FINETTI PHILOXENIS: SOME CHOICE OBSERVATIONS OF Sr. JOHN FINETT KNIGHT, And Master of the CEREMONIES to the two last KINGS, Touching the Reception, and Precedence, the Treatment and Audience, the Puntillios and Contests of Foreign AMBASSADORS IN ENGLAND.  
Legati ligant Mundum.  
LONDON, Printed by T. R. for H. Twyford and G. Bedell, and are to be Sold at their Shops in Vine-Court Middle Temple, and the Middle Temple Gate, 1656.   

TO THE RIGHT HONOURABLE PHILIP, Lord Viscount Lisle, etc.  
MY LORD,  
I Know well (for I know it by Experience) that your Lordship hath been trained up from a Youth in matters of Embassyes, and Legantine Affairs, as well when you attended my Lord your Father to Denmark, and other States of Germany, as many years after in the French Court: Therefore the Dedicatory address of this new Piece, will not be adjudged incongruous by any discerning Reader, but very pertinent, considering the quality of the subject, which treats of transactions of that nature, being the Manual observations of that knowing Knight, and well accomplished Courtier, Sir John Finett, who officiated so many years in Affairs of that kind; Therefore this Piece goes indented with many signal Passages of the Reception, and Treatments, of the Conduct & Audiences, the Pretences, and Precedencies, with divers Contests, and Punctilios of State between foreign Ambassadors.  
Among other parts of Industry which were known to be in that Worthy Knight, one was, to couch in writing, and keep an exact Diary of what things had passed in his Province as Master of the Ceremonies, according to the laudable Custom of the Italians, and transmitted by them to the high and low Dutch Ministers of State, with others.  
Moreover, these Observations go interwoven with divers Historical Passages, and those most faithfully related, there being nothing taken here upon trust, but all upon his own knowledge, being still upon the place himself, and an Actor in every thing, as appeared by the Manuscript he left: And thus much, out of the conversation I had often with him, I was desired to tell the World.  
Lastly, Besides the Motives before mentioned, there went another Inducement to this Election, which was the high respects, and Honour I profess your Lordship, having discovered in you a true Sidneyan Soul, which by a peculiar Noble Genius, is observed to be extraordinarily inclined to the Theory, and Speculative part of Virtue, as well as to the Practical; In which opinion I rest,  
My most Honoured Lord, Your very humble, and ever ready Servant, JAMES HOWELL. Holborn this 20. of April, 1656.   

THE Chief Heads and Substance of the ensuing DISCOURSE.  

1. THe Archduke's Ambassador discontented, and the King's Apology for his satisfaction.  
2. The Braveries used at the Lady Elizabeth's Wedding.  
3. Passages of Ambassadors about invitations to the Earl of Somersets Marriage.  
4. A clash betwixt the Savoy, and Florence Ambassadors for precedence:  
5. Differences at a Mask betwixt the Spanish Ambassadors and the States.  
6. The Spanish Ambassador excepting against the States for sitting with him in the King's presence.  
7. The Spanish Ambassador refusing to be at a Mask.  
8. The Venetian Ambassador discontented about his Present.  
9 Four Ambassadors at a Readers Feast.  
10. Ambassadors invited to hunt with the King.  
11. Ambassadors invited to the Prince's Creation.  
12. The rich present of Furs sent by the Emperor of Russia to the King.  
13. A clash betwixt the Spanish and French Ambassadors.  
14. Touching Sir Henry Manwayring  
15. Exceptions taken by the French  
16. The sitting of Ambassadors at a Mask with the King reformed.  
17. Differences betwixt the French and Spanish Ambassadors reconciled.  
18. Of the flaunting Embassy of Monsieur Cadenet  
19 Exceptions about placing.  
20. Six in joint Embassy at once from the States.  
21. The Russian Ambassadors puntillio for precedence.  
22. A great Embassy from the Emperor.  
23. Questions betwixt the Imperial and Venetian Ambassadors, concerning Titles and Visits, the like with the French  
24. The young Landgrave of Hessens entertainment.  
25. The State's Ambassadors distastes:  
26. The Duke of Soubizes' Negotiation.  
27. Exceptions taken by the Venetian Ambassadors.  
28. Exceptions of the States Ambassadors.  
29. The Prince his return from Spain  
30. The French Ambassador gets ground of the Spanish  
31. Difference betwixt the Spanish Ambassadors.  
32. Reasons for the Master of the Ceremonies to sit in the same Coach with the Ambassadors.  
33. A clash betwixt the French and Spanish Ambassador.  
34. Sir Robert Shirley Ambassador from Persia  
35. Ambassadors extraordinary from France to treat of a Marriage.  
36. Death of King James, and Solemnities of his Funeral.  
37. Complaint of the Venetian Ambassador.  
38. Reason of the Venetian Ambassador for Parity with Crowned heads.  
39 The King and Queens first interview at Dover  
40. The marquis of Blamvillés contestations for formalities, and his Lodging and Diet at Court.  
41. His reason for not assisting at the Coronation.  
42. The great clash betwixt the Persian Ambassador, and Sir Robert Shirley  
43. The French cashiered from Court.  
44. Difference betwixt the Master of the Ceremonies and Jewel house, who is to carry Presents to Ambassadors.  
45. Bethlem Gabor's Ambassadors.  
46. The Reformation of Ambassadors sitting in public, and eating with the King.  
47. The Danish Ambassadors complaint.  
48. The Mantovan Ambassadors Expostulations.  
49. A new Declaration touching the Treatment of Ambassadors, and the value of their Presents abated.  
50. The Expostulations of the Duke of Savoys Ambassador.  
51. Questions and Puntillios betwixt Regal and ducal Ambassadors.  
52. The Lord Majors refusing to give place to the King of Denmark's Ambassador.  
53. A clash betwixt the Ambassador of Savoy, and the Duke of Buckingham, because he gave Sanctuary to my Lady Purbeck  
54. The State's Ambassadors exceptions and complaints how satisfied.  
55. The notable Plot, the Spanish Ambassadors had traced to destroy the Duke of Buckingham   
With divers other Signal Passages of State, and matters of remark, wherewith the Discourse is interwoven.   

In page 250. for and machinations, read a machination; with other small mistakes which the judicious Reader will not stumble at.   

Sir JOHN FINETS OBSERVATIONS Touching Foreign Ambassadors, etc.  


THE Count Palatine of the Rhone, coming to marry the Lady Elizabeth, landed at Graves end on Friday night the sixteenth of October, and had his first welcome brought him thither from the King by the Lord hay, with the attendance of Sir Lewes Lewkner Master of the Ceremonies, and his second on Sunday following by the Duke of Lenox, attended by many Lords, Knights, and Gentlemen, the King's Servants: As he passed before the Tower in his Majesty's Barges, the discharge of the great Ordnance there served for a warning to the Earls of Shrewsbury, Sussex, Southampton, and other Lords, to wait on the Duke of York to the Stairs of White-Hall for his reception at his landing there, and to conduct him to the presence of the King, Queen, Prince, and Princess, in the Banqueting House; where having made an humble reverence to his Majesty, and passed his first Compliment, he addressed himself to the Queen, kissed her hand, saluted the Prince, and turning to the Princess (who was observed till than not to cast the least look towards him) he stooped to touch the lowest part of her Garment, when with her hand staying his, he received a kiss from her Highness, and soon after they all retired to the privy Lodgings.  
The next day he spent in visiting the King, Queen Prince, and Duke of York, and twice the Princess, once in the afternoon (at her own Lodging) in State, and once after Supper with less ceremony.  
His Train consisted of a number, not so great as Gallant, most of them being much better fashioned, and better clothed, than Germany usually sends them forth. There were of them eight Counts (besides Count Henry of Nassaw) about six and thirty Gentlemen, and of the rest about an hundred and fifty.  
The place appointed for his most usual abode was Essex House, near Temple Barr, but he had other Lodgings assigned him for his own Person (as he should have occasion to use them for his own private retreat) at White Hall with the King, and with the Prince 〈◊〉 Saint James'.  
The thirteenth of February following I was sent by the Lord Chamberlain (Earl of Suffolk) from his Majesty to the Archduke's Ambassador, Monsiver de Boiscot, with this formal invitation to the Marriage of the Princess.  
That his Majesty (who desireth to perform all things with conveniency) having invited the French Ambassador, and the Venetian, to assist at the first day's solemnity, requested him to honour the second, or third days, either Dinner or Supper, or both, with his presence.  
After some time of pause, his first question was, (with a troubled countenance) whether the Spanish Ambassador were invited? I answered (answerable to my Instructions in case of such demand) that he was sick, and could not be there; he was yesterday (quoth he) so well, as that the offer might have very well been made him, and perhaps accepted.  
To this I replied, That his Majesty having observed that the French and Venetian Ambassadors holding between them one course of correspondence, and the Spanish and Arch-duke's another, their Invitations had been usually joint.  
This he denied, (saying) The French had been fun dry times invited to Masques, etc. and not the Venetian, the Venetian and not the French, the Spaniard the like; but He, the Archduke's Ambassador never: That for his own particular person (as he was Boiscot) he should think himself honoured to be called by his Majesty upon any terms, were it to serve up a Dish to the Princess' Table; but, as he was the Representant of so great a Prince, as the Archduke's (one who would never allow (he said) so much as a question or thought of Competition between him, a Monarchal Sovereign, and a mean Republic, governed by a sort of Burghers, who had but an handful of Territory in comparison of his Master; and (as would be averred, he said, by ancient proofs, had ever yielded precedence to the Archduke's Predecessors, when they were but Dukes of Burgundy) he could not be present at that Solemnity. That further, he knew not wherein he had deserved so ill of his Majesty, as not to have received from him any countenance or favour in all the time of his residing here, and the Venetian (as he himself had bragged) many; that for these, and the like considerations, he would never be received to a second place, or day, after one that should have the first bestowed on him so unworthily. In conclusion he desired, That though this was, and should be his peremptory answer, I would from him request the Lord Chamberlain, that that might be allowed him for consideration; and that the next morning he would by his own Servant send his more direct resolution, which he accordingly did in writing (seen to few more than to his Majesty and the Lord Chamberlain) to the former purpose, thus,  
That he had ever yet had the honour to have been invited by his Majesty; that the Invitation he now had, was in a second place to one who was far from all colour of reason to precede him; that his Majesty had herein expressed his affection; that he was sorry he could not be there, etc.  
This written signification (redemanded and taken back after it was read by his Servant) having been made the Saturday; the Sundays and mondays feasting jollity and gallantry stilled all further noise of it, till on Tuesday I was commanded to carry him a written Declaration in French, as followeth.  
SA Majesté 's estant apperceune que l'Ambassadeur des serenissimes Archiducs á pris ombrage de ce qu'il n'auoit esté convié auz solemnitez de Madame Filly unique de sa Majestè, et du tres illustre Prince l'Electeur Palatin au Dimenche jour de noces, l'ayant este l'Ambassadeur de la serenissime Republic de Venice convié pour ce jour lá, á trowé bon que le dit sieur Ambassadeur, et les Princes auxquels il sert entendissent, qu'en cela sa Majesté n'a voulu rien faire qui fist prejudice aux pretensions de l'un ou de l'autre de leur Princes ou Estates comm' en toutes procedures depuis son advenement a ceste couronne il'à decliné se porter Juge de leur competition en cest ' endroit, ains de laisser un chacun entier en ce que luy appartient traictant tous en general comme ses Amis; Or quant an fait present touchant l'Ambassadeur de Venise sa Majesté fait scavoir an dit Ambassadeur des Archiducs qu'ayant le dit Ambassadeur de Venise quatorze où quinze jours auant le iour des Noces fait entendre a sa Majesté qu'il auoit ordre de par la dicte Republic de congratuler aux dictes Noces qu' il desiroit faire cest ' office le jour mesme d'icelles, & d'autant que pour donner meilleure grace, et manifestation plus ouuerte que porte la dicte, Republic a sa Majesté, on luy auoit ordonné frayspour la pomp, et liuréesases gens aux despens publics (honneur que sa Majesté n'anoit receu de nul autre Prince, et qui est bien extraordinary, et plus de constume entre les Princes) sa Majesté auoit toute raison de rendre a la dicte Republic la pareille de l'honneur qui par demonstration si signalée elle luy fairoit: Ajouste aussy ne que s'j trowant l'Ambassadeur d'Espagne en estat de l'assister le dit premier iour, et estant incertain a sa Majesté s' il ne s' y pouuoit trower quelque autre iour des solemnitez, sa Majesté trouuiot bon selon sa coustume de joindre le dit Ambassadeur de Venise a celuy du Roy tres-Chrestien qui auoit esté convié pour le mesme jour selon la fason que sa Majesté á tousjours tenue d'accouplir les Ambassadeurs de France & de Venise en toutes tells ocasions comm' aussy celuy d'Espagne, et des Archiducs; Et quant a ce qu' on pretend qu' ayant esté convié le dit Ambassadeur des Archiducs le Mardy Gras jour dernier des magnificences, on pourroit fair construction qu' on faisoit quelque trait d'honneur a la Republique de Venise par dessus les Archiducs; Sa Majesté dit qu' ayant este tousjours tres-curieux d'esquiuer toutes sorts d'offences a ses Amis en Subject de ceste condition, le dit sieur Ambassadeur, s' il luy plait d'y bien penser, trowerá que le fait de sa Majesté en cecy ne porte point de preiudice a sa Majesté, Carestant la solemnité du Mariage un Acte continué, combien qu' executè en plusieurs iours, il ne contient ny prius ny posterius en soy, ains se doit entendre que tous les iours ont pareille dignité; voire, si l'on y vouloit argumenter, il se pourroit soustenir que le dernier jour seroit a prendre pour le plus gran iour comm'il s' ontend en plusiours autres cas, et nommement aux festes de Noel, que le Jour des Roys qui est le dernier se prend pour le plus gran jour, et en plusjours places en la solemnite du Caresme prenant le Merdy Gras se prend aussy pour le plus grand; Mesme au fait present le Ballet de la cour composé de Conseillers et des plus Grands de la Noblesse tant seigneurs que Dames avoit este assign au Mardy comm' au plus gran jour de la Feste; Mais pour ne se trower d'accord la Noblesse de Colleges de Droict du jour enfuynant le dimenche, on á este contraint d'ordonner celuy de la Cour au dit jour antrement se devoit fair le Mardy cousm' an plus gran jour. Mais sa Majesté qui ne se porte pour Juge des differences qni naissent entre les Princes, ne dit cecy pour rien resoudre de part eu d'autre, Mais seulement pour monstrer les raisons qu' elle á eu de son coste au quel elle pense n' avoir foit tort a personne.  
HIs Majesty perceiving that the Ambassador of the most serene Archduke hath taken some exceptions, that he was not invited to the solemnities of Madam, his Majesty's sole Daughter, and of the most Illustrious Prince the Elector Palatine on Sunday the day of the Nuptials, whereas the Ambassador of the most serene Republic of Venice was invited thereunto that day; he hath thought good that the said Lord Ambassador, and the Princes whom he serves should understand, that his Majesty never intended to do any thing in prejudice to the pretences of either Prince or State in all procedures since his access to this Crown; but always declind to comport himself as judge of their competitions in this case, leaving them both entire in what appertains to them, and treating them in a free general way as his friends. Now, touching the present business reflecting upon the Ambassador of Venice, his Majesty lets the said Ambassador of the Archduke's to understand, that the said Ambassador of Venice, having fourteen or fifteen days before the Wedding day informed his Majesty that he had order from the Republic to congratulate the said Nuptials, he desired that he might perform the said office the very day of the solemnity, and that he might do it with a better grace, as also for a more open manifestation of the honour which the said Republic doth bear unto his Majesty, he was appointed Extraordinary allowance for the pomp, and to put his men in liveryes accordingly upon the public charge (an honour which his Majesty had not received of any Prince, it being Extraordinary, and not usual among Princes) Therefore his Majesty had all reason to correspond with the said Republic in like civilities for so signal demonstrations of respect: Add hereunto, that the Spanish Ambassador not finding himself in case to assist, and be present the first day of the Nuptials, and his Majesty being incertain whether he would be at any other day of the Solemnities, his Majesty according to former custom commanded that the said Ambassador of Venice should be joined with him of his most Christian Majestyes', who had been invited for the same day, according to the course that was always observed, to couple upon such solenmities the Ambassadors of France and Venice, as also those of Spain and the Archduke's. And whereas it is pretended that whereas the Ambassador of the said Arch-duke's being invited upon Shrove-Tuesday, the last day of the solemnity, one might infer that a greater show of honour was made thereby to the Republic then to the Archduke's, his Majesty sayeth, that he having always been most curious to avoid all sorts of offences among his friends in matters of this kind, the said Ambassador, if he please to consider of it well, will find that this doth not carry with it any prejudice at all to his Master; in regard that the solemnity of the marriage being but one continued Act though performed divers days, admitted neither prius nor posterius in itself, but it is to be understood that each day had the like dignity; Nay, if one would Argumentize thereupon, it might be alleged that the last day should be taken for the greatest day, as it is underslood in many other Coses, and particularly upon the Festivals of Christmas wherein the Twelve day or the Festival of the three Kings which is the last is taken for the greatest day; And in many places Tueseday is taken for the chiefest day of Shrovetide; wherefore the Mask at Court composed of Noble men and Ladies was assigned for that day as being the greatest of the Festivals; but his Majesty, who doth not undertake to be judge of differences arising in this nature twixt the Ministers of Princes, doth not speak this as to determine any thing on either side, but only to show the reasons which he hath on his behalf in this particular, wherein he thinks not to have done any body wrong.  
This being read by the Ambassador I demanded his answer, which he said he could little enlarge beyond the former; And then telling him, I was by command to return the paper (suitable to his own, and his Servants proceeding with his Majesty, when he last sent his mind in writing) he affirmed peremptorily that he neither asked, nor had any paper back again: And in this regard he must be pardoned, if he returned no answer, since (quoth he) if I had received a message by word, I had answered by word, If by writing by writing, But taking this message for neither, I may, I suppose, be silent. Wherewith when I had acquainted the Lord Chamberlain, his Lordship was semewhat moved (as for his own personal interest, and taking Sir William Button, (my Colleague assistant of the Ceremonies) to witness what he had said, and done, his Lordship willed me to return, and affirm to him the contrary with confidence; But half the words which I had to say to this purpose when I came to him, were scarce uttered when he confessed the Action, yet not without blaming his Servants mistaking, and forgetfulness to deliver back to him the paper.  
At this time the French, and Venetian Ambassadors invited to the Marriage, were not free from Puntillios'. That made an offer to precede the Prince. This stood upon it, that they were not to sit at the Table without Chairs (though the Prince The King not present) had but a stool (the Count Palatine, and the Princess, only for the honour of the day, having Chairs) and insisting upon a formality that the Carver was not to stand above him, but neither of these prevailed in their reasonless pretences; Neither was the Wife of the French Ambassador clear of these disputes, for when I had ushered her up amcungst the Countesses, and left her there to the raniging of the Lord Chamberlain, he ordered she should be placed at the Table next beneath the Countesses, and above the Baronesses; But the Viscountesse of Effingham standing to her woman's right, and possessed already of her proper place (as she called it) would not move lower, so held the hand of the Ambassatrice, till after dinner the Ambassador her husband informed of the difference, and opposition, took it for an indignity, and calling for his Wife's Coach, that by her departure it might be seen he was sensible, she was by others persuasions stayed, and was at supper placed beneath the Countess of Killdare, and above the Viscountesse of Haddington, who made no scruple of it, the Lady of Effingham in the interim forbearing (with rather too much then too little Stommach) both her supper and the Company.  
The Ambassador of the united Provinces (Sir Noel Charon) kept himself all this while quiet without question of Prius or Posterius, or thrusting for public Note, being a continually entertained guest during the solemnity of the Marriage; the carriage whereof on the day of it was this. Between the hours of eleven and twelve after that the Bride, and Bridegroom had (in manner of a procession) passed along through the first Court at Whitehall, on a raised Terras conspicuous to all, the first entered the Chapel was the Prince Palatine, attended by the Batchellrie of the Nobility, and after him the Princess apparelled in white, her hair laid out at length in Curls, overspreading her shoulders, and Crowned with a Coronet of rich pearls and Diamonds, followed by a dozen of choice Virgins, Bcauties all clothed in white; (who with her Highness ascended by six or seven steps an eelevated place purposely framed in the midst of the Chapel) she was encountered thereon by the Prince Palatine (who ascended by the other end.) After these came up the King, Queen, and Prince seating themselves, the King on the one side (next whom at his right hand stood the Earl of Arundel, carrying the sword, and next him the Prince. On the side opposite sat the Queen, next her the Princess, than the Lady Baronesse Harington her late Governess, and last of that company Count Henry of Nassaw (on the King's side, standing) that place being voided of all others. The Sermon began preached by the Dean of the Chapel, Bishop of London, Doctor King, and this ended, the formal words of the Marriage (with all Ceremonies in use) were read by the Archbishop of Canterbury, and in place where it was requisite, repeated by the Prince Palatine in English. In conclusion, a joy pronounced by the King, and Queen, and seconded with congratulation of the Lords there present, which Crowned with draughts of Ippocras out of a great golden Bowl, as an health to the prosperity of the Marriage (beg an by the Prince Palatine, and answered by the Princess) After which were served up by six, or seven Barons so many Bowls filled with wafers) so much of that work was consummate; the Bravery, and riches of that day was incomparable, Gold and Silver laid upon Lords, Ladies, and Gentlewoman's backs was the poorest burden. Pearls, and coastly Embroideries being the commonest wear. The Kings, Queens, and Princes jewels only were valued that day by his Majesty himself (upon occasion of discourse happening to the purpose of the Bravery then appearing) at nine Hundred Thousand pounds sterling.  
The next two days came behind in time (not in cost) to the former, and an open Court was for that time kept with entertaining Tables, and free admittance to them of all worthy comers, English or strangers.  
The one and twentieth of February following, there was a great supper prepared by the King (but at the cost of certain Lords, who lost it for their ill running at the Ring against his Majesty and his party) in a large room built of purpose for the time over the North-Terras next the first Court of White-Hall. The King and Prince only were seated at a cross Table placed at the end of the Room next the Banqueting House. The Prince Palatine, the Lords, Ladies, and the Gentlemen of the Inns of Court (that had been at the Marriage Maskers or Assistants to the Mask (whereof there were of both about forty) sat at another Table placed longwayes the Chamber.   

Passages at the Marriage of the Earl of Summerset.  

1613.  THe three and twentieth of December 1613 I was sent to the Ambassador of Venice, 
Seig. Foscarini.  (Sir William Button, having been sent at the same time, and on the same Errand to the Ambassador of France) with this formal Message; 
Mons. de Buisseaux.  that according to his Majesty's most Royal disposition, and desire to give all due content to Ministers of Foreign Princes whereof he himself (the Ambassador) had the year before received a particular Testimony, having been then invited together with the French Ambassador to the Marriage of the Princess Palatine) I was now sent to signify his Majesty's pleasure to this purpose. That his Majesty was persuaded, and with all desirous, that his Excellency would not pass any Misconstruction upon his proceeding, if the Spanish Ambassador newly come into this Kingdom, and who had not yet been present here at any entertainments of Court) were together with the Archduke's Ambassador invited to the Marriage of the Earl of Summerset, 
Don diego Sarmiento de Acunna.  and not he (the Ambassador of Venice) that if he would be pleased to honour with his presence the Mask of Gentlemen of the Inns of Court to be performed on Twelve night (a time amongst us of the solemnest observance) he should be most welcome to it, and in the mean time I was further to let him know, that there was an intention he should be invited to the Marriage of the Lady Jane Dromond (first Lady of the Queen's Bedd-Chamber) at Candlemas. To this, his Answer was a question, whether the King intended the Solemnity towards for public, or for private? This I answered I had no Commission to resolve as from the mouth of his Majesty, and must therefore answer him with silence; But if he asked my opinion as his friend, and Servant, I held it for private and in no sort public, since I took it to be an honour his Majesty was pleased to cast upon one of his most favoured Servants to have the Marriage Solemnised in his own House, and to invite to it whom he should think fit at his Princely pleasure. This answer seemed to give him such satisfaction, as (he said), he was of the same opinion, and added, that since his Majesty had vouchsafed the last year to do him the honour and right to prefer him before another (unjustly pretending) in his invitation to so public a solemnity, as was the Marriage of his only daughter, he should bemost incivill now to except against his pleasure in matter of so private a condition; but ought rather to return him (as he now did) most humble thanks for the most gracious regard he discovered to have of him, and so consequently of the State whereof he was a Representant.  
The next Morning I was sent to the French Ambassadors, who (though he might seem the day before to hold one way with the Venetian, and had corresponded with him to that purpose, (whether another and he did s'entre entendre, becomes me no more to judge, then to declare) appeared now to have taken another way by himself, and I delivered to him a formal invitation of the Marriage, which (having first asked me whether the Spanish Ambassador were yet invited, and I answered I thought not) he humbly beseeched his Majesty to pardon him, if he excused his appearance at the Marriage, in regard that that night (he said) he had the desluxion of a Rheum into his Teeth and a fit of a Ague whereof he doubted the return. I was scarcely back at Court with his answer, when I was told that a Gentleman from the Venetian Ambassador had been to seek me there, and at my house, where at the last having found me, he said that his Lord desired me that if ever I would do him favour, I would take the pains to come to him presently; I winding the cause to be some new buzz gotten into his Brain from some Intelligence he had had from the French of that Mornings proceeding, excused my so present repair with the necessity of my Commanded immediate Attendance on my Lord Chamberlain, which I did to gain both time, and further Instructions from his Lordship, wherewith so soon, as I was sufficiently armed, I went to the Venetian, and in presence of his Secretary, Muscorus, (whom he desired might be admitted to our Conference) he entreated me to repeat the words of my Invitation, and those of his answer, which I yielded to (after some discovery of my insatisfaction to be so punctually pressed, as if he had meant to trip me) and in conclusion had his approbation, that all so far was both in manage and report without Exception; but that which now (he added) troubled him, and made him so to trouble me, was a later procedure of his Majesty who (as if the State he represented had either in affection, or demonstration of forwardness to do the King Service, been inferior to any) had that Morning vouchsafed the French Ambassador and not him a Solemn Invitation.  
To this (after I had according to my Instructions (in case I should encounter such formality) brought him to confess, that the French Ambassador had indeed given him that intelligence) I replied, that to be plain with him, I had no sooner received the message of his desire to speak with me, but conceiving it was to the purpose that I now found, I did repair to my Lord Chamberlain with my opinion, and for his Lordships further direction, which I said, was this. That if the Ambassador of Venice should except against any favour shown the French beyond him, I should let him know, it was not that his Majesty intended a difference in distribution of honour for their more and less Ceremonial Invitation; but that if amidst the confusion usually happening at such Solemnities, there were any omission, he desired it might be interpreted as chanceable, and not of design, which the better to express I came (I told him) even then from my Lord Chamberlain, and so from his Majesty with the same order to him, as I had done to the French, to invite him. When not yet satisfied with an errand so engross, he desired me to deliver particularly, and in the same words the Invitation I had carried to the French Ambassador, which when I had punctually performed, he returned this final answer. That since I was there present a witness of his Reality, he would not, as the French Ambassador had done, excuse his absence with his sickness, but was desirous his Majesty might know (after his humblest and Thankfullest acknowledgement for his favour in his Invitation) that he took the public honour he had received the last year for so substantial a Testimony of his royal mind towards him (as in these private Solemnities for him to except against inviting this person or that, whom he saw his Majesty was inclined to make his guests at the Feast, without overthronging it with the presence of others) was to presume to take from him that liberty and pleasure, which (he (the Ambassador) would strive, and had ever strived to observe with his best diligence, and obedience. With this answer I was parting, when he suddenly stayed me with the reading of another scruple (& hinc illae lachrimae) and asked me whether the Archduke's Ambassador were also invited, whereof, when I had said (to keep myself clear from categorical asseverations) when I knew not fully the King my Master's pleasure) that I could not directly resolve him, he would needs persuade me that I diffembled, and that no doubt, whatsoever I should say, I had in charge to perform that service of Invitation, first to him, and after in my return to Court to the other; a persuasion, which as soon as I found it aimed at (what he was most jealous of) precedency, I did not gainsay it, 
1 Seig. Gaveleone.  holding it ill manners to mar a belief of an Ambassadors making.  
The same day I was also with the Agents of Savoy and of Florence and having invited them to supper and to the Mask after it. The Florence said, 
2 Ant. L●●i.  that howsoever there passed a friendly Correspondence between him and the other, and that their discretions might be like enough to keep them from encounters; he must yet protest, and stand for the maintenance of his Masters right of precedence, whensoever he should meet any that would oppose or question it? To this I replied, that howsoever his Majesty took no such notice of any that resided here as Agents (and not Ambassadors) for their Masters as that to invite, or not to invite them was esfentiall; yet my Lord Chamberlain having told me, there was a Table to be both served, and sit at in State, was all on the Queen's side, as on the Kings, and that if the Agents would come to either of them, the first come might make his firstchoyce, there was no doubt, but his Lordship's provident care for their placing at the Mask would keep them out of distance, and danger of dispute for precedence. So they both came, but the Savoyard getting the start, and siding always close to the Spanish Ambassador was both at the supper and Mask the more conspicuous, while the other kept himself retired as Sconosiuto.  
The Spanish Ambassador, the Archduke's, and both their Ladies were on New-year's day following invited to the sight of a Tilting, the King and Queen there present, where I by Command attended them.  
The first of February 1613. 
Mons de ●uisscaux.  The Lord Viscount lisle, Lord Chamberlain to the Queen, sent me to invite (in his Majesty's name) the French Ambassador to the Marriage of the Lady Jane Dromond to be Solemnised the next day at Somerset House. He accepted the Invitatation with humble thanks as an especial favour (he said) done to him by his Majesty, but desired (if his desire might be presented to her Majesty as that she might not interpret it for a singularity in him, or a disobedience to her pleasure, which rather than to incur he would (he said) lay aside all other respects, and submit his reason to her will) that he might be excused his coming to Dinner, and be present only at Supper, and at the entertainment after it. When I had (as far as good manners would allow me) provoked him to the reason of his request, (that I might at least glance at it in returning his answer to the Lord Chamberlain, to procure it the better passage) he would have made it appear, that a part of his reason was that his Lent was already entered, and that to be at two meals of flesh together would be too great a sin; but when I had removed that Objection, with assuring him that at our great Feasts, Fish was an especial provision, he came nearer, telling me plainly, (but as to his Friend, (he said) Sub Sigillo confessionis, who he knew would carry it no further (that since the Spanish Ambassador had had the precedence of him in his invitation to the marriage of the Earl of Somerset, he would not wrong the Master he represented to march in the second place, as it would be taken, if he should come to Dinner, (though many days had passed since the other) and that the Queen, and not the King gave this entertainment; but if he might be spared (he said) from the Bride's Dinner, at the like whereof, the other (the Spanish Ambassador) might be though to have done well to have spared his presence, in regard neither the King nor Queen were there in person, (a point, that men (he said) of his representative quality were especially to regard in all such public solemnities) he could not, nor would refuse the honour of being there at Supper when both King and Queen would be (as he heard) present, yet he concluded, (that riterateing his request, that I would not communicate the formality of these reasons) rather than he would in the least point distaste her Majesty, he would (post-posing all other considerations) be there both Dinner and Supper. With this signification I returned to the Lord lisle (Lord Chamberlain to the Queen) who communicated it to the Earl of Worcester Master of her Majesty's Horse, 
He presented me at my parting with a gold Chain worth 10 l.  that he might convey it to her Majesty as he should go with her in a Coach from White-Hall to Somerset House. It hung yet in intention when the Ambassadors Secretary came to me from his Lord with a further exception, that howsoever the Queen were pleased, that he should be present both Dinner and Supper, he would be bold to prefer this condition to her allowance, that he might not sit upon a Stool but in a Chair in the same manner as the Bride should be seated. I answered, I thought that would be a matter of no great difficulty. But how (quoth I) if the Prince be there, and have but a Stool to sit on: If my Lord Ambassador were sure of that (replied the Secretary) I presume he would make no further question, but in all bear his Highness' Company. To be resolved of this, I went at his request to my Lord lisle, my Lord Worcester, and my Lord Carew Vice-Chamberlaine, whom I found altogether, and having assurance from them of the Prince his presence with the Bride at Dinner, and requesting their Lordships (as the Secretary desired me) that they would not trouble the Queen any further concerning the Ambassador till the Secretary had been with him, and returned with his final Satisfaction, he repaired that Evening to my Lord lisle, and propounding the same demand of a Chair, as he had done to me in the Afternoon; it was resolved he should have one with the Prince, and so ended that difference.  
The next day he came, and the Bride (seated at the Tables end, which was placed cross at the upper end of the Hall) had the Prince at her left hand, as the better place nearest the Wall, (his Highness sitting with his right hand uppermost) on her right the Ambassadors both in Chairs, and opposite to him, beneath the Prince in a little distance, sat on a stool a Duke of Saxony, here at that time to visit his Majesty.  
The Archduke's Ambassador received from me an Invitation the same day that I delivered one to another, and accepted it, though he were then (in earnest) sick in his Bed of a cold he had taken) both for Dinner and Supper without Scruple or question (I will not say, without intention not to be at either) but his cold increasing that night with a Looseness, he wrote to me to come to him (as I did) the next Morning, and there desired his absence might be excused to her Majesty. His Lady came notwithstanding in the Afternoon (as did also the French Ambassadors with her Husband in the Morning) and had both of them their places at the Table next beneath the Countesses. Seig. Gabellion, the Duke of Savoys Agent was also invited, and had his place appointed him at Dinner next beneath the Duke of Lenox, 
Too high.  and at Supper (both which might seem to have fallen out chanceably) next above the Lord Knowles, beneath the Earls, and above the Barons. The Ambassador of France sat that night at the end of the Table at the right hand of his Majesty, with a distance between them of some half a dozen persons, the Queen sat next the King on his left hand, and near her the Prince. It may appear, that the scope and end of this question mooveing from the French Ambassador was, that by some addition of honour, he might get the start he seemed to have lost of preceding the Spaniard, and which himself bragged he had now recovered (and was indeed judged so to have done by the three Lords mentioned) when dineing with the Bride, he had the honour of the Princess Company, and Supping, of both their Majesties, neither of these having fallen to the Spanish Ambassador at the Marriage of the Earl of Somerset,   

The 5. of January 1614 The Earl of Somerset (than Lord Chamberlain) notwithstanding he understood how the year before the Spanish and Arch-duke's Ambassadors had been invited to the Marriage of him the Earl of Somerset, and not the French nor the Venetian (for the reasons elsewhere appeareing) gave me directions to invite the Spanish and the Venetian (not usually coupled (ut supra) to a Mask of Gentlemen set forth at the charge of his Majesty, and to come at an hour, about six in the Evening to a Supper that should be prepared for them in the Council Chamber. They both (with one question of what Ambassadors would be there, and my assurance, that I understood of none besides themselves (as indeed then I did not) accepted the Invitation, and came the next day at the time appointed.) A little before Supper, the Spanish Ambassador taking me aside, desired me to deal freely with him, & to tell him whether Sir noel Charon, the State's Ambassador were invited, and if invited, what place was intended him, whether in public near his Majesty, or in private in some Corner of the Room? I answered that I knew then (and not before) that he was invited, and would be there; But in which of those conditions, public or private, I could not resolve him. Hereupon, he requested me immediately to go to my Lord Chamberlain for clearing of this doubt, wherewith acquainting his Lordship, and he his Majesty, I returned with this assurance. That Sir noel Charon was invited, and should be placed within the Bars near the King, as Ambassadors used to be. To this he made his reply, desiring me to convey it to the Lord Chamberlain, that if Sir noel Charon should be together with him at Supper or in any other place, then in the King's presence, he would use him with all the respects of civility, but in so honourable a place as that, where the sacred persons of the King, Queen and Prince were to be present, he should never with patience see the Representant of his Master's Vassals and Rebels (so he called them) hold an equal rank with him. That it was directly against his Instructions to concur with him in any public Act, as an Ambassador, and that therefore it would be better for him (as he intended with the favour of his Majesty) to retire himself betimes without noise, then to be forced (as he must) to discharge his duty by public exception, and protestation against the presence of him (Sir noel Charon) to the disturbance of so royal an Assembly, and whereupon I told him (as from my Lord Chamberlain) that his Lordship was informed his predecessor Don Alonso de Velasco had stood upon no such Puntillio when Sir noel Charon had at another time been invited, as now, and sat as it was now determined he should; he said, he was most assured there never had been such a concurrence, so as returning from him with this answer, I fortuned to deliver it in the hearing of my Lord Treasurer, and received from his Lordship an assurance that upon his knowledge, and in his sight, his predecessor Don Alonso de Velasco had endured without any exception the placing of the State's Ambassador at the left hand of the King, while he (Don Alonso) sat on the right. But this neither would satisfy him, nor hold him from affirming that (not to contradict (he said) my Lord Treasurer, who yet might forget, or mistake in some circumstances) he would engage his head to be cut off, if there ever had been any such placing, which being again reported by me to my Lord's Chamberlain and Treasurer, they both went to the King, and debating the business with his Majesty, first in presence of sundry of the Bedd-Chamber, and after more in private with half a dozen of other Lords, my Lord Treasurer, my Lord Chamberlain, my Lord of Worcester (and I to attend them) were sent to him into the Council Chamber, and there (entreating first the Venetian Ambassador to pardon them, if they did awhile leave him alone) taking only the Ambassadors Interpreter, and myself with them into a little Room there by, my Lord Treasurer delivered the King's mind to this purpose. That his Majesty having invited him to the Mask, with a mind to give him all content, was sorry that this question should grow to disturb it. That his Majesty went upon grounds of former precedents of the like concurrence in the time of the Ambassadors predecessors, and that the had for witnesses of it (besides his own memory) the Queen, the Prince, and sundry of the Lords, who affirmed they had seen it. That his Majesty having heretofore entertained Sir noel Charon in that manner, and now invited him as an Ambassador, he left it to his consideration what injury he should do to abate of his accustomed respects towards him. That whereas the Ambassador affirmed, it was formally his Instructions not to concur with him in any public Act, his Majesty wondered that his predecessor should not have the like Instructions, or having had such, should forget, or neglect to stand upon it, that if he had any such, his Majesty requested him, that (reserving other matter, which he in no sort desired that he should communicate, besides that purpose) he might have a sght of it for his fuller satisfaction. To this the Ambassador replied (with many acknowledgements of the honour his Majesty had done him &c.) That first, the witnesses his Majesty had produced were so substantial, as should he with his own eyes have seen the contrary, he should not have trusted them in opposition of their Testimony; That if it should be known to the King his Master that Don Alonso had committed such error, it would be enough to make him lose his head. That it was true, that in his general instructions received from the hand of the King his Master, it was not intended, but that upon his Arrival in England finding in what condition of respect Sir noel Charon was held here, he wrote particularly to the King for his pleasure about his manner of carriage towards Sir noel Charon, in case he should be put to it upon any encounter of Negotiation, or otherwise, whereunto he had received by letter from his Majesty his will, intimating, That in concurrence of ordinary civil respects, he should use him with courtesy; but in no case admit concurrence with him in or to any public Act, and that his Majesty should be an eye witness of the letter at his pleasure. The Venetian (who remained in the mean time in the Council Chamber) having been by the Spanish Ambassador before the Lords entrance, made acquainted with the difference like to grow, had affirmed to him, That he could himself remember, that when Don Alonso was invited (as he was now) by his Majesty, he and Sir noel Charon were seated in a compartment, or place apart, and that Don Alonso did except against Charon's sitting in the same place near his Majesty; he affirmed also, That howsoever it might now pass between the Spanish Ambassador and the States, he himself would not permit that he should sit (allato, his own word) in even rank with him; but all the Allegations of the Venetian were held to proceed rather from a spirit of disturbance (forward, as his naturally was, to make ill business) then that what he said was simply truth.  
In fine, the Lords returning with this Declaration of the Ambassadors to his Majesty, came back soon after with his definite pleasure thus. That since he could not accord this difference, which troubled him much for the respects he bore to the Spanish Ambassador, he had willed them to signify to him, that he might take what course should best please him; And that if he would not stay the Mask, he would take order, that the State's Ambassador should likewise departed, to avoid all further question, about either of their pretences. After this the Ambassador himself, and the Lords fell to terms of reconciling (if it could be possible) the difference, the Lords offering, that the Spanish Ambassador should sit on the right hand of the King, and at the Spaniards right hand, the Venetian, and that at the left hand next the Queen and Prince should sit the State's Ambassador, this he hearkened (not yielded) to, but with such limitations, as were not fit for Sir noel Charon to admit of, as that he should either sit a degree or step lower (which the place would not afford) or with some distance behind the Queen, and that he should not enter with the King, but some quarter of an hour after, and the like, but the conclusion was (nothing being agreed on) that they would inform the King of his resolution of departure, and so left him: yet immediately after they returned the third time, and (after some reasons to no prevaileing purpose) I told him again, that the King desired to see the next day his instructions, and so had sent him the good night. The Lords being departed, I stayed behind (as was his Majesty's pleasure, and charge given me) to tell him from his Majesty for conclusion thus much. That he had not been driven to this straight without his own fault, because if he had made question in season, and acquainted the King with the limitation of his instructions in that point, there might have been another course had for prevention: whereto he replied, that he had found his Majesty in all so gracious, as he could not but with all most humble thankfulness acknowledge it, and that it might be held indeed a fault in him, that he had not before hand declared himself to that purpose, but no man could foresee all things. So (having merrily requested the Lords before, that since his Servants were not Ambassadors, and would not strive for places, they might be allowed room to see the Mask) he with one Gentleman, his Secretary, and a footman (I attending him to his Coach) departed.  
The King the next day at his dinner discoursing to this purpose, brought forth amongst other Arguments this one against the Spanish Ambassador, that the Exception, or protestation he had made, could not be any way made good by him, the King of Spain's Agent, in regard the Vassalage which the King his Master pretended of the States, was not properly his, but should belong (if to any) to the Archduke's, to whom he had made a session of those Provinces, and had likewise (he said) but a poor title to them, having at the time of the Treaty of Truce between them, agreed to treat with them, as with a free State, and given them since in several letters the title and stile they pretend to (and which all other Princes and States (he said) give them) of Les Estats confederez de provinces unies. This dispute, and difference occurred in the time that the Truce between the King of Spain, the Archduke and the States yet lasted. The Venetian Ambassador as soon as the Spanish was departed, was conducted by me into the second Room from the privy Gallery, and there attending till his Majesty and the Qucene came, went along with them, and was seated on the left hand of the King, beneath the Queen, and the Prince on the right. At the same time the Agent of Florence (to whom was sent by the Lord Chamberlain to invite him, 
Il. Gavallo Francis co Guarolesi.  no other than an ordinary Messenger of the Chamber, as to a Minister inferior to an Ambassador) supped also in the Council Chamber, and followed the King to the Mask with the Venetian, but having been ordained his seat in one of the Galleries, he entreated me to move the Lord Chamberlain, that (as he understood the great Duke his Master's Agent, and the Duke of Savoys had been) he might be placed among the Lords, 
Earl of Suffolk.  which was assented to, and he was placed (by the Lord Chamberlain, and the Lord Treasurer there present) beneath the lowest Baron the Lord Mordant, and above Sir Thomas Howard second Son to the Lord Treasurer.   

26 of Oct. 1614  
An Ambassador from the Emperor of Russia landing at Tower wharf, was there received by the Lord Danvers, I and other Gentlemen, his Majesty's Servants, attending his Lordship thither.  
The five and twentieth of April following, he having been invited to dine with his Majesty at White-Hall, was seated on his left hand towards the Corner of the Table, and a Secretary that came in Commission with him at the Tables end. He had two of his own Servants attending at his Elbow, but with little Service (the King's Servants supplying) and his other followers bestowed elsewhere in the Court apart. It was first ordered that the Prince should have dined there also, seated at the King's right hand towards the other end of the Table; but this considered to be somewhat short, the dishes many, and doubted besides whether the Ambassador would have accepted of the place at his Majesty's left hand, if the Prince should have had the right, his Highness dined not with his Majesty.   

1615  
On St. George's day, the King of Spain's Ambassador discovered to the Master of the Ceremonies (Sir Lewes Lewkner) a desire he had to see the order of that Feast of the Garter, wherewith the King made acquainted, 
Don Diego Sarmiento.  his Majesty returned him an assurance of welcome. He was placed for sight of the procession as it should pass by, upon the Terras in the window there, about the middle of the Brickwall that divides the first Court, and the Cloister Court, and thence had his prospect upon his Majesty and the Knights in their passage, who being returned to the Chapel, he repaired thither through the Guard Chamber, and had his place for sight of divine Service and Offering, in the King's Closet. After retiring to the Council Chamber, he had his dinner provided at his Majesty's charge in the Lord Chamberlains Lodgings thereby, and conducted thence in the time of his Majesty's dinner to the Banqueting House, he stood at his right hand, entertaining discourse with him all the later part of his Majesty's dinner.  
About the beginning of July arrived at London a Young Nobleman of Poland, Son to the great Zomoiski the famous Chancellor of that Kingdom, he demanded access to his Majesty by a German (one Ryder) that then lived in England, who speaking in hearing of Sir William Button Assistant of the Ceremonies, (as if the Master of the Ceremonies had been in great fault to have neglected to press his desire of presenting his Service to the King) was reproved by Sir William Button for so rashly condemning the Master of the Ceremonies (then employed into Kent to meet, and receive the new come French Ordinary Ambassador) ask him if Zomoiski were a Prince Sovereign or an extraordinany Ambassador, that he should challenge that respect of a King, not to be seen at the pleasure, and time of every stranger. But this difference quieted with the forward Germans striking sail, he had an Audience appointed and given him two days after in the King's withdrawing Chamber.  
The second or third day following the same Z●moiski sent to the Master of the Ceremonies (to let him know of an invitation he had received from the King by a letter written to him in his Majesty's name from Mr. John Murray of the Bedd-Chamber, to hunt with his Majesty at Theobalds') and asked (by his Messenger) the Master of the Ceremonies opinion and Counsel touching his intention to be present at Court the next Sunday (as his letter intimated) at the Audience for that day assigned of the new French Ambassador, and touching his manner of carriage at it. Answer was returned him by Sir Lewes Lewkner, that he would not take upon him to resolve, or advise a man of his quality, especially having himself received no direction from the Lord Chamberlain to the purpose of his Invitation; so left him doubtful, but not enough to hinder his repair (notwithstanding) to Court on Sunday after dinner, though too late to come to the Ambassadors Audience.  
Who that day the second of July had it at Theobalds', setcht in the Morning from his House at  by the Lord Walden appointed with Sir Lewes Lewkner, 
Mons. de Mareth.  myself, and half a score Gentlemen to accompany him thither, whither he had for his transport one of the King's Coaches, and three others at the charge of his Majesty, besides two or three of his own providing. Arriving at one of the clock, he was brought to rest himself in the Council Chamber, and at two was called thence by the Master of the Ceremonies and conducted by the Lord Walden to his Audience in the Presence Chamber, where the King standing under the State, the Ambassador marched towards him, his own followers first, next the King's Servants that had accompanied him from London, next before him Sir Lewes Lewkner, and at his side the Lord Walden. The Ambassador observing as little respect at his approaches as had been till then seen, after some few words of Compliment, he presented his Letters, which while his Majesty read, he in all that time nor before did so much as cast his eye towards the Prince there present, till Sir Lewes Lewkner rounding my Lord Walden in the ear, his Lordship stepped to him with an admonition for his address to the Prince, which the Ambassador took. But whether this admonition were well given, or well taken, or had been better deferred till the King had read his Letters (or best of all perhaps intimated immediately after he had performed his respects to the King) it may be a Quere. His Majesty invited him once to cover at first, but the Ambassador excusing, the King put on, and the other still stood bare headed, till the King having read the Letter, his Majesty put off again, and falling to a discourse with him of some length, he never after covered till he was out of the Chamber. He returned to London with Sir Lewes Lewkner, and his followers attendance only, my Lord Walden leaving him at the Court gate, and remaining that night (not perhaps without a Solecism in Ceremony) at Theobalds'.  
A day or two before his Audience, a question fell out between Mr. Secretary Winwood, and the Master of the Ceremonies, whether the French Ambassador mentioned were, or aught to be invited to dine at Court, (the Court being so far out of London) the day of his first Audience. Sir Lewes Lewkner said, he knew of no such order; why then (quoth the Secretary) who should know it? but his Majesty (he added) is ill served, and ill instructed, and those things now a days which should be done, are not, and those not done which should be. The other replied, he was none of his Majesty's Tutors, and for himself, he was to receive his directions from the Lord Chamberlain, and without them not to undertake any thing in his Office; but to answer (he said) more directly, he knew not wherein he had done amiss; yes, when (said Mr. Secretary) this French Ambassadors Ordinary was met by you in Kent, when he should not, and should have had a dinner provided for him in Court the day of his first Audience, 
An error of the Secretary.  which was neglected. Sir Lewes produced his own experience against both his assertions, affirming he had met such and such Ambassadors on the way at some Town between London and Dover, and extraordinaries at their first landing, and that Ambassadors Ordinary had many times to his knowledge had no dinner given them by the King at their first Audience.   

November the first.  
Signior Barbarigo (who about a month before came to reside here Ambassador in place of Signior Foscarini departed (his Majesty being at that time absent at Royston) was conducted from  to White-Hall by the Lord hay for his first Audience, attended by many Gentlemen of his Majesty's privy Chamber in two of the King's Coaches, and seven or eight of the Lords, besides five or six others hired by himself. Being come to White-Hall, he had his conduction (together with his Predecessor) through the first Court up the great Stairs by the Guard Chamber into the Council Chamber, where my Lord hay remaining with him (while the Master of the Ceremonies went to give an account that he was come) he was after brought to his Majesty in the Presence, no other Lord receiving him at the Presence door, the Earl of Somerset (Lord Chamberlain) being then in Prison. His Predecessor preceding, and first speaking, he delivered his Letters, and a brief speech with a voice audible over all the Room. Whence reconducted by the same Lord, and the Gentlemen mentioned, to his house, they there found (beyond expectation) a long Table ready covered, and many white wax Lights, not yet (it not being four of the Clock) lighted. When my Lord hay, offering to part but invited to stay at Supper (though unseasonably perhaps at so short a warning for a person of his quality) after some importunity of the Ambassador) yielded (but with excuse (to endear it might seem) his invitation over sudden, and familiar) that he must first return to White-Hall to wait on his Majesty, promising to return speedily (as he did) with such Gentlemen of his Company, as would accompany him. The supper was sumptuous, excellently ordered, and of five several Services. The guests at it were thus ranged. At the Tables end, my Lord hay alone; at his right hand, the old Ambassador, and beneath him the new; at his left hand Sir Henry Wotton then nominated Ambassador for Venice, and beneath him, Sir Henry Rich, the rest in their places.  
Within few weeks after the Ambassador Foscarini departed, who after at Venice, (being a man free, & full of fancy, of a stirring Spirit and undertaking) was accused to the State (of holding intelligence with the Spaniard) by three or four conspiring Villains, for what ends, either of malice to him, or advantage to themselves I know not, and condemned, and strangled in Prison; but not long after being found guiltless by his Accusers Confession, his Body was disinterred, buried with Solemnity, and his Family (that after the course of that severe State suffered) were restored to their suspended charges in that Republic.  
The fifth of November (the day of the Powder Treason) his Majesty had invited the Archduke's Ambassador Monsieur de Eoiscot to dine with him. He was conducted into the privy Gallery Chambers somewhat before dinner, and thence to the King's presence. His Majesty dined in the privy Chamber, where as soon as he was set, the Ambassador having washed apart, sat down also at the Board's end at the left hand of the King, & rising at the end of dinner, an instant before his Majesty, he followed him back into the privy Lodgings. His Secretary, and other Servants (too only left to attend him at the Table) had at the same time ten or twelve dishes of meat served them in the Chapel Chamber on the King's side. He demanded after dinner Audience of the Prince, but whether his Highness had such business with the Queen his Mother, as his excuse carried, or that he thought the demand of the Ambassadors Audience unseasonable, and too familiar with so short a warning, he had it not till the next day, when he came purposely for it at the hour of his Assignation.  
The Venetian Ambassador Foscarini being (after some five or six year's time of his residence) to return for Venice, a day or two before he had desired for his departure his Majesty's present of Plate being brought to his House, he addressed himself to Sir Dudley Carleton (then newly returned from his Ordinary Ambassage at Venice) with a complaint, that whereas his Secretary Muscorus (with whom he had had a long, and harsh difference) had been presented at his departure above half a year before with a chain of Gold of an 100 l. value (being (he said) more by 40 l. then any of this place had before received) he (an Ambassador) that had resided here the time of a double Ambassage was unproportionably rewarded, adding, That if he knew how to carry it without discovery, he would at his own charge make up the ordinary value, the present (as he affirmed) consisting of not above 600. ounces of gilt plate. To clear the mistaking deceit, or intention of this proceeding. I went for better satisfaction of the Ambassador and of Sir Dudley Carleton (who thought himself in regard of his late employment bound to stir in it) to Mr. Seymer, one of the Officers of the Jewel House under Sir Henry Carewe Mr. of it, and was assured by him, that it was of the Kings own ordinance, and regulating; if the value of the Present proved less than accustomed, his Majesty having (he said) been informed, that his liberality towards Ambassadors in the Presents bestowed on them at their parting, exceeded that of other Princes to his Ambassadors, so as he was resolved upon a defalcation. And whereas the French and Spanish Ordinaries were wont to have bestowed on them each 4000 ounces of gilt Plate, his Majesty had begun with the French Ambassador Monsieur de Buisseaux, and had sent him but two thousand ounces, the like course (he said) he held not long after with Monsieur de Boiscot, Ambassador for the Archduke, whose predecessors having before had sixteen hundred ounces, he was assigned, and received but eight hundred. So answerably, the Venetian Ambassadors having usually received at their departures two thousand ounces, this had ordered him (after the proportion of the other) but a thousand ounces; and for so much the said Officer affirmed, he would justify the weight of his Present, which might in reason have kept him from murmur, in regard he was by that proportion honoured with the gift of 200. ounces more than was the Archduke's Ambassador, who had stood with him in competition for precedence.  
The King being desirous, that the French, Venetian, and Savoyard Ambassadors should all be invited to a Mask at Court prepared for New-year's night, an exception coming from the French, was a cause of deferring their invitation till Twelve night, when the Mask was to be reacted. This French Ambassador having demanded Audience by the mediation of the Lord hay, and not obtained it as he affected (having not taken the due course of access by the Chamberlain (the Earl of Pembroke) or being perhaps forgotten) was offended that the Spanish Ambassador (who had demanded one before the Kings remove to Royston, but was referred to his conveniency at his return thence) should have (as he had) an Audience before him. With this consideration, and not without his Majesty's sense of such formality, he was not invited till for the Twelve night, when he with the other two mentioned were received at eight of the Clock, the hour assigned (no Supper being prepared for them, as at other times to avoid the trouble incident) and were conducted to the privy Gallery by the Lord Chamberlain, and the Lord Danvers appointed (an honour more than had been formerly done to Ambassadors Ordinary) to accompany them, the Master of the Ceremonies being also present.  
They were all there placed at the Mask on the King's right hand (not right out, but Byas forward) first and next to the King the French, next him the Venetain, and next him the Savoyard. At his Majesty's left hand sat the Queen, and next her the Prince. The Mask being ended, they followed his Majesty to a Banquet in the Presence, and returned by the way they entered: the followers of the French were placed in a seat reserved for them above over the King's right hand; the others in one on the left. The Spanish Ambassadors Son, 
Seig. Van Mall,  and the Agent of the Archduke (who invited himself) were bestowed on the form where the Lords sit, next beneath the Barons, English, Scotish. and Irish as the Sons of the Ambassador of Venice, and of Savoy had been placed the Mask night before, but were this night placed with their Countrymen in the Gallery mentioned.  
At a reading in the Middle-Temple, held by Mr. Martin, were invited to Dinner, the former three Ambassadors, 
Sir. noel ●aron.  and the State's Ambassador also. At the Tables end sat the Reader, on his left hand on the Bench next the wall sat the French Ambassador, beneath him on that side the Savoyard, than the Earl of Worcester etc. On the Readers right hand on a form sat first the Venetian, beneath him the State's Ambassador, next him the Lord lisle etc. It was observable that at this time the State's Ambassador (as appears) made no scruple of quitting the Precedence to that of the Duke of Savoye, which they have since questioned, and still stand upon.  
The Ambassador of Savoy coming to the King at New Market, 
Note, not the Kings  March. the second, was by me fetched and conducted (in the Lord Chamberlains Coach with four Horses) in company of the Lord Worceston (Sir James Spence, and Sir William Austroder) from his Lodging two miles out of Town there to the Presence Chamber, where he attended till the Lord Chamberlain coming forth of the King's withdrawing Chamber brought him to his Audience there. This done, the Ambassador requested me to move the Prince for the honour to kiss his hand. But it was objected, that the demand should have been more seasonably made, before the very instant of pretending to it. Whereto the Ambassador replied, that he had no spare time for it between that of his Arrival at Court and his immediate repair to his Majesty, which excuse admitted, he was immediately introduced to his Highness in his own Lodgings.  
March the sixteenth, I brought the State's Ambassador to an Audience at Theobalds', after he had attended a while at the Lord Fentons' Lodgings and was called up to his Majesty in the privy Gallery.  
A Messenger from Russia came to his Audience at White-Hall the three and twentieth of March, who not being qualified with the title of Ambassador, I only (with no Lord to receive him) met him at the Court gate, and brought him to the Council Chamber; he was after an hour and an halves attendance there, sent for by one of my Lord Chamberlains Gentlemen, received in the stone Table Chamber by that Lord, and in the next admitted to the Presence of his Majesty.  
The four and twentieth of March (being the King's day of coming to the ●rowne of England, and that year Sunday) a tilting then prepared for, was put off till the day following. That evening a question falling between his Majesty and some Lords, whether some, all, or no Ambassadors were to be invited? The Lord chamberlain asked me, if I knew whether ever the Spanish Ambassador (Sarmiento) had been invited to that solemnity? I said, he had, and upon search of my notes found that at the Earl of Somersets Marriage, he, the Archduke's Ambassador, and both their Ladies had been present at a tilting. This Precedent brought, over-ruld his Majesty (who seemed inclined otherwise) to invite the French, Venetian and Savoyard (never before at any tilting) and now not willingly called to this, because of the troubles that those public Ministers usually brought by their Puntillios at such encounters. Sir Lewes Lewkner was sent the evening before to the French, and the Venetian, and I to that of Savoy. The next day at two of the Clock he received the two first, and I the latter at the stair foot of the Tiltyard Gallery, and conducted them to the Chamber next that of ordinary Audiences, where they all attending till his Majesty and the Queen passed that way, they were taken along with them to the tilting. They were seated thus, the French on the left hand of the King with his back to the side of the Balcony window, and somewhat sidelong from the Queen, that being held the best place after the Prince's place on the King's right hand, beneath whom sat the Venetian, both their backs to the Balcony, and the Savoyard on the other side beneath the French Ambassador.  
St. George's Feast being come, the French Ambassador (without notice given to him, or from him of his coming to Court for sight of the solemnity) was present only with Sir George … ere a Gentleman usher of the privy Chamber, in the Closet of the Chapel for sight of the Procession, both without Sir Lewes Lewkners, or my attendance, as his prepare to Court, was without our knowledge. About the middle of the King's dinner, Mr. Secretary Winwood meeting me, wished me to accompany him where he was all alone in the Closet, and to bring him to see the King and the Knights at dinner. This I performed, and conducted him to the Banqueting House, where placing himself at the left hand of his Majesty dining, he entertained discourse with him about an hour, and after (upon my intimation of the fitness of it) he descended to the side Table, and saluted the Prince, and Knights of the order passing along before them, and thence returning by the privy Galleries, took Coach in the Park to go to his Lodgings.  
His omission of not making known to the King, or his Lord Chamberlain (as other Ambassadors had been accustomed) his desire to see the Feast, might have brought him to some inconvenience, worse than losing his dinner (which the Spanish Ambassador had the year before) as this might also have had at the Lord Chamberlains Table.   

June 21.  
The King invited by the Earl of Exeter to hunt and dine at Wimbleton (as was also the French Ambassador) killed a brace of Staggs before he came to the house. There I demanded when it would be his Majesty's pleasure to give access to the Ambassador whom he had not yet seen there? It was assigned him for after dinner. The Ambassador dined with the Lords and Ladies at a Table placed in the midst of a fair Room, he seated in a Chair at the upper end, at his right hand the Earl of Arundel, the Earl of Mountgomery, the Lady Elizabeth Hatton, the Lady Resse etc. At his left, the Lady of Exeter, the Lady Ann. Tuffton, the marquis de l'Isle, Uncle to the Duke of Retz (newly come into England, and to that Feast in company of the French Ambassador) the Lord hay, 
Then entered into favour.  Sir George Villars and others. After dinner the Ambassador going to see the house, he attended in the Gallery the King's coming, and had there an hour's entertainment of discourse with his Majesty.  
The Spanish Ambassador being invited to hunt with his Majesty in Theobalds' Park, went thither early, 
Don Diego Sarmiento.  and after hunting, dined with his Majesty in the Privy Chamber. The King seated (as always) in the midst of the Table, the Ambassador on his left hand at the end, his Son Don Antonio, his Gentlemen and Servants had their dinner provided them in the Council Chamber, where Sir Patrick Murray, myself, and some other of the King's Servants kept them company. Don Antonio fitting on a stool at the end of the Table, gave subject of exception to one of the King's Gentlemen ushers, as being, he said, irregular, and unusual, that place being ever wont to be reserved empty for State, but this as a superstition of a Gentleman ushers was neglected. After his Majesty's dinner, the Ambassador (introduced by the Vice Chamberlain to the Presence of his Majesty in the Privy Gallery) had there his Audience, 
Sir John Digby.  and as he was parting, the Lord lisle Ghamberlain to the Queen asked me, and I the Ambassador, whether he had any intention to visit her Majesty? he answered, he thought it ill manners, and a kind of disrespect at so short a warning to venture the trouble of her Majesty.   

November the first  
Towards the time of Solemnity of Prince Charles his Creation for Prince of Wales, the King advised with some of his Lords which of the Ambassadors, French or Spanish, were first to be invited to it. The Spaniard had by a private and silent way offered himself to an Invitation. The French had been earnestly pressed for by some Lords his favourous near about the King. And had he but two days before (when he had an Audience of his Majesty) made offer of his presence at the Feast, his Majesty had perhaps been put to some plunge how to have excused it. But on Sunday night (the Eve of the Feast) a resolution to invite neither was taken, and I sent to the Spanish Ambassador with this Message, that his Majesty thanked him much for the offer he had made to honour the Prince his Creation with his presence, that some of his Majesty's Servants near him had earnestly solicited him to invite the French Ambassador, but his desire having been (as it should be ever) to give content to all Ministers of Foreign Princes, he hoped and requested that he would not take it in ill part, if he should not be at all invited (no more than the French Ambassador should be) to that Solemnity, assuring him that to the next (whensoever) he should be invited before any. The Ambassador returned him for answer, that he most humbly kissed his Majesty's hands, and desired, he would in all proceed with him as with an English man, and his Servant, that whensoever it should be his pleasure to do him the honour to invite him, it should be his happiness, and an especial contentment to him. So again, when his Majesty should think fit he should be absent, it should content him also, as being his Majesty's pleasure to have it so. At my parting he was earnest to know whether there were not the like message, and excuse sent to the French Ambassador, whereof (though had it been so, it had been neither reason nor duty for me to discover) when I assured him there was none, he expressed much the greater Satisfaction.  
About this time Cavalvere Guaratesi Agent here for the Duke of Florence, being assigned an Audience of his Majesty, was by mistake brought in (by whom I know not) by the way of the Park, and privy Gallery, and had a fire made him in the Chamber of the Ambassadors Ordinary Audience; Sir Lewes Lewkner at the same time told me of him, and wished me to go to receive him; but neither was that Service to be performed by me to the Person of an Agent (and therefore by me declined) neither was any Agent to be admitted to that place by that way, but by the way of the privy Chamber.   

November the first 1617.  
The Ordinary Ambassador of Venice Signior _____ Barbarigo dying here, Signior _____ Contareni came hither Extraordinary, and was brought to his first Audience at White-Hall by the Lord Clifford (accompanied with half a score Gentlemen his Majesty's Servants) in his Majesty's Co●ch and three of the Lords Coaches. His house was at the Hospital, where he had (attending our coming) the French Ambassadors Coach, the Masters of the Ceremonies who had dined with him, and five or six of the Ambassadors own, and others providing.  
After his rest in the Council Chamber, he was conducted to his Majesty's Presence in the Presence Chamber, and there after a brief speech, 
Nota.  and delivery of his letters of credence which (before he had made an end of speaking he took not from the Secretary, who held them in his hand) he returned to his home in company of the Persons mentioned.  
An Ambassador (with his assistant Commissioner Chancellor of Museovey) sent from that Emperor to his Majesty was (the fifth of November 1617.) received at Tower Wharfe by the Lord Compton, having been first met at Gravesend by Sir Richard Smith and others, sent in name of the City, and brought up in their Barges. The King's Coach, and five or six others took them in at Tower Wharfe, but with such disorder of Gentlemen come from Court (more than were appointed) that too soon pressed into them, as without my care, and boldness to displace, some must of the better sort of Musfes have walked on foot to their Lodgings. They were wellcomd at their Landing with a volley of great Ordinance from the Tower, and ships, and were encountered on Tower Hill by the Aldermen of the City in their Scarlet Gowns, and other Citizens in their Velvet Coats, and Chains of Gold, all on Horseback, and thence conducted to their House in Bishopsgate-street, where they were Lodged and defrayed at the charge of the Muscovey Company.  
On Saturday the eight of November, the Lord Chamberlain let me know his Majesty's pleasure for my repair to the French Ambassador with an assignation for his demanded Audience the next day at one of the Clock, and with an excuse of unfitness of the hour, in regard the King intended to departed that day betimes to Theobalds'. He came according to appointment, and being introduced to his Majesty's Presence, I (with demand of Pardon) left him; and taking with me the King's Coach (which together with the Lord Chamberlains attended that Service at the Court gate) went (without any Lord, or other to accompany me) to Bishopsgate-Street to fetch thence the Muscovit Ambassadors to their Audience.  
All their Servants of less esteem marched all the way on foot before him (the rest in Coaches provided by the Merchants) each of those on foot carrying before them with ostentation to open view some parcel of the various Present sent to his Majesty from the Emperor.  
This consisted of Sable Furs, black Foxes, ermines, Hawks, with their Hoods and Mantles (covering their backs and wings) all enbroydered with Gold and Pearl; too lining Sables, a Persian dagger, and knife set with Stones, and Pearls, two rich Cloth of Gold Persian Horse-clothes, a Persian kettle Drum to lure Hawks with etc. Besides many other Sables, and black Fox furs sent the King from three of the principal Nobles of the Emperor's Court, and besides some presented to his Majesty from the Ambassadors and the Chancellor. The Queen and Prince had likewise their several presents of furs from all these mentioned altogether esteemed worth— 4000 l. sterling. The Ambassadors were received at the Court gate by the Lord Shandoys, and on the top of the stair (at the entry to the Guard Chamber) by the Earl of Shrewsbury, and by these conducted along the Terras immediately (the King already expecting them with some impatience) into the Banqueting House. There at the door they were met by the Lord Chamberlain, and being entered the Room, the exceeding press of the people so hindered their profound Superstitious reverences, 
As stooping and knocking their for cheads against the ground.  or rather Adorations (intended to have been thrice) but by that hindrance only once, and that close before his Majesty performed by them) as it turned much to their discountenance, and discontent. Those that carried the Present (about fifty) were (after the Ambassador had finished his Speech, and Interpretation made of it) commanded to pass along on the left hand, and in sight of his Majesty by one and one in the Privy Gallery, where his Majesty might at leisure in his return take better view of what the press before had hindered. The Lord Chamberlain reconducted the Ambassadors (after their dismission) to the door of the Banqueting House, the other Lords to the Stations of the first Reception, and I only to their Lodging.  
The fourteenth of December, I was sent by the Lord Viscount ●●sle (Lord Chamberlain to the Queen) to conduct the Wife of the French Ambassador to the presence of her Majesty at Denmark House, where at the Gate I received her, and brought her to a Chamber for her repose, at the right hand of the first Court; thither (after a small time of stay) repaired for her entertainment, and to accompany her to her Majesty) the Lady Blanch Arundel, Mistress Barbara Sidney, Mistress Southwell of the Queen's privy Chamber, and Mistress Gargrave, one of her Majesty's maids of Honour; not long after a Gent. Usher, bringing word that the Queen was come forth into the Privy Chamber; she passed with this Company (her Servants going before her) towards her Majesty, and was met at the Presence Chamber door by the Lord Chamberlain, and received by her Majesty (without a kiss from her, though by some expected.) This done, she returned reconducted by the Lord Chamberlain to the Guard Chamber by the mentioned Ladies to the entrance of the Portico of the first Court, and by myself to her Coach.  
The 17. of December (by Order of the Lord Chamberlain to the Queen) I and two of her Majesty's Gentlemen with her Majesty's Coach, and another attended Sir Thomas Summerset, Son to the Earl of Worcester, for the Conduct of the Venetian Ambassador to his first Audience of her Majesty: we found him ready at his House at the Spittle with two Choaches of his own, and some Gent. Strangers to accompany him thence. Bringing him first to the Council Chamber at Denmark House, he was introduced by the Lord Chamberlain to the Queen into the Privy Chamber, and after delivery of his Letters, and some few words of compliment, he returned home with the company mentioned.  
Sir Thomas Somerset would have taken leave of him so soon as he entered the fore-Court of his House, but I telling him it was the Custom, and would be expected that he should leave him in his Chambers, he would not be persuaded to pass further than he had, which the Ambassador resenting, went suddenly from him, without so much as offering to accompany him back towards his Coach, and not without showing a countenance of infatisfaction.  
The 28. of November, Sir Thomas Spence Lord of Wormstone, who had been a General in the Wars of the King of Sweden, let me know that an Ambassador extraordinary from that King was arrived at Gravesend, and there attended Order for his proceeding. My Lord Chamberlain was not then in Town, and because I was tender in taking any course without his Lordship's directions, and that also I knew not whether the Master of the Ceremonies, than also out of Town, might have already received Order for that Service; I wrote to him a Letter, signifying my knowledge of that employment toward, for which, if he had already Order, I might be discharged. He wrote answer, that he knew it two days before, and would himself the next day go about it, and so did, fetching him from Gravesend to his abiding in the Crouchet Friars.  
The fourth of December, Master Secretary Lake sent for me, and shown me a Letter he had then received from the Earl of Buckingham, (then with the King at Newmarket) signifying in Answer of, and by him from my Lord Chamberlain, That whereas the Ambassador of the King of Sweden, was desirous of an Audience there, the King was pleased he should have it, but not to be defrayed (as that which had never yet been done to any of that King's Ambassadors, neither would he bring up any such Custom) but that for Coaches and other things usual, his Majesty's pleasure was that Order should be taken to furnish him. Upon sight of this Letter, I desired Sir Thomas Lake to send to the Master of the Ceremonies, but he was out of Town, as was also the lord Chamberlain, whom when he returned I acquainted with the business. At the first he was of Opinion, that the Ambassador himself must pay for the hire of his Coaches, but I intimating, that it was his first Audience he was to go to, at which usually his Majesty sent his own Coach for service of Ambassadors, he assented that he should have Coaches at the King's charge, but not that he should have carriages, so for his Baggages also demanded, as being an allowance without precedent, yet this also at the last (besides the hire of two horses) was yielded to, and we setting forth from London the eight of December, came the first night to Puckerage, whence I wrote by a Servant, sent before with the Ambassadors Cooks to the Earl of Buckingham, to signify our approach, and that if his Majesty's pleasure were to do the Ambassador any further honour by encounter of some Noble Person on the way, his Lordship might have time to take, and give directions for it. But his Majesty and my Lord being (when my letters came) already horsed to ride on hunting, all rested without further order till the evening that we arrived at our Lodging, whence I went immediately to my Lord of Buckingham (my Lord Chamberlain being then at London) with the account of our coming, and to solicit the Ambassadors Audience, but this being referred for resolution to the next morning, I acquainted Mr. Secretary Lake, and the Lord Fenton with the Ambassadors desire of dispatch, and at eleven of the Clock before noon obtained the King's pleasure for access at two After noon, when the Lord Clifford with half a dozen Gentlemen of the privy Chamber, his Majesty's Coach, and the Bishop of winchester's went to receive him at his Lodging, and with the Ambassadors followers in other four Coaches that brought us from London, brought him to Court. He was conducted (without stay any where) to the Presence Chamber, where his Majesty was already come forth to receive him. Having delivered his letters of credence, he made an Oration (to the purpose of the King's Princely Office of mediation for Peace between the King of Denmark, and Sweden) of almost an hour long. Which finished, and briefly answered by his Majesty in the same Language, the Ambassador turned to the Prince, and beginning to him another formal speech, the King left him, so did the Ambassadors (after a while) the Prince, and returned to his Lodgings.  
This was on Thursday; The Saturday following about ten of the clock at night, came to my Lodging one of the Pages of the Bedd-Chamber to tell me from his Majesty, that his pleasure was I should invite the Ambassador to dine with him the next day; which I performed in the morning, and had his Majesty's Coach (no more) attending at the Court gate, about Noon when the King having ordered, that a Noble man should fetch him from his Lodging, it was held by others needless, and except at his first Audience (now passed) and at his last, I only might serve the turn for his conduction, which was allowed of, and I with Sir James Spence only, brought him through the Presence into the withdrawing Chamber, where the King within a while entering, he took him with him to dinner in the Presence Chamber. About the midst of the Table (as accustomed) sat the King; at his left hand the Prince, and at the Tables end beneath, the Ambassador) who had for his Carver none but the Princes, and for his cup one of his own Gentlemen. Before dinner a question grew (which was diversely argued according to opinions) whether the Prince were to fit covered at dinner or no in Presence of his Father, seeing the Ambassador, as a King's representant, was not to sit uncovered? Some affirmed, they had seen the Prince sit bare headed, when an Ambassador had his hat on: others otherwise. But the King cleared all, when after I had given him an hint of the question, and that himself had sat a while uncovered, he put on, and willed the like to be done by the Prince, and the Ambassador. The Ambassadors Gentlemen had no Table appointed for them (by the King's express order) because (he said) the young Prince of Anhaults Gentlemen (who had been with him the week before) had none, though the reason might not seem to serve for one as for the other (the different qualities of their Masters considered) but were sent two, or three of the chief of them to the Table of the Groom of the Stool, the Lord Fenton, the rest dined after with the Prince's Waiters. When dinner was done, the King retired himself, and left the Ambassadors there in the withdrawing Chamber to attend there his return, which was an hour after, and then holding with him a private conference, his Servants were after admitted into the room, with whom I entering, his Majesty drew out my Sword and knighted with it the Ambassador. From thence the Ambassador went (by assignation from the Prince, who would save him (he said) his offered pains of going to his Inn and returning) straight to his Highness' Lodgings, and after a short Audience, took his leave. His Majesty by the mediation of Sir James Spence, was pleased (besides giving him a Patent for confirmation of his Knighthood) to add a mark of honour to his Coat of Arms.  
The next day we left Newmarket, dined at Cambridge, saw the best Colleges there, lay the first night at Newport near Audley end (which rare Building of the Earl of Suffolk's the Ambassador also saw) lodged the next night at Waltham, and after ten day's absence were again at London. There after the Ambassador had rested a day or two, he demanded Audience of the Queen, but her Majesty refused to give it without other reason or excuse, then that the King his Master had not written to her, and why should she then (she said) see his Servant. Towards the day of his parting (the King being then returned to London) and he having already taken leave of his Majesty at Newmarket, it was held by some of the Lords, that his Majesty need send him no present, his business (they said) little concerning us here, and his Master a remote Prince of little, or of no necessary correspondence with us. Besides, he was sent hither with that King's interest only, as with a demand of aid against the King of Poland, and to solicit his Majesty's mediation for friendship between him, and the King of Denmark, and sinally to thank his Majesty for the good, and beneficial Office he had done the King, and State of Swethland in composing by his Ambassador the bloody differences between them, and the Russians, with other the like reasons too frugally (perhaps) alleged for sparing of a Present. But I intimating to my Lord Chamberlain, that seeing he had not been here defrayed by his Majesty further than by his Coaches, and Carriages, had been otherwise well looked on, and graced by his Majesty had fairly carried the business he came for, of expressing of thankfulness, and was the first Ambassador that ever came from that King since his coming to the Crown of Swethen. His Lordship moved his Majesty in it, and so prevailed, as that he sent him by me a Diamond Ring, and his picture enclosed in it worth about— 2000 l. sent to him (I said) when I presented it, as a private Token without public Ceremony to be worn by him, not for the value, but for the senders memory. A day or two after he departed without any attendance or convoy of Barges or Coaches to Gravesend, and there took Shipping. I moved my Lord Chamberlain for the Ambassadors use of the King's Barge to Gravesend, but his Lordship answered me, he knew of no such custom, and could therefore give no such directions. But his Lordship was herein mistaken, both for the extent of his own power, and the Ambassadors right, the custom having ever been for the Lord Chamberlain to command, and for Ambassadors (especially extraordinaries) to use his Majesty's Barges to, and from Gravesend, as at their coming, so at their parting.   

January 5 1617.  
My Lord Chamberlain acquainting me with the pleasure of his Majesty for an Invitation (already in charge to Sir Thomas Smith chief of the Muscovey company) to be delivered to the Ambassador and Commissioner of that Emperor for their dining the next day with his Majesty, his Lordship added, that he had given order to the Jewel house for a fair guilt cup to be provided, which when his Majesty had drunk in to the Ambassador, it was upon his pledge (after the custom of that Country) to be left to him as a present of the King's favour; whereupon I was bold to demand of his Lordship, how he thought it would be apprehended, if the Chancellor his Colleague should not receive the like honour? this moved his Lordship to send to the Merchants for their opinion, which brought forth a resolutton, that the honour which one had, the other would (no question) expect, and that therefore both must be alike proceeded with.  
So the next day I was sent to them with the King's Coach and the marquis of Buckingham's with the company of four or five of the King's Servants (an honour more than usual at such invitations) but the Merchants had made it their request, and it was not stood on for satisfaction of that particular Ambassador (whose Nation stands so much on Ceremony) with order to me to bring them to the Court gate by eleven of the Clock, and this without stay through the Guard Chamber, and Presence to the privy Chamber, where his Majesty would be seated under the State, ready to receive them. And that after their Compliment should be passed, thence I was to conduct them along the privy Gallery to the Council Chamber for their conference with the Lords about their Negotiation (while the King should be at Chapel) and after to conduct them along the Terras, and by the way they had before passed to the privy Chamber to dinner. But all this designed course, was inverted by his Majesty's impatience to stay so long for them, when, by reason I had relied on my Lord marquis of Buckingham's assurance over night, that he would give order (as Master of the Horse) for the King's coach to be ready the next day at the appointed hour, and his Lordship had forgotten it) we could not come to Court (being so retarded) till after eleven; so as the King being already gone to Chapel, I received a direction different from the former, and descending from the Coaches at the Court gate, than happened another incongruity; the Lord de la ware appointed to receive them there, did not appear at his time, so as the Ambassadors (Puntillios in their reception) made a stand under the Court gate, but at last (against their Ceremonious stomaches) went on as far as the midst of that first Court, where they were met by the said Lord, and after on the top of the Stone stairs by Richard Earl of Dorset, which two Lords conducted them over the Terras into the Council Chamber, kept them company with almost an hours patience, till his Majesty's return from Chapel, they were at last brought through the Stone-Table Chamber, where the Lord Chamberlain met them, to the privy Gallery, where (about the midst of it) stood the King and received them, and was thence followed by them into the Privy Chamber, where the two Ambassadors seared at the Tables end of his Majesty's left hand, they had their Health drunk to them by his Majesty after their Country manner, and the two Cups they drunk in, presented to them; After this followed, their Emperor's Health drunk to them by his Majesty  
Their servants (about fifty of them) had a Dinner provided in the Guard Chamber, where the Guard that waited on them failed not of their accustomed care (by soon shifting away their Dishes) to keep them from surfeiting. The Ambassadors after Dinner were reconducted by the two Lords mentioned, to their several Stations, and by me and some of the King's Servants to their Lodgings. Their failing at the time of their assignation (as before) was a cause, that the conference they should then have had with the Council, was deferred till the day following at nine of the Clock, which should have been otherwise either immediately before Dinner, or in the afternoon, if they had not alleged for excuse, that it was the Custom of their Country, that whensoever an Ambassador was to have an Audience of the Prince his Council, they were to see the Prince his Eyes first, but in regard that their feasting with the King (where they said) they hoped his Majesty would allow them the liberty to take their Drink, (which they must forbear if business were immediately to follow) they desired they might not have their Audience till the next morning, and then see his Majesty's Eyes before they should see his Councillors.  
This request (though unusual) thought reasonable and granted. I about nine in the morning fetched them from their home, where the Chancellor took exceptions that he had never a Gentleman sent to sit within his Coach, which was the Lord Chamberlains (sent ordinarily then with the Kings) as I did with his fellow Commissioner. And bringing them by direction through the Park, and the Tylt-yard Gallery to the Ordinary Chamber of attendance for Audiences, the King saw them only in the next Room save one to the Privy Gallery, and there with three words and their low reverences left them to the Council.  
Eight of which having gone before into the Council Chamber, and coming back to meet and receive them in the Stone-Table Chamber, they were by them introduced (the Ambassador preceding) their Business heard, they dispatched, brought back by the Council to the Chamber where the King had seen them, and they (as they desired) his Majesty's Eyes, and there left to my reconduction (which they had) to their Lodgings.  
A Mask prepared for Twelftyde (wherein the Prince was to be a principal Actor) and that his first Exercise in that kind) was a subject for the King to invite to it the Spanish Ambassador, and to observe the promise his Majestiy had made him the year before to that purpose, the rather because a Marriage between the Prince and the Infanta was then in Treaty. The French Ambassador in the mean time being left with little or no regard of satisfaction given, or sought to be given him, either by private excuse, or otherwise. At which neglect (as he understood it) he took such shadow and offence, as repairing to Court, and demanding (as unseasonably perhaps as impatiently) Access to his Majesty, was entertained by one or two Lords of the Bedchamber (whom he that instant encountered) with as satisfactory reasons as they could frame for diversion, but with little effect, though Sir Thomas Edmons (controller of his Majesty's House, who had been in France Ambassador) were (together with the Master of the Ceremonies, sent to him immediately after to the same purpose of modification; so as standing first upon his Master's right of Priority before any other Kings (particularly before that of Spain) and affirming that he could prove by many Precedents of our own, that if the Spanish Ambassador were ever heretofore present at any such entertainment, or Solemnity at Court, it was by the French Ambassadors permission, when either he would not be there, or that he was sent to by his Majesty with entreaty to excuse his absence; He at last threatened to make protestation against the wrong done his Master in his Ambassador's person. But this threatening little it seems regarded by his Majesty (who was resolved upon his course for entertainment of the Spanish) was a cause of the French Ambassadors sending his Secretary Post into France with the Account of the Kings and his own proceeding, and of the Letters that came shortly after with his Revocation (before his three years' Residence (wanting but a quarter) were expired; for which demanding an Audience the 16 of March, and having it granted (or the next day he after two hours' attendance, had it of his Majesty in the Privy Gallery, and within few days after departed the Kingdom. The ill understanding between his Majesty and this Ambassador was an occasion that Master Secretary Lake sent for me, and acquainted me with the trouble his Majesty had put himself to, to make apparent the little reason the French Ambassador had to except so against his proceeding, which to justify, his pleasure was (he said) that Sir Lewes Lewkner Master of the Ceremonies, and Sir William Button, and I, Assistants should search our Notes, and precedents to the purpose of the Question. Whereabout I presently employed myself, and sent my Collection (answerable to the time of my Service, and of my experience) to Sir Thomas Lake then with the King at Newmarket, but all to little purpose for his Majesty's satisfaction beyond that he was resolved on for the Spanish Ambassador.  
In March, 1617. The Earl of Montgomery Gentleman of his Majesty's Bedchamber, was pleased to entreat my Service and company with him to the Venetian Ambassador Seig. Contereni, his Lordship being sent to him from the King with a Message in the behalf of Captain Manwaring, which I delivered by interpretation from his Lordship's mouth to this purpose.  
His Majesty understanding what present use the State of Venice had of men for their Service, and desirous to show his affection towards them, in giving them his leave to raise certain companies here for their War, had taken further notice, that since they were to have Land-men to be commanded by Sir Henry Peyton, and Ships from hence for their Convoy to Venice; he thought fit to Recommend for command, and conduct of those Ships, Captain Manwaring, a Gentleman that he had made special choice of, and held most fit for that Employment; and though the Ambassadormight have heard, perhaps, that heretofore the said Captain Manwaring had followed the not approved course of a Pirate, it was in his unsettled years, and more desperate fortune, but that now his Majesty knew him to be so reclaimed, as if he should himself have present use of such a Commander, he would employ him as soon as any other of his Subjects, and would take it for an Argument of that Common Weals respects to him, if they would upon his recommendation entertain him. For doing which, they should find him more forward hereafter to further, and assist them in any the like occasion, when he should see that at his request they had made use of so fit a Subject for their Service.  
To this the Ambassador made answer, that the Republic was much obliged to his Majesty for his so gracious notice, and furtherance of their Assigns, and in particular for recommending one to their Service, whom he himself, and the World knew to be so worthy, and whom he had already recommended to that State for employment, but had as yet received no answer, which daily expecting, he must beg pardon if he did yet attend it without giving his resolution. My Lord replied, that the King had been informed, that the Ambassador had full Commission, and power to employ whom he should be pleased, and that with that liberty he might (he thought) admit of the Captain. The Ambassador disclaimed, that he had any such liberty, and said, that on the contrary he had order from the State to send the Ships away without any other Commander than such as were to go along with them to govern them, in regard they had a Commission with them not to offend or assail any they should encounter at Sea, but if they should be assailed, then to defend themselves as they might with the power that was to go along with them.  
In conclusion, his Lordship fell to demand (that since Captain Manwaring could not have the command that his Majesty thought to prefer him to) whether the Ambassador would not let him assure the King (as from the Ambassador himself) and in name of the Republic, that if there should be hereafter any other employment, suiting with the condition of Captain Manwaring, that he should have the offer of it before any man? the Ambassador assured his Lordship he might rest upon that, both for the respect, that the Republic (he knew) carried to his Majesty's Recommendation, and for the merit also of the Gentleman then Recommended, whom he had already (as he had said) by his Letters presented to the State for his valour, and forwardness to do them service.  
The Russian Ambassador having received an Assignation the two and twentieth of March, for the next days repair to an Audience of the Council; a request was made by some of the Muscovy Merchants (as such that well understood their Puntillious humoursthat way) that the Ambassadors might have (pretending it to be the custom of their Country, and an honour due to their Emperor) a sight of his Majesty before their conference with his Council; which yielded to, I had order to fetch them with one of the King's Coaches, and the Lord Chamberlains (which was for their more honour every Audience sent to them in Company of the Kings under title of his Majesty's Coach) taking with me one Gentleman of his Majesty's Servants to accompany me, for avoidance of the like exceptions as had been formerly taken by the Chancellor. I brought them to the Court at two of the clock, and descended at the great gate there, before I entered, I desired them (as I had in charge) not to take it in ill part, if they found there never a Noble man to receive them, since it was (I said) a Ceremony not performed towards an Ambassador of any Prince whatsoever, except only at his first, and last Audience.  
This could not hold them from murmuring, and expressing with discontented Countenances their ill Satisfactions; yet onward they went following my guidance (as my Lord Chamberlain had given me directions) up the Stone Steps, through the Guard Chamber and Presence to the privy Chamber, where after some little time of stay (near the State, but not sitting, nor having any Stools for it offered them) the Lord Chamberlain came forth and brought them into the privy Gallery, where the King seated about a third part distant from the door there, towards the Council Chamber with his chair back to the wall on the left hand, his Majesty risen up to them; at which they made their profound reverences, repeated in brief the substance of their errand, had a gracious answer, and were dismissed to rest themselves in the Stone-Table Chamber, till the Council should be assembled for them, who in a short time after passing by them, and only saluting them, one of the Clerks of the Council called to me to bring them in, when coming forwards they made a sudden stand, because they saw none of the Lords to return forth to me and introduce them, till at length that respect also was by three or four of the principal Lords given them, and they being entered the Chamber, and seated in two chairs placed at the upper end of the Table, propounded, and dispatched so much of their business as the ripeness of it would give leave, and departed by the way of the Audience Chamber through the Privy Garden, and the Cloister or Stone Walk there to their Coach, and were thence by me and the other Gentleman conducted to their Lodging.  
The next day being the four and twentieth of March, and the day of his Majesty's coming to the Crown, I was sent (with a Gentleman to accompany and two Coaches as before) to the same Ambassadors to conduct them to a Tylting (whither the Merchants had made way for an Invitation) by the way of the Park, to the end of the Tylt-yard Gallery next it, where in the first Window next that entrance were placed for them two Stools, and a Carpet to lean on, the Travers drawn between them and the King, whom after the Tylting they were admitted to see and salute; their Followers of all conditions (excepting their Interpreter for their use) were bestowed on a Scaffold ordained only for them next the entrance into the Tylt-yard on the King's left hand, where three or four of the better sort of them had a leaning Carpet laid before them, and Seats to sit on, the rest had a Seat or two, and so took as they could their best commodities. At the time of these Ambassador's jast appearance in the Council Chamber, they had an assignation to be there again the Wednesday following, but other business then entertaining the Lords beyond expectation, it was deferred for a seven-night longer, when I fetched, and brought them (attended as before) through the Park and Galleries to the Chamber next that of ordinary Audiences, where they had not, nor affected a sight of his Majesty before their Audience of the Council (as they had done before.) Thence I go to acquaint the Lords of their being present there, and retuning with Answer of their Lordship's readiness to receive them; They would not be persuaded to move thence till some of the Lords should (as at other times) come forth to entroduce them which at last they did, and brought them (giving them the hand of entrance into the Council Chamber) whence (after they had obtained a promise of a fair end to their Negotiation,) the Lords reaccompanied them to the Chamber wheat they first received them, and there left them to my conduction.  
The French Ambassadot Monsieur de Mareth (having been detained here by the indisposition of his wife, or rather for foam other cause tending to his more fair lose at his departing three weeks after he had taken leave of his Majesty) demanded, and had another Audience, whereof he had a quick dispatch, with no ill countenance from his Majesty, or show of insatisfaction from himself.  
The Russian Ambassadors having received Letters from their Emperor hasting their return, demanded Audience of his Majesty, and had it the 13. of April, attended to it by me (as before:) They expected, and desired at the same time (as at other) when it was always refused or excused) to have a Nobleman to receive them at their coming to Court; but it was before hand incharged to me to put them from that hope, in regard no other Princes Ambassadorswhatsoever were allowed that honour at private Audiences, but only at the first, and last public, and sometimes when they were invited to dine with his Majesty as they were.  
The 24. of April following, when they should have received an Assignation for their last Audience, and fivall dismission, but the Signification of it having been incharged to no one particular of the Merchants, nor (as it out to have been) to the Master, or Assistant of the Ceremonies, it was forgotten or neglected till the very morning of the day assigned for it, whereof (when I, and one Gentleman with me, with only two Coaches, as formerly, came to fetch them) they complained, as of a disrespect, being their last Audience, yet they set forth at half an hour past two, that they might be at the Court by three, their hour appointed precisely, and by me observed as punctually, that neither they might stay (against which they ever murmured) for the King, nor the King (which had been most unfit) for them. At the Court Gate they were received by the Lord Gerrard, in the middle of the Court by the Lord Crumwell (an honour done them more, than (for aught I ever heard) to any other Ambassador, and yielded to upon their own and the Merchant's importunity) and on the top of the Stone-Stairs by the Earl of Ormond, who with the two other Lords conducting them through the Guard-Chamber (a different way from what had been before Ordered for their passage over the Terras to the Banqueting House, but suddenly changed, with regard to the then appearance of Courtiers, which in that larger Room would have lessened the Majesty of that presence.) They were received at the Presence Chamber door by the Lord Chamberlain, and brought by him to his Majesty there standing under the State, who when he had received their thanks, and was passing to his last Compliment of farewell, they fell earnestly to press his Majesty that his Ambassador (then nominate for Muscovy) might be sent along in company with them, and with the money granted to be lent them (which was an hundred thousand Marks.) But the King excusing both, saying, he was not yet fully resolved upon the choice of the person, for that charge, who must have time (he said) to put himself to equipage. To this answer, they objected their Commission and Instruction, which they affirmed to have from their Emperor to this purpose; That in case they should obtain the sending back with them of an Ambassador, they should not come away without him; so as in conclusion, the King upon their much, and even unmannerly importunity, denied them not that request also, whereof they knew so well how to serve themselves; as going thence immediately to the Council, (demanding permission for it but at that very instant) they would not let go the hold they had gotten of the King's assent, till they were dismissed with the like from their Lordships, of sending the Ambassador in their company, though this could not succeed without great charge and trouble to the Merchants in so long a stay, as must be necessary for the preparatives of the (till then but privately nominated) Ambassador Sir Dudley Diggs: This concluded, they left the Lords, were reconducted by the three Lords before mentioned to the place of their first reception, and by me to their lodging.  
When the next month began, his Majesty's trouble, the Lords, and the Merchants ended with the dispatch, and departure of these two Ceremonious Ambassadors, who (content neither with the Kings present then sent them, and by me delivered, having been provided at the Merchant's charge (though presented in his Majesty's name, and worth above six hundred pounds between them) nor with the Merchant's worth well near as much) murmured that they could have with them but a third part of 100000 Marks yielded to be lent their Emperor, and for which notwithstanding they knew not how to give one Marks worth of sufficient Security, etc. They went within few days after (accompanied with Sir Dudley Digs his Majesty's Ambassador to the Emperor of Russia) down to Gravesend, and thence Northward in such Ships as the Merchants of the Muscovy company had provided for their return, and for the continuance of the reestablished Traffic of those parts.  
In September 1618. The Lords of the Council had committed to a Justice of Peace his House (in nature of close Prisoner) one Monsieur de la Chenay (a French Gentleman, late one of the followers of Monsieur de Mareth, and now a domestic of Monsieur de Clere left Agent here after the departure of the Ambassador) for having confessed upon examination before the Lords, that he had an hand (by the said Agents employment) in an escape that Sir Walter Raleigh would have made into France for some disservice to his Majesty. The Agent being hereupon sent for, and appearing before the Lords assembled in the Council Chamber, refused to answer unto Interrogations till he should be proceeded with (as others) qualified as he was) had been, alleging further, that Mr. Bercher (at the same time Agent for his Majesty in France) had at an Audience before the Council of State there pretended, and claimed a right and honour done to his Representative quality. viz. Not to propound his business, till they the Lords Counsellors should stand up as he did, and be uncovered as he was in that place Ambassador (he said) being allowed to sit and be covered, as they the Councillors also were at the time of their Audiences. This le Clere affirmed had been yielded to by the King his Master's Councillors, and that he had reason to challenge the like from their Lordships. The Lords Answer was that several Countries had several forms, and that the manner of proceeding in France, was no rule for ours in England, where custom had made it otherwise. But this answer would not serve to draw any from le Clere for satisfaction of their demands, till at length the Lords (neither to yield to him, nor to force his resolution) thought good to retire themselves, and him with them into another Chamber, and there, as by way of private discourse (where the place being no Council Chamber, no odds of observance were given, or taken) they examined him upon his followers lafoy Chenays' confessions and actions; he twice with great oaths denied all knowledge of them, till at length la Chenay (brought further to confront him) acknowledging and confessing, (as he had done to the Lords before) the truth of his employment for Sir Walter Raleigh's escape) le Clere could no further outface it, but with shame confessed it. Whereof as soon as his Majesty was informed, he was in his Majesty's name commanded by the Lords to surcease from all further negotiation or exercise of his charge, and not to come in presence of his Majesty till a messenger sent instantly post to France should return with signification of that King's pleasure for the avowing, or dissavowing of his Ministers actions. About a month after a letter came in answer with particular charge (as the Agent pretended) that he was to deliver it himself to the Kings own hand. To which purpose, posting to Royston (where his Majesty then was) and making offer himself to present his Letter, he could not be admitted, but being referred for delivery of it, to one of the Lords that then attended his Majesty, he refused it and said, he would personally (as he had command) or not at all perform that Service. So as returning to London, and thence in few days to France with the same Letters undelivered, and the account of his proceeding, the Revocation of his Majesty's Agent followed etc.  
A Chiaus, or messenger from Turkey, being arrived at Gravesend, was received there October the thirteenth, by the Lord Rich, accompanied with his Brother Sir Henry Rich, the Master of the Ceremonies, myself, and half a score other Gentlemen, that Lord entertained nobly at his own charge all the company, went the next morning from his own Inn to the Chiauses, and thence conducting him to the King's Barge, and two others (come down for his Service) and Landing him at Tower Wharfe, we there entered the Lords Coach, and other of his friends, and of the City (the King's Coach not then serving) and brought him to his Lodging defrayed (as was also his diet, during his stay here) by the Turkey Merchants. He had within few days after his public Audience of his Majesty in the Banqueting House, purposely hung for him with rich hang, where his Majesty touched one of his followers, said to be his Son, for cure of the King's Evil, useing at it the accustomed Ceremony of Signing the place infected with the cross, but no prayers before or after.  
An Ambassador from Venice, Signior _____ Donati being come to reside here in place of Signior _____ Contareni (recalled by the Republic) was brought to his first Audience the first of November by the Lord Clifford the Master of the Ceremonies, seven or eight other nominated Gentlemen, and myself as voluntary, the King's Coach, the Lord marquis of Buckingham's, and three other serving, he was taken into them at the house of his predecessor mentioned, and their places taken up by themselves in the Coach (both on one side, the Ancienter having the right hand next the Horses) and the other side left to the Lord Clifford, and the Master of the Ceremonies. There came with us fifteen or sixteen Coaches to the Court. The Ambassadors guided over the Terras to the Council Chamber, and after half an hours repose there, back to the Guard Chamber, were at the Presence door received, and introduced by the Lord Chamberlain for their Audience, etc. This Ambassador Donati was not long after revoked by his Prince for misdemeanours in his charge whilst he was Ambassador in Savoy, and Signior Geronime Landi sent to reside here in his stead.  
A Mask of certain Lords and others, being prepared for Twelve night, and to be represented in the Hall at White-Hall (the Banqueting House having been burnt a little before) gave occasion to his Majesty (who had been often troubled with the Puntillious differences of Ambassadors about invitations, precedencies, and the like) to take advantage of this more quiet time then accustomed, while no French nor Spanish Ministers were here, and to begin a new course (at least pretended, if not intended) no more to admit of Ambassadors to sit with his Majesty under the State; and to this purpose gave order for a Box, or seat to be made apart (with Stools, Cushions, and leaning Carpets to be bestowed in it) on his Majesty's right, but somewhat obliquely forward, and therein were placed (without exceptions from any of them) the new come Venetian Ambassador Donati, and four commissioners sent hither from the States of the united Provinces.  
The Prince Palatines Ambassador (the Baron of Donowe, at that time likewise employed hither) was seated as a domestic (but not without consideration of avoiding question) uppermost above all the Lords on the form usually placed for them.   

1619  
The Count de Tillieurs sent to reside here Ambassador Ordinary from the French King in succession of Monsieur de Maretz (though after almost an year, and an halves intermission of that charge) came towards his first Audience of his Majesty then at Windsor, the fifteenth of September, and was met at Staines by the Earl of Kelley Groom of the Stool to his Majesty, sent thither to receive, and conduct him (the Lord North having been the Evening before appointed by the Lord Chamberlain for that service, but countermanded the next morning upon maturer consideration of the fitness to send to meet him a person of a more eminent place, and title, than a Baron) with the Lord Kelley went in his Majesty's Coach myself, and five Gentlemen of the privy Chamber; he had Audience given him in the Presence or privy Chamber (one there serving both turns) where having in a graceful fashion made his approach with three reverences, and passed a brief Compliment, called to his Secretary for his Letters of credence, and presented them. Which whilst the King was reading, he turned towards the Prince (than present) and passed with him a short Compliment, which some judicious standers by censured for unseasonable, having not yet finished the purpose he had in hand with the King, affirming his carriage had been better only to have bowed to the Prince after he had presented his first respects to his Majesty and not to have spoken to the Prince till he had fully ended what he had to say to the King. After his Majesty had invited him to cover, he obeyed, but uncovered immediately holding his hat all the time after (except one little instant) in his hand, that night he returned to Staines with the Lord Kellies conduct, who went immediately back to Windsor, and the Ambassador the next morning to London.  
The day of the French Ambassadors Audience at Windsor, came thither one of the young Dukes of Halstein, cousin German to the deceased Queen Ann, who sending for me to his Lodging, desired my assistance for his private access to the King. (He having been here at another time before with his Majesty) and that he might have the honour to hunt with him the next morning without further noise or trouble of Ceremony. For this I repaired to the Lord Chamberlain, and craving his advice and directions, had for answer that in regard the Duke came privately, and desired but a private access, he wished me to address myself to one of the Gentlemen of the Bedd-Chamber, and particularly to the marquis of Buckingham, that the King might be acquainted with his desires. So speaking that night late both with his Lordship, and his Majesty, I had for answer, that the next morning at seven of the Clock, his Majesty would be glad of his sight, and of his Company in hunting.  
At the hour assigned, he and I with him entering the King's withdrawing Room, while his Majesty was booting themselves, he there received his welcome, and waiting on his Majesty to his Coach, he was admitted to sit by him. After taking Horse with his Majesty in the Park, he road, and I with him the death of a leash of Bucks, returning after in Coach with his Majesty to Windsor, he went the next day to London. A seven-night after his Excellency had my company to his Majesty at Wansted, and that night back to London.  
The Count Guido, Son to the marquis de Villa, or as some others stilled him the Sillana (who had been here Extraordinary about six years before) was sent hither Extraordinary from the Duke of Savoy to condole the death of Queen Ann, dead half a year before, when our Blacks had been already laid by, by which those that he, and his followers wore, were made the more unsuitable.  
He had his Audience in the Presence at White-Hall (More solito) brought to it by the Earl.  
And the Sunday following was accompanied to his second and last Audience, and to dine with his Majesty at Theobalds'. He sat with the King in the privy Chamber there at the lower end of the Table, the Ordinary Ambassador Gabellione sitting at the side opposite to the King near the end. About the midst of dinner his Majesty drank the Duke's health bore headed, and standing till they both had pledged it. After this the Count Guido drank the King's health to his Colleague (having first demanded leave for it of his Majesty.) Three or four men of Tille, as Count Tispoti, and _____ (which to do him honour had accompanied him hither) dined in the Council Chamber accompanied by the Duke of Lenox, the Earl of Leicester, Sir Thomas edmond's Treasurer of his Majesty's Household, and other Gentlemen  
The Baron of Denow eimployed to his Majesty from the Prince Palatine, soon after the Crown and title of King of Bohemia was conferred on him by the Election of those States, had had after his Arrival here two or three private Audiences without public notice or stile of King given him by his Majesty. He was afterwards appointed to follow the King to Newmarket, whither he came the 27. of January, with no other company or attendance but Master Williams (Agent here for the affairs of that King, or rather for the Queen, our King's only Sister, and his own few followers. (Sir Lewes then remaining at London, and expecting the Arrival of a Spanish Ambassador Don Diego Sarmiento, new made Conde de Gondemar) some occasions at the same time having drawn me to Newmarket) I received there the Lord Chamberlains Command to do the Ambassador the service of my place; so I waited on him to his first Audience there the thirtieth of January, when my Lord Marquis of Buckingham, the Earl of Montgomery, the Lords Viscounts of Purbeck and Doncaster, the Lord Grace, and divers others of his Majesty's better sort of Servants, did him the honour on foot to come to his Inn, (his Majesty's Coach walking by) & accompany him thence on foot to the Court, where his Majesty receiving him in the withdrawing Chamber, rook him instantly with him into his Inner Lodgings, whence (after an hour, and an halves conference) he was reconducted by all the Lords mentioned on foot as before to his Lodging. From that time he had his accesses to Court, and to his Majesty's Presence as a Domestic without Ceremony, and this by the Kings own Signification of his Pleasure to me to that purpose. From Newmerket he went along with his Majesty to Royston, Theobalds', London, and with my continual Attendance.  
Towards the end of February Monfieur Revinch Hauson, Ambassador from the Princes of the Union of Germany, came to the King at Theobalds', conducted thither by Sir Lewes Lewkner only at his own particular request (for avoidance of noise, and perhaps of note of his small Train) he was introduced to his Audience by a private way over the Leads into the Prevy Gallery, where the King with two or three of his Council (and exclusion of others) gave him Audience.  
The 21. of March I had Command with his Majesty's Coach to conduct him from his Longing in the Strand to White Hall, by the way of the Park and Galleries to the Ordinary Chamber of Ambassadors Attendance, and thence after some two hours' presence of stay there, to the presence of his Majesty in the private Gallery.  
The Conde de Gondemar sent Extraordinary Ambassasador from the King of Spain, arriving at Dover about the beginning of March, was met there with Coaches by the Masters of the Ceremonies, at Gravesend by the Earl of Dorset, and by him, with many of the King's Servants, and near thirty Coaches brought from his Landing out of the King's Barge etc. at Tower Wharfe to the Bishop of Elyes House in Holborn, taken up for him (with an Example not unmurmured at.)  
The 12. of March, He had his first public Audience, conducted to it by the Earl of Arrundell at White Hall, where, after some small time of repose in the Council Chamber, passing over the then ruinous wooden Terras, at the instant that he was entering the first great door next that of the Guard Chamber, the weight of the over thronging multitude next about him, pressing down part of the Planks and Joyces under him, that it suddenly fell, and with all the Earl of Arrundell, the Lord Grace, and others, with great danger, and some hurt (particularly to one youth, who under the ruins had his arm and shoulder broken) the Ambassador having received but half a fall of the nether parts of his Body only, his Servants next him staying and holding him by the upper, as he was at the instant of entering under the door. The danger, and fear of it past, he was received at the Presence door by the Lord Chamberlain, and brought to the Presence of his Majesty without discomposition of countenance or otherwise for his fall, rather merrily excusing it, as an effect of his haste and longing to see his Majesty.  
The King's day (March the four and twentieth) returning towards the Solemnity usual at it of running at the Tilt etc. his Majesty was pleased to send an Invitation to the Spanish Ambassador extraordinary Count of Gondemar, and also to the French Ambassador Ordinary the Count de … lleurs to be there; and because of their accustomed difference about precedence, there was care had as much as might be, to please them both to to their satisfactions, especially his Majesty being resolved (for his reasons before alleged of the trouble they brought with them in that point) to admit neither of them to sit under the Seat next him. Hereupon it was concluded on his Majesty's part (and the places offered to both their considerations) that they should be both seated in several places on his right hand thus. The French Ambassador in the first Window of the Duke of Lenox his Lodging over the great Gate next without the Tiltyard Eastward, and the Spanish in a standing dressed up of purpose over the Porter's Lodge within the Tiltyard, 
Upon view  both in equal distance from his Majesty. The Spaniard professed to be pleased with his allotment, but the French not so, alleging (though he had at the first seemed content with the distribution) that the Spaniards assigned place was in public, and in the King eye, his not, but in a private corner out of the view of the King, and almost of the people, though in situation higher than the other, and in the same body of the King's House; but that which he most urged, and stood upon was, that suppose there should be in their rancking there no difference, and that they should be both placed, and entertained on equal terms, yet even that was a Subject for a main exception in regard that the French King his Master would not (he said) treat with the Spaniard as questioning only parity, 
nec vult Gaesarve priorem Pompeiusve parem.  but as making no question of his right of Priority, which he would challenge, and take as his due wheresoever.  
Besides (he said) because the Spaniard might seem to have the better place, as being most in the Kings and people's sight, and that place allotted him more retired, and out of view, though within the Body of the Kings own House, he desired that (if the place were so equal, as some Spanishly inclined pretended) he might have the first choice, and it should content him. In fine being left herein unsatisfied, he absolutely refused to come at all, or to send his Lady, though her place were already assigned her in a Compartment provided, and kept for her near his Majesty within the Gallery, so as in conclusion, the Spaniard remained Master of the Field, where no Enemy appeared, taking his place appointed over the Porters Lodge as mentioned.  
In the mean time other Questions grew between other Ambassadors then also invited; as between the King of Bohemia's Ambassador, the Ambassador of Venice Signior Landi, the Duke of Savoys Ambassador Signior Gabellione, and the State's Ambassador Sir noel Charon, they all invited, made promise to be there, and to content themselves with the places appointed them at the lower end of the Tiltyard in the House of the Lady Walsingham; but the Venetian understanding the day before that the King of Bohemia's Ambassador was to accompany the Ambassador of the Princes of the Union in his way homewards as far as Gravesend, and supposing he could not possible return in time to be present at the Titling, he sent Sir Lewes Lewkner to my Lord Chamberlain to intimate; 
Crowned Heads or Kings Ambassadors.  That whereas the Ambassador of Venice had been ever accustomed to be treated all  with the Ambassadors of Teste Coronate, if he should be placed apart with only the Duke of Savoys and States Ambassadors at one end of the Tiltyard, and the Spanish Ambassador alone at the other, 
Axiom.  it would be a diminution of his quality (the first place of an inferior degree, being ever held (he said) worse then the last of a Superior) and that rancking being not regal (which was that he pretended) but ducall, as he must esteem it, if he might not have the King of Bohemia's Ambassador for companion. Upon this formality of the Venetian, the Master of the Ceremonies repairing to the Bohemian Ambassador, and receiving his assurance with promise, that he would return in time from Gravesend, and be there in person, the Venetian and Savoyard Gabellione concluded likewise with promise to each other to be there, and with them the State's Ambassador; but this last the Evening before obtruded a new exception, and sent word to my Lord Chamberlain, that he had an express command from his Masters the States (which it seems he had not so well thought of or had forgotten till then) not to quit the Precedence to any but to King's Ambassadors and to the Venetians, so as if the Sovoy Ambassador should be there, he must be absent, and so he was; but on the day of Tilting, the Ambassador of Bohemia, and the Venetian both appearing, the Savoyard came not, though he had that very morning by his promise assured his Presence together with the other two. Whereupon the Venetian having already taken his place at the lower end of the Tiltyard (as had also the Bohemian) grew to be much unsatisfied and suspicious, 
This taking the hand of the Venetian who gave it him without question.  that the Savoyard might have cunningly insinuated himself into some place nearer the King, either with the French Ambassador (who perhaps (he said) might repent himself of the refusal he had made, and accept of the place first appointed, or with the Spanish) though that, (in regard of their then not best Correspondence) were much unlikely. In either of which Cases, the Ambassador of Savoy should, to his scorn, get the Precedence, being so seated with the preceding Ambassadors, against which (if it were so) he must (he said) protest by his immediate departure, but the Savoyard (as I have said) not coming, nor intending it, (as after appeared) laid the fault of his default upon an instant opportunity (even then (he said) offered to him by the French Ambassador) of writing by an express of his that day to be dispatched, though the true cause of his absence were imagined to be, that he was not yet resolved (as having no order for it) to quit the Precedence to the Bohemian as to a King's Ambassador, in regard as he was Ambassador to the Prince Palatine he had disputed it; so as he drove forth the day in fear and doubt, till I that night resolved him (as I promised him I would) by a Letter from my Lord Chamberlains direction, that he had that day received no wrong at all by any cunning or indirect carriage of the Savoy Ambassador for any advantage taken by his placing.  
The Axiom before delivered by the Venetian Ambassador (that the first place of an inferior degree, 
Nota.  is worse than the last of a superior) was judged upon discourse I had with some of understanding in those Affairs) to be of value in a distinct Company, but might be otherwise in a Joint Assembly; as at the conclusion of the Peace at Veruins, where the French and Spanish meeting, and contending for precedence, viz. who should sit at the right hand of the Pope's Legate, an Expedient was found of sending into France for the Pope's Nuntio residing there, who seated at the right hand of the said Legate (the Legate himself sitting at the Tables end) the French Ambassador being offered the choice of the next place, he took that at the Legates left hand, leaving the second at the right hand to the Spanish, who taking it, persuaded himself to have the better of it; sed de hoc quaere.   

December 1620.  
The French King coming so near England as calay, and being newly returned thence towards Paris, sent hither for his Ambassador Extraordinary the Marquis de Cadenet one of the Mareschalls of France, and brother to that King's Favourite, the Duke de Luines. He with an Attendance of between fifty and sixty persons of title and mark, and of above three hundred others, had passed the seas to Dover, before any order for his Extraordinary reception was fully resolved on at London, so as the Master of the Ceremonies being sent thither scarcely in time to receive him; he passed his time there four or five days for the better ordering of his occasions. After passing on towards London, the Earl of Arrundell, accompanied with the Lord of Hunsdon, and divers Gentlemen of his Majesty's Privy Chamber in about twenty Barges went from London the 28. of December, and that night visited him in his Majesty's name at his Lodging in Gravesend, where the Ambassador not meeting his Lordship till he came to the Staire Head of his Chamber door, and at his parting, accompanning him no further (no more than did the ordinary Ambassador the Count de Tillieurs who had been frowned upon by the Marquis for not meeting him sooner than at Gravesend. The Earl of Arrundell was much displeased with it, as with a neglect of his quality; so as the next day (in some part to right himself) he desired the Master of the Ceremonies to go to the Ambassador, and tell him, that in regard his Train was great, and his Lodging little, he would not be troublesome to him there, but would meet him in the Street, and thence accompany him to his embarking; So he did, and on the way encountered another cause of exception, in that the Ordinary Ambassador did not so much as offer him the hand (my Lord pretending a kind of right to it, 
The most of Opinions are, That the Ambassador Ordinary should have of the place he took.  at the least to have it offered him in the presence of the Extraordinary, but of this Quaere.) Arriveing at Denmark House (ordained for the Ambassadors Abode) the Earl landing with him at the Garden Stairs, and accompanying him not further then to the foot of the first Staire ascending to the Privy Lodgings, took his leave, and (saying, there were Gentlemen there that should show him his Lodging) left him. This bred much discourse, and was (with the other reserved proceeding of both the Ambassadors at Gravesend) soon conveied to the knowledge of his Majesty who (sensible more of the cause given by the Ambassadors then of the measure returned by the Earl of Arrundell) stormed much at it, till (Sir Thomas edmond's Comptrouller of the King's House, being sent the same night from his Majesty with some formalization to that purpose) The Ambassador was said the next day to have made his excuse to my Lord of Arrundell, that his indisposition in his Journey, and at the time when he came to receive him, was a cause that he met him no sooner, nor accompanied him no further; whereupon the difference was for that time accommodated. After one day's rest, the King sent to the Ambassador for conduction to his already assigned Audience; the Lord Marquis of Buckingham, accompanied with the Earls of Dorset and Warwick, four or five Barons, and about twenty Gentlemen in the Kings, and sixty other Coaches (so many appointed, but the number was soon increased to above one hundred) he passed with his Train from Denmark House to Westminster, the King there meeting him by Barge from White-Hall, and staying his Entrance in the higher House of Parliament, where he gave him (and with him the Ordinary Ambassador) a gracious Audience. Besides the higher House of Parliament, the Court of Requests, and the Painted Chamber (the way of his passage) were all adorned with rich hang of Tapestry. At the end of his Audience, intimating to the King, that the haste of his return would make him bold to press his Majesty for another speedy Access: His Majesty told him, he should (if he pleased) have it that Evening, which was performed after his return to his Lodging by a private repair to Court in Barge, accompanied only with my Lord of Buckingham, when he had the King's Ear two hours together.  
On Wednesday following being the third of January he was invited to dine with the King at Westminster, where his Majesty coming thither by water stayed for him (with much impatience) Et p●ur cause) above an hour, the Antipaste having been already set upon the Table. Being at last come and entering (with all his company) the higher House of Parliament (wherein they dined) they so filled the Room, disorderly stuffed before with an unruly intruding multitude, as no Officer was able freely to dischage his Service till the King sat down to meat, the Extraordinary at a convenient distance on his left hand, and the Ordinary at the Tables end (the Prince not there.) The French Noblemen of the best quality, were conducted by the Duke of Lenox, and the rest by myself to the Court of Requests, where the greater number of them taking their places promiscuously at the Table, and the Duke leaving them (perhaps somewhat abruptly) before he had seen five or six of the principal, set down at the upper end. These begun whisperingly to murmur amongst themselves, as those that might seem neglected to be left so alone without some persons of like quality to accompany them, and to invite them to their sitting; which I perceiving, began to persuade them to what they came for, and had prevailed with the Marquis de Money, and one or two more of them, till my Lord Chancellor (Bacon) the Lord Treasurer (Montague) and the Lord Privy Seal (Earl of Worcester) entering the Room, and passing by them to sit down (as they did) altogether at the right hand of the Table, without giving other countenance of respect, then putting off their Hats, or once inviting the French to sit down with them, they took their Cloaks, and with shows of much discontent, departed the Room to their Coaches; whether I and two other Scottish Gentlemen followed them fast with our best persuasions for return, but not able to prevail, we left them. Half an hour after I went, (as I had Order) upon an invitation I had delivered the day before to the Ordinary French Ambassadors House, for his Lady to come that Afternoon to a Dancing appointed at White-Hall; but she in her woman's haste to be at those Sports being gone thither before I came, I there found all the Gentlemen mentioned sitting at Dinner, To whom I saying merrily, that I was sorry they should eat two Dinners in one day (one of their excuses having been, that they had dined already) and neither of them in the King's House, one of them replied, That respecting (as they ought) the honour of the King their Master, and their own quality) they would make me their Judge, whether when they were left alone by the Duke of Lenox without any person of sort to accompany them at their sitting down to meat: and that three Messieurs de robe longue (as they with a French scorn, termed the three great Officers mentioned who had their Gowns on) came, and sat themselves down at the upper end of the Table without scarce so much as saluting them) they had not reason to leave (as they did) the Company. To which I briefly Answered, I was no Judge, nor Homme de robe longue, neither were those they termed so, of inferior rank to the greatest Lords of this Kingdom, so leaving them, and going down the Stairs, I there met the two Marquesses of Buckingham and Hamilton, coming to the purpose that I did, to conduct the Lady Ambassadrice, and Madam elle de St. Luc her Niece to the Ball, when giving these two Lords a touch of what had passed (lest the French might think perhaps they came purposely to them to excuse their Trayctment which had been too great an honour for them) they passed with them some few Compliments, and letting fall a word or two to the former purpose, the Lords (and I with them) returned to Court, and finding the Ambassadrice, and her Niece in my Lord of Buckingham's Lodging, I waited on them there, and to the Ball, where the Countess of Buckingham's Mother placing her next beneath her Daughter the Marquis, 
Note this manner of placing the Ambassadrice and the Exceptions taken.  and above herself, there grew a new quarrel of Exceptions from the other Countesses (particularly from the Countess of Dorset) that she was set above them. The two Ambassadors entering with the King, the Extraordinary sat down at his left hand, and next him there, the Ordinary, at his Majesty's right hand sat the Prince.  
The day of the King's Feast, the Count d'Alle Son to the Duke d'Angontesme, and the Count de Rochfort Son to the Duke de Monbason, and two or three others absented themselves, because they might not be admitted to sit at the Kings own Table, as they affirmed the Count d'Allies Father, the Count d'Auvergne, d'Angontesme had done (they said) at Queen Elizabeth's, when the Marshal de Byron was here in England.  
The next day our English Cavaliers, and the French ran at the King, whereas the Prince won the Prize.  
On Twelfeday following, the Ambassador and his chief followers were brought to Court by the Earl of Warwick to be present at a Mask; he seated as before with the King, the better sort of the other on a form behind the Lords (the Lord Treasurer only and the marquis of Hamilton sitting at the upper end of it) and all the rest in a Box, and in the best places of the Scaffolds on the right hand of his Majesty. No other Ambassadors were at that time present or invited.  
The Monday after the Viscount of Doncaster invited the Ambassador and all his company (men of note) to a Supper prepared and set forth with that State and cost as hath been seldom seen.) To it were also invited (for honour to the Feast, and Company) the King, the Prince, and most of the great Lords and Ladies in Town. The Ambassador himself went by Coach from Denmark House to Essex House (where the Supper was) the rest by water in Barges. At Supper, the King seated at a Table placed cross the Room and raised two steps above the Floor, had at his right hand (with a convenient distance) the Prince, at his left hand the Ambassador Extraordinary, and at the Tables end below the Ordinary.  
At the upper end of another Table (reaching from one end of the room to the other) sat on the right hand side the Lady Marquis of Buckingham, beneath her a French Nobleman, and beneath him the French Ambassadors Lady; the rest sat a Lord, and a Lady as they held out. On the other side sat uppermost the Countess of Warwick, than a French Lord, next the Lady of Doncaster; so as the Countess of Dorset, thought the Ancienter Countess (whether by choice, because she would not sit immediately beneath the Ambassadrice, or by chance I know not) sat beneath two or three Ladies that she in right of rank should have preceded. After Supper, they had the entertainment of a Mask presented by nine young Gentlemen, whereof the Lord Montjoy, and a Son of the Lord Hollis were two etc. The Ambassador having remained here about fifteen days, took leave of his Majesty at White-Hall, and was presented with a Chain of Diamonds (being an old Jewel of the Crown) of 300 l. value, which (because it was not Plate) (the King and Council having upon the sight of so much equivalent to that sum judged it not fit to deprive the Kingdom of it) was not brought to the Ambassador by the Master of the Jewel House Sir Henry Mildmay, but by the Master of the Ceremonies.  
The Ambassador having been defrayed for his Diet, Lodging and Coaches at the rate (as was said) of 200 l. per diem, went to Gravesend the _____ of January: himself and some few by Land, the rest by water, attended thence by Sir Lewes Lewkner only to his embarking at Dover.  
When it was thought, that the Spanish Ambassador would have held it an indignity, and wrong to his Master, to be present at a Mask seen before by a French Ambassador (as the last, and the same Mask had been by the marshal de Cadenet at Twelftide) he appeared at it on Shrove-Sunday seated at the left hand of his Majesty under the State) different from what had been formerly resolved on, that no Ambassador in regard of their troublesome Puntillious) should any more sit so with his Majesty) and had his family placed over a Box at the King's right hand, in which were placed the Spanish Ambassadors two Sons together with the  Agent.  
In January Arrived at Gravesend six Commissioners from the States of the United Provinces, viz. Messieurs de Senthusen, Carmelin, Soneh, Bruyning, Schot, and de Vervow, and the Secretary of their Commission, Captain Huggins: they were Lodged in Lumbarstreet, and had their first Audience in the Privy Galleries at White-Hall, 
As being but Deputies which had been enough for Ambassadors.  fetched to it by the Lord Clifford and divers Gentlemen of the Privy Chamber in above twenty Coaches. Parted from his Majesty, they went with the same attendance to the Prince at St. James', where before their entrance to his Presence, they were too late a ware of a Solecism they had committed in having delivered the Princess Letters to the King, as they had done the King's Letters (yet remaining in their hands) to the Prince, had they not suddenly cast an eye upon them, for which they had no evasion, but to make (by the Master of the Ceremonies mouth) an excuse of then Secretaries mistaking (in the obscure light) one Letter for another.  
For Shrove-Tuesday following I carried them from the King an Invitation to a Mask of the Gentlemen of the Middle-Temple to be represented in the Hall of the Court, whether I was appointed to conduct them in one of the King's Coaches, with order to be in the new Council Chamber (on the deceased Queen's side, which had been her Privy Chamber) at seven of the Clock without preparation (other then of Bread and Wine for Collation) I bestowed their followers on a Scaffold on the King's right hand, and in a Box under (purposely reserved from them) themselves together with Sir noel Charon the Ambassador. The Mask ended I brought them (by direction) to the King, whom they had not yet at that time seen) whence following his Majesty (without his notice yet taken of them) till they came to the Guard Chamber, he there saluted them, and had their attendance to the Banquet there, and after in the Privy Gallery, gave them all the good night.  
The twentieth of January, I had the Command of the Lord Chamberlain to introduce the six mentioned Commissioners to an Audience of the Council, and bring them for their repose to the old Council Chamber, where they attended the Lords leisure then much busied about the Exceptions taken by some Lords, and other of our Nobility against the Creation, and precedence given to certain Scotish and Irish Viscounts before English Barons etc.  
The fift of March I received a Command and directions from the Lord Chamberlain (the Master of the Ceremonies being then sick) to go to Dover, and receive there at his Landing an Ambassador Extraordinary from Poland, his name and Title Osalinskie Count Palatine of Sindomerskie. Hereupon order was given for my receipt of 50 l. impressed out of the Exchequer which (in regard of the pressing haste pretended of the Service, that would not admit the leisure of procuring a Privy Seal for it) was by virtue of a Warrant from the Lord Treasurer Montague, and the Controller of the Exchequer Sir Fulke Grevell (Lord Brooke) paid to me the next morning (but in the mean time the Master of the Ceremonies (having been first sent to by my Lord Chamberlain to speak with him, and excusing his coming by his sickness, supposing his employment should have been no other, then to attend the Spanish Ambassador (at that time assigned an Audience) was upon better notice, and consideration of the businesses with the likelihood of the benefit to accrue from it, resolved to discharge it himself, and to that purpose went to my Lord Chamberlain about it. But I already embarked in it, and repairing to my Lord, so maintained mine interest of Primer Seazine, as his Lordship needed not persuasion to permit me to precede, as I did the next Morning with one of his Majesty's Coaches, and three other hired by me to be defrayed by his Majesty. The eighteenth of March I came to Dover, whence Capt. Buck (an old Capt. a Scotish man that came in my Company from London, and in the Ambassadors out of Poland) went according to the Ambassadors Assignation to meet him at Callayes; but the Ambassadors Journey retarded by the illness of the weather, and ways between Amsterdam, and Antwerp, and at Brussels, (where he stayed also ten days) was a cause of the Captains fruitless stay at Callayes and of mine also, and the Coaches at Dover cleaven days; at the end whereof, a Post sent from the Postmaster at Gravesend, brought me word at Midnight how the Ambassador was Landed there from Flushing. These news carried me instantly post thither, and brought me in seven hours to his sight and reception there from his Majesty before his rising. Towards the Evening Sir Lewes Lewkner sent by the King and the Lord Chamberlain (as supposing I could not obtain time enough to the knowledge of his Landing) came thither in Company of Sir Robert Steward, and divers other Gentlemen) to welcome him from his Majesty. The next Morning the Kings, and three other Barges being sent down for his Transport to London, we all went thither ranged by Sir Lewes Lewkner (for avoidance of confusion at our embarking) the Ambassador and his cousin with eight Knights, and two Gentlemen in the King's Barge; his chief Gentlemen, and Pages in the Lord Chamberlains, and in the two other the rest.  
He was received at Tower-Wharrfe by the Earl of Warwick accompanied with the Lord Cromwell, and sundry of his Majesty's Servants. And in the Kings, and seven or eight Coaches, was conducted to his Lodging in Crutchet Friars, ordained for him, and defrayed (as was also his diet) at a certain rate agreed upon per diem without attendance of any of the King's Servants. His landing at Gravesend, and his so speedy repair to London, was a cause that the Lord mentioned met him no sooner. The next day (being Sunday, and his Majesty desirous for three or four days to leave the Town) his Public Audience was assigned, and given him at White-Hall (with the Conduct of the Earl of Essex, and the like number of Gentlemen and Coaches as before) where in the Presence there he presented Letters with a long Elegant Oration in Latin to his Majesty.  
The Tuesday following he was accompanied to his Audience of the Prince at Saint James' by the Lord Danvers, the Master of the Ceremonies, and myself with other Gentlemen. The 24. of March (the day of the Kings coming to the Crown) having been invited to a Tylting of the Prince and other Knights) he was fetched thither in the King's Coach by Sir Lewes Lewkner; but before he came, the French, Venetian, and Savoy Ambassadors were seated in their and his appointed stand, hung and covered with Tapestry over the Gate or Porter's Lodge entering into the Tiltyard, on the right hand of his Majesty. These three other I was sent for to conduct from where they all dined together at the French Ambassadors, Sir Edward Sackvill having been appointed to conduct the Venetian, but he was parted from home before Sir Edward came thither. The French Ambassador at his entrance into the Stand, casting his Eyes about him, and ask which was the better place, that on the right hand as of Custom, or the other on the left as of Respect, and nearest to the King? The Venetian Ambassador (forwardest with his Answer) said, where ever the French Kings Ambassador sits, there will be the best place. To which the French Ambassador making no reply, 
This may resolve which is the upper end of a Table in the midst of a room when the best man sits at the end of it, though the placing of the Chimney may perhaps, and doth sometimes, (as here in England) altar it.  but sitting down uppermost on the left hand from the King's right, the other two sat by him in their Order, till the Polonian coming they made him room to take (as he did) the second place. The Tylting ended (and not before) they had all of them a Salutation given them by the King from the place where he sat, so parted without further Ceremony, then with my recommendation.  
The six Commissioners of the States, and the Ambassador Ordinary, Sir noel Charon (with the Secretary of their Commission) were conducted by Sir Edward Cceill to the Chamber next the Gate, at the lower end of the Tyltyard, and there with his company saw the Tylting. These Commissioners, about the beginning of April demanded a final Audience, and dispatch from his Majesty, and had for Answer, that the Sunday following his Majesty was pleased they should dine with him, and then take their leaves; but soon after a disinvitation was brought by the Lord Kelley with this excuse. That his Majesty having since received the news of the King of Spain's death, and intending that day (as the most fit) to assume his habit of mourning, supposing that this and Feasting would not accord, so if they would be pleased to stay their Journey till the time of mourning should be expired, which would be at Saint George's Day about a fortnight after, they should have a day assigned them for the honour of eating with his Majesty. In the mean time their demanded Audience should be given them on Sunday in the afternoon, which accepted of, and the other excused with the reason of their pressing haste to be at home, they came then to Court in his Majesty's Coach (perhaps too high for their qualification of Deputies, as by the place of their last Audience they might seem to be taken for no more) introduced by the Earl of Kelley to his Majesty's presence in the Chamber of private Audiences, there took their leaves, and received all six of them the Order of Knighthood. Upon which grew a question from some of the King's Servants interessed concerning payment of their fees (accounting from each of them to receive forty four pound sixteen shillings) these being demanded by one Mr. Agher their collector and at the first not refused by them to be paid, the next day when they came to take their leaves of the Lord Chamberlain, a doubt being made of the dueness of their payment, in regard they were public Ministers, and a resolution asked of his Lordship, he absolutely affirmed to their Secretary there present that it was unfit they should pay any Fees, and that if they were again demanded, they should use his name for their discharge of payment; yet (notwithstanding this Signification from his Lordship) the Collector ceased not to solicit in the name of the Gentlemen Ushers and others, protesting against the Lord Chamberlains power to give away or withhold their rights, till finally at their departure (April 14.) they left behind them this Order (upon the importunity of the Collector, and my interposition) that if his Majesty should be pleased himself to say to the Lord Chamberlain, or to the Officer that challenged the Fees, that they should not be paid, they had no reason to lose the honour of his Majesty's free favour; but if otherwise his Majesty should say they ought to be paid, that the Ambassador Ordinary Sir noel Charon should engage himself, (as he did to me the same day by his promise) for their payment. I understood after from my Lord Chamberlain, that his Majesty signified his pleasure to him, 
From that time to the year 1635 none such have paid.  that those Fees should not be paid, as being not properly to be exacted from Ministers of Foreign Princes or such as should have any Ordinary relation to them. The Commissioners went hence the fourteenth of April to their Shipping at Gravesend in one of his Majesty's Barges, and were followed the next day in an other by the Baron of Donow Ambassador for the King of Bohemia, he also having about the same time had his dismission, and that day mine and some other gentlemen's company to their embarking before Tilbury. The State's Commissioners were presented (as I was informed) with 3000 ounces of gilt Plate equally divided amongst them, and their Secretary Constantine Huggins with a Chain of Gold 45 l. value. The King of Bohemia's Ambassador had assigned him for his present 1160 ounces of guilt Plate, but this being not then presented (but with assurance to be sent after him) he two or three years after returned hither to recover it, and did, (but not _____ to the value of it) in ready money: he presented me with a Chain of 30 l. value.  
On S. George's day, 
Note (if it should please him) because Ambassadors are not to be in vited but to let the King know their desires to see that Feast.  the Polonian Ambassador having before received an Invitation to see (if it should please him) the Solemnity of that Feast, was brought to White-Hall by Sir Lewes Lewkner (the Lord Grace having been appointed to accompany him, but arriving too late after his departure from his Lodging) though indeed the sending of a Lord at that time was Supererrogatory (and not usual) he rested himself in the old Council Chamber till the Procession, when (placed in a stand purposely erected for him, and his folfowers next the door at the head of the Stone Stairs) he saw the King and Knights pass by, and after that the Ceremony in the Chapel from the King's Closet) there; that finished, he and the Archduke's Agent Van Mab (all day accompanying him) were treated by the King in the Council Chamber with the attendance of his Majesty's Servants (on whom he bestowed by advice of Van Mab about ten pounds in Hungarian Ducats) and about the midst of his Majesty's Dinner, went to see, and saluted the King Prince and Knights as they sat at Table, and after retiring for a while in the Council Chamber, he departed.  
On Sunday the fifteenth of July this Ambassador (together with another of the House of Medici) arrived here a little before from the Duke of Florence) were invited to dine with the King, and there to take their leaves. A day or two before, the Lord North had order from the Lord Chamberlain to accompany the Florentine, while it was questioned, what Person (of somewhat a preceding quality) should accompany the Polonian; But most of the great Lords then absent from Town, and both the King's best Coaches so employed, as they could not be spared severally to carry them, there came a Countermand the Evening before for the Company of any Lord, so as Sir Lewes Lewkner (inone of his Majesty's Coaches) only attended them; they came towards noon to Theobalds', were received at their descent from their Coaches by the Earl of Aubegney, and conducted to the Gouncell Chamber, near which each of them had a Chamber appointed for their retreat: they were after the Sermon brought to the King in the Privy Chambers, and out of them following him to the Presence Chamber, they there dined; the Polonian at the lower side of the Table on the King's left hand, and the Florentine at the end of it.  
A Count Palatine, Cousin to the Polonian, and three or four Knights of Malta, and of Saint Stephen (of the Florentines Train) dined in the Council Chamber. At the end of the Table sat the Count Palatine in a Chair, and for company the Lord Clifford (on his right hand) the three Knights on the left side, and beneath them the rest of the Florentines company; on the other side sat the Polonians Gentlemen &c. the inferior sort sat not at all there, but had the remains after at the same Table. Dinner done, the Ambassadors after their retreat to their Chambers had their several Audiences. The Polonian first in the Gallery, who was after conducted to the Prince by his Highness' Gentleman Usher. And after him the Florentine in the same place, and order. The Polonian Ambassador not long after departed, having obtained of his Majesty (by the cunning assistance of the Count de Gondemar, the loan (I may say) the gift (as never to be restored) of ten thousand pound sterling.  
The 23. of December three Commissioners, Ambassadors from the States, being assigned their first public Audience, were conducted to it in the King's Coach, and four or five others by the Lord Clifford from their Lodging in Breadstreete, their names were d'Arsen, Lord of Somersdyks, Bass & Stavenets; they were received at the Gaurd-Chamber door by the Earl of Warwick, as Captain of the Guard in his Brother's absence, and after their Audience of the King in the Presence Chamber, had one of the Prince in his Lodgings.  
Twelftide appearing, and a Mask being to be presented by the Prince and other Lords and Gentlemen, my Lord Chamberlain gave me in charge to repair to the Venetian Ambassador, Signior Girolenio Landi with this message as from himself (with request of his Secrecy) That whereas he had told him two or three days before that no Ambassador should be invited to the Mask (as the King had signified to him his intention) he perceived that the Spanish Ambassador (the Count of Gondemar) had underhand pressed his Majesty to be invited, so as not to appear to have doubled with him in what he had told him, he bade me let his Excellency know, that if he would for form sake be invited and frame some excuse for his not coming, he would himself (as from his Majesty) send him an invitation. But if he would be really invited and come, his request should be, that he would make his way to it by the Marquis of Buckingham. When I had delivered this message to the Ambassador in hearing of his Secretary (whom he called in) he made answer, That for excuse of his not coming (though for form invited) he would never give that advantage to the Spanish Ambassador to say of him, that one day he would be well, and another ill for his satisfaction (as he knew some had been) as if he stood in awe of him; and for the other point of making his way by the Marquis of Buckingham, he would never do it, since he had always (he said) made his access to his Majesty's Presence by the right door of the Lord Chamberlain, and would now enter by no other.  
But since he saw (he said) what this tenderness meant, he desired me to entreat his Lordship in his name, that he would be pleased to go directly to his Majesty, and by way of remembrance (not otherwise) put him in mind from him, That the last year the French Ambassador Extraordinary Monsieur de Cadenet, and the Ordinary Monsieur de Tilliers were invited to the Prince his Mask at Christmas, and the Spanish Ambassador to the same Mask repeated at Shrovetide, to which he could and might justly have taken Exceptions, that he was both times omitted, but that the King of Bohemiaes' Ambassador, being not then (no more than he) invited, he was content to suffer with him; but that now (though he might in reason expect, that he should be (as in his turn) invited alone, he would not be so punctual, but would refer all to his Majesty's pleasure, yet if any other Ambassador should be invited he would expect the like honour, as a respect due to the Prince and State he represented, who in all public places had, and were to have entertaintment all par delle teste Cornate equal with Crowned Kings. And as for the Spanish Ambassador (he said) his presence at the Mask should notbe an Exclusion to him) with whom though he had no correspondency of business nor visits, he had yet of Salutation and civil respects, which had many times in encounters in the Streets, passed between them, and might and should pass on his part at the Mask, if he should there meet him: This message returned by me to the Lord Chamberlain, and seconded at the same time by the Ambassadors Secretary, and my Lord conveying it to the King, his Majesty was pleased that he should be (as he was the next day) invited, and was at the Mask entertained with the like respect as was the Spanish Ambassador. The State's Ambassadors were not at the same time invited with respect to the incompatibility between them and the Spanish, and the Russian then here might with as little reason expect it, in regard he had questioned precedence of all other King's Ministers. The French Ambassador had an Invitation pro forma tantum, with a civil request of his next coming to avoid question, which it seems, he took not with discontent, because his Wife and Niece were there present invited.  
In March 16. Sir William Russell a chief Merchant of the Muscovy company, made request in his own name and of the rest of that Society, that I would sometimes repair to the Russian Ambassador (a gallant Gentleman of the Emperor's Alliance, and a great Commander in his Wars by name Thomas Simonwitz) with a visit, and Compliment in his Majesty's name. I told him the Master of the Ceremonies was already employed for his attendance, and that with the knowledge, and order of the Lord Chamberlain, or of the Lords of the Privy Council, and I should wrong him, and myself to undertake it. This made him (with other of those Merchants) to intimate as much to the Council (in the Lord Chamberlains absence.) So I was by their Lordships appointed to attend that business, and had notice given me to that purpose both by Sir William Russell, and Mr. Secretary Calvert, to whom objecting the Exceptions that might be justly taken by Sir Lewes Lewkner, if he were not made acquainted with the employment cast on me by the Lords in a Service wherein he was already entered, I had for my further Satisfaction a messenger sent to Sir Lewes by Mr. Secretary, who returned with an uncertain answer, no other, then that he would himself come, and speak with Mr. Secretary about it, but coming not in five or six days after, and Sir William Russell, and the other Merchants continuing to solicit my repair to the Ambassador, he went himself to Sir Lewes, and brought me his assurance of satisfaction, with acknowledgement of my civil proceeding, and with profession of his willingness, that I should enter upon the employment, which I did the next day. Going to the Ambassadors Lodging in St. Thomas Apostles, and signifying (as I had instruction from Mr. Secretary) that the King had sent me to him etc. He professed to be specially contented, and pleased, that whereas he had hitherto (he said) had no other but Sir William Russell a Merchant, and no Soldier, nor Courtier to be his Prestau as he termed him) signifying the like Officer, as the Master of the Ceremonies) he should be henceforth honoured by the visits of a Cavalier; and a Courtier attending his Majesty, with whom he might, and would be more free in communicating whatsoever should concern the Service of his great Lord, and Master the Emperor.  
The Eve of the King's day (March the four and twentieth) I was sent to him for my Lord Chamberlain as from the King, whose name (though his Majesty had nothing of the knowledge nor trouble of it, I always used in all or most of my messages, and addresses to him, to let him understand that the next day I was to attend him to the sight of the Prince at his Tilting (with the Service of his Majesty's coach, and such others as should be needful for his followers; (which coaches were to be provided at the Merchant's charge, though with use of the King's name) but before he accepted of the Invitation (only acknowledging the honour of it) he by way of caution, demanded if I knew what place he should have, and how entertained, in regard (he said) that if his Majesty should not receive him as an Ambassador preceding both the French and Spanish, he would rather keep himself absent, then disturb the Solenmity by protesting and standing (as he must) for his Master's right. I assured him the care for prevention of that quarrel was already taken by his Majesty, and so it was indeed. For whereas the French and Venetian Ambassadors were also invited, the Spaniard the like, (but he had excused his absence with his retreat to Highgate to take the fresh air, and merrily saying when he was invited, that he had rather keep away, then be present at those Exercises of danger to the Prince his person, till he should be Father of two or three Children by the King his Master's Daughter.) those Ambassadors were appointed their places without in the Tiltyard in a Scaffold, or standing erected of purpose, and hung with Tapestry on the right hand of the King near the Gate, but the Muscovite had his ordained in the same Gallery with his Majesty (but on his left hand, and with a Traverse drawn between them) till that after the Tilting, he was only to see the King's face, and so departed; all which he interpreted to be the greater honour, the other Ambassadors letting it pass in the mean time without Exceptions, as regarding his remote correspondence, and holding themselves not prejudiced by his so placing.  
The French and Venetians followers were ordained their stands under the Gallery Windows at the right hand of the King; the Muscovites at the entering of the Tiltyard on that side, and the States at the nether end. All those Stands (as before at other times) having been taken up by the Master of the Ceremonies, or the Assistants order to be defrayed by his Majesty. The States three Ambassadors Commissioners were ordained their places at the lower end of the Tiltyard, as the year before, and this without any of their Exceptions taken at it. But the Venetian Ambassador somewhat punctual (in remembrance of his last years Treatment) and now expecting the like respects to be given him, as he understood were to be given to the French Ambassador (for Sir Lewes Lewkner, being appointed to conduct him, myself the Muscovites, and Sir Robert Anstroder the State's Ambassador) he was (as it seems he understood it) not thought on to that purpose, so as sending to me about it, and I acquainting my Lord Chamberlain with his formality, his Lordship entreated (by me) Sir Edward Sackvill the Earl of Dorsets Brother) to accompany him, which he being the next day ready to have performed, the Solemnity was (in regard of the King's indisposition, and the fowleness of the weather) deferred till the Saturday following, and then the like upon the like occasion till after Easter, and so longer, till at length it was not at all performed.  
The third of April I had Order from my Lord Chamberlain, that (the Master of the Ceremonies being employed to Dover with the King's Coach and fourteen other at his Majesty's charge to bring up the Emperor's Ambassador Suartzenberg, and that the said Ambassador was in the interim landed at Gravesend) I should take one of his Majesty's Barges, and hasten thither to receive him, and excuse that cross encounter, letting him know that the marquis of Hamilton was to come down to receive him that Evening. With which order I took Barge when the Tide was far spent, rowed down till we met a flowing water, and a strong contrary wind at Woollwich, so was forced to Land there and (finding no Horses) to go on foot five miles to Darford) where taking Post to Gravesend, I found there Sir Lewes Lewkner returned from Canterbury, and delivered my message from his Majesty to the Ambassador. That Evening my Lord marquis Hamilton (accompanied with the Lord Wentworth, Lord Bruse; and about twenty Gentlemen) came to his Lodging, and was met by him in the Entry, almost at the street door of the Inn, conducted by him to his Chamber (the Ambassador after some little refusal preceding though in his own House) and after brought back by them to the Street door. The next Morning my Lord marquis again repaired to him (with the Company of the Lord Viscount Doncaster) then on his way Ambassador Extraordinary for France) and a while after the Ambassador repaid their visits at the marquis Inn, when the Tide serving, we all came to London in ten Barges. The Ambassador, the marquis, the two English Lords, three Dutch Lords, and the Master of the Ceremonies in the first Barge. Two Dutch Barons, myself, and four or five English in the second, and the rest in the rest, as they encountered. Landing at Denmark-house Garden-staires, the marquis accompanied him to his Chamber there, and was by the Ambassador re-accompanied to his Coach.  
The Sunday following (April seven) the same Lord marquis accompanied with the Earl of Montgomery) the Lords Candish, 
This not usual for one person twice to conduct one and the same Ambassador.  Bruse, two other Lords and about twenty Gentlemen listed with divers Voluntaries (in near forty Coaches, besides other hired at the King's charge to attend daily) fetched him from Denmark-house to his Audience in the Higher House of Parliament, where he made his Oration in high Dutch, interpreted by Sir Robert Anstroder (to whom it had been the day before imparted in writing) he was conducted by the marquis, and the rest to the Prince at St. James' (with whom he passed his Compliment in Italian) whereto the Prince called me for interpreter, and thence returned with the same attendance to his Lodging at Denmark-house.  
Having remained here about six days (defrayed by his Majesty, and attended by his Officers, and Servants) the Venetian Ambassador Landi came to my House, and acquainted me with some distastes he had to this purpose. That the first day, and almost hour of the Emperor's Ambassadors coming to Denmark-House, he had sent his Secretary to visit him, and to congratulate his Arrival, who giving him the Title of Excellenza, he had not corresponded, but returned him (the Ambassador) that of Signora Illustrissima, wherefore his request to me was, that I would in some manner let him know by way of discourse (as if I had encountered him somewhere by chance) that I had asked him, whether he had yet made his visit to the Emperor's Ambassador, and that he had answered me, he forbear yet to visit him in regard, that whereas the Republic had ever been accustomed to be treated all par delle Teste Coronate, the Style of Excellenza had not been given him, but that of Signora Illustrissima, which for his Prince's respect, he must not let pass without tendering i'll , the like of whatsoever title should be given him. That (unless it were of late the Kings of Spain's Ambassador) all Ambassadors residing here had given him. l'Excellenza; but that the Emperor's Ambassador had not only not given him his due in Title, but in personal honour also, having not rendered him the visit of his Secretary by one of his Servants. The substance of these Doleances, I the next day imparted to the Emperor's Ambassador, and received for Answer, that he would never treat del pair with him (there being so great a difference between the Emperors his Master's quality, and that of the Republic of Venice) that the King of Spain's Minister would (he knew) stand upon the same terms of difference. That if any other King's Minister (for I had told him the French Kings speaking Italian, gave him always Excellenza) should do otherwise, that should be no rule for him to be governed by. That the Venetian Ambassadors Secretary had but once at the first given him Excellenza, and had for the rest made use of the third Person (ella etc.) That at his parting, it was true, that he (the Emperor's A●mbassador) had given him but Signuria Illustrissima, but that if the Venetian Ambassador should style him so he would return him only Signuria, to express the difference that ought to be put between their two tepresentative conditions. That if he had not repaid the vifit (sent by the Venetians Secretary) by one of his Servants, it was because that Secretary had said to him, that his Lord would Quanto prima, visit him, which if he had done (as he had promised) he would after have first visited him by his Servant, and then by himself. This was the substance, and even the particulars of his Answer, which when I had returned to the Venetian, he only said, If hereafter he ask you any thing concerning my Reply, let him know (I pray) upon those terms, I will never visit him etc. The Ambassador of Venice then told me, that such another Puntillio had passed between this same Ambassador and the French Kings, who having given him the first Welcome by his Secretary, even at his landing at , and the third day after personally visited him, he (the French) expected a return of both (especially of the later) to him before to any other Ambassador, but that he (the Emperors) breaking the Law of Visits (ever to be returned as they are made in time, person, and order) had visited the Spanish before him. In which regard, when the Emperor's Ambassador had sent to know, if his leisure were that he might visit him that afternoon? He returned a plain answer by the same Messenger, That the weather had been long foul, and he meant to make use of that fair day to take the fresh Air abroad, which was light sufficient for the others understanding, to let him see the French was sensible of what had been done, and would not receive a visit after the Spanish Ambassadors having given the first cause (he said) to be first served in return of that compliment. But some were of Opinion, that the French Ambassador had been too quick, and too plain in his proceeding, considering that the Emperor's Ambassador both affirmed that the Spanish had first vifited him personally (whereas the French had by an hasty anticipation only performed it by his Servant) and that at another time, the same French Ambassador had passed over a subject for the like punctuality without any scruple or question, as when the Bohemian Ambassador was here, and had first visited the Spanish, he was for all that visited by him the French. Tthat by the stile held in the Emperor's Court, the precedence is given to the Spanish, and that he was therefore bound to observe it here; yet notwithstanding all this, the French upon a second ofter of visit from the Emperor's Ambassador excused his being at home, so as there passed no compliment of visit at all between them. In the mean time the Venetian Ambassador after I had returned as from myself) the Emperor's Ambassador his answer (ut supra) wrote to me an ofter to come to my House (which preventing by going to his) told me he had received a return of his visit sent by his Servant by a Servant of the others, who at the first entrance of his Message (giving his own Master the title of Excellenza, and him the Venetian of Signora Illustrifsima,) said his Excellency hoped to see him before his departure; which words (though of a double sense of seeing him at his own House, or at the others) taken as a courtesy, he desired me to let him know (as I did) that he had spared to make Reply to his courtesy by his own (the Venetians Servant) because the Title likely to be used by the Emperor's Ambassador, and justly to be returned, (considering the Republics parity with Crowned Heads) by the same Servant might perhaps breed further distaste; but that I that was neutral and uninterested might let him know (as he desired me I would) without danger of offence, or engagement by application of Title, that he was most sorry any such difference should hinder the Visit, and acknowledgement of respects, which he and his Republic owed the Emperor, and his Ministers, but that if any mean: could be found to carry things with indifferency, that he would most readily embrace it. That at the first, if he had not expressed himself by those different Titles given by his Secretary, he had himself personally visited him, and without further condition, put himself upon his wisdom. That regarding the duty he owed the State he represented, he would not leave his first hold; and finally for his own particular, he was his most humble servant etc. To this the Emperor's Ambassador returned, that he was sorry (the difference stood so stifely upon between them) should keep him from the acquaintance of a person, of whom he had received so worthy respects; that he could not alter what he had once with good reason resolved, never to treat del pair with the Venetian Minister. That what he stood upon, or had done, proceeded not (he protested) from any Capriccio of his own, or command of his Master, but merely (as he knew of his own experience) according to the Style, and manner held between the Emperors, and all Venetian Ambassadors ab antiquo, so desired pardon for his freedom, presented his love and service etc. The last Compliment being returned to the Venetian Ambassador, the business ended without interview or further question, or difference between them.  
The 11. of April this Ambassador had his second private Audience (fetched from Denmark-House by water, by the service of six or seven Barges) by the Earl of Aubigney, and other Lords and Gentlemen, landing at the Privy Stairs at White-Hall, and passing through the Shield Gallery, and the late Queen's Lodgings into the King's Privy Gallery, and his withdrawing room there, where the King held discourse with him an hour together Remotis arbitris; a day or two after he ran at Tilt in the Prince his company with the Lord Montjoy.  
The Sunday following (April 14.) he was publicly feasted in the Upper House of Parliament, seated on his Majesty's left hand, at the distance of about three persons between, and of one beneath. His Barons and principal Gentlemen were placed at a Table set cross at the upper end of the Court of Requests, accompanied at dinner by the Lord Treasurer, the Precedent of the Council, and the Earl of Rutland, who had been that day his conductor from Denmark House by water.  
After dinner (as before) he was brought to his Chamber of repose, and some half an hour after fetched thence by the same Lord (his conductor) to take leave of his Majesty in the Room where he had dined, and thence went to St. James' to take leave also of the Prince's Highness.  
On Wednesday the sevententh of April, and the eleaventh day of his stay here (having been all that time defrayed) he debarred hence with all his followers in six of the King's Barges to Gravesend, where he was to embark in two Ships of the Merchants (appointed by the King, but paid by himself) for Dunkirk. At his parting, he left his Majesty's Officers and Servants little satisfied with the gratuities, being but small Bracelet Chains to the value of scarce eight or 10 l. a piece. To the Master of the Ceremonies (bringing him the Present from his Majesty) which was his Picture set in Gold richly inchaced with Diamonds, and hung at a Chain of Diamonds, Rubies, and Pearls, valued at 1600 l.) he gave a small Jewel, worth little above eight pound, and for all his Travel and attendance a Basin, and Ewer not of 30 l. value. To the Guard then waiting being twenty four he gave— 40 l. and to the clerk of the Check, a Bracelet of Gold of about nine pounds' value. To me (who expected nothing, having had no command to attend him) he gave a small Chain of Excellent Workmanship (as a remembrance (he said) not a reward) worth ten pound besides the rare fashion of it. To the Porters— five pound, to two of the King's Coachmen daily attending him— tend pound, to the hired Coachmen— five pound, he took away (without leave, or demand of him) the Bishop of Spalleto, a fault in him, and an indignity offered his Majesty (considering what noble Treatment (he the Ambassador) had received here, and the unworthy carriage of that double Apostate Prelate toward this State, and Religion.  
His Secretary had from the King a present equalling in value almost all those he bestowed upon his Majesty's Servants, being worth above an hundred pounds.  
A second Son of the Landsgrave of Hess, by name Philip _____ scent hither on a Negotiation from his Father, was to have an Audience of his Majesty on Easter day April the one and twentieth, and though he were not a qualified Ambassador, yet regarding his condition I had order to receive him at the Court Gate, so conducted him thence to the Privy Chamber, whence he was (after about an hours stay) called for, received at the door of the Privy Gallery by the Lord Chamberlain, and had there his Audience, the Prince being present, but unsaluted by him (as he had been by me upon demand of his manner of carriage to that purpose directed) till he had made an end of speaking to his Majesty, and presented in writing the sum of his Negotiation; parting thence, he requested me to make Trial, whether the Prince would be pleased that Evening to give him Audience at his own Court (in regard he held it a Solecism in good manners to be present at the Tilting (appointed for the next day, and that sight much affected by him) before he had kissed the hands of his Highness.  
His Highness returned answer, that he thanked him for his respects, but having some business with the King that Evening, and the next day being assigned for the Tilting, a day or two after might serve for that Compliment of visit, which he in the mean time accepted as performed.  
The day following, he attended the Kings coming forth into the Gallery to wait on his Majesty to the Tilting, and there to ●●and at his Elbow. But the Ambassadors (in virtue of their former Invitations) having already taken up their stands, and prepared their Expectations, the King's indisposition, and the continuing Tempestuous Wether, were causes, that all was remitted till the Sunday following, when it was yet the third time deferred till the eighteenth of May following, and then upon the indisposition also as before for altogether discharged.  
The three and twentieth of April he had his Audience of the Prince at St. James' in the Privy Chamber there, and was received by me at the great Gate, observing there the same stile as when he had access to his Majesty.  
The nine and twentieth of April the Russian Ambassador having not stirred from his home all the Winter, and being desirous to take the fresh Air, was by me accompanied to Theobalds', attended by as many of his followers, as filled four coaches and that night returned. The next day he went with the same Train and my conduct to the Artillery Garden to see that company trained, but their hour not serving till towards the Evening, he went in the interim to the Tower, where at four several Storehouses of Arms, and at the Wardroabe, the Merchant's Servant that waited on him as his Steward gave to cach but— two shillings six pence, and to the Warders at the Gate (comprehending with these two of them that every where there attended him) ten shillings, so poorly acknowledging was he for himself, or the Merchants for him.  
Don Carlos de Coloma Arrived here for Ordinary Ambassor from the King of Spain in the beginning of May 1622 and four or five days after had his first Audience at White-Hall with the conduct to it (from his House in Holborn the Bishop of Eleys, and possessed before by his Predecessor) of the marquis Hamilton, the Lords, Wentworth and Bruse, and about seaventeen or eighteen Knights, and Gentlemen, (so many having been listed, when eight or ten would have sufficed for the service, in regard of the encumbrance so often growing from their numbers intruding to places in Coaches, with the extrusion of strangers) The Coaches sent for him were in all nineteen or twenty, the greater part with four Horses.  
His Majesty received him in the Presence after he had been guided thither (together with the Conde of Gondemar) by an unusual passage through the great Hall, and by the Chapel up to the Council Chamber (in Queen Ann's time, the Presence) there to rest him, the former Council Chamber being converted to a Lodging for the Duke of Lenox, and the Banqueting House prepared for a Mask towards.  
Three or four days after the Conde de Gondemar took his leave of the King at Greenwich, and with an Extraordinary honour, dined that day privately with his Majesty.  
On Friday May the fifth, the Ambassador of Russia received from me an Invitation to dine with the King on Sunday following, which (though with some scruple at first to do so before he had received answer of his business propounded to the Council) he yet thankfully accepted, and (having appointed him, and hired by the Merchants six Coaches (whereof one, as I had ordained) with four Horses) I brought him by half an hour after eleven in the King's coach, accompanied with Sir Francis Kinnerston, and Sir Edward Peyto, chosen by myself (as I had order, and liberty given me.) At the Court Gate he was received by my Lord Wentworth, at the upper end of the Hall (his passage ordered (as before to the Spanish Ambassador) by the Earl of March; after about a quarter of an hours rest in the Council Chamber, he was conducted by the Lord mentioned through the late Queen's Lodgings to the King's privy Gallery (his followers returning from the door thereof to the Guard Chamber, where they were to dine) and there met by his Majesty, the Ambassador following him to the Privy Chamber, where after his Majesty had washed (and that the Ambassador had been wished to the like by the two Gentlemen mentioned, who held the Basin, and Towel, as the Gentleman Usher had appointed) but in his Country civility of respects to the King's Presence had refused it) he was called to sit down at the lower end of the Table, and was presented before he did eat by his Majesty with a Roll of Manchet, and salt in a salt-seller) (the Custom of his Country challenging the presentation of them as an expression of his welcome; without the observation of which Ceremony, I was bold merrily to tell his Majesty, that it was then in his power to starve the Ambassador, who must not eate till it were performed. Towards the middle of Dinner his Majesty stood up, and bareheaded drank to him the Health of his Emperor (till which Invitation of the King he was also by the Custom of his Country not to drink:) soon after to the Health of the Patriarch of his Country, who had sent the King a rare Cup for a Present; and lastly, to the Ambassador himself in a guilded covered Bowl of about twenty pound value, which Bowl after the Pledge, was to be his own, having been provided at the charge of his Majesty, though with the Merchants ready money, and by a Warrant from my Lord Chamberlain reinburst to them, (his Lordship having first made a question, whether the King or they were to provide it) by the Master of the Jewel-House.  
The Ambassadors Followers were entertained at Dinner in the Guard-Chamber, where at the upper end of the Table sat his Nephew, a person of greatest respect about him, and of each hand of him, and next to him sat Sir Francis Kynnerston, and Sir Edward Peyto to accompany him; beneath whom was a distance left for one man's seat, to make a difference between that Nephew, his company, and the rest of the Ambassadors Followers, who might, nor did not presume once to touch any Dish, that he had tasted of. Dinner ended, the Ambassador followed his Majesty into the Privy Gallery (his Followers going the other way) and there taking leave returned by the way, and with the conduction mentioned.  
The night following was represented a Mask, Acted the Christmas before by the Prince etc. At which were present (seated with his Majesty) the Spanish Ambassadors Don Carlos de Coloma, and the Count de Gondemar, though this had taken his leave three or four days before, his Son and other their Followers of quality had their feats near the King in a Scaffold on his right hand; the rest of them were bestowed together with the States, and other strangers promiscuously on a Scaffold behind the King, over the entrance there on the left hand of his Majesty. The young Landsgrave of Hess was brought in by me the back way through the Garden, and supping with the Duke of Lenox (as did also the Baron of Paperhezin remaining here after the departure of the Emperor's Ambassador) was seated amongst the great Ladies.  
The French Ambassador Monsieur de Tillier receiving a kind of Invitation, by way of offer, to be present at this Mask, returned answer, that he most humbly kissed his Majesty's hands for the honour intended him; but his stomach would not (he said) agree with cold meat, and desired therefore his absence might be pardoned, here by pointing at the Invitation and presence of the Spanish Ambassador in the first place at the same Mask the Christmas before now repeated.  
May the two and twentieth was the day assigned for Sr. George's Solemnity, deferred till then. The day before my Lord Chamberlain sent me to Sir noel Charon to let him know (and the rest of the States Commissioners Mess. d'Arsen, Bass, and Stavenets) that his Majesty would be pleased with their Presence at the provision and solemn service of that day, and that to that purpose, they should have their stand for sight of the first in a long window on the left hand, almost over the Gate, and of the latter in the Chapel Closet on the Queen's side, (the Spanish Ambassador Don Carlos de Coloma being to possess that of the King's side) I delivered this Message (by encounter) to them all four, being then at the house of Sir noel Charon near Lambeth, which they thankfully accepted, only Monsieur Stavenets asked whether there would be as much respect in the entertainment for the general given to them, as to the other Ambassador? I answered, I nothing doubted it; but as soon as I was returned to render an account of my service to my Lord Chamberlain, I found I had been up and down sought for to be stayed my Journey (but too late) for when I came to his Lordship, he told me, if I had invited those Ambassadors to stand in the Closet of the Queen's side, I had exceeded my Commission, because the Spanish Ambassador (he said) would never endure them so near him, where there was but a thin Wainscot Board between them, and a Window to be opened at either of their pleasures, which might be an occasion of scandal; and distemper. I answered, I had done no otherwise, than I had directions) which his Lordship in part denied, and I was not so unmannerly as to contest against.) But at last I received a new command to repair to them with this message, That there had been a misunderstanding, and that the place in the Chapel for the regard mentioned of the Spaniards nearness to them was improper; But if it would please them to be at the procession in the morning in their appointed stands, and in the Evening at the divine Service and Solemnity there; which would be all one with that of the Forenoon, they should be welcome. This unpleasing message delivered, I received for answer from the mouth of Monsieur d'Arsennes. That as often as it would please his Majesty to honour them with Invitations to any of his entertainments, they should esteem it for an especial favour, and gladly accept it; so again, since it now seemed, that their presence (though they had been once invited) might give distaste either to his Majesty or to any other, 
(meaning the Spanish Ambassador.)  whom he should be pleased more especially to favour) they would in that also submit themselves to his pleasure, and would be willingly absent; but as for being present at either the procession; or the Service in the Afternoon, they desired (since they must not be at that in the Forenoon) that they might be excused if they came not all, the rather, because they were invited to the Earl of Exeters at Wimbleton, and if they should stay the procession, they doubted they should come thither (unmannerly) too late to Dinner, and return to Court not soon enough to Evening Solemnity. With this message, I returned to my Lord Chamberlain, and so had the next day the free use of their places at the Procession, and of the Closet at the Service for the young Landsgrave, and his followers, whom I conducted in the Dinner time to the Banqueting House, where the Prince supplying his Father's place (his Majesty being then indisposed) the Landsgrave stood at his Highness' left hand (as the Spanish Ambassador did on his right) most part of the Dinner time.  
The Ambassador of Russia, being upon his departure, I carried to him— fifty pound from the Merchants of the Muscovy company (but as sent to him from the Lords of the Council) so as the Company had directed me) with this formal message) That whereas (different from some Ambassadors employed from his Emperor) he had desired money, and nor provisions to be laid in in specie for his feeding at Sea, that sum of fifty pound, was sent him according to Precedent, but exceeding in proportion; because, whereas other Ambassadors (whereof one had thirty five men his followers, and the other fourscore) had not had above forty pounds worth of Victuals for their whole Journey, the sum now sent him was— fifty pound, but he seeming much unsatisfied with so small proportion, and saying that Sir John Merrick Ambassador to his Emperor had had above— two hundrd pound given him for the like, made show to refuse it, whereupon I left him, when sending his Interpreter after me down the Stairs (not as I thought, to receive the money) but desiring me to keep it, or leave it with the Steward of the house, I refuse it, and saying, that this was a matter of consequence (inferring that either the Lords of the Council (in whose name I was to present the money) did not (in my Lord Ambassadors opinion) understand what they had to do, or that the Ambassador did do more than he ought, to the dishonour of the King my Master) I would have returned up to him to have taken the refusal (as I said to the Interpreter it became me) from the his Ambassadors own mouth; but on the stairs I met one of his servants, that brought order from his Master, that he should (as he did) receive it.  
The first of June following I repaired to him with a summons from my Lord Chamberlain to take his leave the next day at Greenwich (whether we went by land in four Coaches, besides the Kings for himself, his Nephew, myself, and his two Interpreters) and descending at the Garden gate, he was (at the entrance of the open Room at the foot of the back Privy Stairs) received by my Lord Wentworth, and by him conducted up to the Room at the end of the King's Privy Gallery, and there took leave, reconducted by the same Lord to his Station, where meeting by chance with my Lord Cavendish, and upon my motion saluted by him, I made use of that civility so fare as to tell the Ambassador, that that Lord being at the foot of the Stairs, when he went up, and his Interpreters gone up before, he could not acquaint him with the cause of his encounter there, which was (I said) by command of his Majesty. This officious lie I made, lest the Ambassador might have expected and found himself disappointed of a second Nobleman, (of precedent rank to my Lord Wentworth) to receive him according to the former Style of reception of those Russians first and last Audience, and as I had the day before written to my Lord Chamlaine, that it had been, and would be required; but his Lordship mistaking, it being only an honour (he thought) proper for his dining with the King, and for his first Audience, and no other, it had been (without this devise, omitted, but this made use of, it was by him very thankfully accepted.  
Two or three days after he was feasted at his own House (as he himself, though another place were offered, desired) by the Merchants of the Muscovy Company whereof Alderman Freeman was Governor) with whom, with the rest, and best of that Company, dined myself, and two or three other Gentlemen, that I was entreated to bring with me. Dinner being ended, and the Table uncovered; the Health to his Emperor was begun, and pledged round, than our Kings, the Emperor's Father (the Patriarch) than the Princes, his own and others Vsque ad ebrietatem; after all, the Company by their servants brought in their Present to himself, viz. a gilded red Bowl, a piece of fine scarlet wrapped in Taffeta to make him a Gown, and three other pieces of fine cloth of different colours. This delivered, there came in other Presents, a gilded Bowl, and a piece of fine cloth to his Nephew, and to each of the Interpreters, and a piece of cloth for his Porcest; after those to each of his servants a pecce of cloth; so all more merrily then soberly parted.  
Three or four days after the Merchants requested me to deliver him his Present of Plate in the Kings and Princes names (though provided at their charge.) I received it at Alderman Freeman's House near the Exchange, being gilt Bowls of several sizes (only one Basin and Ewer parcel gilt;) and for distinction of the Kings Present from the Princes, by my advice, they tied a piece of red silk Ribbin to every parcel of that, and a piece of white to this: the number of his Majesty's pieces, being fifteen, and of the Princes eight. With these bestowed in two Hampers carried by two Porters I went (that they might not be suspected, if met by any of his Followers, to come from elsewhere then the Court, and from the King) first down to Queen Hithe, and the up to the Ambassadors at Saint Thomas Apostles. Brought to his House, I caused my man (after I had finished my feighned compliment in name of Majesty, and of his Highness) to range the Plate orderly, each portion by itself on a Table; that done, the Ambassador with a formal Oration of thanks, took one of the King's Bowls, and one of the Princes, and drank their Healths in each, inviting me the next day to Dinner, that he might (he said) express his thankfulnese (which suddenly at that instant he could not) for all my pains. The Present he made me the next day, and which after Dinner, was solemnly brought into the Room by six several men, and carried before them, consisted of two pair of rich Sables, a lining for a Gown of Sables Bellies, a lining for a jub of white and yellow Fox Bellies, a Cup of silver gilded, worth five or six pound, and a Turkey Bow, and two Arrows, worth altogether about thirty pounds.  
The Duke de Soubise refuged hither from France upon miscarriage of some undertake of his there, 
30 l. And Merchant. 50 l.  had an Audience of the King at Greenwich (June the fifteenth) and the next day, one of the Prince, given him by his Highness in the upper Garden Walks, where he entertained him in discourse above an hour, with much respects from his Highness, to whom he was at his Christening in Scotland a Godfather.  
A day or two after, the Russian Ambassador had received his Present, he sent to me one of his Interpreters with the request that I would let the Lords know how the fifty pound sent him for his Provisions by Sea, was all laid out, and that I would entreat their Lordships in his behalf for some addition. Further, that whereas in Lent he had forborn to take the first fasting week his Allowance of fish, that he might (as he had formerly (he said) requested) have an allowance in money (equivalent) for it. Also, that their Lordships would be pleased before his departure to order some course about a woman that had deceived him (upon account of work done for him) of— 18 l. To these requests the Merchants (to whom I repaired for satisfaction, the business being unfit for the Lords notice) entreated me to return these answers in the name of the Lords (as I did.) That his Lordship (the Ambassador) might (if he had pleased) have received his provisions in specie (as his Predecessors had done) at other times, which would have taken away all Subject of further question, but since he would have money, and himself therewith provide Victuals, they had sent him— 50 l. which for the proportion of his revenue, exceeded all former Precedents. That they could not exceed that sum, if they would prevent future inconveniences from such Precedents; but for his want of a week's allowance, their Lordships had appointed the Merchants to let him have— 10 l. more; and for the Woman that had deceived him, he must be righted by the Ordinary course of Law, which if he would leave behind him a Letter of Attorney to prosecute in his absence, they would give it their countenance, and order for the just dispatch of it. These answers returned (as if I had received them from the Lords) he made little reply to, not without shows of insatisfaction, only the money which I delivered to his Interpreter, he not unwillingly accepted.  
In the interim of carrying the Present to this Ambassador and his demands mentioned, Signior Valeresso, Ambassador Ordinary from Venice in place of Signior Landi arrived at London, fetched from Gravesend by the Master of the Ceremonies on Friday the seaventeenth of June, and on Monday following had his first Audience at Greenwich, conducted to it by Land by the Lord Cavendish, Son to the Earl of Devonshire, with the Lord Bruse, and others in twenty five Coaches, attending his Majesty, he rested himself in the Council Chamber, and there entering the Presence, was at the door received by the Lord Chamberlain, there presented by his Predecessor Signior Landi, he spoke briefly, and departed.  
Having visited his Predecessor the Saturday before, and after at the same time himself (something unseasonably perhaps before he had had his Audience) Signior Landi seemed to complain (as of a neglect cast upon his Successor) that he had not yet received a welcome from his Majesty by some person of Title, as had been (he said) the Custom of proceeding towards all his Predecessors. Wherewith I acquainted my Lord Chamberlain, brought for an answer from his Lordship, that he understood not but that the Compliment of welcoming Ambassadors from the King upon their Arrival, had been-onely used at such times as their Audience was excused for having been deferred for reason of some instant pressing affairs of his Majesty, but that for this time, the interim would be so small between his Arrival, and his Audience, as that the visit would hardly be given, or at the least would be excusable, if omitted; which answer passed for currant both with him, and the other, as he professed to me when I first visited him after his Audience, only he desired that my Lord Chamberlain would but intimate his reason to him personally when he would next see him, that he might receive the more honour from his own Testimony, as he did after to his satisfaction.  
His Predecessor next day after his Audience, took leave of his Majesty, accompanied to it at Greenwich by the Lord North, 
And also the girdle and hanger.  when he received the honour of Knighthood from his Majesty and had the day after (according to Custom) the Sword wherewith he was Knighted sent to him from his Majesty, and two or three days after an addition to his Arms, in memory of his employment hither.  
June the thirteenth, the Russian Ambassador being upon his departure (after I had the day before assured my Lord Chamberlain (whereof he doubted) that Ambassadors from those parts had usually at their parting (as at their first Arrival) some person of Title to accompany them to their embarking, I went in my Lord Chamberlains name (as for his Majesty's Service) to the Lord Stanhop, who accepted of it, we went together the next day in the King's Coach to the Ambassadors House, and thence with five other to the Tower Wharf, where his Lordship leaving the Ambassador. This entered the King's Barge (his followers in an other,) and with the Company of Sir John Merrick, Alderman Hammersley, and other Merchants, we came to Gravesend, Lodged at the Christopher, were there Feasted that night by the Muscovy Company, and the next morning making use of the King's Barge to carry us to their Ships riding four miles off at Tilbery, he there embarked, and we returned that night to London.  
The 24. of June, The Venetian Ambassador Ordinary, Seignieur Girolomo Lando parted from London without the Master of the Ceremonies attendance to Gravesend (his Company spared them as not of use, or Custom for an Ordinary at departure) neither had he the King's Barge appointed for his Transport; whereat the chief Barge-Master Warner (respecting his Interest) murmured, as at a course unusual, and with wrong to the Ambassadors quality.  
But herein he was mistaken, the use being (as hath been said) otherwise. The Thursday before his parting, on the Monday, when it was not known but that he would be gone the Saturday, he had received not one word to the purpose of his Present, when it should be brought him: Inso much as glancing (in discourse with me) at the affront (as he called it) like to be put upon him in his particular, but in the general upon his Republic, 
Meaning Sir Lewes' Lewkener who could never relish that State's Ministers, as Troppo steretti dimano.  (not unlike to proceed (he said) from some ill affected to it) I wrote to my Lord Chamberlain about it, and his Lordship with some passion recommending the consideration of it to the Lord Treasurer, Order was given, and the business effected after the proportion (as my Lord Chamberlain told me) of 1200. ounces of gilt plate, being two hundred more than were given his Predecessor Forscareni) as with more respect to his better merit, and to his nobler fashion of carriage here towards persons of all conditions, beyond any or most of his Predecessors.  
After the young Prince (Landsgrave of Hessen) had made about three moveths stay in England (in which time he made a posting Journey to see Scotland) he went in Coach with my company to Windsor, there to take leave of his Majesty the sixth of July, but could not have his Audience (being remitted with reason of his Majesties then pressing affairs) till Tuesday, when after the Sermon (whereat he was present) entering with my conduction by the door of the Terras Stairs into the Presence, I received command to bring him through the Prince's Lodgings into a Back-withdrawing Room there behind the King's Privy Lodgings, whence the King coming to him, he with his two Assistants (Councillors to his Father) Master Klingelbuck, and Master Zoble, had his Audience, and Farewell of the King, and of the Prince also in the same place. Thence he returned to London, and the sixth of July embarked for Gravesend, whether I accompanied him, though without Order, or without use of the King's Barge, or other respect of Extraordinary Honour by Present, or the like, only I moving the Lord Admiral (the Marquis of Buckingham) for a Ship of his Majesty to transport him (in regard of some hazard to his person not unlikely to come from the Dunkirk, if they should light on him at Sea, he being then in the States pay Commander of a Company) he had assigned him a Lesser of two Ships, then riding in the Downs, 
24 proved.  which by directions of Sir William Saint John's Vice-admiral, was to take him in at Dover.  
A Mask to be presented by the Prince, the Marquis of Buckingham, and other Gentlemen on Twelfth-night, 1622. was for that day, and a second remitted till Sunday the ninth of January, principally with regard to his Majesty's indisposition, but as some thought, not without expectation that the States Ambassadors would first be gone, to avoid the distaste that might be taken from their not Invitation, whereto it seemed his Majesty (for some Spanish respect as was thought) had no great affection. But they staying, (their business with the Merchants, about composing the East-Indian differences being not yet concluded) divers underhand passages, and discourses for and against the sight of the Mask, were carried to and fro as much as might be to content them, and not displease others. For first, they had an offer made them to have a Box appointed them apart and by themselves only, which they absolutely refused, Ambassadors Ordinary before having had (said they) the honour to sit with his Majesty in the same place together with the French, and other King's Ambassadors (as also with the Spanish, till that Question fell between him and Sir noel Charon) but the intention in truth was, that they should not then be invited (at least to be ranked in public, as they pretended it to be their due all par delle Teste Coronate) and reasons were framed to keep them off from discontent, as well as from their appearance there, but they might seem not of the Substantiallest. As first, that the States having given their assistance to the Rochellers against the French King, the presence of their Ministers would be distasteful, and in a manner incompatible codem loco, tempore & honore with that King's Ambassadors, but this proved not exclusion, the French intended to make no such, having (as he said to me) no order for it, neither had the pretended distastes for the States former assistance yet passed (he said) so far, as to public notice, and exception from the King his Master. Another exclusion was obtruded upon their pretence of Precedence to the Duke of Savoys Ambassador, but no such Ambassador being now in England, there wanted ground for that exclusion also. 
Arsennes' Stavencts and Basse.  The last was against their number, that they could not all there be conveniently seated together with his Majesty, with the other Ambassadors invited; but this Bar they removed by their answer, that if they might have the honour of an Invitation, there should be but one of them present to receive it, esteeming that a sufficient honour to the rest absent. In a word, when neither these reasons, nor others would serve to still their Exceptions against their not being invited, they were referred to adventure of content, or not content, and so were not at all invited, Only a dozen of their followers had places assigned them over the Lord Chamberlains Box at the entrance into the Banqueting House from the Prince's Galleries. Monsieur d'ye Arsennes Son, and their Secretary Sr. Constantine Huggins, were placed on the form beneath the Lords. The French Ambassador that night, and the Venetian supped with the Duke of Lenox, and entered the Room with the King, both seated there on his left hand; the French even with him, and the Venetian somewhat more forward.  
The Negotiation of the States Ambassadors with our East-Indian Merchants, being brought (in appearance) to a final conclusion, the Master of the Ceremonies only (without any Titular Person) was sent for them with the King's Coach (January the one and twentieth) to take their leaves of his Majesty, but a new difference in the interim occurring, they were sent to at two of the Clock (the instant of their setting forth, and were stayed their Journey; which appointed for the Friday following, they had again the King's Coach (with the Master of the Ceremonies, and one other) sent for them, and entering White-Hall by the Park, and Tiltyatd Gallery, they attended his Majesty's time (he being then ill at ease) in the Chamber of Ordinary Audience next that of the Stone Table, whereinto (after an hour) they were called by Mr. Secretary Conway, and being there (with the Commissioners for that business) upon point of signing their general agreement) a new question arose from the Merchants with exception against the validity of their caution, which lasting till late at night (Mr. Secretary in the mean time passing often between them, and the King) they had a dismission for the next day's Audience of his Majesty, to which the Earl of Warwick had appointment to conduct them (his Lordship having said in the hearing of some of the Lords, who after told it to the Lord Chamberlain) that it was fit some person of honourable Title (not Sir Lewes Lewkner only) should be sent to their Lodgings to accompany them to Court at their last Audience, (which my Lord Chamberlain excusing, as forgotten by him, having not been put in mind of it (he said) by Sir Lewes) it was against the next day provided for, when the Earl of Warwick accordingly (attended with two or three other Noblemen and divers Gentlemen of the King's Servants, in eight or nine Coaches besides the kings) brought them to Court, where passing through the Guard Chamber, and Presence into the Council Chamber on the late Queen's side, they there rested, till the Lords Commissioners for their business came to them, and after an hours expense in discourse about some remaining rubs, It was finally agreed on, and the Lord together with the Ambassador having signed to the accord, their Lordship's leaving them, repaired to the King, and after them followed the Ambassadors through the late Queen's Lodgings into the Privy Gallery, where entering the King's withdrawing Chamber, they there took their leaves (the three Ambassadors with Sir noel Charon first, and after the other inferior Commissioners (strangers) for that business.) Monsieur Stavenets was there Knighted, and two other having been knighted before, viz. Monsieur de Arsennes, by the King of France, and Monsieur Basse by the King of Sweden.  
The next day being to take leave of the Prince, they had sent for their conduct Sir Robert Car, Gentleman of his Highness' Bedchamber, with the Kings, and Prince's Coaches, entering by the Privy Garden Gate at White-Hall, and thence (by the further end of the long Stone Gallery) into the Prince his Lodgings, where in his Chamber of presence he gave them their Audience and farewell, thence they went to visit, and take leave of the Marquis of Buckingham, and so home.  
The first of February, after they had spent here the full time of fourteen months in Negotiating, and had had of the King, and Council above sixty Audiences, they went in Coaches of their own (without the Kings) to Tower Wharf, and there embarked in hired and borrowed Barges to their Ships which laid not far off, and were purposely sent to transport them. This default of the King's Coach and Barge at their parting (ever wont at that time to serve Ambassadors) proceeded from the Master of the Ceremonies, who should have been my Lord Chamberlains Remembrancer) for I acquainted his Lordship after with the omission, and I had for answer, that he knew not of the certain time of their departure, which the Master of the Ceremonies might, and aught to have observed, if he had not learned overmuch to some others particular satisfaction, 
The Spanish Ambassador.  or been over partial etc. At ten in the morning when they were all ready to departed, the Present from his Majesty was not come, which (for that slackness) they were upon point of leaving behind them, but the Master of the Jewel-House, Sir Henry Mildmay, even then in tempore, arriving, and personally presenting it (as he said his Majesty had particularly commanded him (though that might seem to have been said, ad captandum) they received for each of the three Commissionershares five hundred ounces of fair gilt plate, and to their Secretary Sir Constantine Huggins a Chain of Gold of a hundred marks (more by twenty pound than he had the other time of his being here) bestowed on him, which my Lord Chamberlain told me he himself had caused to be so increased, done as a Cast (he said) of his Office to a person worth. They gave at the instant of their parting no gratuities to any (that I could hear of) excepting to the Master of the Jewell-House) who discovered no great satisfaction in matter or manner to that purpose) only they had set down in a list the names of such as they intended should be gratified after their departure (as they signified to Sir Lewes Lewkener, and to myself, who three days after received from the hand of Sir noel Carone, (coming personally (in all their names to my House) a purse and in it fifty pieces. 
50. pound.   
Monsieur de Boiscot Ambassador Extraordinary from the Archduke, Arriving at London, 
Who had been here before Ordinary Ambassador. An. 1612.  while the King was at Theobalds' in his way to Newmarket, and setting forth from London, (in Company of the Spanish Ambassador, Don Carlos de Coloma to come for their Audience of his Majesty) On Sunday the 23 of February, lay at Ware the first night, the next at Royston, the third at Cambridge, where in Trinity College, the Master's Lodgings were taken up for them, and the King's Officers of his House appointed to serve them being defrayed there, and all the way out, and home by his Majesty, but not before nor after in London. The Wednesday following they were fetched (by the Lord Walden, with three or four Gentlemen, the King's servants in the King's Coach, and others appointed for their Journey) to Newmarket, where straight entering the Court for their repose in the Prince's Lodgings, (his Highness being then gone for Spain) they were introduced by the Earl of Arrundel, meeting them at the Presence, then to the Privy-Chamber door, through it, and the withdrawing Chamber, into the King's Bedchamber (where all other, but the Agent of the Archdutches Monsieur Van Mall, who attended him there) were excluded; they had an hours Audience of his Majesty, and returned that night to Cambridge. The next day passing their time in sight of several Colleges, and of the Schools, (where at a Congregation purposely called) they were admitted Masters of Arts, and heard after that a disputation in Philosophy) they the next morning parted thence to Audely-end and entertained there that night by the Lord Walden in absence of his Father the Earl of Suffolk) they the next day came to London.   

1623.  
In May. I received his Majesty's command to attend the Earl of Rutland (appointed Admiral General of the Fleet sent for Spain to transport the Prince and the Infanta to England) with order, and Instructions, that as soon as his Lordship should be come to Saint Andera (our Port assigned) I should carry to the Prince (wheresoever he should then be abiding in Spain) the news of the Ships Arrival for his, and the Infantas Service. Sir Thomas Somerset Son to the Earl of Worcester, had obtained the like employment from his Majesty after I had received mine, which I stirring in, as being a derogation from my Service, his Majesty was pleased to resolve it with this signification, That he had sent Sir Thomas Somerset, as a Person of more eminent quality for the more honour of the employment, and me as his Ordinary Servant, and Officer of the Ceremonies for my more near, and useful attendance on it. Embarked, and my Cabin marked for me in the Admiral of the Fleet (the Prince Royal) I kept on the same course with the General from the Downs to Portshmouth, to Waymouth, to Plymouth, and thence to Spain with the slow motion, that the winds lent us in above three month's time from our first falling to the Downs, till upon the eleaventh of September we entered the Port of Saint Andera in Biscay (where meeting an assurance, that the Prince was already come within a day or two's Journey of that Port (with intention to embark himself, and company (being till then out of hope of our Ships so opportune an Arrival) in the two Ships of Sir Francis Stewart, and Captain Love, that had lain there (for his Highness' Service long before our coming) though there were some discourse about the fitness or not of Sir Thomas Somersets, and my going to meet the Prince, before we should hear he were come into the Town of Saint Anderas, my reasons (and resolution with them) for discharge of the Service which we were sent for, viz. to carry the news (as soon (as we should come to Spain) of the Fleets readiness there) prevailed, and he and I rowed immediately to shore, whence riding that night over the mountains in most dark, and Tempestuous weather, we met his Highness about six leagues up within Land early the next morning, when (besides the Joy his Highness received at our encounter, and the Fleets Arrival (a news that he said made him look upon me, when I told it, as on one, that had the face of an Angel) the Duke of Buckingham, when I after met him, and told him the like, to express his content, kissed me, and drawing from his finger a Diamond of above an hundred pounds' value) gave it me for a present. As soon as his Highness was come to Saint Andera, he committed to my charge and attendance an Ambassador Extraordinary Don Dicgo Hurtado de Mendoza, and honourable Person of that House (one that I had known, and received honours from in Spain nine years before, when I was sent thither with a present from his Majesty) and was now sent by that King to wait on the Prince to England, and to bring back an account of his safe Arrival there. He was quartered, and I with him, in Sir Francis Stewarts Ship (the Saint George) out of which I accompanied him one day in the Port of Saint Andera, and another at Sea, to his Audiences of the Prince aboard his Ship, and a third time in the Castle of the Isle of Silley, wherein the Winds in our return had forced us. The third day of the Prince his stay for wind at Saint Anderas (in which Town his Lodging was prepared (though he lay every night on Shipboard) upon an occasion offered of a storm that took him the first Evening, when having been aboard (and the Spanish Lords also that had accompanied him from Court) he intended to return on shore in a Barge, but was with hazard of drowning to himself, and all with him driven to lie for that night in one of the other Ships, which they happily recovered) he made a Dinner for the Grands, and the rest of quality in the great Cabbyne of the Ship called the Prince, where at his own Table, placed cross at one end of the room sat himself, the Spanish Ambassador mentioned, our King's Ambassadors Sir Walter Ashton) the Cardinal de Capata, and the Conde de Gondemar. all the other Tituladoes, and persons of quality, being placed at another Table set long ways; no man but I, Sir William Crosts, one of his Highness' Gentlemen, and such as must necessarily attend the service being allowed Entrance. The wind coming fair of Oct. His Highness parted from Saint Andrews, and the fifth of October (having in the mean time touched at Silley, and passed some foul weather) he came before Portsmouth, where he, and the Duke of Buckingham immediately landed. The Ambassador Mendoza held it his duty immediately to follow them, so went on shore, (and I with him, though somewhat over-late) that he might there personally congratulate his Highness safe Arrival, when his Highness in his haste to Court, road out at one gate before we could land and enter the other. There lodging the Ambassador by the Mayor's billeting, we passed three nights before we could be provided, (in that troublesome time of so many men's landing) with Coaches, Carts, and Horses for his proceeding to London. To which purpose sending a Warrant, (which I had before proviseonally gotten at Sea with the Duke of Buckingham's hand to it) to Sir Daniel Norton a Justice of Peace in Hampshire, he sent in three Carts, whereof we employed but two, and sufficient number of Saddle Horses, and his own Coach, and four Horses, with which, and with the Prince his (left purposely by his Highness for that Service) we set forward to London the eighteenth of October, went that night to Petersfield twelve miles, and the next day to Gilfford, twenty miles, where the Ambassador being met, half a mile from the Town by one of the Viscountess of Annundales Gentlemen (her Lord waiting then on the King in his place of Gentleman of the Bedchamber) with an Invitation to Lodge at her House, it was accepted. The Master of the Ceremonies with three or four Gentlemen came that night to us, having brought with them three or four hired Coaches, and one with six mules sent the Ambassador Extraordinary, by the Marquis de la Inojosa, who sometime before arrived in England.  
The next day the Marquis mentioned, and the other Ambassador Extraordinary Don Carlos de Coloma met us (Answerable to an assignation given by Sir Lewes Lewkner) about four miles from London, with half a dozen more coaches. Then the Ambassadors quitting their own Coach, and entering the Princes, were all arrived in the Evening at Excester House, their appointed Lodging, where Lodged also with them Don Hurtado de Mendoza out of his own, and the other Ambassador's election, after offer had been made him, both for his Lodging, and defraying at his Majesty's charge (but was excused by the Marquis de la Inojosa with saying he should be his guest while he remained in England) so much I signified the next Morning to Don Diego from my Lord Chamberlain, with intimation further, that if he found himself not Lodged, or treated to his mind, he should have other provisions elsewhere, adding that his Majesty (and particularly the Prince) had given my Lord Chamberlain an especial charge to do him honour in all things, and to procure him his full Satisfaction. To this offer he replied with many thanks, but with refusal, saying, the Marquis was his kinsman and with him he would quarter, and defray himself (the furniture and Hang of his Chamber supplied him from the King, being (he said) an honour sufficient for him.) There he remained, and at three day's end I was sent to him from my Lord Chamberlain to know his desire for his Audience, and to let him know withal, that if he had aessicted a speedy dispatch, his Lordship would write to the King for it, that going from London the Wednesday, and coming that day or the next to Royston, he might the next day after have his Audience, the King having designed his remove from thence on Saturday to Fincham-brook, a place that afforded no commodity for his reception; or otherwise, if he were not pressed by his Affairs, he might be pleased to respite his Journey to the King, till his Majesty should return to Theobalds', where he would not be till a Fortnight after. This latter offer he made choice of, as of the most proper allowance of time to provide himself of Liveries etc. for his followers, of which he came unprovided.  
In the mean (within four or five days of his Arrival at London) his Lordship willed me to know of him if he would be pleased to receive visit from him, and other Noblemen that owed, and would discharge their respects; which offer he thankfully accepted of, and received on the next day from his Lordship and the Earl of Arrundell coming to him both together. The thirteenth of October, the Marquis de la Inojosa, and Don Carlos de Coloma set forth towards Royston to congratulate the Prince his return not yet seen by them, his Highness remaining yet with the King, but being on their way as far as Buntingford, they there met a message from Mr. Secretary Conway in name of his Majesty, either that they should be pleased to come presently to his Majesty's Presence (and from that to the Princes) and return that night to Buntingford (Royston being a place, the messenger said (as he was willed) of ill reception) or to stay at Buntingford that night, and have their Audience the next day, and so return.  
This choice seemed somewhat round, and of hard digestion to the marquis, and passed not without Exception comparatively against the much different Treatment of the French Ambassador the week before, who had (he said) both supped and Lodged in Court at Royston (though this his Treatment was sudden, as was his coming thither by Post, with only two Gentlemen congratulate the Prince at his Arrival) who prevended by the same Ambassador's Servant with a congratulation at his Landing at Durham House Stairs in name of his Master, and having assured him he should be the first Ambassador he would give access to) his Highness was immediately after sent to from the Spanish Ambassador to the same congratulating purpose, 
The wind coming now about for France.  but he refused his demanded Audience with excuse of his haste of repair to the King his Father. In conclusion the Marquis went to Royston, and had so good respects (out wardly at least) from his Majesty and the Prince, as he (in countenance) made show of good satisfaction but etc.  
About a week after Don Hurtado de Mendoza his Arrival, I dined with the Venetian Ambassador Seig. Valeresso, he upon notice taken of my former acquaintance with the other, desired me to let him know (after he had first told me how he had sent a Gentleman to the Marquis de la Inoj●sa with a congratulatory visit, and that for the title given the Marquis of Excellenza, he had returned his thanks in the third Person only) that he was his humble Servant, and desired to perform personally all due Compliments, but that he had found a door shut, which hindered him of Entrance, so hoped he would pardon him, and to that purpose. To this, I brought him answer from the Marquis, that he had heard of his worth, desired his acquaintarve, and good Correspondence, and was sorrey that any thing should hinder it; but if it should please him to honour him with a viset; he could not exceed the Title, which other Ministers of the King his Master had used; and so left it to his consideration, whether he would, or not visit him.  
To a Sergeants Feast at the Middle-Temple, the French Ambassador had been invited in the first place, and after the Spanish, which known to this, and interpreted in the sense it ought, he excused his Presence with some business, that he doubted might at that time be brought him from his Majesty. The French Ambassador came, and with him the Venetian, and the State's Ambassador, who disappointed of the company they were promised (of the Master of the Ceremonies) I met them there, and after dinner brought them to their Coaches.  
The Marquis de la Inojosa (who came hither Extraordinary Ambassador long before Don Diego Mendoza) doubting that this would challenge precedence as being the last, and freshest person of employment from the King his Master (according to the received rule of Ambassadors come the last and of March first) wrought by all the cunning means he could to lessen his esteem, as by entertaining him (under pretence of his Ally, being of his family, and name) into the same House with him, abating thereby the splendour he should have received, if Lodged elsewhere, and at the King's charge (as it had been offered) and by styling him in his Letters sent to him on his way from Portsmouth thus, a Don Diego Hurtado de Mendoza Ambassador Extraordinary de sa Majestate circa la persona del Principe. Don Diego Hurtado de Mendoza Ambassador Extraordinary of his Majesty about the person of the Prince. All this would not keep Don Hurtado from his pretence (which to some appeared to be cleared by his sitting, as he did always, at the head of the Table in the Marquises House) which yet to others seemed but to make him a guest, and that place therefore in that right ●nly given him) nor from professing (as I heard him often) that it was his right to preceded, and would do so wheresoever he should meet him abroad and in public, not respecting the reasons alleged for the Marquis that he was Consejero de Estado, Vizroy of Navarr, and had the Marriage Negotiation etc.  
Don Diego de Mexia, Governor of the Castle of Antwerp, General of the Ordnance to the Archdutchess, and her Ambassador Extraordinary to his Majesty arrived here Novemb. 5. followed by many brave Gentlemen Tituladoes and Soldiers, he was received at Gravesend by the Lord of Bellfast, late Lord Deputy of Ireland, and by him conducted to his Lodging (the same with the three Spanish Extraordinaries) whether he came on foot after his landing at the Savoy, whilst the Kings and Nobleman's Coaches sent from Court to receive him at Denmark-house, had a Countermand to take him in at the Tower, but the Tide falling fair (otherwise then was supposed) to give him safe passage under the Bridge, they miss him, and returned as is mentioned.  
Don Hurtado de Mendosa, after a months stay for his Audience, during the King's absence from London, received a Message from my Lord Chamberlain by Sir Lewes Lewkner, and by me, That since he had had so long a patience in attendance of his Audience here at London, his Majesty would not add further trouble to it, but come himself hither to give it him. So the 13. of November, the King being come to Town the day before, the Earl of Rutland (who had in his Fleet brought him out of Spain) was made choice of for his conduction to Court.  
The Lord attending at Bedfordhouse where he Lodged (the repair thither of the Gentlemen of the King's Privy Chamber listed for the Service) a Messenger from his Lordship brought them word to White-Hall, as they stood expecting his coming thither, that there were three Coaches attending them at the Ourt-gate to carry them to the Earl of Rutland's House.  
This Message so much displeased them (it being in their Opinion, an irregular course for them to go to his House, when the Custom (said they) had ever been for the Lords, wheresoever sent, to take them along with him to White-Hall) as some of them refused to go at all, others went thither in those sent Coaches, and attended his Lordship with the Lord Windsor, the Lord Scroop, and Sir Thomas Somerset to the Ambassadors at Exeter House, followed by twenty Coaches, and thence to White-Hall. With the Ambassador (to present him to his Majesty) came the first sent Ambassador Extraordinary Don Carlos, the other (the Marquis de lainojosa, excusing that part more due and fit, as was judged for his discharge) with regard to the Question of Precedence mentioned. After his Audience of the King, the Lord Viscount of Andever being there ready to conduct him to the Prince, brought him by the way of the Stone Gallery to his Highness' Quarter, where after a gracious reception in his Presence Chamber, the Ambassador returned as before accompanied to his Lodging.  
The Earl of Kelley, well attended with many Gentlemen and Coaches went from White-Hall (the 15. of November) to fetch the Archdutchess Ambassador from Excester-House, supplied there with hired Coaches, so many as made the whole number of them at the least fifty. After his rest a while in the Council Chamber (disposing the Lackeys, and inferior sort of Followers to come behind) that their Masters might have the easier and fairer access to his Majesty) whereof the Spanish Ambassadors Gentlemen, for want of that Order failed the day before) he had Audience of his Majesty, and thence wnet straight to one assigned him of the Prince; he was accompanied to these Audiences by the Marquis de la Inojosa, and Don Carlos de Coloma in the same Coach, neither of these two questioning Precedence (as the Marquis had done of Mendosa) who told me the Evening after, that, that question was resolved by Letters, which he had that very day received from the King his Master to his advantage, which was ended, but feighned as appeared soon after. For Sunday the 16. of November Don Hurtado de Mendoza (hastening his dispatch) had assigned, and given him his second, and last Audience, which my Lord Chamberlain the day before told me was to be given him in his Majesty's withdrawing Chamber by the way of the Park and Privy Gallery, as private, whereupon I was bold to put his Lordship in mind, that that being the last sight he was then like to have of his Majesty, it would be expected, that according to Custom he should have some Nobleman sent to conduct him, which his Lordship apprehending as fit; My Lord of Kneighton, Captain of the Guard was appointed for it, and with a Precedent Extraordinary and irregular, but for his respect to the Ambassador, whom it seemed, he desired particularly to honour, or for the more resplendent attendance of his own person, as Captain of that Band, he brought along with him (ranked all the way through the Strand in head of the Coaches) the Company of the King's Guard, to the number of sixty, which in my hearing the Ambassadors Followers did interpret as an honour done their Master, never done before to any other; and when to undeceive them, (I said) the Guard marched in that manner for attendance of their Captain; They replied, their honour was the greater to have such a Lord for company, that had attending him such followers, so apt are strangers to make use of all to their own advantage. This Ambassador having finished his Audience of the King (which lasted at the least an hour) as he told me himself) passed between them from first to last in Latin (a Language that he was fare more bold than perfect in) he regarding neither Grammar nor congruity) he took leave also in the same place of the Prince his Highness. The Captain of the Guard, and his brother the Lord Montjoy not leaving him, till they brought him with the same Attendance to the Dining Room of his lodging.  
Here I think good to insert for future occasions, and use to the Master of the Ceremonies, that Sir Lewes Lewkner reported to me, that when he came from Dover in conduct of the Archdutches Ambassador Don Diego de Mexia, Mr. Van Mall Agent here for her Highness, persuaded him to take his place in one of the hired Coaches with some of the Ambassadors Gentlemen, and with it to lead the way, leaving the Ambassador to come in the King's Coach in Company of such persons of Court Eminency, as himself should be pleased to make choice of, which (though Sir Lewes and he stumbled at) he at last allowed of; but being come to London, he let Van Mall know, it had been ever the manner (and with good reason) that the Master of the Ceremonies employed from the King for the Ambassadors honour, and to receive him at the Sea side, or elsewhere in his way to Court, was to have place with him in his Coach, unless perhaps some Noble person were withal employed in that Service; which assertion confirmed by him with divers Persidents and Reasons (the Marquis de la Inojosa, and Don Carlos de Coloma, acknowledging that they had both severally received him into their Coaches at their first Arrival into this Kingdom) the Archduke's, and Van Mall with acknowledgement of their Error, allowed it for requisite. One Reason given then for the fitness of the Master of the Ceremonies sitting in Coach with Ambassadors on the way, was that his Presence so at hand was most useful, and necessary for avoidance of disturbing encounters from passengers or otherwise in the way; another, that it was fit, the Ambassador should have the Master of the Ceremonies always near him for discourse, and satisfaction upon Questions concerning the Country etc. And lastly, for the honour of the Master, that sends such a one to do honour by his conduct to the Person of the Ambassador.  
Preparetion being made November the eighteenth for a great Feast by the Duke of Buckingham to entertain principally Don Diego de Mendoza, and with him Don Diego de Mexia the Archduke's Ambassador and his followers of quality.  
The Marquis de la Inojosa (it was intended) should have been at it as was Don Carlos de Coloma, but for the difference mentioned of Precedence between him and the other Extraordinary; but the day before, the Duke sending to him Sir George Goring with a message that he was sorry to understand he would be absent from the entertainment he intended, because of some inconveniences etc. The Marquis returned answer, that he knew of no such inconveniences, but that if it had, or should please the Duke to invite him, he would come to his Feast etc.  
In sequel hereof the next day at Evening (somewhat before the invited Ambassadors should set forth, and were attending the person that should come to conduct them; the Duke sent a Gentleman of his Chamber (Mr. Endymion Porter) which a Regalo of three large Flaskets full of Provision of the choicest of three Courses of Cates intended for the Feast; One full of cold meats for the Antepasto; another with fat fowl, (raw, and ready for spit) of all sorts; and a third of the best, and rarest sweetmeats, all presented with this message, that the Duke kissed his hands, and would have held it an honour, and an happiness to have had his Company, but since he would not have it, he desired him to taste of what he had provided for him, at that at the tasting of it at his Supper, he would be pleased to drink the health of the King of England, as he would at the same drink the health of the King of Spain. The Marquis immediate answer to this message, was no more but this.  
For the happiness my Lord Duke says, he should have had in my Company, he might have had it, if it would have pleased him to command it. After returning thanks for his Present, and saying, it was easy to conceive what the Feast would be, when a taste of it was so rare, and plentiful; he gave the bringer fifty Crowns, bade the Company good night, and went to Supper privately in his Chamber. Soon after the Earl of Northampton being sent for conductor to the invited Ambassadors. These, after their reception at York House (the Dukes) they were there thus placed at the Table.  
On the left hand of his Majesty (who was there as a guest inviting himself) sat with a convenient distance Don Diego de Mendoza, at the Tables end below Don Carlos de Coloma, and the Archduke's Ambassador; at the other end of the Table on the right hand of the King, sat the Prince. At a long Table (not half filled with guests) placed long ways the Room) sat the Tituladoes, and Cavaliers, that came with Don Diego de Mexia, the other Don Diego Mendoza, having with him no followers of quality worthy of that place, and Company; and none of the Marquesses de inojosa then appearing with regard to their Chiefs absence. After Supper there was a Mask with a fair appearance of Ladie● at it, and after the Mask, a most sumptuous Banquet.  
The one and twentieth of November Don Diego Hurtado de Mendoza, set forth for his departure with my attendance towards Dover, and being by me provided (at the King's charge) with four Coaches besides the King's coach with four Horses, and a day or two before his goods being sent thither in the weekly returning Wagon, at the rate of five shillings six pence per cent. all the way by land at the King's charge.  
We laid the first night at Rochester, the next at Canterbury, and came the next day to Dover, where the wind standing contrary, after he, and one Don Pedro de Aldeberandino, Nephew to Pope Clement the eight (glad to take the advantage of the King's Ship for passage) had in a small Boat set forth the Haven, and were forced back again (as the King's Ship at the same time was) into the Downs, we went in the King's coach to Deal, where expecting the wind two or three days with the patience of an hungry entertainment from a close handed Ambassador (as his present to me at his parting from Dover (being but an old guilt Livery Pot, that had lost his fellow, and was not worth above twelve pounds, accompanied with two pair of Spanish Gloves to make it almost thirteen, made good to my shame, and his) he at length embarked for his Transport under the conduct of Sir Richard Ringley Admiral of the nar row Seas in the Ship called Happy Entrance, and was there left by me, but not so soon by the cross winds, which held him in the Downs almost a seven-night before they would blow him over.  
He was scarce abroad when Letters overtook him (sent from Spain in the Marquis de Inojosa Pack) with sharp reproofs for his resumption to contest about Precedence with the said Marquis (who (it seemed, after the style of Spain (different from ours, that gives the last Extraordinary the first place) was to have it for the respect of his being Gouncellour of State, Vizroy of Navarre, and formerly Governor of Milan, which Letters not only revoked the Commission he had from the King of Spain to the Arch-Dutches, and the King of France (as he should return that way home) but commanded also his retreat immediately upon his Arrival in Spain, to his own House (with a kind of Confinement) till he should know the King his Masters further pleasure.  
The  Ambassador Don Diego de Mexia parted from London about a week after, and having pressed hard for liberty to be transported to the Port he came from of Mardick near Dunkirk, could not obtain it (for satisfaction it might seem to the Hollanders, offended, and taking Exceptions at the manner, and place of his first passage with his Majesty's Convoy from that Town, pretended to be then by them (at Sea beleaguered) so as he was forced to embark at Dover for his Transport to Callays in the King's Ship commanded by Sir Richard Bingley.  
A Mask being prepared by the Prince (with the Duke of Buckingham, and others &c.) for Twelfth-night a message was sent from his Majesty to the French Ambassador (by whom carried I could not learn) to this purpose. That whereas there was a Mask towards, and that his Majesty was desirous that the Marquis de la Inojosa, who had not seen any in this Kingdom, should be at it, he intended to visit him also (the French Ambassador, and in the first place, but would take it, as a respect to his satisfaction, if (to avoid the encounter, and question about their Precedence) he might before hand know, that he would be absent, framing some such excuse, as he should think fittest. To this the Ambassador returning at that instant no satisfying answer, he soon after entreated the Earl of March to present one from him to his Majesty in these words. That about two years since upon the like occasion, he had received the like message, but knowing how strongly his Majesty stood then affected to the Allience with Spain, he would give him no distaste, but with excuse of his indisposition kept himself absent, that if he should now again do the like, he should in the sight of the world put a scorn upon himself, and do an unanswerable wrong to the King his Master, between whom, and the King of Spain his Majesty knew (if he would be pleased to declare his knowledge) that there was no question to be made of the right of Precedence; that in this regard, he humbly beseeched his Majesty to proceed plainly, and fairly without useing any more colourable, or alternative Invitations (as he had done,) which might imply a Parity, in no sort to be yielded to by the King his Master, in whom was the absolute right of Priority. That if his Majesty intended to invite him, he hoped he would intent also to entertain him with fitting respects, for come he would, if he should be invited, and if he should not, and the other should, he would protest against it, and immediately return home to the King his Master with the account of his Treatment. That further his Majesty would be pleased to consider, that whereas he was at that instant sending a Person of quality to the King his Master, he might with reason expect, that whatsoever want, or omission he (the French Ambassador) should meet with here, it would be returned in France in the same measure. This message (the substance whereof he repeated to me two or three days after) was brought little sooner to the King, than it was made known to the Marquis de la Inojosa, who instantly sent for the Master of the Ceremonies, and in a storming manner gave him a message (repeating it twice or thrice) to be delivered to his Majesty by him in this sense; that he knew what respect had been formerly given the King of Spain's (his Master's Ministers) especially those that had been here Extraordinary, and what alternative course of invitation had been used with them, and the French; that he looked for no less honour to be done to him then to his Predecessors, and that since it was both his right and his turn to be now invited, he would expect it, beseeching his Majesty not underhand to invite the French Ambassadors (as he knew (he said) he was intended) but to invite him directly, and openly first, and only, that so if (he Inojoso) must be made a Subject for gazers abroad, it might be to some purpose, and that he might have a just, and an apparent cause to write to his Master of the wrong done him here in his Minister, with other words in an high Spanish Style to that purpose, which when the Master of the Ceremonies had twice or thrice requested him to temper, to take time to think better of them, and to communicate his intended message with his Colleague (Don Carlos) he only yielded to satisfy him in this last of communicating his intention (as he did that night with that much more temperate and considerate Gentleman) from whom wresting (as Don Carlos himself after acknowledged) a consent for the carriage of that message to the King by Sir Lowes Lewkner, the Mask was thereupon respited etc.  
The nineteenth of January, having received directions from my Lord Chamberlain to repair to Newmarket for attendence of Sir Robert Sherrley (arrived Ambassador from the King of Persia) to his Audience, which by his Majesty's appointment he was to have there with the advantage and commodity of his near abode at Saxham, (his first rest after his Landing and long Travels, and whence his sister the Lady Crosts sent to me to London, to prepare his access to his Majesty) As soon as he was come to Court I sent my man to him with norice of my coming thither to serve him, and having received answer of his desire● to be dispatched for his speedy return, I acquainted both the Duke of Buckingham, and Master Secretary Conway with the cause of my coming, and the address I had from my Lord Chamberlain to him too for my further Government: so the 27. of January I was sent to Saxham with the King's Coach only, and five Gentlemen, the King's Servants; and parting thence the next morning early (in obedience of a Command sent Post to me thither from my Lord Duke after midnight, That the King having assigned the Audience for the afternoon, would have me bring the Ambassador by ten in the forenoon) we came with three Coaches, besides the Kings to Court, where conducting him immediately up to the Princes Privy Chamber (which in absence of his Highness was purposely hung for honour to the Ambassador) he was fetched thence by the Earl of Anglesey through the Privy Chamber, and the Withdrawing-Chamber; (where the Duke met him) into the King's Bedchamber; There having made his two first respects of Approach with his Turban on, (his whole habit being Persian) at the third, he took it off, and laid it at the King's feet, and made his Speech of Entrance kneeling, till the King willing him to arise and cover, he did, and presenting his Letters of Credence (written in the Persian Language, and un-understood for want of an Interpreter no where then to be found in England:) After this, having gracious words, and countenances from his Majesty, he returned accompanied as he came to the Prince his Lodgings, where Master Secretary Conway repairing to him, entertained him an hour with discourse concerning the Propositions of his Negotiatiation, (which he had a little before delivered to him, and the Duke in Writing, and so returned to Saxham.  
Immediately upon this Ambassador's Arrival at Court, I acquainted the Duke with his intention to lay his Turban at the King's feet (though (he said) he had kept it always on in the Presence of the Emperor and the King of Spain) and thereby made way for his Majesty's Allowance of his covering, which was otherwise doubted would not have been permitted in regard of his natural Subjection (though in his former employment into England (when he wore his own Country Habit) he had been (after some question about it) allowed to cover in the King's Presence. 
From the same King.   
The 12. of February he came to London with my attendance in company of his Sister Crofts, and others, met between Tottenham, and Newington with six Coaches, whereof one with four Horses, and hired by me at the King's charge by my Lord Chamberlains permission for that day only, his Lordship saying, he had yet no order for it from his Majesty.  
The 14. of February having received an assignation for his Audience of the Prince at Saint James', (his Highness' Coach, and two Horses being commanded to be ready there at twelve of the clock) I found there the Earl of Arund. (Son to the Lord Marquis Hamilton, and Gentleman of the Prince his Bedchamber) with six or seven more of his Highness' Servants, that had received Order for his conduction to his presence. We went thence to the Ambassadors Lodgings in Fleetstreet, and there meeting the Lord North, and some Gentlemen of his Kindred, we brought him to the Prince his Presence Chamber at Saint James', where his Highness standing ready to receive him, the Ambassador entered, performing all his reverences with his Turban on, bowing himself low at his second reverence, and touching the ground with his right hand and then his head, when come near the Prince (who stood uncovered) he fell on his knee, but instantly raised by his Highness, he fell to the Complemental part, and from that to the earnest of his errand, which offered to the Prince's consideration in writing, he retired as he entered, and returned to his home with the conduction mentioned.  
The five and twentieth of February Mr. Secretary Conway wrote me a Letter to come to speak with me for the King's Service, which obeyed, he told me the Duke of Buckingham, and he had received notice of two Ambassadors landed at Gravesend from the States of the United Provinces, 
This was when Sir Lewes Lewkner was had in Jealousy for his affection to the Spanish Ambassadors,  and that they had made choice of me to be sent thither to receive them. I told him (after humble thanks for the honour my Lord Duke and his Honour intended me in that employment) that I must in the duty of my place receive my charges from the Lord Chamberlain, and that I thought the Master of the Ceremonies had, or would have the discharge of that Service committed to him. He replied he thought he would rather attend the Spanish Ambassadors than the Dutch; and for my Lord Chamberlain, (he said) he had sought him for that purpose, but not finding him, he desired me to acquaint him with the Dukes, and his choice of me, which when I accordingly imparted to his Lordship, he told me that Sir Lewes had been with him that afternoon, and received his Directions to go presently to Gravesend with the King's Barge to bring them to London.  
The next morning my Lord Wentworth sent me word; that he was made choice of to receive them at their landing at the Tower, and desired my company, with other gentlemen's thither; whence he conducted them (being two Joint Commissioners Monsieur d'Arsennes that had been here not long before, and Monsieur Jaachimi one of the State's General of Zealand) with the attendance of half a score Coaches, half a dozen of the King's Servants, and as many Commanders of the Low Countries (whereof General Veer was one) to their Lodging in Lumberstreet. The Sunday following (29. of February) the Lord Cavendish had order to bring them to their Audience of his Majesty, with him went the Lord de la Ware, and other Gentlemen, whereof myself one (though Sir Lewes had charge of the Service) being come to the Ambassadors Lodging, we found so many Coaches sent, and brought thither to do them service and honour, as our whole number (all with four horses) was thirty. Having rested themselves a while in the councel-chamber, they were introduced to the King's Presence in his withdrawing Chamber (by the back way, that leads from the Council Chamber to the Privy Galleries) and not in the Presence Chamber the ordinary place of Audience for Ambassadors Extraordinary (quod nota.)  
The next day having received an Assignation for an Audience of the Prince, and the Lord Compton, (son to the Earl of Northampton) being appointed to conduct him to it at Saint James'; I went thither about one of the clock, with intention only to be present at it; when hearing that Sir Lewes Lewkner was not likely to be there for his service, I (upon request of the Lord Carew (Chamberlain to his Highness) attended it, accompanying the Lord Compton (who had with him two of the Prince's Coaches beyond Custom) and two of the Lords, and on the way in Cheapside meeting them (the Ambassadors not expecting (as they said) a person of honour should be sent for them) they there shifted Coaches, came to Saint James', and with their Coaches entered the first Court; (this also beyond Custom) only once excepted at an Audience of the Marquis de la Inojosa) and had their Audience etc.  
The 23. of March I was sent to them, to assign them an Audience of his Majesty, the next day at two in the afternoon; but the King the night following taking little rest (by reason of a defluction in his foot) I was again sent to them with Excuse, and request from the King to spare their pains till the day after between three or four. When entering by the Park, I conducted them to the Ordinary Chamber of Attendance for Audiences, and there let them know (as I had directions) that in regard his Majesty was not yet free from his pains, and was then fall'n to sleep, they would be pleased to go, and rest themselves a while at Master Secratarie Conwayes Chamber as a place more commodious wherein to pass the uncertain time of his Majesty's sleep, and that at his waking the Duke would come and fetch them to his Majesty. But his Grace being then with the Prince in Exercise at Saint James'; three hours almost past before his return to White-Hall, where at length coming to them, he brought them to the King by the back stairs into his Bedchamber, whence (without entering into Treaty of business, the hour so late, being unfit for it) they had a quick dispatch and departed.  
The nine and twentieth of March, the two Spanish Ambassadors (Inojosa, and Coloma) were assigned an Audience for two of the clock, and the States at four; when to prevent their encounters, the Spanish were introduced by Sir Lewes Lewkaer through the Park, and Privy Galleries to the King in his Withdrawing Chamber, where they had a loud, and long expostulating Audience) and I in the mean time (as I had directions) received the other Ambassadors of the States at the Court gate, and conducting them to the Council Chamber on the late Queen's side, they were (immediately upon the Spanish departure) called to the King's Presence in the same place, and making their Entry by the other end of the Privy Galleries, they had a fair Audience, returning (as the other did) by the way of their entrance.   

1624.  
June the fourteenth having understood, that the States Ambassadors were to take their leaves of his Majesty at Theobalds', and that Sir Lewes Lewkner had neither received order, nor intended to conduct them to it, I galloped thither, and found them dining with Mr. Secretary Conway. After dinner I went to the King's back Lodgings, and finding there the Prince, presumed to beseech his Highness to be pleased to move his Majesty for their admittance to his Presence, whereupon receiving a command to bring them into the Privy Gallery (over the Leaden Terras there) they had a long, and a favourable Audience, and also the like of the Prince in his Quarter.  
The 19 they parted thence by Land (towards Margate for their embarking there, without provision of Coach or Barge, or care taken for either by Sir Lewes Lewkner.) The little pains which I took in their Service was (beyond my expectation) acknowledged by them with the gratuity of a piece of Plate worth— 30 l.  
The 21. of June, the Marquis de la Inojosa (after he had much imbroiled his Masters, and our King's Affairs in the Treaty of marriage then on foot between the Prince, and the Infanta, and had forged (as was said) certain reports of the Duke of Buckingham's (and some other Lords of Parliament) secret Combynation to his Majesty's prejudice, and to the raising Apprehensions in him (if he would have cherrished them) against the Prince his Son) was upon his departure hence; when demanding Access to take his final leave of his Majesty he was refused it; and without any present sent him, or Allowance of one of the King's Ships to convoy him, or of other Coaches or carriages on the way (other then of his own hiring) went (together with Don Carlos de Coloma his Colleague in Office, not in disposition) to embark at Dover in a Merchant's Ship attended thither by Sir Lewes Lewkner (not as Master of the Ceremonies, and the King's Officer) but as a private Gentleman accompanying, and assisting him of courtesy for prevention of Inconveniences, and Affronts (not unlikely in their passage to be offered that Nation by some of the inferior sort of ours, especially parting (as they did) in terms of disgrace, and disagreement from his Majesty.  
The French Ambassador Ordinary (Count de Tilliers) after almost five year's residence here received from the King his Master an unexpected short warning for the quitting of his charge, and for his speedy return home; which remove (the World said) was of design carried in such haste, that the Count de Tilliers might not make means for his longer stay here, while he was known to be no friend to the Match, then in proposition between our King, and the French Kings second Sister: his departure was about the end of June, when an Extraordinary (the marquis de Fiat) came hither, who had been formerly here in company of the marshal de Cadenet; and at his Arrival now at Gravesend, was met by the Earl of Warwick, and by me conducted to Suffolk House (with no great number or lustre of followers) to be there Lodged (as well as defrayed) not without murmur of the Earl of Suffolk, forced to a corner of his own House, which he could not wholly leave by reason of his linger sickness then upon him. Instantly upon his coming thither, he sent to demand Audience of his Majesty (en courser as he termed it) who was then at Windsor, and had it given him the very day of his coming thither, being Sunday the fourth of July, after he had been domestiquely entertained at Dinner by the Marquis Hamilton (than Lord Steward of the King's ) having been brought from London to Court by the Lord of Kensington, with the company (in the same coach) of the Master of the Ceremonies, and two or three other Gentlemen: he was at the great Chamber door received by the Lord Chamberlain, and in the Presence or Privy Chamber (both being come there) had his Audience with much grace, and countenances of Familiarity from his Majesty. The Prince at his entrance stood by (as a Beholder) and after salutations given and returned the King inviting the Ambassador to cover, he excused it, as long as the Prince should stand (as in his Father's Presence) uncovered, till at last for these respects his Highness retiring, he put on, presented his Letters, and after a good time of entertainment in several discourses, he retired to his Lodging in the Deans House till Wednesday following, and then returned to London. This House (though within the Castle) could not be properly said to be of the Kings, 
See after when Monfier de Chasteauneuf was here for the Peace's Ratification.  because the Deans, though some French for their glory would have had it otherwise held. The rest of that Summer, he almost continually attended his Majesty in the Progress, always lodged and defrayed. Towards the end of Novemb●r (upon order from my Lord Chamberlain for reception of another Extraordinary from France Monsieur d● Villiaveler Secretary of State there, and hither sent about the same business of Marriage with Pr. Maria Henrietto) Sir Lewes Lewkner went to Dover with the King's coach, and fourteen other hired, but much sooner than he needed for the King's profit (though not altogether by the fault of his forwardness) but of Letters to that purpose from Mr. Secretary Conway, for when he was come thither, no news certain could assure him of the Ambassadors yet arrival at Callayes. In the mean time, the other Ambassador already here (hastening likewise his encounter more than he needed) pressed my Lord Chamberlain for two more to other two attending (hired) Coaches, which he had already to meet him (as he intended) at Rochester, when my Lord imposing on me late at night the Service of procuring them, I with much a do got them ready by eight the next Morning, which done repairing to my Lord with the account of the Ambassadors Accommodation and readiness to departed, Letters came from Sir Lewes of the others not yet Landing, or so much as knowledge of his approach; this known to the marquis de Fyat, could not stay, or turn his resolution of going that night to Rochester, whither (he said) he must go or fast, having sent his cook and provisions before him, so as parting the three and twentieth of November, he had too much (and perhaps to little reason, both for respect of the King's charge, and of Precedent, as one Extraordinary to meet another so far off with no more difference of quality between them) he went as far as Dover, whether no sooner than six days after came the other from his place of Landing (the Downs) forced thither by the winds, and the next day after to Canterbury, the next to Sittingborne, the next to Rochester, and the day after to Gravesend, where he was that day received by the Earl of Dorset (Edward) accompanied with five and twenty Gentlemen the King's Servants, and others come down thither with two and twenty Barges. These (with regard of the Tides unfitness) were commanded to attend at Tower Wharfe about Noon, and his Lordship hastening thither by Land in Coach, we rowed two hours against the Tide, and coming to our Inn in the Evening, waited on his Lordship to the Ambassadors Lodging, where in the midst of the entry towards the Staire eight, my Lord was met by the Marquis de Rothelin, brother in Law to Monsieur de Valliaviler, and Monsieur de Massy his other brother in Law, and received by him and his Colleague on the top of the Stairs (no sooner.) Thence after a long contention, the Earl of Dorset entered first the Chamher, after him Monsieur de Villeaviler. next him (with the like strife) Sir Edward Harbert (not long before Ambassador Ordinary in France) and then Monsieur de Fiat. At his Lordship's return, the Ambassadors (enforcing likewise upon him the Precedence) brought him to the Street door. In the time of my Lord's Supper, the Ambassador sent a Gentleman, to know of him his commodity of embarking the next morning, and had the like compliment, returned from my Lord by a Gentleman, with the good night, and the liberty of his time to embark (howsoever the Tide would invite him to be ready against a eleven of the clock the next day) and after some question from his Lordship, whether he were again to repair to the Ambassadors, if he did not personally return his Visit the next morning, and a resolution hereupon from the Master of the Ceremonies, Sir Edward Harbert (that had been an Ambassador) myself and ethers there that though they should fail of their Compliment, he must not of his to fetch them from their Inn to their embarking) he performed it, and with the two Ambassadors, the Marquis de Rothelin, Sir Edward Harbert, Monsieur de Massey and the Master of the Ceremonies in the first Barge, some other principal persons and myself in the second, we came to our landing at Suffolk-House, ascended with my Lord of Dorset (always fored to the Precedence) to the newest Ambassadors Lodging, but (after much contenrion) could not keep off the Ambassadors company, till taking leave, and Coached at the street Gate, his Lordship and the rest departed.  
In the time of this Monsieur de Villiavilers stay here (which was about a month) the King then at Newmarket) his Majesty invited him to his Audience to be given him at Cambridge, where received, and defrayed all the way out, and home, and presented from his Majesty with a Diamond Ring; of 4000 l. value (so the Ambassador himself that pretended much knowledge in Jewels esteemed it) and with one from the Prince of above a thousand pound value, he there took his leave, but had after at Theobalds', and London several Audiences, and on Newyears-Eve departed towards Dover, the other Ambassador accompanying him to Rochester, with an intention to have gone with him as farte as Dover, but that Sir Lewes Lewkner with regard to the irregularity of his Journey, further (than had been formerly by precedent from other Ambassadors Colleagues undertaken, and with respect of his Majesty's charge for two, more than for one) he diverted it with intimation (silently given the King) of Monsieur de Fiats' changeable intention, and signification thereupon from his Majesty to the Ambassador, that he must speedily speak with him, which brought him back from Rochester to his home at Suffokle-House the day following. Both these Ambassadors were defrayed to Rochester, but no further.  
The fourth of January I received Order for the invitation of the French Ambassador (the Marquis de Fiat) the Venetian Signior Pesaro (not long before arrived here in place of Signior Valeresso) and two Agents Monsieur Brumeau for the King of Spain, and Monsieur Van Mal for the Archdutches) to a Mask of the Prince, with certain Lords and Gentlemen on Twelfth-night. I propounded, and obtained of the Venetian that he would (Sir Lewes Lewkner being then absent) call in his way to Court, and accompany thither the French Ambassadors, that I might with one labour attend them both, and introduce them (as I had directions) by the Park through the Galleries at eight of the clock at night (the place, and hour assigned also the Agents) but being the next morning, assured by the Prince himself, that the Mask was to be put off till Sunday the ninth of January, I was upon his Highness' intimation sent to disinvite them all which I performed with the French personally, and with the rest by Letter. But on Saturday reinvited them for the next day, when about four of the clock, the Marquis Hamilton, (Lord Steward of his Majesty's Household) then supplying the place of the Lord Chamberlain indisposed) gave me in charge to repair to the Ambassadors, and to let them know, that in regard of the inconveniency that would grow from the intrusion of multitudes of people by the way of the Galleries (if they were left open) he desired they would enter the Court by the great Gate, and thence pass for their repose to the Marquis' Lodgings, till the King should come by, and take them along with him. This intimation was given also to the two Agents, who had the same Order for their Entrance as the former, but were likewise diverted, and conducted to a Room apart in my Lord Stewards Lodgins, which was so ordered of design to avoid their, and the French Ambassadors encounter, not with apprehension of strife for place, their difference of qualities of Agents and Ambassadors clearing all such question, but of distaste perhaps to either from their incompatibility; a regard taken also in placing their Followers in several Scaffolds to avoid differences and wranglings that might occur even amongst those of inferior condition, if seated promiscuously together in a Scaffold; a provisionable care that the King himself had, and expressed it that day at his Dinner. The Ambassadors were seated with the King (as accustomed) and the Agents bestowed amongst the Lords, beneath Earls, and above Barons.  
Here end the Services of my Place of Assistant Master of the Ceremones under King James, who died the 27. of March following.    

SERVICES PERFORMED by Me as Assistant Master of the CEREMONIES, 
The first year of King Charles.  From the beginning of the Reign of King CHARLES.  

THE thirteenth of April I conducted the Persian Ambassador (Sir Robert Shirley) from his Lodging at Tower-Hill to an Audience of his Majesty at White-Hall. Descending at the great Gate of the Court, I brought him, 
William Earl of Pembrick.  (as I had my directions from the Lord Chamberlain) through the dark passage from the Sermon Court to the Council Chamber on the late Queen's side, whence going to the King's Privy Chamber, I there gave notice of the Ambassadors arrival to a Gentleman Usher of that Chamber (all further passage being begun then to be debarred to all, but Privy Counsellors, and Bedchamber men) who conveying my intimation to my Lord Chamberlain in the Privy Galleries, I had a charge returned, that conducting him by the way of the late Queen's Lodging to his Majesty in his Withdrawing Chamber, no other but myself should go along with him, this obeyed, he passed with his Majesty some few words of condoling compliment, and returned by the way he entered. The next day I conducted to an Audience (for the same purpose, and by the same way) Monsieur de Bruneau, Secretary Resident (as he styled himself) for the King of Spain) with whom entered only into the Privy Gallery one Cosmo, sometimes Servant and Secretary to the Conde de Gondemar, but I had instantly charge from my Lord Chamberlain upon his sight of him to tell him, he must avoid that Room (as he did upon my admonition.)  
Three days after I performed the like Service (and with the like directions and Service) for conducting of Monsieur Van Mall, Agent for the Arch-Dutches.  
The third of May I introduced the Venetian Ambassador Signior Pesaro to the like Audience, his Secretary (notwithstanding my admonition) following us into the Privy Gallery, and by his example the other followers) when hearing me say to the Ambassador that he might be pleased to leave behind him la sua gente, the Secretary answered Si si bisoina Leseine la gente, as reckoning himself being Secretary not de la gente, leaving them, behind and entering with the Ambassador not only into the Gallery, but into the Presence of his Majesty, though not approaching nearer, then half the way within the Chamber. The French Ambassador performing his compliment of condoling, with conduction of the Master of the Ceremonies.  
Another Extraordinary Ambassador from France, 
The Count de Tremes.  sent to condole the death of King James, arrived at Dover, in the beginning of May, and was received there by the Master of the Ceremonies, with the Service of twenty Coaches hired at the King's charge for his Transport to Gravesend, and thence of an answerable number of Barges to Suffolk-House his appointed Lodging, together with the other Ambassador Monsieur de Fyat Resident Extraordinary. The day after his arrival, he was brought to his public Audience in the Presence Chamber by the Earl of Montgomery, served by five coaches of the Lords (besides that of the Kings) all covered with black cloth for mourning; his passage was through the Hall to the Council Chamber, and after his rest there, to the King's Presence where, (in company of his colleague) presenting four Letters to his Majesty, one after the other. The last of which appeared by the King's cheerful countenance at the receipt of it, to come from his then affianced Mistress.  
On Saturday the seaventh of May, the Funeral of King James was to be Solemnised, and his Body to be attended to Westminster Church by his Son King Charles and by all the other Lords, Officers, and Servants in their proper ranks (as they had (by their several places, and charges) relation to that last duty. For this purpose, the general Rendezvous or assembly being to be made at Denmark-house about nine in the morning, and the King himself repairing thither between twelve and one, many disputes grew between particulars for their pretended rights of Precedence; about which, while they were in question, and I attending the Heralds call to my place of march (either as assistant Master of the Ceremonies together with Sir Lewes Lewkner, to precede the Gentlemen of the Privy Chamber (as the Heralds told me we were ranked by the Earl Mareshall) or promiscously to go amongst them as sworn Servants of that number) I had command from his Majesty to repair to the two French Ambassadors (where they were at that time reposing themselves in a Chamber apart) and to wait on them all the way to Westminster Church in rank next after the Archbishop of Canterbury, as in the chief, and highest place that could be assigned them; about which, 
That is, (as by o●der of procession before.  after some questions propounded by them for their better satifactions, they were desirous to see the Herald's Book, where their places were ordered, which shown by Sir John Burrowes (Norrey King of Arms) they took Exceptions at their rancking, (though it were next the Standard, and nearest the Body of all other, except the Heralds, Trumpetours and other Officers of necessary Assistance) because the King himself (they said) went behind the Body alone (with whom (as Representants of their Master) they pretended an equal rank, and March one on his right hand, and another on his left. But this not allowed them (as being against our received Custom, and they having denied it the day before) they at length seemed to rest satisfied, so set forth at the time (having first presented themselves with their respects to his Majesty) and took, and kept both, one even course of Parity, and the latter came marching all the way on the right hand of the other, though next the kennel (as they sometimes crossing the street encountered) followed by no other of their Servants, than such as (to the number of seven or eight) did set hand to their Trains, marching all the way bareheaded, only the Count de Tremes had walking, and talking along with him (but somewhat sidewayes before him) his Secretary also bareheaded. Immediately before them went none but myself covered, and before me the marshal of the Ceremonies, my under Officer uncovered; and so jealous were they of the least shadow of any man's encroaching upon their rights, as they would not suffer any other to be near the Bishop of Canterbury either behind, or on either side of him, than his Page that carried his Train, and one that walked at his left hand now and then to ease, and support him being aged and infirm. When in this manner we were come to Westminster Church, and had entered the Choir, the Ambassadors at the upper end of it upon the entrance towards the Hearse made a stand till (the King come thither, and withdrawing himself towards the right hand to give way for the placing of the Body, that he might after seat himself in his chair during the Sermon) they passed a short compliment with his Majesty, and from him went round about the Hearse to the North door near it, and then passing without side of the Choir, they issued out of the East door of the Church to take Barge at the Parliament Stairs, and thence to their home.  
At this time the Venetian Ambassador (who having had his Blacks sent him from the King in the same full proportion for quality and goodness of cloth as were sent to the two French Ambassadors) should have been an assistant at the solemnity, was absent upon this occasion. Howsoever the Blacks that had been sent him in due time before, might seem to serve for an Invitation (as Sir Lewes Lewkner pleaded after in defence of the accusation brought against him by the said Ambassador.) He made complaint that the Lord Chamberlain having given directions to the Master of the Ceremonies to invite all the Ambassadors, the two French Ambassadors, had been formally and personally invited by him, and not he the Venetian, except (he said) in transitu, as he once met him upon the Stairs in the French Ambassadors House, where he Sir Lewes having said something tending to the purpose of his Invitation, he was answered by the Ambassador, faro quel che mi dira, intimating (as the Ambassador said after) that he expecting a formal Invitation (with some instructions how to behave himself in the solemnity) should have been presented him in his own House, and not so slightly a one in an others, but Sir Lewes not coming thither to him at all, and both the French Ambassadors visiting him, and propounding to him (as to one interessed in their cause) their difficulties, and the exceptions they had made to the place, and manner of their March (affirming that upon the terms offered them they would not assist at the Funeral) was a cause that he neither made his preparations for the time, nor inquired further after it, especially when on the day of the Solemnity, he received towards Noon, a message from the Mr. by the marshal of the Ceremonies (which was one of his main formalities, and challenges against the Master, that he discharged not that Office in his own Person) that the two Ambassadors had now fully considered of all, and were absolutely resolved not to assist at the Funeral. This was the Tenor of the message, as Sir Lewes Lewkner affirmed he sent it, and as the messenger swore he delivered it; but the Ambassador affirmed, it was delivered to him thus, viz. That the King and Council were now resolved, that no Ambassador should Assist at the Solemnity, whereupon, he having been before invited to dine with the Duchess of Richmond, there to be Spectator only of the Solemnity passing by, went thither as giving over all thought of being an Actor in it, affirming that the wrong he had received, proceeded chief from the Master of the Ceremonies (notwithstanding that when he sent the message he sent word with all that he was gone home sick) who should have punctually (he said both before, and at the instant of the French Ambassadors change of resolution) given him notice of it (he the Master of the Ceremonies, and not they) being obliged (he said) by Office to those respects.  
For this his particular sufferance, and wrong done him in these neglects and omissions (which he pretended highly to concern, not only his own Person in point of honour, but his Republic also in reason of State (since it challenged all Rights and Honours equal with Crowned Heads) he first formalized himself against the two Ambassadors (but with little remedy, other then with their excuse of sudden change of mind, and with affirmation, that they had acquainted the Master of the Ceremonies with it, who they thought would not have failed to let him know of it) and the next day demanded, and had Audience of his Majesty (to which I introduced him) for complaint against Sir Lewes' Lewkner; who excusing himself with sickness etc. the Marshal of the Ceremonies bore for that present all the punishment, and was for some days laid up in the Marshalseys for mistaking (as was laid to his charge) his message. 
This brought forth Sir Lewes Lewkners' restraint a while after.  But the Venetian Ambassador not so satisfied, sent an express to Venice with the account of all the proceed. Many were of opinion (and the Venetian Ambassador said as much to me) that the French Ambassadors so sudden change of mind, or at least their semblence of it, proceeded chiefly from the Marquis de Fyat, of purpose to exclude the Venetian, that he might not by his Presence be a dis-lustre to him in his march, while the last come Extraordinary taking his place in the midst (as was his right) with his badge, and Ensign of Order, one would be more conspicuous, and he the less, when a third Person (the Venetian) should be added to their number, and march (as he would) in even rank with them. Others affirmed, that it proceeded from the stomach of Monsieur de Tremes, who would not brook, (and so some said he professed) that a Minister of a Republic should in so public a Solemnity, march in the same rank with the Minister of so great a Monarch, as the most Christian King his Master.  
This Ambassador of Venice (upon occasion of discourse I had with him three or four days after concerning his Prince's pretence to all Rights, and Marks of honour given to Kings) affirmed that their Ambassadors having had always their seats in Capella given them at Rome, and their Audiences Nella sala Regale there (and not Nella sala Ducale) all per delle teste Coronate, and the like honour done them in the Court of France by making for them a full Guard in Arms, when they came to their first Audiences, which was made to none, but to Emperors and Kings Ambassadors. Also that the same quantity of Wine (viz. so many Tonns) was allowed them here in England free of Impost, as was allowed to King's Ambassadors, with a difference of a less quantity to those of inferior Princes. 
And that he had at the Funeral sent to him from his Majesty the like quantity of Blacks as was sent to the French Ambassador.  All which, and more were Arguments (he said) of their unquestioned Parity with Crowned Heads. He told me further, that in Spain not long before, the Emperor's Ambassador endeavouring the abatement of the respects given them there, made a request to the King, that he would alter the Pragmatic of giving the Title, of Illustrissimo to the Venetian; which the Venetian Ambassador having notice of, made it known to the French Ambassador there Resident, and entreated him to acquaint therewith the King his Master, which he did, and had answer returned from the King, that if the Title of Illustrissimo given the Emperors and his Ambassadors were to be changed for that of Excellentissimo, he should in his name demand, that the like alteration might be made for the Venetian; otherwise that the already received, and used Title of Illustrissimo, should be continued, answerable to the present Pragmatic, as it hath been ever since without change given in Spain to the Ambassadors of the State of Venice, as to all other King's Ambassadors without difference.  
The 31. of May, 1625. Madam Maria Henrietta, second Daughter to Henry the Fourth King of France, and the then affianced Wife of King Charles being upon her Journey for England; his Majesty prepared for her encounter and Reception, went by water to Gravesend, thence by Post and Coach to Canterbury. A day or two before the Master of the Ceremonies had order for the Provision, and sending down of thirty two Coaches to serve her Majesty, and the Duke de Chevereuxe employed then Ambassador Extraordinary from that King for his Presence at the Solemziation, and final ratification or consummation of the Marriage. The Coaches mentioned to be taken up for the Service were defrayed by the King, but Carts and Post-Horses (brought in by Warrant sent abroad to the Country) were to be immediately paid for at prizes usual by such as should have use of them. The confusion was extraordinary (for want of orderly directions) in almost all things, but especially in the distrbiution of Coaches, Carts and Horses, he that first laid hand on them, possessing them, though unworthy, when others of far better quality, and more modest, were not at all, or ill accommodated.  
His Majesty entering Canterbury was received by the Mayor (who had borrowed the Recorder (Master Henry Finches mouth for a wellcomming Speech delivered with much Elegancy) was lodged at the Lord Wootons' House, parcel of the demolished Abbey of Saint Augustine; The great Lords, and their Ladies that attended him from London (which were Arrundell, Excester, Devonshire, Saint john's, Andever, Dacre, de la Ware, Mordant, Wentworth, Harvey, and others) were quartered severally in the City, and had their Randezvous for Diet (of his Majesty's providing) at the Bishop's Palace. The third day following his Majesty leaving the married Lords and Ladies at Canterbury, went to Dover for view, and directions of what was fitting for the Queen's accommodation; about which, and in expectation of the news of her approach, he there spent the time from Thursday to Tuesday, when Master Robert Tyrrwhit, servant to his Majesty, returned from France (whether he had been purposely sent) with the news of her departure from Amiens, and her intention to be on Wednesday at Bolloigne, which made the King (upon assurance that the Queen Mother (indisposed in her health) would not come thither with her daughter) altar the resolution he had of passing the Seas, and the next day returned to Canterbury with the reason of giving to the Queen some time of refreshing after her Sea-distempers before he would see her.  
But on Thursday, the King's Fleet not able (for the winds opposition) to recover Boulogne, and left for the same cause on Friday, and two days after, on Monday the 12. of May about nine of the clock, the reports of Canons from the French coast, and the wind than come fair, made us presume of her Majesty, then shipping, as it did after assure us of her landing at seven in the Evening, passing out of her Boat on shore by an artificial movable Bridge framed for that use only. The news of her arriveall was by Master Tirwhit within half an hour and six minutes carried to the King at Canterbury, Her Majesty rather ill at ease, then sick after her Sea motions, was carried from the shore to the Town in a Litter, there received welcome, and presented by the the Mayor, she went in Coach up to the Castle, and had there the next day her best and happiest Reception from the King, come that morning from Canterbury. 
May 13.  Their Majesty's dining that day together; the King after dinner gave Audience to the Duke de Chevereux, the Duke of Buckingham with my Service introducing him to the Presence Chamber of the Queen, whence the King honoured him (after his Audience) with his company to his Majesties own Presence Chamber for a sight, and welcome of the fair Duchess de Chevercux. After this their Majesties set forth for Canterbury, and within two or three miles of it on Barrham Down were attended (for their meeting, and reception) by the Lords and Ladies mentioned, these latter presenting themselves from a fitting distance (where the Queen stood) to her Majesty, each in their rank, with three low reverences kissing her hand, and her Majesty them for their greater honour. That night their Majesties supped, and slept together. Sic consummatum est. The next day they removed to Cobham near Rochester, and from thence and Gravesend they came with the loud welcome of great Ordinance from the Ships on the Thames, and from the Tower to London, May 16. Their landing was at the Privy Stairs of Whitehall; where in the Shield Gallery stood on each side ranged those Ladies of quality and beauty, that had not yet seen the Queen, and there they had from her particular respects of satisfaction. The Duke de Chevereux, and his Lady were lodged at Somerset House, and had the next day a Visit sent them from his Majesty by the Earl of Arrundell with two or three Lords, with divers Gentlemen attending, who after conducted him to his public Audience of his Majesty in the Presence Chamber. Thence he was upon passage to the Queen for the like, but word being brought that she was not well at ease, he was remitted to another time, and returned to his Lodging with the company of the Count de Tremes, and the Marquis de Fiat (with him joint Commissioners.)  
The next day (being that of the Overture of Parliament) his Majesty (to avoid the danger of the Plague (then growing strong by the concourse of people) went to it privately by water, and after him the French Ambassador, for a sight of the manner of his Majesty, and the Lords first entrance to that great Work. The Ambassadors were placed, as in private, behind a Traverse on the King's right hand, which when the King began his Speech was drawn open. The Venetian (not to lose any of those Rights he was so jealous of (and with reason upon so fresh a hazard as he had run) sent to me before hand for knowledge of the course designed for the Ambassadors repair, and requested he might be admitted to the sight of it (as they should be) public or private. Hereat my Lord Chamberlain made at the first some difficulty, as not of Custom (he said) though once allowed to his Predecessor Landi, adding that the French would be there as attendant Domestiques of the Queen (that she had been there, as was intended, but was hindered by her indisposition,) and that no sit place could be found where he might see unseen; but at last the Earl of Arundel acquainting the King with his designs, I had directions to bring him by a private back way to the entrance near the King on his left hand, where in the throng he stood concealed.  
The ninteenth of June, 
An Ambassador from the States. This was too high and irregular.  an Extraordinary Ambassage from the States brought Monsieur de Arsennes, Monsieur de Joachimi (both formerly here) and Monsieur Burmania from Gravesend with Sir Lewes Lewkners' conduction to Tower Wharf, where received by the Earl of Lincoln, they passed on with his Lordship to their Lodging at General Cecils House in the Strand: their employment was chiefly to congratulate the King's marriage.  
The 21. of June, 
Ratification of the King's marriage.  the three French Ambassadors were by the Duke of Buckingham (with attendance suiting such a conductor) fetched from , and brought to White-Hall, by the way of the Guard Chamber, Presence and Privy Chamber to the King's Withdrawing Chamber, whence (with both their Majesties) they entered the Banqueting House. Thore their Majesties seated in their chairs of State, the Queen on the right of the King, the Duke de Chevereux (seated somewhat more forward) on the left, together with the other two French Ambassadors, behind whom stood the Lord Keeper, the Earls of Carliel and Holland (both there employed in France for conclusion of that matrimonial business) with other great Lords, and next besides, and behind the Queen, the great Ladies, and French Lords. There was solemnly and distinctly read the Ratification etc. After which the King joining hands with the Queen and kissing her, they all withdrew, while the Room might be prepared for the King's dinner, the Queen retiring herself to her Quarter dined there in her own Presence Chamber, the great Ladies by themselves in the Guard Chamber, soon after the King with his Ambassadors came to dinner in the Banqueting House; where on his left hand (with the usual distance) sat the Duke, and at the Board's end the two other Ambassadors. A Question in the interim growing between the Officers, whether the place opposite to the Duke, were not the most proper for them, which the Master of the Ceremonies affirmed had been the custom of one instant Treatment of three Commissioners, but his assertion was not followed for the betterr convenience of the said Officers carving and sewering; after Dinner, the Room cleared, and cleansed, their Majesties with the Ambassadors, the Lords, and Ladies returned, and spent the rest of that Afternoon in revelling etc.  
The Ambassador of Venice, who had forborn to request or make so much as an offer to be present in public or private of the solemn ratification of the marriage (where he thought not fit perhaps to bring to question the intent of his pretended Rights of Parity con le teste Coronate) was the next day introduced to an Audience of the Queen demanded by her Majesty's Lord Chamberlain (the Count de Tillieurs) late here Ambassador Ordinary with the King, and now returned a follower of the Queen) After notice given me of this assigned Audience, I received the Ambassador at the Court Gate, conducted him through the Preaching Court along the long dark winding entry, up to the Queen's Guard Chamber, and into the Chapel Chamber next it, whence (after notice given by me to her Majesty's Lord Chamberlain of his Presence there) he passed on, was received there at the Presence Chamber door by the Lord Chamberlain, and by him brought to the Queen in her Privy Chamber, and thence after his congratulation returned to his Lodging without my attendance.  
The three and twentieth of June, the three Commissioners from the States had public Audience of his Majesty, conducted to it by the Earl of Warwick, they passed the old Ordinary way up the great stone Stairs over the Wooden Terras to the old Council Chamber (then restored to the Ancient use upon the Queen's use of the other for her Presence Chamber) and were called thence by the Master of the Ceremonies to proceed through the Guard Chamber (where the Earl of Holland Captain of the Guard, stood ready in the midst of the Chamber (his company ranged on each side of it) to receive them) and the Lord Chamberlain then absent) to introduce them to his Majesty's Presence in the Presence Chamber. Whence after dismission they turned by the way to the Chapel Chamber into the Queen's Guard, and Presence Chamber, received there by her Majesty's Lord Chamberlain, and by him brought to their Audience into her Privy Chamber. This their Access to the Queen was demanded somewhat late that day, but referred therefore to the time of her own pleasure, only intimating that the King had granted them that day an Audience, and requesting my Lord Chamberlain to let her Majesty know so much and with all their most humble desires of the like honour from her Majesty, but with their due respects of her own best conveniency that day, or another at her pleasure. Soon after these Audiences, Monsieur de Arsennes, and Monsieur Burmania taking their leave returned home, Monsieur Joachim remaining here with the charge of Ambassador Extraordinary. They were at that time presented each of them with a 1000 ounces of gilt Plate.  
The Venetian Ambassador having taken shadow at the carriage or miscarriage of his service done at King James his Funeral, was tender, and jealous of every occasion that might touch his State in interest of honour, for which regard, having received advice from his Prince, that an Ambassage Extraordinary was resolved on to be sent from Venice, for condolement, and congratulation in August or September following, he was curious to know by my inquiry from my Lord Chamberlain, what would be the manner, and extent of their reception? About which employing myself, I could get no more from his Lordship, then that they should be sure of it to the full of former Precedents, which he could not learn (he said) had been ever further off, then at Gravesend, whether a Master of the Ceremonies should be sent with the King's Barge to meet them, and a Nobleman of fitting quality to Tower Wharf to receive them at their Landing there.  
The eight and twentieth of June a Turkish Chiaus or messenger (who came hither about the time of King James his Death) having demanded Access to the Queen for congratulation, and being allowed it, I was the same day sent to for that Service by Monsieur de Tilliers, and in absence of Sir Lewes Lewkner (who came notwithstanding at the instant of the Audience) introduced him to her Majesty in her Privy Chamber, where she received him with the interpretation of Sir Lewes Lewkner in French, another in English to the Queen of what another said to him in English from the Chiaus his mouth in Turkish.  
About that time, the Duke de Chevereux (with his Lady the Duchess) took leave of their Majesties, so did Monsieur de Tremes, and the Marquis de Fyas soon after. The Duke presented me by his Steward with a chain of— 30 l. value, which was assured me to have been ordained double to that) but I had to do with the unjust Steward.) The other Ambassadors acknowledged my pains with thanks, et nihil ultra.  
These gone, the Plague increasing, the Court removing to Salisbury, and I with my family retiring (from the danger of infection in London) to the Country, I rested all the rest of that Summer unemployed. In the mean time a Splendid Ambassador N. Oxensterne (arrived at Southampton from the King of Sweden) was received and conducted by Sir Andrew Kith to the Presence of his Majesty at Salisbury, Sir Lewes Lewkner being then under restraint for his carriage towards the Venetian Ambassador, and I absent etc. for the reasons mentioned.  
Having in October understood of the Treatment of the Ambassador of Sweden at Salisbury, and how necessary my Service was, and would be at Court during the absence, and restraint of the Master of the Ceremonies for the cause before specified, I repaired thither making the best way I could through the danger of the sickness, then dispersed almost every where over the Country, and being arrived there found Sir Lewes' Lewkner commanded from his attendance on the Marquis de Bleinvill (newly come over Ambassador from the French King) to his House at Acton near London, upon complaint of the Venetian Ambassador for his pretended interest and partial carriage towards the said Ambassador, at the Funeral of the late King, (as is before delivered) whereupon I received the Lord Chamberlains commands (upon his Majesty's pleasure signified to that purpose) to attend that Service entered on by another (one of the Heralds) but quitted upon the charge given me to discharge it, so repaired to the Ambassador with the signification of the proper duty of my place, and of the command I had from his Majesty to perform it at all his occasions, whereof one fell out two or three days after, when going to see that antiquity at Stonenge, I accompanied him. The next day going with him to render his visits to the Earl Martial, and Lord Chamberlain, I had order opportunely to taste his disposition for his remove, the King being assigned his to Windsor, and Hampton Court, when I finding his ambition to Lodge in the Kings own House there, acquainted my Lord Chamberlain with it (who had already given order for his Lodging at Kingston) and received from his Lordship answer, That his Majesty would never allow any Ambassador to be Lodged so near him; whereupon letting the Ambassador know (as dexterously as I could) what order had been already taken for his residence at Kingston; His answer at first was, that what was his Majesty's pleasure should be his obedience, but proceeding, he asked, the Plague having been (as I am told) so much, and so lately in that Town) may I not be Lodged within the King's House at Hampton I replied, it had not been the Custom for Ambassadors to be so Lodged; yet (said he) the Duke de Chevereux had his Lodging in the House at Richmond, and so had the marquis de Fyat. To this I spared then to reply, as by way of contestation, but conveying his answer to my Lord Chamberlain, and he it to the King: His Majesty commanded me to carry to the Ambassador this small resolution. That the Queen having been desirous for the long acquaintance sake that had passed between her, and the Duchess de Chevereux, to have her near her, at the time of her (the Duchess') Delivery, and lying in (then towards) would have her lodged in the King's House at Richmond, and that she having her lodging there, it was fit that the Duke her Husband should have his there also. And as for Monsieur de Fiat, it concerned both his Majesty's profit and his ease to bring him together with the other Ambassador to one House, when a second kept for them at London, at the King's charge (as was the Dukes at Richmond) would be both dangerous in regard of the Sickness, troublesome to the King's Officers by their serving in of provisions for Diet, at two several places, and of great expense. Besides, it was intended, that if those Ambassadors should have come to lie at Hampton Court from Richmont, the King would have instantly removed to Windsor, or to some other of his Houses. To this the Ambassador Bleinville answered, he knew not that, but this he knew (he said) that Lodgings were marked for the other within Hampton Court, and to be made use of there at their pleasure, adding that the Earls of Carliel and Holland (late Ambassadors to the King his Master) when they were with his Majesty at Saint Cermans, were quartered near the King's House, yet would not rest contented with their Lodging, till they had gotten within his Majesties own House two or three rooms furnished for their retreat, and to lodge in at their pleasure, though indeed they spared to make such use of them. In conclusion, I said, that neither his Majeuty, nor the King his Father had ever lodged any Ambassador in their Houses, while they themselves lodged in them, and that his Majesty now would be loath to make a Precedent, that would hereafter beget him so great a trouble, as this was like to be, and that therefore his Majesty hoped, that the Ambassador would not take it in ill part (if desirous to give him satisfaction, and to treat him in all, as the Representant of the King his Master) he did in this not correspond with his desires etc. Having said thus much to him as from the King, he (not without some countenance of insatisfaction, and with intimation, that he had but propounded it only, and would leave it to the King's consideration, and pleasure,) there was for that time no further question made of it.  
To days after desiring me to procure him an Audience, I intended the King for it at his return from Hunting, and though it were late, I was sent to him with his Majesty's pleasure for his immediate access (without further Ceremony) his Majesty being to return the next day early to Hunting, so the Ambassador repairing to Court at six in the Evening, (with reception of the Precedent of the Household at the foot of the stairs, and of the Chamberlain at the top) he was introduced to his Majesty in his withdrawing Chamber, all his Followers remaining in the Presence.  
The King (upon assurance of the Plague's beginning to lessen at London, and in other places near about) removed to Windsor, and Hampton-Court, and leaving the Queen some few days at Salisbury, the Ambassador being upon his departure to follow his Majesty, I let him understand, that according to our Custom, he was not to have his Post-horses defrayed (though all the rest had been so hitherto) when (almost at the instant I received a Letter from the Earl of Carliel (to whom in absence of my Lord Chamberlain I had written for a formal resolution to that purpose) signifying his Majesty's pleasure, that he should be defrayed for his Post-horses also, (as he had been for his Coaches and Carriages) but with a protestation, enjoined to be made by me as from his Majesty to the Ambassador (as it formallv was, when I delivered my message) that he should be the last, who should receive that Treatment, and that he should have also his lodging provided in Court at Hampton, which favour of his Majesty he (at least in appearance) accepted of most thankfully. This Letter mentioned was written to me from the Earl of Carlisle which siginification of his Majesty's pleasure appearing in it for discharge of the Ambassadors Post-horses) upon an account I had given that Lord (at the instant of his departure with the King) what words of resentment had fall'n from the Ambassador, after I had told him of our Custom here, as before in these formal terms and with passion answerable.  
He had well observed (he said) how he had been entreated here since his coming in a different manner from other of his Nation and quality; that Monsieur de Fiat, and Monsieur de Villiaviller were not persons to stand with him in comparison, otherwise then as they were his Master's Ambassadors, yet had they received better respects than he. That the world knew well enough what his condition and person was near the person of his Master, 
Monsieur le prmier.  being the first Gentleman of his Chamber and lodged always (for divers years) next him in Court, though he were now denied lodging in the Court of England (where others had been allowed it) especially in a time that the contagion of the Plague might be a motive to lodge him rather there, then elsewhere with danger to his person, whereas others (as the Duke of de Chevereux) though being a Prince he named him not as an equal instance) and besides him Monsieur Villiaviller, and Monsieur de Fiat had had their lodgings marked for them at Hampton Court. That the Earl of Carliel though he had lodgings ordained for him at Saint Germans in the Chancellor's House, the best of the Town, and near the Court) would not be contented, till he had his lodging Chamber, and Antichamber in the Kings own House, and had been treated for some eighteen months in manner as the world knew, yet that he an Ambassador (who for aught he knew was not to stay two months here) was refused respects and treatment answerable in many things. That he saw well enough what had been put upon him from time to time, whereof, but for doing so ill an Office, as to raise difference or debate between the two Kingdoms (which would be an ill Servants and Subjects part, especially in times of our Wars with Spain) he would have showed himself sensible, 
He was after re●uted the main boutefou of our War with France.  and would have returned the provision of diet that the King gave him, which he thanked God he had means of his own (besides that he had from the King his Master) to allow himself in a plentiful measure, and that what regard, and treatment he had here, he knew how (and was in place about his Master able) at one time or other to repay. That further, for that one particular of Post-Horses, one or 200. crowns, more or less, was a poor thing in his consideration, which to be defrayed, or not defrayed, was nothing to him in his own person, but as he represented the person of the King his Master, he was bound to take and give notice of it. These, and other the like Stommachous Speeches he let fall in my hearing, which reported by me to my Lord of Carliel, and by him to the King, brought forth the Letter, and with it the allowance specified. The day before his departure, when I presumed that his Majesty's Officers had or would defray the Lodgings taken up, and made use of for his Followers, I found the Harbingers all departed, and no Order left for their discharge. In which regard for the King's honour and avoidance of clamour from so many poor men, as had furnished them with Beds and Chambers; I sent for all their names, caused them to come before the Green Cloth, and there promised them my best endeavous with my Lord Chamberlain, and after procured of his Lordship a Warrant for twenty two pound to be paid them out of the Treasury of the Chamber for their respective satisfaction, but when to be paid, viderit tempus.  
Saturday the 28. of October, after Dinner, when (all being ready we all supposed the Ambassador would instantly departed) he called me into his Chamber and imparted to me (with request of my Secrecy) his design to stay behind (pour se purger (as he professed) to purge himself (but whether of the humours of the Marquis de Bleinvill, or of Monsieur l'Ambassadure taking the opportunity of the Queens stay behind the King, for his more freedom of access to her Majesty I know not) there he stayed, (entreating me to proceed with the gross of his Train, retaining with him two or three Gentlemen, and the King's coach, and assuring me he would follow on Monday. Not to contradict him in his course designed, I without reply or excuse, parted that day with his Steward, and followers in five coaches (followed by seven carts for his Baggage,) and forty four saddle Horses, and coming that night to Andever; we had word brought us thither, that the carriage with his Plate was not that day come forth of Salisbury, a knavish carter when he see us all parted, taking advantage, and stealing away with his carriage before it came to loading, so as leaving the Marshal of the Ceremonies behind to attend that charge, we went on that night to Hart-ford Bridge, then resting all Sunday (more for the Frenches Satisfaction in attendance of their Lord's Plate, not yet come, then for the duty they would have paid the day by rest, though they had their Mass in the Inn, but first with request of myapprobation for the fitness or unfitness of it, in regard of scandal) we were the next day at Kingston, where at the furthest end of the Town Eastward, the Ambassadors House was appointed, but not yet (by default of some of the King's Officers) Lodgable; so as returning into the Town, we Lodged in Inns, and elsewhere, as we could on such a sudden be provided, and not without French murmurs, till they were the third night after better bestowed in the quarter ordained from them. This Ambassador being not yet come from Salisbury, the Gentleman of his Horses, and of chief manage in his Affairs (in observation of his Lords desire, and the King's pleasure, signified to him by the Earl of Carliel, that the Ambassador should have a Chamber in Court (not (as was misunderstood to lie in it, but only for his retreat, as is before mentioned) entreated the Earl of Carliel to move the King for his favour to that purpose, when I had already for prevention possessed his Majesty and my Lord Chamberlain, that the Ambassadors intention of demand of a Lodging in Court, was with the like limitation, as the Earls of Carliel and Holland had had theirs in the Court of France, viz. only at time to retire to.  
In conclusion it was the pleasure of his Majesty (and for such made known by my Lord of Carliel) that expecting no cloth of State, 
The yeomen hangers had only began to set one up in his Chamber at Court, but I instantly hindered it as not fitting, whereof I gave account to the Lord Chamberlain, and was applauded for it.  which from first to last of his stay there was not allowed him in Court, (though he had one (as all King's Extraordinary Ambassadors have) in his private House at Kingston) and having in his Chamher the allowance only of a Gentleman, and two Grooms to lie by him in Pallet, he should be Lodged in Court as a particular or private Person, and not otherwise, for avoidance of future trouble to the King by Precedent.  
This obtained, I sought to prevent another inconveniency, by acquainting my Lord Chamberlain and Carliel with the Expectation I saw towards of having his Diet provided in Court, which would have made that public, which was intended private.  
To prevent this, I had order to fall (as I did) in discourse with the Gentleman of his Horses, and to convey the King's mind to him (as I understood it.) I said from report, and collection) that it was intended he should have no other Diet, than what he had at Kingston by provision there from the King's Officers, and that if he would eat at Court at any time, it might be at the Table of the Queen's Lord Chamberlain, or elsewhere there) as a private Person, sending thither, 
Monsieur de Tilliers.  when he would from Kingston part of his provision to have it dressed in Court for increase of his Diet at the Table of her Majesty's Lord Chamberlain; but this was but discourse, and to little purpose, while the Ambassador himself remained yet with the Queen at Salisbury.  
The stay of his there longer, than he at the first intended (or at the least in show pretended) gave me the liberty to sisit my home (than at Brocket Hall) for retreat from the sickness) till a messenger bringing me the news that the Ambassador was come to Hampton Court, I the next morning returned thither, and that Afternoon accompanied him with two coaches each with four Horses (appointed for his continual Service) to the sight of Nonesuch. These two coaches I increased to three with two Horses to each as more useful than one, and capable of his followers for their daily passage to and from Court to Kingston. The fourteenth of November, that he might take possession of the honour allowed him by his Majesty to be Lodged in Court, he commanded some of his stuff of more necessary Service to be transported thither, he himself that Evening following it, and was there Lodged in the Garden Lodgings, where had been sometime quartered the Lady Elizabeth before her marriage, but presuming to have his Kichin allowed him there also (ut supra) he was refused it) for having by his Servant formerly demanded it by my Lord Chamberlain (as hath been touched) his Lordship now sent for me, and gave me in charge this to say to him. That he beseeched him to believe, his Majesty did, and would give him all the respects due to his quality and person, and that for his own particular, he had faithfully endeavoured to do him his best Service for his Accommodation in Court according to his own desires; but he found his Majesty absolutely resolved not to give way to what he requested concerning the having of a kitchen, and some other Lodgings for some of his Gentlemen for conveniency sake.  
This message delivered by me, he asked me, how the King would have him live in Court without eating? I answered, It was never intended (for aught I knew) that he should have further than his first demand, which was a Lodging or two for his repose sometime, or at the most to lie in, with a Pallet or two, and one Gentleman for his attendance, as had been intimated to his Esquire before, and that for his Diet, he might be pleased to take it, (and augment it as he should think fit with some of his own dishes brought thither from Kingston) at the Table of the Queen's Lord Chamberlain (ut Supra) To this he gave this peremptory reply; Howsoever his Esquire had let him know, that he must be there in his Lodgings with limitation as a private person, he was never of the mind to assent to that distinction so much against the King his Master's honour, to be Lodged (as the King of Frances Ambassador at Kingston, and as the marquis de Bleinvill in the King's House) but that both the Earl of Carliel had told him it was not intended, 
Because at Kingston he had a State set up and his Table kept.  but that he should be treated in his Lodging in every thing as became an Ambassador, and he himself also did now protest for it, that he would not be, and remain there, but absolutely under that title, and would insist upon his Accommodation in all things there, as an Ambassador from so great a King, as the King his Master. Which resolution of his I having made known to my Lord Chamberlain, his Lordship acquainted the King with it, and presently called me to the Presence of his Majesty in his Withdrawing Chamber, where after I had repeated the Ambassadors answer, his Majesty commanded me to return to him with his pleasure thus plainly and particularly expressed. That the Ambassador might remember, that having requested earnestly the favour to have a Lodging in his Court to retire to only, he would not at first assent to it, till upon his Wives earnest entreaty (he being loath to deny her the first request she had made to him) was content to yield to it, but that he never intended (no more than he (the Ambassador himself had demanded) that he should have his Kitchen there, or any other Lodging for any of his followers; except for some such as were of necessary Service about his Person. That Carliel and Holland being in France had never any such favour done them there, and that he would have Monsieur de Bleinvill know, he valued their condition not less than his, rather more, regarding the business they then treated on (being of an higher quality then that he now had in manage) that notwithstanding all this, he intended no such distinction of Lodging him there as a private Person, with wrong to his public quality, that he would in all respects treat him so, (the free use of his House reserved) and that he hoped he would not press him further to what was against his liking, and which he intended not to grant him, so desired him to rest satisfied.  
Having carried this his Majesty's pleasure to the Ambassador, he made no further answer than this. That he saw his Majesty had bestowed a favour on him, which he meant he should not make use of, in giving him a lodging to lie in, and no Kitchen, to dress his meat in, and without eating he could not live. That he would only take himself to my Lord of Carlisle for justification of what he had told him of his Majesty's intention, that he should be lodged in Court, not (as was told him by his Esquire) as a private Person, but as an Ambassador, and so might expect all Terms answerable, that in the stile of an Ambassador he expected, and had order from the King his Master to expect, and stand upon his Treatment in all things as his Minister; and that if he failed of this, he would demand of his Majesty a particular Audience for his satisfaction to that purpose.  
When I had conveyed all this to the King's knowledge by my Lord Chamberlain, and that the Ambassador had personally conferred about it with his Lordship, and with my Lord of Carliel also, I knew not how it come about by those Lord's satisfaction (when perhaps they saw no other remedy) or rather by the Queens once more mediation with the King in the Ambassadors behalf, he had at length all he craved both for his Kitchen in Court (part of his Diet being deducted out of that allowed him at Kingston) and for inlargment of his Lodgings, having all those assigned him next the River in the Garden, where sometimes Lodged the Lady Elizabeth, but he could not obtain allowance for any of his Gentlemen to be Lodged there, except only such Servants as were of immediate Attendance.  
The next day he had an Audience (but for other business this being cleared) and the two and twentieth of November following, another.  
By this time Sir Lewes Lewkner Master of the Ceremonies had by his friends in Court so solicited his return to the Service of his charge, as the Venetian Ambassador (satisfied with a kind of acknowledgement from him) was no hindrance to his re-attendance upon this, and other Ambassadors as there was occasion.  
The Coronation being ordained for the second of February, two days before it my Lord Chamberlain sent Sir Lewes' Lewkner to this Ambassador for knowledge of his final resolution (having made some question of it) whether or no he would be present at the Solemnity, when I meeting Sir Lewes near the Ambassadors House, we went both together to him, and after some small time of conference between them two part (I called too by the Ambassador) we both received from him this answer, That he would not be present at the Coronation for two or three regards; the one was, that his religion tied him not to assist at our prayers, and Church Ceremonies, but herein (he said) he was not so scrupulous as that he would not be content, pour le respect du Roy de la grand Britaine de vouloir faire quelque petite bresche a sa conscience. But that which most prevailed with him for his absence was (he said) that he had not been proceeded with in his Invitation, as became the Person, and quality of the King of France's Ambassador, and (as he understood) the King of Spain's Ambassador had heretofore been in a larger, and more noble measure. That he was not before hand called (as the other had been (at other Solemnities towards) to confer, and to be made acquainted with the style, and condition of his Treatment, and placing at the solemnity, whereof he had received hitherto no other notice or allowance, than what was given, and to be given to the Venetian and States Ambassadors. That further for him to be a Spectator where the Queen, his Master's Sister, excused her presence, and her participation of the Solemnity of Crowning, would be an incongruity, with other the like exceptions to this purpose, amongst which one was (which (he said) he had reason to take) against his Treatment here, as not agreeable to his quality. Whereat I interposed this question, whether, his complaint in that regard extended to that particular of his Invitation, or to his Treatment in general? he replied, it extended only to that of his Invitation, and that for the rest of his Treatment, he had received such respects, and usage from his Majesty, as he could not except against it. Parting with this answer, we encountered the Venetian Ambassador where he than was, at the Lodging of Mr. Rossorfe the King of Bohemia's Agent, and could not in a long time drive him from the suspicion of the Ambassadors earnest, that all this was to deceive, and amaze him, that he might not come to the Coronation, but by his absence run the hazard of the like affront, as was put upon him at King James his Funeral, till resolved in the Evening, he made that appear, which he had before intimated at his House, that he durst not be present at the Coronation, if the French Ambassador were not, not (he said) for scruple of conscience (as the French pretended) since he professed to understand it as an Act of State, and not of Religion) but for the scandals sake, which might grow, with censure to him for assisting in one of our Churches at our Church's Ceremonies, in company of the State's Ambassador (reckoned an Heretic) during a Solemnity, whereat the French Ambassador (a Catholic) had refused his Presence. So as neither of both the Ambassadors came, (though the Venetian by question examined all ways possible how he might have a sight of it without notice of any man) in some corner, but none found allowable, and I excusing my attendance on him, as being a public Officer, that should thereby discover him for a public Minister, if I should be seen near and serving him.) There was only present the State's Ambassador, whom Sir Lewes Lewkner fetching from his House in the morning, while I accompanied his Wife, and Daughters by water from the Savoy Stairs, we were all let in at a little postern door on the South side of King Henry the sevenths' Chapel upon a Scaffold there, and there beheld the whole Solemnity. The French Ambassador had his stand (as he said he would) at the House of Sir Abraham Williams near the Gatehouse of the Palace-yard in company of the Queen (as Bleinvill) which was his own distinction) and not as Ambassador) where (with her Majesty) he had a view of the King in his passage from Westminster Hall, to the Church, and back again.  
The Queen's Reason (as it was voiced) for not being Crowned together with the King, was because she could not (they said) by her Religion be present at our Church Ceremonies, where she must have had divine Service celebrated by our Bishops, and not by those of her own Religion (as was demanded) for her Crowning.  
The ninth of February following, the King was to ride to Parliament, and though the Venetian Ambassador had assurance from me, that the French was to have no other stand appointed him for view of that Solemnity, than the company of the Queen as a private Person, and not as an Ambassador, yet his jealousy of losing the pretended right of his Republic in Parity with Crowned-heads, made him apprehend the allowance of an House taken up for him in King-street (about the midst of it, where also was assigned one for the State's Ambassador at the charge of his Majesty) to be an Abatement of his respects, which he affirmed was, that he was to stand in the same House and place with the French Ambassador, but in the end pacified, he accepted of it; In the mean time a difference that fell out about the place for the Queen (she affected to stand in the Banqueting House, or in the Privy-gallery (when the King had given reasons for her better fight in the house of the Countess, Mother to the Duke of Buckingham, next the Gate in Kings-street) was a Subject for some discontent etc. so far as the Ambassador Bleinvill, seeming to his Majesty to have been the causer of it, had the next day a message brought him by the Lord Conway, that it was his Majesty's pleasure that he should forbear further access to the Kings or Queen's Presence; which he storming at, and excepting against as an indignity offered to his Representative quality, demanded by two or three several messengers, Audience of his Majesty, for knowledge of the Reasons of his restraint, but was refused it with this limiting distinction. If he demanded Audience for any particular business concerning the King his Master, he should readily have it, but if for himself to expostulate his own grievances, the King did absolutely let him know, that if he came to him, he would not see him, so as the Ambassador replying; that he was here for the King his Master, and not for himself, and that the refusal of his Audience touched the person he represented, and not his own. He the next day refused the King's diet, and betook him to his own, leaving the Lodging taken for him at Durham-House, and removing with the chief of his Train to Greenwich, whence two days after returning to London, he with the King's permission had a sight of the Queen, and the next day went again to Greenwich. He had in the interim dispatched two or three Couriers, one following another with an account of all; but at Dover (the Ports being by Order shut before hand) none of them could be allowed passage till after fourteen or fifteen days (when Master Walter Mountacue had been purposely sent from the King) they were opened, and the Ambassador had his liberty of sending his messenger.  
About a month or six weeks after, this Malantenda, this Ambassador, receiving Order from the King his Master for composing of his affairs, and differences here, and for applying of himself to his Majesty's pleasure, he had an Audience or two, and piecing up matters, took his leave at a solemn Audience at White-Hall Presence, conducted to it by the Earl of Holland, the King's Guard attending their Captain through the streets, but what congruity (as was done before) quere. and two or three days after departed; first, for a night or two to his private Lodging at Greenwich, and thence to Dover, accompanied by Sir Lewes Lewkner, but undefrayed on the way, leaving the King's Officers and Servants (my self in particular, after my so long, and painful attendance) ill satisfied with his none at all, or most unworthy acknowledgements.  
About the middle of February, The Merchants of the East Indian Company (having signified to his Majesty, That a Ship (long held for lost, and then arrived at Portsmouth) had brought in her an Ambassador from the King of Persia) obtained his Majesty's Coach (with the Earl of Warwick, the Master of the Ceremonies, and other Gentlemen the King's Servants in it) for his Reception at Kingston, and transport to London.  
These Merchants (with an affected honour, beyond that done to the other Persian Ambassador Sir Robert Shirley) had procured the King's Coach to be drawn with eight Horses (as with the more grace to the latter to disgrace the former.) He came to London the 19 of February, and was lodged (the Merchants defraying him) in the House of Alderman Holliday then deceased. There resting himself two days, his Audience was solicited, and assigned for Shrove-tuesday following, which suspected by Sir Robert Shirley and his friends to be a plot of the Merchants by so hastening an Audience to prevent his repair to Court, and to prepossess the King with the new Ambassadors Reports) he entreated the Earl of Cleaveland (Husband to his Niece) to accompany him at a Visit he would bestow on the said Amdassador for his welcome, and for the declaring of his own quality of Ambassador from the same King, from whom he had so long negotiated here under that Title. To this purpose the Earl of Cleaveland addressing himself to the Lord Chamberlain for his favour in procuring from the Lord Conway, Principal Secretary, the Letters of Credence brought to King James by Sir Robert Shirley. The Lord Chamberlain excepting his meddling in it, as being (he said) no duty of his place. From him the Earl of Cleaveland, went to the Duke of Buckingham, and by his means obtained allowance from his Majesty for the Lord Conway to impart them for so much use and sight as might serve the Ambassador Sherley's turn for the others satisfaction; so as my Lord Cleaveland having gotten them into his hands, he the morning that the new come Ambassador, was in the afternoon to have Audience departed with the King's Coach, and seven other (eight or nine Gentlemen and myself accompanying him) to Sir Roberts Sherley's Lodging on Tower Hill; whence being ready to set forth towards the other Ambassadors; I propounded the fitness of sending to him before (to avoid the incivility as it might be interpreted of a surprise) with signification of our instant coming to him to Visit him. To this his Answer met us on the way without other compliment, then that we might come. Entering the Hall, (where he than was sitting in a chair on his legs double under him, after the Persian Posture) and affording no motion of respect to any of us, Sir Robert Shirley gave him a salutation, and sat down on a stool near him, while my Lord of Cleaveland by an Interpreter signified, in three words, the cause of the Ambassador Sherley's and his and our coming to him, but with little return of regard from him, till I informing the Interpreter (of the new Ambassador) what my Lords quality was, he let fall his Trust-up-leggs from his chair, and made a kind of respect to his Lordship. This done, Sir Robert Shirley, unfoulding his Letters, and (as the Persian use is in reverence to their King) first touching his eyes with them, next holding them over his head, and after kissing them, he presented them to the Ambassador, that he receiving them, might perform the like observance, when he suddenly rising out of his chair, stepped to Sir Robert Shirley, snarcht his Letters from him, toare them, and gave him a blow on the face with his Fist, and while my Lord of Cleaveland stepping between kept off the offer of a further violence; the Persians Son next at hand flew upon Sir Robert Shirley, and with two or three blows more, overthrew him, when Master Maxwell of the Bedchamber, and my Lord of Cleaveland nearest to him, pulling him back (while we of the company laid hands on our Swords (but not drawing them, because not any one Sword or Dagger was drawn by the Persians) my Lord of Cleaveland remonstrated to the Ambassador the danger, and insolency of the Fact, saying, that if he, and the Gentlemen there with him had not borne more respect to that King whom he represented then (he the Ambassador) had done to the Letters shown him for justification of the others quality, neither he, nor those about him, that had committed that insolency should have gone alive out of that place. After these words, he made some show of acknowledgement, and said, he was sorrey he had offended his Lordship, and us by his Act which he had performed (transported with extreme rage against a Person that had dared to counterfeit the King his Master's hand (which was always (he said) set on the top of his Letters) when these Letters he had showed had it on the backside) and to hear (as he had done) that so mean a fellow, and an Imposter, should presume to say, he had married the King his Master's Niece.  
To this Sir Robert Shirley (who was in the mean time retired behind the company, amazed and confounded with his blow and Treatment) stepped in and answered. That he never said he had married the King's Niece, but the Queen's kinswoman; and that for the manner alleged of signing his Letters, it was true, that the King of Persia, in all employments of his own Subjects to Foreign Princes, or in writing to them, used to sign above in the front of his Letters, but that when he employed a stranger to any Foreign Prince, his signature was usually affixed on the back side of his Letters, that before their opening, they might show who sent them. To this the Ambassador replied with scornful looks only, we all with little or no respects to him departed, and conducting Sir Robert Shirley to his Lodging, accompanied the Earl of Cleaveland instantly to Court, where finding the Duke of Buckingham in the Presence-chamber (the King being even then come forth to Dinner) his Lordship acquainted his Majesty with our adventure, and I received present order to let Sir Lewes Lewkner know that he should instantly repair to the new come Persian Ambassador, and tell him that his Audience for that afternoon was thought fit to be snspended, and remitted to another day, that his Majesty might be particularly informed of the causes of the disagreement, and disorder happened. The greatest blot, and fault of this ado, was cast upon Sir Robert Shirley for his default in his resolution, not to return with blows (or words at least) the affront done him; which had he done, would have confirmed the truth of his representative quality, and not given subject (from such weakness, and want of Spirit discovered by him) to the Merchants to dispute (as they confidently did,) and to his own friends to defend _____ the soundness of his commission; yet at length he writing to his Majesty, and beseeching him to send him into Persia with his two Letters tied about his neck for trial whether they were true or false, the world began to have a conceit of his unjust sufferance, and the King to charge it home to the Merchants, with his command, and especial pleasure signified to them, that he should be senr a long in their Fleet (than ready to part for the East Indies) and be by them Landed in Persia, there to make his Purgation, which they (though unwillingly) assented to, and pressing for the other Ambassador's Audience, he had it (after eight or ten day's delay) assigned and given him, the sixth of March, fetched to it by the Earl of Warwick etc. Entering the Banqueting House, (where his Majesty stood under the State to receive him, (without one look or gesture of respect, till coming close to the King's person, he clapped his Letters to his cyes (one after the other) kissed them, and presented them to the hand of his Majesty, but not so much as bowing his Body at their delivery, only having finished his little Ceremony, he in his retreat (after some twenty paces made with his back to the King) turned about and waving his hand on each side imperiously (as commanding a prospect) hindered by the multitude that pressed in between his sight, and the Kings) he made a kind of a stoopping reverence, so a second, and a third, and departed. When understanding that the Queen was gone abroad (whom he meant to visit) he employed the time a while in a walk with all his coaches about Saint James' Park, and returning, saw her Majesty.  
The next day I brought the other Ambassador Sir Robert Shirley to a private Audience of his Majesty in his Withdrawing-chamber. After many Contestations between the Merchants and the Ambassador Shirley (whether he were to be defrayed by them, as the King required, or by the King, since his Majesty had intimated his resolution that he should be transported to Persia in the Fleet that was to pass for the East Indies at the beginning of May, and in them also the other Ambassador, that time being come of their departure, they both arrived too late at the place of their embarking (the Downs) for performance of that voyage in that season, the Fleet, that could no longer stay for them, being already gone (though Sir Robert Shirley had gotten the start of the other and embarked in a Pinnace of the Fleet, together with Sir Dormer Cotton employed by his Majesty at the same time Ambassador to the King of Persia, both for truth, whether Shirley were, or not an Imposter, and also to fix a Trade there (which the other Ambassador came to Negotiate) so as they were all forced to return to London, and there attend the opportunity of departure in March ten months after, when beginning their voyage (the two differing Ambassadors in several Ships) they all three died on the way, and with them the quarrel and inquiry after it.  
The Venetian Ambassador Signior Pesaro (called home somewhat sooner than other Ambassadors of that States formerly had been) parted hence to Gravesend without other attendance, than those of his Family, having sent me (after I had taken my last leave of him) a Gold Chain of five ounces weight, and the like of little more value to the Master of the Ceremonies. He had no sooner passed the Seas, but here arrived by the way of the low Countries two Gentlemen sent Extraordinary Ambassadors from Venice, the one Signior Coraro, who had resided here Ordinary about fourteen years before, and Signior Contareni, they Landed at Gravesend (seasonably for observation of the new order resolved on by his Majesty, that no Ambassador should be met, and received further off then there) and were thence conducted by Sir Lewes Lewkner etc. to their Landing at Tower-wharffe, where they were welcomed by the Earl of Dorset, accompanied by the Lord Herbert (Castle Island) and other Gentlemen (my self one, not as an Officer, or listed for it, but Voluntary) with the King's Coach and seventeen other (not one of them taken up at the King's charge (as had been accustomed) but borrowed of Noblemen (to avoid the charge of the Master of the Ceremonies, professed to the Lord Chamberlain he would not undergo, without assurance of better re-imboursment of his money, than he had met with) and were brought to their Lodgings in Aldersgate-street at the Lord Peter's House, defrayed there by the King with all their attendance (of almost an hundred Persons) their Diet compounded for by Philipp Verzellini, an Italian, (who had lived long in England) at 40 l. per diem, not comprehending the charge of the Houses Furniture (being all the Kings) and waited on by his Majesty's Officers and Servants, (whereof twelve of the Guard gave their daily attendance.) The five and twentieth of June (Sunday) they were fetched to their public Audience at Greenwich by the Earl of Carliel from their House in the King's Coach, and other to Tower Wharf, and thence by Barges, introduced by the way of the great Gate, Hall, and Guard-chamber to the Presence, where his Majesty standing under the State to receive them, Signior Carara spoke first briefly, delivering their credence, when the other settling himself, as to begin a more formal set speech, his Majesty looking about for one to interpret (the Master of the Ceremonies being retired out of sight, not over forward to do Offices of his Office to that State) I being called to by the Lord Chamberlain, made a repetition of the chief heads, and some of the Ambassadors long Oration to the King, and after of his Majesty's brief reply, which done, they returned (accompanied as before) to London. The Sunday following, they had a second Audience in private by the way of the Patke through the Privy-galleries to the Withdrawing-chamber there, fetched to it from their home by the Earl of Holland, an honour not formerly afforded any Ambassador to have an Earls conduct from their House to a private Audience, to which customarily none was to bring them from home, but the Master of the Ceremonies, though their Ambassage were Extraordinary, and if ordinary, he to have received them no further off then at their descent from their Coach at the Court Gate, or foot of the Stairs next the Park. But this honour was done them by the King's especial pleasure, and command (as I was told) it might or may be hereafter of trouble by the consequence, when other over-punctuall Ministers of that State, may perhaps challenge the like from precedent.  
The second of July, the Lord Conway, Secretary of State sent word to my Lord Chamberlain (than somewhat indisposed) of the arrival of two Commissioners from Hamborough, who were styled by their followers (whom they sent before with their Letters of credence) Lords Ambassadors. Their Letters being opened in the Lord Chamberlains sight, Mr. Secretaries, and mine, the Commissioners were therein thus named, Spectabilem & Doctissimum virum Dominum Luntzman Syndicum etc. & Spectabilem virum Dominum Brand & Senatorem &c. Ablegavimus, which words made me question the right and reception they seemed to pretend to of Ambassadors, so far, as communicating my reasons with my Lord Chamberlain, and receiving his opinion that Ablegavimus was no more, than we have deputed as our Ministers, I was sent back to my Lord Conway, and by him (when also ill at ease) with their concurring opinions to the King, who approving them, left me to follow my Lord Chamberlains directions, according to which I that night welcomed them at their Lodgings at Crouchet Friars in name of his Majesty, and let them know his pleasure for their Audience the next day at one of the clock, to which I fetched them in the Lord Chamberlains coach only, lest the use of the Kings might have seemed to raise their respects to the title they seemed to affect (but upon better advice refused) of Ambassadors, they were received of his Majesty in his Withdrawing-chamber, where one of them having made a formal harange, containing (besides compliment of condoleing and congratulating) a complaint against his Majesty's Ships lying at the mouth of the Ebb, and hindering their free Traffic, and an humble request of his leave to transport through his Seas without molestation, Corn, Powder, Copper, and Cordage to France, and Italy, their Merchants entering caution to their Senate, that they should not transport any to Spain (than our Enemy) his Majesty entered, answered them by my interpretation, that he would gladly continue with them the friendly correspondence held by his deceased, Father, and did not, nor would interrupt them, either at the mouth of their River, or elsewhere at Sea for any quarrel he had to them, or any way to hinder their Traffic, but only keep them from Trading with the King of Spain, his Enemy, which by Law of Nations, and in justice he might, and would do. To which purpose they should further repair to his Council, to whom he would give Order for their access to Negotiate; so dismissed, they returned, and I with them to their Lodgings.  
The sixth of July, an Ambassador Extraordinary, Paul Rozenerantz, sent from the King of Denmark, arriveing at Gravesend, 
Then but a Baron and no Privy Councillor.  was there received by Sir Lewes Lewkner two days after at Tower-wharffe by the Lord Willoughby, Lord High Chamberlain of England, and by him brought to his Lodging in , where he had his Diet defrayed by his Majesty at eighteen pound per diem. His attendance of the King's Servants consisted only of a Gentleman Usher daily Waiter, a Sewer, and two others, without any of the Guard daily to attended him. His own Train passed not in all a dozen persons. The day after his Arriveall, he sent to know his Majesty's pleasure for his Audience, which the King desired speedily to give him, because of his intended remove the week following to Wansteed. This had been assigned for Sunday the ninth of July, had not the Master of the Ceremonies intimated that it would prove improper (in regard, that the two Venerean Extraordinaries were that day to have their parting Audience at two of the clock (and to alter their hour by anticipation, or this to come after them, might beget distaste) his Majesty would have appointed the next day, being Saturday, but that being judged too precipetate, so to surprise an Ambassador before he could recollect himself so soon after his Arriveall, and he also apprehending it in that sense; it was by me made known to him, that he should have his Audience the Tuesday following (July 11. at Wansted.) In the mean time I received Order from my Lord Chamberlain to hire two Coaches (of the Kings providing) besides his Majesties own Coach for his and his Followers daily use. The 16. of July I was to wait on him to his Audience assigned at Wansted with the conduct of the Earl of Northampton, but his Majesty altering the hour of two after to ten before Dinner, I was put to it at nine of the clock the night before to command an Assembly for the altered hour, so brought him at his due hour to his Audience.  
The 9 of July, the two Extraordinary Venetian Ambassadors took leave of his Majesty in the Banqueting House (purposely prepared for it, and hung with the rich Hang) introduced by the Earl of Mongomery; their repose having been first in the Council Chamber, whether they came by the way of the Park, a sudden extreme shower, having made the ordinary way through the Sermon-Court impossible. Then after took leave of the Queen also. July the 17. They parted to Gravesend in Barges of the Kings providing, and so fare the Master of the Ceremonies attended them; but leaving them there (as at the limits of all Ambassadors conduct, or reception in observation of the new Order resolved on (as before) they were served only by Walter Brisco Marshal of the Ceremonies for the readier hire of their Carriages at their own charges, as was also all their Coaches (the Kings for their personal use excepted) to their lodging the next day at Sittingborne, to their Dinner the day following at Canterbury, and to their embarking at Dover in two Ships of his Majesties for their landing at Calais. Though I had done little or no Service, they sent me a Chain of twenty two pound value, having towards the rest of the King's Servants carried themselves as Italian Lesnianti without superfluity, but not without the others murmurs.  
The day that the Denmark Ambassador had his public audience of the King at Wansted (he having expressed to me his desire for the conveniency of admitting, and returning visit of particulars, before he had seen the Queen with an overnice curiosity, having already seen the King) I wrote to Sir Morris Dromond, a Gentleman Usher of her Majesty's Privy-chamber, that he would help me to the knowledge of her Majesty's pleasure for his Audience, which he did by Letter (upon communication both with her Majesty and her Lord Chamberlain Monsieur de Tilliers) with signification that I should bring him the next day between one and two in the Afternoon; so as late that night I wrote to my Lord Chamberlain (for better assurance from Error) what order I had received from Sir Maurice Dromond, and touched upon the course usual of fetching the Ambassador at his first public Audience,) from his home by a Person of Title, but that the shortness of the time, and the two Courts divisions hindering this, I thought (I said) it would be sufficient, if the Count de Cipierre Master of the Horses to her Majesty should receive him at his Landing at Greenwich, so that morning I conducted him in the King's coach and two other hired to his embarking at Tower Wharf; thence to the encounter at Greenwich Bridge of the Count mentioned to his repose in the councel-chamber, and after to the Queen in her Privy-chamber, the Ambassador speaking to her French, having (upon my advice) changed his first purpose of speaking to her in Latin etc. The next day (hastening his private Audience of his Majesty) he sent the King his Master's Agent, Master Below to Wansted, and obtained it for the day following (July the fourteenth) introduced by a private stair to a Chamber, where he might attend the King's time of admittance, which instantly succeeding, his Majesty in the Gallery there (no Privy Counsellors or other near) gave him his ear for above half an hour, and dismissed him for his return to London.  
The two Commissioners from Hambrough, 
They had brought no Letters to her Majesty, yet demanded and had Audience contrary to that when the Ambassador of Sweden demanded, and was refused of Queen Ann because he had brought her no Letters.  being desirous to kiss the Queen's hand (as an honour (they said) which other employed from their State before them had received of the Queen deceased) they requested me to make their way, which I did, repairing for it to her Majesty's Lord Chamberlain, but he then instantly gone for France, I addressed myself to the Bishop of Mando, and between him and Madam de Saint George (Groom of the Stool to her Majesty) got their Audience to be assigned for the next day, (the thirtyeth of July) between four and five after Vespers. But about two that Afternoon, I was told by Sir William Gordon Gentleman Usher to the Queen, that the King would speak with me presently about a business of importance, when repairing to his Majesty in his Privy-Gallery, he commanded me that I should without any noise, or notice to any, go instantly to the deputies of Hambrough, and let them know, that whereas they were assigned their Audience of the Queen that day, her Majesty being ill at ease could not give it them till the next. I perceiving this alteration to be without her Majesty's knowledge, and for some particular cause best known to the King, went without further question about the Service, but first told Sir William Gordon, that it might happen (as I guessed by some directions doubtingly given me by the King) that he would alter his mind, and that the Audience should proceed at the hour first appointed for it, upon which consideration I would go (I said) to the Commissioners (where they then Lodged at the Still-yard, and discharge them of their expectation, but not so fully, as that I would not leave them in some opinion, that the Queen might perhaps so recover of her indisposition, as to send to them to come to her that day: this I performed, and entertaining them in doubt, whether they should go or not, having persuaded them to dismiss their already prepared coaches, and if they should be sent for to make their passage by water. I (after an hours expense of time with them) had a messenger sent to me from the King, that I should come presently along with the Hambourgh Commissioners to the Queen (as I had been first appointed.) In obedience whereof I presently taking Boat with them, and landing at the Common-Court Stairs, we were there met by two of her Majesty's Gentlemen-Ushers of her Presence Chamber, and by them told that we should not repair to any place of repose (which I had assigned in the Chapel Closet on the Queen's side) because her Majesty was already staying for them in her Privy Galleries, whether going by the passage of the Privy Stairs, they there had their access, the Queen standing at one side of the Gallery amongst the Ladies. This succeeded the Eve of the day, (July 31.) that the French were removed from about the person of her Majesty, the King's Order to me (ut supra) relating to that important business.  
The 13. of August, The Ambassador of Denmark went in the King's Coach (his two Coaches defrayed by his Majesty attending) to an Audience at None-such, in the Privy Chamber, there (all but the Lords of the Privy Council excluded) he was fetched to it from his Chamber of Repose (such being the King's pleasure, though more than usual at a private Audience) by the Earl of Dorset.  
The 23. of August, An Ambassador Ordinary from Venice, by name Alanso Coutarim, (having resided with the States of the United Provinces) arrived at Gravesend, where he was received by the Master of the Ceremonies, was welcomed from the King at his Landing at Tower-Wharffe by the Lord Willoughby, 
Then but a Baron.  Lord High Chamberlain of England, and by him conducted to his House at , where entreated to stay Supper (an invitation which upon so short warning savoured more of good Fellowship than Courtship) his Lordship and those with him had an Royal entertainment.  
The 13. of September, The King having received at Theobalds' the unhappy news of an Overthrow given the King of Denmark, by the Count of Tilly General for the Emperor, came to London, and that morning sent for the Ambassador of Denmark to come to him after Dinner, and received him at Denmark-House (the Queen then there) in the Privy Chamber, introduced by Sir George Goring Vice-Chamberlaine to her Majesty, and fetched from the Lord carew's Lodging by the Queen's Gentleman-Usher.  
The 21. of September, A Messenger formerly sent by the same Ambassador to the King his Master, being returned, he demanded and had an Audience of his Majesty in the Presence at Hampton Court, without reposing any where, though the Chapel had been assigned for it. That night he returned to London, he was pleased to excuse my attendance further than to my House in his way at Twittenham, where he had taken me up to his Coach in his passage to his Audience of his Majesty. He had demanded this access to his Majesty two or three days before by the King his Master's Agent, Ma. Belaw; but whether it had not been more properly carried to have gone immediately to Court, and there in person to have by the Lord Chamberlain demanded an immediate Audience (considering the near relation between his Master and the King, and the consequence of the news than brought him of his Masters defeat) was by some, and may be with reason made a Quere.  
The 22. of September, as I was at Supper with the Ambassador of Denmark, one came to me with this message, That Monsieur Quadt an Honourable Gentleman sent Ambassador from the Prince of Transilvania, (Bethlem Gabor) being that day arrived here, had address by Letters, both from the Prince his Master, and from the King of Bohemia to Monsieur Rosberf residing here for the affairs of that King, but understanding that Monsieur Rosberf was out of Town, and myself (one of the King's Masters of ceremonies) to be there, he desired my advice, and furtherance for his proceeding; I answered the Messenger, that my way must be by the Lord Chamberlain, for his to his Majesty, and that to that purpose I would repair presently to his Lordship's approbation of my Opinion, that Monsieur Rosdrose return (to whom the Ambassador had such a particular address) it was unfit, and needless to give notice of him to his Majesty. I went to him (though without Commission) and complied with him the next morning, where receiving his allowance (with thanks) for my course taken, and advise to stay the returning of Rosdrofe; I wrote to this Gentleman how I had procecded, and sent my Letter by his Servant. In the mean time his Majesty having notice of the Ambassadors arriveall, signified his pleasure by my Lord Chamberlain to Master Rosdrose then returned, and to me, that the correspondence between the Ambassador and themselves considered, and answerable to the proposition made by us two, 
Two Ambassadors Arriving at different times, lodged and defrayed in one House, and at one Table.  from themselves the Prince of Transilvanians Ambassador and the King of Denmark's should be lodged together in the same house, and dieted at the same Table with addition of ten pound per diem, to the others eighteen pound. The train of the latet consisting but of four persons, and that he should be admitted to his Andience the Tuesday following, which was performed accordingly. I accompanying to Hampton Court with the service of only two hired Coaches each with four horses. He had allowed him by the Lord Chamberlain one Coach with four horses daily to attend his service; but for his Majesty's profit, and with the Ambassadors liking, I brought it to an attendance at such times only as he should be pleased the Evening before to command it.  
In the mean time I doubting, that some of those respects ordinarily given to Ambassadors at their first Audiences might be omitted, whereof (but that he himself professed to affect privacy) it was one, not to have a Titular person appointed to accompany him thence to the Court; I sent a Groom of the Chamber early that morning to order what my Lord Chamberlain had left unordered, and to have some Nobleman to meet and receive him there at his descent out of his Coach. This being incharged to the Lord Compton, he received no sooner then at the second Gate, and there turning up the great stairs through the great Hall, and Guard-chamber, the King was already under the State in the Privy-chamber expecting him, which by suddenness of his approach so daunted him, as, though he passed through well with his Latin Oration, he forgot to present his Letters of Credence, and was forced after his parting from his Majesty to send them back to him with excuse of his Servants absence, whom he feigned to have had them about him, when he being so suddenly (without stay any where) introduced, and his Secretary left in the Press behind him, could not come at them opportunely to deliver them. All the time of his Audience he never covered, being not invited to it by his Majesty, who likewise stood all that time uncovered.  
After he had finished his Oration, and that his Majesty by me had given him a brief, but a gracious answer, I acquainted his Majesty with his instant desire, that it might stand with his Majesty's pleasure to have his public Audience made private, by commanding an avoidance of the pressing company, or by his Majesty's retreat to his more private Lodgings, where the Ambassador might have an immediate access to him for communication of some particulars of his Negotiation, which required speed in dispatch. His Majesty was graciously pleased to allow of the former, and commanding all to stand back but the Ambassador, they spoke together a good time out of the hearing of any. After taking his leave to return to London, and encountering on the way the Duke of Buckingham, he caused his coach to turn back after him, but in vain, the Duke taking another way, but overtaking the Ambassador that night in his more speedy return, he there in the way received his Letters, his compliment and his request of a speedy dispatch in his business.  
The fifth of October, he had his Audience of the Queen assigned, and given him at Hampton Court without any Person of Title to receive him at the Gate, with excuse (from the Gentleman Usher upon my remonstrance) of their absence for Service of her Majesty the next day in her remove. The Queen received him in her Privy-chamber, where he (after an Invitation or two of her Majesty) covered, for which he went not away uncensured of the observing Ladies, and Lords there present.  
His Majesty having received an account from France of the cold reception, and entertainment given his Ambassador (Sir Dudley Carleton) Lord of Imber-court, employed thither Extraordinary for prevention, and accommodation of whatsoever differences that might grow from the late remove of the French from about the Person of the Queen; news came soon after to Court of the arrival at Dover (September the four and twentieth) of Monsieur de Bassampierre sent Ambassador from that King about the same business, whom to entertain answerable to the stile, and Treatment of our King's Ambassadors there, it was consulted of and resolved; that neither the Master of the Ceremonies, nor other Officers of his Majesty should be sent to receive, & serve him further off, then at Gravesend, & a Nobleman no nearer than Greenwich for his conduction thence by water to Tower Wharf; and to his house hired, and furnished by himself in Leaden-hall-street, for which latter compliment was chosen the Earl of Dorset. On his way towards his House, the Master of the Ceremonies letting fall some words concerning the provision of Diet made for him by his Majesty's Order; he would by no means accept of it, answering, that if the King would have been pleased to have assigned him a House, he would have received also the favour of his Diet, but to eat at an other man's charge in his own House, (as he would be bold to call that hired for him by his his Officers) he desired pardon, if he refused it; so were the King's provisions that had been already served in, turned back again. For Sunday following (September the thirtieth) he had his audience assigned him at Hampton Court, and came thither in the King's coach (followed by divers Nobleman's) with the conduct of the Earl of Carliel (though some were of opinion, that the Earl of Dorset should have been properly his conductor, as had been one, and the same Person at the reception, and first audience of the Lord of Imber-court in France) he was brought after his repose in the councel-chamber, where a Dinner had been prepared for him, but he came to late (purposely it was thought) to eat it, and a collation set ready on the Table at his coming, but remained untasted of by him, or any of his followers) through the great Hall to the Presence-chamber, where both the King, and Queen stood under the State to receive him, the Lords, and Gentlemen ranged on the King's right hand, the Ladies with the Duchess of Fremoville on the left. And having presented his Letters to the King, and passed other respects with his Majesty, he performed the like with the Queen, after which parting towards his coach, accompanied by the Lord mentioned, and others, he was in the outward Court told that the Duke of Buckingham was coming after him, whereat making a stand till the Duke came, they two privately and apart from the rest, discoursed half an hour together before they parted, the Ambassador dismissing the King's Coach, returned in his own to London.  
The twentieth of October, a Signification from the Lords of the Council came to the Ambassadors of Denmark, and of Betblem Gabor (as also to Monsieur Benica, Agent sent hither from the Marquis of Baden) that if they would be pleased to come to Monsieur Rosdorss, resident here for the King of Bohemia) at his Lodging near White-Hall (which they could not but think (as they did) a bold Invitation for persons of their quality) they should have word sent them thither of the time of the Lords readiness to receive, and hear them; but when they were all there at the hour assigned, one of the Clerks of the Council brought word, that Bethlem Gabor's Ambassador and the Envoy from the Marquis of Baden, were to have present access, but that for the Ambassador of Denmark, their Lordships desired his patience till some other time, which he (not without show of resentment for such an Exclusion) saying, the other two were by me introduced (first the Minister of Bethlem Gabor, and immediately after his dispatch, the other.)  
The two and twentieth of October, the Ambassador of Denmark had access to the King in his Withdrawing-chamber with my conduct, and upon his dispatch, I demanded pardon if I gave him not my attendance home, because of a charge I had (I said) instantly tofetch the two Commissioners of Hambrough to their parting Audience: so repaired to them, where (as I had already ordered it) they stayed my coming at my House (having before sent them to their Lodgings a Nobleman's coach for their transport thither) I brought them by the way of the Park, and Privy Galleries (answerable to the stile of their first introduction in quality of deputies, not Ambassadors) into the Withdrawing-chamber, there thanking his Majesty for his favours, and desiring some small addition, and clearing to and of their River of Elb, blocked up by his Majesty's Ships (their other demand of transport of Corn, Copper, and ammunition of War (ut supra) being with reason denied them) they took their leave, and two days after had their presents of two Gold Chains (each of the value of 210 l. brought them by two of the under Officers of the Jewell-house) who had for their gratuity given them by the hand of one of the Commissioners ten pieces, and to their Servants twenty shillings. Two days after inviting me to dine with them, they before Dinner presented me with a purse, and fifty pieces. Soon after taking their Journey to Dover (without my conduction, or expectation of it) they there embarked for France to return by Paris, Brussels, the Hague, and Hambourgh.  
The Ambassador of Denmark had the fifth of November a private Audience of his Majesty in the Withdrawing-chamber, and was after it by me conducted over the Terras cross the lower end of the Guard-chamber to the Queen's Closet in her Privy-chamber for the like Audience of her Majesty to signify the King his Master's pleasure of employing him on a posting Journey into France, with intention and command of his speedy return hither. But four or five days after, as he was upon the instant of his departure, Letters came from his King, which for a while retarded him till others coming; he the sixteenth of November wrote to me to procure him another Audience of his Majesty (with all possible speed, (always (regarding (he said) his Majesty's convenience.) This in absence of my Lord Chamberlain I moved for, and obtained within two hours after, he coming to Court by water, the King's Coachman being not to be found for his so immediate Service.  
The eighteenth of November (after he had the day before prepared for his silent departure) he in the morning early went in a Barge (of his own hiring) to Gravesend, and by coach also (at his own cost) to Dover, leaving behind him some murmurs of the King's Servants, that having done him the Service of their places, expected their satisfaction, and would not believe, but that they should be deceived of it, he parting so suddenly without notice given, or leave taking (except some few days before of the King, Queen, and certain Lords) though his intention of his speedy return were not undiscovered to some besides myself, whom he trusted with it.) The day of his departure Monsieur Bonika (sent from the marquis of Baden about important business) having taken leave, and received for his present a Chain of Gold of 150 l. value, posted after for his company, and safer passage to Paris.  
On Sunday the fifteenth of November, the Duke of Buckingham having prepared a sumptuous entertainment of a Supper and a Mask at York-house for the French Ambassador Monsieur Bassampierre, had his Feast honoured with the Presence of both their Majesties, the King sitting towards the end of the Table with the Queen at his right hand, the Ambassador was (as soon as they were set) invited by his Majesty to sit down at the end of the Table on that hand which might seem to be the upper end, but was held the lower, because next the door, and furthest from the fire he had a wet Towel to wash, which given him by the Duke, who stood by to serve him all the time of the Supper, and would not be put from him, notwithstanding the Ambassadors many excusing refusal of such service etc. the Ladies, and strangers invited had a plentiful supper in the great Hall of the House, while the King, and Queen were retired during some preparations for the Mask in that Room, where their Majesties were Feasted, who that night lodged at , and had the next day a continuance of their, and the Ambassadors entertainment of Feasting, Dancing, etc.  
The sixteenth of November, the Queen prepared for him a Mask, represented by the Duke of Buckingham, the Earl of Holland, Sir George Goring (her Viz-Chamberlain) and other her Majesty's Servants, at , whereto he came from White-Hall in company of their Majesties by water, and had made for him after the Mask, a most sumptuous Banquet. He should have had (by assignation) his public parting Audience, but the King (with an entreating compliment of letting him know, and leaving it to his consideration how seriously the Queen was at that time applying herself to her Masking business) drew him to have it deferred till the Sunday following, when towards four of the clock, the Earl of Carliel (with the King's best coach and another of his Majesties) fourteen of the Lords Coaches following (six or seven of the King's Servants only in them to leave the more place for strangers) brought him for his repose to the councel-chamber (where Wine, Bread, Beer etc. usually served in by the Guard, was for that time spared, as a custom of improper use towards the French) and from thence over the Terras to the Banqueting-house, where both their Majesties standing ready to receive him, and the Ladies ranged in order of their qualities on the left hand of the King all along the Room, and the Lords and Gentlemen on the right (The French that marched before the Ambassador being made to stay, and be placed on that side for the fairer passage, and prospect to their Majesties) he there took public leave of them both, but after followed them along the Privy-galleries as far as to the Withdrawing-Roome, and was thence conducted by the Earl of Carliel to his Lodgings to Supper, in company of divers great Lords, and Ladies, with whom after Supper returning to the King, and Queen, he was present with them at a Play in the great Hall, which ended, and their Majesties waited on by him to the King's Withdrawing-chamber, he there took a second leave, and returned late to his Lodgings.  
Two days before his departure, it being talked of in Court, that the Master of the Jewell-House, Sir Henry Mildmay had made his means to the Duke of Buckingham, and other near about the King's person for carriage, and delivery of the Present designed to the Ambassador (which was a rich Jewel of four great Diamonds, with a great Pearl pendant at it, altogether esteemed by Jewellers (at a Merchant's rate) to be worth seven thousand pounds) the Master of the Ceremonies, understanding of these endeavours to the others profit, and his disadvantage both present, and future from precedent, came to my house (as to one whom it highly concerned) he said) in my right of reversion after his death, or in case of his sickness, or absence, when I was to carry the like Presents to those Ambassadors that I had attended, or done Service, to whom they should be formerly presented) with Jewels from his Majesty) and entreated me to go with him to the Lord Chamberlain (the Earl of Montgomery.) To whom when we came, his Lordship upon the first overture of the difference resolved it to be an undue claim of the Master of the Jewell-house, and professed he would to his power oppose him. From his Lordship, we went both together to the Earl of Pembroke (than Lord Steward of his Majesty's , and but a small time before Lord Chamberlain) and he (with expression even of passion) condemned the pretence of the Master of the Jewell-House, saying, no man could better speak to that question, than he could, who had been present when it was moved before the Lords of the Council, and King James himself for their decision, 
By Sir Henry Carew and Sir Lewes Lewkner.  which had most right to the carriage of Presents, the Master of the Ceremonies, or the Master of the Jewell-house? this latter pretended indeed (he said) to their carriage, when they consisted of Plate or chains of gold, and were issued out of the Office; but he had heard (he said) the Master of the Jewell-house (Carew) nobly of himself disclaim all pretence of right to carry them, when they consisted of Jewels, as Rings, Chains of Diamonds, Hatbands, or the like, and that to this he could, and would say more of his mind, and knowledge, if he should be called to it by his Majesty. This question thus far cleared, Sir Henry Mildmay nevertheless desisted not to make friends underhand for maintenance of his Claim, till the day, and almost hour that the Jewel was to be presented, when the Duke of Buckingham (that had seemed before to favour him) came about for the Master of the Ceremonies, and declared his opinion for him, so as the Earl of Carliel (who had in the interim the Jewel committed by the King to his custody) after he had also declared his sentence the same way) delivered it to the hands of the Master of the Ceremonies, by whom it was that Evening presented to the Ambassador, and who the nex day received in gratuity for it, and for his attendance, and pains taken in this Ambassador's service, three hundred pieces; immediately after he had presented it, he entering the King's Withdrawing-chamber to give account to his Majesty how thankfully it was accepted, I then standing at the door, heard his Majesty say (when Sir Lewes thanked him for his most gracious favour in committing it to his carriage) that it was the Master of the Ceremonies right, and none other to carry, and present Jewels to Ambassadors. The day of the Ambassadors departure (November the fifteenth) when he was resolved already, and the King's Barge with two other appointed for his transport to Gravesend (the Tide falling late, and the wind proving high, and contrary, he had Coaches hired for him (at his own charge) and with them and his own coaches went thither by Land, the Master of the Ceremonies accompanying him so far but no further, answerable to the new Order for conduct of Ambassadors. The Marshal of the Ceremonies (Walter Brisco) only appointed for his service on the way forward, as there might be necessary use of it, till he should be embarked at Dover etc.  
The Ambassador of Bethlem Gabor, Prince of Transilvania, having received a full satisfaction of his business, as the condition of our affairs would permit, and his Present of a thousand ounces of guilt Plate brought him by the Master of the Jewel House, and two of his Officers with him, rewarding these, he reserved the gratuity that might be expected from him by the other to time and consideration. In the mean time I having been sought to by a Gentleman, (the Ambassadors only follower qualified as fit to sit with him at the Table) to procure him also a Present as to the Ambassadors Secretary; I told him I doubted of good success in that suit, in regard not only of the present necessitous condition of the time, but also because he had not at any time appeared in the Negotiation between his Master, and the Lords, which having kept him from notice of his merit, would prove, I thought, a reason for his exclusion, as indeed it did, when acquainting my Lord Chamberlain with his aim, his Lordship gave him a negative Answer to that purpose, wherewith I quieted him.  
The day after the Ambassador had received his Present, recommending the demand of his parting Audience (not yet formally given him; to the Vicechamberlaine (the Lord Carleton) (in absence of the Lord Chamberlain, then ill at ease) and his Lordship demanding it in my hearing, I propounded the fitness of his having it given in the Presence Chamber (as being his last Audience) therefore requisite to be in public, as the first Audience had been at Hampton Court; but was answered by the King, that he took him to be no man that would stand upon point of Ceremony, so would have it (he said) in his Withdrawing-Chamber, and me to introduce him by the way of the Park, which obeying, I brought him after Dinner with the Service of two hired coaches (the King's beings excused by him, when I offered it, because he had not had it (he said) at his first Audience) he was received by no other Nobleman than the Lord Vice-chamberlaine at the entrance of the Privy Gallery, and by him brought to the King in his Withdrawing-Chamber, whence I after conducted him to the Queen for the like Audience of her Majesty; but receiving notice, that she was even then gone to  to her vespers, and would return for that Ambassador's occasion, he likewise went to his Lodging, and stayed there, till the Queen repassing before his door, he followed her to White-Hall, and had in her Majesty's Privy Chamber Audience, and dismission. This passed, I accompanied him to the Duke of Buckingham for his farewell, but the Duke being then absent, and I going in his Search to the Privy Galleries, found there his Majesty sitting all alone, when (after demand of pardon for my entrance so at unawares to his Presence) I made use of the opportunity to tell his Majesty what had not an hour before passed between me, and the Ambassador upon a question moved by Sir Maurice Dromond Gentleman-Usher to the Queen immediately before his Audience; which question (he said) had been then in his hearing moved by the Queen to the King, viz. Whether the Ambassador would or not cover in her Presence, and that the King was of opinion he would not cover; I answered the Gentleman that I would not resolve him for the future, but that for the time passed, I knew (I said) he had covered at his first Audience after the Queen had once or twice invited him to it. But for better resolution of this doubt (I further told his Majesty with this opportunity) I had a little before his said Audience asked the Ambassador (as with the pretence of my own satisfaction, who had not (I said to him) sufficiently observed him in that point) whether he had at his fi●st Audience covered, or whether he would now at his leave-taking cover in Presence of her Majesty? His Answer was, No, I will not now cover, though I did at first, because (said he) I shall now appear before her Majesty as coming of my own Errand, only to take my leave, having no particular Order for it from the Prince my Master; but when I came first to her Majesty's presence, I speak to her my Master's words, by my Master's command, and so thought fit upon her Majesty's Invitation to cover, which now I will not do, though I should be invited to it, as having nothing to say to her from any but myself, and this only tending to the leave I am to take of her Majesty.  
Having reported this unto the King, and finding him to approve of the Ambassadors reasons, as civil; I proceeded further to intimate to his Majesty, That I had observed both at this Ambassadors first and last Audience, that his Majesty was pleased to stand bareheaded all that time, as if he would not have him to cover in his Presence, either from his Example or Invitation; the King answered, that I had well observed, and understood it, and that he had purposely kept off his own hat, lest the other might have put on his, which for some considerations he was not yet satisfied to be convenient etc. During the time of this Ambassadors stay here, there passed no visit, or other correspondence between him and the Venetian, both of them pretending to precedence, and not appearing upon the title to be mutually given of Excellenza, or because the latter stood upon it, that he was not visit first, though the other came last, being a Representant of a State that pretended to a parity with crowned Heads. The fourth of December, he took Barge at the Savoy Stairs without any conduct (though offered) perhaps irregularly being no Kings Ambassador) and went that night to Gravesend for his further Journey. The night before his departure, (after many complemental Excuses of the length of his Journey, and shortness of his provisions for it) he presented me with a Purse, and in it thirty pieces. He gave to the master of the Jewell-House two days before a chain of fifteen pound value, which was received but coldly, as a gratuity beneath expectation, and not proportioned to his quality.  
There being a Mask in practice of the Queen in person, with other great Ladies for the end of Christmas, I three or four days before Twelftide, asked my Lord Chamberlain what course would be taken with the Ambassadors here resident, Contareni for Venice, and Joachimi for the States? he answered, that the King had already signified his pleasure, that if they would come, they should be welcome, and have places apart provided for them, but that his Majesty was resolved never more to admit any Ambassadors resident to sit next his person under the State, no more then to eat with him in public; I replied, that I thought this change in his Majesty from his Father's manner; would draw some Puntillious exception, or Cavil from the Venetian, unless it were seasonably and heedfully carried, which to prevent, it would not be (I thought) amiss for his Lordship to send to the Master of the Ceremonies for use of his experience, which referred to me, I wrote to him about it, that morning he came to Court, and thence after conference with my Lord went to both those Ambassadors, the Venetian, and the States. This made no question of his coming nor placing, other then as the King should command (only (he said) that if the Venetian should refuse to come, he should perhaps doubt, whether it would be fit for him to be there alone, as (out of a kind of Singularity) condemning the others absence by his Presence.  
The Venetian desired time for consideration, and resolution, it being a Novelty, and a lessening to him (he said) of the honour afforded to his predecessor; but in the mean time he prevailed so by his reasons (how heavily it might follow him in the Judgement, and censure of his Republic, when he should be the first of his Predecessors that ever suffered by such an exclusion, and had as yet since his imployent here never received public honour from his Majesty etc.) as that the King was pleased to let him know by my Lord Chamberlain (personally repairing to him under pretence of returning his visit) that he should for this once have the respects of being seated next his Majesty in manner as his Predecessors had been before him, and with him the State's Ambassador, whom also my Lord Chamberlain had then visited with the same signification, but that neither he, nor any other Ambassador were ever to expect the like hereafter, and that to confirm, and intimate the King's resolution in this point, he (as also the other) should do well to give account of it to his State (lest other of their Ministers might hereafter pretend, or think to obtain the like honour with importunity) and further to take notice, that if the King should make another Mask at Candlemas, he must be content with a place to be assigned him apart (and not next the chair of State) if he would be present at it) with which plain intimation he seemed to hold himself satisfied, and the Moneday seven night after following after Twelfday, he and the State's Ambassador were assigned their Rendez-vous at the great Gate of the Court at six in the Evening, and with them the State's Ambassadors Wife, and Daughters with limitation of as few followers as might be, and those of the better sort. The place for their repose was the councel-chamber, whence they were conducted (first the Ladies to a Box reserved for them at the upper end of the Banqueting-house on the King's right hand) and next their followers to a Scaffold over, and behind his Majesty, than the Ambassadors themselves to the Presence of the King in the Privy-Galleries, and after with his Majesty to the Mask; the Venetian was seated on the right hand, the State's Ambassador on the left of his Majesty. I understood after that the States Ambassadors Lady, and her Daughters took exceptions against their being thrust up in a corner without respects. To which I answered, that I had brought the Ambassatrice a liberty of election from my Lord Chamberlain whether she would be pleased to sit amongst the great Ladies or apart, and she had chosen to sit apart with her own company, because (she said) she wanted Language, so the fault was hers, not mine, if she were unsatisfied.  
Monsieur Rosdorfe, after he had resided here four years for the King of Bohemia, being called home, was to receive his present, which was endeavoured by his friends, that it should have equalled (if not that Ambassador Baron Donnows of 400 l. in Plate) at least that of Monsieur Paul (that had been here in the same condition as Rosdorfe without Title of Ambassador, and receiving at his parting a Chain of 300 l. and 50 l besides as an ayudu de costa) But Rosdorfe having not been well relished by some, particularly by the Duke of Buckingham for his harsh plainness, had given to him a Chain worth only 220 l. as of equal value (upon comparison and instance made) with that of the resident of the King of Spain Monsieur Bruneau, and of Monsieur Van Mall Agent of the Archdukes.  
While I was at Canterbury for some domestic occasions of my own, 
Her Catz.  I received a Letter the eighth of March signifying the arrival of a deputy from the States, and of the dangerous sickness of Sir Lewes Lewkner Master of the Ceremonies, of whose Office I was the Reversioner. These two accounts, and their consequence brought me the next day to London. Two days after I received from my Lord Chamberlain this direction, that I should intimate to the State's Ambassador and to the deputy newly arrived, that whereas they had desired an access to the Duke of Buckingham, for an entrance to their business in hand, and that my Lord Duke judged it not so proper to give them one, before their Audience of his Majesty, they should be pleased to think, and resolve of a time for the Latter, which if they would demand for that day, or the next, he doubted not, but they should have it, the rather because his Majesty was to return (from whence he came but the day before) to Theobalds', and would not be again at London till Thursday following. That in the mean time their first Audience being past, they might Negotiate with the Commissioners appointed for the further prosecution of their business. This message received, I interposed what I thought might be expected by them, or be thought fit for the stile of their reception viz. whether to be brought to the King's Presence by a Nobleman, and to have the use of his Majesty's coach etc. as had been allowed to other of their Country qualified Ambassador.  
To this it was answered by my Lord Carelton (Vice-chamberlain) that he then knew the Minister new come to be qualified no otherwise then for a deputy, though a joynct Commissioner with the other, and that he could not, nor (he thought) would expect other Treatment then under that Title; with this intimation I repaired to them, and after delivery of my message (with a touch to he last purpose) I had for answer their desire of an Audience the next day, which they had of his Majesty in the great Gallery of Somerset House the twelfth of March by ten in the morning (the Queen being then in her House retired, or not yet risen.) After Dinner my Lord Duke came to their House (the Lord wimbletons) to visit them, while I that day dined with them, I had the news brought me of the Death of Sir Lewes Lewkner, by which in right of his Majesties grant of Reversion by his Letters Patents, I became sole Master of the Ceremonies.  
The thirteenth of March; the Ambassador of the States had (without his Associate the Deputy) a private Audience of his Majesty in his Withdrawing-chamber) whether I conducted him by the way of the Park,, and the Privy-Galleries, this being the first time of the States resident Ambassadors access to his Majesty by that way, they having been always till then accustomed to have their Audiences, and accesses given them by the back-stayres without introduction or attendance of the Master or assistant Master of the Ceremonies, which was at that time altered with the King's better service, and more convenience for avoidance of Surprises, and also to that Ambassadors great honour (not unaffected by him in that particular) when his silent, and private accesses given him before by the back-stayres, and other obscurer passages might (and did seem to some) an undervaluing of his public quality, and in this, of the State he represented (though others would have had it understood for a particular respect of his Majesty given to him as a Domestic, which yet while his Audiences were never granted, nor access given him, but when at his request it was moved for by a Groom of the Bedd-chamber, or by one of the two principal Secretaries, it would hardly be so interpreted, and so he himself expressed to me to conceive of it, when upon my introducing him by that new way of the Privy Gallery, he fell to discourse with me about it.   

1627.  
The Ambassador of Denmark, Paul Rosenkrantz having negotiated with the King of France by the space of five Months or more, returned for England and Landed at Dover in a Holland man of War, when he had already written, and obtained a grant of for one of the King's Ships to transport him (March the nine and twentieth 1627.) the next day he came to London, before his Lodging was fitted, or order given for it. To which purpose for excuse, I compleyed with him from the Lord Chamberlain, that he would be pleased to have patience for his ill accommodation, till the Officers of the Wardrobe might set up his Bed, and directions be given for his Service and attendance as before; this performed, the next day he began again upon the King's diet and charge, having of his Train by list two and twenty persons. Sunday, the first of April, he had Audience assigned him both from the King, and Queen. To the first I conducted him (without company of a Lord, or other than his own followers) this being not public (though the first Audience after his return) from the Court gate by the Staire that ascends to the Sone-table chamber (the way accustomed through the Park and Tiltyard Gallery being restrained by the King, pleasure for his more privacy there) and reposing himself in the next Room to that Chamber, was called forth to his Majesty in his Withdrawing-chamber, and had there his Audience. After passing through the councel-chamber over the Terras by the lower end of the Guard-chamber to the Chapel Closet on the King's side, he was met at the Presence door by Sir George Goring (the Queen's Vice-chamberlain) and brought to her Presence in her Privy-chamber. He was censured of too much forwardness (instantly after he had performed his respects) to cover, which though he might pretend to have done in right of the King his Master, as his representant, yet towards a Lady and a Queen to have forborn, till he had been by her twice, or thrice invited to it (or rather, not to have covered at all since he would forfeit no place nor pretention by it) had been no derogation.  
Before he came to the Presence of the King, I asked him if he desired his Gentlemen should kiss his Majesty's hands? he answered, in no sort, because (quoth he) I would not have notice taken of my new train, as if I were a new come Ambassador; and for their kissing of the King's hand, they may do it at my departure. This passed for a reason against the honour they might have had (but was not moved for) of kissing the hand of the King, remitting it to some other opportunity, which was offered the Sunday following (April the eighth) when the Ambassador having a day before (upon signification of his Master's pleasure for his return) demanded Audience for his leave taking of both their Majesties, he was fetched from his Lodging in  by the Earl of Berkshire (in correspondence of the Earl of Northampton, that had accompanied him to his first Audience at Wansted) with the company of half a dozen Gentlemen of the Privy-chamber etc.  
The Sunday seven-night after this his last Audience, my Lord Chamberlain, having delivered to my hands a Jewel (being a Picture case set with fair Diamonds and the King's Picture in it) to about 800 l. value (but to the King's cost of 1200 l. it being sold to his Majesty for this use at that rate) which his Lordship told me before he had destined to my carriage in observation of the course before established, concerning the right pretended to by the Master of the Ceremonies for carriage of Jewels, as the Master of the Jewel house doth of Plate to be bestowed on Ambassadors. I carried it, and presented it with this compliment.  
MOnsieur, j'ay l'honneur que par ma main le Roy vous fait present de son purtrait, le quel il vous prie poster pur amour de luy en testmoignagede bons & agreables services, & devoirs que vous luy avez rendus pour le Roy vostre Maistre durant vostre Ambassade icy en Angleterre.  
My LORD,  
I have the honour that the King by my hand doth present you with his purtrait, which he prays you to we are for his Love, in Testimony of the good and acceptable services, and duties which you have rendered him in behalf of the King your Master during your Embassy here in England.  
Three or four days after he had taken leave, he entreated my opinion and Assistance for punishment of one Philip Weisman a German, whose chief Trade of life, having been to undertake the conduct and defraying of Gentlemen of his Country at a price agreed on in their Travailing to, and in this, and other Kingdoms (as he had formerly done of Philip the young Landsgrave of Hesse, and a Duke of Holstein here) he made offer of of his service, and was entertained for the defraying of this Ambassador while he remained at Paris (after the time of that Kings defraying him till his first Audience was passed) at the rate of five hundred and fifty Crowns a Month for Diet, and Lodging of twelve Masters, and twelve Servants. This Bargain made (but as the fellow pretended much to his loss in regard of the daily increaseing number of guests at the Ambassadors Table) he a while held himself silent both at the Ambassadors departure from Paris, and on the way, (where he undertook the whole companies defraying at twenty five Crowns a man till they should come to London) but within two days after their arrival here, he began to make his demands in so unreasonable a measure, and with such touch to his honour, as he made complaint of him by me to my Lord Chamberlain, who acquainting the King with it, his Majesty was pleased, that the Lord Precedent of the Council, the Lord Chamberlain, and Vice-chamberlain should hear, and determine the business. Whereupon the said Philip appearing before them (together with two or three Gentlemen of the Ambassadors and myself) the Lords passed on him their sentence, which (according to the Ambassadors request sent by me to the Lords, and as it was the next day repeated by the Lord Precedent, and referred to the Ambassadors own penning in French) was as followeth.  
MOunsieur Henry Comte de Manchester, President de Conseil prive du Roy de la Grand Brittaigne, Phillipe Comte, de Montgomery Grand Chamberlan Conscillers du Conseil prive, & d'estat de la dicte Majeste (Commis & Depute par sa dicte Majeste pour entendre la potestation que Sieur Rosenkrantz Ambassador extraordinaire pour la Majeste dt Densmark auroit fait a l'encontre de Phillippe Weysman pour quelques injures, & mesdisances que qu' il auroit proferree, & escrites contre sa personne au prejudice, de reputation du Roy son Maistre, & de sa bonne renome ' e, en particulier) ayants' par commandement expres de sa Majesty adjourn & examinè le dit Phillippe Wiseman ●nsemble entenduenmesme temps par confrontation quelques uns des domestiques du dit sieur Ambassador & aultres ensemblé lu & examiné sa lettre and dit sieur Ambassador. Avons trovué que le dit Phillippe sans raison, & horse de propos (apres avoir receu beaucoup plus d'argent qu' on ne luy autoii accordé selon sa propre confession) auroit malicieusement & effrontement mis en avant telles paroles & eserits sans avoir esgard a la dignité de la parsonne que le dit Ambassador represent nigh a sa qualitè particuliere & avons ordonne qu'il soit mis en sure garde jusques a ce qu'il donnera satisfaction, au dit Ambassador si ce n'est qu'il troue bon de le fair mener, au Roy son Maistre pour l'estre chastié selon qu'il a merité. En foy de quoy nous signons la present le 14. of April 1627.  


Manchester.  
Montgomery.  
Carleton.    
My LORD,  
HEnry Earl of Manchester, Precedent of the privy Council of his Majesty of Great Britain, Philip Earl of Mongomery, great Chamberlain, and of the Council of State to his said Majesty, being Commissioners and Deputies for his said Majesty to hear the Protestation which the Lord Rosenbranck Ambassador Extraordinary to his Majesty of Denmark shall make against Philip Wiseman for certain injuries and calumnies, which he should speak and write against his person, in prejudice of the honour of the King his Master, and of his own particular reputation, having by express commandment from his Majesty adjourned, and examined the foresaid Philip Wiseman, and understood the same time by confrontation of some of the Domestiques of the said Lord Ambassador and others, as also examined his Letter to the said Lord Ambassador: We find that the said Philip without any reason or cause, having received more moneys than were agreed upon according to his own confession, hath maliciously, and impudently blazed abroad such words and writings without having regard to the honour of the person whom he presents, or to his own particular quality: therefore we have inordered that he be put in safe Custody until he give satisfaction to the foresaid Ambassador, if he thinks it not fit to bring him before the King his Master, to be punished according to his demerit. In faith whereof we sign this present Instrument this 14. of April. 1627.  


Manchester.  
Montgomery.  
Carleton.    
The fellow persisting stubborn and most averse from submission, was (after four or five day's restraint in the house of a Messenger) delivered by Warrant of the Lord Precedent of the Council, and the Lord Chamberlain from the Messengers hands, to the Ambassadors, who causing him to be imprisoned in the Counter by virtue of the said Warrant, which gave him power to dispose of him, he was upon the point of being sent for Hambourgh; but his stomach lessening, and his submission made with acknowledgement of his fault, both by word and writing, he was at last set at liberty.  
Five or six days before Saint George's Feast was to be kept at White-Hall, the Ordinary Ambassador of Venice Contareni desired my Confetence (intimated by his Secretary sent to me) to the purpose of his best course for his sight of that Solemnity. I hereupon repairing to him, told him; That the manner had ever been (except in one or two Exceptions, when the King was pleased to send his Invitation) for Ambassadors to convey to his Majesty's knowledge by the Lord Chamberlain their desires to have the honour of his right, and the solemnity that day; whereupon he desired me to perform that part from him, which I did, had his Majesty's allowance to it, and let the Ambassador know as much, who expecting (answerable to my promise, That I should a day or two before the Feast, assign him the time and way of his coming to Court) I in the interim by my Officer sounded the disposition of the State's Ambassador and Deputy for their sight of it also (which I did the more covertly, because the Venetian seemed to affect his being alone at the Feast, and that the other (unless they should of themselves request it) might be absent (for what cause I could not conceive, unless for his own more conspicuous note) when finding them also desirous to see the solemnity, I rendered the account hereof to his Majesty, and after to the Venetian, that he might not be ignorant of his company, which he readily allowed of; but when my Officer had cast out a word (as I had given him in charge tentandi gratia upon some doubt I had of a Puntillio) that the Denmark Ambassador (finding the winds blow so stiffly against his departure) would be there also, he started at it, and whereas before he had given his full resolution, that he would not fail to be at the Court gate about nine of the clock before noon (as I had assigned him) he added, that he could not tell in what disposition of health he might be that day, so if he came not at the hour appointed, I should no longer expect him. From this change of his resolution to an uncertainty, I presumed he would fail, and so found it, when on the day, and somewhat before the hour he sent his Secretary to me with a Compliment to be delivered by my Lord Chamberlain to his Majesty, that the night before having had a Fit of an Ague, and doubting the effect of the cold Air so soon upon it, he should not dare to venture so soon abroad to have the honour of his Majesty's sight at that great Feast, but he hoped, that the next year he should have that happiness etc.  
From what reason this Puntillio grew was unknown, 
I was told after by one of the Venetians Followers, That he was absent a● affecting Precedence of the King of Denmark's. In Ambassador regard this gives it to the Ambassador of the Electors, and the Venetian doth not.  but guessed at to be a pretence of precedence, that the State of Venice might perhaps have as Kings of Cypress and Candy (though by the Turks dispossessed of the former) and under that title, to pretend precedence of the King of Denmark as an Elective King, whereas they held themselves Kings of Cypress by inheritance; hut what reason the Ambassador of Venice, (Landi) had at the Prince his first exercise of his Arms at Tilt (Anno 1619.) to yield the hand to the King of Bohemia's Ambassador, the Baron of Donnow.  
The Venetian Ambassador was of opinion (when I I first discoursed with him about the accustomed manner of the Ambassadors seeing the Feast, and presenting themselves to the King at his Dinner) that he was to perform it alone without company of the States Ambassadors, and of the same mind was the Ambassador of Denmark for himself, and this course approved of by my Lord Chamberlain; but when during the King's Dinner they attended the instant for discharge of that Compliment in the Conncell Chamber, and that the State's Ambassador Joachimi had described them the manner of his march, together with the French Ambassador at a Feast two or three years before, when he was employed a Commissioner hither: The Ambassador of Denmark refused not to assist, and make one work of it, which they did, viz. The Ambassador of Denmark, Joachimi, and Mousieur Cattz, with my conduct in the time of second course (as the King himself had ordered it upon my Proposition,) first the first, and next the other two complying in their order at the King's left hand, as they altogether entered that way, and at that side of the Table, and after passing down along before the Knights of the Order (with their respects bestowed personally on each Knight, as they deemed fitting) and by the way they entered, returning. I had received them at their repair to Court one after the other (as I had first designed with the Venetian Ambassador) at the Court gate, whether also (and no further) I went to receive him of Donmarke, because he came upon his own invitation, and not the Kings, and had intended not to come, had not the cross winds taken away his liberty of departure. From the Gate I brought them to the King's Chapel for sight of the Ceremony there, having also appointed the Queen's Closet in the Chapel for the State's Ambassador, in case the Venetian had come; but in his absence I made use of it for the others followers. Thence at the beginning of the Provision, I conducted them cross the lower end of the Guard Chamber to the Terras) where in the first corner next the door on the right hand, I had caused a Scaffold to be raised, and carpet to be spread on the wall before, and on the rails behind them) where they might have sight of his Majesty, and the Knights in their procession. That finished, we returned to the Chapel, and the Service ended, I bestowed them for their repose in the Council Chamber, till the time should serve for the sight of his Majesty at the Feast (ut supra.)  
The Ambassador of Denmark preparing daily for his departure, retarded only by the want of 10000 l. sterling to be paid him for his Master (to whom his Majesty was debtor of a far greater somm) some about him touched upon the custom here of the Kings presenting his Secretary with a Chain of Gold, which though I pretended, and alleged (from example, and for reasons brought against the Transylvanian Ambassador) might be denied him, I made way for it notwithstanding by my Lord Chamberlains favour, (which after his Lordship's question whether I could produce a precedent for it, and my answer, that if there were none, it would not be amiss (I said in my opinion) that one might be dispensed with for a Secretary of a Representant of a King so near in blood to his Majesty, and to whom he stood so much engaged for supplies of money etc.) it was assented to, and a chain of an 100 marks value presented to one Mr Calendrine a Gentleman that having followed, and served him all the time of his abode here, and now at his return in place of his Secretary (than absent) was thought by the Ambassador fittest of any about him to be under that Title so rewarded.  
All occasion of longer stay being removed, and the time of the Ambassadors departure being designed (as by his letter he let me know) for the third of May; I warned the King's coach to be ready to carry him to Tower-wharffe and his Majesty's Barge with two other (for his baggage and Servants) to Gravesend, so that day I accompanied him thither, took leave there of him and the next day returned to London. Towards the time of his departure he shown himself careful in acknowledging the pains taken by the King's Servants & others for his service and having by his own servants inquiry learned of me how other Ambassadors employed hither had enlarged, or straightened themselves to that purpose, he thus proportioned his gratuities, viz. To myself he sent by one of his Gentlemen in a Purse 80 l. sterling; to the Marshal of the Ceremonies, Walter Brisco 10 l. To the Gentleman Usher, that all the time of his stay here gave his attendance, he gave 20 l. To the two Quarter waiters each of them 12 l. To the two Grooms of the Chamber, each 7 l. To the Yeoman Usher, Yeoman hanger, Yeoman of the Wardrobes Servants, and the Groom Porter's Servants, amongst them 14 l. To the King's Coachman that attended him all the time of his first being here 6 l. To two of the King's Coachmen that attended him after his return between them 6 l. To the Master of the King's Barge 2 l. To the eight Rowers of that Barge amongst them 1 l. 4 s. To other two Masters of two hired Barges 11 s. To six men of both those Barges 1 l. 4 s. To the Porters of the Court Gate 3 l. To the two Keepers of the Privy Lodgings 1 l. To two Porters of Saint James Parke 1 l. To six Coachmen of six Coaches hired at the King's charge 3 l. To my footman 1 l, To the Servants of the House where he was Lodged, and fed at the King's charge amongst them 10 l. To my Lord Treasurer's Secretary who had hastened his dispatch of 10000 l. of money paid and due, (besides a far greater somm) a pair of silver pots which cost 21 l. 6 s. To the Master of the House where he had Lodged, a Basin and Ewer, that cost 18 l. Besides other gifts, amounting in the Totall to 260 l. Sterling.  
On Whitsun Tuesday, Bearbaiting being appointed for the King's pastime at White-Hall, I the day before gave notice of it to the Venetian Ambassador (Alonso Contareni) Resident, and the next morning had his Servant sent to me to signify his desire to be present at it; this imparted to my Lord Chamberlain, and by him to his Majesty he was ordained his standing in the Pergola of the Banqueting House on the left hand of that appointed for his Majesty and the Queen with Carpets to lean, and tread on, and a stool (no chair) to fit on. The sport ended, the Ambassador that had entered before the King, and remained there after him, was only saluted by their Majesties in their passage without further compliment at entering and parting.  
Two days before the Departure of the Duke of Soubize (with my Lord of Buckingham towards Portsmouth for the expedition then in hand to Retz) I was commanded to accompany him thither to the seventh of June in company of Monsieur Blancan a brave valiant Gentleman, 
He was refuged hither from France.  and other his followers, (himself riding in Coach with his Majesty) and had his Lodgings taken up by Sir John Jepson, and the Major's authority (by the former in Houses of Garrison Soldiers, by the latter in those of the Townsmen) Two nights after his rest there a gang of drunken Mariners fell fowl in the streets with some of the meaner sort of French, but after some two or three heads broken, and a sleight wound or two given, all was pacified. After which for (prevention of further mischief) complaint was made by one to the Earl of Denbeigh then aboard as Rear-admiral, the Duke (the Admiral) and the Earl of Lindsey Vice-admiral, being then absent) who sending to all the Fleets for restraint of their Mariners being on shore at undue hours, we heard no more of their insolency, especially when within four days after the Duke's returning from London, a Guard of a dozen Soldiers of the Garrison were commanded to give their daily attendance before the Duke of Soubizes' Lodging. The thirteenth of June going with him to his Majesty at Southwile (where the Court then lay four or five miles from Portsmouth) and ask the Lord Stewards (Earl of Pembroke's) opinion, in absence of the Lord Chamberlain his Brother) what course was to be taken for satisfaction of the Duke de Soubize his host, and other of the Town for his followers Lodgings, his Lordship gave me for answer, that in regard his Lodgings had been defrayed by the King at London, it was fit the like should be observed till his departure, and that I should make a bill of my disbursements for them, leaving his Diet, wood, and coal, and table linen to his own provision, and discharge as they had been at London.  
The fourteenth of June I had word of two Commissioners (styled by them who brought news of them Ambassadors) arrived in the road of the Cows from Saly in Barbary, for my better information whereof I went the day following to Court, and had order for my repair to them, but not as with an honour to them of being sent for their reception before or at their landing, but to discover what I could of the scope of their Negotiation, and to let them know his Majesty had taken notice of their arrival, and proceeding to London, they should there at his return, have a fitting time appointed for their Audience; but when I came to the Cows they were parted thence to Southampton, whether following them, I there performed my charge (finding the substance of their Negotiation to be a suit for his Majesty's protection and confederation with them against the Spaniard, who had expelled them Spain) and the next day returned to Portsmouth.  
About ten days before the King went to Portsmouth, there came to London from France a Count of Emden (second Brother to the chief of that title, and Family) after whom his Majesty commanding my inquiry, whether he were of the Imperial party, I found him not such, and to be come hither only for sight of England, and of his Majesty, pretending (as I was told) that he desired to live here unnoted till he might receive his Horses and Apparel left in France for his better splendour at Court; but the King going his journey before those came, he (while I was at Portsmouth) came thither, and not addressing himself to me for his Introduction to the King, took an uncertain way by another Gentleman, who leaving him alone (when he came to Court walking in a place unbesitting for him) I offered him my service, gave his Majesty notice of him, and had order for his access. After which he immediately without further Ceremony took his leave, and dining at the Lord Stewards, and Lord Chamberlains Table (joined) in company of the Duke, and Monsieur de Soubize, he after returned to Portsmouth with a Warrant that I at his request obtained for him of the Duke, for transport of six Geldings, and two stone Horses, for which Warrant he supposing (because I in absence of the Duke's Secretary drew it) that it had been a part of my Office, in which (till then) I had not served him) presented me by one of his Gentlemen with five pieces, which I excusing to receive, my Servant after accepted of as for his own, and to that end in terms of such expression given him.  
An hour before his embarking, his Steward presented me from him (as too small an acknowledgement (he said) for my great pains) with twenty pieces. I gave the host of his House for his own Bed, and Chamber (as paid) by the King (for which and for the rest I was after to pass my account) twenty shillings and for four or five Beds more in his House, the like, not hindering by this the gratification whatsoever that Monsieur de Soubize should think fit to bestow on him. The proportion I held of payment for Beds for his followers Billetted in the Town, was after two shillings the week a standing Bed, and fifteen pence a Trundle-bed increasing this somm to some, as their good, and kind treatment of strangers deserved it.  
The seven and twentieth of June, the two Commissioners from Saley had their first Audience of his Majesty at Whitehall upon a removing day, which served me for excuse of the small appearance then at Court, and of their not seeing the King under the State in the Presence-chamber at their first access, though being but Representants of a newly form Republic, and no Christians, they had no more reason to expect, then to have that honour to be done them. I conducted them from their Lodging in Fleetstreet to the Common Stairs at White-Hall in one of the King's Barges, and thence to their Audience in the Privy Gallery, whence his Majesty for further knowledge, and debatement of their business, remitted them to his Council.  
July the eigh, The Ambassador Resident for the States of the United Provinces, and their Deputies for the East-Indian business, and for accommodation of differences grown lately at Sea, parting from London to Lodge at Colebrook, were early at Windsor, dined with my Lord Conway principal Secretary, had their Audience in the Afternoon in the Withdrawing-chamber, went that night to Kingston, and the next day to London.  
The tenth of July the Deputy being upon his departure, I inquired of the Ambassador what might be the disposition of the said Deputy touching his Present from his Majesty, whether to receive it in Plate, or in a gold chain, and found him indifferent, yet intimating withal, that if his Majesty would be pleased to Knight him, it would make the Present (whatsoever) more acceptable. This made known by me to my Lord Chamberlain, and by his Lordship to the King, he was that afternoon dignified. Sir James Catz, and (after he and seven or eigh more attended the dispatch of some remaining part of his business) he departed for Gravesend, and thence for Holland July the twentieth having the day before presented me with five and twenty pieces, but leaving the present ordained him for his Majesty of 500 Ounces of gilt plate (already prepared but reserved in the Goldsmith's hand, & pour cause) to be sent after him, as it was (being cozened for him by the under Officers of the Jewel House to Monsieur Joachimi) two months after, the Bringer receiving from him the gratuity of six pieces.  
The Duke of Buckingham, being ready for his Expedition to Retz, and solicited by his Servant Master Fotherley for his Signature to the Warrants, (annually bestowed on Ordinary Ambassadors and Agents) for Venison, his Majesty appointed the Earl of Dorset for Justice in Eyre during the Duke's absence, so the Warrants being by him assigned, and I sending for them to Master Fotherley, received from him (not a refusal) a question, Whether it were not a part of his charge, and a due for him to deliver them to the Ambassadors; But this question soon resolved (from precedents of Sir Lewes Lewkner) I had them and delivered them, viz. To the Ambassador of Venice three (whereof one he bestowed on me, as a right (he said) of my charge,) to the Ambassador of the States three, (whereof one was returned to me; to the King of Denmark's Agent two, whereof one came to me, and to the King of Bohemia's Agent two.  
The sixth of August, while I was retired to my Country home at Twittenham, I had notice given me, that the marquis Pompeio Strozzi, Ambassador Extraordinary from the Duke of Mantova, was arrived at London with ten of his company, whereof the Count di son Paulo Nicolo Delfino a Gentleman of Venice, and Bartholomeo Amaltheo his Steward, were received as men of quality.  
This Ambassador having in his way negotiated with the French King, came hither for condolement of the Duke his Master (who died above five months before) and for congratulation of the other Duke (his Brother's succession to that Dukedom.) After I had (of myself with respect to his quality visited him) and drawn from him by discourse something of his ends etc. I repaired to my Lord Chamberlain, then at his House at Endfield) and from him (as I had directions) to his Majesty then at Winsore, having before dispatched this my Officer with Letters to my Lord Chamberlain. But these coming in his Lordship's absence, were opened, and presented by his Secretary to the Earl of Holland, and by him to the King, who in answer of their contents passed his resolution to be signified by me to my Lord Chamberlain, That the Ambassador should have his public Audience at Winsore on Sunday following, but not to have his Diet defrayed (no more than any other Ambassador should from thence forwards) nor have any coaches provided for them at his Majesty's charge, Except at times of public Audiences.  
I, after this speaking with his Majesty (for my better warrant concerning this new Order, had a confirmation of his pleasure to that purpose, and propounding only how fit, and acceptable it might be for the said Ambassador if (in correspondence of the treatment, which I understood he had received in France) he might have a dinner provided for him in Court the day of his first Audience) it was assented to, and his Majesty's pleasure for it, intimated by me to the Lord Steward of the Household (the Earl of Pembroke.) After returning to London, I let this Ambassador know his Majesty's resolution taken for no more defraying of Ambassadors either diet or coaches; whereat he taking no exceptions, provided himself of two Coaches with six Horses each, with which and with the Kings (sent thither from Windsor for carriage of his own person) he went the eleaventh of August to Bed to Staines, and receiving there the next morning his Majesty's welcome by the Earl of Cleaveland, was by his Lordship (with the attendance of four or five Gentlemen of the Privy-chamber in the Kings, and the Lord Conways coach) conducted to Windsor, and found there prepared, and fairly hanged three Lodgings of the Earl of Worcester's, and a Table ready covered for his dinner (answerable to what I had propounded to his Majesty and the Lord Steward for avoidance of a greater charge from continual defraying) and for the Ambassadors more easy digestion of the new order, established to that frugal purpose. He had at Dinner the Service of the King's Officers, and Guard, and the company (besides of the Earl of Cleaveland) of the Lord de la Ware and of seven or eight Gentlemen, the King's Servants.  
I immediately after dinner repairing to the King for knowledge of his pleasure for the instant of his Audience, was by his Majesty called apart, and asked whether he must not invite him to cover? (I excusing my my definite resolution) answered that I had by discourse already drawn from him, that at his Audience of the French King (than sick in Bed) he had been called by him to his Bedside, and made to sit down, and cover. But (replied the King) I know that the King of Spain doth not allow the Duke of Mantova's Ambassador to be covered in his presence. Sir, quoth I, That may be an effect of the supercilious and affected greatness of that King beyond others, in conformity whereof I am told by this Ambassador, that while he was at Paris, neither of the two Spanish Ministers (Ordinary nor Extraordinary) vouchsafed him a visit, and that he in return thereof, never looked after them. Well, replied his Majesty, than I know what to do, bring him to me; with that his Majesty entering the Presence Chamber, stayed there under the State the Ambassadors coming, and the discharge of his compliment, which was brief, only expressing the respects of his Master in the account he had command to give his Majesty of his Assumption to his Principality by the death of his Brother: How much the Duke his Master honoured the King, what honour he himself had by that employment etc. The King before he spoke, having made him an invitation (which he took) to cover. This finished, he returned to his Chamber, the Earl of Cleaveland reconducting him thither, but refusing to pass further with him in the King's coach on any part of the way, he was to go, as not suiting (his Lordship said) with his quality, of which opinion was my Lord Chamberlain producing for example Monsieur de Bassampierre who had the use (he said) of the King's coach to his first Audience from London to Hampton Court, but that dismissed there, he returned in his own coach to London, and had not the Earl's company back that brought him thither. The like both for Lord, and coach was here observed, and the Ambassador left to proceed on his way (with his own coaches and company) towards the Queen then remaining at Wellingbourn to drink those waters. We went that night to Ammersham, there in conference, I acquainted him with something touching the King's question to me of his covering, which question (he said) he hoped his Majesty did not move as making doubt of his Masters right in those points of respect, but to see how I could resolve him, because (said he) it is well known to all, that he goeth not less in respects given him by all Kings, and Princes, than the great Duke of Tuscany, and the Duke of Savoy, whose Ambassadors cover (and so doth (said he) the Duke his Master's Ambassadors) in Presence of the Pope, the Emperor, and the King of France, of all whose Ministers when they are employed to him, he taketh the hand in his own House, and elsewhere, he only giving them visits at their Lodgings, said in hoc Quaere.  
From Ammersham, we went through Alesbury to Stony-Stratford, to dinner, and to Bed to Northampton. Thence I instantly dispatched my Officer with Letters to the Queen's Vice-Chamberlain Sir Geoge Goring and to the Earl of Carliel to procure an Audience the next day. To which the Earl returned answer by Letter (the Vice-Chamberlain being absent) and assured me of the Queen's especial content for the Ambassadors arrival there, and that she would give him an Audience and a dinner the next day at Wellingbourn seven miles from Northampton, from which he was fetched by the Lord Percy, and four of her Majesty's Gentlemen of the best quality in two of her Coaches and one Lords, was entertained at dinner by the Earl of Carliel in his Lodgings (but at the Queen's charge) without the accustomed Court confusion (unavoidable where the King's Servants, especially those of the Guard give their attendance) and waited on only by the King's Servants, and accompanied by the Countess of Oxford, and three of the Queen's Maids of honour. After dinner he was conducted by the Lord Percy (in other two of the Queen's Coaches for the more honour by that Variety) to the place, where her Majesty's Tent was planted near the Wells, and was there at the Tent door met, and introduced by the Earl of Carliel to her Majesty's Presence (her musickke with voices disposed in an inner Room of intent of entertaining him at his entrance) had there a most gracious Audience, delivered his Letters, and compliment in words little different from those he had used to the King; and (having taken his leave, but after making a short return with excuse of his desire to hear the Music) which he did for almost half an hours space in company of her Majesty (both of them all the while standing) he with exceeding satisfaction for so much honour received, returned (reconducted by the Lord Percy in the same coaches) to Northampton. The next day, we went to Dinner to Stony Stratford, to Bed to Dunstable, and the sixteenth of August to London, where at the instant of our Arrival we were told of two Ambassadors Commissioners come from the King of Denmark to his Majesty. This made the Ambassador (answerable to some discourse passed between him and me to that purpose) fall to question me in what manner I thought should be their Treatment, whether with or without defraying? to which I returning no direct answer (as holding it unfit for me definitly to resolve what would be his Majesty's pleasure) he put me in mind of what I had told him to that purpose at his first coming, viz. That the King would no more defray Ambassadors Diet, Lodging or coaches (having begun already with Monsieur de Bassampierre. Now (added he) if the Ambassadors of Denmark, or the Duke of Savoys (voiced to be on the way coming hither (to whom (he said) he held himself being the Duke of Mantovan's Representant, equal in all conditions) should receive those respects beyond him, he could not but in his Master's behalf resent it, who (not to reckon it (he said) as a merit, and to challenge from thence the King's better respects) had sent to his Majesty a person (himself) of as eminent quality (he might, he said, boldly without arrogancy say it) as any of his Court) to give his Majesty an account of the late Duke's death, and of the Assumption of this now living to his Principality (without regard what the Spaniard thought, or would think, or do against it) before he had ever heard, or looked to hear from England, for compliment of condoling, or congratulating: Whereas the Emperor, the king of France, and the Arch-Dutches had already by way of prevention sent to his Master persons of eminent condition, to condole and congratulate, who had been lodged in his Master's Court, 
Viz. After that of Monsieur de Bassampierre.  and defrayed (as he was most assured) that any Ambassador should be whom the king of England should please to send (in return of his employment) to the Duke his Master, howsoever it had been his fortune to be made a second Precedent for that course of not defraying, newly taken in this Court, and to be observed hereafter (answerable to the intimation he had received by my mouth from his Majesty: Which (as it was, he said, a liberty that such great kings might take in their degrees of Eminency above other inferior Princes (as the king of France had likewise already began and continued) yet for his Majesty to establish an Order, and after to break it (especially while he himself should be here a Witness, and a Sufferer in it) could not but be to him of so hard digestion, as that though he did but now discourse of it with me in private (hoping and believing that no such measure should be offered to him) yet he must (if offered) for the Duke his Master's honour, formalize himself against it, and give account of it.  
With these words and reasons I acquainted his Majesty at Aldershot, and brought him such satisfaction with them, as having regard to the Ambassadors content, and to the consequence of his own Order (established for no more defraying) His Majesty gave me in charge (with the best dexterity that I could apply) to let the Ambassador understand his resolution taken to that purpose.  
In obedience hereof, I, the twentieth of August, returning to London; conferred first with one Mr. Wollsin his Majesty's sworn Servant (Though employed here in some businesses for the King of Denmark) let him know his Majesty's resolution; no more to defray Ambassadors, and entreated him to go before to Gravesend, for the more civil conveyance of the King's pleasure to that purpose, lest, if I should directly and in plain terms acquit myself of my charge imposed, it might have had the relish of an Exclusion, or Exception of their persons from Honours formerly received by other Ambassadors. That night taking a barge for my passage, I went to them to Gravesend, 
Their names were Tomson and Brah.  and only letting them know I had been at Court with the account of their Arrival, and for knowledge of his Majesty's pleasure about their Reception, (not so much as touching the point of their not being defrayed for the reason mentioned.) I concluded that I was there by the King my Master's command to receive, and obey theirs, for assistance of any of their followers, that they should be pleased to employ to take up their Lodgings, and to perform other Services for their Accommodation. So without other answer, question, or exception from them that might bewray distaste from such Innovation, I took leave and returned to London, where Mr. Wollfin, I, and a Servant of the Ambassadors conferring with one Paul Four (an entertainer of strangers, and dwelling in Lumhard Street) at what rate he would provide them their Diet, and Lodging, he (with a Mechanic consideration of the plunge they were like to be put to (being disappointed of their first expectation to be defrayed) made unreasonable demands, as of twelve pounds for eight Masters, and six Servants per diem, till sending to Gravesend to the Ambassadors for their resolution, they agreed for— six pounds per diem. So after the preparation of the Kings and two other Barges (leaving a Light-horsman to be taken up for their Baggage at Gravesend) and of the King's Coach with the Venetians, the State's Ambassadors, and three Lords Coaches to attend their landing at Tower wharf, I traveled a whole day up and down in London and Westminster to find a Lord fitting for their conduct from Gravesend: But the Service refused, or exculed by all for want of Authority from the Lord Chamberlain then with the King in Progress; I at last prevailed with the Lord Ershin, Son to the Earl of Marre, to undertake it, and fetch them thence (with the attendance of half a score Gentlemen, the King's Servants to their landing and lodging, ut supra.  
In observation of the new Order established (That no Ambassador should be met further off then Gravesend, and there but by the Master of the Ceremonies only for their first welcome.) They should not have had a Noble man to meet them nearer than G●eenwich, or till their landing at Tower wharff: But the intimation made against their being defrayed, as before, being new and harsh, this course was thought fit as for that time to be taken, somewhat to sweeten the other.  
The twenty fourth of August, these Ambassadors much pressing their Audience of his Majesty, I sent my Oshcer about it to the Court then at Aldershot, and had for answer, That whereas the Ambassador of the Duke of Mantova desired to have his parting Audience, as soon as might be (though it were, he said, in answer of the King's objection, of the unfitness of the place he then was in) under a Tree, which should be to him, he said; a Palace, and he esteemed himself as a Prince by such a favour) His Majesty resolved, they should have their Audiences both in one day the Tuesday following as Oatelands', where there should be a Dinner provided for them, and two Noblemen (with two of the King's Coaches) for their several conditions.  
To this purpose I having a Blank Letter sent me from my Lord Chamberlain to superscribe and present whatsoever Nobleman I should think fitting for the company of the Ambassadors of Denmark, and being left to my adventure, without a Letter for the choice of another to accompany the Montavan, I subscribed my blank Letter to the Earl of Murray of Scotland, obtained his assent, and prevailed so by entreaty with the Lord Morley, as our Journey was appointed for the day, when two days before came to me a Letter from my Lord Chamberlain, intimating, That whereas the Queen was to come to oatland's at the time assigned for the Ambassadors Audience there, and that therefore the king would not alter his determined remove from Aldershot to Oaking; That if the Ambassadors (particularly those of Denmark) should persist in their desire of a speedy Audience (otherwise then the king wished they should) who would willingly have remitted them till Sunday following, for their more solemn Reception at London) They must not expect an entertainment with a Dinner in a place, where nothing good was to be had, etc. But should have (all of them together) their Audiences at Oaking on Tuesday.  
In observation of which direction I repaired to them, salved up all as dexterously as I could, and having the king's coach, with the Earl of Murreys' (and for his companion the Earl of Galloway) for attendance of those of Denmark; And my Lord Morly with a coach of the Queens (in place of the Kings) to conduct him of Mantova, we altogether (having besides the service of three hired coaches for the first, and two for the latter, all at their own charge) parted from London on Tuesday morning, and were by two after Dinner at Oaking, where after a brief Compliment passed between the Ambassadors, that had not till then seen one another's (The Mantovan having always kept behind, to let it be seen he was of another company, and employment) and bringing them for their rest to two several chambers; I first introduced those of Denmark, whose compliment dispatched, Letters delivered, and themselves reconducted to their chamber, I after brougth in the Mantovan for his farewell.  
This passed, and he returned to the place of his repose, I again conducted the other two to a private Audience after their public, and leaving them with his Majesty accompanied the Mantovan to his coach, and returned to the other, whose private Audience finished, we went that night to Winsore, the next morning to Hampton court, and were that evening (as the Ambassador of Montava likewise was by another way) at London, whether both this and the other were accompanied by the Lords their conductors to their several lodgings, with a course and trouble to me beyond example, of bringing two Ambassadors at once in one day to their Audiences, so far from the ordinary standing court of his Majesty.  
The next day, August the twentyninth, when the Ambassador of Mantova, had before hand (immediately upon his return) solicited, and obtained Assignation for a parting Audience of the Queen (then come to Somerset house) at two of the clock after noon, and that I had received the desires of the Ambassadors of Denmark to have likewise their Audience of her Majesty with her first conveniency: I received from the Earl of Carliel her Majesty's pleasure, That at the same hour those of Denmark should be admitted, and the Mantovan an hour after, and that to this purpose, I should repair to the Earl of Dorset for his company with the former, and to the Lord Morley for the latter: But this Lord being indisposed, I was driven to my former shift of procuring a Nobleman for the Service. The Earl of Dorset undertook, and discharged his part, fetching the two Danes from their lodgings to Somerset house, there entering the court with the Queen's coach (their other coaches staying in the street) and accompanying them in the Council chamber, till their time of admission to the Queen, and dismission back, whither his Lordship went with them to their lodging. In the mean time only attending them to the Gate of the court, was arrested there by the necessity of my service, for the introduction of the Mantovan, who for want of a Nobleman to accompany him, was fetch from thence by Sir Robert Ayton, Secretary to the Queen, and in one of her Majesty's coaches brought to court, where after a public Audience given him in her privy chamber, she gave him a more private one in her withdrawing chamber; and at his leave taking presented him with a Diamond Ring from her own finger of four hundred pounds' value; which giving him exceeding satisfaction, was an occasion taken by me for preparation of his better acceptance of the Kings Present to come of a thousand Ounces of gilt Plate (as if both their Majesties had understood one another in the consent of so presenting him, that the public and ordinary rates present might pass with the better acceptation, & more out of danger to become a Prefident for the King's greater charge hereafter. But while I was thus provident for my Master's honour and profit, a Message was brought me from my Lord Chamberlain then at Court, intimating, that whereas his Majesty was pleased (by likelihood from the Queen's persuasion to correspond with her in the quality of their gifts) That this Ambassadors present should have consisted of Plate) He was now resolved to convert it to a Jewel, and to add to the value proportioned, as above: And that to this purpose I should respite the presenting of the other, till I should understand further from his Majesty.  
This I did accordingly, and the day after the King's arrival at London, I received from the hand of the Earl of Holland (the Lord Chamberlain being then going out of Town) and leaving with me such order) a Jewel being a Picture-case, set with four Diamonds of about five hundred pounds' value, but no Picture in it, for which his Majesty's compliment was for my delivery; That his Picture wanting there (because one could not be so suddenly provided and fitted to it) it might be supplied with that which the Ambassadors would, he said, preserve of him in his memory.  
About the same time one of his Gentlemen (whom he had made now and then use of for his Pen, and had withal carried the Title, and sometime executed the Office of Steward) having heard of our custom heretofore, to present Ambassadors Secretaries with Chains at their parting, expected the like, and made one Sir Francis Biondi his means to me by his Letter to that purpose, whom I answered by Letter with reasons as before; when Bethleem Gabor's Secretary petended to the like favour from his Majesty, but was refused it, and so was this (I having first acquainted the Ambassador himself with his pretence, and with our course of limitation here for presenting Secretaries only when they were as the Venetians Secretaries, of the Embassage, or had been for some especial affairs employed, and noted for Assidual Negotiators.  
The fifth of September, this Ambassador parting hence in the King's Barge with no more Barges or Boats (that one being capable of his Train) I accompanied him to Gravesend, where presenting me with sixty double Pistoles, I left him in his way to Dover for his embarking etc. He was not visited during the time of his stay here by the Venetian Ambassador, no more than this by him.  
The two Moors Commissioners from Saly (having long attended the King's return to London, and found little fruit of their Negotiation with the Lords) demanded, and had at last an Audience of his Majesty in the Privy-gallery, coming to Court from their Lodging at Sir Abraham Williams in Westminster in a coach of their own hiring without my conduction, only I received them at the Court Gates, brought them to the councel-chamber, thence to their Audience, back to their coach, and there left them.  
The ninth of December, the Ambassadors of Denmark went to an Audience of his Majesty at Havering with the King's coach, and two others hired by themselves (only myself, and no Nobleman accompanying them (their Audience being to be private.) Arriving there towards Noon, we found a Table covered for their dinner at the King's charge, whereto they sat down, immediately after the King was set to his, and were served by the Guard, for whom at their parting they gave to the hand of a Gentleman Usher Quarter-waiter, 10 pieces. After dinner they had their Audience in the Privy-chamber, and that night returned to London. They were at their Dinner accompanied by the Earl of Holland, Sir John North and others; the upper end of the Table being found too narrow for both their seats, they sat in chairs at the two sides, opposite one to the other, the preceding Ambassador taking his place with the end of the Table on his left hand, as the first place in his opinion. These two Ambassadors (having another private Audience assigned them at Hampton Court) were pleased upon my request to them by Letter to pardon my repair to their Lodging in London, thence to accompany them (as I ought to have done) in the King's coach, and take me in their way at my House in Twittenham, where (returning) they left me, after I had entertained them with a collation etc. to their satisfaction.  
Two days after, they sent my Officer for demand of an Audience to take their leaves, which they had granted them for Sunday following, and were brought to it from London by the Earl of Cleaveland and four or five Gentlemen of the Privy-chamber, (having provided for them a dinner at the King's charge (this being their last Audience) as they should have had at the first (answerable to the stile then observed) but omitted towards them, as also to the Mantovan Ambassador for the interruption mentioned before.  
This course of their entertainment at a Dinner, I propounded to his Majesty in time of his Supper, two nights before by direction from my Lord Chamberlain, intimating the fitness of it (they having the like at Havering in stead of that they should have had at their first public Audience, but was excused for the reasons as before) and had from the King this formal answer O yes, yes, let them by any means have a Dinner. At the same time also I propounded (with agreement of the Master of the Jewell-House standing by, and by direction from the Lord Chamberlain) the consideration of having their Presents assigned beyond the proportion of their Predecessors which had been 1500. ounces of gilt Plate, and no more, making our reason the regard of their not having been defrayed, as those other had been etc. which his Majesty approving commanded the number of 2000 ounces to be made ready for each of them, being soon after brought them by the Master of the Jewell-house himself, who had from them the gratuity of _____ and his two Officers between them twelve pieces. Their Secretary having not appeared in any business, had no present. After Dinner (at which their conductor the Earl of Cleaveland, and the Lord Gordon, and others, were guests with them) I introduced them to their Audience (by the proper way being public) through the Great Hall, and Guard-chamber to the presence, thence to the Queen in her Privy-chamber, whither my Lord of Cleaveland made at the first some scruple to accompany them, till my Lord Chamberlain had resolved him of the fitness, and custom of it, but would by no men's return with them (as both he (by custom) and the Gentlemen with him should have done) to London whither I only served them with my Attendance, the rest taking their leaves at the Ambassadors taking coach.  
The eleventh of October, (while neither their Letters nor present, nor 1000 l. which they were to receive by way of defalcation (from the great debt due to the King their Master from ours) were ready for them) they requested me to procure them a private Audience (if this might not (they said) appear a Solccisme after they had had a public one for their leave taking) which I did, bringing them to it by the way of the Titlt-yard, and Privy-Galleries to his Majesty's Withdrawing-chamber etc.  
near the time of these Ambassador's departure, 
Animo revertendi.  my Lord Chamberlain let me know, that having received news of the coming of the Abbot de la Seaglia (Ambassador from the Duke of Savoy) he had written a Letter (but not yet sent it) to my Lord Major for provision of a House for him in the City, to be paid for by the Ambassador, but, after I had intimated to his Lordship that the course had been to receive a signification first from the Ambassador himself of his Arrival, and of the number of his train, and accordingly to provide for him; that if his House should be taken up before such signification were given, and that he should not come in a month or more after, the charge of it for that time must (in reason) rest upon his Majesty, the House being not taken by his own order, and he being to defray himself for all (as was intended) the letter was stayed, and the provision of the House for that time respited. After it was assured by some passengers in the same Ship with this Ambassador that he was landed, and come onward his way as far as Rochester, I repaired to my Lord Chamberlain for order of his reception how, and where &c. went with his Lordship to the King about it, and received from his Majesty this formal signification, that answerable to the order established, and already practised towards the King of Frances Ambassador (Monsieur de Bassampierre) the the Duke of Mantovas, and the King of Denmark's, and particularly towards the last, his Uncles) he would not defray him, nor any other, except at conclusion of Peace Marriages, Baptisms of his Children, and such like Extraordinary occasions. Upon further discourse that then passed, where, and how he should be received, it was concluded by his Majesty not only for the present but for the future, that neither he, nor any other Ambassador under a Kings, should be met, or received further off, then at Tower-Wharffe in the King's coach, after he had been brought thither from Gravesend by the Master of the Ceremonies, and that if he were a King's Ambassador (the Master of the Ceremonies meeting him no further off, then at Gravesend (unless his coming for the before excepted purposes might by order carry him further) he should be received no nearer London, then at Greenwich by a Nobleman out of the Barge that brought him from Gravesend into the King's Barge, and thence by him accompanied to his landing at Tower-wharffe, and thence in the King's coach to his Lodging.  
The day after that this Order was established (or rather revived) not certain notice being yet given, or taken concerning the Savoy Ambassador for preparation of his House, because no follower of his was come immediately about it) Mr. Gerbiere (a Gentleman serving the Duke of Buckingham) who had passed the Seas in his company, and had received some particular direction to that purpose) went with me to my Lord Chamberlain, and acquainted him with the Ambassadors intentions and desires (as of one that agreed not well, he said, with Journeys by water, and had brought with him a Coach and Horses of his own) to come by land: But this desire and design of his was soon diverted by his Lordship, after he had pointed at the incommodity of a Nobleman's meeting him with the King's Coach, at the end of Southwark (where was no house nor place proper for his, and his companies stay, till the instant of the Ambassadors coming thither) and what he should want in that part of honour of having sent to him from the King to Gravesend, the Master of the Ceremonies (with his Majesty's Barge for his transport) who if he should come by land, could not with that provision (and must not with Coaches, because of their late restraint of employment for service of Ambassadors at the King's charge) attend him.  
It was further intimated, that if he should not think fit to make contiunall use of the Italian Jeronimo's house for his lodging (which he had already hired) he should have another hired for him for his better accommodation, at a rate reasonabe (to be paid by himself.) These Allegations and Reasons taken notice of by Mr. Gerbiere, were conveyed to the knowledge of the Ambassador at Gravesend, and his approbation being returned, the next day I went early with the King's Barge, and another to bring him to Tower-wharff, where by the Lord North with half a dozen Gentlemen, the King's Coach, and seven other attending him, he was conducted to his lodging, October 19 At my first access to him at Gravesend, that I might (besides the compliment of his Welcome) intimate to him his Majesty's pleasure and course held and to be held for the Traytment of Ambassadors answerable to the new Pragmatic) I spoke to him in French thus  
MOnsigneur, sa Majesté m'a enuoye icy aure l'honnour de ses Commandements pour vous recevoir, & vous dire de sa part que non seulement pour l'estime qu'ells fait de la personne que vous representez, mais aussy de vostre propre personne vous estes tres-bien venu en, son Royaume; Et si vous trowez que le traitement que vous receurez ne responen tout a vos merits, vous l'attribuerez, sil vous plait, non pas a manquement de respect de le part de sa Majesté, mais au rei glement, & procedure qu'il luy á convenu tenir d'oresen avaunt envers tous les Ambassadeurs & Ministres des autres Roys & Princess comme entre autres sa Majesté á recentement practiqué enuers les Ambassadeurs de son Oncle propre; pour mon purticulier Je suis joy pour etc.  
MY Lord, his Majesty hath sent me hither with the honour of his Commandments to receive you, and tell you in his behalf, that nor only for the esteem he makes of the person which you represent, but also for your own particular, you are most welcome into his Kingdom: And in case you find that the Treatment which you shall receive doth not correspond in all things with your merit, you shall impute it, if you please, not to any want of respect on his Majesty's part, but to the regulation and procedure, which it hath behoud him for the future to observe towards the Ambassadors and Ministers of other Kings and Princes, as his Majesty hath lately practicd towards the Ambassadors of his Uncle, and for my particular I am here, etc.   

Friday Octob. 19  
The night of his Arrival at London, he demanded Audience of the King with his first conveniency, which referred to his pleasure (if he should think Sunday following too soon for it) he accepted the liberty as a favour, so far as for that day it was appointed, and an Invitation delivered with all by me (as I had order) for his dining in Court, whereto he was voluntarily fetched by the Earl of Carliel (a Supererogatory courtesy of his Lordship, and an irregularity of all precedent (when a Baron, 
Of no good example for Ministers inferior to Kigns, who might expect the like.  not an Earl should have discharged that part for a Duke's Ambassador) and with the attendance of five or six Gentlemen of the Privy-chamber in five coaches (besides the Kings) came to Court, dined in the Councel-chamber with the Earl, and Gentlemen mentioned, and five of his own company. And about four of the clock (attending so long the Queen's return from Vespers, of whom (having been formerly known to her) he had a sight and Bay-samaine in transitu, as she went to her coach through the Privy-Gallery) had his Audience in the Presence, returned to the Councel-chamber till the Queen and her Ladies were in readiness to receive him, and having had a gracious Audience of her Majesty, with the same company and attendance that he came, returned to his Lodging.  
The Tuesday following, though he had let fall (of purpose it seemed for his after freedom, some speeches tending to the liberty which his Majesty (he said) to me) had given him once for all to have access to his Presence without Ceremony) my Lord of Carliel telling me (and desiring me to let him know) his Majesty's Pleasure to give him a private Audience that Afternoon, I entreated his Lordship as far forth as he could, he would direct that domestic privacy, as diminishing from the respects due to his Majesty, and the right of my charge in the duty of my attendances for those Services. Which his Lordship rightly understanding, took on him to regulate by remonstrating to the Ambassador (as he did) how much he should derogate from the regard proper to his own quality (besides what might be challenged due to mine) by the world's taking notice, and the discourses of the causes why I did not attend him at his Audiences) and by persuading him, that howsoever he might have his private accesses at his own times to the King's Presence, yet that he would not (upon account to be made of the businesses of State or of particular charges received by Packet from his Master) present there commendation without my introduction.  
So that day to begin his course, I accompanied him to his Audience (which he would otherwise have sought and had alone) by the staier leading from the Garden to the first Chamber of the Privy-lodgings, thence bringing of him to the King in his Withdrawing-chamber, and a seven-night after did again the like.  
In the mean time having not in five or six days after his public Audience, received any visit from the Ambassadors then here residing, 
A mazime amongst Ambassadors.  the custom amongst them carrying it, that the first come, is first to visit the last come; I cast out a question, whether the Ambassador of the King of Denmark had yet visited him? he answered no; and that he was willing to interpret the sickness of one of them (Monsieur Brahe) to be a cause that the other forboare that compliment; because (said he) being joynct, they may perhaps think a joynct visit requisite, and so one stay for the other till both be in good disposition. In the mean time though he would (he said) make no scruple to visit the sick Ambassador (who was unable to visit him) yet that he could not conveniently do it to the one without the hazard of the world's opinion that he did it to both, which would be (he said) a Solecism in point of visits not approvable amongst Ambassadors, especially while one of them was in health, and might therefore visit him without the others company. 
This may appea e to be an acknowledgement of precedence from the Venetian which seemed questioned.  For mine own betterinstruction to the purpose of this Puntillio, I went instantly first to the Venetian Ambassador, and found him to have forborn that compliment, expecting the first discharge of it to come from the Danish, and that as they should lead, he would follow. From him I went to the other of Denmark, and found him that was in health, not excuseing the forbearance of his visits by his Colleagues sickness, but plainly affirming the observation of it to be improper, as from the King of Denmark's Ambassador to a Duke of Savoys. Besides that he could plead (he said) that he and his Colleague having taken their public leaves of the King, their visits of an Ambassador later come, were not to be expected.  
To this I replied with a Precedent I had learned from the relation of an experienced. Statesman, 
Her. Joachimi Ambassad or for the States.  how the King of Frances Ambassador (at the time that the States of the united Provinces were first acknowledged free, and Sovereign) being at Disseldrop (and come thither before the State's Commissioners Arrival) about a Treaty, expected to receive from th●m the first visiit, as from Representants of an inferior condition; but they standing upon their pretended rights of Ambassadors (last come to be first to be visited) refused to visit first, till at last the French Kings Ambassador (the business he had in manage necessitating him to it) gave the first visit; but this was no prevailing allegation for the Ambassador of Denmark. From them I went to the Ambassador of the States, and found him not expecting to have those of Denmark for his leaders, but only hindered by a Catharre, which past (he said) he meant to visit the Savoyard, and so he did the next day. At that time when I (purposely) cast out some words tending to the question of precedence between the States, and the Duke of Savoys Ambassador, the States said, he wondered that any man would make that question, when it had been adjudged the due of his State by the King of France in particular etc.  
The next day, being that of the Lord Majors Annual Feast, and the Ambassador of Savoy desirous to see his Lordship pass through Cheapside (he having received no Invitation to the Feast with other Ambassadors perhaps because of his so fresh Arrival, or else to avoid the inconveniency of question likely to grow from precedence between him, and the State's Ambassador, and the Ambassadors of Denmark not looking after it with consideration of their leave already taken of his Majesty) I was requested by the said Savoy Ambassador to inquire somewhat further of the Ambassadors, of Denmark's reasons, and resolution for not visiting him which I did immediately repairing to him, 
Monsteur Tompson.  where he had taken his stand in Cheapside for sight of the show (Sconosciato) and plainly received it for his resolution, that neither he, nor his Colleague had any intention to visit him first, as having no example of the like done at any time by either the King their Master's Ambassadors or by any other Kings to the Ambassador of the Duke of Savoy, and when I after met the Venetian at the Feast (whereto he and the State's Ambassador were invited) I understood the like of his mind, and expectation for example to be given him by the Ambassador of Denmark (as pretending) to do nothing (he said) but should be all par delle teste Coronate, with which insatisfaction I returned to him of Savoy, who could not make good his pretence by any Precedent, or example, but rather he had one against himself (which the Venetian Ambassador was said to have suggested to the Ambassador of Denmark for his forbearance) of the French Ambassador (the marquis de Bleinville) who would not give the first visit to the Savoyard when they were both here together in England, the Ambassador of France standing upon it, that in regard of the honour of so near alliance, as the Duke of Savoy had with so great a King as his Master, he ought to give him the first respect, as being most due to him. But this reason the Ambassador of Savoy retorred to his own purpose, as that therefore the French Kings Ambassador ought first to visit him for the more honour to the King his Master's Sister, and with no disparagement to himself in regard of the not questionable difference of their ranks. But in the end, all, or the chief blame of the Savoy Ambassadors want of visit lighted on the Venetian (so that of Savoy charged him) as on him, that having committed a former error (he said) not to have visited the Duke of Mantovas Ambassador while he was here (from the same reason of difference stood upon by him of Denmark) cared not to commit another, and a greater error, though he and all the Ministers of that Republic that should negotiate with his Master might be sure by way of retribution (as he threatened) to suffer for it.  
The consideration of inconveniences which might in likelihood accrue to the common cause from such ill correspondence amongst Ambassadors our friends, made me the next day after the Lord Mayor's Feast to address myself to the Earl of Carliel (as to a person of the most experience in Ambassages for his judgement in these differences) this was, that the Ambassadors of Denmark, and that of Venice, were in the wrong, and that for Precedents, if they stood upon them, he himself would furnish them with one of his own, having himself (as he affirmed) when he was Ambassador Extraordinary in France) given the first visit to the self same Ambassador of Savoy, Arriving there after him, and had observed that the Pope's Nuntio, and all other Ambassadors then there had done the like, yet that for the better information of his own judgement, he would (he said) instantly go, (and so did) to the King for his, who together with the Lord Steward, Earl of Pembroke, the Lord Chamberlain, and other Lords there present in his Majesty's Withdrawing-chamber, were all of opinion that the Ambassadors of Denmark were over punctual, and (as the King himself said) so much too blame for standing upon such nice points, in a time that required rather care, and study to get friends then for lack of performing compliments, hazard the loss of any, as were they his Ambassadors, and should do so, he would chide them well for it. The substance hereof I conveyed to the Ambassadors understanding, but it would not move them.  
While these Puntillio's were in agitation, a Play on all Saint's day (being appointed at Court to begin Christmas with) I was told the day before by the Venerean (when he visited me at my House) that he was invited to the sight of it, and to a Supper by the Countess of Denbigh as was the Savoy Ambassador at the same time by the Earl of Carliel, understanding thus much, I did (to prevent all inconveniences that might happen by any sudden encounter) let fall a word or two in hearing of the Savoy Ambassador for his knowledge of it; who answerably took his course in such sort, as that after the Venetian was (before the Kings coming into the Hall) entered there, leading the Countess of Denbigh, and seating himself uppermost at the end of the Lords seat towards the King's right hand, next above the Lady mentioned) the Ambassador of Savoy entered with the King passing promiscously amongst the Lords, and (as I had before prepared the Duchess of Buckingham, were seated next above her, the other great Ladies) the Lord of Carliel sitting next above the Ambassador, but sidewayes upon another seat) on the King's left hand, neither of these Ambassadors so much as looking one towards another, much less saluting, either entering, or parting, that of Savoy going our, as he entered after the King, leaving the Duchess, and the other of Venice after those were gone following with the Countess.  
Whiles one of the Ambassadors of Denmark (Monsieur Tompson) attended the recovery of the others sickness (Monsieur Brabe) and both of them the payment of a thousand pounds promised them by way of defalcation, but after intimated to them by me (from the King) to be intended as a gift to them in lieu of their not having been defrayed) he sent my Lord Major word (Sir Hugh Hammersley) that he would dine with him, and bring with him three or four of his Gentlemen● his Lordship returned an acceptation both by the Ambassadors messenger, and by a Servant of his own; but when (I hearing of it) had let him know by Master Wolfin (his Master's Agent) that if he were not informed already touching the manner of his personal Treatment for the place, he should do well to inquire, whether the Lord Major would give him precedence (which he had never yet given to any person of whatsoever quality under the King) the Ambassador changed his mind, made his excuses of an unexpected business, and only sent his Gentlemen with whom I sending my Officer to accompany them, and to sound what he could of my Lord Major's disposition for the place, in case the Ambassador himself had come to him) he made a plain profession, (which I also after received from himself) That he meant to maintain the Lord Majors Right and ancient Custom of preceding all men, within the City, but the King himself. So as (without this prevention of mine) there might have followed, perhaps, some scandal, or difference to the insatisfaction of the Ambassador, and the trouble of the Lord Major, not without subject of discourse for other Ambassadors, etc.  
These 2 Ambassadors being at length possessed of their long unpaid thousand pounds, which should have been presented them (as had been intimated in lieu of their not having been defrayded, and not by way of defalcation, as they demanded it, and it was carried) They prepared for their departure, and the day before sent their Secretary to the Ambassador of Savoy, with a compliment of their offer of service, etc. which he the next day returning by one of his Gentlemen, it was all the correspondence, which during their abode here had passed between them.  
The two and twentieth of December, having the service of the King's Coach, and two other hired by themselves to their embarking at Tower-wharff, they went thence in the King's Barge, with one more (I accompanying them) to Gravesend, where they presenred me with a Purse, and fifty pieces, and were there left by me to the guidance of my Officer Walter Briscoe, to their shipping at Dover.  
On the way to Gravesend, I fell in discourse (purposely) with Monsieur Tompson, concerning their not visiting the Duke of Savoys Ambassador, and found by his Ejaculations, that they repent them of their puntillios, professing to me; That if they had at first understood that the King (and since the Duke, who had made a visit to them five or six days before their departure, on no other errand then touching that visit) would have taken such notice of it, they would have dispensed with their own reasons for want of examples, and have made a visit to him; but as that now (so were their departure) would have been unseasonable, so they had left it to the hazard of whatsoever inconvenience might follow. I replied, they might have discovered by my diligent endeavours, the affection of his Majesty to have had that Compliment performed, as requisite for entertainment of the correspondence between their King and that Prince, and others, in times that needed it, but that having no formal command from his Majesty to meddle in it, I had reason to be so reserved as I had been. At last, I pressed him to acquaint me with the truth of what was held, I said, at Court, that the Venetian had been the first moving cause of their not discharging that visit with the reasons mentioned before.  
But Monsieur Tompson protested to me, that he was charged wrongfully, having been rather, he said, a persuader of them by Sir Francis Biondi (sent to them by the Venetian to that purpose, with assurance that they beginning the Compliment, he would not fail to second them) then that he had ever used one word to dissuade them.  
With this acknowledgement I after acquainted the Savoy Ambassador, and had for answer; That it was now too late for them to amend the faults they had made, he having (he said) given account of their proceed to the Duke his Master, and was for himself, he said, resolved, that if they should make a return, as they intended, to England, he would never, he said, receive any visit from them, though they should (with acknowledgement of their error) make offer of it.  
The two Commissioners from Saley in Barbary, 
Mehemets, Bensayd, Hamet, Naxuaez.  having obtained Letters from the King to their State (with grant, and for settling of a correspondence between us and them) and to Sydi-Hamet-Laynshi, a Saint, as they termed him, much reverenced amongst them for his holiness, and descent from a Race of qualified Saints, and of great power for force of Horse to be levied at his pleasure. They went hence the twelfth of November to Dover, there to embark in a Ship fraughted for Barbary, and to be conveyed till within a days fail of their Port, by the Fleet for Turkey then bound thither.  
His Majesty having defrayed them for the time of their abode here at forty shillings per diem, Diet and Lodging, presented each of them after they had taken their leaves in the privy Gallery, with a Gold Chain of a hundred pounds' value, they presented me at their parting with thirty pieces.  
In time of Christmas, the Viscountess of Purbeck, having for execution of a sentence pronounced against her in the high Commission Court, her house beset by a Sergeant at Arms, with other Officers of Justice; a Gentleman came in the morning from the Countess of Buckingham to the Ambassador of Savoy, demanding leave of him for the said Officers to pass through his house into his Garden (joined to the Ladies) for her more easy apprehension, and arrest by that way, which though at first he somewhat stuck at (as wronging and lesning (he thought) the respect of his quality, to leave his house free of entrance to such persons, especially for the surprise and arrest of a fair Lady his Neighbour) he at last, notwithstanding suffered the Constable to enter it, and with convenience to remain in it and in the Garden, watching his opportunity till dinnertime, when some of the Gentlemen attendants on him, contriving a way to be rid of that encumbrance, dressed the Ambassadors Page (a handsome fair Boy) in woman's apparel, thrust him suddenly into the Lord's Coach, (as if it had been the Lady making her escape) and drove fast with him down the Strand, followed by a multitude of people, and those Officers (not without danger to the Coachman, from their violence) but with ease to the Ambassador, that had his house by this device cleared of the Constable, but himself after charged by the Duke, That all this was done of design for the Lady's escape (which in that Hubbub she made) to his no small prejudice, and scorn in a business that so nearly, he said, concerned him (she being Wife to his Brother, and bringing him Children of another's begetting, yet such as by the Law (because begotten and born while her Husband was in the Land) must be of his Fathering.  
The Ambassador for his Purgation from this charge, went immediately to the Duke at Whitehall, but was denied access: Whereupon repairing to my Lord Chamberlain for his mediation, I was sent to him by his Lordship to let him know more particularly the Duke's displeasure, and back by the Ambassador to the Duke with his humble request but of one quarter of an hours audience for his disblaming; But the Duke returning answer, That having always held him so much his friend, and given him so many fair proofs of his respects, he took his proceeding so unkindly as he was resolved not to speak with him: I reported this to the Ambassador, and had for his only answer, What Reason cannot do, Time will. Yet after this, the Earls of Carliel and Holland interposing, the Ambassador (hungry after his Peace, from a person of such power and regarding his Master's service, and the public affairs) he a seven-night after obtained of the Duke an interview in Whitehall Garden, and after an hours parley, a reconciliation.  
About the same time, the Ambassador of Venice, Contareni, having sent an Express to Dover with a Packet, came the Counsels Warrant for passage of it, to the Denmark Ambassadors, attending there their passage, for conveyance of it by them to the Venetian Ambassador in France: Sir John Hippesley (Lieutenant of the Castle under the Duke of Buckingham, understanding of it (and withal the mind of his Lord and Master mentioned) sent to them for a sight of the Packet only, as a duty, he said, of his charge, which with some question, 
Quere Whether this were not Pas de Clere in their mystery.  the Ambassadors yielding to, and sending it to him by their Secretary, he refused to return it, saying, he would have care for the conveyance of it; But sent it immediately to Court to those hands that opened it, and taking out (as the Ambassador made complaint, some particular Letters, sent the rest to him, whereat he formalizing himself (as he did also for another Packer, the Duplicate of this sent after it) by his Secretary at Dover, which delivered to the hand of a Mariner then upon passage, was likewise intercepted.) He demanded Audience of his Majesty, made protestation and offer to retire himself to Greenwich, till the State he represented, should upon the Account of his and their wrong signify the sense of it, and pleasure for his further proceeding. But maturer consideration (all his Letters being returned, and his Majesty having professed to him his high displeasure for such proceeding) made him alter his course, and digest the pretended injury so far, as only to give account of it to his State, from whom he not long after received their pleasure, that he should spare his access both to King and Council, till he should formally receive some public satisfaction. 
The usual course was and is yet, for Ambassadors to send to the Master of the Ceremonies a signification of their arrival: And after the said Master to let them know the time when be would repair to them to welcome them and conduct them to London.   
After a long expectation of two Ambassadors Commissioners to come from the States, Viz. Monsieur Randwick, and Monsieur Paw, they arrived at Gravesend the seventh of February, and were there met by Her. Joachimi the Resident here. Amongst other discourses they had with him (as I was informed, being then absent) concerning the Treatment they might expect from his Majesty. A Question was moved whether the Master of the Ceremonies were not to receive them there with the King's welcome, and to know their dispositions for the time of their coming to London, before he should come to fetch them thence with the King's Barge, which it was affirmed, Sir Lewes Lewknor had at other times done to some of their Ministers.  
This scruple intimated to me (at a time when I could discharge neither of those services) my Wife being then dangerously sick of the small Pox, and in that respect not stirring out of doors) I wrote to the Resident Ambassador to this purpose: That howsoever some, perhaps, extraordinary occasion might have begotten at some time such a redoubled course of observance (the like whereof had not come under my experience) it was no rule, & that if I myself had (as I remembered I had once the Summer before) made a first and second Journey to Gravesend, to the Ambassadors of Denmark, it was in the way of good manners to comply with them, at a time of the King's remote absence from London, his Majesty being then in progress, while in the interim I attended answer to my Letters for direction about the manner of their Treatment upon the Reformation then newly established for the defraying of Ambassadors, which I hoped should serve them for a consideration to keep them from drawing into consequence that, or any other former reception, different from the Ordinary, especially at a time, that his Majesty endeavoured more than ever to reduce our forms of Treating Ambassadors to the stile of those practised by other Princes.  
How these reasons prevailed I know not; sure I am they had not any man sent to them in my place, till the fourth day of their stay at Gravesend (when Master Beaulieu (Secretary to his Majesty for the French tongue) entreated to that Service by me, and allowed of upon my recommendation by my Lord Chamberlain) brought them in the King's Barge the twelfth of February to Tower-wharffe, where received by the Viscount of Wimbleton (accompanied with half a score Gentlemen in five Nobleman's coaches with the Venetian and Savoy Ambassador (but without the Kings) they were brought to their lodgingat the Italian Ordinary, there to reside till at more leisure they might find better accommodation (without touch at any hand to the purpose of the Kings not defraying them.) The failing of the King's coach proceeded from the forgetfulness of my Lord Chamberlains Gentleman of his Horses, and became a Subject of no small distaste, and complaint formerly made by the Resident Ambassador to his Lordship in name of the rest, as of a lessening in the respects usually afforded to all other public Ministers of Princes, which to reconcile, a mean was thus found. It was agreed that the Ambassadors should (the third day after) return in their own coaches by a private way about by London walls to the Tower, and after a sight of that place to be fetched thence by the same Lord Viscount of Wimbleton with as many coaches as before attending the King's coach (and the Queens also sent along with it) this accordingly performed, and they so accompanied through London to their Lodging, all was composed to their satisfaction.  
The next Puntillio obtruded was, whether at the day of their Audience, they should dine in Court as some other Ambassadors (particularly the Savoyard) had done lately before. To remove this rub I wrote to my Lord Chamberlains Secretary a Letter for his Lordship's sight, and consideration, imparting that the Summer before in the progress time, the Mantovan and the two Danish Ambassadors had dined in Court (the first at his first Audience at Windsor, 
Whereof see the reason as also why the Mantovan dined not in Court at his first Audience.  the latter at Havering at their second private Audience) and that since that the King coming to White-Hall, though the Treatment of dineing in Court were not perhaps necessary, nor fit to be made to any Ambassador (as out of an established course) at or in the Kings standing House) it having been made elsewhere with regard of inconveniency, or want of place fitting with their own provision to give themselves a dinner at or near the Court in time of progress) his Majesty was yet pleased to comply with them in that point, but not to serve for an example to others.  
But now there must a step be made backward to the year 1624. at which time there happened a noble traverse reflecting on the two Spanish Ambassadors viz. the marquis de Inojosa, and Don Carls Columa then Resident here, the last of a good disposition, the other sour and harsh, so that they were compared to oil and vinegar; the business was thus; the Prince of Wales being back from Madrid, matters began to gather ill blood twixt England and Spain; for the Treaty both of the match and Palatinate were dissolved by Act of Parliament, and the Duke of Buckingham made use of Parliament, and Puritan (who swayed then most in the Houses) to compass this work. The Spanish Ambassadors understanding that the rapture of the matrimonial treaty proceeded from the Practices of Buckingham, they devised a way how to supplant, and ruin him; they fell into consideration that King James was grown old, wherefore the least thing might raise umbrages of distrust and fear in him, therefore by a notable way of plotting, they informed him at a private Audience that there was a dangerous design against his Royal Authority traced by the Duke of Buckingham and his confederates, the manner of which conspiracy will appear in this following Memorial or Remonstrance of Sir Walter Ashton left still Ambassador leger in the Court of Spain, which he presented there to the King himself, which was thus.  
To the King.  
Sir  
SIr Walter Ashton Ambassador to the King of great Britain, saith, that the King his Master hath commanded him to represent unto your Majesty the reasons why he could receive no satisfaction by your Majesty's answer of the fifth of January, and that thereby by the unanimous consent of his Parliament, he came to dissolve the Treaties of Match, and Palatinat.  
He received another answer from your Majesty, wherein he found less grounds to work upon, and having understood that neither by the Padre Marsto, or your Majesty's Ambassadors who have assisted, these days passed in his Court there was something to be further propounded and declared touching the business of the Palatinat, whereby he might receive contentment: The said Ambassadors to this day have not said any thing at all to any purpose, which being compared with other circumstances of their ill carriage, he gathers and doubts that according to their ill affections and depraved intentions wherewith they have proceeded in all things, but specially in one particular, they have laboured to hinder the good correspondence with the so necessary and desired intelligence which should be conserved with your Majesty.  
Moreover he saith, the King his Master hath commanded him to give an account to your Majesty, that in an Audience which he gave to the marquis of Inojosa, and to Don Carlos Coloma, they under the cloak and pretext of zeal, and particular care of his Majesty's person, pretended to discover unto him a very great Conjuration both against his Royal Dignity and person. Which was, that at the beginning of this Parliament the Duke of Buckingham had consulted with certain Lords and others of the Arguments and means which were to be taken for the breaking and dissolving of the Treaties both of Match and Palatinat, and their Consultations passed so far, that if his Majesty would not conform himself to their Counsels, they would give him a house of pleasure, whither he might retire himself to his sport, in regard that the Prince had now years sufficient and parts answerable for the Government of the Kingdom: The Information was of that quality, that it was sufficient to make impressions in him of an everlasting jealousy, in regard that through the sides of Buckingham they wounded the Prince his Son with the Nobility, it being not probable that they could effect such a design without departing totally from that Obligation of faith and loyalty which they owed to his person and Crown, because the interessed Lords made themselves culpable as Concealors: Nor is it likely the Duke would hurt himself upon such an enterprise, without communicating it first to the Prince, and knowledge of his pleasure.  
But because the Information might be made more clear, his Majesty did make many instances to the said Ambassadors, that they would give the Authors of the said Conspiracy, this being the sole means whereby their own honour might be preserved, and whereby the great care and zeal they pretended to have of his person might appear: But the said Ambassadors instead of confirming the great zeal they made profession to bear him, all the answer they gave consisted of Arguments against the discovery of the Conspirators, so that for confirmation of the said Report, there remained no other means then the examination of some of his Council of State, and principal Subjects, which was put in execution accordingly, causing them to be put to their Oaths in his own presence, and commanding that such Interrogations and questions should be propounded unto them that were most pertinent to the accusation, so that not the least part, particle, or circumstance remained which was not exactly examined, and canvased: And he found in the Duke and the rest who were examined, a most clear and sincere innocency touching the impeachments and imputations wherewith your Majesty's Ambassadors had charged them.  
This being done, he returned to make new instances unto the said Ambassadors, that they would not prefer the discovery of the names of the Conspirators, to the security of his Royal person, to the truth and honour of themselves, and to the hazard of an opinion to be held the Authors and betrayers of a plot of so much malice, sedition, and danger; but the said Ambassadors continued still in a knotty kind of obstinacy resolving to conceal the names of the Conspirators, notwithstanding that he gave them Audience afterwards, wherein the Marquis of Inojosa took his leave.  
But a few days after, they desired new Audience, pretending they had something to say that concerned the public good, and conduced to the entire restitution of the Palatinate, and thereby to the conservation and confirmation of the friendship with your Majesty: But having suspended some few days to give them Audience, thinking that being thereby better advised, they would think on better courses, and discover the Authors of so pernicious a Plot, and having since made many instances to that effect, and attended the success of so long patience, he sent his Secretary Sir Edward Conway, and Sir Francis Cotington Secretary to the Prince, commanding them that they should signify unto the said Ambassadors, that he desired nothing more than a continuance of the friendship betwixt the two Crowns, therefore if they had any thing to say, they should communicate it unto the said Secretaries, as persons of great trust, which he employed therefore expressly to that end, and if they made any difficulty of this also, than they might choose amongst his Council of State those whom they liked best, and he would command that they should presently repair unto them; and if this also should seem inconvenient, they might send him what they had to say in a Letter by whom they thought fittest, and he would receive it with his own hands.  
But the Ambassadors misbehaving themselves, and not conforming to any thing that was thus propounded, the said Secretaries, according to the instructions which they had received, told them that they being the Authors of an Information so dangerous and seditious, had made themselves incapable to treat further with the King their Master, and were it not for the respect he bore to the Catholic King, his dear and beloved Brother, their Master, and that they were in quality of Ambassadors to such a Majesty, he would and could by the Law of Nations, and the right of his own Royal Justice, proceed against them with such severity as their offence deserved, but for the reasons aforesaid, he would leave the reparation to the Justice of their own King, of whom he would demand and require it.  
In conformity to what hath been said, the said Ambassador of the King of Great Britain saith, That the King his Master hath commanded him to demand refaction and satisfaction of your Majesty against the said Marquis de Inojosa, and Don Carlos Coloma, making your Majesty the Judge of the great scandal, and enormous offence which they have committed against him, and against public right, expecting justice from your Majesty in the demonstrations, and chastisement that your Majesty shall inflict upon them; which, in regard of the manner of proceeding with your Majesty, and out of your Majesties own integrity and goodness ought to be expected.  
Furthermore, the said Ambassador saith That the King his Master hath commanded him to assure your Majesty, that hitherto he hath not intermingled the correspondence and friendship he holds with your Majesty, with the faults and offences of your Ministers, but leaves them and restrains them to their own persons, and that he still perseveres with your Majesty in the true and ancient friendship and brotherhood, as formerly, to which purpose he is ready to give a hearing to any thing that shall be reasonable, and give answer thereunto, therefore when it shall please your Majesty to employ any Ambassador thither, he will afford them all good entertainment, and receive them with that love which is fitting.  
For conclusion the said Ambassador humbly beseecheth your Majesty that you would be pleased to observe and weigh well the care and tenderness wherewith the King his Master hath proceeded towards your Majesty's Ambassadors, not obliging them to any precipitate resolutions, but allowing them time enough to prove, and give light of that which they had spoken: And besides by opening them many ways besides, whereby they might have complied with their Orders, if they had any such, which course if they had taken, they might well have given satisfaction to the King his Master, and moderated the so grounded opinion of their ill proceed against the Peace, together with the good intelligence and correspondence 'twixt the two Crowns.  
Such was the complaint, or charge rather which was exhibited by our Ambassador in Spain, against Inojosa and Coloma (for their misdemeanours in England) which filled that Court full of dark whispers for the present, and the World expected that the said Ambassadors should receive some punishment, or at least some mark of disgrace at their return; but matters growing daily worse and worse betwixt the two Crowns, they were rather rewarded then reprehended, Inojosa being promoted to be Governor of Milan, and Coloma received additions of employment and honours in Flanders.  
But the Civilities of England at that time towards the said Ambassadors was much cried up abroad, that notwithstanding so pernicious and machinations to discompose the whole English Court, and demolish Buckingham, yet were they permitted to departed peaceably, and though they had no King's Ship to transport, them, yet Sir Lewis Leukner was sent to conduct them to the Sea side, for prevention of any affront, or outrage that might have been offered them.     

AN ABSTRACT Of the Signallst Passages that go to the Composure of this DISCOURSE.  

A Pernicious plot of the Spanish Ambassadors, to destroy the Duke of Buckingham, fol. 243  
The arrival of the Palsgrave in England, with the particular of his Train 1  
The Ambassadors of France and Venice stand upon their Punctilios 9  
The arrival of a Russian Ambassador, etc. 24  
An Ambassador with the Chancellor of Muscovy sent to England 38  
An Ambassador extraordinary from Sweden arrives 41  
An affront offered the Swedish Ambassador 42  
Another affront offerred the Swedish Ambassador 45  
An Ambassador come from Turkey 57  
The Ambassador of Venice ranked always among Crowned heads 65  
The Ambassador of France denies to be at the Coronation, for two reasons 169  
An Axiom of State, That 'tis more honour to be last of a Superior Order, than first of an Inferior 63  
Agents from Barbary arrive in England 213  
No Ambassador to have his charges defrayed except at conclusion of Peace, Marriages, or Baptisms 228  
An Ambassador of a King to be brought in by an Earl at least ib.  
An Ambassador of a Duke to be brought in by a Baron ib.  
No Ambassador except a Kings to be met in the King's Coach further off then Tower Wharfe ib.  
Abbot de la Seaglia Ambassador from Savoy 227   

B.  
BOiscot the Archduke's Ambassador discontented 3  
Barbarigo the Venetian Ambassador dies in England 37  
Baron Donaw sent Ambassador from the Palsgrave 61  
Ballompierre arrives in England, refuseth the King's diet 188  
Benica Agent for the Marquis of Baden 189  
The business 'twixt the States and our East India Merchants concluded 117  
Barham Down the Rendezvous of the English Ladies to welcome the Queen 153   

C.  
NIne Counts attended the Palsgrave to England 2  
A clash 'twixt the Savoy Ambassador and him of Florence 15  
A clash 'twixt Gondamar and the State's Ambassador 22  
The Complaint of the Venetian Ambassador about his Present 39  
A clash 'twixt England and France about le Clere 57  
Cadenet the French Favourites Brother sent Ambassador Extraordinary into England 67  
A Caprichio of some French Lords 70  
Cadenet the French Ambassador allowed two hundred pound per diem for his diet 73   

D.  
THe Duke of Lenox appointed to attend the Palsgrave 1  
The Duke of York meets the Palsgrave 2  
Donati the Venetian Ambassador recalled for misdemeanour 58  
Sir Dudley Carltons' cold reception in France 188  
A difference 'twixt the Master of the Ceremonies and him of the Jewell-house, about the delivery of Presents 194  
The difference decided 195  
Sir Dormer Cotton sent Ambassador to Persia 177   

E.  
THe Earl of Somersets Marriage, etc. 12  
Exception taken by the French Ambassador 28  
Exceptions taken another time 64  
The Earl of Arundels' revenge of the French Ambassador 68  
An Error in the Danish Ambassador 185  
The Earl of Rutland sent to transport the Prince from Spain, etc. 129  
The Earl of Dorset Justice in Eyre in the Duke's absence 214   

F.  
THe first Compliment 'twixt the Lady Elizabeth and the Palsgrave 2  
The French Ambassador stands upon some punctilios. 12  
The Florentine Ambassador placed beneath the lowest English Baron at Court 24  
Foscarini tragically and wrongfully put to death 29  
The first rise of the Duke of Buckingham 35  
The French Ambassador much discontented 49  
The French Lords discontented because they sat not at the King's Table 71  
Fifty pounds sent the Muscovian Ambassador by the Lords of the Council to pay for his Sea provision 108   

G.  
Gondamars' first arrival in England 12  
Gavelone Agent for the Duke of Savoy 15  
Gondamar precedes the French Ambassador at the Earl of Somersets Wedding 17  
Gondamar casts an aspersion upon the Holland's Ambassador 20  
A great clash 'twixt divers Ambassadors 66  
The great clash 'twixt the Persian Ambassador, and Sir Robert Shirley 174   

F.  
CO: Henry of Nassaw accompanies the Palsgrave to England 2  
Sir Henry Manwaring recommended to the State of Venice by the King 50  
Hamburgh Commissioners deemed to have Audidience of the Queen. 183   

I.  
INojosa the Spanish Ambassador clasheth with Don Diego Hurtado an Ambassador also extraordinary from Spain 126  
Joachim made Ambassador leger from the States 160   

K.  
KIng James his Apology to the Archduke's Ambassador. 4  
The King Knights six Holland Ambassadors at once, without paying any sees 78  
Kings James his Funeral 174   

L.  
THe Lords make a Supper for the Lady Elizabeth 11  
The Landgrave of Hessen comes to England 114  
Sir Lewis Lewkner suspected to be of the Spanish faction ●38  
The Lord Mayor of London to give place to no other but the King 237   

M.  
THe manner of the Marriage of the Lady Elizabeth 10  
Mareth the French Ambassador 53  
Monsieur de la Chenay committed prisoner about Sir Walter Rawley 56  
Monsieur de Tilliers the French Ambassador hath lodgings at Court but no diet 165  
Tilliers much discontented, and his high language 163  
The Marquis Pompeo Strozzi Ambassador from the Duke of Mantova 214  
A maxim among Ambassadors 232  
Means found to content the Dutch Ambassador 242   

N.  
A Notable clash 'twixt the Persian Ambassador, and Sir Robert Shirley, the circumstances thereof 174  
A notable high Memorial the English Ambassador gave the King of Spain 245  
News brought in half an hour from Dover to Canterbury of the Queen's arrival 153   

O.  
OSalinskie Ambassador Extraordinary from Poland 74  
New Orders at Court touching the treatment of Foreign Ambassadors 228  
The new Orders practised first upon Ballompierre the French Ambassador 228   

P.  
PResents to Ambassadors lessened 31  
A rich Present sent by the Muscovit to the King 39  
The Polish Ambassador receives 10000 l. of the King by way of loan 90  
The Prince like to be drowned in Spain 221  
A Picture case delivered the Mantoüan Ambassador from the King, without his Picture, for a Present worth 500 l. 222  
The Prince taxed by the Spanish Ambassadors 245   

Q.  
QUadt an honourable person by the Prince of Transilvania 185  
She excuseth her presence at the Coronation 169  
The Queen's arrival in England, and news brought in half an hour from Dover to Canterbury by Mr. Terhit 153   

R.  
AReformation of Presents given Ambassadors 31  
Aremarkable passage, for precedence happened at Veruins 'twixt the French and Spanish Ambassadors 67  
Rosdorf Ambassador for the King of Bohemia 197  
Rosencrants the Danish Ambassador 180  
Sir Robert Shirley lays his Turban at the King's feet 137  
Mr. Robert Tirhit rides in half an hour from Dover to Canterbury   

S.  
THe State's Ambassador gives place to him of Savoy 32  
The Spanish Ambassador countenanced more than the French 48  
Six Commissioners in joint Embassy from Holland Soubizes arrival in England, being Godfather to the last King in Scotland 111   

T  
THe Turks Ambassadors Son touched by the King 58  
The title of King denied by King James to the Palsgrave 62  
The Terrace at Whitehall falls under Gondamar when he had his first Audience for a match in Spain 63  
Two Ambassadors of divers Princes lodged in one house 186  
The Co. of Tremes sent to condole King Jame's death 146   

U.  
THe Vicountesse of Effingham clasheth with the French Ambassadors Wife 9  
The Venetian Ambassador gives place to the Bohemian 66  
The Venetian Ambassador Knighted and the Sword given him 113  
The Venetian Ambassador questions the giving of precedence to him of Denmark 207   

W.  
Away found to please the Ambassador of Spain and France 36  
A way found out another time to please them 64  
A witty answer of the Transylvanian Ambassador 195  
Sir Walter ashton's complaint in the Court of Spain against the Marquis of Inojosa and Don Carlos Coloma 244   

Z.  
Zamoiskis Son to the Chancellor of Poland's arrival 25   
FINIS.