,) to spare my presence at this next Parliament. And I trust in God I shall most readily obey any other Command, that bears the image and superscription of your Majesty, without any desire of searching after the hand that helps to press and engrave it. Yet because I suffer in some more particulars than peradventure is explicitly known to your Majesty: And that I have no friend lest about your Majesty, that dares for fear of displeasure relate unto your Majesty my griefs, and necessities, I humbly crave your gracious Pardon to make some two representations, and some few Petitions unto your most excellent Majesty.  
First, I humbly show unto your Majesty, that besides my former Calamities, I am not paid that part of my Pension, which should pay the Creditors, who lent me money to buy the same; notwithstanding your Majesty hath been graciously pleased to order otherwise.  
Secondly, I have not yet received my Writ of Summons unto the Parliament (denied to no Prisoners, or condemned Peers in the late reign of your blessed Father,) that I might accordingly make my Proxy, the which I cannot do, the Writ not received; nor can I myself go into the Country, as I had done long ere this, had not the expectation of this Writ, together with the special service of my Lord Duke, and no other occasion whatsoever detained me.  
These two particulars I present with all submission unto your Majesty, and shall rest satisfied with what royal resolution your Majesty shall make therein.  
These petitions that follow I must earnestly beg at your Majesty's hands, and for God's sake, and your blessed Father's sake, whose Creature, and most painful servant I was.  
First, that your Majesty would be pleased to mitigate, and allay the causeless displeasure of my Lord Duke against me; who is so little satisfied with any thing I can do, or suffer, that I have no means left to appease his anger, but my prayers to God, and your Sacred Majesty.  
Secondly, I beseech your Majesty for Christ Jesus sake not to believe news, or accusations against me concerning my carriage past, present, or to come, whilst I stand thus enjoined from your Royal presence, before you shall have heard my answer, and defence unto the particulars. Those that inform your Majesty may (God he knoweth) be oftentimes misinformed.  
My last supplication unto your Majesty is, That in my absence this Parliament, no use may be made of your sacred name to wound the reputation of a poor Bishop, who besides his Religion and Duty to that Divine Character you now bear, hath ever affectionately honoured your very Person above all the objects in this world, as he desires the salvation of the world to come. But I crave no protection against any other accuser, or accusation whatsoever. So shall I never cease to pray to the Almighty God to make your Majesty the Happiest and Greatest King, that ever was Crowned, and Anointed: which shall be the continual orisons of  
Your Majesty's most dutiful and most humble Vassal, Jo. Lincoln.   

The Lord Keeper to the Lord Viscount Anan. 17. Septemb. 1622.  
Right Honourable,  
I Own more service to that true love, and former acquaintance, which your Lordship hath been pleased to afford me, now these full ten years, then to be sparing, or reserved in satisfying your Lordship about any doubt whatsoever, the resolution whereof shall lie in my power. Concerning that offence, taken by many people, both on this side the borders and in Scotland, from that Clemency which his Majesty was pleased to extend to the imprisoned Lay-Recusants of this Kingdom, and my Letter written unto the Justices for the reigling of the same, which your Lordship did intimate unto me yesterday at Mr. Henry Gibbs his house, out of some news received from a Peer of Scotland. This is the plainest return I can make unto your Lordship. In the general, as the Sun in the firmament appears unto us no bigger than a Platter, and the Stars but as so many nails in the pummel of a saddle, because of the Elongement and disproportion between our eyes, and the object; so is there such an unmeasurable distance betwixt the deep resolution of a Prince, and the shallow apprehension of common and ordinary people, that as they will be ever judging and censuring, so must they be obnoxious to error and mistaking.  
Particularly, for as much as concerns myself, I must leave my former life, my profession, my continual preaching, my writing, (which is instant in the hands of many,) my private endeavours about some great persons, and the whole bent of my actions, (which in the place I live in cannot be concealed, to testify unto the world, what favour I am likely to importune for the Papists in their religion. For the King my Master, I will tell you a story out of Velleius Paterculus. A Surveyor bragging to M. Livius Drusus, that he would so contrive his house Vt Libera à conspectu immunis ab omnibus arbitris esset, that it should stand removed out of sight, and be past all danger of peeping, or Eavesdropping; was answered again by Drusus, Tu vero, si quid in te artis est ita compone domum mean, ut quicquid agam ab omnibus Conspici possit, Nay my good friend, if you have any devices in your head, contrive my house after such a manner, that all the world may see what I do therein. So if I should endeavour to flourish up some artificial Vault, to hid and conceal the intentions of his Majesty, I know I should receive the same thanks, that the Surveyor did from Drusus. I was not called to Council by his royal Majesty, when the resolution of this Clemency to the Lay-Recusants was first concluded: But if I had been asked my opinion, I should have advised it without the least haesitation. His Majesty was so Popishly addicted at this time, that (to the incredible exhaustments of this Treasury) he was a most zealous interceder for some ease and refreshment to all the Protestants in Europe, his own Dominions, and Denmark's only excepted.  
Those of Swithland (having lately provoked the Pole) had no other hope of peace; those of France of the exercise of their Religion; those of the Palatinate, and adjoining Countries of the least connivency to say their prayers, then by the earnest mediation of our gracious Master. And advised by the late Assembly of Parliament to insist a while longer in this milky way of intercession, and Treaty. What a preposterous argument would this have been to desire those mighty Princes (armed, and victorious) to grant some liberty, and clemency to the Protestants, because himself did now imprison, and execute the rigour of his laws against the Roman Catholics. I must deal plainly with your Lordship. Our viperous countrymen the English Jesuits in France to frustrate these Pious endeavours of his Majesties, had many months before this favour granted, retorted that argument upon us, by writing a most malicious book (which I have seen, and read over) to the French King, inciting him, and the three Estates, to put all those statutes in execution against the Protestants in those parts, which are here enacted, and (as they falsely informed) severally executed upon the Papists. I would therefore see the most subtle State-monger in the world chalk out a way for his Majesty to mediate for Grace, and favour for the Protestants, by executing at this time the severity of the Laws upon the Papists. And that this favour should mount to a Toleration, is a most dull, (and yet a most devilish) misconstruction.  
A Toleration looks forward, to the time to come: This favour backward only, to the offences past. If any Papist now set at liberty shall offend the laws again, the Justices may, (nay must) recommit him, and leave favour and mercy to the King, to whom only it properly belongeth. Nay let those 2. writs directed to the Judges, be as diligently perused by those rash Censures as they were by those grave, and learned, to whom his Majesty referred the penning of the, same and they shall find, that these Papists are no other-otherwise out of prison, then with their shackles about their heels, sufficient sureties, and good recognizances to present themselves again at the next assizes. As therefore that Lacedaemonian posed the Oracle of Apollo, by ask his opinion of the bird which he grasped in his hand, whether he were alive, or dead, so it is a matter yet controversed, and undecided, whether those Papists (closed up, and grasped in the hands of the law) be still in prison, or at liberty. Their own demeanours, and the success of his Majesty's negotiations, are Oracles that must decide the same. If the laypapists do wax insolent with this mercy, insulting upon the Protestants, and translating this favour from the person to the cause, I am verily of opinion his Majesty will remand them to their former state, and condition, and renew his writ no more. But if they shall use these graces modestly, by admitting Conference with learned Preachers, demeaning themselves neighbourly and peaceably, praying for his Majesty, and the prosperous success of his pious endeavours, and relieving him bountifully (which they are as well able to do as any of his Subjects,) if he shall be forced and constrained to take his sword in hand, than it cannot be denied, but our Master is a Prince, that hath (as one said) plus humanitatis penè quam hominis, and will at that time leave to be merciful, when he leaves to be himself. In the mean while, this argument fetched from the Devils topics, which concludes a Concreto ad abstractum from a favour done to the English Papists, that the King favoureth the Romish Religion is such a composition of folly, and malice, as is little deserved by that gracious Prince, who by word, writing, exercise of Religion, acts of Parliament, late directions for catechising, and preaching, and all professions, and endeavours in the world hath demonstrated himself so resolved a Protestant. God by his holy Spirit open the eyes of the people, that these airy representations of ungrounded fancies set aside, they may clearly discern, and see how by the goodness of God, and the wisdom of their King, this Island of all the Countries in Europe is the sole nest of peace and true Religion, and the inhabitants thereof unhappy only in this one thing, that they never look up to heaven to give God thanks for so great a happiness.  
Lastly, for mine own Letter to the Judges, (which did only declare, not operate the favour,) it was either much mispenned, or much misconstrued. It recited four kinds of recusancies only capable of his Majesty's clemency not so much to include these, as to exclude many other crimes bearing amongst the Papists the name of Recusancies, as using the function of a Romish Priest, seducing the King's liege people from the Religion established, scandalising and aspersing our King, Church, State, or present Government. All which offences (being outward practices, and no secret motions of the conscience,) are adjudged by the Laws of England to be merely civil, and political, and excluded by my Letter from the benefit of those Writs, which the bearer was employed to deliver unto the Judges.  
And thus I have given your Lordship a plain account of the carriage of this business, and that the more suddenly, that your Lordship might perceive it is not Aurea Fabula, or prepared tale, but a bare Narration, which I have sent unto your Lordship. I beseech your Lordship to let his Majesty know, that the Letters to the Justices of Peace concerning those four heads recommended by his Majesty, shall be sent away as fast as they can be exscribed. I will trouble your Lordship no more at this time, but shall rest ever  
Your Lordship's servant and true friend, Jo. Lincoln. C. S.   

The Bishop of Menevensis to the Duke: Dr. Laud.  
My most Gracious Lord,  
I May not be absent, and not write. And since your Grace is pleased with the trouble, I must profess myself much content with the performance of the duty. I am not unmindful of the last business your Grace committed to me, but I have as yet done the less in it, because I fell into a relapse of my infirmity, but I thank God I am once more free, if I can look better to myself, as I hope I shall.  
My Lord, I must become an humble suitor to your Grace. I hear by good hand that my Lord of Canterbury intends shortly to renew the High Commission. Now I am to acquaint your Grace, that there is never a Bishop that lives about London left out of the Commission but myself, and many that live quite absent are in, and many inferiors to Bishops. The Commission is a place of great experience for any man, that is a Governor in the Church. And since by his Majesty's gracious goodness, and your Grace's sole procurement, I am made a Governor, I would be loath to be excluded from that which might give me experience, and so enable me to perform my duty. I am sure my Lord of Canterbury will leave me out, as hitherto he hath done, if his Majesty be not pleased to Command that I shall be in. This I submit to your Grace, but humbly desire even against my own ease and quiet, that I may not be deprived of that experience which is necessary for my place. I most humbly beseech your Grace to pardon this boldness, and to know, that in my daily prayers for your Grace's happiness, I shall ever rest  
Novemb. 18. 1624. Your Grace's most devoted and affectionate servant, Guil. Menevensis.   

The Bishop of Menevensis to the Duke: Dr. Laud.  
My most Gracious Lord,  
I Am hearty glad to hear your Lordship is so well returned, and so happily as to meet so great joy. God hath among many others his great blessings (and I know your Grace so esteems them) sent you now this extraordinary one, a son to inherit his father's honours, and the rest of God's blessings upon both. So soon as I came to any end of my journey, I met the happy news of God's blessing upon your Grace, and it seasoned all the hard journey I have had out of Wales through the Snow. When I had rested myself a little at my friend's house in the Forest (Mr. Windebank a servant of your Grace's, whom I made bold to make known to your Honour) I came to Windsor in hope to have been so happy, as to meet your Grace at the great solemnity: but when I came, I found that which I suspected, that your Grace's greater joy would carry you farther. Which journey, and the cause, and the end of it, I hearty wish, and pray may be full of joy, and all contentment to your Grace. I made bold to trouble your Grace with a Letter or two out of Wales, which I hope Mr. Windebank took the best care he could to see delivered. I have no means to do your Grace any service, but by my prayers, and they do daily attend, and shall ever, while I breathe to utter them. I hope though I have miss this opportunity, yet I shall be so happy as to see, and wait upon your Grace at London. In the mean time, and ever, I leave your Grace, and all your home-blessings to the protection of the Almighty, and shall ever be found  
Windsor, 13. Decemb. 1625. Your Grace's most devoted and affectionate servant, Guil. Meneven.   

Doctor Montague Bishop of Chichester to the Duke.  
May it please your Grace,  
YOur Highness vouchsafed at Windsor to let me understand, that his Majesty my gracious Master and Sovereign, had taken me off from that trouble and vexation, which by some men's procurement, I was put unto in the House of Commons. They as I understand, think not so, but intent to proceed against me so far as they can, as having returned his Majesty no other answer, but that I was freed from imprisonment. It is true, that besides 20 l. which the Scrieant had of me by exaction for fees, they bond me unto him in a bond of 2000 l. to appear before them, the first day of the next Sessions. I beseech your Grace, that as you have been pleased to tie me unto your excellent not only self, but also most honourable Sister in that bond of obligation, as never was poor Scholar to such Worthies; so you would be pleased to let his Majesty understand the case, that by your means I may be absolutely discharged, with the redeliverie of my bond from them, whom I never offended, who (under correction) have nothing to do with me; and as his Majesty's servant be left unto himself, especially for that which was authorised by himself, and commanded by his Father, my late Master of ever blessed memory. If his Majesty will be pleased to call for their accusations against me, if I do not really and thoroughly answer whatsoever is, or can be imputed to me out of my books, I will no further desire favour and protection of his Majesty, and your Gracious self, but be willingly left unto my enemies. I must crave pardon for presuming thus to trouble your Grace, the rather because through a grievous affliction of the Colic and Stone, I am not able personally to attend your Grace, whom according unto my most bounden duty, I daily recommend unto the Almighty, being more obliged unto your noble self, then ever to any one. So remaining  
Petwerth, 29. July. Most humbly at your Grace's service ever, Ri. Montague.  
1. IF any or all the Papists living can prove, that the Roman Church, as it now stands in opposition to the Church of England, is either the Catholic Church of Christ, or a sound member of the Catholic Church,  
I will subscribe.  
2. If any or all the Papists living can prove unto me, that the Church of England as it standeth at this day, is not a true member of the Catholic Church,  
I will subscribe.  
3. If any or all the Papists living can prove unto me, that any one point at this day maintained by the Church of Rome against the Church of England, was the received Doctrine of the Catholic Church, or concluded by any general Council, or particular approved Council, or resolved of by any one Father of Credit to be such, for 500 years at least after Christ,  
I will subscribe  
Ri. Montague.   

The Bishops of Rochester, Oxford, and St. David's, to the Duke, concerning Mr. Montague.  
May it please your Grace,  
WE are bold to be suitors to you in the behalf of the Church of England, and a poor member of it Mr. Montague, at this time not a little distressed. We are not strangers to his person, but it is the Cause which we are bound to be tender of.  
The cause we conceive (under correction of better judgement) concerns the Church of England merely; for that Church when it was reform from the superstitious opinions broached, or maintained by the Church of Rome, refused the apparent and dangerous errors, and would not be too busy with every particular School point. The cause why she held this moderation was, because she could not be able to preserve any unity amongst Christians, if men were forced to subscribe to curious particulars disputed in Schools.  
Now may it please your Grace, the opinions which at this time trouble many men in the late Book of Mr. Montague, are some of them such, as are expressly, the resolved doctrine of the Church of England, and those he is bound to maintain. Some of them such as are fit only for Schools, and to be left at more liberty for learned men to abound in their own sense, so they keep themselves peaceable, and distract not the Church. And therefore to make any man subscribe to School opinions, may justly seem hard in the Church of Christ, and was one great fault of the Council of Trent. And to affright them from those opinions in which they have (as they are bound) subscribed to the Church, as it is worse in itself, so it may be the Mother of greater danger.  
May it please your Grace farther to consider, that when the Clergy submitted themselves in the time of Henry the 8th. the submission was so, that if any difference doctrinal, or other fell in the Church, the King and the Bishops were to be Judges of it in a national Synod, or Convocation, The King first giving leave under his broad Seal, to handle the points in difference.  
But the Church never submitted to any other Judge, neither indeed can She, though She would. And we humbly desire your Grace to consider, and then to move his most Gracious Majesty (if you shall think fit) what dangerous Consequences may follow upon it. For first, if any other Judge be allowed in matter of Doctrine, we shall departed from the ordinance of Christ, and the continual course and practise of the Church.  
2. Secondly, if the Church, be once brought down beneath herself, we cannot but fear what may be next Struck at.  
3. Thirdly, it will some way touch the honour of his majesties dear Father, and our most dread Sovereign of Glorious, and ever blessed memory, King James, who saw and approved all the opinions in this Book, and he in his rare wisdom and judgement would never have allowed them, if they had Crossed with truth and the Church of England.  
4. Fourthly, we must be bold to say, that we cannot conceive what use there can be of Civil Government in the common Wealth, or of preaching, and external ministry in the Church, if such fatal opinions as some which are opposite, and contrary to these delivered by Mr. Montague are, shall be Publicly taught and maintained.  
5. Fiftly, we are certain, that all or most of the contrary opinions were treated of at Lambeth, and ready to be published, but then Queen Elizabeth of famous memory, upon notice given, how little they agreed with the Practice of piety, and obedience to all Government, caused them to be suppressed, and so they have continued ever since, till of late some of them have received countenance at the Synod of Dort. Now this was a Synod of that nation, and can be of no authority in any other National Church, till it be received there by Public authority. And our hope is that the Church of England will be well advised, and more than once over, before She admit a foreign Synod, especially of such a Church as condemneth her discipline and manner of Government, to say no more.  
And further we are bold to commend to your Grace's wisdom this one particular. His Majesty (as we have been informed) hath already taken this business into his own care, and most worthily referred it in a right course to Church-consideration. And we well hoped, that without further trouble to the state, or breach of unity in the Church it might so have been well, and orderly composed, as we still pray it may, These things considered we have little to say for Mr. Mountagues person: only thus much we know. He is a very good Scholar and a right honest man. A man every way able to do God, his Majesty, and the Church of England great service. We fear he may receive great discouragement, and which is far worse, we have some cause to doubt this may bred a great backwardness in able men to write in the defence of the Church of England against either home, or foreign adversaries, if they shall see him sink in fortune's reputation, or health upon his book occasion.  
And this we most humbly submit to your Grace's judgement, and care of the Church's peace, and welfare. So recommending your Grace to the protection of Almighty God,  
We shall ever rest At your Grace's service 

Jo. Roffens.  
Jo. Oxon.  
Guile Meneven.   2. August 1625.   

Doctor Field Bishop of Landaffe to the Duke.  
My Gracious Good Lord,  
IN the great Library of men, that I have studied these many years, your Grace is the best Book, and most Classic author that I have read, in whom I find so much goodness, sweetness, and nobleness of nature, such an Heroic spirit, for boundless bounty as I never did in any. I could instance in many, some of whom you have made Deans, some Bishops, some Lords, and Privy Counsellors. None that ever looked toward your Grace did ever go empty away I, need go no farther than myself (a gum of the Earth) whom some 8. years ago you raised out of the dust, for raising but a thought so high as to serve your Highness. Since that, I have not played the Truant, but more diligently studied you then ever before. And yet (Dunce that I am) I stand at a stay, and am a Non-proficient, the book being the same that ever it was, as may appear by the great proficiency of others. This wonderfully poseth me, and sure there is some guile, some wile in some of my fellow Students, who hid my book from me, or some part of it. All the fault is not in mine own blockishness, that I thrive no better. I once feared this before, that some did me ill offices. Your Grace was pleased to protest no man had, and to assure me no man could. My heart tells me, it hath been always upright, and is still most faithful unto you. I have examined my actions, my words, and my very thoughts, and found all of them ever since most sound unto your Grace. Give me leave after so long Patience (for which virtue you were once pleased to commend me to my old Master King James, and I have not yet lost it) now that for these 12 Months almost, I have been not only upon the Stage, but upon the rack of expectations, even distracted between hope and fear, to comfort myself with recordation of your Loving kindnesses of old, when on that great feast day of your being inaugured our Chancellor, my look was your book, wherein you read sadness, to which I was bold to answer, I trusted your Grace would give me no cause. You replied with (loss of blood rather,) that was your noble expression. But God forbidden so precious an effusion. (I would empty all my veins rather than you should bleed one drop) when as one blast of your breath is able to bring me to the haven where I would be. My Lord I am grown an old man and am like old Househouldstuffe, apt to be broke upon often removing. I desire it therefore but once for all, be it Eli, or bath and Wells, and I will spend the remainder of my days in writing an History of your good deeds to me and others, whereby I may vindicate you from the envy, and obloquy of this present wicked age wherein we live, and whilst I live in praying for your Grace,  
Whose I am totally and finally, Theophilus Landaven.   

The Bishop of Landaffe to the Duke.  
My most honourable good Lord,  
IT is meet before I beg a new, that I should first acknowledge those benefits, and more specially give thanks for the last noble favour your Lordship did me in standing up the last day of Parliament, and pleading my cause. Never was poor man more bound to a gracious Lord for protecting his innocence: and it came seasonable, like a shower of rain in the time of drought. My very heart was parched with grief till it came, and it had ere this been broken, had not your Lordship's speech than dropped comfort, in strength whereof it yet lives. For an abortive thought, which never came into act, some 2. or 3. years ago conceived, and that tending to a work of mercy, and charity, a deed of justice, and due thankfulness, how far? how foully have I been traduced? your Honour cannot imagine how deeply I have been wounded in my good name, as if I had deserved deprivation, degradation, yea to be hanged, drawn, and quartered. This can none cure but God, or the King, Deus in monte, God hath done his part in providing an occasion. Besides London (which is too high for me to look after) and the removes which may be thereby, Hereford the next Seat to mine, (whither my Predecessors have oft been removed) is said to be now void. Now good my Lord, speak once more seasonably. It is a doubled, and redoubled, an infinitely multiplied benefit, which is so given. Never had I more need of the Cordial his Majesty gave me at my going into Wales, which was that I should not stay long there. It would be a restorative too, not only of my Credit, so cruelly cracked with the sharp teeth of the wide mouth of vulgar lying fame, but of my estate also, always poor, but lately much more impoverished, and made crazy by occasions of the Church, which drew me to London (a place of great expenses, as the busy times were) to little purpose: And the Parliament overtaking me, which have held me long, and longer yet are like to hold me here, even to the undoing of myself, my wife and six children, from whom I have now lived 6. or 7. months. And what shall I carry home with me but disgrace and infamy? Yet my good Lord, at least procure me of my Lord the King a Nunc dimittis, leave to departed. I shall be further out of the reach of pursuing malice, there in the Country, do his Majesty better service in gathering up his Subsidies, praying, and teaching my children (whilst I read a Lecture to them, myself was never yet able to get by heart) of parsimony, which must be to them instead of a patrimony, to pray for his Majesty's long life, health, and happiness. In which prayer shall your Lordship ever be duly remembered by  
Your Lordships daily devote Beadsman, Theophilus Landavensis.   

Dr. Corbet to the Duke.  
May it please your Grace,  
TO consider my two great losses this week; one in respect of his Majesty to whom I was to preach; the other in respect of my Patron, whom I was to visit. If this be not the way to repair the latter of my losses, I fear I am in danger to be utterly undone. To press too near a great man, is a means to be put by; and to stand too far off, is the way to be forgotten: so Ecclesiasticus. In which mediocrity could I hit it, would I live and die. My Lord, I would neither press near, nor stand far off, choosing rather the name of an ill Courtier, than a saucy Scholar,  
From your Grace's most humble servant, Rich. Corbet.  
Postscript.  
HEre is news, my noble Lord about us, that in the point of Allegiance now in hand, all the Papists are exceeding Orthodox, the only Recusants are the Puritans.   

The E. of Worcester, Arundel and Surrey, Montgomery to the King.  
May it please your most excellent Majesty,  
ACcording to the Orders and Constitutions made and established by your Majesty, and all the Companions of the Order at the last general Chapter held at White-Hall the 21. of May last past, we are bold to inform your Majesty, that we having diligently viewed divers of the Records of the said Order, do in the black book find, that the keeping of the little Park at Windsor, next adjoining unto the Castle, is in direct words annexed for ever to the Office of the Usher for the said Order. So humbly kissing your Royal hands, We rest  
Your Majesty's most humble and faithful Subjects, and servants, E. Worcester, Arundel and Surrey, Montgomery. White-Hall, 1. July, 1622.   

The Lord Chancellor Bacon to the Duke.  
My very good Lord,  
MY Lord of Suffolk's cause is this day sentenced. My Lord, and his Lady fined at 30000 l. with imprisonment in the Tower at their own charges. Bingley at 2000 l. and committed to the Fleet. Sir Edward Cook did his part, I have not heard him do better, and began with a fine of an 100000 l. But the Judges first, and most of the rest reduced it as before. I do not dislike that things pass moderately, and all things considered it is not amiss, and might easily have been worse. There was much speaking of interceding for the King's mercy, which (in my opinion) was not so proper for a sentence: I said in conclusion, that mercy was to come ex mero motu, and so left it. I took some other occasion pertinent to do the King honour, by showing how happy he was in all other parts of his Government, save only in the manage of his treasure by these Officers.  
I have sent the King a new Bill for Sussex: for my Lord of Nottingham's Certificate was true, and I told the Judges of it before, but they neglected it. I conceive the first man (which is newly set down) is the fittest. God ever preserve and keep you, etc.   

The Earl of Suffolk to his Majesty.  
Gracious Sovereign,  
IN this grievous time of my being barred from your presence, which to me is the greatest affliction that can lie upon me; and knowing by my former service to you, the sweet and Princely disposition that is in you naturally, together with that unmatchable judgement which the world knoweth you have, is the occasion, that I presume at this time to lay before your Majesty my most humble suit; which is, that you would be pleased to look upon the Case of your poor servant, who after so many faithful desires of mine to do you service, I do not say that success hath fallen out as I wished, should now not only have suffered for my weakness, and errors, but must be further questioned to my disgrace. I would to God your Majesty did truly understand the thoughts of my heart, and if there you could find one the least of ill affections to you, I wish it pulled out of my body.  
Now to add to my miseries, give me leave to let your Majesty know the hard estate I am in; for I do owe at this present (I dare avow upon my fidelity to you) little less than 40000 l. which I well know will make me and mine poor and miserable for ever.  
All this I do not lay down to your Majesties best judging eyes, that I mean this by way of complaint; For I do acknowledge the reason that your Majesty had to do what you did: neither do I go about to excuse errors to have escaped me, but will now and ever acknowledge your Gracious favourable dealing with me, if you will be pleased now to receive me again to your favour after this just correction, without which I desire not to enjoy fortune of Goods, or life in this world, which in the humblest manner that I can I beg at your Princely feet, as  
Your, etc. T. Suffolk.   

The E. of Suffolk to the Duke.  
My Honourable good Lord,  
AT the first minute of mine, and my wife's delivery out of the Tower, I had returned such acknowledgement due for so great a favour, but that Sir George Goring only desired to be the Messenger, as well as he was of the other, Let not (my Lord) my late misfortunes make me or mine more unable to serve, and thank you, than any he, that thus takes advantage thereby to wrong me in your belief: for what I have both received in abatement of my fine, and speedy liberty, I must confess to come from your Noble mediation to his Majesty, whose displeasure hath been more grievous to my soul, than all the rest this world can inflict upon me.  
As your Lordship's kindness hath begun to ease me, so now let the same hand cure, and preserve me from a worse relapse wherein I am like to fall, if your power prevent it not. The motion of his Majesties for my persuading my sons out of their places, was the grievousest sound that ever entered me, for thereby I still breathed under the heavy weight of all my afflictions, not despairing but their Care (charged upon them with my blessing) might somewhat redeem my errors, and assure his Majesty, that my will was never tainted with offending him.  
I know my Lord, there is little benefit in serving against Master's minds, but they are unworthy servants that will leave such Masters upon any conditions. Such as make suit to chop or change for their own advantage, are better lost then kept: But as for mine, my curse should follow them, if ever I could think, they followed his Majesty with such indifferency. My obedience to his Majesty was ever of more force with me, than mine own ends any way laid, nor ever joyed I more than in running to his Commands. But this (my Lord) rends my heart to think, that, unfortunate I, should bury my sons alive, and pronounce that sentence, which would make me and them Scorns to posterity. Whilst I have knee to bend, eye to lift up, or tongue to beg, I must implore his Majesty's pardon, and mercy in this kind. As for that more drossy part of my estate, it still lies at his Majesty's feet, and if he now please to recall, what he remitted, without further condition, I must obey, and let his Majesty see, no change of time or place can change me, my love, my duty, or my zeal to him.  
My Lord, here you may read me in my greatest griefs that ever did fall to me: weigh them well, and think that one day you may be a father, and be as nearly touched, as now I am. The favour you shall do me herein shall prove no hidden talon, for the increase shall not only be the happiness of a good work well done, but the hearty acknowledgement of a whole family, and all theirs, that shall as faithfully serve and honour you, as the best of those, that would succeed them, which I hope your Lordship will believe from me, who will ever be  
Yours, etc. T. Suffolk.   

The Earl of Suffolk to his Majesty.  
Most Gracious Sovereign,  
Your Princely favour in dilivering me, and my wife out of the tower, must, and shall ever be acknowledged of us with all humble thanks. And now be pleased to give me leave to be an humble surtor to your Majesty, that out of the tender compassion of your Princely heart, you will be pleased to cast your eye upon the miserable estate of your distressed, afflicted, and old Servant, now brought into fear of never recovering of your Majesty's favour, and so wretced my case is, as the little hope, that remained in me to live in your memory, was by my two sons service to your Gracious self, and the Prince. It is now required of me to impose upon them the resignation of their places, which with all humility I beseech you to give me leave to say, I would sooner use my power over them to will them to bury themselves quick, then by any other way then enforcement to give up their places of service, which only remains to me to be either my dying comfort, or my living torment.  
Besides, they are now past my government, being both married, and have children, only I have a Paternal Care of them, which I humbly beseech your best judging Majesty to weigh respectively, how unhappy I must of necessity think myself, if I should be the persuader of that misfortune to my children, that their children within a few years would curse me for, either living, or dead. Upon all these just considerations (most Gracious Master) give me leave to turn my cruel, &. unnatural part of persuading them to yield to that, for which I should detest myself, to my humblest desire upon the Knees of my heart to beg humbly of your Majesty, that whatsoever favour you have ever had to me for any service done, that your Majesty will be pleased to spare the ruin of these two young men, whom I find so honestly disposed in their desire of spending their fortunes, and lives in your Majesties, and your Princely son's service, as if your displeasure be not fully satisfied with what I have suffered already, that you lay more upon me, and spare them. I have written to my Lord of Buckingham to be my mediator to your Majesty in this behalf, which I assure myself he will nobly perform, as well as he hath formerly done, in being my means to your Majesty in obtaining this great begun favour. To conclude with my prayer to God, that your Majesty may ever find the same zeal, and Love to your person in whomsoever you shall employ, that my heart's Sole-affection did, and ever shall carry unto you, which God knows was, and is more to your Majesty then to my wife, and children, and all other worldy things which God measure unto me according to the truth, as  
Yours, etc. T. Suffolk   

The Lady Elizabeth Howard to the King.  
When I waited upon you at Theobalds' to beseech your Majesty that my Lord of Suffolk might not come into the Star-chamber, you protested that you loved the man, but that you must show cause to the world why you took the Staff from him, but for his fortune, that your Majesty would not meddle with it; the same my Lord of Buckingham told me, with this assurance of your promise I went away secure in that point. Since his cause was heard, he moved all that heard it with much compassion to him, and the people did think, that when you sent him to the Tower, you would have sent for him to have kissed your hand. But your Majesty is abused, for they do not let you know, what is thought of the proceeding against this good man, knowing how truly he loveth you, with the truth of his cause, that you would not follow him, and his children with cruelty. 
Which might have been better spent.  My Lord hath spent in running a Tilt, in Masques, and following the Court above 20000. And Sir shall his reward now be to be turned out of his place without any offence committed. Sir I am the child of your old Servant, and am now great with child, I know it will kill me, and I shall willingly die rather than desire life to see my unfortunate self, and mine thus miserably undone. Sir I beseech your Majesty remember my Father that is dead, and me his distressed child; for if he could know any worldly thing, he would wonder to see me, and those that shall come of me, thus strangely used. But my hope is still in your Majesty's goodness, and that you will not be carried away with the malice of other men. In this confidence I rest with my daily prayers for your health and happiness, as  
Yours etc. E. H.   

The Lady Elizabeth Norris to the Duke.  
My Lord,  
EVer since your Lordship's first recommendation of my husband to me, I have thought myself much engaged to your Lordship; for I must confess after he had taken his leave of me, I did love him never the less: for immediately after my father's death (when in my Conscience he lest expected to hear from me) I did both send and write to him, which he might interpret an encouragement, or rather an invitation. I did it the rather, because I did not believe those which did him ill offices; for those which were most for him, on a sudden were most against him. I must confess, that pity did confirm my affection, and I trust your Lordship will commiserate his estate, as you do the fall of all mankind, for I was the Eva, and he was the Adam: and I pray God the King and your Lordship may forgive us, as I am confident God will pardon us. Your Lordship may imagine my Mother was of the plot, but I take God to witness, that she was not only against it, but contrarily. I did believe she was wholly for your Brother: And for your Brother, my Mother recommended him to me, whom I used like a Gentleman of high worth and quality. But I did by no means abuse him by promise, or taking gifts, which I falsely suffer for, in the opinion of the world. I only took a ring by my mother's appointment, which came as a token from my Lady your mother, which was of very small value. My husband and I am resolved rather to suffer in the opinion of the world, then contradict any thing which shall be aggravated against us. We must both honour you, and think ourselves much engaged to your Lordship. After God, I protest you are the only author of it: for by your means, I first settled my affection. I know there are those which do my husband and me ill offices. I have reason to be jealous of the Lord Montgomery, for he would have put tricks upon me in making me deny the Contract; and when he failed in that, he went about to make me believe Mr. Wray had denied his. And to tell your Lordship true, his violence and over-earnestnesse made me the more averse. If my husband had not fetched me, I would have come to him, and so I sent him word.  
Thus humbly beseeching your Lordship as you are happy in your wife, that you would be pleased to make our peace with the King; and seeing it is God's act, that you would honour us with your favour. We shall be both bound to join in prayer, that you may be ever happy in your Wife, and in your children's Children. And so with my humble respect to your Lordship, I rest  
Your Lordship's humble servant, Elizabeth Norris.   

Sir Edward Cecyl to the Duke.  
My very good Lord,  
HOw much my affection and ambition hath been to serve your Lordship before other men, I hope I shall not need now to express, considering it hath been clear and manifest to your own trial, whereof I do bear still the testimony, and the continuance in mine own heart. But in your nobleness it will not appear impertinent to your Lordship, that I put you in mind, how much I suffered in the disgrace my enemies cast upon me about the employment for the Palatinate, when I was under your protection; whether I suffered for mine own sake, or for your Lordship, I know not: howsoever of this I am assured, the greatest cause I gave them, that had least reason, was because I sought not them, but your Lordship only. And for the success, you may see by the miracles the employment hath brought forth, that it was carried another way, rather for private malice, then for any great zeal to the advancement of the public Cause.  
Now my Lord, for your own honour, and for the upholding of your servant, make me so happy, if there be any employment for men of my profession (as there is opinion) that I may be the man by your Lordship's means, wherein you shall make me your obliged, as I am now your affectionate servant. For which you shall be assured of as thankful heart, as any breaths in the whole world. In the enjoying of which kind of service, though you are accounted the most happy among great men, yet you cannot have too much of it. I could remember your Lordship of his Majesty's gracious promise for my employment before any other in the presence of the Prince and your Lordship, and that I am the first General his Majesty ever made, and that I had no ill success in the perfecting of that service; yet for all this, I will only trust in your Nobleness, if you resolve to make me your Creature.  
And if it shall please his Majesty to hold me worthy of this honour, I will undertake to save his Coffers (as I have heretofore done) the sixth part of the employments charge and cost, that any other man shall require, who makes not a computation for the managing of it, by a sufficient expense of his own.  
I will not write more at this time, but to wish your Lordship as much happiness as your heart can desire, and that you will give me an occasion to show how much I am, and will be  
Your Lordship's most faithful and affectionate servant. Ed. Cecil. From our Army this 20. of Novemb.   

Sir Edward Cecil to the Duke.  
May it please your Excellency,  
THis Gentleman Sir George Blundel hath now clearly quitted the service of the States, for this especial reason (as he assures me) to be the more absolutely employed in your Excellency's service. This I know, his friends here that love him (which are many) are very sorry to part with him, for there is no melancholy where he goes. And therefore considering the condition of this place, we shall be great losers, being upon a melancholy place, and service, ill paid, sick of all diseases in the world, in a place that is next neighbour to hell, if the book printed say true, which saith, that the Low-Countriemen are next neighbours to the devil. And I am sure, we are now seated lower than any part of these Countries; for the waters are above us, and about us, and we live in more fear of them, then of the enemy; for we may be drowned at an hours warning, if we do not continually work against it, and yet, and it shall please your Excellency, this is the Seat for a Winter War. Many more inconveniencies we are daily sensible of, of which I have endured so much, as I dare say without vanity, that few of my rank and fortune have suffered more, or longer than I have done in these Countries; having served these 27. years together without intermission; and all this for no other end (for I am 900 l. a year the worse for the Wars) then to make me able to serve my Prince and Country when occasion should be offered.  
But since the time is come, that opinion doth so govern, as strangers get the Command, and new Soldiers employed, which was never heard of before amongst men of our occupation, It is high time for me to retire, and wish I had been of any other profession than this. For if long service can get no honour, nor reward, nor employment, but the contrary; it would touch a man's discretion to be more and more unfortunate: All my comfort is, that I shall have the honour and good fortune in my retreat, to draw nearer to your Excellency's service, if not in my profession, (which I desire above all) yet in something whereof your Excellency may make use of me. For I am ambitious of nothing more, then to prove myself by action, and not by recommendation,  
Your Excellencies most faithful devoted, and humble servant, Ed. Cecyl. From our Army at Wallike the 4th of Decemb.   

Sir Edward Cecil to Mr. Secretary Conway.  
My very good Lord,  
IT hath pleased your Lordship to write me three Letters lately: the one a particular list of officers, that should be sent from hence; the second for Mr. Hopton, the third an acknowledgement only of the receipt of my Letter to your Lordship. The first I have put in execution, and have written to your son, Sir Edward Conway to give them all notice of your Lordship's Care of them. And to let them know how welcome any one shall be to me, that you think fit to be employed. For one of them called Ensign Rainesford, I had set him down, because I received your Lordship's direction from himself. For Mr. Hopton I have written unto him according to your desire, with your Letter enclosed; concerning the last, I give your Lordship many humble thanks for having expressed the acceptance by your answer. Touching your business here: the State hath been as contrary to us, as the wind. For though they see a great action likely to be performed to their own good, with little cost to themselves; yet they desire to be so wise, as to make benefit, both ways, and not to balk any advantage: which makes them stand so stiff upon the denying of us Officers, and Shoulders by election, and will yield to send none but whole companies, only to abate so much upon the repartitions. But Sir William St. Leaguer and I, have utterly refused their offer as a proposition against his Majesty's service: for by this ignorant winter war our Companies are grown half new men, having lost most of our old, and of those new men the half are sick besides: So that his Majesty should be beholden to them, rather for names, than men: And again for the Officers, and Shoulders, it is like they should be most of them the worst in the regiment, from whence they are to come. Whereas if we might have had those Officers we made choice of, which were but ten Captains, and other inferior Officers to the number of thirty, they might have been fit for employment upon a double enemy. And I could wish, that whensoever his Majesty shall be once furnished with Good Officers, it would please him to make account of them, as these men do, who have had long experience, and known their Value.  
It pleased my Lord the Duke to write to me a Letter, and to let me know he had chosen me his Officer, to attend, and obey him this journey: an honour too great for me, because I did never expect it, but nothing shall excuse my faults, saving my life. And among many other directions he commanded me to provide for the Army such necessary things as cannot be had in England. Whereof I have thought of many, which I fear, I shall not have the time to get. In my care belonging to these provisions, I have considered the use of our small pieces of Ordinance here, which they call Drakes, that shoot 70. Musket bullets. They will be of great use in this service, both in regard of the quick landing, and of the passing of such mountainous places, as perhaps we may meet withal, and likewise in respect of the little hope we have to get any good musquetiers, or at least any great store of them. But they are in such favour here, as we can obtain none from hence, and so are forced by a general consent to buy ten of them here, that were provided for the King of France. And the reputation they carry is such, as they are ready money every where. They cost not much more than 400. sterling, and I hope they will prove the profitablest pieces that were ever used in the quarrel of his Majesty's Friends. We have likewise considered of what service a company of Firelocks would be to the action, but the time is so short, we cannot raise them. Howsoever we are promised of the States to have leave for a company of Harquebussiers, which are of such use upon all occasions, that we cannot miss them. And we have chose a brave and worthy Gentleman his Majesty's Servant and Subject who is willing to leave any service for this, being the service of the King. If they should have been raised in England, his Majesty must have paid for the horses, arms, saddles, and pistols, and yet not find any able to have served in that kind.  
The wind (as yet) holds contrary, which hath made me send this by Sir Henry Vane, who goes a way, that I dare not pass. But (I hope) if the wind serve, not to be many days behind him to receive your Lordship's command, more particularly which I will obey as  
Your Lordship's most humble Servant, Ed: Ceoyl. Hagh 2. June. 1625.  
Postscript.  
MY Lord, now in this time of necessity for the getting of good Musquetiers, there are many hundred to be found in England that have served in this Land, which by proclamation and promise of money in hand, or more pay, will easily discover themselves, whom some of the new men (to be released) will be glad to satisfy, without charge to his Majesty.   

Sir Edward Cecyl to the Duke.  
My most excellent Lord,  
THere are some Letters of mine, that had come to your Lordship's hands, a good many days since, had not the wind been contrary and withstood their passage. The substance whereof was only to show you how thankful I hold myself to your excellency for so great and infinite a favour as it hath pleased your excellency to think me worthy of. But as is it a favour that will set me on work all the days of my life: so is it greater than I can ever deserve. Howsoever my resolution is to do my best. And I humbly beseech your Excellency to believe, that with my diligence, and the best understanding I have, I will seek nothing but to please you, and to honour you; and if God say Amen to make the world speak of your design as much (I hope) as ever our Nation hath given cause. And for the faults of myself, and those I shall bring with me, they shall not be excused, but with our lives, and bloods: for I hope I shall bring none, but such as know what to do, and when they come to it will by't fooner than bark. I do promise myself your Excellency will have no cause to doubt or repent you of your favours, for I know what men have done, and what they can do in my occupation. But God is God, and men are but men.  
All my discouragement is, that the States answer not his Majesty's expectation being fearful (especially since the loss of Breda) to part with any of their old Officers, or old Soldiers; but my hope is now better, for we have put them to another resolution, by answering all their objections. By this disposition of the States to the keeping all their old Soldiers, I wish your Excellency will be pleased to be as careful in your choice, as you are desirous of great designs. For otherwise the honour, and the charge will both be cast away, as your Excellency may perceive in some of our latter expeditions, seeing that although there are many called Soldiers in the world, yet but a few there be, that are so: for so long a man must live in the profession to enable him sufficiently, that many grow unable to perform, what they know, before they have attained to the knowledge of what to perform. The knowledge of war being the highest of humane things that God suffereth man's understanding to reach unto.  
I have according to your Excellencies command made as many provisions as I can for the shortness of the time, of such things as cannot be gotten in England. And I could have wished I had known of this employment but some months sooner; for then I could have saved his Majesty somewhat, and have added many things that would very much have advanced the service. For in our profession the preparing of things belonging to the war, doth more show a man's experience and judgement, than any thing else, by reason the first errors are the begetting of many more, that afterwards cannot be avoided. Your excellency may be pleased to inform yourself of all the exploits, and undertake of our nation, that none of them hath suffered (for the most part) more than through the negligence of provisions, as in victual, munition, boats for Landing, and for the receiving of sick men, to keep the rest from infection. In this point of provision, it is not good to trust upon a particular man, for gain is a corrupter where the care is not public. And in so great an expedition, one must do with living men, as they do with the dead, there must be overseers and executors to have a true intent well performed.  
I have presumed to write thus much, to show my thankfulness to your Excellency, and my great affection to his Majesty's service, whereof I am infinitely possessed. I hear your Excellency is in France, but my prayers to God are to send you safe, and happy home, for the World holds you the soul of advancing his Majesty's affairs, wherein his Honour is engaged as it is, especially in this action, being the first, and a Great One.  
And as for myself, who am now a creature you have made, I know not what I shall do when I come to England, being your Excellency's shadow only.  
I have here attended the wind, and since I cannot force it, I am glad of the opportunity to send the Letters by Sir Henry Vane, who goes over Land, a Passage I am not capable of, having been so long their enemy. But I hope God will send me soon after, leaving Sir William St. Leaguer here for the dispatch of that which remains. I have written more particularly to my Lord Conway which I dare not set down here for fear of being tedious, and knowing his Lordship will give your Excellency an account of it. And so in all humbleness and duty, I pray God send your Excellency honour, and length of life for his majesty's affairs, and for the happiness of  
Your Lordship's most humble, faithful and obedient servant, Ed. Cecil. Hagh the 3d. of June, 1625.   

Sir Edward Cecil to the Duke.  
My most Excellent Lord,  
THe occasion of my boldness in presenting your Excellency with these lines, is for that, contrary to my expectation, I hear that there is a Commission a drawing to make Sir Horace Vere a Baron of England. It is strange to me at this time to hear it, for that I know not what worth there is more in him, then in those, that are equal in profession, and before him in birth. If your Excellency have made choice of me to be your second in this journey of so much charge, and expectation, and to make me less than I was, what courage shall I have to do you service? or what honour will redound to your Excellency? But although I writ it, yet I cannot believe it, for that I know you of that judgement and nobleness, that you will rather add to your faithful servants, although they beg it not, then to disgrace them, and make them less. Therefore I will continue my belief, and rest  
Your Excellencies most humble, and devoted servant, Ed. Cecil. 19 of July, 1625.   

My Lord Wimbledon to the Duke.  
My Gracious Lord,  
IT hath not a little troubled your faithful servant at my last being with your Excellency in White-Hall Garden, to understand (after I had attended so long) that I had ill offices done me to his Majesty, and yet the World is of opinion, that I have your Excellency's favour. I presently went home, and ever since I have mused and considered, and can find no reason or policy for my being kept from his Majesty's presence, which maketh me and my near friends astonished. For hitherto I have received no favour, but rather the most strictest proceeding, that ever was used (and without example) to any man, that had such a charge.  
And whereas there is no Commission of any force, or validity, without the assistance of the State, and Prince he serveth, for he that Commandeth is but one man, and the rest are many thousands, which are great odds, yet I have been publicly heard before the whole body of the Council (my adversaries standing by) so curiously, as no inquisition could have done more.  
For first, I was examined upon mine instructions, then upon my acts of Council, then upon my journal, then upon a journal compounded of by ten sundry persons, which were under my Command both Landmen and Seamen, which was never heard of before, and I did not only answer in particular to all points that were demanded, but by writing which is extant: yet cannot I get any judgement or report made to his Majesty, but rather time is given to my enemies (as I hear) to make an ill report of me and my actions to the King. But when I was to be accused, there was no time delayed nordeferred, and such men as I have proved guilty, and failed in the principal point of the service, to have fired and destroyed the Shipping, are neither examined, or any thing said against them, which is strange, especially Sir Michael Gear. So that I know not how my Lord of Essex can take any thing ill from your Excellency, unless it be to have you do injustice, or against all reason. He may rather give your Excellency many thanks, that his Lordship is not called into question for letting pass the King of Spain's ships, that offered him fight, which would have been the chief service, having instructions not to let any fly, or break out, without fight with them.  
Now (my Lord) I humbly beseech your Excellency to consider my Case, that hath been so severely examined, and no body else, and that after my Examination, I have lingered so long in my wrongs and disgraces, and by the ill offices your Grace doth see are done me to his Majesty, which will rather increase then diminish, so long as I shall be kept from the presence of his Majesty, that is I know of himself the justest Prince in the world, and yet to be in your Excellency's favour.  
And I hold myself clear of all imputations in despite of all malice and practice, that hath been against me, to obscure all my endeavours which my adversaries in their consciences can best witness, that when they slept I waked; when they made good cheer, I fasted; and when they rested, I toiled. And besides, when they went about to hinder the journey at Plymouth, by railing on the beggarliness of it, and discrediting of it, I was content to take it upon me, though against my judgement, as I did secretly deliver both to his Majesty and your Grace, before I departed from the Coast: Nominating in my Letter to his Majesty all the inconveniencies that did after happen unto the Fleet: for had it not been in my obedience to his Majesty, and my good affection to your Excellency, (that I did see so much affect it, and was so far engaged) I would have been rather torn in pieces, then to have gone with so many ignorant and malicious people, that did show so little affection or courage to his Majesty's service, or any affection at all to your Excellency. Yet for all this, all hath been laid upon me, having had rather hard courses taken against me, than any way maintained in my Commission which was given me, which no State, that I have ever heard of, did before. I pray God his Majesty's future service do not suffer for it; for where his Majesty's Officers are not obeyed, he can never be served.  
Wherefore my suit is, that if I have any ill offices done me to his Majesty, that I may clear myself before him by your favour, which I have so long attended after; or by way of Petition, which the meanest Subject is not to be hindered in; for as I continue now, I have not only wrong done to me, but I suffer as much punishment (without any fault) as if I had been condemned.  
And that your Excellency will do me the favour to deal plainly with me, to let me know, why I am deferred from his Majesty's presence, which is not denied to any, having received so much wrong.  
If my suffering be to add any service to your affairs in these troublesome times, let but this honest friend of mine know so much, and I will suffer any inconvenience, as I have, misery, danger, and decay of my fortunes for your Excellency's sake. And so I rest  
Your Excellencies most devoted, and faithful and thankful servant and Creature, Wimbledon. 28th. Apr. 1626.   

My Lord Wimbledon to the Duke.  
My Gracious Lord,  
I Understand that it pleased the Lords to grant the Colonels leave to accuse me anew, and they have taken to them the most discontented Seamen they could get to help their malice forward. I had thought, that before my coming, they should have had time and advantage sufficiently to have shown all their envy. And I was persuaded, that they could not have desired more, then to have been present when I should be examined, and my journal read. At the reading whereof they took all the exceptions that might be, and I did answer them all in your Excellency's presence, as I thought fully, whereupon they seemed to be so content, as they had no more to say; neither did they at that time desire to make a journal, or to say any more.  
Then the Lords resolutions were only to hear the Seamen speak, upon whom all the business did lie. If they may be suffered upon new Combinations, to bring new slanders upon me, I cannot tell what to think of it. But this I can say, that if this course be taken, his Majesty will never be without a mutinous Army. (which all States in policy do shun) For when the Common Soldiers shall see their Chiefs give them such examples, they will soon follow, being that all Armies are subject to it, especially a new Army. I had thought that one Trial had been sufficient, being it was before such an Assembly. But if I should be accused, I should desire to have new accusers, and not the same that have already accused me, (for so there would be no end) & that upon their Petition, I might have been heard what I could justly say, why they should not have leave to make a journal, and not to give them leave before I were heard. I am afraid there was never any such precedent before, and what inconveniencies may come of it time will show.  
I have sought to none of the Lords as I fear my enemies have done, (I know not whether I shall suffer for it or no) but my trust hath only been in your Excellency and the justness of my Cause. I have been your Excellency's Officer in as difficult and as miserable an action as ever any one hath undertaken, and with as little assistance as ever any one had. For many of those that should have assisted me, were more careful in betraying me, then in forwarding his Majesty's service. And if this course be held to encourage them, there is no man shall suffer more than his Majesty's service will. For it will be folly for any man to look to his Majesty's service, or to take any pains to prevent, or hinder that which may be committed against it; But to let every man do what he will, so all will be pleased, and he that Commands shall have no man to slander him, which is the way to live in quiet.  
Thus much I thought was fit for me to let your Excellency understand, and withal, that I held it a great unhappiness for me (that have taken such toil and pains, and suffered so many slanders) to be kept back by my enemies from that honour, that never any one of my rank and place was hindered in, which is from kissing the hand of my Sovereign Lord the King All Power is in your Lordship's hands; whether you will uphold me in my just cause, or no, or let me be ruinated for want of it. So that I can say no more, but that if I suffer, I shall be your Excellency's Martyr, if not, I shall all my life rest  
Your Excellencies most humble, and most thankful servant and Creature, Wimbledon.   

Sir John Ogle to the Duke.  
Right Excellent and most Gracious Lord,  
ANd because you are so, why should not I put my soul in your hand? that I have not done it sooner was not through want of will in me, but it hath been the will of God, that mine acknowledgement should be the fuller, your goodness the greater. Your Grace cannot be ignorant of the many motions I have had thereto, but my judgement hath been made irresolute by several distractions. I lay now myself, and the fortunes of me and mine at your Grace's feet. Take me up then (noblest Lord) as becometh the fame which you have, and the confidence which I have of you with a hand of goodness. If I had wilfully sinned against you (when I was wickedly ensnared and beguiled by that wretch at Vtrecht, to whom I gave some Extract out of your Letters, as also out of the Lord Ambassadors,) or did yet with obstinacy maintain such indiscreet proceeding, your Grace might in justice reject me as unworthy.  
But since you have long discerned in me a propension to crave your pardon, though still unhappily diverted till this time; I trust your true Nobleness, generousness and goodness to be such, as you will not only not turn this hearty submission to any disadvantage on my part; but looking upon mine ingenuity, with a right eye of gracious inclination, both pardon my fault, and folly towards yourself, and also (to bind my prayers to be offered in the greater zeal for you, for I shall not be able to do you better service then in prayer) be a strong mediator to his gracious Majesty, that my errors of weakness, and want of discretion, committed then towards his late Majesty of ever blessed memory, and his Ambassador, with what other oversights may have been gathered up since, may be freely and fully forgiven and remitted, that so my soul being discharged of all fear of displeasure against me, I may with a cheerful heart and quiet conscience, go on in such a vocation as the Lord shall have appointed for me. My Lord, this wound hath long festered near my heart, and though false skins have been drawn over it sometimes by unskilful hands, yet have I ever judged it the surest ●●re to rip it up by Confession, and heal it by Contrition. And sure I judge that it savours more of a right generous spirit to confess a fault, then to conceal it, especially when the party offending is free from malice, and the party offended of a nature so noble and full of goodness, as nothing can be wished to be added unto it, and which is yet more; and this have you graciously done to me, (my Lord) signed himself with his own hand a true and faithful friend unto him, the more to invite him to trust him. And trust you I do my Lord, and in you (next my Gracious Sovereign) as much as may be in any arm of flesh. The God of Heaven (I hope) will speak peace to my soul, if the King, and your Grace will send peace to my heart. I trust you will, and will pray to God you may, that I may in all cheerfulness and thankfulness ever remain  
Your Grace's most humble, and faithful, and obliged servant Jo. Ogle. Exester 3. June, 1625.  
Postscript.  
I Beseech your Grace to send some other man to take this Charge which I too weakly for fear of offending by denial have thus far undergone, but upon hope of being withdrawn. Yet still submit myself to your Grace's good pleasure.   

Sir Robert Mansel to the Duke.  
Right Honourable and my singular good Lord,  
HAving used all the possible speed I could to repair to Algiers, where I should have been by the 15. of March last, I held it my duty humbly to present unto your Lordship the particular account of my proceed.  
Before my arrival I furnished the two Prizes, three Brigandines, and a fourth Boat with Eirelocks, and combustible materials for the burning of the Pirates ships within the Moal, and had trained my men in the execution of their several duties, and likewise appointed a squadron of boats with small shot to rescue the vessels of execution in their advancement and retreat.  
The first night of my arrival being the 21. of May last, the vessels of execution were all advanced, but by reason of contrary winds they were commanded to retire.  
The second and third nights they were also in a readiness, but were withheld with calms.  
The fourth night it pleased God to bless us with a fair Gale, and they being advanced again, and the two ships with the fireworks, having almost recovered the mouth of the Moal (the wind to our great grief) turned to the opposite point of the Compass.  
The boats performed their directions in towing of the ships, but considering, that by the continuance of the course, they should expose their principallest men to hazard, by reason of the great store of Ordnance and small shot, which plied upon them, they debated amongst themselves what to do, Capt. Hughes (who commanded one of the Brigandines) replied, Go on, and give the attempt with the boats, which they cheerfully pursued, crying out without cessation, King James, King James, God bless King James, and fearless of danger (even in the mouth of the Canon, and small shot, which showered like hail upon them) they fired the ships in many places, and maintained the same to the great comfort of us, that were spectators, so long as they had any powder left in their bandeliers, striving in the end who should have the honour to come off last, the which at length, as a due to his former resolution and courage, they left to captain Hughes, and so retired, all the ships continuing still their cheerful cry, King James, with the loss of 20. that were slain, and hurt, and leaving the fire flaming up in 7. several places, which continued in some of them long after their retreat, and being aboard his Majesty's ships.  
The cowardly Turks, who before durst not show themselves to so weak a force, but from the walls or the tops of their houses, so soon as they perceived all the boats retired, opened their ports, and Sallied out in 1000 and by the help of so great multitudes, and a sudden shower of rain ●, seconded with a calm which then happened, the fire was after extinguished, without doing any more hurt than making two of their ships unserviceable.  
During that Stay, there there came out of the Moal only one Frigate, which we forced to run on shore.  
Other service by us there performed, was the sinking of one of their best men of war by Sir Thomas Wilford, and Captain Chidleigh, she was manned with a 130. Turks and 12. Christians, whereof 12. only escaped, the rest were either slain or drowned, which appeared both by the relation of divers Christians which nightly escaped aboard us, and by divers of the dead bodies that floated upon the water by our ships. We took likewise before their faces in the Bay a Flyboat, which the Pirates had formerly taken from the Christians and sold to Ligorn. In her Merchandise to be exchanged for Pirates goods, and some money amounting to 2000 and odd pounds, the exact account whereof I shall not fail to address to your Lordship as soon as the same is perfected by the council of War.  
The Turks hereupon presently manned out three Galleys to rescue here, but Captain Giles, and Captain Herbert, with the help of three Brigandines, which I sent out to second them, soon fetched her up, and brought there unto me, and the Galleys were put to flight by Sir Thomas Wilford, Captain Pennington, and Captain Childlegh.  
During the time of my abode there, after the attempt made by the boats, I attended ten days for an opportunity to send in the ships with the fire works, to finish the service begun by the boats; but in all that time there happened not a breath of wind fit for their attempt, notwithstanding the ships were always ready at the instant, that they should receive my directions to advance. But at last understanding by the Christians (that escaped by swimming) aboard me, how the Pirates had boomed up the Moales with Masts, and Rafts, set a double guard upon their ships, planted more ordnance upon the Mole, and the walls, and manned out twenty Boats to guard the Boome, and perceiving likewise, that they had sent out their Galleys, and boats both to the Eastward and Westward to give aduce to all the ships upon the Coast, that they should not come in during my abode there, and so finding no hope remaining, either by stratagem to do service upon them in the Mole, or to meet with any more of them, in the regard of the daily complaints brought unto me, both from some of the King's ships, and most of the Merchants of their want of victuals, I resolved by the advice of the Council of war to set sail, whence I made my repair to this place, where I met my Brother Roper with your Lordship's dirrections which I have received, and at the instant obeyed, by signifying his Majesty's pleasure declared by your Lordship's Letter unto the worthy Commanders of those four ships whom his Majesty hath pleased to call home.  
But my Lord, in the duty I own your Lordship, and my zeal to his Majesty's honour and service, I humbly beg your Lordship's pardon to advertise your Lordship, that seeing we have now made this attempt upon the Pirates, and that they perceive that our intent is to work their utter ruin and confusion, the recalling of these his Majesty's Forces before the arrival of others in their stead, and the bereaving us of so many worthy and experienced Commanders, I fear may prove more prejudicial to the service, then upon one day's consideration I dare presume to set down in writing, by encouraging the Pirates to put in execution such stratagems upon us, as to my knowledge they have already taken into their consideration. My reasons for the same, I shall be bold upon more mature deliberation to offer in all humbleness unto your Lordship's judicious view, either by the Commanders that are to return unto your Lordship, or by a messenger which divers of the Council of War advise to be addressed over land on purpose with the same.  
And so being ready (so soon as we have received in our water, and dispatched divers other businesses, which of necessity must be ordered in this place) to set sail for Malega, there to receive in our remainder of Victuals, and to take my leave of these 4. Ships, and such other of the Merchants as cannot be made serviceable in these parts. With my endless prayers for your Lordship's increase of all honour, I cease your Lordships farther trouble for the present; And rest  
From aboard the Lion in Alicant Rode. 9th. June. 1621. Your Lordship's most humble, most faithful and sad servant, Robert Mansel.   

Sir Robert Mansel to the Duke.  
Right Honourable and my singular good Lord,  
IT is not unknown unto your Lordship, that Sir Thomas Button before his coming out, thought himself much wronged in that he did not hold the place of Vice Admiral in this Fleet, whereof I must acknowledge him very worthy, and that for my part I had engaged Sir Richard Hawkins, a very Grave, Religious, and experienced Gentleman, before I was assured whether Sir Thomas Button would leave his employment in Ireland, or no; and that afterwards Sir Thomas Button by your Lordship's mediation, was contented to undertake the charge he now holdeth, which God knows I laboured for no other end, then for the security and advancement of his Majesty's service, by reason of the experience I have had of his sufficiency and ability.  
Since that time, I have doubled that injury. A wrong was done unto him which cannot be denied, he patiently appealed to me for justice, which I must confess I denied him. But the name of the person that offered the wrong, and the reasons why I denied him Justice, I must leave unto Sir Richard Hawkins and Sir Henry Palmer to relate unto your Lordship, and if that will not give your Lordship satisfaction, I must humbly submit myself to your Lordship's Censure.  
Notwithstanding the impression that these injuries took with him, yet thus much I must truly confess in his behalf, That there was no man more zealous to advance his Majesty's service nor more forward to undergo any danger or hazard then himself, whereof he hath given assured testimony to the World in these three particulars.  
First, in the service performed by him on a Christmas day at night, whereof I have formerly advertized your Lordship at large.  
Secondly, Then in going over to Algiers cheerfully, without complaining, when his Ship was so grievously infected, that he had not able men in her to manage her Sails.  
Also in employing the most choice men in his Ship under the command of his Nephew, for the firing of the Pirates ships within the Mole of Algiers.  
And lastly, in his joining with Sir Richard Hawkins in the towing off one of the Prizes, when she was becalmed within musket shot of the Mole.  
My Lord, I must protest unto your Lordship, that I had no ends of mine own for the injuries done to Sir Thomas Button, and therefore your Lordship cannot cast a greater honour upon your poor servant then in repairing him, which I humbly beg of your Lordship.  
If Sir Richard Hawkins do return unto me, than I shall be an humble suitor unto your Lordship in the behalf of Sir Thomas Button that he may return to his employment in Ireland, from whence in my earnest desires to enjoy his company and assistance, I was the only means to withdraw him, and that he may receive such allowance and entertainment as was formerly usually paid unto him, by which means your Lordship will take away the Curses of his children, whose bloods are near unto me, and oblige me with my continual prayers for your Lordship's increase of honour, ever to remain  
From aboard the Vanguard the 10. of July. 1621. Your Lordship's most humble and faithful servant, Robert Mansell.   

Captain John Pennington to the Duke.  
May it please your Grace,  
MY last to your Lordship was of the 18. of this present from Stokes Bay, since which time I have received two from your Grace, at Deep one by your Secretary Mr. Nicholas, whereby your Grace commands me to deliver up his Majesty's Ship, and the rest under my Command, to the hands of such Frenchmen as his Christian Majesty shall appoint, according to his Majesty's pleasure signified by my Lord Conway. And that I and the rest of the Masters take security of them for our ships severally according to the true valuation. And to see this put in execution, you sent your Secretary Mr. Nicholas. And the other by Mr. Ingham in answer of mine written from Stokes Bay. The former part whereof being only a command to put your former in practice, and the latter a denial of my humble suit for my being called home from this Service. Which said part confirms absolutely, that it was not your Grace's pleasure that I should yield up the ships into their hands, and dispossess myself and company of them: for I trust your Grace had no such unjust thought as to continue me here alone after.  
The French had possession of her to be their slave, as I am sure they would have made me if they had their wills. To give your Grace an account of what I have done since I came to Deep (which was the 21th. at this instant about nine of the clock at night) would be too tedious for this time. The 22th. in the morning Early I sent my boat ashore with my Lieutenant to find out your Grace's Secretary, to receive my Letters, whereby I might know your Grace's pleasure, and to kiss my Lord Ambassadors hands from me, and to let him know I was come with his Majesty's ship to do him service, but could not command the rest to come along with me, their Masters not being there, and all their companies in a mutiny. But his jealousy was such, that he would not suffer your Grace's Secretary to come aboard, or to send me your Letters, or that my Lieutenant should speak to him, but in his presence, but presently sent a Gentleman aboard to me, commanding me to come ashore to him, which I confess I was very loath to do, in regard my people were much discontented, and ready daily to mutiny, being all wondrous unwilling to go against Rochel, or those of their religion. And besides, I never having been a shore, since I came into my command, neither on our own Coast, or else where. (It being not my use) yet notwithstanding these particulars knowing his Greatness, and your Grace's pleasure, for the giving him all due respect, I presently went to him, where he taking me into a room apart with your Grace's Secretary, he first delivered me my Lord Conwaies Letter, or rather a warrant, (for so he terms it himself) for the delivery of the ship into their hands (as they interpreted it) and then your Grace's Letter, commanding me to see his Majesty's pleasure (signified by my Lord conway) put in execution. And lastly a letter from the King of France, thereby willing me to receive his Soldiers aboard that he had provided, and his Cousin the D. de Mommorencie, and to go presently, and to join with his Great Fleet against his rebellious subjects. This is the effect of that Letter. Having read all these letters, he would presently have possession of the ship that night, for that he could not stay longer. I told him, that I did not understand it so, but that I was to render all service to his most Christian Majesty; but nothing would serve him, save the present possession, which because I would not yield unto, he grew into a strange fury, telling me, that your Grace had sent your Secretary to see her delivered, and security to be taken for her. My answer was, that I was ready to obey, according as I understood the warrant, which was to do his Christian Majesty service, and to receive a convenient number of Soldiers aboard me. But to dispossess myself of my command, I had no such order: but still nothing would satisfy him but the ship, telling me, he would not entertain at the most (if they were willing) above 60. or 80. of our people. My answer was, I had no order to discharge a man of them, neither could I, but if they were discharged, what they should do, or how they should get home, having neither meat, money, nor clothes, I know not. To the first of these, he told me, that Mr. Nicholas had order by word of mouth from your Grace to discharge us, which Mr. Nicholas confirmed, as also to see the ship delivered, which he commanded me to do. But with your Grace's pardon I durst not do it upon words, it being a business of too high consequence, neither if I had been willing, would my company ever have condescended to it. To the second, for our passage, he promised to have provided barks for us; but to conclude this, and not to insist upon the rest of the particulars (they being too tedious) his rage and fury was such, that I must of necessity give a little way thereto, or else I think he would have kept me ashore, so as I told him I was content if my company would yield thereunto, and therefore desired to go aboard to speak with them, and to give order for the drawing up of the inventory. And upon this he suffered me to departed, but not without promises of a large sum of money which should be given me at the surrender, besides a royal pension during my life, he sending his Secretary, and many others aboard with me to see all things put in execution, and your Grace's Secretary to persuade me to do it. But when I had them aboard, I told them it was a thing not presently done, neither was my company willing to deliver over the ship without a more ample warrant, yet I would do my best to bring both to pass so soon as I could. So using them with the best respect I could, and fair promises, that I would use all diligence for the accomplishing of their desires; though I must confess I never meant it, till I should hear further from your Grace, and have an especial Warrant from his Majesty, or your Grace for it, it being a business of so high a nature. Upon these hopes they departed, and went a shore, where they had not been long, till some of them returned back with a strange alarm from his Lordship, that he would presently have possession of her, or my resolution to the contrary. And although I alleged that the inventory, and other business would not be dispatched in two days, it would not suffice, except I would receive 400. Soldiers aboard in the mean time till things were perfected.  
Thus seeing I could not delay him till I heard farther from your Grace, I was forced to give him this resolute answer, That upon this Warrant, I would not deliver over the ship unto him, neither if I would, would the company give way unto the same, we not holding it a sufficient discharge for us: But that we were ready to receive a competent number of Soldiers aboard, with a chief Commander, and to go upon such service, as his Christian Majesty should direct us, according to the agreement with the King my Master; but nothing would satisfy him but to have her delivered over to him, which if I did not presently, my head should pay for it. I desired his patience for two or three days, till I had written and sent to your Grace, and that he would let me have a Shallop for that purpose; but he denied both the one and the other; notwithstanding sent away a Bark himself with one to your Grace, but would not suffer me to send thereby, which made me the more jealous of the real intent of the business. The 23. he sent your Lordship's Secretary aboard to work and persuade me, but I could not give other answer, than I had done formerly, only that I would attend until I heard farther from your Grace; though I must confess I had much ado to persuade my Company, who were very unwilling to it. But I had hope still to have a more ample Order how to proceed in this great and weighty business. And upon the 24. at two of the clock in the morning, Mr. Ingham (whom I sent from Stokes Bay to your Grace) returned unto me with two Letters, one from your Grace, and another from my Lord Conway, the former part of both commanding me to put your former Commands in execution: but the latter part prohibiting me to departed with my charge, gave me the more courage to stand upon my former terms.  
This day your Grace's Secretary came aboard me again, after I had sent your Grace's Letter to him, being sent by the Ambassador to prosecute the business, for the delivery of the ship unto them. But after I had showed him, that part of your Grace's Letter, he knew not what to say to it. I willed him to tell the Ambassador, that this Letter was nothing but an answer of mine written from Stoken Bay, concerning the not coming of the rest of the ships. I further offered his Lordship this day for the more expedition of the business, to take 150 of his men aboard, and to run over for the Coast of England, and to send presently to your Grace, that we were ready to surrender over there, upon an authentic Warrant from his Majesty, or your Grace. His answer to this was, That he would not put his men in to be prisoners, nor that we should be the major part. I than offered him to take in as many French as I had English man for man, but without arms, yet nothing would satisfy him, but the possession of the Ship, either by delivering of her over into their hands, or by receiving 400 armed men aboard, wherewith they would quickly have taken her from us, as you may plainly see their intent by their proceeding. Which I refusing to do, this night about ten of the clock, he sent his Secretary aboard with three or four others to make a protestation against me, as a Rebel to my King and Country, as you may perceive by the Copy of it, which I send your Grace herewith, and this he said was the last he would have to do with me, for that on the morrow, he would away for Paris. Whereupon the next morning I sent this Gentleman Mr. Ingham unto him to know, what farther service he would command me, and whether he would have me attend his pleasure longer here, for that I was ready to go upon any service they would command according to the former agreement, and to receive as many men aboard as possibly I could; but he said he had nothing to do except I would either deliver up the ship, or take in the 400. Soldiers. In the interim came his Secretary, with the same company he had before, and made another protestation against me, in regard I would not take in his 400. men, and therewithal brought me a Letter from your Grace's Secretary, (for he is so jealous that he will not suffer him to come aboard but when he listeth) which Letter was, That the Ambassador would stay till Thursday next, if I would give it him under my hand to deliver up the ship then, if I had not order to the contrary before, which I had as good have done at the present; for I expect no Letters from your Grace, in regard they would not suffer me to write to you, as I desired. And if your Grace should write to me by his messenger, they would be sure not to deliver them, till the day were passed, except such as were for their turn.  
In all which your Grace may see their intents, that there hath been no slights or ways left unassayed to bring their purpose to pass: first by fair words, then by seeking to get me become the French Kings servant, with promises of a great Pension, and brave employment, with offers of good sums to be laid down upon the surrender of the ship as aforesaid. And when none of these courses could prevail with me, than followed their threaten of having my head, and such like. All which (I thank God) I have withstood; for I had rather live all my life with bread and water, then betray my King and Country of so precious a Jewel as this; and had rather the King should take my life, then to have a hand in the surrender, or valuing of such a Bulwark of the Kingdom.  
Upon the making of the last Protest, and with the threats they gave us, my Company grew into such a fury and tumult, that they got up their Anchors, and set sail for England, without acquainting me with it, or order from me, saying, They would rather be hanged at home, then surrender the King's Ships, or be slaves to the French, or fight against those of the Religion. But I must confess, I heard what they were a doing, but let them alone, because I saw they had reason; otherwise, I should rather have died amongst them, then to have suffered it.  
And thus I have related the principal passages unto your Grace, wherein, if I have offended his Majesty, or your Grace, it hath been for want of discretion, and not of true zeal to do his Majesty, your Grace, and my Country service, which if it be found to be an offence, I humbly crave pardon.  
I am now come to an anchor in the Downs, where I shall attend your Grace's farther pleasure, to be disposed of as his Majesty, and your Grace shall please. But to return again to France, I can assure your Grace, that all the people in the ship will rather be hanged then do it, they have been so well used there. Thus praying for your Graces many happy and prosperous days, I humbly rest  
Your Grace's most humble, and faithful servant, Jo. Pennington. From aboard the Vanguard in the Downs, 27. July. 1625.   

Captain Pennington to the Duke.  
May it please your Grace,  
TO take into your Consideration these particulars following:  
First, That there is no clause in the contract for our quiet enjoying, and celebrating our Divine service to God morning and evening, according to the ancient order of the Seas.  
Secondly, That they may bring as many of their own Nation aboard as they will, and they speak of putting in as many French as English, which will amount to 500 in all, which the ship is neither able to carry, neither will it be for the health of those that go in her, or safety of the ship to his Majesty. All which I desire may be considered of, and a course settled with the Ambassador of the just number I shall receive aboard.  
Thirdly, That we are bound to fight against any Nation, that they command us, except our own; which you may likewise please to consider of.  
Fourthly, That there is no Clause for the supply of the Victuals, and other provisions before the six months be expired, so that they may keep us till that time, and then turn us off naked and destitute of all provisions to be a prey to our enemies.  
Fifthly, That we may know where we shall receive our supplies of powder, and other munition from them, for that the three last, which we have in here, with the appurtenance, is not sufficient to maintain a fight of three hours.  
The former five Articles I humbly desire your Grace judiciously to consider of; and what your Grace will have me therein perform, may be inserted in my instructions.  
Now further I humbly desire your Grace;  
First, That all we English may be of a squadron, and not separated upon any occasion, the accidents of the Sea excepted, and that we may be ready at all times to aid and assist one another.  
Secondly, That I may have power in my instructions, or otherwise, for the command of the rest of the English that go along with me, if not, every man may take his course, and do what liketh him best, which may prove prejudicial to the service, dishonourable to the State, and dangerous for the safety of his Majesty's ship.  
Lastly, I humbly desire, that your Grace will be pleased to give order, that there may be some provision of clothes laid in for naked men, (whereof there are many in the ship) as hose, shoes, and shirts (at least.) As also some provision of store for sick men, of Oatmeal, Rice, Sugar, and fruit, and some little stock of money, to relieve them if necessity require it. It may afterwards be deducted out of their wages, if your Grace will have it so.  
Your Grace's Loyal, and faithful servant ever to be commanded, Jo. Pennington.   

Mr. Trumbal to the Secretary.  
Right Honourable,  
With my former dated the 11th. of this month, I sent your Honour two Letters for his Majesty, and promised by my next to write unto your Honour at large, about the matter they did contain.  
In performance whereof, and for the discharge of my duty, I will now desire permission hereby freely to deliver my mind, for so much as is yet come to my knowledge, and I judge meet to be committed to paper concerning the same. And seeing this Packet is to be sent by an express Messenger, and a 
* Mr. Carie.  person of trust, I will for your Honours greater ease abstain from the use of a Cipher.  
After I had been at Louvain, and Antwerp to take some depositions for the discovering of the authors and correctors of that most pernicious Libel, Coronae Regia, (as by a dispatch to the late Mr. Secretary Lake I did advertise his Majesty,) there came unto me a certain person, living about this Town, going by the name of Nicholas de Laken, and brought me the Packet, which a good while since I sent to your Honour. Amongst other things, he told me, that heretofore by accident, he fell into the company of a Cannon of Louvain, with whom he had some speech about that devilish book, and that if I would send thither, he was very confident, he should penetrate farther by his private industry in the space of a few days into the mystery than I had been able to do in the compass of divers years, with my public information.  
Here upon to make a trial, and desiring to employ Le see et Leverd, for the manifesting of a truth, which I knew his Majesty so much longed to understand, I furnished him with money, and some instructions, and sent him to Louvain. At the end of six or seven days, he returned from thence, and as his own letters do testify, and (he hath protested with many oaths) he avouched to me, that he had discovered that secret to the very bottom. I inquired of him, by what means? He made answer by the help of the said Canon, and some young Scholars his country men, Students, in that university, who had brought him to the acquaintance of a certain Italian living there, that had served the author of the book both while he did compose it, and while it was in printing. He averreth also that Puteanus, and some others, had their fingers in that unsavoury Pye. And he saith, that when I began to make search for those persons, which had done his Majesty that intolerable wrong, that the principal author, and Flavius the Printer were secretly warned, to get them out of this country, and had some means given them to maintain them abroad. He affirmeth likewise, that both of them ever since that time, have remained, and are at this present remaining out of the territories of the Archdukes. That he hath often seen the said author in this City, and knoweth his name, and Surname, and his person so well, as no change of his apparel, nor disguising of his body, can cause him to mistake or be deceived. By his report, that party is no. Clergy man, though he be a good Scholar, and reputed to have an excellent Latin pen. But those commendable qualities, are drowned by his greater vices, he being much addicted to lewd women, and unsatiable drinking. He is now (by this man's information) resident in a town upon the Frontiers of Germany, And as for Flavius, he can (if he truly) declare where he lurketh, and assureth me, that his wife is at a place within ten leagues of this town. The Cannon that did oversee the press, and withdrew the leaves of this book, as they were printed, is called (as he heard) Mr. Claud. and dwelleth at Nostre Dame de Halles, whither I purpose to send him this Easter holidays to make farther inquiry. More than these, and some other particulars (which are so transcendent, as I dare neither believe, nor set them down in writing) he will not impart unto me, until he be assured of his Majesty's protection, by a Letter under his hand, and a competent reward for his labours. And the reason he allegeth therefore is, that if once it be known, he did meddle in this matter, there can be no more safety for him to continue in these provinces. He doth further undertake, that in case his Majesty will be pleased to grant him his demands, allow money for the expenses of the journey, and give him two persons of courage, and fidelity to accompany him, he will either lose his life, or put the said author into their hands who may carry him (as he thinketh) with little danger, either into the Pallatinate, or the united Provinces. Hereupon I guess, that (if this report be well grounded) that wicked fellow must be in, or near about the town of Cullen. I cannot amongst all those of my acquaintance, and his Majesty's subjects here call to mind any one so fit for this interprize, as the Gentleman whose name is written in Cipher in my letter to his Majesty. For he is universally well spoken of for his honesty, and other good Parts, and in sundry occasions hath given good testimony of his ardent desire to do his Majesty some remarkable and meritorious service. And his sufficiency being better known to his Majesty then to myself, I will not commend it any further. The want of employment and some disgustes he received in Holland, while he served there, compelled him by necessity to look for preferment under the King of Spain. But hitherto his religion, the respect he beareth to his Majesty, and my persuasions, have detained him from those Courses. By him I am told, that he hath heard out of the mouths of one Captain Carpentine, and his son in law Captain Hamilton, pencioners to the King of Spain (but subjects to his Majesty, that they being one day walking in a street at Antwerp called the Major Brugg (where they reside) with 4. or 5. others in their company, and there happening some speech amongst them, about a book his majesty had then published against the Pope, it fell out that one of them apprehending that opportunity said, that he had subject enough to furnish a book which should more vex the King of great Britain, than his Majesty's book could offend his Holiness, and if he could meet with a Scholar, that were able to put it into a method, and good latin, he would be ready to perform his word. Another of the troop made answer, that he would undertake the work upon that condition, and they both (for a great whiles after) were absent at Louvain, even about the same time that the Libel was forged. Perhaps some part of this, may draw near to the verity. But they both depending upon the King of Spain (as is before mentioned) and being averse in religion, I am much afraid, I shall do little good upon them by examining them before the Arch Duke's Commissioners, seeing they may delude me, and the truth with equivocation, and mental reservation. Although he conceiveth, that if they were called before a judge, and summoned upon their oaths to speak the truth, they would not refuse to discharge their consciences. I have seriously entreated him to bestow his best endeavour in attempting what he can further learn about this relation, and he hath accepted to perform my request. The said Gentleman from whom I had it is not willing to be brought publicly upon the Stage, for this business, lest thereby he should incur the note of an informer, than which nothing is, or can be more odious in these parts. Nevertheless he hath promised (if his Majesty like to have it so, and will be pleased to give commandment for it) to justify what is before rehearsed to their faces.  
Whether both these parties encounter upon one, and the same author, or understand them to be divers men, I can neither judge, nor foretell: yet it seemeth that one of them may hit on the right. And as I will not spare any pains, charges, nor peril whatsoever to bring the parent of this child of darkness into the light, so I hope his Majesty (whose cause it is) will not refuse to hazard a little money to give himself satisfaction.  
These things having passed in this manner, I humbly beseech your Honour at a fit opportunity, when the King is alone to acquaint him with these particulars, and entreat his Majesty to keep them secret; for I am of opinion (being spoken under humble correction, and without offence) that had not his Majesty by communicating this business at the first to Mounsieur Borschot, given him means to advertise it to his wife (who by tattling divulged it, and foiled the way) we had never been put to half this trouble, but had taken Flavius, in the form, and by him discovered the author. My intention is not, that his Majesty should be induced to put 2000 Pistols (or the sum that shall be allotted Laken) into his hands, before the service be done; but that his Majesty would vouchsafe (if he approve the project) to cause so much money, as in his profound wisdom, he shall think meet for this occasion to be forthwith remitted to me by Mr. John More, by the means of Mr. Ducket, a Merchant dwelling in Milk street in London, to be repaid at Antwerp by Mr. Lionel Wake trading there, or by the company of our English Merchants at Middleborough in Zealand in the name of reward for service done, or to buy Tapestries, or linen for his Majesty. And I will either return it back again by exchange, if this design cannot be effected, or defaulk the remains thereof upon my entertainment. All that I would venture in this case, should only be for those men's necessary expenses that are to be employed therein; and that also I would have not to exceed, but to be limited within the compass of 200. pounds sterling.  
By apprehending these men, the Archduke's cannot take any just occasion of offence against his Majesty or his Ministers, seeing one of them is not their Vassal, and both are out of their Dominions.  
It may (for these Considerations) please your Honour to advise with his Majesty, whether it be fit to proceed herein Via facti, or Via Juris: to send Laken to seek out the Author and others to apprehend him, or the Printer, or upon promise of a reasonable recompense for his pains, to deal with him effectually to declare their names, and habitations, and afterwards leave it to his Majesty's gracious and Princely pleasure to prosecute or let fall his action. In either of which kind, I will yield humble obedience to his Majesty's Commands, and your Honour's directions, as things to myself indifferent. But I am doubtful, that by continuing of the course formerly holden in the carriage of this business, we shall never attain our desired ends. I am not so slight as to give credit to all reports, nor so prodigal as to part with money for nothing.  
My most humble and earnest suit is, that his Majesty, and your Honour after mature deliberation upon the several points of this Letter, will vouchsafe to send me by my servant Marsham (who is now at London) particular, and distinct answers for my better direction. I have been the more prolix upon this subject, in hope that this I have written shall serve once for all.  
In that matter concerning the Countess of Argile, which it pleased your Honour to recommend unto my Care, I have done as much already as I can for the present. We must of necessity with a little patience expect the success, whereof your Honour shall in due time be punctually advertized. In the mean while, I do with all reverence, desire your Honour to excuse the tediousness of this Letter; And so take my leave,  
Brussels 21/31. of March, 1618/1619. Your Honours very humble, and ready to be commanded, W. Trumball.   

Mr. Trumball to the Secretary.  
Right Honourable,  
THose that are employed in such place as I am, must admit all manner of men into their company. And the Oath I have taken to his Majesty, will not permit me to conceal any thing from his knowledge that cometh to mine, and may in any sort have relation to his Royal service. For these Considerations I assume the boldness so soon to renew your Honour's trouble, after the dispatch of those Volumes of Letters which I sent you yesterday by one of my servants.  
This Bearer de la Forrest is better known to your Honour, then to myself, although I remember many years ago to have seen him in England. During his stay in this Town, he brought unto me a certain French Gentleman, calling himself the Viscount of L'orme, and Sir De la Pommeraye; who hath (by his own relation) been a great Navigator, and been authorized by 18. of the chief Pirates in the Levant, to search for their pardon, and retreat into some Christian Country, being sorry for the ill they have done, and desirous to spend the rest of their days in peace. With this Commission he came into France, and there traveled so far with the King and his Ministers, as he obtained a general abolition for the said Pirates, a safe Conduct to bring them into his Dominions, and a procuration (which I have seen under the great Seal of France) to treat, and conclude with them upon certain conditions. But he being envied by some Grandees of that Kingdom, and by misfortune happening to kill a man, he was forced (as he pretendeth) for the safety of his life to fly into these Countries, before he could bring that work to perfection.  
And being now disenabled to return thither again, he desireth to make a trial, whether his Majesty will vouchsafe to lend his ear to that Treaty, and grant unto the said Pirates a general Pardon. To which effect, he sendeth over La Forrest, and hath entreated me to accompany him with my Letters to my Lord Admiral, your Honour, and Mr. Secretary Calvert. For retribution of this grace, the said Pirates offer to give 45000 l sterling to be shared amongst you three, or to be disposed of as his Majesty shall appoint. But your Honour may see the Conditions proposed to the French King were more advantageous. For they were to give him their Ships, Artillery, and Munition, and to furnish means to set out some men of War for his service.  
And I see no reason (in case his Majesty should incline to such capital offenders, and common enemies) why he should not have as much, or more benefit than another Prince, the greatest part of them being his Vassals.  
Your Honour if you please may peruse these adjoined Papers, and impart the contents of them to my Lord Admiral. They agree with their Originals; and if his Majesty do not taste this overture, there is no more harm done (for any thing I can perceive) then the loss of my labour to peruse and subscribe them.  
There remaineth only two points, wherein I should speak to your Honour, the one is, that this matter may be concealed from the French Ambassador Mounsieur le Count de Tilliers, for fear of ruining de L'Orme. The other with gratifying La Forest with the pay of a Packet (if your Honour shall think it meet) for the carrying of these Letters, who saith your Honour is his great Patron, and hath promised him a good turn.  
Mounsieur de L'Orme hath given him power to solicit this business, and procure him an answer; wherein I join my humble prayer, that the poor man may not here languish in hopes, and spend his money to no purpose.  
When I shall know whether his Majesty will relish this overture, or not, I will write thereof more largely (if there be cause) otherwise let it remain as it was before. In the mean while, I humbly take my leave; And rest  
Your Honours In all humbleness to be commanded, W. Trumball. Brussels 23. of Octob. 1619.   

Sir Thomas Roe to the marquis of Buckingham Lord Admiral.  
My Lord,  
I Can give your Lordship no great account of any thing that hath occurred since my departure. I was bold to write to Mr. Secretary Calvert from Maliga of the great increase of the Pirates in those Seas, and of the danger of the Merchants; with my own thoughts, if his Majesty have any farther purpose to attempt their destruction, which is both honourable and necessary; if these Trades, or the other of Spain to the South of the North-Cape be of any consequence to his Majesty's Kingdoms: if they be suffered to increase, they will brave the Armies of Kings at Sea in a few years, and attempt even the Coasts and Shores with peril. And because they carry the name only of Thiefs, they are yet contemned, or neglected; but they will become a dangerous enemy, when they shall rob with Fleets, and therefore would be in time considered. The Spaniards now make great offers to continue the Contract, though their performance be slow, and their own Estates chief interessed, yet besides the danger and ruin of the Merchant it is considerable, that this Army increasing is at the obedience of the Grand Signior the common Enemy, who hath no strength but Galleys. I know your Lordship will collect enough out of this without further pressure. The Armadoes of Spain, Naples and Sicily, have been in the Archipelago, the Turks Forces absent in the black Sea. Yet they have done nothing of consequence, taken a few Carmisales and slaves, and are returned to the Port, where Don Philibert of Savoy Generalissimo is present, who is made Viceroy of Sicily, with absolute power to dispose of all offices, without attendance from Spain, which is more than Vicere. He hath used me for his Majesty's honour with very great respect, as I have in particular advised Mr. Secretary. Among many courtesies, finding 13. English Captives in the Galleys, I thought it my duty to secure them. His Highness at the first instance, to express his good affection to my Master, gave them to me all free, which I think is a good work, and not ordinary. I beseech your Lordship, that his Majesty may be pleased to take knowledge of it into Spain for the Prince's honour, that he may in the like occasion, not think himself neglected.  
The advice from Constantinople is seconded of the overthrow of the Turk. God grant it be true, and yet the pride of the Grand Signior is not assuaged, but he threatens a new attempt in the spring. I hope I have hitherto done his Majesty no dishonour, nor can I boast of services; but being under your Lordship's protection, I will hope for a good interpretation, beseeching you to present my name to his Majesty, that I be not forgotten in these great distances, wherein my humble fortune hath kept me, and as I have observed your Lordship to be the Amparo of those that pretend to virtue and honour, and not to desert them till they have forsaken themselves: So I beseech you take me upon those conditions which cannot shame you, and leave me, when I am other, than  
Your Lordship's faithful, and honest servant, Tho. Roe. Messina, 7/17. Decemb. 1621.   

L. R. H. to the Duke of Buckingham.  
My dear Lord,  
I Have since my departure from you used all diligence in the Prince's service, and punctually observed all his Commands. Only with the King I have dealt so freely in my relation of the Prince his carriage, and your extraordinary care of working his content in all points, that I did move him to shed tears in expressing his happiness for such a son, and likewise his good fortune in having a Favourite, who is framed according to his own heart in all points. Neither have I pressed any thing to injure any farther than my duty bound me, and my faithful love to your service, which shall always have a prime place in my heart.  
My Lord, there are contrary opinions in Court and City, by the one you are much admired for your noble expressions of true honour, and love to your King, Prince, and Country, with many observations of your special care and zeal to Religion, and your immovable resolution to Contest with all oppositions to the contrary. By the other you are maligned, and they give it out, That you have with your wilfulness occasioned these delays, by diverting and changing their ways wherein they had begun to treat: but the falseness hereof hath been shown, and it appears malice without ground, the which, (though heretofore I have told you,) not out of any other end then to do you service, yet have you so slightly regarded me for it, and so much respected those ill-deserving Great ones, (as if you had intended to receive your enemies into your bosom, and to cast off your faithfullest friends;) yet shall not any usage discourage me from discharging the office of a most loving and zealous affected friend, and servant, yea insomuch, that I will rather displease you, in doing you that faithful service, that both my honour and love obligeth me to, then be silent, and they let you run into apparent danger.  
My Lord, amongst the protestants your are divulged (as much as ill disposed ones dare) a Papist. Among the Papists, it is avowed you are the greatest enemy they have. For which reports, I am not troubled, for they have made you the much more pitied, and as highly esteemed, and honoured amongst the most judicious, and best deserving subjects, as any thing could do. And I dare assure you, that since your being at Madrid you are much better beloved of all people (who have not ends) than you were before. Noble Lord, I find the King both resolute, and courageous, but wise, and secret, to my own hearts joy, and not to be won upon by the subtle and false policy of any. I made it my humble suit upon my knees, that he would consent to no proposition of this Spanish Ambassador concerning peace or war, till the Prince's return. Which suit he took well at my hands, and granted. I have told him freely what I observed in Spain, both of their manners, usage, and honesty, and left it to his wisdom to make what use he pleased. His Majesty longs to see the Prince, and you, and so do all the subjects, and will not be satisfied with any thing, but your speedy return. Except you have jealousies put into the Spaniards heads, and prevent the danger, which will be by hasting the marriage with all possible speed; for there are some whose buttons break with venom, that you have got so much honour, and so well deserved of the King and Prince. But you believe me not, but think I speak of Spleen, when God knows I never bore any to any man, but for your sake. Your most virtuous lady mourns for your absence, and will not be comforted. Your fair Daughter deserves your staying withal, and your faithful friends and the good of the Kingdom want you most of all  
And for your greater comfort, the King is so reserved in the Prince's affairs, as that he neither imparts the businesses of Spain, nor his intents therein to any of hit privy Council. Since your patent, the Earl Marshal is become a great stranger at the Court. But all men find you so fast revited into the Kings, heart that they see it is an impossibility to work you any way displeasure in your absence, and therefore forbear to express, what willingly they would effect, but find it in vain to go about it. But let not the King's love to you or their small ability to do you harm, make you too careless, or too credulous of those your enemies, last it give too great encouragement to them, and too great disheartening to your faithful friends. I am sorry at my being with you at Madrid that you durst not impart those secrets, wherein I am sure my faithfulness, and love unto you, would have done you all service (as the thing I most desire) but I see the zeal of my heart to you, is not rightly considered, yet am I confident that time will make me best known, and better esteemed by you as one whose true heart, is always watchful of taking all opportunities to do you service. My Lord, you shall find me not only a word-friend, but an active, who never am better pleased, then when I find most opposition. And for conclusion, I am so far from shunning dangers to do you service, as that I would willingly wade in blood at any time to manifest myself yours. And therefore) I should receive great content, if you knew, how truly I were yours, because than I am sure in the Nobleness of your nature, it would be impossible for any to be able to do me wrong in your Honourable. thoughts. My dear Lord, pray suffer no longer delays in Spain, but either dispatch what you went for quickly, or else return speedily; for assure yourself, their desire to have you continue there, is for no love to you, but to further thereby their own designs elsewhere. Nay I dare justify it out of my own weak judgement, that the longer you stay, the farther off you shall be from obtaining, what you desire. And if you resolutely purpose your return with speed, you will force them out of their dull pace, and put them upon the rock, from which they cannot escape, except they fulfil your desires. Besides, your presence is most necessary here for home-affairs, for your absence hath caused too great insolency in the Court, by such as bear themselves very loftily, and insult very much over yours, especially your poor servant Mewtis is much threatened as being yours, and must suffer till you come back. Some other things likewise are otherwise carried in your absence, then would be in your presence, therefore for God's sake return, but with the Prince, and count delays, denials. And the longer you stay there, the stronger you make them and yourselves the weaker. My Lord of Bristol hath a great, and more powerful party in Court, than you imagine, in so much, that I am confident were the King a neuter, he would prevail, and I do not much marvel at it, for you trust upon the honour, and justification of all your actions, desirous to make no friends, because you need none, but he deals with a great deal of cautelous wisdom, and as he hath wrought into the King's opinion, by reason of some pleasing services, so hath he into all those, who are about the King, or powerful, that they may better his good services, and smother his bad. Besides the man who is suspicious (as he must needs be) hath far greater care of after-reckoning, how to make fair glosses, than he who doth all things with the avowment of all honour, and the only intent of service to his King, and Country. It grieves me I am not thought worthy to hear from you any word by these last messengers, especially being promised the employment, from which I was put. Farewell (dear Lord) and the Almightes protection be upon our unmatchable Prince, upon whose worth, and brave achievements all eyes are fixed, and the same protection light upon you his right hand, and give you the good fortune, to make as brave a return, as you did voyage thither, to the eternal praise of your future memories. And upon these hopes, I rest happy to think myself  
Yours H. R.   

Sir George Carie to the marquis of Buckingham. 8. December, 1619.  
Your Lordship  
Will be satisfied, before this of mine will have the happiness to kiss your noble hands, that the great Mystery of iniquity in the Star-chamber is now revealed, and as many as could be discerned to have the mark of the beast upon them, have undergone their censure. Some I must confess, and great fishes too, have broken out of the net. But that escape must be objected to the errors of some of the pursuers, whose courses in some things were not enough direct to warrant, what otherwise might have been done. And your Lordship who is a good Woodman well knows, unless the Wind-lace be well carried, the Bows which stand up can never shoot.  
Notwithstanding all the defaults of the meaner Agents, the Court maintaining the honour of their own uprightness, and integrity hath with moderation too, (yet such as leaves subject to his Majesty's mercy to work upon some particulars,) raised in Fine some 130000 l. or thereabouts. If no errors had been committed, (whereupon those Defendants, which escaped, took advantage to be safe) by this which is done, you may imagine what it would have amounted to. For my part, I rejoice to conceive, how with the shortest of the days, we are at the worst of our estate, hoping by this means with the return of the Sun, to see some such return of the money, (the riches of his Majesty's Treasury, and blood of the Commonwealth) as that the Exchequer may flow, and the Veins of the State may fill again, and both with the Spring renew their strength, lustre, and complexion. I have now stayed here so long attending this business, that I hold it too late to wait upon you at Newmarket, That gives me cause to crave your pardon for this presuming imperfect Account of this day's action, and withal to desire the assurance, that I live in your estimation, the same, I will ever be  
Your Lordship's Most sincerely honest and humble servant, G. Cary.   

To King James, ab ignoto.  
Your Majesty,  
BOth in the eminency of your regal dignity, and in the excellency of your judgement, doth truly represent the common sense, whose part it is to judge and discern of all things; whereas the other senses do but report their particular objects. And in that manner do I humbly offer to your Majesty's Consideration in this importune Crisis of the affairs of Christendom, so much as I have observed in France, that may now concern your service, in which place I have been, heretofore employed in your affairs.  
And first considering the present estate of things in France, and weighing against it, the seizure made of the Valtoline by the King of Spain, the late invasion of the Palatinate, and now this new defeat arrived in Bohemia, I do put this for an infallible ground, that either the King of France will resolve out of jealousy of the progressions of the house of Austria effectually to secure the Palatinate, or else abandoning the affairs of Germany to their own success, and neglecting the increase of the house of Austria on that side, he will think more then to recompense himself, by taking this opportunity to extinguish the body of those of the Religion in France. And as undoubtedly he will resolve on one of those two points, so on both of them for sundry reasons he cannot. To move him to the succour of the Palatinate, the main motive will be, the jealousy between those two Monarchies, which can never die, so long as they do both subsist in no greater a disproportion of strength and power; As also that France shall by their usurpation of the Palatinate, be on all sides Circled by the house of Austria, and particularly on that part where France hath before usurped on the Empire; in which regard his interest of estate is greater than your Majesties in the Conservation of the Palatinate, though your personal interest be incomparable with his. Then he cannot but think of the loss of his Correspondencies, and breach of his Confederacies in Germany, which have been very ancient, and very particular with the house of the Palatine. And if the reason of mutual gratitude, and vindication of injuries, may move Frenchmen, there are plentiful arguments on both kinds to move them to defend the House of the Palatine, against that of Austria. But now on the other side to move him against those of the Religion at home, first doth present itself, his successful beginning against them in the business of Bearn, than which nothing could be more unjust, both in regard of the matter itself, and of his own faith, and promise, and of the desert of those of the Religion towards him, in these late troubles, nor could any thing be more suddenly, or violently (I do not say cruelly) executed, then that was. And again the present terms, wherein that King, and those of the Religion do stand, will push him on. Then there will not want to this purpose, the powerful persuasions of the Pope, and his adherents, both by propounding overtures to lay asleep the jealousies of the house of Austria, and offering huge sums towards the charge of the War, which if he should attempt, and prevail therein, it would prove of far greater prejudice for many reasons that may be given in the interest of Estate, to your Majesty, though not in the interest of your affection, than the loss of the Palatinate.  
What may in France be resolved upon these motives, is uncertain.  
But I do conceive hereupon, that it may be useful for your Majesty's service effectually to propound in France, a Confederacy for the Conservation of the Palatinate, to which if they do hearken, your Majesty shall proceed in that design with greater strength and reputation, and occasion the King of Spain to proceed with greater remissness, or else absolutely to relinquish the Palatinate by a Treaty. But if in France it be not harkened to, your Majesty may take it for an assured argument, that they mean to proceed against those of the Religion, in which case your Majesty may make use of the same Embassage to revive again some of their factions in the Court, whereby those of the Religion may be strengthened in their defence, and it will not be hard to effect, if it be well proceeded in. And herein doth properly offer itself the person of the Duke of Bovillon, who for his great experience and wit, and intelligence in that Court, is best able to guide and further your Majesty's intentions; and for his interest in the person of the Palatine, and in the conversation of those of the Religion, doth precisely square with your Majesty's ends, whose advice you may first suddenly and secretly inquire. etc.   

Sir Walter Aston to the Duke, 10. December, 1624.  
May it please your Grace,  
THe Archduke Don Carlos, brother to the Emperor, made his entry into this Town on the 15th. of the last month, Still. Vet. He was met by the Almirante of Castille two day's journey from this place, who went from hence well accompanied, and attended by many Liveries richly set forth. Some 400. paces without a Gate of this Town called Alcala, the Archduke was received by the two Infant's Don Carlos and the Cardinal, and about 200 paces without the said Gate by the King himself, who came attended with the greatest part of this Court, and in his Coach accompanied with the Duke of Newbergh, and the Conde of Olivarez: The King lighted out of his Coach to receive the Archduke, and some compliments being passed between them, returned into his Coach, and set the Archduke by him on his left hand; in the other end of the Coach set the two Infants; in one boot the Duke of Newbergh, and the Conde of Olivarez; and in the other the Emperor's Ambassador, and the Almirante; the Almirante taking place of the Ambassador. Being come to the Palace, the King accompanied the Archduke to the Queen's Quarter, where his Majesty left him to be conveyed from thence to his own Quarter (which is the same was given to the Prince his Highness at his being in this Court,) by the Infants his Brothers, as he was, having finished his compliments with the Queen, and the Infanta Dona Maria. There were preparations here making for the honouring his reception with several feasts, and entertainments after their manner here. But these have been stopped by the Archduke's sickness, who felt himself indisposed the day after his arrival, and applying some Physical remedies by the advice of a Physician which he brought along with him, his distemper increased, and as it is pretended by these Physicians by a wrong course held with him. What hath been the true cause of his infirmity, I leave to be disputed by them; He hath been held divers days with a terrible Calenture, which proved at last a Tabardillo, whereupon there was little hope conceived of his life; but he hath since received some ease, and is now in a good way of amendment. In respect of the Emperor's unworthy proceed with the King our Master, I have not dared to visit him, until I shall have notice of his Majesty's pleasure therein, which I shall be glad to understand from your Grace.  
Since the expiring of the Truce betwixt this Crown and the Hollanders, this King hath given Licence to divers Port Towns on the Coasts of Biscay to arm out what ships they shall think good, and to make prize to their own particular benefit of what they shall light upon belonging to the enemies of this Crown: by which means it is here hoped, That these Coasts will be much the better secured from the daily pillages of the Holland men of War, and the Turkish Pirates. For the advancing whereof upon request made of those of Sevil, there is Licence given unto them to arm what men of War they can find means. The Duke of Maqueda likewise with leave hath lately set forth six ships which are abroad in Piracy.  
There is advice given hither, that the Duke of Brandenbergh hath given his consent to the conferring of the Electoral dignity upon the Duke of Bavaria, which I can hardly believe, though I find it assured from very good hands.  
The Duke of Newbergh remains still in this Court, and presses to carry a clear resolution in his businesses from hence; but for any thing I can yet learn his negotiation remains in the same estate as I advertised in my last to Mr. Secretary Conway.  
The Armada prepared in Portugal for the recovering of Brasil is gone to Sea, and whereas, they were to have stayed at the Cape St. Vincent for the Armado of Castille, upon advice, that is given hither, that the Hollanders in Brasil are not able to make any resistance of consideration, they have order to proceed in their journey. Twenty ships of war, and 4000 land Soldiers (which is the force of that Fleet) being here held sufficient for that enterprise. The Armado in Cadiz is not yet departed, but hath her men aboard, and there is daily expectation of news that it is gone to Sea. The Duke of Saxony having received letters from the King our Master, and the King of Denmark, sent presently copies of them unto the Emperor, with his answers unto their Majesties, and accompanied them with a letter of his own unto the Emperor. All which the Emperor sent unto the King. The carriage of the Duke is much esteemed here, for having given (as I am informed) by his Letters unto the King our Master, and the King of Denmark such an answer as they are here much satisfied withal. Notwithstanding in this Letter to the Emperor with many reasons, and much instance, he advises him to apply himself to the settling of the peace in Germany, and expressing much affection to the composing of the affairs of the Prince Palatine doth earnestly entreat his Majesty not to destroy that ancient house. In the mean time the Duke of Bavaria uses all diligence to combine himself with this Crown, and now doth offer to cast off all other thoughts of leagues, and to depend wholly upon Spain, so that this King will protect him in his Electoral dignity, and what he hath lately possessed himself of in those parts. This offer of the Dukes hath been several days debated in Council, where the marquis Ynoiosa hath been busy in the behalf of the Duke: but the wiser part of this Council seeing how prejudicial, the increase of the Duke's greatness may prove to the Empire, do no way favour his pretensions. They likewise hold fit to continue the state of things in a possibility of an accommodation without our Master.  
The Archduke Don Carlos hath brought power from the Emperor to proceed to the consummation of a marriage betwixt the Emperor's son and the Infanta Donna Maria, wherein he says, he hath nothing to Capitulate, but brings them a blank paper, and hath power, and order to confirm what conditions they shall here set down. The Emperor's Ambassador doth much press to proceed to the Capitulations, but there is yet nothing done. The Infanta of Brussels hath lately written hither, importing this King to admit of a treaty of marriage betwixt the Prince of Polonia, and the Infanta his Sister, extolling with many expressions the worth, and parts of that Prince.  
There hath been some months a general stop of their proceed here in all suits of English Merchants depending in this Court; but I have at last procured a Junto to be assigned for the hearing of all English Causes, wherein I am promised there shall be a speedy Resolution taken of whatsoever is at present in Question.  
The Duke of Feria hath lately advertised hither from Milan, that the French King, and the Duke of Savoy do minister much occasion of jealousy, that they intent to attempt some novelty in those parts, and doth therefore desire, that his Troops may be augmented; whereupon (above the ordinary charge) there was instantly remitted unto him 2000 Ducats.  
The great annual Assiento which this King makes with the Genoveses is newly concluded, it is for 7. millions, whereof 4. are remitted for Flanders, to be paid by monthly portions.  
In a late meeting of the Council of State upon a discourse that passed amongst them, taking into consideration this King's wants, and the present distemper of his affairs, the Inquisidor General expressing how necessary a time it was for his Majesty's Subjects to assist his present occasions, made offer of 100 Ducats for his part, which the Conde of Olivares followed with a tender of 300; the Conde of Monterrey of 100; all the rest of the Council of State following their example gave according to their quality. Notice being taken of this abroad, the Condestable wrote a Letter unto this King, wherein he made tender of 200 Ducats, the marquis of castle Rodrigo of 100, the marquis of Carpio of the like sum. Divers others have likewise declared themselves in this donative, and it is hoped that it will go over the whole Kingdom, and bring in an extraordinary Treasure into the King's purse. Thus with the remembrance of my duty, I rest  
Your Graces, etc. W. A.   

Archbishop Abbots to Secretary Nanton, 12. Septemb. 1619.  
Good Mr. Secretary,  
I Have never more desired to be present at any Consultation, then that which is this day to be handled, for my heart, and all my heart goeth with it. But my Foot is worse than it was on Friday, so that by advice of my Physician, I have sweat this whole night past, and am directed to keep my bed this day.  
But for the matter, my humble advice is, That there is no going back, but a countenancing of it against all the world; yea so far as with ringing of Bells, and making of Bonfires in London, so soon as it shall be certainly understood that the Coronation is past. I am satisfied in my Conscience, that the Cause is just, wherefore they have rejected that proud and bloody man, and so much the rather, because he hath taken a course to make that Kingdom not elective, but to take it from the donation of another man. And when God hath set up the Prince that is chosen to be a mark of honour through all Christendom to propagate his Gospel, and to protect the oppressed, I dare not for my part give advice but to follow where God leads.  
It is a great honour to the King our Master, that he hath such a Son, whose virtues have made him thought fit to be made a King. And me thinks I do in this, and that of Hungary foresee the work of God, that by piece and piece the Kings of the earth, that gave their power unto the beast, (all the Word of God must be fulfilled) shall now tear the Whore and make her desolate, as St. John in his Revelation hath foretold. I pray you therefore with all the spirits you have to put life into this business, and let a return be made into Germany with speed, and with comfort, and let it really be prosecuted, that it may appear to the World that we are awake when God in this sort calleth us.  
If I had time to express it, I could be very angry at the shuffling which was used toward my Lord of Doncaster, and the slighting of his Embassage so, which cannot but touch upon our Great Master who did send him, and therefore I would never have a Noble Son forsaken, for respect of them who truly aim at nothing but their own purposes.  
Our striking in will comfort the Bohemiant, will honour the Palsgrave, will strengthen the Union, will bring on the States of the Low Countries, will stir up the King of Denmark, and will move his two uncles the Prince of Orange and the Duke of Bovillon, to-together with Tremoville (a rich Prince in France) to cast in their shares. And Hungary as I hope (being in that same cause) will run the same fortune; for the means to support the war, I hope Providebit Deus. The Parliament is the old, and honourable way, but how assured at this time I know not, yet I will hope the best; certainly if countenance be given to the action, many brave spirits will voluntarily go. Our great Master in sufficient want of money, gave some aid to the Duke Savoy, and furnished out a pretty army in the cause of Cleve. We must try once again what can be done in this business of a higher nature, and all the money that may be spared is to be turned that way. And perhaps God provided the Jewels that were laid up in the Tower to be gathered by the Mother for the preservation of her Daughter who like a noble Princess hath professed to her Husband not to leave herself one Jewel rather than not to maintain so religious, and righteous a cause. You see that lying on my bed I have gone too far, but if I were with you this should be my language, which I pray you humbly and hearty to represent to the King my Master, telling him, that when I can stand, I hope to do his Majesty some service herein. So commending me unto you, I remain  
Your very loving friend, Geo. Cant.   

The Lord Brook to the Duke, 11. November, 1623.  
May it please your Grace,  
OUt of Spain we hear, the world comes so fast after you (since your departure,) as we assure ourselves this great work is at a good end, with contentment to our blessed Prince, and like a Princely treaty, with addition of honour to the Monarchy, he intends to match with.  
But Sir, we hear of a new treaty sprung up between the Palsegraves Eldest son and the Emperor's youngest Daughter. A Labrynth into which, what hope soever leads us, I fear no one thread will be able to guide us well out. Because in the passages between these far distant Prince's education of children seems like to be demanded, Balancing of Counsels to the jealousy of friends, Question whether the Palatinate shall be delivered in the Nonage before marriage, or after. Then whether sequestered into a Catholic, or Protestants hands. If into a Catholic, a probable argument that both it, and the Valtoline are equally reserved free to fall with associated forces upon our ancient Bulwark the Nether-Lands at pleasure. Lastly whether the Mitre, and these Sceptres thus united, with their advantage in number of swords, and Desks abroad, their new springing party at home, strengths by sea and land, Constant ambition of adding Crown, to Crown, and perfect Auditt of their neighbour's powers, and humours (even while the second Heir male of this Kingdom shall live in the hands of enemies, and strangers) I say whether these will not prove fearful in equalities, casual to the lives of our King and Prince, dangerous to the Crown by changing successive rights into tenors of Courtesy, and charging of the people's consciences with visions of confusion or bondage.  
Again (Sir) admit this new project should vanish into smoke as undigested vapours use to do, yet give me leave to question, whether to your Grace you have overtlie protested against the intricate Courses of the Spaniard, even the specious issue of the Palatinates' delivery before consummation of marraiage, but not like to prove Mother of many Colourable and unavoidable delays. Because, suppose the proposition should be granted, yet who sees not that the effecting of it will prove an act of so many parts. Viz: the Pope, Emperor, King of Spain, Duke of of Bavaria etc. and of so great consequence jointly, and severally to them all, and must of necessity require divers assemblies, commissions, perchance Dietts etc. And then what time the execution of the Minutes under these Heads will demand, he that knows the divers natures of Nations in treating may easily conceive.  
To begin with the least; what money or other conditions can be offered like to satisfy the honour, humour, and huge expense of the Bavarian, for quitting his Conquest to so unreconcilable a neighbour: and if there be possibility, yet out of whose estate or treasury are these conditions, or large proportions of Dowry probably to be expected? touching the Emperor; Is there any foreign alliance able to persuade this Prince, who having by an untimely war, changed all tenors of Election into succession, and thereby shaken the ancient freedom of our Germany Princes, what I say can in likelihood win him to restore these dead forces of his Enemies, to the prejudice of all he enjoys, or aspires. Besides what shall move this Emperor to take away the Bann from the Palsegraves' person, who hath so desparately hazarded not only his own private Kingdoms, and Provinces, but by his undertaking, waved the main ambition of of the Austrian family. For the Spanish King if he be pressed, his answer will be ready and fair, that he hath no right in him (but mediation) as appears by the divisions already made. Notwithstanding how little right soever pretends, yet his Council, his instruments, his charge, by diversion, Overt Aid, insensible succours (the world sees) have been used in all these wars; so as this together with his right by strong hand gotten (and kept by arts of depositing) upon the Voltaline may lead us to discern clearly, that he finds the passage of his forces through them, equal, and so resolves both, to overrun the Low countries when he please. Against which little State (whether out of revenge, or ambition of greater conquests by them, he will constantly carry a warchfull and Griping enemies hand.  
Concerning the Pope, who knows not that his universal affected supremacy (howsoever dissembled) yet hath, doth and ever will urge his Holiness to stir up colourable Wars of Religion. Since Wars, Contentions, and tumults among Princes have been his old way of adding more wealth, and power to his sanctified Sea. How I say this new fashioned Monarch, shallbe won to suffer Heidelberg (the most dangerous nest of Heretics after Geneva) to return to her former strength is a point beyond my Capacity.  
By these short, hasty and imperfect images your Grace may yet judge, that except the restitution of the Palatinate be instantly pressed (and like a work of Fairies either furnished, or broken off at once) we may easily be over-shot in our own bows, by having the strengths and free Counsels of England, Scotland, and Ireland during this treaty kept under a kind of Covert-baron, and so long made a forge for other Prince's ends, as my Blessed Sovereign's trust may perchance find itself compelled to play an Aftergame, amongst discouraged friends, and combination of powerful enemies, such as under characters of Alliance will think they have won one great Step towards their inveterate Ambition of a Western Monarchy.  
Noble Duke, If you find me lifted above my earth, in handling a subject to which I am utterly a stranger, yet bear with a Monk's humour, in a man that is prisoner to old age. Hid my folly from the eyes of Critics. And pardon my freedom that hath wearied you, with a mind ever to remain  
Your Grace's loving Grandchild and humble servant, Tho. Brook.   

Dr. Balcanquel to Secretary Nanton, 26. of March.  
Right Honourable,  
THe reason why I have not of late written to your Honour, is the discontinuance of our Sessions of the Synod this great while; but since my last unto your Honour, we have thus spent our time. The public reading of all the Collegial judgements upon the 5. Articles was made an end of. In which (God be thanked for it) there was a greater harmony and consent than could almost be hoped for, in such variety of learned men, who did not know one of another's judgement. The only difference was in the second Article. After that the Precedent (never ask advice from the Synod) took upon him to conceive, and dictate the Canons himself to us; but we who were sent by his Majesty, conceiving that course to be altogether against the dignity of the Synod, consulted with some of the Delegates, who approved our Counsel, and thought it fit, that there should be some deputed by the Synod, and joined to the Precedent for conceiving of the Canons, that so whatsoever was done, might be done by public authority. This motion did trouble the Precedent not a little, who hath all the Provincials at his beck, and some of the foreign Divines too, but especially the Palatines. Yet there was a public Synod called for this purpose, where the Precedent of the Delegates did make a speech, desiring the Synod to depute some who joined with the Precedent and the Assessors, might take pains for moulding of the Canons. In the delivering of the voices most testified their dislike of this course, and their singular respect to the Precedents Credit; but Scultetus did by many reasons approve the course which the Precedent had begun, and disprove this new course, which was suggested, yet he taxed no man personally. But Sibrandus (when he came to deliver his voice) like a madman did inveigh against those, who were the suggesters of this change, and said, That strangers should not take upon them to prescribe what was good for the estate of their Church, and that some others who had joined in that, were worthy to be noted Censurâ Ecclesiasticâ: there in he aimed at the South Holland, who did likewise much dislike the Precedent his Course. Sibrandus spoke so furiously, that both the Praeses Politicus, and the Praeses Ecclesiasticus, desired him either to hold his peace, or else speak that which might not disturb the peace of the Synod. Yet since it was the Delegates pleasure, the whole Synod added to the Precedent, and the Assessors three foreign Divines, viz. my Lord of Landuff, Sculte●us, and Deodatus; 3. Provincials, viz. Poliander, Vallaeus, and Triglandius; who should mould and conceive the Canons upon every Article, and then send a Copy of what they have done to every College, that they may add power, and change what they will, the Colleges observations being considered by them, and the Canons according to them amended, they are to be returned to the Colleges, and the Colleges to return them again, and so to keep the course ever till there be no exceptions against them. When they are thus agreed upon by all several Colleges, they shall publicly be concluded, and approved by the Synod.  
We are now hard at polishing the Canons, which these Deputies send us. All our trouble is in the second Article: The most part of the Synod would cry us down with voices for the restriction of the general propositions in Scripture, and the Confessions of the Reformed Churches concerning Christ's death, ad Solos Electos. We stand for leaving them unexpounded, and unrestricted as we found them, and rejoice exceedingly, that the Directions which my Lord Ambassador sent us from his Majesty concerning this point, agreeth so fully with our judgement subscribed with our hands, given in to the Synod, upon the second Article. By this doing we first leave a sound and sufficient ground for preaching of the Gospel to all men. Next we eat a great deal of offence, which otherwise we must needs have given to the Lutheran Churches. Thirdly, we retain the same phrases, and forms of speaking which those Fathers did, who wrestled with the Polagians in the same point. If this Article be well looked into, I hope there shall moderation enough be observed in all the rest. If it were not for the moderation of the foreign Divines, we should have such Canons as I think have not been beard of; for there is never a Provincial Minister here, who hath delivered any rigid Proposition, and hath been taxed by the Remonstrants for it, but he would have that Proposition thrust into one Canon or another, that so he may have something to show for that which he hath said. As soon as the Canons are agreed upon, I shall by God's grace with all expedition send them unto your Honour. Our next work will be Verstius, whose book they would censure, without citation of himself. The Prosident wrote to our College in the Delegates name to know, whether we thought it fit to have him personally cited; but especially to know what we thought would be most agreeing to his Majesty's mind.  
To the latter, concerning his Majesty's mind, we answered, That we thought my Lord Ambassador could give them the best resolution for that point.  
For the former, we thought it would be evil taken, If any man should be condemned, not being first heard. But because they, that Vorstius would keep them as long as the Remonstrants had done; We told them, That we desired they would not suffer him to make any defences, or explications of his blasphemous propositions, but simply to answer per ita velnon, whether he would plainly abjure them, or not; And so accordingly proceed against him, and so we should make no great loss of time; so I think he shall be personally cited.  
This is all, for we have had no Synodical meetings these 12. days. I can see no end of the Synod before Whitsuntide. With my best prayers for your Honours, and the remembrance of all my faithful respects. I take my leave; And am  
Your Honours In all true observance and service, Walter Balcanquel.   

Sir William Beecher to his Majesty, 4th. of February.  
Most Gracious Sovereign,  
BEsides the relation of the appearance of change in the affairs of the Court, wherewith my Dispatch to Mr. Secretary Lake will acquaint your Majesty: I thought it my duty to give you particular account, that being yesterday with the Prince of Jain ville, after some earnest protestations made to me of his desire to do your Majesty service, falling into discourse of those occurrences, he grew into these terms. That the complaints of the Queen Mother were founded upon good reason; that if she had offended the King, or the State, why did they not make her process? if she had not offended, why should she not see the King, and her children? that when the Queen fell upon these Complaints, they thought to fright her, by Pretending to bring forth the Prince of Conde; but that the Queen had astonished them, by telling them, That she was so far from opposing, as she desired the liberty of the Prince. That the Queen's friends would be glad of his liberty, for that it could not be prejudicial, but rather advantageous, at the least, it would be honourable for them, if his liberty were wrought, if not by their intercession, at least by their occasion; further he told me, That he was confident, that the Queen would not be gained by their fair words, but would persist in her resolution. Which discourse of his with some other advertisements, doth persuade me, that this matter hath a farther root, and is likely to bring forth some great alteration here, in no long time. And I doubt not but that Monsieur de Luine will find with repentance, how much better it had been for him, to have furthered your Majesty's advice for the delivery of the Prince, whereby he might have acquired to the King a reputation of Justice, and to himself an obligation of a powerful friend in the Prince, rather than to leave him to the adventure of the changes, that time may produce. But if your Counsel did prove fruitless to them by their misconceit of it, yet it doth, and will every day prove more honourable to your Majesty, who by your wisdom have foreseen, and by your goodness have premonished all your neighbours of the mischiefs that threatened them.  
Peradventure they may overcome this effort of the Queens by fair words to her Person, and threats signified afar off, and continue the state of affairs in the same condition that now it is, which is in few words extremely Romish, Jesuitish, and by consequence Spanish.  
Mounsieur de Luine seemeth to me a man in himself capable of reason, and by the death of the Marshal d'Anchre, eternally bound to be a good Patriot, but that he applies himself wholly to the King's person, and that distrusting his own judgement, relies upon the judgement of the Ministers of the State, and principally 
* Du Agen.  Duke Augen the Chancellor, and the Gardeseaux.  
They utterly neglect all the Alliances of our Religion abroad, and care not how inconsiderately they oppress it at home. Only they seem desirous to entertain themselves well with the King of Spain, by the intervention of the Nunce, and do think that no advantage which they can give the Spaniard by this proceeding in other parts, can equal that which they pretend to receive at home, by suppressing the State, and doctrine of those of the Religion.  
If they proceed long in this train, it will undoubtedly breed mischievous designs, which there is no so ready way to prevent, as to let them generally perceive, that they are discovered, whereby the proceed of the Ministers of State will grow so detestable to all those here, that have any sense of the love of their Country, that it will produce either a change of their persons, or of their Counsels.  
But I do humbly submit the Censure hereof to your Majesty's most exquisite judgement, whom I do beseech the Almighty long to preserve in health, and all perfect happiness.  
Your Majesty's Most humble Subject, and Loyal Servant, Will. Beechor.   

To King James, abignoto.  
Most wise, and Glorious Prince,  
BEcause the departure of your Majesty doth not permit me to hope for the honour of seeing you, and that the advertisements, and orders which I have to communicate unto you, do merit your speedy review and magnanimous resolution, I have presumed to trust them unto this paper, which I do humbly desire may rest in the hands of your Majesty alone.  
The treaty of restoring all that had been taken by Sea (which by a motion from Spain, was put into the hands of some Ministers in Rome) is accompanied with so little hope of obtaining the end, that was pretended, that by reason of their continuing at Naples to dissipate, and waste such goods as they had taken in our ships, and the Cardinal Borgia reservedness to promise any thing, that negotiation may be held as vain, and as an insidious invention to gain time. Nevertheless my Masters marching still with a constant desire of purchasing the public tranquillity, have been content to render all such vessels as they had taken within their Gulf, in hope that having gotten the advantage of the cause by this honest proceeding, they might prevail in which they had made at Naples, for the restitution of their Galleasses, and of the ship called Rosse.  
But the actions and operations of the Spaniards do not answer unto what is desired, and hoped. For in the Kingdom of Sicily Naples, and Calabria, they do muster new Soldiers, and they make great preparations for a war by the Sea. The subjects of those Kingdoms are taxed with extraordinary Contributions of money, and in daily counsels held by the duke of Ossuna, the marquis Santa Croce, and other ministers they do consult of the means of making war, and doing hurt. But that which is most important is, that in the conjuncture, there is likewise in divers parts of Spain a terrible concourse of great provisions. For they have put in a readiness armour for 30000. men, they have engrossed all the ammunition that could be purchased, and have put in good equipage 60. tall ships which being added unto those they have already in the straits make 80. at Naples they have 20 ships more besides all their own Galleys, and an order they have obtained for the Galleys of Malta, Florence, and the Pope to join with them.  
All the Italian Soldiers are quartered along the Coast of Apulia, which is opposite to our Gulf, and they have 14000. foot of Walloons, French, and Spaniards lodged within the Kingdom of Naples. In Flanders at this present, they make a new Leavy of 6000. foot, and a 1000 horse. And in the state of Milan, they do retain still 3000. horse supernumeraries. All which forces, and provisions, as they do deserve for their greatness to be regarded, and looked upon with a jealous eye of every one; so those, who do suffer at the present many injuries and acts of hostility at the hands of the Spaniards, and in particular the State of Venice, which is betrayed by their fraudulent treaties, cannot choose but fear, and doubt more than any other. Neither can any pretences of enterprises or designs against the Turk secure those, who set the sword bended against their breasts, and the fire kindled in their own houses.  
Whereupon your Majesty is humbly desired that you will be pleased to consider seriously of what hath been remonstrated, and to take such a resolution, as may best befit your wisdom, and Greatness, and the safety, and indemnity of a State so observant of your Majesty as ours is, and of a member so important of the liberty of Italy, and of Europe. There is not, at this day (Invincible Sir) any Prince in the whole world upon whom the Conservation of the public tranquillity doth more rely then upon your Majesty. For there being none that doth equal your Majesty in wisdom, and experience, possessing your Kingdoms in perfect peace, quietness, and plenty, to the infinite praise of your name, and being free from the molestation of all storms and tempests, it seemeth that the eyes of all men are turned towards your Majesty as towards a Sun, that aught to clear the Sky, and that they expect deliverance only from your hand. These resolutions (oh most wise King) will be the strongest walls upon which your eternity can be reared. These will be the Jewels, and the crown, which will adorn you in earth, and in Heaven. These will be the immortal Glory of your powerful name.  
The resolutions in cases of such weight, and danger ought to be magnanimous, quick, and powerful. The very noise of your putting in order your royal Navy, the sending a person of quality to the place, from whence the danger is feared, and the declaring yourself in favour of those, whom you shall find to have the right on their side, may perhaps prove sufficient to procure a peace. If words will not prevail deeds must follow, and such a resolution will prove the true Antidote to all their poisons. For the better effecting whereof the world doth attend with great devotion to see a good correspondency renewed betwixt your Majesty and the French King; and for the disposing your Majesty's heart thereunto, the State of Venice doth join her humble prayers unto the earnest entreaty of many others.  
In the mean time, I am to request your Majesty, that you will be pleased to forbid the exportation of Artillery, ships and Mariners out of our Kingdoms for the service of the Spaniards, it being neither just nor agreeable to your Majesty's Piety, that your Arms should be stained with the blood of a State, and Prince, that hath no equal in love to your Royal Crown, and that will ever testify to all the world by effects of their observance, the pure, and sincere devotion that they have to your Glorious name. For my own particular, I humbly crave leave to kiss your royal hands.   

Sir Isaac Wake to the Secretary.  
Right Honourable,  
I Have safely received the Letter, wherewith your Honour hath been pleased to favour me, dated at Theobalds' the 19th. of July Still. Vet. and have to my singular comfort understood, that you have been pleased not only to give favourable acceptance unto such weak dispatches as I have made bold to address unto you, but done me the honour likewise to acquaint his Majesty with the contents of them, and to direct my proceed in in this intricate business, which instructions dictated by his Majesty's wisdom, this light will be sufficient to direct my steps in the midst of an Egyptian darkness, which doth not only obscure the Horizon of this Province where I reside, but almost the whole face of Europe, by reason of the great mists, which are cast artificially in all men's eyes to cover the designs of those, who do presume, that they have in all places arbitrium Belliet Pacis.  
I most humbly crave pardon of your Honour, if you do not receive my answer so soon as perhaps you might expect. For yours having stayed upon the way a month and a day, did not come to my hands until the 20th. of August Still. Vet. At which time it was brought unto me by Mr. Rowlandson, whom I had dispatched into Germany, to advertise those Princes of the motion made to the Duke of Savoy for the passage of Spanish forces through his State. My Lord of Doncaster under whose Cover I received that Letter, did not think fit to send it to me by an express messenger for fear of increasing the suspicion of some in those parts, who are jealous that his Majesty doth favour the Duke of Savoy more than they could wish. And I must confess, that the same reason induced me likewise to send that Gentleman of the Duke of Savoy's into Germany, rather than any servant of mine own, for fear least allees, and vennes of messengers betwixt my Lord of Doucaster, and me in these doubtful times might so far injealous the contrary party, as might prejudice the service of his Majesty in that Negotiation.  
The instructions that your Honour hath been pleased to give me from his Majesty, 
52. c. the Duke of Sau. y. 93. a. the Bohemians. 95 a. the Emperor Ferdinand. 51. a. the King of England. 97. a. Germany. 99 a. the King of the Romans. 71. c. the Agent of England. 51. b. the Prince Palatine. 52. b. the marquis Brandenbergh. 54. b. the marquis Auspach. 50. b. the Princes of the Union. 56 b. Count Ernest Mansfelt.  concerning my treating with 52. c. in favour of 93. a. having reference unto the inclination of 95. a. to peace, or the probability of defence to be made by 93. a. I held it more safe for me to govern myself by such informations of the state of those affairs as I have received from the favour of the 1. 32. 7. 5. 47. 48. 2. 10. 40. 45. of 51. a. in 97. a. And for the better justification of my proceed, I send your Honour here enclosed the Copy of his Letter unto me, wherein you will see, that I have no reason as yet to spend the name of 51. a. in favour of 93. a. nor to imbargue 52. c. in a business, which may draw a great charge, and envy upon himself, and not much advantage the 93. a. I must confess that the 50. b. in general, and particularly the 54. b. and the 41. 45. 23. 34. 9 12. of 5. 35. 22. 4. 30. 50. have represented the state of those affairs at this present unto 52. b. in a manner not only different from the advertisements sent me, but almost contrary, and they do seem not only to be confident of the prevailing of 93. c. but likewise they continue to give hope that the 10. 51. 29. 15. of 48. 3. 59 15. will concur with 51. b. and 52. b. in the 12. 30. 13. 9 50. 27. 40. 35. of 99 a. But because I have reason to suspect that they make relation of those affairs, rather as they wish they were, then as they be indeed, and that their intention to draw somewhat from 52. c. towards the succours of 93. a. I will forbear to join with them therein, until I can have some better ground than their advertisements, which may be thought to savour of partiality, and I have reason to be backward therein, because I know that 52. c. would presently take me eu mot, and put to the account of 51. a. that which he is most willing to do of himself. I do not affirm this out of conjecture, but upon good ground; for besides, that he did signify so much unto me at my return out of England, I do know that within this fortnight he hath sent unto 56. b. 3000. 41. 24. 48. 49. 40. 30. 47. in part of 42, 2. 60, 32. 15. 35. 50. and in the conveyance of this 33. 39 34. 35. 61. there was extraordinary diligence used to conceal it from the knowledge of the 71. c. whereof no other construction can be made, but that 52. c. would feign be entreated by 71. c. to do that, which he hath already a mind to do.  
If upon more fresh Letters, which I expect from my Lord of Doncaster, I shall find that the affairs there have changed face since the writing of his last unto me, I will govern myself accordingly, as I shall receive warrant from him.  
We are here at a stand, expecting with devotion the issue of the affairs of Germany. The Army in the Kingdom of Naples is still retained, and no order given, either for the dismissing of those Troops, or the employing them in any service. Prince Philibert is at Messina with the Galleys, and hath with him 10. or 12000 men. The Ships and Galleons remain at Naples, and the Walloons, lombards and Neapolitans which should have come to Vado, are since their dis-imbarquing again, quartered round the City of Naples. It is impossible to guess what they mean to do; but the most probable conjecture is, that under the colour of suspecting the Duke of Ossuna, the Spaniards will keep their potent Army on foot, and by that means keep all Italy in awe, and as it were sub Ferulâ, and delude the reiterated promises and oaths that have passed by them, to assure the Duke of Savoy and the Venetians, that they would dismiss those Forces. The season is now past for any enterprise by Sea, so that Prince Philibert must be forced to return without doing any thing. And many are of opinion, that the Duke of Ossuna had secret order to counterfeit madness, and to cross the King's Commandment expressly to deprive Prince Philibert of the honour which would have redounded unto him, if he had been possessed of the absolute Command of so potent an Army. The Duke of Savoy on the other side, would fain make you believe, that undoubtedly Ossuna hath entertained rebellious thoughts, and that if Don Octavio D'Arragona do not bring a good answer out of Spain, he will break out into open contumacy. His demands of the King of Spain are these:  
First, That he may be continued in the Government four years longer.  
Secondly, That he may be permitted to enter with his Fleet into the Gulf of Venice, and to dispute his Majesty's Title to that Sea by the force of Arms.  
Lastly, That in case the King of Spain will not let him Contest so far with the Venetians, that there may then be sent him so much money out of Spain as may licence his Army, considering that the Kingdom of Naples is so far exhausted, as that they cannot contribute any longer either to the maintaining, or to the dismissing of those Forces.  
The Venetians did lately chase a small Galley of the Vicocchis, which was entered into the Gulf to rob and spoil, and followed her unto the shores of Apuglia, where Ferlitick the Captain of those Thiefs saved himself and the most part of his fellows by flight into the mountains, but Signior Filippo Belegno recovered the Galley, and carried her away as a prize, having found two banners displayed, the one with the arms of Spain, the other with the arms of Ossuna; And not only a formal Patent and Commission to take any thing, that he could from the Venetians, but some Letters likewise from some principal Ministers of Ferdinand, wherein this Capo di Banditi is encouraged, and requested to do the Venetians as much hurt and damage, as he might be able. Now the Duke of Ossuna is fallen into a great rage with the Venetians, quod non totum telum corpore acceperunt, and he doth threaten to be revenged upon them for not suffering these Vicocchie to rob and spoil their subjects.  
The Duke of Savoy hath done me the honour to entreat my company with him into Savoy, whither he doth purpose very shortly to go, that he may receive at the confines of his estate, the Prince of Piedmount, and Madam his wife. And because his request hath the power of a command over me in Licitis, et honestis,, I must be enforced to pass the Mountains again at an unseasonable time, before I have sufficiently refreshed myself after my last voyage, and I know not whether I shall have the opportunity of writing unto your Honour again before my going, which is uncertain, as depending upon the going of the Duke. So with my hearty prayers unto Almighty God for the preservation of his Majesty in health, and the prosperity of his Estate, in all humility I take leave; And rest  
Your Honour's most faithfully to command, Isaac Wake. Turin 27. Septemb. 22. August. 1619.   

Sir Isaac Wake to Mr. Secretary.  
Right Honourable,  
I Have received the Letter, wherewith your Honour hath been pleased to favour me, dated at White-Hall the 27. of February, and having to my singular comfort understood, that his Majesty hath declared his gracious approbation of my proceed here, with the Duke of Savoy, and the Venetians. And I do with all thankfulness acknowledge to receive that favour from the hand of your Honour, as my only Gratum faciens—  
I will not fail to govern myself precisely by the rule of those Instructions which you have been pleased to give me. And as you have favoured me with passing your word for me, that I will not spend his Majesty's name without particular Warrant, and direction; so will I promise faithfully to perform as much, as you have undertaken for me, and both in this, as in all things else you may assure yourself, that his Majesties revealed will, and that only, shall be a Law unto me.  
Your Honour will have understood by my former Dispatches, that the Duke of Ossuna is re-confirmed in his Government of Naples: He hath not (as far as I can learn) any certain time prefixed, but is to remain there durante Regis bene— placito; And when his Patent was presented unto him, he had likewise order (which was delivered by word of mouth) that the King his Master did require him immediately to dismiss all his Army, and to send the Walloons, and Neapolitans into Germany to the succours of the Emperor. The same party did likewise signify unto him, that as the King of Spain had showed, to have a care of the honour of the Duke of Ossuna in establishing him anew in that Regency, at this time, when the world had made some doubt, that his late actions had not been conformable to the will and pleasure of his Master, so he did expect that he should voluntarily, and of himself, ask leave to go into Spain, and offer to give an account of all his proceed. Which course, the King did recommend unto him as most honourable, for the justification of his own innocence, and the confusion of his enemies. This Message the said Duke hath wisely suppressed, and hath published the Patent of his Confirmation, without taking notice of the private Articles, which were annexed thereunto, and delivered verbally. He doth profess to understand very well, that in Spain they wish him ill, and that their design is under the fair bait of this establishing him in that Government, to make him swallow the hook of dismissing his army, that so they may afterwards dispose of him at their pleasure, when he hall remain utterly disarmed. But his heart did not serve him to throw away the scabbard when he had drawn his sword: and I am persuaded, that as in Spain they will judge of his proceed by the rule of Tacitus. Qui deliberant desciverant: so he will repent of not having observed, that other Maxim, Aut nunquam tents, Aut perfice. His best hope is, that Chi ha' tempo ha' vita, and if he can make his peace at home upon any conditions, he will not much care to turn honest, and change his dangerous designs into faithful service of his Master. To play Le bon valett, he hath now obeyed his Master's Commandment in sending the Walloons and Nepolitans into Lombardie, and they are all so safely arrived at Vado upon 19 Galleons, being in number 6. or 7000,  
The landing of these troops, and their passing along the skirt of this State doth not only give a little jealousy to the Duke of Savoy, but put him likewise to some Cost, and trouble. For as he doth well know, how dangerous it is to stand to the discretion of a reconciled enemy, so doth he evidently see, that their ill talon towards him, doth not only continue, but increase; and therefore to assure himself, and his State, he hath caused at this present a general muster to be made of all his cavalry, and trained Infantry, which he doth send to the confines of his State, that way, which these newly landed Troops are to pass. And although their order be to march towards Switzerland, and to pass that way into Germany, yet will this Prince stand upon his guard until they are quite gone out of Lombardie, and hath given order to the Count Guido St. George in his absence, not to let him lodge in Monferrat upon any terms whatsoever, nor to linger too long near the Confine of this Province. He hath this reason to conclude, that the Spaniards wish him ill, because he doth see that they do mistrust him. For whereas they had a fair promise of the passage for their army through this State, in virtue of ancient capitulations betwixt the King of Spain, and the Duke of Savoy, they have chosen rather to buy the passage at the hands of the Swisseses at a very dear rate, than adventure to take it here Gratis. Whereby it may appear unto all the world how little confidence they have in this Prince, and how much they mistrust him for being partially affected to the Prince Palatine, and all that party. Howsoever your Honour doth conceive, that the season of the year is too far passed for the transportation of this army of the Spaniards into Germany, yet you will see that necessity doth make men strive with many inconveniencies, for they must pass whatsoever weather happen; and indeed the Alps are passable enough until the months of January and February, if the Soldiers be well clothed, for there is no danger but of cold, until the deluges of Snow which fall late do shut up the passages.  
Perhaps they will not find the passages of Suisserland so favourable as they do conceive, and as is figured unto them, for they have bought it only of the little Popish Cantons, without ask leave of the Signiory of Zurich, and Berne, and it is to be supposed, that the State of Berne will take a hot Alarm, considering that their controversy with Friburge is not accommodated, and that the Governor of Milan hath made offer unto those of Friburge, and the little Cantons, of all this army for the defence of the Catholic religion in the Bailiage of Eschalens, whereof I have given notice to our Signiory of Berne by an express Currier that they may have time to save themselves from a surprise.  
The voice doth run currant over all Italy, that the Duke of Parma is to undertake a voyage shortly for the service of the King of Spain, but whither he is to go they cannot tell; for some send him into Germany, others into Flanders, and the most men into Spain. For all which discourse, I know no other ground, but that his brother the Cardinal Farnese hath asked leave of the Pope to retire himself for a time to Parma, and I do imagine that the Speculativi have concluded thereupon, that he is to govern the State in the absence of his brother.  
Prince Philibert having failed of the enterprise of Susa, did intent in his scond setting out from Sicily, to meet with the Turkish Fleet and fight with them. The first part of his design succeeded happily, for he had the good fortune to encounter the whole Fleet between Zant and Cephalonia, but finding them more strong than he was ware, and well resolved to give him battle, he was counselled to retire to Messina, where he is at this present, without having effected any thing. The two armies of Venice, and the Turk, did likewise meet on those Seas, not far from Corfu, but as soon as they did know each the other, the two Generals, and all the principal Officers, did interchangeably present one the other with wine, and Rinfres' Camenti, and so much kindness passed betwixt them, that the Visier Bassa did offer to join his Fleet with the Venetian, and to set upon the Spanish Armado, which charitable offer, the Venetian General had so much christianity as to refuse with modest thanks.  
Signior Autonio Donato hath sent a servant of his hither, who had the fortune to arrive in an ill Conjuncture. For the Duke of Savoy having lately called upon the Venetians for that money which is wanting in Signior Donato's account, they did excuse themselves upon his pleading not guilty, and did send unto the Duke a Copy of his Letter written to the Senate, when he was yet Ambassador, and not convicted. This Letter arrived here from Venice the very day before Signior Donato's servant, and if your Honour will be pleased to cast an eye upon the Copy which I send here enclosed, you will not blame the Duke of Savoy for refusing to give him audience, or to receive his Master's Letters; for he doth give the Duke the Lie three several times in that Letter, which is strange language to be used of a Prince; and I do much wonder, that the Venetians would upon any occasion whatsoever publish such a Petulancy, committed by one, that was their Ambassador at that time.  
He brought me a Letter from his Master of mere Ceremony, and Compliment, and had his principal address unto the Pope's Nuntio in this Court, whereat I did wonder somewhat formally at the first, as conceiving that in Congruity he ought to have interrupted his Correspondence with the Pope's Ministers, as long as he doth live under the protection of his Majesty; but when I understood, that the Duke had lodged him in a prison, with an intent to send him to Venice, I was glad that I had so little to do with him, and the Nuntio so much.  
The Duke of Savoy doth assure himself, that when his Majesty shall have perused this Letter of Signior Donato's, he will withdraw his countenance, and protection from him, and account him unworthy of any favour, for having wronged in so high a degree a Prince, that is so much a servant of his Majesty.  
I may not likewise conceal from his Majesty's knowledge, that Signior Donato hath not been wanting to ruin (as far as he could) Padre Paolo, and Fulgentio in Venice; two persons that have done his Majesty very long and faithful service, as by an enclosed Paper, your Honour may see, which is an abstract of a Letter written from Fulgentio.  
The Prince of Piedmont having made a posting voyage hither to receive his Father's blessing, before he bring his Lady in the Country, I did present unto him his Majesty's Letters of Congratulation, whereunto he hath returned an answer, which I send here enclosed. So with my hearty prayers unto Almighty God for the preservation of his Majesty's Person in all happiness and prosperity, in all humility I take leave, And rest  
Your Honour's Most faithfully to command, Isaac Wake. Turin 3/15 of Octob. 1619.   

Sir Isaac Wake to the Duke.  
Right Honourable, and my very singular good Lord,  
IN these parts we have nothing of moment worthy the relating, the storms which do vex our neighbours round about us keeping us here in calm, and quiet, as it were per antiperistasin. Howsoever I am of opinion, that we shall enter into the Dance either actively or passively before the next summer pass over. All over Italy there doth reign a great dearth, which did lately cause in Naples a dangerous Cullevation of the people against the Cardinal Zappata Viceroy, who had somewhat to do to save himself from the fury of the Popolarzo.  
In the State of Milan likewise some insurrections were beginning to be made in Novarra, Allessandria, and Cremona, both for want of bread, and for the insolency of the Garrison Soldiers, who having had no pay for many months, did commit many violent excesses upon the people, which did drive them into despair; but those Commotions were appeased betimes, and no great matter of Consideration hath ensued, although there are some neighbour Princes who did stand aux Escoutes, and would be ready to have acted a troublesome part, if the scene had been ready.  
The Duke of Parma hath imprisoned his natural son Don Octavie, the mystery whereof is not well known, but it must needs be for some great matter, because he did make show to love him passionately. The Infanta Isabel of Modena hath been in danger of her life, by being surprised with a violent fever, near the time of her childbirth: from hence the Duke of Savoy sent his Physicians to help her, and we hear now that she hath escaped that danger, and is safely delivered of a daughter.  
Count Mansfelt is grown formidable, and doth daily increase in strength and reputation. Although he hath hitherto entitled his arms unto the service of the King of Bohemia, yet I believe he will neither disarm, nor suspend his arms, when he shall be commanded so to do by that King. For being now entertained by the State of Venice with an honourable provision of 12000. Crowns per annum in peace during his life, and the pay of 10000 Foot, and 2000 horse in the time of War, he will try what he can do for the infranchising of the Grisons, when the affairs of the Palatinate shall be accommodated. And if the Austriaci do not bend all their forces against him very speedily, and break his Army before it grow more strong, he is like to give them a greater blow than they have had these many years. That which he hath gotten already in Alsatia, is much more worth, than the lower Palatinate; and although he hath hitherto made those people to swear Allegiance unto the King of Bohemia, yet when the said King shall make his peace with the Emperor, it may be doubted whether Count Mansfelt will resign up what he hath conquered; and it is thought, that he will either keep it for himself, or entitle some other Prince thereunto. The Austriaci were never so matched as with Count Mansfelt, for he is a perpetual motion, and doth not stand upon the defensive (as others have done hitherto, and lost by the bargain) but he is always setting upon them, and doth make War at their cost; let them take heed how they proceed with him; for he, who hath nothing to lose, is ready to hazard the Paquet upon all occasions; And if he do chance to overthrow them once in battle, they will run danger, or lose all that they have in Germany. Let me in all humility beseech your Lordship to continue me in the honour of your good opinion, and to favour me with your honourable protection, especially with a good word to my Lord Treasurer, for the sending me some relief, without which I cannot possibly subsist, having for want of my pay, consumed all that I had in the world. God Almighty increase upon your Lordship all happiness and prosperity, as is unfeignedly wished unto you by him that is  
Your Lordship's most humble obliged Creature and Servant, Isaac Wake. Turin 13/23. of Febr. 1621.   

Sir Isaac Wakes Proposition for the King of Denmark.  
IT seemeth that the Glory of this State, which at all times was great doth shine brighter now adays; since that besides so many Neighbouring Kings and Princes, whereof some are in a made league with us, and some do keep a good correspondence, and all a good intelligence with us. Now the friendship of your Highness is sought by the mighty King of Denmark, a monarch of those nations, that in time past have left their remembrance of their prowess in Italy. France, Spain, and in whole Europe behind them. This Great King of the N●●th, who like a Second Atlas holds up the Artick-pole, rich in treasure, numerous in men, dreadful for his invincible generosity and Courage, doth here offer himself unto your Highness. And acquainting you of his actions, doth confidently promise you to stand firm, and stout in the defence of the common cause, if so be that he receive that assistance as he hath reason to expect from those, that are interested in the same cause. His Majesty of Denmark hath had from the King my Master, as much as can be given, and it is no small matter, that his Majesty of great Britain doth still continue the same assistance, having withal still those great expenses, that are required for the surety of his Realms, and for the offence of the common enemy.  
His Majesty of France hath also contributed to this good work somewhat, and there is great hope, that he will bring forth in a short time some fit remedy against this evil. The Lords States do as much as they are able. And the Princes of Low Saxony do not want in their duties. There remaineth now, that your Highness put also your powerful hand to this work, and with a vigorous succour, worthy of your great heart do encourage all the rest to continue their Emprese. The two Kings are not ignorant of the great sincerity wherewith this most Excellent State, doth observe the capitulations made with Allies of the league, and that rather than to be wanting in things agreed upon, you have surpassed in necessary provisions for the advancement of the designs, and that you have not been partakers, nor agreers of the treaty made at Moncon. But that you do continue to keep some forces in your Dominions, and likewise some troops in the Valtoline for the effecting (as much as is in you) of what was first thought fit, and of the agreement of the League.  
And as that generous resolution and constancy of this State is never enough praised, so there is great hope that you will not bring this same in the reckoning of the two Kings, who never will miss to praise the wisdom and generosity of this State, though not obliged for their particular for any thing whatsoever done till now, either by the league in general, or by whomsoever of the united in particular, because that the league was made two years and more before his Majesty of great Britain broke with Spain, or that the King of Denmark had declared himself. Since the time that these two Kings are come to the Dance, your Highness hath not levied one man, and the Forces which you do yet keep, as they were not levied, so are they not maintained in Contemplation of the two Kings, but only for the first reasons of the League.  
The only thing here sought for is to go with a common pace, that those that are now too heavily laden, may be supported by their friends, either by way of diversion, or by way of assistance. And therefore your Highness and other Princes are now requested to help, seeing there is small appearance of diversion. And set the case, that the Peace between Spain and France should be firm, would it not turn against the Common Cause? Italiae incendium ruina Germaniae extinguere? To quench a little fire in Italy by the ruin of whole Germany? In Chronical diseases Physicians do not so much respect the symptoms and accidents as they do the causes of the evil.  
The Valtoline, Palatinate, Hussia, Marchisat of Baden, Dukedom of Brunswick, and so many other Countries attempted, and oppressed by the Spanish and Austrian usurpation, are grievous and dangerous symptoms and accidents: but the Cause, and fuel of the evil remains yet in the ambitious bowels of the Spaniard, who now with spread sails goeth on towards the universal Monarchy; unless there be applied betimes some fit remedies, all topic remedies will do but little good.  
The King of Denmark doth offer himself ready to apply such an issue, whereby he may be brought back to terms of modesty, and with the assistance he doth expect from your Highness and other interessed Princes, he hopeth to bring his good intent to pass. And being prodigal of his great Soul, there is no doubt he will ever go back, unless he be forsaken.  
Thus there remains the Common liberty almost in your hands, and if this most excellent Senate resolves to give aid unto that King, that liberty will be preserved. If you do forsake him, that will also be endangered, yea lost. I therefore beseech your Highness to ponder well this matter, and to grant such an assistance, as is requested by the King of Denmark's Ambassador.   

Sir Henry Wootton to the Duk.  
My most Noble Lord,  
I Will be bold by this opportunity to give his Majesty through your Lordship's hands, an account of a Command which I had from him at Theobalds', about sounding how the Venetian Ambassador stood satisfied with the late determination touching his predecessor Donato.  
I did visit the said Ambassador immediately at my return from the King, and saluted him as by express Commandment; interjecting some words of mine own gladness, that he had received contentment in this tender point, which would signalise his beginnings. This I said, because in truth I had found him always before the more passionate in it by some reflection upon himself. His answer (after due thanks for his Majesty's gracious remembrance of him from abroad) was, That for his own part, he was Contentissimo, and had represented things home in the best manner. He hoped likewise it would be well tasted there also, though with some doubt, because the State out of their own devotion towards his Majesty might form a confidence of expecting more. I replied, that the King upon the matter (if we consider disgrace) had done more than themselves: for he was but once banished at Venice, and twice here; viz. once from the Verge of the Court, and secondly, from London, which was as much as could be done with preservation of National immunities, and more than would have been done at the suit of any other Ambassador here resident, or perhaps of any of their own hereafter if the like case shall occur. For (as I told him) it was the King's express will, that his particular respect to the republic, and to him in this business should not be drawn into examples. With this point he was not a little pleased for his own glory, and said, that indeed Mr. Secretary Nanton had told him so. This was the sum of what passed between us, omitting impertinencies. Let me end (my dear Lord) as I am bound in all the use, either of my pen, or of my voice, with an humble and hearty acknowledgement of my great obligations towards your Lordship, which will make me resolve, and in good faith unhappy, till I can some way show myself  
Your Lordship's most thankful and faithful servant, Henry Wootton. 25th. of January, 1619.   

Sir Henry Wotton to the Duke.  
My most honoured Lord, and Patron,  
THese poor lines will be presented unto your Lordship by my Nephew (one of your obliged servants) and withal some description (as I have prayed him) of my long infirmities, which have cast me behind in many private, and often interrupted even my public Duties; with which yet I do rather seek to excuse some other defects of service then my silence towards your Lordship.  
For to importune your Lordship seldom with my pen is a choice in me, and not a disease, having resolved to live at what distance soever from your sight, like one who had well studied before I came hither, how secure they are whom you once vouchsafe any part of your love. And indeed I am well confirmed therein by your own gracious lines: for thereby I see that your Lordship had me in your meditation, when I scant remembered myself.  
In answer of which Letter after some respite from mine own evils, I have deputed my said Nephew to redeliver my fortune into your Noble hands, and to assure your Lordship, that as it should be cheerfully spent at your Command if it were present and actual (from whose mediation I have derived it) so much more am I bound to yield up unto your Lordship an absolute disposition of my hopes: But if it should please you therein to grant me any part of mine own humour, than I would rather wish some other satisfaction, then exchange of Office; yet even in this point likewise shall depend on your will, which your Lordship may indeed challenge from me, not only by an humble gratitude, and reverence due to your most worthy person, but even by that natural charity and discretion, which I own myself: For what do I more therein, then only remit to your own arbitrement the valuation of your own goodness? I have likewise committed to my foresaid Nephew some Memorials touching your Lordship's familiar service (as I may term it) in matter of art and delight.  
But though I have laid these Offices upon another, yet I joy with mine own pen to give your Lordship an account of a Gentleman, worthier of your love, than I was of the honour to receive him from you.  
We are now after his well-spent travails in the Towns of purer language, married again till a second Divorce, for which I shall be sorry, whensoever it shall happen. For in truth (my good Lord) his conversation is both delightful, and fruitful, and I dare pronounce, that he will return to his friends, as well fraught with the best observations as any that hath ever sifted this Country, which indeed doth need sisting; for there is both flower and bran in it.  
He hath divided his abode between Sienna and Rome: The rest of his time was for the most part spent in motion. I think his purpose be to take the French tongue in his way homewards, but I am persuading with him to make Brussels his Seat, both because the French and Spanish Languages are familiar there, whereof the one will be after Italian a sport unto him, so as he may make the other a labour: And for that the said Town is now the scene of an important Treaty, which I fear will last till he come thither: but far be from me all ominous conceit.  
I will end with cheerful thoughts and wishes; beseeching the Almighty God to preserve your Lordship in health, and to cure the public diseases. And so I ever remain  
Your Lordship's Most devoted obliged servant, Henry Wotton. Venice 29. of July, 1622.   

Sir Henry Wotton to the Duke.  
My most honoured, and dear Lord,  
TO give your Lordship occasion to exrecise your Noble nature, is withal one of the best exercises of mine own duty and therefore I am confident to pass a very charitable motion through your Lordship's hands, and mediation to his Majesty.  
There hath long lay in the prison of Inquisition a constant worthy Gentleman, viz. Mr. Mole; In whom his Majesty hath not only a right as his subject, but likewise a particular interest in the cause of his first imprisonment. For having communicated his Majesty's immortal work touching the allegiance due unto Sovereign Princes with a Florentine of his familiar acquaintance, this man took such impression at some passages, as troubling his conscience, he took occasion at next shrift to confer certain doubts with his Confessor, who out of malicious curiosity, enquiring all circumstances, gave afterwards notice thereof to Rome, whither the said Mole was gone with my Lord Rosse, who in this story is not without blame; but I will not disquiet his Grave.  
Now having lately heard, that his Majesty at the suit of I know not what Ambassadors (but the Florentine amongst them is voiced for one) was pleased to yield some releasement to certain restrained persons of the Roman faith: I have taken a conceit upon it, that in exchange of his clemency therein, the Great Duke would be easily moved by the King's Gracious request, to intercede with the Pope for Mr. Moles delivery. To which purpose if it shall please his Majesty to grant his Royal Letters, I will see the business duly pursued. And so needing no arguments to commend this proposition to his Majesty's goodness, but his goodness itself, I leave it (as I began) in your Noble hand.  
Now touching your Lordship's familiar service (as I may term it) I have sent the compliment of your bargain upon the best provided and best manned ship, that hath been here in long time, called the Phoenix, and indeed the cause of their long stay hath been for some such sure vessel as I might trust. About which since I wrote last to your Lordship, I resolved to fall back to my first choice. So as now the one piece is the work of Titian, wherein the least figure (viz the child in the Virgin's lap playing with a bird) is alone worth the price of your expense for all four, being so round, that I know not whether I shall call it a piece of sculpture, or picture; and so lively, that a man would be tempted to doubt, whether nature, or art had made it. The other is of Palma, and this I call the speaking piece, as your Lordship will say it may well be termed: for except the Damosel brought to David, whom a silent modesty did best become, all the other figures are in discourse, and action. They come both distended in their frames; for I durst not hazard them in rolls, the youngest being 25. years old, and therefore no longer supple, and pliant. With them I have been bold to send a dish of Grapes to your Noble Sister, the Countess of Denbigh, presenting them first to your Lordship's view, that you may be pleased to pass your censure, whether Italians can make fruits as well as Flemings, which is the common Glory of their pencils. By this Gentleman, I have sent the choicest Melon seeds of all kinds, which his Majesty doth expect, as I had order both from my Lord of holderness, and from Mr. Secretary Calvert. And although in my Letter to his Majesty (which I hope by your Lordship's favour himself shall have the honour to deliver together with the said seeds) I have done him right in his due attributes; yet let me say of him farther as Architects use to speak of a well chosen foundation, that your Lordship nay boldly build what fortune you please upon him, for surely he will bear it virtuously. I have committed to him for the last place a private memorial touching myself, wherein I shall humbly beg your Lordship's intercession upon a necessary motive. And so with my heartiest prayers to heaven for your continual health and happiness, I most humbly rest  
Your Lordships Ever obliged devoted Servant, Henry Wotton. Venice 2/12. Decemb. 1622.  
Postscript.  
MY Noble Lord, it is one of my duties to tell your Lordship, that I have sent a servant of mine (by profession a Painter) to to make a search in the best towns through Italy for some principal pieces, which I hope may produce somewhat for your Lordship's contentment, and service.   

Sir Henry Wotton to the Duke.  
May it please your Grace,  
HAving some days by sickness been deprived of the comfort of your sight, who did me so much honour at my last Access, I am bold to make these poor lines happier than myself. And withal to represent unto your Grace (whose noble Patronage is my refuge, when I find any occasion to bewail mine own fortune) a thing which seemeth strange unto me. I am told (I know not how truly) that his Majesty hath already disposed the Venetian Embassage to Sir Isaac Wake; from whose sufficiency if I should detract, it would be but an argument of my own weakness.  
But that which herein doth touch me, I am loath to say in point of reputation, surely much in my livelihood (as Lawyers speak) is that thereby after 17. years of foreign in continual employment either ordinary or extraordinary, I am left utterly destitute of all possibility to subsist at home, much like those Seal Fishes which sometimes (as they say) oversleeping themselves in an ebbing water, feel nothing about them but a dry shore when they awake. Which comparison I am fain to seek among those Creatures, not knowing among men that have so long served so gracious a Master, any one to whom I may resemble my unfortunate bareness. Good my Lord, as your Grace hath vouchsafed me some part of your Love, so make me worthy in this of some part of your Compassion. So I humbly rest  
Your Graces, etc. Henry Wotton.   

Sir Henry Wotton to the Duke.  
My most Noble Lord,  
When like that impotent man in the Gospel, I had lain long by the Pools side, while many were healed, and none would throw me in, it pleased your Lordship first of all to pity my infirmities, and to put me into some hope of subsisting hereafter. Therefore I most humbly and justly acknowledge all my ability and reputation from your favour. You have given me encouragement, you have valued my poor endeavours with the King, you have redeemed me from ridiculousness, who had served so long without any mark of favour. By which arguments being already and ever bound to be yours till either life or honesty shall leave me, I am the bolder to beseech your Lordship to perfect your own work, and to draw his Majesty to some settling of those things that depend between Sir Julius Caesar and me, in that reasonable form, which I humbly present unto your Lordship by this my Nephew; likewise your obliged servant, being myself by a late indisposition confined to my Chamber, but in all estates such as I am  
Your Lordship's Henry Wotton.   

Sir Henry Wotton to the Earl of Portland, Lord Treasurer.  
My most honoured Lord,  
I Most humbly present (though by some infirmities a little too late) a straying new years' gift unto your Lordship, which I will presume to term the cheapest of all that you have received, and yet of the richest Materials.  
In short, it is only an image of yourself drawn by memory from such discourse as I have taken up here and there of your Lordship among the most intelligent, and unmalignant men. Which to portrait before you, I thought no servile office, but ingenious and real. And I could wish, that it had come at that day, that so your Lordship might have begun the new year somewhat like Plato's definition of felicity with the contemplation of your own Idea. They say, that in your foreign employments under King James your Lordship won the the opinion of a very able and searching judgement, having been the first discoverer of the intentions against the Palatinate, which were then in brewing, and masked with much art, and that Sir Edward Conway got the Start of you both in title, and employment, because the late Duke of Buckingham wanted then for his own ends a Martial Secretary.  
They say that under our present Sovereign you were chosen to the highest charge at the lowest of the State, when some instrument was requisite of indubitable integrity, and provident moderation, which atributes I have heard none deny you.  
They discourse thus of your actions, since, that though great exhaustations cannot be cured without sudden remedies no more in a Kingdom then in a natural body: yet your Lordship hath well allayed those blustering clamours, wherewith at your beginning, your house was in a manner daily besieged.  
They note, that there hath been made changes, but that none hath brought to the place a judgement so cultivated, and illuminated with various erudition as your Lordship, since the Lord Burleigh under Queen Elizabeth, whom they make your parallel in the ornament of knowledge.  
They observe in your Lordship's divers remarkable combinations of virtues and abilities rarely sociable.  
In the character of your aspect, a mixture of Authority, and Modesty. In the faculties of your mind quick apprehension and solidity together, in the stile of your Porte, and Train, as much dignity and as great dependency as was ever in any of your place, and with little noise, and outward form.  
That your Table is very abundant, free, and noble, without Luxury; That you are by nature no flatterer, and yet of greatest power in Court. That you love magnificence and frugality both together. That you entertain your Guests and Visitours with noble Courtesy, and void of Compliment. Lastly, that you maintain a due regard to your person and place, and yet no enemy to froath-formalities.  
Now in the discharge of your function, they speak of two things that have done you much honour, viz. that you had always a special care to the supply of the Navy; And likewise a more worthy and tender respect towards the King's only sister for the continual support from hence, than she hath found before.  
They observe your Greatness as firmly established as ever was any, of the love (and which is more) in the estimation of a King who hath so signalised his Constancy: besides your additions of strength (or at least of lustre) by the noblest alliances of the Land.  
Amongst these notes, it is no wonder if some observe, that between a good willingness in your affections to satisfy all, and impossibility in the matter, and yet an importunity in the persons, there doth now and then, I know not how, arise a little impatience, which must needs fall on your Lordship, unless you had been cut out of a Rock of Diamonds, especially having been long before so conversant with liberal studies, and with the freedom of your own mind.  
Now after this short Collection touching your most honoured Person, I beseech you give me leave to add likewise a little what men say of the Writer.  
They say I want not your gracious good will towards me, according to the degrees of my poor talon, and Travails; but they say, I am wanting to myself. And in good faith (my Lord) in saying so, they say the truth. For I am condemned I know not how by nature to a kind of unfortunate bashfulness in mine own business, and it is now too late to put me in a new Furnace.  
Therefore, It must be your Lordship's proper work, and not only your Noble, but even your charitable goodness, that must in some blessed hour remember me. God give your Lordship many healthful and joyful years, and the blessing of that Text Beatus qui attendit ad attenuatum. And so I remain with all humble and willing heart  
At your Lordship's command, Henry Wotton.   

Sir Richard Weston to the Duke.  
May it please your Lordship,  
I Fear I have taken too much of that liberty of not writing, you were pleased to allow me by Sir George Goring, but I hope your Lordship will measure my devotion to serve you by no other rule then your own interest and desert. For as I understand by Sir George Goring how often I come in your thoughts, and how great a part I have in your Cares; so is there no man to whom I would more willingly give daily account of myself then to your Lordship, to whose grace and favour I own so much.  
I forbear to trouble your Lordship with any relation of business, because I presume your Lordship is acquainted with all my dispatch, and it is not long since I entreated my Lord Treasurer to tell your Lordship what I thought of things then. I have yet little reason to change my opinion.  
And if your Lordship please to know the state of things now, I have sent this Gentleman the Bearer hereof especially to do your Lordship reverence in my name, and to give you full information. For my return or stay, I humbly submit it to his Majesty's pleasure.  
Though this Negotiation be like to spin itself out into much length, I weigh not my own interest. I shall willingly be there, where I shall be thought most able to do his Majesty service. And so entreating that I may be continued in that good opinion and grace, wherein your Lordships own affection, not any merit of mine hath placed me, I humbly kiss your hands; And remain  
Your Lordship's Faithful and devoted servant, Rich. Weston. Brussels 26. June, 1622.   

Sir Richard Weston to the Duke  
My very good Lord,  
I Have understood by my Lord Treasurer the way you have made with his Majesty for my calling home, for which this present doth give your Lordship most humble thanks, though I have forborn to press or solicit it, because I would approve my obedience to his Majesty, and take away from them all occasion, who otherwise might have accused my departure, and imputed the want of success here to my want of patience to expect an answer.  
I have almost in all my Dispatches since we entered into this Treaty, signified what opinion I had of their proceed here, and my chief comfort was, that whatsoever the success were, that the clearness of his Majesty's intentions would appear to the whole world, and that the failing is not of his side, which I think is manifest enough: for notwithstanding that his Majesty hath followed them in all their desires, and the Prince elector hath conformed himself to what was demanded, that the Count Mansfelt, and Duke of Brunswick, the pretended obstacles of the Treaty, are now with all their Forces removed. No face of an enemy in the Palatinate, but his Majesty's power in the Garrisons; All other places repossessed which Mansfelt had taken. No cause of continuing any War now, nor any cause of jealousy or fear for the future, considering his Majesty's fair and honourable offers: yet are they so far from a cessation, that they are fallen upon Heidelbergh, and either want the will, or power to remove the siege. And all I can get is two Letters of entreaty from her Highness to the chiefs of the Emperor to proceed no further; and after some 18. days since I made my proposition for the Cessation, I have yet no answer: so that being able to raise no more doubts, they make use of delays. I have said, and done, and used all diligences within my power to bring forth better effects, and can go no farther; and therefore I humbly beseech your Lordship that I may have leave to return, when I shall hear that they will not remove the siege at Heidelbergh. For their pretending to restore all, when all is taken, is a poor comfort to me, and as little honour to his Majesty; and how far they are to be believed in that, is to be examined more exactly then by writing, by weighing how the weak hopes given me here, agree with the strong assurances given by my Lord Digbie out of Spain.  
I hope therefore his Majesty will be pleased to think it reasonable to speak with me, and as your Lordship hath ever been a happy and gentle star to me; so have I now more need of your favourable aspect then ever, that his Majesty may receive my obedience as a sacrifice, and interpret well of all my endeavours, what success so ever I bring home with me. Wherein humbly entreating your Lordship's wont grace and favour, I humbly kiss your hands, and vow unto you the faithful observance of  
Your Lordship's Most humble and devoted Servant, Richard Weston. Brussels 3d. of Septemb. 1622.   

Sir Richard Weston to the Duke.  
May it please your Grace,  
YOur Grace shall add much to the infinite favours I have received from you to read a few lines from me, much more to vouchsafe them an answer, which I am the more bold to beg, and the more hopeful to obtain, because I understand by Sir George Goring, that howsoever I have had many ill offices done me, your Grace will not easily departed from that opinion, you have hitherto conceived of me, for which I humbly thank your Grace, and entreat the continuance of it no longer, than I shall be able to make good the integrity of my heart unto you. But that, which with all humility, and importunity I sue for at your Grace's hands, is to let me know my Accuser, and if your Grace think it unseasonable now, that I may have a promise to know him at your return. Whatsoever, or how great soever he be, (though respect, and reverence of those eyes which shall read these lines make me forbear ill language now) I shall dare to tell him, whatsoever becomes a wronged innocence to say. In the mean time, I despise him, if there be any such that hath accused me since your Grace's departure, to have done, or said, or given way to the hearing of any thing that may be wrested to the impeachment of my faith and sincere professions towards your Grace; and yet till it come to the trial, I rely (as I wrote to Sir George Goring) no less upon your Grace's wisdom and goodness, than my own innocence, that such Calumnies shall not lessen the estimation I had with you; wherein being most confident praying for the continuance and increase of your Grace's honour and happiness, I remain  
Your Grace's Most humble and devoted servant, Richard Weston. 17. July, 1623.   

Sir Richard Weston to the Duke.  
May it please your Grace,  
I Humbly thank your Grace for the Message I received from you yesterday by Mr. Packer. And withal I humbly beseech your Grace to believe, that no man shall condemn me more, than I would myself, if I had omitted any possible diligence either to interest, or acquaint your Grace with the Commission of the Treasury. Wherein I appeal to Mr. Secretary Conway, who first declared his Majesty's pleasure unto me, which I could not ascribe more to any Cause, than your Grace's favour, and good opinion of me. And at my last being with your Grace, I began to speak with you of it, but finding your Grace to grow into some indisposition, I forbore, thinking it not only incivility, but a violence to have spoken any thing of myself to your Grace at that time. This I entreated Sir George G●ring to relate unto your Grace, and withal to renew the professions of my love and reverence to your Grace's person, which I had rather make good by real performances then by words, and therefore I will trouble your Grace no longer upon this subject.  
I am now extremely importuned by the Earl of Middlesex to solicit his Majesty for the first testimony of his gracious disposition towards him. And your Grace remembers, that in the beginning of his Lordship's troubles, his Majesty commanded me to deliver unto his Majesty, whatsoever his Lordship should petition of him.  
Now I humbly beseech your Grace to direct me what to do: His Lordship sues for his enlargement, and I know desires to derive that favour from his Majesty by your Grace's mediation. And I am careful to perform all duties, my obedience to his Majesty, my respect to your Grace, and my ear of him (that relieth upon me) being in affliction. And therefore I humbly befeech your Grace to vouchsafe me an answer to this particular, because his Majesty goeth from hence to morrow, and the Earl of Middlesex will languish with expectation till he receive some comfort from him. And so continually praying for the increase of your Grace's health, I remain  
Your Grace's Most humble servant, Richard Weston. 29. May, 1624.   

Sir Richard Weston to the Duke.  
May it please your Grace,  
I Have according to his Majesties Command signified to me by Mr. Secretary Conway, delivered to the Earl of Middlesex his Majesty's pleasure concerning his Fine. The news of it did extremely dismay him, as being far contrary to his expectation. He used not many words; but thereof I having given Mr. Secretary a particular account in answer of the charge I received from his Majesty, I will not trouble your Grace with the repetition of them.  
The chief cause of this unto your Grace is, to acquaint your Grace with a short Dialogue that passed between Mr. Brett and me touching his Pension.  
He sent his man to me this week to demand it; to whom I made this answer, That the charge of the Progress being settled, I would consider of the payment of his Master's pension amongst others, before which time I could not in that case give satisfaction to any. He went away with this answer, and immediately after (within less than a quarter of an hour) Mr. Brett himself came to me, and asked me at the first word, Whether I had any Command to stay his Pension. I replied, No other command then the want of money. He told me, That the rest of his fellows were paid: I said it was true, I was to have care of them that immediately followed his Majesty, when I was forced to entreat others to have patience till more monies came in. He asked me again. Whether I had any Command to stay his? I answered as before; wherewith he parted from me, as it seemed, not pleased.  
This peradventure is not worth troubling your Grace withal, but that because his Majesty was pleased to acquaint me with his just indignation against him at Wansteed, I would be glad to receive some direction, what answer I shall make upon his next importunity. And so humbly entreating your Grace ever to number me amongst those that do most honour and pray for you, I remain  
Your Grace's Most humble and faithful servant, Richard Weston. Chelsey 23. July, 1624.   

Sir Richard Weston to the Duke.  
May it please your Grace,  
I did scarce esteem my Letter worthy your Graces reading, much less worthy your pains to answer it. It is my duty upon all occasions great and small, to pay unto your Grace those observances I own you. And when your Grace vouchsafes to take knowledge of them, it is your favour, and therefore I humbly thank your Grace for vouchsafing an answer.  
I have according to his Majesty's commandment signified by your Grace unto me, taking the best order I can about the Wardship of the Lady Cravens Son. The most of the Officers of the Court of Wards being out of the town, I have spoken with Sir Benjamin Buddier, who assured me, that there is nothing yet done, nor can be, till there be a master, or that the Officers meet together, and that he will take care that nothing shall be done to the prejudice of his Majesty.  
And for the more Caution, I have commanded the Clerk of Court, if any man petition, or sue about the Wardship, that there be no proceeding till he acquaint me with it. This is all can be done for the present, and thereof I think fit to give your Grace account, in answer of the charge I have received from his Majesty. And so humbly craving leave to kiss your Grace's hands, I wish your Grace continual increase of honour and happiness, and remain  
Your Grace's Most humble and faithful Servant, Richard Weston. Chelsey 12th August 1624.   

Sir Francis Cottington to the Duke.  
May it please your Honour,  
MY last unto you was of the 23. of September by Mr. Berrie, who that day departed from hence towards England, with intention to take passage by Sea from St. Sebastian's: and although I conceive, that this conveyance will be much speedier (it being by an extraordinary dispatched for Flanders) yet for that I hold the other to be sure, I will not forbear to trouble your Honour with any tepetition of that dispatch.  
The strength and boldness of the Pirates (or rather of the Turks) is now grown to that hieght both in the Ocean, & Mediterranean seas, as I have never known any thing to have wrought a greater sadness and distraction in the Court, than the daily advice thereof. Their whole Fleet consists of 40. Sail of tall ships, of between 200. and 400, tuns a piece; Their Admiral of 500 tuns. They are divided into 2. Squadrons, the one of 18. Sail remaining before Malaga (in sight of the City) the other about the Cape St. Marry, which is between Lisbon, and Sevil. That Squadron within the straits entered the road of Mostil (a Town by Malaga) wherewith their ordnance, they beat down a part of the Castle, and had doubtless taken the town, but that from Granado there came Soldiers to succour it; yet they took there divers ships, and amongst them 3. or 4. of the west part of England. Two big English ships they drove on shore, not past four Leagues from Malaga; and after they went on shore also, and burned them, and to this day they remain before Malaga, intercepting all ships, that pass that way, and absolutely prohibiting all trade into those parts of Spain. The other Squadron at the Cape St. Marry doth there the like, intercepting all shipping whatsoever. They lately met with seven fail of English ships, (all of London as I take it) but loaden only with pipestaves, which they had taken on the Coast of Ireland by the way. Five of these, viz. the Marie Anne, the Marry and John, the Rebecca, and Gibbs of Sandwich, and one John Cheyney of London they took, and the other two escaped. They robbed them only of their victuals, their Ordnance, and of some sails, and so let them go, but in their company was also taken a great Ship of Lubeck, said to be very rich, which they still keep with all the men. They have few or no Christians aboard them, but all either Turks, or moors, and the most part are of those, which of late years were turned out of Spain for Morisces. They attend (as it seems) and as themselves report to them that have been aboard them (the coming of the West Indian Fleet, which is now very near.) But from hence they have commanded the Armada (which was divided into three Squadrons) to be joined together, and advice is brought that it is so, and now consists of twenty strong ships; Don John Faxardo (the General) hath also express order to fight with the Pirates, not admitting any excuse whatsoever, but the common opinion is here, that we will be able to do them little harm, because his ships are of great burden, and they will be able to go from him at their pleasure. And the other Squadron within the straits will always be able to secure their retreat thither. I doubt not but in my next dispatch, I shall be able to tell your Honour what Don John Faxardo either hath or will do to them. If this year they safely return to Argier (especially if they should take any of the Fleet) it is much to be feared, that the King of Spain's forces by Sea will not be sufficient to restrain, them hereafter, so much sweetness they find by making prize of all Christians whatsoever. The Secretary of the Council of war, hath hereupon discoursed much unto me, and by him I perceive, that here is an intention, to move his Majesty (the King our Master) that he will be pleased to join some of his Sea-forces (upon good terms) with this King, for the suppressing of these Pirates, if they should hereafter grow, and increase as hitherto they have done. Seeing they now profess themselves the common enemies of Christendom. Many reasons he gave me, that he thought might move his Majesty thereunto; but that whereon for my part I most reflect is, that these courses of the Pirates, do but exercise the forces of the King of Spain by Sea, and put an obligation on him by all means to strengthen, and increase his Armada, and keep in practise his Sea-soldiers, without doing him any great harm, for that the greatest damage will always fall upon the Merchants that trade into those parts (of which the English will ever be the greatest number, and the greatest losers) And as for the taking of his Fleet, it is not to be imagined, for that besides, that they come very strong (consisting of 50 great ships, of which eight are Galleons of war) they shall always be meet, and guarded by the Armada. Your Honour may be pleased to acquaint his Majesty with what I here write, for I perceive it is expected, that I should advertise what the Secretary hath discoursed to me, which I would have done more at large; but I am straightened with want of time. Yet I may not forbear to advertise your Honour, that the said Secretary told me withal, that the last year the States desired leave of this King for certain ships of war (which they had armed to Sea against Pirates) might have safe recourse into these parts, which was accordingly granted them, but that instead of offending the Pirates, the same ships sold in Argeir as much Powder, and other warlike provision (especially powder) unto the Turks, as furnished the foresaid Fleet which they have now at Sea, a thing which is here (he says) very ill, taken. I doubt not but from Piemount your Honour hath better advertizement (at least more speedier) than I can give you from hence, yet have I thought it fit to advertise you, that in a late ambush, which the Duke of Savoy had laid, at Don Pedro de Tolledo's entrance into Piemount, the Maestro de Campo of the Spanish army was slain; the Son of the Prince of Asloli was hurt: so was the Prince of Morveles (who serves this King there) and many other Captains, and Gentlemen of note slain and hurt. They here say that the number of men Don Pedro lost was but few, but their custom is to dissemble their losses, howsoever it is to be conceived, that when so many principal men were touched, the common Soldiers could not well escape.  
At Lisbon there is arrived two Caracks, and a Gallion from the East-Indies, the Caracks very rich, and much richer than in former years, but (as in a former Letter I advertised you) two others as rich as they, and that should have come in company with these, were cast away coming home.  
Don-Roderigo Calderon (now the marquis de Las Siete Iglesias) is suddenly commanded from this Court, and confined to a small Village, and Judges are appointed to examine by what means he is so suddenly grown to so great an estate (which in my time is risen from nothing to above 60000. Ducats a year rend, besides an infinite treasure in moveables) and doubtless some heavy sentence will fall upon him, for he hath many enemies, and I understand that the Duke of Lerma hath much withdrawn his favour.  
New supplies of Soldiers are here raised for the Governor of Milan, and 30. Companies are ready to be embarked at Valentia, where the Galleys attend them.  
Here is lately come hither one who calls himself Sir James Mackenel a Scotchman, and says he is Cousin german to the Earl of Arguile: I have not seen him, but I hear he discourses of his breaking out of the Castle of Edinburgh, of the unjustness of his imprisonment there, of his integrity in the Pope's Religion, and so desires to be entertained into this King's service, which doubtless he shall obtain if he can make it here be believed, that he hath a true fugitives heart.  
My Lord Rosse is now much harkened after, and they think he stays very long. By the ordinary (God willing) I shall write again to your Honour. And so for this time I humbly take my leave  
Your Lordships to be Commanded, Fran. Cottington. Madrid the first of Octob. 1616. Still. Vet.   

The Lord Viscount Rochfort to the Duke of Buckingham.  
My Lord,  
I Have received great wrongs about my Lord of Oxford by reports, which can find no author: yet have they wrought such impressions in the hearts of some, that it is hard to remove those Calumniations: for divers are possessed, that I am to be his accuser, which is so strange, and so maliciously bruited, that it is somewhat suspected; yet know I not any one particular, for which he is in the Tower, neither if I knew any such slip (in so noble a person as might deserve the King's displeasure) would my nature give me leave to play the Informer, except it nearly concerned the safety, or the honour of my King, and then should my discovery be public to the face, and not private behind the back, for that I account too base to be found faulty in.  
Sorry I am to be so much as suspected, but since ill disposed persons will raise ill rumours without any ground, the eleernesse of my heart is sufficient content unto me; and as my heart hath been always most faithful and watchful to do you service; so good my Lord, let me entreat you, that for my sake, my Lord of Oxford may receive some testimonies of your great favour for his speedy enlargement, and that it may appear, you are the more willing to do it, for my earnest entreaty. My Lord, you shall not only hereby oblige all my Lord of Oxford's friends, but likewise the Lady Diana's, who doth lose a great deal of precious time by my Lord's imprisonment, and therefore let all be arguments to excite your noble heart to procure his freedom. And so I kiss your hands, and rest  
More yours than his own, H. R.  
Postscript.  
PRay make all haste from Spain, for neither are your pleasures and contents so great there, as you may find them here, neither have you so faithful friends there as you deserve; but sure I am your have many false ones. For I have work enough both in Court and City to falsify their reports of you; yea some of them (about women) very base ones, and much tending to your great dishonour. And it goes currant among very great ones, that the Prince hath been somewhat displeased with you of late. I have sent you another Letter of larger contents, and I should be glad to hear from you.   

King James to Pope Gregory 15th. 30. September, 1622.  
James by the Grace of God King of great Britain, France and Ireland, Defender of the faith, etc. To the most Holy Father Pope Gregory the 15th. greeting, and all manner of felicity.  
Most Holy Father,  
YOur Holiness will perhaps marvel, that we differing from you in point of Religion should now first salute you with our Letters. Howbeit such is the trouble of our mind for these calamitous discords and bloudsheds, which for these late years by past, have so miserably rend the Christian World, and so great is our care, and daily solicitude to stop the course of these growing evils betimes, so much as in us lies, as we could no longer abstain, considering that we all worship the same most blessed Trinity, nor hope for salvation by any other means, then by the blood and merits of our Lord and Saviour Christ Jesus; but breaking this silence to move your Holiness by these our Letters friendly and seriously, that you would be pleased together with us to put your hand to so pious a work, and so worthy of a Christian Prince.  
It is truly to be wished, and by all means to be endeavoured, that this mischief creep on no farther, but that these storms at the last ceasing, and the rancour being removed, by which they were at the first raised, the hearts of these Princes, whom it any way concerns, may be reunited in a firm and unchangeable friendship, and as much as may be knit together in stricter obligations than before, one unto another.  
This we have always had in our desires, and to bring it to pass, have not hitherto spared any labour, or pains, not doubting but your Holiness out of your singular piety, and for the credit and authority that you have with the parties, both may and will further this work in an extraordinary manner. No way can any man better merit of the state of Christendom, which if it shall take the desired effect in your days, and by your assistance your Holiness shall worthily reap the glory and the reward due to so excellent a work.  
That which remains for us further to say concerning this matter, this Gentleman our Subject George Gage will deliver unto you more at large. Praying your Holiness, that you will give him in all things full credence and belief, beseeching Almighty God from our heart to preserve you in safety, and to grant you all other happiness.  
From our Palace at Hampton Court the last of Septemb. 1622.   

Pope Gregory the 15th. to the Prince of Wales.  
Most Noble Prince, Health and light of Divine Grace, etc.  
GReat Britain abounding with worthy men, and fertile virtues, so that the whole earth is full of the glory of her renown, induceth many times the thoughts of the great Shepherd to the consideration of her praises. In regard that presently in the infancy of his Church, the King of kings vouchsafed to choose her with so great affection for his inheritance, that almost it seems there entered into her at the same time the Eagles of the Roman Standard, and the Ensigns of the Cross. And not few of her Kings indoctrinated in the true knowledge of Salvation gave example of Christian piety to other Nations, and after-ages, preferring the Cross to the Sceptre, and the defence of Religion to the desire of Command. So that meriting heaven thereby (the Crown of eternal bliss) they obtained likewise upon earth the lustre, and glorious ornaments of sanctity. But in this time of the Brittanicks Church, how much is the case altered? yet we see that to this day the English Court is fenced and guarded with moral virtues, which were sufficient motives to induce us to love this Nation, it being some ornament to the Christian name, if it were likewise a defence and sanctuary of Catholic virtues.  
Wherefore the more the glory of your most Serene Father, and the property of your natural disposition delighteth us, the more ardently we desire, that the gates of Heaven should be opened unto you, and that you should purchase the universal love of the Church. For whereas, that the Bishop Gregory the Great of most pious memory introduced amongst the English people, and taught their Kings the Gospel, and a reverence to the Apostolical Authority, we much inferior to him in virtue, and sanctity, as equal in name, and height of dignity, it is reason we should follow his most holy steps, and procure the salvation of those Kingdoms, especially (most Serene Prince) there being great hopes offered to us at this time of some successful issue of your determination.  
Wherefore you having come to Spain and the Court of the Catholic King, with desire to match with the house of Austria, it seemed good to use most affectionatetly to commend this your intent, and to give clear testimony, that at this time your person is the most principal care that our Church hath. For seeing you pretend to match with a Catholic Damosel, it may easily be presumed, that the ancient seed of Christian piety, which so happily flourished in the minds of British Kings, may by God's Grace reverberate in your breast. For it is not probable, that he, that desires such a wife, should abhor the Catholic religion, and rejoice at the overthrow of the holy Roman Church. To which purpose we have caused continual prayers to be made, and most vigilant orisons to the Father of Lights for you (fair flower of the Christian world, and only hope of great Britain) that he would bring you to the possession of that most Noble inheritance, which your Ancestors got you by the defence of the Apostolic authority, and destruction of monsters of haerisies. Call to memory the times of old; ask your forefathers, and they will show you what way leads to heaven, and perceiving what path mortal Princes pass to the Heavenly Kingdom, behold the Gates of heaven open. Those most holy Kings of England, which parting from Rome accompanied with Angels, most piously reverenced the Lord of Lords, and the Prince of the Apostles in his Chair. Their works and examples are mouths wherewith God speaks, and warneth you, that you should imitate their customs in whose Kingdoms you succeed.  
Can you suffer that they be called Heretics, and condemned for wicked men, when the faith of the Church testifieth, that they reign with Christ in Heaven, and are exalted above all the Princes of the Earth, and that they at this time reached you their hands from that most blessed Country, and brought you safely to the Court of the Catholic King, and desire to turn you to the womb of the Roman Church; wherein praying most humbly with most unspeakable groans to the God of mercy for your salvation, to reach you the arms of Apostolical charity to embrace most lovingly your children, so often desired, and to point out as it were with a finger the blessed hopes of Heaven. And truly you could do no act of greater comfort to all Nations of Christendom, then to return the possession of those most Noble Isles to the Prince of the Apostles, whose authority for so many ages was held in England for the defence of the Kingdom, and divine Oracle, which will not be uneasy to do if you open your breast (upon which depends the prosperity of those Kingdoms) to God who is knocking. And we have so great desire of the honour and exaltation of your Royal Name, that we wish, that you should be called through thee whole world (together with your most Serene Father) the Freer of Great Britain, and restorer of her ancient Religion. Whereof we will not lose all hopes, putting them in mind in whose hands the hearts of Kings lie, and he that rules all nations of the world, by whose Grace we will with all possible diligence labour to effect it. And you cannot choose but acknowledge in these Letters the care of our Apostolical charity to procure your happiness, which it will never repent us to have written, if the reading thereof shall at leastwise stir some sparks of Catholic religion in the heart of so Great a Prince, who we desire may enjoy Eternal comfors, and flourish with the Glory of all virtues.  
Given in Rome in the Palace of St. Peter the 20. of April 1623. In the third of our Pontificado.   

The Prince's answer to the Pope's Nuntio that brought him this Letter.  
I Kiss his Holiness Feet for the favour and honour he doth me, so much the more esteemed, by how much the less deserved of me hitherto. And his Holiness shall see what I do hereafter, and I think my Father will do the like. So that his Holiness shall not repent him of what he hath done.   

The Prince of Wales his Reply to the Pope's Letter.  
Most Holy Father,  
I Received the Dispatch from your Holiness with great content, and with that respect which the piety and care wherewith your, Holiness writes, doth require: It was an unspeakable pleasure to me to read the generous exploits of the Kings my predecessors, in whose memory, posterity hath not given those praises and Eulogies of honour as were due to them: I do believe that your Holiness hath set their examples before my eyes, to the end I might imitate them inall my actions, for in truth they have often exposed their estates and lives for the exaltation of the holy Chair; and the courage with which they have assaulted the enemies of the Cross of Jesus Christ, hath not been less than the care and thought which I have, to the end that the peace and intelligence which hath hitherto been wanting in Christendom, might be bound with a true and strong concord: for as the common enemy of the peace watcheth always to put hatred and dissension amongst Christian Princes, so I believe that the glory of God requires that we should endeavour to unite them: And I do not esteem it a greater honour to be defcended from so great Princes, then to imitate them in the zeal of their piety. In which it helps me very much to have known the mind and will of our thrice honoured Lord and Father, and the holy intentions of his Catholic Majesty to give a happy concurrence to so laudable a design: for it grieves him exceedingly to see the great evils that grow from the division of Christian Princes, which the wisdom of your Holiness foresaw, when it judged the marriage which you pleased to design between the Infanta of Spain and myself, to be necessary to proture so great a good; for 'tis very certain, that I shall never be so extremely affectionate to any thing in the world, as to endeavour alliance with a Prince that hath the same apprehension of the true Religion with myself: Therefore I entreat your Holiness to believe, that I have been always very far from Novelties, or to be a partisan of any faction against the Catholic, Apostolic Roman Religion: But on the contrary, I have sought all occasions to take away the suspicion that might rest upon me, and that I will employ myself for the time to come, to have but one Religion and one Faith, seeing that we all believe in one Jesus Christ. Having resolved in myself, to spare nothing that I have in the world, and to suffer all manner of discommodities, even to the hazarding of my estate and life, for a thing so pleasing unto God: It rests only that I thank your Holiness, for the permission you have been pleased to afford me, and I pray God to give you a blessed health and his glory after so much pains which your Holiness takes in his Church.  
Signed, Charles Steward.   

The Pope to the Duke of Buckingham. Gregory P. P. XV.  
Nobleman, health and the light of Divine Grace.  
THe authority wherein we have understood your Nobleness to flourish in the British Court, is accounted not only the reward of your merits, but also the patronage of virtue; certainly an excellent renown, and every way so worthy, that the people desire a diuturnity to be annexed unto it. But it is almost ineffable, what an increase of glory throughout the world would be annexed unto it, if by God's favour it should become the defence of Catholic Religion.  
Certainly you have gained an opportunity by which you may insert yourself into the Counsels of those Princes, who obtaining an immortal name, have attained the Celestial Kingdom.  
Suffer not then (O Nobleman) this occasion presented to you from God, and commended by the Bishop of Rome, to slip out of your hands.  
You that are privy to their royal Counsels cannot choose but know in what estate the affairs of Britain at this time stand, and with what voices of the Holy Ghost (speaking in them) they daily sound in the ears of your Princes. What Glory would redound unto your Name, if by your exhortation and persuasion, the English Kings should again recover their Celestial inheritance of that Glory left unto them by their Ancestors in those Kingdoms in abundant manner, by providing for the increase of God's Worship, and by not only defending, but propagating the jurisdiction of the Pontifical authority. There have been many, and shall be hereafter, whom the bounty of Kings hath enriched with fading riches, and advanced to envied titles, and yet mindful posterity will not celebrate your name with eternal Praises for having attained these: but if your Counsels should reduce those most powerful Kings and people unto the bosom of the Roman Church, the name of your Nobleness would be written in the book of the living, whom the torment of Death toucheth not and the Monuments of Histories, shall place you amongst those wise men in whose splendour Kings walked; but with what comforts in this life, and what rewards in the life to come, God who is rich in mercy would reward you, they easily see, who know the art, and force by which the Kingdom of heaven is conquered. It is not only our Pontifical charity (to whose care the salvation of mankind pertaineth) but also the piety of your Mother, who as she brought you into the world, so she desireth to bear you again to the Roman Church, which she acknowledgeth for her mother, that moved us to desire, that you were made Partakers of so great felicity. Therefore when our beloved son the religious man Didacus de la Fuente, who hath wisely administered the affairs of your Princes in this City) prepared his journey for Spain, we commanded him to come unto your Nobleness, and present these our Apostolical Letters, by which the Greatness of our Pontifical charity, and the desire of your salvation may be declared. Your Nobleness may therefore hear him as the interpreter of our mind, and as one endued with these virtues which have won him the love of foreign nations being a Catholic, and religious priest: He certainly hath reported those things of you in these parts of the world, that he is worthy to be embraced of you with singular affection, and defended by your authority being a servant to the Glory, and salvation of the British Kings, and people. This thing truly will we pray for to the father of mercies that he will open to your Nobleness the gates of his Celestial kingdom, and afford you frequent Documents of his Clemency.  
Given at Rome at St. Marry the Greater under the Ring of the Fisherman the 19 of May. 1623. and of our Popedom the third, John Champolut.   

To his Sacred Majesty abignoto.  
My most Gracious King,  
THese things which your Majesty did lately command to be spoken unto you, and now to be repeated in writing, are not such as they can be made bylegal and Judicial proofs, both because they by whose testimony they may be confirmed, do for fear of a most potent adversary withdraw themselves. And also because they think it a crime to come into the Ambassador's house, yea even they are afraid to do it, who have commandment from your Majesty; but neither was it lawful for the Ambassadors themselves to speak these things, especially not to such as they directed, when the order of the affairs required it, because they had never the freedom to speak unto your Majesty, and no audience was given or granted them in the absence of that Duke of Buckingham. An example certainly unusual with other Kings, and never to be taken in good part, unless it be perhaps, when the King himself wanting experience, and being of weak judgement and no wisdom, some one, that is familiar, and inward with the King, a man wise and circumspect, of great judgement and no less experience, supplies the King's place. But here, when all things go preposterously, and the King himself being a most prudent, and experienced Prince, he that is familiar, or favourite doth in all things show himself, a rash, heady young man, a Novice in managing of business, and to the Crown of Spain most offensive. Certainly by all just right, this man was to be kept away from the audience of the Ambassador of the State. We may also be bold to say, that his presence so earnestly desired of him doth argue a great fear in him, and a great distrust in him, as well of his own upright conscience, as also the King's wisdom. Hence therefore it is come to pass, that your Majesty's most faithful Vassals dare not so much as indirectly disclose their minds to the King, though they take it in very ill part, that a very good King should be driven into such straits. And that a man pleasing himself in his own designs, should use the favours of Princes so sinisterly, that he doth of set purpose stir up breach of friendship, and enmity between most Mighty Kings.  
Besides, who can without a discontented mind endure, that the greatest affairs, and of greatest moment (if any in the Christian world can be so termed) shall be ordered, or concluded at the pleasure of your Parliament, and from thence all things carried on with a headlong violence, at his will and pleasure, and a most deadly war to be preferred before a most happy Peace. When as nevertheless, I am not ignorant, that not so much the restitution of the Palatinate, as the very claim to it, will very difficultly be obtained, or recovered by force of arms. Let your Majesty exactly consider as it useth to do, whether this be not an evident argument of that I have said, that the conference, or treaty about the Palatinate was taken from the Council of State, a society of most prudent men, only forthis cause, that almost every one of them, had with one consent approved the proposition of the most Catholic King, and did not find in it any cause of dissolving that treaty. Hereupon the Parliament of this Kingdom was procured by the Duke, because he thought his plots would be most acceptable to the Puritans, not without great injury to your Council of State, from which he fled, and disclaimed by way of an appeal, and with such success, that we may be bold to say, that the Parliament is now above the King; Nay, which is more, that this daring Duke propounded many things to the Parliament in the King's name, your Majesty being neither acquainted with them nor willing to them. Yea and that he propounded many things contrary to your Majesty's service. Who is there that doth not see, and commend the royal disposition of the Prince, adorned with so great endowments, of his mind, that he doth not in them all show, and approve himself to be a very good son, of a very good King. And yet nevertheless, that the Duke doth so much presume upon his favour, that he contemneth all men, as knowing that those, who are obedient to his Highness, will also subject themselves to his will. I would to God, he did direct those his actions, to the good of the Prince. But that is a thing so far from the opinion of good men, that they rather believe, that he, who hath overthrown the marriage with Spain, will be of no less power to the breaking of any other marriage, and that is it which many do prophesy.  
They knew in Spain, that very same day, that he had received Letters from the most illustrious Prince Palatine, that he caused the procuration to be revoked, and in a few days after, when the coming of the foresaid Prince's Secretary, and the confirmation of his hope of having his Daughter married to her Highness' son, all things were utterly dashed in pieces. Let your Majesty have a care of yourself, and the Prince, and foresee the hurts, and damages, which a man of such a turbulent humour may stir up; whose heady spirit your Majesty saith you have noted, and have desired to mitigate.  
A man (I say) that is ambitious of popular air, as plainly appeared in Parliament, when the casting of all odious matter upon your Majesty, he did arrogate the thanks of all things that were acceptable, to himself, being styled the redeemer of his country. I say again, a man that hath envied so great a good to the Christian world, and principally to the kingdoms of England and Spain, having used some certain means, which do argue, that he aimed at such an end, as many already do fear, and to prophesy in it the worst event that can be, if the Puritans desire a kingdom (which they do against their wills) they wish it not to the most illustirous Prince, the best and true Heir of your Majesty, but to the Prince Palatine, whose spy and Scout Mansfelt is, what show soever he makes. He that makes these things known to your Majesty dischargeth the part of a good man, as well towards God, as your Majesty, and the illustirous Prince, whom it now standeth in hand to foresee the vengeance of God provided by the Duke's plots, and the fury of the Parliament, there having been so many, and so great testimonies published against Spain contrary contrary to truth, so many, and so frequent infamous Libels begotten and brought forth, and many such other things so full of bitterness, and ignominy, that they cannot be read even of our enemies, without some taint upon the English Nation.  
It is mostapparent, and stories will testify, that here Leagues have been broken by the will and pleasure of them, whom it especially concerneth to provide for your peace, and quiet, and to wish from the bottom of their hearts, that after many, and these most happy, years, that Motto of yours (blessed be the Peacemakers) might be verified in Letter of the person of your Majesty, and to propound the same Counsel to the most illustrious Prince to be imitated, which your Majesty hath done to the whole world to be commended, and admired. A happy Prince will he be, if he comes, and succceeds peaceably into the hereditary possession of his kingdom, and which will be of no less advantage to him, having his peace established with those Princes, whose friendship and amity your Majesty hath procured, and deserved. He would certainly love and commend those that had given him those Counsels of peace. Peace and tranquillity are by hereditary right devolved to the most illustrious Prince, in as much as he is born of the Father, who hath with so much industry procured them, not only to this Island, but to the continent also, esteeming them at a higher value, than his kingdoms themselves.  
Which since it is thus, and that the blood of his Father, which is in him, and the love wherewith he is carried towards your Majesty, and the experience of this your most happy Government, and that great example wherewith your Majesty hath drawn, and won the Christian world to an admiration, and love of you, did all direct the most illustrious Prince with a kind of connatural motion to the same Counsel, and purpose of peace, as might have heretofore been likewise hoped. Certainly this Machination is very strong, violent, and mighty, which doth suddenly labour to turn him into a clean contrary course.  
And questionless if the very entrance into a war, the war itself if it want justice, it will want also happy success. It cannot be unknown to your Majesty, that the Duke of Buckingham carrieth himself so lofty; that he would have all men persuaded that he hath, and doth exercise a kind of dominion over the will of your Majesty, and of his Highness. All things shall be made manifest to your Majesty, if you will have them so; for there are not means wanting, whereby you may free your vassal from fear and diffidence, who will otherwise dare nothing, nor say nothing, which certainly appears so far to be true, that when all things standing as they do, it is an easy matter to find who will speak against your Majesty, yet there is none that dare speak against the Duke.  
Let your Majesty call some certain men unto you, and sister out of them, the opinion of the more moderate Parliament, and inquire of those that come out of Spain, who did first give the first cause of falling out? whether the Complaints against the King of Spain be true, or no? whether that foresaid King were not desirous to satisfy the desire of the Prince his Highness? Whether he did not faithfully endeavour to effect the marriage? Whether the Duke of Buckingham did not many things against the authority and reverence due to the most illustrious Prince? Whether he was not wont to be sitting, whilst the Prince stood, and was in presence, and also having his feet resting upon another seat, after an undecent manner? Whether when the Prince was uncovered, whilst the Queen, and Infanta, looked out at the Windows he uncovered his head, or no? Whether sitting at the Table with the Prince he did not behave himself unreverently? Whether he were not wont to come in to the Prince's Chamber with his clothes half on, so that the doors could not be opened to them that came to visit the Prince from the King of Spain, the Doorkeepers refusing to go in for modesty's sake? Whether he did not call the Prince by ridiculous names? Whether he did not dishonour and profane the King's Palace with base and contemptible women? Whether he did not divers obscene things, and used not immodest gesticulations and wanton Tricks with Players in the presence of the Prince? Whether he did not violate his faith given to the Conde O livares? Whether he did not presently communicate his discontents, offences and complaints to the Ambassadors of other Princes? Whether in doing of his business, he did not use frequent threaten unto the Catholic King's Ministers, and to Apostolical Nuns? Whether he did not affect to fit at Plays presented in the King's Palace after the manner and example of the King, and Prince, being not contented with the honour that is ordinarily given to the High Steward, or Major domo of the King's house. Besides all these things which have heretofore been told your Majesty, there is yet this more, that is new:  
That the Duke of Buckingham (with what intention let others judge) hath divulged in Parliament some secret Treaty negotiated betwixt your Majesty and the King of Spain touching the affairs of Holland; the secrecy whereof, nevertheless your Majesty had so recommended, that besides the King, and the Coude of Olivares, no man in Spain knew of it.  
If the Duke do not appear guilty of all these things, let him be still your Majesty's most faithful servant, and let your Majesty yet confer upon him greater Honours, if you can. For I would have these things conceived to be spoken for the security of your Majesty; not for the hurt of him, to whom I wish prosperity, if by him the Christian world might be in prosperity.  
It only remaineth, that your Majesty will be pleased to take in good part this my service and obedience shown to your Commandments.   

To the King, ab ignoto.  
Best, and most excellent King,  
YOu will wonder that he who at first protesteth to be neither Papist nor Puritan, Spaniard nor Hollander, or yet in any delirium fit, should presume in this Libel-like way, to lay down to your Majesty the strong zeal he beareth to the safety of your Majesty, and his Country, by showing in this dark Tablet (drawn by the worst Painter) the common opinion of all those which are not possessed as above.  
They say, the business of greatest consequence, that ever your Majesty handled, is now at point to go well, or ill. The marriage, or none, and (as it is carried) a present War, or a continued Peace. The match of your son, they wish you may perfect in your own time, and think that for the quiet of yourself and Kingdoms, the shortest time the best: And that this already traced will far sooner piece, than any new one have beginning and accomplishment.  
They fear this suspension carried by Killigrew was brought by Buckingham, not for what he pretends, and plainly say, It was not only to prevent his Highness' marriage there, but any where.  
Whereby, 1. His particular greatness may still stand absolute.  
2. His Wife, and Tribe still present the Princess person.  
3. And your Majesty be, and remain their Pupil.  
The Parliament so much urged, they say, is to be a marrying his Mightiness unto the Common Weal, that as your Majesty is his good Father, It may be his Mother, and so he stand not only by the King, but by the People, and popular humour, that he hath lately so earnestly courted, and especially from those who are noted to be of the most troubled humour.  
How your Majesty should gain upon a Parliament they cannot imagine, seeing all are resolved to sell your Courtesies at the dearest rate both by ill words, and for double as much again, the humour of it being so inconstant, that twenty to one, but those very tongues, which in the last did cry War, War, War, will now curse him that urgeth for one poor Subsidy to raise a War. And miserable is he, that is to make a War, or to defend against it, with money that is to be given, and gathered from them.  
They say, our Great Duke bathe certainly a brave desire to War, but in that also, he hath some great end of enriching himself, which he too well loveth, being carried away with that sweet sound, how Nottingham gained yearly during that sickness 40000 l. by his Admiral's place; but what his Majesty gained, they find not in the Exchequer or Kingdom.  
Somewhat also they fear this his Graces precipitate humour, and change of humour, hath of pride, to show his power as great here, as is Olivares his there, as also of revenge against him in particular. For were it love to his now much beloved Country, they say, there was as much reason for breach both of the Match, and Peace when the Parliament urged it, as there is now.  
They say, There is a rumour of his Graces, a match for his Mary with the young Palatine. It is no Gorgon; and will concern his Highness, if they that are now our best friends the Hollanders should change their Copy.  
In this his Highness coming off from Spain, they say, He hath advised him to no worse than he did himself; for how many did he deflower, abuse, and cousin with marriage, by his grace in Court, and power with your Majesty?  
In short, your Subjects that have sense of your estate, do most earnestly beseech your Majesty, to have more especial care of your own preservation, then ordinarily you have, both in respect of the desperate staggering which their Priests now stand in, and of your own Phaeton himself, who in truth wanteth nothing of man enough but a good nature, and being in custom to carry all with a high hand, must be desperate if he fail in any Punto of his violent will.  
We know your Majesty according to the sweetness and virtue of your Nature, agreeing with God's blessed Will, hath long preserved your people in all peace and plenty. And all good and sensible people pray you even for God's sake not to be cozened of your own life and liberty. Oh be not misled to trouble your own Kingdoms quiet, but that after many and many a happle year you may die happily in peace.   

To his Sacred Majesty, ab ignoto.  
May it please his most excellent Majesty to consider,  
THat this great opposition against the Duke of Buckingham is stirred up and maintained by such, who either maliciously, or ignorantly and concurrently seek the debasing of this free Monarchy, which because they find not yet ripe to attempt against the King himself, they endeavour it through the Duke's side. These men though agreeing in one mischief, yet are of divers sorts and humours, viz.  
1. Meddling, and busy persons, who took their first hint at the beginning of King James, when the union was treated of in Parliament. That learned King gave too much way to those popular speeches, by the frequent proof he had of his great abilities in that kind.  
Since the time of H. 6. these Parliamentary discourse were never suffered, as being the certain symptoms of subsequent rebellions, civil Wars, and the dethroning of our Kings. But these last 20 years most of the Parliament men seek to improve the reputation of their wisdoms by these Declamations, and no honest Patriot dare oppose them, lest he incur the reputation of a Fool, or a Coward in his Country's Cause.  
2. Covetous Landlords, Inclosers, Depopulators, and Justices of the Peace, who have got a habit of Omniregencie, and an hope to extend the same against the King in Parliament, as they do on his Subjects in the Country. Hereby the King loseth 24000 l. in every whole Subsidy; for Anno 1600. it was 80000 l. and now it is but 56000 l. which cometh by the decay of the yeomanry, who were three and four pound men. And these Gentlemen (most of them of the Parliament) do ease themselves to afflict those who are the true Commons, and yet persuade them, that the grievances are caused by the Duke, and the ill government of the King.  
3. Recusants and Church Papists, whose hatred is irreconcilable against the Duke for the breach of the Spanish Match. The French Lady, though as zealous a Catholic, doth not please him, for they were tied to Spain by their hopes of a change of Religion that way. All the Priests are sent from the Spanish Dominions, and the sons and daughters of the Papists remain as hostages of their fidelities in the Colleges and Nunneries of the King of Spain. And though the Papists have no place in the house of Commons, yet privately they aggravate all scandals against the Duke, to kindle a separation between the King and his people, and avert them from enabling the King to resist, or be avenged of our great enemy. Remember the course held by these men in the Parliament of undertakers; also Dr. Eglesham and all the Priests daily practice libelling against all great men about the King.  
4. Needy and indebted persons in both Houses, who endeavour by these Parliamentary stirs not so much the Duke's overthrow, as a rebellion, which they hope will follow if it be not done. This is much to be suspected, as well by their Calumniations against his Majesty, as for their own wants; many of them being outlawed, and not able to show their heads, but in Parliament time by privilege thereof, and they know, that there are enough to follow them in the same mischief.  
5. Puritan and all other Sectaries, who though scarce two of them agree in what they would have, yet they all in general are haters of Government. They begun in Parliament about Anno 23. Eliz. and spit their venom not only against the Bishops, but also against the Lord Chancellor Hatton, and others, the Queen's favourites, and Counsellors, as they do now against the Clergy and the Duke. But their main discontentment is against the King's Government, which they would have extinguished in matters Ecclesiastical, and limited in Temporal. This is a fearful and important Consideration, because it pretends Conscience and Religion, and they now more deadly hate the Duke, because he showeth himself to be no Puritan, as they hoped he would at his return from Spain.  
6. Malcontents censured or decurted for their deserts, as the kindred and dependants of the Earl of Suffolk, and of Sir Henry Yeluerton, Coke, Lake, Middlesex, though all of them (the last excepted) were dejected by King James without any Concurrency of the Duke. Others because they are not preferred, as they do imagine that they deserve, as the Lord Say, Earl of Clare, Sir John Eliot, Selden, and Glanvile, Sir Dudley Diggs, and the Bishops of Nerwich and Lincoln. These, and many others, according to the nature of envy, look upon every one with an evil eye, especially upon the Duke, who either hath, or doth not prefer them to those places, or retain them in them, which their ambition expecteth.  
7. Lawyers in general, for that (as Sir Edward Cook could not but often express) our Kings have upholden the power of their Prerogatives, and the rights of the Clergy, whereby their come in have been abated. And therefore the Lawyers are fit ever in Parliaments to second any Complaint against both Church, and King, and all his servants, with their Cases, Antiquities, Records, Statutes, Precedents, and Stories. But they cannot, or will not call to mind, that never any Nobleman in favour with his Sovereign was questioned in Parliament, except by the King himself in case of Treason, or unless it were in the nonage, and tumultuous times of Rich. 2. Hen. 6. or Edw. 6. which happened to the destruction both of the King and Kingdom. And that not to exceed our own, and Father's memories, in King Hen. 8. time Wolsy's exorbitant power and pride, and Cromwel's contempt of the Nobility and the Laws, were not yet permitted to be discussed in Parliament, though they were most odious and grievous to all the Kingdom. And that Leicester's undeserved favour, and faults; Hatton's insufficiency, and Raleighs insolence far exceeded, what yet hath been (though most falsely) objected against the Duke: yet no Lawyer durst abet, nor any man else begin any Invectives against them in Parliament.  
8. The Merchants and Citizens of London convinced (not by the Duke, but) by Cranfield and Ingram, to have deceived the King of Imposts and Customs, and deservedly fearing to be called to account for undoing all the other Cities and good Towns, and the poor Colony of Virginia, as also for transporting of our silver into the East-Indies; these vent their malice upon the Duke in the Exchange, Paul's, Westminster-Hall, with their suggestions, and therein they wound, both to Subjects and strangers the honour of his Majesty, and his proceed.  
9 Innovators, Plebicolae, and King-haters. At the latter end of Queen Elizabeth it was a phrase to speak, yea to pray for the Queen and State. This word (State) was learned by our neighbourhood and Commerce with the Low-Countries, as if we were, or affected to be governed by States. This the Queen saw, and hated. And the old Earl of Oxford his Propositions at her death, they awakened King James to prevent this humour, and to oppose the conditions and limitations presented unto him by the Parliaments.  
The Lawyers, Citizens, and Western men (who are most hot infected with Puritanisme) stood strong against him under a colour of Parliaments, and Parliamentary privileges. His Majesty therefore strengthened himself ever with some Favourite, as whom he might better trust then many of the Nobility tainted with this desire of oligarchy. It behoveth without doubt his Majesty to uphold the Duke against them, who if he be but decurted, it will be the Corner stone on which the demolishing of his Monarchy will be builded. For, if they prevail with this, they have hatched a thousand other demands to pull the feathers of the Royalty, they will appoint him Counsellors, Servants, Alliances, Limits of his expenses, Accounts of his Revenue, chief if they can (as they mainly desire) they will now dazzle him in the beginning of his reign.  
10. King James and King Charles lastly, are the Duke's Accusers; (my meaning is, with all humble reverence to their Honours, and Memories, and to speak in the sense of the House of Commons) both their Majesties are Conjuncta Persona in all the aspersions that are laid upon the Duke. For instance, The Parliaments money destined for the Wars, spent in the Treaties, Messages, Ambassadors, and Entertainments of the King's marriage, and the burial of his Father, and the War in the name of the Count Palatine, the Breach of both the Treaties, which then Canonised the Duke, but now is made evidence against him; the Honours and Offices conferred upon him by King James, That his Majesty might with his own Counsels direct their managing, the setting forth of the Navy, though to the Duke's great charge by both their Commandments; the Match with France, and generally whatsoever hath not been successful to men's expectations. All these, though the Acts of the Kings are imputed to the Duke, who if he suffer for obeying his Sovereigns, the next attempt will be to call the King to account for any thing he undertakes, which doth not prosperously succeed as all men would desire it.  
If it please his Majesty to remove, and set aside all these disadvantages, He shall find the Charge laid against the Duke will prove very empty, and of small moment. And for them, if his Majesty and the Duke's Grace think it no impeachment to their Honours, all that the Parliament hath objected against the Duke, is pardoned at the King's Coronation, which benefit every poor Subject enjoyeth. Three things only excepted which may most easily be answered.   

Mr. Ch. Th. to the Duke of Buckingham.  
My Lord,  
IT is intimated to your Lordship, first, that you would procure his Majesty to desire the Lords to choose six (or so many as you shall think fit) of whom they have most confidence to attend him to morrow morning, to whom his Majesty may be pleased to declare; That he hath endeavoured to divert the charges against your Lordship, because his Majesty hath had sound knowledge, and experience of the service, and fidelity (though in outward show the contrary might justly appear) and because also he saw, it was urged with a great deal of private spleen, and perhaps not without some Papistical device of troubling his Majesty's business in Parliament, but seeing no suit, or persuasion could prevail to appease the distempered course, his Majesty is now forced, and so pleased to reveal some secrets, and Arcana of State, which otherwise in the wisdom of Kings were unfit to be opened. Here his Majesty may let them know, that the King his Father finding the Palatinate more than in danger to be lost, and after his Majesty being in Spain, and there deluded, and his abode, and return, both unsafe. It was a necessity of State to sweeten, and content the Spaniards with a hope of any thing that might satisife, and redeem those engagements, and therefore willed your Lordship to yield discreetly to what you should find they most desired, and this was chief the point of religion; so as in this and all of the like kind, your Lordship (upon his Majesty's knowledge) was commanded, and but the instrument trusted by your Master in this exigent, or (if you will) extremity. And this with other more Potent overtures (such as your Lordship best understands) may Cancel all those objections of that nature. Upon this same ground, though not in so high a degree, the sending of the ships to Rochel may be excused (and this is not the least fault objected in the opinion of the wisest.) Touching the vast creation of Nobility his Majesty may ask those six Lords (whereof perchance some of them may be concerned in this article,) whether they conceive any reason of King James his doing herein; to which I suppose, they will stand mute. Then his Majesty may say, I will tell you, and therein discover a truth, and a secret of State. My Father who was born a King, and had long experience of that Regiment, especially more traversed in this point, than perhaps ever any King, found that this State inclined much to Popularity, a thing apparent universally in all the Courts, viz. in that of Star-chamber, which was at first erected to restrain the insolence of Great men, in great outrages, but now for every petty offence, the meanest Tenant may be bold to call thither his Lord. A thing also appearing in the saucy approaches of the Puritans upon the Bishops &c. and plainly in the boldness of the house of Commons against the King's patents, and edicts, which in all good times (out of their necessity) have been powerful. And especially this humour hath been comforted by the sturdy example of the Neighbour States of the Low-countries, as in their insolences in the East-Indies etc. From this place an enticing voice hath sounded in our ears of liberty and freedom, though indeed a feigned voice, and (but in sound) unsound. I say when the king my Father had well beheld these things, he could not foresee a remedy more proper, or easier, as being unserviceable and in his own gripe, then to enlarge the number of his Nobles, that these being dispersed into several Counties might as lambs of Sovereignty, in protection of their own degrees, and at their own charge enure the people with respect, and obedience to greatness; and yet not to amate, and discourage them, he thought good to raise some near, or of their own rank, whereby they might see themselves in possibility of the like honour, if either by virtue, wealth, or honesty they make themselves worthy. This I protest was a child of my Father's best judgement in this point, and the Duke but the instrument thereof. And if you say, that there was money many times given for these Honours, nay if you say, that money hath been given for places of Clergy, and Judicature; I pray take this of me, that this is so in all other Countries, as in France, and Spain. And those Counsels seem a little to smile at our dulness, that we have so lately apprehended their soundness herein; for (say they) when men pay well for such places, it is the best kind of security for their honesties, especially when sailing in their duty, they shall be sure to be as much punished as they were advanced. Howbeit I am not satisfied in this opinion. And if it be said that the King should have had the money, which the Duke took to his own use; I believe this last is more, than any can prove, neither will I deliver what I know therein. Howsoever, it matters not much being no popular disbursement. Only this I will say, that I know the Duke's particular service, and affection to me, and that he, and his will lay down themselves, and all they have at my Feet. Neither is this bare opinion, since the Duke alone hath dibursed, and stands engaged more for my affairs, and the States, than any Number of Noblemen of England whatsoever, and therefore there is reason, that from a King he would receive his own and more.  
And now (my Lords) since I have thus far opened a King's Cabinet unto you at least by the measure of this foot of answer, you may discover, what may be said concerning that great body, and bulk of accusations of the Highest kind made against the Duke. I desire you would take it to heart, remembering, that it is your King, that speaketh this, who therefore expects your service, and love herein, and who will requite the same assuredly; hoping you will believe me indeed, and do accordingly indeed, and that you will also rest assured, that my spirit is not so young (though a young King) as that I would bring this testimony in mine own wrong, were not that I say, true in my own knowledge. And being so, you also will grant, that it is not for a King to use his Servant, and Instrument as he doth his Horses, which being by hard riding in his service foundered, and lamed, to turn them off to grass, or to the Cart. I must therefore in right of the King my Father's Honour and my own, protect a man (though I have said justly seeming guilty, yet) in mine own knowledge innocent, and free as I have delivered it; will you then deny the King to favour whom he please, which the King hath never denied you, that are his subjects? will you control me your Head and Governor in things wherein yourselves have taken liberty uncontroled? would you that I should require account of your liberality? nay of all your failings, which are liable to my authority? well commend me to my Lords, and tell them, that if any thing had been formerly done amiss by others, I have power, and will to redress it, and to prevent the like. I speak it in the word of a King, neither Lords, nor Commons can desire of me any thing that is honest, which I am not ready to give them. Let not therefore the world by these mistake make Table-talk any longer of your King and his negotiations? nay of his secrets and necessities; for alas what great wrong, or indignity can the Glory of the State receive, then that the private grudges of subjects (accusing to the ignorant, when in their consciences they could excuse) should be the business of our Parliament, and that the King himself should be forced to appear as a party? No doubt this is a Cockatrice egg, that crafty heads of our enemies seek to hatch, whilst the weighty affairs that in present concern the Honour, and welfare of the King and State, and the peace of all Christendom are by us utterly neglected.  
I end, hoping your Lordship (now privy to these things) will be tender of your Sovereign's honour, and will so satisfy, and treat with the rest, that those particular janglings may be by some other course, and in some other place and time discussed and determined, that so our minds and time may be employed in the care of better things, which earnestly invoke our aid at this instant.  
Thus much spoken, or written, or the like, (for I seek but to awaken your Lordships higher spirit and invention) I conceive it may get this effect: That these 6. Lords won by these reasons, and by other the King's invitations, may deliver to the House, that for their parts, they have received unexpected satisfaction in those greatest points of the accusation against your Lordship, and of such secret nature as are not fit to be published without further deliberation. Wherefore since it pleased their Lordships, to have made choice of them to be trusted in this employment, they have faithfully served accordingly, and do upon their Honours freely, and without any engagement or respect, protest the fame. And therefore humbly desire their Lordships, that they would entreat his Majesty to be Precedent in advice with their Lordships: What further were to be done in this private Contention betwixt your Lordship and the Lord Digbie; which obtained, something may then follow for your Lordship's good, by yielding up that Cause into the King's hands. And his Majesty hath great reason to bend it that way, because it is conceived, that the Lords will be loath to admit the King to be supreme Judge, and Accuser; which point will much touch his Majesty. And his Majesty were better give some ease to the Lord Digbie, then permit that dispute.  
And now for myself, I beseech your Lordship to pardon my strange boldness; I know I am a mere stranger to you, and if ever you have heard of me, it must be as of a friend of such you then did not love. I know it shows me a meddler in business, or an insinuator, which are suspicions, that may distaste you, and make you suspect my pretences, though they were not altogether witless. I know this disadvantage, and am in my own nature offended for putting myself thus into your notions. But yet I resolved to undergo all this; First, because you made my Brother a Captain in Ireland, who had otherwise perished. Next, for the favour you did to my Lord of Northumberland, and the retiring of disfavour from my Lord of Somerset. And lastly, for your firm hand, that advanced the now Lord Treasurer. To all which Lords I am familiarly known, and bound. But (nearest to you) your Lordship may hear of me from the Lord Treasurer.  
I am confident of your Lordship's noble interpretation, since I seek no ends, no acquaintance, no other thanks, being one that have no Court-suits to your Lordship; but being one that loves not ruins, (which my friends have tasted) nor that the public should wrestle with a private Inturn of Spleen. And I offer it but as a simplicity, yet with good will enough; for what can a man, that is not privy to the Elements of State, demonstrate any conclusion thereof; yet I hear sometimes how the world goes as other men do.  
I conceive I have said something to your Lordship, and though perhaps short, yet enough to occasion, and stir up your deeper thoughts. I also may have deeper, but also I know, that little pins of wood do sustain the whole building. More I could have said touching the other points, but these greatest elided, the fall of the others may be easily directed. What I have said against those objections I touched, doth arise from grounds of truth, and they must win, and prevail, and my conceit is fitted to the King's part, and to the occasions now on foot.  
I humbly cease your Lordship further trouble, and wish you all good, desiring your Lordship also to pardon my tedious and hasty scribbled hand.  
Your Lordship's unknown servant, Ch. Th.  
Postscript.  
YOur Lordship shall be pleased to take off some part of my boldness, and impute it to the obligation and service I own this worthy Lady, the Bearer.   

To Count Gondomar.  
My Lord,  
I Thought my hands bound that I could no sooner have occasion to write unto you, being forced against my will to delay my writing from day to day in expectation of the news of your arrival at that Court, assuring myself, that I should then receive from you some ground whereupon to write. But after a long expense of time before that I could hear of your arrival, and in the Packet that his Majesty's Ambassador sent thereafter, receiving no Letters nor word from you as I expected, I do now by these break my long filence unto you.  
As for news from hence, I can in a word assure you, that they are in all points, as your heart could wish: for here is a King, a a Prince, and a faithful friend and servant unto you, besides a number of your other good friends, that long so much for the happy accomplishment of this match, as every day seems a year unto us, and I can assure you in the word of your honest friend, that we have a Prince here, that is so sharp set upon the business, as it would much comfort you to see it, and her there to hear it. Here are all things prepared upon our parts; Priests and Recusants all at liberty: all the Roman Catholics well satisfied, and which will seem a wonder unto you, our Prisons are emptied of Priests and Recusants, and filled with zealous Ministers for preaching against the Match; for no man can sooner now mutter a word in the Pulpit though indirectly against it, but he is presently catched, and set in strait prison. We have also published Orders both for the Universities, and the Pulpits, that no man hereafter shall meddle, but to preach Christ crucified; Nay it shall not be lawful hereafter for them to rail against the Pope, or the Doctrine of the Church of Rome further than for edification of ours; and for proof hereof you shall herewith receive the orders set down, and published. But if we could hear as good news from you, we should think ourselves happy men; but alas! Now that we have put the ball at your feet, although we have received a comfortable Dispatch from his Majesty's Ambassador there; yet from all other parts in the world, the effects appear directly contrary. For Mr. Gage brings us news from Rome, that the dispensation there is at a stand, except a number of new Conditions be granted, which we never dreamt of, and some of them can tend to no other end, but to bring our Master in jealousy with the greatest part of his Subjects; nay which is strangest of all, we find some points yielded unto by us, (which would have given the Pope good satisfaction) to be concealed from him by the King your Master's ministers there. We were never more troubled to put a good face upon an ill Game, than we were upon Gage's arrival here, which in your phrase is to put a good sauce to an unsavoury dish.  
For the whole world being in expectation of bringing the Dispensation with him, we are now forced to make him give it out here to all his friends, that 'tis past in Rome, and sent from thence to Spain. And from Brussels we find, that notwithstanding, both of the King your Master's promises, and undertaking of the Infanta there, who hath long ago acknowledged to have had power from the Emperor for granting of this long-talked of Cessation, yet now after innumerable delays on her part, Heidelbergh is besieged by Count Tilley, and that at such a time, as his Majesty cannot imagine what ground or shadow of excuse can be found for his Commission. For the Treaty hath been twice reform at her desire, and all the Auxiliaries such as Brunswick and Mansfelt have taken another course: His Majesty's son in law staying privately in Sedan, ready to obey all his Majesty's directions; and the places in the Palatinate, which are not already in his enemy's hands, being only possessed by his Majesty's Soldiers. So as now if the War shall continue, it must be directly between the Emperor, and our Master, his Majesty having sent a Commandment to his Ambassador at Brussels, that if Tilley will needs go on with that siege, that he return hither with all speed. For his Majesty in honour cannot endure, that whilst he is treating for a cessation of Arms at Brussels, the Wars should go on in the Palatinate, especially when they have no body to invade, but his Majesties own Subjects and servants; And indeed his Majesty thinks he is very ill dealt withal, for all that great sincerity and candour, wherewith he hath constantly carried himself from the very beginning of this business, that no less can satisfy the Emperor's revenge then the utter extermination of his children both of honour and inheritance, and not without a direct breach of his former promise, avowedly set down in his last Letter to his Majesty.  
And now let me I pray you in the name of your faithful friend, and Servant, beseech you to set apart all partiality in this case, and that you would be pleased indifferently to consider of the straits we are driven into, if the Emperor shall in this fashion conquer the Palatinate, the ancient inheritance of his Majesty's children: what can be expected but a bloody and unreconcilable war between the Emperor, and my Master wherein the King of Spain can be an auxiliary to the Emperor against any other party but his Majesty. And therefore as my Master lately offered to the Infanta for satisfaction of her desire, that in case the Auxiliaries would not be contented with reason, but still perturb the treaty, he offered in that case to assist the Emperor and her against them; so can he in justice expect no less of the King your Master, that if the Emperor will contrary to all promises both by his Letters, and Ambassadors, proceed in his conquest, and refuse the cessation, that the King your Master will in that case, and in so just a quarrel assist him against the Emperor, in imitation of the King my Master's just and real proceed in the business from the beginning, who never looked (as you can well be witness) to the rising, or falling hopes of his son in Law his fortunes, but constantly keep on that course, that was most agreeable to honour and justice, to the peace of Christendom; and for the fastening of a firm & indissoluble knot of amity, and alliance betwixt the king your Master and him, which was begun in the time of the treaty with France, and then broken at your desire, that we might embrace this alliance with you; you are the person, that many times before your departure hence, besought his Majesty once to suffer himself to be deceived by Spain. We therefore do now expect to find that great respect to honour in the King your Master, that he will not take any advantage by the changing of fortune, and success of time, so to alter his actions, as may put his Honour in the terms of interpretation. You see how all the rest of Christendom, envy and malign this match and wished conjunction; How much greater need than hath it of a hasty and happy dispatch? And what comfort can the Prince have in her, when her friends shall have utterly ruined his Sister, and all her babes? you remember how yourself praised his Majesty's wisdom in the election of so fit a Minister, as Sir Richard Weston in this business, but you saw what desperate Letters he writes from time to time of their cold and unjust treating with him in this business; you could not but wonder at any spark of Patience could be left us here; and to conclude this point in a word, we ever received comfortable words from Spain, but find such contrary effects from Bruxelles, together with our intelligences from all other parts of the world, as all our hopes are not only cold, but quite extinguished here. Thus far for the By, and yet such a By, as may put by the main, if it be not well and speedily prevented. As to the Main, which is the match, his Majesty, and we all here, thought we had done our part, and put the ball at your foot, when we agreed upon the twenty, and five Atticles more: whereupon as yourself often answered, and assured us the best Divines in Spain concluded that the Pope, not only might, but aught to grant a dispensation to this marriage, but now we are surcharged with a number of new Articles from Rome, and in the mean time the Dispensation is as far off as ever it was.  
His Majesty hopes that you are not ignorant, that the treaty is between him, and your Master; He hath no treaty with Rome, neither lies it in his way to dispute with them upon this question; yet that his readiness to embrace your Master's friendship may the better appear, he is contented to yield to so many of their demands, as either his Conscience, Honour, or safety can permit, if so the King your Master shall think it necessary. But on the other part we three remember, that when as you first moved this match unto him, and persuaded him to break off with France, you then promised, that he should be pressed to nothing in this business, that should not be agreeable to his conscience, and honour, and stand with the love of his people. As to the particular Articles new added at Rome, I will not clog this paper with them, which I fear without them, will be too troublesome unto you. For what his Majesty's opinion is of them, his Majesty's Ambassador there will particularly acquaint you.  
But whereas the Pope desires in the end of his Articles, that he may see what ponum publicum, the King our Master will grant unto, that may persuade to grant this dispensation, I will remit it to your conscience and knowledge, whether if the favours his Majesty daily grants to those of his religion, and is resolved still to continue, if not to increase them, if they shall by their good behaviour deserve it, be not a real bonum publicum, considering that if the match should break off (which God forbidden) his Majesty would be importunately urged by his people (to whose assistance he must have his recourse) to give life and execution to all the penal Laws now hanging upon their heads.  
It only rests now, that as we have put the ball to your foot, you take a good, and speedy resolution there to hasten a happy conclusion of this match. The Prince is now two and twenty years of age, and so a year more, then full ripe, for such a business: the King our Master longeth to see an issue proceed from his Loins; and I am sure you have reason to expect more friendship from the posterity that shall proceed from him, and that little Angel, your Infanta then from his Majesty's Daughters Children. Your friends here, are all discomforted with this long delay: your enemies are exasperated, and irritated thereby; and your neighbours, that envy the felicity of both Kings, have the more leisure to invent new Plots for the Cross, and hindrance of this happy business; And for the part of your true friend and servant Buckingham, I am become odious already, and counted a betrayer both of King and Country.  
To conclude all with; I will use a similitude of hawking (which you will easily understand, being a great Faulkoner;) I told you already that the Prince is (God be thanked) extremely sharp set upon this Match; and you know that a Hawk, when she is first dressed, and made ready to fly, having a great will upon her, if the Faulkoner do not follow it at that time, she is in danger to be dulled for ever after.  
Take heed therefore, lest in the fault of your delays there, Our Prince, and Falcon gentle, (that you know was thought slow enough, to begin to be eager after the Feminine prey) become not so dull upon these delays, as in short time hereafter, he will not stoop to the Lure, though it were thrown out to him.  
And here I will end to you my sweet friend, as I do in my prayers to God, (Only in thee is my trust,) and say as it is written on the outside of the Pacquets, Haste, Haste, Post-haste.   

Conde de Condomar to the Duke, 13. Febr. 1625.  
Most Excellent Sir,  
AT last Sir, the Earl of Gondomar goes for England; There will be many good discourses made in Holland about this voyage: But the truth is, that the intention of his journey is not to offend any one, but only to desire, and procure peace, and the public good. And only with this intent the King my Master Commands me to go thither, and I go with a great deal of joy as well for this as for to kiss his Majesties and his Highness his hands, and your Excellencies in particular.  
And therefore I do appoint for the field of our Battle your Excellency's Gallery over the Thames, where I hope your Excellency shall see, that the Earl of Gondomar is an honest man, and that he hath been, is, and ever will be, a faithful and true servant and friend to Sir George Villiers Duke of Buckingham, whom God preserve many happy years.  
The Countess my Wife, and myself, kiss my Lady the Countess, and my Lady Duchess their hands.  
Your Excellencies Constant and faithful servant, Gondomar.   

Padre Maestre at Rome to the Spanish Ambassador in England, 12. June, 1621.  
My Lord,  
I Have received two Letters from your Lordship, the one of the 15th. of March brought me by Mr. George Gage, and the other of the 30. of April which came by the Ordinary. In both which Letters I have received a special favour from you, and much comfort. The coming of Mr. Gage hath given me infinite contentment, than which there could nothing have happened more fitly and to the purpose, for the matter which is in negotiation, nor any man have come hither that could better advance the business than he, as well in respect of his good affection, as for his wisdom and dexterity in all things. And if the King of Great Britain will withal help now a little, the business will be quickly done, and in a good manner. I beseech your Lordship preach to him a Christian Sermon as is most needful: for there comes from thence divers ways such reports thither, that I am ashamed, and out of countenance in the streets as I go, and they do me a favour, that they do not stone me, knowing that I am treating, and labouring this business at the same time, when the poor Catholics are so cruelly used in England, Scotland, and Ireland. And when I excuse it, that it is not by the King's order, but by the abuse and malice of some ill affected Ministers, it will not be received; neither do they want Replies. Besides, there is a rumour all over Rome, that the King in a Speech which he made at the beginning of the Parliament, affirmed publicly, That for all this marriage with Spain, the Catholic party in England should not be in one jott better condition than they are.  
But I cannot be yet discouraged; My confidence is in the King, and in the desire which I know he hath to procure a good Wife for his Son. And now that the time is come, let him play the part of a Courageous Wooer, and frustrate the intentions and desires of all those, that are adverse to it. It is a comfort unto me, that I do not find here an impossibility; but that though there be difficulties, yet I find many here that desire to overcome them. And above all, I hope that God will assist this business as his own Cause. I am going to prepare myself for the Congregation of the Cardinals, and a Consultation of Divines, to whom I understand we shall be remitted this next week. I shall give your Lordship an account punctually of all things that happen in those Conferences. Our Lord, etc.  
Your Lordships, etc. Padre Maestre.   

Don Carlos to the Lord Conway, 3. September.  
SIR,  
I Have understood by Mr. Strada with particular contentment the news of your good health, which God continue for many years. I see by yours received by Strada, what his Majesty hath been pleased to order concerning the ships of the Indies, which is as much in effect as could be hoped for from so great a King, so zealous of Justice and Equity.  
In the Conduct of this business, we will observe the order given by his Majesty, in confidence that the Subjects of the King my Master shall obtain their ends, and his Catholic Majesty receive the contentment to know, that the excesses of those that shall be convinced have been punished.  
By the last Currier of Flanders, we received neither from the Infanta, nor any other person any other news, than what Mr. Trumbal sent by his Letters.  
I confess freely, that the marquis, and myself have been much troubled, both of us being exceedingly desirous, that his Majesty should receive in every thing (even in words, and formalities) the same satisfaction, which we hope he shall receive in the effects. Nevertheless in discharge of her Highness, I will say that which is fit for me as I am her servant, and which I pray you from me to deliver unto his Majesty; but thus understood, that it is only my own particular discourse.  
By the displeasure his Majesty hath been pleased to testify unto me upon many occasions of the Prince Palatines refusal to sign, and ratify the Treaty of suspension of Arms; He may be also pleased to judge how it may have been taken by the King my Master in Spain, and the Infanta in Flanders, and the rather because of the continual reports, that at the same time went up and down and increased (as ordinarily it falls out) of the descent of Alberstat with a mighty Army of 20000 foot, and 6000 horse, not any more to make war in Germany, but to join with the Prince of Orange, and fall upon those Provinces in obedience to his Catholic Majesty, which was no other but directly to aim at the vital parts of the Spanish Monarchy.  
If for these just fears (which cannot certainly be held vain, being considered with those of the year past, proceeding from one and the same Cause, both of which have been scattered by the Almighty hand of God, in his secret Judgements) it hath not only been lawful, but also necessary to conserve the ancient alliances, and procure new, I leave it to the judgement of every man of understanding, not doubting but for this respect you will be of the same opinion with me: And much more his Majesty, whom God hath endowed with so great knowledge, and royal qualities, as are known to all the world.  
Morover, let us see if in the Law of gratitude, the Infanta could do less than acknowledge towards the Duke of Bavaria, the valour wherewith his Army had resisted the pernicious designs of Alberstat, having hazarded his own estate to hinder the imminent danger of the King my Masters.  
Again let us consider if the Infanta sending to visit, and give him thanks could excuse herself from giving him all those titles, which the Duke of Bavaria gives himself, and desires should be given him. And if he might not, if she had done otherwise have thought the ingratitude the greater, than the acknowledgement. And therefore things being in this state, the Infanta could not excuse herself from sending to visit him, seeing he had succoured her in a time of need, and in visiting him to give him that, which he desired should be given him. And the like is to be said for the King my Master in case he hath done the like as Mr. Trumbal writes the Infanta should tell him, and with a great deal more reason because the Countries are his own. And therefore since his Majesty of Great Britain is so great a King, and hath so great a reputation of the exact performing of his royal obligations, I doubt not but he will judge, that in this formality, the King my Master, and the Infanta his Aunt, have but acquitted themselves of their obligations. For the rest, if at the conference of Cullen, which his said Majesty, and her Highness have desired, and do yet desire his Majesty of great Britain shall see, that they are wanting on their part to proceed with that sincerity and truth, which they have so often offered, and which the marquis of Ynoiosa doth still offer on the behalf of the King my Master, so that only the Prince Palatine make the submissions due to the Emperor as his natural Lord, and resolvie to follow the Paternal counsels of his Majesty of great Britain, his Majesty shall then have reason to complain. And in the mean time the Prince Palatine should do but well not to entertain those Amity's he endeavours to conserve, nor to solicit those Leagues which he labours to procure, not only with the declared rebels of the King my Master, and of the House of Austria, but also with the enemies of all Christendom. I will engage my head if following this way his Majesty and his son in law find themselves deceived.  
You know Sir, that I treat in truth, and freedom, and do therefore hope you will impute my excuses to that, and will not call this liberty of my discourse, rashness, but an immortal desire in me in all things to procure the service of our Kings, laying aside all occasions of misunderstandings, now we treat of nothing else, but uniting ourselves more by the strict bonds of love, over and above those of our Alliance.  
I do humbly beseech you to say thus much to his Majesty, and to assure him from me, that when he shall be pleased to employ me in this matter, as in all other, he shall ever find me faithful and real, as I have offered myself, and always continue, being well assured, that even in that I shall serve my Master. And I pray you to believe in your particular that I am, and will be eternally  
Yours &c.   

The marquis Yuoiosa to the Lord Conway, 5. September, 1623.  
I Answered not long since to both your Letters, and now I will add this, that only the sport, and pleasure that Don Carlos, and I consider his Majesty hath in his progress, may make tolerable the deferring (by reason of that) and not hearing the news we expect to hear of his Majesty's good health. For by that means we might not only satisfy more often our desires in this point (having his Majesty nearer) but also our desire to bring these businesses to an end, which are ordinarily more delayed, and less well executed, when they are to pass through the hands of Ministers (though they be very zealous, and well affected to it) as these Lords are with whom we treat here; who are desirous that the King should be known for just, though unnecessarily, when nothing is pretended contrary to that which is agreed upon. This knowledge whereupon I ground my reasons may perhaps make me (Sin Embargo) incur the Censure of an impatient man; But I am persuaded, that if that which hath been done here, had been settled there by your Honour, and the Lord Count of Carlisle (whose good disposition, and proceeding is as much to be esteemed as it is praised by Don Carlos and myself) we would have made an end, and those things, which I have seen, and observed here had not happened unto us. For in the conference, in which my Lord Keeper did assist, it was agreed (as we thought) that his Majesty should give order to the Judges and Justices of Peace, Archbishops and Bishops signed with his royal hand under the little Seal within three months, or at the Princess her arrival. He hath persisted afterwards, as also Sir George Calvert in that (though it was plain) that his Majesty would give the said warrant, afterwards, there being no term nor day appointed. Nevertheless at last we have condescended, that it should be within six months, or at her Highness' arrival, if she comes afore that time, that we may show how happy we think ourselves in being Servants to his Majesty, whom God save.  
The dispatches that we are to have are contained in the relation here enclosed. I pray you to take order, that those that are to be sent back to that effect, may be subscribed, and Sealed; for I have differred the dispatching of a Currier (with an evident danger that he will now arrive too late, and put in hazard a business of mine of consideration, which obligeth me to dispatch him) that he may not go without them; And that it may not be an occasion to doubt of the assurance we have given of his Majesty's good will and intention; whose Royal hands, I, and Don Carlos do entreat your Honour to kiss in our name, and to continue us in his Majesty's good Favour, and your Honour likewise in yours; for we deserve it with a particular affection, and equal desire to serve you. God save your Honour, as I desire  
Your Honour's servant, The marquis, Yuoiosa.   

Sir Arthur Chichester to the Duke, the 25. January, 1623.  
May it please your Grace,  
When you went last from White-Hall I waited on the Prince and you into the Gallery, where your Lordship spoke something unto me which I understood not, to wit, Are you turned too? As I knew not the ground of the Demand, I could make no present answer; nor now but by Conjecture. When I turn from the Prince, (whom I know to be the worthiest of Princes) or from you, (who by your favours have so bound me to serve you) or from the truth (as I conceive it) God I know will turn from me; until than I humbly pray your Lordship to believe that I am your honest servant.  
The Sunday after your Lordship's departure, the Ambassadors of the King of Spain came unto me under the pretext of a visit. I have herewith sent your Grace a brief of what passed between us. I judge some man hath done me an ill office, by insinuating me into their good opinions of me; sure I am, I never spoke of them, nor of the affairs they have to manage, but what I have said, when the selected Council were assembled. I cannot be so dull, but to know that they meant your Grace to be the Interposer of their desires, and the Man, whom they wished to be absent when they have their private audience. They are exceeding Cautelous, and I conceive the late Dispatch from Spain is like a gilded bait to allure and deceive; your Lordship perceiving their Malice, will be wary to avoid their Venom. I am  
Your Grace's Humble, and faithful Servant, Arthur Chichester.   

The Collections of the Passages and Discourses between the Ambassadors of the King of Spain, and Sir Arthur Chichester, 18. Jannary, 1623.  
These Passages were sent to the Duke, enclosed in the last foregoing Letter.  
ON Sunday the 18. of this present January, the two Ambassadors of Spain came to visit me at my House in Drury-Lane. At their first entrance they took occasion to speak of the profession of Soldiers, and of the Spanish Nation, affirming them to be the bravest Friends, and the bravest Enemies. I approved it in the Soldier, and contradicted it not in the Nation.  
When they were come into an Inner Room, looking upon the Company as if they desired to be private; I caused them to withdraw, but noting that they had brought an Interpreter with them, I prayed Sir James Blount, and Nathaniel Tomkins Clark of the Prince's Council, (who doth well understand the Spanish tongue) to abide with me.  
Being private, they said they came to visit me, because of the good intention, and well-wishing they understood I had to the accommodation of businesses, and because I stood named by his Majesty for the employment into Germany.  
I acknowledged their coming to visit me as a particular Favour, professing myself to be one of those, who was able to do least, but that I must and would in all things conform myself to the will, and good pleasure of the King my Master.  
They were pleased to remember, and to take for argument of his Majesty's good opinion of me, to make me one of the Junta (as they called it) of the selected Counsellors, and his employment given me the last year as his Extraordinary Ambassador into Germany.  
I told them I had been bred a Soldier, as their Excellencies had been, but that I wanted the capacity and abilities which they had, and that for want of Language (not affecting to speak by an Interpreter) I had forborn to wait on their Excellencies, as otherwise I would have done.  
To that they returned the like Compliment, and then said, Their Master had sent a good answer touching the Palatinate, and they assured me, that he would perform what he had promised with advantage.  
I said if it were so, I then hoped all things would sort to a good end.  
They then asked me how his Majesty, and the Lords were affected, and whether therewith they were satisfied, or no?  
I answered, That I conceived their Excellencies knew his Majesty's mind as well as the Lords, for that they had so lately audience of him.  
They said. It was true, they had so, but not a private audience; nor could they obtain any, though they had much desired the same, but that others were still present.  
I said merely that they were two, and I believed that the King their Master had sent as able and experienced Ministers as he had any, and therefore his Majesty might peradventure think fit not to hear them alone.  
They said his Majesty might alone hear a thousand Ministers of any Kings, but if he should be otherwise pleased, they well liked of the Princes being present; but they said there were also other great Ministers of the Kings, who wished not well to their Master's affairs.  
I said, There might therein be a mistaking, or misunderstanding on their part; for if the King their Master mean so really as they said, I conceived that no body would be willing to remove his Majesty from those purposes, and that good affection which he bore unto his dear Brother the King of Spain.  
The marquis said in English, The King was a good King, and the Prince a good Prince, but some of their Ministers they doubted were ill willers to them.  
I asked if greater demonstrations of reality could be devised, then had been given on the part of the King and Prince, instancing in the Prince his going in Person into Spain.  
They confessed it, but as the times now were, they said ill offices were done them.  
I assured them, That I neither knew, nor understood of any; neither did I ever hear them spoken of, but with due respect had unto them, as to the Ministers of a great King, and his Majesty's dear Brother.  
They said their meaning was not, that the ill offices were done to their Persons, but to the great Businesses, which a certain Person had showed a willingness to disturb; but they hoped, that the intended amity between our Masters would hold, and proceed nevertheless.  
I professed, that I knew nothing to the contrary, neither understood I the particular at which they aimed.  
The marquis swore as he was a Christian, he knew that the King his Master did so truly, and really esteem his dear Brother the King of England, and the Prince of Wales, that if they needed part of his blood, they should have it for their good: But he complained, that they could not have their Messages delivered nor returned from the King of late, but qualified according to the pleasures of others.  
I said, They misconceived it, for I thought they had no cause to complain, seeing they now had, or might have (as I supposed) the King's Ear when they craved it in due, and befitting times.  
They seemed to deny it, alleging, That they could not get their Messages and Papers answered as aforetime.  
I said, When the Prince was in Spain, they had free access to his Majesty, whensoever they desired it.  
Yea said the marquis in Latin Tune; but now, he said, the ease was altered.  
I said the King had given many testimonies to the world of his willingness to comply with their Master, and Them: And if either his Majesty or the Prince seemed now more reserved, and deliberate in their actions then heretofore, it might be that his Highness had learned that wary and circumspect proceeding in Spain, where they are said to use it in matters of far less moment.  
They smiled hereat, and prayed me to continue my good intentions, and respects towards them, and to the joint affairs of both our Masters.  
I said, I would always serve the King my Master, with a true and faithful heart, and so far as should be agreeable to his desires, and good liking, I would to my small power be ready to serve them.  
In Conclusion they said, They came but to visit me, but being come, they could not choose but say something, and touch upon business.  
Arthur Chichester.   

22. of May, 1624.  
Having made visits at sundry times to the Spanish Ambassadors, I do here under my hand declare, what passed betwixt them and me, so near as my memory serveth; lest in my absence any such ma●ter should fall in question, I now intending to travel for a space.  
When his Highness was in Spain, being upon my journey in Scotland, I went to Elis-House to take my leave of Don Carls, where Vanvail was present, I expressing much joy of the march, which in my mind would without all question be perfected, did find no such humour, nor inclination on their part, which did much astonish me; for they grumblingly did allege, that the King my Master did perform nothing that he promised, or how could any thing be expected the Infanta being here, whereas nothing was per form the Prince being in Spain? I besought them to do better offices, then without reason to put jealousies betwixt my Master, and theirs, who would never have sent his son to Spain without a real intention. Which only act was reason sufficient to remove all doubts.  
Yet did they still continue their challenge of divers Bracks, specially, anent the sending of ships to Scotland to bring away the two Dunkirkers, and not perfecting such conditions as were promised to Catholics. I did entreat them again, that such conceits of my Master might be removed, for they might be confident of full performance of what he had promised, by reason he had never broke his promise to any. I desired them likewise to consider with what love our Prince was gone, and what a stain it should be to the State of Spain, if uncourteously he should return with distaste; Besides, it might fall out to be the worst act that ever they committed, where anent if they had love to their Master they would prove good Instruments. What was spoke by me in English was related in Spanish to Don Carlo, so was it to me what they spoke in Spanish. Sometimes Don Carlo spoke in French, so that not a word passed which each man did not know.  
I went again after the Treaties were given up, and did remember Don Carlo of what I had forespoke, when the marquis was present and took the speech; they did demand of me whether I was come of myself, or by Commission, for they professed to account me their friend.  
I answered that I came merely of myself, and was sorry that by their own deserving, they had procured such alterations and I thought strange of such demands as they had made at Hampton Court, which did both express much spleen, and lack of good intelligence. They did avow their demands were reasonable; but, from that time they would make visits to the Duke and love him better than before, because they were in doubt before, but now they know him to be an Enemy. I did answer, that I was sorry for their proceeding, and was their friend so long as they were friends to my Master.  
After a few haughty words, such (as it was a wrong way to deal with their Master by threaten, who gave pay daily to 300000. Soldiers that they had followed the wars a long time, and had seen men killed by the Cannon, Musket, Pike, and sword, but never saw men killed with words, they desired me to speak to his Majesty, that they might either be dismissed, or have freedom to go about their business with security. They did desire me likewise to speak to his Majesty, that the treaty for the Palatinate might continue.  
I did demand of them how these two things did agree, both to threaten and entreat? whereupon they passed upon me with odd complaints. I went once more of late to give them a farewell. I said, they proved themselves good Servants to their Master in pressing to raise jealousies in this State, but they were now too well known to do harm. The marquis swore, that by this time the Infanta had been here, & the Palatinate restored, if the blame had not been on our Part. I did entreat I might be excused not to believe that. I did ask whether they did not condemn their own judgements in accusing the Duke of Buckingham of that whereof he was cleared, both by the King, and State. Their answer was, He was cleared by those who were his considerateth, all as guilty as himself.  
I demanded, why they should still express their malice against the Duke of Buckingham. Did they not think but our Prince was a man sensible of what injuries he had received? their answer was, if the Duke were out of the way, the Prince would be well disposed. They said farther, his Highness was an obedient son before the Duke guided him, but since, he was not. So that when we speak of his Majesty, they speak with much respect, but for the Prince did not use them kindly, they did make the less account of him. So after I took my leave and parted.  
Nithisdail.  
MUch I have omitted for brevity, wherein they did express much respect to his Majesty, much of their threatening to the Duke of Buckingham.   

The Lord Nithisdail to the Duke, 22 June, 1624.  
My most Noble Lord,  
FInding matters at great uncertainty when I came hither, I resolved to make farther trial before I should part from hence. What thanks is due to the Ambassadors for their painful, and discreet Carriage can hardly be expressed.  
Matters now being drawn to such a conformity (which I confess I thought impossibilities, though withal I found much respect always to the Prince with a sensible desire of the Match expressed, both by the King, and those I spoke withal) our Ambassadors seem still to be discontent, that all things are not remitted to our Master's verbal promise, which though it may be assurance sufficient to all Catholics, who have the sense to consider, that it must be our Masters, and the Princes gracious disposition must be our safety, more than either word or writ: yet the writ being desired privately (as they pretend) merely to draw the Pope's consent (without the which nothing is to be finished) the difference is not so great, their Princely promise being given already.  
What cause of jealousy the refusing hereof should procure, you may consider: besides, my judgement fails me, if a more easy way shall be assented unto upon this side. If the Ambassadors have bestirred themselves to get this out of the public Articles, I can bear witness. Thus much I dare avow, that neither time nor place have been omitted by them to do good; though I must confess, what intelligence I had in the proceeding, hath rather been from the French then from them. Their Reasons (as I conceive) was their doubts, that did bring me hither, having neither Letters from the King, the Prince, nor your Grace.  
Whereupon to remove these conceits, I shown them, that I did only take this in my way, intending to go see the Jubilees, wherewith though his Majesty, nor the Prince, neither yet your Grace were acquainted with at my parting, you will be pleased to make my excuse. I am infinitely beholding to the Ambassadors noble Courtesy, which I know hath proceeded from that relation which they know I have to you.  
My Lord, let the happiness which shall come to the Prince by matching with such a Lady, as I protest before God, hath those perfections, to my thinking, can hardly be equalled, be a means to hasten a happy Conclusion; And let not matter of Ceremony draw delays where the substance is agreed upon. So shall all that belong to our Master be made happy, in general, and you in particular, for that love which they express here to yourself.  
Once more I humbly beg, you will consider particularly upon each one of the Articles, and I hope you shall not find such unreconcilable difference as an affected Puritan may pretend. Whereupon if I have looked more with eyes of a Papist than was fitting, it is my lack of judgement, and not of zeal to my Master's Honour, which of all carthly things shall be preferred. Beseeching God to give a happy success hereunto, with a sound recovery of your own health, I humbly take my leave.  
Your Grace's Faithful servant, Nithisdail. Dated at Compion.   

Sir Toby Matthew to the King of Spain.  
Done Tobea Mathei Cavallero Ynglesy Catholico Romano beseecheth your Catholic Majesty with all humility and reverence, to give him leave to speak these few words unto you.  
He understandeth that the Theologos have persisted precisely upon the Voto, which they gave before, and he findeth clearly that the Prince conceiveth, that he can by no means submit himself thereunto with his Honour. And besides, my Lord the King hath expressly required him to return with all possible speed, in case that Voto should not be qualified. And it is certain that he will departed for England within very few days. And whosoever shall inform your Majesty, that the Treaty of this marriage may be really kept on foot after the departure of the Prince upon these terms, doth deceive your Majesty through the ignorance wherein he is of the State of England. So that the Prince departing thus, the Catholic Subjects of all my Lord the King's Dominions are to be in lamentable case. For although the Prince did yesterday vouchsafe to have Compassion of me in respect of the grief wherein he saw I had upon these occasions, and to say, That although the marriage were broken, yet he would procure that his Catholic Subjects should not far the worse for that; yet I know that it is morally impossible for that honourable design of his to take place in respect of the People, and the importunity and malice of the Puritans, and especially because it will now be a case of mere necessity for my Lord the King, to run in a course of very strait Conjunction with them of his Parliament, that he may be able the better to serve himself of them in other occasions: from which Parliament, as now the case will stand, what Catholic can expect any other than the extremity of rigour?  
In consideration whereof I cast myself with a sad heart at the feet of your Majesty, beseeching you, that you will take into your royal remembrance the love, which you own, and procure to pay to our holy Mother, the Church, and that some course may be taken, and with speed (for otherwise it will be too late to give the Prince some foot of ground upon which he may be able to stand in such sort, as that without loss of honour, and breach of that word, which he hath given to the world, and without prejudice to that obedience, which he oweth to the least commandment of the King his Father; his Highness may be enabled to comply with the incomparable affection which he beareth the Infanta your Majesty's Sister. And that by means hereof the two Crowns may be kindly in perfect union, and the Catholic religion may be highly advantaged, not only in the Dominions of my Lord the King, but in many other parts of Christendom, into which the Authority of these Dominions doth flow.  
For my part, I take the eternal God to witness, whom I procure to serve, and who hath given me a heart, which disclaimeth from all other interesses then to serve God, and my King, that I conceive myself not to comply with a good conscience without laying this protestation under the Eye of your Majesty, that if the Catholic subjects of the King my Lord shall grow liable to persecution, or affliction by occasion of breaking this Match, through the disgust of the King my Lord and his Council, or through the power, which infallibly the Puritan assembled in Parliament will have with him upon this occasion, that blood, or misery whatsoever, it may partly be required at their hands who have advised your Majesty not to accept of those large conditions for Catholics which my Lord the King and the Prince have condescended to, and of that more than moral Security which they have offered for the performance thereof.  
And on the other side, I undertake to your Majesty, under the pain of infamy, in case that be not made good which here I affirm, that if your Majesty will be pleased to give some such ground to the Prince, as whereupon he may with Honour stay, and perfect the Treaty of the Marriage by any such way, or means, as may occur to your Majesty's royal wisdom, the whole bodies of the Catholics in England both religious, and secular, shall acknowledge it as a great blessing of God, and shall oblige themselves to pray incessantly for your happy Estate etc.   

Sir Toby Matthew to the Duchess of Buckingham, 9 June 1625.  
Madam,  
THere was no cause till now, why I should trouble your Ladyship with presenting my unprofitable service to you: but now I shall venture to do it, by reason of the good news I shall send with it.  
For our Queen arrived here yesterday, and I was glad at the heart to see her such, as she had seemed; she is more grown than I had thought, being higher by half the head then my Lady marquis. And whatsoever they say, believe me, she sits already upon the very skirts of womanhood. Madam, upon my faith she is a most sweet lovely Creature, and hath a countenance which opens a window into her heart, where a man may see all Nobleness and Goodness; and I dare venture my head (upon the little skill I have in Physiognomy) that she will be extraordinarily beloved by our Nation, and deserve to be so; and that the actions of herself, which are to be her own, will be excellent. Me thought I discerned in her countenance a little remnant of sadness, which the fresh wound of parting from the Queen Mother might have made, yet perhaps I was deceived. Her Aattyre was very plain, for so Great a Queen can be thought to have nothing mean about her. But I hope that amongst many other blessings, which God, will have provided for us by her means, her example will be able to teach our Country wit in this kind.  
I had the happiness to see, and hear her at a short distance, by the Commandment which my Lady of Buckingham laid upon me to interpret for her, and believe me, she is full of wit, and hath a lovely manner in expressing it. But I confess I was sorry with all my heart, to hear that her courage was so great, as to carry her instantly (after my Lady of Buckingham had taken her leave for that time) to Sea in a poor little boat in the company of her brother, whom yet, I have not had the honour to see. I dare give my word for her, that she is not afraid of her own shadow, who could find in her heart to put herself at the first sight, upon an element of that danger, and disease for mere pastime; Unless it were perhaps that she might carry some Steel about her, and that there is some Adamant at Dover, which already might begin to draw her that way.  
I am extremely sorry, that we have lost the hope of seeing the two other Queens, for if they had come, we might have had beauty here as well in the preterperfect, and in the present tense, as now we have in the future.  
But the Queen Mother's indisposition hath arrested her at Amiens in punishment of that malice, wherewith she dissembled it too long at the first, through the extreme desire she had of coming hither.  
Our Queen received my Lady of Buckingham with strange courtesy and favour, and now there is no remedy but that the King will needs defray and treat her after a high manner. And I have been told that Mounsieur will needs descend so much as to visit her in her lodging; and the Duchess of Chevereux (being that great Princess, as she is, both by match, and blood) will perforce give precedence not only to my Lady of Buckingham, but to my Ladies her daughters also: And I assure myself, that a less puissant example than this will serve to convert our Great Ladies, even to exceed in England towards the Ladies which are strangers, and do but come, and go.  
But the while this Court doth so apply itself to do my Lady of Buckingham all imaginable honour, I look on it so, as that I am no way discouraged thereby from bearing devotion to the blessed Virgin, when I see that men, who are sick of love towards the Son, are put even by a kind of Law of nature into pain, till they revenge themselves upon the Mother. I beseech Jesus, etc.  
From Bulloign. φ   

Dr. Sharp to King James.  
The Complaint of Europe our Mother, aged, and oppressed,  
TO whom? To the Kings and Princes of Europe. Of whom? Of the Pope of Rome. For what matter? For causing by his Catholic League so much blood to be spilt within these few years in Europe. To this effect, as that excellent Poet speaks, with a little change of his words, 
Quis non Europaeo sanguine pinguior.  
Campus sepulchris impia praelia  
Testatur? auditumque Turcis  
Europaeae sonitum ruinae?  
Qui gurges aut quae flumina lugubris  
Ignara belli? quo Mare Civicae  
Non decoloravere caedes?  
Quae Caret ora cruore nostro?   
And what further danger is it like to breed? Even to bring the Turk into Austria, Italy, Germany, into Vienna, and into Rome itself, as it hath brought him into Pannonia, and of late into Pollonia to the great danger of all Christendom. Which danger she doth foresee, and lament, and telleth, That no European King hath sought to compound these bloody home-quarrels but the King of Great Britain. She most humbly desires the rest of the Princes, that they would Commiserate her most afflicted estate; her Cities taken, her houses spoiled, her children murdered, her Matrons and Virgins deflowered, her ways full of Thiefs, her Seas of Pirates, all the helps of life taken from her in many parts, her flocks and herds scattered, her Tillage ceased, her Trade decayed, the Laws silent, Learning fallen, good manners ruined, neither fear of God left, nor care of men, that all things seem to tend to the first Chaos, etc. And therefore she doth beseech the Princes to whose trust God hath committed, not to whose power he hath permitted his two Wards, two Twins, the Common Wealth, and the Church as to Guardians, that they will look better to their charge.  
And first, not suffer the Common Wealth of Christendom by their arms (at the Pope's secret instigation) to be destroyed, and to this end she first useth the example of good Heathen Emperors to persuade them as Augustus, Vespasian, Titus, Nerva, Trajan, Antoninus, Marcus Aurelius, Alexander Severus, Probus; that they will settle peace at home, and by joint Forces make War abroad upon the Common enemy of their Kingdoms, and so make the Commonwealth to Honour them, being made by them, rich in wealth, strong in power, famous in glory, honest in manners, the felicity of every earthly Commonwealth.  
Now for the other Ward, or Twin, the Church, the Heavenly Commonwealth, because she hath before professed, that as she had been long a Pagan, so now by the Grace of God, hath long been a Christian, and did take this to be her greatest honour, to be the harbour of the Christian Church, she stirs them up to be more careful by the example of the best Christian Emperors, Constantine, Jovinian, Gratian, Theodosius, Arcadius, Honorius, Charlemaign, and his Sons Lotharius, and Lodovicus, to defend her from heresies within, and from violence without.  
And now she gins to tell them, That as one walking with others in the Sun; not thinking on it, must needs be Sun-burned; so she walking with her reformed children in this new-risen Sun of the Gospel of Christ, did feel herself coloured (as it were) with the Spirit of Christ, by observing the differences between the two Churches with great indifferency.  
Here because she hath before challenged the Pope and the Jesuits of cruelty, and persuading first, that as men they should spare humane blood.  
Secondly, as Europeans they should spare European blood.  
Thirdly, as Christians they should spare Christian blood.  
She is first thus answered by the Pope speaking for himself, and his Jesuits, That they are not the authors of shedding Christian blood, but haeretical blood: And that her reformed sons (as she terms them) are not Christians, because they be no Catholics; And therefore Heretics to be taken away by death, according to the sentence of St. Paul, Haereticum hominem post unam aut alteram admonitionem devita; Hoc est de vita tolle, as Cardinal Allen doth expound it, and according to the Decree of the Council of Lateran.  
And where I pray you was this your Reformed Church before Luther? And as for my Jesuits you call them bloody, even as you call your Physicians bloody, who for driving away a Pestilential Fever, do take more corrupt and putrified blood from the party than they would.  
And thereupon, he doth twitt Europe as an old doting Sibylla, in her youth, being the Concubine of one Taurus, whom she feigned to be Jupiter, to cover her fault, with the greatness of her lover, who did also give her the name of this divided World, that by the honour of her title, she might excuse the shame of her fact; And bites the fond Orator, that put this person upon her, a whelp of Luther's, that makes this Minion to accuse him before the Princes of Homicide, or an insensible piece of Earth to plead his Cause.  
To which Europe answereth, 
First, for herself;  
Then for the Church.   
This Sum I thought good to present to your Majesty, if it please your judgement, I shall bring the whole work to your Majesty when I am recovered.  
And thus craving pardon of your Majesty for troubling your greater thoughts, though this tend to the good of Christendom which you intent, I rest.  
Your Majesty's Most humble Chaplain, Leonel Sharp.   

Dr. Sharp to the Duke of Buckingham.  
May it please your Grace,  
IT is not my purpose to advise, but to attend what others shall determine of the Match of the Palatinate; but if that be broken off, and this not restored according to promise, every one may conceive that Peace must give place to War abroad; but with whom, and where, and how it is to be made, it is for an higher Council, then for any private man to resolve.  
Peace were best, if it had Nihil insidiarum, as Tully saith; but it is to be feared that the malice of the Catholic League doth, and will hinder the work of the Kings most Noble and Christian heart, and then it will be a War wrapped in the name of Peace.  
A just War is the exercise of Faith, as Peter Martyr well collects out of those Wars which those Worthy Kings and Princes Heb. 11. fought for their God and his Israel: so war is just which is made for the maintenance of God's true religion, and for the safety of the Common Wealth, either for the keeping of that we have, or recovering of that we have lost.  
Every one therefore doth rejoice to see the King and his Subjects so joined in love together, and in the purpose of this defence, every one I mean that is a true Christian, and good subject; and do wish that two things presently were added, care at home to Coupe up all falsehearted Subjects, that are known, and provision to meet with the secret, and open practices of such foreign Enemies, as are like to abet them  
The good policies of the former reign in such times is the best precedent for this, at this time. The heads were then committed liberali Custodiae, divided from their inferior parts, the Papists disarmed, their claws pared, that they might not hurt us, the laws executed upon the Jesuits and Priests, firebrands of sedition, and rebellion withal: Or if not blood drawn of them, yet close imprisonment, or banishment enjoined them.  
Large subsidies granted to prepare the Navy, and pay the armies. And a great while no war proclaimed, but brave Adventurers sent forth as to Portugal, the Groin, to the West-Indies, etc. And before Letters of reprisal granted to the Merchants to make up their losses, a Rowland, for an Oliver, because they had granted Letters of Mart against us. By this means Carricks were brought in, the treasure of their West-Indian mines laid for at their return, so to make war upon them with their own money, till they had made the enemy bankrupt, 
Ausbrug.  and to break with their bankers of Auspurg, and Genua, that he was not able to pay his Soldiers, and garrisons; and still the Low-countries strongly assisted, and war made upon the enemy there, or at home, at his own doors, which was more Noble, gainful and safe for us; for we still had peace and plenty at home, though war abroad.  
I know not how the case stands now between us, and the Spaniards, but me thinks it should not be very well, when nothing will satisfy him, but the head of him, that spoke the truth for the good of the King and kingdom. Certainly if we break with him, as they which sit at the Helm know what is best to do, he is ready to strike, and will peradventure strike quickly before we be fully prepared, therefore our preparations had need to be more speedy, & thorough, lest we fall into the snare. While they were treating of peace in 88 they did even then invade us. I pray God they have not used this treaty of marriage to as bad a purpose; for it seems they never did intent it, but for delays, and to make it serve their turn, they have plainly abused us in the Palatinate therereby. But I can say nothing for the present, yet what is to be done, it is proper to an higher judgement; only I tell what was then, when we were enemies.  
I remember in 88 waiting upon the Earl of Leicester at Tilbury Camp, and in 89. going into Portugal with my Noble Master the Earl of Essex, I learned somewhat fit to be imparted to your Grace.  
The Queen lying in the Camp one night, guarded with her army, the old Lord Treasurer Burleigh came thither, and delivered to the Earl the examination of Don Pedro, who was taken, and brought in by Sir Francis Drake, which examination the Earl of Leicester delivered unto me to publish to the army in my next sermon. The sum of it was this.  
Don Pedro being asked what was the intent of their coming, 
Don Pedro's Confession.  stoutly answered the Lords, What? But to subdue your Nation, and root it out.  
Good, said the Lords, and what meant you then to do with the Catholics? He answered, We meant to send them (good men) directly unto Heaven, as all you that are Heretics to hell. Yea but said the Lords, what meant you to do with your whips of cord, and wire? (whereof they had great store in their ships) What? said he, We meant to whip you Heretics to death, that have assisted my Master's Rebels, and done such dishonours to our Catholic King, and people? Yea, but what would you have done (said they) with their young Children? They (said he) which were above seven years old, should have gone the way their fathers went, the rest should have lived, branded in the forehead with the Letter L. for Lutheran, to perpetual bondage.  
This I take God to witness I received of those great Lords upon examination taken by the Council, and by commandment delivered it to the army.  
The Queen the next morning road through all the Squadrons of her army, as Armed Pallas attended by Noble Footmen, Leicester, Essex, and Norris then Lord Marshal, and divers other great Lords. Where she made an excellent Oration to her army, which the next day after her departure, I was commanded to redeliver to all the Army together, to keep a Public Fast.  
Her words were these.  
MY loving people, we have been persuaded by some, that are careful of our safety, to take heed how we commit ourselves to armed multitudes for fear of treachery: but I assure you, I do not desire to live to distrust my faithful, and loving people. Let Tyrants fear, I have always so behaved myself, that under God I have placed my chiefest strength, and safeguard in the loyal hearts and good will of my subjects. And therefore I am come amongst you as you see, at this time, not for my recreation, and disport, but being resolved in the midst, and heat of the battle to live, or die amongst you all, to lay down for my God, and for my kingdom, and for my people, my Honour, and my blood even in the dust. I know I have the body, but of a weak and feeble woman, but I have the heart and Stomach of a King, and of a King of England too, and think foul scorn that Parma or Spain, or any Prince of Europe should dare to invade the borders of my Realm, to which rather then any dishonour shall grow by me, I myself will take up arms, I myself will be your General, Judge, and Rewarder of every one of your virtues in the field. I know already for your forwardness, you have deserved rewards and crowns, and we do assure you in the word of a Prince, they shall be duly paid you. In the mean time my Lieutenant General shall be in my stead, than whom never Prince commanded a more Noble or worthy subject, not doubting but by your obedience to my General, by your Concord in the Camp, and your valour in the field, we shall shortly have a famous victory over those enemies of my God, of my Kingdoms, and of my People.  
This I thought would delight your Grace, and no man hath it but myself, and such as I have given it to, and therefore I made bold to send it unto you, if you have it not already.  
I would I could persuade your Grace, either to read yourself, or to command your Secretary to gather out of the History of Spain translated into English towards the end five or six leaves, which hath matter of great importance fit for the Parliament, especially for two points; the one concerning the settled intention of the State of Spain against England, whensoever they can get an opportunity; the other concerning the main reasons of state, which moved the Queen, and Council, then to take upon her the protection of the Low-countries.  
They were of two sorts, the first inherent in the Person of the Prince then being, which died with her, (as some think) the Quarrel being then between the Queen, and King of Spain, Philip the second, which are said to be buried in their graves; the other inherent in their estates, which live with them, and remain in the heart of the State of Spain against us, whosoever is their King.  
And this appeareth by a large Disputation of State had before the King of Spain, and blabbed out by their Chronicler in many words, wherein pro et contra two do argue. The one, who proves that the Netherlands their Rebels are first to be conquered, that it may serve them as a rise to the Conquest of England, and the reasons for that project. The other, who proves, that the English are first to be conquered, the supporters of those their Rebels, and for a rise to the Empire of Christendom, and the reasons for the project, and specially for that it is more easy now for the disuse of arms in England; for that England is not now that England which it hath been, etc.  
And the mean, how they may win themselves into us by a Treaty of Marriage, as Mariana blabs it out in general, that which the Prince hath tried, and your Grace hath uttered in Parliament in special, that Colloquia de Contractibus, are with them Mera ludibria parata tantum Regum animis, Ne noceant distinendis, dum ea quae ipsi intendunt, perficiantur. Which Guicciardine also doth in general affirm, That the Spaniards bring more things to pass by Treaties, and subtleties, then by force of Arms.  
And that you may truly understand the full intention of the Spaniard to the state of this Kingdom, and Church, I would your Grace would read a notable Discourse of the late most Noble Earl of Essex, made by the Commandment of Queen Elizabeth, and debated before her Majesty, and her Council concerning this point, Whether Peace or War was to be treated with Spain? The Lord Buckhurst speaking for a Treaty of Peace, to the which the Noble Queen, and her old Lord Treasurer inclined: The Earl speaking for War, because no safe peace could be made with that State for 3. special Reasons, which are in that Treatise set down at large, which is not fit for me yet to deliver by writing, but there you shall find them. Your Grace may have the book of divers Noblemen your friends. If you have it not (if I may understand your pleasure) I will get it for you. It was of that effect, that it brought the Queen, and Treasurer contrary to their purpose to his side, for the very necessity of the common safety.  
Your Lordship having angered them, and endeared yourself to us, you had need to look to yourself; you are as odious to them as ever the Earl of Essex was.  
The Jesuit Walpool set on one of the stable (Squire) one well affected to my Lord, to poison the rests of his Chair. And seeing they strike at the Ministers, which deal effectually for his Church, (witness worthy Doctor White) what will they do to such Pillars of State as you are? The Lord preserve your Grace, and watch over you. And thus I rest  
Your Grace his most humble at Commandment, Leonel Sharp.   

The Lord Cromwell to the Duke, 8. Septemb. 1625.  
May it please your Grace,  
I Am now returned from mine own home, and am here at Fulham near Mr. Burlemachi, making myself ready to attend your Command in the best manner my poor fortunes will give me leave, and with what speed I may. Some things I have sent to Plymouth, and some Gentlemen, so as when I come there, I hope to find that your Lordship hath appointed me a good sailing ship, and one, that shall be able to play her part with the best and proudest enemy, that dare look danger in the face.  
Though your Grace hath placed a Noble Gentleman in the Regiment was intended to my Lord of Essex, yet I will not despair of your favour, or that you will not give me some taste of it, as well as to any other. I will study to be a deserving Creature, and whether you will please to look on me with an affectionate eye or no, I will love, honour, and serve you, with no less truth, and faith, than those you have most obliged. What concerns me, I will not here speak of for fear I offend. My prayers shall ever attend you, and my curses those, that wish you worse than their own souls. Divers I do meet, that say your Grace hath parted with your place of the Mastership of the Horse, which makes the world suspect, that some disfavour your Lordship is growing into: And that this prime feather of yours being lost, or parted with (be it as it will) it will not be long ere the rest follow.  
They offer to lay wagers, the Fleet goes not this year, and that of necessity shortly a Parliament must be, which when it comes, sure it will much discontent you. It is wondered at, that since the King did give such great gifts to the Duchess of Chevereux, and those, that then went, how now a small sum in the Parliament should be called for at such an unseasonable time: And let the Parliament sit when it will, begin they will, where they ended. They say the best Lords of the Council knew nothing of Count Mansfelts journey, or this Fleet, which discontents even the best sort, if not all; They say it is a very great burden, your Grace takes upon you, since none knows any thing but you. It is conceived, that not letting others bears part of the burden you now bear, it may ruin you; (which heaven forbidden) Much discourse there is of your Lordship here, and there, as I passed home, and back, and nothing is more wondered at, than that one Grave man is not known to have your Ear except my good, and Noble Lord Conway. All men say, if you go not with the Fleet you will suffer in it, because if it prosper, it will be thought no act of yours; and if it succeed ill, they say it might have been better, had not you guided the King. They say your undertake in the Kingdom, and your Engagements for the Kingdom, will much prejudice your Grace.  
And if God bless you not with goodness as to accept kindly, what in duty and love, I here offer; questionless my freedom in letting you know the discourse of the world, may much prejudice me. But if I must lose your favour, I had rather lose it for striving to do you good in letting you know the talk of the wicked world, then for any thing else, so much I hearty desire your prosperity, and to see you trample the ignorant multitude under foot.  
All I have said is the discourse of the world, and when I am able to judge of your actions, I will freely tell your Lordship my mind. Which when it shall not be always really inclined to serve you, may all noble thoughts forsake me. Because I seldom am honoured with your Ear, I thus make bold with your all-discerning eye, which I pray God may be enabled with power and strength, daily to see into them that desire your ruin. Which if it once be, I will never believe, but so good a King will constantly enable you daily with power to confound them.  
Many men would not be thus bold and saucy. If I find you distaste me for my respect to you. I will respect my poor self (who ever hath honoured you) so much as hereafter to be silent. So I kiss the noble hands of your Grace.  
Your Lordship's servant, during life, Tho. Cromwell.   

Sir Robert Philip's to the Duke of Buckingham, 21. August, 1624.  
May it please your Grace,  
BEfore the receipt of that Dispatch, with which you were pleased to honour me from Apthorp, dated the last of July, I was fully determined at your return to Woodstock, to have presented your Grace my most humble and faithful service, and by that means to have obtained the knowledge in what state and condition of health you had passed this part of the progress. Your former weakness, together with the dangerous temper of the season, giving me cause both to doubt, and pray against the worst; But I found myself then to be more strictly obliged to the performance of this duty, when I received from your Grace so clear, and abundant a testimony, as well of your good opinion, as of the trust you reposed in me. Obligations certainly of that nature, and of so large an extent as do with reason deprive me of all degree of liberty, and justly subject me to a perpetual state of servitude, and obedience to all your Grace's Commandments.  
I have diligently perused my Lord of Bristols answer, which it pleased your Grace to communicate unto me. And although it become me not, neither will I presume to give my opinion of the strength, or weakness thereof, yet will I take the liberty to say thus much, That I find in his case that to be verified which I have observed at other times, (to wit) That when able and prudent men come to act their own Parts, they are then for the most part not of the clearest sight, and do commonly commit such errors, as are both discernible and avoidable, even by men of mean abilities.  
Being now fallen to speak of this Lord, I humbly beseech your Lordship to give me leave plainly and briefly to set before you some Cogitations of mine own, touching his present occasion.  
First, that it may be maturely considered, Whether the tendering him any further charge, unto which he may be able to frame a probable satisfactory answer, will not rather serve to declare his innocence, then to prepare his Condemnation, and so instead of pressing him, reflect back with disadvantage upon the proceeding against him.  
Secondly, That your Grace would be pleased to consult with yourself, whether you may not desist from having him further questioned, without either blemish to your Honour, or manifest prejudice to the service: Considering that you have (to your perpetual glory) already dissolved and broken the Spanish party, and rendered them without either the means, or the hope of ever conjoining in such sort together again, as may probably give the least disturbance or impediment to your Grace's ways and designs.  
And lastly, Although his Lordship in sundry places of his answer, especially in the latter part, doth seem directly to violate the rule of the 
* Provident.  prudent Mariner, who in foul weather, and in a storm, is accustomed (to prevent shipwreck) rather to pull down, then to set up his sails. Nevertheless as this case stands, it deserves to be thoroughly pondered, which of the two ways will most conduce to your Grace's purpose, and is likely to receive the best interpretation and success, either to have him dealt with after a quick and round manner, or otherwise to proceed slowly and moderately with him, permitting him for a time to remain where he is, as a man laid aside, and in the way to be forgotten. A state of being (if I mistake not his complexion) which will be by him apprehended equivalent to the severest and sharpest censure, that possibly can be inflicted on him.  
Thus have I overboldly adventured to present unto your Grace, these few Queries and Proposals, which they might be both enlarged, and more forcibly urged; yet to avoid the being too tedious, I have chosen to omit the further insisting upon them, till such time, as I may have the honour and felicity of being near your person. At this present it shall suffice, humbly to beseech your Grace, to be assuredly persuaded, that what I have now delivered in this subject, doth not proceed from any over indulgent respect I bear either to the person, or fortune of my Lord of Bristol; though I should not be sorry, that like a prudent man he might by his discreet application to your Grace, render himself capable to be again readmitted to your love and favour. But the motive which hath induced me principally to use this plainness and liberty, is the Consideration, how importantly (as I conceive) the well ordering and disposing this particular, doth concern your Grace's service. Unto the advancement and furtherance whereof, if I may be able now, or at any time to contribute the least proportion, I shall esteem myself most happy, and more than abundantly rewarded, in case that my right humble endeavours in that kind may receive from your Grace a favourable and acceptable construction.  
I will conclude this Letter with a twofold prayer; first to you for myself, that your Grace will be pleased to pardon this boldness. Next to God for you, that he will give you health, and length of days for his Majesty's service, and the good and honour of this Commonwealth. I humbly crave leave to remain  
Your Grace's Most obedient and devoted servant, Rob. Philips.   

The Earl of Middlesex to the Duke.  
Right Noble, and my most honoured Lord,  
I Have received divers Letters from your Lordship since your going from Theobalds', which though they concern several men, and in sundry kinds, yet they all conclude upon diminution of his Majesty's estate, contrary to your general ground, when his Majesty delivered me the Staff, and contrary to your Lordship's private directions given me at Theobalds', with which I did your Lordship the right to acquaint the King.  
I have of late had cause to take into consideration the miserable condition of my present estate, who since I received the staff, have led such a life, as my very enemies pity me, which I foresaw, the distraction of the King's estate, and burden of that place, would of necessity throw upon me. Yet my duty, love and thankfulness to his Majesty, and my love and thankfulness to you, contrary to my own judgement, and advice of my friends, made me undertake it, little expecting these Cross accidents, which have lain heavy upon me, and more troubled me, than the continual cares and vexations of my place.  
I do most freely and willingly acknowledge one man cannot be more bound unto another, than I am to your Lordship; and if I do not make a thankful return, let me be held an ungrateful Monster, which is the worst of Villains.  
I have been so ambitious as to desire to extend my gratitude so far, as that the King may have cause to thank you for preferring me, and that your Lordship may bless the time you did it. To effect that, I shall delight to live a miserable life for a time. The course which must of necessity be held to do it, I will acquaint your Lordship with very shortly, which I hope you will be pleased to approve, and assist me in. And then I will express my thankfulness to you that way: If that course shall not like you, I will not only deliver you up my places, but whatsoever I hold from the King, and live privately upon mine own estate. For I will never fell so good and gracious a Master, nor so noble and constant a friend ruined, and undone. God bless you, and send you your hearts desire. As for myself, I never desired to quit the World, and all the fooleries in it, till now.  
Your Lordship's Faithfullest servant, and Kinsman, Middlesex.   

The Earl of Middlesex to his Majesty, 26. April, 1624.  
Sacred Majesty, and my most gracious Master,  
YOur goodness is such to me your oppressed servant in this my time of persecution, as I know not how to express my thankfulness otherwise then by pouring forth my humble and hearty prayers to the great God of heaven and earth, to grant your Majesty all happiness here, and everlasting happiness hereafter.  
Between 5. and 6. of the clock upon Saturday in the evening. I received my Charge from the Lords assembled in Parliament, with an Order, by which I am commanded to make my appearance at the Bar upon Thursday next by 9 of the clock in the morning with my answer. And in the mean time to examine my witnesses.  
This Charge of mine hath been in preparing, by examining of witnesses upon oath, and otherwise, 23. days. And hath been weighed by the Wisdom of both Houses, and doth concern me so nearly in point of honour, and faith to your Majesty to answer well, as I value my life at nothing in comparison of it.  
I may grieve, though I will not complain of any thing my Lords shall be pleased to Command; but do hope, that upon a second consideration they will not think three days a fitting time for me to make my Answer, and to examine witnesses in a cause of such importance, and so nearly concerning me, when twenty three days hath been spent almost from morning until night in preparing my Charge.  
I know the House (whose Judgement I shall never desire to wave) is the proper place for me to move to be resolved herein, and therefore shall upon Wednesday morning make my humble motion there to have 7. days longer time, as well to make my answer, and appearance, as to examine my witnesses, which are many, and upon several heads.  
But because the Prince his Highness, and many of the Principal Lords are now with your Majesty at Windsor, my most humble suit to your Majesty is, That you would be pleased to move them on my behalf, to yield me so much further time, that my Cause may not suffer prejudice for want of time to make my just defence, that which I have propounded being as moderate as is possible.  
With my most humble and hearty prayer to Almighty God for continuance of your health with all happiness, I humbly kiss your Royal hands, and will ever rest  
Your Majesty's most humble, etc. Middelsex.   

The Earl of Carlisle to his Majesty, 14. February. 1623.  
May it please your most Excellent Majesty,  
THough my present indisposition deprives me of the Honour to attend your Majesty with the rest of the Commissioners, with whom your Majesty was pleased to associate me; yet I most humbly beseech your Majesty to give me leave in all humility to represent unto your Majesty, what my heart conceiveth to be most for your Majesty's service in the present conjuncture of your affairs. During this time of my distemper, I have been visited by divers Gentlemen of quality, who are Parliament-men, none of those popular, and plausible Orators, but solid, and judicious good patriots, who fear God, and honour the King. Out of their discourses I collect, That there are three things, which do chief trouble your people.  
The first, that for the subsidies granted, the two last Parliaments, they have received no retribution by any bills of Grace.  
The second, that some of their Burgesses were proceeded against after the Parliament were dissolved.  
And the third, that they misdoubt, that when they shall have satisfied your Majesty's demands and desires, you will nevertheless proceed to the conclusion of the Spanish match. It would be too much importunity to trouble your Majesty with the several answers which I made to their objections, and would be too great presumption in me to advise your Majesty's incomparable wisdom what should be fittest to be done for your Majesty's honour, and the contentment of the people; yet if it would please my Lord the King to give his humblest Creature leave to give vent to the loyal fervour of his heart, restless, and indefatigable in continual meditation of his Gracious Master's honour and service, I would thus with all humble submission explain myself. That there is nothing which either the enemies of this State, or the perverse industry of falsehearted servants could invent more mischievous, than the misunderstanding: which have grown between your Majesty, and your people: nothing that will more dishearten the envious Maligners of your Majesty's felicity, and encourage your true hearted friends, and Servants, than the removing of those false fears, and jealousies, which are mere imaginary Phantasms, and bodies of air easily dissipated, whensoever it shall please the sun of your Majesty, to show itself clearly in its native brightness, lustre, and goodness.  
God and the World do know the scope, and the end of all your Majesty's pious affections, and endeavours to have been no other, than the settling of an universal peace in Christendom; (a felicity only proper for your Majesty's time, and only possible to be procured by your incomparable goodness, and wisdom) but since the malice of the Devil, and deceitful men, have crossed those fair ways wherein your Majesty was proceeding, abusing your trust, and goodness, (as Innocence, and goodness are always more easily betrayed then wiliness, and malice) you must now cast about again, and sail by another point of the compass, and I am confident your Majesty will more securely, and easily attain, your Noble and pious end, though the way be different.  
The means are briefly these three.  
First let your Majesty's enemies see, that the Lion hath teeth, and claws.  
2. Next, embrace and invite a strict, and sincere friendship, and association with those whom neighbourhood and alliance, and common interest of state and religion have joined unto you.  
3. And last of all, cast off, and remove jealousies, which are between your Majesty and your people.  
Your Majesty must begin with the last, for upon that foundation, you may afterwards set what frame of building you please. And when should you begin (Sir) but at this overture of your Parliament by a gracious, clear, and confident discovery of your intentions to your People. Fear them not (Sir) never was there a better King, that had better subjects, if your Majesty would trust them. Let them but see, that you love them, and constantly rely upon their humble advice, and ready assistance, and your Majesty will see, how they will tear open their breasts, to give you their hearts, and having them, your Majesty is sure of their hands, and purses. Cast but away some crumbs of your Crown amongst them, and your Majesty will see those crumbs will make a miracle, they will satisfy many thousands. Give them assurance that your heart was always at home, though your eyes were abroad; invite them to look forward, and not backward, and constantly maintain, that with confidence you undertake, and your majesty will find admirable effects of this harmonious concord. Your Majesty as the head directing, and your people as the hands and feet, obeying and co-operating for the honour, safety, and welfare of the body of the State. This will revive, and reunite your friends abroad, and dismay, and disappoint the hopes of your enemies, secure your Majesty's person, assure your estate, and make your memory glorious to posterity.  
Pardon I most humbly beseech your Majesty, this licentious freedom, which the zeal of your safety and service, hath extorted from a tongue-tied man, who putteth his heart into his Majesty's hand, and humbly prostrateth himself at your Royal feet, as being  
Your Majesty's Most humble, most obedient obliged Creature, Subject, and Servant, Carlisle.   

The Earl of Carlisle to the Duke, the 20. of November, 1625.  
My most Noble dear Lord,  
SInce my Last to your Lordship by Mr. Endymion Porter, there hath not happened any matter of great moment, or alteration here, saving the resolution (which his Majesty hath taken by the advice of his Council) for the disarming of all the Popish Lords. In the execution whereof there fell out a brabble at the Lord Vaux his house in, North-hamptonshire, wherein there were some blows exchanged between the said Lord, and Mr. Knightly, a Justice of the Peace, who assisted the Deputy Lieutenant in that action. Whereof complaint being made, his Majesty was pleased himself in Council to have the hearing of the business, and upon examination to refer the judgement thereof to the Star-Chamber the next Term. But at the issuing out of the Council Chamber, the Lord Vanx taking occasion to speak to Sir William Spencer, (who with the rest had given information in favour of Mr. Knightly,) told him, that though he neglectect his reputation before the Lords, yet he doubted not, but he would have more care of his oath when the business should come to Examination in the Star-Chamber. Herewith Sir William Spencer finding his reputation challenged, presently complained, and thereupon the words being acknowledged, the Lord Vaux was committed prisoner to the Fleet.  
In the disarming of the Lords-Recusants, there was as much respect had of some, who have relation to your Lordship, as you yourself would desire.  
The Papists in general here do give some cause of jealousy by their Combinations and Murmur, wherein it is suspected, that they are as fond, as busily encouraged by the pragmatical Mounsieurs. But his Majesty's temper and wisdom will be sufficient to prevent all inconveniency, which their folly or passion may contrive. There is one Sir Thomas Gerrard a Recusant brought up hither out of Lancashire, being accused of some treacherous design against his Majesty's Person. Rochel is so straightly blocked by Sea and Land, as no Intelligence can be sent into the Town. We have not as yet any clear Categorical answers touching the restitution of our ships. As soon as any thing more worthy of your Lordship's knowledge shall occur, you shall not fail to be advertised from him that is eternally vowed  
Your Grace's Most faithful friend, and most humble servant, Carlisle.   

The Earl of Carlisle to the Duke.  
My most Noble dear Lord,  
I Must ever acknowledge myself infinitely obliged to your Lordship for many Noble favours; but for none more, than the freedom, and true cordial friendship expressed in your last Letter touching my son; And I shall humbly beseech your Lordship in all occasions to continue that free and friendly manner of proceeding, which I shall ever justly esteem as the most real testimony of your favour towards me. Your Lordship will now be pleased to give me leave with the same freedom and sincerity to give your Lordship an account, that it is now 4. months since the Count of Mansfelt made the proposition to me, to nominate my son to be one of his Colonels, as he did likewise to my Lord of Holland for his Brother Sir Charles Rich; which at the first (I must deal plainly with your Lordship) I took for a piece of art, as if he knowing, that next to the benefit and assistance he received from your Lordship's favour and protection, we were the most active instruments employed in his business, and therefore he sought to engage us so much the farther by this interest. But afterwards I found, that under the shadow of this Compliment put upon me, he had a desire to gratify Sir James Ramsey, whom he designed to be my son's Lieutenant, having regard to his former deserts, and the courage and sufficiency he hath found in him. I profess unto your Lordship sincerely, that he received no other encouragement, or acceptance from me then a bare negative; Insomuch as he afterwards sent a Gentleman to tell me, That he perceived whatsoever he should expect from me in the furtherance of his business, must be only for the respect I bore to my Master's service, and nothing for love of his person, since I accepted not the proffer of his service. My Lord of Holland can justify the truth of this assertion, who alone was acquainted with that which passed: for I protest upon my salvation, that I neither spoke of it to any creature living, not so much as to my son, neither have I written one word thereof to the Count Mansfelt, neither knew I any thing of his proceed, till by the last Currier Mr. Secretary was pleased to acquaint me with the nomination of my son. If I had seriously intended any such thing, I want not so much judgement and discretion, as not first to discover my desire to my gracious Master, humbly craving his leave, and allowance: And I should not have failed to have recourse to your Lordship's favourable assistance therein. And thus (my Noble Lord) have I given you an account what entertainment I gave to the Count Mansfelts Compliment. And I will be bold also to give your Lordship this further assurance, that no particular interest, or consideration of mine own shall have power to alter my constant course of serving my gracious Master faithfully, and industriously. And so humbly submitting all to his Majesty's good pleasure, and your Lordship's wisdom, I remain eternally  
Your Grace's most faithful friend, and humble servant, Carlisle.  
Postscript.  
I Most humbly beseech your Lordship that this unfortunate Compliment put upon my son, may be no prejudice to the deserts of Sir James Ramsey.   

The Lord Kensington to the Duke.  
My Noblest Lord,  
I Find the Queen Mother hath the only power of governing in this State, and I am glad to find it so, since she promises, and professes, to use it to do careful, and good offices in the way of increasing the friendship that is between us, and this State, and likewise to relieve, and assist the united provinces, the which they are preparing to do fully, and bravely; for she hath now a clear sight of the pretensions of the King of Spain unto the Monarchy of Christendom; during the absence of the King, who went out of this town early the next day after I arrived here (before I was prepared to attend him) I have been often at the Lonure, where I had the honour to entertain the Queen Mother. She was willing to know upon what terms stood our Spanish alliance; I told her that their delays had been so tedious, that they had somewhat discouraged the King, and had so wearied the Prince, and State, which the dilatory proceed in it, as that Treaty (I thought) would soon have an end; She straight said of marriage, taking it that way; I told her I believed the contrary, and I did so the rather, because the Spanish Ambassador our hath given it out since my coming, that the Alliance is fully concluded, and that my journey had no other end, then to hasten his Master unto it, only to give them Jealousies of me, because he at this time fears their dispositions stand too well prepared to desire, and affect a conjunction with us. And truly his report, and instruments have given some jealousies to the persons of power in this State, especially since they find I can say nothing directly unto them; yet thus much I have directly from them, Mounsieur de Vievielle, and others, (but he is the chief guider of all affairs here) That never was the affection of any State so prepared to accept all offers of amity and alliance, so we will clearly, and as disengaged persons seek it, as is this; but as a wise minister he says, that until we have wholly, and truly abandoned the treaty with Spaiu, they may lose the friendship of a brother in law, that is already so, in hope of gaining another that they may fail of. But when we shall see it really by a public Commission, that may declare all dissolved, that touches upon the way of Spain, we shall then understand their hearts not to be capable of more joy, then that will bring them. And the Queen Mother told me she had not lost those inclinations, that she hath heretofore expressed to desire her Daughter may be given to the Prince, with many words of value unto the King, and person of the Prince, and more than this she could not (she thought) well say, it being most natural, for the woman to be demanded and sought. It is most certain, that underhand Spain hath done all that is possible to procure this State to listen to a crosse-marriage, but here they are now so well understood, as this bait will not be swallowed by them. This I have from a grave, and honest man, that would not be brought to justify it, therefore he must not hear of it. It is the Savoy Ambassador, that is resident here, a wise, and a Gallant Gentleman, who vows this to be most true. So general a desire was never expressed, as is here for alliance with us: and if the King and Prince have as many reasons of State at this time, besides their infinite affection here, to have it so continued, let it be roundly, and clearly pursued, and then I dare promise as respective, and satisfactory a reception, as can be imagined, or desired. And if it were not too much sauciness for me to advise, I could wish that the propositions of a league, and marriage may not come together, but may be treated apart. For I doubt whether it may not be thought a little dishonourable for this King to give his sister conditionally, that if he will make war upon the King of Spain his brother, we will make the alliance with him; on the other part, if the league should be propounded here, with all those reasons of State, that are now pressing for them to make it, they have causes to doubt, and so have we too, that we may both be interrupted in that; for certainly the King of Spain, will (if he can possibly) please one side, the which they think here may be us, with the restitution of the Palatinate, and we may likewise fear may be them, with the rendering of the Valtoline, these being the only open quarrels we must ground upon. Now as long as these doubts may possess us both, this will prove a tedious, and jealous work of both sides; But if we fall speedily upon a treaty, and conclusion of a marriage, the which will find (I am persuaded) not long delays here: neither will they strain us to any unreasonableness in conditions for our Catholics (as far as I can find) then will it be a fit time for to conclude a league, the which they will then for certain do, when all doubts, and fears of fall off, are by this conjunction taken away, and the necessity of their own affairs, and safety will then make them more desire it then we, and so would they now, if they could think it so sure, and so honourable for them. For the King of Spain hath so embraced them of all sides, as they fear, and justly, that he will one day crush them to their destruction. My Lord, I do not presume to say any thing immediately to the King▪ through your hands, this I know will pass unto him, and if he should find any weakness in this that I have presumed to say, let the strength of your favour exercise those accustomed Noblenesses that you have always expressed unto  
Your Grace's most humble and obliged Servant, Kensington.  
Postscript.  
Within these few days your Grace shall hear again from me, for as yet I have not seen the King, no otherwise then the first night I arrived here. This night he is come unto the Town again.   

The Lord Kensington to the Prince, 26. February, 1624.  
May it please your Highness,  
I Find here so infinite a value of your Person, and virtue, as what Instrument so ever (my self the very weakest) having some commands (as they imagine) from you, shall receive excess of honours from them. They will not conceive me, scarce receive me, but as a public Instrument for the service of an Alliance, that above all the things in this world, they do so earnestly desire. The Queen Mother hath expressed, as far as she thinks is fit for the honour of her Daughter, great favour and good will in it. I took the boldness to tell her (the which she took extremely well) that if such a proposition should be made, your Highness could not believe, that she had lost her former inclinations, and desires in it; She said, your trust of her should find great respect; there is no preparation I find towards this business but by her, and all persuasions of amity made light, that look not towards this end. And Sir, if your intentions proceed this way, as by many reasons of State, and wisdom there is cause now rather to press it, then slacken it) you will find a Lady of as much Loveliness and Sweetness to deserve your affection, as any creature under Heaven can do. And Sir, by all her fashions since my being here, and by what I hear from the Ladies, it is most visible to me, her infinite value, and respect unto you. Sir, I say not this to betray your belief, but from a true observation, and knowledge of this to be so; I tell you this, and must somewhat more, in way of admiration of the person of Madam, for the impressions I had of her were but ordinary, but the amazement extraordinary to find her, as I protest to God I did, the sweetest Creature in France. Her growth is very little, short of her age; and her wisdom infinitely beyond it. I heard her discourse with her Mother, and the Ladies about her, with extraordinary discretion, and quickness. She dances (the which I am a witness of) as well as ever I saw any Creature; They say she sings most sweetly, I am sure she looks so. Sir, you have thousands of servants here, that desire to be commanded by you, but most particularly the D. of Chevereux, and Mounsieur Le Grand, who seek all opportunities to do you service, and have Credit and power to do so. Sir, if these that are strangers are thus ambitious of your Commands, with what infinite passion have I cause to beg them, that am your Vassal, and have no other glory but to serve you; as your Highness, etc.  
Kensington.  
Postscript.  
SIr, The obligations you have unto this young Queen are strange, for with that same affection, that the Queen your sister would do, she asks of you with all the expressions that are possible, of joy, for your safe return out of Spain, and told me, that she durst say, you were weary with being there, and so should she: though she be a Spaniard, yet I find she gives over all thought of your Alliance with her sister. Sir, you have the fortune to have respects put upon you unlooked for; for as in Spain the Queen there did you good offices: so I find will this sweet queen do. Who said, She was sorry, when you saw them practise their Masques, that Madam her sister (whom she dearly loves) was seen at so much disadvantage by you, to be seen afar off, and in a dark room, whose person and face hath most loveliness to be considered nearly. She made me show her your Picture, the which she let the Ladies see with infinite Commendations of your Person, saying, She hoped some good occasion might bring you hither, that they might see you like yourself.   

The Lord Kensington to the Duke.  
My Lord,  
YEsternight being Sunday, I arrived safe here at Paris. I was informed as soon as I came, that the King was resolved after sight of the Queen's Masque (that was to be performed that same night,) that he would go a private journey for 5. or 6. days to Shaut●lie, a house of Mounsieur de Memorancies.  
Being desirous therefore to kiss his hands before his going, and to see the Court in that glory and lustre, as must for certain be found upon such an extraordinary occasion, I went to the Lowre to the D. of Chevereux Chamber, where I found him and his Lady appareling themselves for the Masque, and in such infinite riches of Jewels, as I shall never be a beholder of the like worn by Subjects. I had not been there above an hour, but the Queen and Madam came thither, where they stayed a great while. And it was observed, that Madam hath seldom put on a more cheerful than that night. There were some that told me, I might guess at the cause of it. My Lord, I protest to God, she is a lovely, sweet, young Creature. Her growth is not great yet, but her shape is perfect, and they all swear, that her sister the Princess of Piemount (who is now grown a tall and a goodly Lady) was not taller than she is at her age. I thought the Queen would have put a fashion of reservation upon me, as not pleased with the breach, and disorder of the Spanish Treaty; but I found it far otherwise. She is so truly French, as (it is imagined) she rather wishes this alliance, then with her own sister. The King (that was so early to go out of the Town) took his rest, while the Ladies were making themselves ready; but as soon as he waked, he sent for me, and purposed to have received me as an Ambassador. But I entreated the D. of Chevereux before I went, to let him understand, that I came as an humble and thankful servant only to kiss his Majesty's hands, and had no other end then to do him service. He then received me with much freedom and cheerfulness, with many questions how the King is satisfied with his Present by Mounsieur de Bonevan, who when I related the King's liking, and value of it, he was infinitely pleased. He commanded me to attend him to the Masque, which was danced by 16. of the greatest Princesses of France, St. Luke only being by the Queen received amongst them, to put a singular honour, and value upon her. The King with his Brother had danced a Masque the last Tuesday, with the same number of persons of the best quality; who this night were to cast Lots, who should dance with the sixteen Ladies, they only being allowed to dance with them. And all those were so infinitely rich in Jewels, (embroidery of gold and silver being here forbidden) as they had almost all embroidered their clothes as thick with Diamonds, as usually with pearl.  
I cannot give your Lordship any particular account of my service in any thing, yesternight being an unproper time for any such thing: But I am advised by the Prince Jenvile to stay here till the King's return, and I shall understand how all things stand, and that no man's affection is so strait and true for the service of the King and Prince as his is, who of himself falls into passionate wishes for an Alliance, but tells me in much liberty, they have been informed the cause and plot of my journey was to set an edge upon Spain, rather to cut off their delays, then to cut the throat of the business. But I gave him great satisfaction in that point.  
My Lord, these are passages of my first nights being here, matters of ceremony; and yet I omit much of that. I thought these too slight to trouble his Majesty, or the Prince with, yet I thought it fit since this Messenger goes, to let you see this outward show, and face of this Court, to have as much sweetness, smoothness, and clearness towards our designs as is possible. My next Letters shall inform you of a further search made by me, the which I am confident will be of the same nature. And I conceive it the rather, because I find them in a great alarm at the news, that they have received from Liege, that the King of Spain makes a Fort upon the ruin there to command both that, and the Town. This they say hath made them more clearly see his vast ambition to enlarge his Monarchy, and do all speak the careful and honest language of our Lower house men how it may be prevented.  
I have said enough, the Messenger I dare say thinks too much; yet this I will add, That I will study to make it appear to the world, and yourself, by a thankful heart, and to God himself in my prayers for your Lordship, that I am  
Your Lordship's Most devoted, and most humble servant, Kensington.  
Postscript.  
IF the French Ambassador, or my Lord of Carlisle wonders I have not written unto them, I beseech your Lordship, let them know this Messenger is not of my sending, and in such haste as he cannot be stayed.   

The Lord Kensington to the Prince.  
May it please your Highness,  
I Cannot but make you continual repetitions of the value you have here, to be (as justly we know you) the most Complete young Prince and person in the world. This reputation hath begotten in the sweet Princess Madam, so infinite an affection to your fame, as she could not contain herself from a passionate desiring to see your Picture, the shadow of that person so honoured, and knowing not by what means to compass it, it being worn about my neck; for though others, as the Queen and Princesses would open it, and consider it, the which ever brought forth admiration from them, yet durst not this poor young Lady look any otherwise on it then afar off, whose heart was nearer it than any of the others, that did most gaze upon it. But at the last (rather than want that sight the which she was so impatient of) she desired the Gentlewoman of the house where I am lodged, that had been her servant to borrow of me the picture in all the secrecy that may be, and to bring it unto her, saying, She could not want that Curiosity as well as others towards a person of his infinite reputation. As soon as she saw the party that brought it, she retired into her Cabinet, calling only her in; where she opened the picture in such haste, as shown a true picture of her passion, blushing in the instant at her own guiltiness. She kept it an hour in her hands, and when she returned it, she gave with it many praises of your person. Sir, this is a business so fit for your secrecy, as I know it shall never go farther, then unto the King your Father, my Lord Duke of Buckingham, and my Lord of Carliles knowledge. A tenderness in this is honourable; for I would rather die a thousand times, than it should be published, since I am by this young Lady trusted, that is for beauty and goodness an Angel.  
I have received from my Lord of Buckingham an advertisement, that your Highness' opinion is to treat of the General league first, that will prepare the other.  
Sir, whatsoever shall be propounded will have a noble acceptation; though this give me leave to tell you, when you are free, as by the next news we shall know you to be, they will expect, that upon those declarations they have here already made towards that particularity of the Alliance, that your Highness will go that readier and nearer way to unite and fasten by that knot the affection of these Kingdoms.  
Sir, for the general they all here speak just that language that I should, and do unto them of the power and usurpation of the Spaniards, of the approaches they make to this Kingdom, the danger of the Low-Countries, the direct Conquest of Germany and the Valtoline. By which means we have cause to join in opposition of the Ambitions, and mightiness of this King. The which they all here say cannot be so certainly done as by an Alliance with us. This they speak perpetually, and urge it unto my consideration.  
Sir, unless we proceed very roundly, though they be never so well affected, we may have interruptions by the arts of Spain, that make offers infinite to the advantage of this State, at this time. But they harken to none of them, until they see our intentions towards them. The which if they find to be real indeed, they will give us brave satisfaction.  
But Sir, your Fathers and your will, not my opinion must be followed; and what Commandments your Highness shall give me, shall be most strictly obeyed by the most devoted,  
Your Highness' Most dutiful and humblest servant, Kensington.   

The Lord Kensington to the Duke, the 14. of March, 1624.  
My Lord,  
I Have already acquainted your Grace how generally our desires are met with here, much more cannot be said than I have already for that purpose. There was never known in this Kingdom so entire an agreement for any thing, as for an Alliance with England, the Count of Soysons only excepted, who hath had some pretensions unto Madam, but those are now much discouraged, upon a free discourse the Cardinal of Rochfalcout made unto the Countess his Mother, telling her, That if she or her son believed, or could expect, the King would give him his sister in marriage, they would (as he conceived) deceive themselves: for he imagined upon good grounds, that the King would bestow his Sister that way, that might be most for her honour and advancement, and likewise for the advantage of his Crown and Kingdom; and he professed for his part, although he much honoured the Count as a great Prince of the blood, yet was he so faithful unto his Master, as he would advise him to that purpose.  
The Queen Mother and Mounsieur Le Grand have advised me to say something unto the King concerning my business. I told them, I could say nothing very directly unto him, and yet would I not so much as deliver my opinion of the King my Master's inclinations to wish an alliance with him, unless I were assured, his answers might make me see his value, and respect unto him. They then spoke unto him, and assured me, I should in that be satisfied. Having that promise from them, I told the King, that I had made this journey of purpose to declare unto him my humble service and thankfulness for all his Honours and favours, the which I thought I could not better express, then by informing his Majesty, that our Prince whom he had ever so much valued, would be as I conceived free, and disengaged from our Spanish Treaty, by reason that the King could not find them answer his expectation in those things that made him principally desire their Conjunction; the which your Lordship seeing you have exercised your interest and credit with the King your Master, and the Prince to convert those thoughts towards his Majesty, from whom, you were persuaded nothing but truth and honour would be returned, the which at this time more than ever, would be an infinite advantage to both these Kingdoms, and that I believed if his Majesty would show a disposition, as affectionate to receive Propositions to this purpose, as the King my Master had to make them, a long time would not pass before the effects of this might appear, the which would show the report raised here of the ends of my coming to be false, and me to be free of all other designs, than those which I had expressed unto him. He told me, that he had not heard, that the Spanish Match was yet broken, the which justly might give him cause to be reserved; yet thus far be would assure me in the general, That whatsoever should be propounded unto him from the King of Great Britain, he would most hearty and affectionately receive it: but this was with such a fashion of Courtesy, as shown that he desired cause to have said more, and I am fully satisfied not only from him, but the Queens, and most of all of Madam herself, who shows all the sweetness and contentment that may be, and likewise from all the Officers of the Crown, and State, that they can desire nothing equal with this alliance. A better and more large preparation than this my instructions cannot make, and I wonder to see it thus fair, considering the hindrances and defacings the Spanish Ambassador desires to cast upon it, who besides the Rodomontadoes and threaten of the preparations of his Master, doth here take a contrary, but cunning way, letting them know, that the Prince cannot have two Wives, for their Infanta is surely his, only to create a jealousy and shienesse in them towards me, that he suspects labours to do offices that are not to his liking.  
You will therefore I hope speedily put this State out of these doubts, and clearly and freely proceed with them. Upon my credit and reputation, they are all of that disposition, that we can wish them to be, and it appears by their tender care of the States, and their resolution to aid them: And likewise in sending Captain Coborn, that came from the Duke of Brunswick to demand a supply of men, who is returned with answer unto him, that he shall have double what he required, and great satisfaction to the Count Mansfelt, that sent a Gentleman hither, to let the King know, he was not yet in such disorder, but that he could assemble his Troops to such a number, as might do his Majesty good service, if he would be pleased to take him into his protection and favour.  
And the King hath sent a Gentleman of the Religion a Sedanois to Liege, to give information to this State of the proceed of the Spaniards there, and to be ready to receive (if the Town shall seek it) the protection of them. But these passages I am sure you continually understand from our Ambassador, the which makes me omit many particularities in this kind that I could inform you of. I have sent this Bearer of purpose, the which I beseech your Grace return with some speed, and with him the resolutions of our dear and Sacred Master, whom God ever bless and keep to our glory and comfort.  
My Lord I am The humblest and most obliged of all your Grace's servants, Kensington.   

The Lord Kensington to the Secretary the Lord Conway.  
Right Honourable,  
ACcording to his Majesty's order which your last of April the 14. derived unto me, I have represented such reasons to the King, and his ministers of State here, against the sending of any person, in what quality soever, to the Duke of Baviers, as they acquiesce in them; specially for that they come commanded under his Majesty's desire, which they profess to be very willing to comply with, not only in this, but in any other occasion wherein his Majesty may directly, or indirectly be any way interessed.  
I took the same opportunity of preparing the way a little farther to a formal treaty of alliance, by feeling once again their pulse in matters of religion, and find, that it beats so temperately, as promises a very good Crisis of any thing that may concern that particular.  
I dealt plainly with the marquis de la Veiville touching the course that his Majesty may be driven to hold against Jesuits and Priests, of banishing them the Kingdom; and of quickening the laws against the other Catholics, as well out of necessity of reducing them within the bounds of sobriety and obedience, as of keeping good intelligence with his Parliament, without which he could not possibly go thorough with such a weighty work, as he is now to undertake. He approved of the course for the ends sake; under hope notwithstanding that his Majesty would not tie his own hands from some moderate favour hereafter, which is all they pretend unto, and desire it may flow from the mediation of this State upon an alliance here, for the saving of their honour, who otherwise will be hardly reputed Catholics.  
In representing a facility in these things, I leave no other difficulties to be imagined.  
Their good inclination to the match in general they are willing to demonstrate, (as by many other evidences, so) by the care, they are now under of lodging, and defraying my Lord of Carlisle, and myself in a more splendid and Magnific manner, than ever yet they did any Ambassador whatsoever, for such is the language that Ville-aux Cleres holds to me upon that subject.  
The Count of Soissons sees it, and storms, and manifests his discontent towards me (who am the instrument) more felly then discreetly. I encountered him the other day, and gave him the due that belonged to his rank, but instead of returning me my salute, he disdainfully turned back his head. I was somewhat sensible thereof, and I told Mounsieur de Grandmont of it, and as he, and I were discoursing of it the day following, Soissons offered himself full butt upon us a second time. I again repeated my courtesy, and he is childish in civility. Grandmont found it strange, and intimated to the marquis de la Valette a familiar, and confident of the Counts both my observation, and his own distaste of such an uncivil kind of proceeding. Valette conveys the same to Soissons himself, who answered that he could not afford me a better countenance, not for any ill will he bore unto my person, but to my errand and negotiation; which (were it not in the behalf of so great a Prince) went so near his heart, as he professed, he would cut my throat if he could. Nay, were any Prince of Savoy, Mantova, or Germany here in person to solicit for themselves in the like nature, he would hazard his life in the cause. Such is the language that despair brings forth, which put me into an expectation of no less than a challenge to decide the quarrel. And I once verily believed it sent, for the Count de Lude came very so berly to me, and told me, he had a message to deliver me from a great Personage, which he entreated he might do without offence.  
I desired him to speak freely what it was, and from whom He told me he was sent by the Count of Soissons, and I presently replied that nothing should come amiss from him. In conclusion the errand was to signify an extreme liking, that the Count took to one of my Horses, which he was desirous to buy of me upon any rate. I answered, that if the Count would express to me his desire himself, and receive him of gift, he should be at his service, otherwise he should remain still as he was. Since that I have met him, & been prevented with a very courteous salute from him. I have been thus ample in these particular passages betwixt the Count and myself, that by the trouble you find in his disconsolate breast, you may judge of the constancy of Madam's heart towards our Prince, upon whom assuredly it is most strongly set, (as she continually expresses upon all occasions.) Yesterday I had the honour to entertain her two hours together, and received so many testimonies of respect, as witnessed very warm affections towards the Personage I did represent. Amongst other discourse, She fell to speak of Ladies riding on horseback, which she said was rare here but frequent in England, and then expressed her delight in that exercise.  
There is lately arrived here a French Gentleman (Duport by name) with commission from the King of Bohemia to solicit this King's favour (in consequence of his Majesty's generous, and Gracious declaration in his behalf) for the recovering of his rightful inheritance, to entreat that Baviers may no ways be countenanced in his unjust pretensions, and to crave (in this his extremity) a reimbursement of the remainder of that sum, which his father lent to Henry the fourth in the times of his necessities, which may arise to the sum of 30000 Crowns; the facilitating of this negotiation is recommended unto me, who contribute what I can to the good success thereof. There hath happened here this last Monday a dispute between the Marquis de Courtenvant one of the first Gentlemen of the King's Chamber, and the Colonel de Ornano (Mounseiurs Governor) about a lodging, which this pretended unto as most convenient for him, in regard that it adjoined to that of Mounseiurs; but the other claimed a right unto it by a former assignation, and possession. Ornano at the first prevailed, till the other complained to the King, who commanded the Colonel to quit the lodging to him; which his people refusing (out of a presumption perhaps, that the commandment was rather formal then real) the King sent 3. or 4. of his guard to reiterate the commandment, and in case of refusal to obey, to cast out all the stuff, and to kill all such as should oppose. Thus Courtenvant got the day; perhaps by Vievilles recommendation in opposition of Toirax, between whom, there hath been lately a little contestation upon this occasion. Vieville being desirous to strengthen himself, and to stand upon the surest bottom he could, endeavoured to join a confident of his in equal commission with the Guard des Seaux, that so he might in time work it out, and prevail himself of that office at his devotion. The Guard des Seaux finding feeble resistance in himself, addressed his course to Toirax to seek under his Covert shelter from that disgrace, and injury. Toirax undertakes his defence; Vieville expostulates the matter with him, and alleadges many reasons to justify his intentions, which the other gainsaying, with some little warmness, hath occasioned by that heat, a coldness of affection between them ever since, and that so far forth, as it hath grown to be notorious.  
To the same original, I reduce the Cardinal de Richlieus introduction into the Council of the Cabinet by the favour of Vieville (being made also an Instrument thereunto by the Queen) that by making his own party strong in Council, he may the more easily crush any adversary, that shall grapple with him. Yesterday he was admitted; so that now that Council is composed of the Queen Mother, the Cardinal de la Rouch-foulcant, Richlieu, the Constable Vieville, and the Guard des Seaux.  
Before I had finished this Letter, I had occasion to visit the Constable, to whom I used the same language, that formerly I had done to la Vieville, and with the like approbation. And when I touched upon the point of dispensation, how it might be passed over, he assured me in general, that such was the disposition of this King, and State to give the Prince content, as he might be (in a manner) his own Carver how he pleased.  
This is the account I can give you of the public: but how shall I express the deep sense I have of my obligations to your favour in particular? shall I multiply in thanks? It is too ordinary a payment for so many Noble expressions of your love. I will rather endeavour by my deeds constantly and continually to witness unto you, that I entirely rest  
Your most faithful and most Humble Servant, Kensington.   

The Lord Kensington to the Duke.  
My most dear, and Noble Lord,  
BEsides that joint Letter to your Lordship from my Colleague, and myself, I think fit to add this particular account of what passed yesterday at Ruel betwixt Queen Mother, and me; whither going to give her double thanks; as for the liberty, she had given me of access at all times to Madam, to entertain her henceforth with a more free, and amorous kind of language from the Prince; so for having so readily condescended to an humble suit of mine in the behalf of my Lord of Carlisle for a favourable Letter for him to your Lordship; she was pleased to oblige me farther in reling me she did it merely for my sake. I redoubled my thanks, and added, that I knew your Lordship would esteem it one of the greatest happinesses that could befall you to have an occasion offered, whereby you might witness, how much you adored her Majesty's royal virtues, and how infinitely you were her Servant, ready to receive law from her, whensoever by the least syllable of her blessed Lips or Pen, she should please to impose it. And this I did (as on the one side to gratify my Colleague, who would be infinitely sensible of the disgrace he apprehends in the miss of the Ribbon, being thus brought upon the Stage for it) as also to help to mesnage that your Gracious favour which Mounsieur de Fiatts to my Lord represents unto him, by giving you means withal to oblige this sweet & blessed Queen, who hath your Lordship in a very high account, and would be glad to find occasions how she may witness it. The mention of my Lord of Carlisle upon this occasion refreshed her remembrance of the late falling out betwixt the Cardinal and him; and though she were sufficiently informed of the particulars by the Cardinal himself, yet she would needs have a relation from me, who in a merry kind of fashion obeyed her command, and salved every thing the best I could. She would needs know my opinion of the Cardinal, who so magnified to her his wisdom, his courage, his courtesy, his fidelity to her service, his affection to our business as pleased her not a little. Neither did my heart and my tongue differ, for I esteem him such. This discourse she left to fall upon a better subject, the Prince, concerning whose voyage into Spain, the censure of Italy (she said) was, that two Kings had therein committed two great errors. The one in adventuring so precious a pledge to so hazardous an enterprise, the other in badly using so brave a guest. The first, Madam, (answered I) may be excused from the end, the common good of all Christendom, which then standing upon desperate terms, had need of a desperate remedy. The second had need of a better advocate than I, to put any colour of defence upon it.  
But his Highness had observed as great a weakness and folly as that, in that after they had used him so ill, they would suffer him to departed, which was one of the first speeches he uttered after he was entered into the ship. But did he say so? said the Queen. Yes Madam I will assure you (quoth I) from the witness of my own ears. She smiled, and replied, Indeed I heard he was used ill. So he was (answered I) but not in his entertainment, for that was as splendid as that country could afford it, but in their frivolous delays, and in the unreasonable conditions, which they propounded, and pressed (upon the advantage they had of his Princely Person.) And yet (smilingly added I) you here (Madam) use him far worse. And how so? presently demanded she? In that you press (quoth I) upon that most worthy, and Noble Prince, (who hath with so much affection to your Majesty's service, so much passion to Madam sought this Alliance.) The same, nay more unreasonable conditions than the other, and what they traced out for the breaking of the match you follow, pretending to conclude it very unseasonablely in this Conjuncture of time, especially when the jealousies, that such great changes in state, are apt to beget, are cunningly fomented by the Spanish Ambassador in England, who vaunts it forth, that there is not so great a change in La Vievilles particular person, as there is in the general affections, which did but follow before the stream of his Greatness and credit.  
Thus casting in the King's mind the seed of doubts, whereunto the Conde de Olivares in Spain hath been willing to contribute by this braving speech to our Royal Master's Ambassador there, That if the Pope ever granted a dispensation for the match with France, the King of Spain would march with an army towards Rome and sack it. Vrayement none l'en empescherous bien (promptly answered She) Car nous lui taglierous assez de besongne ailleurs. Mais qu'estce qui vous presse le plus. I represented unto her the unfitness of the seventh Article (even qualified by that interpretationt, hat it is) and the impossibility of the last which requires, and prescribes an oath. And desired that the honour of the Prince (with whom she pretended a will to match her Daughter) might be dearer to her, then to be balanced with that, which could add nothing to their assurance. I also humbly besought her to employ her Credit with the King her son, her authority to the Ministers for a reformation of those two Articles especially, and a friendly, and speedy dispatch of all.  
And if we must come to that extremity, that more could not be altered, then already was, yet at least she would procure the allowance of this protestation by the King our Master, when he should swear them, that he intended no further to oblige himself by that oath, then might well stand with the safety, peace, tranquillity, and conveniency of his State. This she thought reasonable, and promised to speak with the King and Cardinal about it. And if you speak as you can (replied I) I know it will be done, Though when all is done, I know not whether the King my Master will condescend so far yea, or no. Here I entreated I might weary her Majesty no further, but take the liberty she had pleased to give me in entertaining Madam with such Commandments as the Prince had charged me withal to her. She would needs know what I would say. Nay then (smiling quoth I) your Majesty will impose upon me the like Law that they in Spain did upon his Highness. But the case is now different (said she) for there the Prince was in person, here is but his Deputy. But a Deputy (answered I) that represents his person. Mais pour tout cela (dit elle) qu' est ce que vous direz? Rien (disre) qui ne Soit digne des oreilles d'vne si vertueuse Princess. Mais qu' est ce? redoubled she? Why then Madam (quoth I) if you will needs know, it shall be much to this effect; That your Majesty having given me the liberty of some freer Language than heretofore, I obey the Prince his Command, in presenting to her his service, not by way of Compliment any longer, but out of passion, and affection, which both her outward, and her inward beauties (the virtues of her mind) so kindled in him, as he was resolved to contribute the uttermost he could to the Alliance in question, and would think it the greatest happiness in the world, if the success thereof might minister occasion of expressing in a better, and more effectual manmer his devotion to her service; with some little other such like amorous Language. Allez, Allez, Il n'y a point de danger en tout cela (smilingly answered she) je me fie en vous, je me fie en vous. Neither did I abuse her trust, for I varied not much from it, in delivering it to Madam, save that I amplified it to her a little more, who drank it down with joy, and with a low Courtesy acknowledged it to the Prince; adding, that she was extremely obliged to his Highness, and would think herself happy in the occasion, that should be presented of meriting the place she had in his good Graces.  
After that, I turned my speech to the old Ladies that attended, and ●old them, That sigh the Queen was pleased to give me this liberty, it would be henceforth fit for them to speak a suitable Language. I let them know that his Highness had her Picture, which he kept in his Cabinet, and fed his eyes many times with the sight, and contemplation of it; sigh he could not have the happiness to behold her person. All which and other such like speeches, she (standing by) took up without letting any one fall to the ground.  
But I fear your Lordship will think I gather together too much to enlarge my Letter thus far: but it is, that by these Circumstances your Lordship may make a perfect judgement of the issue of our negotiation, which I doubt not but will succeed to his Majesties, his Highness, and your Lordship's contentment: And so yield matter of triumph to you, and infinite joy to me  
Your Lordship's Most humble, most obliged, and most obedient servant, Kensington.   

The Lord Kensington to the Duke.  
My most dear Lord,  
THis Bearer your Cousin's going is in such haste, as what you receive from me must be in very few words. I was yesterday with the marquis de Vieville, whom I find cordial to do good offices between ours, and this Kingdom; and he assures me by all the promises and protestations that may be, he will ever use his credit and power to do so, knowing these Kingdoms can (as the King of Spain's power and ambition increases) have no true safety and ood, unless we join in friendship and alliance. He is very free to me, telling me, That to prevent this, the King of Spain offers now the largest conditions of satisfaction and friendship that can be imagined, but their thoughts here are wholly bend towards us; And although as yet, the King cannot with honour or wisdom say more than he hath done, yet we may be assured when we are free, to be satisfied in all we can desire.  
This day I understand the Earl of Argile is like lightning passed by for Spain, and by a special Command from the King it is to put us in more terror; That he will use his service in Scotland, where I believe he hath little credit and power to offend us. But howsoever they omit nothing that may dishearten us, but we are of too noble and constant a temper, either to fear their cunning or power.  
My Lord, give me leave to beseech you, not to defer our business, for never can this State be found so rightly and truly inclined in love and affection towards us. And the rather hasten it, because all the art that may be is daily used from Spain to prevent us, and if we go not roundly and clearly with them here, they may have jealousies and discouragements that may change them: Take them therefore now, when I dare promise they are free, very free from those thoughts. My Lord, pardon the haste of this Letter, that hath no more time given me but to tell you, that you never can have any servant more devotedly yours, then is  
Your Grace's Most obliged and most humble servant, Kensington.   

The Earl of Holland to the Duke.  
My dearest Lord,  
WE have made a final conclusion of this great Treaty. Upon what terms the dispatch at large will show your Grace: We have concluded honourably, that which we could not do safely; for to receive words, that obliged not, would have appeared an unwise, and unperfect Treaty of our part, and no way worthy of the greatness of our Master, nor the passion of his Highness, the which now hath a brave expression, since his Mistress is only considered, and desired, and the only object of our Treaty. But I must tell you, that since we have proceeded thus, they say, they will outgo us in the like bravery, doing ten times more than we expect, or they durst promise, fearing the World would conceive all their do conditionally; the which would be dishonourable for Madam. But that being safe, they now say their interest is greater than ours for the recovering of the Palatinate, and they will never abandon us in that action. I hope we shall shortly have the honour and happiness to see your Grace here; where you will be (as justly you deserve) adored. You must make haste, for we are promised our sweet Princess within six weeks. I beseech you let me know your resolution, that I may contrive which way I may best serve you against your coming. I have carefully laboured according unto your Commands in that which the marquis de Fiat. You may assure him of a speedy and good success in it, the which he will more fully understand, when Mounsieur de la Ville-aux-Cleres shall be in England. He gins his journey from hence within 3. days. He is worthy of the best reception that can be given him, having throughout all this Treaty carried himself discreetly and affectionately. I beseech you put the Prince in mind to send his Mistress a Letter: And though I might as the first Instrument employed in his amours, expect the honour to deliver it; yet will I not give my Colleague that cause of envy. But if his Highness will write a private Letter unto Madam, and in it express some particular trust of me: And that my relations of her, have increased his passion, and affection unto her service, I shall receive much honour, and some right, since I only have expressed what concerned his passion and affection towards her. If you think me worthy of this honour, procure a Letter to this purpose, and send it me to deliver unto her, and likewise your Commands, the which I will receive for my greatest comforts: living in unhappiness until I may by my services express how infinitely, and eternally I am  
Your Grace's Most humble, and most obliged and devoted servant, Holland.  
Postscript.  
THe Presents that the Prince will send unto Madam, I beseech you hasten.   

The Earl of Holland to his Majesty.  
May it please your most excellent Majesty,  
WE are in all the pain that may be, to know what to answer to the malicious and continual complaints made by Blanvile of wrongs and violences done him, even to the assaulting of him in his own lodging, the which he hath represented with so much bitterness, as it took great impression here in the hearts of all, especially of the Queen Mother, whom yesterday I saw in the accustomed privilege hath ever been given me, to have at all times my entrance free into the Lowre. And I the rather went, because I would not shrink at all their furies and clamours, and it came to such a height, as Petitions were given by Madam de Blanvile, that she might for the injuries done to her husband his Ambassador, have satisfaction upon our persons. But she was (as she deserved) despised for so passionate a folly, yet was it in consideration (as I suspect) by a word that the Queen Mother uttered in her passion to me, who with tears before all the World, being accompanied by all the Princesses and Ladies, told me, (but softly) That if your Majesty continued to affront, and suffer such indignities to be done to the Ambassador of the King her Son, your Majesty must look that your Ambassadors shall be used a la pareylie. I confess this stirred me so much, as I told her, That if the intentions of your Majesty were no better considered by the King here, your Majesty commanding us for the good and happiness of his Kingdom, to endeavour to bring, and give him (the which we have done) the greatest blessing in this World, Peace in his Country, then to be balanced with a person, that in requital hath stirred up, and daily desires to do it, disputes, and jars, even between your Majesty, and the Queen, we had reason to believe your Majesty most unjustly, and most unworthily requited. And it might take away upon any such occasion, the care, that otherwise you would have had to do the like. And for my part, it took from me all desire ever to be employed upon any occasion hither, where our Actions, that their acknowledgements have been acceptable but a few days past, are now of so little consideration, as we are of no more weight, than the unworthiest Minister that ever was employed. Upon that I found, she was sorry for having expressed so much. But this day we had from her a more favourable audience, and from the King the effects and circumstances of that which we have in our Dispatch presented unto my Lord Conway.  
Sir, the malice of this Blanvile is so great unto your worthy servant my Lord Duke, as he hath written a private Letter unto the King, the which I saw by the favour of a friend, that he is in a condition of danger to be ruined by the fury and power of the Parliament. And to confirm him in that opinion, hath sent all the passages amongst them that concern my Lord Duke; adding to that, of great factions against him at the Council Table, and naming some Lords, the which makes me see, he hath intelligence with all those, that he believes may contribute any thing towards the mischieving of him. But those that know the magnanimity and nobleness of your Majesty's heart, know that so noble a vessel of honour and service as he is, shall never be in danger for all the storms that can threaten him: when it is in your Majesty's hands not only to calm all these tempests, but to make the Sun, and beams of your favour to shine more clearly upon his deservings then ever, the which upon this occasion your courage and virtue will no doubt do, to the encouragement of all deserving, and excellent servants, and to his honour and comfort that is the most worthy that ever Prince had: And so affectionate, that the world hath no greater admirations, than the fortunes that the Master and servant have run together. And certainly our good God will ever preserve that affection, that in so many accidents, and one may say afflictions, hath preserved your Persons.  
Sir, this boldness, that I take, proceeds not from the least doubt these foolish rumours give me of changes, but out of a passionate meditation of those accidents, that your courage and fortune hath carried you through, blessing God for your prosperity, the which will be by his grace most glorious, and lasting, according to the prayers of  
Your Majesty's Most humble, and most obedient Subject, and servant, Holland. Parish 1/13. March, 1625.   

The Earl of Holland to the Duke.  
My dear Lord,  
THis Messenger is so rigid, and such an enemy to all Jantileise, as by him I will not send any news in that kind; but when the little Mercury comes, you shall know that which shall make you joy, and grieve that you cannot enjoy what your fate and merit hath so justly destined unto you. We have such daily alarms here out of England from Blanvile, of the beating of his servant, and at the last the danger, that of late he himself hath been in, of being assassinated in his own house; for the first word that his servant said unto the King, and the whole Court was, The Ambassador had run such a bazard of his life, as no man that heard him believed he had escaped with less than 5. or 6. wounds. Insomuch as your friend Bouteve asked, Fait un belle fine: And this hath so animated this Court, being (as your Lordship knows) apt upon all occasions to be fired, and ftirred up, as the King hath been moved to forbid us our entries, and liberties here. And yesterday Madam de Blanvile did openly petition the King to imprison us for the wrongs and injuries done unto her husband, and his Ambassador, that she feared was by this time dead. But that had no other effect but to be laughed at. I never (I confess) saw the Queen Mother in so much distraction and passion, for she never speaks of her Daughter but with tears, and yesterday with some heat and bitterness to me about it: the Circumstances I have taken the boldness to present unto his Majesty. That which distracts me infinitely, is to hear, that they do traduce you as the cause of all these misfortunes, and that you stir up the King to these displeasures. And so much impression it hath made into the Queen Mother, as this day at the audience she told me. That you had made the marriage, and were now, as she imagined, and was informed, resolved to destroy your work. I asked her what particularity could make her say, and believe so against the general, and continual actions and endeavours, that the whole world ought to be satisfied of your infinite care, and affection, to fasten and tie together a good, and constant intelligence and friendship between these Crowns. She told me, that you entreated Madam de St. George to do some service for you to the Queen, the which she did, and instead of giving her thanks, you threatened the sending of her away. I told her, Though I had as yet heard nothing of this particularity, yet I knew your nature to be so generous, as you would never do any action unjust. I told her, that she must distinguish between what you say as Commanded by the King, and what you say of yourself: for if it be his pleasure to make the instrument to convey his will upon any occasion of his displeasure, you are not to dispute, but to obey his Command in that, and in all other things. I told her farther, that I saw the continual malice of the Ambassador, that invents daily injuries and falsehoods of your Lordship, to unload himself from his insolences and faults; but I hoped that nothing should light upon your Lordship, but what you deserved, the which to my knowledge was more value and esteem, than any man in the world could, or can ever merit from this Kingdom. And I desired her, not to entertain the belief of these things too hastily, until we had news out of England, that we knew would contradict all these malicious discourses. And I must tell your Grace, that by a friend (whom I am tied not to name) I was showed the private Lettter that Blanvile wrote to the King, in the which he sent him the whole proceed of the Parliament; and concludes they will ruin you, naming great factions against you, and as it were a necessity to destroy you. But I hope he, and the whole world here will fall, before any misfortunes should fall upon so generous, and so noble a deserver of his Master, and so excellent a friend and Patron unto  
Your Grace's Most humble, and most obedient servant, Holland.  
Postscript.  
THough the Ambassador deserves nothing but contempt and disgrace as Blanvile, yet I hope as Ambassador he shall receive (for public Honours and accustomed respect to Ambassadors) all possible satisfaction, and it will be conceived a generous action.   

My dearest Lord,  
ALL the joy I have, hath such a flatness set upon it by your absence from hence, as I protest to God, I cannot relish it as I ought; for though beauty and love I find in all perfection and fullness, yet I vex, and languish to find impediments in our designs and services for you: first in the business, for I find our mediation must have no place with this King concerning a Peace. We must only use our power with those of the Religion, to humble them to reasonable Conditions, and that done, they would as far as I can guess have us gone, not being willing that we should be so much as in the Kingdom, when the Peace is made, for fear the Protestants may imagine, we have had a hand in it. For our Confederation, made by you at the Hague, they speak so of it, as they will do something in it, but not so really or friendly as we could wish. But for these things, you allow me, (I trust) to refer you to the general Dispatch: I come now to other particulars; I have been a careful Spy how to observe intentions, and affections towards you. I find many things to be feared, and none to be assured of a safe and real welcome. For the 
king  continues in his suspects, making (as they say) very often discourses of it, and is willing to hear Villains say, That 
the heart  hath infinite affections, you imagine which way. They say there is whispered amongst the foolish young Bravadoes of the Court, That he is not a good Frenchman that suffers 
anchor  to return out of France, considering the reports that are raised, many such bruits fly up and down. I have since my coming given Queen Mother by way of discourse occasion to say somewhat concerning your coming, as the other night when she complained to me, That things were carried harshly in England towards France; I then said, That the greatest unkindness and harshness came from hence, even to forbid your coming hither, a thing so strange, and so unjust, as our Master had cause, and was infinitely sensible of it. She fell into discourse of you, desiring you would respect, and love her daughter; and likewise that she had, and would ever command her to respect you above all men, and follow all your Counsels (the matter of her Religion excepted) with many professions of value and respect unto your Person; but would never either excuse what I complained of, or invite you to come upon that occasion, But though neither the business gives me cause to persuade your coming, nor my reason for the matter of your safety; yet know you are the most happy, unhappy man alive, for 
the heart  is beyond imagination right, and would do things to destroy her fortune, rather than want satisfaction in her mind. I dare not speak as I would, I have ventured I fear too much, considering what practices accompany the malice of the people here. I tremble to think whether this will find a safe conveyance unto you. Do what you will, I dare not advise you; to come is dangerous, not to come is unfortunate. As I have lived with you, and only in that enjoy my happiness, so I will die with you, and I protest to God for you, to do you the least service, etc.  
 
Postscript.  
HAve no doubt of the party that accompanied me, for he is yours with his soul, and dares not now (as things go) advise your coming.   

Mr. Lorkin to the Duke, the 30. of August, 1625.  
May it please your Grace,  
FRom an honest and truly devoted heart, to receive the sacrifice of most humble thanks, which come here offered for that excess of favour, which I behold in those gracious lines, that you are so nobly pleased to honour me withal; and which derive unto me farther, the height of all contentment, his Majesty's gracious acceptance of my poor endeavours; which howsoever they cannot shoot up to any high matter from so low an earth, yet (in their greatest force) are eternally vowed (with the price of my dearest blood) as to his Master's faithful service in the first place, so to your Graces in the next; who have received I doubt not ere this, what my former promised in the Savoyard Ambassadors behalf, and that as well from his own pen, as mine. But this State is very Euripus, that flows, and reflowes 7. times a day, and in whose ways is neither constancy, nor truth. The changes your Grace will find in my Letters to my Lord Conway, whereunto I therefore make reference, because I suppose, there will be but one Lecture thereof to his Majesty, and yourself.  
There in likewise your Grace will see a sudden commandment laid upon Mounsieur de Blanvile premire Gentilhome de la chambre du Roy speedily to provide himself to go extraordinary Ambassador into England. The cause thereof I rove at in my dispatch, taking my aim from two dark speeches to Queen Mother, and the Cardinal I have since learned the interpretation of the riddle, not from the Cardinal's lips (who yet being sounded by me, pretended a further end then Ville-aux-cleres had done, viz; to entertain good intelligence betwixt the Queen of England, and your Grace, and to do you all the best offices, and services that are possible;) but from the Duke de Chevereux, who (whatsoever pretexts may be taken) makes the true ends of that Voyage to be, first, to try whether this man can mend what (they conceive here) the Duke hath marred, in showing himself more a servant to the King of England, then to his own King and Master. Secondly, to spy and discover what he can; and (according as he shall find cause) to frame Cabals, and factions, whereunto he is esteemed very proper, being charactarized with the marks of a most subtle, prying, penetrating, and dangerous man.  
And therefore as an Antidote against the poison he brings, the Duke gives this Caveat aforehand, That every one keep close, and covert towards him, and avoid familiarity with him, though (otherwise) he wishes a kind and honourable entertainment.  
Thus much I received from the Dukes own lips yesternight; (Bonocil being witness, perhaps Counsellor of all that passed) he promised a memorial in writing this day, which I have attended till this evening, and even now receive it.  
I have not touched the least syllable hereof to my Lord Conway, because I think both your Graces, and the Duke de Chevereuxes will may concur in this, that these things be not subject to many eyes.  
Even now the Savoyard Ambassador sends an express Messenger unto me to hasten to Fountain Bleau. Perhaps it may be to facilitate the Treaty with Rochel, by either some Letter, or Journey of mine thither.  
But upon the conference I have had with the Duke de Chevereux, I shall temporise, till I hear his Majesty's pleasure, or see good evidences of generous effects like to ensue. Being desirous to shape my course so, as may be most acceptable to his Majesty, and pleasing to your Grace, whose virtues I adore, in quality of  
Your Grace's Most humble, most faithful, and most obedient servant, Tho. Lorkin.  
Postscript.  
THe Duke de Chevereux expects the cipher from your Grace, if I be not deceived.   

Mr. Lorkin to the Duke 17. September, 1625.  
May it please your Grace,  
TO read and consider two contrary advertisements; the one given me on Monday evening by des Porches, who repeating what he had told me before, (D'avoir destrompé la Royne mere en mil, et mil choses) assured me, that her thoughts were now so far changed from what they were, as she remitted every thing to his Majesty's pleasure to do what he list, (provided, that he attempted not upon the conscience of the Queen her Daughter, which was the only point she was tender in, and scrupulous) that she had written a very sharp Letter, full of good lessons, and instructions to her, that she had as clear a heart to your Grace, as was possible; had sent for Blanvil expressly to alter his instructions, and that howsoever he (like a hollow-hearted man) had uttered in confidence to a friend of his, That he would persuade the Queen of England to put on a reconciled countenance for a time, till the way should be better prepared to give your Grace a dead lift, yet the Queen Mother's intentions were assuredly sincere and good. The Savoyards Ambassadors voyage was not then resolved, but his Secretary prepared to make it in his room. Of whom Pocheres (by the way) gave this touch. That there was a great correspondence between Madamoiselle de Truges, and him (contracted upon occasions of frequent visits, that had passed betwixt her Mother, and the Ambassador) and that therefore a careful eye was to be had of him.  
Another (who must be nameless) sent for me yesterday in the forenoon to tell me, that Pere Berule's errand hither was only to make out-cries against the decree, or proclamation against the Catholics, and to accuse your Grace as the Principal, if not the only author, who was now of a seeming friend become a deadly foe. That the Earl of Arundel had (out of his respect unto this State) purposely absented himself, that he might not be guilty of so pernicious a Council. That your Grace and my Lord of Holland, had both but very slippery hold in his Majesty's affections; that if this King would employ his credit as he might, it would be no hard matter to root you both out thence, that there were good preparatives for it already, and that my Lords Arundel, and Pembroke would join hands and heads together to accomplish the effect. Whereupon Blainville was sent for back to be more particularly instructed in the ways how to compass it; and would speedily post away in diligence. The same party added, that the propositions which the marquis de Fiatt had made 'bout the League, and Fleet, were before Brule's arrival somewhat well tasted, but since slighted, as those, that became cheap (by their offer to divers others, as well as them) that the said marquis should have visited Blainville at Paris, and sounded him about his errand after this manner.  
First, whether he had order to disnestle Madam de St. George? Whereto the answer was, No; and that it was against all reason of State so to do; and when the other replied, that the world was come to a bad pass, if reason of State descended as low as her, Blainville remained silent.  
Secondly, whether he had commission to introduce the Duchess of Buckingham and the Countess of Denbigh into the Queen's bedchamber. Answer was made, that it was a nice, and tender point, and if that were once condescended to, they would be continually whispering in the Queen's ear, how dear she would be to the King her Husband, how plausible, and powerful among the people, how beloved of all, if she would change her religion, against which they were in conscience here bound to provide, and therefore conclude with a refusal of that likewise.  
Thirdly, whether he carried any good instructions about an offensive, or defensive league whereunto the negative was still repeated; but that he carried brave offers for the entertainment of Mausfelt. And when the marquis replied, that if that were all the contentment he carried, he feared she would find but a very cold welcome; the other added, that perhaps he might be an Instrument to make the Queen and Duke friends. This were good (quoth the marquis) if the Queen had not as much need of the Duke's friendship, as the Duke of hers, and upon these terms they parted. The same lips that utterred all this, gave caution likewise against the Savoyard Ambassador, as a cunning, deep, hollow-hearted man. And being felt by me, how his pulse beat towards Porcheres, told me he was a mercenary man, and no ways to be trusted. In the issue of all this, his Council was, That your Grace would consider well your own strength, and what ground you have in his Majesty's favour, If it be solid, and good, than a Bravado will not do amiss (may be powerful here, to make them to see their own error, and to walk upright) so it end with a good close: but if your station be not sure, than he Counsels to prevent the storm; for to break with all Spain, France, Puritans, Papists, were not wisdom; And desires that by any means you instantly dispatch a Currier to me to represent the true state of things at home, and how you desire matters should be ordered for your service here abroad, so that there may be fabriqued a more solid contentment to your Grace whose, hands I most humbly kiss in quality of  
Your Grace's Most humble, most faithful, most obeent, and most obliged Servant, Tho. Lorkin.  
Postscript.  
IF my stay be intended long, it will be necessary that I use a cipher, which I humbly beseech your Grace to send me, or to give me leave to frame one as I can.  
As I was closing up my Letter, Mr. Gerbier arrived, who hath been somewhat indisposed in his health by the way, but now is reasonably well God be thanked. His coming is very seasonable, and I assure myself will be useful.  
By the discourse, I have had with Mr. Gerbier, I see a little clearer into the state of things here, and think Porcheres his advertisement may be truer, as being perhaps grounded upon knowledge, the other springing only upon conjecture, built upon Berult's clamours, and overtures, and the sudden sending for Mounsieur Blanville back. Your Grace will see day in all shortly. But assuredly the latter advice comes from a heart that is affectionately devoted to your Grace's service. This Bearer will kiss your Grace's hands from the Author, and thereby you will know his name, which he stipulated might not come in writing   

The Lord Herbert to his Majesty.  
My most Gracious Sovereign,  
NOw, that, I thank God for it, his Highness according to my continual prayers, hath made a safe, and happy return, unto your Sacred Majesty's presence, I think myself bound by way of Complete obedience to these Commandments I received from your Majesty, both by Mr. Secretary Calvert, and my Brother Henry, to give your Majesty an account of that sense, which the general sort of people doth entertain here concerning the whole frame and Context of his Highness' voyage. It is agreed on all parts, that his Highness must have received much contentment, in seeing two great Kingdoms, and consequently in enjoining that satisfaction, which Princes, but rarely, and not without great peril, obtain. His Highness' discretion, diligence, and Princely behaviour every where likewise is much praised. Lastly, since his Highness' journey hath fallen out so well, that his Highness is come back, without any prejudice to his person, or dignity, they say the success hath sufficiently commended the Council. This is the most common censure (even of the biggest party, as I am informed) which I approve in all, but in the last point, in the delivery whereof I find something to dislike, and therefore tell them, that things are not to be judged alone, by the success, and that, when they would not look so high as God's providence, without which no place is secure, they might find even in reason of State, so much, as might sufficiently warrant his Highness' person, and liberty to return.  
I will come from the ordinary voice to the selecter judgement, of the Ministers of State, and more intelligent people in this Kingdom, who, though they nothing vary from the above recited opinion, yet as more profoundly looking into the state of this long treated of Alliance betwixt your Sacred Majesty, and Spain, in the persons of his Highness, and the Infanta, they comprehended their sentence thereof (as I am informed) in three Propositions.  
First, that the protestation which the King of Spain made to his Highness upon his departure, whereby he promised to chase away, and disfavour all those, who should oppose this marriage, doth extend no further, then to the said King's Servants, or at furthest, not beyond the temporal Princes, his Neighbours, so that the Pope being not included herein, it is, though his consent must be yet obtained, and consequently, that the business is in little more forwardness than when it first began.  
Secondly, that the Pope will never yield his consent, unless your Sacred Majesty, grant some notable privileges and advantage to to the Roman Catholic religion in your Sacred Majesty's Kingdoms.  
Thirdly, that the said King of Spain would never insist, upon obtaining those privileges, but that he more desires, to form a party in your Sacred Majesty's Kingdoms, which he may keep always obsequious to his will, then to maintain a friendly correspondence between your Sacred Majesty, and himself. I must not in the last place omit to acquaint your Sacred Majesty, very particularly, with the sense which was expressed by the bons Francois, and body of those of the Religion, who hearty wish, that the same Greatness which the King of Spain doth so affect over all the world, and still maintains even in this country, which is to be Protector of the Jesuited, and Bigott party, your Sacred Majesty would embrace, in being defender of our faith. The direct answer to which, though I evade, and therefore reply little more, then that this Counsel was much fit, when the union in Germany did subsist, then at this time? Yet do I think myself obliged to represent the affection they bear unto your Sacred Majesty. This is as much as is come to my notice, concerning that point, your Sacred Majesty gave me in charge, which therefore I have plainly laid open, before your Sacred Majesty's eyes, as understanding well, that Princes never receive greater wrong, then when the Ministers, they put in trust, do palliate and disguise those things, which it concerns them to know. For the avoiding whereof let me take the boldness to assure your Sacred Majesty, that those of this King's Council here, will use all means they can, both to the King of Spain, and to the Pope (In whom they pretend to have very particular interest) not only to interupt, but if it be possible to break off you Sacred Majesty's Alliance with Spain. For which purpose the Count de Tilliers hath strict command, to give all punctual advice, that accordingly they may proceed. It rests, that I most humbly beseech your Sacred Majesty to take my free relation of these particulars in good part, since I am of no faction, nor have any passion, or interest; but faithfully to perform that service; and duty which I own to your Sacred Majesty, for whose perfect health, and happiness, I pray with the devotion, of  
From Merton Castle the 31. of October, 1623. Still No. Your Sacred Majesties most obedient, most Loyal, and most affectionate Subject and Servant, Herbert.   

Mr. Edward Clark to the Duke.  
May it please your Grace,  
I Have been hitherto very unfit (by reason of my sickness) to give your Lordship any account of my time at Madrid. So that without your Lordship's favourable construction, I may be thought forgetful of the trust committed to my charge, and the rather, in that as yet your Lordship hath only heard what I have done, but not why. I presume I have faithfully followed the Prince's direction, and on such probable inducements, as will I hope both in your Highnesses and your Lordship's opinion plead my excuse at least. The very day the Prince arrived at St. Anderas, my Lord of Bristol, seeing me very weak, told me he was very sorry, I was not able to perform the journey for England, for that now there was an extraordinary occasion of a dispatch, not only in respect of the ratification come the night before; but because also they were almost come to a final conclusion of all articles, which were to be engrossed, and signed the next day. Hereupon I was inquisitive to know what assurance he had the Ratification was come: He answered, that, that very day, he had been summoned to attend the Junto, and that there they had earnestly pressed him, that the Articles might be speedily drawn up, and signed, since they had now received full warrant to authorise them to proceed; And that the next day was appointed accordingly. Thereupon unwilling to omit the present opportunity, conceiving withal the purpose of the Prince's Letter to be, either to express his Highness further pleasure before the meeting of the Junto, or to prevent the concluding of some other particular Article they might otherwise fall upon: I delivered his Letter to his Lordship (pretending it came to my hands amongst other Letters that same day) I found him exceedingly troubled in reading it, nor did he forbear to tell me, it must for a time be concealed; for he feared, if they should come to the knowledge of it they would give order to stay the Prince. Upon these motives, and in this manner I parted with it, wherein I humbly submitting myself to his Highness' Construction, I remain.  
Your Grace's humblest servant to command, Ed. Clark. Madrid, 1. Octob. 1623.   

Mr. Edward Clark to the Duke.  
My Lord,  
THe Infanta's preparation for the Disposorio was great, but greater sorrow (good Lady) to see it deferred. It hath bred in them all some distraction. The multitude know not what to conjecture, what to say, but cry Piden el Palatinato. They confess the demand just, but unseasonable, and do publish, that (the Disposorio passed) the Infanta on her knees should have been a suitor to the King to restore it, making it thereby her act, and drawing the obligation wholly to her. I must confess, I want faith to believe it, and the rather, because I see it reflect secretly, and maliciously upon your Lordship, who are made the author of all the impediments that happen, not by your enemies only, but by those that should suppress it. Which troubles me so much, that I hasten all I can my return, since I know no other than to be  
Your Grace's faithful servant, Edw. Clark. Madrid, 6. Sept. 1623.   

Sir Anthony Ashley to the Duke.  
May it please your good Lordship,  
IF any thing had happened worth your knowledge, I had either come or sent to Theobalds' in your absence, being ascertained that your Lordship had been already particularly informed of what passed in the Higher House betwixt the Earl of A. and the L. S. which is the only thing of note, and is thought will beget some novelty.  
Your Lordship may be most assured, that your Adversaries continue their meetings and conferences here in Holborn, how to give his Majesty some foul distaste of you, as making you the only author of all grievances and oppressions whatsoever for your private ends. And I hope to be able within few days (if promise be kept) to give you good overture of a mutual oath taken to this purpose amongst them.  
The rumour lately spread touching his Majesty's untimely pardon of the late Lord Chancellors Fine and Imprisonment, with some other favours intended towards him, (said to be procured by your Lordship's only intimation) hath exceedingly exasperated the rancour of the ill affected, which albeit it be false, and unlikely, because very unseasonably; It doth yet serve the present turn, for the increase of malice against you. I can but inform your Lordship of what I understand, you may please to make use thereof as yourself thinketh best.  
I most humbly entreat your good Lordship to keep Letters of this nature either in your own Cabinet, or to make Heretics of them: for I am well acquainted with the disposition of some Penmen in Court. Upon Message even now received of my poor Daughters sudden dangerous sickness, I am constrained unmannerly to post unto her, being the only comfort I have in this world, and do purpose God willing a speedy return. In the mean time, and even with my hearty prayer I commend your good Lordship to God's merciful and safe keeping.  
This 12th. of May, 1621. Your honourable good Lordships faithfully devoted, A. A.   

Sir Wa. Raleigh to the Duke, 12. Aug.  
IF I presume too much, I humbly beseech your Lordship to pardon me, especially in presuming to write to so great and worthy a person, who hath been told that I have done him wrong. I heard it but of late, but most happy had I been, if I might have disproved, that villainy against me, when there had been no suspicion, that the desire to save my life, had presented my excuse.  
But my worthy Lord, it is not to excuse myself that I now write: I cannot; for I have now offended my Sovereign Lord: for all past, even all the world, and my very enemies have lamented my, loss, whom now if his Majesty's mercy alone do not lament, I am lost. Howsoever, that which doth comfort my soul in this offence is, that even in the offence itself, I had no other intent than his Majesty's service, and to make his Majesty know, That my late enterprise was grounded upon a truth, and which with one Ship speedily set out, I meant to have assured, or to have died; being resolved (as it is well known) to have done it from Plymouth, had I not been restrained. Hereby I hoped not only to recover his Majesty's gracious opinion, but to have destroyed all those malignant reports which had been spread of me. That this is true, that Gentleman whom I so much trusted, (my Keeper) and to whom I opened my heart, cannot but testify, and wherein if I cannot be believed living, my death shall witness: Yea that Gentleman cannot but avow it, that when we came back towards London, I desired to save no other Treasure, than the exact description of those places in the Indies. That I meant to go hence as a discontented man, God I trust, and mine own Actions will dissuade his Majesty. Whom neither the loss of my estate, thirteen years' imprisonment, and the denial of my pardon could beat from his service, nor the opinion of being accounted a fool, or rather distract, by returning as I did, balanced with my love to his Majesty's person, and estate, had no place at all in my heart.  
It was that last severe Letter from my Lords for the speedy bringing of me up, and the impatience of dishonour, that first put me in fear of my life, or enjoying it in a perpetual imprisonment, never to recover my reputation lost, which strengthened me in my late, and too late lamented resolution, if his Majesty's mercy do not abound: if his Majesty do not pity my age, and scorn to take the extremest and utmost advantage of my errors: if his Majesty in his great charity do not make a difference between offences proceeding from a life-saving-natural impulsion, without all ill intent, and those of an ill heart; and that your Lordship, remarkable in the world for the Nobleness of your disposition, do not vouchsafe to become my Intercessor, whereby your Lordship shall bind an hundred Gentlemen of my kindred to honour your memory, and bind me for all the time of that life which your Lordship shall beg for me, to pray to God that you may ever prosper, and over-bind me to remain  
Your most humble servant, W. Raleigh.   

Sir Henry Yeluerton to the Duke, 15. March, 1623.  
May it please your Grace,  
MY humble heart and affection hath wrote many lines, and presented many Petitions to your Grace before this time, though none legible but one sent by my Lord Rochfort, within five days after your most welcomed arrival from Spain.  
I have learned the plain phrase of honest speech. My Lord, I have honoured your name long, and your own virtue much. I never found misfortune greater than this, that still sailing after you in all humble desires of duty, I was still cast behind you. I excuse nothing, wherein your Grace may judge me faulty, but will be glad to expiate my errors at any price.  
Your noble heart (I hope) harbours no memory of what did then distaste you. Your own merits which have so much ennobled you, will be the more complete, if I may but merit your forgetfulness of wrongs past. If I seek your Grace before I deserve it, enable me I beseech you to Deserve, that I may seek. If any, on whom you have cast your eye most, endear himself more to your service, than I shall; let me not follow the vintage at all. Till this day I feared the relish of sour Grapes, though I have sought you with many broken sleeps. But this Noble Earl, whose honour for this work shall ever with me be second to yours, hath revived me, with the assurance of your gracious pardon, and liberty to hope, I may be deemed your servant.  
I protest to God, it is not the affluence of your honour makes me joy in it, nor the power of your Grace, that trains me on to seek it, but let the trial of all your fortunes speak thus much for me, that I will follow you, not as Cyrus his Captains and Soldiers followed him, the one for spoil, the other for place: but if with safety to your Grace, though with peril to myself, I may serve you, let me die if I do it not, rather than want any longer, what my humble love ever led me to, and I still affect the honour  
To be yours, Henry Yeluerton.   

Sir John Eliot to the Dake, 8. Novemb. 1623.  
Right Honourable,  
With what affection I have served your Grace, I desire rather it should be read in my actions, than my words, which made me sparing in my last relation to touch those difficulties, wherewith my Letters have been checked, that they might the more fully speak themselves. I shall not seek to gloss them now, but as they have been, leave them to your Grace's acceptance, which I presume so noble, that scandal or detraction cannot decline it. It were an injury of your worth, which I dare not attempt, to insinuate the opinion of any merit by false colours, or pretences, or with hard circumstances to endear my labours, and might beget suspicion, sooner than assurance in your credit, which I may not hazard. My innocence I hope needs not these, nor would I shadow the least error under your protection. But where my services have been faithful, and not altogether vain, directed truly to the honour and benefit of your place, only suffering upon the disadvantage of your absence, I must importune your Grace to support my weakness, that it may cause no prejudice of your rights and liberties, which I have studied to preserve, though with the loss of mine own. My insistance therein hath exposed me to a long imprisonment, and great charge, which still increaseth, and threatens the ruin of my poor fortunes, if they be not speedily prevented. For which, as my endeavours have been wholly yours. I most humbly ceave your Grace's favour both to myself, and them; In which I am devoted  
Your Grace's thrice-humble Servant, J. Eliot.   

The Earl of Oxford to the Duke.  
My Lord,  
I Cannot but believe that I have had some undeserved ill offices done me unto your Lordship, otherwise I should not find this difficulty in being preferred, if not afore, at least equally in balance with my Accusers. It is common unto all men's understanding, that it is not the guilt of the accused, but the legal and just proceeding, which clears the King's honour, and this I do, and ever will acknowledge to have been held towards me. Neither was it ever known, that the King's Grace, the more it came sweetened with his favour, did lessen or diminish his honour, but rather seemed as a lustre to make his goodness shine brighter, and oblige the Receiver in a more strict Tye of gratitude. My Lord, it cannot wrong you to oblige me to your service, nor add reputation to you throw me upon Rocks. I appeal to the King, and your own Conscience, whether ever I have harboured any treasonable thoughts, either against his Majesty, or his issue, that should make me uncapable of receiving his grace, without imputation to those faithful and dutiful respects, with which I have ever served his Majesty; If it shall please him to line me out my path to death (the period whither we must all travel to) by imprisonment, I shall be far from repining at the sentence, but with all humbleness, will undergo it, and employ my heartiest prayers for the long continuance of his honour and happiness.  
I beseech your Lordship receive my Character of what I am, and have ever been towards you, not from Conjectures and reports of others, but from my own mouth, and actions. For yet I have reason to suspect your opinion of me, else sure I should have found better fruits of your power. I was always (as much as lay in me) desirous to outstrip, rather than come short of any in doing you service, and the same affections still remain with me, of the truth of which I pray you be confident.  
To this only I will add one request more, which is, That since your Lordship is pleased to mediate with his Majesty for my freedom, you will procure it so free from rubs, as that my obligation may be the greater, which I will ever willingly and faithfully pay unto your Lordship in all respects, like him, who truly is  
Your Lordships, etc. H. O.   

The Lady Purbeck to the Duke.  
My Lord,  
THough you may judge what pleasure there is in the conversation of a man in the distemper you see your Brother in; yet the duty I own to a husband, and the affection I bear him, (which sickness shall not diminish,) makes me much desire to be with him, to add what comfort I can to his afflicted mind, since his only desire is my Company. Which if it please you to satisfy him in, I shall with a very good will suffer with him, and think all but my duty, though I think every wife would not do so. But if you can so far dispense with the Laws of God, as to keep me from my Husband, yet aggravate it not by restraining from me his means, and all other contentments, but which I think is rather the part of a Christian, you especially ought much rather to study comforts for me, then to add ills to ills, since it is the marriage of your Brother makes me thus miserable. For if you please but to consider not only the lamentable estate I am in, deprived of all Comforts of a husband, and having no means to live of: besides falling from the hopes my fortune then did promise me, for you know very well I came no beggar to you, though I am like so to be turned off.  
For your own honour, and Conscience sake, take some course to give me satisfaction, to tie my tongue from crying to God, and the world for vengeance for the unworthy dealing I have received. And think not to send me again to my Mothers, where I have stayed this quarter of a year, hoping (for that my Mother said you promised.) order should be taken for me, but I never received penny from you. Her confidence of your Nobleness made me so long silent; but now believe me, I will sooner beg my bread in the streets to all your dishonours, than any more trouble my friends, and especially my Mother, who was not only content to afford us part of the little means she hath left her, but whilst I was with her, was continually distempered with devised Tales, which came from your Family, and withal lost your good opinion, which before she either had, or you made show of it; but had it been real, I cannot think her words would have been so translated, nor in the power of discontented servants Tales to have ended it.  
My Lord, if the great honour you are in, can suffer you to have so mean a thought as of so miserable a creature as I am, so made by too much Credulity of your fair promises, which I have waited for performance of almost these five years: And now it were time to despair, but that I hope you will one day be yourself, and be governed by your own noble thoughts, and then I am assured to obtain what I desire, since my desires be so reasonable, and but for mine own. Which whether you grant or no, the affliction my poor husband is in, (if it continue) will keep my mind in a continual purgatory for him, and will suffer me to sign myself no other, but  
Your unfortunate Sister, F. Purbeck.   

Dr. Donne to the marquis of Buckingham, 13th. Septemb. 1621.  
My most honoured Lord,  
I Most humbly beseech your Lordship to afford this rag of paper a room amongst your evidences. It is your evidence not for a Manor, but for a man. As I am a Priest it is my sacrifice of prayer to God for your Lordship; and as I am a Priest, made able to subsist, and appear in God's service by your Lordship, it is a sacrifice of myself to you. I deliver this paper as my Image; and I assist the power of any Conjurer, with this imprecation upon myself, that as he shall tear this paper, this picture of mine, so I may be torn in my fortune, and in my same, if ever I have any corner in my heart, dispossessed of a zeal to your Lordship's service. His Majesty hath given me a royal Key into your Chamber, leave to stand in your presence, and your Lordship hath already such a fortune, as that you shall not need to be afraid of a suitor, when I appear there. So that I protest to your Lordship, I know not what I want, since I cannot suspect, nor fear myself for ever doing, or leaving undone any thing by which I might forfeit that title, of being always  
Your Lordships, etc. J. D.   

Dr. Donne to the Duke.  
My Honoured Lord,  
ONce I adventured to say to the Prince his Highness, That I was sure he would receive a book from me, the more graciously, because it was dedicated to your Grace: I proceed justly upon the same confidence, that your Grace will accept this, because it is his by the same title. If I had not overcome that reluctation, which I had in myself of representing devotions, and mortifications to a young and active Prince, I should not have put them into your presence, who have done so much, and have so much to do in this world, as that it might seem enough to think seriously of that. No man in the body of story, is a full precedent to you, nor may any future man promise himself and adaequation to his precedent, if he make you, his. King's have discerned the seeds of high virtues in many men, and upon that Gold, they have put their stamp, their favours upon those persons: But then those persons have laboured under the jealousy of the future Heir; And some few, have had the love of Prince, and King, but not of the Kingdom, and some of that too, and not of the Church; God hath united your Grace so to them all, that as you have received obligations from the King, and Prince, so you have laid obligations upon the Church and state. They above, love you out of their judgement, because they have loved you: and we below, love you out of our thankfulness, because you have loved us. God's privy Seal is the testimony of a good conscience, and his broad-Seal is the outward bessings of this life. But since his Pillar of fire, was seconded with a Pillar of Cloud, and that all his temporal blessings have some partial Eclipses, and the purest consciences some remorses: so though he have made your way to Glory, Glory; and brought you in the arms and bosom, of his Vicegerent, into his own arms and bosom, yet there must come a minute of twilight in a natural death. And as the reading of the actions of great men, may assist you for great actions, so for this one necessary descent of dying, (which I hope shall be the only step of Lownes, that ever you shall pass by, and by that late) you may receive some Remembrances, from the Meditations and Devotions of  
Your Grace's Devoutest Servant, J. Donne.   

Sir John Hipsley to the Duke.  
My Noble Lord,  
I Find that all my Lord of Bristols actions are so much extolled, that what you command me to say is hardly believed. I will say no more in it, but leave the rest to Mr: Greihams, only this, that you have written much to the King in some man's behalf, and Mr. Gresley hath a 100 a year given him during his life, all which I think is without your knowledge; And Mr. Killigrew hath the like, that came for your sake after the other was granted. Mr. Greihams can tell you how that came. My Lord of Southampton hath offered his son to marry with my Lord Treasurer's Daughter, and tells him this reason, that now is the time he may have need of friends, but it is refused as yet; the event I know not what that will be.  
I have spoken to the King of all that you gave me in command, and he doth protest, that what he hath done, was merely for your sake, and indeed he is very careful of all your business, as if you were here yourself; but yet for Gods-sake make what haste you may home for fear of the worst. For the carriage of Captain Hall, I will not trouble you, till you come home, only this by the way, that my Lord Treasurer hath it; but upon what terms I know not nor indeed desire you should be troubled with it. Sir George Goring came home but this last night, and is gone to the Court, and desires to be excused for writing to you. My Lady Hatton, and my Lady Purbeck came home with him from the Hague.  
My Lord of Arundel hath not been at Court since the death of his son. I fear the news, that Charles Gleman did show you was true. For I can assure you marquis Hamilton was much troubled till I had spoken with him. There be some have done no good offices betwixt you. Pray have a care of the Letter, I mean the man Mr. Gleman did show you, and keep as many friends as you may. I have spoken with no man, but my Lord Keeper who is yours, or not his own as he swears. And Mr. secretary Conway is yours body, and soul; I never heard of the like of him, for he flies at all men, that be not yours. Here is much admiration, that they hear not from you, but I thank God, the King is not troubled at it, for I do assure him, that it is the better, that he hears not from you: for now he may be confident, that you keep your day in coming away, which doth much please him. I will write nothing of my own business, though there be nothing done in it, but do hope, that you will not see your Servant perish.  
If I be too tedious, I pray pardon me, it is my love that makes me so, and yet I have an humble suit unto you, which is to beg at your hands for patience; for now is the time to show it or never; for all the eyes of the world are upon you and this is the time to win Honour, and fame; and for Gods-sake carry the business with patience betwixt my Lord of Bristol, and you; for here be those that do laugh in their sleeves at you both. I beseech you let me hear from you, what you will command me, for I will do nothing (as near as I can) but what will give content: For you have that power in me, that you need but say, and it is done (if it lie in my power) so shall you ever command  
Your faithful, and obedient Servant, till death, Jo. Hipsley London 1. Septemb. 1623.   

Sir Dudley Carleton to the marquis of Buckingham.  
Right Honourable,  
BY the dispatch of the fourteenth of this present (which I sent by Jonson the Post) I advertised your Honour at large in the two several Letters of the occurrents of these parts, and therewith sent a copy of my second proposition which I made the day before in the Assembly of the State's General touching the business of Cleves, and Juliers in conformity to your Honour's Letters of the 30th. of the last.  
The answer thereunto was deferred until yesterday, and then brought me only by word of mouth from the States by Mounsieur Magnus of Zealand, and Mounsieur Zulestein of Vtrecht, and was to this effect, That the States having sent my former proposition of the third of December to their several provinces, from which this latter did differ in substance, save only in respect of the time for the restitution of the Towns, which was prolonged for the space of a month, all they could do according to the constitution of their government, was to send this my second proposition likewise unto their provinces, which they had done the day after I made the same, and until they receive more express order from their principals, they were to rest upon their former answer. Wherein they declared their good intentions to accommodate this business, so it might be with safety to themselves, and satisfaction of their neighbours. And herein they were to expect the resolution of the Elector of Brandenbergh, from whom the time did not yet serve, to know his mind. Mean while they humbly beseech his Majesty to make a gracious construction of their proceed.  
I was the day before with Mounsieur Barnevelt, (who is Precedent this week) to solicit their answer, who excused himself upon the smallness of their number, many of the States being absent, and of two Provinces all the Deputies: So as to give a determinate resolution according as was required, they could not: And to make answer in general terms, since his Majesty rested not satisfied with the former, he doubted another of the same kind would not please him. So as it seems this Message in place of an answer in writing, proceeded of his Council.  
By discourse both with him, and those which came unto me, upon this subject, I find their diffidence of the purpose of the Spaniard rather increased then otherwise, upon the news of Levies intended on the Archduke's side, to the number of 9000 foot, and 1000, or 1200 horse; and their delay in taking a determinate resolution, no way dissuaded, but rather counselled by all other Princes, who have interest in this business. Their Ambassador at Paris having advertised them by reiterated Letters, That Don Pedro di Sarmientoes his offer to his Majesty touching the execution of the Treaty of Zanten is absolutely disavowed by both the Kings of France and Spain. And this French Ambassador Mounsieur du Maurier, having made it appear unto them, that at Brussels they have the same conceit of it, as a thing done without authority. Besides, the Princes of the Union have written lately express Letters to the States, wherein they persuade them to extraordinary vigilance upon the Spaniards, and particularly in this business of Cleves, and Juliers, the translated Copies of which Letters, I send your Honour herewith. And the Prince of Brandenbergh being young himself, and having his Council divided in opinion, doth nothing absolutely without reference to this State, and he when I put them in mind, how they themselves were the authors and framers of the Treaty of Zanten, they stick not to say plainly, Temporamutantur, et nos: so as I am daily more and more confirmed in my former opinion, That there is no way left to accommodate this business, but by a private agreement between the Prince's Pretendents. But Strickius, the Agent of Brandenbergh, being absent at Cleves, I do not hear how this Negotiation proceeds.  
Amongst the particularities which passed in discourse between Mounsiour Maguns, and myself, I insisting upon restitution of the Towns, as the means to prevent an imminent war upon the quarrel, He asked to whom they should restore them, unless the Princes were agreed, and that they might know, which of the Princes should receive him, and whom they should have for their neighbour. Whereby it appears, this course will on this side remove all difficulties.  
It is advertised hither, by Mounsieur Langrack, the State's Ambassador at Paris, that the apprehension they had in the Court, to have this business ended without the French Kings intervention, caused Mounsieur de Refuges to be summoned to make an other journey expressly hither, in regard he had formerly the managing thereof, Notwithstanding that Mounsieur de la Nove was already named for this extraordinary Embassage: But Refuges excusing himself upon his indisposition, sent all his memorial of what passed, when he was here in the treaty of Zanten, with his private opinion upon the whole matter to serve as an instruction to la Nove.  
By the other Letters of the 28. of this present Still No. Mounsieur Langrack hath given this State many important advertisements, as first, that he hath obtained of the French Kng a continuance of the succours of the 3. Regiments of foot, and 2. Troops of horse of that Nation for one year longer, notwithstanding the opposition of the Spanish, and Arch-duke's Ambassadors, who advised the recalling of them upon occasion of the present troubles in France. That there is order given and assignation for 120000 Crowns towards the arrearages of their pay. That a resolution is taken in that Court by the advice of the new Counsellors, contrary to the opinion of the old, to prosecute the Princes by war, and maintain the King's authority henceforward by force. That to this effect the King desires the State should perform their promises of sending towards the river of Bordeaux 5. men of war. That he likewise requires of them in conformity of the last treaties betwixt the Crown, and this Stat, an assistance of men to the number of the French, which are here in service, under some good Commander; But the French themselves, the King will not have, for fear, when they shall come into France, of their revolting to the Princes. That he demands free passage through these Countries down the Mause, and the Rhine of 3000. Soldiers, with their arms, which are leaived by the Count John Giacomo Belioyosa in Lukeland, and thereabouts, and shipping to transport them into France.  
All these particulars were moved unto him (as he writes) by the Marshal de Anchre, to which he adds, That the King is so much incensed against the Duke of Bovillon, for seeking to this State for protection, by these Letters whereof I advertised your Honour in my last, that there is a resolution taken to declare him Criminel de less Majestate.  
These Grants are so scanty (the continuance of the French Troops in the service of the State, being but for a year only, and the payment of them arriving only to the tenth part of what is already due) that they here interpret them to proceed from the Marshal de Aucre Pour tenir (as they say) le be en Leave, and the demands are so large and extravagant, that they are thought iniquum petere, ut aequum ferant; Whereby on the one side to keep this State in devotion to the French King, and on the other to prevent the like requests of the Princes: for there is small appearance, they will give passage to so many men through their Countries armed, and commanded by an Italian, who hath born arms against them, and is married into the Arch Duke's Country. And when it comes to question of sending forces of their own thither, it is like they will find as good excuses for that point, as they have hitherto done for the sending of the ships, now three months since promised, and still solicited: For howsoever the chief Persons here have been long particularly interested and engaged (as your Honour knows) by near dependence on this Crown, I find them of late very much alienated in consideration that it is so much governed by Spain, which in the end they apprehended will turn to the ruin of this State.  
In France they are jealous of this coldness, and have of late expostulated the matter with Mounsieur Langrack, as if they here did incline to the Princes, there being, a bruit raised in Paris, that Count Maurice would go in Person to their assistance; whereof the Queen Regent was very sensible; but I do not find here, that there was any ground for that report.  
Here hath been lately a fame spread, and nourished by such as desire to weaken the correspondence betwixt his Majesty and this State, that his Majesty is in near terms of matching our Prince with Spain. Which report is now the more credited, by an adviso out of Spain from a secret Minister, this State entertains, under colour of soliciting Merchants causes. That this match hath been there, by order of the King of Spain debated in the inquisition, and judged necessary in regard it would serve for introduction of Popery into England.  
This I find to be the Remora of my chief affairs with this State, my pressing the restitution of the Towns in Cleves and Juliers being thought by many of these jealous people to hang on this thread, as a thing very acceptable, and agreeable at this time to the King of Spain, and much advantageous in this present conjuncture to his affairs; and my insisting upon sending of Commissioners to his Majesty in the business of our Merchants, they apply the same way, as if the opinion which would be conceived of this Embassage, (howsoever Merchants affairs were pretended, the chief intent was to play Davus in Comaedia) should according to the use of Nitimur in Vetitum, rather kindle, then quench the desire of the Spaniard, and draw the match to a more speedy conclusion.  
At my last being with Mounsieur Barnevelt, I did expostulate the States delay of sending Commissioners to his Majesty upon this occasion, as neither answereth to Sir Noel Caron's word and promise to his Majesty, nor to that, which from his mouth, I did advertise your Lordship of the State's inclination in general, and the resolution in particular of those of Holland. To which he answered me, That with much difficulty and opposition, he had obtained the assent of Holland, and that now the matter rested with Zealand, but he doubted, that his Majesty's restoring the old Company of Merchants, would make a stay of any farther proceeding, as now less requisite, howsoever, that Sir Noel Carone had advertised, that notwithstanding this change, he thought the sending of Commissioners very necessary.  
The Questions here about Religion, rest in the same state as I advertised your Lordship in my last, the Assembly of Holland being separated until the end of February still. no. when they are to meet again. Mean while a provisional order is taken, that the Contra-Remonstrants shall continue their preaching in our English Church, which they have accommodated with Scaffolds, to make it more capable of their number.  
There was much question in this Assembly, whether his Excellency should be present, or no: but in the end he was called by the major part of voices, contrary to Mounsieur Barnevelt's opinion, and his authority over-swayed the matter in favour of the Contra-Remonstrants for the continuance of their preaching, which it was proposed to hinder by some violent Courses.  
By example of this place, there is the like provisional order taken for preaching at the Brill, and Rotterdam, and certain of the Burghers are established in Tergow, who were put from their Trade and Commerce, for their expostulating with the Magistrate upon this quarrel.  
I have been spoken unto by divers particular persons well affected in this cause, to procure a Letter from his Majesty to his Excellency, whereby to comfort and encourage him in his Zeal for the maintenance of the true doctrine, and the professors thereof, against these novelists and their opinions. Which I most humbly refer to his Majesty's wisdom, (in case he judge this office necessary) whether it be fit to be done by Letter or Message, the former of which, will be of greater virtue, but the latter less subject to cross construction of the Arminian faction, which your Honour knows how potent it is here amongst those who have chief rule in this State. Thus I humbly take leave, ever resting  
Your Lordship's most faithfully to be commanded, Dudley Carleton. Hague this 24. Febr. 1616. Still. Vet.   

Sir Dudley Carleton to the Duke of Buckingham.  
My most honourable Lord,  
IMmediately upon receipt of your Lordship's Letter concerning Sir John Ogle, I moved the Prince of Orange not only for his leave for Sir John to go into England, but likewise for his Letters of recommendation, whereby to give your Lordship subject, upon some such testimonies of his Excellencies good satisfaction, to set him upright in his Majesty's favour, both which he granted unto me: though against the first, he alleged the absence of all the English Colonels; and touching the latter, he called to mind old matters; which notwithstanding (upon what I undertook for Sir John's future intentions) he was content to forget. I did once again upon Sir John's instance, put his Excellency in mind of his dispatch, wherein I found no difficulty. Since I find Sir John hath changed his purpose of going, and his excuse will be made at his entreaty by his Excellency, who hath since let me know, Though he would not deny me his leave, yet he is better content (in regard he is so slenderly accompanied with Colonels, in a time when the State hath need of their service with his stay. So as Sir John hath the obligation to your Lordship of a favourable recommendation, and for his not prevailing himself of his leave when it was granted, I must leave to himself to render a reason. For my part, having accomplished what I find by your Lordship's Letter, to be agreeable both to his Majesty's pleasure, & your Lordships, I thought it my duty to advertise. That there is an ancient difference between Sir Horacio Vere, and Sir Edward Cecyl, about the extent of their Commands; whereupon followeth a great inconveniency to the dishonour of our Nation, (which as it appears when they were last in the field before Reez) are divided hereby, and march, and lodge in several bodies, and quarters. Much endeavour hath been formerly used in these parts to reconcile them, but all in vain, by reason of some ill Instruments, who wrought upon both their discontents to set them farther asunder. Now, they are both in England, and are both written for, to come over; It were a work worthy of your Lordship to make them understand one another better, and what they will not yield to of themselves, to overrule by his Majesty's authority. I may not conceal from your Lordship, that I am entreated by the Prince of Orange himself to do this office, both with his Majesty, and your Lordship, wherein he would not be seen himself, because having dealt between them fruitlessly heretofore, he doubteth of the like success now. But when their agreement shall be made, he will acknowledge his obligation to your Lordship, and for the better proceeding therein, I sent your Lordship a Copy of an order formerly set down betwixt them, with the translate of Sir Horacio Vere's Commission, (both which I had of his Excellency) and likewise the beginning, and proceeding of their difference, as I have collected the same in brief out of other men's reports.  
The projects I sent your Lordship with my last, of a West-Indian Company having been proposed to the States of Guelderland for their ratification (who have the leading voice in the Assembly of the States general, end were ever least forward in that business) hath thus far their allowance, that they will concur therein with the rest of the Provinces. But withal I do understand, they have given their Deputies secret charge not to give way thereunto, in case they find it prejudicial to the Truce. Which makes the matter evident, that the project of the Company (though it be never so advanced) will stand or fall, according to the proceeding of the Truce. The expiration whereof approaching so near, and here being advertisements from Paris, that a French Gentleman one Belleavium (who was lately employed hither to the Prince of Orange about the difference betwixt him, and the Prince of Conde) had secret instructions to sound the States, how they stood affected to the renewing thereof. I have used all diligence to know how far he went; and am well informed, he hath done nothing therein of Consideration: only this past between him, and his Excellency.  
He telling his Excellency from Mounsieur Desdiguieres, and some of the French Kings Council, how acceptable the extraordinary Embassage intended from hence will be in that Court and thereupon persuading a speedy embracing the opportunity.  
From whence (said his Excellency after his round manner) cometh this alteration?  
To speak plainly (said he) they fear in France you will renew the Truce without them, and therefore by your Ambassadors, they would interpose themselves.  
Here are good advertisements both from Brussels and Paris, that the Spaniards intent is not to renew the Truce, but to have a Peace proposed with these plausible conditions; That the King of Spain will pretend nothing in the Regiment of these United Provinces, nor require any thing of them in the point of Religion, but leave all in terms as it now stands, with recognition only of some titular Sovereignty, which he cannot in honour relinquish.  
This is already proposed to France, as a glorious work to establish a settled Peace in these parts of the world, but with this condition, That if it be not embraced here, than France shall refuse to give this State any further support, or countenance, of which it is here believed, that Spain hath already obtained a firm promise in that Court. And that either the like overture is already made, or will be within few days to his Majesty.  
Under which doth lie hidden many mysteries much to the advantage of the Spaniard, and prejudice of this State: for the very proposition of a new Treaty will distract them here very much, in regard of their unsettledness, and aptness upon any dispute to relapse into faction, besides many Considerations of importance belonging properly to the Constitution of their Government, but the acceptation of the old, by renewing of the Truce upon the former terms, for so many years, more, or less, as shall be thought fitting, will (in my poor opinion (which notwithstanding is not slenderly grounded) take place, without much difficulty. The importance of this business, hath made me give your Lordship this trouble, and your Lordship may be pleased to let his Majesty understand as well that little as is done by Mounsieur Belleavium, as what they here conceive to be further intended by the Spaniard. So I most humbly take leave, ever resting  
Your Lordship's Most faithful servant, Dudley Carleton. Hague this 10th. of June, 1620.   

Sir Dudley Carleton to the Duke.  
Most Honourable,  
NOt to give your Lordship the trouble of often Letters, I render an account of his Majesty's Commandments by the same hand I usually receive them. One I had lately by an express Letter from his Majesty, accompanied with another from your Lordship, touching my Lord of Buckleugh, to demand full satisfaction of the States, for all his Lordship's pretensions, and to that effect to procure Instructions and Commission to be sent to Sir Noel Carone to end this business.  
To which effect I have moved both his Excellency and the States, and whilst they were treating thereof, Colonel Brogue arrived here out of Scotland: with whom they are now handling to put him to Pension, and to give my Lord the Command of his Regiment in lieu of his Pretensions. Which when they come to calculate, my Lord will find a short reckoning of them, and to send accounts out of their accountants hands, and refer them to others, they will never be moved.  
Wherefore if the course they now take can be gone thorough with (which Colonel Brogue doth most unwillingly hear of) it will be then in my Lord's choice, whether he will remain satisfied, or not. And within few days I hope to return my Lord's Secretary with advertisement of what is done. Mean time I assure your Lordship nothing is omitted in my endeavours to procure him that, which may be most to his contentment.  
In the present condition of public affairs, your Lordship knoweth well how at this instant we have all buone Parolle out of Spain, and Cattivi-fatti of all the rest of the House of Austria. In so much as these low-country Troops under the governance of the Infanta, assist in the blocking up of a poor town, all which remains of his Majesty's only Daughters Jointure in the Palatinate. And the Emperor not content with having chased her Husband out of the Empire, in the Proposition of the Diett of Ratisbone, makes this one Article, to make war upon these Provinces, because (amongst other quarrels) they give refuge to the Prince Palatine. Where will this persecution cease? And what place in the world to which they are driven from hence (and is easily guessed in all their extremity, whither they will be forced to fly) is not subject to the same quarrel? within this week that I now write (betwixt Sunday, and Sunday) we were here in that state, if God had not prevented it, this Country had been too hot for them to remain in, and it had been a happiness for them, if they could have got a poor skeveling boat to have transported them elsewhere. This Bearer my Nephew will inform your Lordship more particularly thereof.  
Now, de agendis, there rests no more, than question of maintaining the Army of Mansfelt, and Brunswick, which is lodged at the present in a place, out of which, it can hardly match, and more hardly be removed. If it have pay, and countenance, it may do good service in Germany; if not, I will tell your Lordship what I conceive may be the consequence. It will be hedged into East-Friseland by Tillie, (whose Troops already draw that way) Cordova and Anholt, against which keeping itself within that Country, it will be able to make resistance, as the poor Peasants thereof did heretofore against the Spanish Army, by reason of the difficulty of access. From this State it will have all assistance, and though it be kept in by land, it will have the Sea open betwixt Griett and Norden, (both which places are in Mansfelts possession) a Haven fit for a Fleet of Galleons. If by that means they, with correspondency with this State may support themselves, it will be very ill for many important consequences. If they and this State, (which will be forced to run a fortune together) be overcome, much worse; for what can keep the rest of Europe from subjection to the Austriaci? We see how in Terra firma, the Walloons joined to Spaniards, both make and maintain their Conquests. Join the Hollanders to them by Sea, they will reap the like service by them. The fruit we have reaped heretofore of the shipping of these Provinces, both for defence in the year 88 and offence in the Cadiz journey, showeth what a strong addition this is to a greater power.  
My most honourable Lord, I am so full of such like speculations, that these have broken out ex Plentitudine Cordis, surcharged with grief to see in Plenitudine temporis, that to come to effect in the public affairs which was discovered long since, by the Emperors in tercepted letters sent by the Capuchin into Spain, and to hear the judgement made every where, that the public opposition of the Spanish Ambassador (D'Ognates) words to the Emperor's proceeding the facto, is but a patelinage, with secret understanding to abuse his Majesty's goodness. Of which it lieth yet in his Majesty's power to vindicate himself; but there is no time to spare. I humbly crave pardon for this liberty of discourse I use with your Lordship, who am  
Hague, 31. Jan. 1622. Your Lordships, most humble, and most faithful Servant, Dudley Carleton.   

Sir Dudley Carleton to the Duke.  
Most Honourable,  
I Observe in such Letters from the Prince elector to her Highness, with the sight of which, she is pleased sometimes to favour me, a misunderstanding betwixt him, and his Uncle the Duke of Bovillon, who groweth weary of his Guest, doubting least in his Consideration some danger may be drawn upon his Town of Sedan; And the jealousy the Prince conceiveth, what may be done with him in case of a Siege; (against which, that is no place to make long resistance) besides the discomforts of living in another man's house, and being ill looked on, makes him wish himself any where else; but chief here, where he is as much desired, as miss by her Highness, his children, and Family: And where the Prince of Orange, and the States (apprehending very well his present danger, and incommodity) will give him very willingly his wont welcome. Your Lordship may be pleased to make thus much known to his Majesty: And if your Lordship can so dispose of the matter, that with his Majesty's good liking, he may return hither again, I know nothing your Lordship can do more agreeable to her Highness, though she doth wholly submit her affections and desires to his Majesty's pleasure.  
The wars were never warmer than they are already, and now likely more and more to kindle in these parts: The Siege of Ostend, by those which were present there and are now in Berghem, being esteemed sport in comparison of the fury is used in disputing the outworks of that Town. Where on Monday last in the night an assault was given, and maintained six hours by the Spaniards upon a half Moon kept by the Dutch on the North side; out of which they were three several times repulsed, with the loss of betwixt 3. and 400 men of their best, and on this side under 40. All that they gained being (after the same manner as their former attempt on the other side wherein Colonel Hynderson was slain) to lodge in the foot of the work. Two of our old Captains, Sir Michael Everard, and Lovelace (hurt in that, and the like assault given on that side within few days after) are both dead of their wounds within these two days. One at Dort, the other at Rotterdam, whither they were retired to be cured: which is imputed by the Surgeons to some malignity is used to the bullets: but that is not to be believed amongst Christians, yet I have seen some brought hither shot by the Enemy, sufficient to break all quarter.  
We shall have now questionless many and sharp encounters in the field; Count Mansfelt being on his way hitherwards with his Army, much weakened during his abode in the Frontiers of France; but of strength sufficient to march through the open Countries of Henault, and Brabant. Which course he takes directly with intention to come to Breda. And where by computation, he should be by Monday, or Teusday next at the farthest, unless he be overtaken by Don Conzales de Cordova, or met with by the Count Henric Vandenbergh, or the marquis Spinola, in any of which there is small appearance. Cordova going forward at leisure with 16. pieces of Canon, and the 18th. of this present, when Mansfelt passed a bridge at Marpent over the Sambre in Henault (which was the only passage of difficulty, and that as our advertisements here say, he crossed without resistance) being some hours March behind him, who having three field pieces only, and small store of baggage, and in effect his whole Army on horseback, may make great expedition.  
If Vandenbergh stir, he will be followed by the Prince of Orange. And the marquis Spinola cannot go strong enough to encounter him without raising his Siege at Berghen, which though he should do, the Campaigne is large enough, and Mansfelt lightly laden to take, and leave at pleasure, it being in his power, (if his way to Brdea be stopped) to fall down towards such places, the State hold in Flanders.  
The States furnish him with 6000 Florins for the time of three months, they entertain him and his Army. In which space, the service they hope to draw from him, is, the raising the Siege of Berghen, by cutting off the Convoys betwixt Antwerp, and the Spanish Leaguer, which can no longer continue in the place it now remains, than it can keep the way of Antwerp open, by which only their victuals and Munition is conducted.  
This time of three months expired, there is small appearance of longer entertainment of Mansfelt by this State, who doth then purpose to retire to the Duke Christien of Brunswick's old Quarter at Lipstadt: Where they intent to winter their Army, and augment the same against the next Spring, to return again into Germany, if the Peace of those parts be not concluded, or some mischance do not happen in the mean time. Which resolution of theirs, for such it is (as I am very well informed) deserves the more to be cherished, by how much the more disrespect is showed his Majesty's Ambassador in the Palatinate, by burning and spoiling her Highness' Jointure even in his view, (as Don Gonzales did whilst he remained in those parts) and since besieging his Majesty's Garrison Heidelbergh; before which place, we understand here by Letters of the 14th. from Frankford, that Baron Tillie began his approaches the 12th. of this present.  
I have not heard what is the issue of Captain Brett's business, but hope the best. Colonel Hynderson's Regiment was given upon the first news of his death to Sir Francis Hynderson by the Prince of Orange, with which the States are much displeased, as contrarying their Act. And I have lamented myself to them, as a wrong done my Lord of Buckleugh, and his Majesty, in his behalf: which they promise me to repair, as they possibly may be able. And I press them to it by those means which your Lordship will find contained in an abstract of a Letter I wrote lately to his Excellency, chief to this purpose.  
Her Highness having received a fair Present from the Prince her Brother, doth render his Highness' thanks by the enclosed. I know not so great a Lady in the world, nor ever did, (though I have seen many Courts) of such natural affections: An obedient Daughter; A loving Sister; And a tender Wife, whose care of her Husband doth augment with his misfortunes.  
Your Lordship cannot therefore show your care of her more, then by bringing them again together with the soon. Of which I beseech your Lordship, that with the soon I may know what hope there is, and that (if your Lordship please) by Mr. Ashburnham, whose return with a favourable dispatch is daily expected. Thus I most humbly take leave,  
Your Lordship's Most humble, and most devoted Servant, Dudley Carleton. Hague 23. August, 1622.   

Sir Dudley Carleton to the Duke.  
May it please your Grace,  
THe general knowledge the Queen of Bohemia received from your Grace, by my Nephew, of the disposition of our affairs at home, since his Highness, and your Graces return out of Spain, upon the true understanding you have bred in his Majesty of the Spanish proceed, being more particularly both for the state of the matter, and the manner fit to be held here in disposing these men to such overtures as are necessary, expressed unto me by Sir George Goring with special caution of secrecy and celerity.  
I have thought fit to set down at large (whilst it is fresh in my memory) an opportunity as properly given unto me this day by the Prince of Orange, who is the only person of power and confidence we have here to treat withal) as I hope your Grace will judge it seasonably taken.  
And that was an occasion of business concerning a mutiny at Breda, which drew the Council of State, (where I have my Scance) to the States general, with whom we found the Prince. That business ending in good time, gave him a long hours leisure with me afterwards in his Garden, which he himself desired of me, because somewhat was farther to be digested betwixt us concerning the English Troops, which shown themselves most in this Mutiny: And hereupon the consideration of the necessity of this State, and impossibility of giving their Troops full contentment, gave us subject of further discourse, both of the means of better payment they have here at home, and the helps they might conceive from abroad, which making appear unto me to be coldest from England, as long as our Match with Spain is still in treaty, he asked me bluntly (after his manner), Qui at'il de vostre Marriage? I told him, it was now at a stay upon this point, That the restitution of the Palatinate must be first concluded. And that the Queen of Bohemia was not only well comforted with this assurance, but pleased herself with a further conceit, that the opportunity was never fairer for this State to regain the King her Father's favour, and return to the ancient support of his Crowns, which by the way of gratitude for her good usage, since she had her refuge into these parts, she could not but admonish his Excellency of, and advise him not to let it slip. This he did not so suddenly lay hold of, as not first to cast many misdoubts, as if the alienation were too great, and his Majesty too much wedded in affection, if not in Alliance to new friends, to be so soon reconjoyned to his old, as their necessities did require.  
Here I took occasion to play my own Part, and to remember unto him how things had passed within the compass of my experience from the beginning; letting him know what friendship his Majesty had showed this State, in the making their Truce; what sincerity in rendering their Cautionary Towns according to contract, when they were demanded; what affection in supporting their affairs during their late domestic disputes; what care in settling our East-Indian differences: finally, what Patience in conniving at all the misdemeanours, and insolences of their Seamen, without seeking revenge.  
And hereupon concluded, that I found them here in the same error as men are, which put first from Land to Sea, and believe the Land passes from them, not they from the Land, in that the Alienation, which hath long been nourished betwixt his Majesty and this State, sprang originally from them.  
First, by Barnevelt and his faction of Arminians carrying the State to new Alliances, with the Hans-Townes, and otherwise by themselves, refusing so much as the knowledge of them to my Predecessor in this place, Sir Ralph Wynwood, with much scorn, and contempt.  
Next, by a harsh and peremptory stile, used in all we had then to do with them, savouring rather of Pride and presumption, than any due respect or desire of friendship.  
Lastly, by a precipitate course taken at Sea by their ships of war and Merchants against his Majesty's Subjects, making prize of some, shouldering others out of their places of trade, and entering in the East-Indies into open hostility, avowed by a public Act of the State's General. This ill course begun and pursued for some year's continuance, breeding a deserved distaste in his Majesty on this side; and on the Spanish part fair overtures of friendship, being continually made, and confirmed by the tender of a Match of a potent Prince, None can marvel that his Majesty did embrace the same, unless it should be expected of him, that for love of this State how ill soever deserving, he should lend a deaf ear to all other friendships, that did not concur with the interest of this State. And the remembrance of these things not being so old as to be worn out, they might here very well conceive, that the suspicion of Alienation and disaffection, is as strong on our side for their giving the cause of our leaning another way, as on theirs for the effect which hath since followed. And now the cause is removed, the effect may possibly cease in like manner, if we may have good assurance, that breaking with our new friends upon the occasions now presented, we might fasten after the wont manner with an old: and the King be satisfied in such doubts, he may upon good reason cast, and know certainly what to trust to. To this conclusion he answered (confessing first their many obligations to his Majesty, both for his favour, and sufferance,) that nothing could be more certain, than the affection of this State to a Prince embracing their cause of opposition to Spain. And if his Majesty could take that resolution, he might dispose of them, their lives and their fortunes. I told him, that more (in a case of this importance, when there was question of alteration of the whole course of a great Princes affairs) would be required then bare professions and protestations, and the rather, because he knew I was not ignorant, how many Billets, and Papers have been heretofore brought hither by 
* An old Popish Gentlewoman of this town, who by passport on both sides trots so often to and fro betwixt this and Brussels, (where she hath private access to the Infanta) that she is known by the title of la Maquerelle de la Trefue.  Madam Serclaus, and others, tending to Truce, or peace, and how much such a matter was thirsted after by their Frontier Provinces, which being free for them to take, or leave, after their own humours, it was not likely his Majesty would discharge them of their burden, to pull it upon his own Shoulders; But to enter into the common cause of defence, and add a powerful hand in supporting them, might be faisable, in the present conjuncture, upon good assurance, he should never be left single in the quarrel. Whereunto he answered, that true it was, the woman I named, and divers others, had been tampering heretofore about such Treaties, & that he had continually put their Papers into his Pocket, and so suppressed (them with consent of some of the States, of whom he was most confident) lest such propositions, being brought into their public Assemblies, might have driven them into distraction, and dispute one with another according to their several affections, either to Peace, or War, and thereby slacken their Contributions, wherewith they pay their Army, and by consequence expose them to the mercy of the enemy.  
And that this course of his being finally discovered by the Merquesse Spinola, and Peckius, their purpose now was (as he is privately advertized from Brussels) to steal over some person hither by the usual means of Passports for Merchants and Travellers, to make some such like Proposition at the several Assemblies of the States of these united Provinces: which it should be his study to prevent, because of the mischief may be bred thereby amongst them; And this he assured me for conclusion, That as their affections and affairs now stand, nothing but despair can bring these Provinces to Peace, or Truce with Spain.  
To this I yielded, but said, That was not enough because of such changes, to which the world was daily subject. Neither did Queen Elizabeth undertake their protection upon such bare presumptions, wherefore some further assurance must be thought on; which he consented unto, as a thing requisite on both sides, and joined issue with me in this point, That when the King would be to this State, as Queen Elizabeth was; this State would be to him, as it was to Queen Elizabeth.  
This being opus unius diei, not unlike the first day of the Creation of the world in distinguishing light and darkness, I will give your Grace this further light, of what belongs to negotiation with this State.  
The present opportunity of the Prince of Orange's good affection and strength of these Provinces both by Sea and Land, as it yet stands, (but not possible so long to continue) being seasonably laid hold of, his Majesty may have with this State a firm and fruitful alliance.  
But if the Prince of Orange should die, (as he is much broken, and the last year at this time, we did not think he could live till May) or the enemy break into the borders of this State, (as this last Summer, if the Imperialists had joined with the Spaniards, they had undoubtedly done; and unless some Change or Alteration happen, as is feared will do this next year) the best link we have for a bond of friendship would fail, and as much difference be betwixt this State, as it now is, and what it is like to be upon any such ill accident, (as was now feared, and still hangs over them) as betwixt a strong Staff, and a broken Reed. So I cease to give your Grace any further trouble.  
Hague, 9 Decemb. 1623. Your Grace's Most humble, and most faithful servant, Dudley Carleton.   

Sir Dudley Carleton to the Duke.  
May it please your Grace,  
What Comfort and Contentment the Queen of Bohemia receives in your Grace's Message and Letter by my Nephew, I leave to her own expression, which never fails her, when her heart goeth with her hand, as I can assure your Grace, it doth in this subject. And this I will say more, who can say nothing but truth, I never knew your Grace ill with this good and gracious Princess; but now you are so well settled in her good opinion and favour, that I know none hath more interest therein.  
And this use your Grace may make thereof to his Majesty's service, that now this King and Queen are both of them no less confident of your affection, than they are of your sincerity; what you advise them in their affairs will be of much weight to sway them in the balance of their judgement.  
Which now a Proposition is made unto them, on which their whole estate doth depend as well for themselves, as their posterity, full of doubtful circumstances on both sides, (the choice not being, as they conceive, betwixt one thing certain, and another uncertain; but betwixt two unequal uncertainties) it is hard to say which way they incline: but if they be left to themselves, I perceive they will rather stand to the hazard of the latter, with preservation of their honour and lawful pretensions, then submit themselves to the former with shame and disgrace, and no assurance of better dealing then was used to the deported House of Saxe, by a better Emperor than this accounted, of which we have the Heir (one of the worthiest Princes in Germany) here in hard Conditions amongst us. And he serves as a spectacle to these Princes of their fortunes by the same way as his Predecessors took, of submission. Yet other things being before agreed of, and settled in that sort as his Majesty hath always assured these Princes to be his full intention of restitution to their Patrimonial Honours and estate; This King I find will conform himself, to what his Majesty shall think fit, touching a due submission.  
But this being a matter of ceremony, the other of substance, he judgeth, that if this precede, (that is, the Submission) the other of restitution will never follow. Neither can it be well seen, how in possibility it may be effected, considering that (whilst things have been held sometimes in terms, always in talk of accommodation) the Electoral is given to Bavier by the Emperor, and avowed by a Congratulatory Embassage from Brussels: the upper Palatinate settled in his possession, with some portion to Newburgh for his Contentation, and engagement. A principal part of the lower Palatinate (the Bergstrate) given to the Elector of Mentz, with the consent of those of Brussels, (where he was lately in person to obtain it) though they grossly dissemble it, and promises of parts of the rest made to other Princes.  
So as what is now pretended (I must deal plainly with your Grace) is no otherways interpreted, then as experience doth teach of these three former years' proceed: Ever new Overtures in Winter, and new Ruptures in the Summer. And as of two former Treaties with this Prince, which passed my hands, (one a Consent to a Submission sent to Vienna, the other a Ratification of a Suspension oftentimes sent to Brussels) no other use was made, but with the first to accelerate Bethlem Gabor in his Treaty of Peace with the Emperor as then on foot, and with the second to intimidate both the Electours Saxe, and Brandenburg, with the Princes of the Nethes, Saxe, and Creyes from entering into Arms, to which they were well disposed, upon the discontentment they received of the preposterous courses that were taken in the Diet at Ratisbone; (and to this effect Copies of the very projects of the said Treaties were dispersed by the Imperialists, before the Instruments themselves were perfected,) so it is here believed, that now Gabor is again in arms, and other Princes ready to embrace any good occasion of redress of affairs, time is only sought to be gained by this new Overture, and the King of Bohemia's Credit, with his friends and well wishers in Germany to be weakened, if not lost; for if once he submit himself allowing the translation of the Electoral, he shall thereby avow the Emperor's undue proceedings in that cause (which have been protested against by Saxe, and Brandenbergh, and all the other German Princes, excepting those only of the Catholic league) and by whom afterwards upon any ill dealing can he expect to be befriended, who forsakes himself and his own cause? This is the discourse of these Princes upon this occasion; but when they are asked, What then can you trust unto? their recourse is to his Majesty, who they hope knoweth the means to effect in their behalf, what he hath so long, and so constantly undertaken for them. And though for these three or four years past, affairs on this side have gone in a continual decadence, and now threaten a final ruin, unless it be withstood by some Princely Resolution; (not of petty, but of great Princes) yet here is no such discouragement: but that it is thought there is yet strength and vigour enough left in the good Party, not only to subsist, but to rise and flourish again as well as ever. And in this cogitation the King and Queen remain, not prescribing any thing to his Majesty, nor willing to submit themselves anew to the same rod, with which they have been so often scourged.  
Your Grace was lately invited with my Lord of Richmond to christian their young Son, which being excused by my Lord of Richmond in both your names, And the King of France undertaking that office, it was performed by that King, and the King of Swede yesterday was seven-night (represented by the French Ambassador here resident, and the Prince of Orange) in the same manner, and the same Church, as the Princess Lovise, bearing the same name, was christened the last year: when the Duke Christien of Brunswick being invited to be Godfather, though absent, and for some respects of precedence could not have a Deputy, was understood notwithstanding to be one of the Parrins; and so do the King and Queen hold both your Grace, and my Lord of Richmond.  
I must now render your Grace my humble thanks for your manifestation of your favour to myself, which you are pleased to do in such ample manner, as to tell me farther for my Comfort who are my friends; And a farther effect of friendship, I could not expect of them, then to procure me the assurance I now receive from your Grace, who have won the reputation by your Constancy to those you take into your Care, that your word is taken for your deed. And though that, which I thought fittest for myself fails me, if your Grace can think me fit for any thing else towards the amendment of my poor fortune, I shall attend the same with much patience of mind, though great extremity otherwise, by reason of a small estate charged with great debts, (which are no small burden to an honest mind,) And ever remain  
Your Grace's Most faithful devoted servant, Dudley Carleton. Hague, 13th. Decemb. 1623.   

Sir Dudley Carleton to the Duke.  
May it please your Grace,  
THe Queen of Bohemia desirous to draw the Prince of Orange to more than general professions of service to his Majesty, hath sometimes in my presence, when I waited on her highness, given occasion of discourse herself, and at other times I have spoken in her name with his Excellency to the like effect, as in my former Letter to your Grace: which caused his Excellency to take three of the States, such of whom he is most confident (one of Guelderland, another of Holland, the third of Zealand) unto him, to strengthen himself by their concurrence in that, which is his own inclination, of carrying this State to a strict alliance with his Majesty, in which he told them, That first their minds must be known, and next such assurance thought of, as not only must give his Majesty present Contentment, but likewise free him from all misdoubt for the future, that either upon offers from Spain to these Provinces, or any sinister accidents of War, they should be induced to make Peace or Truce without his Majesty's consent.  
Whereunto they answered him, (as I have it from himself this day) That nothing could be more agreeable to their affections, and Interests in all respects, then to be under his Majesty's protection: And for assurance of their remaining constant to that course, they doubted not, but when the matter should be treated of, the Provinces would willingly condescend to what should be necessary to that purpose.  
His Excellency in relation hereof unto me went so much further, as to instance in their new resolution here, now finally put in practice of making Voyages into the West-Indies after the same form, as they have done into the East; both which joined together, make them irreconcilable with Spain. Yet if his Majesty will have a further tye on them, they will not refuse it; but he saith, The States will expect that such obligation be mutual, and that they in like manner may rest assured, when they put themselves wholly under his Majesty's wings, his Majesty will not fly from them, and make his peace without them.  
I told him the case was not equal betwixt his Majesty, and them, they being actually in War, his Majesty in Peace: so as to come to a conjunction, his Majesty must change condition, not they, and therefore hath the more reason to look before he leap out of Peace into War. And so did Queen Elizabeth, who had reigned 27 years before she openly took upon her the protection of these Countries; but after continued her War in their Cause to her dying day. This he confessed, but remembered withal, That there was a Treaty of Burburck, with which the States were much startled, and he thought that when this business should be more particularly scanned amongst them, as they would willingly give, so they would expect to receive good assurance.  
In this point of declaration of their affection, and willingness to warrant his Majesty sufficiently, I asked him, How far I might go not to be disavowed: so as if his Majesty should take any sudden resolution, according as affairs require, he might confidently build upon the concurrence of this State. He answered me, That a resolution in this kind would require a further proceeding, then was fit, until his Majesty would be content to make his mind known, by such private means as might seem best to his own wisdom, and then according to his own liking, they would enlarge this matter here, to more men's knowledge, than the small circle, in which it hitherto walked, and guide it in that manner as may be fit for the form of it to his Majesty's honour, and for the substance to his full contentment. Which he offered to do now if I would press him to it; but withal told me his opinion, that it would raise nothing but bruit and noise without effect, when we had here no better ground to work upon, and therefore wished the business might expect a return from his Majesty, if he could be content it should be proceeded in. In these terms remains this business, not free from many Cautions, and nice Circumstances; and yet on this side, (I can assure your Grace) full of good affection; but these are the true reasons of their coming on no faster. They hold it for a maxim, That Spain will never match with his Majesty for love, but either for hope, or fear. If Spain can entertain hope of reducing these Provinces to obedience by the Match, or fear, that unless the Match proceed, his Majesty will join with these Provinces in opposition to Spain: They hold in either of these Cases the Match as made. And therefore lest some use should be made of their presentations of themselves, to their own prejudice, they are thus shy, and circumspect. Besides, as they have had some help of money out of France this last year, so they are entertained with hopes of more against the next: which they fear would be excused upon any offer they should make of themselves towards his Majesty, and therefore are loath to adventure the exchange of a substance, for that which appears unto them hitherto, no better than a shadow; And they are indeed very umbragious; for they suspect, that Tentatives of this kind, of which some have been made heretofore amongst them, tend to no other end, then to endear our Merchandise with Spain, and let the Ministers of that Crown know, that we refuse in their Contemplation. But when his Majesty shall resolve in his own heart, and be pleased to make himself so understood, it will be no hard matter by his Excellency's means (who is a Prince full of good intentions and real affections to his Majesty, and his royal Family) to make these men lay by their Jealousies, and be as true to his Majesty, and the support of his Crowns, as his own Kingdoms. Which is no more than they own for the protection which these that are now in Government had of his Majesty, when they were lately sinking under the burden of a contrary faction; and no more than upon a good knowledge of their Interests and affections I can undertake for them, they will really and readily pay, if the matter be well managed. In which the confidence and freedom I have used with this Noble Gentleman, Sir George Goring, may give your Grace some further light, as any doubts shall arise concerning the business. So I most humbly take leave,  
Your Graces Most humble, and most faithful servant, Dudley Carleton. Hague, 18. Decemb. 1623.   

Sir Dudley Carleton to the Duke.  
May it please your Grace,  
THe business of strict conjunction betwixt his Majesty, and this State (touching which the Queen of Bohemia hath received his Highness, and your Grace's Letters, and I your Graces of the 9th. of this present) goeth on the right foot (according as your Grace will see more particularly by my Letters to Mr. Secretary Conway, and as the matter is here embraced with much affection, so for the manner I doubt not but it will be well ordered in that sort, as will be for his Majesty's honour, and contentment. But in regard of jealousies towards us, and emulations amongst these men in matters of employment, (to which all men are subject, especially in good and advantageous businesses, some time, will be required, to set all in the right way, yet no illimited time; for I hope within a week all will be resolved of, and within a a few days more, put in execution fully to expectation. Sir Noel Charon writes, a league offensive and defensive will be embraced by his Majesty, if it be proposed from hence, with offer of assurance; And I assure myself both the overture, and offer will be made and really effected, if it be answered on our side with good correspondence. That which busieth my cogitations is, that tempus agendi may be lost Consultando; and therefore seeing how both his Majesty, and this State stand affected, I will take the liberty to give your Grace two advertisements in matters of action, which will be of exceeding fruit, if they be thought of in time, and for which there is no time to spare.  
One is, that your Grace doth inquire after in your Letter to the Queen of Bohemia (who excuseth writing either to his Highness, or your Grace till the States have resolved of their sending) that is the State's preparation for the West-Indies, which way, the company for those parts newly erected in these, hath set out one Fleet of 32. Sail now already at Sea, with some Land men amongst them, to put on ground and fortify as they shall find occasion; for which they have men for the purpose, and all materials ready embarked with them.  
A second Fleet they are now preparing against April next, about which all their Admiralties and some of the Deputies of this new West-Indian Company are here at this present. And the design is, for the Admiralties to set out at the charge of the generality twelve good ships of war, besides they have already on the coast of Spain and in the narrow Seas, which they will still continue.  
To these 12. ships they require the West-Indian Company to join 12. more, which will make a good Fleet, and this they intent shall be ready (as I said) in April next, to attend the coming of the Spanish West-Indian Fleet, which here they understand is put into the Havana, with intention there to winter as it did the last year.  
Now if his Majesty will give leave to his subjects to erect a Company for the West-Indies, and join with these men in those Parts, as they do in the East, (and upon more equal conditions, since the business is but now in the beginning) it will be here gladly embraced. And if he will frame a Fleet betwixt his own ships and his Merchants to join with the State's Fleet prepared for April next to intercept the Spanish West-Indian Fleet, nothing more will be desired by these men, and there is nothing of which for the present they promise themselves greater fruit: for either they hope to take, or to stop the silver of those parts (both which are good services, considering the need of money, the Spaniards have in these), or else they resolve with the ships which belong to the company to pursue their voyage of the West-Indies.  
The second is a Truce with the Pirates of Algiers, such an one as this State hath made in conformity to their peace with the Grand Signior, which will be no more observed for unmolesting all, and every one of our Merchant's ships as they are stragglingly lighted on, than it is with these men, who suffer many losses in particular; but those are recompensed in the General. For the Spaniards are much amazed with this correspondence; And the men of War of this State, or such Merchants, as can make any reasonable defence are most meddled withal. Besides, in any matter of offence they concur together; And even now a proposition is made from Algiers to the Prince of Orange, (which I have from his own mouth to acquaint your Grace therewith) that in case this State against the beginning of next summer will set out twenty Sail of ships upon any good service against the Spaniards, they will join unto them 60. Sail to pursue the design, whatsoever it shall be of this State. The acceptation of which offer being now in deliberation, it will be suspended till it be seen, how this unexpected business with his Majesty may proceed; And then they will here do nothing but that, as may concur with our common Interests. But because the negotiation of this matter with those of Algiers (that is a Truce betwixt his Majesty's subjects, and those men) will require time, your Grace may provisionallie move his Majesty (if the matter be well liked) to use such endeavours as may conduce thereunto. Here they use to write, and send through France by Marseilles to the Consul they have continually at Algeir, by whose means (if no better present itself) any thing may be proposed, his Majesty shall find fitting.  
Other things, I will within few days remonstrate to your Grace for his Majesty's service in this change of affairs, which require all possible industries, and diligences to be used both far and near; And those not neglected, I doubt not, but they who have so grossly abused his Majesty's friendship, will soon repent themselves, and by their harms see their own errors. Thus I most humbly take leave;  
Your Graces Most humble, and most faithful Servant, Dudley Carleton. Hague 24. January, 1625.   

Sir Dudley Carleton to the Duke.  
May it please your Grace,  
ACcording as I advertised your Grace the 24. of the last of the disposition of the Prince of Orange, and such of the States, as he called unto him to Council, they procured the rest soon after to resolve of an Embassage to his Majesty, and now they have dispatched the same with as much expedition, as could possibly be used. The Persons are Aersons of Holland, and Joachim of Zealand, both able, and well affected Persons, and both sufficiently known to his Majesty by former employments. They go amply authorised for what they shall treat: but that as yet is an Embryo only which must receive form, and life from his Majesty, in whose hands it lieth to preserve this State, and dispose for ever of the whole strength thereof for his own service, and his royal Families. Which after more debates, and distastes, then have passed with all the world besides. I am glad I can say upon good warrantise: whereof this is one proof, that when his Majesty is constrained by the necessity of affairs to send and seek to his other friends, he is sent and sought, and sued to from hence. I doubt not but it will be objected (as hath been formerly) that it is for their own Interest, and that they would gladly engage his Majesty in their quarrel, which it were a folly to deny: but there is always the friendship strongest when the interests are most conjoined. And if that which is principally for one man's benefit, turn likewise to another man's advantage, Hoc non facere (saith an old School-book) summae est imprudentiae.  
The affairs of these parts for matter of Action (which have been more then ordinarily succeeds in this cold season, but have been more coldly pursued then was feared) I refer to this Bearer my Nephew's report, who having the honour to be his Majesty's servant, I employ him the more willingly, as able to give Account of such particularities, either of this Negotiation, or otherwise, of which his Majesty, and your Grace may require knowledge. And I humbly beseech your Grace to give him encouragement by your accustomed noble favour. So rests  
Hague, 16. February, 1625. Your Grace's Most humble, and most devoted servant, Dudley Carleton.   

Sir Dudley Carleton to the Duke.  
May it please your Grace,  
IT were a sin against the public service, in which your Grace doth employ yourself so much to the common good, and your own honour, to molest you with Letters in this busy time: which must serve me for excuse of silence, since the beginning of the Parliament. What I writ now is by Commandment of the Queen of Bohemia concerning this Bearer Captain Gifford an old Seaman of our Nation, who having a private suit to the States, hath made a journey over hither with recommendation to me from our two Secretaries for advancement thereof, but with a further purpose to be employed by the Queen against the Spaniard in a matter of no less moment, then taking of a Gallion, which usually bringeth the treasure over the Gulf of Mexico, from Nova Spagna to the Havana. Which he designs after this manner: To go out with two Ships and a Pinnace, only fitted for fight, without more in number, because of the Alarm would be taken at a greater Fleet, and to lie under Covert of a small Island in the entry of the Gulf of Mexico: where the Gallion coming usually alone, unless it be accompanied with some Merchant's ships, which he sets light by, and which encumbered with goods and Passengers, he think may be mastered, and taken, building upon the security in which that Gallion, with the rest of that Nova Spagna Fleet, do sail scattering in the Gulf, till they meet with the Fleet of Terra Firma at the Havana, where he having been hereto fore a prisoner made this observation, and doth now offer himself to put the design in execution, with a demand of betwixt 10000 and a 11000 l. for the whole equipage.  
The Queen in recompense of his good will returns him with this address to your Grace as a man fit for employment, for so he is generally reputed; but for the particularity of the Exploit, she doth not entertain any thought thereof, but refers it wholly to your Grace's Consideration, and to the opportunity according as affairs shall succeed betwixt his Majesty, and Spain.  
Here are come Letters from some of the King and Queen's servants on that side, and one to myself from a private friend, advertising, That there is a readiness in divers of his Majesty's Subjects of good abilities, to put to Sea with Letters of Mart in the name of this Kind and Queen against the Spaniard, and of a likelihood, that if such Commissions were given by these Princes, they would not be ill understood by his Majesty.  
Mounsieur Aertsens hath likewise written hither in a private Letter to the Prince of Orange, that he hath been spoken with to move the States to increase the number, he and his Colleague have mentioned of 10 or 12 Ships to join in any good occasion with his Majesty's Fleet to 20: And that the purpose is to set out 50 sail on that side, and that both shall go under the name of the King and Queen of Bohemia. Wherein though the motion be not directly made, yet the Prince of Orange hath discoursed enough, that when it shall come to issue, they will stretch themselves to furnish to the full what is required on this side. In both these businesses, as well the granting Letters of Mart by these Princes, as their lending their names to any greater Action, they intent to govern themselves only as they shall understand to concur with his Majesty's pleasure, and therefore hope they shall receive advice from his Highness, and your Grace, what is fit for them to contribute to such occasions as they see much to their Comforts, you advance with so great care and vigilance. Thus I most humbly take leave,  
Your Graces most humble, and most devoted Servant, Dudley Carleton. Hague 16. April, 1624.   

Sir Dudley Carleton to the Duke.  
May it please your Grace,  
SUch Commandments as I received from your Grace by double Dispatches of the 4th. of the last, by way of provision whilst Sir William Saintleiger lay sick, were prevented by his own presence. He bringing the first of those Packets with him, and thereby had Commodity to assist at the breaking of the business to the States, by virtue of his Majesty's Credence given him, and my Lord General Cecil: which since, he hath solicited both at the Camp, and in this place with all possible care and industry, and I have not failed of my utmost endeavours.  
But the unsettledness of this Government, which still continueth since the late change of Governors, hath bred delay to some, and direct impediments to other points we had in charge: which we have endeavoured to supply by other means. And now in what state he leaves the whole business, he will relate to your Grace. Such Patents as your Grace required from the King and Queen of Bohemia, I have committed to his delivery in divers forms, with a Blank signed and sealed, wherein to frame such an one as may be better to your minds: But if your Grace make no use of it, you may please to return it to me again, to the end I may restore it.  
What concerns myself, I absolutely remit and submit to your Grace; only I will renew the request I made to your Grace by my Nephew, That your Grace will not prefer any before me in your formerly intended favour, out of belief, that any can be more, than I resolve to rest whilst I live a touttes Espreves,  
Hague, 20. June, 1625. Humbly and faithfully devoted to your Grace's person and service, Dudley Carleton.   

Sir Dudley Carleton to the Duke.  
May it please your Grace,  
AFter long attendance the wind is come good for Plymouth, which I hope will carry thither speedily and safely the States whole Fleet, though in 3. parts; 12 Ships with the Admiral de Nassau, who hath long waited in the Tessel; 4 but newly ready provided by those of Zealand at Amsterdam, and 4 which have lain sometimes before the Brill; whereof one is to land the Marshal Chatillon in passing by Calais; the other three to Convoy the English men: And Arms I send in 10. other Ships I have hired at Rotterdam: before which place they have lain 20 days a Shipboard, by reason of contrary winds, with some impatiency, but no disorder: which what course I took to prevent, as likewise what may happen in their Voyage, my Lord Conway (to whom I give a particular account of all) will inform your Grace.  
I have obtained leave for Sir John Proud to go the Voyage according to his Majesty's Letter, though it was somewhat stood upon by the States, and he hath taken his passage by Zealand.  
When I call to mind, what Patents I procured of the King of Bohemia, and sent your Grace by Sir William Saint Lieger, (amongst which was one of submission to any accommodation his Majesty shall at any time like well of for the King of Bohemia) I think it necessary to advertise your Grace, that knowledge being come hither of the Infanta's sending the Count Shomburgh to the King of Denmark with a fair Message, and the Count Gondomar's overtures to Mr. Trumbal tending to reconcilement, and restitution of the Palatinate, it is so willingly harkened unto by the King of Bohemia, that there is no doubt of his Consent: but withal he well considers, that if Treaty alone be trusted unto, and thereupon Arms now levied by his Majesty, and his Friends be laid aside, all will prove as fruitless as formerly. For howsoever the King of Spain (for more free prosecution of other quarrels, or designs) may be induced to quit what he possesseth in the Palatinate, the shares, the Emperor, the Duke of Bavier, and the two Electours Majenct, and Trevers, with a great rabble of Popish Priests and Jesuits have therein, will require more than bare negotiation, to wring it out of their hands; and nothing but Victory, or at least a well armed Treaty can serve that turn.  
The time seems long both to the King and Queen, and grows very irksome every day more than other of their abode here in this place: which indeed doth prove in all respects very uncomfortable; and that your Grace will gather out of Mr. Secretary Morton's report, and my Letters to my Lord Conway. In this very Consideration, I beseech your Grace be the more mindful of  
Your Grace's Most humble, and most devoted servant, Dudley Carleton. Hague, 20th. of August, 1625.   
FINIS.